Started to think of G12, changed to D3100, but now going to D90?

[karatava]

When the time comes to buy, it is really complicated.

I was first comparing G12 to D3100. But after some research: I am now close to D90?

Help me or I am lost.

 

[UUilliam]

First things first...

What do you want a camera for?
Going on holiday? Take the g12 (it may still be overkill to be honest!)

Trying to take "Creative" photographs (not setting it into auto mode.) then...
What are your aims?
What is it your trying to shoot?
Animals (pets and kids.) or hopes of doing weddings?
Animals - get the d3100
Weddings - get the d90

I however recommend you research more indepth as to what you want a camera for.

Post here and we can try give some suggestions!

Why you want a camera:
What will you photograph:
Budget:
Knowledge on cameras: (I would assume Beginner.)
Will you be printing images?: (if not, you do not NEED lots of mega pixels, a minimum of 6mp will do great! even at 6mp you can print fairly large!)

 

[Divatologist]

You should continue to do research until you're ready to buy. Keep in mind the type of photography that you'll be doing and find out how the camera and various lenses measure up. You didn't mention a budget. You have to consider the fact that you may need additional equipment (flash, lenses, remote, diffuser, tripod, camera bag, etc) depending on what you'll be shooting. It is a difficult decision to make. I did research for about 2 months before I decided to get my camera. I went down to the camera shop and held various cameras in my hand and took test shots with various lenses. I am lucky to have a Ritz Camera and Penn Camera nearby. They let you test out the equipment. I decided on the D90 after reading the various reviews and I liked the way it felt in my hands. I waited and waited to find the best deal. Best buy had a private sale and the D90 just happened to be on sale that night. I got triple reward zone points and used that towards my 18-200mm, which went on sale at a later date.

If you are able to go to a camera shop or other retailer that carries cameras, hold the various cameras in your hand and see which one feels right. Play with the menus and see if you find them easy to navigate and understand. Fire off a couple of shots. See if the various buttons are in convenient places while you're shooting. You can read and read, but getting that camera in your hands can change your whole perspective.

Good luck with your decision. I don't know about you, but my money is a terrible thing to waste. So, I understand why the decision on which camera to buy is hard. The D90 is a great camera. I love mine.

 

[karatava]

I really want to get into photography, so I eliminated G12. (I still don`t know if it`s right.)

And some additions;

I want the camera not for specific use but wide range, environment, family shots.
My budget is about $700, but it depends.
And last; I don`t print, view by lcd.

Divatologist,

I did what you say about holding the cameras and examine. I really liked the D90 compared to d3100.Although it is heavier and expensive, but larger view finder and faster.

As a result; I don`t want to be disappointed by starting with a Nikon D3100?

 

[PASM]

My budget is about $700, but it depends.

On what?

 

[karatava]

My budget is about $700, but it depends.

On what?

if I find a good deal on an advance cam like D90, I can raise my budget.

 

[PASM]

If you want the DOF capabilities of an APS-C but not the bulk of a DSLR, consider a Sony NEX.

 

[ghache]

The only thing i have to say is if you really wanna get into photography, get the best camera you can afford and you wont be stock with some crap you dont want anymore only to save 100 $. You can afford 700-900? get a d90 and enjoy!
The learning curve from a d90 and a d3100 is not different.

 

[Light Artisan]

Better hurry up and buy before you think your way up to the D3 series!

 

[KenC]

Oh, just make up your mind and buy something. It won't be the only camera you buy, even over the next couple of years. If you have trouble deciding between two alternatives (in anything, not just cameras), then they really are pretty similar on balance and either one would work for you.

 

[mjhoward]

Get the D90 over the D3100 for sure. It might cost a few more bucks up front, but the D90 has the built in screw drive for AF on older lenses. That creates the potential to save a lot over newer and more expensive lenses that have AF motors built in. The D90 has commander mode for off camera flash... I dont believe the D3100 does.

 

[orb9220]

Yep just D90 and quit worrying about it. It will give you room to grow into. Unlike the entry level camera's. I had my D40 which has many of the same limitations as the D3100. And became frustrated after about 9 months. Lack of in body motor for AF and AF-D lenses. Lack of dedicated controls and more menu digging to change a basic function. Smaller viewfinder,slower FPS,etc.. as I could go on.

So comes down paying a bit more now for a camera you can grow into. Or pay less now getting a camera with less features and controls that if you are like me then you will outgrow the first year and wanting something more.
.

 

[ausemmao]

I had a similar choice, though mine was between d3100, 550d, and 50d. I ended up going for the D3100 because while it is a bit more difficult to use in absolute terms, it's not that much more difficult - maybe a button press or two. The most important settings for me at my level - aperture, shutter, ISO, focus mode - are all right there, focus needing a couple of button presses. The other stuff (white balance etc, I just leave it on auto) seems to be able to be changed after the fact quite easily.

The thing that edged me to the D3100 was that in getting that I could get a couple of lenses along with the camera, and while I know I'll outgrow it in a year or so, by then I'll have a much better idea of how and what I shoot, and can make a more informed decision and have a few good lenses by the time I do so.

And it's small enough that I don't need to think about whether to take it out with me or not - the thing that I feel would improve my photography the most is actually getting out and taking shots. That's a big plus for me.

 

[djacobox372]

Decide what sort of lenses u want first, u may not have enough to afford a d90 without sacrificing your lens selection.

A $350 d80 with quality lenses is a better choice then a d90 with cheap kit glass.

 

[Stephen.C]

My advice is buy the best body you can afford. Theres always room to grow, and if you are progressing fast, you'll grow out of the camera in longer time.
I recommend getting the D90. More AF Points, built in motor, just a solid camera.
I have the D3000 and although I have had it for a year, I didnt start learning much with it till July, and 6 months later, I feel like i'm pushing its limits.