Why I switched from Olympus to Nikon

[Beth Moore]

I had two different DSLR cameras from Olympus that I've used over the past four years. I had a lot of issues with both of these cameras and sometimes I wondered if the problem wasn't just the operator (me) (auto focus was constantly having to be reset, blah, blah and I even had to have one repaired twice...and it still stopped auto-focusing a third time!). So, tired of dealing with the headache of these cameras, I packed up both with the lens, etc., sold them on Ebay and bought myself a new camera! No more headaches! My budget was smaller this time as I no longer operate the magazine that I published and used the other cameras for, so this one is just for family photos, and fun.

I purchased the Nikon D3000, which I got for just a hair over $400.00 (the cameras I sold almost paid for the new camera! even though they both were malfunctioning...obviously there are people out there who know way more about cameras than I do and felt they could get them to operate correctly...good for them! and good for me as well!) Anyhow, I can't believe how happy I am with this Nikon! It's so easy to use (right out of the box)... I haven't had time to fiddle with settings or anything at this point, but the auto settings I find are suiting my needs for the moment. Close-ups come out great for blog photos of my projects and the photos I take of the kids for layouts typically need very little if any editing with the exception of cropping.

I bought the camera online through Wal-mart.

www.walmart.com/ip/Nikon-10.2-MP-D3000-Kit/12169833

There are more expensive Nikon cameras than this one I puchased and I've heard a lot of great things about the step up camera from Nikon (which is about 600.00)... but for the price, I'm pleased with what I have.

[dddcort]

I'm glad to hear you are loving your Nikon! I waffled A LOT before choosing which DSLR camera to buy. I do some photography as well, so I knew it would be a Canon or Nikon, and with the budget I am on (stay at home mom, hoping to stay that way!) and plans for the camera, I ended up with a Canon EOS Xsi (which is the same as a 450D). I made my main decision (other than the price factor) based on the memory card type. I knew I wanted whatever camera I ended up with to have a normal SD Card, not a specific to brand type (like Sony) or a compact flash. Of course, each kind has it's benefits but for me an SD card is ideal.

The one thing I never realized I absolutely had to have when getting a 'nicer' camera would be my tripod. It's so nice to have somewhere to set the camera for stills, or slower shutter speeds when I can't risk having any shake (like a shot that can't be replicated!) I use it ALL the time.

[Beth Moore]

Perhaps had I not been in such a hurry to buy a camera I would have purchased a Canon as I read a lot of great things about them in the price range I was looking... I was just in a hurry and this is what I chose based on some reviews and the PRICE at Wal-mart! :-) I have a tripod but forget to use the dang thing...and after reading your post Dawn, I'm gonna put my camera on it more often... of course, my grandson dismantled it a couple of days ago (I keep it out for the camcorder)... so I'll have to figure out how to put it back together first!!! LOL...

[stephanie]

Good for you, I know a lot of people who love this camera.
I have a Canon Rebel which I love, but it is big and bulky, so I'd love something smaller.

[liz]

I have a Canon EOS 30D and love it. It takes brilliant pictures and I love all the settings. It is 4 years old but I wouldn't change it.

Unfortunately a couple of months ago I dropped it ever so lightly but something inside broke. So off to the repairer it went and stayed there for two whole months.

So, in the mean time I had to use an Olympus point and shoot one that we have. Hate it! Can't use it! It explains my crusty photos I submitted

But, alas, my camera returned to its righful owner yesterday! Woo-hoo! and I will have beautfiul photos once again!

[doxieluv01]

I love my Nikon!!!!

[emoradesigns]

My husband and I are looking at Nikons! This was very helpful, thank you for sharing your experience with us! When we get one, can you come teach me how to use it? LOL
Regan

[doxieluv01]

Jun 26, 2010 13:49:30 GMT -5 emoradesigns said:

My husband and I are looking at Nikons! This was very helpful, thank you for sharing your experience with us! When we get one, can you come teach me how to use it? LOL
Regan

I'd be happy to come and teach you how to use it

[emoradesigns]

My hubby just bought me a Canon T1i Rebel! I can't wait to use it and see how I like it! I have a feeling I may never know how to completely use the thing! LOL

[doxieluv01]

Jul 13, 2010 9:50:49 GMT -5 emoradesigns said:

My hubby just bought me a Canon T1i Rebel! I can't wait to use it and see how I like it! I have a feeling I may never know how to completely use the thing! LOL

Regan I'd suggest finding a photography class (here in Broward County Florida we have a program called Community Schools which is like adult classes. It was great when I got my Nikon.

[dddcort]

There are also A LOT of great camera forums and sites to help you learn all the different settings, why you would change the f stop and aperture, etc.

I would second carolines suggestion of taking a basic camera course. I learned so much at a seminar I did on outdoor photography- literally Amy Gullick (the teacher) squeezed so much knowledge into the 2 hour course, It was worth every penny! you can see her photos here: www.amygulick.com/cgi-bin/gallery_page.pl?folder=wildlife&start_idx=0

[classycatherine]

So, my mom has a Nikon D5000 and I am using it for a few days!!! I LOVE IT!!! The pictures are great! Although, I will probably get the 3000 because we don't need the video feature yet...

[dddcort]

Isn't it fun when you get a 'big girl' camera? I've had so much fun learning how to use my camera, and taking photos I would never imagine I could!