please bare in mind that the oasis is NOT a private run club. The "couples" night is meant in all innocence and NOT run as a swingers night... Its now more that than if a swimming pool had a Ladies session would be aimed at lesbian/bi women. I have a friend who works at the Dome and they are clamping down on anyone that attempts to carryout any sexual activity in their facility.
As a PRO photographer i can offer some advice here i think....
Remeber that a camera is, basically, nothing more than a light tight box... its the glass in front and the person behind that makes the pic... that said... sensors now play a part in the image quality.
As already stated, for the average user theres probably nothing between the two main players... Dont bother with Pentax...
The EOS 400 is the new kid on the block... ok if using it occasionally as a hobbiest, but wont stand up to the rigours of some serious usage. The 20D or 30D are better build as they're aimed at the entry level prosumer market.
The canon sensors deliver a better image at higher ISO settings.. ive pushed mine to 1600 for hand held flashless indoor church shots.. little loss in image quality... these being for wedding albums etc. a friend with the Nikon D100 struggled to get a decent image at 400iso any higher and there were some serious colour fringing and strong grain.
I have also heard that the after service that nikon provide leaves a lot to be desired..... D70's are renowned for giving up the ghost after 30,000 images.... seems alot... think of how many bodies i'd get through... 25-30 weddings per year @ 1500 images per wedding.. add to that the product, editorial and fashion shoots i undertake and i'd need a new camera every two months......
Alot depends on your intended usage.... If your looking for something that gives a decent image for snaps with a little artistic input from you i'd suggest a top line compact.. restrictive on lens lengths etc...
If a hobbiest either the EOS 400 or the Nikon D80, considering the shutter issue....
If youre wanting something that you could develop your photography with and is a reliable workhorse.. i'd opt for the EOS 20 or 30D everytime.....
Hope that helps...
Regards,
A.
hope the weather keeps fine...
