Nikon’s D3500 DSLR Wants to Be Kind to Beginning Videographers

How does a $500 24.2-megapixel camera with an 18-55mm kit lens sound? It sounds like Nikon’s new compact DSLR: Nikon D3500.

While Nikon’s new Z 7 and Z 6 are gear towards prosumers, the D3500 is a camera for beginners. It is a level-entry camera, but seem it’s got enough kick to keep it from being a complete consumer camera.

Let’s take a look inside

This DSLR camera uses a 24.2-megapixel CMOS sensor (DX-format). There’s also a new Expeed image processor that’s supposed to capture sharper details and more vivid colors than the D3400. Additionally, the new DSLR features an 11-point autofocus system, 100-25,600 ISO range, and it can share images wirelessly with the SnapBridge feature.

No 4K

There sadly isn’t 4K video shooting on this new DSLR. The highest resolution you can shoot is 1080p at 60 fps. This is one of the major reasons why the D3500 isn’t a professional’s camera because no 4K video would be a huge disappointment. However, those just starting out may not mind, even if 4K is the standard for resolutions.

The D3500’s body

According to Engadget, the D3500 “feels light on your hand yet not cheap.” They go on to say that “those who are going to be interested in this camera will appreciate the easy-to-use-dials.”

Top of the Nikon D3500
Engadget says the D3500 has “easy-to-use-dials”

There isn’t a tilting screen on the back of the camera, but it is an entry-level camera. That probably won’t be a deal-breaker for beginners. Though, if you’re just starting out as a vlogger, no tilting screen might be an issue.

The back screen of the Nikon D3500
There’s no back tilting screen on the D3500

Pricing and Availability

The D3500 will be released in September for $500 with an 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR AF-P DX Nikkor lens. There will also be a bundle option that will feature an 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR and a 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED AF-P DX Nikkor lens.

Sean Berry
Sean Berry
Sean Berry is Videomaker's managing editor.

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