Canon image stabilized lenses are labelled IS.

Nikon image stabilized lenses are labelled VR (Vibration reduction).



Another alternative you should at least consider is to look at some of the camera brands that have in-camera image stabilization. It doesn't work as well in long lenses (300 mm) but for shorter lenses and macro lenses it works just as well. And you have the advantage that ALL of your lenses become image stabilized, not just the high priced IS/VR lenses.

Another reason to look at in camera stabilization is that image stabilized lenses generally aren't quite as sharp as the non-stabilized forms, according to test sites like photodo.com.



You should certainly consider the Sony Alpha 100 or the Pentax 110D. Both are very nice cameras and you can get excellent lenses for both of these lines and you get in camera stabilization.



The Sony Alpha or Pentax 110D (or 10D) with a standard macro lens will get you more keepers than a Nikon or Canon with the same lenses.



If you really are stuck in the Canon/Nikon groove, consider that Nikon lenses are more expensive generally and aren't any better than equivalent Canon lenses. I like the general feel of the Nikon cameras better, but I wouldn't pay the extra money for the name.



You might also consider (regardless of the camera brand you buy) the very good macro lenses made by third party manufacturers. Sigma and Tamron make dedicated macro lenses that are as good as (if not better) than some of the camera brand macros. The macro zooms aren't quite as good, but there are some nice ones. The Sigma 17-70 DC Macro gets rave reviews.
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Chris Harrison

San Antonio, Texas

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