Nikon D3100 review suggests that this entry level digital SLR fits in-between Nikon D3000 and Nikon D5000 models. Basically, it is an upgrade on D3000 that has no live viewing and video recording options. D5000, on the other hand, is an upper entry-level DSLR.
Review of Nikon D3100- Key Features
| Sensor | 14.2 megapixels CMOS sensor (23.1 × 15.4 mm) |
|---|---|
| ISO Sensitivity | 100 to 3200 (6400 and 12800 with boost) |
| Movie Mode | 1080p Full HD at 24fps (maximum recording time is 10 minutes) |
| Image Processing Engine | EXPEED 2 |
| Image Size | 4608×3072 to 2304×1536 |
| Weight(with battery) | 505g |
| Price | $649.95 |
Nikon D3100 is a small, light-weight and affordable camera that creates high-quality images and videos. It has a large 3-inch LCD monitor (230,000 dots) and is equipped with automatic correction of lateral chromatic aberration to prevent purple/green fringing.
Plus, Nikon D3100 supports optional GPS unit to automatically geotag photos and has HDMI compatibility (via HDMI mini-pin connector). Moreover, unlike the D5000 model, it is includes continuous auto focus during video recording.
Its Scene Auto Selector function helps with face detection and subject tracking. However, there is no external microphone jack for audio recording.
Here’s a Nikon D3100 video review.
This DSLR includes active D-lighting and basic in-camera movie editing options. There are further retouching features like perspective control, color balance, image overlay, miniature effect, red-eye reduction, distortion control, etc.
Besides, it functions pretty well in low-light situations without flash. The model comes with Guide mode that provides tips and instructions for shooting. Furthermore, Nikon D3100 has an 11 point AF module and it shoots at 3 frames per second.
However, the camera lacks in features like built-in auto focus motor, image stabilization, 3D support, swivel screen, automatic bracketing, and so on.
In addition, it has poor maximum shutter speed, dynamic range and viewfinder magnification. Nevertheless, this model is far better than its predecessor, Nikon D3000.
You can find this Nikon D3100 camera at Amazon at a price of $549.
Customer Reviews for Nikon D3100
Review by James Maeng
I’m an beginner at photography and this is an upgrade to my D50 and alternate to my Canon S90. The specifications on this camera are simply amazing and simply blow away the previous generation for features and value. Picture quality is great and low light performance at high ISOs are dramatically improved over the D50 which gives you a lot of flexibility. I found Live View to be a great addition but does take slightly longer to take a photo in this mode. Video is a great option to have but I do have to note that it is not a camcorder replacement but more of a fun way to take artsy clips. The autofocus during video works but is fairly loud and noticeable in the clips. I love the lightweight body, it feels solid and can be used one handed but I could see where people with larger hands may get frustrated with the smaller grip as my my pinky barely has any room to hang on.
So the only two major cost cutting negative points which is why I would rate this as 4 stars is firstly for the below average resolution for the screen. I find myself constantly zooming in to be able to see if my photo was in focus and difficult to assess the quality of photos from a quick glance which is important in a SLR. I think the 400k display from the S90 would have been excellent and I would have traded less megapixels from the sensor to have them screen instead. Also, some lenses including the 50mm 1.8 will not autofocus with this body which may not be an issue for some people.
Overall, this is a great camera and I can’t wait to take more photos.
Review by Michael Allebach “Tattooed Bride Photographer Guy” from Philadelphia, Pa
For the cost of this camera, I don’t think you can get anything better. The low light performance is off the charts. As a wedding photographer I regularly shoot with Nikon’s high end professional equipment and I was amazed how close this camera is to a pro camera. Now let me get specific. In order to compare I took a look at 100% files out of each camera I own.
Which camera excels Nikon D3100($Cheap) VS. D300($1600) VS. D700 ($2,700):
* Lens = The D3100 is the only camera that comes with a lens at it’s normal price
* ISO Performance = Tie between D3100 and D700! (It could be Nikon’s new processing but the JPEG looks fantastic I was shooting D3100 on 6400iso with very little noise at all)
* Low Light Focusing = D700
* Focus Speed = D700
* External Buttons & Controls for Pros = D700
* Menu Navigation = D3100
* Ease of Use = D3100
* Megapixel = D3100 (14.2)
* Sensor size = D700 (Much more important than megapixels but I won’t get into this)
* Can use older lenses with functionality = D700 & D300
* Video = D3100 of course! 1080P video looks amazing.
* Frame Rate = D300 at 6 photos a second
* Weight = D3100 (light as a feather)
* Ergonomics = D700 (big enough for all my finger)
Lens:
The lens is a kit lens, it will work outside but not so great in low light. The Vibration Reduction will help indoors but Vibration Reduction can’t stop a child or pet in motion indoors. Consider buying a 35mm 1.8dx AFS for around $200 and you will be super happy with this camera.
Video:
I purchased the 3100 specifically to shoot video, so I put on Nikon’s brand new 85mm 1.4g Nano lens and shot video with it. The lens costs more than double the camera but I wanted to see how the 1080P video looked. It has the look of a cinematic movie. After the 85mm, I put on Nikon’s 50 1.2 manual focus lens and was able to take very cinematic video in manual mode. In order to make it brighter or darker you either need to use a really old lens like the 50mm 1.2 and hit the AE-L (auto exposure lock) and twist the aperture to change exposure. Or you can hit the AE-L button when you get the exposure you like. Its not a perfect system but it works well for me. Inside the menu options you can change the AE-L button to hold the setting until you reset which is helpful.
Jello Cam (What’s not so great):
This camera still suffers from the “Jello Cam” look in video if it is not on a tripod and you are shaky. The video can look like jello if moved too quickly. Use a monopod or tripod when shooting to avoid this. I’m not sure if a faster video frame rate 60fps would help – but at 24 and 30 it can suffer badly.
Conclusion:
This is an amazing deal! Unless you make most of your income from photography or have a stockpile of old lenses (this camera can only autofocus with AFS lenses) then this camera is the must have camera of the year. If you have good composition skills and an eye for light you can take photos worthy of a magazine with this. Seriously, you won’t regret buying this camera. When you do, do yourself a favor and buy an additional Nikon AFS lens that has a maximum aperture of 2.8, 1.8 or 1.4. These lenses will take better portraits and deal better in low light than the kit lens. (more…)
