Photography: DSLR Nikon D40- do you have one? What do you think? Advice?

Adje J

New member
I'm moving on up! I love photography but am not a pro. After seeking Y!A advice in a previous question, I'm just about settled on getting my first DSLR within the next month. I'm told the Nikon D40 is a great choice for an entry level SLR.

I've been to a store and handled one and liked it for the most part. I was frustrated though because while the LCD screen is amazing, we couldn't figure out how to take pictures FROM the LCD screen without having to use the viewfinder. I hate using viewfinders! Is it possible to take pictures from the LCD screen? Would that be in Wallpaper mode or something? The person at the store couldn't figure it out either.

This next question may be silly, but again, I'm new to SLRs... these cameras won't have a video setting, will they? I had a Kodak Easyshare prior to this, so I was spoiled (when it worked). I was hoping not to have to buy a separate video camera.

Lastly, is it true I will have to buy a new type of camera memory card? If so, what type, and why? Will I need more than one? With the other cameras I had two 2GB cards and that was plenty. I understand I may have the capability to shoot in RAW format... is that optional, or a set in stone kind of feature? Can I switch back and forth?

Oh- and is the strap that comes with the camera a nice neck strap (like the ones Nikon shows in their tutorials)?

Any other advice or suggestions you may have about this camera as my first SLR would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

If you have any additional
 
Well, the D40 doesn't give you the option of using live view. You need at least a D5000 or Canon Rebel XS

Also since the weight of DSLRs are much higher than point and shoots, I would strongly recommend using a viewfinder. Holding a DSLR a foot away from your eyes will produce a lot of camera shake, which will lead to blurry images. Not to mention using the viewfinder allows you to take advantage of the DSLR system's superior phase detect autofocus system, which does not work with live view.

As for video stuff....again you need at least a D5000 or a Canon T1i in order to get video. Not to mention video on DSLRs isn't that great.

For memory cards, the D40 uses standard SD memory cards. It should be the same card as your Easyshare.

The strap is a nice yellow and black Nikon one.
 
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