Upgrading - D90 or D300...help!!!!

[SaraJane]

I have got a D40 at the moment, my first SLR and I've had it for about 3 years now. In the last year I have gotten into photography a lot more and feel I am outgrowing my camera so I want to upgrade.

But I can't decide what to upgrade to - D90 or D300??

I take mainly portraits, and mainly of my 1yr old daughter. I use my camera on manual pretty much all the time with the Nikkor 35mm f/1.8 lens. I have also been asked by a few people recently to do some photos for them. Some time in the future (maybe in a couple of yrs) I think I might take up photography professionally. But for now I won't be charging anyone money, I just love doing the photos and the experience and practice.

So...under these circumstances what would you suggest??

Thank you!!

[kirbinster]

Go with the D90, the D300 really just puts a bigger dent in your wallet without giving much more -- I have both of them.

[Indigo November]

I just got the d90 a week ago and I love it, I can't say anything about the d300 though, never used it.
I have the 35mm f/1.4 too, love it!!!!!

I'd go with the D90 if I were you. One thing though, some say it is a little loud, I noticed this too but I don't care.

[OsmosisStudios]

Originally Posted by kirbinster

Go with the D90, the D300 really just puts a bigger dent in your wallet without giving much more -- I have both of them.

Unless you need a faster FPS (7 vs 4.5), the semi weather-sealed body, and the advanced video functions.

[SaraJane]

So.....if I did start charging ppl for sessions in the future a D90 is good enough?? Does it matter??

[mbower05]

Originally Posted by SaraJane

So.....if I did start charging ppl for sessions in the future a D90 is good enough?? Does it matter??

I have owned the D90 and currently have a D300. Both cameras share essentially the same image sensor and will both give great results. Osmosis is correct that the 300 does give a higher FPS and has magnesium body that is weather sealed.

I can add that the 300 allows for more customization of menus and buttons on the body. Another thing to consider is that the 300 is a heavier and slightly larger body than the 90...so when you start to add some heavy glass like a 24-70 or 70-200 it may become uncomfortable. If possible you may want to go to a local camera shop and try both out. If it isnt comfortable in your hands you will not be happy in the long run!

Is it good enough to be used by a professional, I would say it definitely is. The 300 is built to take more abuse, but from an image quality perspective the D90 will give great results. I actually sold my D90 to a wedding photographer that I work with She uses it all the time and produces amazing shots!

[sk66]

If you don't abuse your gear, the D90 is probably fine. Usually the added features in the menus go unused.

[SaraJane]

Thanks for all your help guys!! It's sounding like the D90 is the way to go for me. I am super careful with my camera, over the top really, lol, it will be well looked after so I think it will be fine.

I think I'll be going to have a look at them both today.

[SaraJane]

Also, my AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G lens will be good with the D90 right??

[LoveDSLR]

Originally Posted by SaraJane

Also, my AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G lens will be good with the D90 right??

Good as in AF compatible then YES. Even my D3 works with the 35 f/1.8 DX.

BTW, you don't have to restrict yourself using Nikon AF-S, Sigma HSM or Tamron BIM lenses with the D90.