Review on Nikon D7100 DX-Format CMOS Digital 📷 SLR (Body Only) with 24.1 Megapixel Sensor by Michael Boyce

Since I have a Canon w/ External Flash Speed-lite 430 II, why switch brands when going to DSLR? User interface. The G12 has minimized the need to dig into the menu with all of its dials and buttons. Canon screwed up when they didn't do this on their APS-C sensor cameras. Want knobs and dials? D7100 or some of the Pentax DSLRs, but the latter is weak in lens choices. (I want a Tamron 150-600 long telephoto. Shame if you have a Pentax camera.) Any DSLR, just with a larger sensor, will have better image quality than an advanced P&S (there's an Olympus XZ-1, too). So why would you choose the D7100 over any other DSLR? Full-size optical viewfinder: See your entire composition, aperture, shutter speed, exposure, focus points and focus indicator when you focus manually. Plus much less power consumption compared to Live View on the LCD. It's amazing how few DSLRs have a full-size OVF. And you can use it to compose w. the camera turned off. Other plus points: weather resistance and excellent live view on the large LCD. The D7100 has a fantastic autofocus system and performs better in Live View than in OVF on static subjects like macro photography and landscapes. OVF is great for taking off from Snowy Owls because it has a fast response time. Images @ ISO 6400; Even ISO 25400 is good. The dynamic range is also excellent, because where I used bracketing with the Canon G12 there is no need to take multiple exposure shots. D7100. Lenses and use: Nikon 70-200 f4, this was my first lens before I made a fuss and bought a general purpose lens; Nikon 17-55 f2.8. Both are designed for outdoor shots, but the latter works well for indoor shots without a flash. Landscapes are my favorite subject, but I'm used to photographing 70-200 birds. Over 96% of the shots were taken with a monopod or tripod. Always shoot in PASM to create raw files (never .JPG) to be processed by DXO Optics Pro; "A" and "M" more than 98% of the time. (Never tested Scene modes or Auto, so I don't know if they work.) Cons: Internal flash needs to be on the side, not directly above the lens. OVF has an optimal MF; It would be nice if Live View had the same. BIG ONE is a tiny buffer that fills up quickly. Shooting in smaller formats like .JPG, as well as 1.3 crop mode and a fast memory card (like the Sandisk Extreme Pro) help. Not for everyone: It doesn't hurt to take the time to get the settings right, but a lower P&S resolution can be better in a pinch. Recommended accessories: Sandisk Extreme Pro memory cards, spare battery, Lenspen, microfiber cloths, rocket blasters, a good guide (mastering the Nikon D7100 and a great lens. As for lenses, rent them first to see if it's right for you and be prepared to to return bad copies when buying.Conclusion: Tired of taking pictures and want to take pictures?Great camera to grow with.