It does feel like a long time coming, but the Nikon D90 is a direct replacement for the D80.
After all, the cheaper D60, which has the exact resolution, a larger LCD, and a new, image-stabilized kit lens, was beginning to make the more expensive D80 feel slightly ashamed.
Nikon D90 D-SLR Camera Body
- 12.3MP
- 55-200mm zoom lens
- Built in video and editing
- 12.3MP
- 55-200mm zoom lens
- Built in video and editing
The Nikon D90’s body is very similar to the previous D80. However, it’s easier to grasp than the D60s because it’s bigger and chunkier. In addition, although its dual control dials may initially be puzzling, they work considerably better when adjusting the aperture and shutter speed.
High-ISO pictures
Beyond handling benefits, this camera offers many more features that can attract buyers away from the D60.
Although nothing in the specifications suggests any differences, the 12.3-megapixel CMOS sensor employs technology “inherited” from the D300, which seems like a clever way of implying that it might not be precisely the same. The ISO range is 200–3200, although it can be “extended” to 100 or 6400 at either end.
The first characteristic to be examined was high ISO image quality, which recent Nikon SLRs have proved to be good. In addition, the maximum continuous shooting speed is 4.5 frames per second (fps) when using a high-speed memory card, and the 11-point AF system is significantly more advanced than the D60’s 3-point system.
The D90 now has a Live View mode due to the move to a CMOS sensor, and it looks fantastic because of the superb 3-inch, 920,000-dot LCD. In addition, the “self-cleaning” sensor unit should also reduce your concerns about dust.
The latest Nikon lens
Another significant change is the introduction of a new 18-105mm VR kit lens. Retailers will undoubtedly offer additional configurations, but this one is the best value. It’s plausible that the D90 is being contrasted with the incorrect camera. The D60 is streets behind it.
It’s so good that the D300 might be more at risk. It doesn’t have the tank-like construction of the D300, but it seems solid enough and portable. So the more pertinent query might be, “What can the D300 do that the D90 can’t?”
According to Nikon, the D90’s shutter is built to last 100,000 cycles (about a professional benchmark), and the battery should last no less than 850 shots before recharging.
Record videos
The D90 is also the first DSLR to have a Movie mode.
With a maximum quality of 1,280 x 720 pixels at 24 frames per second, it outperforms all but a few digital compacts, makes MiniDV camcorders appear a little ill, and may even displace HD camcorders in sales.
Although this Movie mode has several restrictions and downsides, it is nonetheless outstanding (we will devote a two-page spread to it following this review).
Condition LCD
Anyone previously using a Nikon DSLR will be familiar with the D90’s control layout.
The power switch is a spring-loaded lever that wraps around the shutter button and starts up instantly. While the rear LCD can be used to check the settings, it will most likely only be used to display images in Playback and Live View modes because there is a mono status LCD on the top plate.
The small size of some icons on the status LCD is the sole drawback.
Display problems
However, the 3-inch LCD on the back is different. Not only is the size remarkable, but also the saturation, clarity, and level of definition. Bright light can sometimes overwhelm it, but distinguishing it is generally straightforward. However, there are a few minor problems with this.
The first is that it deceives by flattery since it is so brilliant and bright. So when you load up photographs that appear stunning on the camera’s back onto your computer, they may be disappointingly unexceptional.
Its fixed position is another problem. At the same time, you may overlook that the Live View mode’s utility is marginally diminished. As a result, the challenge of editing videos on a fixed LCD immediately becomes apparent.
This is true of most tiny cameras, but if you were to contrast the D90 with a good camcorder, this would be a flaw.
Good construction
The Nikon D90 appears to be a high-quality camera overall. The brand-new 18-105mm VR kit lens is also ideal. It is the perfect weight and size for the D90’s body, creating a harmonious combination. There is no “slop” or “creep” in the smooth, light zoom movement. Although the manual focus ring is slightly slimy, this lens feels pretty excellent overall.
So far, the D90 has received a pretty unequivocal thumbs up; the only thing left to criticize is its image quality, although even this is excellent. Particularly in artificial lighting, the exposures, color rendition, and auto-white balancing are all superb.
A high ISO performance, too? Stunning. The 18-105mm lens has a good definition, and perhaps more importantly, it maintains that definition throughout the entire frame and focal range. You must adhere to no particular “sweet spot” in the aperture or zoom range.
Excellent camera
Interestingly, when this lens was used on the Nikon D90, there was nearly no chromatic aberration, but there was when it was tested on a D50 body. Does Nikon use in-camera image processing to correct?
There are indications that Panasonic, for instance, might be applying a similar technique to some of its cameras.
The D90 is a fantastic mid-range DSLR, but the answer to that issue isn’t quite apparent.
Canon enthusiasts could choose the EOS 40D’s more streamlined design and handling, while Pentax K20D’s photos’ depth and dynamic range might persuade others.
However, the Nikon D90’s features, performance, and value are so exceptional that we feel compelled to award it one of our highest ratings.
Nikon D90 Specifications
| Body material | Combination of aluminum alloy and plastic. |
|---|---|
| Sensor | • 23.6 x 15.8 mm CMOS sensor • 12.9 million total pixels • 12.3 million effective pixels • Supports high ISO sensitivities • High-speed data readout • Nikon DX-format sized CMOS sensor • Power-saving design |
| Dust Reduction System | • Image Sensor Cleaning • Image Dust Off reference data (optional Capture NX 2 software required) |
| Image processor | Nikon EXPEED |
| A/D conversion | 12 bit |
| Image sizes | • 4,288 x 2,848 (L) • 3,216 x 2,136 (M) • 2,144 x 1,424 (S) |
| File formats | • NEF (compressed RAW) • JPEG: Fine (approx. 1:4), normal (approx. 1:8), or basic (approx. 1:16) compression • NEF (RAW) + JPEG • AVI M-JPEG • Up to 36 alphanumeric characters can be input using the camera monitor and multi-selector (contained in Exif header) |
| Lens mount | • Nikon F mount with AF coupling and AF contacts • Approx. 1.5x lens focal length (Nikon DX format) |
| Usable lenses | • DX AF Nikkor: All functions supported • Type G or D AF Nikkor: All functions supported (PC Micro-Nikkors do not support some functions) • Other AF Nikkor: All functions supported except 3D Color Matrix Metering II. Lenses for F3AF are not supported. • AI-P Nikkor: All functions supported except 3D Color Matrix Metering II • Non-CPU: Autofocus not supported. It can be used in exposure mode M, but the exposure meter does not function. An electronic rangefinder can be used if the lens has a maximum aperture of f/5.6 or faster. |
| Auto Focus | • 11 focus points (1 cross-type sensor) • Multi-CAM 1000 • AF working range: -1 to +19 EV (ISO 100, average temperature) • Contrast Detect in Live View (Tripod) mode |
| Lens Servo | • Single Servo AF [S] • Continuous Servo AF [C] • Manual focus [M], Electronic range finding supported • Focus Tracking is automatically activated by the subject’s status in AF [A] |
| Focus Point | • Single point from 11 focus points • Center point narrow or wide zone • Liveview (Tripod mode): Contrast AF on a desired point anywhere within the frame |
| AF Area Mode | • Single-point AF • Dynamic Area AF • Automatic-area AF • 3D Tracking AF (11 points) |
| Focus Lock | Focus can be locked by pressing the shutter-release button halfway (single-servo AF) or by pressing the AE-L/AF-L button |
| AF assist | AF-assist illuminator (range approx. 0.5-3 m/1.6-9.8 ft.) |
| Exposure modes | • Program Auto [P] with flexible program • Shutter-Priority Auto [S] • Aperture-Priority Auto [A] • Manual [M] • Auto • Advanced Scene Modes (portrait, landscape, close-up, sports, night portrait) |
| Metering | TTL full-aperture exposure metering using a 420-pixel RGB sensor • 3D Color Matrix Metering II (type G and D lenses); color matrix metering II (other CPU lenses); • Center-weighted: Weight of 75% given to 6, 8, or 10 mm dia. circle in the center of the frame • Spot: Meters approx. 2 mm dia. circle (about 2.0 % of frame) centered on the selected focus point |
| Metering range | • 3D Color Matrix Metering: 0 to 20 EV • Center-Weighted Metering: 0 to 20 EV • Spot Metering: 2 to 20 EV • At normal temperature (20°C/68°F), ISO 100 equivalent, f/1.4 lens |
| Meter coupling | CPU (not AI) |
| Exposure lock | Locked using the AE-L/AF-L button |
| Exposure bracketing | • 2 or 3 frames • 1/3, 1/2, 2/3, 1 or 2 EV steps • ADL (Active D-Lighting) bracketing: 2 frames (one with ADL, one without) |
| Exposure compen. | • +/-5.0 EV • 1/3 or 1/2 EV steps |
| Sensitivity | • Default: ISO 200 – 3200 in 1/3 EV steps • Boost: 100 – 6400 in 1/3 EV steps |
| Shutter | • Electronically-controlled vertical-travel focal plane shutter • 30 to 1/4000 sec (1/3 or 1/2 EV steps) • Flash X-Sync: 1/200 sec • Bulb • Time (optional Wireless Remote Control ML-L3 required) • Release time lag Approx. 65 ms • Viewfinder blackout 120 ms • Tested to 100,000 exposures |
| DOF Preview | • Stop-down lens aperture by pressing the button |
| Active D-Lighting | Can be selected from Auto, Extra high, High, Normal, Low, or Off |
| White balance | • Auto (420-pixel CCD, image sensor) • Presets (12) with fine-tuning • Manual presets (five) • Color temperature in Kelvin (2500 – 10000 K) • White balance bracketing (2 or 3 frames in increments of 1, 2, or 3) |
| Picture Control | • Standard • Neutral • Vivid • Monochrome • Landscape • Portrait • Storage for up to nine custom Picture Controls |
| Image parameters | • Sharpening: Auto, ten levels • Contrast: Auto, seven levels • Brightness: 3 levels • Saturation: Auto, seven levels • Hue: 7 levels • Quick Adjust: 5 levels (A multi-parameter adjustment) • High ISO Noise Reduction (High, Normal, Low, Off) |
| Color space | • sRGB • Adobe RGB |
| Viewfinder | • Eye-level pentaprism single-lens reflex viewfinder • Frame coverage Approx. 96% horizontal and 96% vertical • Magnification Approx. 0.94x (50mm f/1.4 lens at infinity, –1.0 m-1) • Eyepoint 19.5 mm (–1.0 m-1) • Diopter adjustment –2 to +1 |
| Focusing screen | • Type B BriteView Clear Matte Mark II screen with focus frame • Superimposed on-demand grid lines over the viewfinder display. • “Vari-Brite” focus area display built-in (The color used to highlight the active focus area (focus brackets) in the viewfinder display changes automatically in response to lighting conditions). |
| LCD monitor | • 3.0 ” TFT LCD • Approx. 920,000 dots (VGA; 640 x 480 x 3 colors) • 170° viewing angle • 100% frame coverage • Brightness adjustment |
| Movie | • File format AVI (Motion-JPEG) • Image size (pixels) 640 x 424; 24 fps 320 x 216; 24 fps 1280 x 720; 24 fps • Compression: Motion-JPEG Audio Monaural on/off a selection • Exposure: Determined with matrix metering utilizing output from the image sensor • Exposure lock available • Exposure compensation available in P, S, A, and M modes • Maximum single clip length: 1280×720/ 5 minutes, others 20 minutes |
| LCD Liveview | • Contrast-detect AF anywhere in frame (camera selects focus point automatically when face priority is selected) • Face priority, wide area, average area |
| Shooting modes | • Single frame • Continuous Low [CL]: 1 – 4 fps • Continuous High [CH]: 4.5 fps • Self-Timer • Delayed remote, quick-response remote (optional Wireless Remote Control ML-L3 required for remote shooting) |
| Self-timer | • 2, 5, 10, and 20 s |
| Flash | • Auto pop-up type (auto pop-up in Auto, portrait, close-up, and night portrait modes) • Guide no. 12/39 (ISO 100, m/ft.) or 13/43 with manual flash (ISO 100, m/ft.) • Guide no. 17/56 (ISO 200, m/ft.) or 18/59 with manual flash (ISO 200, m/ft.) • Sufficient to illuminate the picture angle of an 18mm lens |
| Flash control | • TTL: i-TTL balanced fill-flash and standard i-TTL flash for digital SLR using 420-pixel
RGB sensor are available with built-in flash and SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, or SB-400 • Auto aperture: Available with SB-900, SB-800, and CPU lens • Non-TTL auto: Supported flash units include SB-900, SB-800, SB-28, SB-27, and SB-22s • Range-priority manual: Available with SB-900 and SB-800 |
| Flash Modes | • Auto, portrait, close-up – Auto and Auto with a red-eye reduction available with built-in flash – Fill-flash and red-eye reduction available with optional flash units • Night portrait – Auto slow sync and slow auto sync with a red-eye reduction available with built-in flash – Slow sync and slow sync with a red-eye reduction available with optional flash units • Landscape, sports – Fill-flash and red-eye reduction available with optional flash units • P, A- Fill-flash, rear-curtain with slow sync, slow auto sync, slow sync with red-eye reduction, red-eye reduction • S, M – Fill-flash, rear-curtain sync, red-eye reduction Front-curtain sync, slow sync, rear-curtain sync, red-eye reduction |
| Flash Accessory Shoe | ISO 518 standard-type hot shoe contact; Safety lock mechanism provided |
| Flash Sync Terminal | No |
| Flash compensation | • -3 to +1 EV • 1/3 or 1/2 EV steps |
| Creative Lighting System | • Advanced Wireless Lighting supported with built-in flash, SB-900, SB-800, or SU-800 as commander and SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, or SB-R200 as remotes • Auto FP High-Speed Sync and modeling illumination supported with all CLS-compatible flash units except SB-400 • Flash Color Information Communication and FV lock supported with all CLS-compatible flash units |
| Playback mode | • Full-frame playback • Movie playback • Thumbnail (4, 9, or 72 images or calendar) playback • Playback zoom (image size L up to approx. 27x, M up to approx. 20x, S up to approx. 13x) When one or more faces (up to 10) were detected with shooting, the faces are enclosed in white borders. When playback zoom is applied, different looks can be displayed by rotating the sub-command dial. • Slide show playback • Pictmotion • Histogram display • Highlights display • Auto image rotation • image comment (up to 36 characters) |
| Retouch functions | D-Lighting, red-eye correction, trim, monochrome, filter effects, color balance, small picture, image overlay, NEF (RAW) processing, quick retouching, straightening, distortion control, fisheye |
| Languages | • Chinese (Simplified and Traditional) • Danish • Dutch, • English, • Finnish, • French, • German, • Italian, • Japanese • Korean, • Norwegian, • Polish, • Portuguese, • Russian, • Spanish • Swedish |
| Connectivity | • USB 2.0 (Hi-Speed) Mini-B connector • PTP transfer protocol • NTSC or PAL video output • HDMI video out (version 1.3a, Type C mini connector provided) • Remote control / GPS terminal |
| Storage | • SD (Secure Digital) memory cards, SDHC-compliant |
| Power | • Lithium-Ion EN-EL3e (Approx. 850 shots, CIPA) • Included battery charger MH-18a • Optional AC adapter EH-5a/EH-5 • Optional Battery Pack MB-D80 |
| Vertical Grip | • Optional MB-D80 multi-power battery pack |
| Dimensions | Approx. 132 x 103 x 77 mm (5.2 x 4.1 x 3.0 in.) |
| Weight (no batt) | Approx. 620 g (1 lb. six oz.) without battery, memory card, body cap, or monitor cover |
| Operating environment | Temperature: 0 – 40 °C / 32 – 104 °F, Humidity: under 85% (no condensation) |
| Box contents | Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL3e, Quick Charger MH-18a, USB Cable UC-E4, Audio/Video Cable EG-D2, Camera Strap AN-DC1 Body Cap BF-1A, Accessory Shoe Cover BS-1, LCD Monitor Cover BM-10, Software Suite CD-ROM (Supplied accessories may differ depending on country or area) |
| Optional accessories | *Remote Cord MC-DC2, *GPS Unit GP-1, Photofinishing software Capture NX 2, AC Adapter EH-5/EH-5a, Multi-Power Battery Pack MB-D80, Magnifying Eyepiece DK-21M, Eyepiece Correction Lens DK-20C, Eyepiece Magnifier DG-2, Eyepiece Adapter DK-22, Right-Angle Viewing Attachment DR-6, Semi-soft Case CF-D80, Wireless Remote Control ML-L3, Sync Terminal Adapter AS-15, Camera Control Pro 2 |
Conclusion
Despite the addition of video, the D90 seems to adhere to the same concept as the D80, a photographer’s camera. It’s a highly competitive piece of equipment in terms of specs alone, but the features that have been picked and combined to create it make it the camera it is.
The D90 viewfinder is among the best available on an APS-C camera and is located above the camera’s highest-resolution screen to date. The two-dial interface is easy to use and has thoughtfully placed, well-chosen buttons. (Purchasers switching from other systems can even operate the meter and dials backward to make everything more acquainted.)
While it may require some internal setting adjustments to customize the output to particular demands, the image quality, whether at base ISO or the higher settings, is superb.
Although it makes sense that Nikon would want to try to align the processing settings with its more costly cameras, it is debatable how well the default output, which is rather under-sharpened, will suit the consumers of this camera. Nevertheless, things improve with slightly more contrast and saturation, with no adverse consequences.
The D90 was initially discussed about its video capabilities, and it does record HD videos—good ones, by the standards of digital stills cameras. However, remember that nothing can stop this camera from shooting pictures, so try not to let that deter you.
Because of its degree of configuration, it has lengthy menus, although they are typically organized and color-coded to reduce the chance that you would get lost in them.
A status screen that provides pretty quick access to those critical factors that lack their buttons is another option, as is the opportunity to make a menu of your most frequently used settings (or list the most recently used ones if you don’t want to spend time setting it up).
Nikon D90 Price
Nikon D90 D-SLR Camera Body
- 12.3MP
- 55-200mm zoom lens
- Built in video and editing
- 12.3MP
- 55-200mm zoom lens
- Built in video and editing
Nikon D90 FAQs
Is The Nikon D90 a professional camera?
Even though it was first introduced in 2008, the Nikon D90 can still be considered a professional camera, even though it has been on the market for over a decade.
Is the Nikon D90 still a good camera?
If you are looking for a camera that is easy on your wallet but does not skimp on quality features, the Nikon D90 is still an excellent choice.
Is Nikon D90 a DSLR or SLR?
The Nikon D90 is a digital single-lens reflex camera.
Is Nikon D90 suitable for beginners?
The Nikon D90 is a camera that has the potential to be useful for newcomers who are interested in learning photography abilities.
Is D90 a full-frame camera?
The Nikon D90 is not a full-frame camera but rather a camera with a compact sensor.
Is Nikon D90 good for portraits?
Although the Nikon D90 has its strengths in portrait photography, other cameras on the market might be an even better fit for this kind of work.
Does Nikon D90 have WIFI?
There is no built-in WIFI on the Nikon D90.
What is the best image quality for Nikon D90?
When using the Nikon D90, capturing RAW format results in the highest possible picture clarity.
How many megapixels is Nikon D90?
The image sensor in the Nikon D90 has a resolution of 12.3 megapixels.
What is the shutter life of a Nikon D90?
The Nikon D90 has a shutter with a life expectancy of approximately 100,000 actuation.
Is D90 mirrorless?
There is no mirrorless camera mode on the Nikon D90.
Is Nikon D90 good for wedding photography?
Even though the Nikon D90 can be used for wedding photographs, other cameras that are even more ideally suitable for this task may be available on the market.
Is the Nikon D90 good for bird photography?
Even though the Nikon D90 can be used for photographing birds, other cameras on the market may be more ideally suitable for doing so.
What is the maximum shutter speed for Nikon D90?
The Nikon D90 has the highest exposure speed of one-fourth of a thousandth of a second.
Does Nikon Nikon D90 have a flash?
The Nikon D90 comes equipped with a pop-up light designed right in.
Why won’t my Nikon D90 take pictures?
Suppose the shutter on your Nikon D90 isn’t working correctly or taking photographs at all. In that case, several potential causes exist, including a dead battery, a full memory card, or a malfunctioning shutter.
