Expert: Abe - 11/6/2008

Question
QUESTION: Hi Abe,
I am totally naive when it comes to the newer cameras, however, from what I have read and looked into, the Nikon D40 sounds good to me.  What I would like to know is, where do I go from here...what are the essentials, other than the camera itself, that I should purchase.  Also, I understand that there is an exported version, and an imported version, which only confuses me further.  Am I making the right choice in selecting the D40?
ANY information or guidance that you can give me would be so greatly appreciated.  
Thank you so much for your help.     


ANSWER: I'm glad to help. The D40 is a great choice among the many cameras available. It is small, light, and has the best image quality among all the 6 megapixel DSLR cameras.

The exported ("grey market") version may save you a few dollars, but the warranty is not valid within the USA. Make sure you buy a camera with a "USA" warranty.

Buy it with the 18-55mm lens from buydig.com, bhphoto.com, or amazon.com  You'll be happy with any of these vendors. Many others are cut rate and not quite so ethical. My favorite vendor is Bhphoto.com - their service is excellent. (You can also buy an 18-55mm lens and 55-200mm lens combo kit if you think you'll need/want more telephoto)

Good luck, and contact me if I can answer any other questions before or after your purchase.

Abe

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hello Abe,

Thank you so very much for your knowledgeable reply.  I had been noticing a difference in the pricing from various places, and now I know why....thank you!  
As I had mentioned, I am a complete novice when it comes to the newer, digital cameras.  What do you recommend in the way of memory card... do I need only one (is it re-usable?).  What size(s) would be best.  My usage of the camera will probably be for family functions and the like, and also to take reference photo's to use for my (watercolor) paintings... landscape, floral, and possibly animal portraits.  
Do I need a better battery and/or charger than the ones supplied or are they adequate for my needs, at least to start with.  (Yes, I do need to watch my expenditures.)
I am so very grateful to know that you will be giving me the right answers.  I am 77 and the world of technology can be quite overwhelming, but with some good guidance to show me the way, (no pushy salesperson), I feel confident to give it a try.  
Once again, THANK YOU!!

May

Answer
Hi May,

For memory cards, a 4GB SD card is a great place to start. They are cheap, reusable, and that size will hold hundreds of pictures. You shouldn't need a new battery for a while (and a charger is already supplied), so the one that comes with the camera should be sufficient. When you do decide to buy a spare battery, go to http://sterlingtek.com/nieneqba1.html so that you can save yourself about 2/3 the cost of the Nikon brand. I use this company all the time and their product quality and service are top notch.

It is wonderful that you are so enthusiastic about your new hobby, and I will be here to help you along the way - so don't hesitate to ask me anything at any time!

Abe