Nikon Action

Nikon D300 user review

2009-03-24T23:55:00.000-07:00

Nikon's D300 is a photographer's camera. There are no Scene modes, not even a Green Auto mode to make the camera do it all for you. As such, the flash doesn't have a mode where it pops up automatically. But if you know what you're doing, there's plenty that the Nikon D300 will do for you. It'll adjust your ISO, find detail in the shadows, and track your subject even when it's not in the autofocus area.

There are a few limitations to what it can do compared to what we heard when the Nikon D300 was first announced. For example, though it has 14-bit A/D conversion available in RAW mode for significantly more color information in each image file, the frame rate slows down from 6.13 frames per second in 12-bit mode to 2.66 seconds in 14-bit mode. That doesn't happen with the D3, nor the Canon 40D (though the 40D is only 10 megapixels instead of the D300's 12.3). And though the Nikon D300 has 51 autofocus points like the Nikon D3, it is much slower at acquiring focus than the D3 is when in Auto-area AF. It's also slower than the competition, whose AF includes considerably fewer points.

But these aren't reasons to discount the Nikon D300, which is one of the most capable and well-designed digital SLRs made. Like the D200 did, the Nikon D300 continually surprises me. When I encounter a new situation that requires a new setting or mode, I just take a look at the back and top of the D300 and usually find my answer readily available. Granted, in the beginning there were a few times when I just decided to make do with other settings rather than delve into the comprehensive menu system. Later I found the solution after a little investigation, but it's clear that there's a bit of learning curve to using the Nikon D300. Indeed, the Nikon D300's manual is almost twice as thick, with just over double the pages of the D200's: 421 pages compared to 210.

I'll try to hit on a lot of the Nikon D300's major points, but this is just the User Report, so there's not as much room or time as this significant digital SLR camera deserves. For more of the in-depth detail, see the many tabs and sub-tabs which include pages of detail and analysis. We've taken hundreds of shots with the Nikon D300, and you're welcome to download, tweak, and print any of them for your own individual camera research purposes.
by Shawn Barnett

credit to : imaging resource

Nikon D90 review

2009-03-24T23:45:00.000-07:00

*Review based on a production Nikon D90 with firmware V1.0

Almost exactly two years after the D80 was announced comes its replacement, the rather predictably named D90. The D80 has been one of Nikon's quiet successes, and even today, despite being positively Methuselah-like in digital camera terms it continues to sell and often makes its way into our top 10 most clicked on cameras. Because it looks so similar to the D80 the D90 appears at first glance to be one of those rather subdued incremental upgrades, but dig a little deeper and you'll find there's plenty to keep Nikon fans happy.

First and foremost there's a new CMOS sensor, which Nikon claim produces D300 quality output at up to ISO 6400 and - one of several features to 'trickle down' from higher models - the same highly acclaimed 3.0-inch VGA screen as the D3/D300. Naturally it has Live View with contrast-detect AF and it would have been surprising had it not sported some form of dust removal system. More surprising is the inclusion of the world's first DSLR movie mode (720p HDTV quality, no less) and HDMI output, though as we'll see later it does come with some limitations. A lot of the core photographic spec is the same as or very similar to the D80, though there is a new shutter and an implementation of the 3D tracking AF seen on the D3/D300.

And it's not just the high end models that have lent features and technology to the D90; the user interface has been given the same user-friendly treatment as the D60, as have the retouching options. As it was explained to us the D90 is intended to appeal to the broadest audience of any Nikon SLR, from first-time 'step up' customers moving from a compact to serious amateurs wanting comprehensive photographic control without the cost and weight of a D300. Whether the D90 is as capable as its feature set suggests, we'll see as the review unfolds.
Nikon D90 Key Features

12.9 megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor (effective pixels: 12.3 million)
3.0-inch 920,000 pixel (VGA x 3 colors) TFT-LCD (same as D3 and D300)
Live View with contrast-detect AF, face detection
Image sensor cleaning (sensor shake)
Illuminated focus points
Movie capture at up to 1280 x 720 (720p) 24 fps with mono sound
IS0 200-3200 range (100-6400 expanded)
4.5 frames per second continuous shooting (buffer: 7 RAW, 25 JPEG fine, 100 JPEG Normal)
Expeed image processing engine
3D tracking AF (11 point)
Short startup time, viewfinder blackout and shutter lag
Slightly improved viewfinder (96% frame coverage)
Extensive in-camera retouching including raw development and straightening
Improved user interface
New optional compact GPS unit (fits on hot shoe)
Same battery and vertical grip as D80
Vignetting control in-camera
72 thumbnail and calendar view in playback

credit to : dpreview

Nikon announces D60

2008-11-30T10:17:00.000-08:00

The Nikon D60 is designed to simplify camera operation and allow the photographer to concentrate on taking pictures. The camera’s simple, user-friendly design includes a reduced number of buttons and a combined monitor and information display. A 2.5-inch LCD screen presents information using an easy to understand graphic user interface, with three types of presentation style to suit all users. The symbols and numbers in the display rotate through 90 degrees, presenting information in the correct orientation according to how the camera is being held. The D60 also includes a new feature that turns off the LCD monitor screen automatically when the viewfinder is in use.

The D60 utilizes Nikon’s exclusive EXPEED technology to maximize image quality and processing speed. The camera also offers creative features that are designed to allow the optimisation and adjustment of images without the need for a computer. Image optimisation is achieved through functions like Active D-Lighting (which compensates for strong shadows), and the automatic correction of false eye colour when using the built-in flash. Creative features include the automated creation of stop-motion animation files from a sequence of images, and effects that simulate the use of optical filters to produce colour shading and sparkling highlights.

To combat the dust that can be introduced into the camera body when changing lenses, , the D60 includes an integrated dust reduction system. Nikon’s exclusive Airflow Control System channels dust out of the image path and a vibrating, self-cleaning sensor unit shakes off any remaining dust from the camera’s optics.

The D60 is capable of use in a range of lighting conditions due to a wide sensitivity range of ISO 100 to ISO 1600 and offers vivid colour reproduction with clear, sharp results.. For convenient use in places where flash photography is not allowed, the camera will set the sensitivity automatically for the best results . The camera’s built-in Speedlight produces excellent balanced results thanks to Nikon’s sophisticated i-TTL flash system, and also allows the use of additional remote-controlled Speedlights.

SOURCE : dpreview

Nikon Coolpix S210

2008-07-13T20:24:00.000-07:00

Functional beauty in an alluringly slim body.

Main Features

Ultra-slim 18mm aluminum body
Precision 38 to 114mm (35mm format equivalent) 3x optical Zoom-NIKKOR lens
Large, bright 2.5-inch LCD monitor with wide viewing angle
Electronic VR image stabilization for clearer, sharper results
ISO 2000 capability enables faster shutter speeds and better exposure in lower light
Face-priority AF can detect a human face to provide sharp focus automatically
In-Camera Red-Eye Fix detects, then corrects for the red-eye effect sometimes caused by flash
D-Lighting corrects images compromised by insufficient flash or excessive back light

Overview

I'm using this camera since March 08 and i got no problem using it. Why i bought it? because of its low cost compared to SONY digicam. With its slim 18mm aluminium body, it is lighter and more attractive compared to other model

The price is resonable and affordable. I got it only for RM 688, (just 200 and something in USD) and got 1GB Nikon SD Memory, 1 case, and 1 Lithium battery as freegift.

However, like other version this digital camera has its own failure. You can got a fly clear image if there is sufficient lighting around you. However, your image will look grassy when you shoot in a low light environment even though it has ISO 2000 capability which enables faster shutter speeds and better exposure in lower light.

Here are some pictures taken by this camera.

NEW Coolpix P60

2008-07-09T12:39:00.000-07:00

Traditional camera styling, reliable performance.
Main Features

8.1 effective megapixels for high-resolution images
Optical 5x Zoom-NIKKOR lens; 6.4-32.0mm (35mm format equivalent: 36-180mm)
Uses AA-size batteries easily obtained in any location
Mode dial provides intuitive operation that makes it easy to achieve the desired shot
Electronic viewfinder for sharp, steady shooting
Large 2.5-inch LCD monitor
VR optical image stabilization
High sensitivity up to ISO 2000
Three Unique Nikon Image Innovations for high performance – Face-priority AF, In-Camera Red-Eye Fix and D-Lighting

Specifications:

Effective pixels:
8.1 million

Image sensor:
1/2.5-in. CCD; total pixels: approx. 8.5 million

Lens:
5x Zoom-NIKKOR; 6.4-32.0mm (35mm [135] format picture angle: 36-180mm); f/3.6-4.5; 9 elements in 7 groups; Digital zoom: up to 4x (35mm [135] format picture angle: 720mm)

Focus range (from lens):
40cm (1 ft. 4 in.) to infinity (∞); Macro close-up mode: 10cm (4 in.) to infinity (∞)

Monitor:
2.5-in., approx. 153k-dot, TFT LCD

Electronic Viewfinder:
0.2-in., approx. 201k-dot, equivalent

Storage media:
Internal memory (approx. 12 MB), SD memory cards

NEW Coolpix S550

2008-07-09T12:29:00.000-07:00

Smart, fast, and blessed with long reach.

Among competing 10 effective megapixel class compact digital cameras equipped with retractable 5x zoom as of January 29, 2008 (according to research conducted by NIKON CORPORATION)

Main Features

World’s smallest body*
10.0 effective megapixels for high-resolution images
Optical 5x Zoom-NIKKOR lens; 6.3-31.5mm (35mm format equivalent: 36-180mm)
Electronic VR image stabilization for clearer, sharper results
2.5-inch high-resolution LCD monitor with anti-reflection coating
High sensitivity up to ISO 2000, High-Sensitivity mode
Smile mode ensures smiles on faces of loved ones
Blink warning to help capture the right moment, providing notification when a subject blinks during exposure
Three Unique Nikon Image Innovations for high performance – Face-priority AF, In-Camera Red-Eye Fix and D-Lighting

D3: Defy Limitations - the ultimate in Nikon FX-format performance

2008-07-09T12:24:00.000-07:00

Main Features

Nikon's original FX-format CMOS image sensor with 36.0 (H) x 23.9 (V) mm image size; 12.1 effective megapixels
Compatible with three image-sensor formats – FX format (36 x 24), 5:4 (30 x 24) and DX format (24 x 16)
Sensitivity range ISO 200 to 6400 at normal setting for exceptionally high-quality images; can be set to ISO-equivalent 25,600
Incorporates Nikon's original EXPEED digital image processing concept
Nikon's original Scene Recognition system, utilizing the 1,005-pixel RGB sensor, greatly improves autofocus, auto exposure and auto white balance performance
New 51-point autofocus system features 15 cross-type sensors that maximize the potential of lenses with apertures as small as f/5.6
High-speed continuous shooting at approx. 9 frames per second [FX format (36 x 24)/5:4 (30 x 24)]/approx. 11 fps [DX format (24 x 16)] *1
Newly employed Picture Control System enables creation of desired picture with preferred tones
Accurate focal-plane contrast AF*2 available with built-in Liveview mode
Wireless Transmitter WT-4*3 (optional) realizes wireless connection of cameras with a PC, enabling thumbnail display of images taken with up to five of them, and downloading of images selected
CF card double slot accepts two CF cards
Quick response with approx. 0.12 sec. startup time and 37 ms Shutter-release time lag
Viewfinder with approx. 100% frame coverage and approx. 0.7x magnification in FX format
High-definition (920,000 dots), 170˚ viewing angle, 3-inch VGA LCD monitor with tempered glass
Active D-Lighting optimizes tone reproduction in both shadows and highlights

F6 The Ultimate in Film SLR Evolution

2008-07-09T11:38:00.000-07:00

Main Features

Top-of-the-line professional camera
11-area Wide-Area AF with 9 cross-type sensors (Multi-CAM2000 AF module)
Choice of four AF Area modes, including Group Dynamic AF
Improved 3D Color Matrix Metering with 1005-pixel RGB sensor
Color Matrix Metering works with non-CPU AI-type NIKKOR lenses
i-TTL Balanced Fill-Flash and Creative Lighting System including Advanced Wireless Lighting and versatile functions
Continuous high-speed shooting to approx. 5.5 fps (8 fps with optional Multi-Power High Speed Battery Pack MB-40)
High-precision, durable shutter unit with built-in shutter monitor
New floating mechanisms minimize operational noise and vibration
Hybrid metal body employs magnesium alloy for lightweight, superior durability
Enhanced resistance to moisture, dust and extreme temperatures
Built-in data back function (for in-frame or between-frame data imprint)
Custom Settings for 41 functions
Shooting data can be displayed on large-sized Rear LCD Panel
Data can be stored as text data on CF cards via optional Data Reader MV-1
ptional Multi-Power High Speed Battery Pack MB-40 is equipped with Main- and Sub-Command Dials, and shutter release button, AF start button and multi-selector for vertical shooting
Interchangeable Focusing Screens (seven types available)
NIKKOR/Nikon lens and system compatibility

Specifications

Exposure control
Programmed Auto with Flexible Program, Shutter-Priority Auto, Aperture-Priority Auto, Manual

Shutter speed
1/8000 to 30 s; stepless in P or A; 1/3 EV steps in S or M; Bulb

Exposure metering
3D Color Matrix, Center-Weighted, Spot; EV 0 — 20 at ISO 100 with f/1.4 lens (EV 2 — 20 with Spot Metering)

Power source
Two CR123A or DL123A batteries; Multi-Power High Speed Battery Pack MB-40 accepts eight R6/AA-size batteries or Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL4

Dimensions (W x H x D)
158 x 119 x 77.5mm (6.2 x 4.7 x 3.1 in.)

Weight (body only without batteries)
Approx. 975g (34.4 oz.)

Nikon F4 Series SLR models

2008-07-09T11:32:00.000-07:00

AF-Nikkor 50mm f/1.8

The standard Nikkor lenses that appeared during this period have evolved in two forms. First the emergence of zoom lenses has eroded its popularity and the universal term of "standard lens" was replaced with a new popular term "standard zoom". Next, virtually all the lenses appearing during the second half of the 1980's are of the auto focus type. Gone is the traditional helicoid focusing and now the data communication is via electronic circuitry. The early AF-Nikkor standard lenses are comprised of both 50 mm f/1.4 and f/1.8.

The lens with a slower lens speed of f/1.8 shown at left was the second version with improved cosmetic and lens handling characteristic. It is an affordable AF-Nikkor that combines the ease of auto focus operation with advanced Nikon optics. It weighs merely 5.1oz. and with a length measures 1.1". Aberration had been well corrected to negligible level with outstanding color rendition. Although it is less appealing as an all round start up lens.

This superb general purpose Nikkor lens is still a very good close-up performer when used with other close-up attachments and accessories. The auto focus evolution has transformed Nikon's professional camera design as well. Nikon Corporation introduced the Nikon F4 in 1988 - its 4th generation F-series flagship camera model after the original Nikon F (1959), Nikon F2 (1971-1980) and Nikon F3 (1980-2001). The F4 spearheaded a new generation of operational ease and functionality in camera design on their subsequent professional camera models. Perhaps, photography will never be the same after the evolution of auto focus.

This is a long pending project, dedicated to all the Nikon fans worldwide. It is based largely on many Nikon official publications. This information has been compiled in an orderly fashion that stretches across a product cycle of almost 8 years while also witnessing some important changes and developments in the market. This primary site, with many contributing raw information such as images and some input from users has never been meant to compete but simply to serve those in need along with the MF Nikkor Resources website. I hope that this provides a wealth of information to many Nikon users. Enjoy.