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Nikon D3100 jopafavoritus’s review Nikon usually produces very attractive entry-level DSLRs, which are rarely the best specified but wisely designed so that they're easy and enjoyable to shoot with. The D3100 is built around a 14.2 MP CMOS sensor, bringing not only live view but also Full HD video capture to Nikon's entry-level model for the first time. It can only record clips up to about ten minutes long (due to a 4Gb maximum file size limitation shared by all DSLRs), but this still counts as an impressive feature addition at this level. All of this adds up to a DSLR that incorporates all of 2010's 'must have' features but looks like the product of evolution, rather than dramatic innovation. Nikon D3100 Key Features • 14.2 MP DX-format CMOS sensor • 3.0" LCD monitor (230,000 dots) • Image sensor cleaning (sensor shake) • 11 AF points (with 3D tracking) • IS0 100-3200 range (12,800 expanded) • HD movies (1080p, 720p or WVGA) PROS • Very good image quality, high ISO performance; a big improvement over the D3000 • Compact, ergonomic and comfortable body • Plenty of manual control • Excellent image quality from the new 14-megapixel CMOS sensor • Good dynamic range • Fine-grained adjustment of color saturation, contrast, sharpness, etc. • Active D-Lighting does a good job of bringing out shadow detail • Good in-camera JPEG engine • Automatic chromatic aberration reduction with all lenses • Optional distortion correction with most Nikkor lenses • Full 1,920 x1,080 HD movies • New continuous AF mode (AF-F) during movies • Good buffer depths for entry-level model • Electronic rangefinder helps with manual focus when using optical viewfinder • Expanded Retouch options • Quiet shutter release mode is great for museums, weddings, and the like • Fast USB transfer speeds • Lots of in-camera raw conversion and post-processing options CONS • Will not focus all Nikon lenses • No bracketing capability • White balance often excessively orange under artificial light • Auto and Incandescent white balance very warm in tungsten lighting • No in-body image stabilization • Doesn't support wireless flash control • No on-demand grid-lines in optical viewfinder • Fixed-position LCD panel • LCD resolution could be better • Buggy Live View / Movie Mode and no phase-detect AF available in Live View mode • Obvious AF drive noise from kit lens picked up by internal mic during movie rec • AF still a little sluggish in live view mode, full-time AF not very effective in live view or movies • No manual exposure control for movies • No external mic jack • Kit lens somewhat soft in the corners wide open, with high geometric distortion at wide-angle • Bundled software is a bit clunky and does not extract any more detail from RAW files • USB and A/V cables not included Conclusion There's no doubt that the D3100 is one of the best entry-level SLRs available, offering very good image quality coupled with speedy operation and straightforward handling at least for conventional eye-level use. The D3100's guide mode is clearly aimed at attracting customers who have only used compact cameras, which makes the ability to offer a similarly fast live view focus and shooting experience a key consideration. However, while the D3100 represents a specification upgrade over a family of cameras we've generally liked, in some respects it has found itself rather out-paced by the market.Read full review
This is my first DSLR camera, but I think this is a great starter camera for someone who's interested in photography. That being said, I think I have a pretty good idea about general expectations of DSLRs based on research I've done, so hopefully, you'll find this review helpful if you're comparing DSLR cameras. Here's a rundown of my impressions of the camera, both good and bad: ************Pros: ~ Manual settings (lots included i.e. shutter speed, aperture, exposure) ~ Changeable lenses (1 included) ~ Video capabilities (Nice feature on a low-end DSLR. Can hear sound on video playback on camera. See notes below about video.) ~ Great quality strap included (very sturdy, should hold up should I drop the camera, despite the heaviness of it compared to automatic cameras) ~ Vibration reduction ~ Option for standard view or live screen view ~ Guides in standard view ~ Timer function (with beeping to let you know when it will take the picture)...no options for length though ~ Pop out flash (couldn't find button for it at first, but it does pop out automatically when needed for a picture) ~ Option to add an external flash ~ Guides for manual options explained on camera ************Cons: ~ Larger and heavier than automatic cameras (this is expected with a DSLR, but it's not always convenient to carry because of the size and weight) ~ Few presets compared with automatic cameras (I wish there were a few more, but could be a pro, depending on your needs) ~ No string to keep removable lens cap with camera (I'm concerned I will lose the cap because of this) ~ Not a lot of zoom with the provided lens (not a huge deal since you can change out lenses) ~ Can only video 10 minutes at a time ~ Picture process time is long in live view ~ Some buttons seemed to be in odd places at first (For example, the flash button is on the front while every other camera I've owned has had it on the back or top of the camera near the shutter button. However, the arrangement seems fine once you get used to the placements.) *************Video capability notes: I've read reviews where people have complained about the auto-focus being loud while filming, however, I have not noticed this. I will say that the auto focus does not seem to work well while zooming in and out in my opinion, and I do prefer to manually adjust the focus as I feel that option lends itself to a better end result. *************Despite having been refurbished, I have had no issues with the camera thus far. I'm always a bit wary of buying refurbished products, but Nikon did a great job with the fixes it seems. **************Overall, I think this camera is worth the money. I have been very happy with the results of the pictures I've taken. If you are in the market for lower-end DSLRs, I would consider this one.Read full review
Camera is light, easy to use and takes fantastic photos when proper settings are used. There is very little difference in image quality from the D3100 to Nikons more expensive cameras. More pixels don't make better photos. The D3100 is a great all around camera and better than any point and shoot or cellphone camera
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
I just recently bought this dSLR, and took around 400 shoots in different light conditions. Still learning it, so far I can say I am very pleased. I am glad I chose it over the more expensive D5100, the extra cash will go on equipment. camera body: pros: good build quality - feel very solid in your hand; very good image quality; ISO usable up to 1600 with very low noise; easy accessible commands - on the body as well in the menus using the convenient info button; very cheap for what you get. cons: viewfinder does not cover the whole frame - got to be careful while shooting, unwanted stuff can end up in your photo; no auto EV bracketing - even though it was simple to add in the firmware, low resolution LCD. kit lens: pros: very cheap, decent optics - for the money; usable for macro - even though it is not a macro lens. cons: chromatic aberrations, slow auto-focus - can hunt in low to medium light conditions and on certain colors (green) So in my opinion this lens is holding back the camera, if u can just buy the body and the excellent AF-S 35 mm f/1.8 and u will be thrilled with what this camera can do.Read full review
This camera is easy to use. Functions perfectly. Exactly what I wanted. And it takes wonderful photos. I would highly recommend this product to anyone.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
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