... The 6 Megapixel Nikon D40 is targeted for those who want a relatively compact and light camera yet having most of the important SLR features. The D40 is priced reasonably (cheaper than D50/D80 and Canon Rebel XTi). In my opinion, if you are still considering whether to get a point and shoot camera or a DSLR, the D40 will be a better choice than any point and shoot camera, by far, even those with 8MP or 10MP. But if you are already deciding to get a DSLR or you want more control of the picture taking experience, then I would recommend you to also test the D50 and/or D80 first before deciding to buy the D40. I want you to make sure that you know what you will get (and not get) with the D40. Don't get me wrong though, the D40 is an awesome camera, and I don't think you will regret buying one. There are some limitation with the D40 which shouldn't bother most people, for example, the D40 doesn't have dedicated button to change picture quality, white balance or ISO settings (which generally only professional/enthusiast will care). Once you understand (and accept) its limitation, the D40 is a potent and exciting photography machine.

Just like all its (DSLR) siblings, the D40 powers on instantly and take pictures with almost no shutter lag which are the major advantages of a DSLR over a point and shoot camera. In addition to the P,S,A,M mode, the picture quality of the auto settings (auto, child mode, landscape etc) are also very good. With 2.5 frames per second you can capture movement progress in sports like football, basketball, baseball etc. Also great to photograph your family or child (child mode). The D40 is a great all around camera.

Some notable new features:
1. Auto (no flash) mode. Without this mode the flash will pop-up (on all other pre-programmed mode) even when you don't want to use flash (which can be annoying). The internal flash will not pop up automatically with the P,S,A,M settings.
2. In camera editing capability such as black and white, sepia and some filter effects etc. While sounds gimmicky, these features are useful especially for those who doesn't have Adobe Photoshop (or other image editing software).

To date, D40 is the smallest and lightest among all the Nikon DSLR (even smaller than the Canon Rebel XT/XTi, however the D40 is more ergonomics). I believe that choosing a camera that fits comfortably with your hands is important. Therefore, I recommend people to test the camera before buying (even if you want to buy online, please do go to a physical store and test the camera first whenever possible).

The D40 has only 3 (horizontal) autofocus point (5 for D50 and 11 for D80). If you know "The Rule of Thirds", the additional AF points above and below the center focus point (available in D50 and D80) are handy to help create the horizontal third line. However, the 3 horizontal AF point in D40 is still helpful to create the vertical third line. Also one can focus with the middle AF point and after the focus is lock then move the frame upwards/downwards to create the horizontal third line. Just make sure the exposure level is still accurate when you move the frame after you lock the focus.

About the 18-55mm II AF-S kit lens: A good lens producing sharp photos (though not a very fast lens). Also decent for close-up/macro photography. Lens uses internal focus technology and focusing operation is silent. A very decent kit lens.

Lens compatibility: Notice that with D40, autofocus function will not work for non AF-S/AF-I lens. If you already have non AF-S/AF-I Nikon lenses and want a backup or replacement camera, you will be better off buying D50, D70s or D80. If you buy the D40, it will be convenient to stick with AF-S and AF-I type lenses. I'm not sure why Nikon choose this route for the D40 (whether to enable smaller size camera or from now on Nikon will only make AF-S lens compatible camera). There are a lot of good Nikon AF-S lenses (price range added: low, medium, high) that are fully compatible with the D40 such as:

- Nikon 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED AF-S DX (L)
- Nikon 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED II AF-S DX (L)
- Nikon 18-70mm f/3.5-4.5G ED IF AF-S DX (L)
- Nikon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6G ED-IF AF-S DX (L)
- Nikon 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 G ED-IF AF-S DX VR (M)
- Nikon 55-200mm f4-5.6G ED AF-S DX (L)
- Nikon 55-200mm f4-5.6G ED AF-S DX VR (L)
- Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED-IF AF-S VR (M)
- Nikon 12-24mm f/4G ED IF AF-S DX (M)
- Nikon 17-35mm f/2.8D ED-IF AF-S (H)
- Nikon 17-55mm f/2.8G ED-IF AF-S DX (H)
- Nikon 28-70mm f/2.8D ED-IF AF-S (H)
- Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8G ED-IF AF-S VR (H)
- Nikon 105mm f/2.8G ED-IF AF-S VR Micro (M)
- And several other expensive prime tele/zoom lens like 200-400mm, 300m, 400mm, 500mm, 600mm.

High priced lens ($1000+) are usually pro level lens which usually have better construction, faster (f-stop), and produce better quality picture. However, often times, lower price lens will serve your needs just fine. I think it is important to know what you want to use the camera for before deciding which camera and lens to buy.

Image quality of the D40 is very good which is #1 factor that I look for in a digital camera.

Here are the pros and cons of the D40 in my opinion:

Pros:
1. Nice out of the camera result picture quality
2. Affordable price
3. Compact size and light weight
4. Large and bright 2.5 inch LCD
5. 2.5 frames per second
6. B/W, Sepia, several more in-camera editing features.
7. Instant power on, fast autofocus and no shutter lag
8. Noise is acceptable at high ISO settings. Auto ISO settings available.
9. Great 18-55mm II AF-S kit lens.
10. Great battery life (400+ on a single charge. 1000+ if flash is not used).
11. Auto (flash off) mode available
12. 1/500 flash sync

Cons:
1. No direct button to change QUAL, WB and ISO settings
2. Grip comfortably but might be a bit too small for some people
3. No top LCD and no front command dial
4. Autofocus will not work with non AF-S or non AF-I lenses (such as the 70-300m G and 50mm f/1.8D lens)
5. No AF/MF switch (have to use the switch on the lens)
6. Only 3 autofocus point
7. 6 Megapixel (More Megapixel needed to print larger than 12 X 18 at 300 dpi)
8. No night landscape mode in pre-programmed settings
9. No in camera image stabilization (like Sony and Pentax) but Nikon has lenses with it (VR).
10. No depth-of-field preview button

In conclusion, the D40 is perfect for those who want high quality pictures, more control (than a point and shoot camera), and have a DSLR experience (instant power on and no shutter lag), without having to carry a bulky camera. And unless you are shooting sports/actions professionaly (which faster focusing processor, faster frames per second and larger memory buffer might be needed), the D40 is pretty much all you will need.

Happy Photographing!

Sidarta Tanu ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Nikon D40 6.1MP the smallest Digital SLR Camera (Body)

... VALUE FOR MONEY

After an extensive research of 3 months,like every starter, I narrowed down my buying options to Nikon D60/D40 or Canon XSI(450D) or Nikon D90.
Canon Xsi and D90 definitely have some more features than D60 like AEB,9 focus points,movie mode,in-camera autofocus motor etc.., but with a highly, unjustifiable price tag.

Also, I was really turned off by reading the negative reviews about the Canon XSI autofocus,in almost every discussion forum.Autofocus is the heart of DSLR System.No matter what,it should be the best.All other features are not always indispensable.Nikon is known for its quality optics and D60 ( D90 too ),has an awesome autofocus which is pretty fast.

I feel XSi,and to some extent D90 have feature trade-off with price.Xsi comes with 20% more price than what this Nikon D60 kit costs , and that too with the basic 18-55mm IS lens.BUT with this D60 kit($700 in Feb-09),we get a 55-200mm VR (awesome lens) + camera bag(very useful accessory) + 16 Gb Memory card + card reader + extra battery. Add $300-$350 more to already high price,if u want these accessories with XSI or D90 . BUT BUT BUT , at that budget + a little more :) i would rather consider buying a PRO level camera,than a starter like the XSi or an intermdiate like the D90.
And with regards to features,as I said that apart from a good fast autofocus all other features are not indispensable. This is how.

1) AEB --> Consider this equation.
AEB in XSI or D90 == D60/D40 + Photoshop/Lightroom
Morover u can do in camera editing(image overlay) in D60 to produce those HDR,for which AEB is being craved for.

2) 9 Focus points - Focus points are nothing but the number of points in the scene which can be focused.You can easily focus a part of the image frame, using any focus point with a 3-point or even 1point focus.More focus points find application in fast moving subjects,but only if your camera auto focus is not sluggish :). If u want that go with a 51 AF point PRO level DSLR.

3) In Camera auto focus motor: This i would consider an important feature,if you are a pro and have some old non AF lenses. But for a starter ,it doesnt matter at all
4) Movie mode: Come on , sub standard jelly like movie from a DSLR , Go for a much much better handycam for 1/3rd the price .

Conclusion:: MY Take is get a GOOD VALUE camera which is as good as PRO in normal conditions just like NIkon D60.Believe me,you will be able to grow as a pro and learn as much as u can with an intermediate level camera. So all the money I save here ( good [...]), I can use later to buy a prolevel Camera body (remem :these lenses will work :) ) , like D300,D200 or ever D700. By then I suppoz the price of contemporary pro level bodies will also come down.This is what is called value addition.

PERFORMANCE AND FEATURES
Personally I would tag Nikon D60 in a starter category-feature wise but Above intermediate-performance wise(focus and quality of pictures).

I waited for good 3-4 months after buying this camera, so that I am atleast able to provide a useful review.During this time I used D60 exhaustively,innovatively and experimentally and I must say that I am very very pleased with the results. [...]

1) Dead shot autofocus which is very fast.
2) Awesome metering performance with spot metering.More than satisfactory performance for matrix metering in high contrast scenes.
3) Good Technology EXPEED Processor , renders nice colors and nearly accurate exposure ( if u know how to do it ) on 10MP sensor.
4) Sharp ISO performance upto ISO 800. If you are a close observer , you could find some noise in ISO 1600.
5) Nice Design , i just love handling the dial,in manual mode. Would have been slightly better , if there was dedicated buttons for WB , ISO.But here also , make ISO one button touch with Fn key and keep the WB settin on menu. This is how i do it.
6) White Balance works fine with single light sources.But it does not always render accurate colors with multiple light sources, that is not a camera limitation , that is indeed a technological limitation.
7) In camera editing -: Nothing much , but sometimes you would find it as a nice timepass while experimenting with your shots.

All in all i would say that this is complete value for money.You would not repent your spending,and every penny would add to the value addition of photographic endeavours.

Personally I would recommend to buy UV filters ( multi coated ) for lens protection, A CPL filter and a Lens pen .

Hope all the information i provided , based on my experience is helpful to you all.

[...]

And remember as they say , the artist creates the masterpiece and not the camera ..Happy photographing ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Nikon D60 Digital SLR Camera (Black/Gold) with 18-55mm AF-S VR Zoom Lens + 55-200mm f/4-5.6G AF-S DX VR IF-ED Zoom Lens + 16GB SD Card + EN-EL9 Battery + Case + Cameta Bonus Accessory Kit

... My Nikon D90 has worked flawlessly and is producing great shots. It works great with the NIKKOR 70-300mm AF-S VR Zoom for wildlife photography. For my main "walk about" lens, I use a NIKKOR 18-105mm AF-S VR which matches up well with the D90. This camera could be a bit intimidating for a novice, but for me it was the perfect upgrade from my Nikon D40x. I would highly recommend this camera to anyone wanting to do some serious photograhy. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Nikon D90 Digital SLR Camera Body + 8GB Memory Card + Nikon EN-EL3e Battery + Case + Cameta Bonus Accessory Kit

... Even though this is not the absolute top of the line, it is certainly worthy of high praise. I am not a professional photographer, but I do take high level (raw) shots, edit them on photoshop and post to websites and make brochures and business cards from my photos. This camera pretty much does all I ask. The biggest selling point was that the anti-shake feature is built into the camera and not the lens. I would recommend this camera to just about anyone. Down side is that it doesn't have wide format. That is a couple of thousand more that I didn't have. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Sony Alpha A700K 12.24MP Digital SLR Camera with 18-70mm f/3.5-5.6 Aspherical ED Lens

... Having been in the SLR world back in the 90s, I knew how much control you could have over your imagery, but I forgot just how great and fun it really is. Digital makes it even better. I wanted to give a quick run down of things I really am happy about vs. a point and shoot camera and maybe that will help people make the dive into SLR. The XTi is a really great camera to take that dive with.

Instant shutter release - I can't tell you how many good pictures I probably lost waiting for my Canon Digital Elph (had a SD110 and a SD700IS) to finally take the picture. With the XTi, you press the button and it takes the picture right away. In low light conditions, you might have to wait a second or two, but its still much faster. And with the sports setting, you are more likely to get a sharp image when there is lots of motion. You can take that picture of someone hitting a baseball right when it makes contact.

Multiple pictures per second - This is the frames per second rating. Not only does it take the picture fast, you can take a few pictures in a second. This allows you to just hold down the shutter release button and snap away, allowing you to ensure that you get action shots at the right moment. Recently I took my daughter to the zoo and took a picture of her feeding a giraffe. Because I was able to take multiple pictures per second, I was able to capture all the right moments of the event. I've actually taken this feature to the extreme by making some time lapse videos using 6000 frames of 4 fps pictures taken in 1.5 hours.

Quality of image - The 2nd picture I ever took with this camera was one of the best pictures I've ever taken of my daughter. And I was just playing around. Colors look better, lighting looks better. Its not about megapixels, its about lens quality.

Settings wheel - Having the wheel on top to control the settings of the camera is invaluable. You can instantly change between a portrait shot and a sports shot, macro and landscape, etc. On Point and shoot cameras, this often involves navigating a menu, which is time consuming and prevents or discourages you from taking certain types of pictures.

Lens can be changed - This is probably the most obvious feature. You know those great close up pictures of birds, flowers, insects and stuff? Those weren't taken with digital zoom, they used a real zoom lens. The difference in quality is enormous and digital zoom is a poor substitute for having a real 300mm lens. This camera doesn't come with a 300mm lens, but can buy a cheap 70mm-300mm Canon lens for a couple hundred dollars and take much better pictures than on any point and shoot camera.

Accessories - There is a whole world of accessories that are geared towards SLR cameras, you really don't know it until you start looking. So far I've bought a 70-300mm zoom lens, a UV filter, a polarizing filter, IR remote trigger and a remote timer.

Some things to be mindful of:

Get a UV protective filter to protect your lens. They are only like $10.

The screen is not a viewfinder - I didn't realize this either until after I bought it, but I understand why this is the case, you want to be looking through the lens. Honestly, this isn't as big of an issue as you might think it is. You still get to review your pictures on the screen and there is lots of helpful information about your settings.

Learn about photography - As great as this camera is, pictures still don't compose and take themselves, you should learn at least the basics of good photography. You don't have to spend a fortune or take a lot of time either, you can just get a short and small book that explains things like depth of field, composition, etc. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Canon Digital Rebel XTi 10.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 Lens (Silver)

... The product is great!
The vendor is excellent!
Better than expected as it came with 2 lenses.
Shipping was very fast..
Perfect!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Olympus Evolt E410 10MP Digital SLR Camera with 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 Zuiko Lens

... Having been in the SLR world back in the 90s, I knew how much control you could have over your imagery, but I forgot just how great and fun it really is. Digital makes it even better. I wanted to give a quick run down of things I really am happy about vs. a point and shoot camera and maybe that will help people make the dive into SLR. The XTi is a really great camera to take that dive with.

Instant shutter release - I can't tell you how many good pictures I probably lost waiting for my Canon Digital Elph (had a SD110 and a SD700IS) to finally take the picture. With the XTi, you press the button and it takes the picture right away. In low light conditions, you might have to wait a second or two, but its still much faster. And with the sports setting, you are more likely to get a sharp image when there is lots of motion. You can take that picture of someone hitting a baseball right when it makes contact.

Multiple pictures per second - This is the frames per second rating. Not only does it take the picture fast, you can take a few pictures in a second. This allows you to just hold down the shutter release button and snap away, allowing you to ensure that you get action shots at the right moment. Recently I took my daughter to the zoo and took a picture of her feeding a giraffe. Because I was able to take multiple pictures per second, I was able to capture all the right moments of the event. I've actually taken this feature to the extreme by making some time lapse videos using 6000 frames of 4 fps pictures taken in 1.5 hours.

Quality of image - The 2nd picture I ever took with this camera was one of the best pictures I've ever taken of my daughter. And I was just playing around. Colors look better, lighting looks better. Its not about megapixels, its about lens quality.

Settings wheel - Having the wheel on top to control the settings of the camera is invaluable. You can instantly change between a portrait shot and a sports shot, macro and landscape, etc. On Point and shoot cameras, this often involves navigating a menu, which is time consuming and prevents or discourages you from taking certain types of pictures.

Lens can be changed - This is probably the most obvious feature. You know those great close up pictures of birds, flowers, insects and stuff? Those weren't taken with digital zoom, they used a real zoom lens. The difference in quality is enormous and digital zoom is a poor substitute for having a real 300mm lens. This camera doesn't come with a 300mm lens, but can buy a cheap 70mm-300mm Canon lens for a couple hundred dollars and take much better pictures than on any point and shoot camera.

Accessories - There is a whole world of accessories that are geared towards SLR cameras, you really don't know it until you start looking. So far I've bought a 70-300mm zoom lens, a UV filter, a polarizing filter, IR remote trigger and a remote timer.

Some things to be mindful of:

Get a UV protective filter to protect your lens. They are only like $10.

The screen is not a viewfinder - I didn't realize this either until after I bought it, but I understand why this is the case, you want to be looking through the lens. Honestly, this isn't as big of an issue as you might think it is. You still get to review your pictures on the screen and there is lots of helpful information about your settings.

Learn about photography - As great as this camera is, pictures still don't compose and take themselves, you should learn at least the basics of good photography. You don't have to spend a fortune or take a lot of time either, you can just get a short and small book that explains things like depth of field, composition, etc. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Canon Digital Rebel XTi 10.1MP Digital SLR Camera (Black Body Only)

... I'm not going to review the camera because if you're looking at this package you probably already know about the camera.

The contents of the package are an exceptional value. I was a bit confused about the exact contents due to some in consistencies.

I was a bit confused about why they would highlight the fact they were giving you a battery, but as I assumed it came with an EXTRA battery. NICE!

The major confusion came from the 70-300mm lens. Under Technical Details it says the lens is Nikon AF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 G Zoom Lens Nikon 70-300mm f/4-5.6G AF Nikkor SLR Camera Lens(this is the correct lens) but under the Product Description it says Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G IF-ED AF-S. This lens is NOT and AF-S lens and requires a pin driven auto-focus and this lens is DEFINATELY not IF and doesn't include ED glass elements. The lens protrudes a good bit when zoomed all the way.

The vendor for this product is excellent and responed to my query about the lens in a timely mannor. I didn't see fit to down rate the product due to the small discrepency with the product description. I just wanted to provide clarification to any other perspective buyers. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Nikon D90 Digital SLR Camera with 18-105mm AF-S DX VR Nikkor Lens w/ 3pc Photo Essentials Filter Kit + Nikon 70-300mm Lens w/ 3pc Photo Essentials

... overall is good, however i think quanlity of the bag is not that good though ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens + 8GB Deluxe Accessory Kit

... I've been using a Point-and-Shoot camera for years now, and I felt that I maxed out its potential. Sure, landscape photography is nice, but i've always been a wildlife guy & trying to be a wildlife photographer with a point-and-shoot isn't going to get you good results. It was at this point that I decided I wanted an SLR w/ interchangable lenses. I chose the Olympus E-420 because it was within my price range and list of features.

I've been learning and using this camera for a few months now, and I am very happy with the results. Coupled with a telephoto lens, my wildlife photography collection now includes over 60+ bird species in my area.

I would recommend this camera to someone looking to get a SLR camera. The price is great and Olympus Zuiko lenses are very cost friendly. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Olympus Evolt E420 10MP Digital SLR Camera with 25mm f/2.8 Pancake Zuiko Lens

... The Sony A900 is a camera built for photographers. Wonderfully agile, great ergonomics and stunning image quality. It does require the high-end lenses to get the most out of that resolution though, so factor that into your budget. Both the 24-70 and 70-300 operate beautifully on the A900.

The thing I like about the A900 over the Nikon D700 or Canon 5D Mk2 is how fast I can work with it. The camera just "gets out of the way". No endless pages of menus like the Nikon D700, and the quick access screen/joystick combination makes adjustments on the fly quick and easy.

I was also pleasantly surprised with the high ISO image quality. After reading some of the reviews I was hesitant, but I got very nice images up to ISO 1600.

The preious mentions about the file sizes are correct - you'll also need a fast computer to process them and 16GB memory cards.

But in the end, this is by far my favorite "affordable" Full Frame digital camera. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Sony Alpha A900 24.6MP Digital SLR Camera (Black)

... Amazon's price was very appealing, and Adorama had the camera to me in no time. I read the Quick Start Guide, and then the full manual. I am always a bit anxious when the manuals are so thick, but I soon realized that the feature set of the D-90 was very similar to my film Contax RX.

In the past 2 months, I have taken about 200 pictures, and I am always amazed by the clarity.

...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Nikon D90 Digital SLR Two Lens Kit with AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Lens & Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5 - 5.6G ED-IF AF-S VR Lens - Warranty

... Yeahhh! my first DSLR,

Got this one to take better pictures than my regular point a shoot Sony Camera, let me say the picture quality is awesome. just crisp and very nice if you set it right.

Pretty fast turn on to shoot time. built in touch up utility, ability to save RAW pictures to edit later with Pro Software.

The lens with the VR function does help as i have taken pictures with it on/off.

Feels very sturdy and very expensive, i got mine at a great deal was going to go with the D40 and may be get extra lenses but settled on the Gold Edition D60. If you have the $$$ you can get the D60 but if you want more bangs for the bucks go with the cheaper D40 and use the left over money to get a spare lens or whatever.

Overall, i am very happy with it, picture transfer is pretty slow when use the Camera direct to PC via USB, if you have a memory card reader use it.
Sorry Guys, not a technical person like the other pro shooters. so that's my review.... ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Nikon D60 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera Black Gold Special Edition with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G AF-S DX VR Nikkor Zoom Lens

... The Rebel XS is a quality entry level SLR,bearing the Canon reputation.As a package kit it is fairly priced given the 2 basic lenses included. The gadget bag is so-so...but adequate. To round out this kit I also bought 2 HOYA filters (a circular polarizer and a UV filter).

As another reviewer mentioned there are better Canon digital SLR's out there,and they are priced accordingly. I do believe however that this outfit from Cameta represents a fair-priced starter kit for those upgrading from point and shoot cameras.

If budget constraints require a compromise between the "good" and the "best" this is a good choice in mid-2009, in my opinion. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Canon Digital Rebel XS 10.1MP Digital SLR Camera (Black) + Canon EF-S 18-55mm IS Lens + Canon EF 75-300mm III Lens + Spare LP-E5 Battery + 8GB Card + Gadget Bag

... this is just about the perfect entry-level DSLR.


It has everything that you need to get great shots out of it, without the high price tag or a bloated feature set. I'd definitely recommend it. It's not the best, technically, but it's a great learning tool, performs well under stress, and an expert can get great shots out of it across the ISO range and in all lighting conditions. I would say that this will become legendary for its value as a DSLR. It's the closest thing to a "throw it up and shoot" cheap little box film camera that you can get in a DSLR. But it still takes great photos, it's very fast, nice and small, obviously cheap, and very easy to use.


I have to say I'm very happy so far with my choice, and this camera is my first DSLR Camera. The auto focus is fast and accurate. The shutter response is quick. The image quality is very good with lots of detail. The exposures have been very accurate with a minimal number of photos with blown highlights. The image stabilization kicks butt. The dynamic range optimization really does pull highlights out of the shade.

Pros:
-In-body Stabilization
-Compatible w/ Minolta lenses
-Smallest and lightest DSLR
-Very simple to use
-Vivid and good image quality
-Its high ISO (3200) low light performance is increbible
-Price

Cons:
-New Sony lens are expensive
-Some noise at high iso.

Just got this camera for couple days, will update more soon... ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Sony Alpha A230L 10.2 MP Digital SLR Camera with Super SteadyShot INSIDE Image Stabilization and 18-55mm Lens

... I absolutely love this camera..... the screen is great and all the features are easy to get to without having to click around on a menu to much. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Canon Digital Rebel XSi 12MP Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens (Black) + 2GB Pro Accessory Kit

... I know that these are no longer on the open market, so my review is simply to explain why I think these are an excellent value on the used market.

Bottom line is this - unless you are going to blow up your photos to poster sized, the 8MP XT is a great choice. The upgrades to later versions give you a larger display screen, sure, but the basic functionality doesn't change much for at least two generations. While I'd like to be able to preview the picture in the display (which you can't do on this model), the quality of photos as well as the excellent feature set (all laid out in other reviews) make this an excellent choice.

Combined with the incredible array of excellent lenses, the compact size, excellent battery life and great feature set make the Rebel XT a great choice on the used market. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Canon Digital Rebel XT 8MP Digital SLR Camera (Body Only - Black)

... This is currently the only dSLR camera that has true autofocus during video. Yes, the 1080p video mode has a lot of artifacts when panning, but the 720p HD modes are pristine. Overall the best dSLR-like camera that can do video at this time. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Panasonic DMC-GH1 12MP Four Thirds Interchangeable Lens Camera with 1080p HD Video

... I'm still learning how this camera works [just so much to do on it!] but i using it everyday. love it!! ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Olympus Evolt E510 10MP Digital SLR Camera with CCD Shift Image Stabilization and 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 Zuiko Lens

... Even though this is not the absolute top of the line, it is certainly worthy of high praise. I am not a professional photographer, but I do take high level (raw) shots, edit them on photoshop and post to websites and make brochures and business cards from my photos. This camera pretty much does all I ask. The biggest selling point was that the anti-shake feature is built into the camera and not the lens. I would recommend this camera to just about anyone. Down side is that it doesn't have wide format. That is a couple of thousand more that I didn't have. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Sony Alpha A700 12.24MP Digital SLR Camera (Body Only)

... I have no complaint with this camera I have used for almost two years now as a vacation/hiking camera. I shoot at a daily paper so I'm used to using pro gear and this body is a tad small, but I got it for it's light weight. I must comment on this insane 900.00 price. I picked one up, body only, at this same website for less than $500 almost two years ago. Stay away from this price. It is a huge rip. Shop elsewhere for the d40x. This is not a $900 camera. This is a $400-500 camera at best. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Nikon D40X 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera (Body Only)

... This is currently the only dSLR camera that has true autofocus during video. Yes, the 1080p video mode has a lot of artifacts when panning, but the 720p HD modes are pristine. Overall the best dSLR-like camera that can do video at this time. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Panasonic DMC-GH1 12MP Four Thirds Interchangeable Lens Camera with 1080p HD Video

... I'm still learning how this camera works [just so much to do on it!] but i using it everyday. love it!! ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Olympus Evolt E510 10MP Digital SLR Camera with CCD Shift Image Stabilization and 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 Zuiko Lens

... Even though this is not the absolute top of the line, it is certainly worthy of high praise. I am not a professional photographer, but I do take high level (raw) shots, edit them on photoshop and post to websites and make brochures and business cards from my photos. This camera pretty much does all I ask. The biggest selling point was that the anti-shake feature is built into the camera and not the lens. I would recommend this camera to just about anyone. Down side is that it doesn't have wide format. That is a couple of thousand more that I didn't have. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Sony Alpha A700 12.24MP Digital SLR Camera (Body Only)

... I'm not going to add much in terms of content - much has already been written about the camera in terms of the technical details. But if you have an earlier E-series Oly DSLR, it's time to move up. I've really enjoyed my E-500 and have to say I learned a lot on that camera and needed that time to get used to digital SLR photography and all the controls you have at your disposal. I didn't think the E-510 or E-520 were quite worth the jump even though they are both improvements in many ways to the E-500 (and it's predecessor E-300/330). The E-620 is out and looks to be a fantastic addition to Oly's line, but the E-30 really caught my eye as a logical next step. I did weeks of comparisons to include the E-3 as well, but in the end, the E-30 appeared to be the best upgrade for this experienced amateur.

I am fabulously happy with my choice and the improvements over my beloved E-500 are very apparent. The better metering and better autofocus sensors really show in the pictures. The better viewfinder is a VERY welcome change for my well-over-40-year-old eyes. The rearrangement of the data in the viewfinder is much better than the E-500's side version, which was hard to see.

I also have larger hands, which is another reason for getting a bigger camera, rather than a smaller one as the E-620 is. The feel is - to me - very close to a film SLR in terms of weight and size, which is a very comfortable fit for me (having done film work for 30 years before digital).

If you have an earlier E-series and have been thinking about an upgrade, this is the one for you. It's a logical step up in Oly's current progression. I could not be happier.

Sidenote: it's only fair to note that 17th St. Camera was an excellent seller in my case, since Amazon was out of stock when I purchased my E-30 ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Olympus E30 12.3MP Digital SLR with Image Stabilization (Body Only)

... This is an excellent camera! I like it very well and very pleased with the service! ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Sony Alpha DSLRA350 14.2MP Digital SLR Camera with Super SteadyShot Image Stabilization (Body Only)

... I know that these are no longer on the open market, so my review is simply to explain why I think these are an excellent value on the used market.

Bottom line is this - unless you are going to blow up your photos to poster sized, the 8MP XT is a great choice. The upgrades to later versions give you a larger display screen, sure, but the basic functionality doesn't change much for at least two generations. While I'd like to be able to preview the picture in the display (which you can't do on this model), the quality of photos as well as the excellent feature set (all laid out in other reviews) make this an excellent choice.

Combined with the incredible array of excellent lenses, the compact size, excellent battery life and great feature set make the Rebel XT a great choice on the used market. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Canon Digital Rebel XT 8MP Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm f3.5-5.6 Lens (Black)

... works very well, I love this camera, it is light in weight ( great for travel or walk around ), uses more reliable cf flash memory cards, has anti vibration built in to camera, unlike canon and nikon that build it into lenses that are more expensive . It also has a tilt up screen, anti-dust vibration and many other features, All that and it is easy to use, with a great 18-70mm kit lens, for a bargin price for a 10mb dslr. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Sony Alpha DSLRA300X 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera with Super SteadyShot Image Stabilization with DT 18-70mm f/3.5-5.6 & DT 55-200mm f/4-5.6 Zoom Lenses

... This is an excellent camera! I like it very well and very pleased with the service! ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Sony Alpha DSLRA350X 14.2MP Digital SLR Camera with Super SteadyShot Image Stabilization with DT 18-70mm f/3.5-5.6 & DT 55-200mm f/4-5.6 Zoom Lenses

... Simply Amazing Camera! I highly recommend this camera to any photographer, experienced or inexperienced, whether you just want your pictures to turn out better, or you just want to take better pictures. I have only had this camera for a few weeks, and I'm already taking more pictures with it than I did with any of my cameras prior to this one. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Nikon D40 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED II AF-S DX Lens and Nikon AF-S 55-200mm f/4-5.6G ED DX VR Zoom-Nikkor Lens + 4GB (SD) Card

... This is an affordable choice for an DSLR camera with a certain quality.
Especially for whom are interested in underwater photography like myself this is a pretty good option if you consider the housing price as well.
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Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Olympus Evolt E410 10MP Digital SLR Camera with 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 and 40-150mm f/4.0-5.6 Zuiko Lenses

... Whether you're a professional looking for a good secondary camera that's still compatible with your EF lenses, an experienced point-and-shooter that wants to enter the world of Digital SLRs, or are completely new to the game, this is an excellent package deal. The Canon EOS Digital Rebel XS (a.k.a. the EOS 1000D in Europe and Asia) is Canon's superb entry/mid-level DSLR, designed to replace the XTi. Unlike the very basic XTi, however, the XS includes a number of features found only on higher end Canon cameras, such as Live View (gimmicky but useful at times) and the DIGIC III image processing board.

The 8GB card that comes with the package allows you take full advantage of the RAW format, if you plan on doing heavy image editing and need super-high quality and high-res originals. The spare battery is also always a plus, and the card reader comes in handy too.

The only draw back is the gadget back. While useful, and a good thing to include, it isn't of the highest quality. The first time I buckled one of the two main front closures, the buckle broke. It still stays securely shut, with two small side buckles and one left up front, but it's not as tight as it was before.

Wait around and it might come up on sale again. I was able to pick it up for $479 ($499 after S&H) a few months back. Not sure if it's worth the price now, but if you can find it for anything less than $500, buy it immediately! ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Canon Digital Rebel XS 10.1MP Digital SLR Camera (Black) + Canon EF-S 18-55mm IS Lens + Spare LP-E5 Battery + 8GB Card + Gadget Bag

... This is a wonderful camera, but the compact flash memory they include with it DOES NOT WORK in this camera. I had to spend $90 to buy a Sandisk Compact Flash 8GB that would work and Ace Photo Digital only refunded me $15 for their compact flash that did not work. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Olympus Evolt E520 10MP Digital SLR Camera with 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 and 40-150mm f/4.0-5.6 ED Zuiko Lenses + 8GB Deluxe Accessory Kit

... This is my first SLR, and it is taking terrific pictures! Although I'll be learning to use it for a long time, it seems very capable of adapting to my current level of expertise (rank amateur for now). The kit was an excellent buy, and it came with most of the things I expect to need for some time. I'd certainly recommend this product and this supplier. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Canon Digital Rebel XSi 12MP Digital SLR Camera (Black) with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens & EF-S 55-250mm f/4.0-5.6 IS Telephoto Zoom Lens + 8GB Deluxe Accessory Kit

... I am new to the DSLR experience and after wavering for 3 weeks I finally ordered this kit. If you are on the fence on what camera to buy...this is it! My first shots using this camera are impressive. Now I know it takes a photographer to make a great shot, but this camera does a lot of assistance. The kit is a full package leaving not much more to buy other than different lenses. I am extremely impressed with the D90 and this kit. Do yourself a favor and buy it. You will love it! ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Nikon D90 Digital SLR Camera with 18-105mm AF-S DX VR Nikkor Lens [Outfit] + 16GB Cameta Bonus Accessory Kit

... I received my Canon Rebel XSi on time. I am still learning how to use it. I paid reasonable price for the camera. This Canon camera should be a high-quallity product. I patron the Amazon.com for most of my on-line shopping. So far it always provide me reliable service. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Canon Digital Rebel XSI 12MP Digital SLR Camera (Silver Body Only)

... I have used the D80 camera with the 18-135 lens kit that was a package when I bought it in Dec 2006. Not even 3 years and the lenses has malfunctioned. I was on vaction in Yellowstone and the camera does not focus anymore, so I ended up doing manual focusing. I knew it is the lens because I have 2 other G lenses from my old N65 and the camera focuses well when using the old lenses. Nikon only has a 1 year warranty on this. Otherwise, before the lenses broke it was a great camera. Nikon has very poor customer support. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Nikon D80 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera Kit with 18-135mm AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor Lens

... I purchased the D40 outfit through Cameta Camera and couldn't be more pleased. Everything came just as advertised with no surprises and was shipped timely. I shopped for various digital SLR outfits (Cannon, Olympia, Nikon) for weeks on end and found this to be the best value out there. A note: Regardless of what camera you are considering, be absolutely certain you get to hold it in your hands at one store or another. I nearly got an Olympia outfit until I had a chance to hold the camera - and it simply wasn't comfortable for me.

The camera itself and the two lenses provide me with virtually everything I need, although the telephoto could be a bit longer. I've shot hundreds of pictures in the past month or so using every setting the camera has as well as the manual options and find the results terrific. The camera is fairly intuitive in its controls and buttons but I admit it took me a good couple of weeks at least to read the manual and really understand the capabilities.

I've shot low-light, slow shutter speeds, long exposures (don't forget tripod) action shots and have found the camera very quick with nearly no time needed between shots - unlike my prior point and shoot digitals. You can switch lenses fairly quickly and change your shot settings equally as quick. The only mode I've not had a need to try yet is the rapid fire sequence.

I've already ordered and received several 8 x 10 prints of some pictures and found the megapixel size of this camera renders terrific prints. Why pay for more megapixels if you aren't going to use them?

If this is your first venture into digital SLR photography you can't go wrong with this purchase. In fact regardless of your experience it's a darned good camera and should provide you with hours of shooting joy. I highly recommend the D40 and as long as Camita offers this outfit at this price - you need to buy it.

Let's see: long battery life, great pictures, versatile shooting modes, interchangeable lenses, manual shooting mode available, exposure compensation, flash compensation and all in a nicely packaged outfit (the camera case is especially first-rate)

You can certainly pay much more for a digital SLR but unless you're borderline professional - why would you? ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Nikon D40 6.1MP Digital SLR Camera and accessories

... The Sony alpha DSLR-A350BDL 14 Megapixel SLR Digital Camera Bundle I purchase through Amazon was a great buy. The second lense is a real plus and I used it for my daughter's graduation. The long range shots used in automatic came out quite nice and sharp.
The features of the A350 are easy to use and the results are great. The grip that came w/the bundle holds 2 batteries, and the camera displays the time left for the one in use while showing the other one full.
However, it is unfortunate that a simple and inexpensive accessory as the lcd protector is not included as it is necessary.
I am very glad to have purchased this bundle. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Sony alpha DSLR-A350BDL 14 Megapixel SLR Digital Camera Bundle

... Why should you purchase this older canon model?

~ It still takes great quality photographs, and at 8.2 megapixels, it still large enough to produce 24x30 inch image or even a little larger.

~You can find the 20D on amazon or other classifieds for 400 dollars or cheaper, and amazing price for an SLR body!

~I've owned this camera for over 4 years now, and it's NEVER let me down. Canon builds quality cameras, and despite me dropping it, taking it out in frigid weather, its barely shown signs of wear.

~This camera still out-preforms newer nikon cameras in the realm of sport photography. It can snap off a burst of at least 20 photos in a couple seconds. I use it for hockey, football, soccer, you name it!

~Be sure to check the sensor every so often for dust, I try to clean mine once a month or so to keep photos looking crisp and colorful.

~Great in-camera settings (called parameters in the menu) let you control contrast, sharpness, saturation, and also control b&w or color modes. You get much better results doing it in-camera than in photoshop.

~If you're looking to "go professional" and buying an SLR, but don't want to drop 900+ dollars on a canon rebel, try the 20D. It's an amazing camera!
...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Canon EOS 20D 8.2MP Digital SLR Camera (Body Only)

... I was just a little wary seeing only a few reviews on such a great deal. But I got it, and lo and behold it was awesome. Best value I found with Shopzilla, etc. Everything was in its original packaging, which was a relief given another review that said it wasn't. Everything was brand new, tiptop shape. Couldn't ask for a better deal. It even came earlier than I expected. There was an issue with the battery charger, but it wasn't the fault of the vendor, the charger was included in the camera box from Nikon. But Cameta took care of it when I sent them an email-- I'm currently waiting on my replacement to come in the mail.
Overall, good stuff! ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Nikon D60 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm AF-S VR Zoom Lens + 4GB SD Card + EN-EL9 Battery + Case + Cameta Bonus Accessory Kit

... I shot my first job with the Nikon D3x..this is definitely a pro camera and for pro's going from 12 megapixels to 24.5..it will blow you away. I am completely spoiled now. I shot a commercial assignment on location at Biltmore and the detail is amazing and just has a lovely quality. Be warned though..it was a shaky start. I was working in Photoshop CS3 and had to upgrade to CS4 with a plug in for the Nikon D3x. So if your raw files don't open..this is why. After that..smooth sailing. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Nikon D3x 24.5MP FX Digital SLR (Body Only)

... This is my second DSLR (after D80). This camera is simply amazing. This kit is perfect. It has all you need. HD video on DSLR is a poor idea. They could have added more features instead. Great amateur camera. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Nikon D90 Digital SLR Camera with 18-105mm AF-S DX VR Nikkor Lens [Outfit] + 8GB Card + EN-EL3e Battery + Case + Cameta Bonus Accessory Kit