Not to open a big can of worms about Canon vs Nikon .. but I do wish to solicit some informed opinions about the pros and cons of these two platforms. I am at a point where I am ready to invest in a new level of equipment -- a 500mm f4 lens along with the ancillary tripod heads. No small investment this.
I work currently with a Nikon D300 along with Nikkor 300 mm f4 (and really-right-stuff mount), 70-300 zoom, 105mm micro, DX 16-85 zoom and a 1.4 teleconvertor. Maybe a $4.5 to $5k - investment, which I could sell for 70 cents on a dollar, maybe? (Why Nikon in the first place? John Shaw)
A Canon 500mm f4 is $6140 and in stock at B&H. An equivalent Nikkor is $8500 and chronically out of stock. A Nikon D300s currently sells for $1460. A Canon Eos7D is $1600. It seems that Canon has equivalent technology, better pricing, and much better availability. These facts make me wary of Nikon as a company and an investment.
So my question is this: Has anyone else made the switch, and why? I don't for a minute think either platform is going to any of us better photographers -- I see this as a cost/benefit question. I'd appreciate responses and advice that address the value-added aspect of this. The superiority of Nikon vs Canon is not the issue here.
I think you have already answered your question. Both system are good enough and normally much better then ourselves as photographers :p I never had a problem to buy Nikon gear, but it seams easier here in Europe. I have never though making the switch because I praise some Nikon advantages, even if they are not key issues to make a professional work, and because I have so many lenses and accessories that it would be a pain, logistically and financially. Canon from your search seams to be the right answer now, though their lenses will increase price in a near future.
With the difference in lens cost you could add a Canon 5D MkII body and have full frame capacity for your scenic, portrait and travel photography, as I did. The 7D is an incredible value, as are the EF 70-200mm f/4L IS and the EF 500mm f/4L IS.
Still, both systems are very good and you'll be able to take great images with either.
Have you handled the Canons? To us Canon users they feel natural, but a Nikon person may have a learning curve to go through before complete enjoyment is achieved. You should consider actually handling the 7D in action to help with your decision.