Nikon D3100

As promised, here's my initial impression of the Nikon D3100 with Nikon AF-S DX 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens.

Nikon D3100 is here

For a start, it's AWESOME!

Whilst I was waiting for my order to be delivered, I read reviews saying that the build quality feels somewhat too plasticity and I was a bit concerned. Now that it's with me, I can confirm that it's not as bad as I thought! I've held Nikon D7000 before and apart from it being heavier, I don't feel much different from the D3100. I'm not an expert in these by any means but the size, weight, shape and build feels comfortable for my hands. So I've got no complaints.

 Nikon D3100 (front)

In terms of usability, it's got a friendly user interface and everything was simple to set up. First battery charge took around 1.5hrs and soon after, I was already firing shots. It's got few modes, Auto, M (manual), A (aperture priority), S (shutter-speed priority) and P (programmed auto), just to name the main ones.

Having no prior experience in, I took a shot with the Auto setting and I was pleased with the picture quality instantly. Of course, the purpose of getting a DSLR is for its ability to manually change the settings to adjust for exposure.

 Nikon D3100 (back)

The Full HD video recording functionality is okay, not massively impressed with it. You can only take up to 10mins of video recording and the built-in mic will pick up the focusing noise caused by the lens. However, I bought a DSLR for picture taking, not video recording. As such, I wasn't really disappointed by this. It's good to have the functionality there though!

Nikon AF-S DX 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens

I'll post pictures up (not until I get some nice shots!) via Snapshots of Life Photostream (it's empty at the moment) hosted by Flickr located in the top right panel.

In general, based on the price and first impression, I'm pleased with my purchase and would definitely recommend this entry level DSLR kit to anyone who wishes to step into the world of photography. You will not be disappointed.

New Gadget

The weather in Edinburgh has been awesome these couple of days. Plenty of sunlight, minimal wind and most importantly, relatively warm to a typical Scottish weather. It's as though the sun is finally smiling at us.

Ever since I got my new credit card which offered 6 months interest free on any purchases from account opening, I have this urge to buy myself something. I realised it may not always be a smart move to apply for a new credit card just for its initial offer. My intention of wanting to earn interest from my credit balance has ended in vain. Temptations oh temptations...!


Apple iPad 1 came to my mind as the price seemed more reasonable now (£329 - UK price). I spoke to a work colleague of mine who would be able to source me an iPad 1 from Asia at an even sweeter price - appx. £240. Now, this is definitely worth my consideration.


HOWEVER, I was browsing HUKD yesterday and I found this!
Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm Zoom Lens

Nikon D3100

I've always wanted to get one myself and today, I finally took the plunge on this. It's been a while since I've last looked forward to something. Plus it came right on time for my new blog. I hope I'll be able to post my personal shots once I get better at photography.


I'll post my initial impression of the Nikon D3100 once it arrives. :D

R.I.P Roger Gray

Today, I received an unfortunate news that my former lecturer, Roger Gray has been murdered in his own home in Edinburgh. He contributed much to the development of actuarial work in the financial industry. This is a great loss not only to the university, but a loss to the actuarial world.

The thought of him not able to enjoy the fruits of his labour for his retirement upsets me and I still couldn't understand why an academician like him should suffer from such a tragedy.

This post is my personal tribute to you, Mr. Roger Gray and I pray that you will rest in peace.

R.I.P Roger Gray

Welcome to "Snapshots of Life"

Hello. I've decided to start blogging again after deciding it wasn't for me many years ago. It's Sunday 11.33pm here in Scotland and I'm having the sudden urge to try (my best) to keep a record of some snapshots of my life. I'm not the best when it comes to blogging but hopefully, pictures would make up for it. To start things off, here's a wee picture of Edinburgh Castle standing majestically in the capital city of Scotland.

I shall keep this post short as it's getting a little late now. Tough week ahead with work but with God's grace, everything will work out fine.


Thanks for dropping by and I hope to see you again soon. Have a good week ahead and God bless.