D5000 Review: Nikon D5000 Digital Camera
D5000 Review
We all know that before you spend any of your hard earned money on a new DSLR digital camera, you should know a little about it first..
That's why we've created this special page within the site to advise on all the different features and specifications available on the Nikon D5000 and how it compares to other Nikon DSLR's.
Nikon has been in the photography industry for many years since the early years of film photography. Now they continue to release and support digital cameras of all different sizes for professionals, enthusiasts, and ordinary consumers that want to have fun taking pictures of other people or landscapes.
They are offering a wide range of COOLPIX models where most of them are point-and-shoot devices along with some DSLR cameras for different crowds. It is impossible to determine the best Nikon digital camera since each camera is intended for a different audience. But in terms of getting the most out of the money spent, the Nikon D5000 is a fantastic deal. Here are some of the features that make the D5000 one of the best of the pack.
The price tag of the D5000 is quite accessible for a midrange DSLR camera ($630) and is the main reason why this Nikon camera possesses such great value. That is roughly $100 more than the high-end COOLPIX P7000 but the D5000 offers plenty of features that are not present any COOLPIX model. The D90 is one of the best Nikon digital cameras in the DSLR category but the $900 price tag means that it is not for everyone. But the D5000 has the essence of the D90 with the right features removed to make the camera easier to use for those that are new to DSLR models.
The package includes the 3x Zoom AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens which is a good kit lens as it offers image stabilization. This pairs well with the 12.3 megapixel specification as it is enough to take large photos that can be printed on posters or finer photos if the image needs cropping. The lack of special modes may make the D5000 a bit stripped but it has the essential ISO sensitivity ranges from 200 to 3200.
One of features that were retained is the Active D-Lighting. This is a valuable addition that emphasizes shadow details if used correctly. It comes with an Active D-Lighting bracketing feature so photographers that press the shutter twice can see the results between Auto D-Lighting and no D-Lighting settings. The RAW+JPEG mode can be used to preserve the original quality and there are different quality settings to choose from to suit different memory sizes. The D5000 can even correct chromatic aberration automatically so JPEG images look better.
It is also a well-rounded with manual and auto-focus features. The magnified Live View aids photographers greatly when manual focusing is required while the AF system operates quickly with decent shutter response. The AF-assist lamp is bright and is completely independent from the flash.
The D5000 does not really have any show stopping features although the Live View and movie recording are fresh additions that even the younger audiences will enjoy. It is really the entire package and its low price that really makes this camera more attractive to different kinds of photographers than any other Nikon DSLR model. It pairs these nice features with an accessible and speedy interface that makes good use of the LCD display. The D5000 is aging but it is still Nikon's latest midrange offering as of January 2011 and the price will drop down when Nikon announces its successor.
Many top manufacturers are competing heavily in the photography category where each manufacturer provides a number of decent point-and-shoot and DSLR cameras for certain consumers to enjoy. Some manufacturers fill in special niches as well to give photographers even more options. One of the ways that you can tell which company is ahead is by judging their lineup of DSLR cameras.
The DSLR offerings of every company are just a handful compared to the smaller compact models making it easier to analyze how advanced their imaging technologies really are. Nikon is not new to this game and in fact is showing a lot of promise with certain models like the Nikon D5000 enjoying great success. Here are some of the reasons as to why Nikon cameras are ranked are one of the best out there.
Power and Performance
Nikon cameras provide enough power that the intended audience requires. Only certain models like the Nikon D3X provide very high megapixel counts while most of the other models provide about 12 megapixels. In fact, the Nikon D5000 provides a slightly higher 12.3 megapixel count than the more expensive full-frame Nikon D700. Megapixels alone do not define the performance of the camera which is why Nikon emphasizes its EXPEED image processing technology so images look great. The Nikon D5000 is just a midrange camera but it still outputs some nice photos thanks to the enhancements made by Active D-Lighting.
Support and Versatility
Many Nikon DSLR cameras like the Nikon D5000 use the Nikon F bayonet mount so it can support many kinds of Nikon lenses. The NIKKOR optics has been highly praised by professional photographers for its precision and clarity. It uses special optical glass materials to stand out from the rest of the lenses. Those that cannot afford separate lenses can always go for models that have kit lenses. Most of the models that include kit lenses are usually entry-level but the D5000 comes with kit lens as well. It comes with the AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens which is impressive because of its image stabilization profile. Each of these Nikon models feature a friendly interface so amateur photographers can jump right in and take good shots. D5000 users will also like the versatility due to the articulating LCD display that makes it easier to take overhead shots.
Value and Variety
Nikon wants to make sure that every price point is appropriately filled. Those that want decent performance and easy usability will go for the COOLPIX series while aspiring enthusiasts will try out the entry-level D3000 and D3100 models. The D90 is an excellent prosumer model if the price is acceptable but the D5000 is more affordable and comes with unique features like Live View and HD movie recording. It is also expected for Nikon to refresh the midrange series since they recently released the new prosumer D7000 model. This means that prices of older models will go down and the D5000 still remains as a good choice.
The D5000 is a good representation on how good Nikon is really doing with their models. The company knows how to balance the features out with the price so photographers can effectively utilize their creativity without feeling too limited with the camera specifications. Those that need more power can always upgrade lens or get a higher-end model.
DSLR cameras are far more expensive than the smaller and lighter point-and-shoot models. But when using some of the decent point-and-shoot models from respectable lineups like the Nikon COOLPIX devices, the quality actually does not disappoint even when printing images that are taken with some of the top rated COOLPIX units.
The real difference between these models and the average DSLR camera is the specifications and features. It is all about when you need these specs depending on what type of photography you will be doing. Therefore it is important to get the features and specifications of a DSLR before buying. For instance, an in-depth look at the Nikon D5000 shows that the camera serves as a decent midrange performer.
General Specifications
The Nikon D5000 is equipped with a DX-format CMOS imaging sensor that can take 12.3-megapixel images. It is enhanced by the EXPEED image processing technology as well as the NIKKOR optics so the image quality surpasses any point-and-shoot device. The Nikon F bayonet mount means that various old lenses can be used including the lens (AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR) that comes with the package. Standard ISO sensitivity ranges from 200 to 3200.
On large settings, the D5000 can take 4,288 x 2,848 pixel images in compressed 12-bit NEF or JPEG formats. These formats are stored in any SD or SDHC cards that are present inside the slot. The camera can also connect to other devices via USB or HDMI.
The display measures 2.7 inches and it articulates for added versatility. It can fold downwards and swing 180 degrees to make it much easier for overhead shooting. It has a resolution of 230,000 dots with a 170-degree viewing angle.
Features
The D5000 features a dedicated button that activates the Live View mode. The view offers Face Priority AF along with 4 autofocus modes so the optical viewfinder is not an absolute requirement for shooting.
The Nikon D5000 also offers an HD movie mode which is unique to the lineup of DSLR cameras. It is capable of recording 720p video at a standard 24 frames per second making it friendly for viewing on TV displays. All recorded video use the Motion JPEG format which has the AVI file extension. Although autofocus is not supported during recording, it can take advantage of any of the lenses whether it is wide-angle or telephoto. Movies are recorded with monaural sound and it supports stop motion movie creation.
Alongside the EXPEED image processing system, the D5000 applies the Nikon 3D Color Matrix Metering II technology and Scene Recognition System to get the best exposure and autofocus resulting to better colors. The Active D-Lighting feature automatically solves some issues with the highlights and shadows.
Any photos that are stored in memory can be edited directly from the camera. Several adjustments can be made including red-eye removal, color outlining, perspective correction, and many other filter edits for creative purposes.
Bottom Line
The D5000 is a solid midrange offering that is priced at around $630. It is lighter than the high-end models and the movie recording and live view features make the D5000 very unique with similarities only to the D90 and some newer models. It is also compatible with a number of accessories including the GP-1 GPS unit.
Nikon has been in the photography industry for many years since the early years of film photography. Now they continue to release and support digital cameras of all different sizes for professionals, enthusiasts, and ordinary consumers that want to have fun taking pictures of other people or landscapes. They are offering a wide range of COOLPIX models where most of them are point-and-shoot devices along with some DSLR cameras for different crowds. It is impossible to determine the best Nikon digital camera since each camera is intended for a different audience. But in terms of getting the most out of the money spent, the Nikon D5000 is a fantastic deal. Here are some of the features that make the D5000 one of the best of the pack.
The price tag of the D5000 is quite accessible for a midrange DSLR camera ($630) and is the main reason why this Nikon camera possesses such great value. That is roughly $100 more than the high-end COOLPIX P7000 but the D5000 offers plenty of features that are not present any COOLPIX model. The D90 is one of the best Nikon digital cameras in the DSLR category but the $900 price tag means that it is not for everyone. But the D5000 has the essence of the D90 with the right features removed to make the camera easier to use for those that are new to DSLR models.
The package includes the 3x Zoom AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens which is a good kit lens as it offers image stabilization. This pairs well with the 12.3 megapixel specification as it is enough to take large photos that can be printed on posters or finer photos if the image needs cropping. The lack of special modes may make the D5000 a bit stripped but it has the essential ISO sensitivity ranges from 200 to 3200.
One of features that were retained is the Active D-Lighting. This is a valuable addition that emphasizes shadow details if used correctly. It comes with an Active D-Lighting bracketing feature so photographers that press the shutter twice can see the results between Auto D-Lighting and no D-Lighting settings. The RAW+JPEG mode can be used to preserve the original quality and there are different quality settings to choose from to suit different memory sizes. The D5000 can even correct chromatic aberration automatically so JPEG images look better.
It is also a well-rounded with manual and auto-focus features. The magnified Live View aids photographers greatly when manual focusing is required while the AF system operates quickly with decent shutter response. The AF-assist lamp is bright and is completely independent from the flash.
The D5000 does not really have any show stopping features although the Live View and movie recording are fresh additions that even the younger audiences will enjoy. It is really the entire package and its low price that really makes this camera more attractive to different kinds of photographers than any other Nikon DSLR model. It pairs these nice features with an accessible and speedy interface that makes good use of the LCD display. The D5000 is aging but it is still Nikon's latest midrange offering as of January 2011 and the price will drop down when Nikon announces its successor.