I am frequently asked what camera I use. I know I'm supposed to say that it doesn't matter, but I think it is still a fun discussion. Here are some of the cameras I've used over the last couple years and my experiences with them. Just for fun, I also added the cameras I'm lusting after. :-)
Point & Shoots
Canon Powershot PS 95 - Loved this camera. It performs well in low light. There's a candlelight feature, so just for fun, I took a picture of a candle. Another cool feature is you can program the outer ring and back command dial to change between ISO, exposure compensation, and other features. It goes completely manual, and shoots raw files. Great walk around camera for a DSLR shooter. Note: This has now been replaced by the PowerShot S100
Nikon P300 - I would describe this camera as adequate. I wasn't blown away with anything. It is a modestly priced Nikon point and shoot that allows manual controls. If that's all you need, it will answer the mail. I was disappointed that it doesn't have spot metering or shoot raw files. Noise also starts becoming noticeable at ISO 800. It's good as a step up from a more basic compact camera, but DSLR shooters might find it frustrating. I think a much better option will be the new Nikon P7100. That's my next point and shoot.
DSLR Bodies
Nikon D300s - This was my workhorse camera. I owned a D200 for several years and knew it inside out. I appreciated that the D300S felt so familiar. I moved to this upgrade primarily because of the video capability. It's predecessor, the D300 felt too Incremental, despite the CMOS sensor. The D300S 720 dpi video soon felt dated, as all the other manufacturers were shipping 1080p hi def.
Nikon D700 - This Nikon full frame sensor is tough to find these days, but it is worth it if you can get your hands on one. The low light performance is one of its strongest attributes for me. ISO 4000 was relatively clean. That opens up lots of options when you pair it with a fast lens. If only it shot video. (sigh)
Lenses
Nikon 18 mm - 200 mm - Good all purpose lens. Buy this if you are upgrading from the kit lens. If I was purchasing now, I'd take a hard look at the 28 mm - 300 mm first, however.
Nikon 24 mm - 70 mm - Worth the investment if you need a fast lens. Very sharp as well. It can quickly become your walk around lens.
Nikon 70 mm - 200 mm - No substitute for portraits in my humble opinion. Pair this with a full frame if you shoot events.
Nikon 50 mm f/1.8G - I'm using this as my walkaround lately. You can't beat the fast lens and the creativity that results when you are forced to zoom with your feet. Every camera bag should have a Nifty 50.
Nikon 35 mm f/1.8G - This was my favorite walk around lens on my D300S. It is the equivalent of a 50 mm lens on a 35 mm film camera. You zoom with your feet, but it keeps the camera light and fast.
Nikon 105 mm f/2.8G - Great portrait lens. I also liked it for shooting flowers and other close ups.
Wish List
Nikon D4 - Just announced and slated to arrive on my birthday. Hmmm...
Nikon D7000 - I'm really digging this as a digital walk around camera. Love the performance. I'd pair it with the 28 mm - 300 mm.
Nikon P7100 - I was somewhat swooning at the predecessor P7000 when I bought the Canon PS 95. Now this upgrade might bring me back. The reticulating (pop out) screen is a quality of life feature I'm glad they included in the upgrade. (Sometimes its the little things.) It's a tad bulky but would still be my pocketable camera.
Nikon D600 - Nikon's newest announced full frame camera. They have introduced it at an affordable $2,000, which basically eliminates any reason to still consider the D700. It has double the resolution, without the D800 overkill. It also gives you HD video, a glaring omission on the D700.
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