Another Nikon newcomer - and a question or two!

Well, actually, returning after ten years and my last Nikon digital, a Coolpix 990!

I recently acquired a D700 with the 16-35 F4 VR, 24-70 F2.8, 80-200 F2.8 D (SH), 50 F1.4 D, 70-300 VR. I am also looking to get a D90 with a 16-85 VR as a walkaround kit and backup body.

I am coming from Pentax. No complaints, I just need better availability and third party support and some of the low-light capabilities the D700 has.

So far, the D700 seems to be a superb photographic tool. I dont care if it's end of life, progress these days seems incremental and video is not a priority, nor is printing much over A3+. I think it will serve my needs very well, especially in the low available light arena. So far pretty impressed with the glass too.

And the D90? Current prices and rebates make it a steal and it seemed like the perfect backup (same battery, decent AF) plus a crop frame camera is a cheaper option than some long tele lenses. I suspect it will get plenty of use when I'm not actually working as I like being fairly discreet when street shooting.

Looking foward to participating in this forum. I have read the manual and think I understood most of it I have already been lurking for a while and learned a great deal of useful stuff but I have a long way to go so I may have to buy Thom Hogan's guide as well.

But you may expect the odd dumb question from time to time as I fumble around with flash bracketing and picture controls and other arcanities.

For instance

• I am a bit confused as to why there are two sync speed settings, or more to the point why would I use the slower of the two? Is it just for compatability reasons with third party flashes?
• Is there some convenient way of changing the shutter speed threshold in auto ISO? Ideally, I would want the camera to select 1/focal length for whatever lens was attached. Is there a trick I am missing?

--
Regards,
Steve

CriticalI said:

• I am a bit confused as to why there are two sync speed settings, or more to the point why would I use the slower of the two? Is it just for compatability reasons with third party flashes?

Click to expand...

Welcome to this forum.

Do you mean custom settings e1 ? Pretty simple. e1 indicates the shutter speed you want to use with flash. It is the max sync speed you allow. The no1 reason IMO being "auto FP": do you want to allow FP or not ? FP flash reduces power tremendously, so reach is much smaller. If you choose auto FP, there will be no stopping at 1/250th, the camera will switch seemlessly into any shutter speed you or auto exposure dictates, whithout any further warning: you have to check your shutter speed in the finder to know you're in FP, and check the new altered distance scale that suddenly appears on the flash lcd. Personnaly, I only choose 1/250 or auto FP. If I need to impose a slower shutter speed, (so to allow more ambient light), I'm usually in manual exposure, or S, and I choose my shutter speed manually. In any case, if you choose ex: 1/60, there is no way you can use a faster shuter than that, as long as there is a flash turned on in the hotshoe. Someone will chime in with an explanation why they would go through the trouble of choosing some slower max sync speed than 1/250th...

CriticalI said:

• Is there some convenient way of changing the shutter speed threshold in auto ISO? Ideally, I would want the camera to select 1/focal length for whatever lens was attached. Is there a trick I am missing?

Click to expand...

I'm afraid there is no such feature: you have to open the menu and change the min shutter for each big change of focal lenght.

CriticalI said:

--
Regards,
Steve

Click to expand...

--
Jean Bernier

All photographs are only more or less credible illusions

this feature is often requested by users but unfortunately not yet implemented...
probably because it is not that simple (what behaviour for lenses with VR ? etc)

I find using M with auto ISo works pretty well, as you can quickly adjust shutter speed when zooming in/out while still controlling aperture ...
try it!

CriticalI said:

• Is there some convenient way of changing the shutter speed threshold in auto ISO? Ideally, I would want the camera to select 1/focal length for whatever lens was attached. Is there a trick I am missing?

--
Regards,
Steve

Click to expand...

--
Yves

Have you considered a used D300? Not to detract from the D5000, but pairing a D300 with a D700 means not having to stop and think which button does what on which camera.

I tried pairing a D200 with my D700 and finally said enough! I was able to pick up a D300 for a great price and have been very satisfied ever since.

Of course, if video is a requirment it's a moot point, although many small P&S cameras can give you that functionality.

That said, you'll love your D700!

Jay

Saint Yves said:

CriticalI said:

• Is there some convenient way of changing the shutter speed threshold in auto ISO? Ideally, I would want the camera to select 1/focal length for whatever lens was attached. Is there a trick I am missing?

Click to expand...

Click to expand...

I agree with Saint Yves.

Unfortunately it is not possible to have the shutter speed threshold follow the focal length, so when the light is low (and auto ISO is kicking in all the time anyway) I use manual mode and set the shutter speed that way.

DigitalJay said:

Have you considered a used D300? Not to detract from the D5000, but pairing a D300 with a D700 means not having to stop and think which button does what on which camera.

I tried pairing a D200 with my D700 and finally said enough! I was able to pick up a D300 for a great price and have been very satisfied ever since.

Of course, if video is a requirment it's a moot point, although many small P&S cameras can give you that functionality.

That said, you'll love your D700!

Click to expand...

I already love my D700 The D90 is not the same control wise, true, but its smaller and a lot lighter so it gives me back some of the APSC advantages I lost when giving up on my K20 and K7 - portability and convenience.
--
Regards,
Steve

Yes I noticed you could use auto ISO in manual mode with EV compensation as well (to give an offset). Very useful.

In fact that makes M mode quite user friendly Tends to be what I use for indoor and flash work anyway.

Shame about the auto ISO threshold. Was a nice Pentax feature.

As for the flash sync, I have got my head around the Auto FP thing, just puzzled about the need for 2 maximum sync speeds. No issue, will just stick to 1/250.

ovrebekk said:

ovrebekk said:

CriticalI said:

• Is there some convenient way of changing the shutter speed threshold in auto ISO? Ideally, I would want the camera to select 1/focal length for whatever lens was attached. Is there a trick I am missing?

Click to expand...

Click to expand...

I agree with Saint Yves.

Unfortunately it is not possible to have the shutter speed threshold follow the focal length, so when the light is low (and auto ISO is kicking in all the time anyway) I use manual mode and set the shutter speed that way.

Click to expand...

--
Regards,
Steve

CriticalI wrote:
Hi Steve,

I am also looking to get a D90 with a 16-85 VR as a walkaround kit and backup body.

Just a suggestion, albeit a slightly more expensive one :O, I would consider either
a D300 (used or new if still available) or a D300s (probably only new) and the
reason I would recommend (either of) these bodies is that they have a number
of compatible accessories (MB-D10, EN-EL4a compatible, same Remote Cables)

along with a similar feel, weight and speed (processing, frame rate, etc ...). Also,
I realise that the back-up camera is meant for wandering around when not doing

out working photography BUT , as we both know, when out merely wandering around is when one comes across some of the most amazing images/scenarios and there will be times when you will really wish you had that

extra a) frame rate b) big buffer c) fast processor, etc... Also, the AFS 70-300 VR is a great companion lens to the 16-85

And, as a side note, keep your eyes open for a AFS 80-200/2.8 lens . Whilst it is

a monster lens it is an amazingly fast and accurate lens.... a mate had the same

AFD 80-200/2.8 for a number of years and hesitated on getting a AFS70-200/2.8 VR (or VRII) simply because of the cost ... but he, eventually, came across AFS 80-200/2.8 ( actually I spotted it for him ) and he has been in AF heaven Even

though the cost is (about) the same as a new AFD 80-200/2.8 ... it is, in everyone
I know who has/had one ... well worth the investment

Well, that's enough of my "quick reply" and look forward to seeing you this side
of the pond

Cheers,

Jack ...from the Forum of the Gods ;D

CriticalI said:

Regards,
Steve

Click to expand...

--
( UPDATED NOV 16th )MY BLOG.... http://www.nakedmanonawire.blogspot.com

MY EMAIL ADDRESS IN IS MY 'VIEW PLAN'

It's amazing what one can do when one doesn't know what one is doing

Hiya Jack!

Jack Simpson said:

CriticalI wrote:

Hi Steve,

I am also looking to get a D90 with a 16-85 VR as a walkaround kit and backup body.

Just a suggestion, albeit a slightly more expensive one :O, I would consider either
a D300 (used or new if still available) or a D300s (probably only new) and the
reason I would recommend (either of) these bodies is that they have a number
of compatible accessories (MB-D10, EN-EL4a compatible, same Remote Cables)
along with a similar feel, weight and speed (processing, frame rate, etc ...).

Click to expand...

Yeah I know, but the key issue for me was size, weight and cost. The D90 is 85% of a D300 after all and it does use the same batteries. Cost in the UK with rebate is pretty cheap right now too.

Jack Simpson said:

Also,
I realise that the back-up camera is meant for wandering around when not doing

out working photography BUT , as we both know, when out merely wandering around is when one comes across some of the most amazing images/scenarios and there will be times when you will really wish you had that

extra a) frame rate b) big buffer c) fast processor, etc... Also, the AFS 70-300 VR is a great companion lens to the 16-85

Click to expand...

I think I only use burst mode about twice a year. The D90 is no slouch either.

Jack Simpson said:

And, as a side note, keep your eyes open for a AFS 80-200/2.8 lens . Whilst it is

a monster lens it is an amazingly fast and accurate lens.... a mate had the same

AFD 80-200/2.8 for a number of years and hesitated on getting a AFS70-200/2.8 VR (or VRII) simply because of the cost ... but he, eventually, came across AFS 80-200/2.8 ( actually I spotted it for him ) and he has been in AF heaven Even

though the cost is (about) the same as a new AFD 80-200/2.8 ... it is, in everyone
I know who has/had one ... well worth the investment

Well, that's enough of my "quick reply" and look forward to seeing you this side
of the pond

Click to expand...

Well funny you should say that because I picked up a 70-300 AND a second hand 80-200 F2.8 D as well. As you say the latter is a darn nice lens.
--

Jack Simpson said:

Jack Simpson said:

Regards,
Steve

Click to expand...

--
( UPDATED NOV 16th )MY BLOG.... http://www.nakedmanonawire.blogspot.com

MY EMAIL ADDRESS IN IS MY 'VIEW PLAN'

It's amazing what one can do when one doesn't know what one is doing

Click to expand...

--
Regards,
Steve

.

Hi *isteve! I know you're an accomplished photographer and will soon have that D700 & D90 singing for you. Let me suggest some lenses to consider, if I may, from a Pentaxian's perspective (prices in USD) :

20 2.8D: $350 or so used - I know you have your 16-35, but consider this lens to make your D700 a much smaller, WA carryabout (the equiv of 13mm f/2.8 small prime on aps-c!



35 1.8G: $199 new - think the FA 35 f2, at half the price. It's a DX lens, so will go nicely on your D90 as an indoor D-normal, low-light lens, but can also be shot on the D700 in close-quarters. See these threads:

On D700 ---> http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/readflat.asp?forum=1021&message=34978289

On DX ---> http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/readflat.asp?forum=1030&message=32498158

50 1.8D: $120 or so new - think F 50 1.7, with slightly more plasticy build quality. A nice short telephoto on the D90, a wonderful true-normal on the D700. For a surprising number of D700 shooters, this is the 'kit lens' still

On DX ---> http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/readflat.asp?forum=1030&message=31989505

85 1.8D: $400 or so new - Pentaxians wish they had this affordable, fast 85. Not quite up to the 77 Limited's pedigree, but a stellar performer nonetheless. On both my D90 & D700, I never miss shots with this lens wide-open - in situations where my 77ltd would often hunt:

ISO 1600 f/2.8



I use it for casual kid/people snaps, but I think it would even be more useful to you professionally.

105 2.5 AIS: $150 or so used. A MF semi-legend, a portrait/bokeh sharpie that will be easy to focus on the D700 (not so much the D90, I've found.) Think M 100 2.8 or Super Tak 105 2.5:

On D700, you can capture actiion:



On D90, I find it hard to nail focus, I use it for still subjects:



180 2.8 AF ED: $450 - $750 used. Get the 'late model' (AF-N) if at all possible, but all models are good. This is my favorite Nikon lens , and the closest thing to a Limited in the Nikon pantheon (small, solid, sharp, bokeh nirvana.) Think DA* 200 if it came out as a Limited, with no SDM (read- faster-focusing. )

I use it more on my D90 - the crop factor makes this lens a superb, small, long telephoto.

On DX:





Links to my obsession re this lens:
---> http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/readflat.asp?forum=1030&message=31286813
---> http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/readflat.asp?forum=1030&message=32438167
---> http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/readflat.asp?forum=1005&message=31803466

300 f4 AF ED: $450 - $850 used. The newer AF-S version locks focus a bit faster and can focus closer, but optically, this relative bargain is just as brilliant optically in every other way. My second favorite Nikon lens.



Link to more:
---> http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/readflat.asp?forum=1030&message=31662515

Some other 3-rd party lenses to consider:

Tamron 17-50 2.8 : (DX) I would consider this lens a better choice than the 16-85 VR - constant 2.8, very sharp, less money.

Tokina 12-24 f4 : (DX) Now you can get the Pentax DA 12-24 for $399 new!

Sigma 50-150 2.8 HSM II : (DX) Think DA* 50-135 2.8, but with lightning-quick AF.



Link to shots & thoughts:
---> http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/readflat.asp?forum=1030&message=32005265

Sigma 100-300 f4 HSM : FX & DX, and a class-leader. With the uber-fast HSM, you'll miss nothing..

Shots ---> http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/readflat.asp?forum=1030&message=31618475

Have fun with your new system, Steve!

.

CriticalI said:

Jack Simpson said:

CriticalI wrote:

Hi Steve,

I am also looking to get a D90 with a 16-85 VR as a walkaround kit and backup body.

Just a suggestion, albeit a slightly more expensive one :O, I would consider either
a D300 (used or new if still available) or a D300s (probably only new) and the
reason I would recommend (either of) these bodies is that they have a number
of compatible accessories (MB-D10, EN-EL4a compatible, same Remote Cables)
along with a similar feel, weight and speed (processing, frame rate, etc ...).

Click to expand...

Click to expand...

Hi Steve,

CriticalI said:

Yeah I know, but the key issue for me was size, weight and cost.

Click to expand...

Touche 1

CriticalI said:

The D90 is 85% of a D300 after all and it does use the same batteries.

Click to expand...

Touche 2

CriticalI said:

Cost in the UK with rebate is pretty cheap right now too.

Click to expand...

Touche 3 and I shall say no more ... must be the retailer, in me :O ...

Cheers and looking forward to seeing some pics

Jack

CriticalI said:

CriticalI said:

Also,
I realise that the back-up camera is meant for wandering around when not doing

out working photography BUT , as we both know, when out merely wandering around is when one comes across some of the most amazing images/scenarios and there will be times when you will really wish you had that

extra a) frame rate b) big buffer c) fast processor, etc... Also, the AFS 70-300 VR is a great companion lens to the 16-85

Click to expand...

I think I only use burst mode about twice a year. The D90 is no slouch either.

CriticalI said:

And, as a side note, keep your eyes open for a AFS 80-200/2.8 lens . Whilst it is

a monster lens it is an amazingly fast and accurate lens.... a mate had the same

AFD 80-200/2.8 for a number of years and hesitated on getting a AFS70-200/2.8 VR (or VRII) simply because of the cost ... but he, eventually, came across AFS 80-200/2.8 ( actually I spotted it for him ) and he has been in AF heaven Even

though the cost is (about) the same as a new AFD 80-200/2.8 ... it is, in everyone
I know who has/had one ... well worth the investment

Well, that's enough of my "quick reply" and look forward to seeing you this side
of the pond

Click to expand...

Well funny you should say that because I picked up a 70-300 AND a second hand 80-200 F2.8 D as well. As you say the latter is a darn nice lens.
--

CriticalI said:

CriticalI said:

Regards,
Steve

Click to expand...

--
( UPDATED NOV 16th )MY BLOG.... http://www.nakedmanonawire.blogspot.com

MY EMAIL ADDRESS IN IS MY 'VIEW PLAN'

It's amazing what one can do when one doesn't know what one is doing

Click to expand...

--
Regards,
Steve

Click to expand...

--
( UPDATED NOV 16th )MY BLOG.... http://www.nakedmanonawire.blogspot.com

MY EMAIL ADDRESS IN IS MY 'VIEW PLAN'

It's amazing what one can do when one doesn't know what one is doing

Hi M_C,

Some cracking pics and some great lens suggestions ..especially the:

AFS 35/1.8 and the Tamron 17-50/2.8 w or w/o VC and, of course, the Ai 105/2.5
along with any of the 180 lenses

Cheers,

Jack
--
( UPDATED NOV 16th )MY BLOG.... http://www.nakedmanonawire.blogspot.com

MY EMAIL ADDRESS IN IS MY 'VIEW PLAN'

It's amazing what one can do when one doesn't know what one is doing

Thx! & missed the fact that he already bought the 50 1.4, so disregard the1.8 suggestion, steve.

moving_comfort said:

.

Hi *isteve! I know you're an accomplished photographer and will soon have that D700 & D90 singing for you. Let me suggest some lenses to consider, if I may, from a Pentaxian's perspective (prices in USD) :

Click to expand...

Ha rumbled already Thanks for the suggestions though.

Is this an ex-Pentaxian re-union forum?

I have a SH 35 F2 D in my sights, and am considering an 85 F1.8 D. The 180 looks very impressive too. I seem to have the telephoto end covered several times. Still, your shots are awfully convincing (must resist LBA must resist LBA....)

The 20 F2.8 D looks like a possible though. I had not really considered it as it did not come out well on Photozone, but you seem to have nailed it. May require a rethink!

When the 105 or 135 DC comes up SH I will probably grab either! I am leaning toward the 135 as its my perfect head crop.

So far I am very impressed with Nikon's build quality and performance. Just missing my green button
--
Regards,
Steve

CriticalI said:

moving_comfort said:

.

Hi *isteve! I know you're an accomplished photographer and will soon have that D700 & D90 singing for you. Let me suggest some lenses to consider, if I may, from a Pentaxian's perspective (prices in USD) :

Click to expand...

Ha rumbled already Thanks for the suggestions though.

Is this an ex-Pentaxian re-union forum?

I have a SH 35 F2 D in my sights, and am considering an 85 F1.8 D. The 180 looks very impressive too. I seem to have the telephoto end covered several times. Still, your shots are awfully convincing (must resist LBA must resist LBA....)

The 20 F2.8 D looks like a possible though. I had not really considered it as it did not come out well on Photozone, but you seem to have nailed it. May require a rethink!

When the 105 or 135 DC comes up SH I will probably grab either! I am leaning toward the 135 as its my perfect head crop.

So far I am very impressed with Nikon's build quality and performance. Just missing my green button
--
Regards,
Steve

Click to expand...

.

I miss the green button too.

Curious, what is "SH"?

.

--
( UPDATED NOV 16th )MY BLOG.... http://www.nakedmanonawire.blogspot.com

MY EMAIL ADDRESS IN IS MY 'VIEW PLAN'

It's amazing what one can do when one doesn't know what one is doing

Best of luck, Steve. These Nikon guys seem a friendly bunch; not as snarky as some of our Pentax SLR forum 'friends".

If Pentax doesn't come up with a FF digital, I suspect that a D700 or its successor may become a part of my kit. I won't be able to build as complete a set of Nikkor lenses, though! ;
--
Jim King - Retired Colormonger - Suburban Detroit, Michigan, USA; GMT -4h (EDT)
Pentaxian for over 45 years.



* * * * *
A fanatic is one who can't change his mind and won't change the subject.

• Sir Winston Churchill

* * * * *
The difference between genius and stupidity is that genius has its limits.

• Albert Einstein

Jim King said:

Best of luck, Steve. These Nikon guys seem a friendly bunch; not as snarky as some of our Pentax SLR forum 'friends".

If Pentax doesn't come up with a FF digital, I suspect that a D700 or its successor may become a part of my kit. I won't be able to build as complete a set of Nikkor lenses, though! ;

Click to expand...

I am relying on you to give it your best shot They really do have some nice lenses, but they are generally workmanlike rather than sexy. Optical quality is fine though, in some cases more than fine. Im also finding PF and CA to be quite well controlled compared to some of my favourite Pentax lenses.

The water's warm and the natives are friendly too.

--
Regards,
Steve

Jim King said:

Best of luck, Steve. These Nikon guys seem a friendly bunch; not as snarky as some of our Pentax SLR forum 'friends".

If Pentax doesn't come up with a FF digital, I suspect that a D700 or its successor may become a part of my kit. I won't be able to build as complete a set of Nikkor lenses, though! ;

Click to expand...

Uh Jim, I think you could sell your Pentax glass and buy Nikon ... well, Nikon USA, at least

Cheers,

Jack

Jim King said:

--
Jim King - Retired Colormonger - Suburban Detroit, Michigan, USA; GMT -4h (EDT)
Pentaxian for over 45 years.



* * * * *
A fanatic is one who can't change his mind and won't change the subject.

• Sir Winston Churchill

* * * * *
The difference between genius and stupidity is that genius has its limits.

• Albert Einstein

Click to expand...

--
( UPDATED NOV 16th )MY BLOG.... http://www.nakedmanonawire.blogspot.com

MY EMAIL ADDRESS IN IS MY 'VIEW PLAN'

It's amazing what one can do when one doesn't know what one is doing

Congratulations, Welcome to Nikon forums and particularly to the D700 one, wise choice.
Enjoy