Customer Reviews:
very pleased.......2007-09-25
My parents bought the Nikon D40 for me as a birthday present. I honestly am so amazed at what I can do just with the kit lens! I've used some other Nikon lenses on it, and I really can't say enough about it!
Best Cameras for the price and package D40 & D40X.......2007-09-22
I had been out looking to find a hobby and decided on photography as a way to get out of the house. Needed a camera and after an intense search, chose the Nikon D40. To get the D40 with two lenses (18-55mm and 55-200mm) and for the low cost was great. This outfit allowed me to jump right in and take some great shots. I mounted the D40 on a tripod and take it with me to work and back from work. I have taken some great pictures of sunrises as well as sunsets, etc. I now spend so much time shooting landscape shots in my off-time, that I ended up purchasing another camera (the Nikon D40X). I leave the D40 on the tripod to shoot JPEG shots and carry the D40X to shoot Raw shots that just need to be taken quickly and later corrected using software. I was able to purchase both cameras do what ever I needed because they were both affordable and had all the capabilities I needed to do the shots I wanted to take. With the money I saved of not having to pay for the more expensive systems with the same capabilities as these two systems, I have purchased additional lenses, gear etc. I am extremely happy with these two Nikons and feel Like I am a pro and have the ability to shoot like them with the same results. I might of started out as an amatuer, I now shoot like a PRO. Thank you Nikon.
The best!.......2007-09-20
I bought this camera after researching digital SLRs for a couple weeks. I've had in now for a couple months and love it. I bought the 18-200MM lens which is probably a large part of the reason it is such a pleasure to reach for when there's a photo op. That lens is wide enough to capture people in a room and brings in distance objects very nicely. The lens' VR (vibration reduction) feature is VERY nice too. I've hand-held long exposures and seen little blurring. The real purpose of VR is for those far away shots, but it's nice for slow sutter speeds too. The camera itself feels great in the hand and has a nice finger grip so the camera feels secure when walking around. The menus are pretty straight-forward and I enjoyed reading the manual and experimenting for an hour or so as soon as I unboxed it and charged the battery. You can get great pictures right from the start if you set it on auto, but this camera offers much more if you take the time to study the features. The battery lasts a long time (I think I took about 260 shots without recharging). I also bought the 1GB chip (why cut cheap corners?).
To be a perfect camera, it would give me better control of WHERE to focus on automatic, be easier to frame one area and hold the focus and light metering while I move it (I can do this, but it's not intuitive enough for my little brain to remember after a week!), it would have more than 6MP so I could crop out small areas without losing detail.
Great camera! You won't be disappointed. Oh yeah - I also go the ss-400 flash untit that lets you bounce it off the ceiling. It's great!
Get the camera - you'll love it!!
Best dSLR On the Market.......2007-09-16
There are certainly more capable cameras available that provide more adjustments and have bigger sensors, but for $500 this cannot be beat. It exudes quality and has a rather large 2.5" screen. Moreover, it is very small, yet fits my hand quite well (my hands are as big as Johnny Bench, so...). Best of all this camera has motivated me to get out and take pictures because it is so easy to use. It's simple: dust off your wallet and get one of these!
Nikon D40.......2007-09-15
As an average consumer I appreciate the ease with which this camera helps me take very good photo's.
Product Description
The D40x's high-resolution image quality 10.2 effective Megapixel Nikon DX format CCD imaging sensor and exclusive Nikon image-processing engine assures stunning sharpness and color. You'll be amazed at the power packed into a camera that you can start shooting with right out of the box. High resolution provides room for creative cropping. A fast 0.18 second startup combined with split-second shutter response and rapid-action shooting at up to 3 frames per second makes it easy to freeze special moments instantly. 2.5-inch, 230K Color LCD Monitor with 170-Degree Wide-Angle Viewing Playback images are easy to see and function menus are easier to use with a larger and brighter color LCD monitor. The large 2.5-inch LCD monitor enables image preview at up to 19 times magnification and has large type fonts with easy-to-view menus. The D40x's Image Optimize setting lets photographers adjust color, contrast and sharpening, as well as other image settings, according to the type of scene or output desired. The supplied EN-EL9 rechargeable battery will allow for shooting up to 520 images per charged based on CIPA battery testing standards. File System - Exif 2.21, Compliant DCF 2.0 and DPOF White Balance - Auto (TTL white balance with 420-pixel RGB sensor), six manual modes with fine-tuning and preset white balance LCD Monitor - 2.5-inch, 230K, TFT LCD with 170-degree wide-angle viewing Other Compatible Lenses - Nikon F mount with AF coupling and AF contacts Type G or D AF Nikkor Exposure Compensation - plus or minus 5 EV in increments of 1/3 EV Exposure Lock - Exposure locked at detected value with AE-L/AF-L button Self-Timer - 2, 5, 10 or 20 seconds Unit Dimensions (Body Only) - Width 5.0 x Depth 2.5 x Height 3.7 inches / Weight - 1 pound, 1 ounces
Customer Reviews:
D49X.......2007-09-26
Excellent SLR digital camera. Initial shipping report was in fact delayed a few days as camera was not in stock.
Excellent SLR. Very light and versatile........2007-09-24
Excellent camera in combination with 18-200VR lens. It does
not autofocus with non AF-S lenses, but I consider it an asset since it makes the camera significantly lighter for walking around. Also, AF-S lenses are focusing significantly faster and quieter than the old screw-type ones.
To use older AF lenses, consider getting Katz-eye for this camera to assist with manual focusing. I personally prefer manual focusing with prime lenses as it's faster and would get you exactly the results you want.
A little camera that can.......2007-09-19
I will assume if you're looking at buying this particular camera model, then: a. You are looking at upgrading from a point-N-shoot. Or, b. An intermediate to advanced photographer looking for a decent backup camera. Since I have owned this camera, I have been doing a lot of shooting with a friend of mine who happens to do photography for a living. My friend uses a Fujifilm S3 pro dSLR. Let me tell you, there isn't much difference in picture quality between the $700 d40x or $2,300 S3 pro when using the same lens. Both cameras are capable of producing almost identically amazing pictures. The main difference is when buying the d40x, you can get about the same quality photos for more than 3x cheaper than an average pro-level SLR camera.
If there was one thing I would do over again, I would definitely buy the d40x as a camera body only. Not that the kit lens is bad, but it's rather limiting to your d40's potential. Having the chance to use Nikon's 18-200mm VR lens has made me a real believer of how important a really good lens is for great photography.
My only major gripes about the d40x is the lack of adjustment buttons and no aperture dial the higher end dSLR's have. It can be somewhat annoying having to go into the camera's menu screen to make simple adjustments.
The PRO's for sure outweigh the few CON's this camera has. It's a great dSLR camera to start out with. The only real limitations of the d40x will be the skill level of the person behind it.
Great beginner dslr camera.......2007-09-13
I went to a camera store and it came down to this and the Canon and the sales person told me to get the Nikon. She said the d40x was really only if you wanted the extra pixels otherwise the d40 was fine. It's been a great camera and takes amazing photos. No shutter lag like on my point and shoot. I recommend getting the package with the telephoto to get close up to objects. I'm still learning all the features, but in "auto" mode you can use it like a point and shoot and already take better photos. I'll be happy to take it on many trips and look forward to testing it over time. In addition to the camera, I bought a 2GB SD memory card, camera bag and both a UV and polarizer filter (all highly recommended with the camera).
For the price, this camera is amazing..........2007-09-08
Having been an enthusiastic (old style, but highest quality) SLR user for many years and having then switched to several digital compacts, from the disappointingly basic (circa 2000) through to the brilliant latest versions (in my case, a 7.0 megapixel Panasonic Lumix), I was intrigued when a professional photographer friend said I should check out the new generation of low cost digital SLRs and, in particular, the Nikon D40x... you'll enjoy it she said... and she wasn't wrong.
First off, the price was only £150 or so more than a top end compact with the same 10 megapixel rating and, in the shop, it turned out to be smaller and much lighter than the old, dramatically more expensive SLRs I used to lug around... so, worth the plunge?
A resounding yes, not only does it deliver the most beautiful, high quality photos but the control options over virtually all aspects of shot selection, including a powerful built in flash unit, are quite incredible - far better and much, much more comprehensive than I'd expected - with the ever present, wholly effective, compact-style "point & shoot" option if you can't be bothered. Plus, you get a large preview screen and extensive "in camera" editing features that allow a wide range of post-shot manipulation if you don't have access to your PC. Just amazing... everything, plus a huge amount more, that I got from my previous SLRs.
Could it get any better? Well yes, because the stock Nikon autofocus zoom lens that comes with the camera (rated at 18-55 mm new digital style and equivalent to a just about perfect 26-83 mm old style) is now matched with Nikon's new, low cost, autofocus DX VR lens (rated at 55-200 mm new digital style and equivalent to 83-300 mm old style) which really does cut out camera shake to allow genuine "point & shoot" at its higher focal lengths. In other words, for a total cost of well under £600 I got a stunningly powerful and flexible camera plus a "tripod-less" combination of two lightweight autofocus Nikkor lens covering a full 26-300 mm range... which is nothing short of sensational for any "old style" SLR user like me.
SLRs are a different world from compact cameras - you definitely can't fit them in your pocket - but for anyone wanting to move up to a different level for not much more, or for anyone wanting to rediscover the lost joys of their SLR past at an incredibly cheap entry price, the Nikon D40x is a "must have" option... certainly it's got one more very happy user.
Product Description
Requires Nikon or compatible Nikon F mount (with AF coupling and AF contacts) lens / SD Memory Card Slot / USB 2.0 Up to 2,700 images per battery charge - High-Efficiency power systems featuring reduced power consumption and Real-Time Fuel Gauge with Nikon's EN-EL3e Lithium Ion rechargeable battery Nikon 3D Color Matrix Metering II, plus Variable Center-Weighted and Spot Metering. Nikon's 3D Color Matrix Metering II instantly and accurately evaluates brightness, color, contrast, selected focus area and subject-to-camera distance information, referencing the results against an onboard database of 30,000 scenes from actual photography. Vary the size of the center-weighted area reading and spot metering readings correspond to 11 focusing points 11-area AF system with Wide-area Center Segment and Auto-area AF functions 2.5 LCD screen ISO Sensitivity (Recommended Exposure Index) - 100 to 1600 In-Camera Image Editing with Retouching Menu Built-in Speedlight with Nikon i-TTL flash metering and two-group Wireless Commander option Shooting Modes - 1) Single frame shooting mode; 2) Continuous shooting mode - approx. 3 frames per second; 3) Self-timer; 4) Delayed remote mode; 5) Quick-response remote mode Images are stored on SD figital memory cards Unit Dimensions (W x H x D) - Approx. 5.2 x 4.1 x 3.0 inch; Weight - Approximately 1 lb. 5 oz.
Customer Reviews:
A camera for the transition to pro levels.......2007-09-23
OK. One year passed since I've bought this camera so I can get into a review of my personal experience with it.
First of all, if you consider into buying this model, you should know that this is not a dSLR that you can use on auto settings and get fabulous results. Get a point and shoot for that or a D40/ D40x. D80 seems to be tuned to provide best results with manual modes or semi-auto modes (fixed-aperture or fixed-shutter). I spent almost 1,000 shots until I got used with the behaviour of D80 in different light conditions and with different camera settings. The learning curve may vary, but definitely won't be a steep one.
EXPOSURE: the matrix metering mode is thought to overexpose but, IMO, those that said that use this mode in the wrong situations: high-contrast, high-dynamic scenes which require careful analysis of the zones (with spot metering and/ or center-weighted) and exposure settings should be chosen accordingly. Matrix is fabulous for shooting scenes with the sun to your back, overcast or uniform lighting: exposure is perfect. For all other situation I would highly recommend spot metering.
FOCUS: focus is always dependent on the lens you use. If you invest in this DX body, get a good (pro) lens to suit your needs. The 17-55DX (Click here: Nikon 17-55mm f/2.8G ED-IF AF-S DX Nikkor Zoom Lens) from Nikon is a fast-focus, super-sharp lens that allows you to take shots using all capabilities of the D80 AF system. However, there are some cheaper lens I would recommend, one of them is the 50mm f/1.8 prime (Click here: Nikon 50mm f/1.8D AF Nikkor Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras), super cheap bargain for the quality you get. The new 55-200VR (Click here: Nikon 55-200mm f/4-5.6G ED IF AF-S DX VR [Vibration Reduction] Zoom Nikkor Lens + Hoya 52mm UV Haze Protector Glass Filter + CapKeeper Lens Cap Strap + 6-Piece Cleaning Kit - for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras including Nikon D40, D40x, D50, D70, D70s, D80, D100, D200 & D300) is also a bargain but don't expect to get similar sharpness as from the 17-55DX. Overall focus is very fast WITH a fast-focusing lens but will require some learning form you especially if you'll use single point focus so some recomposing technique should also be learned.
COLORS: You'll be ABSOLUTELY AMAZED by the colors this camera will provide you considering that you nailed the exposure and set correct camera settings. Skin tones are natural, vivid and well balanced, blues are deep, reds are explosive, greens are smoothly rendered. But please take tests on all three color modes (two sRGB modes, I and III and one Adobe RGB mode, II) and see which suites you best. If you intend RAW, go for Adobe RGB; for JPEGS use I or III sRGB modes. You should be aware, though, that deep reds tend to overexpose on I and, especially mode III, so either compensate exposure, either go for RAW and mode II. Overall, colors are marvelous and you'll get amazing results once you'll learn how to master the camera.
Please get yourself two rechargeable batts. One is not enough if you intend to shoot all day. Another option would be to buy the grip, the MB-D80 (Click here: Nikon MB-D80 Multi-Power Battery Pack for the Nikon D80 Digital SLR Camera), that allows you to stick 6 AA batteries or two EN-EL (Click here: Nikon EN-EL3e Rechargeable Li-Ion Battery for D200 Digital SLR Camera) rechargeable. With 2 nikon rechargeable batteries the autonomy is VASTLY improved.
HIGH ISO: From my experience, the limit of all-around ISO setting is 1250 for best-detailed photos. However, as you'll learn to better expose ISO 1600 is perfectly usable and ISO 3200 for Black and White or small-sized photos (4x6"). Please remember that higher you get with the ISO, more important is to nail the exposure in order to minimize the noise. In-camera high-ISO noise reduction does marvels IF you'll shoot JPEGs, but please don't use it if you go RAW: you'll loose details.
The camera body is made for middle-sized hands. For bigger hands, the D200 body is more suitable. Most important, for example, is the distance to the buttons than can be reached with the right thumb (the AE/AF-L and the multiple selector). But the controls operate smoothly and you can do a lot of customizing to fit your needs.
Overall, this is an excellent camera and don't get fooled by reviews that point to poor image quality. Almost all cases of poor image quality come from improper use and not enough testing of this camera capabilities. My first results were awful, but after a couple of weeks of continuous learning I started to get amazing results. I'm suggesting 5 topics you SHOULD learn/ cover before or simultaneous with using this camera:
1. Basic controls: aperture, shutter speed, ISO and how they interact;
2. Relationship between aperture and depth of field;
3. Ansel Adams zone theory; very educative
4. Color temperature and color temperature correction
5. RAW files processing
About #5 above, please get yourself good RAW processing software. I use, for my workflow, Nikon's Capture NX (Click here: Nikon Capture NX Software for Windows and Mac) and Adobe Photoshop (Click here: Adobe Photoshop CS2): I squeeze most of image from Capture NX, save it as TIFF and make final adjustments in Photoshop.
Good luck, D80 is worth each penny I spent on it.
And no, I'm not on Nikon's payroll. ;)
Waited so long for it, but disappointed...............2007-09-23
I had a Canon DRebel 300D for 1.5 years before I finally upgraded to the Nikon D80. I waited SOOOOOO long for this camera! I was so excited to get it! Well right off the bat I noticed the focus was off on the camera. I had an 85mm lens (I previously shot with a 50mm) so I thought maybe it was a focal length/shutter speed issue. Then I started noticing metering issues....so many of my pictures were either seriously over or underexposed. Again, I attributed it to user error. But it kept happening and finally I googled the D80 and metering problems and VOILA! It would appear there are quite a few of us struggling with this. Ken Rockwell actually has a good article on the D80 where he addresses these issues.
My camera works well as a studio camera (with strobes) but is very inconsistent for natural light photography. This is a huge disappointment for me. I find myself using my old Rebel to shoot often and that's just sad after spending so much money on a new camera.
This camera could be great if they worked out the "bugs".
Great Digital SLR.......2007-09-19
This is my first digital camera, well, not really, I had a Sony Mavica 1.1 pixels, cerca 1999.
Previously, for serious work, I used a Canon film body with a Nikon CoolScan which scans 3000 dpi.
The D80 is my first "real" digital SLR and I am completely satisfied with its performance.
I consider myself to be a "semi-pro" and this camera fits perfectly (I like the hand grip and features much better than its' sister D40 & D70 models).
Fantastic Upgrade to the D70/D70s.......2007-09-14
I had not planned on upgrading to the D80 from my D70, but around Christmas, a local camera store had a 20% coupon for nearly anything in the store, including the D80. So, my plans changed. I have been a Nikon shooter for a number of years, and my most recent 35mm SLR is a Nikon N80. So, the D70 had a very familiar look and feel to it, and I found the transition from film to digital was pretty comfortable. I researched the D70 for months before buying it and had extremely high expectations for the camera, all of which were exceeded. The D80 retains all the great features of the D70 with improved imaging, new features, and an excellent system of buttons, dials, and menus.
I have really enjoyed shooting with the D80 and find I use a number of different approaches depending on my shooting subject. Aperture preferred, shutter preferred, program, etc. All have their merits. I think that DSLRs today are fantastic, and all the good brands have great offerings. So we can hardly go wrong any more. Since I had the experience with Nikons and some good lenses, I decided to stick with Nikon and have been most pleased. Nikon's approach is to focus on image quality, no pun intended. There is less emphasis with bells and whistles, compared with some other brands. The competition among the big DSLR manufacturers is fantastic for us digital shooters.
This is a great camera, but I think that Nikon should provide Capture NX, its imaging software developed by Nik and Nikon, should not be an add-on at additional expense. Other manufacturers provide that imaging software for free, and I wish there were an ultrasonic dust remover, but this camera is a pleasure to use. Hope this helps you make a decision.
From F5 to D80.......2007-09-07
Well, I finally bit the bullet and stuck my toe into the digital pool. I'm glad I did, and chose the D80 as the vehicle.
I'm an old film fan from way back, and my standard was the F5, an absolutely outstanding camera in every way. I also have a couple of N80s, and a couple of FMs. So I know the Nikon product line pretty well, and of course have a significant investment in lenses, so there was no way I was going to switch to another brand like Canon and have to buy a whole new line of lenses also.
The D80 is a pretty outstanding camera, and utilizes the digital technology pretty impressively. Now that I have some experience with it, I'd recommend to other film users to go with at least this level camera, as the 10 megapixel capability is going to be important to you if you want to use it similarly to film as far as cropping, enlargements, etc.
This camera's easy to use, and if you're familiar with Nikons the learning curve will be very steep; it's all familiar territory. No surprises here.
Excellent quality, excellent image quality. Of course, the ease and speed of seeing your end result as soon as you shoot it -- as opposed to waiting for film processing and printing -- is a huge plus to the digital technology.
The only lens I had to add to my current line with this body was a super-wide zoom, as my 18-35 now became effectively a 28-52. On the up side, my 28-300 now effectively became a 42-450.
All well and good, BUT..... don't throw your film camera away. There are some things that film just does better. The ISO range of digital is much more limited. You can't crank it as low as the available film ISOs, which may impact your ability to take long exposures, especially in daylight. Also, above a relatively modest ISO of 400, you start running into issues that have to be addressed in the digital world that aren't a factor in the film world until much higher ISOs, such as artifacting (the digital equivalent of graininess), lessening of color accuracy, etc. Though there is some compensating programming built into the camera, ISO 400 is a pretty low speed at which to have to start thinking about these kinds of issues. With my F5, there are films available with ISO 3200 that can be pushed to 6400. Digital just comes nowhere near this.
So, a great camera for what it is. A wonderful capability to add diversity to your camera bag. But keep your film camera around.
Product Description
Includes 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 Lens / Uses F mount lenses / SD Memory Card Slot / USB 2.0 / 2.5-inch LCD / 3D Color Matrix Meter Up to 2,700 images per battery charge - High-Efficiency power systems featuring reduced power consumption and Real-Time Fuel Gauge with Nikon's EN-EL3e Lithium Ion rechargeable battery Nikon 3D Color Matrix Metering II, plus Variable Center-Weighted and Spot Metering. Nikon's 3D Color Matrix Metering II instantly and accurately evaluates brightness, color, contrast, selected focus area and subject-to-camera distance information, referencing the results against an onboard database of 30,000 scenes from actual photography. Vary the size of the center-weighted area reading and spot metering readings correspond to 11 focusing points 11-area AF system with Wide-area Center Segment and Auto-area AF functions 2.5 LCD screen ISO Sensitivity (Recommended Exposure Index) - 100 to 1600 In-Camera Image Editing with Retouching Menu Built-in Speedlight with Nikon i-TTL flash metering and two-group Wireless Commander option Shooting Modes - 1) Single frame shooting mode; 2) Continuous shooting mode - approx. 3 frames per second; 3) Self-timer; 4) Delayed remote mode; 5) Quick-response remote mode Images are stored on SD digital memory cards Unit Dimensions (W x H x D) - Approx. 5.2 x 4.1 x 3.0 inch; Weight - Approximately 1 lb. 5 oz.
Customer Reviews:
A camera for the transition to pro levels.......2007-09-23
OK. One year passed since I've bought this camera so I can get into a review of my personal experience with it.
First of all, if you consider into buying this model, you should know that this is not a dSLR that you can use on auto settings and get fabulous results. Get a point and shoot for that or a D40/ D40x. D80 seems to be tuned to provide best results with manual modes or semi-auto modes (fixed-aperture or fixed-shutter). I spent almost 1,000 shots until I got used with the behaviour of D80 in different light conditions and with different camera settings. The learning curve may vary, but definitely won't be a steep one.
EXPOSURE: the matrix metering mode is thought to overexpose but, IMO, those that said that use this mode in the wrong situations: high-contrast, high-dynamic scenes which require careful analysis of the zones (with spot metering and/ or center-weighted) and exposure settings should be chosen accordingly. Matrix is fabulous for shooting scenes with the sun to your back, overcast or uniform lighting: exposure is perfect. For all other situation I would highly recommend spot metering.
FOCUS: focus is always dependent on the lens you use. If you invest in this DX body, get a good (pro) lens to suit your needs. The 17-55DX (Click here: Nikon 17-55mm f/2.8G ED-IF AF-S DX Nikkor Zoom Lens) from Nikon is a fast-focus, super-sharp lens that allows you to take shots using all capabilities of the D80 AF system. However, there are some cheaper lens I would recommend, one of them is the 50mm f/1.8 prime (Click here: Nikon 50mm f/1.8D AF Nikkor Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras), super cheap bargain for the quality you get. The new 55-200VR (Click here: Nikon 55-200mm f/4-5.6G ED IF AF-S DX VR [Vibration Reduction] Zoom Nikkor Lens + Hoya 52mm UV Haze Protector Glass Filter + CapKeeper Lens Cap Strap + 6-Piece Cleaning Kit - for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras including Nikon D40, D40x, D50, D70, D70s, D80, D100, D200 & D300) is also a bargain but don't expect to get similar sharpness as from the 17-55DX. Overall focus is very fast WITH a fast-focusing lens but will require some learning form you especially if you'll use single point focus so some recomposing technique should also be learned.
COLORS: You'll be ABSOLUTELY AMAZED by the colors this camera will provide you considering that you nailed the exposure and set correct camera settings. Skin tones are natural, vivid and well balanced, blues are deep, reds are explosive, greens are smoothly rendered. But please take tests on all three color modes (two sRGB modes, I and III and one Adobe RGB mode, II) and see which suites you best. If you intend RAW, go for Adobe RGB; for JPEGS use I or III sRGB modes. You should be aware, though, that deep reds tend to overexpose on I and, especially mode III, so either compensate exposure, either go for RAW and mode II. Overall, colors are marvelous and you'll get amazing results once you'll learn how to master the camera.
Please get yourself two rechargeable batts. One is not enough if you intend to shoot all day. Another option would be to buy the grip, the MB-D80 (Click here: Nikon MB-D80 Multi-Power Battery Pack for the Nikon D80 Digital SLR Camera), that allows you to stick 6 AA batteries or two EN-EL (Click here: Nikon EN-EL3e Rechargeable Li-Ion Battery for D200 Digital SLR Camera) rechargeable. With 2 nikon rechargeable batteries the autonomy is VASTLY improved.
HIGH ISO: From my experience, the limit of all-around ISO setting is 1250 for best-detailed photos. However, as you'll learn to better expose ISO 1600 is perfectly usable and ISO 3200 for Black and White or small-sized photos (4x6"). Please remember that higher you get with the ISO, more important is to nail the exposure in order to minimize the noise. In-camera high-ISO noise reduction does marvels IF you'll shoot JPEGs, but please don't use it if you go RAW: you'll loose details.
The camera body is made for middle-sized hands. For bigger hands, the D200 body is more suitable. Most important, for example, is the distance to the buttons than can be reached with the right thumb (the AE/AF-L and the multiple selector). But the controls operate smoothly and you can do a lot of customizing to fit your needs.
Overall, this is an excellent camera and don't get fooled by reviews that point to poor image quality. Almost all cases of poor image quality come from improper use and not enough testing of this camera capabilities. My first results were awful, but after a couple of weeks of continuous learning I started to get amazing results. I'm suggesting 5 topics you SHOULD learn/ cover before or simultaneous with using this camera:
1. Basic controls: aperture, shutter speed, ISO and how they interact;
2. Relationship between aperture and depth of field;
3. Ansel Adams zone theory; very educative
4. Color temperature and color temperature correction
5. RAW files processing
About #5 above, please get yourself good RAW processing software. I use, for my workflow, Nikon's Capture NX (Click here: Nikon Capture NX Software for Windows and Mac) and Adobe Photoshop (Click here: Adobe Photoshop CS2): I squeeze most of image from Capture NX, save it as TIFF and make final adjustments in Photoshop.
Good luck, D80 is worth each penny I spent on it.
And no, I'm not on Nikon's payroll. ;)
Waited so long for it, but disappointed...............2007-09-23
I had a Canon DRebel 300D for 1.5 years before I finally upgraded to the Nikon D80. I waited SOOOOOO long for this camera! I was so excited to get it! Well right off the bat I noticed the focus was off on the camera. I had an 85mm lens (I previously shot with a 50mm) so I thought maybe it was a focal length/shutter speed issue. Then I started noticing metering issues....so many of my pictures were either seriously over or underexposed. Again, I attributed it to user error. But it kept happening and finally I googled the D80 and metering problems and VOILA! It would appear there are quite a few of us struggling with this. Ken Rockwell actually has a good article on the D80 where he addresses these issues.
My camera works well as a studio camera (with strobes) but is very inconsistent for natural light photography. This is a huge disappointment for me. I find myself using my old Rebel to shoot often and that's just sad after spending so much money on a new camera.
This camera could be great if they worked out the "bugs".
Great Digital SLR.......2007-09-19
This is my first digital camera, well, not really, I had a Sony Mavica 1.1 pixels, cerca 1999.
Previously, for serious work, I used a Canon film body with a Nikon CoolScan which scans 3000 dpi.
The D80 is my first "real" digital SLR and I am completely satisfied with its performance.
I consider myself to be a "semi-pro" and this camera fits perfectly (I like the hand grip and features much better than its' sister D40 & D70 models).
Fantastic Upgrade to the D70/D70s.......2007-09-14
I had not planned on upgrading to the D80 from my D70, but around Christmas, a local camera store had a 20% coupon for nearly anything in the store, including the D80. So, my plans changed. I have been a Nikon shooter for a number of years, and my most recent 35mm SLR is a Nikon N80. So, the D70 had a very familiar look and feel to it, and I found the transition from film to digital was pretty comfortable. I researched the D70 for months before buying it and had extremely high expectations for the camera, all of which were exceeded. The D80 retains all the great features of the D70 with improved imaging, new features, and an excellent system of buttons, dials, and menus.
I have really enjoyed shooting with the D80 and find I use a number of different approaches depending on my shooting subject. Aperture preferred, shutter preferred, program, etc. All have their merits. I think that DSLRs today are fantastic, and all the good brands have great offerings. So we can hardly go wrong any more. Since I had the experience with Nikons and some good lenses, I decided to stick with Nikon and have been most pleased. Nikon's approach is to focus on image quality, no pun intended. There is less emphasis with bells and whistles, compared with some other brands. The competition among the big DSLR manufacturers is fantastic for us digital shooters.
This is a great camera, but I think that Nikon should provide Capture NX, its imaging software developed by Nik and Nikon, should not be an add-on at additional expense. Other manufacturers provide that imaging software for free, and I wish there were an ultrasonic dust remover, but this camera is a pleasure to use. Hope this helps you make a decision.
From F5 to D80.......2007-09-07
Well, I finally bit the bullet and stuck my toe into the digital pool. I'm glad I did, and chose the D80 as the vehicle.
I'm an old film fan from way back, and my standard was the F5, an absolutely outstanding camera in every way. I also have a couple of N80s, and a couple of FMs. So I know the Nikon product line pretty well, and of course have a significant investment in lenses, so there was no way I was going to switch to another brand like Canon and have to buy a whole new line of lenses also.
The D80 is a pretty outstanding camera, and utilizes the digital technology pretty impressively. Now that I have some experience with it, I'd recommend to other film users to go with at least this level camera, as the 10 megapixel capability is going to be important to you if you want to use it similarly to film as far as cropping, enlargements, etc.
This camera's easy to use, and if you're familiar with Nikons the learning curve will be very steep; it's all familiar territory. No surprises here.
Excellent quality, excellent image quality. Of course, the ease and speed of seeing your end result as soon as you shoot it -- as opposed to waiting for film processing and printing -- is a huge plus to the digital technology.
The only lens I had to add to my current line with this body was a super-wide zoom, as my 18-35 now became effectively a 28-52. On the up side, my 28-300 now effectively became a 42-450.
All well and good, BUT..... don't throw your film camera away. There are some things that film just does better. The ISO range of digital is much more limited. You can't crank it as low as the available film ISOs, which may impact your ability to take long exposures, especially in daylight. Also, above a relatively modest ISO of 400, you start running into issues that have to be addressed in the digital world that aren't a factor in the film world until much higher ISOs, such as artifacting (the digital equivalent of graininess), lessening of color accuracy, etc. Though there is some compensating programming built into the camera, ISO 400 is a pretty low speed at which to have to start thinking about these kinds of issues. With my F5, there are films available with ISO 3200 that can be pushed to 6400. Digital just comes nowhere near this.
So, a great camera for what it is. A wonderful capability to add diversity to your camera bag. But keep your film camera around.
Product Description
The lightest, most compact Nikon digital SLR ever, featuring intuitive controls and an ergonomically designed operation for first-time SLR users to enjoy. Advanced 3-area AF system Automatic control over ISO-equivalent sensitivity from ISO 200 to 1600 with manual override Eight automated Digital Vari-Programs [Auto, Auto (Flash Off), Portrait, Landscape, Child, Sports, Close Up, and Night Portrait] optimize white balance, sharpening, tone, color, saturation and hue to match the scene Near-instant 0.18-second power-up Versatile shutter speed control with a range from 30 to 1/4000 s, plus bulb Creative in-camera effects and editing functions consolidated under the new Retouch menu, including D-Lighting, Red-eye correction, Trim, Monochrome settings (Black-and-white, Sepia, Cyanotype), Filter Effects (Skylight, Warm filter, Color balance), Small Picture and Image Overlay Large 2.5-inch LCD monitor Information displays can be shown in Classic, Graphic or Wallpaper format Assist Images help select the appropriate settings for many camera features by showing an example image typical of that setting Large, bright viewfinder with 0.8x magnification Fast image data transfer and recording to SD memory cards Exposure Metering System - TTL full-aperture exposure metering system Electronic-Flash - Auto, Portrait, Child, Close Up, Night Portrait modes Uses Nikon AF-S Lenses Unit Dimensions (Body Only) - Approximately Width 5.0 x Depth 2.5 x Height 3.7 inches / Weight - 1 pound, 1 ounces Nikon USA 1-Year Warranty
Customer Reviews:
very pleased.......2007-09-25
My parents bought the Nikon D40 for me as a birthday present. I honestly am so amazed at what I can do just with the kit lens! I've used some other Nikon lenses on it, and I really can't say enough about it!
Best Cameras for the price and package D40 & D40X.......2007-09-22
I had been out looking to find a hobby and decided on photography as a way to get out of the house. Needed a camera and after an intense search, chose the Nikon D40. To get the D40 with two lenses (18-55mm and 55-200mm) and for the low cost was great. This outfit allowed me to jump right in and take some great shots. I mounted the D40 on a tripod and take it with me to work and back from work. I have taken some great pictures of sunrises as well as sunsets, etc. I now spend so much time shooting landscape shots in my off-time, that I ended up purchasing another camera (the Nikon D40X). I leave the D40 on the tripod to shoot JPEG shots and carry the D40X to shoot Raw shots that just need to be taken quickly and later corrected using software. I was able to purchase both cameras do what ever I needed because they were both affordable and had all the capabilities I needed to do the shots I wanted to take. With the money I saved of not having to pay for the more expensive systems with the same capabilities as these two systems, I have purchased additional lenses, gear etc. I am extremely happy with these two Nikons and feel Like I am a pro and have the ability to shoot like them with the same results. I might of started out as an amatuer, I now shoot like a PRO. Thank you Nikon.
The best!.......2007-09-20
I bought this camera after researching digital SLRs for a couple weeks. I've had in now for a couple months and love it. I bought the 18-200MM lens which is probably a large part of the reason it is such a pleasure to reach for when there's a photo op. That lens is wide enough to capture people in a room and brings in distance objects very nicely. The lens' VR (vibration reduction) feature is VERY nice too. I've hand-held long exposures and seen little blurring. The real purpose of VR is for those far away shots, but it's nice for slow sutter speeds too. The camera itself feels great in the hand and has a nice finger grip so the camera feels secure when walking around. The menus are pretty straight-forward and I enjoyed reading the manual and experimenting for an hour or so as soon as I unboxed it and charged the battery. You can get great pictures right from the start if you set it on auto, but this camera offers much more if you take the time to study the features. The battery lasts a long time (I think I took about 260 shots without recharging). I also bought the 1GB chip (why cut cheap corners?).
To be a perfect camera, it would give me better control of WHERE to focus on automatic, be easier to frame one area and hold the focus and light metering while I move it (I can do this, but it's not intuitive enough for my little brain to remember after a week!), it would have more than 6MP so I could crop out small areas without losing detail.
Great camera! You won't be disappointed. Oh yeah - I also go the ss-400 flash untit that lets you bounce it off the ceiling. It's great!
Get the camera - you'll love it!!
Best dSLR On the Market.......2007-09-16
There are certainly more capable cameras available that provide more adjustments and have bigger sensors, but for $500 this cannot be beat. It exudes quality and has a rather large 2.5" screen. Moreover, it is very small, yet fits my hand quite well (my hands are as big as Johnny Bench, so...). Best of all this camera has motivated me to get out and take pictures because it is so easy to use. It's simple: dust off your wallet and get one of these!
Nikon D40.......2007-09-15
As an average consumer I appreciate the ease with which this camera helps me take very good photo's.
Product Description
The D40x's high-resolution image quality 10.2 effective Megapixel Nikon DX format CCD imaging sensor and exclusive Nikon image-processing engine assures stunning sharpness and color. You'll be amazed at the power packed into a camera that you can start shooting with right out of the box. High resolution provides room for creative cropping. A fast 0.18 second startup combined with split-second shutter response and rapid-action shooting at up to 3 frames per second makes it easy to freeze special moments instantly. 2.5-inch, 230K Color LCD Monitor with 170-Degree Wide-Angle Viewing Playback images are easy to see and function menus are easier to use with a larger and brighter color LCD monitor. The large 2.5-inch LCD monitor enables image preview at up to 19 times magnification and has large type fonts with easy-to-view menus. The D40x's Image Optimize setting lets photographers adjust color, contrast and sharpening, as well as other image settings, according to the type of scene or output desired. The supplied EN-EL9 rechargeable battery will allow for shooting up to 520 images per charged based on CIPA battery testing standards. White Balance - Auto (TTL white balance with 420-pixel RGB sensor), six manual modes with fine-tuning and preset white balance LCD Monitor - 2.5-inch, 230K, TFT LCD with 170-degree wide-angle viewing Other Compatible Lenses - Nikon F mount with AF coupling and AF contacts Type G or D AF Nikkor Exposure Compensation - plus or minus 5 EV in increments of 1/3 EV Exposure Lock - Exposure locked at detected value with AE-L/AF-L button Self-Timer - 2, 5, 10 or 20 seconds Unit Dimensions (Body Only) - Width 5.0 x Depth 2.5 x Height 3.7 inches / Weight - 1 pound, 1 ounces
Customer Reviews:
D49X.......2007-09-26
Excellent SLR digital camera. Initial shipping report was in fact delayed a few days as camera was not in stock.
Excellent SLR. Very light and versatile........2007-09-24
Excellent camera in combination with 18-200VR lens. It does
not autofocus with non AF-S lenses, but I consider it an asset since it makes the camera significantly lighter for walking around. Also, AF-S lenses are focusing significantly faster and quieter than the old screw-type ones.
To use older AF lenses, consider getting Katz-eye for this camera to assist with manual focusing. I personally prefer manual focusing with prime lenses as it's faster and would get you exactly the results you want.
A little camera that can.......2007-09-19
I will assume if you're looking at buying this particular camera model, then: a. You are looking at upgrading from a point-N-shoot. Or, b. An intermediate to advanced photographer looking for a decent backup camera. Since I have owned this camera, I have been doing a lot of shooting with a friend of mine who happens to do photography for a living. My friend uses a Fujifilm S3 pro dSLR. Let me tell you, there isn't much difference in picture quality between the $700 d40x or $2,300 S3 pro when using the same lens. Both cameras are capable of producing almost identically amazing pictures. The main difference is when buying the d40x, you can get about the same quality photos for more than 3x cheaper than an average pro-level SLR camera.
If there was one thing I would do over again, I would definitely buy the d40x as a camera body only. Not that the kit lens is bad, but it's rather limiting to your d40's potential. Having the chance to use Nikon's 18-200mm VR lens has made me a real believer of how important a really good lens is for great photography.
My only major gripes about the d40x is the lack of adjustment buttons and no aperture dial the higher end dSLR's have. It can be somewhat annoying having to go into the camera's menu screen to make simple adjustments.
The PRO's for sure outweigh the few CON's this camera has. It's a great dSLR camera to start out with. The only real limitations of the d40x will be the skill level of the person behind it.
Great beginner dslr camera.......2007-09-13
I went to a camera store and it came down to this and the Canon and the sales person told me to get the Nikon. She said the d40x was really only if you wanted the extra pixels otherwise the d40 was fine. It's been a great camera and takes amazing photos. No shutter lag like on my point and shoot. I recommend getting the package with the telephoto to get close up to objects. I'm still learning all the features, but in "auto" mode you can use it like a point and shoot and already take better photos. I'll be happy to take it on many trips and look forward to testing it over time. In addition to the camera, I bought a 2GB SD memory card, camera bag and both a UV and polarizer filter (all highly recommended with the camera).
For the price, this camera is amazing..........2007-09-08
Having been an enthusiastic (old style, but highest quality) SLR user for many years and having then switched to several digital compacts, from the disappointingly basic (circa 2000) through to the brilliant latest versions (in my case, a 7.0 megapixel Panasonic Lumix), I was intrigued when a professional photographer friend said I should check out the new generation of low cost digital SLRs and, in particular, the Nikon D40x... you'll enjoy it she said... and she wasn't wrong.
First off, the price was only £150 or so more than a top end compact with the same 10 megapixel rating and, in the shop, it turned out to be smaller and much lighter than the old, dramatically more expensive SLRs I used to lug around... so, worth the plunge?
A resounding yes, not only does it deliver the most beautiful, high quality photos but the control options over virtually all aspects of shot selection, including a powerful built in flash unit, are quite incredible - far better and much, much more comprehensive than I'd expected - with the ever present, wholly effective, compact-style "point & shoot" option if you can't be bothered. Plus, you get a large preview screen and extensive "in camera" editing features that allow a wide range of post-shot manipulation if you don't have access to your PC. Just amazing... everything, plus a huge amount more, that I got from my previous SLRs.
Could it get any better? Well yes, because the stock Nikon autofocus zoom lens that comes with the camera (rated at 18-55 mm new digital style and equivalent to a just about perfect 26-83 mm old style) is now matched with Nikon's new, low cost, autofocus DX VR lens (rated at 55-200 mm new digital style and equivalent to 83-300 mm old style) which really does cut out camera shake to allow genuine "point & shoot" at its higher focal lengths. In other words, for a total cost of well under £600 I got a stunningly powerful and flexible camera plus a "tripod-less" combination of two lightweight autofocus Nikkor lens covering a full 26-300 mm range... which is nothing short of sensational for any "old style" SLR user like me.
SLRs are a different world from compact cameras - you definitely can't fit them in your pocket - but for anyone wanting to move up to a different level for not much more, or for anyone wanting to rediscover the lost joys of their SLR past at an incredibly cheap entry price, the Nikon D40x is a "must have" option... certainly it's got one more very happy user.
Product Description
The D40x's high-resolution image quality 10.2 effective Megapixel Nikon DX format CCD imaging sensor and exclusive Nikon image-processing engine assures stunning sharpness and color. You'll be amazed at the power packed into a camera that weighs just over 16 ounces. High resolution provides room for creative cropping. A fast 0.18 second startup combined with split-second shutter response and rapid-action shooting at up to 3 frames per second makes it easy to freeze special moments instantly. 2.5-inch, 230K Color LCD Monitor with 170-Degree Wide-Angle Viewing Playback images are easy to see and function menus are easier to use with a larger and brighter color LCD monitor. The large 2.5-inch LCD monitor enables image preview at up to 19 times magnification and has large type fonts with easy-to-view menus. The D40x's Image Optimize setting lets photographers adjust color, contrast and sharpening, as well as other image settings, according to the type of scene or output desired. The supplied EN-EL9 rechargeable battery will allow for shooting up to 520 images per charged based on CIPA battery testing standards. White Balance - Auto (TTL white balance with 420-pixel RGB sensor), six manual modes with fine-tuning and preset white balance LCD Monitor - 2.5-inch, 230K, TFT LCD with 170-degree wide-angle viewing Compatible Lenses - Nikon F mount with AF coupling and AF contacts Type G or D AF Nikkor Exposure Compensation - plus or minus 5 EV in increments of 1/3 EV Exposure Lock - Exposure locked at detected value with AE-L/AF-L button Self-Timer - 2, 5, 10 or 20 seconds Unit Dimensions (Body Only) - Width 5.0 x Depth 2.5 x Height 3.7 inches / Weight - 1 pound, 1 ounces
Customer Reviews:
D49X.......2007-09-26
Excellent SLR digital camera. Initial shipping report was in fact delayed a few days as camera was not in stock.
Excellent SLR. Very light and versatile........2007-09-24
Excellent camera in combination with 18-200VR lens. It does
not autofocus with non AF-S lenses, but I consider it an asset since it makes the camera significantly lighter for walking around. Also, AF-S lenses are focusing significantly faster and quieter than the old screw-type ones.
To use older AF lenses, consider getting Katz-eye for this camera to assist with manual focusing. I personally prefer manual focusing with prime lenses as it's faster and would get you exactly the results you want.
A little camera that can.......2007-09-19
I will assume if you're looking at buying this particular camera model, then: a. You are looking at upgrading from a point-N-shoot. Or, b. An intermediate to advanced photographer looking for a decent backup camera. Since I have owned this camera, I have been doing a lot of shooting with a friend of mine who happens to do photography for a living. My friend uses a Fujifilm S3 pro dSLR. Let me tell you, there isn't much difference in picture quality between the $700 d40x or $2,300 S3 pro when using the same lens. Both cameras are capable of producing almost identically amazing pictures. The main difference is when buying the d40x, you can get about the same quality photos for more than 3x cheaper than an average pro-level SLR camera.
If there was one thing I would do over again, I would definitely buy the d40x as a camera body only. Not that the kit lens is bad, but it's rather limiting to your d40's potential. Having the chance to use Nikon's 18-200mm VR lens has made me a real believer of how important a really good lens is for great photography.
My only major gripes about the d40x is the lack of adjustment buttons and no aperture dial the higher end dSLR's have. It can be somewhat annoying having to go into the camera's menu screen to make simple adjustments.
The PRO's for sure outweigh the few CON's this camera has. It's a great dSLR camera to start out with. The only real limitations of the d40x will be the skill level of the person behind it.
Great beginner dslr camera.......2007-09-13
I went to a camera store and it came down to this and the Canon and the sales person told me to get the Nikon. She said the d40x was really only if you wanted the extra pixels otherwise the d40 was fine. It's been a great camera and takes amazing photos. No shutter lag like on my point and shoot. I recommend getting the package with the telephoto to get close up to objects. I'm still learning all the features, but in "auto" mode you can use it like a point and shoot and already take better photos. I'll be happy to take it on many trips and look forward to testing it over time. In addition to the camera, I bought a 2GB SD memory card, camera bag and both a UV and polarizer filter (all highly recommended with the camera).
For the price, this camera is amazing..........2007-09-08
Having been an enthusiastic (old style, but highest quality) SLR user for many years and having then switched to several digital compacts, from the disappointingly basic (circa 2000) through to the brilliant latest versions (in my case, a 7.0 megapixel Panasonic Lumix), I was intrigued when a professional photographer friend said I should check out the new generation of low cost digital SLRs and, in particular, the Nikon D40x... you'll enjoy it she said... and she wasn't wrong.
First off, the price was only £150 or so more than a top end compact with the same 10 megapixel rating and, in the shop, it turned out to be smaller and much lighter than the old, dramatically more expensive SLRs I used to lug around... so, worth the plunge?
A resounding yes, not only does it deliver the most beautiful, high quality photos but the control options over virtually all aspects of shot selection, including a powerful built in flash unit, are quite incredible - far better and much, much more comprehensive than I'd expected - with the ever present, wholly effective, compact-style "point & shoot" option if you can't be bothered. Plus, you get a large preview screen and extensive "in camera" editing features that allow a wide range of post-shot manipulation if you don't have access to your PC. Just amazing... everything, plus a huge amount more, that I got from my previous SLRs.
Could it get any better? Well yes, because the stock Nikon autofocus zoom lens that comes with the camera (rated at 18-55 mm new digital style and equivalent to a just about perfect 26-83 mm old style) is now matched with Nikon's new, low cost, autofocus DX VR lens (rated at 55-200 mm new digital style and equivalent to 83-300 mm old style) which really does cut out camera shake to allow genuine "point & shoot" at its higher focal lengths. In other words, for a total cost of well under £600 I got a stunningly powerful and flexible camera plus a "tripod-less" combination of two lightweight autofocus Nikkor lens covering a full 26-300 mm range... which is nothing short of sensational for any "old style" SLR user like me.
SLRs are a different world from compact cameras - you definitely can't fit them in your pocket - but for anyone wanting to move up to a different level for not much more, or for anyone wanting to rediscover the lost joys of their SLR past at an incredibly cheap entry price, the Nikon D40x is a "must have" option... certainly it's got one more very happy user.
Product Description
Includes 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 Lens / Uses F mount lenses / SD Memory Card Slot / USB 2.0 / 2.5-inch LCD / 3D Color Matrix Meter Up to 2,700 images per battery charge - High-Efficiency power systems featuring reduced power consumption and Real-Time Fuel Gauge with Nikon's EN-EL3e Lithium Ion rechargeable battery Nikon 3D Color Matrix Metering II, plus Variable Center-Weighted and Spot Metering. Nikon's 3D Color Matrix Metering II instantly and accurately evaluates brightness, color, contrast, selected focus area and subject-to-camera distance information, referencing the results against an onboard database of 30,000 scenes from actual photography. Vary the size of the center-weighted area reading and spot metering readings correspond to 11 focusing points 11-area AF system with Wide-area Center Segment and Auto-area AF functions 2.5 LCD screen ISO Sensitivity (Recommended Exposure Index) - 100 to 1600 In-Camera Image Editing with Retouching Menu Built-in Speedlight with Nikon i-TTL flash metering and two-group Wireless Commander option Shooting Modes - 1) Single frame shooting mode; 2) Continuous shooting mode - approx. 3 frames per second; 3) Self-timer; 4) Delayed remote mode; 5) Quick-response remote mode Images are stored on SD figital memory cards Unit Dimensions (W x H x D) - Approx. 5.2 x 4.1 x 3.0 inch; Weight - Approximately 1 lb. 5 oz.
Customer Reviews:
EXCELENTE CAMARA PARA INTERMEDIOS.......2007-09-14
Antes de tener esta camara tuve la Nikon D70 y la vendi justamente pensando en comprar este modelo. Una vez en mis manos, puedo decir q este modelo es una version mejorada (bastante mejor) de la D70.
Las principales diferencias q he encontrado hasta hoy son
- La calidad y tamaño de la pantalla LCD (de lejos superior)
- La calidad de los colores y amplia gama de tonos q no se apreciaban tan bien con la D70
- Los 12 punto de enfoque q ayudan un monton para componer y enfocar mejor la foto
- Mucho más rápida y precisa
- La visualización de fotos es mucho más fácil de usar y navegar
- La duración de la batería es increible
- Se siente más sólida y pesada q la D70
- Compatible con mi stock de lentes Nikkor
El único punto en contra q tengo es q la pantalla de la cámara me llegó con un pixel muerto y no pude cambiarla por ser una compra q me trajeron directmaente de USA a Trujillo, Perú. No imposibilita la visualización pero igual incomoda y distrae un poco.
Si quieres una buena cámara con el prestigio y accesorios de Nikon, esta es una muy buena opción. Suerte en tu decisión
Rolando Morin F.
Product Description
The D40x's high-resolution image quality 10.2 effective Megapixel Nikon DX format CCD imaging sensor and exclusive Nikon image-processing engine assures stunning sharpness and color. You'll be amazed at the power packed into a camera that you can start shooting with right out of the box. High resolution provides room for creative cropping. A fast 0.18 second startup combined with split-second shutter response and rapid-action shooting at up to 3 frames per second makes it easy to freeze special moments instantly. 2.5-inch, 230K Color LCD Monitor with 170-Degree Wide-Angle Viewing Playback images are easy to see and function menus are easier to use with a larger and brighter color LCD monitor. The large 2.5-inch LCD monitor enables image preview at up to 19 times magnification and has large type fonts with easy-to-view menus. The D40x's Image Optimize setting lets photographers adjust color, contrast and sharpening, as well as other image settings, according to the type of scene or output desired. The supplied EN-EL9 rechargeable battery will allow for shooting up to 520 images per charged based on CIPA battery testing standards. White Balance - Auto (TTL white balance with 420-pixel RGB sensor), six manual modes with fine-tuning and preset white balance LCD Monitor - 2.5-inch, 230K, TFT LCD with 170-degree wide-angle viewing Other Compatible Lenses - Nikon F mount with AF coupling and AF contacts Type G or D AF Nikkor Exposure Compensation - plus or minus 5 EV in increments of 1/3 EV Exposure Lock - Exposure locked at detected value with AE-L/AF-L button Self-Timer - 2, 5, 10 or 20 seconds Unit Dimensions (Body Only) - Width 5.0 x Depth 2.5 x Height 3.7 inches / Weight - 1 pound, 1 ounces
Customer Reviews:
D49X.......2007-09-26
Excellent SLR digital camera. Initial shipping report was in fact delayed a few days as camera was not in stock.
Excellent SLR. Very light and versatile........2007-09-24
Excellent camera in combination with 18-200VR lens. It does
not autofocus with non AF-S lenses, but I consider it an asset since it makes the camera significantly lighter for walking around. Also, AF-S lenses are focusing significantly faster and quieter than the old screw-type ones.
To use older AF lenses, consider getting Katz-eye for this camera to assist with manual focusing. I personally prefer manual focusing with prime lenses as it's faster and would get you exactly the results you want.
A little camera that can.......2007-09-19
I will assume if you're looking at buying this particular camera model, then: a. You are looking at upgrading from a point-N-shoot. Or, b. An intermediate to advanced photographer looking for a decent backup camera. Since I have owned this camera, I have been doing a lot of shooting with a friend of mine who happens to do photography for a living. My friend uses a Fujifilm S3 pro dSLR. Let me tell you, there isn't much difference in picture quality between the $700 d40x or $2,300 S3 pro when using the same lens. Both cameras are capable of producing almost identically amazing pictures. The main difference is when buying the d40x, you can get about the same quality photos for more than 3x cheaper than an average pro-level SLR camera.
If there was one thing I would do over again, I would definitely buy the d40x as a camera body only. Not that the kit lens is bad, but it's rather limiting to your d40's potential. Having the chance to use Nikon's 18-200mm VR lens has made me a real believer of how important a really good lens is for great photography.
My only major gripes about the d40x is the lack of adjustment buttons and no aperture dial the higher end dSLR's have. It can be somewhat annoying having to go into the camera's menu screen to make simple adjustments.
The PRO's for sure outweigh the few CON's this camera has. It's a great dSLR camera to start out with. The only real limitations of the d40x will be the skill level of the person behind it.
Great beginner dslr camera.......2007-09-13
I went to a camera store and it came down to this and the Canon and the sales person told me to get the Nikon. She said the d40x was really only if you wanted the extra pixels otherwise the d40 was fine. It's been a great camera and takes amazing photos. No shutter lag like on my point and shoot. I recommend getting the package with the telephoto to get close up to objects. I'm still learning all the features, but in "auto" mode you can use it like a point and shoot and already take better photos. I'll be happy to take it on many trips and look forward to testing it over time. In addition to the camera, I bought a 2GB SD memory card, camera bag and both a UV and polarizer filter (all highly recommended with the camera).
For the price, this camera is amazing..........2007-09-08
Having been an enthusiastic (old style, but highest quality) SLR user for many years and having then switched to several digital compacts, from the disappointingly basic (circa 2000) through to the brilliant latest versions (in my case, a 7.0 megapixel Panasonic Lumix), I was intrigued when a professional photographer friend said I should check out the new generation of low cost digital SLRs and, in particular, the Nikon D40x... you'll enjoy it she said... and she wasn't wrong.
First off, the price was only £150 or so more than a top end compact with the same 10 megapixel rating and, in the shop, it turned out to be smaller and much lighter than the old, dramatically more expensive SLRs I used to lug around... so, worth the plunge?
A resounding yes, not only does it deliver the most beautiful, high quality photos but the control options over virtually all aspects of shot selection, including a powerful built in flash unit, are quite incredible - far better and much, much more comprehensive than I'd expected - with the ever present, wholly effective, compact-style "point & shoot" option if you can't be bothered. Plus, you get a large preview screen and extensive "in camera" editing features that allow a wide range of post-shot manipulation if you don't have access to your PC. Just amazing... everything, plus a huge amount more, that I got from my previous SLRs.
Could it get any better? Well yes, because the stock Nikon autofocus zoom lens that comes with the camera (rated at 18-55 mm new digital style and equivalent to a just about perfect 26-83 mm old style) is now matched with Nikon's new, low cost, autofocus DX VR lens (rated at 55-200 mm new digital style and equivalent to 83-300 mm old style) which really does cut out camera shake to allow genuine "point & shoot" at its higher focal lengths. In other words, for a total cost of well under £600 I got a stunningly powerful and flexible camera plus a "tripod-less" combination of two lightweight autofocus Nikkor lens covering a full 26-300 mm range... which is nothing short of sensational for any "old style" SLR user like me.
SLRs are a different world from compact cameras - you definitely can't fit them in your pocket - but for anyone wanting to move up to a different level for not much more, or for anyone wanting to rediscover the lost joys of their SLR past at an incredibly cheap entry price, the Nikon D40x is a "must have" option... certainly it's got one more very happy user.
Average customer rating:
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