Nikon intros D5000 with swivel LCD, HD video

Nikon tonight unveiled a long-awaited update to its entry digital SLRs with the D5000. The camera claims a pair of firsts: it stands as the first Nikon DSLR of any type to use a swivel LCD and can use it to either provide settings or a new live view mode to compose shots from off-angle. Video is also new to the class and, as with the D90, lets photographers record 720p video with sound that can be previewed over HDMI output. In step with the movie upgrade, Nikon has boosted the sensor resolution to 12.3 megapixels and also extended the light sensitivity, which now reaches up to ISO 3,200 in normal shooting and up to ISO 6,400 in an extended mode. The camera designer has also solved a longstanding problem with its entry DSLRs by jumping the number of autofocusing points from just 3 to 11, adding 3D tracking for moving subjects, and allowing bracketing. Automatic sensor dust removal is now part of the design.

Since it still caters to beginners, the D5000 has automatic features borrowed from higher-end point-and-shoot cameras such as scene recognition and presets for monochrome or other shooting modes. Active D-Lighting is taken from the D90 and helps restore details to shadows as well as reduce the likelihood of blown-out highlights.

Nikon expects to start shipping the camera in May and will price it at about $850 mated to an 18-55mm VR lens kit. Body-only pricing is estimated at $730.

A new 10-24mm f/3.4-4.5 lens is also launching today and is built for very wide angle shots such as macros; an internal focusing system prevents the lens from tapping a close-up subject. It should be available at the same time as the D5000, will work with any DX-mount camera that supports AF-S, and should cost $900.

Nikon D5000 Specs:

• 12.3 Megapixel CMOS sensor (similar to the one on the D90)
• Supports all Nikon F-mount lenses
  • Autofocus only available with AF-S and AI-S lenses (just like the D40/D60)
  • As usual, there’s a 1.5X focal length conversion ratio
• Relatively compact body; shutter rated at 100,000 cycles
• Flip-down, rotating 2.7” LCD display with 230,000 pixels
• Optical viewfinder has 0.78x magnification and 95% coverage
• 11-point autofocus system
• Live view with contrast detect AF and face detection
• Full manual controls, plus tons of scene modes
• ISO range of 200 - 3200, expandable to 100 - 6400
• Can record HD movies at 1280 x 720 (24 fps) using the M-JPEG codec, just like the D90; there is no continuous AF while you’re recording a movie
• Auto Active D-Lighting improves overall image contrast
• Quiet Release Mode reduces mirror cycling noise so you don’t startle your subject
• Numerous retouching tools in playback mode
• Dust reduction system
• SD/SDHC memory card slot
• Support for optional GPS unit
• HDMI port
• Uses EN-EL9a lithium-ion battery; 510 shots per charge
• Ships in late April; get the body only for $730, or with an F3.5-5.6, 18-55 mm VR lens for $850