Nov 16th, 2006

Today we have published a series of sample images taken with a final production version of the new Nikon D40 digital SLR. We tested the Nikon D40 with the new AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G II ED kit lens and the high end Nikkor AF-S VR 70-200mm f/2.8G telephoto lens.

From spending a couple of days with the Nikon D40 in our experience it is a real joy to use. The new larger brighter viewfinder and bigger 2.5" LCD screen compared to the Nikon D50 are a welcome feature, and the camera's controls and menus are well laid out and easily accessible.

In most situations the Nikon D40 can be left in automatic / default modes with confidence. Great for more novice users. For those that desire more creative control the Nikon D40 offers custom options for setting exposure, image processing and autofocus modes. The new Retouch Menu is also a handy addition that allows for some convenient quick edits in camera.

The Nikon D40 feels comfortable to handle and hold. In terms of image quality the Nikon D40 delivered overall very consistent and good results in our tests. We were especially impressed with the very good high ISO capabilities of the D40 and the auto white balance worked very well under mixed lighting conditions. See our Nikon D40 digital SLR image samples below.

Nikon D40 with AF-S VR 70-200mm f/2.8G IF ED at 1600 ISO. Applied In Camera Trim Feature		Nikon D40 with VR 70-200mm f/2.8G Cropped
Nikon D40 Vending Machine     Nikon D40 with AF-S DX 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G II ED ISO 200
Nikon D40 200 ISO   Nikon D40 with AF-S DX 18-55mm II
Nikon D40 200 ISO with AF-S DX 18-55mm II Nikon D40 Hi 1 with AF-S DX 18-55mm II