looking for a camera

[huntinhick]

Well I am starting to research new cameras right now we have a sony point and shoot.  I am a nikon fan and I was looking at the d5100.  I need something that I can use as a starter camera but will not disappoint me when I get better.  so please give me ideas and input.

thanks
carl

[quadrafire]

Hick
I just went through the same process, from sony point n shoot to a dSLR. I didn't really check out the Nikon line, but went with canon. Cruise through some past posts. There is ALOT of info on this site already posted about brands/bodies etc. But the theme I kept sensing was that any camera will take a picture, it is the Lens that makes it. So do your research on the camera, but don't forget about the lens (quality).

[Wazukie]

I am a Nikon shooter.  The D5100 is a very good camera.  It has about the best DX sensor in it that one can get.  It is the same sensor as the D7000.  It has great high ISO capabilities.  The only problem I see with it verse the D7000 is that it will only take the AFs lenses(Built in focus motor).  This can be a big deal for Nikon shooters because if you have a body, like the D7000, you can use older Nikon glass that dont have built in AF motors.  If you are thinking about getting serious, even a little, I would go with the D7000 if you can swing it.  The D7000 will also meter with the old Ais Nikon glass.  D5100 is a very capable body though and there is nothing wrong with having AFs only lenses.

Not sure if this all makes sense.  Just do your research and know what you want to be able to do with the camera.  Most on here shoot Canon, but there are a few of us Nikon shooter.

[Dmanmastertracker]

 Carl, Nikon fan here also, I currently use the D7000. Another camera worth looking at that I bought for my wife is the D3100, particularly for action-wildlife, it is the lightest DSLR they make and has a capable 14.2 mp. It's half the price of the D7000 and produces nearly as nice images with the right glass.

[huntinhick]

thanks for the info.  It has been 20 years since I played with a nice camera.  I was looking at the D3100 but if the 5100 is better and only about 100-150 bucks more I would go that way.  i am going to have to checkout the d7000, the reviews I have read have me worried it may be a little to advanced for me.  Also it does have a large pricetag.