Nothing gets camera loyalists as fired up as a little ‘Nikon vs Canon’ discussion, and this debate just got taken to a whole new level. With the announcement of the Nikon D5000 and the Canon EOS Rebel T1i (also known as the Canon 500D), entry-level consumers and prospective first-time digital SLR camera purchasers have two excellent options, both featuring the ability to shoot HD video, and both priced safely at the entry level with an included lens. Undoubtedly, either camera would make a great first DSLR, but if you’re looking to pick one up, here are some of the pros and cons of both cameras, both in terms of features and specs.

Sensors/processors

(From top) Nikon D5000, Canon 500D

On paper, the Nikon seems to start with a specifications handicap, kitted with a 12.3 megapixel sensor and the EXPEED processor, both similar to the ones employed in its elder sibling, the D90. The Canon, on the other hand, borrows its sensor and processing logic from the Canon 50D, in other words a 15.1 megapixel sensor with 14 bit A/D conversion and DIGIC IV processing.

Image sensitivity (ISO) in the Nikon is listed at an ISO range of 200-3200 with a boost option of 100-6400, while the 500D lists an expanded ISO range of 100-12800. So it’d be fair to assume that given the specs, the Canon 500D takes the better picture, right?

Yes and no. The 14 bit A/D conversion does mean that the dynamic range and colour depth on the D5000 would theoretically be a tad lower than the 500D, but real world images show that difference to be negligible, with the Nikon edging the Canon out in certain situations. Even so, the added resolution is a draw for some, though the increase in image detail is negated with additional noise at higher ISO sensitivities.

Verdict: Numbers don’t matter here, and the Nikon D5000 compares quite favourably to the Canon 500D, and likely provides superior results at higher ISO levels.

Focusing system

Nikon D5000

The D5000 has a somewhat more advanced autofocus system, which uses 11 reference points against the Canon 500D’s nine. Using both in the field shows them both upto the task of getting sharp pictures quick.

When it comes to live view — composing images on the LCD, not the viewfinder — both cameras have this feature and both use contrast detect option while using live view.

Despite Canon’s addition of phase detect, which normally is faster than contrast detect mode, both cameras are slow to focus in live view, and as such, should be used only when you must, or if you’re handing the camera over to a non-DSLR friendly stranger.

Verdict: Slim pickings here — the Canon 500D has the edge in live view with fancy grid overlays, and zoom features, which marry beautifully with its much higher resolution LCD display.

LCD display

Here’s where you’ll have to make your own choices, it really depends on the type of shooter you want to be. The 500D is kitted with a crisp 920,000 pixel resolution, 3-in display — ideal for analysing photographs, and viewing movies, whereas the Nikon D5000 takes a totally different approach, by providing for an articulating display that flips down and rotates. Now, while the resolution of the LCD is only 230,000 pixels and is smaller in size at 2.7-in, it obviously allows for more creative use of the Nikon D5000, especially when you’re shooting video.

Verdict: Mixed bag — yours to call!

Video recording

The novelty high-end feature on what are otherwise entry-level specs is the inclusion of video on both cameras. While the 500D does list 1080p full-high-definition video as an option, keep in mind that is being shot only at 20 frames per second, in other words, playback may be choppy. Practically, both cameras basically shoot 720p video — the Canon 500D at 30 fps and the Nikon D5000 at 24 fps. The Canon 500D has a time limit of nearly 30 minutes or 4 GB of data, while the Nikon D5000 shoots in HD for five minute clips. Honestly, since neither camera has auto focus once video begins, shooting video for longer than very short clips should be avoided. Also, it’s a pity that neither camera records stereo sound and also do not have any way of capturing it via input.

Verdict: The Canon, for the faster frame rate and the capability to shoot longer video.

Final verdict

You’d have figured this out as well — if the fun factor is your main concern (pun intended!), the Nikon D5000 edges the Canon out with its in-built image editing options and articulating LCD.

The Canon is ideal for the budding photographer ready to get a whole lot more serious with his photography. With the ability to capture more detail, and the brilliant LCD display, it seems to take a more serious approach to taking great photos. Either ways, both cameras will likely lead to great results, and its pleasantly surprising to see what camera makers are managing to offer at this price point compared to just a couple of years ago!

Price: Canon EOS 500D Digital Camera with Kit EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens: Rs 52,995
Rating: 8/10
URL: http://www.canon.co.in/p/EN/112-Digital-Cameras/189-EOS/1045-EOS-500D-Kit-EF-S-18-55/

Price: Nikon Digital Camera D5000 KIT (with 18-55 VR): Rs 55,950 (Body only Rs 48,950)
Rating: 8/10
URL: http://www.nikon.co.in/productitem.php?pid=1316-d51d9da185

Child’s play

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Price: $30 for a pack

Pet pampering

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URL: http://www.smarthome.com/6184CK/Remote-Pet-Feeding-Viewing-Camera-Kit-Large-Feeder/p.aspx
Price: $298