Photo answers review
Photo answers rating 
Well, to be honest, not a lot really. The three focus points of the D60 have been significantly increased to 11 points in the D3000, and 3D tracking for moving subjects has been introduced. The LCD screen has also increased in size to a respectable 3in.
The most significant new feature is the in-camera Help guide. It’s designed to make understanding camera settings simpler for the novice photographer. The interface is intuitive and simple to use, thanks to interactive options and explanations of why the camera has chosen the settings it has. This is essentially an interactive version of scene modes that allows further settings to be changed. It will no doubt help beginners in the same way scene modes do, but whether or not it will help them graduate onto more advanced settings remains to be seen.
The D3000 is an easy-to-use DSLR with an intuitive menu system for accessing controls. The body looks like it was designed with ease of use in mind, because despite having 13 buttons including the shutter release, the body comes across as being uncluttered and not intimidating.
Weighing in at 485g, the D3000 is reassuringly sturdy so this is a camera that should be able to handle the rigours of general use. Unfortunately, the D3000 doesn’t have Live View, which is a shame because it’s becoming a staple feature in the entry-level category. However, on the fun side, in-camera photo editing now includes a new miniature mode. This is a special effect that attempts to recreate the popular technique where objects look like miniature models, all without the need for an expensive tilt-and-shift lens.
VerdictDespite essentially being a rehashed version of the D60, the D3000 is a strong competitor in the entry-level market, with good image quality and a simple design. It’s a very easy camera to use thanks to its simple layout of controls and intuitive menu system. The new Help guide could be attractive to DSLR newcomers, but for the extra cost compared to the D60, is it worth it?
SpecificationStreet price £429 (body only)
Effective resolution 10.2MP
Sensor type CCD
Crop factor 1.5x
Lens mount Nikon F (AF-S/AF-I only)
Exposure modes P/A/S/M/8 scene modes
Metering modes Matrix, centre-weighted & spot
ISO range 100-1600
Shooting speed 3fps
Card type SD
LCD monitor size 3in
Aspect ratio 3:2in
Live View No
Autofocus 11-point
Integrated cleaning Yes
Built-in stabilisation No
Weight/size (wxhxd) 485g/127x95x65mm