Nikon has announced the D90, its 12.3-megapixel digital SLR that can also capture high-definition (HD) movie clips with sound at 720p. Inspired by the Nikon D300, and building on the success of the D80, the D90 uses a CMOS image sensor and the Expeed image processing system to deliver sharp images across a sensitivity range up to ISO 6400.
Photographers are able to easily compose images using the Live View Mode on the 3-inch, high-resolution LCD screen. The 11-point autofocus (AF) system uses Nikon's Scene Recognition System and Face Detection to provide clear images.
To create accurate exposures, Nikon uses its 3D Color Matrix Metering II to evaluate each scene against an internal database of more than 30,000 scenes derived from actual photographs and then correct exposure values. Variable center-weighted and spot-metering modes are also available, as are exposure compensation and auto exposure bracketing.
With a power-up time of 0.15ms and shutter response of 65ms, the D90 offers fast handling based on the professional Nikon D3. Images are also processed and previewed rapidly at 120ms. Users are also able to stop the action with a maximum shutter speed of 1/4000 second or create long time exposures down to 30 seconds. Users can capture fast action at rates up to 4.5 frames per second and shoot handheld at as many as three shutter speeds slower than would otherwise be possible with the D90's companion lens, the AF-S Nikkor 18-105mm vibration reduction (VR) image stabilization lens.
The D90's D-Movie mode allows consumers to create their own HD movie clips (1,280x720 pixels) with sound at a 24fps frame rate, matching theatrical films. The camera also enhances still images with Picture Control settings, D-Lighting and image trimming tools, image overlay and color filters. It also features Distortion Control, to adjust lens aberration; the Straighten tool, to correct linear inclination of an image for straight horizons and landscapes; and a Fisheye lens effect.
The durable D90 comes equipped with a 0.94x-magnification viewfinder, as well as a built-in Speedlight flash that can wirelessly control up to two groups of Speedlights in full iTTL mode and is capable of 850 shots on a single charge of the lithium-ion battery. Users can share images and movie clips on an SD/SDHC card, through an HDMI terminal or wirelessly.
The D90 retails for about $999 (body only). It is compatible with a range of Nikkor lenses and is available in a lens outfit with the AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens at $1,299. In November the D90 will also be available with a GP-1 GPS unit that will provide geotagging to images.
