Since Thursday I am the proud owner of a Nikon D700. Yes, I just bought a D300 in December but I just couldn't resist getting back to a full frame SLR. I never did like the tiny viewfinders of my Fuji S2, D70s, D200, D300, always hated the 1.5 conversion factor. It's so nice to use a 50mm lens as a 50mm lens, et cetera.

I am still getting to know my new friend but I can tell you Nikon's new FX sensor is simply amazing. Images shot at ISO 3200 are brilliant. I simply love the feel and sound of the shutter. It has a smoother feel and more precise sound about it (compared to the D300). With the added high speed sensitivity I am now using the auto-ISO feature. I simply set the camera in aperture mode, the lens at f8, low shutter speed at 1/60th, and high ISO at 3,200. This is a great walk-around configuration.

So, my D300 is gone, as are my couple of DX lenses. I have numerous film lenses I can now put back to use but I expect to buy a 70-200 f2.8; once new replacement appears.

Photo: Stolben, Germany
Camera: Nikon D300

Just back from a month in Europe. My first stop was Paris, for a week of street photography, the rest of my time was spent in Germany, part in the Bodensee area and part in the Dresden area; with a few days in Frankfurt.

I flew the new, this year, Lufthansa Seattle-Frankfurt route, and it was very nice. Nice new plane, friendly staff, and they even provide metal silverware with the meals. Also, their inter-Europe flights offer free beverages (like beer and wine!).

Most of my images were taken with my Precious Mamiya 6 and it's wonderful 50m lens; using Fujipan 400 black and white film. I will start processing the 75+ rolls of film after my upcoming art show . I also shot color and used my Nikon D300.

I will be displaying oil paintings at the August 16th and 17th "Fresh Paint" art show. Until then I"m pretty busy getting my work ready for display. This will be my first art show and I'm looking forward to the experience. If all goes well I expect to start attending shows across the west coast.

Photos: Paris, taken with a Nikon D300