Intro and what to buy>

[Patrolman Pat]

G'Day all, I've been browsing this forum for a couple of days and it is very informative.
I'm looking at buying a DSLR and my price bracket has narrowed the search to a Nikon D40x or a CanonEOS400D, both of which seem to be around the $1000 mark from online sellers. I currently have a NikonF55 35mm, an old Olympus OM10 and a couple of P&S digitals. The film cameras get little use as I like the advantages of using digital and reckon it's time to upgrade and get a DSLR.
I've tried both cameras out for feel in a camera store today and both feel OK to hold and use. Any feedback on either of my options would be welcomed, I'm slightly favouring the Canon at the moment although I'm not real sure why.

[Geoff]

Welcome to our forum Here's hoping you have a long lasting stay where u can learn lots and share what you learn!

As far as which camera you get, it basically comes down to your own personal preference. Each system is equally good (holy cow did I just say that??). I have a personal favouritism towards Nikon but obviously I say go with what feels good to you!

I suspect you will immensely enjoy the conversion and new abilities within the digital realm of photography.

Hope this helps, let us know how you go on your final decision. When you become a full member here (read the FAQ) you will be eligible for some serious discounts on both camera bodies, lenses and accessories.

[virgal_tracy]

Do you have lenses for the Nikon? If so, although they won't auto focus with the D40 you are at least ahead of the game in terms of glass. If you only have the one lens then as Geoff said it will depend on what feels best to you.

[Patrolman Pat]

Thanks for the replies guys. I've only got the lens that came with the camera AF 28-80mm from memory. Not enough to sway the decision although I have plenty of SD cards which is another tick to the Nikon.
I can't wait to get into the world of DSLRs so much to learn.

[Louie]

My friend went through this debate a few weeks ago, we had both cameras side by side in the shop weighing up the merits of each one. There really isn't much to pick between them but decisions had to be made -

Nikon won as overall it was more comfortable to hold, had better menus and also the inbuilt 'Help' function which is very useful for new users (like me, I have a D40 and love it).

Cheers,
Elena

[Patrolman Pat]

Made the purchase, bought a DX40X with 18-55 and 55-200VR lenses. Only managed to take one shot so far (of the dog) as I'm flat out at work trying to pay for it.
Hopefully I'll get a chance to have a play at the weekend.

[aussichef]

Come on now Pat
Your a plumber you should only have to work a few hours to pay for that lol
warren aka aussichef