To me the D40 seems like an outstanding body, esp because of the size/weight of the body. The one feature I just can't get over it and the D60 have missing is the depth of field preview function. Isn't this a pretty major feature for a camera this level to be lacking? Even my D75 film camera had it, and I used it a lot. But for the DOF preview, I'd have a D40 now. Still debating. I don't really see myself needing a D80 (not for a long while).

This one does a great job reviewing the D60 and comparing it to the D40. Seems to me, the D40 is a handsdown winnar!
http://www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/d60.htm

Now I'm really screwed. Good news is the D40 is a lot cheaper. Sharp photos is what I'm really looking for and it seems like the D40 is the real winner in that area. So a D40 and the VR lens seems like the way to go.

OK...Just ordered this from Costco.

Thanks for all the advice.

Nikon D40 6.1MP 2.5"
18-55mm, 55-200mm VR Zoom With Image Stabilization

VR Assures Dramatically Sharper Images, Bonus 2G SD Card
2.5 f/s & Advanced 3-Area AF

$699.99

Item # 247540

Shipping & Handling included

MLG,
Congrats. Enjoy that D40 and lens combo. That is a killer kit for the money.

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i'm a bit late to the party here, but don't make your decision on which camera supposedly produces the sharpest pics right out of the camera. Both Nikon and Canon make very sharp pics right out of the camera, but that's not usually something used as a first criteria as anyone with a digital camera will need some flavor of post processing software like Pchop CS3 and that takes care of sharpening. When i'm not shooting raw i leave the in-camera sharpening to as minimal as i can get it and sharpen "to taste" in post.

I *HIGHLY* recommend that you base your choice more on which manufacturer makes a line of lenses that suits your photography needs more, as you'll keep your lenses a lot longer than you'll keep the bodies.

just my .02... enjoy the Nikon, it's a great camera.

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LOL...My camera jargon was off a bit. I'm not technically looking for sharp but instead I'm looking for natural shots in focus. The higher flash sync speed and the ISO was what sold me on the D40 over the D60. 8X10's is all I'll end up printing so I should be good to go. My kid moves fast and I need to get a crisp shot so the faster shutter speed will help.

Congrats! Really looking forward to hearing your impressions.

ok, but i don't see how that sways you to Nikon Canon has 2.8 lenses and the 40D has faster FPS.... AND IS does nothing for moving subjects, it's for stills where YOU or the camera is shaking...

again, they're both good cameras, just making sure you're getting what you expect.

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You have your way. I have my way. As for the right way, the correct way, and the only way, it does not exist.

No, no, no, no, please don't do that. The D40X and D60 are a waste of money. They offer no useful features that set them apart from my D40 unless you need to make massive prints. The D40 saves you quite a buck and takes beautiful shots in the process.

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