Unleashing the Power of the Nikon Coolpix P90: A Review

Are you looking for a versatile camera that can capture stunning images and videos? Look no further than the Nikon Coolpix P90. In this review, we'll explore the features and capabilities of this camera, from its 24x zoom to its advanced shooting modes. Whether you're a professional photographer or just starting out, the Nikon Coolpix P90 can help you achieve your creative vision.

Written by Victor Chan | Updated: Mon May 01 2023

Nikon Coolpix P90 article cover photo

Key Features

Feb 03 2009

Announced

12 megapixels

Resolution

BrandNikon
Sensor Type1/2.3-inch
SensorCCD
Weight400g
MSRP$399USD

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Overview of the Coolpix P90

When it comes to photography, having the right tools can make all the difference. The Nikon Coolpix P90 is one such tool that can elevate your work to the next level. With a powerful zoom lens, innovative shooting modes, and intuitive controls, this camera offers something for everyone. In this review, we'll take a closer look at what makes the Nikon Coolpix P90 one of the most popular cameras on the market today. Get ready to unleash your creativity and capture stunning images with this amazing camera.

Nikon Coolpix P90 Pros and Cons

Now, we will look more closely at our review of the Nikon Coolpix P90 camera. We will see what it can do and compare it to other cameras like it. We will tell you what's good about it and what's not so good. This way, you'll know if it's the camera for you!

Pros

24x optical zoom for clear close-up shots
12.1 megapixel resolution for high-quality images
Vibration Reduction technology for steady shots
Manual controls for advanced photography
Large LCD screen for easy viewing and image previewing
Shoots HD video in 720p for professional-looking footage

Cons

Limited low-light performance
No external flash support
Bulkier than some compact cameras
Limited manual focus control
Short battery life
Slow autofocus in some situations

Build and Construction

Body and dimensions

Nikon Coolpix P90

Weather sealed
Dimensions83 x 114 x 99mm
Weight400g
Thickness99mm
Weight
Min
Avg
This
Max
Thickness
Min
Avg
This
Max

Weather Sealing

The Nikon Coolpix P90 is not sealed against water and dust, so it's important to be careful when using it in such conditions. If you often shoot in environments with water or dust, it's recommended to check out another camera with weather sealing.

Design and Handling

Main design features

View FinderElectronic
Screen TypeTilting
Screen Resolution230k dots
Body typeSLR-like (bridge)

Suitable for:

PhotographyAbove Avg.
VideographyAbove Avg.
TravelAbove Avg.

LCD Screen

This camera has a tilting 3.00" screen, with a display resolution of 230k dots. This makes the Nikon Coolpix P90 not as suitable for those looking for a vlogging camera as you cannot view yourself while shooting selfies easily. Unfortunately, the camera does not have a touch screen, which may make it less user-friendly.

Viewfinder

Coolpix P90 includes a electronic viewfinder with n/a of resolution with a coverage of n/a and a magnification of n/a. This feature enhances the camera's suitability for outdoor photography in bright conditions.

Image Quality

Nikon Coolpix P90 has a 12MP sized CCD sensor. You can shoot at maximum resolution of 12 pixels. Nikon Coolpix P90 has a native ISO range of 64 - 6400 which can be boosted to null - null.

Key Features

Feb 03 2009

Announced

64 - 6400

ISO Range

Sensor1/2.3-inch
Extended ISOnull - null
Max resolution4000 x 3000 pixels

DXO Sensor Scores

Overall

not tested

Color Depth

not tested

Dynamic Range

not tested

Low Light ISO

not tested

DXO mark sensor scores

The DXOmark rankings indicate that the Nikon Coolpix P90 camera has excellent color depth performance, which refers to the number of colors the sensor can distinguish. Additionally, its dynamic range is also excellent, allowing it to retain high amounts of details in both bright and dark areas of a scene. The camera's low light ISO performance is excellent, which is an important factor to consider if you plan to use it in dimly lit indoor environments or at night. Overall the image quality of the Coolpix P90 is excellent

Crop Factor

Camera crop factor (or focal length multiplier) refers to how a camera's sensor size affects the apparent field of view of a lens. Crop factor is determined by comparing the size of a camera's sensor to that of a full-frame sensor, which is a standard reference size for camera sensors.

Size comparison

Medium FormatFull FrameAPS-C (Sony, Nikon)

Crop factor calculator

Crop factor

1x

Full frame equivalent

24mm

This camera: 1/2.3-inch

24mm

850100150200

Connectivity, storage, battery

StorageSD/SDHC card, Internal
Battery Life
Battery ModelEN-EL5
HDMI
USD
Wireless Connectivity

Storage

The Nikon Coolpix P90 supports SD/SDHC card, Internal with 1 slots for storage. This may suffice for everyday use. However, for professional applications such as wedding photography, it is not recommended as a memory card malfunction could lead to the loss of all footage.

Battery

The Nikon Coolpix P90 uses the EN-EL5 model of undefined. This is rated for undefined shots which is high. If you intend to take photos or record videos for an extended period, it might be a good idea to bring along additional batteries.

Photography Features

Flash

The Nikon Coolpix P90 has built in flash which is great for event photography and in low light situations. However it lacks an external flash shoe, which limits you to using the built-in flash.

Shutter

The Nikon Coolpix P90 boasts a maximum mechanical shutter speed of 1/4000s, which is ideal for shooting fast-moving subjects in bright environments, such as in sports photography. Faster shutter speeds enable you to freeze the action and capture every detail, making it easier to get the perfect shot.

With a continuous mechanical shutter speed of n/a or an electronic shutter speed of n/a, this camera is not capable of capturing the perfect moment more easily, making it not as suited for wedding, sports, and wildlife photography. Higher shutter speeds make it easier to capture fast-paced action, ensuring that you never miss the perfect shot.

Autofocus

The Nikon Coolpix P90 includes contrast detection autofocus (AF), with null number of focus points.

While contrast detection is generally more accurate and precise, phase detection autofocus is faster and more effective in most situations, particularly when photographing moving subjects.

Phase detection autofocus works by dividing the incoming light into pairs and then analyzing how they intersect on the camera's sensor. This method allows the camera to determine not only if a subject is in focus but also the direction and distance needed to adjust the focus to achieve perfect sharpness.

On the other hand, contrast detection autofocus works by analyzing the contrast of an image and adjusting the focus until the highest contrast is detected. While this method is very accurate, it can be slow, especially in low light conditions or when photographing moving subjects.

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FAQ

What is the sensor size of the Nikon Coolpix P90?

The Nikon Coolpix P90 features a CCD sensor

Is the Nikon Coolpix P90 weather sealed?

No the Coolpix P90 does not have weather sealing.

When was the Nikon Coolpix P90 announced?

The Nikon Coolpix P90 was announced on Feb 03 2009

Does the Nikon Coolpix P90 have in-body image stabilization?

Yes the Coolpix P90 does have in-body image stabilization that can compensate for camera shake, making it easier to shoot handheld in low light conditions.

What is the ISO range of the Nikon Coolpix P90?

The Coolpix P90 has a native ISO range of 64-6400, which can be expanded to ISO null-null for even greater sensitivity in low light conditions.

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