The D5000 manual says that using a slower ISO than 200 (Lo.3, Lo.6 or Lo1) may cause images to be contrasty. However, most magazines I read say 100 is the optimum sensitivity to use. Will active D lighting compensate the contrast produced by a slow ISO or should I stick to ISO 200?

The optimum ISO is the the sensor's 'native' one which is 200 for Nikon's 12MP sensor and I'm really not sure what advantage is gained by using a slower rating.

Jonathan

> most magazines I read say 100 is the optimum sensitivity to use

The optimum sensitivity is always the camera's "base" ISO, which in the case of the D5000 is 200. In the case of a camera such as the D2x, the base ISO is 100.

Nikon label it Lo1 not ISO 100 since it does not produce the same thing as a sensor of ISO 100 - in particular, the contrast will appear different. However, in the case of the Lo settings, this is generally pretty minimal difference from calibration. If you go into the high ISO settings, such as Hi-2, you'll find a fairly drastic loss of contrast, as well as a lot of noise.

_____
Brian... a bicoastal Nikonian and Team Member

My gallery is online. Comments and critique welcomed any time!

Hi Keith,

Welcome to Nikonians!
The magazines are making a generalized statement. In fact shooting at the cameras native or base ISO setting will provide the optimum IQ and dynamic range. The base setting of your D5000 is ISO 200 so stick to ISO 200 when possible.
Good Luck and Enjoy your Nikons!

Best Regards,
Marty