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I am looking to buy my first DLSR but I am going round in circles trying to work out what would be the best buy. I am looking at a Canon EOS400D, or maybe a Nikon D40. Does anyone think that these would be good options, or maybe too much to handle for a beginner? I would be really gratefull if someone who knows what they are talking about could help me make a sound choice. I can't wait to start snapping! Thanks.
I wouldn't say I know what I am talking about, but I'd say either are good for a beginner - any of the DSLR cameras will be suitable.
They all have automatic modes that you can use to grab the important shots, and they all have the creative modes that you can grow into as your knowledge grows.
I use Nikon kit - some people use canon kit - they are both capable and do the same - with spec differences here and there, but nothing much in it.
I would go for a D80 over a D40 as the spec is better and takes all types of lenses.
A good place to go is to your local camera store and handle them - then decide which one you like.
There are some very good websites that offer very comprehensive reviews - just google to find them.
Hope that helps to start with - I'm sure others will come along with their suggestions.
Regards,
Kevin
Hello Ian, welcome to EPZ.
The good news is that there are no real 'bad' choices in the 'entry level' DSLR sector. Canon, Nikon, Pentax, Sony and Olympus all make excellent models.
Between the 400D and the D40 - the 400D has the better spec (more features) - however the D40 has a very interesting user interface - specially designed to help beginners learn the DSLR controls. If you are a beginner then this is a very attractive feature.
D40 review
400D review
If having handled both the cameras you mention.....You feel the Canon 400D might be the way to go......I Would seriously recommend that you take a look at the Canon 40D before commiting your money..! ! !
WHY ! The 400D has been around for a while longer than the 40D, The 40D is a better build quality & more robust camera, It's in a whole other class.....!
BUT the bottom line is that price wise it's not that much more than a 400D, At it's current price with cash back, It has to be one of the best value DSLR's currently available.....!
Is it anymore complex for a first timer..... NO the interface & feature set is very similar to the 400D.....Only more so....!
Taking into consideration the fairly small difference between the new prices of the 40D & 400D, Add the fact that a 40D will retain it's used value & desireability better........!
The 40D makes a way better long term investment......
As for the Nikon option.....Yeah! the D40 is a great first time DSLR, But the D40 X is probably a better bet.....Although You should really consider the New D60.....As it has the latest gubbin's in terms of technical developments........!
WHATEVER......Either of the camera's you mention....Will do the job.....
Hi
I got my first DSLR in Feb and like you found I was going round in circles trying to make a decision.
The final decision was made for me by how a camera felt in my hands and it's usability. Even more importantly budget was a factor! As my partner has a canon and other lenses and flash gun etc that were compatible I finally decided on the 400d and have not looked back. It is so easy to use and gives more than reasonable results.
Whichever one you finally choose I am sure you will have hours of endless fun.
Stella
And while I own one of the Canon 40D thingys I would say take your time, think about what you want, then think on the lenses before you think brands. you see the technologies on sensors etc are converging to give good resuts from all brands, and lenses are the things you will keep, while you will upgrade bodies quicker.
For example if wildlife is your thing, think on how much good 300mm plus lenses cost. If its landscapes look for the range of wider angle lenses. etc etc.
If you do walk about phootgraphy then one of the cameras with built in IS, like the Sony, Olympus or Pentax range may help.
If its a big range of new and second hand lenses, the Canon and Nikon do sell a lot. If you want portability then Olympus may be the best, they tend to have smaller cameras and lenses
So on your choices, I would pick the 400D, but would also say give the Nikon D60, The Sony A200 and Pentax a look. and for Entry systems that are small the Olypmus cameras can often be had with kit lenses at a low price.
Whatever, please bear in mind that for a given price point, the bodies produce some very similar results, but the handling etc can vary a lot. And lenses are a big consideration. So if you decide on one and it just feel right, well that may be best for you.
Have fun, it took me @ 2 months to buy my 1st DSLR and the choices were smaller then
i am having the exact same debate, the D40 is the cheaper option but one downside is that it has no internal auto focus so you cant use old nikon leses on it (you have to buy more expensive lenses that have a auto focus in the lens)
exuse my lack of technical jargon 
if you can afford the 400D id go for that..ive been to the shop and handled both and i liked them both the same
altho apparently the 400d has bracketing, and live view which the D40 doesnt
anyway id say if you can afford the 400d go for that
(thats the only reason im considering the D40, due to lack of money
let me know what you decide!
I had the same problems in September and went eventually for the D40x. I wish I had asked here first as redjoker is right in his points about the cameras downside. It does however take great photos.
it might be worth looking at other sites eg bird forum where there is a huge choice of secondhand cameras being sold privately at what appear to be very good prices. I've just bought a Nikon D70 and a Tamron 200-500mm lens for £500 and they are both almost as good as new.
Andy
canon have £45 cash back on the 400d making it around £350-70
the D40 has £30 cash back and you can get it in jepssops with a bag included for £300..then you get cash back so its £270..
(also apparently RAW is better on the canon)
Miffsuds have the 400D @ £344, add cash back its just under £300
Look at camera price burster for an idea of the deals on offer.
Both the Canon and Nikon would be good buys, also take a look at the Olympus twin lens kits as there extremly good value for money.
Havent had any experience with Canons, but i can put a vote for the Nikon D80 or D60. The D60 is pretty much the D80's baby brother. Ive had the D80 since Dec and it has helped me develop both my photographic technique and understand the priciples of photography. Plus there are a wide range of lenses available for it.
Anil.
I was told once that if you are going to purchase a camera, you should purchase the best available. If you purchase one less than the best, you will grow out of it too soon. I would have liked to take that advice, but couldn't. So, that being said, I would say the Nikon D40x or the Canon 40D would be excellent choices.
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