How does a 15 YEAR OLD CAMERA compare to a 2021 CAMERA? Nikon D200 vs Nikon Z7

15 years is a long time in modern camera history but just how much has changed? In this video I take my trusty 10 megapixel Nikon D200 out on two amazing mornings to find out.
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NIKON GEAR (Main STILLS camera)
Current landscape camera - Nikon Z7 - geni.us/nikonz7
Awesome telephoto lens - Nikon 70-200m f/2.8 - geni.us/nikon70200
Great ultra-wide angle lens - Nikon 14-30mm f/4 - geni.us/1430mm
Hiking mid lens - Nikon 24-70mm Z f4 - geni.us/nikon2470
Sharpest mid lens - Nikon 24-70mm Z f2.8 geni.us/2470mm28
Astro lens - Samyang 14mm F2.4 - geni.us/samyan...
Very long lens - Nikon 500mm F5.6 - geni.us/nikon5...
FILM GEAR
Nikon Z6 - geni.us/z6nikon
Nikon 20mm Z F1.8 - geni.us/nikon2...
Nikon 24mm Z F1.8 - geni.us/nikon24mm
Nikon 50mm Z F1.8 - geni.us/nikon5...
Nikon 85mm Z F1.8 - geni.us/nikon8...
OTHER PHOTO GEAR
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The great printer I use Canon P1000 - geni.us/cIIc
Clever camera strap (peak design) - geni.us/PDstrap
Great bag for hiking - Tenba 24L - geni.us/orPwh
Great bag for travel (carry on) - Tenba 32L - geni.us/tenba32l
Super light Benro Travel Tripod UK - geni.us/Benrot...
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Screw on ND filter - geni.us/polarp...
#camerachallenge #nikonz7 #nikond200

[@MadsPeterIversen]

A great example of how ridiculous our obsession with gear is. It certainly does "up" the image quality in many examples, but the really good photo is so much more about being at the right place at the right time :D

[@Dylon1981]

you are absolutely right. Im also one of your subscribers by the way.

[@MichalMike]

Yes, this is true. I'm still a DSLR shooter and know that I need/want to go mirrorless at some point. But any time I think about the switch, I look at my pictures and realize how light, composition, and processing are much more important than new equipment - at least in photography, I'm doing (landscape). In fact, a good picture from my D200 is much more rewarding than from D800 :). So there is still time for the switch for me :).

[@theweekendphotographer]

The newer equipment is more 'forgiving' on mistakes on composition, lighting, etc..

[@IslandAdventures]

Yep! 5% Gear 5% knowing how to take the image 90% sheer dumb luck at being in the right place at the right time!

[@KevinNordstrom]

I agree it's not so much about gear but right place and time as well. The famous photo of the flag being raised over Iwo Jima back in 1945 was taken with a greyflex 4x5 and it still today is one of the most iconic and sold prints. Great points mads

[@mateojimenez5905]

Honestly I think I preferred the colors from the D200, they felt warmer and more inviting

[@ChrisEdgecombePhoto]

Absolutely agree, the colours are a lot more natural/organic looking. The Z7 looked too clinical.

[@belowaverage7539]

Saaaame I was lucky enough to pick up a like new d200 for only $100 last year. I love this camera.

[@nikolanastich7251]

I agree with you!

[@oliverku3481]

Same here 👍

[@rossritchie7611]

@@belowaverage7539 if you love the D200 then a D300 will fill your heart with warmth

[@dream431ca]

The D200 IMO looks better. I love the soft warm feel from the shots compared to the cold contrast of the Z7.

[@natedagreat90]

White balance not colors

[@stevenrobinsonpictures]

@@natedagreat90 Wrong. Look up about the CCD sensor tech and CFA which sits afront of it. Colour seperation and thus colours are different on a D200.

[@MichalMike]

Is it just me or D200 colors are better? I know that color perception can be subjective - but I found D200 colors more pleasing. Anyway - this shows that D200 in the hands of skilled photographers still can do amazing things. Thank you for the comparison.

[@paulstubbs1843]

I was thinking exactly the same... more pleasing aesthetically

[@SubZero8007]

Not really, the D200 shots are shot at a warmer white balance, you can see it later in the editing (6350 vs 5600 on the first photo for example). He should've set the same white balance while shooting for a better coparison.

[@phooesnax]

CCD sensor vs CMOS

[@Kamukix]

Same here, but I've always enjoyed the color from the D2 series bodies. The last shot in particular I definitely preferred the D200 shot. D200 files ARE in fact harder to work with if you do much editing, but I don't mind that as I'm not that heavy into editing anyway.

[@phooesnax]

@J H none use that anymore.

[@stanislavnachev4584]

I like the D200 colors and shadows. The images from the Z7 have so much dynamic range dialed into them that it makes them look unrealistic. imho

[@S3l3ct1ve]

Exactly this, I find this frustrating with basically every new camera. You can push that DR from an old sensor in post processing if you need, but you cant reduce it with new sensors...

[@JLeoH]

I agree too. I tend to not recover 100% of the highlights. It just looks unnatural and rubbery-HDR-like.

[@Funktrainer]

@@S3l3ct1ve Sure, you can limit the dynamic range in post fairly easy.

[@rhythmace1]

You can always throw away data, but never synthesise new data that was never captured in the first place.

[@Joycembc]

Thanks Nigel for taken the time to compare the two cameras. When I look at the two photos I tend to like the photos taken with the D200 they are more pleasing to look at, much softer and not so harsh and contrast looking like on the Z7.

[@Hart-en-Ziel]

Even while I was impressed by the dynamic range and the details, I also found the Z7 pictures to be ‘harsh’ at times. I’m experiencing the same with my Z6 btw. Quite some photographers say that the Z cameras and lenses create to sharp pictures. On the other hand it’s quite easy to make a picture softer in Lightroom. Easier than the somewhat artificial sharpening option, imho

[@alphat4551]

@@Hart-en-Ziel So we pay more to get more then take it away in Lightroom?

[@Reason-fg4ik]

@@alphat4551 The most interesting technique to me is trying to make a digital image look like a particular film stock. I shoot digital but when I want a film look I pullout one of my film bodies and a couple rolls of old film stock from the freezer.

[@mere_mort4l]

I somehow seem to prefer the warmer and fuzzier feel of the D200

[@djjurky]

Same here

[@stevenhightop2518]

Agreed. In every case, the older CCD sensor has produced a better color balance than the clinical CMOS sensor used in the Z series,

[@ahmonon4352]

Same here

[@ambermay7032]

Same. It gives the photos almost a romantic feel vs a more modern, technical feel from the Z7.

[@simontrezise8495]

My response too.

[@FreedomToRoam86]

For these foggy landscapes, I kind of like the D200's lower dynamic range rendition that gives it a more solid and bit of golden glowy feel. The Z7 is more accurate, but perhaps a little less romantic/nostalgic looking. But of course beauty is in the mind of the viewer.

[@himalayanoftheandes6027]

Most people compare cameras by going out and taking pictures of brick walls. We really appreciate the effort to actually find nice compositions as a comparison! Thanks Nigel, great as always!

[@SaxonSuccess]

I prefer the colours from the D200 every time. I don't like the bright false greens after processing. The slanty tree at the end is a case in point. The D200 image looks far more natural to me. I like old gear, and use it frequently, often with adapted lenses.

[@korchimogen3516]

...still loving my d700 and d300

[@JLeoH]

The two cameras that nearly bankrupted Nikon. Just too good to upgrade. You'd upgrade merely for resolution and autofocus, nothing else.

[@georgedavall9449]

Indeed Sir! No doubt two very ‘Iconic’ cameras, and probably some of the best Nikon ever made. They (Nikon) seem to have lost their MoJo shortly after these cameras were released. I think 2008-2011 was a tough time, and caused a lot of havoc and problems for Nikon, and even Olympus, that haunts them till this day. Just MHO. Peace! 📷

[@Dylon1981]

there are 2 types of photographers these days. One driven by new gears, and the other driven by passion. the latter mostly produce better photography results.

[@Hart-en-Ziel]

While I agree, in general, Nigel is combining both, from my point of view at least: Maximum focus on the overall scenery and composition, not neglecting the impact of the gear too. I like the style and Nigel’s focus on the beauty of nature a lot. Those “Wait, you can hear the woodpecker” moments too...

[@Falkenroth1]

What I found interesting was sometimes less detail actually looks more artistic or cleaner.

[@GTScaleModelling]

I’m quite new to photography and only as a hobby. Due to limited budget I’m using a second hand D300, with a 18-70mm kit lens and a manual 70-300mm. Watching these videos where the pro photographers all use the latest kit sometimes is a bit off putting to those trying to improve basic photos with older kit, so it’s good to see that you guys can get printable quality images with such cameras. It gives us poor hobbyists hope!

[@martinwozenilek485]

Just take a look to Flickr and search for unbelievable expensive lenses (Zeiss) or cameras (Leica) and you will notice, it's definitely not the gear. 😉

[@romanpul]

The D300 still is an amazing camera. It served me well for so many years and I made tons of great photos with it. Even today I would be totally happy to do professional work with it. Actually after seeing this I might get it out again to give it another go

[@edash360]

Nothing wrong with the D300! Was really celebrated back in the day. :)

[@jamesfell5241]

My old D300 images look amazing with Nikon's new software NX Studio.

[@garethwilliams976]

Totally Agree. I have a D300 and a D800e and will never upgrade again. The 300 is as good a camera as I really need. I bought it as a pre-order when it came out and the 800 I bought used as a back-up. No point in buying a z series as I won't be able to use its lenses on my DSLRs.

[@lindaccherry2404]

I recently picked up the Nikon D700 after shooting Sony mirrorless for the last 5 years and have to say that I prefer the quality and tones of the D700 images over the quality of the mirrorless and really dont miss the extra megapixels.

[@tonysleigh6635]

I bought my D700 fairly recently with less than 6000 actuations for a mere £300. I love this camera for its simplicity and warm natural tones it produces. Unfortunately we live in the digital age where manufacturers are constantly pushing boundaries to sell their products and people buy into it! This takes the real natural perception that we see day to day.

[@lindaccherry2404]

@@tonysleigh6635 I agree wholeheartedly, sometime less really is more.

[@dungareesareforfools]

The D700 / D3 sensor is still awesome. The fact that the D3 was a photo-journalist's camera but is still excellent at landscapes tells you so!

[@stanislavnachev4584]

same!

[@HerewardinExile]

I rue the day I traded my D700 for a D600. Would probably have bought another D700 if I hadn't been seduced by the retro chic of Fuji.

[@GenericaQwerty]

I wonder if Pebbles thinks you're awfully forgetful when you walk off, and then have to double back to retrieve the camera that was filming you 😂 It always impresses me how much extra footwork you must put into the footage we see! Great video as always 👍

[@NigelDanson]

She thinks I am bonkers!

[@StarWarriorMusic]

Les Stroud style lol

[@olafschermann1592]

So many people talking about their love of their old cameras, thank you for touching our hearts!

[@55whiplash]

Picked up D80 recently, very cheap, hardly been used, and I was amazed at the colors of the CCD sensor. As other commenters mentioned, the new cameras are very clinical, almost too perfect.

[@CO8848_2]

Me, too. Love the images I am getting, I remember how I loved my d40 until it was stolen.

[@typeraver]

I preferred some of the d200 edits over the z7, because of the softer contrast especially in the last image. Fun video to watch! Love to see different brands from the same era if possible. (Canon r5, Panasonic s1r...)

[@PeeGeeTips]

I agree, that last image definitely looked better from the D200 and it’s edit, the Nikon isn’t 16bit raw either, those 16bit raw files are only reserved for the Hasselblad H series and Phase One’s of the world so far. Pretty surprised at the colour difference over the 15 years too.

[@eamonoc2268]

Amazing how Technology has moved on. Want to thank you for your comment two weeks ago that you always remember that 2 hours on the mountain, and never the 2 extra hours of sleep. That phrase has gotten me out of bed on many a morning since including this morning and you are correct. Nothing like photographing the dawn. Keep those inspirational videos coming.

[@NigelDanson]

Yes - it is one of my favourites.. I always say it to myself.

[@wayneashton]

This is one of the times I'd like to see a Poll to see who liked the D200 images more than the Z7.

[@FrankyFeedler]

* Raises hand. Was looking for this comment.

[@DLMlive]

These Z7 images remind me why I don't like my Fuji for landscape, and shoot my Canon 1DX MK3 99 percent of the time. Color can be much more important than detail and megapixels. Too much resolution can be a bad thing in my oppinion, and in this case I have to say the d200 did better in overall image appeal.

[@mikaelbiilmann6826]

Make it a blind test, and let the fun begin. 😁

[@Funktrainer]

It is always more about the composition, moment and mood.

[@daniel_913]

It's obvious people like the D200 more.

[@Sergiopoo]

Currently I have a D90 that has been with me for 12 years it still takes fantastic photos and I love it deeply.

[@tommynikon2283]

Remember, it is YOU taking the photo; the camera is following your will.

[@chloescanlon1107]

Would you like a medal?

[@Sergiopoo]

@@chloescanlon1107 if you are offering, yes. Thank you!

[@georgedavall9449]

@@Sergiopoo Hah! Nice comeback for that big mouth beeotch! Yeah! Why peeps gotta be like dat? But your old D90 just aint all that, sorry to say. Better off with a D300/700. Juss sayin

[@PunjabiGymBeats]

Its joy to use old cameras like D300, D700,D3 line.

[@erodriguez1925]

Now I'm going to have to go get a D3. 😏 I actually have both the D300 and D700. Love them both. However, they struggle a bit in low light. I did see a video in which the D3 seemed to handle low light much better than the other two. 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@PunjabiGymBeats]

@@erodriguez1925 buy the D4 or D4s they are also very good in low light and autofocus.

[@erodriguez1925]

@@PunjabiGymBeats I believe a step up as well. There's something very nostalgic about these older pro cameras that I absolutely love. Thanks.

[@Funktrainer]

@@PunjabiGymBeats The D4 is not really better in low light than the original D3. The D4 has more color information and therefore more color noise. I like the D4 a lot better than the D3 because of the better color reproduction, better dynamic range and better ergonomics. I don’t really care for megapixels and autofocus as I exclusively use Ai or Ai-S lenses.

[@PunjabiGymBeats]

@@Funktrainer ok i haven't use them only D700 user, thanks for your feedback.

[@Mrbluesplayer43]

Lockdown last year provided a great opportunity to sort out my bulging LR catalog of over 16 years of DSLR photos. It really made me realise how much better cameras are today. Back then you almost wouldn't dare shoot above ISO 100, and even if you dared to go to 400 shadow detail was almost non-existent. Trying to boost shadows in post just resulted in heavy noise and awful banding. People starting in photography today just don't know how lucky they are, you can't really buy a bad camera now.Thankfully, post processing tools have come on leaps and bounds too, and some old photo favourites have been given a new lease of life too.

[@JamesPopsysPhoto]

Such a good idea for a video mate! Right, now I'll watch it :)

[@airpuffy]

pfft, what would this guy know :)

[@NigelDanson]

Thanks - hope you enjoyed the video as much as the idea.

[@JamesPopsysPhoto]

@@NigelDanson I did :)

[@noctilux5134]

@@JamesPopsysPhoto next up, 2010 compact camera against 2020 hybrid :) Who dares ?!

[@frutt5k]

@@noctilux5134 Then compare an Olympus Mju 720SW with a Z6. You may be surprised.

[@fabianbuschor8826]

The colors of the D200 look beautiful with lots of shades of hues, the Z7 doesn't have that.

[@NigelDanson]

It does - just my crap processing

[@duncanwallace7760]

D200 was a top camera when it came out. A lot of people complain about the most minor differences between camera brands, but this shows just how far all cameras have come even in a relatively short amount of time.

[@robertYTB78g]

I'm only a newbie, but I liked the warm colours and softness of some of your older camera images more..I've been going into some of my own images to sharpen them, and finding hey! some of them look much better if I blur them...No way I'm giving up my wonderful new technology, but I think all your videos show the importance of artistic... post production and image composition, rather than getting too fixated with technical quality. Learning a lot, thanks for posting.

[@07wrxtr1]

This also brings back the whole idea of priorities: Lens Quality+Idea > Camera body

[@Revup1]

So, I still shoot with a D200. Back in the day I had a D200 and D700, which IMO was the best combination of cameras ever. Apart from being DX the D200 was brilliant. I use the D200 now for flash and portrait stuff, and its rendition of face and colour is better than my D810. The D810 is fantastic for landscape, but its too clinical for anything else and has NO character at all. I don't know about the Z7, I'm not a fan of EVFs, but to my mind as we've moved on with digital we suffer from diminishing returns, cameras are now solving problems we don't need them to solve, but never the less we are falling for the hype and over paying for stuff we don't need. I have a suspicion that the inclusion of video in still cameras has removed the balance of character and resolution, and now its all about resolution. I find I'm usually satisfied with what comes straight out of the D200, with the D810 the images always need processed. The D200 is the better camera......I wonder if your Z7 will still be around in 15 years time?

[@kovacsadam7217]

The colours from the D200 are much more pleasing to my eyes.

[@PhuVet]

The focus is great on my 3-D200's. I do know that the focus can be sluggish if you store the camera for a long time and don't use it. Also, don't think of the digital crutch of a screen as a Necessary item. The optical viewfinder is and has been the standard for the best shots in history.

[@p1pepper]

Out of all the most popular KZbin vloggers , you have the most engaging and relatable content and presentation . Just feels like we're right there with you . Just the best , sir !

[@NigelDanson]

Thanks so much

[@stephenwilliams6682]

I found my old D200 yesterday and did a little bird photography with it, I normally use the D850 but I was quite surprised at some of the photos I took with the D200. Sometimes it’s good to know you haven’t got to have the latest and greatest equipment to still enjoy photography.

[@Anna-gv7vo]

In your opinion, which one produces the better skin tones, the D200 or the D850? Only skin tones, not quality, of course! Thank you in advance.

[@stephenwilliams6682]

@@Anna-gv7vo hi Anna, to be honest I don’t do a lot of portrait photography, 99% is wildlife related, although I have been doing real estate photography last few months. It depends on your budget, the D200 I found to be a good camera and can be found really cheaply in the uk. I love the D850 it’s my go to camera. If you are looking for a cheap camera have a look at the Nikon D300 still a really good camera , the D700 an excellent budget full frame.

[@Anna-gv7vo]

@@stephenwilliams6682 thank you so much for your answer! I have a Sony a7iii for a year now and I love the camera but I hate the Raws colours SOOC. I know I can edit, but as much I edit, I can never get pleasing colours SOOC as I see on my friend's Nikon D850. So, I found a company, "Cobalt Image" that sells Profiles for LR, CamaraRaw and others that can emulate any camera look, meaning I can have on my Sony a specific Nikon camera colours. For that, you have to buy first their Basic pack preset that colour corrects your images and then if we want we buy the emulations for other cameras. It is very expensive and I hesitated but now that I've tried it (the basic pack), I don't regret it a bit, it's worth every penny! Now I was trying to decide if I should buy D200 colour pack or another pack called Nikon contemporary colours which has the colours for several DSLR and Mirrorless Nikon cameras including the D850. These packs are separate, or I buy the D200 or the other with all the other Nikon cameras! I don't know if you ever heard of them, but have a look if you want. Again, thank you for your answer!.

[@TL-xw6fh]

@@Anna-gv7vo Hi, Anna. Go buy a D200 like I did. Alternatively a D300 is great too. You won't regret it.

[@anaramos8829]

@@TL-xw6fh thank you for your answer!

[@tomassantos4299]

This makes feel so good about my D70

[@peterxiao4852]

My first DSLR is D70 too

[@thegrayyernaut]

The lenses are more important than the body. I still see professionals using Canon 10D to shoot weddings.

[@AlistairBeckett]

I had a D70, then D70s. Great camera

[@rcpmac]

The good new is you have numerous significant upgrades available at very little cost. D7000 can be had in the US for under $200 including a lens.

[@robertocastro4403]

My first DSLR was the D70, then I upgrade to the D200. Got great keeper images with both...

[@philosimot]

As many others here I definitely prefer the colours of the D200. Those by the Z 7 look like oversharped copper acetate or green-yellow moss. I don't like that, it doesn't reflect one's impression in the open countryside, it's harsh and artificial. Quite apart from these valuations, I'm fully content with my D300 which I only use with classic man.focus lenses from the 70s and 80s such as 24mm, 35mm, 50 and 55macro, 85, 105macro, 80-200, and 200mm. Thank you for this nice walk through foggy nature.

[@erichstocker4173]

Just think Fuji Velvia 50 has a dynamic range of 5 stops (maybe even only 4). Yet some of the most beautiful landscape/travel photos were taken by photographers using 35 mm cameras and that film. We have made life easier for us in photography. However, none of that improvement makes a better photographer. Just allows better photographers to take their masterpieces more easily.

[@davidellinsworth22]

Funnily enough I've just got my first roll of slide film, Provia 100F, which has slightly more DR than Velvia at about 6 stops. Still tricky and I know I'm going to have to meter damn good

[@typeraver]

@@davidellinsworth22 good thing about provia us that it's pretty much unaffected by reciprocity fail making it easier to shoot in low light. I find it a pleasing, and slightly cooler image as well.

[@davidellinsworth22]

@@typeraver yeah I think it's about 2 minutes before reciprocity kicks in with Provia. Apparently the best way to meter it is spot meter brightest highlight then give +1.0-1.3 compensation. I'm addicted to its look... can't wait to shoot it.

[@ytuberization]

All true, but the colors of a slide sitting on the light table are still ridiculous! 😁

[@rogerwalton8160]

I never liked Velvia - far too saturated. But prove was something else and was my film of choice way back when I still used film.

[@christopherherrick703]

It’s interesting how the Z7 has a very HDR look, almost giving it an overly processed look compared to the D200. I still own the D200. This has convinced me to take a step back to my old cam. Great vid man!🤙🏻

[@1971wizzard]

The HDR look of the Z7, could in part, be down to computational photographic processes, in-camera.

[@duncanthorn6338]

I also have a D200, but the Z5 instead of the Z7. I actually prefer the colour output from the D200 CCD sensor, and quite often get questions about how I edit to achieve it. But honestly, it's just that unique sensor, straight out of camera. Keep up the great work. Subscribed!

[@purewolfking4146]

yes its the ccd i was just looking at some of my old d200 shots

[@keithsanders6554]

My first digital camera was a D200 in 2006. Whilst I now use a Z6 , on revisiting my old images it is amazing how good the D200 files were. However, I think the improvements in Lightroom over the years has helped to bring out the detail, but the detail was in the files from the D200 for Lightroom to work with. It was a cracking camera at the time as long as you did not venture beyond 400ISO. A very interesting video.

[@AlistairBeckett]

I agree. I have a D300 and ISO800 was your limit

[@davewalker5706]

I have those 2, and the D7200. I’ve always loved the D200 and regarded it as a classic, but when I last shot with a DSLR I found myself missing the Z6. One thing, I love doing in camera multiple exposures and wonder how come my 15yr old D200:can output a RAW file of the combined exposures, yet my Z6 (and I assume the Z6/7ii) cannot! This is something I really want to see addressed on future 2nd generation Z bodies.

[@Anna-gv7vo]

Do you find the D200 colours pleasing for people's skin tones? thank you so much in advance.

[@keithsanders6554]

@@Anna-gv7vo Not really a "people photographer" but what little I did with the D200 I found the skin tones pleasing. The main limitation was the ISO, keep it to 400 and under and you will be fine.

[@Anna-gv7vo]

@@keithsanders6554 thank you so much for your answer! I have a Sony a7iii for a year now and I love the camera but I hate the colours coming out of the raws. I know I can edit, but as much I edit, I can never get pleasing colours SOOC as I see on my friend's Nikon D850. So, I found a company, "Cobalt Image" that sells Profiles for LR, CamaraRaw and others that can emulate any camera look, meaning I can have on my Sony a specific Nikon camera colours. For that, you have to buy first their Basic pack preset that colour corrects your images and then if we want we buy the emulations for other cameras. It is very expensive and I hesitated but now that I've tried it (the basic pack), I don't regret it a bit, it's worth every penny! Now I was trying to decide if I should buy D200 colour pack or another pack called Nikon contemporary colours which has the colours for several DSLR and Mirrorless Nikon cameras including the D850. These packs are separate, or I buy the D200 or the other with all the other Nikon cameras! I don't know if you ever heard of them, but have a look if you want. Again, thank you for your answer!

[@stephencooper5155]

That last image I actually prefer the old camera! 😂 but wtf do I know 😉👍🏼 thanks for making my Sunday mornings interesting and informative

[@squirls8814]

I didn't like to say, but me too

[@stevenhightop2518]

The D200 image is better because it has more mood. Better fog, more mystery. Photo viewers are different than photo creators. More resolution doe snot instantly equal a better photo.

[@kerry5586]

Me too.

[@Peter-pu7bo]

You know what you like more. That's all that counts :)

[@tonysleigh6635]

Hi Nigel, great video. I have a 12-year-old Nikon D700, a fairly new D500, and a Nikon 1J5. I still use the D700 for portraits as I find it gives me more natural shots and more pleasing to the eye. I use the D500 for most subjects including sports and wildlife as the focusing system is quicker. And the J1 for street photography as it fits in my pocket. The only issue I have with new cameras is that quite often we don't see this range with our eyes in the natural world. A bit like looking at a 4K TV which looks very contrasty colourful and over sharp. I can see why 35mm film cameras are still popular as you get more of a natural shot with them. So even though I own a Mirrorless camera I still prefer to use the DSLR.

[@pjimmbojimmbo1990]

I certainly grab the D200 for any Portrait Shots, besides , my D8x0 bodies show every Pore on the model. So you end up softening the Image, just so as Not to Piss off the Model.

[@elishamurphyhart3469]

I liked the older Camera over the newer camera it's nice to know that you can still get great photographs. Gives hope to people who can't afford the best Cameras

[@georgedavall9449]

As others have eluded to in the comments, the D200 was a highly anticipated release! It did indeed have a CCD sensor, and produced some great images! CCD had a certain way of bringing out the colors, in a pleasing way. CMOS seemed to take over, with its higher ISO advantages, and CCD sensors seemed to fade away ( no pun) I have an old D200, a D300, and a D700. I would venture these are the best Nikon produced, including the D3, which I do not own. The D300 fits my hand, even better than the current D500. It is fun to go out and challenge ones abilities, and see what can be captured, with this ‘old’ technology. I remind myself what someone said recently in a review, or video, not sure? They stated that all these old cameras were state of the art in their time. Happy shooting! 👏🏻👍👍👍😁✌🏻

[@tonygaskins565]

I still have my D200. I had it converted to infrared a few years ago and still use it regularly and have good results from it.

[@Funktrainer]

The D200 was and is a pro level DX camera.

[@PPISAFETY]

The old D200 held up surprisingly well. To be honest with you, I didn't notice as much difference in your images as you did. A good photo is a good photo, regardless of what it was taken with. That's why I'm still happily making pictures with my D700. my D7000, and even my 1973 Nikon F2S. I enjoyed your video.

[@GuyDudeman]

I am still shooting with a nikon D700 from over 15 years ago. Good to see the continued love for this camera from so many folks!

[@Funktrainer]

I still love to shoot my Kodak DCS660C and DCS620X from time to time. Both over 20 years old now but special/timeless. For web presentation 2 megapixels are more than enough.

[@StianGreen]

Well the D700 is from 2008 - so unless you wrote your comment two years from now (2023) something is wrong (I sometimes use my old trusty D700 also, a good partner from my D4 from 2012)

[@kaczorefx]

Holy crap, almost every comment prefers the photos from D200. I have to get mine out and do some shooting during the weekend :)

[@kaczorefx]

Did my own comparison with d800. Practically no difference in color, only resolution changes. I think the author didn't match WB between photos, that's what I did at first. For some reason the photos came into ACR with wildly different WB values. After I matched them, the colors in both images are almost indistinguishable :/

[@pratipkarmakar01]

Older camera photos are dreamy soothing,modern ones are sharp but soulless,I think.

[@Rad_Travels]

I really liked the photos. This proves that it’s the photographer not the camera that matters.

[@Birbyvideography]

Be very careful with that statement, though. It's true most of the time, but for older cameras: 1) The autofocusing is almost useless. If he had been trying to shoot ANYTHING (people, animals, sports, weddings) this camera is going to become a headache. 2) Sure, the image quality still holds up well enough, but if you need to do anything remotely professional, you're going to sigh heavily. The poorer dynamic range, low resolution and far poorer ISO performance means that anything in less than ideal light is going to start crumbling. 3) Older cameras are definitively worse at video until you reach around 5 years ago. If you need to do anything video-related, you're going to get a second headache. Basically, yes, in the best case scenario, the older cameras can kinda hold up. But ONLY in the best case scenario. Good photographers can understand their strengths and weaknesses and try to maximise what they have. However, using such a camera is very restrictive to creativity and can rely heavily on luck. This is why I requested caution when saying something like that, especially to inexperienced photographers who want to buy better gear than their father's 15-year-old DSLR. Let them buy reasonably priced gear and give them the flexibility and capability they need to experiment and build experience.

[@Mike-dm5ut]

@@Birbyvideography eh but skills photographers have lost over the ages including manual focusing, external light use and reflections would compensate for some of these issues. Just having a greater spec camera doesn’t guarantee better results. A pro shooter with a crap camera will outshoot a novice with a modern camera. Just look at all the crap on Instagram

[@Mike-dm5ut]

@@daniellehotsky1776 aww you seem a bit triggered. Maybe comments by captain obvious wouldn’t have to be repeated if people didn’t keep posting things to the contrary. There is an old saying, “common sense is not so common” now crawl yourself back into your hole and learn some manners.

[@d4shg4m1ng2]

I got myself a used Nikon D200 with 2 lenses for ~180€. Everything was in good condition. For my first ever DSLR, i'm very pleased!

[@ericlarson6180]

I had a D70, D200 and D300 as I migrated through Nikon bodies. The D300 took a qualitative leap over the D200 about a year later. I have found though that I have striking images from all 3 cameras that hold up well today, several still on my wall. Older cameras have significant limitations compared to newer technology, but can still produce surprisingly good results in the hands of a skilled photographer

[@stephenbradford7936]

Raw color out of the camera on the d200 is better than the corrected ones.

[@Martin-nu6ym]

There is something about CCD sensors that still makes them appealing to the modern CMOS sensors.

[@m2fsr]

I agree, Leica knew it too. I'm still impresssed with the color from my D40.

[@farwestern99]

I was just comparing images from my Nikon D80, the last CCD Nikon and I did also notice the difference in the colors versus the CMOS D90. Colors are very different. Hard to describe but a real distinction

[@ANSWERTHECALLOFJESUSCHRIST]

I agree and get what you guys mean. I have a Sony a7R II yet I barely use it, because I get the look I want with my Nikon D70s and Fujifilm FinePix S3 Pro. Megapixels do not guarantee visual pleasure. I suspected it back in 2005 when I got my first DSLR, the original D70, and it proved to be true. Sure, the pictures are way less pixel-dense than the retina-searing ones from the Sony, but the way those old CCDs capture light and shadows is delicious to me. What I see, I get with the Nikon and Fuji. Picture after picture. I know that what my eye sees, I will consistently get. I'm super grateful that I own it, but the truth is that the Sony rarely yields what I envision. It's 42 megapixels of super sharp, clean pictures I just can't fall in love with. 😑

[@pilsplease7561]

the funny thing is that CMOS is older than CCD as far as tech goes by 15 years. So we had CMOS first, Then they ditched it for CCD, and then went back for cost cutting.

[@jurestormchaser5382]

It is not CCD/CMOS but the CFA. The CFA was harsher on early cameras, which also happened to have CCD sensors. That made more vivid and saturated colors, but poorer high ISO performance. As ISO is a hard number, while color is less so, it became easier to sell high ISO. So newer cameras had more 'relaxed' CFAs, and poorer colors. Had the D70 and D80 - far more saturated colors SOOC than later cameras, but essentially limited to ISO 100-400.

[@homesteadandvideo]

If your not a pixel peeper I think that its easyer for my eyes to look at them d200 pics , not so many details to prosess . Id might dig out my D300 again. Well ,great video as alvays Nigel . Best regards from Norway.

[@Funktrainer]

Probably our heads need a processor upgrade to keep up with all the latest tech out there.

[@joelwolski]

This is such a great video. Everyone is constantly comparing current cameras to each other, and for me, I find it gives the false impression that the differences are mostly negligible. Seeing this really puts into perspective how much TIME and advancements in technology need to be factored in. My "first" camera is now 14 years old while my current camera is 7. Megapixels is obvious, but your comments about focus really made me rethink my assessment of my current gear. Thank you so much for doing what no one else seems to have thought of doing, and comparing cameras across time and not just platforms.

[@tonybaker55]

I started off with a 6mp camera, but still managed to get great photos that at A1 size were fine. Old technology is not dead yet!

[@thedondeluxe6941]

Those tones from that CCD sensor are a bit special! I actually bought one of these just for that old sensor a few months ago. Cost me roughly 40 quid. Well worth it!

[@mastercarlos2010]

Great video as always. I ended up preferring the colors of the D200, I think they match better with the place, especially when the fog appears. It was also great to see Pebbles, who by the way, has hair colors very suited to your style of photography.

[@bentonsales7969]

'tried to touch the screen a few times, obviously can't do that' 🤣 made me laugh ahah

[@stephengatley8144]

That 24-85mm 3.5-4.5 lens is an incredibly good lens for a budget shooter. I had it back in the day for my D610, D810 you should dust it off & adapt it to your Z7 it is worth far more than it costs.

[@davidellinsworth22]

Just bought that lens. It's a belter

[@stephengatley8144]

@@davidellinsworth22 I loved it when I had it, even the Angry Photographer was raving about it :)

[@davidellinsworth22]

@@stephengatley8144 yeah it was from him that I first heard about it, but then I did some independent research and a lot of people were surprised by its performance. I was debating between this and the 24-120 but then my mate last week offered me his 24-85 VR for £100 after he upgraded to the Z6+24-70 f/4S so I leapt on it.

[@stephengatley8144]

@@davidellinsworth22 I just got a brand new EOS R6 for 20% off & scored $500 cash back & voucher :). Congrats on the score, to me that is the best zoom Nikon has. 18-35mm 3.5-4.5 is great aswell.

[@davidellinsworth22]

@@stephengatley8144 yes 18-35 is on my list too

[@martharetallick204]

Shooting with a D850 now and I have barely scratched the surface of what it can do.

[@c141charlie]

Anybody like the color and rendering of the D200 more?

[@farwestern99]

CCD vs CMOS there is a perceptible difference. I looked at D80 vs D90. Colors in extreme situations appear more saturated on the CCD. Hard to explain. Maybe someone can elaborate more scientifically. Noticed it years ago and bought up several D80s because I realized that CCD was never coming back due to its more expensive manufacturing process

[@photo1416]

@@farwestern99

[@mrman17]

Photos on Instagram are mostly viewed on small screens such as phones, etc., so you're not going to notice the difference between photos taken on the D200 or something newer. It's when you start viewing on larger devices that you'll start noticing the difference, and even then more so when you compare them side to side.

[@shotbydmitry]

Surprisingly, I like edited shots from D200 more then modernZ7’s. Colors (on the edited files) look so harmonious. Very unexpected.

[@NigelHarperPhoto]

As a pro Nikon user mostly photographing weddings, I went through most of the Nikon range from 2001 through to 2015. I can positively say that dynamic range in particular along with sensor improvements, autofocus speed and accuracy have been the biggest game changers over the years. However, I now shoot Fuji X and anyway, it's the final image that counts, not the pixels etc. Cheers!

[@joemammuskus7896]

Now, I know barely anything about cameras, or photo editing, so I didn't understand much from this video and am not quite sure how I ran into it to begin with. But the composition of this video, and the sound, the imagery and the music, all tied together with very simple transitions, is quite remarkable and beautiful. So, i enjoyed this video. Thank you

[@GkPhotographic]

your dedication to taking a good shot is inspiring , you have genuine connection with nature , also your choice in music is relaxingly perfect . im beginning to think of you as a content director , great job , great vid . stay safe from Dublin Eire .

[@mousiekebabs]

I bought a D200 last year as my first camera!

[@leedsmanc]

I gave up on photography for a while after 2010 with my Nikon D40, 11 years later and I'm waiting on FedEx to deliver a Fujifilm X-T2 and I can't wait to see what has changed technology wise, but also I am looking forward to walking with a sense of composition again, but nowadays I'll know that the experience of being there and soaking in the moment and telling the story of my trip is more important than just a pretty composition, I can't wait to see how my experience and 11 years of influence such as this channel have had on my 'eye'. Thanks for the videos as always.

[@leedsmanc]

@They Caged Non cool, thanks for the tips

[@alexanderzikal7244]

Dear Nigel, first digital shots I did with a Fuji 2001 with 1.5MP (was very expensive), then Nikon D5000, Nikon D750, .... Focus was a problem, now nearly all cameras are working very fine! I like it, stop the time and working with old glasses....

[@SheilaKarner]

The last photo, I likes the old camera photo better. Everyone is different.

[@ChrisEdgecombePhoto]

The colours to me look so much better on D200; yes you lose the better detail but do you really need it?

[@robertocastro4403]

Great video! I still have my D200, it was my second DSLR and I got many keeper images with it. Through the screen of my laptop the tonal colors of the D200 seems more pleasant to my eyes, also the less sharp and contrasted images of the D200 appear more natural to me. This is perhaps similar to what happens with high end audio components. The newer more expensive equipment has outstanding clarity and dynamics. But somehow in most cases the older components with less clarity and warmer sound are more pleasant to our ears. Thanks to this video I'll get my old D200 out of storage, charge its battery and give it a 2nd life!

[@lindaccherry2404]

Congratulations, I Just saw this video featured in an FStoppers article. Very well deserved recognition.

[@Kamukix]

Still love my D200, I was playing with it last night. Such a gem of a camera. 👍 (also played around with my D2X, and still have a D2Hs as well haha)

[@Kamukix]

@Eric Parker between the D200/D2X/D2Hs? If so..definitely the D2X though I love them all. I have always been a fan of the big body built-in grip DSLR and the D2X feels great in the hand. The OVF is nicer than the D200's, and I like the sound of the shutter more as well haha. It's pretty loud but I like that. As far as image quality is concerned then the D200 is better once you need to raise the ISO some, but I don't really prefer to shoot either one higher than base ISO or maybe a little above that. They're all pretty wonderful old cameras though. :)

[@alphat4551]

In 10 years the Z7 images will look " not as good" as the then technology. It will never end. Not saying development in camera technology isn't a good thing but man, I'm not made of money. I'll just keep using what I have until it falls apart.

[@Hart-en-Ziel]

Like the Apple iPhone releases: “This is the best screen ever seen on an iPhone!!!” “This is the fastest professor, ever used” Wow, What a surprise, I really was expecting a worse screen or camera to be released this year. At a higher price of course🤪

[@yuriythebest]

pfft yeah with the current tech you can't even capture what's behind the trees

[@quazisanjeed6395]

Some photographers made it mandatory on themselves to glorify the mirrorless cameras and downgrade the DSLRs. In a way, it is helpful. Because, it hardened the stance of DSLR stooters to firmly stand their groud.

[@petercollins7848]

If you are shooting for a magazine or selling prints perhaps, then the latest cameras give the largest leeway for editing and post production. But if you are just taking photos for yourself and printing for display in the home, or for friends and family, then virtually any camera will do. I have a number of cameras, and have just printed two photos to A3 size from a 5 mp bridge camera, and they look superb.

[@davidhill3043]

Nice i shoot on a d3300, definitely not a pro camera at all but if you know how to use it and you got a good eye the skys the limit 😊😊

[@anlsahal4147]

D3300 is a very good camera and produces very high quality images.

[@0303ewan]

I personally don't see a huge difference. Most of the time I even could not realize which picture was taken with the old and which with the new one. Both of the variants of the scenes were beautiful in their own way.

[@hughp00]

I got your point about the differences between the two but I really had wished you showed the raw images side by side without any editing. The editing is a waist of time, and shows me nothing. But I was able to get your point and I may finally look into a Z. Thanks for taking the time to do the video.

[@nickyfoulkes8476]

Dynamic range particularly in colours, especially blue luminance is the difference with my Fuji XT-2 & the Z7ii. Apart from the obvious differences in resolution & detail. I have so fallen in love with the images from z7ii & it was your images that made me think for a long time why do my prints not look like that. Now I know why. You are an inspiration to us all.

[@toke7560]

I have an X-T2 and nikon Z6.on A2 prints i cannot tell which is which. The X-T2 is a superb camera.

[@nickyfoulkes8476]

@@toke7560 Just a shame Adobe have never solved the worms & sharpening issues for that Fuji Xtrans sensor. Yes I would agree the XT-2 is a great camera & I had 4 happy years with mine.

[@clairewest9034]

Another great video, really enjoy your content! Also, I did have a little giggle at "I got rid of the sheep" which made you sound a bit like a sinister assassin from Wallace and Gromit 😆

[@ledheavy26]

I wish ccd sensors would come back to cameras. I dusted off my d70s I got back in 2006 and I was surprised about the color rendition. Camera still works flawlessly also.

[@trendscoutplus4584]

I had a Canon S60 fixed lens point & shoot with ccd sensor that also took 720p video, which believe it or not, that video was amazingly crystal clear razon sharp with incredible color science. Being way back when an early point & shoot hybrid "bridge" fixed lens sadly clips were limited to only about 10-12 min duration max, but they were great. They were so good in fact they could be upscaled to 1080p and almost nobody would even blink an eye. I've heard they were awesome on camcorders too. I'm thinking about getting an old CCD camcorder with good glass just to play around with, since I never actually owned one of those. Those sensors just seemed to exude a lifelike realism and richness that I to this day haven't really seen equalled in CMOS based sensors.

[@MrCochise71]

Great vid. I started out on the Canon 5D mark i . Loved it. And still use it today once in awhile because it's a fantastic camera. With wonderful sensor ( film look). The menu is so simple. Which I love simplicity.

[@terjemyller6573]

Aahh, the D200! That was when I finally pulled the trigger on digital, after a 20 year long career in photography. That was the moment when sensors would match the good, old film in resolution. Fun and interesting to watch your comparison, so thanks mate!

[@zebunker]

Nah. Not until you got passed 20 mega pixels did it match what 35mm could do. Even still film is usually around 4k cause holds up better being blown up.

[@nelehoremans2546]

Nice video ... looking forward to the sequel in 13 years :-)!!! Nigel don't call yourself "unfit", you walk so much including regularly up and down mountains... I think your fitter than average!

[@petetasker8599]

I think I prefer the D200 woodland shots to the Z7’s. The Z7’s seem too contrasty.

[@NigelDanson]

Probably my bad editing

[@petetasker8599]

@@NigelDanson almost certainly not that! I suppose the different lenses play a big part as well as the camera.

[@masononemine1702]

@@NigelDanson I would have actually liked if you showed the un-edited photos from both sides aswell, especially considering how you edited both photos rather differently.

[@georgedavall9449]

@@petetasker8599 The 24-85 is a sleeper. I keep it on my D700 most of the time, and it’s a great lens with that camera. It is an FX lens, and Nigel had it on a DX body, so not sure how that effects the image? I would think it would not, snd may actually help the image? Peace ✌🏻👍📷

[@gazza6830]

I’ve just picked up a D200 with only 8k SA’s. My other camera is a Sony A7iii. The reason for the D200 is that it’s a cheap camera (£89) that I don’t mind getting damaged/stolen etc… The thing is, like people here are commenting, is that there is something about the photos I’m getting from my D200 that I just can’t explain. Any subject or scene I take a photo of is just “mmmmmm”. It’s like writing your name in biro on a banana skin or on the sole of a slipper. It’s just nice. The a7iii focuses like a madman, very sharp and good colour rendition but the photos, although amazing, are just too good. That has to make sense in some way? The D200 has dedicated buttons for iso, wb, quality, exposure, dials for focus area, metering, shutter drive mode. It’s all there, outside the menus. The Sony is more menu driven and takes a few more button presses to get there. The one thing I do miss on the D200 is the tilt-able screen. If there’s a cheeky flower down at toe level, I’m getting my knees dirty to get the shot. Oh, and I suppose eye focusing is missed too.

[@daveslastchance]

old guy here. 74. For those of us who grew up shooting film, photography is a totally different game nowadays than it was during the film era. Now we spend endless money and energy comparing pixels, sensors, resolution, dynamic range and other hair-splitting aspects of the variations from one digital camera to the next. I have an extensive collection of cameras from Nikon D2h to D800e and Pentax K-X to K-1. My biggest reward is when a friend who has recently dropped another thousand $ or more to "upgrade" his perfectly capable camera asks what I used to capture a particular image, and I reply, "Nikon D2h, 4-7-mp, 20-year-old camera!" This happens all the time and is the ultimate test of what you "need" to create an outstanding image. By the way, most people aren't sophisticated enough to ask what camera I used. They just like the result. 'nuf said....

[@adrianp7475]

👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@j.j.1267]

Remembers me on how massive my D300s was haha

[@ebjor]

I still use my D300 for timelapse shooting 🤗

[@52701970]

You should compair you z7 against Fuji s5pro incredible dynamic range. A 6mp camera that used Nikon's d200 body

[@jasonandrews7355]

It would be really interesting to see this comparison again with equally sized sensors, whether it's a modern APS-C or an old FF camera. Shots from older cameras like the 5DC and D700 seem to hold up remarkably well, even if they don't have specs to keep up with anything modern.

[@stevelink3]

Very interesting video and comparisons, Nigel! As a Z7 landscape photographer myself, I am most impressed by the overall image sharpness and detail I get out of it, especially using the superbly sharp Nikkor S lenses! And just FYI to photographers thinking of moving to FF and the Nikon Z System...you don Not need to spend over $2K for the f/2.8 Nikkor S lenses to get truly sharp and overall excellent results...the f/4 lenses are superb as well! In fact, the 24 - 70 f/4 Nikkor S "Kit" lens is sharper than my older Fujinon XF 16 - 55 f/2.8 zoom, and prior to the Z System glass, I had thought that the Fujinon XF16-55 f/2.8 was extremely sharp, and well-designed, which it is!

[@arbee1958]

For amateur togs it's common to see them not take a camera into a great spot as they are terrified of sand , sea, snow , rain destroying their expensive camera. I just bought a Canon 5Ds but I feel that has meant my 2 old 7D Canons are now "expendable" and can be carried under waterfalls and all over beaches to get the shot

[@GilbertCarosinPhotography]

am still using my d700 in studio everyday and when or if it dies i.ll by another one or a d3 second hand .... 12mpx was the industry standard 12 years ago even for billboard ....also am still using my old manual focus lenses which i consider way way better than most of the crappy plastic lenses out there have any of you shot with the unique 135mm f3.5 Ai nikkor lens ;)... so you dont need new gear and if you think that latest 60mpx camera with eye autofocus is going to improve your photography you couldnt be more wrong !!

[@khekbig]

This is so amazing. Not about the camera or how he presented, but its about how good quiet weather and environment. Make me think back as my childhood and miss it so much.

[@brettsnead8692]

Excited to try the d200. A friend of mine offered me one to practice with and use for the non credit courses I signed up for at my local community college. I’m new so I got a lot to learn but I’ve been watching tons of tutorials and tips from Nigel amongst other KZbinrs.

[@gigiabate]

D200 is made for photographers, Z7 is made for istagrammers