The Nikon D90 is the world's first DSLR to feature 720p HD video, allowing for a 16:9 ratio 1280x720 pixel capture at 24 frames per second for high quality output. The D90's video mode utilises all the camera's features - it's possible to zoom, focus, and utilise the AE lock for considered exposure during capture. This really draws the line between a stills and video camera, though the the maximum video capture time tops out at 20 minutes.
Leaving only a few months of life left in the older Nikon D80, the Nikon D90 is a serious upgrade - part of a huge onslaught of excellent cameras to appear from camp Nikon in the past 12 months (the Nikon D3, D700 and D300 are all hugely impressive pieces of kit).
The Nikon D90 features a newly designed 12.3 megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor, with images optimised in line with Nikon's Expeed technology. ISO ranges from ISO100-6400, and - like the Nikon D300 - has incredibly low-noise throughout the entire range. Also like the D300, the Nikon D90 has an excellent 3in 920,000 dot LCD screen, ensuring the highest possible viewing quality. The D90's viewfinder manages an impressive 96% frame coverage, which is substantial considering the in-built Image Sensor Cleaning function.
A Scene Recognition system, integrated with Face Detection that's now functional in Live View mode, means the D90 has the ability to assess the image information and automatically gauge which shooting mode to use. This shows Nikon's dedication to current innovation, as such a feature is the current buzz with many new cameras.
Other Nikon staples also make the grade: Active D-Lighting - for use when exposing for high dynamic range in highlights, midtones and shadows - now includes an optional 'extra high' setting. The 11-point Multi-CAM 1000 autofocus module also provides significant AF controls.
Unusually the Nikon D90 features an 18-105mm kit lens (f/3.5-5.6) that will provide first-time users with a more significant range than the often standard 18-55mm.
ThinkCamera was at the press release to get our hands on a preview model; with everything looking to be in good order. Some reasonably thorough testing of the HD video throughout the day (in between the champagne) proved extremely positive. We anticipate further news from German photo-fest Photokina in a couple of months, and shall endeavour to keep you posted as and when news lands...
Price: £849.99 (with 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6 VR lens) / £699.99 (body only)
Available: End of Septemeber (approx)
Info: www.nikon.co.uk
Specs:
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Sensor
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12.3 megapixel DX format CMOS sensor
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LCD monitor
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3.0" TFT LCD (920,000 pixels, 170° viewing angle)
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Sensitivity
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ISO 100-6400
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Auto Focus Points
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11-point
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White balance
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12 manual modes with fine-tuning; colour temperature setting; preset manual white balance
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On board flash
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Yes, GN 17
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Shutter speed and flash sync
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30seconds (or bulb) to 1/8000th second.
Sync to 1/250th second
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Continuous shooting
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4.5fps continuous shooting
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Storage
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SD / SDHC
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Battery
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Li-ion EN-EL3e (850 shots per charge)
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Lens type / fitting
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Nikon F-mount
(1.5x crop)
G or D AF NIKKOR
AI NIKKOR
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Other / Key features
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Live View
Gives you quick response, with 0.15-second start-up, 65 ms shutter release time lag and 4.5 fps continuous shooting.
Extensive playback functions including 72-frame playback, calendar playback and histogram display for magnified portion of the image.
Active D-Lighting for improved dynamic range on in-camera JPEGs
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