Fred –
I worked with the F, which I loved; bought the F2 as an alternative (and a security device allowing me two boss cameras for constantly alternating cameras just-in-case); I had an FM for the faster sun-synch. and then the FM2n(?) replaced that. Having had both the F and F2 repaired a couple of times because of the problems of salt and mildew from working and later living near the sea, I finally bought into the F4 system with an F4s. I hated it. It was very heavy, I could never get the auto-film loading to work, causing huge embarrassment in front of clients/models. I discovered that the F3 was then still in production! despite Nikon keeping it very quiet. That led to my step backwards and I got rid of the F4s immediately. I still have that F3, almost unused, since it coincided with the tail-off of my work.
My first digital was the D200 and then I added a D700, simply because I couldn’t get a reasonable offer for the D200. I love everything about the D700 except for one thing: it’s too bloody heavy!
So guess what? All I am currently playing with is my cellphone. (Cellpix sub-gallery in The Biscuit Tin on my website, for anyone interested.)
There’s something wrong with that equation: all the money goes on expensive gear yet the cheapest option takes pride of well, not place, but certainly of choice when confronted with the reality of need vs. comfort.
Rob C
I agree Rob. You came to the same conclusion as mine about the F4. I hated it too. Really really too big and heavy. I remember walking in Paris at night with it and it was Hell and I was really young. The F3 was a much more friendly device and we could get rid-of the battery grip. In the end, the FM2 (my version was exactly a FE2 wich is electronic) did the same job, lighter, faster, and cooler. (but didn't look so pro and the "whao" factor you know...)
And look, Nikon still produces the FM2 today ! That's for a reason.
The D2,3,4... line has the same design as the F4. Even without touching the D4, I know already from the F4 experience that I will hate it too. Those camera are made for giants with big hands.
I can't help thinking of this D4 inside a metal cage with all the viewfinders, lcd screen, cablery mess, batteries and matte-box etc... and it will be as agile as an Arriflex.
I think that the Nikon V1 is much more exciting camera.