Looking at D3100, D3200 and D5100 for first-time DSLR owners

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jakehinds

Senior Member
Hey guys, I'm looking for my first DSLR. My brother had a coolpix that I used more than him, but he moved out so now I have my Iphone 4 and the GoPro HD hero. My options are:
D3100 with lens upgrade
D3200 with kit lens
D5100 with kit lens


I know that you're supposed to get better lenses than bodies since they last longer and you really won't outgrow them, but does that really matter since these cameras are on the lower end of the spectrum? I'll mainly be shooting nature, sports, and landscape, but I guess that's kind of the same as nature. What should I get??
 
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Don Kuykendall_RIP

RIP :(
Go ahead and spend the extra money and get the D5100. The few extra features on that camera are worth it. I have owned both and both are great cameras but get the D5100.
 
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ladytonya

Senior Member
It really depends a lot on how much you have to spend and how you plan on using it. For me, I was really limited financially but REALLY wanted to get a DSLR. I could get the D3100 and start learning how to take great pictures or I could wait, continue using my iPhone 5 as my only camera and eventually be able to get a nicer body. I chose the instant gratification! Good luck to you whichever model you choose, it is definitely a fun toy!
 
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WhiteLight

Senior Member
To be honest, the 3100 & 5100 are on their way out... in that order..
you can rule out the 3100 cos you'll be happy with the 5100's extra features.

now it's a toss up between the 3200 & the 5100..
slight differences, but they do exist.
to put it really simply, if you want to shoot video as well, get the 3200
but if it's only still photography, then get the d5100
 
Ijustwant1

Ijustwant1

Senior Member
Yes the D5100 is a good camera ! Then get a 50mm 1.8G prime lens its a magic little bit of kit :cool: gee I really like that lens :D
 
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Deezey

Senior Member
D lenses do NOT have a focus motor. So a D lens will NEVER auto focus on a D5100

G lenses DO have a focus motor and will auto focus on a D5100.

To auto focus a D lens you need a Nikon camera with a focus motor. Such as my D90.

If you get a D3XXX or D5XXX.....focus on G lenses....so that you can auto focus....:D

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