Nikon D200 Digital SLR Camera

(Format: Data from Nikon web site followed by my comments)

10.2 megapixel DX Format CCD image sensor: A newly developed 10.2 effective megapixel DX Format CCD image sensor that captures images with edge-to-edge sharpness and incredible color at 3,872 x 2,592 pixels, yielding extraordinarily high-resolution images perfect for enlargements or creative cropping

The sensor in this camera is a decent improvement over the D70s unit, mostly in noise reduction. Some noise is still evident with the D200 but far less than the D70s. Noise is the most limiting factor with CCD sensors, I am looking forward to using the D300 with a new CMOS sensor. Digital noise is my biggest concern with Nikon Digital SLR cameras.

Industry-leading image processing for exceptional color performance: Incorporates Nikon's industry-leading advanced imaging processing engine of the D2x, which allows color-independent pre-conditioning prior to A/D conversion to work in symphony with advanced digital image processing algorithms to achieve fine color gradations with exceptionally smooth, consistent transitions

I'll take Nikons word on that...

Large viewfinder with 0.94x magnification: The new eye-level optical viewfinder developed for the D200 features large magnification (0.94x) that helps ensure a clear view for precise composition, and built-in diopter adjustment that allows fine-tuning to your eyesight

The viewfinder was a nice upgrade, previewing images is easy and accurate.

Durable, Magnesium alloy (Mg) body: Nikon's advanced technologies and mechanisms are housed within a rugged, lightweight magnesium alloy chassis and body ready for the most rigorous of assignments. Additional sealing for dust and moisture add to the D200's strength.

This was a major reason to upgrade for me. I work in some pretty rugged environments and I need to depend on my camera holding up. The D200 does feel a little on the heavy side for a camera that small (without grip) but it's worth it for the extra durability.

5fps high-speed continuous shooting: Capture fast action and fleeting expressions with the ability to capture high-resolution images at a rapid 5 frames per second in continuous bursts of up to 22 NEF (RAW) or 37 JPEG (FINE - LARGE) shots**Fast SLR response where it counts: Instant power-up in just 0.15 seconds, a shutter release time lag of a mere 50 milliseconds, and a shortened viewfinder blackout time of just 105 milliseconds makes the D200 ready to respond to any photographic situation

Speed is an area where the D200 really shines. I know some of the new cameras are faster, but 5 frames per second is blazing quick! On my last trip to the Bosque Del Apache Wildlife Refuge some of the older photographers were absolutely shocked every time a crane would fly over and I'd hit the shutter button!

New, 11-area Multi-CAM AF System with 7 Area Wide AF: The new Multi-CAM 1000 AF Sensor Module offers an 11-area AF that ensures consistently fast and precise focus lock under varying shooting conditions. The 7-wide area AF system, offers broad coverage suited for moving subjects enabling greater compositional freedom

The auto focus system is fast and accurate.

New EN-EL3e Rechargeable battery with Fuel gauge function: The high-energy EN-EL3e rechargeable lithium-ion battery lets you capture up to 1,800 shots per charge featuring an accurate real-time Fuel gauge system that displays the percentage of remaining charge, number of shots since last charge and overall status of battery service life.

Here is where Nikon and I differ! I will never understand how they claim 1800 shots per charge. This is the D200's weak point. It eats batteries like they are going out of style! I solved the problem by using the MB-D200 battery grip with 2 batteries.

In my opinion the Nikon D200 is a full professional camera. I saw no reason to spend a couple thousand more dollars for the then top of the line D2x. The D200 had most of the D2x features at less than half of the price. Many of the images in my professional portfolio were shot with this camera.