Sheldon wrote:

I got my D70 today. I've just been using it in Auto mode, and tried some of
my older Nikon lenses on it in manual mode. So far my impressions are that
it is extremely fast, both focusing and shooting. It feels like a "real"
camera, very solid and nice to hold. JPEG photos look very good, but it's
gonna take me awhile to get past the learning curve. Also, the controls
seem to be well placed, including all the buttons. Everything just seems to
fall into place when you hold it.

Congrats!

I reccomend that you shoot in "A" mode as much as possible and control the DOF
for the desired composition. "A" mode is 'semi auto' in that you choose your
aperture and the camera computes the speed based on the meter reading.

(or "S" where motion control is a priority).

Really learn the metering system. Examine the histograms and adjust exposure comp.


You get an adaptor that holds 3 CR-2 batteries for emergencies, but three of
these things cost almost as much as a spare rechargeable, so I've already
ordered a second battery and an AC adaptor (why is the AC adaptor so
expensive compared to the other models?). I got the AC adaptor in case I
have to clean the CCD. Figured it was cheaper than a repair if the battery
gave out.

These chargers contain a DC-DC converter, not just a simple xfrmr-rectifier, so
they do cost more.

Also, hard to get used to the Auto feature lowering the shutter speed to the
point where you can't hand-hold it. I'm learning.

Shoot "S" priority to be in control of the shutter speed.
Shoot "A" priority to be in control of DOF.
Use a tripod.
Focus manually too.
Post results.

Cheers,
Alan

--
-- r.p.e.35mm user resource: http://www.aliasimages.com/rpe35mmur.htm
-- r.p.d.slr-systems: http://www.aliasimages.com/rpdslrsysur.htm
-- [SI] gallery & rulz: http://www.pbase.com/shootin
-- e-meil: there's no such thing as a FreeLunch.