Nikon D3000

It is always nice to be stretched by a D<b>SLR</b> unit. This one from <b>Nikon</b> would make an ideal stepping stone for a competent <b>Digital</b> <b>Camera</b> user before going on to a professional unit if indeed they intend to progress further.

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There is a temptation amongst those of us that shoot with and test DSLRs for a living to be more than a little dismissive about entry-level cameras like the Nikon D3000. However, first-time DSLR buyers are enormously important to camera manufacturers, and the competition amongst them for a share of the entry-level market is intense. The D60, which is replaced by the D3000, was Nikon's best-selling DLSR, and it is the success of products like this that drives the development of everything from low-end Coolpix models to the recently announced professional level D3s. But the success of entry-level DSLRs isn't just good news for camera manufacturers - today's 'low end' offerings are highly specified, powerful tools, which - had they been released a few years ago - would have commanded much higher prices than they do today. With the 6 million pixel D40, released in 2006, Nikon made a decision to create a completely different type of DSLR to its previous low-end offerings. The D40, and the D40x and D60 that followed it, was designed specifically to be user-friendly, as well as merely wallet-friendly. Gone were the 'traditional' top-plate mounted LCD screen and many of the external control points, in favor of a stripped-down, minimalist design and a largely screen-driven interface. The D3000 continues in this mold, but if anything, is even easier to get to grips with thanks to the introduction of a new 'guide' mode. The D3000 shares the same 10 million pixel CCD sensor as the D60, and almost exactly the same body and design, but this camera is more than a cosmetic revamp of the older model. Crucially, the D60's adequate but uninspiring 3-point AF system is gone, replaced by the same 11-point system as found in the D90. This venerable AF module (the Multi-cam 1000, if you were curious) has impressive provenance, and was originally developed for the professional-level Nikon D200. Some photographers may be disappointed, however, by the lack of live view and video modes in the D3000, which makes it the 'odd one out' compared to many of its entry-level peers.

There is a temptation amongst those of us that shoot with and test DSLRs for a living to be more than a little dismissive about entry-level cameras like the Nikon D3000. However, first-time DSLR buyers are enormously important to camera manufacturers, and the competition amongst them for a share of the entry-level market is intense. The D60, which is replaced by the D3000, was Nikon's best-selling DLSR, and it is the success of products like this that drives the development of everything from low-end Coolpix models to the recently announced professional level D3s. But the success of entry-level DSLRs isn't just good news for camera manufacturers - today's 'low end' offerings are highly specified, powerful tools, which - had they been released a few years ago - would have commanded much higher prices than they do today. With the 6 million pixel D40, released in 2006, Nikon made a decision to create a completely different type of DSLR to its previous low-end offerings. The D40, and the D40x and D60 that followed it, was designed specifically to be user-friendly, as well as merely wallet-friendly. Gone were the 'traditional' top-plate mounted LCD screen and many of the external control points, in favor of a stripped-down, minimalist design and a largely screen-driven interface. The D3000 continues in this mold, but if anything, is even easier to get to grips with thanks to the introduction of a new 'guide' mode. The D3000 shares the same 10 million pixel CCD sensor as the D60, and almost exactly the same body and design, but this camera is more than a cosmetic revamp of the older model. Crucially, the D60's adequate but uninspiring 3-point AF system is gone, replaced by the same 11-point system as found in the D90. This venerable AF module (the Multi-cam 1000, if you were curious) has impressive provenance, and was originally developed for the professional-level Nikon D200. Some photographers may be disappointed, however, by the lack of live view and video modes in the D3000, which makes it the 'odd one out' compared to many of its entry-level peers.

Here are the best DSLR cameras selling for less than $2,000, including top picks for beginners, hobbyists and video shooters.

If you’ve always hungered for a DSLR and more importantly, a Nikon DSLR, but never had ‘the ready’ to fill your ambition … The Nikon D3000 DSLRcould be your opportunity. It’s hard to quantify the allure of the breed but undeniable is the bloodline, the technical excellence and innovative achievements of Nikon cameras and lenses.

Do you believe that a camera can guide you into a more creative realm? Can you learn as you shoot? Do you own a point-and-shoot and want to step up your image potential? If you are inclined to agree with these queries you might consider the Nikon D3000.

Nikon D3000 review, find out how the D3000 stacks up against the competition in our real-world review with in-depth image quality comparisons.

Nikon D3000

An inexpensive Nikon digital SLR camera that's great for beginners

The Nikon D3000 is a new digital SLR camera for the masses, with simplified handling and guided help that offers a gentle introduction to the world of SLR photography. The D3000 is designed to improve your photos, with an interactive Intelligent Guide mode holding your hand on the road to that perfect picture. Other standout features include a large 3 inch LCD screen, sensible 10 megapixel sensor, 11-point autofocus system and 3fps continuous shooting. Available for £429.99 / €522.00 body-only or £499.99 / €607.00 / $599.95 with the 18-55mm VR kit lens, Gavin Stoker discovers if the Nikon D3000 is the ultimate camera for DSLR beginners.

Nikon's newest entry-level DSLR comes under the spotlight

Beginner-friendly features, but the D3000 fails to provide efficient controls and competitive image quality

Probably the most beginner-friendly DSLR on the market