Wednesday, January 28, 2009

Nikon D90 - An Amateurs Dream Camera

By Matt Ryan

Utilizing the flaws of their predecessors, Nikon is consistently improving their cameras. Their latest release - the Nikon D90 - is a big improvement from the D80 with new and improved technologies. This model is a good mix of point-and-shoot and a professional camera. Many of the features are professional, while ease of use is similar to a point-and-shoot.

Measuring in at 5.2-inches x 4.1-inches x 3.0-inches, this is nowhere near a compact, pocket size, point-and-shoot camera. Nor is it as large and bulky as many professional cameras. Regardless of size, the curvy design makes the camera fit nicely in the palm of your hand. The D90 was designed ergonomically as all buttons, and functions, are easily reached with the use of one hand.

The user interface, on other Nikon cameras, has always been easy to navigate. Nikon wanted to make the D90 their top of the line, and perfected this feature, even though it really did not need any work. Not only is the camera easy to navigate, but re-touching images is nearly effortless. The majority, if not all, re-touching can be done directly through the camera itself.

There is a 3.0-inch 920,000-color VGA display, which provides users with instant view and review capabilities. This type of display, along with the high resolution, provides consumers with exceptionally brilliant imagery.

The display also offers 170-degree wide-angle functionality for your viewing pleasure. Viewing and reviewing both video playbacks, and still images has never been more clear. Navigation, through media files, is nearly effortless with a 72-image calendar display. (Calendar display lays images and videos out in chronological order.)

Live View mode offers 11 different auto-focus modes for perfect picture. These modes include, but are not limited to, 3D tracking, single, dynamic, and face. In addition, the D90 incorporates sensor cleaning. This functionality automatically removes dust particles, from within the camera, to provide the most crisp and clean images possible.

Many other features are available on the D90, such as ISO adjustments, shutter time, and coloring enhancements. ISO settings can be adjusted between 200 and 3200; perfect for any lighting atmosphere. Users can capture up to 4.5 fps with just one click. Auto focus, white balance, and exposure can be perfected - automatically - with 3-D Color Matrix Metering II.

The combination of Nikons Expeed image processing and 12.9-megapixel CMOS sensor gives consumers the ability to produce high quality images with every click. The perfection, that these technologies produce, allow users to manipulate images (larger and smaller) without distorting the beauty.

A first, in the world of cameras, is the integration of digital SLR. This technology produces HDTV (720p) quality and allows for the capture of up to 23 frames per second. For the first time ever consumers can capture personal events and share them, with family, in the highest quality possible.

The D90 is a has an incredible mix of features that will make any level photographer happy. The price tag is not quite as low as a point-and-shoot, nor is it as high as a professional camera - it can usually be found for around $1,000. Regardless of your photography style or skill level, the Nikon D90 is a good fit for capturing your memories. - 16039

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