The Nikon D3100, Why It Matters

The Nikon D3100 is heavy on my mind. That is an unusual feeling for me. After early years spent chasing the elusive “ideal” budget priced camera, I came to the realization that just about any camera can do the job. The key to good photography is not so much the tool used as the ability to master that tool. However, much like automobiles, there are at times a certain make and model introduced that offers exceptional value for the price. When it first appeared, the Honda Civic set an extraordinarily high standard for small cars at a bargain price. I like to think of the Nikon D40 as the Honda Civic, if you will, of DSLR cameras. It performs beautifully and is superbly designed for its low price. Well, the Nikon D3100 seems poised to be the worthy budget-priced successor to the crown long held by its elder brother.

What makes the Nikon D3100 so desirable is the simple fact that, for all practical purposes, it offers state-of-the-art digital imaging for a rock-bottom price. With a 14 megapixel CMOS sensor, it offers all the capability reasonably needed by any photography hobbyist. And, putting aside any measurements that matter only to technophobes, it will produce an image that will meet the reasonable needs of any photographer. Whether it be a 4×5 snapshot or a 20×30 enlargement, the Nikon D3100 will be all the tool one needs for the task.

Is it the best camera on the market? No. However, it is a perfectly suitable tool for most of us, and an exceptional value for frugal photographers. Like the Nikon D40, it will consistently produce beautiful results. You can buy a bigger camera with more “bells and whistles.” However, just as a well made Honda Civic is all the car most of us will ever need, the Nikon D3100 will meet the needs of the widest photographic audience looking for good value. This is my next camera, and should serve me well for quite a number of years.