Hurray! The long wait is over! Nikon had us look forward to such a very long time for its newer models (D3100 and D7000) and it was just once we started pondering if Nikon will ever have an answer, anytime soon, to Canon's T2i, 7D and 60D) they released these two wonderful cameras - D3100 and D7000. Let's give attention to D3100, shall we?
So I finally had a chance to pay money for this D-SLR at Greatest Buy today. I'm not a professional by any means however I have used many various D-SLRs together with Canon (40D, T2i, XSi) and Nikon (D90, D5000). Once I picked-up the digital camera for the primary time, my initial reaction was, "whoa - that is so small and light weight"! It wasn't that I wasn't aware of the specs - I knew them beforehand but I used to be nonetheless blown away by how small and light-weight it felt once I held it in my hands. Then, I assumed, the grip would not be very snug however I was incorrect as holding and working the digital camera is just advantageous - because of Nikon's well-thought-out design and grip. For the size and feel, it's similar to D3000 but has extra goodies from the upper versions. So from an preliminary wow factor, I rapidly moved on to specializing in features and capabilities.
I've simply began using this digicam so more replace will comply with however in the meantime my preliminary evaluation of this camera is - I'm impressed! It's one heck of a camera which might certainly compete against the very best in its class (Canon T1i, T2i, Nikon D5000). Try detailed critiques at dpreview (.com) and cameralabs (.com) - they should be added soon if not already there.
I love this digital camera as a result of it:
+ has sufficient mega pixels for my needs (14.2).
+ captures crystal clear photos (thanks to EXPEED2 processor & the CMOS sensor, the sensor is barely smaller than the one used in D7000).
+ provides 1080p (HD) recording, AF topic tracking is superior (10 min max is fine with me; it data outstanding movies even in low gentle and to me that is large).
+ presents ISO from 100-3200 (D90 begins at 200), it may possibly go higher but I really don't assume why I would need anything above that.
+ is small & mild weight but has good grip, easy to carry round in palms or neck.
+ helps SDXC cards on high of SD and SDHC - now that's nice.
+ (25-Sep-2010): has buttons that are properly organized particularly the video recording mode with a lever so you cannot mistakenly activate recording. That video recording lever once unlocked, will get locked in 30 seconds if you don't report and the countdown begins as quickly as you unlock the lever. Additionally you can file video when you're in any dial (imaging) mode (Auto, P, A, S, M, and so forth) where as in Canon T2i, etc. you must transfer the digicam dial to film mode. So it is a great convenience - you'll be able to soar between taking footage and recording movies with a simple unlocking of the lever. Moreover, you can be in a most well-liked dial (imaging) mode (Auto, P, A, S, M, and so on) and change the discharge mode to Single, Steady, Self-timer or Quiet mode (this is situated right underneath the principle dial) - one other great convenient feature.
+ (04-Oct-2010): In-physique photo and movie retouch menu. That is great as we don't need any particular software program to use sure touches. I like it.
Could have been even higher if:
- it had the bracketing possibility (not an excessive amount of to anticipate at this value point level however oh well I do not use that a lot but for some individuals this could possibly be an enormous plus).
- grid strains were available (I miss them in each in reside view and within the view finder).
- Energetic D Lighting was not limited to only ON or OFF (both you might have it or in no way, as an alternative of low, medium, high, etc.). Don't get me wrong the ON simply labored high-quality (higher than Canon T2i) however I can't evaluate with all different modes.
Suggestions (optional equipment):
* In my private order of importance - your desire might differ. *
1. Nikon UC-E4 USB Cable - not included. (~$6)
2. UV filter - a should for safeguarding your lens in opposition to unintentional damage. (~10$)
3. Carrying case is a should to guard your investment. There are a lot of cases to choose from and it's as much as you to determine however I suggest getting something like Lowepro SlingShot 102 AW (all climate proof carrying case) so if it rains, you'll be able to pull out the climate guard and canopy it up. ($ninety)
4. Additional rechargeable Lithium Ion EN-EL14 battery so that you never run out the juice once you're traveling and do not want to miss capturing a moment for good. (~$35)
5. SB-600 Speedlight. Those that have used pace lights would know what difference it could make to a picture with adjustments you may make to light for an image. (~$225)
6. 18-fifty five VR lens has its limitations so when you've got additional $$$s, buy physique solely (if that even is an option) and get your self a 18-105 VR lens. However at that point, chances are you'll want to think about D90 which still is an effective digital camera and affords many more controls. (~$325 to $350)
Total:
I give this digicam 5 Stars because it takes excellent footage in nearly all circumstances (brilliant or low-mild) and that's exactly what I wished this camera to do for me. Period.
I need to commend Nikon for not getting into the mega pixel race (read advertising). They as an alternative stored the photographer in mind and focused on delivering larger picture quality. Kudos to Nikon for having that courage.