Logic dictates that we should continue moving forward with the modern DSLR cameras that Nikon offers, but the popularity of the Nikon D3100 forces us to make an exception. With eight years under its belt, one would think the D3100 is a museum piece; however, that conclusion is wrong. The average price of refurbished units is very attractive, and basically every accessory from the D3000 series is compatible with it, so the Nikon D3100 presents an excellent opportunity for beginner photographers.
The Nikon D3100 definitively replaced the D3000 on August 19, 2010. It was the first camera from the Japanese manufacturer to incorporate the (then) new EXPEED 2 image processor, and the first to support 1080p recording with H.264 compression. Although official specifications reveal that this video mode runs at a maximum of 24 FPS, it was nothing to scoff at in 2010, and it's not that bad even now. On the CMOS sensor side, we have 14.2 effective megapixels (4,608 by 3,072 pixels), ten megapixels less than its successor, but it's still a number that shouldn't be underestimated, and you only need to look at the sample images below to see its capability.
Eight Years Are Nothing
The shutter speed operates between 1/4000 and 30 seconds, while ISO sensitivity ranges from 100 to 3200 in its standard configuration, and it has two Boost modes equivalent to 6400 and 12800, which we always recommend using moderately to avoid excessive noise in images. If I have to highlight a weak point associated with the age of the Nikon D3100, it's probably its screen. The viewfinder is an eye-level pentamirror with 95% coverage, in line with many other entry-level cameras, but the LCD panel is 3 inches, fixed to the body, with 230k dots. Personally, I think it's enough for anyone who wants to dip their toes into the DSLR world; however, it's an aspect that the specialized press has noted on more than one occasion.
If you visit our article dedicated to the Nikon D3300 and compare its dial with the one on the Nikon D3100, you'll see that the main modes are the same, but there are other secondary elements that you can choose with a dedicated lever. That lever is the shutter release mode selector, and it has four positions:
- Frame by Frame (the S inside the rectangle): In this mode, the camera takes one photo each time you press the shutter. We recommend starting here.
- Continuous (the three photos): Holding the shutter, the camera will shoot at its maximum speed of 3 frames per second. If you need to capture action or movement, try this mode.
- Self-timer (the timer): Tells the camera to take a photo ten seconds after pressing the shutter. Lacking a tilting screen, this is Nikon's mechanism on the D3100 for self-portraits.
- Quiet shutter (the Q inside the rectangle): This mode is identical to Frame by Frame, except there are no beeps or sounds when shooting, which is essential in quiet environments. In essence, it's the D3100's mute button.
Another detail when comparing dials is that there's no Effects option. Actually, the Nikon D3100 has a limited number of effects (for example, fisheye and miniature effect), but these must be applied post-shot through the retouching menu, which you access by pressing Menu and choosing the tab with the paintbrush over canvas icon (feel free to consult the manual). Creating retouched images definitely requires an SD card to save the results.
If you think the Nikon D3100 is for you, you should know it's very hard to get it new. According to Nikon, the D3100 is an archived model, and all its links point to the D3300 or D3400. However, a used D3100 goes for around 260 euros on average with a standard 18-55 kit lens, while the body alone sits below 190 euros. The only alternative at a similar price that comes to mind is the Canon EOS 500D, and although it has other limitations, it opens the door to special (and very, very experimental) hacks like the Magic Lantern firmware.
Accessories for Nikon D3100
Fortunately, the natural limitations of the Nikon D3100 are offset by a wide availability of compatible accessories. Tripods, filters, lenses, backpacks, and batteries let you photograph more comfortably, protect the camera, transport it without incident, and adapt each shot to your desires and needs. Nikon has created a very flexible platform, to the point that an eight-year-old camera can accept and use new accessories in a matter of minutes.
Batteries and Chargers
Our first stop is power, and we find no surprises here. Combining a Gloxy EN-EL14 equivalent battery with the MH-24 hybrid charger for home and car, and the GX-D3100 grip with second shutter and space for two auxiliary batteries resolves any concern about battery life or total number of shots. Less than 100 euros for the three accessories. (SKU set: "DI620,VDTS-4604-CH-DI86,DI4031")
Compatible Flashes
"Let light shine and not be lacking." I don't actually think any photographer would phrase it that way, but that doesn't change the fact that without light there's no photo. That's why you need a flash for the Nikon D3100. Some flashes can be as costly as the D3100 itself, so our sights are set on the Gloxy trident formed by the GX-F1000N, the GX-F990N, and the classic TR-985 with diffuser, case, and two-year warranty. (SKU set: "0713633212,DI3992,DI4238")
Tripods and Heads
User manuals repeat it to exhaustion: Low light = Tripod. Now, nobody is telling you that you can't improvise, but it's possible that the shot is uncomfortable, or at a weird angle. There's no point denying yourself the advantage of a tripod with a good head, especially when both are available with interesting discounts. The standard edition of the GX-T6662A tripod and the Gloxy Z head cost less than 120 euros, and your Nikon D3100 will adapt wonderfully to them. (SKU set: "0713869670,0713929355,DI3241")
Filters, Lenses and Backpacks
No matter how much the Nikon D3100 is an economical DSLR, that doesn't mean you should ignore its transport and protection. The basic Gloxy filter set does an excellent job of protecting our lenses while creating sensational effects. On the other hand, the megakit of lenses is a solid alternative to dedicated full-size lenses, and it's not a bad idea to use them for casual shots. Finally, you need a backpack, and for less than 50 euros, the Gloxy Pro AW will meet your needs. (SKU set: "FKit,MEGA58,GloxyPRO")
Lenses
Some wonder what's the point of investing 500 euros in a lens that will be connected to a 260-euro camera. If we consider that lenses compatible with the D3100 can be used on several higher-end Nikon models, the answer is "much more than we think". The Irix lenses from the Firefly and Blackstone series are our starting point, but I'd like to add the Tamron Macro 16-300 AF with PZD autofocus motor, and the beautiful Samyang 650-1300mm f/8-16, a manual telephoto that will leave you speechless when using it in nature, and the occasional astrophotography shot. Don't believe me? Look at that Moon! (SKU set: "0713043558,0713043556")
Veteran, yes. A bit old compared to current standards, also. But the Nikon D3100 is no paperweight. With constant practice, good care, and a precise selection of accessories, this camera will serve you for many more years. Good luck!
