Nikon today announced their new and "highly anticpated" new DSLR, the D5000. This 12.3MP is the latest DSLR to drift over into the prosumer/point & shoot territory by offering a movie mode and 19 preset scene shooting modes. I'm not sure that someone who wants movie mode and preset scenes (and there is nothing wrong with that in and of itselft) is actually the type to need a full-feature DSLR with interchangable lenses. But then again I've seen many people who think that just buying a better camera makes them a better photographer, so what do I know?
Highlights of the D5000 include:
- 12.3-megapixel DX-format CMOS image sensor
- D-Movie Mode with sound
- Vari-angle color LCD monitor
- 19 Auto-exposure Scene Modes
- One-button Live View
- Continuous shooting as fast as 4 frames-per-second
- Low noise ISO sensitivity from 200 to 3200
- 11-point autofocus system with 3D Focus Tracking
- Available late April 2009 for $849.95 (camera outfit with 18-55mm VR lens) or $729.95 (camera body only)
Nikon has also launched the new 10-24mm DX lens, which offers photo enthusiasts the chance to enjoy the benefits of ultra-wide angle photography with their DX format Nikon DSLR. The new lens will be available early May 2009 for $899.95