Nikon Unveils D60 & Three New Lenses

January 30, 2008: Nikon has released details of its new D60 DSLR camera, a 10.2-megapixel model that is due for release in March.
Claimed as one of the smallest Nikon digital SLRs ever, the D60 has a similar body design to the D40 model and a 2.5-inch LCD monitor. It offers a faster shutter response time than its predecessors and comes with built-in dust reduction in the form of an Image Sensor Cleaning function and Nikon’s exclusive Airflow Control System. Nikon’s EXPEED digital image processing system is also included, along with Active D-Lighting for ensuring highlight and shadow details are recorded.

Front, rear and top views of the Nikon D60.
The D60’s Retouch Menu includes Filter Effects in red, green and blue to intensify colours; Cross Screen filters and in-camera NEF (RAW) processing. A new Stop Motion feature lets users create animated sequences from still shots. Also included is a convenient Quick Retouch option, which enhances contrast and saturation, to improve images without using a computer.
Other features include Nikon’s 3D Color Matrix Metering II technology, an advanced three-point AF system and a built-in flash with i-TTL flash control. Camera setting menus can be customised to suit individual preferences and a date imprinting function allows the capture date to be superimposed on shots. The D60 is powered by a lithium-ion battery that supports up to 500 shots per charge.

The camera is supplied with Nikon ViewNX software. The D60 will be offered as body only at an RRP of $1099 or with an AF-S 18-55mm VR lens for $1199. A twin lens kit containing the AF-S 18-55mm VR and AF-S 55-200mm VR lenses will sell for $1399.
Nikon has also announced three new lenses. The AF-S DX-Nikkor 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens is a compact 5.3x zoom lens with Nikon’s Silent Wave Motor and Vibration Reduction II stabilisation. Consisting of 17 elements in 11 groups (with two ED glass elements and three aspherical lenses) it has a minimum aperture range of f/22-36 and focuses to 38 cm throughout the zoom range. This lens is 85mm long and weighs 485 grams. Filter diameter is 67mm.
The new AF-S Micro Nikkor 60mm f/2.8G ED lens is a true macro lens that allows photographers to shoot 1:1 life-size close-ups without the need for additional accessories. Constructed from 12 elements in 9 groups, it includes one ED glass lens, two aspherical lenses and one with Nano Crystal Coat. Closest focusing distance is 18.5 cm. A built-in Silent Wave Motor ensures fast, quiet autofocusing. Filter diameter is 62mm.
The new PC-E Nikkor 24mm f/3.5D ED combines a wide angle of view with perspective control and is ideal for architectural photography. The lens employs a special mount that enables up to ±11.5 mm shift and ±8.5 ° tilt. Adjustments are made with side-mounted controls. Consisting of 13 elements in 10 groups, it includes three ED glass elements, three aspherical lenses and one with Nano Crystal Coat. Minimum aperture is f/32 and closest focusing distance is 21 cm. Filter diameter is 77mm.

Prices for the new lenses have yet to be announced. For more information, visit www.nikon.com.au.