Help me choose a DSLR

[I'm Slow]

Ok, I am looking for a good DSLR prefereably a Nikon. I'm looking to spend about $600 or less if possible lol. I want something that is shared_user friendly but also capable to take professional quality pictures ( i know a lot of this comes down to editing,lighting,exposure, etc.). I appreciate all suggestions and opinions. thanks

[sfr002]

Used D40 or New D5000.

Used D40 is a great start and cheap.

[I'm Slow]

how much can I expect to pay for a used d40 or d5000? What about the d3000? the d3000 seems to be the one all the stores carry, probably the worst one lol

[sfr002]

The D3000 replaced the D40.

a used D40 with 18-55 on CL was $325

a new D5000 was $600 on amazon.

If you go with the D40 you will have some extra cash to get another lens if you please that's why I said the D40 its still a great starter camera.

D5000 is all your money and the D3000 is right in the middle at 450.

So its all up to you, I personally have never used any of them.

[Jake2k]

I'd suggest the d40 because its a great camera to learn on and you can get really nice images out of it. You might still be able to find a new one but if you can't try and get a refurbished one because its almost as good as new, I buy all my gear refurb.

[8600RPM]

I'd go used D80 kit, and pick up a 50mm 1.8.

The functions and menus and ergonomics of the D80 are much closer to the bigger body Nikons that you'll more than likely upgrade to down the road.

[I'm Slow]

I like the fact that the d5000 has the ajustable swivel screen

[TampasOriginalSoarer]

I'd go used D80 kit, and pick up a 50mm 1.8.

The functions and menus and ergonomics of the D80 are much closer to the bigger body Nikons that you'll more than likely upgrade to down the road.

not sure if a 50mm is a good way to start since you can't learn to zoom.

[Jake2k]

Yea the d80 is a great camera but it might be a little difficult to learn on. And I forgot to mention that the d40x and d60 go inthe same group as the d40 as far as ease of use. Id say go with a cheaper camera at first because your gonna want the extra money for stuff like a tripod, bag, extra lenses and maybe a flash. also that swivel screen is .more or less a gimmick and while it can be usefull in some situations you prob don't want to base your camera decision on it. Just my 2 cents..

[8600RPM]

not sure if a 50mm is a good way to start sine you can't learn to zoom.

He'll have an 18-135 zoom as the kit lens.

I don't know about you, but "zooming" a lens isn't an art that requires learning

[TampasOriginalSoarer]

I think its important to get to know all the features/abilities of your equipment whether its something as simple as "Zooming". What may seem silly to you may be important to learn for others.

[Jake2k]

Depending on what camera he gets the 50mm might not be the best option anyway.

[Figs]

I went with the D3000, great starting DSLR and I have no complaints. Quality of photos can be seen on my website. Camera is also easy to work with.

If you can find a used D40 for a good price then go with that since it will be cheaper. Best Buy had them a month or so back brand new for $399. I checked their website a few weeks back and its no longer listed.

For the price range your looking at spending there's the options of buying used D40, D40x, D50, D60 or going new with a D3000 or D5000.

[8600RPM]

Depending on what camera he gets the 50mm might not be the best option anyway.

Which is why I recommended the D80. The D40 is a great starter camera, but why not spend the extra coin (still in his budget) and get a camera that is also easy to use (IMO easier) has a better image sensor, better ergonomics, and autofocuses all lenses.

Just makes more sense to me.

[Figs]

Well the D80 body only is $599.95 on B&H which leaves him without a lens on his $600 budget.

Refurb on ebay looks to be around $500 for body only.

Used and not knowing really the condition on ebay anywhere from $399-$499 and some come with a kit lens and some with extras.

See a new one on ebay with a kit lens for $700.

Some as high as $1,200 because of extras or different lens.