Nikon D3000 and D300s

The Nikon D3000 replaces the D40 with some impressive specs, occupying a notch above the D60 but below the newer D5000. The 10.2-megapixel starter camera is all about ease of use. It includes a new Guide feature that aims to help novice D.S.L.R. users by explaining camera settings and digital photography basics — and providing an on-screen demonstrations of how they affect images.

The D3000 employs the same DX format sensor as the D60 and is capable of the same 3 frames-per-second image capture. But the D3000 improves the autofocus speed and accuracy of the D60 with an 11-point autofocus system.

At approximately 5 by 3.8 by 2.5 inches, the D3000 it has roughly the same compact measurements as the D40, although Nikon has added softly rounded curves to the chassis. It weighs a relatively light 17 ounces.

Nikon has added some new in-camera retouch features that should appeal to inexperienced users, including a miniature effect, soft filter and color outline, which creates a black-and-white “sketch” that’s Crayola-ready for the kids.

Nikon has included the capability to create stop-motion videos, although the camera cannot capture video. Nor does it have a Live View option, which is typical of entry-level D.S.L.R. models.

The D300s, not surprisingly, is a follow-up to the popular D300, a 12.3-megapixel model that currently sells for about $1,800.

The D300s has many of the same specs as its predecessor — identical resolution and image sensor, 51 autofocus points and Live View — but it adds the ability to capture video in AVI format at a resolution of 1280 by 720 pixels at 24 frames per second. It also includes an input for an optional stereo microphone.

The D300s is a bit faster than the D300, with a 7 frame-per-second continuous-shooting capability (versus 6 frames per second on the D300). Nikon says that the D300a has 15 cross-type AF sensors that deliver better focus accuracy and tracking capabilities.

It has the same moisture-sealed magnesium alloy chassis body as the D300 but adds dual Compact Flash and SD/SDHC card slots.

Via NYTimes Blogs