**OK, years ago I owned a Nikon 6006 & 8008...I did Rock show photos in low light and Boudoir. I was in an accident (*hit by drunk driver) My camera bag which was always with me got "LOST" by the tow truck company i.e.>No bag in car?! Bastards....yes I said that. $17,000.00 in Nikor Lenses,  and 2 high end camera bodies, plus my little ME-Super went pffft! So I stopped doing photos because I just couldn't replace what was lost (*home owners insurance, didn't cover equipment in a car) SO! I am finally going to get a new camera, I know nothing of Digital, I did SLR Film, and packed, and developed myself. This is 100% new to me.....
I am looking at the Nikon D40. I am getting this style *Because I don't know digital, and thought it sounded like a good mid-range novice Digital camera.
http://www.nikonusa.com/template.php?cat=1&grp=2&productNr=25420

I read this review on Adorama.com >

**"Pros:

Accurate Colors, Great Resolution, Nice Features and Settings, Simple Controls

Cons:

Different meter than D200

Best Uses:

Everyday, Low Lighting, Outdoors, Portraits, Travel, Weddings/Events

Describe Yourself:

Professional

**The D40 is a perfect 2nd body if you already have a ton of money in Nikon glass. If I'm running someplace and want a camera along, I'll grab my D40 and go. The kit lens is great and perfectly matched to the lightweight D40 body. The D70 / D200's feel like tanks compared to this gem. I've swapped out the kit lens for my 18-120 vr and haven't had a single problem. My only gripe with the D40 is that Nikon used the same meter as the D80 has and not the D200 / D70 metering system. This caused shots to be overexposed at first, but I've found the compensation that I prefer. [...] Be aware that the D40 does use the SD Card as opposed to the CF Card. So, if you're like me and use the D200 / D40 combo, you will need to pony up $ for the SD Cards too."

My first question is, for a mid priced camera, is this a good buy/deal? (*comes with a 18-55 lens, 6.1mp) I want to go Nikon, because I am dedicated, but I also owned a sweet little ME-Super at the same time that I did quick shots with and because it was so light weight and transported everywhere easily! :)    Would there be a camera that you as pros and experienced would reccomend above  A) a Nikon, and B) this model? I have only $600.00 to start with the basic Body and standard 50MM type lens.

Secound question, What is this person reffering to about the SD vs CF card??? I honestly have no clue.

Third, I plan to get a 1G memory Card for the camera, is that adequat for a large range of projects?

Fourth, I also will be buying a Nikon Lense the 70-300 as-f Mfr # 2161 it is pricey (*$599.00 appx) but I have been told by Nikon it is the only one that functions with the AF feature....which is often handy in certain situations, like when a tripod isn't practical or it is a fast moving venue.  Opinions on the lense? I don't use non Nikon lenses with a Nikon body.

Last any advice for me. I miss shooting really badly, but I always thought Digital was like "Point & Shoot" not a lot of artistic or manipulative availability. There's nothing quite like the smell and feel of the emulsion when you work that paper! :) But I want to get back into it & soon and this seems to be the way I will be going.

Thank You.....
Ariana** 

***Here was the Glowing Praise of this Camera.....

**

"Pros:

Accurate Colors, Great Resolution, Nice Features and Settings, Rugged

Best Uses:

Close Up Merchandise, Everyday, Low Lighting, Outdoors, Portraits, Sports/Action

Describe Yourself:

Internet Retailer

This is my 4th Digital Camera. I've owned an AGFA, Nikon 4300, Sony, and now this one.
WOW, until I got this in my hands, I didn't realize how much I missed my old Nikon FM SLR! Right out of the box, I put it through it's steps, just using the presets that are built into the camera.
I'm amazed and so impressed and so IN LOVE with this camera.
I sell antique glass and pottery on the internet, so therefore a camera is as much of my business as anything I own. My Sony was pixelating at only 13,000 photos. It is the top Sony sold. So I was forced to buy a new camera immediately. I spent hours going over reviews and looking for a camera that meets my needs. I need to be able to shoot high detail very close range and not be interrupted by battery failure. I need a camera that will work in low lighting as I use a photo cube. I need a camera that will let me decide my light needs and aperture control.
Those items are not easy to find! When I got this camera, I just put it on the close-up and was back in business before even reading the manual!
Then I took it outside and took around 300 photos in all lighting, mixed lighting, dark, close-up, action shots, and portraits. I have NEVER had such great results, even with my old Nikon FM!
This camera is a must for serious photographers and those who want "the best"!"

Seems like you have already decided :)

The memory cards CF or SD is no matter of you do not have a stock of cards already, they are just different formats one is not better than another. The market seems to be moving towards SD so I don't see any future problems.

You mentioned your ME Super, that was a Pentax so presumably you are not adverse to considering other makes beside Nikon?   My only sugestion would be to consider carefully because you are buying into a system not just buying a camera. If you invest in buying lenses and want to upgrade in the future then you will be upgrading to that fitting unless you replace all your lenses too. There are some excellent third party lenses being made so I would not limit yourself to having just the same make of lens as camera body.  

I am sure you will find digital photography just as exciting as traditional and I wish you luck with whatever you decide .

Firstly, welcome back to the world of photography! I think once you start shooting you'll wonder how you managed without it. (sorry to hear about all of your lost equipment) You asked a number of questions so I'll try to briefly cover what I am familiar with and I am sure others will help out. 1. The D40 is (from what I've heard) a good ENTRY level DSLR. The price seems right for you in this instance. Still, I would go to a site like dpreview.com and learn what you can about other inexpensive DSLRs from Olympus, Canon, etc. Lastly, try one out before you buy it, how it feels in your hands makes a big difference when using it. Most DSLRs will deliver close to the same quality in terms of images, lens quality also playing a factor. Here is the full D40 review at dpreview: http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/nikond40/ 2 & 3. SD and CF are different memory card styles. CF is the most common but SD isn't too far behind that. You are starting fresh so this should not be a concern, though CF cards are slightly cheaper and "seem" more robust. Starting off with 1G is fine. Feel it out and if you find yourself running out of room during photo shoots, get another 1G or 2G card. 4. No experience with that lens, someone else will have to fill you in there. Here it is on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Nikon-70-300mm-4-5-5-6G-Digital-Cameras/dp/B000HJPK2C/sr=1-2/qid=1169155982/ref=sr_1_2/102-0396042-0740133?ie=UTF8&s=photo Here are two others: http://www.amazon.com/Nikon-70-300mm-4-5-6G-Nikkor-Camera/dp/B00005Y3OM/sr=1-1/qid=1169155982/ref=sr_1_1/102-0396042-0740133?ie=UTF8&s=photo http://www.amazon.com/Sigma-70-300mm-4-5-6-Telephoto-Cameras/dp/B000A7V2DC/sr=1-3/qid=1169155982/ref=sr_1_3/102-0396042-0740133?ie=UTF8&s=photo Lasty Arian, digital is far from just point and shoot. For me, taking the photo is only the beginning. In a digital darkroom (like Photoshop) the sky is the limit. Read up on as much things as possible, there is a lot to know. Happy buying. EDIT: I see I cross posted with Richard...he has sage advice...take heed. :)

**Hello Ariana,

English is not my native langage, so i hope you will understand me..

My first question is, for a mid priced camera, is this a good buy/deal? (*comes with a 18-55 lens, 6.1mp) I want to go Nikon, because I am dedicated, but I also owned a sweet little ME-Super at the same time that I did quick shots with and because it was so light weight and transported everywhere easily! :)    Would there be a camera that you as pros and experienced would reccomend above  A) a Nikon, and B) this model? I have only $600.00 to start with the basic Body and standard 50MM type lens.
1.A. -> Nikon is good ! I remind F4 & F5.. mmmm .. so, Nikon is very good, but consider the prices of lens, flash, accessories and compare with canon or Sigma...
1.B. I don't know much about the D40.. I owned a D70 3 years ago, and the quality of the pic was ok, but i don't like the colors of the nikon. But you can postwork the pic, as you do with emulsion in the dark...

Secound question, What is this person reffering to about the SD vs CF card??? I honestly have no clue.

1. Onslow said all ! It's just a format, no difference of quality.

Third, I plan to get a 1G memory Card for the camera, is that adequat for a large range of projects?
3.  if you work in RAW (the pic is rough from the sensor, not compressed, no loose of details and quality) 1GO is not enough, consider 4Go.

Fourth, I also will be buying a Nikon Lense the 70-300 as-f Mfr # 2161 it is pricey (*$599.00 appx) but I have been told by Nikon it is the only one that functions with the AF feature....which is often handy in certain situations, like when a tripod isn't practical or it is a fast moving venue.  Opinions on the lense? I don't use non Nikon lenses with a Nikon body.

1. google it !! i think is the better to find some test about lenses...
   Last any advice for me. I miss shooting really badly, but I always thought Digital was like "Point & Shoot" not a lot of artistic or manipulative availability. There's nothing quite like the smell and feel of the emulsion when you work that paper! :) But I want to get back into it & soon and this seems to be the way I will be going.
2. ooops.. i think you're wrong, sorry... Take a tour on all the photographies here in renderosity, and try to guess who work dslr and who work slr.. try sincerly !! If an emulsion is on your screen, it means that it has been scanned.. so now your emulsion is just some pixels on the screen.. like a digital pic...

Just one word again.. i think the better is in your eyes, your soul and your lens...

Hope it help you and you had understood what i said lolllll
Olivier**

ThanX to everyone one so far, I almost feel like crying. Seriously I never stepped out of the house without one or all three  of my cameras! Now I realize something has been missing for a long time. I will seriously consider all options, and if there is a camera that someone thinks would be less exspensive and still versital enough, PLEASE tell me! I don't know enough to make an intelligent decision :( . And I see that I might actually be jumping into a camera that altho an excellant company, prices itself out of my purse strings immediately. AND I also see that unlike when I did film, that many less expensive cameras may be as good as a High end brand. I just don't know which ones they would be! Lastly....I got $750.00 bucks just burning a hole in my pocket! LOL! And I am not very patient......I want it now....I am a bad girl that way! So thank you again and help me spend my money! I do appreciate the advice :) And I will start by checking those web sites!
HuggerZ!
Ariana

Honesty, you ARE looking at one of the least expensive DSLRs out right now. And though the initial outlay may be high, you save yourself a ton of money on film and developing down the road.

I don't know the techo stuff but I have been told that If you like all the advise for the camera the first and last thing  is to make sure it is comfortable in your hand and you are happy with the weight/balance with all the bits and peices attached. Good luck, show us your pics. jenny

may be an advice ? .. the canon eos 400d ... very very nice camera ! I have tryied it  month ago... i like it !!! .. but i prefer my canon eos 20d..

the feeling is very important too...

Opinions please on this.....

Olympus E-500
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16830111169

:) ThanX!
Ariana

Take a look at the shots by Valou, here nickname valouchufy.  She uses a Nikon D50.  Excellent images. Then again, she is a talented lady with a good eye.  A coworker of mine also uses the D50 with excellent results.

I use both D70 and D200.  The D70 is my "carrry with me" camera.   My lenses include some Nikon and an assortment of Sigma. The Sigma to me do a credible job, sticking with the better ones and not the low end.  The same is with Nikon.  I cannot afford a bunch of Nikkor optics..so Sigma offers and provides me a good option.

The only problem with Nikon at the moment is supply.  Sure, if you loose a cover of some sort, like I did on the D200, they sent me a new one no charge.  Still, production is not up to speed and some items are backordered for a while.   

Overall, I cannot comment on other makes since Nikon is what I use in digital and in the previous film camera.  My wife uses a Pentax 35mm, not a slr model.

I wish you the best with this.  You might try also Hunts Photo as well as Adorama.  There is also a site for Sigma lenses, Sigma4Less or something like that.  They do other brands "4less" but as with Adorama and Hunts are reliable and provide good service.

TomD'Art.

PS. Digital SLR is not a big deal.  Sure, it needs a computer.  Editing in a digital darkroom is both fun and very versatile.  I don't think the change will take much getting used to, especially since you have shot digital already and have some experience there.  The DSLR reopens the SLR world again but in a different format.
As for memory, get more than one. I never like putting all the eggs in one basket.
Even a 512 will give decent amount of Fine .jpg with 6mg images.  A gig is what I like and have a few.  For the D200 I choose the larger cards since most shots are in raw.

**ThanX Tom so much...Actually I know Valou's work! She is awesome and is very supportive of my poser gallery! I wonder, I was told the D50 was no longer available, I should say it has been discountinued by Nikon. Even tho it can be had in a lot of places. The only thing I really worry about on the D40, is that the only lense that can function with that model must be AF-S, and there is only one available currently, a 55-300, I believe. Now on my ME I had a sweet little collection of Tokina lenses that were great. I would prefer a Nikon, because that was my first love. But if the D40 has those strict limits on it...well that is bad. If the D50 can take any type Nikon lense then that is great as an option. Do you know if the D50 has the same constraints? I have a massive headache right now with this decision. My Hubby is very patient and is letting all my angst fall off his shoulders. I don't think he ever realized that I had a passion that matched Dancing and Poser! LOL! Poor (*no pun! LOL!) Guy! ThanX on the Sigma advice. The problem is becomming price now...the more I look the more I am leaning to the D70's and D200's...which is currently a bit more than I have to spend. Because there are all thos elittle extras you need to fill out the package. Like a glass cover, tripod, some nifty filters (I love fiters and sunlight! sigh..... 
HuggerZ!
Ariana

Attached Link: D40 review

To my knowledge the D50 is on its way out...it may not yet be "officially" discontinued until existing stock depletes.  If you can find a D50, it may be even a better bet than the D40....the price will be about the same...there are some more/different features...and I think ( but please check!) it has older lens compatibility. As I stated in a previous thread here on the D40...I am not quite sure how it fits in the Nikon line as it seems to lack some features that the D50 had yet came in at the same (or slightly higher price) The one beef that I have heard about the D40 since its intro, is that it is not compatible with older Nikon glass because it lacks a lens motor in the body.

Lots of good advice given by folks above, so there is not much for me to add.
Yes, remember all the extras you will need...memory card(s), cam case, filters, tripod, flash, software...etc..they all add up...

I have attached a review of the D40 for your reading enjoyment.

For most of my life ( nearly 60 now ) I shot on a Bronica 6 x 6 doing portraits,weddings etc.

I took the plunge into digital and my first camera was a disaster.Not saying which make,maybe it was me.

I then purchased a Nikon D100 and have never looked back.I have had a number of images enlarged and printed and I would have been happy to get that quality off of the Bronica. A HUGE plus with the Nikon is the battery,it goes on forever and only needs a two hour charge.I always have a spare battery with me but against other cameras that take six or more of those pathetic little batteries the Nikon is way ahead.

Eddie

Hi dear Ariana,

I'm surprise to see you here !!! :)

I just have a D50 and I'm so happy with. I buy it with lens 18 -55mm  and it's this lens I use more.
You can see this difference between both in here .You have this page  or here too where you can see some difference with other cameras

The bad critic for this D40 is

• slow kit lens;
• occasionally slow to focus;
• only 6 megapixels;
• raw editing software costs extra;
• control scheme can be awkward;
• no automatic sensor cleaning.

Attached Link: E500 Review

From all accounts I have heard it is a great camera and on my shortlist if I were in the market for an DSLR. Keep in mind that Olympus makes high quality lenses at a lower price than the other major manufacturers.

Ariana,

you see, all members have his favorit mark and like say Olivier "the feeling is very important too..."

Yea!!!!!! I bought this!
**SKU Description Qty Price
 
E2NKD501855 Nikon D50 Digital SLR Camera w/ 18-55 Lens Best-Selling Super-Savings Bundle 1 $899.95
 
NKD501855 Nikon D50 Digital SLR Camera w/ 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G 1 
 
GGISDREADER2 GGI SD USB2.0 Hi-Speed Card Reader 1 
 
SAKBPEL3 Sakar 1900mAh EN-EL3 Lithium Battery for Nikon D50 / D70S / D100 (BP-100CL) 1 
 
GGISPUCC GGI Digital Camera and Camcorder Screen Protectors for LCD's (pack of 12) 1 
 
SAKCLK Sakar 3pc. Lens Cleaning Kit 1 
 
NK55200G Nikon 55-200mm F/4-5.6G ED AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor Lens, With Nikon 5-Year USA Warranty 1 $0.00
 
NKESCNCP Nikon 2 Year Extended (3 Year Total) Warrarnty F/N80/N80QD/N75/N75QD 1 $0.00
 
PQISD2G PQI 2 GB Secure Digital {SD} Memory Card 1 $0.00
 
DP6000 Digpro ALL-PURPOSE DELUXE GADGET BAG - DP6000 1 $0.00  **

**Subtotal: $899.95 
Tax (0.00%): $0.00 
Shipping: $15.95
Grand Total: $915.90
**

*Dave at Beach Camera was really awesome! He took the time to educate me, gave me an awesome price (I HOPE!) Total was $900.00 ThanX to everyone of you for your help and encouragement!!! I will get the camera probably Tuesday!
HuggerZ!
Ariana

CONGRATS Ariana! Beach Camera is a great store. I am suprised they charged you shipping though, I've gotten that free in the past. Either way, sounds like a good starter kit. I am sure you'll get a lot of enjoyment out of it!

Congrats!!! 
Like I said, the D50 is a better cam for roughly the same price point.
You will have fun!

Hi Kort and Gradient! Actually the shipping is next day air! LOL! I am impatient! I think I mentioned that!!! I cannot thank everyone adequately enough! THANX!!! WooHoo....Now if only I can turn it on :P! hehehehehe..............
HuggerZ!
Ariana

Hehehe Ariana, welcome in the d50 Club

You are going to love your new camera!       Tom.

With this one you are eagerly waiting to get your hands on...it will take the lenses that Nikon makes and others with Nikon mounts. No problems there.  You will not be limited on lens choices.   The one my coworker uses does a wonderful job.   In the eye of the photographer..in that composition...and the camera is capable of getting what you put in when you push the shutter.    I suggest keeping the manual with you for a while when out trying things.  You will likely soon enough settle down to the way you want to shoot and not be bothered with too many menu items.  That is how it worked for me.  I was in a tizzy at first then settled into my way of shooting and all was and is just fine.       Tom.

Congrats on getting your new cam :)

I have heard nothing but praise for the D50,  I hope you get loads of fun using it !

**ThanX Everyone!!! To let you know what I have at my disposal just in the general area......

I have two totally undeveloped (no Hotels!) lakes, Pyramid and Walker, that have these beautiful Calcified Rock formations over 3,000 years old, seeLink
http://www.nevadaweb.com/cnt/r-t/pyramid/
http://www.plpt.nsn.us/geology/index.html
Plus Lahonton Resevoir. And Lake Tahoe!
Hundreds upon hundreds of Pictographs from ancient Paiute tribes!
Truckee River
Large vista's of flat desert with mountains in the distance
Mountains
Coyotes, Mountain Lions and Wolves are quite common out there, many smaller wildlife
A "Hot" Hubby! (*that is for us gals, I think)
5 Cats, 1Dog and loads of Peacocks wild!
OMGDDSS!!! Then there is the sun and moon out here. We get "Mists" in the morning hours,
that act just like a natural filter, I have never seen the sun do this like this anywhere else!

I am so excited! This definetely will make up for Poser7 being so darn disapointing! LOL!
Thank you! This was harder to decide on than a car! I'm sure I went a bit over budget, but hey....
it will be worth it in quality and peace of mind!

HuggerZ!
Ariana

PPS.....Big ThanX to you Valou! You know why!!!
:) Me!**

I cannot wait! For years I have looked around this place and thought "Gee, I wish I had my cameras!" I am sure that you will get sick of my photo's very soon! LOL!

We look forward to your photos.        Tom.