People: If you have been looking to up your DSLR game, Amazon has a killer deal right now on either the Nikon D5300 or the D7100, plus the 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G Nikkor ED VR DX Zoom Lens.
The D5300 is a from Nikon’s mid-range line of cameras, newer than the venerable D90 (probably the best Nikon DSLR ever) but missing a few pro-level features that most amateurs won’t give two hoots about, like a built-in AF motor or high-speed flash sync (if you don’t know what it is, you’ll never miss it). But it does have some exclusive features, like built-in GPS and wifi. What the heck? Back my my day we were lucky if our SLRs could push ISO to 1600.
The D7100 is the successor to the D7000, which is my primary camera. I ditched my “pro” level D300 way back when because the D7000 was lighter, faster, and easier to use. I don’t have any hands-on experience with the D7100 but I expect that it would perform just as well.
The 18-140mm Nikkor lens gives you a crazy zoom range. I have a great 18-50mm f/2.8 Sigma lens, but sometimes I wish I could get some more range in there without having to switch lenses. This Nikkor lens gives you that versatility (although unfortunately you don’t get to keep the f/2.8 – beggars can’t be choosers).
If you add either camera to your Amazon cart, and then add the lens, Amazon will knock off $400 at checkout. In other words, you can snag the D5300 + lens for under $700 or the D7100 + lens for under $900. It is an insane deal. Jump on it now or you will regret it!