Making the switch from Nikon to Canon...

[ForzaF1]

Hey guys,
I have been lurking around this site for months now, trying to decide if I should go to Canon. I have always used Nikon ever since my father gave me my first camera. I always preffered my Nikon film cameras over Canon's film cameras, so when it came time to move to digital, I just stuck with Nikon. A year ago, I thought I would never even consider using Canon equipment after being a Nikon user for so long. I recently had to send my D200 is for repairs, ruining the shoot I had the next day with a happy new Ferrari owner that wanted big prints of his new prancing horse. I called him to tell him that I wouldn't be able to do it because my camera had just been shipped off, but then he said that his neighbor had some nice equipment and that he would probably let me use it, so I thought I would give it a shot. It turned out that "nice equipment" was 5D, 70-200mm f/2.8 IS USM lens. Needless to say, I was pleasantly surprised, because I had heard good things about the 5D before. I really enjoyed shooting with it and the lens was almost impeccable. This is what really made me consider making the switch. If I made the switch, I would have to let my D200, 70-200mm f/2.8 VR lens, 105mm f/2.8 VR macro lens, and 18-200mm VR lens all go. I REALLY like my equipment, but I couldn't afford to keep it all and get new Canon gear. I do A LOT of racing photography (F1, ALMS, etc.), and I shoot for the Nashville Ferrari Club, which also means quite a few private shoots of Ferraris. So, I would need some good speed, but also enough megapixels to make big prints. This all leads me to the new 1D Mk III. None of this would happen immediately, so I am not in a rush to make a decision, but would really like to make my mind up soon. What do you guys think?

Thanks a lot,

John

[Sp00ks]

It sounds like you already know what you want. Posting here isn't going to help keep your Nikon :)

It sounds like you have some nice equipment. However, I don't think you will be disappointed with your suggestions. You could try renting for a couple of days to be sure. That is a large investment.

[VegasGeorge]

There is a lot of good natured rivalry between Canon and Nikon shooters. But, the truth is that both make great cameras and lenses. Already having Nikon lenses you like should be the deciding factor. If I were you, I wouldn't change horses in midstream. Now, if your Nikon equipment was too old, damaged, or stolen, that would be a different story. Starting from scratch, I would recommend Canon simply because I think Canon is more aggressive in the digital marketplace, and has more to offer.

[steved110]

I wouldn't change just for the sake of it - you already have some excellent lenses and they are at least as good as the equivalent Canon offerings.

the real issues are whether you need lenses that Nikon don't make, and bodies that Nikon can't make - eg full-frame or 10 fps etc. I don't get the impression any of these are imminent but I suppose you never know.

the other reason to change would be if you handled an Eos and had an epiphany while doing so - realised that this was the 'one' for you. If you felt like that after handling a 5D, a 1 series would probably blow your mind.

And the final reason to change would be if Nikon actually p'd you off so bad you felt you had to - eg a lousy customer service issue etc.

[AeroSmith]

My wife was a wedding photgrapher for 10 years. She used Nikon equipment, film equipment. Great stuff. She has a D70 body now. I hate to generalize but my wife and I agree: back when film was king Nikon ruled the roost; in the digital era Canon rules the roost with better sensors and better processors. Both companies make excellent lenses. And of course, only Canon has full frame. I say go for it and don't look back.

[ForzaF1]

Thanks for all the replies, guys. The 10fps is really what attracted me to the Mk III because of all the racing photos that I do. I just don't have money to make a switch right now. I guess I'll see what happens.

Thanks

[In2Photos]

No matter what your decision is make sure you continue to hang around. You don't have to shoot Canon to be a member here. But be warned, POTN is an expensive habit.;)

[Jon, The Elder]

But be warned, POTN is an expensive habit.

C'mon Mike...it's only money.

[Glenn NK]

Welcome to the forum John - seems like you need the MIII. Even Ferrari's aren't that fast.;) ;)

[ForzaF1]

Welcome to the forum John - seems like you need the MIII. Even Ferrari's aren't that fast.;) ;)

LOL.

When the time comes to pick one up, I would like to keep my Nikon stuff, but that might not be possible. I will need some extra dough from some nice new Canon glass.

The saving has officially begun...

[bieber]

The tricky part is going to be shuffling equipment without tying up too much money, if you want to do it. It's a matter of how quickly could you sell off existing gear, how long would it take to get the new gear in your hands, how much money could you put out temporarily to speed the process, and how long can you be without a camera?

Good luck with whatever you decide.