Nikon D40 vs D80

[Stephen B]

Ok, here it goes.

I have a dilemma. I am a beginner to intermediate photographer. At least that’s what my certificate from taking photography classes say. I have a Nikon F100 and am looking to move into the digital world, so that I can immediately critique my own photos, and make sure I am getting the shot that I thought I was aiming for.

I am interested in either the D40 or the D80.

D40 for lightness and price. (I’ve looked at the Xti and it just doesn’t do it for me. I’m too used to using Nikon.)

D80 for features. There are some nice features in the D80 but not the D40, like the ISO 100.

I have two lenses (A Tamron 28-300mm and an Nikkor 50 1.4) I know if I go with the D40 I will not be able to use the AutoFocus on my two lenses, but with the money I save from the camera body I can put that towards a Nikkor 18-200 VR lens that would replace my Tamron. On the other hand I will have my two lenses to use with the D80 for the next year until I can purchase another good lens to get my wide angle back. I like shooting landscape as well as people.

Not sure what to get.

[jcon]

I would suggest the D80 kit. That way you can use that EXCELLENT 50mm lens with autofocus. With the kit youll also get a standard walk around lens too. The D40 realy doesnt offer you very many autofocus lenses, which I think was a mistake by Nikon. The D80 is a better camera, Id go for that.