Nikon D3500 W/ AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Black
The Nikon D3500 is a really small DSLR that takes great pictures (when using an external flash). It is really small and lightweight package especially when using the bundled 18-55mm collapsible lens. High ISO and Autofocus performance is very, very good.
The D3500 is Nikon's entry level DSLR replacing the D3400. These two cameras have very similar specifications but the real difference is the White balance. The D3xxx series before this model, had an orangery AWB when shooting with existing incandescent lighting (i.e regular light bulbs). This model does a much better job The colors are really so much better. The buttons are also rearranged to make one handed-shooting a little easier.
However, the next camera up the line, is the D5600 which currently sells for almost the same price since the D5600 has been around for a while. The D5600 which has almost identical and excellent image quality, is about the same size and weight (maybe an ounce or two heavier). But the D5600 has several important features the D3500 lacks; a fully articulating LCD, touch screen controls (in addition to buttons), many more ISO stops (The D3500 has only 2 ISO stops between ISO 400 and 3200), DOF Preview, Bracketing, better wireless picture transfer, automatic sensor cleaning, programmable FN button etc.
Like almost all cameras, the built in flash is not great; an external speedlight with bounce capabilities is really essential for properly exposed photographs. The SB300 is a very small flash and a great match for this camera (and for the D5600).
Like all cameras, the most important component is the skill and imagination of the photographer.
I have owned Nikon cameras for years. The best "glass"(lens) out there. Simply, Nikon makes the best cameras overall. I have owned the D7000, D7100, D750 and D3200, a predecessor of this. I liked the similarities in the controls and buttons. I could go from the D7000 and use the D3200 and know where everything was.(there is a difference in button and menu layout between manufacturers). I could go from the D7100 to the D750 and find the same layout.
That being said, this is one of the major differences as the D3000 series has evolved. Less buttons on the outside and more in the menu. I found everything but I like the buttons. I would think for beginners this would be easier especially since there is no touch screen. I also find as a photographer who likes to experiment I am glad there is no touch screen. For all of the beginners reading this, don't worry about the lack of touch screen. You will learn photography much more quickly. This is not iPhone photography and eventually you will master using the menu and buttons more quickly than shooting on an iPhone. And I shoot on a iPhone regularly.
I am looking at this camera through the eyes of an experienced Nikon user but putting myself in the shoes of a beginner too. I want to start off by saying if Nikon's intention is to get beginners to start using a DSLR, this is the camera. Put it on auto and shoot away. Go to the guide and choose what kind of shot you may want-landscape, night, macro and the guide will teach you to start using settings very simply right in the guide mode. That is why I call this a bridge DSLR. It is fairly simple to use. Even the menu is simple and uncluttered when a camera enthusiast starts exploring. The price point is very competitive especially among point and shoots that may be more $$ but do not give the user a DSLR and larger sensor.
I used all modes. I normally shoot in aperture priority. I usually set my back button to focus and it will focus more quickly(more on that later). I stop down a bracket and shoot in 100 or 200 ISO outside. I purchased a polarizing filter to protect the lens and give me more depth/color in my outdoor shots. I also purchased a lens hood which is valuable to keep blown highlights and glare away. Both are great accessories. I also bought some after market batteries as spares but this battery is pretty good so far. Est. 1550 shots can get me 5 days of shooting while on vacation.
The effects mode: super vivid-artificial colors-too over the top, pop- little weak on popping those colors, photo illustration-like a painting-fun effect. I am still trying to figure out selective color.
I thought the shallow depth of field was weak on shots I took at apertures wide open. Some of that may be the lens ( more on the lens later).
I also had some trouble with the auto focus finding its target. I played around some and the auto focus seemed slow. I have not experienced that before with the D3200. It may be a user issue and will update this review. I do wish that the D3000 series had more focus points, but one thing I have always liked with the Nikon D series cameras that it is easy to change the focal points when setting up a shot.
I am switching lens to my 18-140 to see if both the above resolve themselves.
The D3500 does not have image stabilization in the body. So what does the mean? It means that if you have a lens like the kit lens 18-55, nothing because the lens has it, but if you have an older lens without image stabilization, there may be blur with camera shake. I think this is a minor issue for beginners unless they had some older Nikon lenses.
The lens-18-55-very limited lens. Its actual focal point is 27-82mm -crop sensor factor of 1.5. Buy the body without a lens and buy the 18-140- a super walk around landscape lens especially for travel photography or buy the 18-300 lens ( if your budget allows) an excellent all around lens for everything. I have the 18-140 now. Personally for me I always buy Nikon lenses. That is the reason that Nikon is superior. Yes, Tamron and Sigma may be great lenses and less costly, but the lenses makes the shot. Buy the best not just the great lenses! I have recently been buying international Nikon lenses which are less costly and have had no problems. You do not get a US warranty, but never had an issue.
Weight- this camera is really light but not too light. The grip is ergonomic and helps the camera steady in my hand. One of the reasons I now use a point and shoot in addition to my DSLR is the weight especially when carrying a camera for 12 hours or more. They can be heavy and in the heat, tiring. The issue with a point and shoot even a camera like the Nikon B700 is, that while it has a good grip to steady, the weight distribution is still too light to sometimes steady the camera especially when zooming to get that sharp shot. I have to brace against something, or use a tripod which is sometimes not accessible or allowed because of space. I did not have that issue with the D3500. It is the sweet spot for weight and distribution. Kudos to Nikon. Even with a heavy lens like the 18-140.
So my wishes for this series are simple-more focus points and weather sealing. Just a small amount of weather sealing helps with dust as well as a few rain sprinkles. I am sure Nikon beginners would pay $100 more for these great features.
Note: One of the main differences between a DSLR and point and shoot besides the smaller sensor on a point and shoot, is the limitations on ISO film speed and aperture settings. Most point and shoots do not have the range. So when purchasing a "bridge" always go to the beginning DSLRs to get more bang for your buck.
If you want a relatively simple DSLR camera and your main focus is to be able to automatically upload your photos to your smartphone, then this is a great camera. Nikon's quality is exceptional. But if you're looking to get a DSLR that will grow with you as your skills improve, this camera has some drawbacks.
I began my long history with Nikon 30 years ago with their wonderful F3 film camera. Four years ago I bought a D5300, and I've been happy with that camera for its picture quality and irritated for its video quality. The video problems were caused by the kit AF-S autofocus lens that was slow and loud. The sound the lens made was recorded onto the video, so I had to use an external mic. The lens included with this camera is quicker and silent (I should have bought this lens long ago). Both cameras have the same sensor.
The sticker price for this camera is rather high at $499. The sale price makes it more desirable to wet your feet. But my recommendation is to spend a little more--especially if video is important to you--and get a D5300 body with the AF-P lens that comes with this camera for the following reasons:
1. This camera has a fixed screen. The D5300 screen is fully articulating, meaning you can open and tilt it so you can shoot from any angle. You can even face it forward so you can see yourself while shooting. You can also rotated it against the body in the closed position to protect the screen.
2. This camera does not have a microphone port. If you want to videotape your children playing and capture their conversation, you're stuck using the onboard mic. With the D5300, you can plug in a shotgun, lavalier, or professional mic with a boom arm (my setup).
3. This isn't a deal breaker, but Nikon offers several color profiles that you can upload to your camera. For example, I used to shoot with Velvia film on my F3 because I loved the color saturation. I can download the Velvia color profile and upload it to my camera under Shooting Menu>Manage Picture Control. The D3500 gives you seven onboard picture controls that you can manually adjust, but doesn't allow you upload additional color profiles.
Some functions the D5300 has that are preferable to the D3500 are:
* 39 vs. 11 focus points
* Timelapse recording
* 12m vs. 7m flash range
* AE bracketing
* GPS (though many complain it doesn't work well)
Some functions the D3500 has that are preferable to the D5300 are:
* 25,600 ISO vs. 12,800 ISO
* 1,550 shots vs. 600 shots battery life
* 365 g. vs. 480 grams weight
* Bluetooth
Both cameras have the same sensors and WiFi connectivity. The D3500 is lighter with longer battery life, but the missing functionality will limit your creativity and growth as a photographer. If you just want the ease of point and shoot with some flexibility and the quality of a Nikon DSLR, then this camera is a good buy when on sale.
Easy to use and Nice Picture Quality i Really Recommend this Camera for Budget
Allows amateurs (like me) to take gorgeous PROFESSIONAL pictures! I had no idea I could shoot so well! Very very easy to figure out. You can see that special effort was put into simplifying the device without sacrificing quality. Well deserved five stars!
Feature Product
- A DSLR That's as easy to use as a point-and-shoot camera
- Compact, comfortable design That's great for travel and Special events
- Image sensor That's 15x larger than those Used in Typical smartphones for sharper, clearer pictures
- Works with Nikon's snapbridge app for sharing photos with a compatible smartphone or tablet
- 1080P full HD videos with monaural sound at the touch of a button.Bluetooth Version 4.1
Description
Beautiful pictures for all. You don't need to be a photographer to know a great photo when you see one. And you don't need to be a photographer to take a great photo-you just need the D3500. It's as easy to use as a point-and-shoot, but it takes beautiful DSLR photos and videos that get noticed. It feels outstanding in your hands, sturdy and balanced with controls where you want them. It's compact, durable and versatile, ideal for travel. And it works seamlessly with compatible smartphones, making it easier than ever to share your great photos. Even if you've never picked up a DSLR camera, you can take beautiful pictures with D3500.
I've been wanting a more serious camera for a while after missing too many of those sights where a smartphone camera won't do it justice. I decided I wanted to dip into the DSLR waters and finally get beyond point and click cameras. I bought the D3500 with the extra 70-300mm and now I'm sure that lens will live on the camera. The range it has from a close detail shot of a bird to a view of a village on a mountain top 8 miles away is awesome.
To be honest, the only reason why I bought this was because all modern digital cameras lack the manual control functionalities of the camera. Nowadays, everything is "automatically" managed by the computer within the camera which, in most cases, ruins the pictures.
I am so glad that I made the switch to this camera! It does everything that my other cameras does not do! It allows me to manually adjust the focus, aperture, shutter speed, ISO, white balance, and so much more!
I will admit that the camera can be a bit "much" to those who are new to the DSLR universe, but I will say that after you play with the camera for a while, you will know all of the menus, options and their locations like a pro!
What I love about this camera is that you have the ability to switch out the stock lens for a macro lens (those insane close up photos) or for a telephoto lens (for those far distant pictures) if you choose! For me, personally, the stock lens does more than enough, but if I have the urge to buy one of the other lenses, I can do that because the camera is made for expand-ability!
Contrary to what others may say, personally, I believe that the JPEG images are super clean and crisp. While you are not supposed to use JPEGs for post-production, I believe you can get away with some minor post with these files. They are so clean with no visible JPEG compression artifacts! It's a shame that the NEF RAW format is not widely supported, but once it is, I would switch over as soon as possible to get all the color information you need from your photos!
A little notice to new consumers: When you turn off your camera, disable the WIFI on your camera. I accidentally left the WIFI on and forgot about it. The camera, while in the "OFF" position, can still use WIFI, which will drain your battery quickly. But, on a full charge, if WIFI is turned off and dependent on your usage of the camera, the battery can last quite some time!
All in all, I think that this camera is a steal for it's price! For those who want to experience a DSLR camera without breaking the bank, I will definitely get this camera before they're all gone!
(I took 2 pictures of the camera, one with a more practical use of the camera, to show off the color reproduction. I took a photo of the grass in my backyard. The colors in that picture could not have been any closer to reality than it is in the photo! The second picture is a test to push the "macro" aspect of the stock lens to it's limits. It's a closeup of my TV, where you can see the subpixel elements. For me, it's a good-enough macro lens, but if I want to see the solder holding the pixels together, I have that option if I think the macro lens is a good investment!)
What I wasn't ready for was the weight. I'm used to using an ancient Canon rebel.. I actually thought it was a fake item at first as it weighed like it was hollow in comparison. I'm very pleased at the quality:price ratio in comparison to Canon options. I do wish the 300m lense set came with the VR edition. I noticed that Nikon offered it as a set before it was checked/tested/wrapped.. But I'm willing to order refurb direct for the VR edition of the lense. Got the standard option because I hate lenses with no IS (or VR in this case).
I’m getting back into photography now that I have more time. I don’t have a ton of money to spend so I have to cut some corners. Unless you already own all the lenses you need, spend less on the camera body and get the second lens with this set. It is your skill and the lens that is responsible for the photo and not the camera body. You can do a lot with these two!
This is Nikon’s latest iteration of their base-model camera. Some will call it “entry-level” and while true, there’s no reason to believe you cannot get great photos out of this camera.
I found I had to level-set my thoughts when reviewing this camera. I typically shoot with a full-frame Nikon D610, which at current prices, costs about three times more than this camera. The D610 is old and by no means top-of-the-line, but I am used to the comforts and feature set provided by full-frame cameras. The D610 has a larger body, has more external buttons and dials, and just about beats the D3500 in every category. But, don’t let that dismay you.
In this review, I’ll try to cover it from the perspective that this is your first camera (or this camera fits your budget nicely) and define some terminology you may encounter in other reviews. Generally, the more features in a camera, the more expensive it will be.
This camera is small and light, probably Nikon’s smallest and lightest. It has the classic Nikon feel in the hand, but as a grown adult, my little finger falls off the bottom of the grip. I can only fit three fingers on the grip comfortably. I am 5’11, 210 lbs with average size hands. The grip is deep and is comfortable (despite only fitting three fingers).
This camera has Auto mode, as well as the PASM modes. P is Program, which is sort of like Auto with more controls. A is Aperture Priority, which is the mode you want to try if you like blurring the background (making it out of focus on purpose). S is Shutter Priority, for setting a fast shutter speed (or slower depending on your needs) to freeze (or blur) action. M is full manual mode, for when you truly understand photography as more than just point and shoot.
It has the same body as the slightly more expensive D5600, but without the articulating screen. This means the non-touchscreen on this camera is stationary on the back and does not move. Having a moving screen is a convenient feature for shooting above your head or down on the ground, without having to use a ladder or laying on the ground.
It has a 24 megapixel DX sensor (physically smaller than full-frame FX sensors and often called a crop sensor). This has pros and cons depending on your goals. If you are shooting sports in sunlight, having a crop sensor is great because it lets you get closer to the action than a full-frame would (assuming the ame lens focal length - the mm measurement of the lens). Crops sensors multiple the mm by 1.5x. What this means is when you are trying to capture a bird photo or your child scoring a goal, your 18mm-55mm lens that is included with this camera becomes a 27mm-82.5mm lens. This is a benefit and it is why a lot of bird photographers shoot with crop sensor cameras.
On the flip side, crop sensor cameras tend to perform worse in terms of image quality than full-frame cameras. I took this camera out with the included kit lens to test it out. I did not use any of my more expensive lenses. I took photos of my children at a local park. In some cases, we were in sunlight, other times it was overcast by clouds, and then other times, we were in walking trails in wooded areas. I have to say that I noticed the graininess of the image quality right around ISO 1000. This was disappointing, and most certainly will limit this camera at night. Sports at night may be a challenge for this camera if you are buying it for taking photos of your children’s sports.
This camera comes with the standard 18-55mm kit lens, with a lock button. I don’t like the lock button design, because most of my lenses don’t have one. This lens is a new AF-P lens which is silent and smooth when focusing. Given I am mostly shooting FX primes (full frame non-zoom lenses), the AF-P DX lenses were new to me. They are fairly new, having been released in 2017 and forward. AF-P lens are not compatible with a lot of older Nikon cameras, even those recently released in the past 5-10 years. Nikon has a compatibility chart online. Suffice to say, any AF-P lens will work on this camera, and any AF-S lens (the ones I use) will work as well. You should have no issue with the type of lens as long as you buy AF-P DX lenses or AF-S DX lenses.
One thing to note is that any Nikon AF-S full-frame lens will work on this camera too, and the standard advice all photographers give new shoppers is to buy FX lenses if you can afford them and don’t care about size and weight. Why? Because any FX lens will work fine on a DX body. While you can use a DX lens in “crop-mode” on an FX body, you are limiting your image quality and size.
This camera cannot support lenses that focus using the focus screw drive mechanism.
Because I want to take advantage of the smaller, lighter size of this camera, I did pick up and do recommend the Nikon AF-P DX 10-20mm and the Nikon AF-P DX 70-300mm. Similar DX AF-S lenses exist too. I consider these two lenses and the kit lens (18-55) a good collection of lenses for the consumer looking at this camera as their first camera, who wants to expand what it can do by using different focal lengths. One additional lens that you may want to pick up, is the Nikon 50mm FX f1.8 lens for light portrait duties. I prefer 85mm on full-frame, and this gets you close enough to 85mm by being equivalent to 75mm (50mm multiplied by 1.5).
In terms of ergonomics, this camera has new button arrangement, where everything is clustered on the right side of the camera. It lacks the front dial for making adjustments and requires you to press an additional button to change aperture or shutter speed while spinning the back dial, depending on the mode you are in.
It probably doesn’t need to be said, but I would not recommend this camera for any paid jobs. It only has one card slot, which means if your memory card fails, you could lose your entire photo shoot and money for the job. That said, professionals would not be looking at this Nikon range anyway.
It does not come with a hot shoe cover, which I find annoying.
The battery is rated for just over 1500 shots, although I haven’t pushed it that far yet.
The bottom line: Keep in mind, with everything I have said in this review, that if this camera is your first camera, you will certainly be happy with it. If you wish to develop photography as a hobby and you get really serious about it (like me), you may find that you will eventually start looking at more expensive cameras and lenses. Your budget may play a role in your purchase decision. Overall, I am happy with this camera as a smaller, lighter camera to carry around with me when I am not trying to create a masterpiece, but want something more versatile (with additional lenses) than my cell phone.
