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Nikon D40, Nikon's newest
Summary: Nikon D40 cameras are difficult to find because they are a hot selling item. Retailers are anxiously awaiting new shipments as the popular new camera is flying off the shelves of stores.
Portraitsecrets has held the camera, shot the camera and in a word we are delighted. We are buying the camera! Now!
We will use this camera as a basis for techniques
that beginning and experienced photographers use everyday to make great
pictures.  | | New Nikon d40 with 18-55mm zoom lens included in the kit. |
Nikon’s newest digital camera, a 6-megapixel user
friendly camera is the perfect camera for the first time digital camera
buyer or if you are moving up from a point and shoot model.
This digital SLR (single lens reflex) camera with interchangable lenses is easy to hold and easy to use.
Sold in a kit with a 18-55 mm zoom lens (f3.5-5.6),
the MSRP of $599, but prices are always negotiable and competitive.
Features we liked
- Of course, the SLR camera enables you to compose your shot exactly, using the viewfinder.
- Variable ISO range from 200-1600 plus a Hi-1 that gives provides an effective 3200 ISO.
- Low light perfromance with reduced noise.
- The D40 has a flash off mode that Nikon programmed into the
camera. It boosts ISO automatically and allows photos where the
flash is not allowed. This is a bonus for parents wanting to take
unobtrusive photos of school stage/concert perfromances and such.
- For the beginner it has a number of pre-progammed modes that allow photos without challenging the novice’s skill level.
- The large and bright 2.5-inch display on the back of the camera to see and show off your photos instantly.
- The good fit of the camera in both male and female hands of varied size.
- The quiet shutter. As a Nikon D200, D2 and D2HS owner, this
soft shutter noise is a welcomed feature that will allow candid photos
without destroying the mood of the moment with the "clang" of the shutter.
Feature we didn’t like
- The fact that Nikon introduced this camera that will only
accept the AF-S Nikkor lenses. That is a drawback for those with
older model lenses, but the target market seemed to be the first time
digital camera buyer with budget concerns.
In addressing the 6-megapixel CCD, it seems that
Nikon had the budget concerns of consumers in mind. A few extra
megapixels drive camera cost upward exponentially.
Portraitsecrets has
written before about the issues of pixel overkill. A 6-megapixel
camera will produce quality 16x20 inch prints given optimum lighting
conditions and a stable image. Camera stability, in simple terms
camera movement during exposure, results in poor quality of many enlargements.
The D40 also features an intersting and innovative image Retouch menu.
• D-Lighting: Automatically balances underexposed portions of an
image to enhance detail in these areas, without affecting the
highlights of the picture.
• In-camera Red-eye Correction: Automatically
removes the annoying red-eye effect sometimes caused by flash.
• Trim: Images can be trimmed to produce smaller cropped versions of
any file on the SD card for greater creative freedom and greater
efficiency.
• Image Overlay: Merges a pair of selected RAW files to create a
composite image within the camera as a RAW or JPEG file. This feature
is especially useful when trying to create a soft-focus effect with two
similar images.
• Monochrome settings: Convert any color image in the camera into a
pleasing monochromatic picture, either in black-and-white, sepia or
cyanotype.
• Filter Effects: Emulate and apply the effects of a skylight or a
warming filter to any image stored on the SD card. A Color Balance menu
within filter effects can also be used to make subtle shifts in color.
• Small Picture: Create a smaller version of any
image in the camera for easy sharing and faster download.
A final thought
If you are making the move to
digital and cost has been a factor, the time is right to check out the
Nikon D40 digital camera.
As always, Portraitsecrets
suggests that you visit a reputable camera retailer, talk with
knowledgable professionals behind the counter and compare features,
price and service/advice about your purchase following the sale.
Camera specs
| Resolution: |
6.10 Megapixels |
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| Lens: |
18-55mm kit lens incl.
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| Viewfinder: |
Optical |
| LCD Size: |
2.5 inch |
| ISO: |
200-3200 |
| Shutter: |
30-1/4000 |
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| Mem Type: |
SD/MMC |
| Battery: |
Custom LiIon |
| Dimensions: |
5.0x3.7x2.5in
(126x94x64mm) |
| Weight: |
16.6 oz
(475 g) |
| MSRP: |
$599 |
| Availability: |
12/2006 |
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Good photographs begin with good light. In the digital photography world, the quality of light corresponds to the quality of the photograph. The dramatic light of the early morning and late afternoon can raise the quality of your images. In poorly lit situations use supplemental lighting from the camera's flash in the fill-flash mode.
• more tips & tricks
Adobe's Photoshop is very expensive at nearly $700, Is it worth it?
Dear PS,
Adobe's Photoshop is very expensive at nearly $700, Is it worth it?
On the cheap in Oregon
Dear On the cheap,
Yes! If you plan to take creative steps in dealing with your images, photoshop and the lastest Creative Suite 2 are simply the best and most efficients image handling programs available. Is it "worth it" to you, that depends on what you hope to achieve with your images. I would suggest the Elements version of photoshop as an entry level position. Better yet, check a local computer store or even the Apple Store an invest a little time in attending a couple of their tutorial classes for a "test drive" of the program. Then you'll be better informed before you spend your money.
Thanks for your question,
Michael at PS
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