In fact, production of the D700 will continue as long as demand remains strong, Sasagaki insisted. The marketing exec would not be coaxed into revealing Nikon’s timing for the new DSLR, but he did dismiss suggestions that the company would branch out into unusual territory. Nikon has no plans for “a higher-end mirrorless camera, perhaps with a larger sensor or in an S-style rangefinder body, or a simpler camera like a digital FM3a” he told the photography site, though didn’t discount the possibility for the future.

However, 2012′s other new Nikon DSLR will be a quality improvement on an existing model, the Sasagaki hinted. Exactly which model will be reworked is unclear: the D700 is an obvious choice, given its age, though the D3100 is also several years old.

As for the 1 Series, that will be “developed much further” and could even cover some of the high-end or rangefinder ambitions many fans have for Nikon.

Interestingly, Sasagaki also gave more details on the system implemented in the D800E, the version of the D800 which bypasses the low-pass filter. Rather than actually removing the filter altogether, the camera actually replaces the second of the two low-pass filter components found in the D800 – which first splits the light path into two, and then those two into four – with a custom component that actually recombines the initial splitting.

“This item is in high demand and supplies from the manufacturer are limited” one retailer warns. “Its availability will fluctuate, and if the item is not currently in stock, we cannot guarantee that we will receive additional quantities in a timely manner.”

That’s despite serious pricing for both cameras. The Nikon D800 has an RRP of $2,999 body-only, while the D800E is $3,299. Your money gets you Full HD video recording, ISO 100 to 6,400 (expanded up to 25,600) support, a 51-point AF system with 15 Cross Type AF sensors, and a 3.2-inch 921k dot preview display, among other talents.

Those specs come together to produce some seriously impressive stills and video, though the cameras are focused more on landscape and portrait photographers than out-and-about shooters. More details on the D800 here.

[via GottaBeMobile]

Nikon has a camera here that’ll be utterly wicked for a general photographer, certainly overkill for your average blogger, and perhaps just the ticket for those of you out there in film school without the budget for a five figure camera. The video you’re about to see is the behind the scenes look at how filmographer Sandro used the D800 before its announcement to create a short film “Joy Ride.” You can see the entire video in our post earlier today, and get a whiff of how simple it is to capture excellence here:

Notice how the man has the camera on a simple setup that’s not all that different from what you likely use now for your in-school setup if you are shooting video, and this fellow’s not doing all that much more than adding a few high-quality lenses to make the magic happen. Having a bit of filmography skill helps as well. Sandro mentions quite a few bits on how nice the camera is for weight (for mounting) and how the HDMI-out helps to take focus shots on the fly. Lights, camera, inexpensive action!

[via Vimeo]

There’s also a behind-the-scenes clip showing how the D800 showcase was put together. It’s an altogether impressive piece of work, with the DSLR showing its strengths not only in capturing smooth high-speed footage but also in low-light situations and under harsh indoor lighting which can often spell death for flesh-tones.

Nikon is positioning the D800/D800E as ideal for portrait and landscape photographers, as well as those who do plenty of studio work, though the camera is slightly lighter (albeit a little bulkier) than the D700 and so might make for a solid mobile setup. You’ll need reasonably deep pockets, though: the D800 will be $3k when it drops late next month, while the D800E – which gains more detail at the increased risk of moire – will be $300 more.

Note: the sample video is somewhat graphic, showing scenes of childbirth (think a little blood rather than anything too gruesome or NSFW).

Deleting the low-pass filter comes with some compromises, Nikon warns – an increase in aliasing and moiré patterns, for instance, depending on shooting conditions and subject – though they should be relatively straightforward to tweak out in post-processing. However the benefit is higher resolution and clearer definition, ideal for landscape photographers among others.

What remains to be seen is whether the D800 is quite small enough to satisfy would-be buyers, who were looking forward to a compact full-frame Nikon. The camera is certainly smaller than the Nikon D4, launched at CES last month, though not as bag-friendly as might have been expected.

There’s more detail in the new online guide to the cameras, available here. The Nikon D800 will go on sale in late March, priced at $2,999.99 body-only, while the D800E will arrive in mid-April, priced at $3,299.99.

The full name for this beast is now “Nikon D800 FX-format digital SLR camera” and it’s got 36.3-million pixels with EXPEED 3 image-processing engine and a 91K-pixel (approximately 91,000 pixels) RGB sensor. That’s some hot stuff right there. Nikon has released an official product page and the release and price at $2,999.99 for the body-only model in March, while the D800E will arrive in mid-April, priced at $3,299.99 (a buck more than the original was predicting, as it turns out). The D800E is an alternate model which gets rid of the low-pass filter and brings on higher-resolution shots. Choose your weapon!

This monster is set to cost $3,999 MSRP and will be worth every single penny with a 35.9 x 24mm sensor at 36.3 MP FX, 4.8µ pixel size, this therefor capable of 7360 x 4912 pixel resolution photos. This device has a native ISO sensitivity of 100-6,400, a Boost Low ISO sensitivity of down to 50 and a Boost High ISO sensitivity of a massive 12,800-25,600. The entire body of this device is made of magnesium alloy, it’s got weather sealing and protection all around, and it stores data on either of its card slots, one each of a CF card slot and an SD card slot.

The Nikon D800 has camera lag of 0.012 seconds and its shutter will essentially never fail on you, it having 200,000 cycles and the ability to self-diagnose. You can rock at 4 FPS or 6 FPS in DX mode with your optional MB-D12 battery pack. You’ll see it all on your 3.2 inch LCD display on the back with 921,000 dots across its entirety, and the unit does indeed have a built-in flash. This flash exists with Commander Mode and full CLS compatibility. You’ll be able to record movies at Full 1080p HD at 30 FPS, and you’ve got a 30 minute recording limit at 30 FPS or 20 minutes at 24 FPS.

There’s no built-in GPS, but you can get a GP-1 GPS unit to work out what you need worked out, and the battery is a EN-EL15 and will work for you through 850 shots. You’ll be able to connect to the camera with USB 3.0 if you wish, and the whole thing without a lens on it weighs in at 895 g. This camera is set to officially be unveiled tomorrow and Nikon will then have full details on where you can order one up – but we’re guessing you’ve already got your favorite outlet in mind

[via Mansurovs]

The 24-70mm zoom lens is a popular size, though not a cheap one if you go with first-party glass. Neither the Canon L-series F/2.8 lens ($1300 street) or Nikkor F/2.8 ($1900 street) comes with anti-vibration technology, which the two companies have focused on longer telephoto lenses thus far. Considering that Tamron’s budget competitor Sigma sells their copy of the 24-70mm lens for about $900, expect the SP 24-70mm F/2.8 Di VC USD to come at or near that price. There is no previous generation in this size for Tamron.

The company claims that its new image stabilization improved on the original VC design by using a reverse-mounted magnet and coil system, which attached the lens element directly to the coil. The lighter coil and magnet allows for a considerably more compact lens than other 24-70mm options, a design choice that Tamron employs in other models as well. Two extra refractive index elements help to keep chromatic aberration low.

For those without budgets that extend into five digits, Tamron makes some solid lenses. Typically they can’t quite match the clarity and definition on Canon and Nikon’s high-grade glass (even if Tamron claims “resolution at the top of its class”). They excell at cheap all-in-one zooms typified by their 18-270mm range, which I can personally report is quite satisfactory. Canon shooters looking for a top-end alternative might want to hold on to their wallets, though: the camera maker is rumored to have its own 24-70mm with anti-vibration technology in the pipeline.

[via Cnet]

The COOLPIX L810 offers a 26x optical zoom with VR image stabilization and a 22.5mm wide angle, along with a fast frame Sports Shooting mode and 720p HD video recording. There’s a 3-inch 921k dot LCD display on the back.

The COOLPIX L26 is the “standard” model in Nikon’s Spring 2012 line-up, with a 5x optical zoom and 720p HD video recording. It has a 3-inch display and automatic Scene Modes that Nikon reckons makes it the perfect point-and-shoot.

As for the Nikon COOLPIX S30, that’s shockproof for up to 2.6 feet drops and waterproof for up to 9.8 feet submersion, and pairs a 3x optical zoom with a 10.1-megapixel sensor. It can record 720p HD video too.

The COOLPIX L810 will be $279.95 with a choice of colors including black, red and blue, while the COOLPIX S30 will be $119.95 in white, blue or pink. Finally, the Nikon COOLPIX L26 will be $119.95 in red, black or silver. All three will drop in February 2012.

There’s also Full HD 1080p video recording and integrated GPS for geotagging photos while on the move.

Next up is the COOLPIX S6300, toting a 10x optical zoom and a 16-megapixel BSI sensor, also capable of 1080p HD video recording. It packs an Easy Panorama mode for creating either 180- or 360-degree landscape shots, along with various onboard effects that can be applied to both stills and video.

The Nikon COOLPIX S4300 offers a 3-inch 460k dot touchscreen and 16-megapixel sensor, along with a 6x wide-angle zoom. It has face-priority autofocus, identifying up to 12 faces in the frame, along with Smile Shutter and a smart auto mode.

Finally, the Nikon COOLPIX S3300 is the budget model, pairing the 16-megapixel sensor with a 6x optical zoom and 720p HD video recording. It still gets optical image stabilization, though, like its siblings.

The COOLPIX S9300 will be $349.95 and offered in black, red and silver, while the COOLPIX S6300 will come in at $199.95 in a choice of red, black, silver and blue. The COOLPIX S4300 is $169.95 in plum, black, silver, white and red, and finally the COOLPIX S3300 will be $139.95 in silver, black, pink, purple and red. All four will arrive in February 2012.

The COOLPIX P310 offers a 16.1-megapixel backside-illuminated CMOS sensor that supports an ISO range up to 3200 (Hi1 6400 equivalent), paired with a fast, wide-angle maximum aperture f/1.8 lens. It packs VR image stabilization too, as well as a number of low-light modes including one which combines multiple shots with different settings to create an HDR-style image.

Photographers envious of their DSLR brethren can also make use of manual exposure control (P/S/A/M) on the P310, along with a Zoom Memory function that offers easy access to common prime focal lengths. On the back is a 3-inch 921k dot LCD display.

The COOLPIX 510 supports Full HD 1080p HD video recording, complete with stereo audio, and there’s continuous auto-focus support too. It gets the same display as the P310, while the P510 also has two zoom controls: one on top and another on the lens barrel itself.

Nikon says the COOLPIX P510 will go on sale in February at $429.95 in either black or red. The COOLPIX P310 land at the same time, priced at $329.95, in black only.

Beyond the massive sensor resolution and full frame, the Nikon D800 also offers superior video quality, up to 1080p/30/25/24 with the option of shooting at 720p/60/30/25/24. Footage can be stored on both CF and SD cards as both slots are provided. Autofocus is expected to be identical to the D700 and D3, which means a 51-point AF with 3D Focus Tracking.

The Nikon D800 will begin shipping a few weeks after it’s announced on February 7. Also gearing up for an unveiling are Nikon’s new Coolpix cameras, which will be announced on February 2. The Nikon D4 will and two new DX lenses will likely be introduced later on in February or March.

In “normal” mode, the Nikon1Dx rapid-fire shutter sounds rather similar to my 1D Mark IV. It’s loud and intriguing while the Canon 1Dx is slightly toned down from its predecessor. With pictures captured in largest jpeg format, we were told the Canon tipped 412 images before hitting the buffer while Nikon managed just half of that.

Nikon D4 D-SLR

Canon 1DX D-SLR

We aren’t certain of the buffer pipeline, and the factor of CF, as both storage compartments are locked and sealed. The reps have no knowledge of what cards are being used for the demo, but with a Dual Digic 5 image processor dedicated for image processing and a Digic 4 for AF and metering as opposed to a single EXPEED 3, despite higher pixel count, the 1Dx is clearly a winner here.

The new cameras will certainly be the benchmark for London 2012 Summer Olympics sport photographers.

The D4 is everything you’d expect out of a super high-end camera: big, solid and heavy, with a pro array of controls and configurations. The controls have changed a bit since the D3 series, but dedicated photographers (essentially the only target market for this beast) will adapt quickly enough. The connections along the left side of the camera are now including more dedicated video functions, with audio both in and out, so you can listen to your recording levels via headphones like a full-sized video camera. The HDMI port can stream directly to an external source.

There’s one major new video feature: an adaptive crop that allows the video recording to only use a portion of the full-frame camera’s sensor. The crop matches the level of a cheaper DX or 2.7 camera/lens combination, but still uses enough of the sensor to record in full 1080p. This is useful for taking video with lenses that might not be ideal for it, like a wide-angle prime, essentially making a “virtual zoom” without losing any image quality.

As far as hardware goes, the D4 uses a 16.2 megapixel sensor ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects. The camera captures 11 frames a second, with an ideal ISO range of an incredibly low 50 to as high as 12,500, with boosts of up to 204,800. 51 points of auto-focus help you get your target sharp, and the D4 supports standard CF and the new QXD cards for photo storage. The Nikon D4 has a suggested retail price of $6000, and will be available in February.

The new 85mm F1.8 lens falls squarely into the “prosumer” category: compared to Nikkor’s other lenses, it’s a bargain. That said, you get what you pay for: there’s definitely a lot more plastic than we’re used to seeing on a prime lens this fast. The 85mm lens will debut with the D4 in February.

It comes down to sensor size, initially, and then all the accompanying aspects that make a decent camera. The D4 has a full-frame CMOS sensor – measuring 36.0 x 23.9 mm – a more expensive, and larger, sensor than you’d find in most cameras out there. Cheaper models use APS-C sized sensors, considerably smaller, where fitting more pixels into the array means each pixel is smaller.

Smaller pixels adds up to less light making it through, while the cropped down frame means the field of view is also reduced. In effect, you get less in-picture from your lens than you would with a full-frame sensor. APS-C sensors also suffer more noise, especially when you get into the low-light situations Nikon is positioning the D4 as ideal for.

It takes a lot of processing power to crunch a full-frame image, and even more when you’re delivering 10fps continuous shooting like the D4 can manage (11fps if you lock off AF/AE). That’s when things like your image processor comes in – in Nikon’s case the EXPEED 3 – but it’s also about how quickly the sensor can churn out data to that processor. Nikon reckons the new D4 sensor spits out info faster than the D3S, despite packing more pixels.

Megapixel chasing came around because shoppers prefer simplicity. Rather than balancing the merits of a half-dozen different specs, it’s far easier and quicker to cast your eye down a list and say “oh, this has more, so it’s obviously better.” In smartphones – where most people probably play the spec-sheet bingo game today – that’s resulted in phones with cameras that promise plenty but actually deliver mediocre stills and video, whereas rival devices with lower pixel counts but better performance are overlooked.

We’ll have to wait for the first reviews to see exactly how well the Nikon D4 performs in the real world. The company’s own sample images certainly look impressive. What it’s useful for today, though, is hammering home how just one number tells you so very little about a device’s capabilities in general. Whether you’re shopping for a $6,000 DSLR or a cheap smartphone, that’s something worth bearing in mind.

Nikon hurriedly removed the D800 from its line-up, but not before Nikon Rumors could grab a screenshot and blow it up to this pixelated giveaway. We don’t know any specs, of course, at least not officially, since there’s no sign of a premature product page.

Still, previous rumors have given us a little to go on. The D800 is expected to have three times the sensor resolution and a bigger display than the D700 it will replace, as well as 1080p/30/25/24 video recording and the same autofocus system as in the D3.

Impressive stuff, though having seen the Nikon D4 earlier we’re still all-aflutter at the flagship’s ISO 100 – 204,800 range and 91,000-pixel RGB 3D Color Matrix metering system. The $6k purchase price is going to put off a lot of would-be buyers, however, something the D800 should alleviate somewhat.

[via Nikon Rumors]

A new 91,000-pixel RGB 3D Color Matrix metering system monitors brightness and color and uses a huge on-board database of color and exposure settings, and there’s 16 face auto-detection even when using the optical viewfinder. Low-light performance is another area Nikon is particularly proud of, thanks to comparatively large 7.3µ pixels in the CMOS sensor, and that Hi-4 204,800 ISO is even supported during video recording.

Video itself can be shot in H.264 or MPEG-4 AVC format, up to 20 minutes per clip, with a choice of 1080/30p or 720/60p resolution. Increased sensor read rates adds up to less rolling shutter effect visible in the final footage, Nikon says, and there’s full manual exposure control and the ability to preview it all via uncompressed output through the HDMI port in addition to recording to CF or XQD memory card.

Generally, though, you’ll be using the 921k dot 3.2-inch LCD preview display rather than an HDMI output, with 46x digital zoom for checking details, and which is surrounded by backlit buttons for easy low-light use. Alternatively you can go remote control, with an ethernet port for tethered shots and data transfers.

Nikon also has a new lens out, the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G Prime, with a seven-blade diaphragm for more circular bokeh. It also promises to be good for video use, thanks to a new “whisper quiet” AF motor.

None of this, as you might expect, comes cheap. The Nikon D4 will arrive in late February, priced at $5,999.95. As for the new 85mm lens, that will drop in March for $499.95.

Rumors are continuing to mount for Nikon’s latest DSLR monster, christened the D4. The last we heard it was going to be unveiled at the event in Hong Kong this Friday, along with a spiffy new 85mm f/1.8 lens. Now some financial press cables spotted by Nikon Rumors suggest that the camera will go on sale sometime in February. An exact date wasn’t provided, but the suggested retail price is listed at a whopping $6000. THat puts the D4 in between the current D3x and D3s models.

For that kind of money you’d expect top-notch specs, and sure enough, that’s what you get. The Nikon D4 is said to use a 16.2 megapixel full frame sensor with a lightning-fast 10 frames per second shooting speed, and an ISO range from 100 to 102,400. On the video side of things, the D4 gets the standard 1080p recording at up to 30fps, with the added benefit of H264 B frame compression. The viewfinder uses the sought-after pentaprism design with 100% coverage of the shooting target, and photographers can use 51 separate points of autofocus. Other little touches include illuminated buttons and face detection.

If you’re not interested in the new camera body there’s a Nikkor AF-S 85mm f/1.8G lens to look forward to, which will cost around $500 separately. There’s still no actual photos of the uber-camera floating around, but we shouldn’t have long to wait. You’ve got between now and February to finalize a second mortgage to finance your newest piece of photographic excess.

[via The Verge]

Specs on the Nikon D4 leaked back in December, revealing that the new full-framed DSLR will feature a 16.2 megapixel sensor, 11fps shooting, and 102,400 native ISO, expandable to 50 and 204,800. The camera will get new storage capability with a CF card slot and a XQD memory card slot. These details aren’t confirmed, but we certainly won’t have to wait long to find out.

The event for this Friday, January 6, in Hong Kong is limited to the press with an actual public viewing likely to happen later. For folks in the US, an official press release with all the details should hit by midnight EST on January 5. The new products introduced at this event could start shipping in about 30 days after the announcement.

The specs came by way of several sources according to Nikonrumors and the site thinks these are 90% accurate. The camera’s ISO range is expandable to 50 and 204,800. The camera will also get some new storage capability with the CF card slot and a XQD memory card slot. There will be Ethernet connectivity integrated into the camera, and it will rock face detection and recognition supposedly working in the viewfinder.

Other things the camera is said to be able to do include shooting uncompressed video out through the HDMI port. It will also rock 51 autofocus points, the ability to assign two buttons to the front of the camera to smooth aperture control and a new autofocus system with nine cross-type sensors up to f/8. It’s worth noting that the rumor that surfaced back in January had this camera rocking a Thunderbolt port, that port isn’t listed in the specs here.

[via Nikonrumor]

A 720p/60/30/25/24 option is also on the cards, and there are both CF and SD memory card slots to store that footage to. The autofocus system is said to be identical to the D700 and D3, which presumably means 51-point AF with 3D Focus Tracking, though it’s unclear whether the scene recognition engine – controlling AF, AE, i-TTL flash control and auto white balance – of the older cameras has also been carried across.

The images show the D800 with what’s presumably an optional battery-grip fitted, giving the camera the illusion of extra bulk. Going by the bevy of physical controls, Nikon has resisted the urge to squeeze everything into a touchscreen UI. That’s assuming the photos are legitimate, of course, something which the Nikon-faithful are already arguing over.

This app extends the capabilities of the Coolpix S1200pj beyond projecting photos and videos stored on the camera itself, which features a 14.1-megapixel sensor, 5x optical zoom, and supports ups to 720p HD video recording. The camera also features a 3-inch LCD viewer and began shipping back in September for $429.95.

The built-in projector has 20 lumens of brightness and can project on to a 60-inch screen. However, it’s not clear whether it can only project still images and documents or if it can project whatever is on the screen of your iPad, iPhone, or iPod touch. Also, its native resolution is 1024 x 768, so images will be scaled down.

[via Nikon]

What we’ve got here is an LCD display from a Dell laptop computer connected to an actual Nikon D3 camera which is mounted on the inside of the barrel that makes up the camera costume’s front. Not only has Tyler created a video to show you how it works, he’s made a making-of video that also includes quite a few photos he’s already taken at a pre-Halloween Halloween party with the costume itself. First have a look at the costume in action here:

Also note that at the top of the camera costume, above Tyler’s head, are some Alienbees strobe lights which act as a flash, also controlled by a Paul C. Buff Cyber Commander controller. This costume open up your mind to the possibilities of the bust apart and rebuild culture before your eyes? While we’ve not yet heard any word from Nikon if they’ve got any plans to officially license this costume for the future, we’ve got our fingers crossed. Meanwhile we’ll just have to make our own!

[via Tyler Card's Tumblr]

The Nikon 1 J1 comes with a 10-30mm lens kit and has a 73-point AF system that switches between phase and contrast AF for the best results. It supports 10fps continuous shooting with AF or up to 60fps with AF locked. It also features a 3-inch LCD display as well as a pop-up flash. Its 10.1-megapixel sensor is capable of 1080p full HD video capture and it works with interchangeable lenses from the 1 NIKKOR lens system, which will start off with a choice of four lenses.

The Nikon J1 model is priced at $649.95 while the V1 model is priced at $899.95. They are available in a variety of colors, including white, pink, red, silver, and black. Pre-orders are going on now until October 20, when both the the J1 and the V1 will be available for purchase through Target.com. However, the cameras will not be available in stores nationwide until sometime in November.

Rather than just an auto-settings mode, Smart Photo Selector couples that with capturing multiple versions of the same frame, allowing different configurations to be tested and the best shot identified. The 1 Series cameras will automatically pick out whichever shot they believe is the best, but the user can also pick from a choice of five frames:

“When a “can’t miss” photo opportunity arises, users can switch to the Smart Photo Selector mode which uses the camera’s pre-cache to start shooting and storing images. All of these images are analyzed within the camera, and the best photo is selected based on a number of factors including exposure, focus and advanced facial recognition. While the camera suggests the best image, five frames are recorded, providing the user a choice of their favorite photo” Nikon PR

Questioned as to whether Nikon worried about Canon’s potential plans for a mirrorless camera range of its own, Kusakari said the company “do not fear it.” Earlier this year, Canon’s European head of consumer imaging argued that mirrorless cameras were what companies turned to when their DSLR ranges failed, though refused to deny long-standing rumors that Canon had a compact interchangeable lens model on the roadmap.

The Nikon J1 is the most affordable option, priced from $649.95 with a 10-30mm lens kit. It has a 73-point AF system that switches between phase and contrast AF depending on which will give the best results, 10fps continuous shooting with AF or up to 60fps with AF locked. It also debuts Nikon’s Motion Snapshot system, which “unites a frozen still image with a slow-motion movement set to a built-in audio soundtrack to create a portrayal of an occurrence with maximum impact.” On the back there’s a new ‘F’ button to call up all the settings of the current mode, along with a 3-inch LCD display, and there’s a pop-up flash too.

The Nikon V1, meanwhile, will be $899.95 with the same 10-30mm lens kit, but adds a 1.4m dot electronic viewfinder (EVF) and a mechanical shutter button. There’s also a Multi-Accessory Port for attaching accessories – Nikon namechecks the SB-N5 compact speedlight and the GP-N100 GPS module – while a stereo input can be used to boost audio quality when filming movie clips.

As for the lenses, the standard model is the 1 NIKKOR VR 10-30mm f/3.5-5.6 lens (27-81mm 35mm equivalent). Nikon will also offer the NIKKOR VR 30-110mm f/3.8-5.6 lens (81-297mm equivalent) and the 1 NIKKOR 10mm f/2.8 pancake lens (27mm equivalent). The 1 NIKKOR VR 10-100mm f/4.5-5.6 (27-270mm equivalent) power zoom is targeted at those filming videos, and is Nikon’s first powered zoom. There’s also the FT-1 F-mount adaptor for legacy NIKKOR lenses in the pipeline, though the company hasn’t said when it will be released.

Both cameras will go on sale in the US on October 20.

Alternatively, if you prefer quality not frame rate quantity, there’ll apparently be up to Full HD capture too. Nikon’s EXPEED 3 processor is expected to be onboard, along with an F-mount adapter and both phase and contrast autofocus detection. Both will have a 2.7x crop factor in addition to what tipsters have suggested will be “innovations not yet seen in any other cameras.”

The V1 and J1 will be broadly identical, though the J1 will offer an integrated flash while the V1 will swap that for a built-in high-resolution EVF (electronic viewfinder) along with a multifunction accessory port for hooking up an external flash or GPS dongle. Neither model will have a traditional flash hot-shoe, however.

Apparently four lenses will be offered initially, ranging from a 10mm f/2.8 pancake, thoguh a 10-30mm f/3.5-5.6 VR lens, a 10-100mm f/4.5-5.6 VR and finally a 30-110mm VR. Minor aesthetic details will distinguish between each camera, and Nikon will supposedly be pushing the J1 at least in a variety of colors.

[via Twitter]

The AW100 is the first rugged Nikon point and shoot. It’s waterproof, freeze proof, and shockproof with a 16MP backside illuminated CMOS sensor and 1080p video capture. The camera will ship in September for $379.95. The S1200pj has a little projector built-in that has 20 lumens of brightness and it will work with the iPhone and other iOS devices. It has a 14.1MP resolution, 5x optical zoom, and records 720p movies. The rear LCD is 3-inches and it will ship in September for $429.95.

The S8200 is a 16.1MP camera with a 3-inch screen and 14x optical zoom. It records 1080p video and has continuous burst shooting at 6fps. Shipping is set for next month for $329.95. The S6200 will sport 16MP, 10x optical zoom, 720p video recording, and a 2.7-inch screen. Shipping is next month for $229.95. The S100 is a 3.5-inch screen smartphone with 16MP and 5x optical zoom with 1080p recording and will ship in September as well for $299.95.

The folks over at PopPhoto were curious about the photo you see here of astronaut Rex Walheim using a fancy camera rig in training for STS-135. I have seen photos of the astronauts using these odd white clad cameras before and wondered what they were. Apparently, under the white thermal blankets the gear is slightly modified version of the cameras you could go buy right now. The enclosure over the Nikon SB-800 flash is to keep air-pressure inside so the flash will function property.

The thermal blanketing is to keep the touch temperatures more stable in the harsh climate of space. The bit on top of the camera that sort of looks like an additional viewfinder is a Nikon SB-29 sync cord that is needed for the autofocus to work in low light. The camera is a slightly modified Nikon D2X with a different firmware and lubricant to survive in space. The cameras are returned to earth as needed and inspected and could go up again if they pass inspection. Apparently, the radiation in space tends to mess the cameras up.

[via PopPhoto]

The AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8G lens has a minimum focusing distance of just 0.53 feet or about 6.4 inches. This allows you to really get up close for both still photos and HD video with a life-size 1:1 reproduction ratio. To ensure great lens performance while up close, Nikon’s Close-Rance Correction System is used to to achieve critical focus.

The lens is very compact and weighs only nine ounces. It’s also super quiet with Nikon’s Silent Wave Motor technology that lets you get closer without disturbing your subject. A great travel companion for your DX-format DLSR, this compact, versatile, and affordable lens is priced at $279.95. For more information visit the product page.

The next is an odd one called Nikon Multi-Ball. It looks like one of those cameras that you sit somewhere at a party and it takes photos all around the place to create a large scene. Exactly what it does or is we don’t know. Nikon Rumors thinks it may be a 3D-panorama camera. There is also a prototype camera with a giant 6-inch screen and handles on each side. It looks really strange to me and presumably would be more like a media player able to show photos and video on a big screen than a camera alone.

The final design also has no detail offered by Nikon and is called the i-Ball. It looks like an eye, hence the name, and if I had to guess I would say this is a webcam. That might be totally off though. What do you think about these cams? I think the first one with three interchangeable parts is the most interesting and perhaps the most likely to jump to the real world.

[via Nikon Rumors]

The camera used was the Nikon D3x and a 24-120mm lens. Each of the cameras sells for about $8,000. That is nothing for a space agency when the bill for the flight is millions. If you expected that the camera gear was left behind on, the ISS for other astronauts to use you would be wrong. Apparently, the standard practice on gear like this is to destroy it on the return trip.

The memory cards were pulled out of the camera and the hardware was left in the descent module to burn up in the atmosphere on reentry. This isn’t the only camera that Nespoli let burn up either, he had a D2X as well that died in flaming glory. I guess space is just at that much of a premium that it couldn’t stay behind on the space station.

[via PetaPixel]

It’s also smaller and lighter than the D5000 it replaces, despite borrowing the CMOS sensor from Nikon’s D7000. The standard F-mount means plenty of Nikon lenses to choose from, and it can record video at 24p, 25p or 30p in up to 1080p resolution. Storage is via SD/SDHC/SCXC memory card.

There’s even a quiet shutter release mode, for when you don’t want to scare the children, and HDMI connectivity with support for being remotely-controlled by your TV’s remote. An optional $180 Stereo Microphone ME-1 can be used to reduce autofocus noise during video recording. Pricing will be around $900 for the Nikon D5100 body-only.

Press Release:

Digital-SLR camera Nikon D5100

Horizontal swing out, vari-angle monitor for better viewing, full-HD movie recording function and simple, orthodox operation for capturing the intended photos

TOKYO – Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the release of the Nikon D5100, a Nikon DX-format digital-SLR camera equipped with a vari-angle monitor, and a CMOS image sensor and the EXPEED 2 image-processing engine that enable high-resolution rendering and rich expression of tones.

The D5100 is a member of the popular D5000 series. The D5000 was the first Nikon digital-SLR camera equipped with the vari-angle monitor that allows users to enjoy flexible shooting from a wide variety of angles. The vari-angle monitor adopted for the D5100 has been enlarged to three inches, and utilizes a side hinge that enables flexible use from more angles with hand-held shooting and when the camera is mounted on a tripod. The camera is also equipped with the D-Movie function that supports recording of full-HD (1920 X 1080p, 30p) movies, as well as a Special Effects mode with which a variety of special effects can be applied to still images and movies. The D5100 was designed to respond to the needs of a broad range of users, from those using a digital-SLR camera for the first time, to those looking for a camera that allows them to express their individual sense of creativity through still images and movies.

D5100 Primary Features

A high-resolution Nikon DX-format CMOS image sensor with an effective pixel count of 16.2-million pixels, an image-processing engine that provides superior image quality and rich expression of tones, and the new High Dynamic Range (HDR) function

HDR sample image
The D5100 is equipped with the same DX-format CMOS image sensor and EXPEED 2 image-processing engine as the high-end D7000 digital-SLR camera. These features enable capture of high-resolution images with excellent expression of tones. With standard sensitivity settings of ISO 100–6400 and additional increases up to Hi 2 (ISO 25600 equivalent), the camera offers improved capability with shooting under dim lighting, such as in the evening or indoors, and also produces better results with capture of rapidly moving subjects. The High Dynamic Range (HDR) function captures two shots of varying exposure each time the shutter-release button is pressed, and then combines the two shots into a single image with a broad dynamic range. Resulting images beautifully recreate the scene as seen with the naked eye, even with shooting of backlit scenes, with little or no loss of detail in shadows or highlights.

3-in., approximately 921k-dot vari-angle monitor with wide viewing angle and increased visibility

Vari-angle monitor movement diagram
Visibility has been increased with the large 3-inch, approximately 921k-dot high-resolution vari-angle monitor adopted for the D5100. In addition, the range of colors that can be reproduced by the monitor is equivalent to that of the sRGB gamut. Adoption of a side hinge for the vari-angle monitor prevents the monitor from hitting the tripod when it is opened while the camera is mounted on a tripod. The vari-angle monitor opens from 0 to 180° to the side, and can be rotated up to 90° clockwise and up to 180° counter-clockwise when it is open. This enables shooting from a wide variety of angles, from low to high, making even self portraits possible.

D-Movie for recording and editing of Full-HD movies
The D5100 is equipped with the D-Movie function that enables recording of high-definition movies (1920 X 1080p, 30p) exhibiting superior video quality. Autofocusing during movie recording is possible using contrast-detect AF. When the focus mode is set to full-time-servo AF (AF-F) and the AF-area mode to subject-tracking AF, the camera automatically maintains focus on a subject moving throughout the frame. The D5100 also offers in-camera movie editing functions that allow users to save a single frame as a still JPEG image or delete unnecessary portions from the beginning and/or end of movie files. What’s more, the D5100 is equipped with built-in support for stereo audio recording via the Stereo Microphone ME-1 (available separately), and the mode dial and live view switch have been positioned on the same spindle in consideration of operational ease.

Mode dial, live view switch image(s)

Stereo Microphone ME-1 image

The optional Stereo Microphone ME-1 can be used to record sound in stereo while also preventing noise caused by lens vibration being recorded during autofocus.
The first Nikon digital-SLR camera to offer Special Effects mode
The D5100 offers special effects that can be selected and applied with both shooting of still images and recording of movies. Special effects are displayed with the view through the lens in the monitor before shooting or recording begins, allowing users to confirm the desired results in real time. Users can easily enjoy adding special effects to movies. This mode was adopted to respond to the creative intent of users searching for a way to express their own unique style and creativity.
The Special Effects mode built into the D5100 offers seven special effects, including Selective Color and Color Sketch.

Favorite Special Effects Selective color

Selective color sample image
All colors other than those selected by the user are recorded in black and white. Up to three colors can be selected at a time.

Color sketch
The camera detects and colors outlines for a color sketch effect. Users can use the monitor display to adjust the vividness of colors and the thickness of outlines.
Miniature effect
Distant subjects appear as miniatures for a diorama effect. Users can choose the orientation (vertical/horizontal) and width (narrow/normal/wide) of the area that will be in focus.
Night vision
When this option is selected, extremely high ISO sensitivities are used (up to ISO 102400 equivalent). This enables shooting under conditions of darkness while verifying the subject and composition in the monitor.
*RAW recording is not possible. Still images can only be recorded in JPEG (black-and-white) format. Only contrast-detect AF can be used.
Additional Features and Functions

High-speed continuous shooting at up to approximately 4 fps*,and a very precise and durable shutter unit that has passed testing for 100,000 cycles
Equipped with Quiet shutter-release mode for shooting in situations in which quieter shutter operation is desired
Infrared receivers for remote control operation on the front and back of the camera enable wireless control over the shutter from both in front of and behind the camera (optional ML-L3 wireless remote control supported).
Equipped with 16 scene modes that enable the simple capture of beautiful photos of the desired scene with automatic optimization of camera settings
Built-in HDMI-CEC compatibility enables control over playback of still images and movies using the television’s remote control when the camera is connected to a high-definition TV via the HDMI connector.
*Manual focus, M or S mode, shutter speed 1/250 s or faster, and other settings at default values

Interestingly, the tip supposedly came in “[a] few weeks ago”, so this looks less like someone merely jumping in on the Apple hype. Intel itself expects to see general Thunderbolt computer and peripheral adoption in late 2011, though has confirmed that it isn’t mandatory for manufacturers to hold off and give Apple a window of opportunity. In fact, broader adoption would probably help the MacBook Pro, since right now there’s a dearth of gadgets for new owners to plug the notebook into.

While shuttling data off of a camera at high-speed is the most obvious application for Thunderbolt on the D4, as with the speculation of the port making an appearance on the iPad 2 it’s the processor in the device (either camera or tablet) itself that’s probably the bottleneck there. What a D4 with Thunderbolt could do, however, is high-resolution tethered images and video, recording directly to a MacBook Pro. No word on when the D4 might make an appearance, however.

[Thanks Daniel!]

The camera has a wide-angle 4.2x zoom glass lens that is equivalent to 24mm – 100mm on a 35mm camera. The image sensor is a 12.2MP unit and the camera has the ability to record 1080p HD video as well. ISO sensitivity is up to 3200 and the camera uses optical vibration reduction to make images blur free.

The camera has a large number of automatic and manual photo settings and a 3-inch rear LCD. The video is recorded at 30 fps and it has special effects modes for video and still photos too. The P300 will ship in March for $329.95.

The P500 has a massive 36x zoom lens, which is the equivalent of an 810mm lens on a 35mm camera. The lens is also wide angle with 22.5mm. Naturally, with so much zoom you need blur reduction tech and Nikon includes 5-way vibration reduction coupled with fast shutter speeds.

The camera has 12.1MP resolution and uses the EXPEED C2 image processor. It has 19 different scene modes, can record video at 1080p resolution with the touch of a button, and has an integrated stereo microphone. The camera also sports HDMI output and has 19 different automatic scene modes and lots more. Images are stored to SD/HC/XC card ISO is up to 3200. The P500 will land in March for $399.95.

Nikon has filed for a patent that outlines a cool new DSLR lens that has both manual zoom and electronic zoom modes the manual mode would allow the shooter to zoom quickly when taking still shots where being smooth isn’t a factor. The same lens would have an electronic zoom mode.

That electronic zoom mode would allow for smooth zooms that look professional and are easy to perform. Where this patent will come into play is unknown. The patent app was filed on June 3, 2009 and published last week.

R3 Media Network

SlashPhone
HTC Merge Accessories Spotted in Wild
AT&T Announces Olympus Availabile December/January Via Facebook
BlackBerry Empathy Concept Made to Detect its Users Mood
Microsoft Retail Stores Offer Windows Phone 7 Devices For Free With Contract

Android Community
University of Missouri to offer goMizzou app on Android
Angry Birds on Android Downloads 7M copies
LG P990 Star smartphone surfaces with new UI pics
DROID 2 Global hits Wirefly for just $80
HTC considering E Ink and 3D displays/imaging for future devices?
Show off your Allegiance to the almighty Android in Call of Duty: Black Ops [LOLS]
AT&T and T-Mobile to possibly get Acer Liquid Metal?
NOOKcolor Rooted! [HOLY CRAP]
New LG Star Pictures and Details Leaked
Samsung GT-i9200 snapshots caught on Picasa

SlashGear
Barnes & Noble finances released: saved by NOOK
A Week with NOOKcolor: The Missing Link – Viewing Manually Loaded Books and What a Root Means for the Future [FEATURED]
FarmVille credit & exclusive items added to American Express reward scheme
Verizon 4G LTE event on December 1 will detail US roll-out
Windows Phone 7 update “took 3 months to do what Apple did in 3 years” tips developer
Google Earth 6 adds full Street View, 3D trees & more [Video] [MAP AS BIG AS WHATS MAPPED]
LG Optimus 7 uses NAND flash for storage
Project iPad magazine arrives in App Store
NASA holding press conference Thursday, has it found extraterrestrial life? [NEATO]
Linutop 3 fanless Atom-powered PC surfaces
Microsoft takes i4i case to Supreme Court
135k Windows Phone 7 sales tip Facebook stat watchers
Microsoft Kinect sells 2.5 million units in 25 days
Buy.com blows up on Cyber Monday
BlueAnt unveils new Q2 Platinum Bluetooth headset
HTC E Ink plus 3D displays & cameras in consideration tips job spec
SiliconPower unveils speedy E20 SSD
Comcast accused of internet abuse in latest net neutrality spat [NET NEUTRALITY NOW!]
Sanyo Pedal Juice box gives guitarists staying-power
High-Speed 500MB/sec CompactFlash next-gen standard proposed by Sony, Nikon & SanDisk
iPad goes free in Japan with Softbank deal
Google social networking drive delayed until Spring 2011?
Apple block PhotoFast MacBook Air SSD kit production?
Dell Vostro V130 adds HDMI & Hyperbaric Cooling, keeps ultraportable style
LG Star leaks, blows benchmarking out the water with Tegra 2

To see more wrap-up posts, follow the following tags: [The Daily Slash] or [SlashGear Morning Wrap-up]

Higher speed means faster continuous burst shooting and speedier transfers back to your computer afterward, but there are also power consumption benefits which should increase battery life. Although it would be similar in size to a CompactFlash card, even accommodating ruggedness measures, it would not be backward-compatible with the existing standard.

Still, it’s in SanDisk, Nikon and Sony’s best interest to sell you new hardware, and you’ve got some time to save up; the CompactFlash Association is putting together a working group to look at the proposal, and then come up with some sort of roadmap for the new high-speed memory card’s development. It’s not clear how long that will all take.

Press Release:

SanDisk, Nikon and Sony Propose Industry Standards for Next-Generation High-Speed Memory Card Format

Companies Jointly Develop New Specifications to Meet Needs of Professional Photography and Video Markets

MILPITAS, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–SanDisk Corporation (NASDAQ:SNDK), Nikon Corporation and Sony Corporation today announced the joint development of a set of specifications that addresses the future requirements of professional photography and video markets. The three companies proposed the specifications to the CompactFlash® Association (CFA)1, the international standards organization, with the intent to standardize the format.

“The ultra high-speed media, which will be realized by this new card format, will expand the capability of digital SLR cameras and other professional digital imaging equipment”
Professional photography and High Definition (HD)2 video applications require a new generation of memory cards capable of processing significantly larger files. To address the imaging industry’s future speed and capacity demands, SanDisk, Nikon and Sony proposed a new card specification whose performance and storage capabilities surpass those of existing memory cards. Once accepted, the new format will enable exciting new possibilities in the professional imaging and video markets.

The proposed specifications achieve data transfer rates of up to 500 megabytes per second (MB/sec)3 (theoretical maximum interface speed) using the highly versatile PCI Express4 interface. The increased speeds will enable imaging and video applications that could not be accomplished using the current CompactFlash specification’s Parallel ATA (PATA)5 interface. CF6.0, released in November 2010, offers maximum performance of up to 167MB/sec.

The new specifications’ faster speeds enable continuous burst shooting of massive RAW images. The enhanced performance also allows users to quickly transfer storage-intensive high-resolution photos and videos from the card to a computer. The specifications combine high-speed data transfer with low power consumption via a power scaling system to extend battery life.

In addition to industry-leading performance capabilities, the new memory card specifications also meet the future capacity and durability requirements of professional imaging applications. The proposed new format has the potential to extend theoretical maximum capacities beyond two terabytes (TB)6, making it especially useful for high resolution images and HD video applications. Similar in size to a CompactFlash® card, the new format’s access control function and highly durable form factor produce a combination of physical ruggedness and reliability that is indispensable for professional usage models.

“This ultra high-speed media format will enable further evolution of hardware and imaging applications, and widen the memory card options available to CompactFlash users such as professional photographers,” said Mr. Shigeto Kanda, Canon, and chairman of the board, CFA. “This next generation format is expected to be widely adapted to various products, including those other than high-end DSLRs.”

“The ultra high-speed media, which will be realized by this new card format, will expand the capability of digital SLR cameras and other professional digital imaging equipment,” said Mr. Kazuyuki Kazami, operating officer, vice president and general manager, development headquarters, imaging company, Nikon Corporation.

About SanDisk

SanDisk Corporation is the global leader in flash memory cards – from research, manufacturing and product design to consumer branding and retail distribution. SanDisk’s product portfolio includes flash memory cards for mobile phones, digital cameras and camcorders; digital audio/video players; USB flash drives for consumers and the enterprise; embedded memory for mobile devices; and solid state drives for computers. SanDisk is a Silicon Valley-based S&P 500 company, with more than half its sales outside the United States.

About Nikon

Nikon has been a pioneer in optical technology to develop worldwide since its inception in 1917. Today, Nikon offers a wide range of products utilizing advanced technologies, from consumer optics such as digital cameras and other camera-related products, binoculars and ophthalmic lenses, to industrial precision equipment including IC and LCD steppers and scanners, microscopes and measuring instruments.

About Sony

Sony Corporation is a leading manufacturer of audio, video, game, communications, key device and information technology products for the consumer and professional markets. With its music, pictures, computer entertainment and on-line businesses, Sony is uniquely positioned to be the leading electronics and entertainment company in the world. Sony recorded consolidated annual sales of approximately $78 billion for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2010. Sony Global Web Site: http://www.sony.net/

1CompactFlash Association (CFA) is an international standards organization developing specifications for CompactFlash products.

2Full HD (1920X1080X30fps, HD & 3D video support may vary based upon host device, file size, resolution, compression, bit rate, content and other factors. See www.sandisk.com/HD

3Based on SanDisk internal testing; performance may be lower depending upon host device. 1 megabyte (MB) = 1 million bytes.

4PCI Express is a serial interface, a computer expansion card standard.

5ATA(Advanced Technology Attachment) or PATA (Parallel ATA) is an interface standard between PC and storage devices.

6 1 terabyte (TB) = 1 trillion bytes.

The standard lens is, as we already knew, the AF-S DX Zoom-NIKKOR 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR, and then there’s the usual strap, a pouch for the lens, an LCD protector hood and a lens hood.  Finally there are all the cables.

The body and lens bundle will set you back $1,499.95, while the D7000 body alone is $1,199.95.  If you simply can’t wait – and having seen the performance of the new Nikon, we can’t really blame you – it might be worth heading down to your nearest Best Buy and sweet-talking the sales team there.

[vimeo]http://vimeo.com/15859118[/vimeo]

[via Engadget]

There’s also a native ISO range of 100-6400 (extendable to 25,600), dual SD card slots, 3D autofocus tracking and an HDMI output, all wrapped up in a chassis that uses magnesium-alloy top and rear covers and is dust-sealed.  The viewfinder offers 100-percent coverage, and there’s a 3-inch 920k dot LCD on the back, too.

Meanwhile our old friend Chase Jarvis has been playing with the D7000 for the past few months, and has been putting the new Nikon through its paces.  He shot the Full HD video you can see below using the D7000, and you can check out his sample pictures here.

The Nikon D7000 will go on sale in mid-October, priced at $1199.95 for the body only or at $1499.95 for a body and lens outfit that includes the AF-S DX Zoom-NIKKOR 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens.  The company also has two new pro-level lenses, the AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.4G and AF-S NIKKOR 200mm f/2G ED VR II.

Press Release:

Evolution Of The Revolutionary: The Nikon D7000 D-SLR Is The Preeminent Digital Camera For Demanding Photo Enthusiasts

The D7000 Offers Creative Freedom with Advanced Features Such as a New 16.2-Megapixel DX-Format CMOS Sensor, Six FPS Shooting, 39-Point AF System and 1080p HD Movie with Full Time Autofocus

MELVILLE, NY (September 15, 2010) – Nikon Inc. today introduced the new D7000 digital SLR camera designed to fulfill the needs of passionate photographers who demand exceptional performance, reliability, and unprecedented levels of control and versatility in a compact form factor. Engineered as an ideal balance of durability and functionality, the D7000 D-SLR features a multitude of new enhancements and updated Nikon technologies, which results in stunning photos and amazing full HD (High Definition) movies.

Continuing the tradition of innovative technology that began with the revolutionary D90, the first D-SLR to capture HD movie, the D7000 features a new 16.2-megapixel CMOS sensor with low-light ability never before seen in a DX-format (APS-C) camera. The new EXPEED 2 TM image-processing engine fuels the enhanced performance of the D7000 along with a new 39-point AF system and groundbreaking new 2,016 pixel RGB 3D Matrix Metering System to deliver amazing image quality in a variety of shooting conditions. Additionally, the D7000 D-SLR provides full 1080p HD movie capability with full-time auto focus (AF), enabling users to capture their world with both striking still and moving images.

“The D7000 D-SLR creates a new class of Nikon camera by delivering exceptional quality, control and an innovative feature set; this is a camera that enables D-SLR users to achieve a true expression of their creative vision, while concentrating primarily on image quality above all else,” said Lisa Osorio, general manager of marketing at Nikon Inc. “When you combine the innovation of the agile D7000 with the exceptional and robust line of NIKKOR lenses and accessories, the potential for D-SLR photographers and filmmakers is limitless.”

Unparalleled Performance From Unrivaled Technologies
With its new 16.2-megapixel CMOS image sensor and Nikon’s new EXPEED 2 image processing system, the D7000 D-SLR delivers superior image quality with low noise. The EXPEED 2 image-processing engine combined with a 14-bit Analog / Digital conversion brings a new level of even tonal gradations while managing color, contrast, exposure, and noise resulting in brilliant image quality. EXPEED 2 also manages the D7000’s speedy 50-millisecond shutter response, blazing AF speed and rapid six frame-per-second (fps) burst speed for up to 100 images.

The D7000 D-SLR features an all-new 39-point AF System, which includes nine center cross-type sensors that operate with more than 60 NIKKOR lenses. The 39 points in the new Multi-CAM 4800DX AF module work together to provide superior subject acquisition and fast tracking capabilities, allowing photographers to confidently capture a player stealing third from the sideline to fast-moving wildlife. Additionally, photographers can activate dynamic or single point AF, configurable in combinations of 9, 21 or 39 or a 21-point ring to match a variety of shooting styles and situations. Photographers can activate 3D tracking, which continuously follows moving subjects within the 39 AF points, highlighting the activated AF point in the viewfinder.

Utilizing Nikon’s exclusive Scene Recognition System, the camera analyzes subject information from a database containing more than 30,000 images to optimize focus, exposure and white balance. To assist in creating amazing imagery, the Scene Recognition System reads data from a groundbreaking 2,016-pixel 3D Color Matrix Meter RGB sensor that examines the scene’s brightness and color data then optimizes the camera’s performance prior to the actual exposure. Another revolutionary Nikon first, this system interprets scene data for improved control of light metering and i-TTL flash output. Additionally this new sensor allows for a new “Ambient” white balance setting which can be activated to allow warm rendering in Automatic White Balance.

Nikon Continues the Low-Light Fight
The D7000 D-SLR continues Nikon’s tradition of providing photographers the confidence to shoot in low-light, knowing they will capture high quality low-noise images. The camera’s native ISO range of 100-6400 affords the versatility to photograph in challenging lighting conditions, such as when indoors or in the evening. The ISO range can be expanded to a Hi-2 setting of 25,600, which was previously found only in Nikon FX-format territory. The resolution of the camera renders a pixel size of 4.78 µm, which allows more light to be gathered, resulting in a correctly exposed image that has less noise and finer grain.

Full 1080p HD Movies with Advanced Video Features
Building upon the popular D90 D-SLR, the Nikon D7000 captures breathtaking full 1080p HD movies with full-time autofocus and manual exposure control. To keep critical HD focus, users can choose to engage a variety of AF functions, including face priority to track up to 35 human faces, subject-tracking and normal or wide-area autofocus.

Advanced movie features also allow exposure adjustment on the fly while recording. The D7000 D-SLR offers variable frame rates and resolutions, and can record 1080p at a cinema-like 24 fps, or a web-friendly 720p at either 24 or 30 fps for up to 20 minutes per clip. Once recorded, users are able to edit and trim video clips in the camera to save time in post production. Whether utilizing a wireless or hot shoe mounted microphone, sound can be recorded via the stereo microphone input for professional audio results.

To further simplify movie shooting, Live View is activated by a single dedicated switch, and HD video recording is achieved by pressing a single button. The D7000 D-SLR also incorporates a built-in HDMI output CEC compliant (Consumer Electronic Control) that allows users to connect it to a HDTV and playback with most HDTV remote controls.

By adding versatile NIKKOR lenses to the equation, photographers can create a variety of photo perspectives to video such as isolating subjects with a shallow depth of field, and recording in low-light conditions. Combining the D7000 D-SLR with NIKKOR lenses also delivers the sharpness essential for HD video, and Nikon’s innovative Vibration Reduction (VR) II technology helps to eliminate the effects of camera shake.

No Compromise: Enhanced Build Quality, Durability and Usability
The compact design is lightweight enough for a full days use, but has a reassuring heft that hints at Nikon’s reputation for reliability. The durable camera body consists of a magnesium-alloy top and rear covers and a 150,000 cycle-rated shutter system. Additionally, the D7000 D-SLR is dust and moisture sealed and features Nikon’s dust reduction system to remove image-degrading particles from the image sensor. Among the well laid out ergonomics, users will immediately notice a new Mode Dial that eschews traditional Scene Mode icons for more advanced manual functions and two user-defined settings (U1, U2) to adapt to a users shooting style on the fly. Placed under the control wheel is a Release Mode dial, which allows access the burst modes, timer, or the Quiet Shutter, to soften the cameras operation when shooting in sensitive environments such as a ceremonies or nature.

When framing lush landscapes or tight telephoto shots from afar, users will appreciate the large, bright glass pentaprism optical viewfinder has approximately 100% frame coverage and approximately 0.94x magnification. The three-inch, 921,000-dot super-density LCD monitor with 170-degree viewing delivers bright, crisp image playback and precise Live View and movie shooting.

The D7000 D-SLR features twin SD card slots with SD, SDHC, SDXC memory card compatibility that offers several recording options including designating separate NEF (RAW) JPEG and movie files. The built-in i-TTL Speedlight flash offers coverage for lenses as wide as 16mm and has Wireless Commander support so users can choose how to light their subjects. The D7000 was designed to provide maximum performance with minimized power usage and also employs a new EN-EL15 battery which enables up to 1050 shots when fully charged.

Nikon Technologies That Empower and Inspire
The D7000 D-SLR contains many features aimed at empowering the user with creative freedom including the ability to process RAW images directly in the camera, and add in special effects using the retouch menu. Among the many editing options are color filters, distortion control for a fisheye effect, perspective control for a miniature effect, or a new color sketch filter that creates a sketch-styled image. As always, manipulated images are saved as copies while the original is retained.

The Picture Control system also allows the choice for Standard, Neutral, Vivid, Monochrome, Portrait, or Landscape settings to apply a personal look and feel to their pictures, and it’s versatile Scene Modes let them choose from Portrait, Landscape, Child, Sports, Close-up or Night Portrait for stunning results even in challenging conditions.

Price and Availability
The D7000 D-SLR camera will be available throughout the United States beginning mid-October 2010 at an MSRP* of $1199.95 for body only and $1499.95 for body and lens outfit that includes the AF-S DX Zoom-NIKKOR 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens. For more information, please visit www.nikonusa.com.

*MSRP (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price) listed only as a suggestion. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time.