I'm considering buying a D3x for the wider dynamic range (at ISO 100-600) but the main reason for the switch is the AF is supposed to be faster and more accurate. I've read the D3x has no problems locking focus in low light/contrast areas and has a higher hit rate. I think James also mentioned he uses a 1Ds III but finds the Nikon to be much more reliable in the AF department.
My question is what's the best raw processing software for the D3x files? I'm a canon user and usually process in DPP then straight into photoshop. Is Nikon NX2, LR or Capture One the best way to go? in terms of getting the best out of the files?
Also what about shooting tethered? is NX2 very stable/fast/reliable in this regard? or is LR a better option for tethering the D3x
I'm also looking at purchasing a good all-purpose zoom for fashion/portraits/catwalk/studio/location etc. is the Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8G ED-IF AF-S VR a nice sharp optic?
Any help/advice would be much appreciated
The Canon is a good camera, at least the 1ds3's. They focus well, they just don't track focus as well as the nikons or find low, low light areas to focus on as well as the Nikons, but overall the Canons are very good, especially on skintones.
Capture NX or whatever it is called processes the Nikon files very well, so does c1 4.6, though NX is a little better, though a very confusing program and somewhat slow even on a killer mac tower.
But if you really are thinking about switching systems get your hands on a D3, d700, d3x and yes even an N90 and shoot the way you shoot in your conditions and look at them. Also use your Canons.
You might not notice any difference.
Honestly I've processed files from about everthing in about everything and all digital cameras today are good, some work better in some situations than others, but they're all good.
Now, nobody is going to believe me on this, but I find the little Nikon n90 to be an amazing little camera. In real world, where people are moving, light is changing and everthing is not shot locked down with 10,000 watts of strobe I have a very very hard time telling the difference between the n90 and a 1ds3. In fact I love the out of the camera color of the n-90 and maybe it was just the situations I shot it in, but the color is really pretty all from a camera that costs $900.
All of these cameras have their strengths and weakness, especially with lenses. The Canon 35mm 1.4 even wide open is just an great piece of glass and the Nikon 85 1.4 and 200 F2 are far and above two of the finest lenses I've every shot with. The 200mm especially is just crazy sharp and pretty. It's a save the day type of lens.
I know everyone talks megapixels as the holy grail and but I really don't think it matters that much, at least not as much as the forums will lead you to believe. Lens sharpness, in focus, color all have much more to do with the look of what I do than uber detail.