Is a Nikon D40 a good first slr?

[shakespear57]

Im looking at buying my first slr (upgrading from a normal digital camera) and wondering if a Nikon D40 is good for what i want? Any help would be appreciated

[TheMoons678]

Sure but I wouldn't pay much. The d60 and d3000 are so close to the d40 in used price you might as well get the newest model you can that your budget will allow. I've used the d40, d40x, d60, d5000, d3100... They all have the same feel to them., just more bells and whistles as newer models come out.

[shakespear57]

Originally Posted by TheMoons678

Sure but I wouldn't pay much. The d60 and d3000 are so close to the d40 in used price you might as well get the newest model you can that your budget will allow. I've used the d40, d40x, d60, d5000, d3100... They all have the same feel to them., just more bells and whistles as newer models come out.

Are the bells and whistles hard to use?? I've never used a slr before and i don't know what all the features are and stuff ... do you just learn as you go?

[TheMoons678]

I learned by reading DPS articles here, using the free Nikon Learn-and-Explore app, and by practicing.

Bells and whistles are just different scene modes, movie mode, swivel LCD, bracketing,... stuff you dont really need but arent hard to use. Just spend lots of time reading here and youll pick things up as you try to put them in practice in your photography.

Really doesnt matter which starter DSLR you get with Nikon (although I'd personally avoid the D50, D70, D100 generation). Buy it used at a good price and you can always sell it and move on when you feel ready.

[JFSanders]

I use a D-40 everyday. In fact it is my carry camera. Goes every where I go. Small, light, enough camera to make serious images and use real lenses. DX format so that you get a boost from shorter, cheaper FX lenses. As in a 50mm FX lens will actually be about 70mm on a DX body. Downside is if it is a non motorized lens then you will not be able to auto focus as the D-40 does not have an integral motor like the D-90 does.

There are trade offs with any system and for me the glass is ten times more important the the body. So I would be ok with a D-40 but do take advantage of the price discount for a discontinued body model. Don't pay more than 350 to 400 for body and kit lens.

[Footski]

I agree with the above. I used D60 for a year or two, relearning the art of photography and this new fangled digital era. I loved it and have now upgraded. The D40 is a great little camera for a first time user.

[Shokinen]

I started with a D60 as well (D40 replacement). Good body to start digging into this wonderfull hobby. I upgraded mine because I didn't like going in the menu (I shoot 95% in manual) to change my settings. But this really depends how far you want to push your photography.

I do agree with TheMoons678. A closer look around may get you more features / better sensor for almost the same price.