After a heated discussion with a friend on the dSLR ranges offered by Nikon and Canon, I thought I'd give some info on these two brands, and recommendations based on your usage.

Note that everything here is based on my experience and opinions of the cameras.

First of all, both brands have a good range of dSLR cameras.

The latest is the Nikon D80 and the D200, while Canon have the Digital Rebel XTi (400 D outside the USA), and the EOS 1D Mark III.

A lot of users think the Rebel series equals the top amatuer Nikon range (i.e. D70s/D80).

Not true. While they are both in the same price range, performance is VERY different. The EOS 400 is more equal to D40 or the D50 from the Nikon range.

The Canon cameras have a better sensor than the Nikons, and is capable of picking up better colours and details, especially when it comes to colour balance.

Note that pixels refer to how clear a picture is, as in the resolution is just an indication of how many pixels will be available in a picture. This does not necessarily mean that the higher the resolution, the more details will show in a photo. The details are dependant on how good the sensor is.

A good analogy is to imagine that the sensor records the details, while the pixels tell you how accurate they are.

Now, for the camera itself, I personally prefer the Nikon bodies, as the lower range Canons are like toys to me. I love the ergonomics of the D70/80/100/200.

Anything lower than the D70 is annoying. The D50 comes to mind. Since it only has one dial, its not fast enough in street situations where you need to change your aperture as well as your shutter speed. With the four mentioned above, the camera has two dials which you can move using your right hand. In fact the entire process just takes three fingers.

The EOS 300/350/400 has a great sensor, and can pick up colours very well, but it is a horrible little body thing, and you feel like you're playing with a toy. Not veryeffective and nice to use. It also has a huge 1.7 crop factor, which kills all the lenses you use on it.

The D50/70/80/100/200 have a great body, but its only in the 80/200 do they have a sensor that can compare to the EOS cameras. While the D70 is a great piece of work, and I recommend it for its price, it goes back to what you need.

As an overall prospect, Nikon is better for the studio since you can control the light, while Canon is better for the field since it is VERY rugged and gives you more accurate colours.

Whats the point of a Nikon you say then?

Well I am more comfortable with the Nikons because of their bulkiness. I hate small cameras, and with the new softer noice in high ISO in the D80, I think its a great choice.

Personal opinion?

If it was up to me, I'd get a D80 and an EOS 1D Mark III. The D80 would mostly be in the studio, while the EOS would be for the field.

It all boils down on how much bang per buck you want to get. The Canon cameras have the legendary L glass which I have to say is FUCKING sexeh.

If anyone needs any more clarification, please let me know.