When I decided to upgrade from a P&S digital camera to a more professional
model, I chose a great camera, the Nikon D70s. Since I wanted to get an
assist with mastering the complexities of this camera, I also chose a great
instructional DVD, Elite Video's Nikon D70 Made Easy. The two disc set
thoroughly covers all aspects of the operation and enjoyment of this camera
with over two hours of clear demonstrations and explanations. The video is
presented so that owners new to digital cameras and those with some
experience with P&S cameras will benefit from viewing the two discs.

After a brief look at what comes in the box, the video moves into the
important topics.
There are problems that many camera owners find with their photos and these
are gone into in great depth. Beginning with using the automatic focus
options so that photos of moving objects can be as sharply focused as
stationary subjects, the video then continues with suggestions as to how to
select from the various focusing zones that are available,
Like any good SLR, the D70 is a camera that allows for full manual control.
The video shows how to use this mode, but also goes into great detail to
insure that you will be able to take advantage of the seven Vari-Programs
Modes that will make getting the best photo much easier. In addition to the
important areas of focus and shooting modes, other difficult areas are
handled well by the series…Aperture and Shutter priority modes of camera
control, Single, Continuous and Self Timer shooting modes, and light
metering.

Throughout all the demonstrations, the video clearly shows the dials,
buttons, and screens to view so that you will be comfortable using your
camera everyday. This is one area where a video is able to help so much more
than a book. Also, photo tips are presented in many parts of the video.

For a video to be successful it must be enjoyable to watch and be able to
convey the difficult information that is in the manual that accompanies the
camera. The presenters make you feel like they are talking to you, and are
interested in anticipating your questions. When you have finished the two
disc set, you will have been exposed to all the features of the D-70, and
will have seen how to call forth all the options that are available to you.
Even though I had read the manual I felt unsure how to easily reach some of
the actions. This is where seeing is especially helpful. A week later, I was
still able to visualize the actions needed to call up some features that I
was forgetting after just reading about them. The D-70 has twenty-five
custom menu settings and each of these is covered, showing clearly how to
effect the desired option.

When you are finished viewing the set, you are not done. Since the discs are
menu organized, you can easily go back at anytime and review an area that
you might feel you need clarified, or you can just relax and enjoy the video
again.


Bruce Monte