Entry-level DSLR: Nikon D40 & D40x
With entry-level DSLR prices dropping as low as higher end consumer cameras, it is becoming more and more affordable to own a DSLR. The Nikon D40x
Having recently purchased a Nikon D40 not too long ago, it would be good for me to start Photography7 with a quick personal review of the Nikon D40. The Nikon D40 is an older version of the D40x.
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Effective Pixels |
6.1 million |
| Image Sensor | RGB CCD, 23.7 x 15.6 mm; total pixels: 6.24 million, Nikon DX format |
| Image Size (Pixels) | 3,008 x 2,000 [L], 2,256 x 1,496 [M], 1,504 x 1,000 [S] |
| Sensitivity | 200 to 1,600 in steps of 1 EV with additional setting one step over 1600 |
| File Format | Compressed NEF (RAW): 12-bit compression, JPEG: JPEG baseline compliant |
| Storage Media | SD memory card, SDHC compliant |
| Shooting Modes | 1) Single frame shooting mode, 2) Continuous shooting mode: approx. 2.5 frames per second*, 3) Self-timer mode, 4) Delayed remote mode: 2 s. delay, 5) Quick-response remote mode |
| LCD Monitor Size | 2.5 inch |
| Interface | USB 2.0 (High-speed): Mass Storage and PTP selectable |
| Self-Timer | Electronically controlled timer with duration of 2, 5, 10 or 20s |
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Up to 470 shots on a fully-charged battery |
| Weight (without battery, memory card or body cap) | Approx. 475g (1lb. 1oz.) without battery, memory card or body cap |
| Supplied Accessories (may differ by country or area) | Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL9, Quick Charger MH-23, USB Cable UC-E4, PictureProject, Rubber Eyecup DK-16, Camera Strap, Body Cap BF-1A, Eyepiece Cap DK-5, Accessory Shoe Cap BS-1 |
More specifications available from Nikon Corporation
The Nikon D40 has all the necessary features for you to move on and explore DSLR cameras. The D40x is no exception. Being the newer version is has several upgrades over the D40:
- Higher resolution 10 Megapixel sensor
- Lower base ISO sensitivity (ISO 100 on the D40x vs ISO 200 on the D40)
- ISO 200 is included in the Auto ISO function
- 3 FPS continuos shooting mode
The Nikon D40 is a great camera to carry around. Being one of the lightest DSLR in the market, you can easily carry it while travelling. Weighing in at only 475g, it is definitely much easier on the neck compared to higher end cameras such as the Canon EOS 30D and Nikon D200.
The Nikon D40 also supports all AF-S lenses with the Nikon mount. This includes the Nikon’s own Nikkor series lenses and third party lenses (e.g. Sigma and Tamron). However, the D40 Auto-focus system does not support auto focus with non AF-S lens. In my opinion, this is the one of the first disadvantages that a Nikon D40 owner will face with as they get more and more comfortable in using the D40.
The D40 is a great first camera for a amatuer in DSLR. It provides the familiar Digital-Vari modes including Auto, Portrait, Sports, Night mode and more. When starting out, these modes will make you feel at home. For the more advanced individuals, there are the Aperture Priority Auto, Shutter Priority Auto and Manual mode.
Aperture Priority Auto - Set the aperture and D40 will select a shutter speed to suit the aperture selection. Useful to control the Depth of Field.
Shutter Priority Auto - Set the shutter speed and D40 will select an aperture automatically. Useful when requiring higher shutter speed to capture moving subjects.
Manual - Setting both the shutter speed and aperture manually to gain maximum control over your shots.
It can be overwhelming when moving from point-and-shoot cameras to DSLRs. There are many functions available in DSLRs that were not available in point-and-shoot cameras. In the coming articles on Photography7, we’ll continue to explore the common functions available in DSLR cameras.
For more information about the D40 and D40x, have a look at the following articles I found:
