Nikon D3000 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G AF-S DX VR Nikkor Zoom Lens
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Availability:
Only 2 left in stock, order soon!
Arrives
Jul 13 – Jul 18
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Style: with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G AF-S DX VR Nikkor Zoom Lens
Product Packaging: Standard Packaging
Features
- 10.2-megapixel DX-format imaging sensor for prints up to 20 x 30 inches
- Includes 3x 18-55mm Zoom-Nikkor VR Image Stabilization lens
- Nikon EXPEED image processing; in-camera image editing and Active D-Lighting
- 3.0-inch color LCD screen; 170-degree wide-angle viewing
- Capture images to SD/SDHC memory cards (not included)
Description
Breathtaking digital SLR image quality and easy operation highlight the 10.2-megapixel D3000--Nikon's friendliest DSLR ever. Compact and capable, the D3000 is compatible with a broad range of world-famous Nikkor lenses and includes the versatile 3x, 18-55mm Zoom-Nikkor with Silent-Wave Motor autofocusing and Nikon VR image stabilization to combat picture blur caused by camera shake for sharper handheld pictures. Special moments are captured faithfully at up to 3 frames-per-second and displayed on a bright, 3-inch LCD monitor. The D3000's split-second shutter response eliminates the annoyance of shutter lag. To further simplify picture-taking in special situations such as portraits, sports, landscapes, and more, the D3000 features icon-identified Scene Modes that deliver beautiful results automatically in otherwise complex situations.
Compatible Mountings: Nikon F (DX), Nikon F (FX)
Aspect Ratio: 32
Photo Sensor Technology: CCD
Supported File Format: DXF
Image Stabilization: None
Maximum Focal Length: 55 Millimeters
Optical Zoom: 3 x
Maximum Aperture: 3.5 f
Expanded ISO Minimum: 100
Metering Description: Multi, Center-weighted, Spot
Compatible Mountings: Nikon F (DX), Nikon F (FX)
Aspect Ratio: 32
Sensor Type: CCD
File Format: DXF
Image stabilization: None
Maximum Aperture: 3.5 f
Expanded ISO Minimum: 100
Photo Sensor Resolution: 10.2 MP
Photo Sensor Size: APS-C
Maximum Shutter Speed: 1/4000 Seconds
Minimum Shutter Speed: 30 seconds
Exposure Control: Automatic, Shutter Priority
Form Factor: Compact SLR
Effective Still Resolution: 10.2 MP
Special Feature: nvSensor^CCD|Sensor^10.2 million|Size^23.6 x 15.8mm|Storage Media^SD/SDHC Memory Card|Compressed Format^JPEG|Compressed Format^EXIF 2.21|Compressed Format^Compliant DCF 2.0|Focus Mode^Auto|Focus Mode^Manual|Focus Mode^Single-servo AF|Focus Mode^Continuous-servo|Optical Viewfinder^TFT-LCD|LCD Monitor^3 inches|LCD Pixels^230,000 dots|LCD Coverage^100%|Shutter Speed^30 ~ 1/4000 sec.|Exposure Modes^Auto|Exposure Modes^Manual
Color: Black
Screen Size: 3 Inches
Shooting Modes: Scene, Sports
Item Weight: 1.18 Pounds
Video Resolution: HD 720p
Viewfinder: Optical
Flash Modes: auto, manual, Red-eye reduction, Slow synchronization
Camera Flash: Built-In
Skill Level: Professional
Specific Uses For Product: Photography
Compatible Devices: Computers, External Storage Devices
Continuous Shooting: 3 FPS
Aperture modes: 3.5-5.6
Viewfinder Magnification: 0.8x
Flash Sync Speed: 1/200_sec
Connectivity Technology: USB
Wireless Technology: Yes
Total USB 3.0 Ports: 2
Total USB Ports: 1
Total USB 2.0 Ports: 1
Hardware Interface: AV Port
HDMI Type: None
Display Type: LCD
Display Fixture Type: Fixed
Display Maximum Resolution: 800 x 450
Has Color Screen: Yes
Display Resolution Maximum: 230,000
Flash Memory Type: SD/SDHC card
Memory Storage Capacity: 32 GB
Write Speed: 3 fps
Flash Memory Bus Interface Type: SD
Flash Memory Installed Size: 64 GB
Compatible Flash Memory Type: SD, SDHC
JPEG Quality Level: Basic, Fine, Normal
Bit Depth: 24 Bit
Total Still Resolution: 10.2 MP
Maximum Image Size: 10.2 MP
Maximum Focal Length: 55 Millimeters
Optical Zoom: 3 x
Lens Type: zoom
Zoom: Optical Zoom
Camera Lens: 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G AF-S DX VR Nikkor Zoom Lens
Minimum Focal Length: 18 Millimeters
Real Angle Of View: 170 Degrees
Focal Length Description: F= 3.5 ~5.6 f=18 ~ 55 mm
Digital Zoom: 3.00
Number of Diaphragm Blades: 7
Metering Methods: Multi, Center-weighted, Spot
White Balance Settings: Auto
Self Timer: 10 Seconds
Brand: Nikon
Model Name: D3000 18-55mm Kit
Built-In Media: Battery, Body Cap, Eyecup, USB Cable
Are Batteries Included: Yes
External-Memory Size: 64 GB
Model Number: D3000 18-55mm Kit
Remote Included: No
Model Series: D
Series Number: 3000
Generation: 3
UPC: 018208254620
Unit Count: 1.0 Count
Manufacturer Part Number: D3000 18-55mm Kit
Manufacturer: Nikon
Age Range Description: Kid
Digital Scene Transition: zoom
Digital-Still: No
Movie Mode: Yes
Image Capture Type: Stills
Auto Focus Technology: Continuous, Contrast Detection, Multi-area, Phase Detection, Selective single-point, Single
Focus Features: Nikon Multi-CAM1000
Autofocus Points: 11
Focus Type: Automatic with manual
Focus Mode: Continuous-Servo AF (AF-C), Manual Focus (MF), Single-Servo AF (AF-S)
Autofocus: Yes
Frequently asked questions
If you place your order now, the estimated arrival date for this product is:
Jul 13 – Jul 18
Yes, absolutely! You may return this product for a full refund within 30 days of receiving it.
To initiate a return, please visit our Returns Center.
View our full returns policy here.
To initiate a return, please visit our Returns Center.
View our full returns policy here.
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Top Amazon Reviews
Style: with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G AF-S DX VR Nikko...
Product Packaging: Standard Packaging
This is probably not the right camera for someone who is an uber-photography hobyist. This is the right camera for someone who enjoys photography and wants to step up from a quality point and shoot digital pocket camera. I wanted an SLR because I wanted to improve the photos I was taking of my 18 month old daughter. My Canon SD750 pocket camera takes great photos, but not the same quality as an SLR would. The D3000 is great because it has an auto mode that essentially turns it into a point and shoot camera. There is no shutter lag and - with the right memory card - you can hit continuous shoot to take 3 shots per second. (This is ideal for shots of my daughter going down a slide or kicking a ball in the backyard.) If you end up "getting into" photography and want to futz with the settings, this camera has everything you could need. 11 point multi-focus and fancy light metering will keep anyone busy. That said, you can also just leave it in auto and it will take phenominal photos. One of the best features is the "?" button. On any screen, you can push the "?" button to get a quick description of what the different setting options will do. For example, when selecting a manual metering mode, it will tell you the difference between multimetering and spotmetering. The Guide feature is another helpful option that guides you through questions about what you are shooting and adjusts the settings accordingly. To be frank, I find I don't use that very much. The camera comes with an 18-55 lens which is perfectly adequate for 80% of shooting. I also purchased a 35mm f/1.8 lens so that I could take more shots indoors without flash. I might also consider a 70-300 or 55-200 at some point down the road. For now, I have not had a need to do much telephoto work. I find that I can take the photo with the lens I have and then just zoom and crop on the computer. The image sensor has enough quality that you can really do a significant crop and zoom without a noticable loss in image quality. Here are some negatives: 1) Shooting above 800 ISO tends to yield grainy photos. I try to keep it at 800 or below. That is another reason I bought the Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S DX Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras lens. 2) You need a fast SD card to avoid shooting delays. The camera has an image buffer. I found that using a standard Sandisk 15mb/s card, I was able to shoot (on continuous shooting) about 6 or 8 photos before hitting the buffer. I bought a Sandisk Extreme III 30mb/s card, and I have not been able to hit the buffer. There are also some shooting effects that involve post shot processing, and these can slightly slow down the camera. 3) I sort of wish I could have bought this with only the body and then added the lenses I wanted. The 18-55 is a very good lens, but I probably would have just ended up buying an 18, a 35 and maybe a longer zoom. Conclusion This is a great camera. It is a very good value and is the natural step up from a pocket digital. In my opinion, all of the criticisms I have seen online are from people who expect an entry level camera to have all of the bells and whistles found on models 2-10x the price. UPDATE: Nearly one year later . . . I still love this camera, but please be sure to check out the updated version Nikon D3100 14.2MP Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AF-S DX VR Nikkor Zoom Lens or the body only Nikon D5000 12.3 MP DX Digital SLR Camera with 2.7-inch Vari-angle LCD (Body Only) plus Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S DX Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras
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Reviewed in the United States on October 5, 2009 by Just a guy
Style: with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G AF-S DX VR Nikko...
Product Packaging: Standard Packaging
Hey potential buyers! I recently upgraded to the d3000 as my first DSLR. Earlier this year, when we were preparing for our first baby, my husband convinced me to purchase one of the Nikon point-and-shoot super-zoom cameras to save money (he said DSLRs are too difficult to use, anyway). After using the super-zoom for the past few months, I ended up buying this camera anyway because even the super-zoom left me disappointed and wanting. This camera is WELL WORTH the money and the effort, especially now with the release of the d3100. I'll preface this by saying that I am a quick learner and technologically savvy, but this camera is very easy to use. The guide and scene modes are great, but straight out of the box, I found the manual modes (I mainly use M or A) very easy to use. When I ordered the camera, I read up on a few of the important terms that are necessary for understanding how to take good manual pictures. So, while you're waiting for your shipment, google DSLR blogs that explain aperture, shutter, exposure, ISO sensitivity, metering, etc., and it's also helpful to go ahead and take a look at the manual online to get a sense of all of the options you have for focusing. If you understand these basic photography concepts, you'll have no problem getting GREAT pictures in a variety of settings. I've taken superb pictures indoors, outdoors, in good lighting and poor. The auto focusing capabilities are just amazing. Anyone frustrated with point-and-shoots is going to love the control you get. The camera is stable and sturdy, not cheap feeling. The buttons are accessible, convenient, and also feel like quality. I don't have much to say about the flash.... the few pictures I've taken with flash turned out fine, but I honestly don't really use it because you can easily manage exposure with the other settings. Here are some things that aren't issues for me, but be aware of when you purchase the camera: 1-No live view: you must look through the viewfinder. I think it's great. 2-Any extra lenses you buy must have AF-S in the title. This means that the auto-focusing mechanism is IN THE LENS, not the camera body, so if you want auto focus, you must get an auto-focusing lens. You can still use other lenses, but you'll have to focus manually. I kind of like manually focusing just because it's fun to learn, but the autofocus is great on this camera. If you have any questions or want to see some samples, feel free to contact me.
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Reviewed in the United States on June 10, 2011 by Sargent
Style: with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G AF-S DX VR Nikko...
Product Packaging: Standard Packaging
After a trip to Biltmore Estate and the resulting disappointment with my point-and-shoot photos, I decided to take the plunge and purchase a quality camera. Being new to DSLR cameras, I didn't want to spend a lot of money but wanted a camera that would allow me to take better photographs while learning the basics. This was the perfect choice for me. I researched other models (Canon, Sony, etc.) and decided on the Nikon based on other users reviews and cameras my friends use. Other reviewers have gone into great detail on the features so I'll just provide a quick overview. Although the camera doesn't have all the bells and whistles of, say a Nikon D300s, if you're new to DSLRs you don't want too much too soon. Too many options and features may very well turn you off to photography. There have been times when even figuring out the features on this camera is overwealming. Be warned that you will not get a user's guide detailed enough to cover every feature and setting on the camera. I ended up buying David Busch's D3000 Guide for a more thorough understanding of the camera. There is a built-in step-by-step feature on the camera that was awesome, but it can't possibly be expected to cover everything the camera does. The D3000 has a full auto mode, and "quick modes" for portrait, children, landscape, and the typical point-and-shoot settings, perfect if you have a signifcant other that just wants to take pictures, but not worry about manually setting aperature or shutter speed. Then there are the "big boy" settings: aperature priority, shutter priority, programed auto, and full manual (arg, arg, arg!). These settings are the key difference between a pont-and-shoot of the kids you never look at again and a picture you want to hang above your fireplace. If you're new to DSLRs try to grab one of these cameras. I've been using this for about eight months and have yet to hit the mark where I want to move up in camera. I do however want better lenses. The kit lens you get with this camera is great for starting out, but at about the two month mark I hit the plateau of what the camera can do with the kit lens. A colleague of mine has loaned me his Nikonr 18-55 2.4, Nikon 60mm 2.8 prime and Tokina 11-16 2.8. What a difference. Although the camera is still holding its own, the lens will quickly become something you'll want to replace. Be warned, once you begin shooting and reach the limitations of the kit lens, you will want to begin exploring other lens options. Be prepared to spend mucho bucks! The difference between the kit lens (18-55 f3.5-5.4) and the Nikon 18-55 f2.8 is staggering. The 2.8 is faster and sharper than you can possibly hope for with the kit lens, especially in low-light situations. Overall, this camera is a great primer for DSLR photography. I recently learned that Nikon wil no longer carry the D3000. If you want to take the plunge and learn about DSLR photography, I strongly recommend you try to find one. Even used, this camera will hold its value and may increase in value. I would urge you to buy a different strap though. Nothing says "steal me please" more than the Nikon strap that is included. Grab yourself an Op/TECH Pro strap and shoot away.
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Reviewed in the United States on March 31, 2011 by MDTN FMLY
Style: with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G AF-S DX VR Nikko...
Product Packaging: Standard Packaging
My good old point-and-shoot camera (one of the Canon PowerShot series) had served me faithfully, but I was growing frustrated with its limitations. It seemed SO slow -- I was always missing great shots of my kids. The low-light performance was not particularly good. And I knew if I ever wanted to take more than basic family snapshots, I was going to need to bite the bullet and buy a DSLR. But they seemed so intimidating! After doing a ton of research online and trying out my sister-in-law's slightly older Nikon D40, I settled on the new D3000. And I love it! It really is easier to use than I could've imagined, and the shots I've gotten so far are amazing. I have no photographic training, but I am really delighted with the pictures I've been getting so far. I never could have imagined there would be SUCH a huge difference. I've actually gotten -sharp- pictures of my toddler in motion, rather than just kid-shaped blurs! I took it to a local park last night for a couple hours and took some really nice photos there, too. Some things you might want to know if you, like me, are new to DSLRs: * Everything you need is in the box (flash, lens, camera body, camera strap, manual, etc.) -except- for a memory card. You'll need to get an SD or SHDC card to use with your camera. These are quite affordable. Of course, you may WANT more lenses, etc., later, but the kit lens is very nice, and offers a decent amount of flexibility. I would suggest, however, get a lens filter to help protect the lens, * The D3000 comes with a "Guide" -- it helps you choose what effect you're looking for (freeze motion, blur background, etc.) and then helps you pick the right settings. But even just on "auto" mode, it takes some really fabulous pictures. * Even as a relatively small DSLR, it's definitely bigger and heavier than most point-and-shoots. This wasn't a big issue to me, as I mostly plan to use it at home, but if you want something you can stick in your pocket, a DSLR may not be for you. (I plan to keep my old point-and-shoot as a backup for times when I want something I can just stow in my purse.) * The D3000 does not have "Live View," where you can frame your shot in the LCD screen. I was a little concerned about this at first, but surprisingly, I've found that I really don't miss it at all. It also does not have video mode (which I find I don't miss, either, because I've always hated taking videos with a camera! They come out all shaky for me.) * The included printed manual is pretty short and sweet. There is a manual on CD included that is much more complete. Neither, of course, really explains DSLRs in depth or photographic principles, so if you'd really like to learn more about using your camera to its fullest, I'd suggest Digital SLR Cameras and Photography For Dummies (For Dummies (Computer/Tech)) and Digital Photography Workbook For Dummies (For Dummies (Sports & Hobbies)). The former does a great job of explaining how your camera works, why DSLRs are different from point-and-shoots, how to care for your camera, and what accessories you may want. The latter has tons of hands-on exercises to help you learn your way around your camera and improve your photography. In short, if you'd like to jump into the DSLR pond, the D3000 is definitely an excellent introduction. Come on in -- the water's great!
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Reviewed in the United States on September 5, 2009 by A. B.
Style: with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G AF-S DX VR Nikko...
Product Packaging: Standard Packaging
EDITED to say that I decided to take a 3-week trip overseas. My camera was a superstar! I couldn't have been happier. People, strangers, kept asking if they could look at it. The pictures turned out great. An officer on the cruise ship asked if I needed him to "set it" for me. I didn't, but I let him take a closer look at it, which was really what he wanted. I was amazed at how interested people were in it. When I returned and put my pictures online for friends and relatives, one, who is an excellent photographer, asked if he could use some of my photos, because his pictures of Jerusalem weren't as good as mine since he had used a less advanced camera for his. Those pictures do really look good. I couldn't have asked for anything better, other than being a better photographer, of course. THIS camera went across the United States, through 2 airports in NYC, to Greece, bounced around on a thunderstormy cruise of the Greek Islands, all over ruins in Turkey and Athens, all over Israel, and into the rose rock city of Petra, in Jordan, being bounced around in a bus driven by a mad man, or 'maniac' as I called him at the time. We're lucky that we survived, my camera and I. Both of us seem to be no worse for the wear. I can highly recommend this camera as being able to take tough, rugged treatment without blinking. Earlier, before my trip, I wrote: I'll leave the technical reviews to others who know what they are talking about. I appreciate and respect their expertise. All I can tell you in my review is, I love my new camera! It's a step up from point-and-shoot, but doesn't require that you make photography an obsession or even a serious hobby. Most people who want a really nice camera but don't want to devote their life to photography will probably find this model will be an excellent choice. It takes great pictures without a lot of fuss or serious study. Years ago I studied photography and had some experience, if not expertise. Then I decided I just wanted a point-and-click for a while. This time I wanted one step above the point-and-click, but I really don't feel the need to be overly creative right now. This model has the ability to do a lot more than I will ever do with it. While it would be fun to just whip out one of those point-and-clicks which I could always carry around in my purse, my son told me I would be happy about a minute and a half with it, so I choose this one. I'm so glad I did. Nikon is my favorite brand in cameras and I wasn't disappointed. The quality of the camera is excellent and the instructions are clear, as long as you take them step-by-step, not that I ever do that. I bought this camera and a photo printer and some other electronics all at the same time and was overwhelmed with user manuals, instructions, etc. That's because my personality demands that I do too much at once. Just take it one step at a time and I think you'll love this camera, even if you are an electronic klutz like me. Now I'll turn you back to the technical experts, who will give you real advice you can use as you make your purchase.
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Reviewed in the United States on February 24, 2010 by Bold Consumer
Style: with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G AF-S DX VR Nikko...
Product Packaging: Standard Packaging
Nikon D3000 is Nikon beginner / entry level camera. It replaces Nikon D60. There are three major upgrade of D3000 from D60. There are 11 Auto focus system with dynamic tracking and 3D tracking. This AF system is the same as Nikon mid-range/enthusiast camera, D90. Also, the LCD screen has been enlarged to 3 inches from 2.5 inches. However, the screen resolution remains the same at 230,000 dots. Also new is the Guide mode, this new mode is working as your tutor on basic photography. It helps you set up your camera, in the same time, it tells you about basic photography setting and concepts. Other than that, everything looks the same, buttons, placement, viewfinder and image quality/resolution. It is an average size for beginner DSLR camera. But if you are coming from compact camera, you might a bit surprise of the size. On the other hand, if you are coming from advanced DSLR cameras, then you will feel this camera is compact and light. Nikon D3000 has a thumb dial, which you will use most of the time to change shutter speed and aperture. There are mode dial on the top of the camera. Several basic buttons such as playback, delete, menu, magnifiy/zoom, and exposure compensation. There is also a function (Fn) button on the left side, near the flash that you can customize according to your need. Coming from more advance Nikon camera like Nikon D90, what missing are the ISO button, Image Quality button, Release mode button, AF mode button and White Balance button. If you want to change above settings, you need to go to shooting menu (green camera icon). I recommend you to customize the Fn button so you can change you favorite button faster. I change my D3000 Fn button to ISO setting. Build quality and Ergonomic Nikon D3000 body is built by rugged plastic. There is texture in the grip area to ensure comfortable grip. The built quality of outer shell is the same or almost the same as Nikon D90. The difference is there are more textured finish in Nikon D90 body. Ergonomically, it is good to hold, but the space between lens mount and the grip is pretty tight. If you mount bigger lens or if you have big hands, then you might not feel it comfortable. Compare to Nikon D60, I noticed that the pistol grip is more curvy instead of pointy. This is a small improvement that you might appreciate. LCD Screen D3000 has 3 inches LCD screen with 230k resolution. This is considered basic, but the screen is clear, sharp. If you like to check on the details or pixel levels, it is best to check the images on your computer. In the bright light condition, this screen is relatively good. There is minimal glare/reflection. Nikon D3000 has 95% coverage and 0.8x magnification viewfinder. It is considered small for DSLR size, but for people who moves from superzooms or advanced compact, this viewfinder are big and a lot clearer. Manual focusing is more challenging than the other Nikon's more advanced DSLRs. Like Nikon D5000, Nikon D3000 does not have top LCD screen like D90 or more advanced camera. Unlike many of competitors entry level DSLR cameras, Nikon D3000 does not have any live view feature. Lens and Compatibility Nikon D3000 comes with Nikon 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 VR lens. This lens has a plastic mount, but the image quality and the light is recommendable. It never get super sharp like pro grade lens, but pro grade lens might costs more than ten times, so 18-55mm VR is one of the best value lens out in the market. The lens has image stabilization feature which is called Vibration Reduction (VR). It works well and quietly up to 3 stops. If you hold the camera tight and still, you can shoot up to a quarter second without motion blur. Unfortunately, D3000 does not have built in focus motor in the camera, therefore, it can't auto focus older lenses such as the venerable Nikon 50mm f/1.8 or the legendary Nikon 85mm f/1.4D. Lenses that compatible with this camera are lenses that has built in motor (usually has AF-S code on it) and for third party lenses, look for HSM (Sigma lens). Image Quality and ISO Nikon D3000 employs 10 megapixel image sensor. This sensor is a bit inferior than sensors in the D90 and D300. But still this is more adequate for large print. Image quality is excellent up to ISO 800. At 1600, a lot of noises start to creep in especially in shadow area. At 3200 (or Hi setting), the image is unacceptable only for very small print of web. If you turn on Noise Reduction or NR (unfortunately no low-medium-strong option), the camera with smooth out the noises, but the image become softer and lose some details. If you concern about the lost of details, I suggest you to shoot with NR off, and then take care the images with image editing software to treat the noise. Like other Nikon DSLR cameras, D3000 also has Auto ISO limiter. You can effectively limit the ISO and minimum shutter speed. The Auto ISO works very well and accurate most of the time. My favorite way to use this is to set the camera to Auto ISO, and then use Aperture mode and let the camera adjust the rest for me. D3000 does not have 1/3 stops ISO increments, so you only can set ISO to the regular base level or 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600 and 3200 (HI). But to be fair, most of the entry level DSLR cameras does not have that too. Auto Focus and Continuous burst The new 11 AF points are miles better than old 3 points AF system. It helps a lot in composition and fortunately, it also comes with dynamic tracking and 3D tracking which is great for moving objects and sports. The auto focus is very fast and responsive. However, D3000 has only 3 frame per second, so you might miss some shots when shooting sports or fast moving objects. Guide Mode Nikon's Guide mode is a tutor for absolute beginner. It does a good job on helping you to set up the camera and also help you to get the best setting for particular kind of photography. For example, when you choose sports mode, it suggest you to set high shutter speed to eliminate motion blur. Guide mode is basically a super duper friendly menu that consists of three major options: Shooting, playback and camera setup. Shooting menu (the most important of all), divided into two, easy operation and advanced operation. Easy operation consists of Auto, no flash, distant subjects, sleeping faces (children), moving subjects, landscapes, portrait, and night portrait. Advanced operation consists of soften background, freeze motion (people) and freeze motion (vehicle). Unlike the usual mode, Guide mode explains to you what kind of setting is important for particular kind of photography, so you can gain insight and knowledge of basic photography concept. However, keep in mind that although his guide menu is very helpful, but it does not replace basic photography course or seminar. Photo Retouch D3000 offers some basic camera processing such as quick retouch (camera automatically enhance or optimize the image). Miniature effect which is fun to play with. Basically you will need to choose a point in the image, and then the rest of the image will be blurred, giving a depth of field illusion. Other basic retouches are also available such as crop/trim, filter effects, color balance, BW, sepia, etc. The downside is the processing time of one image could take up to 10 seconds. Conclusion I applaud Nikon for D3000 because the design is very user friendly through Guide Mode. With the help of this mode, beginners will able to learn basic photography faster. Various photo retouches ignite creativity and fun. I also love the the installment of 11 AF system which is usually reserved for higher end cameras. D3000's competitors does not have this sophisticated AF system. On the other hand, Nikon D3000 have two main weaknesses, first it does not have built-in AF motor for older but great lenses. D3000 also does not have live view mode which actually can help tremendously in focusing those old lenses. If you have Nikon D60 you might want to look for more advanced camera such as Nikon D90 or D300. However, if you have Nikon D40 or compact cameras, this camera is a very good upgrade choice. In short, Nikon D3000 is a solid camera for beginner that is simple, fun, and has great image quality. It is definitely worth your money. Subjective Rating - Relative to entry level DSLR cameras Image Quality : 4/5 Features : 4/5 Performance : 5/5 Body and Handling : 4/5 Value for Money : 4/5 Please check out my website for more reviews.
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Reviewed in the United States on September 11, 2009 Reviewed in the United States on September 11, 2009 by Enche Tjin
Style: with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G AF-S DX VR Nikko...
Product Packaging: Standard Packaging
I've been a Nikon guy for years and I recently purchased this camera for my girlfriend. I shoot film and with a Nikon D90 and I have to say that I'm pretty impressed with the D3000. I have a pretty extensive and expensive kit but I typically find myself using the D3000 and it's plastic kit lens instead. It's incredibly lightweight and portable (for a DSLR). In good light, the D3000 produces sharp, colorful images that are practically indiscernible to my D90. :: PROS :: - Easy to figure out for beginners - Gives you all of the essentials. Anyone that "needs" more features needs to work on their photo skills---not inventory. - Great focusing system - Meters correctly almost every time - Sharp in good light - Light and portable - Very long battery life :: CONS :: - My word is this thing slow. You take a picture and it takes several seconds for it to show you a preview on the back. (Yes, I use a fast, Class 8 card) - Screen is low resolution and pretty dim - ISO performance is only okay. Still miles beyond point and shoots, but it's nothing compared to the D90. - No internal focusing motor. This means that you can't use any older lenses without needing to focus manually. Basically, only buy the newer AF-S lenses. :: SUMMARY :: This is a great camera designed to help people step into the SLR world and get a feel for having more control over a photograph. It won't make you a better photographer but it will give you beautiful, accurately colored, sharp and high resolution photographs (in good light). Despite my ISO "con," it really does perform nicely in low light. Just don't rely on cranking ISO up... get more light instead. I highly recommend this. :: INSTEAD :: If you have a little more money to spend, maybe check out the D5000 instead. Still no internal focusing motor, but it gives you a better screen, video capabilities, and the same image sensor that's in the D90. :: ALSO BUY :: The kit lens that comes with this, while dinky and plastic, is actually pretty terrific. I'd also recommend checking out the Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S for better low light performance and a shallower depth of field. People always notice shallow depths of field, like it, don't know how to explain it, and say "you have a great camera." It's the lens, not the camera.
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Reviewed in the United States on July 21, 2010 Reviewed in the United States on July 21, 2010 by JAC1987
Style: with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G AF-S DX VR Nikko...
Product Packaging: Standard Packaging
This is a great camera for beginners. This is my first DSLR and I've had it for about a month. Since I'm a beginner myself, I can't really speak to the technical aspects of the camera, but will try to cover the basics as much as possible. BUILD QUALITY - This is an entry-level DSLR, so don't fool yourself into thinking that you're buying a robust, professional level camera. That means that the body and lens (including the lens mount, which is the ring that attaches the lens to the body) are plastic. Although this makes for lighter equipment, it also isn't generally as sturdy as some of the higher level cameras. HOWEVER, when I actually went to BestBuy and camera stores, I found that the Nikon cameras (when you actually picked them up in-hand) in this niche felt much sturdier and of much higher quality than the competitors. Does that mean they'll last longer? Not necessarily, but for what it's worth, the Nikons really did feel better. FEATURES - In this day and age, this is really a bare-bones DSLR. The only camera I cross-shopped with this was the D5000. There are MANY differences between the two, the largest of which is the nicer processor. But don't get fooled! That doesn't mean that the D3000 can't take great pictures... Anyhow, onto the features. It has a 10MP processor which is more than adequate for me, and the average beginner. It has a really large screen, which takes up the whole back of the camera almost. However, as many reviewers have noted, it's not that sharp! This was probably the biggest disappointment of the camera. My point and shoots have less-pixelized screens! But overall, it's not a big deal. The other minute feature is the Guide Mode. I've found it to be less than helpful and don't even use it at all anymore, and I've only had it for a month or so. THE BIGGEST FEATURES that you won't find on the D40/D60 cameras is the ADL feature and the 11 autofocus points... ADL stands for Active D-Lighting, and improves color somehow (the best way I can describe it, and I'm probably technically wrong but, it preserves actual colors better). The only drawback is that it's relatively slow on the D3000. The 11 autofocus points is great. The D40/D60 only has three, and they're all aligned along the same horizontal line, which is right in the middle of the camera. When composing a shot, ti's nice to be able to set an autofocus point not directly in the middle of the shot. Anyhow, this camera was appealing to me because of it's bare-bone feature set. I didn't want Live View or Video, and I'd basically be paying for those features if I were to step up to the D5000. PICTURE QUALITY - Ah, probably the most important aspect of the camera... and I don't know what to say about it! I'm a beginner, so I don't know what makes a great photo, and DEFINITELY have no idea how this camera shoots vs. another one. What I've read is that the D3000 shoots relatively noisy pictures, but that it doesn't necessarily preclude you from shooting great photos (by adjusting things like ISO). I DON'T KNOW THIS FROM EXPERIENCE, JUST WHAT I'VE READ! Oh, and noise is basically random color pixels in a photo. It doesn't look good. All I can say is that I'll update this review as I figure it out! RECOMMENDATIONS - If you're a beginner, I'd recommend picking up a book such as "Understanding Exposure" by Bryan Peterson. That book, coupled with the D3000 will help you understand the basics of photography and how to use a digital SLR. Also, get the kit, not just the body! The price difference is currently $100, and from what I've seen, you can sell the lens itself for more. Remember, the kit lens has VR, which the D40 and D60 didn't come with. So there are those out there who might want a cheap upgrade (and in DSLR world, $150 for a decent lens is cheap!). Also, the kit lens is great, but in addition to that, I'd recommend the relatively cheap 35mm f/1.8G AF-S DX lens... you should eventually get a prime lens, and for this camera, this is arguably the best one out there, especially for the price. Also2, get a flash that tilts upward so you can bounce it off the ceiling! I went with the Nikon SB400 and it's worked well so far. CONCLUSION - Like I said, this is a great beginners camera. The great things about it are the 11 autofocus points, ADL option, compact size, great ergonomics and size, build quality, and easy-to-use menu. The drawbacks are the older processor, plasticky feel (I don't mind it, and furthermore it feels solid), and disappointing screen. Overall, it's a great camera to purchase if you're thinking about getting into DSLRs... If you find you LOVE photography, it will help you develop as a photographer and understand what you are doing until you're ready to upgrade to something more serious. If you find that photography is not a hobby for you but just a means to an end, then you have a camera that you can throw into full-auto mode and take better pics than your standard P&S, and it didn't set you back a ton of $$$.
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Reviewed in the United States on October 30, 2009 by G. Bernthal