First DSLR choice

[Gobae]

I have the D40X and just got my daughter the D3000 for Xmas. While it's true the older Nikon lenses will need to be focused manually on the newer bodies, everything else works automatically. But, that may be a moot point since it doesn't sound like you've got any legacy lenses anyway.

The only other downside (which also may not affect you since you want to do landscapes) is that the D3000 has no "commander-unit" which means if you want to use multiple flash units you'll have to buy a higher level flash that has one built in, or a separate commander.

One thing I can recommend is not to get caught up in comparing cameras based on the number of megapixels. Had I known this I probably would have gotten a D40 or D60 since their sensors have less noise at the higher ISOs, compared to the D40X which sacrificed this for more megapixels.

Anyway, try before you buy if you can. There's more to any camera than the simple specs can tell you.

[Raoul Isidro]

I personally feel that all major brands of DSLRs are good choices. It is very difficult for a brand name to survive in the volatile DSLR market without offering the best to the buyers. The disatisfaction of camera users comes from the "The other man's glass is always cleaner, the flashbulb flashes better on the other side" mentality.

[beatles2]

Its like asking ford or chevy. I would say go to the camera store and play with them all. Trust when it feels right thats the one.

[sk66]

Or, if you want full frame on a budget, the new sony is a bargain.....On the other hand, more limited options in lenses.

[SusanH1970]

Originally Posted by beatles2

Its like asking ford or chevy. I would say go to the camera store and play with them all. Trust when it feels right thats the one.

+1. When I first looked at DSLR's, I had Nikon in mind, because I'd borrowed my brother in law's D80. I held a few other Nikons and wasn't sure what I wanted. But, my husband bought me a Canon XSi last Christmas, and I am SO glad that he did. It fits perfectly in my hands and I've found it to be just more ergonomic than the Nikons, to me. As someone said earlier, Nikon, Canon, Sony...and don't forget Olympus, too...either one will be a great camera, you just need to find the one that feels right to you.

[douglas]

I would agree if you can rent some cameras and see what feels good in your hands. I think all the major dslr's are good. Think about the cost of more lenses, because eventually you will want to get more.As an olympus user...these tend to get overlooked but go and try them. I like mine because it fits my hands so well, and does all I need.

[inkista]

Originally Posted by sk66

Or, if you want full frame on a budget, the new sony is a bargain.....On the other hand, more limited options in lenses.

On the third hand, the only digital mount with autofocusing Zeiss glass. Not to mention that in-body stabilization which works with all your lenses....