A USB cable is required but not included with this item.
Please be sure to purchase a USB cable that suit your needs.
The Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera is an affordable, compact, and lightweight photographic power-house. It features the all-purpose 18-55mm VR lens, a high-resolution 14.2 MP CMOS sensor along with a feature set that's comprehensive yet easy to navigate - the intuitive onboard learn-as-you grow guide mode allows the photographer to understand what the 3100 can do quickly and easily. Capture beautiful pictures and amazing Full HD 1080p movies with sound and full-time autofocus. Easily capture the action other cameras miss with a fast start up time, split-second shutter release, 3 frames per second shooting and 11-point autofocus. Capture pictures and make movies in near darkness with an ISO range of 100 to 3200 (expandable to 12800-Hi2).
EXPEED 2, Nikon's new image processing engine, assures breathtakingly rich image quality, managing color, contrast, exposure and noise. One-touch Live View and movie recording lets you see the action on the 3" monitor and the Scene Recognition System automatically chooses the ideal settings. You can also select from 6 Automatic Exposure Scene Modes- Portrait, Landscape, Child, Sports, Close-up or Night Portrait for stunning results in otherwise challenging conditions.
Active D-Lighting restores picture-enhancing detail in shadows and highlights. A built-in pop-up flash is ready for those times when there just isn't enough light and in-camera image editing allows creative freedom and effects, without the need for a computer.
| Imaging | |
|---|---|
| Camera Type | Digital SLR with Interchangeable lenses |
| Lens Mount | Nikon F |
| Camera Format | APS-C / (1.5x Crop Factor) |
| Pixels |
Actual: 14.8 Megapixel Effective: 14.2 Megapixel |
| Max Resolution | 14.2MP: 4608 x 3072 @ 3:2 |
| Other Resolutions |
8.0MP: 3456 x 2304 @ 3:2 3.5MP: 2304 x 1536 @ 3:2 |
| Aspect Ratio | 3:2 |
| Sensor Type / Size | CMOS, 23.1 x 15.4 mm |
| File Formats |
Still Images: JPEG, RAW Movies: MOV Audio: Linear PCM |
| Bit Depth | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| Memory Card Type |
SD SDHC SDXC |
| Focus Control | |
|---|---|
| Focus Type | Auto & Manual |
| Focus Mode | Single-servo AF (S), Continuous-servo AF (C), Manual Focus (M) |
| Autofocus Points | 11 |
| Viewfinder/Display | |
|---|---|
| Viewfinder Type | Pentamirror |
| Viewfinder Coverage | 95% |
| Viewfinder Magnification | Approx. 0.8x |
| Diopter Adjustment | - 1.7 to +0.5 m |
| Display Screen | 3.0" Rear Screen LCD (230000) |
| Screen Coverage | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| Live View | Yes |
| Exposure Control | |
|---|---|
| ISO Sensitivity | 200-3200 (Extended Mode: 100-12800) |
| Shutter |
Type: Electronic & Mechanical Speed: 30 - 1/4000 sec |
| Remote Control | MC-DC2 (Optional) |
| Mirror Lock-Up | Yes |
| Metering Method | 3D Color Matrix Metering, Center-weighted average metering, Spot metering |
| Exposure Modes |
Modes: Aperture Priority, Auto, Manual, Program, Shutter Priority Compensation: -5 EV to +5 EV (in 0.33 EV steps) |
| White Balance Modes | Auto, Cloudy, Daylight, Flash, Fluorescent, Fluorescent (Day White), Fluorescent (Natural White), Fluorescent (White), Fluorescent H, Incandescent, Preset Manual, Shade |
| Flash | |
|---|---|
| Flash Modes |
1st Curtain Sync Red-eye Reduction Second-curtain Sync Slow Sync Slow Sync./Red-eye Reduction |
| Built-in Flash | Yes |
| Effective Flash Range | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| Guide No. | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| Max Sync Speed | 1 / 200 sec |
| Flash Compensation | -3 EV to +1 EV (in 0.33 EV steps) |
| External Flash Connection | Hot Shoe |
| AV Recording | |
|---|---|
| Video Recording | Yes, NTSC/PAL |
| File Size |
1920 x 1080 (Full HD) 1280 x 720 (HD) 640 x 424 (SD) 320 x 216 |
| Frame Rate |
@ 1920 x 1080: 24 fps @ 1280 x 720: 24 fps, 25 fps, 30 fps @ 640 x 424: 24 fps @ 320 x 216: 24 fps |
| Exposure Control | Auto: Shutter Speed, Aperture, ISO |
| ISO Sensitivity | 100 - 3200, Expandable to 12800 |
| Exposure Compensation | -3 EV to +3 EV (in 1/3 EV steps) |
| Focus |
Auto Manual |
| Continuous Shooting Time |
1920 x 1080 10 min. 1280 x 720 10 min. 640 x 424 10 min. |
| Audio Recording | With Video, Mono |
| Performance | |
|---|---|
| Continuous Shooting | Up to 3 fps |
| Self Timer | 2 sec, 5 sec, 10 sec, 20 sec |
| Interval Recording | Yes |
| In-Camera Image Editing | Before and After, Color Outline, D-Lighting, Edit Movie, Filter Effects, Fisheye, Image Overlay, Miniature Effect, Monochrome, NEF (RAW) Processing, Perspective Control, Quick Retouch, Red-eye Correction, Small Pic, Straighten, Trim |
| Connectivity | 10-pin Terminal, HDMI C (Mini), USB 2.0 |
| Software Requirements |
Windows: XP, Vista Mac: OS X 10.4 or later |
| Power | |
|---|---|
| Battery | 1x EN-EL14 Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery Pack, 7.4VDC, 1500mAh |
| AC Power Adapter | EH-5a (Optional) |
| Operating/Storage Temperature |
Operating 32 to 104 °F (0 to 40 °C) |
| Physical | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 5.8 x 4.5 x 2.9" / 14.73 x 11.43 x 7.37 cm |
| Weight | 16.05 oz / 455 g Body only |
| Kit Lens | |
|---|---|
| Focal Length |
18 - 55 mm Comparable APS-C Focal Length: 27 - 82.5 mm |
| Aperture |
Maximum: f/3.5 - 5.6 Minimum: f/22 |
| Angle of View | 76° - 28° |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 11" (27.94 cm) |
| Magnification | 0.31x |
| Maximum Reproduction Ratio | 1:3.2 |
| Groups/Elements | 8/11 |
| Diaphragm Blades | 7 |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| Image Stabilization | Yes |
| Filter Thread | Front: 52 mm |
| Dimensions (DxL) | Approx. 2.9 x 3.3" (7.37 x 8.38 cm) |
| Weight | 9.35 oz (265 g) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
Cons
Best Uses
Most Liked Positive Review
Good for filmmaking on a budget
I produce independent television and short films utilizing DVX100b and HVX200a cameras. I decided to move into DSLR video production specifically due to this camera. I've shot still photography for years on Nikon with ...Read complete review
I produce independent television and short films utilizing DVX100b and HVX200a cameras. I decided to move into DSLR video production specifically due to this camera. I've shot still photography for years on Nikon with beautiful results. With this camera I can now get those looks on video without buying overly expensive 35mm adapters for video cameras. I've seen a lot of complaints elsewhere about the "jello effect" this camera supposedly has. I don't see any more than you'd get on normal CMOS censors as long as you aren't a moron and know how to operate video/film cameras. I've gotten bit rates up to 21mbps, which for some people is too low, but if you're like me and shooting with HDTV or the web in mind I think it's an appropriate bit rate. You ARE able to use manual controls for shooting, you just have to lock them with the AE-Lock button before you move into live view. All exposure functions (ISO, F-stop, Shutter, White balance) can be locked giving you for all extents and purposes full manual control in video mode. Manual focus and Exposure compensation are available to tweak while recording. Subject Tracking AF is useful for tracking and steadicam shots, but outside of that I wouldn't really consider using automatic features. It doesn't have microphone inputs, but I record to a separate audio recorder anyways. I've also done some quick chromakey tests with it and pulled decent keys without much work.
With Nikon's 35mm F1.8 DX prime lens this camera is capable of some really stunning cinematic HD video. Against Canon cameras in a similar price range the D3100 appeared much more cinematic in quality, whereas the Canon had more of a video look to me. Of course if you can afford it the D7000 would be even better, but if you're like me and can't justify paying more than double the price of this camera than the D3100 is right for you.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Takes getting used to
After 2 weeks' use and about 800 photos, I am not overly impressed. Automatic settings are disappointing, especially when using the "indoor - non flash" mode. I had better resul...Read complete review
After 2 weeks' use and about 800 photos, I am not overly impressed. Automatic settings are disappointing, especially when using the "indoor - non flash" mode. I had better results from my Nikon S8000!
Apart from that, it takes a little while to get used to the camera, but in principle, the setup, buttons, and controls are easy to work out and follow a known system.
Great feature is the dual RAW/Jpeg setting, although it uses up a lot of space of the SD card (but editing facilities make it worth it). I would prefer live view on the screen rather than being confined to the viewfinder, but that's a matter of taste.
In principle, not a bad camera. Battery life is better than I thought.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 1096 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-20
Previous | Next »
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
I'm new to the DSLR area and have been enjoying this camera. Easy to use Auto mode and a lot of flexibility to go full Manual.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
Exceptional images. Practical and functional. Great acquisition. Buying in NY, look for the Oscars: attentive and studious.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
I use this product in all family moments. Nowadays I'm using it to register my house makeover - before x after.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
This is my first DSLR and I'm so glad that I bought it. The shutter speed is great and the picture quality is beautiful. It's way better than my own camera. The only thing I don't like about it is the way things look when shooting with the LCD instead of the Viewfinder. Overall, it's a great camera for those transitioning from amateur photography to professional photography.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
Its simply AWESOME....i recommended my friends to B&H and they bought over 1000 USD worth of stuff from B& H yesterday.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
I have only had the camera for a month, and once learning how to operate it, am very happy I made the purchase. I have not used the video mode, but mainly purchased it to shoot images of work for fine arts applications. I do miss my N350 film camera, but have really enjoyed getting used to the digital shooting with this camera.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
Love it
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
I have found my Nikon D3100 to be an excellent entry-level camera. Sometimes I want more that just a point-and-shoot camera; the D3100 gives me the option of selecting my own setting but it also works very well under automatic mode. I find it quite intuitive to use and the quality of each exposure is great. I plan to get many years of service from my Nikon!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
Love the camera. It's easy to get lost in comparing specs with different cameras, but the D3100 is totally worth it as an introductory item. Lightweight, pretty intuitive, nice image quality. Would definitely recommend for beginners.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
I am a an advanced photographer who reluctantly made the switch from film to digital a while back. I had to now jump in with both hands and feet and wanted something just a bit more than entry level. The D3100 is a slam dunk for me. I could not be happier. It has everything from point and shoot to letting me handle all of the variables. This is one of the best cameras. As an added bonus it takes fantastic video. The only thing is that I don't like having to convert the .mov to mp4. Not a big deal but it would have been nice for an option.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
I've had several compact digital cameras over the years. They all had/have their advantages, most of which is their size. The adage that the worst picture is the one you don't take is so true. When my first child was born I purchase yet another compact digital that did HD movies. I got lots of use out of it but the low light performance was painful.
I mention these previous devices to give a frame of reference for the budget I am used to spending on cameras and the functionality they offer. With the advancement of cell phone cameras the necessity to have a dedicated compact digital is also diminished.
We're now expecting our second child and I decided it was time to rectify some of the major shortcomings of my last camera purchase. We take lots of child photos in the house, which is generally dim with some ambient natural light supplementing low output CFLs. This entry level DSLR is just about the perfect price point for the jump up to a larger sensor and interchangeable lenses.
"Photographers" will all tell you that a full frame camera is night and day different than the smaller ones offered on entry level DSLRs, but they don't mention that they cost 3x+ the cost. It's likely well worth the cost for one making a living with their shots, but for casual photo taker, it's an unnecessary expense. The flexibility and low-light performance benefits of entry level DSLRs is well worth the marginal price difference from compact digitals.
The D3100 is not the newest model, and does not have all the bells and whistles of some other entry levels. It does offer access to all Nikon lenses and shoots 1080p video. It also has "Live view" shooting to ease the transition from compacts and to make framing some shots easier. I would like to have the articulating screen that the D5xxx series has, but I rarely use the screen for anything but exposure settings anyway, so I don't miss it. I love shooting with DSLRs. The feedback you receive from the lens and body just feels so much better than the "beep" you get on compacts. I also find the ability to use manual focus invaluable. The auto-focus on DSLRs is very good, but even the best system can't always predict what exactly you're hoping to focus on.
My biggest complaint about this camera kit is the kit lens 18-55mm NIKKOR VR. It does what it's supposed to do, at the price point that keeps this kit affordable. Unfortunately it severely hampers this camera's ability to take respectable low light shots with a low ISO. I have been forced to shoot at ISO 1600 in my house. This gives me the exposure I'm looking for, but at the cost of significant image noise. The small aperture is the biggest culprit in my opinion. For comparison, I rented a 40mm f/2.8 Micro lens that allowed for ISO 400 in the exact same lighting conditions. The noise difference from ISO 400 to 1600 is extremely noticeable. Granted, the 40mm doesn't have any zoom, so that would take some getting used to for someone coming from compacts. Also it costs about half again what this whole kit costs. For me, though, the price will be well worth it.
I was actually a little disappointed with the D3100 when I first got it due to it's underperformance in low light. Moving to a lens with a much larger aperture has restored my confidence in this body, and I look forward to many great shots of our new family addition.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
I was able to put the camera together and use it the same day. It was very easy to use and I am very happy with it.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
takes great pictures and I love it, easy to use,but I would like the right lens cap the one you sent me is 72mm way to big of my lens
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
It's a great all-around camera for my needs (mostly still shots of room set-ups, furniture installs, etc. Photos are nice and crisp and the camera is responsive.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
Very nice camera for it's price.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
Great overall camera, very happy with it. My first DSLR and I am quite pleased. It is easy to use and performs excellently. Very crisp and clear photos, and great for general photography, whether it be landscapes or portraits, it always is a great help. I recommend the Nikon 35mm f/1.8 Lens to go with this.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
good features, and what is really worth is the lens
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
We purchased this camera as part of a bundle with the 55mm lens and the 200mm lens which was a great deal for the price. My favorite feature so far is sports setting. It takes amazing action shots.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
I bought the J1 and it was terrible except for the video. My sis-in-law has the 3000, which is very nice, but the 3000 doesnt have video, so I exchanged the J1 for 3100, which is similar to the 3000, but also has video. I am very pleased with this camera. It takes beautiful pictures, crystal clear HD video, and is very easy to use. I bought the package that came with the 2 lenses and a bag. Great deal.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
I just use it for general photography and this is a simple and easy to use combo
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
Cons
Best Uses
Most Liked Positive Review
Good for filmmaking on a budget
I produce independent television and short films utilizing DVX100b and HVX200a cameras. I decided to move into DSLR video production specifically due to this camera. I've shot still photography for years on Nikon with ...Read complete review
I produce independent television and short films utilizing DVX100b and HVX200a cameras. I decided to move into DSLR video production specifically due to this camera. I've shot still photography for years on Nikon with beautiful results. With this camera I can now get those looks on video without buying overly expensive 35mm adapters for video cameras. I've seen a lot of complaints elsewhere about the "jello effect" this camera supposedly has. I don't see any more than you'd get on normal CMOS censors as long as you aren't a moron and know how to operate video/film cameras. I've gotten bit rates up to 21mbps, which for some people is too low, but if you're like me and shooting with HDTV or the web in mind I think it's an appropriate bit rate. You ARE able to use manual controls for shooting, you just have to lock them with the AE-Lock button before you move into live view. All exposure functions (ISO, F-stop, Shutter, White balance) can be locked giving you for all extents and purposes full manual control in video mode. Manual focus and Exposure compensation are available to tweak while recording. Subject Tracking AF is useful for tracking and steadicam shots, but outside of that I wouldn't really consider using automatic features. It doesn't have microphone inputs, but I record to a separate audio recorder anyways. I've also done some quick chromakey tests with it and pulled decent keys without much work.
With Nikon's 35mm F1.8 DX prime lens this camera is capable of some really stunning cinematic HD video. Against Canon cameras in a similar price range the D3100 appeared much more cinematic in quality, whereas the Canon had more of a video look to me. Of course if you can afford it the D7000 would be even better, but if you're like me and can't justify paying more than double the price of this camera than the D3100 is right for you.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Takes getting used to
After 2 weeks' use and about 800 photos, I am not overly impressed. Automatic settings are disappointing, especially when using the "indoor - non flash" mode. I had better resul...Read complete review
After 2 weeks' use and about 800 photos, I am not overly impressed. Automatic settings are disappointing, especially when using the "indoor - non flash" mode. I had better results from my Nikon S8000!
Apart from that, it takes a little while to get used to the camera, but in principle, the setup, buttons, and controls are easy to work out and follow a known system.
Great feature is the dual RAW/Jpeg setting, although it uses up a lot of space of the SD card (but editing facilities make it worth it). I would prefer live view on the screen rather than being confined to the viewfinder, but that's a matter of taste.
In principle, not a bad camera. Battery life is better than I thought.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 1096 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-20
Previous | Next »
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
I'm new to the DSLR area and have been enjoying this camera. Easy to use Auto mode and a lot of flexibility to go full Manual.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
Exceptional images. Practical and functional. Great acquisition. Buying in NY, look for the Oscars: attentive and studious.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
I use this product in all family moments. Nowadays I'm using it to register my house makeover - before x after.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
This is my first DSLR and I'm so glad that I bought it. The shutter speed is great and the picture quality is beautiful. It's way better than my own camera. The only thing I don't like about it is the way things look when shooting with the LCD instead of the Viewfinder. Overall, it's a great camera for those transitioning from amateur photography to professional photography.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
Its simply AWESOME....i recommended my friends to B&H and they bought over 1000 USD worth of stuff from B& H yesterday.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
I have only had the camera for a month, and once learning how to operate it, am very happy I made the purchase. I have not used the video mode, but mainly purchased it to shoot images of work for fine arts applications. I do miss my N350 film camera, but have really enjoyed getting used to the digital shooting with this camera.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
Love it
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
I have found my Nikon D3100 to be an excellent entry-level camera. Sometimes I want more that just a point-and-shoot camera; the D3100 gives me the option of selecting my own setting but it also works very well under automatic mode. I find it quite intuitive to use and the quality of each exposure is great. I plan to get many years of service from my Nikon!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
Love the camera. It's easy to get lost in comparing specs with different cameras, but the D3100 is totally worth it as an introductory item. Lightweight, pretty intuitive, nice image quality. Would definitely recommend for beginners.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
I am a an advanced photographer who reluctantly made the switch from film to digital a while back. I had to now jump in with both hands and feet and wanted something just a bit more than entry level. The D3100 is a slam dunk for me. I could not be happier. It has everything from point and shoot to letting me handle all of the variables. This is one of the best cameras. As an added bonus it takes fantastic video. The only thing is that I don't like having to convert the .mov to mp4. Not a big deal but it would have been nice for an option.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
I've had several compact digital cameras over the years. They all had/have their advantages, most of which is their size. The adage that the worst picture is the one you don't take is so true. When my first child was born I purchase yet another compact digital that did HD movies. I got lots of use out of it but the low light performance was painful.
I mention these previous devices to give a frame of reference for the budget I am used to spending on cameras and the functionality they offer. With the advancement of cell phone cameras the necessity to have a dedicated compact digital is also diminished.
We're now expecting our second child and I decided it was time to rectify some of the major shortcomings of my last camera purchase. We take lots of child photos in the house, which is generally dim with some ambient natural light supplementing low output CFLs. This entry level DSLR is just about the perfect price point for the jump up to a larger sensor and interchangeable lenses.
"Photographers" will all tell you that a full frame camera is night and day different than the smaller ones offered on entry level DSLRs, but they don't mention that they cost 3x+ the cost. It's likely well worth the cost for one making a living with their shots, but for casual photo taker, it's an unnecessary expense. The flexibility and low-light performance benefits of entry level DSLRs is well worth the marginal price difference from compact digitals.
The D3100 is not the newest model, and does not have all the bells and whistles of some other entry levels. It does offer access to all Nikon lenses and shoots 1080p video. It also has "Live view" shooting to ease the transition from compacts and to make framing some shots easier. I would like to have the articulating screen that the D5xxx series has, but I rarely use the screen for anything but exposure settings anyway, so I don't miss it. I love shooting with DSLRs. The feedback you receive from the lens and body just feels so much better than the "beep" you get on compacts. I also find the ability to use manual focus invaluable. The auto-focus on DSLRs is very good, but even the best system can't always predict what exactly you're hoping to focus on.
My biggest complaint about this camera kit is the kit lens 18-55mm NIKKOR VR. It does what it's supposed to do, at the price point that keeps this kit affordable. Unfortunately it severely hampers this camera's ability to take respectable low light shots with a low ISO. I have been forced to shoot at ISO 1600 in my house. This gives me the exposure I'm looking for, but at the cost of significant image noise. The small aperture is the biggest culprit in my opinion. For comparison, I rented a 40mm f/2.8 Micro lens that allowed for ISO 400 in the exact same lighting conditions. The noise difference from ISO 400 to 1600 is extremely noticeable. Granted, the 40mm doesn't have any zoom, so that would take some getting used to for someone coming from compacts. Also it costs about half again what this whole kit costs. For me, though, the price will be well worth it.
I was actually a little disappointed with the D3100 when I first got it due to it's underperformance in low light. Moving to a lens with a much larger aperture has restored my confidence in this body, and I look forward to many great shots of our new family addition.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
I was able to put the camera together and use it the same day. It was very easy to use and I am very happy with it.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
takes great pictures and I love it, easy to use,but I would like the right lens cap the one you sent me is 72mm way to big of my lens
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
It's a great all-around camera for my needs (mostly still shots of room set-ups, furniture installs, etc. Photos are nice and crisp and the camera is responsive.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
Very nice camera for it's price.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
Great overall camera, very happy with it. My first DSLR and I am quite pleased. It is easy to use and performs excellently. Very crisp and clear photos, and great for general photography, whether it be landscapes or portraits, it always is a great help. I recommend the Nikon 35mm f/1.8 Lens to go with this.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
good features, and what is really worth is the lens
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
We purchased this camera as part of a bundle with the 55mm lens and the 200mm lens which was a great deal for the price. My favorite feature so far is sports setting. It takes amazing action shots.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
I bought the J1 and it was terrible except for the video. My sis-in-law has the 3000, which is very nice, but the 3000 doesnt have video, so I exchanged the J1 for 3100, which is similar to the 3000, but also has video. I am very pleased with this camera. It takes beautiful pictures, crystal clear HD video, and is very easy to use. I bought the package that came with the 2 lenses and a bag. Great deal.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR VR Lens:
I just use it for general photography and this is a simple and easy to use combo
DX-Nikkor lenses are engineered and optimized for use on Nikon DX-format D-SLRs and are designed to cover the smaller image area of the DX sensor. When a DX lens is mounted on an FX-format Nikon D-SLR, the camera's DX-Crop Mode is automatically engaged, introducing a 1.5x magnification (cropping) factor.