I chose the Nikon D5000 because it best replaced the features of the two cameras that I previously used and to which I was accustomed: the Nikon D40 and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ50 superzoom. The Nikon D5000 is quite a few steps up from the Nikon D40.

So now that I have it, how do I like it?

I can sum it up in three words … I love it!  It fully met and exceeded my expectations. After using the D5000 for some time now, I am very impressed.

Here are some of my findings:

D5000 and D40 compatibility

• D40 batteries compatible with the D5000
• uses SD memory cards like the D40
• kit lens of the D40 (18-55mm Nikkor) also compatible with D5000 enabling me to save money by buying the body. The Nikkor 18-55mm kit lens available with D5000 has Vibration Reduction (Image Stabilization), and the D40′s does not.

Features of the D5000 which encouraged my purchase:

• higher ISO capability than the D40
• larger body than D40
• High Definition video capability
• self-cleaning sensor

Main features

Physical Size:

• Larger body (about 1/4″ taller than D40) is much easier to hold

Shutter speed:

• fast 1/4000 … and down to 30 sec., and bulb
• easy to adjust in Shutter Priority, Aperture Priority, and Manual modes using the command dial on the back of the camera.

Viewfinder:

• diopter adjustment control (really helps those of us who wear glasses)
• optional grid on viewfinder is very helpful
• 11 focus points; easy to select using the cursor buttons

LCD screen/monitor:

• very clear and large (2.7”)
• it tilts and swivels so the screen can be moved 180 degrees in varying angles, which is especially great for those “bug’s-eye-view” macro shots
• very helpful option for increasing time for images to remain on screen after shot, and in playback mode
• menu rotates when camera used in vertical (90 degree) position

ISO values:

• I am really pleased with the quality of shots at higher ISO values – ISO 3200, and even beyond
• noise is minimal (much better than D40), even at “High” values
  

  Crops of high ISO photos taken with the D5000. Click for larger view.

Li-ion EN-EL9a battery:

• Excellent battery life – even with flash (rated at 510 single-frame shots with flash on every other shot, and 2900 continuous-release shots)
• EN-EL9 from D40 works on D5000 also
• same charger works for both the EN-EL9a and the EN-EL9

Live view:

• handy, easily accessed “Lv” button on rear of camera to turn off/on live view
• a little slow – due to extra mirror movement (it is raised during live view) when shutter is released
• autofocus is pickier and slower in live view – manual focus is just fine. There are some situations where autofocus will actually not function in live view. They are listed in the camera manual.
• framing grid option – helps in keeping those horizons level
• face priority autofocus – available only with live view – finds and focuses on faces in the frame

HD movie mode:

• 24 fps
• audio – not the best; no volume control for input though there is an option to turn it off
• great image quality, even at smaller sizes
• three sizes: 1280×720, 640×242, 320×216
• can record up to 20 min in the two smaller sizes, only 5 min at 1280×720 (depending on the memory card capacity and speed)
• exposure adjusts with changes in frame (or can be locked)
• manual focus only, after recording begins – kinda awkward

Menus:

• Custom Setting Menu very easy to understand, and quick and simple to find desired settings