I've outgrown my D50...a little slow and low, noisy ISO...and I'm looking to upgrade. I can either go D300s and a lense or two or the D700 and maybe one lense. I'm hearing rumors that a new 700 or a replacement is coming (which would lower the current D700 prices) but I don't know what to do. Any advice?
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Is there a new D700 coming?
(85 posts) (27 voices)-
Posted 3 years ago #
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You seem to have a pretty GOOD dilemma here. Either way you go you'll come out a winner. Both the D300s and D700 (and im sure its eventual replacement) are all great cameras. With that said I personally would get the D300s (assuming FX is not a major factor for you) ans get a real nice lens or two. The glass is more important then the body, not to say the body isn't important. However a good body with great glass will give you wonderful images, and I would say the D300s is better than good... Good Luck!
Posted 3 years ago # -
What lenses do you have now? If you already have a few 35mm (non-DX) lenses, that go for the D700, if all you have is DX lenses, maybe not such a good idea, unless you can sell your DX lenses and get a decent amount of cash for them. Whatever you do, hang on to that D50, they are such nice little cameras!
Posted 3 years ago # -
I have two lenses that I shoot with...a Nikon 50mm 1.8 and a Sigma 17-70 2.8-4.5. I would assume they're both non-DX lenses.
Whatever I do I'm going to hold onto the D50...it's still a great camera.
Posted 3 years ago # -
Sigma 17-70mm F2.8-4.5 DC Macro is DX lens.
Wait If you can, otherwise go for D700 if you can afford it, or D90 with some very good lens like Nikon 70-200.Posted 3 years ago # -
mb said:
Sigma 17-70mm F2.8-4.5 DC Macro is DX lens.
Wait If you can, otherwise go for D700 if you can afford it, or D90 with some very good lens like Nikon 70-200.The D90 is a pretty good suggestion too (or its successor). Especially from a D50. However, I am still very partial toward full frame cameras and the D700 (or its successor) is really going to blow any DX out of the water.
Posted 3 years ago # -
jackfussell said:
I have two lenses that I shoot with...a Nikon 50mm 1.8 and a Sigma 17-70 2.8-4.5. I would assume they're both non-DX lenses.Whatever I do I'm going to hold onto the D50...it's still a great camera.
As other posted the Sigma is a DX lens, but the 50mm F1.8D is a 35mm lens (FX), and will work just fine. If you want to start out with low cost lenses look for used mid range AF-D lenses, they are all FX and cost a lot less than newer G lenses. You could always get the basic 24-120mm VR D700 kit lens with it, and in spite of all the bad reviews, it is a good starting point if you want to keep initial costs down. Not to mention that it is both wider and longer, in FX terms than the Sigma you have now.
Posted 3 years ago # -
I just read the threads in the "older" forum format that resulted in a search under the terms "D700 Replacement." This is the closest thread I could find where I was able to post my own comment. Anyway, I found the posts and the authors of those posts extremely entertaining. So even if these kinds of threads are discouraged here, I kinda like reading them, and I kinda wanted to write in one, so here goes . . .
So, here I am at the FX crossroads, now that I'm considering the bottom-of-the-line, Nikon full-frame body to start my new portfolio. Into its product life cycle going on two years now, everyone's clamoring for a "D700s" or "D700x" or a total model replacement. Now, I'm just thinking out loud, so don't all jump on me at once. Here are some of the common arguments:
1. Buy the D700 now--it's a great camera. Yup. I'm darned close to doing just that.
2. Just shoot with what you've got. I will. But, not for the portfolio pieces--these images will be printed at rather large sizes. Plus, even though it costs nothing to load up a memory card with images, each shoot will be costing me real money: one professional model, one make-up/hair, and two assistants. Assistants will be needed because I'll be shooting with two handheld strobes, on all-exterior locations, and we will not be buying insurance or location permits (so we need to shoot fast).
3. Why not rent a D700? This is probably the most prudent option.Yes, these are for possible gallery sale, so it may be a "business" decision. But, the gallery takes 50%, and I have to absorb all of the printing, mounting, and framing expenses. There will be very little profit, if any.
Now, I'm also really thinking hard about buying a whole new Mamiya system and shooting 120 film, or renting a medium-format back. Now the question morphs from, "Should I wait for the D700 replacement," to, "Should I be shooting 6 x 7cm film?" But a full-frame D-SLR would just be so much easier, since I already own much of the glass I'll be using. To me, the D700 is still a $2,500 investment, worth waiting, at least until Photokina, to find out if a refreshed version is pending. It's not like I'm going to be shooting all of this tomorrow anyway. This will probably consist of six days of shooting, over six non-consecutive weekends, and each shoot will need some prep time.
Regarding the 1080p video issue, I've resigned myself to buying a completely different camera to do large-sensor, motion-picture acquisition, later this year (either the 4/3rds-format, Panasonic AG-AF100, or the S35-format, RED Scarlet, both of which will be able to accept Nikkor glass, with an adapter). But, it sure would be nice if I didn't have to buy a separate camera to do that.
Posted 2 years ago # -
interesting ruminations ...
Had a quick look at the Panasonic.. Although it outputs various formats it looks like its a 720p24 NATIVE and all other formats are generated/interpolated. so Its really no better than a D300S (rolling not withstanding.) If you are getting it later in the year anyway.. may be worth waiting for the next Nikon camera before you buy. The D3S did perform amazingly at High ISO video in that video dslr shoot-out recently...
Renting sounds like a great option for you.. The D3X looks just right for your project. Renting MF film may be cheaper though ... and I am sure there are bargains to be had second hand. Still scanned film may not be to your liking.. try it out with 35mm film first.
On the other hand.. the OP was 3 month old. and who is to say in 3 months time we will still be waiting for the D700 replacement.
Posted 2 years ago # -
heartyfisher said:
interesting ruminations ...Had a quick look at the Panasonic.. Although it outputs various formats it looks like its a 720p24 NATIVE and all other formats are generated/interpolated. so Its really no better than a D300S (rolling not withstanding.) If you are getting it later in the year anyway.. may be worth waiting for the next Nikon camera before you buy.
Thanks for your comments. Are you sure you were looking at the AF-AG100, and not the GH1? If you were, do you mind sharing the link you were reading? I thought the AF-AG100 was 1080p at up to 60fps.
heartyfisher said:
Renting sounds like a great option for you.. The D3X looks just right for your project. Renting MF film may be cheaper though ... and I am sure there are bargains to be had second hand. Still scanned film may not be to your liking.. try it out with 35mm film first.
Good points. Gotta find out how much drum scans are these days. I just asked someone at work about this whose husband runs a service bureau.
heartyfisher said:
On the other hand.. the OP was 3 month old. and who is to say in 3 months time we will still be waiting for the D700 replacement.So true, so true . . .
Posted 2 years ago # -
I just goggled "Panasonic AG-AF100".. yeah I misread a bit .. but it does 1080/24p and 720/24p native.. It still seems to generate all the other frame rates... and its a 4/3 frame .. so a bit smaller than dx and fx cameras.. I think it may be worth considering getting a D3S which should do both Video and Still frame. A bit of compromise on video (rolling shutters) but a huge gain on High ISO Video & Stills and Much shallower DOF and only one set of lenses.
Posted 2 years ago # -
heartyfisher said:I think it may be worth considering getting a D3S which should do both Video and Still frame. A bit of compromise on video (rolling shutters) but a huge gain on High ISO Video & Stills and Much shallower DOF and only one set of lenses.
Well, I'm still holding out hope for a Nikon solution. Yes, I'm certainly no fan of the smaller 4/3rds format, but at least it will accept Nikon lenses with an adapter (albeit, with a 2x crop factor). Unfortunately, the D3s is a non-issue without 1080p24 capability, let alone any overcranking ability. Also, for me, I'd much prefer the traditional form-factor of an AF100-type camera for D-cinema applications. But with an announced release date of "end of the year" 2010, we have time to wait and see what other options may arise.
The real issue for Nikon is the implementation of a modern, efficient, FCP-friendly CODEC in whatever 1080p24-capable camera they bring out. Panasonic has years of experience in developing efficient, broadcast-ready CODECs for their higher-end P2 broadcast cameras, and they certainly have leg-up in that department. And, yes, rolling shutter artifacts will continue to plague cameras of this design, and will continue to be a major impediment to their adoption in mainstream production.
All I can say is . . . it's going to be a looooong summer.
Posted 2 years ago # -
Agree that the video camera form id probably better for video.. but I have seen some nice frames designed for sticking a DSLR in for video work.
Posted 2 years ago # -
jackfussell go with the D700 and don't wait, I'm glad I didn't when I was in a similar situation last Christmas. Its been a great camera for me you'll love it! :)
Posted 2 years ago # -
I can probably wait until September. Wait, maybe I can't! But dang-it! It was like two seconds after my return period expired when I bought my D70, that the D70s came out with the larger screen. And that D70 screen is SMALL. I was pissed about that for like a year. Actually, I still am!
Posted 2 years ago # -
I think, you should just get it with some lens rebate cuz if the update comes out right after, you won't be as pissed since you got a macho discount for lenses :P
Posted 2 years ago # -
If rumors of the D700 replacement not coming till next year are true, you might have a long wait. Rule of thumb for any major purchase, buy it when you need it. If you think you can afford to wait, I wonder if you really "need" it at all. If you are working in a professional environment get what you need to get the job done, if you need to upgrade the equipment will pay for itself. You'd most likely want a second FX camera as a backup at some point anyway.
Posted 2 years ago # -
Hello Jack,
Really depends on your budget too. Price is significantly a gap between 300s and 700. If budget isnt a concern, go for the D700 (FX) considering the reason you need the immediate upgrade - for instance if you're planning for a trip with wonderful places of interest + great landscape. Memorable events + opportunity of great picture snapping are priceless =) !
I'm actually waiting for the new D700 replacement which rumors says/predict it'll be coming soon however, considering the feedbacks posted lately, i doubt it'll release new FX models any soon this year.
Posted 2 years ago # -
didn't Nikon drag out the D90 release - it was well over 2 years after the D80. . .and it seems like sometimes they do that when a nice, new sensor can be added; the D90 has been a staple for many semi-pro's because of that.
So maybe they'll do the same with the D700 and drag it out a bit longer. . .milk that 12mpx FX sensor some more and then release a totally game changing body :-/
Posted 2 years ago # -
I just purchased a D300s. I looked at the D700 but it did not seem to offer that much more other than the larger format. The two main reasons I chose the D300s were the two memory card slots and the D700 has a little vignette problem. The individual selling the camera stated he has a D300s. In addition, he has had customers complain about the vignette issue with the big brother D700. Hopefully, Nikon will fix the problem with the newer model and give it a second card slot. However, if you need the larger format than in the Nikon line this is the cheapest way to go, without spending $5,000.00.
Posted 2 years ago # -
You may have sold yourself short. Issues with vignetting have more to do with the lens that you are using also the camera comes with a pretty effective Vignetting Control option. The reason to buy an FX camera over a DX is predominantly for low light photography(the D700 crushes both the D300 and the D300s for low light), so if that wasn't something you expect to deal with then perhaps you made the right choice.
Posted 2 years ago # -
Don1 said:
I just purchased a D300s. I looked at the D700 but it did not seem to offer that much more other than the larger format.Well, that is the biggest single reason to move up to a D700! With a larger sensor, you get Improved dynamic range and better low-light sensitivity with a lower noise floor. Congrats on your new D300s, but what made you decide on the D300s over the D90? Also, was the vignetting caused because you were mounting DX lenses on an FX camera?
Personally, I am absolutely Jonesing for a new FX-body. I own a D70 and a D90, and a huge pile of FX lenses. I was darned close to buying a D700 refurb last week for only $2,100, but held back, thinking, that the day after my return period expired, the D700x would be announced! I just gotta make it through the summer until all of the major Photokina announcements are released . . .
Posted 2 years ago # -
Squamish Photo and Studio 460 you are both right. The reason to buy the D700 is that it has the bigger more light sensitive sensor. I already have a D80 and a D90. I like them both. I did a wedding last year with both cameras and I just did two graduations and party with the D90. I have no problem. I bought the D300s because from what I have read on Nikon's website and information from the salesman who I know has one it has better low noise than my D90, it is a stronger camera, it is gasketed better than the D80 and D90 and of course, lack of funds. It was tempting but I could not justify the D700 right now and there may be a newer one out next year. Thanks for you input.
Posted 2 years ago # -
Don1 said:
I bought the D300s because from what I have read on Nikon's website and information from the salesman who I know has one it has better low noise than my D90, it is a stronger camera, it is gasketed better than the D80 and D90 . . .Aw, heck. I was about to take this thread waaaaay off-topic with a lengthy D90 vs. D300s discussion (now deleted) . . . Anyway, sounds good! The weatherproofing alone is a great reason to choose the D300s over the D90! Enjoy your new D300s!
Posted 2 years ago # -
I agree with squamish and studio, too. But you're right that the dual card slots can really help with the stress of event photography. I think it's a good decision, Don1. And welcome to the forum.
Posted 2 years ago #
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