Showing posts with label DSLR. Show all posts
Showing posts with label DSLR. Show all posts

Wednesday, August 26, 2009

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