Review: Nikon D5000

It's always great to get your hands on a new Nikon camera, and the recently introduced D5000 is certainly no exception. After shooting with this newest camera, I'd prefer not to have to give it back.

Right out of the box, the camera is ready to make fine images. Whether in the full auto mode, or one of the scene modes geared toward particular kinds of pictures, you can just point and shoot. The standard 18-55 zoom lens with Nikon's built in vibration reduction (VR) feature covers the typical range of subjects from wide angle to short telephoto images. It can also be used to shoot HD video, and supports Nikon's raw image format, NEF, that allows for the most creative control and the highest quality from computer based digital editing.

But here's where the camera's capabilities make things a little more interesting from a photographer's perspective. The camera is an excellent introduction to the full range of the Nikon system.

Of course there is the legendary range of Nikon's lenses stretching from the ultra wide to the super telephoto and includes a range of high speed, close up, and perspective correction lenses. In fact, lenses dating back to the introduction of the durable Nikon bayonet mount in 1959 can be used to take pictures with the camera. Although older lens can only be used in full manual mode, they can be used. The newest lenses, designed to meet the needs of the most demanding professional photographers, fully take advantage of the D5000's complex exposure modes and accurate autofocus system.

The D5000 fully and seamlessly integrates with the Nikon Creative Lighting System built around the company's high end flash units. By combining the camera with the accessory flash units, the photographer can have complete control over multiple lighting setups.

While the average user might never take full advantage of the capabilities that the D5000 has to offer, it is a great little camera. It fits comfortably into the hand, and controls are intuitive, and familiar to anyone who has used Nikons in the past. The viewfinder is bright and clear, and the large, sharp screen gives quick access to control menus and settings. Image playback is quick, and the user can easily review results from photo sessions. The screen's unique ability to twist and rotate, combined with a Live View function, is useful for composing pictures with the camera held at arms length.

The D5000, selling for about $850 with the standard 18mm-55mm VR zoom lens, is a great buy and an excellent camera.

by Rick Musacchio