Nikon D60

The basics

The Nikon D60 is said to be the smallest DSLR camera from Nikon. It has the capability to shoot 3 frames per second. It has 10.2 Megapixel format and has 18-55mm Lenses available. It has a quick start-up feature as well as active dust removal. It also has an easy to master user interface. With a choice of 4GB SDHC memory card, you can shoot up to 400 pictures in its highest quality.

The good

Nikon starts as its means to go on. Despite being towards the more recession-friendly end of the digital SLR spectrum, the D60 produces deliciously sharp detail and mouth-watering colours. Its 10MP images really are as good as any you’ll get on a sub-£1000 camera, especially if you invest in some decent Nikon optics. Note that the VR stabilised lens kit is well worth the extra few quid over the basic bundle, levelling out the wobbles and letting you concentrate on arty stuff like framing and composition. It’s easy to use, light and has a strong built-in flash. D-lightful!

The bad

The 2.5-inch display is handy for changing settings quickly but you can’t frame with it – the D60 doesn’t have Live View. It’s missing hand-holding features like Face Detection, Smile Shutter and a movie mode, as well as shutterbug must-haves like 9-point autofocusing and a sealed body.

The bottom line

The D60 risks being not quite friendly enough for beginners and not quite techy enough for advanced users, but if you just want a simple, easy to use SLR that shoots gorgeous, high resolution images, it fits the bill. The Sony A200 is well worth a look at this price, too.