upgrading from D40x to something else

[cshgeorge]

I have had a Nikon D40x for about three years and have been thinking of upgrading but just don't what to upgrade too. I already have two lens and a flash for the camera so I know that I want to stay with a Nikon. Anyone have any suggestions as to which Nikon camera I should upgrade to. I take pictures of church events and do a little portrait stuff - would love to get into macro. I would appreciate any information or suggestions. I am leaning towards either the D90 or the D300s. Thanks

[kirbinster]

If you like the D40x, then you might also want to consider the D5000. The D5000 is the same size as the D40x but gives you the same image sensor as the D90 / D300. It uses menus like your D40x, and does not have the top LCD display of the more expensive models. It also has a back color display that tilts and swivels - I don't think any other Nikon has that. The display is great if you want to take pictures on the ground without laying down or want to see what you are shooting if you raise the camera over others' heads like in a parade. It also does movie mode. The big question is do you need some of the other features that the D90 or D300 offer. I have all three so if you have specific questions feel free to ask.

[cshgeorge]

I just want to be able to take great pictures for friends and families. I would stay with my D40x and just upgrade to a new lens but not sure what to upgrade in that area either. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

[kirbinster]

Well I don't know what lenses you have, so it is hard to tell you what to get. If you don't need anything too long the Nikon 24-70 f/2.8 AF-S is a great super sharp fast lens - but it costs more than your camera did by a factor of roughly three. If you just want a sharp portrait lens the Nikon 85mm f/1.8 can be picked up used for around $300 to $350, while the f/1.4 will set you back $900-$1,100 on the used market.

[Dennismc]

Well what lens do you have now?

Have you not been able to get a shot you wanted because of a limitation of the camera?

The d40x and the d40 are great cameras and quite capable of taking some amazing shots.

Before anyone can suggest a upgrade to the body they will need to know exactly what you think the d40x isnt doing for you..

[Almond.Butterscotch]

Originally Posted by kirbinster

want a sharp portrait lens the Nikon 85mm f/1.8 can be picked up used for around $300 to $350, while the f/1.4 will set you back $900-$1,100 on the used market.

Won't autofocus on the D40x or D5000.

[kirbinster]

Originally Posted by Almond.Butterscotch

Won't autofocus on the D40x or D5000.

Good point on the 85mm, I use it on my other bodies and forgot that -- good catch. Thanks.

[cshgeorge]

The two lens that I have are the 18-55 and the 70-200 and I also have a SB600 Flash. And I love the way my Nikon D40x feels - it just fits right in my hands. Can anyone recommend a great lens that would be a good addition to the D40x and could be used for portraits. Also, I would like to purchase a great macro lens. Thanks for everyones suggestion. Since this is so new to me I need all the help I can get.

[Dennismc]

Nikon 35mm 1.8 af-s is a great lens and can be had for just about 200.00 bucks..

And it will fully function on the d40x

[RLucas]

I know this will have you crossing ranges, but the 70-300vr is a great lens for portraiture as well as some wildlife and outside sports. It is a very sharp lens for what it costs, and the autofocus isn't too shabby either. Some people say it gets too soft at the narrow end;(over 200mm), but I haven't noticed on my copy. I don't pixel peep either.

If your camera still works ok, I would keep using it. I still have my D40, and love it. I did sidegrade/downgrade, and bought a used d70, just to have some more glass options. I did say downgrade just because of the age. for some reason, 5 years in digital terms is like 100 for everything else. For what I do, the resolution is just fine for me.