Nikon D3000 vs. D5000

[susanc]

After doing some further research, I am leaning towards a Nikon D3000 instead of the D5000. I don't need/want/use the video feature I have on my Kodak camera that I have. Samy's Camera has the Nikon D3000 with 18-55 mm VR Lens and 55-200 mm DX Lens for $799.00. That is within my budget. Do any of you have any suggestions or advice please? I need a camera/lens that will take great closeup shots with great detail for taking photos of my jewelry that I make and also for closeup shots of flowers, etc. Also, I will use it for general picture-taking and for longer-distance shots as well. I would greatly appreciate any help you could give me. This will be my first "grown-up" camera and I want to spend my cash wisely.

Thanks!

[kirbinster]

I think you are making a mistake. The price difference is not that great and the D5000 has at least two significant features that are worth the difference. First it uses a CMOS sensor (very similar to D90 and D300) while the D3000 uses the older CCD sensor. The CMOS sensor will give you better images and better low light capabilities. Second is the articulated screen. This really makes live view a worthwile tool. Go to Nikon's web site and compares all the features of each camera.

[scootermcq]

Here is a picture of jewelry taken with a D60 and that kit lens. The 3000 is the same except you have a larger LCD, more focal points and the on board tutorial.




Here is a flower taken with that lens

[jakethepig]

Hi Susan. I recently switched from a Sony Alpha 300 to the Nikon D5000 and now we have become friends, I am really enjoying the experience. If you check out my flickr and see the pictures from December you will see the results of my learning and some of my shots taken with the D5000. I find it really easy to use too. I must admit though, It's the first time I've used Nikon but i was advised to choose the D5000 before the D3000. And like Kirbi says it also has the CMOS sensor.
One down point, I bought the 50mm AF f/1,8 D and it doesn't Auto focus on this camera but it's still a lot of fun.
I also have the 18-55 kit lens and Nikor AF-S 70-300 which do auto focus.
I'm liking my D5000 a lot.

Good luck and I hope this helped.

Dave.

[susanc]

Thank you for your help. As far as the LCD display goes, I usually look through the eyepiece, as it is hard for me to really focus when trying to do it through the LCD. Even if I wouldn't use the video capacity, do you still think the D5000 is a better camera for what I will be using it for? Is there another model that would be better for around $700-$800?

[Chip]

For your jewelry close ups, it may be helpful to use a tripod. When I use a tripod for photos like this, I find Live View (D5000 has it, D3000 doesn't) to be very helpful - you can use Live View to zoom in and make sure that your focus is tack sharp.

And the better low light capability that the D5000 offers shouldn't be underestimated - it really does give much greater flexibility, especially if the lens isn't particularly "fast."

So, yes, I'd recommend the D5000.

As for lenses, the 18-55mm kit lens gives good bang for the buck and for longer reach, maybe the 55-200mm VR? If you don't mind used products, you should be able to find each of these "used" for not that much money.

Dave - I didn't realize you'd come over to Nikon. Glad you're enjoying your camera.

[andybender]

Susan, I have a D3000 and I am very happy with it. I can't speak to quality, but I have found a couple things I have encountered might persuade you towards the D5000 if they are important to you.

Live View - having live view on the D5000, as far as I know, allows you to shoot tethered to a computer with the required software. My D3000 can't shoot tethered from what I have researched.

Cable shutter release - The D5000 can use a remote cable shutter release in addition to the wireless remote, while the D3000 can only use the IR remote, which has a limited range and utility.

Neither are critical in my opinion, and if the price of the D5000 means you won't have anything to use, then better to get the D3000 and go shooting. adding in the 55-200 VR only sweetens the deal.

[Raoul Isidro]

The D5000 have a few advantages, depending on the user.
The swivel screen is great for taking clips hand held high up on tip toes! You see everything because the screen can be pointing down to you. Ok too for high speed shooting over crowds. It can also be used for waste level shooting, like in the old days of TLR cameras. Flip the screen out and take the photo with the camera on your tummy!
Cheers!