Hi, I'm in a bit of a dilema!

[Audiophile]

Ok so, I have been thinking on getting a camera for some time now but it wasn't 'till I got B&H's "The Digital Photography Sourcebook" (2007 edition) that I really started looking into this.

I started to look through the 717 page catalog, and I was amazed (and confused) at the myriad of options and even more at the prices but I'm used to that kind of stuff since I'm an audiophile and I'm used to spending money for quality.

Anyways, I decided to check out my local hobby shop down here in Orlando, Fl. I initially wanted a "bridge" camera (as you guys put it) since I'm interested in having the versatility of video and photo in one camera but I learned from Leroy over at the shop that these cameras usually end up sucking at both, still photo and video, and suggested I get an SLR for still and a video camera for video (I agreed). He also taught me the basic differences between SLR's and Bridge cameras (Light sensor sizes and ISO basics).

Anywho, after reading up some threads in here I've decided to go with the Nikkon D40X since this forum, B&H and Leroy seem to agree that the D40X is a great camera for starters (I've already read up on the Cannon Digital Rebel XTi and the D50 and I like the D40X better).

My dilema (finally!), is that I've found a cheaper price for the camera online. The courteous thing to do is to buy the camera from my local hobby shop since they spent so much time with me but the smart consummer thing is to buy it online at a cheaper price (about $100 cheaper). Who should I buy the camera from?!?!?:mad2:

Thanks in advance for your opinions!:thumbsup:

[Frog]

For only $100 I'd go with your dealer. Its what happens after you buy that counts.

[Audiophile]

I know what you mean, since they offer classes and stuff so it would be important to set up a good realtionship with them from the get go.

Thanks.

[Audiophile]

Damn, I'm a bit short on money right now so I have to wait 'till next week to buy the camera. I'm so anxious to get that thing that I can barely sleep at night!:cryin:

[Photo-John]

We looked at the D40x at PMA and I think it's a very cool camera. I love the educational tools built in to it, like the aperture display that shows you're aperture opening and closing. If I remember correctly, the only thing you give up with the D40x is being able to use Nikon's top-of-the-line AF-S lenses. They have motors in the lenses instead of the camera body and for some reason the D40x can't operate them. For more info on that you might want to post on the Nikon forum. I've also read that there are some people who believe the D40 is actually a better camera. That may be something you want to look into. If it is better and it saves you some money, that's great. You can use the money for a better lens - always a good choice.

As for where to buy it, I'd buy it online. But as with other electronics, be careful who you buy from. Don't shop by best price. Shop by dealer reputation. You can't beat B&H. They have very good prices, usually have what you need in stock, and they're absolutely trustworthy. Same goes for Adorama and Canoga Camera. I just bought a lens from 17th Street Photo and was very pleased with the price and service from them, too.

[Audiophile]

I bought the D40X yesterday from my local dealer because I am new to cameras and having someone in person that I can refer to sounded better to me than just having a forum, even though forums are great, but sometimes having a go-to guy or place can be better in emergency situations.

I did read up on the D40 and it did sound like a great camera but I could never live with myself knowing that there is an "X" version of my camera if I bought the D40.

I agree that usually online one can find prices super cheap compared to retail but like Frog said;

For only $100 I'd go with your dealer. Its what happens after you buy that counts.

Yeah I had read from this forum that the D40X would not be compatible with the other lenses already available from Nikon but I guess I'll just have to wait 'till Nikon makes new ones available for my camera.

I won't be buying anything else soon since my recent purchase cleaned me out! But I'll probably start buying online for camera stuff after this.:thumbsup:

Thanks John!

P.S. The camera is freaking cool!