Sensor lense combo comparison

[TxTowman]

If I have a 12.3 MP body and a 300mm lens and a 16.2 MP body and 200mm lens, which one will have more reach and be the sharpest?

I can upgrade my body and keep the 200mm

Or get a 300mm for about the same price.

The two bodies are d5000 and d5100

I would get the d7000 but i use the multiple position screen even more than I thought I would.

[groovyone]

in therory the 16.2 MP would have more detail/resolution. It depends heavily on the sensor though. ersonally, I don't think you'll gain my from the D5000 to D5100 update. I thought the D7000 had the tilting LCD.

Shoudl add, I have many 16x20s from my much older 12.2 MP A700. The sharpness of the photo is more due to the lenses and the steadiness of the camera.

[TxTowman]

I shoot a lot of aircraft in flight while I am on the ground. I need just a bit more reach to achieve sharper non pixelated shots. It is mostly choppers, My d5000 with 55-200 vr does a great job but sometimes I can't get close enough to get clear images.

[groovyone]

I'd say go lens for sure.

[tc95]

Originally Posted by groovyone

I'd say go lens for sure.

+1 there is an Alt-Lens the Sigma 120-300 f2.8 is about the same price as the 200/300 Nikon...but you get the full range...I have owned two of these...one for my Nikon and one for Sigma SA...the new ones have OS (Optical Stablization) like the Nikon VR...

Just a thought...

[ronocnikral]

question....doesn't the size of the sensor have anything to do with this? if sensor size is the same, the obvious answer is the use of a higher resolution sensor for more "reach", if that is your thing.

I'm confused what the OP is trying to do.

[Photogdude]

Theoretically yes you'll gain some detail with a higher sensor, but you won't gain reach. For what you are doing its going to be your technique and a longer lens that will yield you better results.

if you need more reach spend it on the lens.

[iamntxhunter]

Are you trying to decide between a full frame with a 300mm lens or a crop sensor with a 200mm?

Sent using my LG Revolution Droid

[TxTowman]

I am going to stay with the crop sensor for now. I have a lot of work ahead of Me practicing and developing a comfortable technique. The planes are mostly fighters and dogfight over my house, it's really hard to follow them and a heavier camera would tire Me out faster. Right now I can shoot till they disengage and go back to base.

It's really cool when they shoot flares, and try to out maneuver each other.

[iamntxhunter]

Oh yea. Well I am sure some others besides me would like to see some of your photos while these guys are in action. Stop holding out and post some pics.