The Nikon d40 (1 Viewer)

[Steve_Halstead]

I know it's not quite the amount that many will want to spend on a camera but for a first time trial of dslr can I expect good things from this simple cheap design. I simply want to begin a hobby, learn about lenses as I buy and pick up a cheap camera to do so.

Any thoughts on this as my first step?

Cheers in advance

Pcp

 

[mpe]

There is nothing wrong with the D40. It is an DSLR after all. 6mpx, entry level, but still a DSLR. Put a good lens in front of it and it will take great pictures.

I think the first step would be getting a tele lens.

 

[Steve_Halstead]

There is nothing wrong with the D40. It is an DSLR after all. 6mpx, entry level, but still a DSLR. Put a good lens in front of it and it will take great pictures.

I think the first step would be getting a tele lens.

I am now thinking a D3100... lol

 

[DJ ODonnell]

I have both the D40X and the D3100, and I've been very pleased with both. If you can put up the money for the D3100, it will be a great intro camera. The Guide feature on the camera is very helpful for first-timers.

 

[ericbowles]

The D3100 and D5100 have recently been upgraded with new models. If you can find a D3100 or D5100, they are good cameras.

One factor to think about is the choice of lenses. There are a number of less expensive bodies and lenses available on the used market. For example, the D7000 is selling for around $650 US. Some of the older lenses will not work with the D3x00 series and D5x00 series. These cameras require AFS lenses with a focus motor - which tend to be newer and a little more expensive. A D7000 is able to use all Nikon lenses - not just AFS lenses. Inexpensive gems like the 50mm f/1.8 have an AFS version for $250 US and an earlier version for around $110 US.