Was waffling on the D5100, but caved today on seeing a factory refurb at B&H for $460. Like others here, the issue is weight versus the lovely D300. I much prefer the D3000 for that reason, but not for the burnt highlights. I expect the D5100 to serve nicely. The alternative would have been the D3200, but no discounting so far, and I don't need another 18-55.
You will find the fold out screen to be worth it over buying the D3200. Fold the screen out and hold the camera at your waist. Very effective for many kinds of discreet shots.
Two23 wrote:
You will find the fold out screen to be worth it over buying the D3200. Fold the screen out and hold the camera at your waist. Very effective for many kinds of discreet shots.
Kent in SD
this is one reason that this style of body is most appealing. Considering I got a d3200, if it were more for travel, I would have to say this is a major reason to get the 5100.
Will receive the D5100 shortly, and look forward to low-angle shooting: haven't used that method since my Hassy era (1980s). Well, okay, the Coolpix 900 could achieve the same with its swivel body, but the LCD display was horrendous.
Received the D5100 today, and Nikon refurb is indistinguishable from new. You must merely tolerate the generic box and 90-day warranty. Moved my kit 18-55 from the aging D3000 and fired off a few frames. I detect better color and two more stops of DR. Build quality is strictly consumer, perhaps even worst than the D3000, but featherweight vs my pro-grade D300. The fold-out LCD is going to be great: there is no ergonomic penalty for this feature. Processing speed and responsiveness is midway between my other Nikon DSLRs. I'm pretty sure I hate the illumination scheme for AF points. In summary, this camera is a Strong Buy, especially at current pricing.
