Nikon D40: Questions, New to Photography

[jlykins]

+1

AND that shoe mount flash, for me at least, would be an SB-600 (need tilt AND swivel)

Yeah for sure. I have a couple of SB600's and I love them. I do think that I would get a SB400 if I were getting a D40 to carry around for vacation shots and stuff. I wouldnt use it for any serious photography...

 

[ANDS!]

The Nikon's kit lens is pretty damn good for its intended market. I have never shot with a Pentax, but I remember the photos that I got after shooting with a D50 and the 18-55 for the first time. Magic.

 

[PatrickHMS]

Wouldn't an experienced photographer of, say 5 years ago, be willing to just die for some of the equipment and technology that we may now take for granted???

But it's not just the equipment, folks...

 

[DWS]

starting out, the kit lens and D40 are a good combination, IMO......I started with the D40, and am still amazed at the quality that this bang for the buck camera provides

 

[OregonAmy]

starting out, the kit lens and D40 are a good combination, IMO......I started with the D40, and am still amazed at the quality that this bang for the buck camera provides

I agree. I have the D40 with kit lens (and 55-200) and am impressed at how great the photos turn out (of course I want more, though ). I bought the D40 because it's my first dSLR and care less about the body than I do about the lenses. I figured that I'd be better off getting the basics, learning what I enjoy doing most, then upgrade to the body that has the specs I need (if only I could also do that in person, hah) and getting the lenses that best suit what I shoot. You might find the same approach works well for you.

I'd also agree with the flash. I'm getting frustrated with the built-in and was thinking about getting the sb-400. But after reading this, the 600 looks like it's about $80 more and well worth it... DECISIONS, DECISIONS....

long story short - body & kit lens will serve you well for capturing memories. zoom lens and hot shoe flash will be the next items to consider IMO.

 

[Craddie]

Yup, yup, yup. D40 with the kit lens is a GREAT all-purpose walkabout camera for a photographer isn't looking to spend his life savings or start a business.

I consistently see GORGEOUS shots posted by D40 users with their kit lenses. The dynamic range on that 6mp sensor is fantastic. Go for it!

 

[SrBiscuit]

ill also chime in, in favor of the d40 with kit....the 18-55 is the lens i use most...partially due to my limited selection and budget, but mostly because it works well for me.

right now im fine with my lenses but would kill for a sb-600...

 

[MikeBcos]

I have the D40 with kit lens, I also have a Quantaray 70-300, that isn't the best lens on the market but it can give some damn good shots. The only thing I am adding is an SB400. That will give me a perfect carry-everywhere kit.

 

[potownrob]

I'd try to find a used 18-55 VR to go with the D40 body.