What To Know
- A full frame camera refers to a digital camera with a sensor that matches the size of a 35mm film frame (24mm x 36mm).
- Crop factor refers to the ratio between the full frame sensor size and the sensor size of the camera in question.
- Lenses with the same focal length will have a narrower field of view on the D90 compared to a full frame camera.
The Nikon D90, a beloved DSLR camera, has sparked debates among photographers: is it a full frame camera? This question stems from its impressive image quality and capabilities. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the technicalities and provide a conclusive answer.
What is a Full Frame Camera?
A full frame camera refers to a digital camera with a sensor that matches the size of a 35mm film frame (24mm x 36mm). This sensor size offers several advantages, including:
- Larger pixels for better low-light performance and dynamic range
- Wider field of view with the same lens
- Reduced crop factor, allowing for wider-angle lenses
Nikon D90: Sensor Size and Crop Factor
The Nikon D90 features a CMOS sensor with a size of 23.6mm x 15.8mm. This sensor is smaller than a full frame sensor, resulting in a crop factor of 1.5x.
Crop Factor Explained
Crop factor refers to the ratio between the full frame sensor size and the sensor size of the camera in question. A crop factor of 1.5x means that the Nikon D90’s sensor is 1.5 times smaller than a full frame sensor.
Implications of Crop Factor
The crop factor of the Nikon D90 has the following implications:
- Lenses with the same focal length will have a narrower field of view on the D90 compared to a full frame camera.
- To achieve the same field of view, you need to use lenses with a shorter focal length on the D90.
- Telephoto lenses will have a longer effective focal length on the D90.
Advantages of a Crop Factor
Despite not being a full frame camera, the Nikon D90’s crop factor offers certain advantages:
- Lighter and more compact lenses with the same field of view
- Increased depth of field with the same lens
- More flexibility for wildlife and sports photography
Disadvantages of a Crop Factor
The main disadvantage of a crop factor is:
- Reduced low-light performance and dynamic range compared to full frame cameras
Recommendations: Is the Nikon D90 a Full Frame Camera?
The answer to the question “Is the Nikon D90 a full frame camera?” is a resounding no. It features a crop factor of 1.5x, indicating that its sensor is smaller than a full frame sensor. However, its impressive image quality and capabilities make it a formidable camera for enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Information You Need to Know
Q: What are the advantages of a full frame camera over a crop factor camera?
A: Full frame cameras offer larger pixels, wider field of view, and better low-light performance.
Q: What are the advantages of a crop factor camera over a full frame camera?
A: Crop factor cameras provide lighter and more compact lenses, increased depth of field, and more flexibility for certain genres of photography.
Q: Is the Nikon D90 a good camera for beginners?
A: Yes, the Nikon D90 is an excellent camera for beginners due to its user-friendly interface, versatile features, and affordable price point.
Q: Can I use full frame lenses on the Nikon D90?
A: Yes, you can use full frame lenses on the D90, but they will have a narrower field of view due to the crop factor.
Q: What is the best lens for the Nikon D90?
A: The best lens for the D90 depends on your shooting needs, but some popular options include the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR II and the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G.
