Nikon D3100

[Shadowman]

I believe the issue being referrred to is that this lens just has a switch with "M" and "A" positions (one or the other), whereas many (dearer) Nikon lenses have "M/A" and "M" positions. In "M/A" it auto-focuses, but you can just grab the focus ring and manually focus it without fumbling for the switch first (or graunching the cogs inside ).

All my lenses are thankfully the "M/A" variety, but I can see that having an 'odd one out' being a bit of a nuisance, that said, I see (from research) that kit 55-200mm is the same; "M" or "A", as is the 55-300mm

Mine is typically on a tripod when I switch to manual so both hands are free for last minute adjustments. If I am handholding then I usually pre-focus on an object prior to shooting.

[thequacksoflife]

I believe the issue being referrred to is that this lens just has a switch with "M" and "A" positions (one or the other), whereas many (dearer) Nikon lenses have "M/A" and "M" positions. In "M/A" it auto-focuses, but you can just grab the focus ring and manually focus it without fumbling for the switch first (or graunching the cogs inside ).

All my lenses are thankfully the "M/A" variety, but I can see that having an 'odd one out' being a bit of a nuisance, that said, I see (from research) that kit 55-200mm is the same; "M" or "A", as is the 55-300mm

Dave - quiet correct. i think the 18-55's 55-200's and 55-300 are the only ones in the current Nikon line up like that. the 35 f1.8 has a m/a switch. some people will regard it as a deal breaker. I think given the price of these lenses its not an unreasonable trade off.

those who do find it so will gravitate to the 18-105, 16-85 and 70-300 and pay more......

my point is that the 18-55VR 55-200 VR give up little in image quality but more so in build quality and issues like the manual override

life is a compromise! I think Nikon's choice is the right one for prospective d3100 buyers

[charliemercieca]

Today, finally I have the camera in my hand and I confirm that like many said, there is much too learn how to use it, so its better to wait before I buy a new lens. The only problem that I am seeing (maybe because I still need to get to know how to use it well) is the built in flash. It seems to be too small to use indoor where the room has incandescent lamps, with florescent tubes, a bit better. Do think I should go for a separate flash? and if so, I have read that the Nikon SB-400 Speedlight Shoe Mount Flash will be enough. What are your suggestions? Thanks

[thequacksoflife]

Charlie

try it first!! see what it can do then decide.

[charliemercieca]

Charlie

try it first!! see what it can do then decide.

I have took quite a few shots and that's my impression, that I don't have enough light with the built in flash.

[Goldcoastgolfer]

I have took quite a few shots and that's my impression, that I don't have enough light with the built in flash.

Have you tried turning the ISO up?

[FrankMi]

I have read that the Nikon SB-400 Speedlight Shoe Mount Flash will be enough.

Hi Charlie. I have the Nikon SB-400 for my D3100 and it works well for me when I need a little more light than the camera produces. Realize, however, that most of my images are done with available light and when I'm indoors, on a tripod with extended exposure. I'm only using the Speedlight for people shots where I need to step back a ways so I haven't used it extensively as yet.

[fractels]

Thanks dave for the advice. i was kinda in the same boat but all the answers in this thread was very useful/ helped me too .