Sorted: Canon 5D Mkii setup or Nikon D610 setup

[W44NNE]

Now that I've returned all my D600 equipment, I'm back to square one, and ready to "buy in" and start again.

From using the D600, I know how much I liked its performance in terms of image quality. The AF in the D610 body is apparently improved, as is the White Balance as well. However, I'd be buying a new body most likely and obviously that comes at a premium.

So another option is to go down the 5D Mkii route, hoping to upgrade to the Mkiii in the future for the better AF. The pros would obviously be price, as I can easily buy second hand with the body and lenses; probably ending up with two to three lenses for the same price as one lens with the D610.

The cons would be finding kit that hasn't been battered, and the lack of a built in flash which was of great benefit on a recent trip for fill light against the sun. Also, I much prefer SD cards and would have extra investment to buy CF which looks expensive.

I'm not even slightly bothered about video, however I am very bothered about...

- Image quality
- Low light performance
- Weight
- AF isn't a massive factor but it'd be nice to have good performance here too

What would be your thoughts on these areas with these two setups, as I think I've finally narrowed my search down.

 

[twist]

Look at a 6D

 

[grotty]

Look at a 6D

Did you have both? I'd be keen to hear your opinion if so.

 

[Nod]

D700?

 

[twist]

No, but the 6D is a better camera than the 5D2 and why buy used when you can buy new for not much more. I have the 6D and the Hi ISO performance is amazing, AF is good when focus and recomposing, I havent had time to spend with the outer points yet. I previously owned the D800, I dont mind cleaning a sensor but the D600 does seem to be a pita.

For his requirements it seems a good consideration, its cheaper than the D610, its lighter, its smaller, better Hi ISO and AF isnt a main concern for him so Id imagine the 6D AF will be good enough.

 

[W44NNE]

D700?

This isn't one I've considered due to the lower MP count. I sometimes like to crop and found the D600 amazing for this.

Re: The 6D

This is the camera that kick started this process. The 24-105mm kit would be ideal for me. I know some people prefer primes but I generally use a zoom as it's just what suits.

The (much) higher ISO range appears to be better than the D610, and when I tried a 6D, the results on the LCD showed excellent white balance and it felt super to hold.

It is missing the in-built flash though. Wifi will come in handy for night shots but then the adapter for D610 is only around £40.

The replies have helped me to realise the 6D is a better option than the 5D Mkii, but it's still close with the D610.

Literally pulling my hair out lol.

 

[twist]

It seems youd be buying the D610 for a flash, could always just get a small yongnuo which is cheap and much better than built in. For the odd days you need it just stick it in coat pocket or camera bag.

 

[Wayne Els]

I would have suggested the 6D over the 5D2 too but you're there now. As to whether you'd rather have it over the 610, sorry can't help. Price wise I guess the difference between the 2 would get you a gun for the 6D which may be less convenient but is a lot more useful than the built in flash?

 

[W44NNE]

True about the add-on flash, although I'd need a 430 speed light too so it's an extra expense.

So deals I can find are:

- 6D with 24-105mm F4 and a free 50mm f1.8 + 32GB SD card, Adobe software @ £1999 + 430 flash @£165 + small flash at £80? = £2244

- D610 body only + free SB700 flash @ £1700, new 24-120mm F4 @ £740 = £2420 + I'll need to buy Lightroom £50-100) but already have a 50mm 1.8g lens... So around £2600 value

OR...

Used 5D Mkiii, used 24-105mm @ £2500ish + two flashes @ £245 or so = £2745 or thereabouts

The 6D is starting to look like a bargain!

 

[twist]

Thats because it is, although the Nikon G is much nicer than the Canon. The 24-105 from what I understand is better than the Nikon.

 

[W44NNE]

I've ordered... a D610! I went to see the cameras just now and the 5D Mkiii felt too large, especially when we have limited luggage space on our trips. The dynamic range appears to be better on the D610 and I have no need for video so I'm sure the D610 would be adequate for the very rare time I would use that.

The 6D sounded great but having to carry an extra flash basically made it even larger than the 5D.

Finally, whilst on the fence about what to buy, John Lewis price matched a great deal I'd found, so I'll also have a 90 day returns period should I wish to move to Canon as well.

Thanks for the advice... hopefully I'm finally there with the decision making!!