It is a nice camera, and don't get me wrong, it can take some amazing pictures, but not right out of the box. I was comparing it to a Nikon Coolpix L810 auto mode to auto mode, and the L810 actually takes much sharper photos than the D3100! I was using the same subject, at the same location and at the same time. The only variable was the camera. Again, this was on auto mode, and I know that DSLR users warn against auto mode, but this is an entry level DSLR, so I would think Nikon would be paying more attention to the fact that the beginner is likely to expect auto mode to be "beginner proof".Once I gave up on the auto setting, I used the settings recommended on kenrockwell.com, and I began to see some sharp photos. I have since began to have a better understanding of what the different settings mean, and I am no longer frustrated with the camera, but I recommend that you understand what the manual is telling you (it's pretty good), and don't expect great photos on the first use if you are a DSLR beginner.
The video mode should only be used in manual focus. The sound of the auto focus motor will dominate any audio you might be capturing with the video, but that may improve with other lenses. ...but again, the video mode on the Coolpix L810 was much better. Even though the resolution was not as good, the video (using auto focus) was at least a usable video with the L810.
F.Y.I. I am using the lens provided in the kit, and I know that I will be replacing it later, but that is another day.
I only give four stars because there isn't a four and a half, and I feel that a $500.00 camera should outperform a $200.00 one on any setting, especially when they are the same brand.
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