Product Review: Nikon D40 SLR Digital Camera

The Nikon D40 SLR Digital Camera is a perfect camera for serious photography enthusiasts and hobbyists. SLR's differ from point-and-shoot cameras by offering more manual control and detachable lenses. SLR's are the most expensive and best among digital cameras. SLR cameras offer high resolution and image sensors creating high quality photographs. Some offer manual control over more features, but until you've learned a little more about the art of photography the Nikon D40 SLR is an ideal choice.

The Nikon D40 is a starter camera in the SLR series. It is easy to operate and captures crisp, sharp pictures even at 6.2 megapixels. Unlike some digital cameras, the Nikon D40 starts up quickly ensuring you don't miss a moment. Fast shutter response shoots 2.5 frames per second. This freezes shots instantly eliminating the annoying delay in digital photography. It also enables you to capture high quality sequence shots.

Finding the perfect shot is easy with the 2.5 inch color LCD monitor. Instant playback of images is available and playback can be magnified up to 19 times.

The Nikon D40 is also appealing as an SLR because it is lightweight. Features and options are intuitive, and the image sensor delivers vivid colors and sharp detail. High resolution photographs mean the pictures can be enlarged to 16 x 20 inches without losing clarity. It also means you have a larger picture frame to work with using photo editing software.

In-camera editing options include Nikon D-Lighting, autofocus, red-eye correction, cropping, overlay, and a choice of three monochrome colors. Tone and filter effects allow you to edit the photo prior to uploading it to a computer. On screen help menus give quick and easy directions for using all of the features.

Since in-camera options allow you to skip computer editing you can send your photos straight to a printer. SLR's and photo printers have ushered in a new era of instant photos. The Nikon D40 allows start-up photographers the opportunity to capitalize on that technology.

The Nikon D40 comes with a 3x 18-55mmf/3.5-5.6G EDII AF-S DX Zoom Nikon Lens. The camera is compatible with Nikon F mount lenses with AF coupling and AF contacts. It is also compatible with the Type G or D AF Nikon, although it does not support autofocus on these lenses.

The Nikon D40 is available in electronics stores and some department stores. It can be purchased at Best Buy for $549.99. Circuit City has it on sale for $514.99. Circuit City's list price is $599.99, with a standard in-store discount to $549.99.

Accessories available for use with the Nikon D40 include an SB-400 S flash, EN-EL9 Rechargeable Li-ion Battery, an MH-23 Battery Quick Charger, the EH-5AC Adapter, an EP-5 Power Supply Connector, a UC-E4 USB Cable, straps, soft cases, and video cables.

If you are looking to move forward in the art of photography, the Nikon D40 is an excellent choice. It produces crisp, clear pictures without a lot of headaches. Users and consumer agencies give this camera top ratings for ease of use, quality photographs, and in-camera features.

The Nikon D80 is the next step up in SLR cameras. It can be purchased for roughly the same price, but it requires more product knowledge to adjust flash and other settings manually. The only other perk is that it takes slightly faster pictures per second.

For quality and price the Nikon D40 is an exceptional choice for an SLR camera.

Sources:

Digital Photography Glossary

D40 Incredible Pictures Even Easier

Digital Camera HQ