D200/D300/D2X which to buy?

[mcarson]

Hi, I'm looking at buying a new camera. I currently have a Nikon D50 and shoot mainly wedding photography and was thinking of upgrading to a D200/D300 or a full frame used D2x. If anyone has any suggestions or reasons why you personally would choose one over the other please let me know! I really like the feel, professional look, and sensor of the D2X camera (I want something that will last) but I'm not sure if the newer D200 or D300 have features that would make it the better buy. It seems like a used D2X and a new D300 would be about the same price range. Also, does the D2X have a better shutter that will last longer? Sorry for the long post and thanks for your help!!

Matt

[JoeMc]

Hello...I am a Huge Nikon Fan. I own the D200, D300 and the D2X.
First of all the D2X is NOT a full frame sensor. The new D3 (approx 4.5 grand) is though.
If you are shooting weddings and your price range is in the 1800.00 area then yes, the D300 and the D2x is agout the same....BUT..the D300 does a much better job at high ISO then the D2X does, and that is important at the low lighting levels of most churches. The D200 is a fantastic camera but is about two full stop behind the D300 when in comes to digital noise at high ISO. Look in my gallery and you will see a shot of a rattle snake shot at ISO 1600 with almost zero digital noise with the D300.
I guess what I and telling you is if your looking to pay around 1800.00 then buy the D300, or if you can wait for availability the the D700 sounds great too. It is a D300 with a full frame sensor... It is expected to run around 2500.00.
I hope this helps.
Cheers, Joe