Nikon's D90 Through the Eyes of a Video Pro

Exceeds demands of passionate photographers" is how Nikon's website describes the D90. Let's skip to the chase here and just say that what they're referring to, what everyone seems to talk about in reference to this camera (and the focus of this scathing editorial) is its ability to shoot video. Let's review Nikon's virtues before we lay into this particular camera. By way of disclosure let me say that I own a Nikon (an entry-level 35mm SLR, the N65) and frankly I love thing. Nikon makes some of the finest consumer lenses and, dollar-for-dollar, I'll take a Nikon over a Canon any day. As a digital SLR, the D90 meets industry benchmarks - more super-duper-mega-pixels than last year's model. That's appreciated, don't get me wrong, but that's normal for technology: cheaper and better as time goes by. It's when companies start adding bells and whistles that consumers didn't ask for that they get in trouble. I'm reminded here of the many jokes made around the pup-tent regarding why prosumer video cameras have the option to take stills. Much like the idea of an SLR that shoots video, I agree that there are certain specific situations that could warrant wanting to take pictures with my very-expensive-machine-designed-to-capture-motion; but really, wouldn't you just buy a still camera? We all love our Leatherman tools, but I wouldn't want to change a tire with one.