Should I get a Nikon D80?

Question

Hi all! I started out in photography with a Lumix DMC-FZ5 3 years ago. Now other than DMC-FZ5, I own 2 toy cameras, 2 polaroid cameras and 1 Minolta X700. Although FZ5 has served me good these few years, it's still a high end compact so it is quite limited compared to a DSLR.

I'm studying as a visual communication student and will be taking photography as a module. I really enjoy photography and would loved to bring it to the next level instead of just taking it as a hobby. So I'm considering whether to get a Nikon D80 to get started. I want a camera that can at least last me for a couple years before I enter into the industry.

I've to keep my budget under 1500 USD because I'm still a student. I'll be using the camera to participate in competitions, for school and maybe some freelancing with friends to earn some revenue. I really appreciate in any constructive comment as it'll greatly help me to make a wise decision in prior to both my passion and career in photography. Thanks!

Answer 1

The D80 is a really great camera that will take you far. It's a wise choice.  It will not nlimit you creatively and as you buy lenses for it, it is nice to know that they will work on whatever you buy as an upgrade in a couple of years.

We are all pretty sure that Nikon is going to introduce an upgrade for the D80, as they have already done so at the low and high ends of their line.  If you want to wait to buy, you might be interested in the D90, or whatever it is going to be called.  Or, the new camera will most likely drive down the price of any remaining D80's.  If you are working within the constraints of an academic calendar, though, maybe you can't wait as this is still pure speculation and there is no known introduction date.

Answer 2

you won't regret it to buy the D80..it's a good camera.

here's some review and verdcit:

http://www.cameralabs.com/reviews/NikonD...

good luck