The Nikon D5000 is kind of like a mix between a D40 and D90.  It takes image quality almost as good as those of D300 and D90 but is nearly the size of a D40.

If you’re not hardcore enough for the D90 or simply does not need all its features the D5000 is perfect.  But any beginner should go for the D40.

The camera can record video and sound, but the quality isn’t breathtaking, better to get any cheap camcorder out there.

One selling point of this camera is its exceptionaly quite, especially with “quite mode” on.

Nikon D5000 priced at $729.95 from NikonUsa.

Here’s some key features

• 12.3-megapixel DX-format CMOS image sensor
  Coupled with Nikon’s EXPEED image processing and NIKKOR optics, breathtaking picture quality is assured.
• D-Movie Mode with sound
  Record 720p HD movie clips enhanced by NIKKOR interchangeable lens quality and versatility.
• Vari-angle color LCD monitor
  Position the 2.7-inch monitor freely for fresh shooting perspectives. Screen flips inward for safe keeping.
• 19 Auto-exposure Scene Modes
  Capture stunning photos in challenging picture-taking situations including Sunsets, Candlelight, Silhouette, Portrait, Landscape, Beach/Snow, and more.
• 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.
• Low noise ISO sensitivity from 200 to 3200
  Engineered for exceptional low-light shooting.
• Built-in image sensor cleaning
  Effective 4-frequency, ultrasonic sensor cleaning keeps images spot free.
• 11-point Autofocus System with 3D Focus Tracking
  Fast and accurate autofocus delivers razor sharpness.
• Auto Active D-Lighting
  Restores lost shadow and highlight detail in high contrast exposures—Selectable and Auto modes available.
• 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 computer.
• Picture Control Settings for personal image control
  Standard, Neutral, Vivid, Monochrome, Portrait, Landscape and 9 customizable settings.
• 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.
• Durable, high precision shutter
  Testing to over 100,000 cycles assures precision and long shutter life.
• GPS Geo-tagging
  GP-1 GPS unit (optional) automatically identifies and records every image’s latitude, longitude and altitude, with satellite time-of-day.

[Nikon]