24. In Practice

We've already touched on handling. The ergonomics of these two models is quite different, and not only because of the size of the bodies. For rapid adjustments, like changing ISO sensitivity, the Canon does have a direct control, but it's only a shortcut to the adjustment menu, where Nikon's direct control lets you make the adjustment via the upper display using a dial. It's more practical and also more discreet, since the rear display doesn't light up; this can be important in certain situations. On the other hand, the Canon's rear LCD screen does give you a continuous display of shooting parameters, which is practical.

The Nikon's ergonomics are clearly better, not only because of its two adjustment dials, but also because it has direct access to the main parameters that affect results. The Nikon's color LCD display is much more legible than the Canon's in strong light and is also more enjoyable to use.

Overall, the D70s will appeal more to experienced photographers, who will find it handles better in critical shooting situations. The smaller size and the simplification of certain controls on the 350D handicap it slightly from this point of view, even if the difference is not essential for most potential users of one of these models.

In use, we should stress the fact that you will generally get mediocre results from the "foolproof" modes. The choices made by the camera don't let you make the most of the possibilities of a given situation. They're keyed to ensuring that you get an acceptable image, and no more. So avoiding these modes and learning some of the basics of photography is a necessity if you really want to take advantage of what a camera like the D70s or 350D can do. Canon and Nikon both provide everything that's necessary, but a brain isn't included in the package; you'll need to dive and learn the basics. An SLR has qualities, but also constraints, that compacts don't have!

Image Quality

The quality of the images you get depends greatly on the adjustments you make, and naturally, also on the lens you use! Our test pictures were shot with the basic lenses as described above. As one might suspect from their designs, the Nikon is better than the Canon, which shows greater losses of definition and contrast at full aperture. However, the Canon did quite well overall, and is actually a very good buy given the modest difference it makes in the total price, as well as its macro capabilities. So you can easily overlook its lightweight plastic feel, and the slight noise it makes when focusing.

We've made two sets of test shots to give you an idea of image quality. In practice, Canon's 2 extra megapixels and more modern sensor result in slightly better quality overall, but depending on your taste you might prefer the Nikon for its more vivid color rendering and also the exposure (denser overall, but also more regular than with the Canon). Still, let's be clear that both cameras are capable of very high quality, and any limitations will most often come from the user rather than from the camera itself.