Odd question

[lonni]

Hi

I would like to know if any of the recent nikon dslr bodies have a light meter on the screen or view finder or if it adjusts the image real time on the screen. I would also like to know if i can use the lenses are still used to adjust focus and aperature or if i have to set it with buttons.

I am making the move from an old mechanial film nikon to digital and am looking at what cameras i like. Problem is i live regionally and the cameras available to test are aimed at point and shoot people, the d3000 for instance and the store people are usless.

I am used to working instinctively with my mechaincal, set the iso and speed dials and turn the two ring on the lens, all woth out thinking, the camera has a needle inside to indicate light, my favourite feature.

I was looking at the D90, D300, D80 and D40 but if any one has any suggestions i would be happy for them.

Thanks in advance for any info.

[OsmosisStudios]

All dSLRs have a meter in the viewfinder, though it is different than most film SLRs were, especially the mechanical ones.

If you use Live view, the camera will show the screen in much the same way the viewfinder would: everything is done with the lens wide open. The screen wont get darker as you adjust things.

Looking at your list of cameras, your best bet will be the D90. The D80 is an older body and the D300 might be more than you need. The D40 is an earlier version of the D3000: unless its your only option, I'd go for something else.

[Majordad]

I just went through the exercise you are undertaking. I opted for the D300. I have no use for video so I never went for the D90. I have a D70 so I will grow into the D300, methinks.

[Nicole]

The D90 would probably be a good bet. It does have dual dials for aperture and shutter speed. I'm almost certain from your description that you would be frustrated with the D40 since it requires many adjustments to be done via the screen. Unless you really need the things the D300 offers compared to the D90, the D90 would probably suit you well.

I should also say, I have no idea why everyone seems to hate the video on the D90. I use it about as much as I ever did on any point and shoots (to say, very infrequently), but it's fun to have if you want to capture a short clip. The quality is about what I'd expect on something that's not made just for video, and all things considered, it works ok for me.

[vandergus]

Assuming you currently have a bunch of manual focus lenses that you would like to keep using, I think you're best bet is a D300 or D700. They will give you the most functionality with your existing lenses (assuming they are at least Ai, mounting pre-Ai lenses may damage those cameras). Any of the lower class cameras will not provide metering information with your lenses. You can still use them in manual mode, you just won't get any indication of the correct exposure from the camera. With the D300 or D700, you can use the lenses in aperture priority or manual mode and still get metering from the camera. And you can even adjust the aperture on the lens! If you buy new lenses to go with a D90, you'll be stuck controlling the aperture from the body. If you get a D300, you'll have to consider that the field of view provided by your lenses will now be different due to the smaller sensor. The D700 has a sensor the same size as 35mm film, so you'll maintain the traditional field of view. Hope this helps to sort things out.