●3D color matrix metering and multizone autofocus like the D1

●Flexible Program mode with a variety of shutter speed and aperture combinations

●Spot metering that follows the multizone autofocus

●Focus confirmation in manual mode by edge-highlighting (peaking)

●QuickTime movie capture mode

●Ultra high-speed 30fps QVGA capture mode

●Auto bracketing exposure control

●Zoom lens startup position can be where it was when powered down or defaulted to full wideangle or telephoto

●The internal flash can be disabled when using an external speedlight

●The internal flash's intensity can be adjusted

●Zoomed playback from 1.1x to 4x with free panning

●High-speed USB port for downloading

●Command dial has been moved to rear of the camera and is easily rotated using your thumb

●A new 4-way jog switch (ala the D1) lets you navigate menus, select the AF zone, select playback thumbnails and freely scroll the image while in zoomed playback

●A 7-blade iris diaphragm gives real depth of field control

●Variable image sharpening, contrast and brightness settings

●Stepless digital zoom (1.1x to 4x)

●User selectable NTSC or PAL video output

●Image histogram function during playback

One of the first things you notice when you pick up the Coolpix 990 is how much fatter the handgrip feels. It gives you a very secure, one-handed grip of the camera. The back of the camera is now fairly flat but the grip extends out farther in the front. When holding the camera, your thumb falls naturally on the zoom buttons, command dial and jog switch, it is very well designed.

The CompactFlash card slot has been moved from the bottom of the camera over to the side so the card can be removed while mounted on a tripod. The I/O ports have also been moved over to the side and are located just above the CF slot. The bottom of the camera is now perfectly flat, the metal tripod socket is more centrally located and there's even "grippy" rubber around it to make it very solid when mounted on a tripod. The battery door is on the bottom and it now has an easier to operate lever with a safety button in the center.

The monochrome data LCD on the top has been enlarged and allows the most-used functions can be changed without need of the color LCD. The Mode and +/- buttons have been moved to the top of the camera and the Focus and Flash control buttons are now below the color LCD. The Monitor, Menu and Zoom control buttons are in the same places on the back as they were on the 950. I really liked the way the 950 was layed out but the buttons and command dial are even more ergonomically placed on the 990.

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Nikon 990 manual
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990 specifications

The Nikon Coolpix 990, released in 2000, marked a significant evolution in the world of digital photography. It was particularly popular among enthusiasts and professionals for its innovative features and robust performance. The camera stood out at the time for its 3.34-megapixel CCD sensor, which delivered images of impressive clarity and detail, offering a resolution of 2048 x 1536 pixels. This allowed photographers to capture stunning images that could be printed in large formats without sacrificing quality.

One of the standout characteristics of the Nikon 990 was its unique swivel body design. This articulate feature allowed users to compose shots from various angles, increasing creative flexibility. The 990's innovative design was further complemented by a 3x optical zoom lens, translating to a focal range of 35-105mm. This versatility made it suitable for everything from landscape to portrait photography. Additionally, the lens was coupled with a 4x digital zoom, which could be utilized without significant loss of image quality, though digital zoom is generally less favored compared to optical zoom.

The camera boasted a wide range of shooting modes, including a manual mode that appealed to photography purists. This was bolstered by exposure compensation and metering modes, allowing for more control over the final image. Furthermore, the Nikon 990 featured a 2.0-inch LCD screen, which was a considerable upgrade for that time. The display allowed for easy framing and reviewing of images, enhancing the user experience.

Another notable technology found in the Nikon 990 was its macro mode, enabling photographers to focus on subjects as close as one inch away. This made it a favorite among those interested in close-up photography, particularly in nature and product shots. Additionally, the camera supported various file formats, including JPEG and TIFF, providing users with options depending on their desired image quality or file size.

The Nikon 990 was equipped with a robust lithium-ion battery, providing an extended shooting life, ideal for long outings. The durability and performance of this model contributed significantly to its lasting popularity. Overall, the Nikon Coolpix 990 represented a remarkable convergence of technology and user-centric design, setting a benchmark for future digital cameras in the marketplace and continuing to be appreciated by photography enthusiasts even years after its initial release.
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