Nikon D60 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G AF-S DX VR Nikkor Zoom Lens | 
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| Brand: Nikon
Category: Photography
Buy New: See price in cart
New (19) Used (6) Refurbished (2) from $524.97
Rating:  99 reviews
Sales Rank: 224
Media: Electronics
Autographed: No
Memorabilia: No
Batteries Included: No
Includes Software: Yes
Optical Zoom: 3
Display Size: 2.5
Maximum Focal Length: 55
Minimum Focal Length: 18
Maximum Resolution: 10
Shipping Weight (lbs): 1.6
Dimensions (in): 4.6 x 6.6 x 12
nv:Sensor: 10.2 Megapixel
Image Resolution: 3872 x 2592
Storage Media: SD/SDHC Memory Card
Compressed Format: JPEG
Compressed Format: NEF (RAW)
LCD Monitor: 2.5-inch
LCD Pixels: 230,000 pixels
LCD Coverage: 100%
Shutter Speed: 30 - 1/4000 sec.
Light Metering Method: Spot
Light Metering Method: Matrix metering
Light Metering Method: TTL
Light Metering Method: Center Weighted
Exposure Modes: Auto
Exposure Modes: Manual
Exposure Modes: Landscape
Exposure Modes: Portrait
Exposure Modes: Close-up
MPN: B0012OGF6Q
Model: B0012OGF6Q
UPC: 018208254385
EAN: 0018208254385
ASIN: B0012OGF6Q
Release Date: February 18, 2008
Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours
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| Features:
| • | Extraordinary 10.2-megapixel DX-format Nikon picture quality | | • | Includes AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G Vibration Reduction lens | | • | 2.5-inch LCD screen; horizontal and vertical orientation are detected automatically | | • | Continuous shooting at 3 fps; Active Dust Reduction System with Airflow Control | | • | Capture images to SD/SDHC memory cards (not included) |
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Product Description
18-55mm AFS DX Nikkor / Fast Start-up / Active Dust Reduction / 2.5" LCD / Up to 3 Frames per second / SD and SDHC Memory Slot Up to 36 characters of alphanumeric text input available / Date imprint - Date, Date and Time, Date Counter, or None (selectable) Eye-level penta-Dach mirror single-lens reflex viewfinder File system - DCF (Design Rule for Camera File System) 2.0, DPOF (Digital Print Order Format), Exif 2.21 (Exchangeable Image File Format for Digital Still Cameras), PictBridge Focusing screen - Type B BriteView Clear Matte screen Mark V Compatible lenses - AF-S and AF-I NIKKOR - All functions supported; Type G or D AF NIKKOR not equipped with an autofocus motor - All functions supported except autofocus; Non-Type G or D AF NIKKOR not equipped with an autofocus motor - All functions supported except 3D color matrix metering II and autofocus; IX-NIKKOR and AF-NIKKOR for F3AF - Not supported; Type D PC NIKKOR - All functions supported except some shooting modes; AI-P NIKKOR - All functions supported except 3D color matrix metering II; Non-CPU - Autofocus not supported. Can be used in exposure mode M, but exposure meter does not function; Lens with maximum aperture of f/5.6 or faster - Electronic rangefinder can be used Frame advance up to 3 fps Self-timer - Can be selected from 2, 5, 10 and 20 second duration Metering method - Matrix - 3D color matrix metering II (type G and D lenses); color matrix metering II (other CPU lenses); Center-weighted - Weight of 75 percent given to 8mm circle in center of frame; Spot - Meters 3.5mm circle (about 2.5 percent of frame) centered on selected focus point (on center focus point when non-CPU lens is used) Range (ISO 100, f/1.4 lens, 20 degrees C/68 degrees F); Matrix, Center-weighted, and Spot metering Dimensions (W x H x D) - 126 x 94 x 64mm (5.0 x 3.7 x 2.5 inch)/ 1.1 lb
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| Customer Reviews: Read 45 more reviews...
 Nice Camera but not a big upgrade March 22, 2008
F. Shahzad
266 out of 276 found this review helpful
D60 is the upgrade for D40x which I owned previously. The differences between two are too small to justify upgrading from D40x. If you own D40 and would like more resolution then D60 may fit the bill. For D40x owners only real advantage is the VR lens which is probably only slightly better than the non-VR one that comes with D40x (for the zoom range of 18-55mm). Off course I am not forgetting D-Lighting which is a much touted feature but I didn't see noticeable difference in quality. Using Active D-Lighting makes the camera take longer to save pictures. It could take a few seconds before you can review the photo on LCD.
For people looking for their first DSLR camera, D60 is a great choice. It is very easy to use and provides excellent images without requiring a lot of technical knowledge. Actually the images I produced with my D60 (and D40x) were better and sharper than everybody else in my photography class (with students using anything from compact and semi-pro point and shoot cameras, Canon XT and XTi and Olympus E-510). It doesn't have live view which I would've liked because I plan to use tripod for a lot of my shots. Like its predecessors, it doesn't have an auto-focus motor in the body so your lens selection is limited but for a beginner that shouldn't be an issue. It would've been nice to have higher flash sync speed but hey you can't have it all. I have no regrets about buying D60 (I had a bunch of unused gift cards from Christmas so I didn't have to pay a lot from my pocket).
Here is my advice for you: If you are looking for an easy to use DSLR which take excellent photos and can afford it then buy it. I would definitely recommend D60 over D40x (unless you are saving a couple of hundred dollars or more). If you are on a budget then go with D40 which is an excellent camera and should now be even cheaper.
If you are buying this camera (or D40), I highly recommend getting 55-200 VR lens which is around $200. Add that to the kit lens and throw in an SB-400 or SB-600 flash and you'll have a set up that is hard to beat for about a grand. D60 is a lot of camera in a small body.
After having the camera for a few months, I still love it. It produces pictures as good as or better than Canon's new Xsi and for a lot less. At around $630 for the kit, it is a great deal.
Just beginning to learn how to use it, but I love it June 24, 2008
pm444 (Okemos, MI USA)
103 out of 105 found this review helpful
I've been using Canon PowerShot point-and-shoot digital cameras for the past 6 years, and because they're so small, portable, and unobtrusive, I've ended up taking a lot more photos that I ever did, because I had my camera with me. The good thing is that I've taken a lot more pictures, and most of them have been very good (the camera gets much of the credit here). But the bad thing is that I started to reach the limits of what a point-and-shoot camera can do.
The biggest problems I had with my compact point-and-shoot camera was the lag between shots and the generally poor performance in low-light settings. For most shots, these weren't big problems, but when they were a problem, they were a huge problem, and there's not much you can to solve it without moving to a better camera. I don't think I'm the first person to reach a brick wall when using compact digital cameras, which is why there are now some excellent options that don't cost a fortune.
After reading a lot of reviews for digital SLR cameras online, I narrowed it down to two choices: the Sony A300 or the Nikon D60. I love my compact Canon, but I wasn't all that impressed with the Canon dSLR's that I looked at, either in terms of price or features.
The Sony is priced very competitively and offers some great features, such as auto-focus and image stabilization built into the camera itself, not relying on the lens. The A300 also has live preview on the LCD screen, which the D60 doesn't offer (live preview is what you get on a compact camera: you see what you are shooting as you take the picture). Finally, the A300 has more focus points than the Nikon. I spent a long time in several stores doing side-by-side comparisons of these two cameras. After many test shots, I finally chose the D60 for the following reasons: it felt more compact and less heavy than the Sony, I liked the way the lens felt when I was zooming, its LCD menu system was much clearer and more intuitive, and the Nikkor family of lenses is unbeatable. With a dSLR, it really gets down to which line you want to commit to for future lens purchases. I wasn't sure I wanted to go with Sony, when Nikon is well-known for quality optics.
I ordered the D60 from Amazon and I'm glad I did, since they have a 30-day price match policy. If the price of the camera decreases within 30 days of your purchase, all you have to do is email Amazon, and they'll credit you with the difference. The price of the D60 went down three times after my purchase (it's even lower now, but I've passed my 30 days), and Amazon was fast to process the refund for each decrease. Please note that it's your responsibility to check on the current price. Amazon will not notify you that the price has gone down, and why should they? So if you do buy this from Amazon, be sure to check every couple of days to see what the current price is.
As for the camera and the lens, I couldn't be happier. I love how it feels and how easy it is to use, at least for basic shots. Of course it won't fit in my pocket the way my point-and-shoot did, but it's not nearly as huge or heavy as I'd expected. The kit lens has VR (vibration reduction) which is a good thing to have, and it's well balanced with the compact body of this camera. In other words, the camera doesn't point down under the weight of the lens. Everyone who has tried out my new camera has commented on how compact and ergonomic it feels.
The camera works extremely well in low-light settings, with or without flash (you can defeat the flash if you want, and I find that in many situations, I get better results that way). The flash is a lot more powerful than what you get on a compact camera, and the coverage is more even.
So far, I've mainly used the "auto" mode, but I've taken some pictures in macro mode. It's graat to be able to take pictures in rapid succession, without having to wait the way you do with a point-and-shoot. Most important of all, the image quality is outstanding. The difference is noticeable and consistently better than what I was getting with my point-and-shoot.
The LCD menu is intuitive and visually appealing. That was one of the reasons I went with the Nikon in the first place, and I haven't been disappointed. By pressing the right button as you move the mode dial, you can see a description of what each mode does, which is very helpful. It's sort of like having a "help" system built into the camera, without having to carry around the instructions. Having said that, the instruction manual is really quite good. It won't teach you everything you need to know about digital SLRs, but it does a good job of explaining the camera's features. Nevertheless, I recommend buying a more extensive guide book which is specific to the Nikon D60 (there is one by David Busch which is currently available, and several more are scheduled to appear within the next couple of months).
So, I love this camera, especially at the very reasonable price point. However, there are some things that you should consider before making a final decision. First, the D60 will only provide auto-focus with Nikkor AF-S lenses. That means that most Nikon "prime" lenses will require manual focusing. That wasn't a big deal for me, but it is a limitation. Second, the D60's 3 focus points put it at the low end for this feature. Third, the D60 uses SD cards, while the Sony uses Compact Flash cards, as do many higher-end dSLRS. This isn't really a plus or minus, since SD cards are generally less expensive than Compact Flash, but some users say that Compact Flash cards may be more durable in the long run (they're larger and thicker). Finally, unlike the Sony, the D60 does not provide live preview. In other words, you don't see the image on the LCD until after you have taken it.
With all of that, I'm very pleased with my decision and I am having a lot of fun with my Nikon D60. If you're ready to move up from your point-and-shoot to a dSLR, you cannot go wrong with the D60.
Great Digital SLR May 5, 2008
Anthony Dake (Patchogue, NY)
42 out of 42 found this review helpful
This is My first Nikon. I have been a fan of Canon and Olympus for many years. Previous to this camera, I was using an Olympus Evolt 500. The E-500 is a good camera. However, it is older and some aspects of the 500 bugged me. The view finder could have been a little clearer, the focus could have been faster and although the picture quality was good, it still wasnt quite at the level I wanted. I was on the verge of buying two new lenses, which were better and more expensive than the two kit lenses, and a external flash. Then one day while I was out at the big Warehouse Store shopping, I saw the Nikon D60 kit with camera bag and two lenses and for about the same cost as I was ready to spend on my 500. I knew this camera had great reviews and was one of the top 10 recommended digital SLRs on one of my favorite camera review sites. So I bought it and put my 500 up for sale and am happy I did. The quality is very good. Colors are great and so is detail. Overall the D60 is easier to use. I can figure out settings very quickly. The D60 is also fast. Much faster than my 500 when it comes to quick pictures in succession. The D60 also has a very nice shutter click that I like. One thing I noticed about the eye piece cover is that it was tough to put on. Once I finally got it on fully, with a click, I couldnt take it off too easily. In my attempt to remove it, one side broke, but only a piece of it. It came off then and since it is only a cover for when your not actually looking through the eyepiece to take a picture, it now fits on and off nicely! A happy accident. Battery life was quite good. Another good thing is that the 18mm - 55mm zoom lens gets me closer for macro shots better than the kit lenses for the 500. Good enough that I dont feel compelled to get a dedicated macro lens at this time. All in all the D60 is great. I am very satisfied with it. I highly recommend it if you are one of those getting into digital SLRs for the first time. You wont be disappointed.
A review for those who want to upgrade from D40 March 27, 2008
N. Saadeddine (Dubai, UAE)
48 out of 50 found this review helpful
This is the 2008 upgraded version of the D40x.
First, if you are new to DSLR Photography and you wish to buy a new camera, then you are spot-on and I won't repeat the wealth of information the other kind reviewers have already given. I'll just focus on why D40 users need to upgrade.
Second, I dont recommend D40x users to upgrade to this model! true the new futures are a plus however, personally I find it not a big difference. unless you like to keep up with latest technology releases and don't mind paying the extra dollars :)
If you wish to upgrade from the D40 (as I am) you need to consider the reason for your upgrade.
Reason 1- Is it for taking better quality photos or your current camera is old?
Reason 2- Or, found out you are stepping to the advance photography level and you want to upgrade from your D40? (becoming an obsessed amature)
Answering reason 1:
If you are happy with your current D40 but you need to upgrade because its old or you need higher Mega Pixels or you want more (a bit) better images? then this D60 is a perfect upgrade why because the D60 on the auto-settings takes much crispier spot-on shots than the D40 just by doing a shot by shot comparison you will find the D60 have the upper hand due to some of the following new features;
- Active D-lightning (No more underexposed photos).
- The new Expeed sensor (as in the D300, reduced ISO noise)
- The new VR Lens which produce sharper images.
- The Dust reduction is a big plus
- supporting 4GB SDHC cards.
Answering reason 2:
The D60 camera does not have the following:
- No DOF preview
- No Bracketing
- Does not trigger speed-flash remotely such as SB-600/800
- Mirror Lock-up (for taking super steady shots)
- only three active focus points.
- only one Command dial
- No Build in AF motor (limiting the amount of lenses you use)
It is not necessarily to have any of the above (specially to amatures and beginners) and you can always have a work around those features. however, when you start attending advanced photography courses or workshops with top National Geography Photographers you will find yourself looking handicap because you lack the functions whom my other fellow photographers have... or specially when you get to a level that you work in a pro environment and you need least fail factor while taking shots or the ability to work within a studio environment. then yes, you need the above features even more (which i did not mention). and this D60 is not the right upgrade for you.
I just want to make it clear for those who want to upgrade or before buying a new DSLR. because if you are new, and you feel one day you will get to the advance level (or, least becoming an obsessed amature) I prefer you invest on a D300 or atleast a D80.
other than that, this camera is the best DSLR I ever saw targeting the entry level photographers.
Nice balance of technology and price! July 8, 2008
A.Grilli (New York)
20 out of 20 found this review helpful
Don't pass up the D60 just because it's called "entry level". This unassuming camera is very well made, doesn't cost a fortune, has a lot of features, and is capable of producing stunning photos, depending on the user. Here's my overview of what you're getting, what you're not, and why I bought it.
What you're getting is Nikon engineering in a compact body with very good ergonomics and all the necessary features you need to shoot in most situations -that is, for people who enjoy photography as a creative hobby, not a profession. If you're an average person, like me, who does occasional shooting, likes creativity and demands quality results, the D60 is a good camera to work with. It's light and comfortable without being flimsy. That means you're more likely to take it with you, rather than debating whether to carry around a heavy semi-pro beast.
You also get the latest technology such as the Expeed processor, in-camera Raw Conversion and Active D-lighting. And you get the 18-55VR lens. I added the 55-200VR. Both lenses are lightweight and capable. Between the lens and the lightmeter, I've taken some really stunning photos in varied situations. The lenses are not optically fast, but VR works well to steady the camera when needed. I plan on adding a fast prime for lowlight and everyday use.
Here's what you're not getting:
-Live View mode. I really liked this on my P&S and I'll miss it, but I remember this feature really drains battery life, which was really annoying (and they haven't perfected it in SLRs yet).
-No Auto Focus with older Nikon AF lenses, but the D60 has a rangefinder feature which allows you to pull up an analog focusing meter in the viewfinder.
-You don't get a lot of direct access buttons on the body. There are some, but most picture settings have to be made on a grid on the LCD screen. It's pretty easy to do and it keeps the D60 uncluttered, but I'd much rather have the buttons.
-Lastly, higher-end models generally give you a stronger build quality, a bigger, brighter viewfinder and a more enhanced AF system with more AF points. Still, the D60 is no slouch in these areas. Its viewfinder is bright and its 3-point AF seems fast enough for me.
I have to say though, I really liked handling the other strong, ruggedly-built SLRs, like the Nikon D300 and Canon 40D, but when the chips are down, I just don't want to carry all that weight around, especially on vacation. You would have to decide if you really want all the features of a higher end camera because it really adds to the size, weight and especially COST. Everything's a tradeoff.
My main reason for choosing Nikon over Canon and Olympus was because they use the largest image sensor, followed by Canon; Olympus was just too small. I took the measurements of these sensors, drew each of them on a grid next to each other and the actual size difference really became apparent. And even though the other brands still do a great job with image quality and some reviewers try to explain away the size issue, I still believe that EVERY little bit of sensor real estate helps with image quality. But, hey that's just me.
As for ergonomics, I considered some Canons, but they felt rather boxy and cramped to me, and they all use that obnoxious pop-up strobing flash as an AF assist light. Nikon uses a steady lamp. I loved the Olympus 420, but it was so compact that the metal strap holder constantly dug into my middle finger. Mounting a heavy lens made it feel oddly unbalanced. The E510 was very comfortable, even more so than the D60. It really helps to pick up these models and handle them.
Buying a digital SLR body is like buying a computer. The sensor is the heart of the camera, so I looked for the latest model with the newest processor. I REALLY liked the D80, but even though it's a great body, I couldn't see spending hundreds more on what I consider a "2 year old computer" that may be discontinued soon. Unless you're a pro, you're probably going to purchase just one DSLR body, so I'd say invest in one with enough current technology to last for a while along with most of the features you think you need.
That's where the D60 comes in. It's a nice balance of current technology at a reasonable price. The fact that you're even considering this model means that value is of some concern to you, so striking that balance is important. Yes, it may be missing a bell here or a whistle there, but overall it's a great little camera. The lightmeter works extremely well, the processor is fast, the lenses are sharp, the images are excellent. And the price is right.
UPDATE 8/29/08: Just 2 months after I passed on the aging D80, it was replaced by the D90, which is more in line with what I want in a DSLR . But I still love the D60 and how affordable it is for the results you get. Occasionally, I toss it into my bag on the way to work in NY. I stop at various locations around the city and really enjoy using it. What surprised me most, is that when it's in my bag I BARELY notice the extra weight. It's just not a problem at all. It proves how good a walkaround camera this one is. Makes me want to go out and shoot even more.
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