My first SLR absolutely triples me, I might add. I used an 18-105 lens and a whale to take the photo. I've had it for more than six months, and I keep finding myself wanting to snap images. I already bought an external flash for it (at first, I chose the YN-467, but it was incredibly unstable; under warranty, I switched it out for another of the same sort with similar faults, but of a different kind). As a result, I took the Nissin 622 Mark 2 (which I highly suggest; I've already bought a split-second AF-S 50 1.8). I considered Canon while I was choosing a gadget, but I am delighted that I ultimately decided on Nikon. Friends took a Canon even though it was in a higher price range; in my opinion, the workmanship on the body and lenses is poorer. I compared my image to one taken with a Canon 60D using an EF-S 17-85 f/4-5.6 IS lens, and the owner of that Canon and I both agreed that my image's colors are more accurate. Also, you can notice it right away on the Canon XA, but I was completely unaware of their existence.) In general, it's a great model, and I highly suggest it. Take 5100, and if you have more, 7000, etc. Nikon is the best.