Newbie Camera Question

Mosephus · Sep 26, 2009

Would you guys recommend a Nikon D40 for a beginner DSLR? For those that have used it what do and don't you like about it.

I've read / watched a few reviews on it, but I just want info on it from guys that have used like I will use it.

I was looking at the panasonic dmc lx3 and Canon G10 also, but it seems I can get more camera for less of a price and just keep my old point and shoot for the rough stuff.

DrMoab · Sep 26, 2009

Nothing wrong with a D40. The best part of a DSLR over a G10 or a LX3 is the interchangeable lenses.

I would suggest though before you buy any SLR make sure you want to either go Nikon or Canon. Any lens you buy will be a bigger investment than the body but you can use that lens as you move up in bodies.

I bought Nikon and now am finding myself more fond of Canon glass but I have invested so much in Nikon stuff that I feel it would be a step in the wrong direction to start over.

Don't get my wrong though. Nikon is very very good stuff. Just as good really as Canon. I just like the options Canon offers in their line up.

Mosephus · Sep 26, 2009

Thanks, I do like the canons and some of their features too, but I can get into a D40 cheaper. I will definitely have to think about that.

DrMoab · Sep 26, 2009

Mosephus said:
Thanks, I do like the canons and some of their features too, but I can get into a D40 cheaper. I will definitely have to think about that.

There is nothing wrong with Nikon stuff. My biggest complaint is that I really want a body that will shoot HD video and is a full frame. Nikon has really been dragging their feet in that area. The Canon 5D mkII just plain rocks but its almost 3K too.

Mosephus · Sep 26, 2009

Although not up to par with the MK II, I believe the D90 shoots HD in the 720p format. I would like that too, but I've just decided for just now to get my wife a point and shoot with an HD movie mode.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0hRTyE8FePY

DrMoab · Sep 26, 2009

Mosephus said:
Although not up to par with the MK II, I believe the D90 shoots HD in the 720p format. I would like that too, but I've just decided for just now to get my wife a point and shoot with an HD movie mode.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0hRTyE8FePY

It does but it still has the smaller crop sensor in it. If I spend that kind of cash on a camera I want a 35mm sensor.

ECKSJAY · Sep 27, 2009

Be careful with the D40. You can only use motorized lenses for autofocus on it since there's no built in motor drive for focusing. That brings the cost of the lenses up considerably.

ECKSJAY · Sep 27, 2009

DrMoab said:
It does but it still has the smaller crop sensor in it. If I spend that kind of cash on a camera I want a 35mm sensor.

The D90 does some spectacular work. Ryan, be careful you're not taking your personal preference away from what this guy wants to do. Your overall mission is different than his.

Mosephus · Sep 27, 2009

Thanks for the tips, I went and looked at the D40 and D3000 Yesterday and also a Canon Rebel XS. I think I've decided on the D40 but with the intent to upgrade later and just keep the D40 for a spare/extra.

Not that it matters but here are a Couple shots with the Nikons

D3000

D40

DrMoab · Sep 27, 2009

ECKSJAY said:
The D90 does some spectacular work. Ryan, be careful you're not taking your personal preference away from what this guy wants to do. Your overall mission is different than his.

Oh I'm not. I have nothing at all against Nikons. If they hurry and come out with exactly what I am looking for I will stick with them. I hate like hell to sell what I already have and start with a new system all together.

I keep hearing rumors of a D700X or something along that line that will do video and have a full size sensor. If it happens in the next six months or so I will stay with Nikon.

ECKSJAY · Sep 27, 2009

I'm sure it will. The D300s was just made available recently, and that's an updated D300 with HD video. That raised my eyebrow...

DrMoab · Sep 27, 2009

ECKSJAY said:
I'm sure it will. The D300s was just made available recently, and that's an updated D300 with HD video. That raised my eyebrow...

I saw that. Still not a big sensor though and thats what is starting to piss me off with Nikon. Canon is stealing a lot of loyal Nikon shooters over the issue.

Cnickgo · Sep 28, 2009

I shoot Canon, but use Nikons quite frequently. Using comparable models, the most watered down simplified deduction we have come up with is that if you want a quicker "easier" shot, go Nikon. If you want the ability for more color and contrast, go with a Nikon.

DrMoab · Sep 28, 2009

Cnickgo said:
I shoot Canon, but use Nikons quite frequently. Using comparable models, the most watered down simplified deduction we have come up with is that if you want a quicker "easier" shot, go Nikon. If you want the ability for more color and contrast, go with a Nikon.

So, Which one?

Cnickgo · Sep 28, 2009

DrMoab said:
So, Which one?

Haha OOPS! I meant:

"if you want a quicker "easier" shot, go Nikon. If you want the ability for more color and contrast, go with a Canon."

Mosephus · Sep 28, 2009

Cnickgo said:
Haha OOPS! I meant:

"if you want a quicker "easier" shot, go Nikon. If you want the ability for more color and contrast, go with a Canon."

Ha, I was like he must really like Nikons, JK

I've decided to get a D40, my budget isn't very big so this seems to be a winner.

ZJeepX · Oct 1, 2009

SLR's are way faster and can shoot in lower light than just about any point and shoot. Of course the interchangeable and insanely expensive lenses are a plus too

The D40 only being able to use the silent wave motor lenses sucks. But a lot of new lenses are getting the motors in them. The other big issue for me (I have a D60, basically same camera) is that it doesn't have enough auto focus points and is not fast enough. But I like to shoot wildlife, birds especially, so it all depends on what you will be using it for.

Mosephus · Oct 1, 2009

I'm mostly getting my feet wet with it, I buying one used tomorrow morning hopefully. I'd like to learn abit with this one and hopefully that will tell me what I really will want in a better camera.

XJEEPER · Oct 1, 2009

If you're new to Digital and unsure on what model or features you'll need, consider buying used and then resell it when you move up.......it really makes sense. 50% less than new make sense?
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productList&Q=457506&A=buyUsed

The Rebel Xti is a good used option, I love my Xsi.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productList&Q=457506&A=buyUsed

Mosephus · Oct 3, 2009

Thanks for the tips guys, I got a Nikon D40 for super cheap, the flash wasn't working and it is a common problem with a common fix.

Here are a few practice pics (some are from before I fixed the flash)

Newbie Camera Question

NAXJA Forum User

NAXJA Forum User

NAXJA Forum User

NAXJA Forum User

NAXJA Forum User

NAXJA Forum User

Water is dirty

Water is dirty

NAXJA Forum User

NAXJA Forum User

Water is dirty

NAXJA Forum User

Do you need assistance?

NAXJA Forum User

Do you need assistance?

NAXJA Forum User

NAXJA Forum User

NAXJA Forum User

NAXJA Member # 13

NAXJA Forum User

Similar threads