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Nikon D90 12.3MP DX-Format CMOS

Digital SLR Camera with 18-105 mm

f/3.5-5.6G ED AF-S VR DX Nikkor

Zoom Lens

From Nikon

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Price: $1,199.00

Price: $793.79 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping

on orders over $25. Details

Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours

Fulfilled by Amazon and Sold by NTWH

108 new or used available from $479.99

Average customer review:

(711 customer reviews)

Product Description

Fusing 12.3-megapixel image quality inherited from the award-winning D300 with

groundbreaking features, the D90's breathtaking, low-noise image quality is further advanced

with EXPEED image processing. Split-second shutter response and continuous shooting at up to

4.5 frames-per-second provide the power to capture fast action and precise moments perfectly,

while Nikon's exclusive Scene Recognition System contributes to faster 11-area autofocus

performance, finer white balance detection and more.What's in the box: Nikon D90 SLR Digital

Camera Kit with Nikon 18-105mm VR Lens,18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR AF-S DX Nikkor

Autofocus Lens,Front & Rear Lens Caps,Lens Hood,Lens Pouch,EN-EL3e Rechargeable

Lithium-ion Battery,MH-18a Quick Charger,UC-E4 USB Cable,EG-D2 Audio/Video Cable,AN-

DC1 Neck Strap,BM-10 LCD Monitor Cover,BF-1A Body Cap,DK-5 Eyepiece Cap,DK-21

Rubber Eyecup,BS-1 Accessory Shoe Cap,Nikon Software Suite CD-ROM, and User Guides.

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #268 in Camera & Photo

Size: full-size

Color: black

Brand: Nikon

Model: 25448

Number of items: 1

Dimensions: 4.06" h x 5.20" w x 3.03" l, 6.55 pounds

Features

12.3-megapixel DX-format CMOS imaging sensor

5.8x AF-S DX Nikkor 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens included

D-Movie Mode; Cinematic 24fps HD with sound

3-inch super-density 920,000-dot color LCD monitor

Capture images to SD/SDHC memory cards (not included)

Editorial Reviews

From the Manufacturer

Fusing 12.3-megapixel image quality inherited from the award-winning D300 with

groundbreaking features, the D90's breathtaking, low-noise image quality is further advanced

with EXPEED image processing. Split-second shutter response and continuous shooting at up to

4.5 frames-per-second provide the power to capture fast action and precise moments perfectly,

while Nikon's exclusive Scene Recognition System contributes to faster 11-area autofocus

performance, finer white balance detection and more.

,br> The D90 delivers the control passionate photographers demand, utilizing comprehensive

exposure functions and the intelligence of 3D Color Matrix Metering II. Stunning results come to

life on a 3-inch 920,000-dot color LCD monitor, providing accurate image review, Live View

composition and brilliant playback of the D90's cinematic-quality 24-fps HD D-Movie mode.

Outfit includes the 5.8x AF-S DX Nikkor 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED lens with VR image

stabilization and legendary Nikkor optical quality.

Nikon D90 DX Digital SLR Highlights

Nikon Digital SLR image quality

The D90 incorporates a newly developed DX-format CMOS image sensor with technology

directly inherited from the D300, Nikon's DX-format flagship. With its 12.3 effective megapixels

and extraordinarily high signal-to-noise ratio, the D90 delivers low-noise images with detail and

tonal gradation beyond your expectations, while Nikon's Integrated Dust Reduction System

works to free image-degrading dust particles from the sensor's optical low-pass filter.

Nikon's comprehensive EXPEED technology is engineered to make the most of the sensor's rich,

12.3-megapixel data. The result--color, detail and high-speed processing inspired by the

groundbreaking D300. The D90's image-processing engine produces high-resolution pictures at

remarkable speeds, better enabling high-speed continuous shooting. EXPEED also contributes to

the outstanding performance of other powerful features, including Live View and the new Face

Detection System.

The D90 captures up to 4.5 images per second. Accurate 11-point autofocus is now even faster

and more intelligent, aided by Nikon's exclusive Scene Recognition System. The unique Nikon

420-pixel 3D Color Matrix II Metering system, now enhanced by EXPEED image processing

technologies, delivers extraordinary exposure accuracy -- immediately evident when reviewing

images on the D90's super-density 3-inch 920,000-dot color LCD monitor.

New D-Movie Mode Features 720p HD cinematic quality

A new idea for D-SLRs, the D90 offers a movie function, allowing you to shoot movies in three

different motion JPEG formats: 320 x 216 pixels, 640 x 424 pixels and 1,280 x 720 pixels. Now

you can capture life's moving moments with added drama by using many of Nikon's NIKKOR

lenses, including the AF DX Fisheye 10.5mm f/2.8G ED and the Micro-NIKKOR lenses. The

shallow depth of field can give your movies a more creative and emotional impact. An additional

benefit is the D90 image sensor, which is much larger than a typical camcorder for higher image

quality and exceptional high ISO performance during low-light shooting.

5.8x AF-S DX Nikkor 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR included Famous Nikkor optical quality in a compact, versatile design, featuring Nikon VR image

stabilization.

Continuous shooting as fast as 4.5 frames-per-second The D90 captures crucial moments thanks to its impressive 0.15-second start-up time, 65-

millisecond shutter-release time lag (CIPA standard) and ability to shoot at 4.5 frames a second

for up to 100 shots*.

Low noise ISO sensitivity from 200 to 3200 The D90 gives you the freedom to shoot in a remarkably wide variety of lighting conditions,

including dimly lit scenes, without worrying about image-degrading noise. ISO can be raised as

high as Hi 1 (ISO 6400 equivalent) or lowered to Lo 1 (ISO 100 equivalent).

3-inch super-density 920,000-dot color LCD monitor The D90's 3-in., approx. 920k-dot LCD monitor provides unprecedented quality of image

display. A wide 170-degree viewing angle makes it easy to confirm focus after shooting or

during Live View.

Built-in image sensor cleaning Effective 4-frequency, ultrasonic sensor cleaning frees image degrading dust particles from the

sensor's optical low pass filter.

11-point AF system with Face Priority Thanks to Multi-CAM 1000 autofocus module, the D90's 11-point AF system has fast and

precise autofocus coverage across the frame with the most sensitive AF sensor operating from

the center.

In addition, the D90 has versatile AF-area modes to handle most shooting situations. The center

focus point can be switched from normal to wide according to the movement of the subject.

One-button Live View With the D90's Live View function, you can shoot effectively without looking through the

viewfinder. Simply press dedicated Live View button for instant access. Three contrast-detect

AF modes let you focus on any point in the frame.

Nikon 3D Color Matrix Metering II with Scene Recognition System Nikon's renowned 420-pixel RGB 3D Color Matrix Metering II, teamed with the exclusive

Scene Recognition System, evaluates images, referencing an on-board database of over 30,000

photographic scenes, for unmatched exposure accuracy.

Advance Scene Modes When you're not sure which camera settings are appropriate, simply rely on the Advanced Scene

Modes. Just turn the mode dial to the appropriate icon: Portrait, Landscape, Close-up, Sports or

Night Portrait. Unlike traditional scene modes, the D90 will automatically optimize the exposure,

image processing, Active D-Lighting, and Picture Control to get the most out of your subject

matter. What's more, the D90 has exceptional low-noise performance and accurately adjusts the

camera settings whether VR (Vibration Reduction) is activated or not, so you can expect

beautiful, crisp images, even in many low-light scenes.

Auto Active D-Lighting Details in the shadows and highlighted areas of your photos are often lost when strong lighting

increases the contrast between the bright and dark areas of your image. Nikon's unique Active D-

Lighting technology accurately restores these important details by localizing tone control while

you shoot. Choose from four levels, including the new Extra High. Active D-Lighting can be

used manually or set to Auto mode. It is also possible to bracket your pictures to get one with

Active D-Lighting and one without.

Durable, high-precision shutter Reliability is not a luxury--it's a necessity. That's why Nikon subjected numerous D90 shutter

mechanisms to grueling 100,000-cycle shutter-release tests with the unit fully assembled in the

camera.

Built-in, Pop-up Flash The D90 is equipped with Nikon's i-TTL flash control, renowned for consistently accurate and

balanced flash exposures. The built-in flash has an 18mm lens coverage and works as a wireless

commander, controlling up to two independent groups of an unlimited number of remote

Speedlights and providing incredible creative lighting control--on location or in the studio.

In-camera image editing Creative freedom stems from exclusive in-camera image editing, featuring Fisheye effect,

Straighten and Distortion Control as well as D-Lighting, Red-eye Reduction, Image Overlay,

Monochrome and more.

HDMI Compatible You can enjoy both still images and movies shot with the D90 via HDMI (High-Definition

Multimedia Interface) with the global-standard digital A/V signal transfer. HDMI Mini

connector is employed.

GPS geo-tagging The optional GP-1 GPS unit provides automatic real-time geo-tagging.

Review from dpreview.com

Learn more about this camera

at DPReview.com

Nikon D90 Digital SLR: Highly recommended by dpreview.com

Almost exactly two years after the D80 was announced comes its replacement, the rather

predictably named D90. The D80 has been one of Nikon's quiet successes, and even today,

despite being positively Methuselah-like in digital camera terms it continues to sell and often

makes its way into our top 10 most clicked on cameras. Because it looks so similar to the D80

the D90 appears at first glance to be one of those rather subdued incremental upgrades, but dig a

little deeper and you'll find there's plenty to keep Nikon fans happy.

First and foremost there's a new CMOS sensor, which Nikon claim produces D300 quality output

at up to ISO 6400 and - one of several features to 'trickle down' from higher models - the same

highly acclaimed 3.0-inch VGA screen as the D3/D300. Naturally it has Live View with

contrast-detect AF and it would have been surprising had it not sported some form of dust

removal system. More surprising is the inclusion of the world's first DSLR movie mode (720p

HDTV quality, no less) and HDMI output, though as we'll see later it does come with some

limitations. A lot of the core photographic spec is the same as or very similar to the D80, though

there is a new shutter and an implementation of the 3D tracking AF seen on the D3/D300.

And it's not just the high end models that have lent features and technology to the D90; the user

interface has been given the same user-friendly treatment as the D60, as have the retouching

options. As it was explained to us the D90 is intended to appeal to the broadest audience of any

Nikon SLR, from first-time 'step up' customers moving from a compact to serious amateurs

wanting comprehensive photographic control without the cost and weight of a D300. Whether

the D90 is as capable as its feature set suggests, we'll see as the review unfolds.

Nikon D90 Key Features

12.9-megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor (effective pixels: 12.3 million)

3.0-inch 920,000 pixel (VGA x 3 colors) TFT-LCD (same as D3 and D300)

Live View with contrast-detect AF, face detection

Image sensor cleaning (sensor shake)

Illuminated focus points

Movie capture at up to 1280 x 720 (720p) 24 fps with mono sound

IS0 200-3200 range (100-6400 expanded)

4.5 frames per second continuous shooting (buffer: 7 RAW, 25 JPEG fine, 100 JPEG

Normal)

Expeed image processing engine

3D tracking AF (11 point)

Short startup time, viewfinder blackout and shutter lag

Slightly improved viewfinder (96% frame coverage)

Extensive in-camera retouching including raw development and straightening

Improved user interface

New optional compact GPS unit (fits on hot shoe)

Same battery and vertical grip as D80

Vignetting control in-camera

72 thumbnail and calendar view in playback

Nikon D90 vs D80: Key Differences

Although it's had a bit of a design refresh with slightly sharper lines, the D90 is externally very

similar to its predecessor (dimensions are identical, though it is heavier). Looking at the

differences it's obviously a solid incremental upgrade rather than a total reinvention of the

popular D80, with several key improvements (most importantly the sensor and screen) and a

welcome smattering of must-have 2008 features (live view, dust removal). Oh yes, and of course

there's that one little new feature sitting at the back of the classroom with its hand waving in the

air, shouting 'Sir! Sir!'; the 'world's first' DSLR movie mode.

12.3 MP CMOS sensor (D80: 10.2 MP CCD)

Dust removal system

Bigger, better screen (as D3, D300)

Live View with contrast detect AF

Movie Mode

Wider ISO range, upgraded AF system (3D tracking, face detection)

Active D-Lighting, vignetting control and extra retouching options

Automatic chromatic aberration correction

Picture Control presets

Faster continuous shooting and larger buffer

Pictmotion slideshows

Read more at dpreview.com

Review from Wired.com

Read more digital camera reviews

at Wired.com

Nikon D90 Takes World Champion DSLR Title Belt

Sometimes the mere notion of being "number two" can light a motivational fire under your

keister. Look at some famous folks who, despite being considered numero dos, went on to

dominate their respective fields and even eclipse their predecessors: A pupil of Socrates, Plato

opted not to go the hemlock-chugging route and instead helped lay down the foundations of

Western philosophy. Tom Brady was destined to be a career second banana until Drew Bledsoe's

internal bleeding set him on the path to three Super Bowl wins. Jean-Luc Picard played second

fiddle to Kirk only to become the greatest captain in Star Trek. Ever. (Watch TNG's season 3

finale if you don't believe me.) And in the world of DSLR cameras, Nikon has been toiling to

one day escape from the shadow of a certain photo-manufacturing giant whose name rhymes

with "Danon." And with its newest shooter it looks like that day may have finally come.

Nikon's latest offering, the 12-megapixel D90 is a feature-packed fistful of photo fury that's sure

to help pave your way to full-fledged Flickrati status. Straight from the box and out on the street

the D90 shows off its picture-making prowess. Our testing unit came bundled with a (bordering

on) superwide 18-105mm f3.5-5.6 lens that we used for all of our evaluations.

The 11-point focusing system with the face priority speedily locks onto subjects while the

automatic Active D-Lighting (a feature that optimizes details within shadows and high contrast

subjects) is a noticeable step forward in on-camera illumination. The flash images show off a

pleasing balance between the strobe and the ambient light even when just shooting in the full

Auto and Program modes. Nikon's also got a convergence hit with the integration of a movie

mode that makes three flavors of video, the yummiest being up to five minutes of 720p HD in a

cinematic 16:9 aspect ratio. Owing to the size of the sensor and the higher quality optics, video

clarity and depth of field are on par with the D90's stills. And when it comes to checking your

work, Nikon's made it easy, loading the D90 with the same high-res 3-inch LCD found on its

$5000 D3. If that's not big enough, just plug it straight into your HDTV with the built-in HDMI

connection. All told this camera has scads of grin-worthy features that will continue to feed your

frenzy-filled lifestyle for some time to come. That is until another camera comes along to usurp

its throne.

RATING 9 out of 10

WIRED Enormous image sensor blows open the door to some of the finest 12.3-megapixel

images we've produced yet. Nikon's top-of-the-line high-res 3-inch LCD is prettier than looking

at a supermodel with beer goggles. In-camera dust reduction is spot on at removing spots from

the sensor. One-touch info button and simple, descriptive help screens clarify deep, detailed

menus. Toss out your camcorder; the 720p, 24 fps video capture on the D90 will trump its

performance — especially in low lighting. Face facts: Face-detection system works quickly,

accurately, and effortlessly.

TIRED Only manual focus in the video mode. Seriously, this is really the only problem we had

with the D90 and even that was a stretch.

Camera Resolution 12.3 megapixels, with 15.8 x 23.6mm CMOS sensor.

Read more digital camera reviews at Wired.com

Customer Reviews

Most helpful customer reviews

905 of 916 people found the following review helpful.

Designed for serious shooting, but fun to use! Lots of customizations.

By Alan G.

Several months before the D90 came out, I bought a D60 to hold me over until the D90 was

released. Well, I've enjoyed using both cameras, but this one is a huge step up and more suited to

an advanced enthusiast, like me. It's a real pleasure to use.

ERGONOMICS - The D90 is solid, tight, and well-balanced with the 18-105 VR lens. It's

always ready and it shoots very fast. I love all the direct access buttons; they're easy to press,

with good tactile feedback. And since you're not going into the menus as much, you can work

faster. It's heavier than the D60, but that's OK. It's still very manageable to carry around and it

fits my average-sized hand better too. The shutter sounds different than the D60 (if that matters

to you). It sounds more like a professional camera; more like a fast "whoosh" than a "click-

click". And there are so many internal customizations that you can set it up exactly as you want.

LENS - Biggest surprise was the 18-105 VR lens which I expected would be ho-hum, but turned

out to be pretty sharp and clear. Better results than the 18-55 VR. We've really come a long way

from the days (30 years ago) when you were cautioned to ALWAYS to buy a prime lens,

NEVER the kit lens because of it's poor image quality. With computer-aided design and new

technology, that's not true anymore.

IMAGE QUALITY - I shoot RAW for maximum detail and the ability to adjust settings

afterward if necessary - like exposure or white balance. Image quality is very good to excellent

depending on your RAW converter. To my eye, best results are obtained with View NX/Capture

NX, but Adobe ACR/Lightroom still do a very good job (2010 UPDATE; After using Lightroom

the past year, raw conversions are beautiful and far quicker to achieve than Capture NX). When

shooting JPGs using the Standard Picture Mode, images are sharp and colors are true, without

over-saturation. You can always use different Picture Modes and customize any of them to get

closer to the in-camera results you want. For example, you can boost saturation and contrast and

save the setting as your default if that's what you like.

LIGHT METER - Metering is fine and seems to be quite accurate in most cases. I use matrix

metering mostly. As with any camera, you have to get to know the meter. If I had to be VERY

critical, I'd say when it's pushed, it's more likely to preserve shadows than highlights, usually

when Active DLighting is on. To me that's a good thing. Another website mentioned a slightly

"over-enthusiatic" meter in its review. The good news is: if you really feel exposure results are

not to your liking (whether over or under exposed), the meter is fine-tuneable, so go ahead and

customize it as you see fit. I would just work with the meter first -get to know the camera and

adapt yourself to it before you start making any adjustments. That said, I've used the D90 in a

very wide range of lighting conditions and I can truly say that while exposures may vary

occasionally, they've always made perfect sense for the situation. I've never been shocked or

puzzled by the output.

LIVE VIEW - is great for the occasional high or low shot. I didn't think would need it, but when

I had the D60, I found myself in many situations where I really could have used it. Unlike a

point-and-shoot, focus is slower in this mode and shooting seems somewhat clunky. I wouldn't

use Live View if I were in a rush or trying to get an important shot. It's just a nice little extra.

MOVIE MODE - this is a nice novelty and may be handy in a rare moment, but I'm generally not

a video camera person. I'm surprised to read that some people have made movies and

commercials with the D90. I keep promising myself to use this feature more, but I don't have a

tripod and I'm just too jittery and uncreative to get good cinema-like results. Moreover, from the

little I've tried it, I'm not impressed - there's no autofocus during filming and the movie comes

out over exposed and far from HD quality. The user manual is not very helpful either. But I

didn't purchase the camera for this feature, so I'm not disappointed.

ISO - I really like the new wide range of ISO settings, especially when coupled with the Auto-

ISO setting. Mine is customized to keep the camera at ISO 200, but kick in at 1/30. In this

example, anytime lighting decreases enough for the shutter speed to drop below 1/30, the D90

will automatically compensate by raising the ISO high enough (up to an ISO limit you set) to

help keep your shutter speed at 1/30. Once the ISO maxes-out at your limit, the camera has no

choice but to start bringing down the shutter speed. Noise at high ISOs isn't an issue. In fact, you

have to zoom in pretty close for it to be even slightly noticeable. I use Auto-ISO mostly all the

time. Its an amazing feature! I only turn this feature off when I want to stick to a particular ISO

at all times (if its on a monopod or I've stabilized the camera in some way).

ACTIVE D-LIGHTING - helps camera to preserve shadow and highlight detail. More important

to use when shooting JPG because the exposure has to be right at the time of shooting, when the

camera creates the JPG. RAW shooters can always adjust exposure in post processing. Even

though I shoot RAW, I usually leave it on Auto so I can double check the exposure details on the

LCD screen. It's available in various strengths from Low to Extra High. Again, another great

customization.

CONS

-At this price, Nikon should include a robust image editing software, or at least a decent discount

on Capture NX2, which works great, but costs extra.

-Kit lens is thick in diameter (67mm). Also, the front glass of the lens seems somewhat exposed,

as if it's not recessed that much (it's just enough for a lens cap). I worry that it'll get scratched

easily. Good thing Nikon included the lens hood.

AUTOFOCUS TIP - I customized the D90 to autofocus using the AF-L button instead of the

shutter release. Now I can focus with one press of my thumb on the AF-L button and shoot with

my index finger on the shutter release. This allows me to focus first, let go, then take the shot.

Since the subject is already in focus, I can take multiple shots, recompose or go vertical. I'm not

forced to continually re-focus for every shot or move the AF point around in the viewfinder. This

minimizes AF mishaps on unintentional subjects. And since the VR system remains off until you

half-press the shutter (it activates only when you're ready to take the shot, not while you're

focusing) you save on battery life as well.

Also, with the D90 set to AF-C mode (continuous autofocus) you can keep a moving subject in

focus by holding down the AF-L with your thumb and shooting with your index finger. If the

subject becomes still, simply let go of the AF-L button; focusing stops and is locked where you

left it. Then shoot when ready. Now your D90 can act as if it's in Single or Continuous AF mode

without you having to change settings all the time. This gives you more immediate control over

the behavior of the AF system Try it and you won't go back!

SUMMARY - Overall I'm extremely happy with the D90! It's designed for serious shooting, but

it's still fun to use; noticeably heavier than the D60, but still not a burden. You do need to be

committed to carrying around a solid DSLR in the first place. Once you get used to that, you'll

come to appreciate that it's more substantial because it'll be less shaky during shots. Nikon really

packed it with a ton of features and customizations. Now I finally have everything I want in a

DSLR, without it being overblown and overpriced. I'm actually surprising myself with some

really spectacular shots.

If you have your basic photography skills down, you can make any DSLR sing, however, I

believe THIS camera, because of its superb sensor and spot-on feature set, can actually help you

improve your technique and get better results. You'll take more chances and push yourself farther

because now you have the tools (ie. features) to help capture more difficult, more creative shots.

And you didn't have to spend $3,000 to get there!

8-MONTH UPDATE: Still love this camera which hasn't lost any of its original excitement.

Very reliable - never frustrating. I'm not craving an upgrade - not contemplating a switch to

Canon either - I'm perfectly content. Haven't discovered any hidden quirks. In fact, the longer I

use it, the more I realize how well engineered it is. The only extras I bought so far were a light

monopod and a 50mm 1.8 lens.

544 of 554 people found the following review helpful.

You can tell the D90 was designed by photographers and not just engineers! Wonderful

user interface and image quality!

By E. Kim

I am far from a professional photographer, but I take it as seriously as possible while still

referring to it as a hobby. I take mostly pictures of people at events and many of my baby son

without flash in low light situations.

I had been using a Nikon D40x for 1 year and very early reached my limitation with that camera.

The Nikon D40x has very nice image quality, but the camera's interface is not suited for a more

serious shooter who wants quick single button or dial access to such shooting parameters such as

white balance, shooting mode, metering mode, etc. I also felt very limited by the D40x not

having an in-body focus motor that would allow me to use non AF-I/AF-S lenses (which are

lenses without the focus motor built-in).

The Nikon D40x limitations were severe enough that I was about to consider purchasing a Canon

40D until the Nikon D90 appeared just in time.

PROS:

1. Fantastic set of separate buttons on the camera to control parameters like ISO, white balance,

metering, autofocus, image quality, shooting mode, etc.

2. Two command dials

3. High resolution 920K pixel LCD screen (like the one on the Nikon D300)

4. 12.3 megapixel CMOS sensor

5. Low noise high ISO capability (for low light shooting) I can shoot ISO 1600 with good image

quality with this camera, while on my D40x I could only shoot with ISO 400 and obtain

acceptable IQ. I will even use ISO 3200 frequently with very usable results!

6. Separate top-viewing LCD screen in addition to the rear high res screen, to show shooting

parameters constantly

7. In-body focus motor which allows the use of Nikon's non AF-I/S lenses, including wonderful

and CHEAP prime lenses such as the Nikkor 50mm 1.8 (~$100 lens!)

8. Continuous shooting of 4.5 frames per second

9. Small size, although larger than the D40/D40x/D60, it is still substantially smaller in the hand

than the D300/D3

10. 720p 24fps MPEG video shooting capability with incredible ability to use depth of field that

I cannot achieve with my Sony High-Def camcorder.

11. Eleven auto-focus points (not as nice as the 51 points on the D300, but substantially better

than my D40x with its 3 points)

12. GPS option

13. HDMI output

14. Enormous number of options to customize camera and shooting settings to fit your style of

shooting

15. Fantastic image quality right out-of-box if you don't want to do any post processing

16. Terrific build quality

17. Top notch camera ergonomics (but this will be a very personal opinion that differs for each

shooter)

CONS:

1. "Rolling shutter" phenomenon while recording video: The D90 CMOS sensor has the same

problem that other CMOS video recorders have when recording video. If you move the camera,

especially horizontally, you get a "jelly" or "rubberbanding" effect where the image wobbles

significantly. It is nice to have the video features, which looks very sharp at 720p, but it is NOT a

substitute for a video camera. If you use a tripod, and do not do quick zooms/pans, the video

quality is excellent. Without a tripod, however, you may get nauseous watching a wobbly video.

The sound is also in monoaural.

2. 1/200 flash synch: Not a problem for me, but it might be for you.

3. No weather sealing: This is found on the Nikon D300/D3 and even on similarly priced models

from other camera companies

4. The buffer will fill up after about 8 continuous RAW + JPG (FINE) shots. This number differs

depending on the shooting parameters that you will choose. If you shoot primarily JPG, the

buffer seems to allow a very large number of continuous shots, but I have not quantified this for

JPG only.

TIPS:

1. Get the FREE Nikon ViewNX software from Nikon's site as your 1st step in your workflow.

This will let you examine your RAW images that you can process for either Nikon CaptureNX2

to do further RAW processing or just export to JPG or TIFF for a JPG/TIFF editor such as

PhotoShop.

2. Recommend buying the Nikon CaptureNX2. It is a RAW converter (if you shoot in RAW)

that will read the camera settings properly for export to JPG or TIFF. Capture NX2, however, is

not as slick as the Adobe products and Capture NX2 requires a fairly powerful computer,

otherwise it can run pretty slowly on a PC > 3 years old.

3. If you use JPEGs out-of-camera, consider increasing the sharpness above the default 3 or 4.

Nikon uses a very conservative sharpening default setting. Nikon has also decided to change the

default JPEG images to match the higher end D3/D700/D300 cameras which produce more

neutral images. Consequently, the D90 images that are less punchy than the D40/D40x/D60/D80,

so you may also want to turn up the in-camera saturation and contrast.

The Nikon D90 has all of the interface features that serious and even professional photographers

need with wonderful image quality.

413 of 420 people found the following review helpful.

Wow! is all I can say....

By Earl E. A. Dopter

There are plenty of reviews out there, and I don't want to be redundant. So here are some helpful

points that I had a hard time ferreting out when doing my research before pulling the trigger on

this purchase, given that I was upgrading from a D60 and that I am, like many who are reading

reviews on this product, not a professional:

1. I owned the D40, then the D60. So this is my third Nikon. I had trouble deciphering how my

lenses, purchased for the D40/D60, would behave when used in this new model. The answer is

that the D90 handles all of them perfectly. This includes lenses that have the HSM built in (the

Hyper Sonic Motor is packaged in the lens, because the D40/D60 range doesn't have a built in

auto-focus motor) as well as those with no internal motor. The D90 has an internal focus motor,

so all lenses built for Nikon cameras will auto-focus, including the Nikon 50mm f1.8 lens that I

had to manually focus in the D60.

2. The D90 is heavier, but certainly not uncomfortable to hold or carry. Weight will not be a

discouraging factor in purchasing this camera.

3. The D90 takes different batteries, so any spares you have for the earlier models will not work

on it. Battery life is truly outstanding. I am not even going to buy a spare battery.

4. The user interface is completely different from the D40/D60. I found it intuitive however. The

functionality is just superb, much easier and more flexible. This is a pro level camera with the

ease of use of a high end amateur camera.

5. Live view is a great enhancement. Really.

Overall, there is nothing I can say negative about the D90. It's everything I was hoping it would

be, and it's so worth the money to upgrade. I'm selling the D60 for half what I paid - and doing it

gladly - because the D90 is worth more than it's being sold for. I absolutely highly recommend it.

I also thought I would offer some lens advice, because I had trouble finding a reviewer that just

cut to the chase and said "look, just do this." So, look, just do this: I do NOT recommend the kit

lenses that you can obtain bundled with the D90. Get the body only, and buy yourself that Nikon

50mm f1.8 (Nikon 50mm f/1.8D AF Nikkor Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras). It's a no-

brainer at the price point, and the images I have already achieved have been just excellent. For

the rest of your lenses, I highly recommend Sigma. I own the 18-200 (Sigma 18-200mm f/3.5-

6.3 DC Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras), the 10-20 (Sigma 10-20mm f/4-5.6 EX DC HSM

Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras), and the 150-500 (Sigma 150-500mm f/5-6.3 AF APO DG

OS HSM Telephoto Zoom Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras). I cannot say enough positive

things about the quality of the lenses or the images. Pack the 50mm and the 18-200 superlens for

normal occasions. If you can stand the extra weight, you absolutely cannot go wrong with the 10-

20 for landscapes, it just pulls in everything and the quality is shocking. The 150-500 is

enormous, you are not going to want to carry that thing around, but when you need it, you really

need it. I captured images of my son playing in a soccer game that blew me away; could not have

gotten the shots without the big lens. Get the lenses in the order I have specified if you cannot

afford them all.

I have just learned all this over the past 2 years. I am no expert but I have discovered the joy of

capturing great images that you just cannot get from a point-and-shoot. I think once you see the

quality you can achieve with a better camera, you will be thrilled with the decision to spend the

money and the energy. And Nikon has truly produced the best camera at this price point in the

world. It's a pro camera with an amateur price and it's very easy to use. Words really don't do it

justice; you need to experience it to understand.

Any questions, please send me a comment. Happy to help!

Update - 16 Jul 2009:

I have now taken well over 4,000 images with the D90 and can confirm that it's still all I had

hoped it would be. Every time I think of something I wish I could adjust, I find that the D90 has

the adjustment capability in the menu somewhere. The active D-lighting is spectacular. The

noiseless photos in low-light conditions have blown me away. I don't see myself upgrading from

this camera for a very long time. My technique for most situations has become as follows: snap a

few images using the Auto settings. Then switch to full manual and start playing with the depth

of field by adjusting ISO, aperture, and shutter speed to fit the situation. Half the time, the Auto

photos are so good that I can't do much to top them in manual mode!

Update - 20 Jan 2010:

Over 10,000 photos taken with my D90. No new lenses purchased since last update. I have yet to

find a situation the D90 cannot handle deftly. Over Christmas, I took a family photo of my wife's

entire extended family, over 40 people involved. It was indoors, at night, with only weak

overhead lights and the lights from the Christmas tree behind the group. I used an ISO of 3500,

my small Nikon 50mm lens at 1.8 aperture, and my remote control (so I could be in the photo

too!) Under these low light conditions, with no flash, I was able to capture 50 images in a very

short time, and miraculously got several with everyone smiling and no one blinking, and out of

these one was perfect! The group included several young kids who hate standing still, to name

one challenge! The output was startling; in the natural light, its almost ethereal. I'm the new

family hero. The reality is that this single photo is irreplaceable and worth more than the camera

and lens. It could not have been accomplished with a lesser camera/lens combination, including

the previous Nikons I have owned. I would venture to say that no other camera in the price range

could touch what I did with the D90 in this situation. Over and over, the camera proves its worth

to me. In the end, what is one fabulous photograph of your child, your vacation, or your life's

important events worth?

Update - 27 April 2010:

I noticed that I forgot to mention another very useful addition to the D90 - the remote control.

This device allows you to remotely trigger the shutter and I find I use it for group shots much

more often than the timer, especially because I can trigger multiple shots without returning to the

camera. It's very inexpensive and small (I keep it in the little pouch that it comes with, threaded

into the strap, so it's always there when I need it.) Here is the item: Nikon ML-L3 Wireless

Remote Control for Nikon D40, D40x, D60, D80 & D90 Digital SLR Cameras. Highly

recommended!

Update - 13 May 2010:

My D90 was stolen two weeks ago. What a bummer. Anyhow, I decided to upgrade to the D700,

but not because there's anything wrong with the D90. I loved it. The D700 has the FX size

sensor, whereas the D90 has the DX size sensor, which is smaller. The real benefit of the FX

sensor is better sensitivity, meaning higher shutter speeds at a given aperture. Of course, the

D700 is more sophisticated in nearly every way, but it's also heavier and more complex to

operate. It's also over $2,000 for the body only. I sprang for it. But even so, after considering

carefully all the current offerings, my conclusion is that for the money, there is still no better

camera than the D90.

Update - 15 Feb 2011:

I highly recommend Thom Hogan's "Complete Guide" series for the Nikon D90 (and for any

other Nikons). I bought the one for the D700 and it's just incredibly useful, way more easy to

understand and more thorough than the Nikon documentation. It's really essential reading; you

get the why, not just the how, and practical advice on settings you should use for different

situations. Thom really helped me understand why it's worth shooting in RAW (I now onluy

shoot in RAW), and what tradeoffs are worth making and when (ISO vs shutter speed vs

aperture). You can only get them off his website so google it. bythom dot com is the address

BTW. (I don't know the guy and am not getting a kickback, I swear!!!!)

Also, I'm really enjoying having a good quality wide angle zoom, anyone who hasn't obtained

one yet for their setup, I think you ought to look into it closely. I find myself using it more and

more.

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