Nikon D200 10.2 Megapixel

It is now February 2008 and here is my update after using the D200 for two years.
Ok... I still own the camera and use it daily. My D200 and several lenses literally go almost everywhere I go. Every trip, heck every time I leave the house my case goes right in the back seat right where I can reach it.
From the beginning I have taken advantage of all the features of the Nikon D200.
I stand by my earlier review and still consider those features to be the highlights.
If you click my ebay profile you will see a link to my extensive photo gallery and multimedia sites.
It is worth mentioning that I sent my camera in for the recommended year plus checkup and received excellent service from Nikon in El Segundo, Ca.
I highly recommend the camera and Nikon as a system!.

My experience with this camera has been excellent!
Here is an updated assessment after using the camera for a year.
The exceptional value of this camera is even more apparent today than it was a year ago.
What the D200 does best is allow me to capture digital images across a multitude of situations.
This camera's exceptional value can be summarized by one word.....capability.
It is the attention to details such as ergonomics and information interface that make the Nikon D200 both comprehensive and a pleasure to use. The thoughtful design and substantial build quality integrate well with the full compliment of features and advanced imaging options.
It is the overall capability offered at a relatively modest price that makes the Nikon D200, in my opinion, an exceptional value without peer.
Nikon's inclusion of advanced technology and design translate into capability I can describe specifically.

- Advanced image processing that enables me to capture images with accurate color and transition
detail.
- On board availability of perceptive and creative affects such as Image Optimize, Overlay, Multiple
Exposure with Auto Gain, Kelvin Temperature Scale, White Balance including Custom WB via easy
adjustment.
- Customization of up to four seperate Shooting and Custom Setting Menus for quick adaption of
camera to multiple anticipated capture environments.
It is this feature that in my mind truly separates this camera from the competition. I often use this
feature to set up the camera so that I have several configurations just a click away.
- Option to deploy the on-camera flash to control the Advanced Wireless Lighting syatem as well as
Nikon's highly capable TTL auto flash mode that uses monitor preflashes to properly expose the
subject regardless of ambient light conditions.
- Ability to follow action with minimal viewfinder blackout and up to five frames per second speed.
Near instant shutter release, high buffer capacity and numerous focus sensor options including
Focus Lock and Focus Tracking.
- Access to Nikon as a system including a full range of Nikkor lenses, accessories, software and after
the purchase benefits not the least of which is outstanding ongoing customer service and technical
support.

I find the numerous features of the D200 to be both welcome and necessary.
Tremendous capability for the price!
Good luck!

The Nikon D200 is frankly one of the best digital cameras on the market. At its price level, it is unmatched in terms of features, performance, and image quality, not to mention ergonomics and build quality. When you combine one of the most advanced photographic systems on the planet with the latest in digital technology, one expects a top level result. The D200 meets and exceeds expectations day after day. I've used my fair share of top of the line digital gear from several brands, and the D200 truly is the best value. Missing only a handful of features from the top of the line, $5000 cameras, and improving on some of their features at the same time, the D200 provides professional level results in a professional level camera, but without the hefty price tag.
The 10.2 Megapixel CCD sensor provides outstanding image quality and resolution that puts every lens you mount to the test. Just like the D2X, it can bring out flaws in inferior glass that you never saw before- brutal, but that does mean you are getting the most out of your gear. I use it for any high resolution work I may need, and even heavily cropped prints are stunning. Auto White Balance in this camera is superb, and is rarely fooled by tricky lighting. The ability to set Kelvin white balance is also helpful for those situations where auto white balance is not able to do its best, like in extremely warm incandescent light.
Noise during long exposures is easily removed simply by turning on the long exposure Noise Reduction function. High ISO noise is not bad, especially considering the resolution of the camera. Nikon's rendition is like film grain, and implementing one of the three levels of noise reduction, even the lowest, almost completely removes color noise with, to my eyes, almost no perceptible loss of detail at all. Results in RAW at high ISO are best with Nikon Capture Editor.
The D200 body is very well built- its magnesium alloy chassis really shows in its heft and solid feel. the rubber grips and rubberized command dials are very nice. All the controls are in the right place, easily accessible. the large 2.5" 230,000 pixel LCD is very nice and provides you with a very clear view of your image. You can use the center button of the 4-way controller to instantly zoom in on a photo at varying levels of magnification too.
The myriad of custom functions and menu options may seem daunting, but it provides for unparalleled control over the end results. 4 shooting and 4 custom settings banks allow you to have multiple presets that you can rename at will.
The intelligent battery system in the D200 only accepts Nikon EN-EL3E batteries, but provides you with a running total of shots taken, percent remaining, and lets you know the charging life of the battery from new to replace. Coming from a Nikon D70 or D50, battery life may seem shorter, but considering it is basically the same battery powering image processing electronics from the Nikon D2X/D2HS, a much larger LCD, and more, performance is in line with what one would expect and is still good, though not as phenomenal as the D70/D50.
The body is also weather sealed and does an admirable job at keeping out the elements.
The Autofocus system is very configurable and provides great results overall. The flash system, Nikon's i-TTL, is fully supported with multiple groups controllable from the built in flash.
I've had my D200 since it came out in December 2005. It is certainly a fantastic camera and I love using it!

This is one great camera!It feels great it's fast,large screen and crystal clear.You can fire 5 fps bursts almost non stop.The power grip just tops everything off.focuses fast with all Nikon lenses.It's on screen menu covers almost everything you can think of and it's quite easy to use.
Highly reccomended!!!

I experienced a series of Nikon's recently. I owned them all. Upgraded them in time by saving and it all came up to Nikon D200. This is what you need if you are planning to upgrade from d80 or less. D70 and D70s users must get D200 nothing less or more. D200 is a semi pro camera. Theonly thing upgraders would have a little problem is there is not really shooting modes on this camera which works like auto. You have to adjust it like a pro according to light and all environment. But once it is set camera does excellent jobs.

WHY D200 ?

* 5 frames per second. You will never miss even the TENNIS BALL in a tennis game. Shooting other sports are piece of cake.
* 1/8000 you can literally shoot the sun itself. The shutter is so fast.
* What you are getting for the price you ar paying is really great.
* Forget the package lens 18-200mm on it. It adds too much extra to the price. If you don't have a lens yet then get 18-70mm Nikkor for start. You will bereally happy with this one.
* Super fast communication between compact flash card and the camera.
* Large and even under sun very easily viewable screen. (2 inches big)
* It is built tough and materials feels quality.


SUGGESTIONS :

** Definetly buy one with the US WARRANTY.
** Try to get one body only. The deals are usually bad with lenses on. You can always get a great deal on lenses on eBay.
** Go try one in a store and see how it feels. Some think it is heavy but nothing compared to d2x series.(even the without the flash)


You will take great photos with this camera. But please don't forget one thing. It does not matter what camera you use, you also need some luck and cooperation of light for sure. Even the best professionals and their equipments does not always create the best photo.

D200 IS THE LAST STEP BEFORE FULL PROFESSIONAL EQUIPMENT. Please don't hesitate to contact me through eBay if you have some more questions about D200. I will help you as much as I know and pass on my experiences.

Thank yall.
Ken