Bali Photographer / Thoughts and Portfolio

The large the image sensor the better the result is. Nothing new about it. That is the very reason why in the old film days, medium or large film sized used by Mamiya, Hasselblad, Holga, Rolleiflex, and so forth results superior images compared to standard 35mm DSLRs. Digital is no exception. The best will be camera with large digital sensor like Hasselblaad or at least a digital back attached to large or medium format camera like Mamiya. Even the cheaper second option costs at least eight grands, so it is definitely note my league.

So after having comfortable feel with DSLR, I started to look into full-frame, which even not as large as medium or large, offer double sensor size compared to DSLR with crop factor. Until introduction of D3 - Nikon’s first full-frame DSLR - Canon is the only DSLR manufacturer offering full-frame. Kodak used to offer one but seems to be discontinued.

I have never looked into D300 to replace my old D200. But the full-frame D3 priced at about five grands is something I could not afford even if I put myself on fasting for a year. So I started to look into Canon. Its three years old in production 5D is now offered at slightly below two grands brand new. But I do love the color space, ergonomic, speed, intuitive operation, and superb optical excellence of Nikon.

When after a few months of D3/D300 inauguration rumors started to tell about something in between - D300 specification with full-frame sensor - I was so enthusiastic to wait. I believe it will have the position like 5D in Canon’s product line, below the Pro class of 1Ds and beyond the consumer 40D, and therefore priced at similar range.

No, I was wrong. As it was finally announced, it priced at $3,200. It broke my heart and I made up my decision. I am going the Canon way. I will trade my Nikon D200 and all of its related equipments with Canon 5D. A few Nikonian fellows reminded that 5D is carrying the old technology. I believe it is true, but compared to my Nikon D200 which introduced only a few months after 5D, there should be so much difference. What is old about D200? Those migrating from the ancient gear of D70/D70s may find D300 amazing, but those migrating from D200 confirmed that the difference is not that significant.

So with all praise and respect to Nikon, I am going Canon way. I will be looking into used Canon 5D which in the market is sold at similar price to brand new D300. FULL FRAME.