Nikon D3000 Review

Some direct competitors

Canon EOS 1000D or XS
Canon XS is a well-rounded entry level camera. It handles noise in high ISO better than other cameras in this post. It has Live View mode, compatible with extensive Canon EOS EF or EF-S lenses, and it comes with image stabilized18-55mm lens. This camera will serve entry level digital slr user well and also provide room to expansion and upgrade through Canon extensive accessories and lens collection.

Olympus E520
Olympus E-520 is a 10 megapixel camera which has built-in image stabilization. Olympus kit lenses are able to produce relatively better image quality. The camera body and lenses are slightly smaller in form because Olympus has smaller sensor (four third system) and have a crop factor of 2. The bad side of this camera is the limited auto focus points, and noise control in high ISO is not as good as competitors. Olympus lens collection is also not as wide as Canon and Nikon. The best about this package is you get two lenses with the camera to start.

PENTAX KM / K2000
Pentax k2000 has the smallest form factor comparing to other cameras. The buttons are placed in the right side of the camera so that you can operate the camera with just with your right hand. It has built-in image stabilization. Although Pentax digital lens collection is not as wide as Canon and Nikon, Pentax has many small pancake lenses that fit the KM size well. There is an option to get a Pentax flash in discounted price as well.

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 do not have this sophisticated AF system. Nikon D3000 is also very portable comparing to other DSLR cameras. So, even if you are experienced photographer but want to have fun and travel light, D3000 is a good option.

Sadly, Nikon D3000 still has two main weaknesses. First it does not have built-in AF motor and also does not have live view mode which actually can help tremendously in focusing those old lenses.

If you already 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

In the video below, I said Canon D3000, it should be Nikon D3000

Real World Sample Images

The kit lens Nikon 18-55mm f/3.5 – 5.6 DX VR is a small and lightweight, but generally, it performs very well especially when you shoot at f/8. The VR works to combat hand shake. It is very useful for still photography or close up shooting. It is great value lens for the price.