Nikon D70

Opinion: For the price, it's hard to beat the quality and construction of this camera - it feels very solid in my hands. Operation is very quick, it's ready to shoot nearly instantly. I have found images to be very clean up to ISO 800, and quite usable at ISO 1600. Autofocus with the lens kit is reasonable speedy and accurate, much better with the 50mm f/1.8 lens.

Opinion: I can't say enough good things about this camera. I just received it and have taken about 400 shots - no issues whatsoever.

I debated between the D70 and the D100. I settled on the D70 because of the price...the final decision was made when I looked at the specs of both cameras - the D70 is actually better in some respects. The D100 does have some things that the D70 does not - vertical grip and less plastic, but the price and fantastic spec sheet made it an easy choice.

I bought the kit lens - even though I have a couple of nice Nikon lenses. The kit lens is a great piece of glass for the money - it outperforms some of my standard Nikon lenses.

Some folks have found moire issues and I am certainly not disputing some of the examples, but I can honestly say that I have not had any of those issues and to be even more honest - I think some of the moire issues are a bit overhyped.

This is my first encounter into the world of DSLR's and it's incredible. I spent one evening taking about 125 photos and the instant feedback is addictive, not to mention incredibly enlightening. I am a better photographer because of it. Of course, if you are still reading this - you already know the advantages of digital.

Stop debating - buy the camera!

Opinion: I have done a few test shots comparing D70 and D100. Here is what I have found:

1. In jpg format D70's 'normal'(therefore not sharpened) setting yields sharper image with more details then D100's when sharpening is set to "low"

2. If any of you have notice, D100 can't faithfully capture purple. D70 can. Hurrah! Overall speaking D70 has more unbiased color then D100.

There seems to be significantly less available settings on D70. However, complication does not always make things better, therefore simplicity is not necessary bad.

Opinion: This one is going to be a winner, Its quick and easy to use with excellent results. Feels light and 'plasticy', not like your usual Nikon, but its not your usual Nikon price either. Metering is accurate with the usual choices and the focusing is quick and spot-on. I love it!!