patience ...

Considering buying a camera? Looking into replacing that old body for a "new" model? Any time one purchase a camera there are a few things to consider. What do you need/want that your current camera does not offer, How much are you willing to spend, and how soon will the "new" camera be replaced? I don't intend to address the first two in this post - though I plan on addressing it in depth down the road. Today we look at the third question. Before I say anything else I must start with this: If you need a camera today buy a camera today. However, if you can hold on for a few weeks (possibly borrowing or renting a camera) your patience might be rewarded. Every two years there is a HUGE photo show (photokina)where vendors always display new product. I am not so sure that anything new in the Nikon SLR field will be presented; however, it is almost certain that Canon will have a few new bodies in response to Nikon's D300 & D700.

This is relevant for two reasons:

1. If you want to save a few bucks, new cameras mean the current models will go clearance which means same camera less bank
2. If you wan the best of the best - latest and greatest, you will be getting the cameras right off the assembly line.

Either way - I think it would be wise to wait and see what comes out next month. Besides - most vendors don't wait till photokina to announce the product in an effort to one-up the competition. Only disclaimer... Just because a camera is announced does not mean it will be immediately available. If a 5D replacement is in the pipes it will probably be October / November before it hits the shelves. These are just some things to consider. If you want to get a greater sense for what is coming you can check out 1001 Noisy Cameras for the latest rumors and speculation. I don't post it here because they are just that ... rumors.