Nikon d2x or Canon EOS 1D MarkII

I am trying to decide whether to purchase the nikon d2x or the canon EOS 1D Mark II, anyone have any suggestions or comments as to which is better. And if so, why do you think one is better over the other.

Both these cameras are top end Pro cameras. And would not be anyone's first camera. Therefore most people's choices would be strongly influenced by the cameras + lenses they already own. For underwater photographers - you could also add housings they already own.

Alex

Thanks, but my current camera is an Sony. Therefore lenses cant influence my descision. Any other advice would be much appreciated. The D2x camera is slightly more expensive, but the housing cheaper, and the canon camera is cheaper for housing more expensive

I have to agree with Alex, neither of these should be "first" cameras.

Maybe you should look at the D70/Subal setup. If you really find it is not enough camera for you, then you can move to the Subal D2X, and keep all of you ports, lenses, peripherals, etc.

The Canon option of 20D as a starter would also be fine. You just need to decide which "glass" you want to use.

BTW, the 20D is probably a better body than the D70, but it is also a bit more expensive, and the Canon line still has a lens missing from their line up, the 10.5 FE.

Fo UW photography both have strengths and weaknesses. The Canon 1D Mk2 is best if you flood it (as it is cheaper). Plus it produces smoother images at hi-ISO - so is good for deep and wreck photography. At low ISO the D2x produces more detailed images (close to the 1Ds Mk2) and would be better for well lit tropical photography.

The 1d Mk2 also offers an upgrade path to the 1Ds Mk2 in the same housing.

There are more housing choices for the D2x.

Alex

Dear Sea Nettle,

Both cameras are excellent, both in construction and image quality. However the Nikon has several quite significant advantages. Those being Nikon's 10.5mm and 12-24mm lenses. Canon's special digital wide angle lenses are designed for their consumer digital cameras that have a smaller chip than the 1D MkII and therefore do not work on it. The nikon autofucus points can be easier to switch between (depending on the housing) because there are fewer of them and a single control is all that is needed. And the camera can be shot while in the process if you need to.

dive gypsy