For first time Dslr buyer is the Nikon D7000 too advanced?
I'm looking to get into Dslr photography and go to school. I do not know which camera would suit me better. I really like the Nikon D7000 but i also like the D3100. Now is the d7000 too much for me to handle right away? Its features seem to be much better but at twice the price.
The Nikon D3100 is definitely designed for beginner. It has a GUIDE mode which provides quick and easy-to-use in-camera assistance.
The Nikon D7000 is more advanced, and yet you won't have to upgrade your camera for a while. You can get the D3100 first and get another DSLR body in the future for an upgrade and different shooting purposes.
You don't need a lot of camera starting out. I would recommend the D3100 and use the difference to buy a variable length zoom lens, in addition to the starting kit lens.
Its not too much camera to handle. The reason I suggest an entry level camera, such as the Nikon D3100, is because it IS cheaper, and best is that you can spend more money on an extra lens or two along with accessories
another option is the Nikon D90 (if you want to focus merely on picture taking). The D90 is a great camera, and can autofocus on all AF lenses from nikon (versus only AF-S on the D3100 and below)
Despite what most will tell you, all dSLRs are basically the same. They all have controls for aperture size, shutter speed, ISO, White Balance and EV. Anything else is just a feature you can ignore if you know exactly what you are doing. If you can afford the D7000 now, I say grab it. Better yet, if you can afford the $42, 000 Hasselblad to learn photography with then so be it.
Probably it is, because based on your question, you don't really need it. I recommend D3100 or D5100 (which comes out in 1 month).
D3100 has same image quality, it's just got 3fps less which you obviously don't need, you don't shoot professional sports. Sharpness, ISO and all is great!
Here's a post called 'Buying a DSLR - http://www.the-dslr-photographer.com/2009/03/which-dslr-to-buy.html
The thing is you don't want to blow $2000 on a body and kit lens and have no money left over when you realize what you actually need to be functional. Such as a fast lens or long lens, flash or tripod etc. All cameras are them same. More expensive ones offer you more control and when you are still learning, you don't need 1/16th stop intervals of ISO. You need to learn the full stops first.
A d7000 is just fine, but I think it is not the best choice for you.