my prediction considering the status of Nikon vs. Canon...

it seems canon was able to step ahead with Nikon this year, the release of 5DmkII is alarming to most photographers, and another 500D is coming...i can sense more & more will shift to Canon due to only 1 main reason..

generally Canon is cheaper than Nikon, and still produces the same output, not even or almost not visible in actual prints.....

Although Nikon is responding, but the impact is not that catching, cause its either out of the league or lack of additional features or the price range is too high...

i had to admit that Nikon has a better quality on my own preference, but their high price is a big downside, that will discourage most of us who wants to upgrade or entry level...

my heart will stay with Nikon, i just don't know how long i can hold before shifting...

I posted in the Dear Nikon thread my predictions, but I'll post them here too. Since my request for a more affordable ultra wide zoom has been granted, I foresee an upgrade to the AF-s 24-85mm f/3.5-4.5G. They'll probably tack on VR to that and sell it as a kit with the new D40 replacement. I can foresee an AF-S update to the 50mm f/1.8, and the 85mm f/1.8 as well.

Nikon 16 f/4 PC-E 77mm filter!!

i wish they will build a prime like this for 2009

24mm 1.4G N AF-S DX&FX fully compatible, with Macro Capability (minimum focusing distance is 2-3 inches) super ultra sharp & super ultra fast AF in all lighting situation...

and a body with an HD video 1080 & 720 capability, external wireless mic input and external portable hardrive input in a DX Body, and of please no more JELLOW EFFECT in panning... how does it sound huh?

dream, dream, dream.. im only dreamin........

I am still wondering if Nikon will have some new FX prime lenses...That's quite a big weakpoint now, especially compared with Canon...

I think a D60/D40 replacement is a given now that they've discontinued the D40.

I can't predict the future, but I would prefer a more modest upgrade to the D60 WITHOUT the HD video if it keeps the price low.

However, because Canon now has HD video (even it's only good for static scenes, according to Rob Galbraith) in a camera costing $900 with IS lens, I suspect that the next Nikon we see will HAVE to have that, too.

http://www.robgalbraith.com/bins/multi_page.asp?cid=7-9973-9976

Let's hope we get some newer bodies out this year, I'm pretty disappointed that the Canon 500D has dropped and Nikon hasn't responded. . .I think to compete, they'll drop the D90 video capabilities and possibly sensor into a D60 type body, or maybe just do the opposite and update the D300. . .in either case, it needs to be done NOW!

What will Nikon release this year?