Nikon D3200 Camera Review – An Exceptional Entry-Level DSLR

There comes a time when we ask ourselves: do we stick with a point-and-shoot, or do we upgrade to DSLR or mirrorless? What could we possibly get out of a DSLR that a point-and-shoot can’t achieve? As consumers we can go to a big box store, spend under $500, and get a camera that can zoom 1200mm – which retracts and becomes a standard 35mm lens that magically takes a nice macro.

Modern point-and-shoot cameras are always improving and getting faster. Sensors are becoming larger, and with every new generation. As these cameras evolve consumers are getting more bang for their buck, but eventually we come to a point in photography where these devices reach their full potential. That is when an upgrade is needed which for this review is the Nikon D3200 – a great option for a first-time DSLR user. It doesn’t break the bank at $600 CAD, and this camera will give you a glimpse into what can be achieved with photography without needing expensive professional tools. 

NIKON D3200 PACKAGING

You can buy the camera in a couple of different options –  as a bundle which comes with the standard 18-55mm VR Lens Kit; or you can purchase the camera body separately and choose to buy any lens you want. In this review we will be testing the D3200 with the AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens.

Nikon goes for a very basic simple gold box design with embossed lettering on the D3200; the box itself lets you know what colour camera you have. On the bottom of the box is a simple supplied accessories list:

You get a fair amount of accessories out of the box. The D3200 itself comes available in black and red variations. The battery is an EN-EL14 Rechargeable Li-ion Battery which is a 7.4V 1030mAh, paired of course with The Nikon MH-24 Quick Charger. The EG-CP14 Audio/Video Cable simply plugs into the camera and allows quick playback of photos or video on a television. DK-20 Rubber Eyecup is the standard basic eyecup, hence it is easy to remove and replace.

If you only want to use the Live View mode simply attach the included DK-5 Eyepiece Cap. This protects the glass on the viewfinder. To protect the mirror and sensor from dust and debris either a lens, or the included BF-1B Body Cap should stay on at all times. Inside you should also find the hot shoe cover to protect the contacts if not using an external flash. Other accessories include the user manual and NikonView NX CD-ROM, basic information pamphlets, and warranty card.

If you have the bundled version you will also receive the standard Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Kit Lens that comes packaged in its own separate box, but with the same layout as that of the D3200.