I've been thinking about getting an EOS 350 since they were first announced but thought I'd wait for a few reviews to appear first. Now I'm more unsure than ever - I've seen a fair few excellent reviews but I've also seen as many reviews absolutely slating it over simple things like the quality of the autofocus system. The small size and even the unreadable LCD don't bother me too much but obviously the performance in terms of quality of images does. What is the true story with this camera - are there problems or is it largely down to user error.

I would not hesistate to get the Nikon D70 but it is a bit chunky for my purposes, so I thought I'd take a luck at the D50 which is a bit smaller. All the previews I've read describe this as a beginners SLR. Is this just because it is going to be Nikons entry level camera or is it missing a lot of features found on the D70/D70s or 350D. I don't want to outgrow the camera in 6 months time.

Thanks

[DJW]

The 350 is on par with D70 (no more debates here please), so if you are after a smaller body than the D70 the 350 should be perfect for you & will grow with your needs. The Auto mode on these DSLR's make it fine for beginners.

[witters]

Dave,

Out of interest what did you think to the D70?

[severnsource]

I've seen a few reviews of the 350D, but not seen any mention of autofocus problems or picture quality problems. As the default autofocus system uses a 9 zone weighting system it is possible that the camera may choose to focus on part of the image that is not what the photographer would define as the subject, but that would be operator error. The camera shows you which part of the image will be in focus and you have the option of choosing any of the 9 areas as your focus zone. I'm getting near to 800 shots with mine and any focus errors are down to the operator, not the camera.

If you can live with the size and a couple of operational issues that have been justifiably raised in the reviews, the 350D is a fine camera that is capable of producing fine images.

Bill

[DJW]

Originally Posted by witters

Dave,

Out of interest what did you think to the D70?

Tony,

Found it a more pro feeling camera than the 300D & the 18-70 lens is a cracker. Even though the functions are pretty similar I can understand why people feel it is a bit daunting at 1st. The 300D seemed easier to use from the off.

I get the feeling my neighbour is a bit daunted by it all, as he has left me to use camera whilst he is away on hols for 2 weeks. Might have to take it off his hands as he seemed more at ease with my 300D . I think it is cheaper to go D70 route than source the same std lens for the Canon.

Missus will go mental as I stated the 300D was more than good enough for me & I wouldn't be spending more

Having just bought the D70, I may be biassed. As cameras, I would agree the D70 & 350D are pretty equal, but I would choose the 350D over the D50.

I don't know the advantages of the EOS 350D (apart from lighter in weight), so you'll have to look elsewhere for that, but I would say that at this precise instant in time, the D70 has the following advantages:

£100 cheaper with cashback (see my other thread)
better kit lens (18-70 that is)
better flash system & sync
(And I have a personal long term preference for Nikon as a company, despite the fact that Canon is undoubtedly the technology leader these days.)

If you take the trouble to learn how to use it, the (external) flash system is significant. (But most people don't)

Nowadays, it's a fallacy to think that you need a "simpler" camera because you're new to it; the D70 (and I am sure the 350D or D50) is extremely easy to take superb pix with with no knowledge whatsoever, and absolutely far easier than any point and shoot. With the instant feedback you get with digital, and this forum to ask questions on, you can easily teach yourself the finer points.

As regards size and weight, spend £100 on something you can slip into your pocket and carry always. You'll be wanting one or two extra lenses for the SLR anyway, so the size difference isn't so significant.

Personally, I wouldn't buy a D50, but I'm sure it's OK. Differences are tabulated here (but there's a firmware upgrade for D70 that cancels some):

http://www.dpreview.com/articles/nikond50/

Kit lens, remote flash and compactflash storage are the important differences for me.

[witters]

You know it makes sense Dave

[Radiohead]

The D50 competes with the 300D.

The D70 competes with the 350D.

The D50 isn't out yet, so it's hard to judge - but as others have said, if you're considering the 350D then you should be looking at the D70 anyway. Both are superb cameras.

[ASH1]

350D gets my vote, but I would say that because I have one. The best advice I can give you is to go to your local store and try the 350D and the D70 for your self. Also have a look on the net for the cheapest price and if you have a Jessops near you ask them to price match.

ASH1

[dejongj]

As you already discounted the D70 due to its size I think you should go for the 350D. Simply because for me it was the otherway around, I discounted the 350D for its small size...

[Radiohead]

Agreed, if it's a straight fight between the D50 and 350D then Canon takes the prize.