Nikon D3300 DSLR Camera Review

Nikon and Canon have long dominated the entry-level portion of the DSLR market with plenty of strong interchangeable lens camera options, so when these two manufacturers offer new models into this segment of the market, photographers will always pay attention.

Nikon's latest entry into the low end of the DSLR market is the D3300, which Nikon calls an HD-SLR camera. (I'm not exactly sure what makes the D3300 an HD-SLR other than it shoots full HD movies, so I'll just refer to it as a DSLR to avoid confusion.)

Simply put, this is a strong still image camera offered at a reasonable price. Nikon has given the D3300 a large image sensor with 24-plus megapixels of resolution, and the image quality with this model is outstanding. So if all you want is a strong still image camera without some add-on bells and whistles, the D3300 is a terrific option for a first DSLR camera.

However there are a few drawbacks with this model that prevent it from receiving my top rating. The LCD has no touch capabilities, and it isn't articulated. There's no built-in Wi-Fi option either. If you use the camera's LCD to frame photos (called Live View mode) rather than the viewfinder, the camera's performance slows quite a bit. And even though Nikon is calling the D3300 an HD-SLR, your ability to have manual control over movie recording is very limited.

I liked the Nikon D3300 very much as an entry-level DSLR camera. But if you want more than just a strong still image camera -- and those add-ons are important to some photographers in the current market -- then the D3300 falls a little short.

Specifications

    Resolution: 24.2 megapixels
    Optical zoom: N/A (uses interchangeable lenses)
    LCD: 3.0-inch, 921,000 pixels
    Maximum image size: 6000 x 4000 pixels
    Battery: Rechargeable Li-Ion
    Dimensions: 4.9 x 3.9 x 3.0 inches
    Weight: 15.1 ounces (no battery and memory card)
    Image sensor: CMOS APS-C sensor (23.5 x 15.6 mm)
    Movie mode: Full HD 1080p (60fps)

Pros

    Image quality is above average versus others in price range
    Good starting price versus comparable models
    Fast performer when using viewfinder
    Can use as a fully automatic camera or in manual mode
    A bit smaller and lighter than other entry-level DSLRs

Cons

    No "extra" features like touch screen display or built-in Wi-Fi
    Movie controls are very limited
    D3300's popup flash must be opened manually; doesn't open automatically as needed
    When shooting in Live View mode, camera's performance slows
    Resolution choices are very limited

Nikon D5300 DSLR Review

Those seeking an entry-level DSLR camera will be very pleased with the Nikon D5300 model. It has all of the basic photography features that you'd expect to find in an advanced interchangeable lens digital camera, including outstanding image quality and fast performance.

Nikon didn't skimp on the "extra" features with the D5300 either. It offers a high-quality 3.2-inch articulated LCD screen, which is great for shooting odd-angle photos or for using this model when attached to a tripod. You'll also find built-in Wi-Fi with the D5300, which is a very popular feature with cameras currently in the market.

The large DX format image sensor that Nikon included with the D5300 includes 24.2 megapixels of resolution, which is among the largest resolution numbers you'll find in a DSLR camera. The large image sensor helps this model to perform extremely well in low light photography.

The biggest drawback to the Nikon D5300 is its large starting price at more than $1,000. The D5300 is among the most powerful introductory DSLR cameras on the market, but it also carries one of the higher price tags for that type of DSLR Camera  model. If you're someone who would like to purchase a DSLR camera that's easy to use at first, but that also allows you to learn more about intermediate photography as your skills improve, the D5300 can help you grow your skills.

As long as the D5300 fits in your budget, it's tough to go wrong with this model.

Specifications

    Resolution: 24.2 megapixels
    Optical zoom: N/A, uses interchangeable lenses
    LCD: 3.2-inch, 1.037 million pixels
    Maximum image size: 6000 x 4000 pixels
    Battery: Rechargeable Li-Ion
    Dimensions: 4.92 x 3.9 x 3.0 inches
    Weight: 16.9 ounces (camera body only)
    Image sensor: CMOS DX format, 23.5 x 15.6 mm
    Movie mode: Full HD 1080p (60fps)

Pros

    Great image quality
    Low light results are good with large image sensor and high ISO settings
    LCD is large, bright, and articulated
    Fast camera performance when shooting in Viewfinder mode
    Good mix of automatic and intermediate shooting features

Cons

    Starting price is high
    Camera performs slowly in Live View mode
    Battery drains too quickly in Live View mode or when using Wi-Fi
    Wi-Fi can be difficult to set up and use
    Only three image sizes available

Review on Nikon D3100 14.2MP Digital SLR Camera

For people looking for new DSLR camera, stop, this is it, Nikon D3100 is for you When intentionally overloaded by myself on continous shots, it will clear the buffer very fast (ADL on if you're wondering). Image sensitivity at high ISO is great acording to random reviwes, but I'm still waiting a prof test. But think about it, on Auto ISO the range goes to 3200 and I can't see any noise. You can shoot everything with Nikon D3100.

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Product Description

14.2-megapixel DX-format CMOS Image Sensor

Delivers beautiful photographs and prints well beyond 20 x 30 inches.

Includes 3x 18-55mm Zoom-NIKKOR VR Image Stabilization Lens

Included lens offers the legendary NIKKOR optical quality and fast, accurate autofocus for vivid color, striking contrast and crisp detail and VR image stabilization to ensure the sharpest hand-held pictures and movies.

Full 1080p HD Cinematic Video

Features full-time autofocus and sound; record cinematic-quality movies in Full 1080p HD format (1920 x 1080 pixels).

Easy-To-Use

The D3100 features Nikon's Guide Mode with intuitive controls and on-board assistance helping you take better pictures every step of the way.

Compact and Lightweight Design

Beautifully styled--ready to go wherever life takes you.

Split-second Shutter Response

Eliminates the frustration of shutter delay, capturing moments that other cameras miss.

Fast 11-point Autofocus System

Delivers razor-sharp pictures.

ISO sensitivity 100-3200, expandable to ISO 12800 equivalent

Delivers exceptional results, even in the most challenging low-light situations.

3-inch monitor

Features One-Touch Live View shooting and movie capture.

Scene Auto Selector

Lets the D3100 decide the best mode to match the shooting situation when using Live View.

EXPEED 2

Nikon's new image processing engine assures breathtakingly rich image quality, managing color, contrast, exposure, noise and speed.

Scene Recognition System in Live View

Automatically optimizes exposure, autofocus, and white balance, allowing you to obtain beautiful photos without the hassle of making complicated camera adjustments yourself.

6 Automatic Exposure Scene Modes

Just set the Mode dial to 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. 

For More Feautures Click Here.

My Own Review

After more than 1,000 shots with this camera in the last 2 weeks, I'm very glad with the purchase. This lightweight and fast device is a joy to use! Very lightweight, and great looking design.This Nikon feels great in my hands, the build quality seems sturdy and looks kind of pro even for it's smallness compared to bigger DSLRs. I love how I can set the func button to control ISO or other stuff like White Balance.

The lens included with the camera is very very sharp, so far I cannot complain. I'm amazed at the clean images I get with ISO 3200 indoors! Wow, that's something that we couldn't say a few years ago with these cameras. I've already had pictures published in the newspaper set at those high Isos, and no problem... They look great!!

I also love the option of setting Picture Controls and Auto ISO. I usually set my camera to Portrait or Standard plus a little bit of saturation.

I have already taken lots of photographs indoors without flash, portraits outside, candids indoors and outdoors, and even handed the camera to my brother (who knows nothing about operating DSLRs) for shooting parts of a concert and he got some beautiful pictures!! And that's one of my favorite things abut the camera: I can give it to other people to take pictures as a point and shoot, and they enjoy using it and taking nice photos without worrying about setting stuff.

I really don't care about video capabilities, nor liveview. I rarely use them but when I have done it, I've liked what I've seen. My only complaint is the battery, as I think it drains quickly compared with other cameras in the similar category I've seen. So, for recording my life in those moments I don't mind carrying something bigger than my ultracompact, the Nikon D3100 is perfect. I wouldn't bother to carry something bigger or heavier. This is the perfect balance.

I'm an amateur photographer and this camera meets my needs. I love the fact that it's small and light, with great quality images. I'm happy with my purchase and I highly recommend this camera.

Nikon D3100 is now available at Amazon. This item qualifies for 20% Promotional Discount and Free Super Saver Shipping.

Review Sony A3000 Interchangeable Lens Digital 20.1MP

Upon picking up the Sony A3000, the first thing I liked was the feel. It's the perfect sized travel camera for someone used to a bigger DSLR while having a comfortable, deep recessed, rubberized grip. The included 18-55 zoom feels mechanically solid for a kit lens, and it's also fairly sharp corner to corner. Sony A3000 is very little geometric distortion or chromatic aberration.

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Product Description

20.1 MP APS-C size HD image sensor

Sony A3000 uses the same sensor format that Sony builds into its full-sized Alpha DSLR cameras. With 13 times the area of the typical point-and-shoot image sensor, APS-C sensor size makes the difference between “snapshots” and “photographs,” delivering an exceptional combination of high resolution, high sensitivity and gorgeous, blurred backgrounds.

Light body and dependable grip

Using larger, more professional digital cameras can sometimes be awkward to manage and can weigh you down. But, the A3000 offers a lightweight body and a newly developed grip that enables you to hold the camera more securely for worry-free shooting. It provides ease and comfort when you're taking photos on-the-go.

Quick Auto Focus in Live View

If you enjoy taking photos via the large 3.0" LCD screen over the viewfinder, then you'll be thrilled with the performance of the A3000 optimized auto focus feature. It's intuitive operation means you'll never miss the action or get frustrated waiting for your camera to focus as you shoot stunning images or HD video. This is an ideal feature for photographers who prefer to keep contact with their subjects.

Full HD Movies at 60i and 24p

Not only does the A3000 take high resolution, magazine worthy photos, but it can also capture stunning HD movies in your choice of standard 60i or cinematic 24p, all at Full HD 1920x1080 resolution. The AVCHD™ codec delivers stunning Blu-ray™ HD picture quality. Also included is the MP4 codec which offers smaller file size for easier upload to the web for sharing.

I won't go into all the features, you can find that information click here.

My Own Review on Sony A3000 

I must say that the performance is really excellent, especially for the price point. The sensor produces clean and relatively noise-free images up to about 3200 ISO before introducing slight noise. This is perfect for most photography that you will be doing, especially if you are looking into a less expensive model such as this. The image quality is also really quite good and the lens, while a bit tight on the focus ring, seems very nice and solidly built.

The -4 to +3.5 diopter allows for a good range of personal diopter adjustment and this is very important when you are using a non-point-and-shoot camera. The adjustment is easy and smooth, and the control stays solid once adjusted. This adjustment is very important to people who wear glasses, as the adjustment range is good enough to make it so that many people who wear glasses will be able to shoot without glasses.

I think that the design of this camera (aesthetic looks) was a great choice. Sony A3000 looks like a DSLR instead of Sony's other mirrorless cameras. Maybe I am just accustomed to the DSLR look, as my personal cameras are a Canon 5D Mk III and a Canon 6D, but I really do think that this is a nice looking camera that fits well into the hand. The bulge on the right-hand side of the camera provides a comfortable grip like DSLR cameras and will allow you to shoot better and with more stability.

The display on the back of the camera is not as good as I would like, but it is functional and you will be able to tell what you are doing. At the end of the day, you aren't going to view your pictures on your camera, you are going to view them on your computer and then print. Still, I think a higher-resolution/DPI screen would be a nice change to this camera.

Sony A3000 has a fairly extensive manual setting that you should really learn to use, as you will be able to get the best performance out of your camera when you understand your shutter speeds, ISO, aperture, etc. This camera is a great place to start learning and working, and it is also good for people who already understand these settings. This will be an amazing step up for people who are accustomed to using a point-and-shoot camera.

Sony A3000 is now available at Amazon. This item qualifies for 20% Promotional Discount and Free Super Saver Shipping.

Canon EOS Rebel T3i Reviews

The Canon EOS Rebel T3i is an 18.0 Megapixel CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) sensor that captures images with exceptional clarity and tonal range and offers more than enough resolution for big enlargements or crops. This first-class sensor features many of the same new technologies as used by professional Canon cameras to maximize each pixel’s light-gathering efficiency.

Canon EOS Rebel T3i 18 MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera and DIGIC 4 Imaging with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens

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Canon EOS Rebel T3i Product Future:

• 18.0 MP CMOS sensor and DIGIC 4 Image Processor for high image quality and speed 
• ISO 100 - 6400 for shooting from bright to dim light 
• Vari-angle 3.0-inch Clear View LCD monitor (3:2) for shooting at high or low angles and 1,040,000-dot VGA with reflection reduction 
• Video Snapshot features for enhanced video shooting options 
• Comes with camera body, EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Type II lens, eyecup, wide strap, USB cable, AV cable, battery, and charge.

Canon EOS Rebel T3i Technical Details:

• Type: Digital, AF/AE single-lens reflex, camera with built-in flash
• Recording Media: SD/SDHC/SDXC card, via external media (USB v.2.0 hard drive, or via Wireless LAN (Eye-Fi card*))
• Image Format: 22.3 x 14.9 mm (APS-C size)
• Compatible Lenses: Canon EF lenses including EF-S lenses (35mm-equivalent focal length is approx.1.6x the lens focal length)
• Lens Mount: Canon EF mount
• Total Pixels: Total pixels: Approx. 18.70 megapixels
• Aspectatio: 3:2 (Horizontal : Vertical) See More Details

Canon EOS Rebel T3i Hands-On Reviews:

The good:

The Canon EOS Rebel T3i delivers excellent video capabilities and image and video quality.

The bad:

If you shoot both still and video, the T3i's controls can be  a little bit frustrating to operate, and it's not terribly fast for burst shooting sports, kids, or pets.

The bottom line:

For the money, the Canon EOS Rebel T3i is a great choice for dSLR videographers--though the cheaper T2i can still suffice if you don't need the articulated LCD--and it's a solid choice for creative still shooters. With a relatively affordable price, enthusiast-friendly features, and spectacular image quality, it's an easy Editors' Choice.

Canon EOS Rebel T4i 18.0 MP CMOS Digital Camera

The EOS Rebel T4i features Canon’s amazing 18.0 Megapixel CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) sensor. Perfect for enlargements or for cropping detailed portions of the composition, the EOS Rebel T4i’s sensor captures images with exceptional clarity and tonal range. This first-class sensor features many of the same new technologies used by professional Canon cameras to maximize each pixel’s light-gathering efficiency and has center pixels that aid in the EOS Rebel T4i’s accurate AF performance. This APS-C size sensor creates an effective 1.6x field of view (compared to 35mm format).

Canon EOS Rebel T4i 18.0 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 18-135mm EF-S IS STM Lens

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Canon EOS Rebel T4i 18.0 MP CMOS Digital Camera Product Future

• 18.0 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor, 14-bit A/D conversion, ISO 100-12800; expandable to 25600 (H) for shooting from bright to dim light and high performance DIGIC 5 Image Processor for exceptional image quality and speed
• High speed continuous shooting up to 5.0 fps allows you to capture all the action 
• Improved autofocus performance with a 9-point all cross-type AF system (including a high-precision dual-cross f/2.8 center point), and new Hybrid CMOS AF increases autofocus speed when shooting photos and movies in Live View 
• Enhanced EOS Full HD Movie mode with Movie Servo AF for continuous focus tracking of moving subjects, manual exposure control and multiple frame rates (1080: 30p (29.97) / 24p (23.976) / 25p, 720: 60p (59.94) / 50p, 480: 30p (29.97) / 25p) 
• New 3.0-inch Vari-angle Touch Screen Clear View LCD monitor II (approximately 1,040,000 dots) with smudge-resistant coating features multi-touch operation and Touch AF for an easy and intuitive experience, flexible positioning, and clear viewing even when outdoors.

Canon EOS Rebel T4i 18.0 MP CMOS Digital Camera Technical Details

• Brand Name: Canon
• Model: 6558B005
• Optical Sensor Resolution: 18 MP
• Optical Sensor
• Technology: CMOS
• Optical zoom: 1 x
• Display Size: 3 inches
• Viewfinder Type: optical viewfinder

Hands On Reviews

The good

The Canon EOS Rebel T4i delivers extremely good photo and video quality plus improved performance in Live View shooting over the T3i -- as long as you buy the more expensive 18-135mm STM kit. Plus, the camera has a more streamlined shooting design than its predecessor.

The bad
The feature set remains rather blah, and its photos aren't as good as the T3i's at high ISO sensitivities.

The bottom line

A fine camera, the Canon EOS Rebel T4i's more expensive 18-135mm STM kit (or body with another STM lens) is the only version that merits an unqualified recommendation. If you are looking for an entry level camera to the DSLR world, well this is the one for you.