While you could be forgiven for thinking the Nikon D90 DSLR is trying to be everything to everyone (and you probably wouldn’t be wrong), rest assured it still has the features that will allow it to follow in the footsteps of previous Nikon DSLRs. That’s quite a prestigious footprint by the way.

Nikon’s D90 is the world’s first DSLR with HD video. It shoots in 720p and can also do 1080i. While that’s mighty impressive, it’s as a camera that D90 really comes into its own. Gone are the days of the DSLR that took rocket scientist to operate.

Featuring a 12.3MP DX-format CMOS image sensor with wide ISO sensitivity range, the D90 also adds features that bring it back down to the photography abilities of the common man and even gadget zone writers. Nikon’s Scene Recognition System is combined with its Face Detection System while you are also able to retouch your photographs using just the camera. The D90 also includes GPS so travel addicts will never forget where a photo was taken.

With the Live View mode users will be able to use the 3-inch screen to take photos rather than use the viewfinder. Being that the screen is capable of 920k-dot colour you’ll be able to see the photo you are about to take in extremely vivid detail. Perhaps not the best thing if the person your shooting is ugly.

Despite focusing on making the D90 user friendly, Nikon have also made sure that it is still a camera photography buffs and professionals will want to use. There’s Active D-Lighting, an 11-point AF system, the option of using two rechargeable batteries for enhanced life and a built-in flash.

The D90 will be available in four packages. Body only for $1,549, D90 plus 18-105mm VR lens for $1,849, D90 plus 18-55mm VR and 55-200mm VR for $1,899 and finally D90 plus 18-55mm VR for $1,649.

It will be available in Australia in September.