Great for the beginner! (Nikon D40)

Member Name: McBeer

Product:	Nikon D40
Date:	14/05/09 (39 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Cheap, easy to use, nice clear LCD screen

Disadvantages: No motor for auto focus

I purchased this camera at a very good price when I was looking to first start photgraphy. I went for the Digital SLR (single lens reflex) so I had more functions and properties that I was able to change myself.

For an entry level photographer, I would say it is perfect. With 6.1 megapixels it has a good range for what the beginner will need. The lens that came with it was a Nikon AFS 18-55mm. This has a good range to start with for average portraits or imagery. I have also managed to get some good micro shots with this lens.

The screen is a good size to check any images after taking and the camera also has some good built in features such as red eye reduction and several tonal changes for on the spot editing.

The main downside about this camera is at its cheap price, there is no motor for the lens built in the camera. This means only certain auto focus lens with work on this camera, otherwise the lens must be adjusted manually. This was one problem I had when I first started as I was looking to get into live event and music photography where ideally an auto focus is needed. This then means the prices rocket up when needing to get a decent auto focus lens for either tele or micro.

Apart from that, the camera has always been by my side and managed to get some outstanding quality pictures. Defiantely a bargain for the starting photographer. However if you are looking to be more open with your photography and wish to get further lenses then I would reccommend the D60, which at a slightly higher price, has a built in auto focus making things alot easier and cheaper in the long run.

Summary: A very good camera at a very good price for anyone who wants to start photography

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