The present study focuses on the mechanical behaviour of polycarbonate nanocomposites reinforced by alumina or silica nanoparticles at low levels of incorporation. More particularly, we present an experimental approach, specific to large strain measurements by using a Digital Image Correlation (DIC) technique. The mechanical mechanisms involved during uniaxial tensile test of polycarbonate nanocomposites were studied at two-dimensional scales. First, elastic properties of the nanocomposites were determined at macro-homogeneous scale and compared to values obtained by continuum-based elastic micromechanical models. Then the in-plane kinematics measurements at the central part of a double-edge notched sample is analysed locally. The evolution during the test of the volumetric strain and axial strain profiles were studied before and after the yield stress: this analysis revealed the existence of several damage processes during the test up to rupture and put in relief the influence of fillers. Finally, the necking phenomenon was statistically studied and the shape of the neck in terms of strain intensity and localisation was analysed. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.