Will the D5000 be good enough for me?

[lyndajean]

I know how you feel - I was on a tight budget and struggled with this exact decision. I had only ever used pont-and-shoots and was (am) a beginner. I ended up buying my D5000 back in April.. and I LOVE IT! Then I stumbled across DPS. boy do I have a lot to learn!! It is going to take me years to perfect my technical knowledge of photography. When I feel like I can hold myself to a "professional" standard, is when I will splurge on a "better" camera. In the mean time - it's for fun, and I'm still learning - both the technical part of the wonderful world of photography, and also still learning about all my camera has to offer. This camera meets and exceeds all expectations I had and I have yet to be disappointed by it's capabilities.

[lemonjenny]

Originally Posted by zhxie

But are there any reasons I should NOT buy a D5000?

The only reason not to is if you plan on investing in non-AF-S lenses. Other than that, you're better to go with a D5000. Also, the D90 is rumored to be replaced next month... so I wouldn't buy it even if it were within your price range.

The D5000 can grow with you. The image quality is identical between the two cameras.