Nikon D200

[Callander1]

I have rather large hands, and found my Konica/Minolta (now Sony) DSLR woefully useless. I needed a large camera body I could literally get to grips with. A visit to the local Jessops (and a very patient sale assistant) I found the D200 to have an excellent specification. And was the most comfortable to hold. The Jessops 'Own brand' zoom lens I also bought, was soon returned, after the purchase of a Nikkor VR 18-200mm zoom on ebay. Followed soon after by a 170-500mm Sigma from another dealer who was prepared to offer it for less than Jessops asked for. I, soon after, bought the battery grip. Which fits on underneath like the orignal Nikon F motor drive. This actually holds two Nikon batteries. giving extended usage life.
I find that I am, more and more, using manual focus. Particularly with the Sigma. As it has the tendency to hunt right through the focus range. If it can't lock onto anything definite. The manual focus suits me fine, particularly if my subject 'isn't going anywhere'.
I also find that I can get excellent results hand holding at 500mm. By holding the camera in my right hand. Putting my left hand on my right arm, just below the shoulder. Then resting the lens on my left elbow, which is now just in front of my face. Sounds uncomfortable, I know, but give it a try.
Only problem. Everytime I went to Scotland. My daughter 'borrowed' it So I never got a look in. Fortunately. She recently bought herself a D300. So I get to use it again.

[Callander1]

Thank you to everyone who has commented on my Photo album. Nothing special there. But just some of my favourite pictures. All taken with a Nikon D200, mostly with the Sigma 170-500mm zoom.

[Callander1]

Just received the latest issue of Nikon PRO magazine, today. As always. Some mindblowing pictures from the elite of the worlds photographers. Including some amazing wildlife stuff.

[Dave H]

Thanks for the quick review of the D200.
I was keen to get one so that I could use my older manual lenses. In the end, it cost a little too much at the time and I got a D80. I "can" use manual lenses with the D80, but metering is lost so it becomes a pain for all but static work (macro etc).

I'm glad that you enjoy yours and look forward to a few more pics from you.

Dave.

[Callander1]

Thankyou Dave. I am also keen to 'have a go' on my daughters D300, to compare the differences.

[Chrissy]

I have the D80 and my OH half has just upgraded to the D300, in fact I think his D200 will be going on the bay in a day or so...
I am looking forward to having a play with the 300, so far it looks mightily impressive!

[Callander1]

LOL. Yes. My daughter has just got a D300.

Oops! I said that, 2 posts ago. I still prefer the D200, because it is physically bigger, and easier for me to hold.

[Callander1]

Because of the limitations on software that could handle RAW images. I just stuck my D200 on jpeg, and left it at that. But since I got the new iMac and Photoshop Elements 8, which will handle RAW. I am looking forward to using the Nikon to it's full extent.