SANParks.org Forums

Camera experts

Well as my old trusty Nikon D80 got stolen a while back it is time to buy myself a new camera.

I have some difficulty in choosing as the ones Im looking at are all good, and so on. And the above mentioned cameras I can get all within my budget, although the D7000 is a bit expensive, but saving another month or so isnt going to kill me.
But if it were you, which one would you go for? I will mostly use a sigma 120-400mm lens with this camera.

Decisions decisions....

Have a look at this page.
I have not included the D200 or D300 as they are discontinued....

Gerhard
All four cameras are excellent.
Whilst both the D200 and D300 have been discontinued there are some very good second hand items available which will give very good service for some years to come.
Most of my equipment is second hand and includes D200, D3 and D7000 (new), my daughter has my old D70 which is still producing superb results. The cameras abilities are only compromised by my incompetance as a photographer!!
Obviously buying second hand equipment is a risk, however buying from a known reputable source will minimise this. A very good D200 will cost about UK£350 and a D300 about UK£450. I do not know the cost in SA or elsewhere.
If you are buying a new camera body and can't afford the D4 then the D7000 is an excellent alternative and being a relatively new product is far better (but more expensive) than the very good D90.
Don't forget that lenses are also very important. A poor lens on a superb body will still produce a poor image!!
Regards
JDW

Thank you both for the replies.

As always making giving some great advise!

I got my new D7000 today!! So far it looks brilliant!! Cant wait to hit the road tommorow tgo and try it out in KNP this comming week!! Im so happy!!!

Of the four cameras you considered, I believe you have chosen the best option. I moved on from my old and trusty D70 to the D7000 and have not looked back since. Still much to master on this great camera. I have also used (but not owned) a D200 and a D90 and I believe that the low-light capability of the D7000 over these other two are just one of the many improved features of the newer D7000.

Take good care of it and it should reward you with many superb images and wonderful memories.

You have probably already decided but in any case: D7100!!!