What’s Your Preference?

Maooose · #1 (**permalink**) 09-10-2009, 05:47 PM

I am considering purchasing a DSLR for the first time. It doesn't appear that there are very major differences between these two models. It seems that there is about $150 difference in price between them. I like to take pictures of flowers, landscapes, animals for the most part. But I would like to have the ability to take pictures of things like birds in flight but not looking like they are really far away. I'd like to try other things like star trails, drops of water. So, I guess my question would be....for a VERY beginner which would be the better choice and what in your opinion would justify spending the extra $150 for the D3000?

I look forward to your responses and help.

Sara

vandergus · #2 (**permalink**) 09-10-2009, 05:59 PM

The only real difference between the cameras is that the D3000 has a newer autofocus system with more points in the viewfinder. The D60 only has three. Probably not worth $150. I would go with the D60 and put the $150 towards a nice long lens to catch those birds.

dcclark · #3 (**permalink**) 09-10-2009, 06:24 PM

Agreed... buy lenses and stick with the D3000. Alternately, save up a lot more cash, and buy the D90. That's the next real step up, and buys you more advanced features (if you will use them!).

Maooose · #4 (**permalink**) 09-10-2009, 06:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dcclark

Agreed... buy lenses and stick with the D3000.

Did you mean to say stick with the D60? I am a little confused...just wondering?

kirbinster · #5 (**permalink**) 09-10-2009, 06:56 PM

http://www.nikonusa.com/Assets/Commo...LR_Compare.pdf

Above are the detailed specs to compare

Maooose · #6 (**permalink**) 09-10-2009, 07:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kirbinster

http://www.nikonusa.com/Assets/Commo...LR_Compare.pdf

Above are the detailed specs to compare

I have looked at these but don't know enough about the technicalities to really understand the differences and if they justify the extra expense for a new DSLR user like myself. But thanks for the link and the response.

LoveDSLR · #7 (**permalink**) 09-10-2009, 07:05 PM

As I looking through the comparison between D3000 and D60, I find two items I like on the D3000. Nikon D3000 compared to the Nikon D60 versus the Canon Rebel XS / EOS 1000D

- SRS. D3000 uses that information for auto focus, auto exposure & i-TTL and auto white balance.
- 11 point AF with cross type at center and 3D Focus Tracking (like the Nikon D90 and the D5000).

I prefer Nikon to Canon because of its metering. So I'll recommend the D3000 here.

OsmosisStudios · #8 (**permalink**) 09-11-2009, 02:41 AM

The D3000 is Nikon's "replacement" for the D60. You'll get better high-ISO noise levels, faster processing, a better AF, and a larger, better screen. That's about it.

Maooose · #9 (**permalink**) 09-12-2009, 05:27 PM

So, I went to Best Buy yesterday afternoon and they had both the D60 and the D3000. They are both sold with the kit lens not just the body. And guess what? The price is the same! So, based on that I think the choice is obvious and I will be going with the D3000.

Thanks all for your suggestions and responses to my post. Now I just have to wait about a month before I can buy it since that is when I will have the $$$ money for it!