Nikon D3000

Shooting Modes

The D3000 can be used successfully by the SLR newcomer as a point-and-shoot camera in Auto mode; we found the camera usually delivered a well-exposed image, due in large part to the same sophisticated metering system used in pricier Nikon models. The Guide mode is a new addition to the Nikon lineup, a text-based system for determining camera settings that has its strengths and weaknesses.

The Guide mode is one of the key differences between this Nikon and its predecessors. It’s basically a step-by-step system for changing settings, a kind of menu system overlay, as opposed to a new camera capability. Using these menus is a fairly time-consuming way to change a camera setting; we don’t believe anyone is going to rely on this mode long-term and feel very good about the D3000 experience. However, particularly in the Shoot section, the available choices are well organized and well explained, and could serve as a nice training-wheels system helping a newbie along the path to greater photographic control and satisfaction. On balance, we give Nikon credit for trying a new approach and largely getting it right.

Focus

The D3000 uses 11 autofocus points, versus just three for the D40 and D60, making continous autofocus more practical. Focusing speed feels a bit sluggish with the kit lens, though. There’s a noticeable pause between pressing the shutter halfway and hearing the focus confirmation beep. On the plus side, the autofocus assist lamp is bright and effective: we found about the same AF speed in sunlight and dim indoor lighting, and never failed to achieve focus even when shooting in the dark.

The camera supports four focus modes: Single-servo, Continuous-servo, Auto-servo, and Manual.

When focusing manually, the in-focus indicator in the viewfinder lights when focus has been achieved. The kit lens, though, has a very loose feel while turning, making precise manual focus difficult.

Recording Options

The D3000 offers three image size settings: Large, Medium and Small. There are three JPEG compression settings: fine (approximately 1:4), normal (approximately 1:8) and basic (approximately 1:16).

The D3000 also supports RAW files in the Nikon NEF format, either on their own or in RAW+JPEG mode. Only basic JPEG images can be recorded in RAW+JPEG mode, though.