mandy_swanson

<p>Alright, so I am new at this and you guessed it...I have some questions. I recently got a new Nikon D200 with a 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR. I read the manual this past week and I started to take some shots in RAW. I now have them loaded on my computer as NEF files. I initially wanted to load some pics on here to ask how to take some better shots because I am having issues with taking photos of my dogs running around outside. Then I thought I could try editing them a bit in Gimp but the files are very tiny in Gimp and they don't open in "My Documents/Pictures". How do I convert them to JPEGs? And if I do so, am I still able to edit them? I tried finding the answers in the manual but no luck. I know its frustrating when a newbie doesn't read the manual and asked 'dumb' questions. <br /><br />***Regarding the questions about taking some shots of my dogs outside---I started taking some photos inside (portraits and such) and I thought it was going well. Then I went outside and I felt like it was a whole new ball game. And maybe my lens isn't sufficient enough for these type of photos. I don't know. It got me frustrated...<br /><br />Anywhoo...thats why I am here...for some answers. I was all excited to post some pics too but now I am coming here because...yes...I admit it...I don't know what I am doing. <img title="blushing" src="http://thephotoforum.com/forum/images/smilies/happyblush.gif" border="0" alt="" /> Hopefully you guys can help me.</p>

<p>Thanks everyone for all your imput.<br>

I finally made my decision and bought the Nikon D200 with the Nikon 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AF-S DX VR Nikkor Zoom lens. I also purchased a book on the specific camera and Understanding Exposure.<br>

I am so excited to get the camera and start learning!<br>

<strong><br /> </strong> </p>

<p>I thought I had made up my mind and I was going to purchase a Nikon D80 however I keep second guessing myself. I know I want Nikon but...<br /> <br /> Would it be better for me in the long run to get a Nikon D80 with 18-135mm f/3.5 - f/5.6 DX Zoom-Nikkor lens OR get a D60 with a better lens? Even a D40?<br /> <br /> Just a note: This will be my first DSLR. I'd like a prosumer camera and I am willing to spend about $800 for the camera and lens.<br /> <br /> If you think going the 'better lens' route with a D60 or D40...what lens do you recommend and why?<br>

Thank you!</p>

<p>After a lot of research and more research I have decided to purchase a Nikon D80. Now that I have made that choice, I am unsure of what lens to go with. There are two that I am looking at. They both include...<br /> Nikon D80 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera and Rechargeable Li-ion Battery, charger, A/V cable, USB cable, Body cap, eyepiece cap, rubber eyecup, LCD monitor cover, accessory shoe cover, PictureProject CD-ROM and owner's manual, Warranty <br /> <br /> 1. From Best Buy. I can purchase it right away and don't have to wait. It only has the one lens. 18-135mm f/3.5 - f/5.6 DX Zoom-Nikkor lens<br /> ****$807.49 (on sale)<br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=7976041&st=nikon+d80&lp=1&type=product&cp=1&id=1153998862633" target="_blank">Nikon - 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera - Black - D80</a> <br /> <br /> <br /> 2. From an online store. It would be put on back order because it is not available at this time. However it has two lenses in the offer. 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR (vibration reduction) & Nikon 55mm-200mm F/4-5.6G ED-IF AF-S DX VR (vibration reduction) <br /> ****$835 (with shipping)<br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.adorama.com/INKD80KVRKA.html?searchinfo=nikon%20d80&item_no=5" target="_blank">9658 Nikon D80 Digital SLR "2" lens kit with 18 - 55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR (Vibration Reduction) & Nikon 55mm - 200mm f/4-5.6G ED-IF AF-S DX VR (Vibration Reduction) & DVD , USA Warranty</a> <br /><br>

Comparing the lenses, what is better? Will it be worth the wait to get the one with 2 lenses?<br>

Any advice would be greatly appreciated!<br /> Thanks.</p>

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