I love Nikons and I am looking to upgrade from a Nikon Coolpix 6.1mp to a nikon d series. I would use the camera for basically to Point and Shoot however I would like to purchase a camera where I can do more. What do you suggest.
I would suggest stepping up to the D40. It is Nikon's entry DSLR, but it is a fantastic camera. I can't say enough about it. Don't be tempted by mega pixels and video. The D40 is a very capable and competent camera. I use a D300 for professional photography, but when I want to go to the park with my friends, I take my D40 with me. It takes sharp, beautiful, crisp pics with very little user manipulation. You can set it on Auto and shoot away. If you later decide to take more control o the camera, it lets you do that. Its a delight to carry around, with the 18-55 lens attached it weighs nothing, I can shoot with one hand and no shake. The only disadvantage of the D40 is that you must buy AFS lenses, which don't cost that much, especially around here.
Now, If this is the first time using a DSLR, a prosumer grade DSLR would be best. For instance the D40x, D60, D70, or D80. Those are the three best choices for municipal photography. Lens wise, I reccomend either the Nikon 18-55 AF-S or the Nikon 18-70 AF-S. Personally I use the D700 as my professional rig, but as my "social" camera I use the D70. The D70 is a great beginner SLR. If you want to go up a little higher than the prosumer cameras, it is possible to get an outdated pro grade SLR for cheap. Honestly, any of the cameras that I've listed (aside from the d700) are great introductions to the world of SLRs. If you want tech specs go to www.dpreview.com. Look for the buying guide. In that you'll find side by side comparison. That's extremely helpful. When buying lenses for Nikons, stay with Nikon. It's the best thing you could do for your camera. Other companies are all right, but Nikon makes the best lenses for the F mount. One last thing: With an SLR, amount of megapixels does not matter nearly as much as it does with a point and shoot. With an SLR, one has far superior glass to compensate for low megapixels. But my rule of thumb is nothing under 6.1 megapixels. The D70 was pushing it, but I love that camera.
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