Nikon D200 First Impressions
The Nikon D200 is a semi-pro DSLR suitable as a backup camera for a pro or the main camera for a knowledgeable enthusiast. It's been quite few years since it was introduced, but it holds up quite well if you understand its strengths and weaknesses.
In my opinion the primary strengths of the D200 are that it can matrix meter with manual focus AI and AIS lenses, and that it is built very solidly with good weather seals. If you are coming from pre-AF Nikon film cameras, your investment in manual lenses is preserved. The camera is fairly heavy, but balances well with heavy lenses. Personally, I find that heavier cameras are easier to hold steady, but your mileage may vary. The D300 shares these features with the D200, but includes a much improved sensor for shooting at high ISO's. However, the cost of a D300 is approximately 3x the cost of a good used D200. So, if you are wanting to step up to a more responsive and semi-pro level DSLR, the D200 is a bargain.
The quality of images from the D200 are very good, but require some post processing in order to achieve best results. For instance, I believe that there's a slight magenta cast that is noticeable when photographing people with light colored skin when using JPG output. For me, optimal quality is achieved when shooting in RAW and post processing in your program of choice. I find that Photoshop Elements 8 + the updated Adobe Camera Raw 6.1 works very nicely. If you are using this combo, I recommend increasing the luminance noise reduction, increasing sharpening, and increasing the masking control to apply sharpening only to high contrast transitions in the image.
Overall, I really like the D200. It is tough and provides great quality images if you are willing to work a bit. If you need better default JPG output and a lighter body, then I would recommend a new D5000 or D90 with a kit zoom lens. See below for a few examples from the D200 + a Nikkor 35mm f1.4.
Bokeh from Nikkor 35/1.4 AIS
Bokeh with Nikkor 35/1.4
SMC Pentax-A 100mm f2.8 First Impressions
The Pentax-A 100mm f2.8 is manual focus macro lens. While it is not an autofocus lens, this Pentax-A lens does offer automated aperture priority metering when used on a Pentax digital SLR body such as the K100D. Anyways, for macro shooting, autofocus is not especially useful. As a general purpose lens the 100mm macro is very versatile, if a bit long on digital. On a film body it is nearly perfect. When used as a general purpose lens the amount of turning needed to focus can make it a little slow for subjects moving around quickly. Otherwise there's little to complain about. It's sharp, out of focus rendering is smooth, and while not small, it's not an overly large lens. See below for a few samples:
