Is the Nikon D60 a good choice for my first DSLR Camera? If not what would you recommend?

Question

I just got a Nikon D60 Kit with 18-55mm VR/ 55-200mm VR lenses and a SB-600 flash also came with bag. I also got a 2 year insurance plan that will cover pretty much any accidental damage. I spent 1480$ for everything including some Filters and SD cards and Tax. I did much research before i bought but am still paranoid whether i made a good choice or not. I mainly want a camera that i can learn all i need to know about SLRs and still take good quality pics to show off. I want to use it for mainly taking pics of paintball. Will i be able to freeze motion such as a person running and sliding or diving and still capture detail with the d60? This is my first dslr camera and i just want some thing to learn from and grow off of and still be able to take great pics, i know there are far better cameras than the D60 but this is around the level im looking for plus i got all the stuff i need. i can still return it so any input u may have is much appreciated. Will i be dissapointed with the D60?

Answer 1

I don't think so.  I have the D40x which shares many features with the D60.  I'm extremely happy with it.

You may find at some point you want to invest in a wide angle lens for paintball, one with vibration reduction, but before that, just experiment with the settings that work best for you.  I've done great sports shots with my D40.

Answer 2

The short answer is you will not be disappointed.  Once you get a good feel for the camera  and how to shoot it, you will be able to take great pictures.  Here's someone on flickr using the Nikon D40 to shoot paintball photos just so you can get an idea what you could do with your camera.  Take a look and you will see some fantastic action shots of breakouts, running and dives captured perfectly.

http://www.flickr.com/search/?q=badlandz...

I wish I had that setup myself. Nice!

Answer 3

Absolutely!  Does it have it's limitations? Yes, but every camera has limitations.  My guess though is that the greatest limit on what your camera can do is going to be you!  The camera can take amazing pictures when used right!  Just take the time to learn how to use it and you'll get some awesome shots!

Yes, you can take awesome action photos.  Don't worry your camera can take detailed, crystal clear shots even if the person is at a full run.  It might take a little practice, but I have no doubt that you can do it.

It looks like you got some good accessories too.  The 55-200 VR will be awesome for those long range shots and it's been rated really well.  The Sb-600 is definitely a great choice for a flash too.   I'm not sure on the price though,  I don't know what the usual price is for those items so I can't tell you if the price is good or bad.  It seems like you got an awesome beginning set up and I'm sure it will keep you busy and happy for a long time!

Now, take some time to learn about taking pictures and about your camera. Trust me you'll have a lot to learn.  In the mean time I'm sure you'll get some great shots and have a lot of fun.  For some good examples of what your camera can do go to Flickr.com and look up the Nikon D60.  (Think about joining too.)  The Flickr community is awesome and can teach and show you a lot of cool things about photography.

Good luck, have fun shooting (paintball guns and your camera), and be careful (don't want to get too much paint on your camera)!

P.S. I'm jealous of your set up!

Answer 4

IT IS A GREAT CHOICE..........nikon is great and everyone love the one you ask about.............