I have had problems with the Nikon D70 using the Nikor 70 - 300mm zoom lens. Even with a tripod I am having and incredibly difficult time producing clear shots. Any suggestions or tips?

just wondering..are you using the 70-300 VR? if so, turn the VR off when using a tripod. also, are you using autofocus? if so, is it set to place the focal point automatically, or did you set it to focus on a center-point?

Is it at the longer focal lengths that you aren't getting clear shots? Just curious because I'm having the same problem with my Sigma 70-300mm (but at shorter focal lengths it takes amazing photos). Although, I am pretty sure it's because I didn't get the lens that's corrected for color aberration. Perhaps this is the same with yours?

could it be user-defective? (I kid)

Michael: I'm working with a D70 too.
Have you that problem before? Or is it coming immediatly with the 70-300 zoom?
Do you encounter the same problem with another lens?

Are you using a cable release? What shutter speeds have you shot at. Most lens are softer at longer focal lenghts wide open. Try setting your camera to AV (aperture priority) mode and decrease your aperture setting (f11 or so) from your wide open setting of f5.6. Take some shots and compare them at different apertures. That should improve your images. If you find the shutter speed to be very slow you can also increase your ISO setting.

Wow, I am a little late getting back to this one! Sorry! It is set on auto-focus and auto-selects the focus point(s). I don't think it's the VR lens. I believe it's just at the longer focal lengths. I am pretty new with the D70, I usually just use a Canon 700IS. I will definitely try changing the shutter speeds (I tried doing this by shooting in sport/action-mode but the blurriness persisted). I will also look into changing the aperture. Thanks so much for all the feedback and help!

I would recommend trying to change the focus point to single point. Then make sure you are focused on what you want to be focused on. It is possible the auto focus is finding something to focus on that you don't want. Good chance thats not it, but i would say its worth a try.

I agree with Milo. The single point AF is easier. You focuse on the main point or your image, let your finger on the button, then move for the composition.
Maybe you should try with another lens to be sure about the 70-300 zoom lens.