The Nikon D90, Setting the Midlevel DSLR Standard

In more ways than one, the Nikon D90 is a leap forward from the D80 that it replaces. There are many firsts that the D90 has achieved. The most notable among its innovations is the ability to capture video. In fact, this is the first DSLR camera to have the ability to record videos. The videos that this camera is capable to create are rated at 720p HD, with mono sound and capturing 24 frames per second. It is so innovative that since its release, both Nikon and its rivals have made standard on most of their DSLR cameras the ability to record videos. In addition, the D90 is also the first Nikon camera to integrate a third firmware module, "L", which improves the camera's autoexposure functions. Another first would be the ability to support Global Positioning System (GPS)/.

First stop, the pixel size was increased to 12.3 megapixels, allowing an image area of 4288 x 2848. With a file system compliant with Design rule for Camera File system 2.0 (DCF), the image format is in JPEG, with the raw file at a compressed 12-bit NEF. Images can be edited in the camera itself, with effects including Red-Eye reduction, monochrome, fisheye effects, and distortion control. Files are saved via 1 SD card slot.

With regards to the performance of the camera itself, the D90 comes through with strong credentials. The shutter speed of this camera is in between 1/4000th of a second (the fastest) to 30 seconds (the slowest). The fastest possible shooting speed with flash is 1/200th of a second. Continuous shooting is also possible, with a shooting rated at speeds of up to 4.5 frames per second during full resolution. Autofocus is also present, capable of focusing on up to 11 targets or points.

The D90 is also supported by the various imaging systems that Nikon has produced. This camera supports Nikon's Creative Lighting System (CLS), the 420 pixel RGB 3D Color Metering II system, as well as being compatible to most accessories along the Nikon line. Lenses that are compatible with this camera (even though some lens functions are not usable) include the AF Nikkor, the AI-P Nikkor, the D-type and G-type AF Nikkor (with the exception of the IX Nikkor), and the DX Nikkor. Other accessories that can be equipped for this camera include the ML-L3 wireless remote.

With these features, the Nikon D90 figured well on the market, being arguably the best DSLR camera in its class. In fact, as a statement on how good this camera is, it is still under production, fitting perfectly in between their D5000 and D7000 cameras. In 2009, the D90 won the “Best DSLR Advanced” category of the TIPA European Photo and Imaging Awards. Lastly, as a testament to the D90's popularity, the D90 is considered the most popular camera on Flickr, on the basis of most uploaded images per day.

Have a read our full Nikon D90 review or you might want to check out the Nikon D7000.

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