Nikon Unveils Flagship DSLR

August 23, 2007: Nikon will release its new, next-generation D3 professional DSLR camera in the fourth quarter of this year.
Targeted at press photographers, the D3 is the first Nikon DSLR with a full-frame image sensor and features a Nikon-developed, “FX-format” CMOS imager with 12.1 megapixels effective. Sensitivity ranges from ISO 200 to 6400 at normal settings with extensions to ISO 100 and ISO 25,600 equivalent. Introduced with the new camera is Nikon’s new “EXPEED’ image processing system, which will be applied to all future Nikon digital cameras. In the D3 it allows continuous shooting speeds of up to 9 fps for 12.1-megapixel images to be supported and up to 11 fps when DX format (24 x 16 mm) shots are recorded at 5.1-megapixels.

Photographers can select from three image areas: FX format (36 x 24mm), DX format (24 x 16 mm) and 5:4 (30 x 24mm), with automatic detection when DX format lenses are used. Areas not covered by the sensor are automatically masked I nthe viewfinder. Shutter release time lag is only 37 milliseconds and the D3 is the first DSLR to comply with next-generation UDMA memory cards. The D3 has dual card slots for CompactFlash cards and can be set for consecutive or simultaneous recording or separate RAW and JPEG recording on each card. Image data can be copied between the cards.

Nikon has introduced a new Picture Control System with four basic settings: Standard, Neutral, Vivid and Monochrome, allowing a range of image parameters to be adjusted and customised. The new 51-point Multi-CAM 3500FX autofocus sensor has a central area of 15 cross-type points that can work with all currently-available Nikkor lenses. A single AF point can be selected from 51 or 11 focus points. Fine tuning is available to match the focusing point to specific lenses. Functions of the AF points are linked with the new Scene Recognition System to provide improved subject detection and focus tracking. A new “3D tracking” mode shifts the focus point automatically to track subject movement.

The D3 is the first Nikon DSLR to provide Liveview shooting, with two modes available, covering hand-held and tripod-mounted use. In Handheld mode, TTL phase-difference AF using all 51 AF points is automatically activated. In Tripod mode, focal-plane contrast AF on a selected point is possible. Remote view, focusing and shooting are also supported when the D3 is connected to a PC (wired or wirelessly).
D-Lighting has been introduced in the new camera, along with a new Active D-Lighting function that lets users choose the intensity of the adjustment prior to shooting. Four settings are provided: High, Normal, Low and Unchanged. This function allows highlight and shadow details that might otherwise have been lost to be recorded while retaining proper contrast in the shot.
The D3 is also compliant with HDMI (High-Definition multimedia Interface) Version 1.3a, which enables transfer of video and audio signals. A standard Type A connector is provided. Pricing and availability of the new camera have yet to be announced. For details, visit www.nikon.com.au.

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