I read that many threads have this question discussed.
However, I am thinking of getting a DSLR system.
Please note that if one wants to get a DSLR, one is choosing the "system" rather than branding.
Therefore (but I do not know is there is a lot of users changing from one brand to another) it is important to think twice or thrice before getting a system.
There are few enquiries in my mind, hope that some Gurus can give us (those who are thinking of buying either systems) some enlighten:
i) For lenses, Nikon's have better clarity over Canon for some lenses for some focal length. However, Canon does have USM and L-Lens. However, to build up a system, especially for lenses and flashes, which one more worth it and which one cheaper?
ii) Canon's DSLR can be used with third party lenses but with certain type of mounting. Is that correct? Then what about Nikon? Is nikon's only accept nikkor? Well, there are mountings, but which one has more adaptability?
iii) For long run, we can use Nikon's lenses on Nikon's DSLR and for lenses, we have backward capability. For canon wise, I heard that they have some model of lenses discontinued after a while. In short, Nikon does provide supports in term of the reusability of the lenses in the past and to the future. Canon wise how is it?
iv) Shooting habit. I knew that Nikon is mostly used for landscape and wildlife and Canon sports and night scene. (Do correct if I am wrong because I can't recall well for this). Which one has more flexibility.
v) Nikon has better grip, toughness (in term of weather proof) and Canon has better design and gimmick.
vi) Nikon's launching of new products is always behind their marketing. Canon does do it well- enough stocks when they first launch their products.
vii) They are about the same, and no point looking at pros and cons, just go to any camera shop and have a feel on both brands and choose the one that suit you most. Sometime it is the feels with the camera that can aid you take a better picture with "feels" . Do any of you support this statement?
viii) In term of built in camera processing technique. Nikon tends to give more "noisy" picture in high ISO. Canon tends to give more "digital" look pictures. And the photos taken by Nikon more film like. Well, these are really (including previous points) in small difference and it is hard to tell sometime.
Well, I (and we all know that ) in the end of the day, it is the man who is behind the viewfinder who takes great pictures. But as I have mentioned, we are choosing system. And if we do not like the system after we have made our first purchase, changing a system does cost a bomb.
Anyway, most of the DSLR does have market value for about 18months before new products being launched.
Disclaimer: I am writing all these based on my own opinion. No offence. Some nikon or canon supporters might not like these, but of course, again, I bring these out for discussion purpose only.