I'm not a hard-core photographer, and more of a point and shoot guy.

I have a Nikon D70 and the kit lens 18-55. For this discussion, I'll use my other lens the 50mm 1.8f. 9.9 times out of 10, I'll shoot in one the the Program modes. Nothing custom. The camera is from 2006. I don't use it much. My count is like 5,000 photos.

I'm thinking about a P&S pocket camera. To compare, I'll say Nion Coolpix 3500. 20mp, and 720 video. I'm sure it also does better in low light situations since the ISO is higher (I think).

One would say, more mp does not make the camera better or take better pictures. I'm not a pro or will I blow it up to poster size.

The DSLR sensor is bigger so it always wins vs. a compact camera with a tiny sensor.

But we are talking about 7 years of technology progress. in the electronics world, that is light years.

So my question is, which camera will take better pictures?

D70 (2006) with 50mm lens or Coolpix 3500 (2013).

P.S. I also have an iPhone 5. Will the pocket camera pictures be like that in terms of image quality?

Yes, I can try it and compare, but perhaps you can save me $139 (Coolpix 3500).

A new DSLR is nice I'm sure. Even if I was to get a Nikon 3200. But that's still too much camera for me I think.

If I was to get a prosumer (?) camera, I might as well get a DSLR (D3200).

Much thanks for your reply.

 

between those two....keep dslr, and buy a better lens to replace the kit lens. However, there are some fantastic images that I have seen shot with the new mirrorless cameras. I dont know anything about them to make a recommendation, but I know others will be able to chime in about them.

 

I agree with MWalsh9152, keep the D70 and 50 1.8. Even though it's pretty old technology, like you said, the larger sensor and the fast lens (better quality too) will more than compensate over the newer Coolpix point and shoot.

That said: Remember, it's the photographer that takes the photo not the camera.

If you're willing to spend more money, the Panasonic Lumix LX7 has a larger sensor than the typical point and shoot, and a very fast, high quality f1.4 lens. I've seen it for as low as $300.

 

If my old Fuji Finepix F50fd would ever die; I would lean toward a weather or water proof pocket point-n-shoot. There have been times on vacation or outdoor sporting events when I miss some shots because the weather was wet, dusty, and/or windy when my Nikon D5100, Fuji, or iPhone might get damage in those conditions.

 

D70 is a cropped body, so a 35mm 1.8G will be better. And is a better lens.