Nikon D80 Body only 10.2 Megapixel

The Nikon D80 is one of the newest editions to Nikon's Digital SLR line-up. Im excited to write this review because so many people have been waiting for this camera. However if you are some what new to the whole digital SLR market you may be confused as what to buy. Do you go with the D200 or D80? The Nikon D200 is the bigger brother of the D80. In short the D200 is targeted to professionals or serious amateur photographers. Many professional photographers use a Nikon D2x ($4500)as their main camera and their D200($1700)as a back up. The D80 is really meant for families and amateurs who demand high image quality. It is smaller and lighter than the D200 but still has the same big lcd screen and 10 mega-pixel quality. We have finally reached the moment when image quality is not the main question from consumers. Why? Because with 10MP you can blow up poster size prints that will look just as amazing as your smaller size prints. If fact, if you dont print poster size prints I recommend shooting at 8MP or 6MP with the D80 because you will get more pictures from your memory card. With that said lets go over some of the main features of this camera.

Image Quality
The pictures from this camera are amazing. Shoot your family and get professional results. But dont take my word for it. Search the web for prints from the D80 and judge for yourself. WOW.

Auto Focus
11 area auto focusing zones, same as the D200!

Speed
3 frames per sec. This is great for stopping action. No more blurry photos of your kids playing soccer. Think about it, shoot 9 shots in 3 secs. and pick your favorite one! Specially good for young kids who never seem to stop moving.

LCD
New 2.5" screen with 230,000 pixel resolution. Ultra-brite and bigger than the 2.0" screen of the D50 or D70.

Flash
Pop-up Flash. The iTTL system allows wireless flash triggering. Buy the optional SB800 or the SB600 to enjoy the benefits of the wireless system.

Battery
Same EN-EL3e rechargeable lithium-ion battery as the D200. The EL3e will work in the D70 or D50 however your old EL3 or EL3A will not work in the D80. Get 700+ shoots!

Memory
SD Cards. I recommend high-speed 1GB as the minimum.

ISO
100-3200. A great range! You used to go into camera shops and ask for 100, 200, 400, 800 speed film and now you can just set it with one button. If you dont know what ISO is then just let the camera set it for you. If you do, then you can manually adjust your exposures to get a better photo.

Everything you need comes in the box except memory, lens, and possibly a nice bag to carry it all. I personally recommend the Nikon 18-200mm Vibration Reduction(VR) lens but currently it is hard to get (back ordered 8 weeks). But think about this if you buy the D80 and the 18-200VR lens you may never need to buy a camera/lens again or atleast not for a long time. Ten mega-pixels will still be ten mega-pixels in 5 years and you will still be getting the same great quality. Like I said earlier, we have finally reached the point where we dont have to worry about quality so much.

Conclusion
This is a great camera for two types of people. First, families will love this camera. Its easy to use and has many scene selections to help you get better pictures even when you know little about photography. Second, amateur professionals will love the image quality and similar features to the D200 without the added weight. The Nikon D80 is the camera you've been waiting for so stop stalling and start shooting. =)