Editor's note: This is a guest post by Kyle of ten18photography.

DSLR for Beginners

For those looking to buy their first DSLR camera, the Nikon D5100 provides the perfect balance of quality and affordability. An absolute bargain for less than $650, this camera encorporates a staggering number of features into an affordable package. It produces high quality images without adding extra menus and buttons which only confuse the beginning photographer. 

Nikon D5100 Price History 

I recommend pairing the D5100 with the optional 18-55mm kit lens for $100. This basic, lightweight lens offers all the features a beginning photographer needs to capture quality images.

Nikon D5100 with 18-55mm Lens Price History 

While I do recommend the D5100 for beginners, don’t underestimate its feature set. Its advanced components and quality images rival top level professional cameras from a few years ago at a fraction of the price. Digital photography continues to advance rapidly and beginners are reaping the benefits.

Enthusiast

Nikon D7000 Price History

Because of its advanced feature set and versatility, the D7000 is a match made in heaven for the photography enthusiast who likes options. Different from the Nikon D5100, this model provides more focus points, longer battery life, a hefty, weather-sealed magnesium alloy body, two memory card slots, and slightly higher image resolution. 

Nikon 18-200mm Price History

For all purpose use, pair this camera with the Nikon 18-200mm lens. Not only does it offer the same zoom range as two kit lenses combined, it has a more sturdy, professional feel. The 18-200mm lens allows photographers of all abilities to adapt quickly to their situation without changing lenses. For this reason, it’s popular among amateurs and professionals alike. It is well worth the $800 price tag for many users who will find it to be the only lens they will ever need.

I can’t believe how much Nikon packs into the D7000! At $1150 or less, the D7000 easily competes with cameras three times its price. It’s tempting to grab this camera, sell mine, and pocket the $1000 difference. It’s that good!

Advanced Amateurs & Professionals

Nikon D700 Price History

Among the three professional cameras made by Nikon, the D700 provides the best value and quality combination. Advanced amateurs and professionals will appreciate esoteric features such as a full frame sensor, higher ISO sensitivity, more focus points, and a larger viewfinder. The significantly higher price tag of $2700 is worth it for only those able to take advantage of these features.

Those purchasing the D700 with a larger budget should consider Nikon’s professional level lenses. Users of the D700 should avoid any lenses with DX in the model name. These lenses are made for smaller sensor, consumer level cameras and cannot take advantage of the D700’s larger sensor.

Nikon released the D700 more than 3 years ago, making it one of their older models. Photographers considering this camera may wish to hold out for the imminent model update. For those who cannot wait, the D700 is still a great investment.