Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera: An Overview

Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera. New parameters, so that people of different types of images for the opening of an independent evaluation and never, or perhaps especially adaptable. A "shows the mineral flow" elements means that you will be able mobility in the observeds screen, not knowing how the car performs.

Creative options include changing the height of the picture in AIM and other opportunities.An also known as an attribute of photos you can use to see some effects, with pictures and never try and error, and soon found that they can use really are, or are looking After what seems to be how the plan.

It will basically tell you exactly what other ideas about your performance snapshots, without a new Nikon D3100 whenever.The Image on the screen, as most move will be seen, but it has the unique feature of the transition can catch the live sessions.

Your goal is simply D-Movie button in the video and take the camera with an innovative plastic golf easy decision on what to do. Films on the digital SLR camera and show it with light weight and cart.With As the pressure for recognition of digital SLR cameras are filled processed, there is a greater need to use the services.

The company provides the parameters of the information so that people with the guidelines of your screen. In this way, the performance changes of high-level results of some of your gear.Photography from one of the most popular activities for tourists and people need more cameras to digital SLRs often for photos of a daily basis.

Not long ago produced two megapixel Nikon D3100 14.Only age is for fans of SLR photography and the ability of people to receive basic life would have been available, a minimum of events. The research agenda of the withdrawal, within the high-resolution photographs of the rich quality of the final results.

Named one Oprah's Favorite Things not so long ago, camerais the Nikon D3100 digital SLR camera Nikon apopular again. Options and the opportunity for many people excited to try this new addition to the Nikon family. The price is right and the value is high.

Nikon D3100 Amazing Camera for a Beginner

i've had my Nikon D3100 for a few weeks now and absolutely love it. i normally dont write reviews but i love this thing so much i had to take the time to write one. first off, this is my first dslr camera, so i'm new to this type of photography. all i can say about my Nikon D3100 is wow, it's an amazing camera. i've noticed some reviewers here saying "buy a d90 or d7000 to start", but i completely disagree. if you're new to photography, this camera is all you'll need for a long time.

i'm not much into video so i wont waste time here talking about the video options on the camera. i've taken a few and thought they were cool, the focus was good, the colors natural. having only a mono speaker the sound wasnt very good. but this is a camera, not a camcorder. and for photos Nikon D3100 rocks. though i'm new to photography i'm as ocd as it gets, and i've spent many many days and now weeks reading about how to take great pictures and use the settings on the camera. and i've gone out and put that knowledge to use.

i'm very very pleased with the image quality of this camera. in low contrast environments the autofocus will hunt a bit, but it's not that annoying. in dynamic area mode you can manually select your focus point, which is really nice when trying to get cool depth of field shots. the kit lense is good for general photos, but for really creative shots get a 50mm prime lense at 1.8 or 1.4 aperture. that's first on my accessory list! i've shot in both shutter and aperture priority mode, and had very good results so far. full manual is more challenging, but i cant blame the camera, just my feeble skills.

i've noticed the kit lense is sharpest at about f8, so i try to stay close to that, given adequate lighting. the image stays sharp from 18-55mm in the proper f range (8-13, in my opinion), then softens up a bit at the edges when you stop up or down. i've experimented with the iso alot and gotten mostly good photos. from iso 100-800 the camera is excellent, with no noticeable noise. at iso 1600 noise does begin to show, but for smaller cropped photos like 5x7 or 4x6 it's very usable. at iso 3200 noise is high and fine details are degraded significantly. but most users wont be using high iso so that really doesnt matter. and from comparison shots online the d3100 seems to offer very commendable high iso performance. it's not a pro camera, so dont compare it to those models.

to address some complaints that you have to buy only af-s lenses with an internal focus motor in the lense - yes you pay more for af-s glass, but the af-s glass (or G series)is superior do the af glass, with two more aperture blades, offering a better bokah and softer depth of field effects. i've seen that first hand as my friend shoots with a d90 and has both the 50mmD AF lense, and the 50mmG lense, both at 1.4. So though you'll pay more for glass, it's better glass, so it's a fair tradeoff.

i've used the guide mode some and it's very helpful, especially if you dont do your homework and just jump right into shooting. i wouldnt consider the guide mode a must have, or a deal breaker, it's just a useful tool. my biggest complaint with this camera is it's lcd screen. it's low res and not very good at representing waht the actual photo you took looks like. i dont use live view so it's not a big deal to me. but i do get annoyed when i think a photo looks good/focused/properly exposed on the lcd, only to find it's not when i blow it up using the viewnx2 software provided. oh, this software is really nice for a beginner like me. i was easily able to go into a photo (i shoot in raw always) and start adjusting it, and converting it to jpeg when i was done. sometimes my adjustmetns are for the better, sometimes not. but that's user error on my part, not problems with the software. other than the low res lcd, i have no complaints.

i've tried continuous shooting and the 3fps speed was fast enough for my needs. i've found color to be very neutral and natural looking, slightly cool. white balance in auto has been very good. no orange looking pics when taking pics inside with regular bulbs lighting the room. oddly though when i took pics in my own home, where i use all 6500k cfl lights, the white balance was a bit too white. being a beginner i cant really explain, but i played with the white balance settings and now it looks much better.

the ergonomics of the body are great. this is a very very light dslr camera with the kit lense. carrying it around all day at the zoo was painless. the grip feels good in my hand, and i like the rough looking texture of the plastic body. all in all this has been an amazing camera so far for me. the pictures are amazing, displaying sickening leveles of detail (like facial pores! ;)). it's been very easy to use and my experience so far has been excellent. i cant say it enough how much i love this camera, and dslr photography. this camera makes entering the dslr world very easy. and once you see the amazing photos this camera can take, you'll never think about your point and shoot again (i know i havent!). so dont spend too much time obsessing over specs and such, just buy this camera, you wont be dissappointed.

Nikon D3100 The start of a beautiful relationship

Just picked up a Nikon D3100 today. This camera is really a gem, Day 1 and I'm already sure that I've made the right choice. Was looking to upgrade from my D70, another great camera by Nikon. However, experience over the past few years has seen my Canon G10 seeing more action since it offers a more lightweight and portable option for day to day shooting than the D70.

Liked the D90, but that seems even bulkier and heavier than the D70. Didn't want to invest in a full-frame digital; as a "prosumer" who loves photography as a hobby, I pretty happy with the "compromise" of the smaller sensor of the DX series.

Pondered the D5000, was swayed by Rockwell's review of it, but it was just a little too lite on the features I enjoyed on the D70. Looked at the promising 4/3rd cameras, but felt the G10 was just as good as many/most of them.

Saw the Nikon D3100 announcement and that looked promising. Waited to see what D90 replacement would look like and felt too big and too expensive for what I was looking for. The D7000 is a marvelous looking camera on paper and I'm sure will make a lot of people happy.

However seeing the feature set on the Nikon D3100, and the weight and size, was pretty convinced that it was the route to go. After getting it today, am absolutely sure about it.

If you read the prior two well written reviews, you'll get a sense of the technical features of this camera. What I'd add are these features that I like:

1) Overall feel: This camera fits perfectly for me, and I've got pretty big hands. Very well designed ergonomically.
2) Size/weight/balance: Very lightweight body that balances with kit lens very well, and really nails to size factor for me.
3) Build quality: I know I'm not going to get a battle-ready body at this price, but wasn't looking for that. For the materials used, feels very solid and high-end.
4) Help system: I like the built-in help system. I doubt I'll use the guide mode, but will be useful for my wife. But you can get help in any mode, so it's a nice built in reference system.
5) Well designed menu system: I love this. Compared to the D70, it's like moving out of the dark ages.
6) Good button design: Not too many, and easy to get too. Laid out well, and intuitive to use.
7) HD Video: Nikon throws in a HD video recorder. Happy to have that too.

I really don't have any criticisms as of yet. Been happy with the test pictures so far, and really consider this camera a step up from the D70. I've no problem with the lack of bracketing, although that "missing" feature seems to be freaking some folks out. I do miss the wireless remote, but you can get a wired one.

Note: Really wanted to get this from Amazon, but needed it soon for an upcoming trip so went the BB/10% coupon route. Not sure what happened to inventory management on the Amazon side. No worries, I'm sure Amazon will see plenty of lens orders from me soon enough. :-)

Definitely check this camera out next time you see it, think you'll be impressed. I bet this is the camera that gets the buzz at Photikina this year.

Nice job Nikon!

Nikon D3100 The first step on a new adventure

A little background about me: I have owned this camera for 2 months. I have owned a Samsung point-and-shoot for three years and have taken thousands of photos with it, and for the past few months I had been using only the limited manual mode on my camera, and wishing for a camera whose settings I could tweak more. That's when I started drooling over DSLRs.

After months of reading about photography, I finally bought myself Nikon D3100. It was the best option for the price and for my experience level. It was easily one of the best purchases I have ever made. I bought Nikon D3100 that also came with a 55-200mm 4-5.6 lens, a case, a tripod, an SD card, and some extra goodies.

First, it takes amazing pictures.
- Nikon D3100 performs far better in low light than any point-and-shoot. With the right tools, it's usable right up to ISO 1600. Compared to my old point-and-shoot, this is a huge bonus.
- It's an SLR, so you can take those pictures with shallow depth of field (blurry background).
- Its pictures are sharp, clear, and beautiful. The high MP count makes details pop and cropping easy.
- It's incredibly easy to use - Nikon has an amazingly well thought out body design, and within weeks I felt more at home with this camera than my old one.

Second, I have to agree with the reviews that say the following.

- The Live View mode is a gimmick. Don't use it if you can help it. It's clunky and slow and drains your battery. Only use it if you absolutely cannot hold the viewfinder up to your eye.
- Video is high quality, but requires a lot of skilled technique to use properly - continuous autofocus does not work that well.

Finally, some advice that relates to the purchase of the camera.
- The lenses that associate with this camera are the kit zooms - the 18-55mm and the 55-200mm. These are good lenses, but the maximum apertures (3.5 and 4) do leave a lot to be desired in many situations. Within a few days of using the camera, I knew that a better lens would have made all the difference. SO - if you have the money, don't use the kit zooms. Sell them and buy lenses with larger maximum apertures. I don't personally own one of these, but I know from experience that taking pictures would be a lot easier with them.

That's all I have to say about the camera. If you are a first time DSLR user, you can't go wrong with this camera. It fulfills all your expectations, and more. If you care at all for your photography and are considering buying an SLR, do it. You will not regret it.



Some notes about techniques.
- The GUIDE mode is supposed to ease transition, but I spent a long time reading about the technical aspects of photography - I rarely use anything but full Manual (M) Mode. On occasion, I'll use Program (P) if I don't have time to quickly change the aperture, ISO, and shutter speed - and of course I'll set it to Auto when placing my camera in the hands of someone who doesn't know how to change the settings - but otherwise, any of the multiple settings on the dial go quite unused. The reason being is that the light meter often over or underexposes depending on your metering mode, and unless you set an exposure bias, you sometimes won't get the picture you want.
- That means, if you know how the technical aspect of photography works, use Manual Mode. Jump right in and allow yourself to match the full flexibility of the camera. If you are still learning, by all means use the many modes Nikon offers to facilitate learning - but don't forget, Manual offers the ultimate in control. You get exactly what you want.
- USE RAW. I used JPEG for all the first few hundred pictures I took, and they're great. But when I switched to RAW, my jaw LITERALLY (yes, I really DO mean literally) DROPPED when I saw what I could do with RAW files. You have just as much control with your pictures as you do in Manual mode. You can make your pictures look EXACTLY how you want them to look, and more. Caveats: This requires some familiarity with image editing terms, and a program like Photoshop or Lightroom or Aperture (Mac), and there's a bit of a learning curve, and the files are really big (buy an external hard drive just for photos), but the payoffs are FAR greater. With RAW, photography just opens up from pictures to art.

Summary:
- Amazing pictures - beautiful in all ways
- Low light performance is excellent
- Easy to use, but also very flexible
- Video and Live View are gimmicks or specialty tools
- Included lens(es) is(are) fantastic, but better lenses will blow you away
- Learn technical aspects, then use MANUAL mode
- Use RAW once you feel comfortable

Nikon D3100, Thats Cool

For people looking for new DSLR camera, stop, this is it. It has none of the D3000 drawbacks: Fast buffer, never overloaded. When intentionally overloaded by myself on continous shots, it will clear the buffer very fast(ADL on if you're wondering).

Nikon D3100 Image sensitivity at high ISO is great acording to random reviwes, but I'm still waiting a prof test. But think about it, on Auto ISO the range goes to 3200 - WOW, and I can't see any noise. You can shoot everything with it, but you need a flash - SB 400 will do.

Cool stuf:
With Nikon D3100 You can take photos from the liveview LCD screen. I shot a few movies and seem great, in focus most of the time. I don't care much about video, I have a video camera HD.
You can still set AUTO ISO from the menu and set minimum shutter speed.

Downside is you cannot override the AUTO ISO in any mode including Manual. You have to change it back to off from menu and than loose time figuring out which is the best ISO/aperture/shutter speed.

For shortcomings, I have to look hard but here they are:(BTW I've been using it daily for 1 week)

1. LCD sceen has a lower resolution and one cannot see if the foto taken is slightly out of focus - bummer, but they have to save some features for the D5100.
2. No bracketing - who brackets anymore? 3 pics of each just to be 100% sure seems a waste of memory card and time (deleting the other2. We are talking about exposure bracketing, not focus bracketing BTW.)
3. ADL only on or off - lol, if you really are worried about small shadows and highlits you can always add more
ADL from the retouch menu in the camera, after you take the photo. Or on photoshop or iPhoto etc. On is plenty for the prosumer ;)
4. Easy to get image out of focus: one can change the focus point from the screen by pressing the arrows from the OK ring. You use the OK ring a lot and if the LCD screen has returned to ready to shoot position and you press the ring one more time(goof) the image now focuses to the right/left/up/down depending on what you pressed. Combined with a low resolution LCD in the hands of a beginer = out of focus images. Just pay attention.

I'm still waiting for standard high ISO tests to confirm my love for Nikon D3100. Best camera for travelers, no questions. If you want more get ready to bend your neck hauling close to 2 lbs of gear. Not me. BTW buy the 35mm 1.8 lens for low light/no flash IT BLOWS YOUR MIND.

Nikon D3100 - An Excellent DSLR For The Entry-Level Photographer

The Nikon D3100 is an excellent entry-level DSLR. Could you pay more to get a "better" camera with "more features"? Absolutely. But why? Would you use those features? I looked long and hard at several in my research before buying - the models I considered were the Canon T2i, Canon 60D, the Nikon D90, and of course, the Nikon D3100. In the end, I decided the extra features on those other cameras were features that I likely wouldn't use. I'm interested mainly in taking lots of pictures while traveling -- pictures of clouds, landscapes, maybe some street photography. I wanted a smaller, lighter DSLR with good battery life and great image quality. The D3100 delivers on all accounts.

So what do the cameras in the next price-tier have that the Nikon D3100 doesn't? A lot of stuff that most people looking in this price range won't be concerned with. Here's a list of the "missing" things and/or "problems" with the D3100 as I found while researching my purchase:

1) Most online reviews and forums mention a problem with AutoISO and the built-in flash. When using the built-in flash in full auto, AutoISO jumps straight to the maximum ISO value, which I believe is defaulted to ISO-3200. Nikon says this is intended to get a better exposed background, fine with me. Personally, I think that ISO-3200 images out of this camera are very useable unless you're pixel peeping. If you just want to blow up an indoor portrait to an 8x10 (or even larger, I don't know!), you won't have a problem. Don't worry about it!

2) You can frequently hear the lens auto-focusing in your videos. Ok, you got me. If you're in a silent environment, yes, you will hear the autofocus motor, but if you're recording kids laughing and having a good time at the local indoor waterpark or at a parade or something, it's not loud enough where it would be a bother. If it is an annoyance, you can still shoot video with manual focus.

3) No external mic input. The D3100 is sufficient for getting a clip when you want it, you're not going to have movie quality sound. Who carries an external mic with them on vacation? If you're buying a DSLR specifically for video capabilities, you probably should be considering a dedicated camcorder anyway. For my purposes, there's nothing wrong with mono sound.

4) Lack of bracketing -- too much to explain in a review. Google it and see if you would ever use it. I can see why it would be useful, but I doubt it'd be useful for on-the-go photography.

5) Manual settings buried in menus instead of having dedicated buttons -- Most people at the entry-level probably aren't shooting full manual. The D3100 features several "scene" modes that you can use, otherwise there's always aperture or shutter priority, or even full auto. Depending on which priority you're in, the scroll wheel on the back will adjust the aperture or shutter speed. If you shoot full manual all the time, you may want dedicated buttons, meaning you should look elsewhere. If you're not in full manual, I can't see this being a problem.

6) Lack of built-in flash commander mode -- you can't trigger an off camera flash using your built-in flash. Some DSLR's have built-in flashes with this capability, the D3100 does not. For travel photography, this isn't an issue. For most at-home photography, this isn't an issue. It could be for macro photography depending how close to your subject you are, or if you have a full studio with multiple flashes setup in your basement. If you decide at a later point you want this capability, some external flashes such as the Nikon SB-700 can function as a commander. Otherwise, you can use whatever external flash you wish in conjunction with the SC-28 or SC-29 cord inthe D3100's hotshoe.

7) Perhaps the biggest potential problem with the D3100 is the lack of a built in focusing motor. This means the D3100 will not autofocus with plain AF lenses (manual still works though). Any lenses with the AF-S designation will auto-focus just fine. This can be costly though - on some of the higher-end lenses, the difference can be $600 or more between the AF and AF-S version of the same lens. Again, this comes down to "what will you use it for?" For this, I go back here: If this is a problem, you shouldn't be looking at an entry level DSLR anyway.

Nikon ships the D3100 with the 18-55mm AF-S VR lens, offers a very affordable 55-200mm AF-S VR telephoto, and my personal favorite, the 35mm f/1.8 AF-S lens. The 55-200 can be had for under $100 if you catch a sale or rebate, and the 35mm can be had for under $200. These three lenses will cover most of the needs for entry-level photographers, and all three of them auto-focus on the D3100. By the time we as amateur photographers outgrow this setup, we will know specifically what focal lengths we primarily use in order to make a more educated purchase for the expensive lenses later on. And I'm convinced, when that time comes, you'll have your eye on the latest and greatest prosumer DSLR to go with your fancy new lens anyway.

Until then, enjoy the D3100 for what it is. A great, inexpensive, entry-level DSLR, which, in my opinion, produces excellent images when in the hands of a photographer ready to learn!

Nikon D3100 My portability philosophy gets upgraded with better quality pics,

Part of my job, at a newspaper, is to rely on heavy cameras we have at our disposal, but when it comes to my personal stuff, I prefer to go very light. That's why for the last years I just kept ultracompact digicams with me that worked (and still work) fine fine. Recently I got some money from a gift, and decided to buy the new Nikon D3100 for taking better portraits of people in my life... to take quality pictures of what I'm used to do with my small digicams, in situations when I can comfortably carry the DSLR without worrying about the bulk. Basically, I bought this camera to use it exclusively with one or 2 prime lens I'll be buying in the near future.

After more than 1,000 shots with Nikon D31oo in the last 2 weeks, I'm very glad with the purchase. This lightweight and fast device is a joy to use! Very lightweight, and great looking design.This Nikon feels great in my hands, the build quality seems sturdy and looks kind of pro even for it's smallness compared to bigger DSLRs. I love how I can set the func button to control ISO or other stuff like White Balance.

The lens included with the camera is very very sharp, so far I cannot complain. I'm amazed at the clean images I get with ISO 3200 indoors!! Wow, that's something that we couldn't say a few years ago with these cameras. I've already had pictures published in the newspaper set at those high Isos, and no problem... They look great!!

I also love the option of setting Picture Controls and Auto ISO. I usually set my camera to Portrait or Standard plus a little bit (1) of saturation.

I have already taken lots of photographs indoors without flash, portraits outside, candids indoors and outdoors, and even handed the camera to my brother (who knows nothing about operating DSLRs) for shooting parts of a concert and he got some beautiful pictures!! And that's one of my favorite things abut the camera: I can give it to other people to take pictures as a point and shoot, and they enjoy using it and taking nice photos without worrying about setting stuff.

I really don't care about video capabilities, nor liveview. I rarely use them but when I have done it, I've liked what I've seen. My only complaint is the battery, as I think it drains quickly compared with other cameras in the similar category I've seen.

So, for recording my life (and my family - friends - myself) in those moments I don't mind carrying something bigger than my ultracompact, the Nikon D3100 is perfect. I wouldn't bother to carry something bigger or heavier. This is the perfect balance.

My next buy will be the Nikkor 35mm 1.8 lens, and the small sb400 flash, that I will use all the time instead of the kit lens. I have nothing against the kit lens, but I love primes and the idea of getting the best quality possible for the least money. Then, in a few months, I may get a prime telephoto for complimenting the 35mm in the candid stuff. And that's all I think I will ever need for the rest of my life in personal photography.

I'm very very happy with my purchase, thanks Nikon!

All good things come in small packages! How true for Nikon D3100!

Hurray! The long wait is over! Nikon had us wait for such a long time for its newer models (Nikon D3100 and Nikon D7000) and it was just when we started thinking 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 focus on Nikon D3100, shall we?

So I finally had a chance to get hold of this D-SLR at Best Buy today. I am not a pro by any means but I have used many different D-SLRs including Canon (40D, T2i, XSi) and Nikon (D90, D5000). When I picked-up the camera for the first time, my initial reaction was, "whoa - this is so small and light weight"! It wasn't that I wasn't aware of the specs - I knew them beforehand but I was still blown away by how small and light it felt when I held it in my hands. Then, I thought, the grip would not be very comfortable but I was wrong as holding and operating the camera is just fine - thanks to Nikon's well-thought-out design and grip. For the size and feel, it's very similar to D3000 but has more goodies from the higher versions. So from an initial wow factor, I quickly moved on to focusing on features and capabilities.

I have just started using this camera so more update will follow but in the meantime my initial assessment of this camera is - I am impressed! It is one heck of a camera which can certainly compete against the best in its class (Canon T1i, T2i, Nikon D5000).

I love this camera because it:
+ has enough mega pixels for my needs (14.2).
+ captures crystal clear images (thanks to EXPEED2 processor & the CMOS sensor, the sensor is slightly smaller than the one used in D7000).
+ offers 1080p (HD) recording, AF subject tracking is awesome (10 min max is fine with me; it records outstanding videos even in low light and to me that's big).
+ offers ISO from 100-3200 (D90 starts at 200), it can go higher but I really don't think why I would need anything above that.
+ is small & light weight yet has good grip, easy to carry around in hands or neck.
+ supports SDXC cards on top of SD and SDHC - now that's nice.
+ (25-Sep-2010): has buttons that are well organized especially the video recording mode with a lever so you cannot mistakenly activate recording. That video recording lever once unlocked, gets locked in 30 seconds if you do not record and the countdown begins as soon as you unlock the lever. Also you can record video while you're in any dial (imaging) mode (Auto, P, A, S, M, and so on) where as in Canon T2i, etc. you have to move the camera dial to movie mode. So this is a great convenience - you can jump between taking pictures and recording videos with a simple unlocking of the lever. Additionally, you can be in a preferred dial (imaging) mode (Auto, P, A, S, M, and so on) and change the release mode to Single, Continuous, Self-timer or Quiet mode (this is located right underneath the main dial) - another great convenient feature.
+ (04-Oct-2010): In-body photo and movie retouch menu. This is great as we don't need any special software to apply certain touches. I love it.

Could have been even better if:

- it had the bracketing option (not too much to expect at this price point level but oh well I don't use that much but for some people this could be a big plus).
- grid lines were available (I miss them in both in live view and in the view finder).
- Active D Lighting was not limited to just ON or OFF (either you have it or not at all, instead of low, medium, high, etc.). Don't get me wrong the ON just worked fine (better than Canon T2i) but I can't compare with all other modes.

Recommendations (optional accessories):
* In my personal order of importance - your preference may differ. *
1. Nikon UC-E4 USB Cable - not included. (~$6)
2. UV filter - a must for protecting your lens against accidental damage. (~10$)
3. Carrying case is a must to protect your investment. There are many cases to choose from and it's up to you to decide but I suggest getting something like Lowepro SlingShot 102 AW (all weather proof carrying case) so if it rains, you can pull out the weather guard and cover it up. ($90)
4. Additional rechargeable Lithium Ion EN-EL14 battery so you never run out the juice when you're traveling and do not want to miss capturing a moment for good. (~$35)
5. SB-600 Speedlight. Those who have used speed lights would know what difference it can make to an image with adjustments you can make to light for an image. (~$225)
6. 18-55 VR lens has its limitations so if you have extra $$s, buy body only (if that even is an option) and get yourself a 18-105 VR lens. But at that point, you may want to consider D90 which still is a good camera and offers many more controls. (~$325 to $350)

Overall:
I give Nikon D3100 5 Stars because it takes excellent pictures in almost all conditions (bright or low-light) and that is exactly what I wanted this camera to do for me. Period.

I must commend Nikon for not getting into the mega pixel race (read marketing). They instead kept the photographer in mind and focused on delivering greater picture quality. Kudos to Nikon for having that courage.

Nikon D3100, D70 Upgrade

I recently updated my DSLR collection to the Nikon D3100 from the Nikon D70. There are good reviews out there that you should check out. However, I would like to share some of my first impressions.

Pro:
-Better image quality and lower noise at high ISO with the Nikon D3100
-MUCH MUCH lighter, which will be nice when traveling
-Larger LCD screen
-11 focus points, including 3D focus which tracks the motion of the subject or camera.
-1080p Video
-14 megapixels
-2nd Generation DSLR
-Quiet, quiet, quiet

Cons:
-No bracketing option. Not a huge deal since I only bracket once a year
-Cannot use my old 50mm 1.8 lens. I knew this before purchasing the camera.
-As of 10/1/2010, Camera RAW for the Nikon D3100 is not supported in Photoshop or Lightroom. Need to shoot .jpg + RAW or use Nikon Capture NX2 for RAW files. That should be updated soon, so not a big deal.
-Can hear the lens focusing when recording video.
-No depth of field preview.
-Can't use wireless remote

I'm an amateur photographer and this camera meets my needs. I love the fact that it's small and light, with great quality images. If I were a serious photographer and had more money to spare, I would wait and check out the D7000, which appears to have phenomenal specs. I'm happy with my purchase and I highly recommend this camera.

Nikon D3100 VS. D300 VS. D700

For the cost of this camera, I don't think you can get anything better. The low light performance is off the charts. As a wedding photographer I regularly shoot with Nikon's high end professional equipment and I was amazed how close this camera is to a pro camera. Now let me get specific. In order to compare I took a look at 100% files out of each camera I own.

Which camera excels Nikon D3100($Cheap) VS. D300($1600) VS. D700 ($2,700):
* Lens = The D3100 is the only camera that comes with a lens at it's normal price
* ISO Performance = Tie between Nikon D3100 and D700! (It could be Nikon's new processing but the JPEG looks fantastic I was shooting D3100 on 6400iso with very little noise at all)
* Low Light Focusing = D700
* Focus Speed = D700
* External Buttons & Controls for Pros = D700
* Menu Navigation = D3100
* Ease of Use = Nikon D3100
* Megapixel = D3100 (14.2)
* Sensor size = D700 (Much more important than megapixels but I won't get into this)
* Can use older lenses with functionality = D700 & D300
* Video = D3100 of course! 1080P video looks amazing.
* Frame Rate = D300 at 6 photos a second
* Weight = D3100 (light as a feather)
* Ergonomics = D700 (big enough for all my finger)

Lens:

The lens is a kit lens, it will work outside but not so great in low light. The Vibration Reduction will help indoors but Vibration Reduction can't stop a child or pet in motion indoors. Consider buying a 35mm 1.8dx AFS for around $200 and you will be super happy with this camera.

Video:
I purchased the 3100 specifically to shoot video, so I put on Nikon's brand new 85mm 1.4g Nano lens and shot video with it. The lens costs more than double the camera but I wanted to see how the 1080P video looked. It has the look of a cinematic movie. After the 85mm, I put on Nikon's 50 1.2 manual focus lens and was able to take very cinematic video in manual mode. In order to make it brighter or darker you either need to use a really old lens like the 50mm 1.2 and hit the AE-L (auto exposure lock) and twist the aperture to change exposure. Or you can hit the AE-L button when you get the exposure you like. Its not a perfect system but it works well for me. Inside the menu options you can change the AE-L button to hold the setting until you reset which is helpful.

Jello Cam (What's not so great):
This camera still suffers from the "Jello Cam" look in video if it is not on a tripod and you are shaky. The video can look like jello if moved too quickly. Use a monopod or tripod when shooting to avoid this. I'm not sure if a faster video frame rate 60fps would help - but at 24 and 30 it can suffer badly.

Conclusion:
This is an amazing deal! Unless you make most of your income from photography or have a stockpile of old lenses (this camera can only autofocus with AFS lenses) then this camera is the must have camera of the year. If you have good composition skills and an eye for light you can take photos worthy of a magazine with this. Seriously, you won't regret buying this camera. When you do, do yourself a favor and buy an additional Nikon AFS lens that has a maximum aperture of 2.8, 1.8 or 1.4. These lenses will take better portraits and deal better in low light than the kit lens.

Buy Nikon D3100

Nikon D3100 is very small and lightweight. This camera is designed keeping in mind the structural elements and simple functions of it.

The Nikon D3100 is an outstanding achievement of balance and restraint. With this camera, Nikon has managed to produce superb quality digital SLR and sell it with reasonable and affordable price.

With a good quality of course we want to get the best price as well, then where to buy a Nikon D3100 with the best price?

You can buy Nikon D3100 from many big retailers offline or online like Amazon, Best Buy, Target, Walmart etc. But which one is the best? We have done work for you, we find the best place to buy this Camera is at Amazon.com. This giant online retailers give the best price which included FREE Shipping (in US only) for this holiday season.

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Nikon D3100 Review

Here is one of the honest Nikon D3100 review by H. Erickson-Sander that already purchase and use this Camera.

This is my first DSLR and I have to say I'm so enjoying this wonderful Nikon! I've been using it for a few months now, my husband bought me this as an anniversary gift for me in January and I wanted to get to know this camera before reviewing it. I've been having a great time getting to know this technology which is new to me (I've only ever used a simple point & shoot before). While I'm aware that there are DSLRs out there that are several times the cost of this one, and also come with even more advanced features, I have to say this digital SLR is a fantastic starter camera for those who are wanting to get into photography - whether it's just a hobby or even professional.

I was most interested as I like to take nice photos for my blogging and also practice photography techniques with my children. Although someday I hope to pick up a few more fancy lenses, this Nikon camera comes with a great starter lens which takes some excellent photographs. As with any DSLR, it does take some learning and adjusting to in order to know how to operate this camera. While it's more complicated than a simple point & shoot that just about anyone could figure out, the Nikon D3100 is one of the more manageable DSLRs for beginners. I still have a lot to learn about this technology, but so far I've found this camera fairly easy to understand. It has a very helpful, built-in help system as well, available on any setting at the touch of a button. I'm also a fan of the easy "trash button" that lets me delete photos I don't want quickly and easily, as opposed to having to navigate through a menu in order to delete anything.

The built-in flash is okay, but we definitely plan to buy some additional flash accessories in order to give this camera it's fullest potential. The built-in can only do so much, so definitely consider that before buying - you're probably going to want to spend the money on a nice flash as well.

We've had zero complications with this camera, although we're taking our time getting to "know" it, and very much enjoying the process. If you're a beginner photographer, or simply wanting a really nice camera for home/personal/business photography, the Nikon D3100 comes highly recommended by this family! It comes everywhere with us now, and we're so pleased with it's capabilities, especially considering the price compared to other comparing DSLRs. Enjoy! She's a beauty.

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Full Review Nikon D3100 Digital Camera

The Nikon D3100 is really a innovative entry-level DIGITAL SLR by Nikon. Principally it is created for point-and-shoot graduates, or those moving upwards by advanced compact digital cameras just like the Nikon P7000, as it is lightweight and easy to use. Nevertheless, perhaps it will also interest NikonD3000 owners that overlooked working with a live view LCD, the option to record videos, or even the ability shoot better, noise-free images during high ISOs.

Together with the development of the Nikon D3100, the successor to the Nikon D3000, Nikon yet again has a amateur DSLR camera in it's range with specs and performs which can be most up-to-date again. The resolution includes increased a great deal, from 10. TWO to 14. 2 Mega pixels and the Nikon D3100 SLR camera today now offers Full HD video. Of course the Nikon D3100 digital camera provides Live View, and additionally , there are fresh AF options bundled.

Nikon D3100 firmware version 1. 01 reduces the magenta tint along side bottom with still photos shot at high ISO sensitivity if your sensor has been hot, normally right after capturing in live view style or capturing movies for a time period. You'll find it treatments several problems based on live view mode. When Subject-tracking AF was empowered to get live view shooting, the focus point may possibly sometimes slip from the supposed subject, an issue that Nikon states is solved. Live view images shot inside burst mode, meanwhile, don't always display correctly with playback mode, one more issue asked were corrected. Lastly regarding live view snapping shots, Nikon offers reworded the message displayed when the sensor's temperatures limit had been reached, although it doesn't state just what the wording change was.

The Nikon D3100 is a very capable and ultra-lightweight DIGITAL SLR. It truly is compact and light, nonetheless does not feel dinky. It feels like the accurate product it is. The D3100 is definitely Nikon's lightest SLR, ever previously, and probably their littlest, too.

With regards to Nikon D3100 Review is always to provide strength sufficient data to get people that are in the market study to look for digital SLR cameras in order to find the perfect decision in choosing the best digicam.