Help out a newbie! Nikon d3100 vs Sony nex-n3

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Hi, I am starting an online photography course soon and am looking to get a new camera. I have no experience with cameras and I don't know what I am looking for!
I want a camera that will lasts good few years, that I can do a lot with, most importantly take amazing photos!
I have a canon camera at the moment, just a basic digital camera but I like the simple menus etc on it. Canons seem rather expensive though so I have decided that either a Nikon d3100 or a Sony nex-5n would be good. Like I said I don't know anything about cameras so I'm going on reviews rather than features! The Nikon seems the best basic dslr, and from what I understand the Sony isn't technically a dslr? But I'm not sure what that will mean in terms of picture quality etc? To be honest the Sony appeals to me the most because of some snazzy features such as a tilting touch screen And it is much lighter which is also appealing because I like to travel as light as possible. I have seen one for sale on eBay and the reason was that it wasnt an appropriate camera for a pro, but why?!
Sorry for the long question but I don't want to spend my money on the wrong thing!
If anyone has any other suggestions, suggest away!

Thanks :-)
 
Hi,

where are you in the world what is your budget & can you get to a shop to try handling a few different cameras?
Also, do you have an idea of where your area of photo interest lies (e.g. landscape, macro, sports etc.)?

In terms of image quality both the D3100 & NEX-3 use what are termed as APS-C size sensors so there is no real difference between the 2 at that level.
It also means that comparable lenses for the 2 will be of similar size.
NEX uses a newer mount than the Nikon though so there are currently fewer options for additional lenses.
also handling will be different.

Really though you are comparing lemons & limes in that they are similar but definitely not the same - if you can try comparing the 2 as they will handle differently.
& having done so if you decide that you prefer 1 form factor over the other try competitors (e.g. if you prefer NEX also try Olympus/Panasonic m4/3 bodies & if you prefer DSLR then try Canon, Pentax & Sony equivalents).
 
I would say go for a DSLR over the NEX-3.

I had the NEX-5 when it launched and it was great for every day use but when I got serious again with the photography, the NEX range just not get the shots I wanted as easily as a DSLR especially in scenarios where I needed to shoot quick.

The NEX is kind of like a scaled down version of a DSLR but in overall performance, not as quick. Basically the quality (which could be argued) is the same however you sacrifice speed for compactness.

Personally IF you plan to take up photography as a profession or a serious hobby, I would consider getting a DSLR. Maybe then consider a smaller camera like the NEX-3, NEX-5 or Canon's version in the future.

If it is going to be simple for fun and just travels, then I would honestly go for the NEX-5n. If I was to do it again, I would stick with my DSLR. The dazzling features and lack of dedicated lenses was kind of the deal breaker for me.
 
They are completely different animals. You will get great results from both but the d3100 is a traditional camera with viewfinder and mirror.
 
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