On Sun, 25 Aug 2002 12:10:43 +1000, "Simon" wrote:

>I am new to this newsgroup but not new to photography.
>
>I have experimented for years with older Canon slr's like the EX auto and
>the AE1. I likt the quality of the lenses on these cameras.
>Now I wish to upgrade to something that is not new, but a camera that has
>proven itself in the Nikon series to be one of the best in 35mm format.
>I was recommended the f90-x as THE camera to get if I can find one. Would
>you say this would be what I need, and if yes, where can I get one in
>Australia?
>
>I like nature photography, landscape, night and B&W. Like to experiement
>with all sorts of setting to obtain interesting results
>I also need to know the best recommended 80-200 lens to suit this camera
>that is not going to send me broke?
>I have my reservations about the electronic cameras, but if this one or
>another has proven reliable, i will buy it.
>
>I estimate around the $1000 region for the whole lot second hand?

I would look for an F3 in good shape - the viewfinder
is sharper, with more accurate framing and less linear
distortion, making framing and focusing much easier
than with the N90. Alternative: N8008 (the finder is
sharper, the body cheaper and also excellent for the
types of work you are interested in [AF may not be
useful at all - but a camera that is sturdy, reliable,
and with a good, sharp, easily-seen VF may be the
most desirable...]). Even old FE/FM/FA/FE-2/FM-2/
N2000/N6000/N6006/F/F2 Nikons may serve you well, at
reasonable prices... Check also for standard cable
release sockets - the F3/FE/FM/FA/FE-2/FM-2/N6000/N6006
have these, and the N8008/N2000 can be adapted cheaply
to take them.