Nikon d60

[Not_Fog]

Hey all, just joined the forum today after reading a lot of the different threads. The people here seem to be full of knowledge. I'm very interested in getting into digital photography, and after doing some research have almost settled on buying a nikon d60. Can anyone say something to deter me from this, or do you think I will be happy (being brand new) with this camera?

Thanks guys, and I look forward to getting to know some of you.

[PPPhoto]

If you are really looking for something to deter you from getting this camera, then perhaps it really isn't the camera that you want.

You say that you've done some research, but has that involved actually going to a store and handling this, and other cameras? Until you have actually been able to compare it to other models, it's really hard to make a firm decision.

I like Canon. Perhaps it's my familiarity with the Canon cameras, but I find that they feel better in my hands and the controls and menu and are easier to use, when compared to Nikon (and other brands). Not everyone is going to feel this way.

If you don't have a real restrictive budget, and you are convinced to buy a Nikon (not a bad thing really), you might want to take a look at the D90. It's a larger camera, which generally makes it a better fit for men, whereas the women with smaller hands prefer the D40/D60 or Rebel sized bodies. You haven't shared, yet, with us your name, so I'm not sure which case fits.

I have co-workers that own D40s and they are more than pleased with the cameras and the photos. They aren't doing any truly serious imagery, just family snapshot types.


Welcome to the Zo. You can edit your signature to include your name so that we know what to call you. Also, once you get the camera, be sure to use your gallery space to start sharing some of your photos.

[Not_Fog]

Craig, thanks for the quick reply. Sorry for forgetting the introduction, I just wanted answers so bad! My name is Nick, and I'm a college student looking to get into photography as a hobby.

I have handled a variety of cameras, and I really do like how the d60 feels (maybe I have girly hands), and I actually thought the menu was easier to navigate than the rebel xsi.

What I meant by asking for deterrents was that everywhere I have looked, people have had good things to say about it. I have seen some excellent images from this camera (even with the stock 18-55 lens), and I do like how it feels. Price is somewhat of a factor for me, so that is appealing as well. I am just looking for anyone who has something bad to say about the d60 (preferably not because of 'make bias' but just general downfalls of the camera, if there are any. I have spied on this forum for a while and it is obvious there is a wealth of knowledge here, so if anyone who has experience with this camera can say something bad about it, I may second guess my choice.

Thanks again for the quick response!

[Cadwell]

The only real downside to the D60 is that (like the D40/D40x) this camera lacks an in-body focus motor and relies on the focus motor built into the lens for autofocus. Not all Nikon and and third party Nikon compatible lenses have built in focus motors so the range of lenses usable on this camera is less than on some other Nikon bodies.

[Not_Fog]

Ok, so I have decided on the d60. Would you all be able to take a look at this package and tell me what you think? Is the battery that is included a "generic" battery? Would that be the only battery in the kit, or is one included with the camera and that is a backup?

http://www.amazon.com/Nikon-D60-Digital-18-55mm-Accessory/dp/B00154KTXI/ref=pd_bbs_sr_3?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1229391470&sr=8-

Thanks!

[PPPhoto]

Nick, it does look like the extra battery is an after market (which doesn't mean it's a bad battery). It states that all manufacturer included accessories are included, which means that the Nikon battery is included, you just get two batteries.

It's a fairly complete kit. My only caution is with the Transcend card. I've personally had problems with one, and I just talked to a customer today who was having issues. I'm sure they are fine cards normally, but I don't have much confidence in them.

[Calnumismatist]

The only real downside to the D60 is that (like the D40/D40x) this camera lacks an in-body focus motor and relies on the focus motor built into the lens for autofocus.

This is the only downside I know of also. I have been a dark side user for years, and one of the nicest things about the Nikon brand is the ability to use the same glass when upgrading.
With the D60, you are limiting yourself on glass (although manual focus is an option). As you grow into photography, you may look at other forms and wish to expand, the D60 can be limiting.
Keep in mind that it is the glass that keeps us brand locked.

[PPPhoto]

While the lack of an in-body focus motor can be a limiting factor with this camera, I think that Nikon, as well as other lens manufacturers, have addressed this quite well. They have, and continue to, released quite a few lenses with built in motors within recent times (since the D40 was released).

The biggest issue that I have seen from this was in the area of the 70-300mm Nikkor lenses. Out of the 3 lenses they produced of this zoom, the G, ED, and VR versions, only the more expensive VR version has a built in motor. It was a choice of spending around $200 for the G and not having AF, or spending nearly $600 and get VR and AF. For someone buying the D40, the higher priced lens really wasn't an option, as they were getting the budget body anyway. Nikon's answer, of course, was the 55-200mm zoom, which really lacks something if you are wanting a long lens.

It's a consideration, but I don't know that it should be a deal breaker unless you already have a number of lenses.

[alanw]

The only real downside to the D60 is that (like the D40/D40x) this camera lacks an in-body focus motor and relies on the focus motor built into the lens for autofocus.

This is the only downside I know of also.

I don't know if this is true with the D60, but since the D60 and D40 are so similar I thought I'd mention it. My D40 also does not have the Commander mode to control off camera flashes. Not really something that you would really be worried about if you're a beginner, but it could be something to think about in the future.

I agree with the others about the lenses, but like Craig said it seems like Nikon is making the effort to bring out compatible lenses now.

[Bishop]

Hi Nick, you sound like I did before I bought my first DSLR. It's a scary thing, taking that step, but I think you just need to make the purchase. The D60 will be a nice starter camera for you. After you begin to shoot and learn, you'll be more comfortable making your next purchase, and yes... you will be making more purchases. This is truly an addictive hobby!!

Looking forward to seeing some shots with your new camera.