Nikon Unveils New DSLR

July 1, 2008: Nikon has released details of its new D700 DSLR camera, which features a ‘full-frame’ 12.1-megapixel image sensor plus vibration-based dust removal and sits between the D300 and D3 models.
Featuring the FX DSLR format first introduced with the Nikon D3, the new D700 has a magnesium alloy cover, rear body and mirror box and o-ring sealing against dust and moisture. The shutter blades are made of a new material (a hybrid of carbon fibre and Kevlar). The shutter mechanism is rated for 150,000 cycles under demanding conditions. The self-diagnostic shutter constantly monitors and maintains shutter precision.

Front view of the D700 showing the FX logo that denotes the full-frame sensor.

Rear view, showing the high-resolution 3-inch LCD.

The new camera offers an array of features that will satisfy a broad spectrum of photographic needs. The 12.1-megapixel CMOS sensor has a sensing area of 36.0 x 23.9 m and a sensitivity range of ISO 200 to 6400. Sensitivity can be increased to HI 0.3, HI 0.5, HI 0.7, HI 1 (ISO 12,800 equivalent), HI 2 (ISO 25,600 equivalent), or decreased to Lo 1 (ISO 100 equivalent), Lo 0.7, Lo 0.5 and Lo 0.3, to expand shooting versatility.
The D700 claims a start up time of approximately 0.12 second, and a shutter release time lag of only 40 ms – both equivalent to the flagship Nikon D3. It also supports continuous shooting at up to 5 frames per second with the supplied EN-EL3e battery (and up to 8 fps with the optional Multi-Power Battery Pack MB-D10). Other features include auto exposure and auto white balance detection plus compatibility with the latest high-speed UDMA CompactFlash cards.
The new model’s EXPEED digital image-processing system supports a number of useful functions and improvements to the proprietary 1,005-pixel RGB light sensor have allowed information from the sensor to be utilised for auto exposure, auto white balance and auto focusing. 3D-Tracking in AF, provided via the Scene Recognition System, tracks subject position and automatically shifts the AF points used to match the subject’s movement within the frame.
Nikon’s Picture Control System offers four fundamental setting options – Standard, Neutral, Vivid and Monochrome – for easy customisation of image parameters. Active D-Lighting lets photographers choose from various intensities – Auto, High, Normal, Low or OFF (Unchanged) – prior to shooting. The D700 supports both FX format (36 x 24) and DX format (24 x 16). At the default setting of [Auto DX crop], the camera will automatically select DX format when a DX Nikkor lens is attached.

The D700’s Multi-CAM 3500FX AF sensor module features 51 focusing points with 15 cross-type sensors located in the centre to enable subject detection with lens apertures as small as f/5.6. A single AF point can be selected from the 51 or 11 focus points. In Dynamic-area AF mode, you can select from either 9, 21 or 51 AF areas. The focal point in AF for the current CPU lenses can be fine-tuned and registered in the camera.
Photographers can choose from two Live View modes, both of which utilise the 3-inch, 920,000-dot colour LCD monitor. In Handheld mode, which lets you recompose the frame prior to actual shooting, ordinary TTL phase detection AF is activated, using all 51 AF points including 15 cross-type points. Tripod mode is designed for precise focus accuracy with still subjects and tripod stabilisation. It enables focal-plane contrast detect AF on a desired point within a specific area. Remote view, focusing and shooting can also be controlled from a PC (via connection or wireless) using optional Nikon Camera Control Pro 2 software.
The D700 complies with HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) Ver. 1.3a for the transfer of global-standard video and audio signals. A Type C mini connector is provided. The Function button also features improved functionality. This features can be assigned to the Preview button and the AE/AF Lock button, for optimum flexibility. In addition, NEF copy recording together with JPEG image can be assigned to the Function button. Other features include customizable My Menu settings and an electronic virtual horizon that displays the inclination of the camera on the LCD monitor.

An angled view of the D700 with the 24-120mm VR lens that will be offered with the new camera.

The D700 is scheduled for release in late July and will be offered with a 24-120mm VR lens. RRP for the camera body has been set at $3999. For more information, visit www.nikon.com.au.

Image sensor: 36.0 x 23.9 mm CMOS sensor with approx. 12.87 million photosites (12.1 megapixels effective)