I have been mulling over in my mind for the past year or so as to what camera body to purchase to backup my 1dsII. Deciding was based on the following options:
1). Another (used) 1dsII.
2). A new 1dsIII.
3). A 1dIII.
I have been very pleased with my current 1dsII. Being used to the operation and output of the body, and having spare batteries and the same charger. This would make sense. If I could find a new one, I would be spending around £4500 on a camera that has now been replaced by the 1dsIII. A used one was probably the way to go, pick up one from an 'upgrader' at around £2000-£2500 with a low shutter count. I have no problems with the images from this camera, it still produces stunning quality.
A new 1dsIII - mmmm, fantastic bit of kit but at around £6000 it would have to produce noticeably better quality than its predecessor. I had a play with one and loved the new menus etc. but reading many users opinions, the image quality was better, but not 'that' much better.
Whilst the 1dIII has had its problems, most reviewers and users were getting excellent quality images. Could the quality approach that of the 1dsII?
I made an uncomfortable decision to go for the last choice. Had I done the right thing? Well I am sitting here grinning like a cheshire cat. I did make the right decision. I purchased a 'fixed' 1dIII. The images I have shot are very close to those from the 1dsII, and better in some respects. I am very impressed with the speed and accuracy of focusing (locking onto and tracking cars coming in the opposite direction - SWMBO was driving)!! I now have a new set of lenses (with the 1.3 crop). I have no hesitation in using this camera body for anything, but I will be keeping the 1dsII for those wide shots with the 16-35 and for use with my 24TSE.
Just thought I would share my pleasure - thanks for reading.
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