Mike_B Loc: St. Louis, MO

I got a bonus check this month and after much research had decided ahead of time to get a D5100. I'm upgrading from a D3000. I have the 18-55 kit lens, a 35mm 1.8 lens, and a SB400 flash.

So I went on Amazon to order the camera. Hmmm....$650. For $550 I could get just the body. Who needs 2 18-55mm lenses anyway, right? Then I noticed KEH was selling it used for $460. I then found KEH was also selling the 50-200mm lens used for $125. I've been wanting one of those for awhile. My 55mm reach just doesn't cut it at the zoo.....

So anyway, for just under $600 I've got both on the way From KEH. Should be here by Thursday. I know about KEH from here. I sure hope my experience matches those of other posters here.

Also, any recommendations on which D5100 book is best?
I just know I don't want the Dummies book.

RLK Loc: New Castle, PA/Stafford, VA

You might want to consider an E-Book. I have a Kindle and by using the e-books, I can purchase 2 to 3 times as many books as I would have otherwise. Makes it handy in the field to look up something also. Just a thought.

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

The Dummies books are OK, but I always have to go in disguise early in the morning to buy one. :D

Download the Nikon manual onto your computer. Then you can do a quick search for whatever you want. Also, Nikon has a great free app called Nikon Manual Viewer. It acts as a library for you Nikon manuals. I have a copy on my little devices.

You won't be disappointed with either KEH or the D5100.

CanonJC

Congrat! Get new camera. The best book is Magic Lantern Guide Nikon D5100. Check this >>>
http://www.amazon.com/Magic-Lantern-Guides-Nikon-D5100/dp/1454703652

Brow621 Loc: Texas

I highly recommend Thom Hogan's "Complete Guide to the Nikon 5100." Over 600 pages of valuable info and a little pricey, but it has been well worth it to me.

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

This is not a book, but it has good info. Check on youtube, too. http://kenrockwell.com/nikon/d5100/users-guide/index.htm

Mike_B Loc: St. Louis, MO

Wow!

I got my D5100 today. I was disappointed at 1st- my new 55-200 lens won't auto focus. I've called KEH, had to leave a message, but hopefully they'll take care of it quickly.

Just like everyone's said, the camera looked like it was new. I put my 35mm lens on and like I said: Wow! I never got such good pictures of my dogs.

Mike_B Loc: St. Louis, MO

This new camera rocks. I took most of the dog pics with the swivel screen so I could get a lower perspective. Also a lot easier on my getting older every day back and knees!

Thanks for all the recommendations on books. I have a NookColor and an IPhone, both have the D5100 manuals on them as well as Bryan Peterson's Understanding Exposure (haven't read it all yet). I also have read the Ken Rockwell stuff. Now I just need to go over it again with my camera in hand.

This camera just feels so much better than my D3000....Faster, smarter, better in low light, higher resolution.... I recommend anyone else considering upgrading to make the jump.

Now- if I could just get the dogs to keep their tongues in!!!!!