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Nikon D80 D-SLR Body
with 18-55mm DX VR Lens
A Picture Perfect Camera
The Nikon D80 D-SLR Body with 18-55mm DX VR Lens is
an extremely capable camera for amateur and intermediate
photographers who don’t need the Nikon D200’s more versatile feature
set but has graduated from the entry-level Nikon D50.
D70 owners will feel right at home with the D80 and at the same time
will appreciate its higher 10.2 megapixel resolution. The camera
feels great and has excellent weight distribution, which is an
important factor to consider for serious photographers. When
gripping the camera, it does not sway or swing away thus affording
the user more control and stability. Even after attaching the lens,
the camera still exhibits great balance. It also feels lighter and
more ergonomic than its predecessor, the D70.
The Nikon D80 D-SLR Body with 18-55mm DX VR Lens features a 2.5 inch
display which is very reminiscent of the one found in the D200. The
larger viewfinder with .94x magnification is an excellent feature
which lessens eye strain and ultimately results in a more satisfying
experience. The LCD display is crystal clear allowing you to see and
examine the pictures you’ve taken in a more detailed manner.
CompactFlash memory seems to be on the way out as most "prosumer"
cameras are making the switch to other memory formats. In the case
of the Nikon D80, the SD and SDHC (High Capacity) memory formats are
utilized. SD cards can hold up to 2 gigabytes of images while the
newer SDHC format cards can hold up to as much as 32 gigabytes of
memory. With the larger capacity, it won’t be necessary to use
multiple cards anymore.
However, the most significant performance jump from the D70 is the
pixel count. Whereas the D70 had a pixel count of 6.1 megapixels,
the D80 boasts of 10.2 megapixels. The D80 can capture three frames
per second making it a very capable camera that can accommodate the
needs of aspiring photographers.
The kit lens adds even more value to this already terrific camera
package. The 18-55mm focal length lens makes it possible to provide
the versatility that photographers want right out of the box. The
way it looks and handles feels really tight and well-made.
With well placed controls and well laid-out menus, it’s effortless
to make the Nikon D80 perform the way you want it to perform. It has
an intelligent 11-point AF system that makes composing images a
whole lot easier. In addition, the AF system operates very quickly,
ensuring that photographers won’t miss golden chances for a great
photo. Since it has a slimmer profile than the D70, maneuvering the
D80 to get beautiful shots isn’t a problem as well.
Along with a reliable flash system with a sync speed of 1/200, the
D80 also has the usual lineup of scene modes called Vari-program
settings that work well during casual picture taking. Lastly, the
Nikon D80 also boasts a post-capture image editing program which
allows photographers to adjust the tint or fix red-eye after taking
a photo.
So whether you’re a beginner or an advanced photographer, you really
can’t go wrong with the Nikon D80 D-SLR Body with 18-55mm DX VR
Lens. It’s simply a great camera, when all’s been said and done.
Daniel Gonzales
Technology Reviewer |
