Re: Angle of view comparisons?

"Steven Green" <steven.green30@[EMAIL PROTECTED]
> wrote in message 
news:3TCCj.1028$dq2.934@[EMAIL PROTECTED]
>I am interested in a digital SLR for landscapes, especially wide angle
> photography.
>
> I see lots of lens reviews for various cameras, but what I am looking
for
> is something that compares them using angle of view rather than 25mm
etc.
>
> I am trying to decide if I really want a FF sensor or something smaller,
> OK I want a FF sensor, but I guess I am trying to decide if bigger is
> better.
>
> Is there a comparison of 12mp smaller format camera/lens with a 12mp
full
> frame sensor at various angles of view? Is there something inherently
> better about bigger lenses and sensors? I think I read that a bigger
> sensor has less noise, but is there anything better about the lenses?
>
> Thanks,
>
> Steve

Partial answer followed by a mini rant:

For a good discussion see:
http://www.nikonians.org/nikon/nikkor-12-24mm/

I use a 12-24 which gives me the equivalent of an 18mm.
If I went to a full frame I could use the Nikkor 18mm f2.8.
On my current box this of course is the equivalent of 21mm. Remember at 
these wide angles every mm becomes significant.

I am agonizing over the very same decision in deciding between the full 
frame D3 and the D300. Presently I am using a D200 with the 12-24. Here
are 
some of my random thoughts which have not yet been finalized:
I am a serious amateur, not a professional.
What visual effect am I really looking for.
I am currently testing stitching software that looks as if it will allow
me 
to emulate large and medium format shots, as well as simulate the back
plate 
adjustments of a view camera. this will give me a 360 field of view, 
together with lots of things to play with.
http://www.ptgui.com/
Although this software is not cheap, it is a lot less than a D3.
There is a tremendous price difference between the D300 and the D3. I can 
get two D300s plus a 70-200 lens for the same price as the D3. All of my 
D200 accessories, extra batteries and flash will work on the D300. I would

have to get a flash commander for the D3 in order to have the multi flash 
capability I have now.
The D300 has essentially the same sensor as the D3
The D300 has an automatic sensor cleaner.
Ultimate issue:
Will the full frame really help me make better pictures, or is it just an 
ego thing.

HTH

-- 
Peter