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Question from Ami: “Has anyone used the Nikon 3100 for professional photos? I am looking for reviews, personal experience, pros and cons from people who have used the Nikon 3100. I currently use the Nikon D300s as my main camera but I was offered a new Nikon 3100 at a very low price and I am considering it for a backup/second shooter camera. Thanks!”
Tyann: You will be pretty disappointed, in my opinion, after being used to the D300s.
Melanie: Ami, I have a friend that started her professional business with the D3100 and has since upgraded. The photos she took with it are beautiful.
Ashley: I started my business with the d3000. Don’t knock it till you try it people. Now I have that and the d5100. No client has complained and I am booked till 2013. Just sayin. If you have a steady flow of clients you are doin something right. Keep it up
Mollie: While a good camera can make a difference, it should be the quality of your work and not your equipment that shows your professionalism.
Henry: Isn’t it the photographer and not the camera that makes the image? I think I’ve heard this once or twice…
Keriann: I used the 3100, it’s all I could afford. Loved it, and have it as my backup now 🙂
Bridget: The 3100 probably comes out way ahead of “pro” digital cameras from ten years ago, and good photographers were able to make stellar images with those. But still, can’t help but think you would be disappointed coming from a D300s, if only for the more pro-friendly user interface and features it has.
Jon: I’ve owned a D300s and a D3100. Both make great images, however the interface of the 3100 leaves a lot to be desired. It’s a dizzying array of menus, even to change something as simple as the ISO. Look for something like the D7000 or higher.
Alyssa: It’s often true that the photographer is more important than the equipment, but equipment still can play a huge part in certain lighting situations and give you greater advantages. This camera can take great pictures in many situations, but it can definitely hold you back from opportunities in others, especially with ISO. Also, I had a d90 and found it to be very complicated to change manual settings, and I know the d3100 has a similar set up. You maybe should consider this camera for a back-up if you can get a REALLY good price, but I wouldn’t put much money into it.
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