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Nikon D3 - Full frame /new/

Read all about Nikon D300 digital SLR Read detail specifications for Nikon D3 SLR /full frame/

Nikon D3 - Front viewNikon has introduced the D3 – a new digital SLR camera that is poised to once again revolutionize photography for professionals. The 12.1 effective megapixel D3 features Nikon’s new FX-format CMOS sensor, measuring 23.9 x 36mm, which is nearly identical to the size of 35mm film. With the fastest startup time, shortest viewfinder blackout time, and shortest shutter lag of any digital SLR camera as well as the capability to shoot up to nine frames per second at full FX-format resolution, the D3 is the world’s fastest digital SLR camera in its class.

Designed with sports photographers and photojournalists in mind, the Nikon D3 introduces an astounding list of brand new features and technologies that make it the most sophisticated and advanced Nikon digital SLR to date. In addition to the new FX-format CMOS sensor, the D3 incorporates Nikon’s new EXPEED Image Processing System that is central to the blazing speed and processing power needed for many of the D3’s new features.

The D3 also features an entirely new 51-point auto focus system with Nikon’s 3D Focus Tracking feature and two new LiveView shooting modes that allow photographers to frame a photograph using the camera’s high-resolution LCD monitor. The D3 uses the world’s first Scene Recognition System to greatly enhance the accuracy of auto focus, auto exposure and auto white balance detection in the camera by recognizing the subject or scene being photographed and applying this information to the calculations for the three functions. 

Nikon D3 main board

The D3 delivers full resolution 12.1 megapixel images at up to nine frames per second when used with conventional AF-Nikkor lenses. When used with DX Nikkor lenses, the D3 automatically switches to the DX-format mode that uses a cropped portion of the sensor to generate 5.1 megapixel resolution images. While in this mode, the D3 automatically masks the portion of the viewfinder that will not be photographed and enables the capability to shoot up to 11 frames per second. 

The D3 incorporates Nikon’s new Multi-CAM 3500FX auto focus module that features an intelligent array of 15 cross-type sensors and 36 horizontal sensors. These sensors can either be used individually or in groups, with the option for Single Area AF mode and Dynamic AF modes using groups of either 9, 21 or all 51 focus points. The system also features 3D Focus Tracking with automatic focus point switching that takes advantage of all 51 AF points as it uses color and light information to accurately track the subject. Nikon's new Scene Recognition System and improved focus algorithms also contribute to the impressive performance of the new 51-point AF system. Photographers can customize and store up to nine customized options in the D3 and export up to 99 to a CF memory card, enabling photographers to share settings among multiple D3 cameras.

The D3’s LiveView feature offers two modes for confirming subjects and composition on the new 920,000-dot, high-resolution 3-inch LCD monitor while shooting. The Tripod mode is designed for precise focus and accuracy when the camera is on a stable platform and the subject is not moving. In this mode, the camera focuses on the subject using focal-plane contrast and any point on the LCD screen can be selected as the focus point for the picture. The second mode, called Handheld mode, allows photographers to use the camera’s conventional TTL focusing system, with all 51-points and 15 cross-type points available. When using this mode, the camera activates focusing immediately when the shutter button is pressed, to ensure accurate focus.

The Fastest Camera in its Class
The D3 has the fastest reaction times of any camera in its class. Its shutter release time lag is only 37 milliseconds, and its start-up time is approximately 0.12 seconds. It is capable of continuously shooting approximately nine frames per second in full resolution with FX-format, up to 64 consecutive frames in JPEG, Normal compression. For NEF (RAW) files, the D3 can shoot up to 20 or up to 17 consecutive frames depending on whether it is set to 12-bit or 14-bit images. When using a DX-format lens, the camera automatically switches to DX-format mode, adjusting the resolution of the camera to 5.1 megapixels. In the DX-format mode, photographers also have the opportunity to increase the speed at which the camera can take pictures by limiting the auto exposure and going up to 10 frames per second or limiting both auto exposure and auto focus and going up to 11 frames per second. 

Nikon D3 back viewThe D3 reflects Nikon’s most streamlined, functional and aesthetically pleasing layout in a digital SLR camera, all designed so photographers can take pictures with less fatigue, greater accuracy and comfort. 

The camera’s viewfinder provides virtually 100 percent coverage for accurate framing, while an ultra-high definition, 920,000-dot VGA LCD screen on the rear of the camera displays images with vivid color and clarity. The 170-degree wide viewing angle makes composing shots using the LCD screen in LiveView mode easy. The D3 also features a unique Virtual Horizon digital level sensor that indicates the camera’s alignment relative to the true horizon on the rear LCD screen or in the viewfinder. 

The D3 also features two CompactFlash™ card slots that can be used for consecutive recording (overflow), simultaneous recording (backup), separating recording of RAW and JPEG files or even copying pictures between the two cards. Images can be displayed directly from the camera to a high-definition monitor using the camera’s HDMI port and an optional cable. 
The D3 is designed for professional use in demanding conditions. The exterior of the D3 is crafted of magnesium alloy and the camera’s shutter mechanism is tested to 300,000-cycle releases. The 3.0-inch LCD is strengthened with tempered glass and the D3’s comprehensive array of rubber gaskets and seals protect vulnerable entry points from dust and moisture. 

Price and Availability
The D3 will be available from authorized Nikon Professional Dealers beginning in November 2007 for an estimated selling price of $4,999.95**. With the introduction of the D3, Nikon’s current lineup of digital SLR cameras now includes the new D3, D2xs, D300, D200, D80, D40x and D40. 
** Estimated selling prices listed are only an estimate. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time.

Read all about Nikon D300 digital SLR

Read detail specifications for Nikon D3 SLR /full frame/

 

D3 key features:

12.2 megapixel FX (full-frame) CMOS sensor with high signal-to-noise ratio, wide dynamic range and 12-channel readout

ISO 200 – 6400 : extendable up to 25600 (equivalent) and down to ISO 100 (equivalent).

9fps consecutive shooting (11fps in DX Crop mode)

EXPEED image processing engine with 14-bit A/D conversion and 16-bit image processing for superb tonal gradation.

Advanced Scene Recognition System combines the camera’s metering and AF sensors for precise exposures and sharply defined images.

Multi-CAM3500FX 51-point AF system . Individually selectable or configurable in 9-point, 21-point and 51-point coverage settings.

Picture Controls streamline in-camera image processing by enabling customization of image parameters before capture and offer complete control over sharpening, contrast, brightness, hue and saturation in various color modes. 

920,000 dot 3-inch VGA LCD monitor with wide, 170-degree viewing angle.

Live View with Autofocus enables composition of images using the LCD monitor. Two modes are supported: Handheld or Tripod.

Two Crop Modes : DX format and 5:4 ratio. The DX crop mode can be automatically enabled when a DX lens is attached.

Fast response : approx. 37 ms shutter-lag and 55 ms viewfinder black-out.

Highly accurate, durable Kevlar/carbon fiber-composite shutter unit : Standard rating of 300, 000 cycles, with a maximum shutter speed of 1/8,000 sec and flash synchronization at up to 1/250 sec.

Active D-Lighting enables superior high-contrast images by automatically applying tone compensation at the moment of capture.

Dual CF card slots : configurable for parallel (simultaneous) or serial (consecutive) recording. 

HDMI video output interface enables connection to high-definition video systems.

Durable Magnesium alloy body built to withstand the rigors of the harshest of environments.

Wireless LAN and Ethernet support via optional Wireless Transmitter WT-4.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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