selecting a camera

[pramodjayawardana]

what's the most suitable nikon DSLR for a beginner? D90. D3100 or D5000?

[FrankMi]

what's the most suitable nikon DSLR for a beginner? D90. D3100 or D5000?

Hi pramodjayawardana, It depends on your budget, intend use, and growth potential. Can I call you Bill or Sue, or something shorter than pramodjayawardana?

[Shadowman]

They'll all get you where you need to be.

[Dave Humphries]

Hi pramodjayawardana,

For best compatibility with a range of lenses, the D90, (or more recent D7000) are the way to go.

I have a D5000 and it is a very capable camera, it is now sold new as a D5100 btw., I wanted the movable LCD but the price I pay now is a more limited lens choice because (of the three models you suggest) only the D90 has an Auto-Focus motor in the camera body and older lenses, both Nikon and thrid party, require one of those.

Some say "it doesn't matter" and buy the older, cheaper lens and have to manually focus, but probably 99% admit it was a mistake after a while and wish they had got an AF-S lens for their D3000/3100/5000/5100, etc. (or a different body).

Welcome to the CiC forums from ...

[MrGladstone]

I would definitely go for the D90 if I were you. As Dave mentioned it gives you more options for lens purchases in the future and because of this you will easily recuperate the extra money spent on the body. I shoot a D5000 and I love it but having to save the extra dough for those AF S lenses is a pain.

[PhotomanJohn]

The comments about the ability to use the older lenses is very valid. But I would weight that against the improved low light capability of the newer cameras and some of their other features. There is no right answer. They are all very capable cameras with different features and prices. And I also agree that if you can afford the D7000, I would seriously consider it.

[Dizzy]

what's the most suitable nikon DSLR for a beginner? D90. D3100 or D5000?

Hi,

I recently went though much the same process, and with essentially the same Nikon bodies in the running. Had a lot of great input from the site, and perhaps it will be of help to you as well:

My first DSLR - making a good choice

I chose the D90 for several reasons, and am very, very pleased with the choice.

Mike

[pramodjayawardana]

Thanks a lot for everyone for your valuable ideas. keep in touch. call me Pramod.

[charzes44]

Hi Pramod,

You will get a lot of different answers here, 'though most people will tell you what they've got. Have a good look at the website KenRockwell.com. Much of what he says makes very good sense. Hope this is useful.

[pramodjayawardana]

Thanks. Yes it's a great one.

[Sahil]

but probably 99% admit it was a mistake after a while and wish they had got an AF-S lens for their D3000/3100/5000/5100, etc. (or a different body).

Hi, Pramod. The post by Dave, holds very very true. I have been victim of this. I had bought AF 50mm f/1.8 and it was a pain to focus it manually. It always stayed in my bag. Now that is the lens that stays on my new camera all the time.
D90 is a VERY good bet... (if that is in upper range of your budget)