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Category: Beginner Amateur - Family DSLR

Photoxels Editor's Choice 2009 - Family DSLR

NIKON D3000 REVIEW - EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

This Nikon D3000 Review is based on a production model. All sample images are unretouched, except where specified.

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The Nikon D3000 DSLR is an excellent entry-level Family DSLR for beginner photographers tired of the limitations of Point-and-Shoot digital cameras. It is a compact and lightweight DSLR camera with the performance and responsiveness characteristic of much more expensive digital SLR cameras.

The D3000 is easily one of the best deals available among digital SLR cameras, especially when purchased together with the AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR kit lens. It handles superbly and its matrix metering nails the exposure right. Performance and responsiveness are excellent. Auto mode, Scene modes and the new Guide mode make this DSLR camera an easy upgrade from point-and-shoot photography.

The Nikon D3000 lacks Live View and Movie mode. If you want these, you'll need to move up to the Nikon D5000 which has an articulated LCD, Live View and Movie mode for about US $250 more.

The good news is that Nikon has succeeded in bringing together all the elements a first-time DSLR user needs for capturing excellent images with point-and-shoot ease in a compact, light and comfortable body. Though other entry-level DSLRs also have similar features, it is the friendly way these features are implemented on this digital SLR camera that earns it our Photoxels Editor's Choice - Family DSLR award.

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