NIKON D5000

Nikon D5000 could easily be seen as a Nikon D60 with a tilting screen added, and most of a Nikon D90 stuffed into it. As such it offers quite a few feature improvements over its little brother. The Nikon D5000 24-fps HD D-Movie mode with sound captures video clips with amazing clarity--offering new and exciting creative opportunities. Featuring a convenient built-in flash, 19 automatic exposure Scene Modes to make the impossible easy and 23 Custom Setting options to fit your preferences, as well as 14 in-camera image retouching functions, the Nikon D5000 is the perfect DSLR, beginning with performance to meet your picture-taking tomorrows. Fast, accurate 11-point autofocus with 3D Tracking, teamed with famous NIKKOR optics, assures incredible image sharpness, while active image sensor cleaning combats annoying dust automatically.

Nikon D5000 Body Feature Highlight

Here are Nikon D5000 highlight feature, just to make sure, this product is the best Entry Level Digital SLR Camera.

• 12.3-megapixel DX-format CMOS image sensor. Coupled with Nikon's EXPEED image processing and NIKKOR optics, breathtaking picture quality is assured.
• Built-in image sensor cleaning. Effective 4-frequency, ultrasonic sensor cleaning keeps images spot free.
• Low noise ISO sensitivity from 200 to 3200. Engineered for exceptional low-light shooting.
• Vari-angle color LCD monitor. Position the 2.7-inch monitor freely for fresh shooting perspectives. Screen flips inward for safe keeping.
• D-Movie Mode with sound. Record 720p HD movie clips enhanced by NIKKOR interchangeable lens quality and versatility.
• 3x Zoom AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens included. Legendary NIKKOR optical quality features Nikon VR image stabilization for added sharpness.
• In-camera Retouch image editing. Creative in-camera image editing, featuring Soft Filter, Straighten, Color Outline Effect, Perspective Control, Red-eye Correction, Image Overlay, Monochrome and more—all without a PC.
• Auto Active D-Lighting. Restores lost shadow and highlight detail in high contrast exposures—Selectable and Auto modes available.
• 11-point autofocus system with 3D Focus Tracking. Fast and accurate autofocus delivers razor sharpness.
• One-button Live View. Easy Live View access offers 4 autofocus modes, including Face Priority AF. Continuous shooting as fast as 4 frames-per-second. Combined with fast power-up and split-second shutter response, decisive moments are captured easily without annoying shooting lag.
• 19 Auto-exposure Scene Modes. Capture stunning photos in challenging picture-taking situations including Sunsets, Candlelight, Silhouette, Portrait, Landscape, Beach/Snow, and more.
• Picture Control Settings for personal image control.Standard, Neutral, Vivid, Monochrome, Portrait, Landscape and 9 customizable settings.
• GPS geo-tagging. GP-1 GPS unit (optional) automatically identifies and records every image’s latitude, longitude and altitude, with satellite time-of-day.
• Durable, high precision shutter. Testing to over 100,000 cycles assures precision and long shutter life.
• Nikon 3D Color Matrix Metering II. Nikon’s renowned 420-pixel RGB 3D Color Matrix Metering II, teamed with the exclusive Scene Recognition System, evaluates each scene for unmatched exposure accuracy.

NIKON D90 FULL REVIEW

Nikon rocked the DSLR world when it announced the D90, the first digital SLR camera to incorporate video recording. That feature needs refinement, but purely as a photographer's tool, the D90 stacks up as a worthy successor to the Nikon D80 on several counts. And it compares favorably to the competition, scoring well in our image-quality tests.

The D90, which costs $1250 (as of 11/15/08) with its AF-S ED 18mm-to-105mm kit lens, packs several upgrades: It inherits the excellent, crisp 3-inch LCD from the prosumer-level Nikon D300, it adds a new CMOS sensor, and it pumps up the resolution to 12.3 megapixels (from 10.2 megapixels on the D80). In addition to video, you'll find other features inspired by point-and-shoots, such as live view, face detection, in-camera retouching, and a calendar feature that allows you to view your shots by date.

The D90 weighs slightly more than its predecessor; it's solid and well built, but not too hefty. The camera feels substantial, but its grip is comfortable, and its design is pretty intuitive, with dedicated function buttons and common scene settings on the top dial. It also sports a dense, though easily navigable, menu system with some user-friendly elements borrowed from the D80, such as My Menu, which allows you to save your most frequently used settings. Non-Nikon users should find the interface visually appealing and easy to use; Nikon veterans will find shooting straightforward right out of the box.

The back of the D90 sports a button that activates the live view function, which includes still and video recording (the latter 720p at 24 fps). Once live view is activated, everything slows down as the mirror flips up, the shutter opens, and software takes over the recording process. While shooting stills, I found live view too clunky and its autofocus too slow, so I opted to use the viewfinder instead.

Before recording video, you must set the autofocus on your subject using live view. While recording, the D90 automatically adjusts for exposure, but not focus. You can manually adjust focus while shooting, but I found this too awkward to do without a tripod. Also, because of the way that CMOS records an image, you may see "rolling" (a shake-like impression) in your footage, which detracts from the overall quality and creative potential of the video feature. Clips longer than 5 minutes may cause the camera sensor to grow discernably warm, too.

Audio quality from the camera's built-in microphone was not great, and unfortunately you cannot use the mic to record notes on your still shots. Judging from my hands-on experience, I'd say that the D90's video function, though a welcome innovation, needs further development. In the meantime, I'm happy to use my point-and-shoot for off-the-cuff videos.

The D90 excelled in the PC World Test Center's evaluation: It came in second only to the Canon 50D in our digital camera tests. I was generally pleased with my field test shots. The D90 was quick to autofocus and usually was on the mark. The auto-flash also performed consistently well. I found that the camera tended to blow out the brightest highlights, however, and I saw some minor halos along very high-contrast edges. When I switched to high-quality JPEG from RAW, it produced a slight but noticeable softening in the images.

The image quality at high ISOs was very good compared with that of other models I've tried recently: Although some noise appeared in darker areas at speeds above 400, it was minimal, looking more like film grain than the usual jarring digital noise with accompanying sludgy colors. My RAW files showed a pretty impressive dynamic range; the JPEGs, a little less so but still quite good. A bit of sharpening and sometimes a contrast boost helped the look of JPEGs significantly. (You can make those settings in-camera.)

With its improved LCD, slightly larger frame of view, dust-cleaning sensor, enhanced 3D 11-point autofocus, an optional GPS attachment, and the ability to make a video here and there, the D90 definitely has an array of interesting features. And simply as a camera, the D90 turns out some of the best results you can buy.

CHOOSING THE BEST TENT

Going to your first camping trip? This is the excitement you will feel in choosing your very first camping tent. After all, this will be your home away from home. Here are the essentials you might like to consider:

Type

Consider what type of camping you would like to do. A car camping tent offers much more floor space and headroom than a backpacking tent but are heavier and typically more difficult to setup than backpacking tents. A backpacking tent can double as a car camping tent but a car camping tent is too heavy and cumbersome to be used as a backpacking tent.

Weight

Lighter is usually better when it comes to a backpacking tent, but typically the lighter then tent the more expensive it is. In general you don’t want to be carrying a tent that weighs over 5 pounds and the lighter then tent the more comfortable your back will be.

Size

Tents are sized by their per-person capacity and are designed to fit snugly. That being said, a two-person tent will fit two people snugly so if you would like a roomier tent go up a person size.

Climate

All tents do not repel water and protect against the wind equally. Most campers choose a three-season tent, which means the tent is suitable for spring, summer, and fall conditions. If you will be camping in humid, rainy conditions choose a tent with plenty of ventilation and rain coverage and if you plan on being in windy conditions look for a tent with good stability and extra guylines.

Cost

Tents can range anywhere from $100 to well over $500. If you are just getting started camping or backpack infrequently choose a tent in the lower range. Higher priced tents usually just buy you extra features and a lighter weight.

Design

Tents come with a variety of design features. Tents vary in the number of doors, windows, storage elements, design of rainfall, presence of vestibules, and ventilation features.

ESSENTIAL HIKING EQUIPMENTS

Whether you’re backpacking the Appalachian Trail or planning a day hike with your family for the first time, there are some pieces of hiking gear you should never forget. Here are the essential hiking equipments:

BACKPACK

First, you need a rugged hiking backpack to comfortably hold the rest of your gear. A small day pack may be all you need if most of your hikes are short and you seldom plan to stay overnight. If you are planning longer hiking trips, look for a backpack that fits comfortably with plenty of compartments and enough room for all your food and equipment.

FOOTWEAR

Proper footwear is another essential piece of hiking gear, regardless of where and how long you are hiking. Select hiking boots or shoes that are designed for the type of terrain you will most often be hiking and make sure they are a comfortable fit. Wear high quality hiking socks as well, designed for the specific climate you are in and cushioned for extra support. For a more precise fit, buy your hiking socks first and wear them to shop for your hiking boots.

MAP

Always have a map of the area you are hiking, as well as a compass. The Coleman digital compass is great for backcountry hiking. Trail maps are typically available at the ranger station for most state and national hiking trail systems.

FOOD

Food and water is a must, no matter how long you are hiking. Long hikes require at least one gallon of water per person each day, while 32 ounces of water per person is usually adequate on shorter hikes. Bring along plenty of calorie rich snacks, like jerky and trail mix, for all your hikes and pack an extra day’s supply of food for overnight hikes. It’s a good idea to bring enough food for both lunch and dinner on your day hikes, just in case things take longer than planned.

FIRST AID KIT

You will also want a first aid kit with you on all your hiking trips. Unless you are hiking in extreme conditions, you will just want the basics for insect bites, minor scrapes, blisters, thorns, and other common trail ailments. Sunscreen, lip balm, and insect repellent should also be included in your hiking first aid bag.

GEARS

Never start out on a hiking trip without rain gear and extra clothing, especially in areas with very unpredictable weather. A lightweight rain jacket with a hood is perfect if you get caught in the rain. An emergency shelter may be a necessity for extreme weather hiking and an emergency blanket is a must if you’re hiking in the winter.

Another essential piece of hiking equipment that you shouldn’t forget is a small flashlight. Flashlights are crucial for long hikes when you need to find your way around camp, but they can prove to be handy on day hikes as well if you are still hiking at sunset.

Make sure everyone you are hiking with has a whistle for emergencies. Other hiking gear you should bring on every trip is some sort of fire starter, along with wind and rain resistant matches, and a multi-purpose knife.

These are the most basic essentials for any hiking trip. Longer trips will require additional gear, as will extreme weather hikes. You may want additional gear, depending on your hike and your interests, like binoculars, a hiking pole, or a trail guide.

HIKING ESSENTIALS FOR BEGINNERS

The newest gadgets, enhanced gear, and other camping necessities are now showcased on the different forms of media. New camp destinations are also featured on magazines and television programs. These “new and improved” products and newly discovered “haven for campers” are a bait to both professional and amateur campers. They also encourage non-camping people to try the activity whether for the purpose of hobby, leisure or sports.

But before joining the circle of campers, a beginner must keep in mind the basics of camping. Unlike professionals and non-beginners, first-time campers need to familiarize themselves more with the fundamentals.

Here are the things a beginner must remember when going to a camping/hiking activity:

1. Choose The Right Pair Of Boots

Boots are considered the most important gear in camping or hiking. Aside from protecting the feet, boots help the camper navigate at ease. One has to choose the pair that fits perfectly to his feet.

2. Choose The Right Backpack

Backpack comes in different sizes and styles. But not because the bag looks big, it is the best to buy. Choose a bag that can contain more but is not too bulky to carry.

3. Choose The Right Tent

A big sized tent is the best for camping. A spacious tent will not only allow the camper to outstretch his body while sleeping, but will also allow air to circulate freely. Buy the tent with a good ventilation system.

4. Travel Light

Don’t bring everything. Eliminate the stuff that is not necessary for the camping.

The following are a must:

Water (at least 1 litre for short hikes)
Compass or Map
Extra light clothes Matches
Swiss Knife
First aid kit
Rain gear
Food
Flashlight
Personals (toothbrush, soap, shampoo etc.)
Cooking equipment (stove, pan, dipper )

5. Bring The Right Food

Do not bring foods that are easily spoiled. Canned foods are ideal. Avoid foods with sauces and broth that might spill onto other stuff in your bag. Do not bring fruits. Foods rich in carbohydrates like noodles, rice and cheese are essential. However, food is no big deal. Juts make sure it won’t spill or get spoiled.

These basic reminders should not keep a beginner restricted or burdened with when hiking or camping. He is free to do, to eat and to wear anything he wants, making sure it will not compromise his safety and comfort.

Whether a beginner or a professional, either for leisure or for sports, the most important thing is that the camper enjoys.

FUNCTIONAL DSLR BAG

I have always wanted a very functional camera bag that i could bring almost anywhere. I wanted my bag to fit in my dslr and laptop so that I can shoot and edit photos on the spot. After researching, I found the perfect bag that's compact and very functional for my everyday travel: The Lowepro Fastpack 250.

The Lowepro Fastpack 250 comes in 3 color choices. Classic Black, Arctic Blue Black, and Red Black

Go all day with the lightweight, comfortable Fastpack 250 backpack. It protects your digital SLR and 15.4" widescreen notebook compactly while providing generous storage for your other gear. Side-entry compartments let you quickly grab equipment and accessories, even while you're on the move. Customize the easy-to-access main compartment with adjustable dividers. A comfortable mesh waistbelt helps distribute weight evenly.

SPECIFICATIONS

Capacity:
1 digital SLR with a mid-range zoom lens attached plus 2-3 additional lenses or flash units (up to a 70-300 f/4.5, 15.4" widescreen notebook, memory cards, batteries and cables.

Size(Interior):
11W X 5.9D X 9.3H in./
28 X 15 X 23.5 cm

Size(Exterior):
12.4W X 9.4D X 18.1H in./
31.5 X 24 X 46 cm

Notebook Compartment Inner Dimensions:
11W X 1.5D X 17.7H in./
28 X 3.75 X 45 cm

Weight:
3.62lbs/1.64kg

I will continue to give you great camera bags that fits you.

BUYING YOUR FIRST CAMERA

Let's explore some tips on choosing digital cameras in this article. Hopefully, it will help you choose the camera that's just right for you.

In fact, buying a digital camera need not be a difficult task. Let us highlight the key considerations you need to think through before making that purchase decision. Always, always remember to consider these factors when buying a digital camera:

User Controls

If you are getting a point-and-shoot camera, make sure you find one that's easy to use. User controls to set resolution, macro mode, flash and exposure should be within easy reach. Of course, if you're a serious photography buff who wants to take the time to tweak all sorts of manual settings. I prefer to try out the camera first in the store - play with the controls and get comfortable with them. Only then will you know whether it's comfortable enough for you.

Megapixels

The megapixel rating of a digital camera determines how much fine detail you can capture in your shots. How do you decide how many megapixels you need? As a rule of thumb, if you're only interested in taking small snapshots to send via email or for posting on the Web, you won't need more than 6 to10 megapixels. If you want large print outs of your gorgeous photographs, then you'll probably want to get 12 to megapixel cameras and above.

Exposure Control

The ability to control exposure settings such as shutter speed and lens opening is critical to professional photographers. Cheaper digital cameras only allow you to shoot photos in automatic mode - just press the shutter release and voila, your picture is taken. More advanced users prefer to tweak the shutter speed and aperture to capture fast moving objects or blur the image background. Choose a camera with good exposure control if you foresee yourself taking on photography as a serious hobby.

Lens

You'll definitely want a camera with decent optical zoom. Now the keyword here is optical zoom (as opposed to digital zoom). Optical zoom physically moves the camera lenses to zoom in on a subject. Digital zoom, however, digitally averages and magnifies the image within the camera's microchip - resulting in poor picture quality. Many manufacturers' advertisements talk about digital zoom instead of optical zoom - so do be careful when choosing. I'd recommend getting at least 3x optical zoom in any camera you buy.

Battery Life

This has got to be one of the most overlooked features in digital cameras. I know many people who go for the latest and greatest digital cameras which are short in the battery life department. If you want to take good photos, your camera needs to be powered for extended periods of time. I've found that cost and battery life don't go together - many cheap cameras have good battery life, while some high-end models drain your battery really fast. Make sure you choose a camera that has good battery life.