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Nikon D5100 Digital Field Guide
by Thomas
(2)
Publication Date: July 19, 2011

Buy new: $19.99 $13.45
2 used & new from $13.45

(Visit the Hot New Releases in Photography list for authoritative information on this product’s current rank.) Read more

Product Description
Expert advice and full-color photos help you get the most out of your Nikon D5100

As a high-end entry-level DSLR camera, the Nikon D5100 offers full HDR capability as well as new and creative options. This handy, portable guide walks you through how to make the most of the D5100′s enhanced night vision shooting, automatic HDR system, and enhanced audio capability. Veteran digital photographer and author J. Dennis Thomas shows you how to capture everything from amazing still photos to cinematic-quality movies with the new 1080p HD video.

• Walks you through the essential controls, features, and functions using step-by-step instructions
• Features inspiring full-color photos as well as helpful full-color images of each menu screen
• Teaches you how to adjust white balance, autofocus, exposure, and choose various lenses and then goes on to explain when and why to adjust each of these settings
• Includes amazing examples and shares tips and tricks to capturing portraits, candids, sports, travel, macro photography, and more
• Serves as a refresher guide to the principles of digital photography by covering the essentials of lighting, composition, and exposure
• Includes a free gray/color checker card helps you achieve accurate white balance and color in all your photographs

If you’re ready to go beyond the basics with your Nikon D5100, then this book is just what you need in order to produce amazing photos.

From the Author: Uncommon Techniques to Add Interest

Barber Pole Praying Mantis Boston Terrier

There’s a common theme that runs through these three images, and that is that I used uncommon techniques to make them more interesting. Sometimes thinking outside of the box can add that something extra to your photos that makes people take notice.

In the first image with the barber pole that I shot on South Congress Avenue in Austin Texas, I mixed different shapes, leading lines going in multiple directions, and opposing colors to make an odd combination that adds a wacky element to the image, which makes it a little more intriguing. The image was shot with a Nikon 35mm f/1.4 lens with the camera settings of 1/2000 at f/1.4 and ISO 100.

The second image is a praying mantis that I found hanging around in a bush in my backyard. I used backlighting to silhouette the insect for an almost ominous effect that adds to the odd alien-like features of the mantis. In addition, I used a technique that’s very common in photography that is called framing. This is where you use elements from the scene to surround the main subject to make it stand out even more. Using the background foliage to create a dark frame around the background of the insect, which is extra bright, really draws attention to the main subject. For this shot, I used a Nikon 85mm f/3.5 VR macro lens with the camera settings of 1/160 @ f/18 and ISO 1600.

In this third image of a Boston Terrier named Clementine, I used a bit of backlighting, but the main technique is getting down and shooting from a low angle. Being bipedal and much taller than dogs, we humans tend to look down on them and when we take photographs, oftentimes we continue this trend. Looking up at a dog isn’t the norm so it adds something interesting to the photo. The Vari-angle LCD of the D5100 is a real help when framing shots like this! The other thing that I did to make the image more interesting was using wide-angle perspective distortion and an odd angle to add a little tension to the shot. This photo was taken with a Sigma 17-70mm f/2.8-4 OS with the camera settings of 1/30 @ f/2.8 and ISO 400.

Keep your mind and eyes open, break some rules, and make your images a little off-kilter to keep things fresh!
From the Author: Top 5 accessories for the D5100

1. Nikon ME-1 Stereo Microphone: Although the inclusion of full-time AF on Nikon HDSLRs was a great feature, there was one very obvious problem, the on-camera mic picked up the noise of the lens autofocusing. The only way to combat this problem is to get the mic up and away from the lens. Nikon’s new ME-1 microphone mounts right in the hot-shoe and allows you to record video without the noise of the AF system working. Another big plus is that unlike the built-in mic, the ME-1 records in stereo!

2. SanDisk Extreme Pro SDHC UHS-1: If you’re going to be shooting video or stills at a high burst rate, you need a fast card. This is the fastest SD card on the market. Available in 8, 16, or 32GB. Not only do these cards speed up your shooting process, they make downloading to your computer lightning fast as well.

3. NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G: This is by far the coolest lens to have in your bag. The fast aperture makes it awesome for shooting in low-light and great for artistic shallow depth of field shots. It weighs almost nothing making it a snap to carry, and the price is just the icing on the cake, at just around $200 there is no better lens you can get for the D5100.

4. Black Rapid RS-4 strap: In my opinion these are the only straps to have. The Black Rapid slings over your shoulder, letting the camera hang by your side. You can quickly grab it, slide it up the nylon strap and be ready to shoot in seconds. Unlike traditional straps, the camera weight isn’t on your neck, which can create tension headaches and neck strain. This is the slickest and most comfortable strap on the market.

5. Naneu Pro Military Ops Echo X camera bag: If you’re looking for a comfortable camera bag with easy access, look no further. This is a messenger style bag that allows you to slide it around and quickly grab your camera. The Echo X is styled so that it doesn’t look like a camera bag, which is perfect if you’re worried about being targeted by thieves. These bags are heavy duty and come with a lifetime warranty. The one time I had a problem with a Naneu Pro bag the quickly shipped me a replacement strap. A very stand-up company. They make a complete line of camera and laptop bags. Check them out.

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Popularity: 17% [?]

What to expect in the new Nikon 2011

1. Nikon D4: announced by August 2011

· new Nikon 18mp sensor with at least D3-like capability, maybe better
· completely new AF system
· better metering system (upgraded from D7000)
· Hard core video features (perhaps even 1080P/60)
· Integrated GPS
· USB 3.0
· Updated UDMA specs

2. Nikon D800: announced by end of March 2011.

· D700-type body, new Nikon FX high resolution sensor fabbed by Sony
· 18-24mp
· 4-5fps
· 1080P/24/25/30, 720P/24/25/30/60
· 100% viewfinder
· EN-EL15
· MB-D12 grip

3. Nikon D400: announced late in the year (August or later). The real question is what changes from a D300s?

· The D7000 16mp sensor, but with faster frame rates (both still and video)
· A new focus sensor, likely a derivative of the D4′s
· 1080P/24/25/30, 720P/24/25/30/60
· Hard core pro body (more gasketing, probably integrated grip)
· Integrated GPS?
· EN-EL15 battery?

4. Nikon D5100: a necessary update of the D5000, probably coming in the first quarter

· 14mp Nikon sensor
· D5000-like body and controls, but with the D3100 sensor
· EN-EL14

Popularity: 21% [?]

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Nikon D7000 Digital Field Guide
by Thomas
(10)
Publication Date: January 11, 2011

Buy new: $19.99 $13.59
18 used & new from $13.55

(Visit the Hot New Releases in Photography list for authoritative information on this product’s current rank.) Read more

Product Description
Master your Nikon D7000 with this go-anywhere guide

The Nikon D7000 is the first new mid-level Nikon DSLR camera that features full 1080p HD video with full-time autofocus. This full-color guide is packed with expert advice and full-color photos to both educate and inspire as you get better acquainted with your Nikon D7000. The handy trim size allows you to take it with you wherever you go so you can frequently refer to the top-notch tips, tricks, and techniques for getting unique and memorable photos and handling problematic shooting situations. Practical examples take you beyond the basics of the functions of each button and lavish photos exemplify the professional-level photographs that you can achieve.

• Walks you through the essential controls, features, and functions of the Nikon D7000 using step-by-step instructions
• Includes full-color images of each menu screen to reinforce your understanding
• Features full-color photos, how-to information, and no-fail formulas, all aimed at helping you get great digital photos with the D7000
• Includes a grey and color checker card to help you capture perfect color in any environment
• Delves into the more advanced features of the D7000

Author Tip: Using Ultra-Wide Angle Lenses

Ultra-wide angle lenses are a great way to add an interesting effect to your images. Ultra-wide lenses bend and distort your images, which allows you to portray your subjects in a way that the human eye can’t see. This gives your photos an out of the ordinary look that attracts attention from even the most casual observer.

Getting up close to your subject distorts the perspective causing close-up areas to look huge and areas behind to look inordinately small. This is usually not recommended for portraits of people, but can be used for comedic effect and works especially well for pets.

Using an ultra-wide lens close-up pulls the viewer right into the scene and creates the illusion of extreme depth, which can give your photos an almost 3 -D feeling.

Stepping back from the subject and photographing from further away stretches out the apparent distance between the camera and the subject causing short spans to look immense. Use this technique to add a sense of space and depth to your photos.

Since ultra-wide lenses fit so much of the scene into your photograph you really need to pay attention to your composition. Keep a close eye on the foreground and edges of the frame. An empty foreground and a small subject can make your image boring. Get up close and fill the foreground with your subject, but try to exclude distracting elements from the edges of the frame.

When shooting from a distance, your subject is sure to be small. Use the foreground to include leading lines that draw attention to the subject or to create a near-far dynamic that conveys the apparent distance between the subject and the camera.

Example: Motocross Rider Example: Boston Terrier Example: Skateboarder

Click on any of the images above to find out more about the photo.

[ Product Details | Technical Details | All Customer Reviews | All Offers ]

Popularity: 12% [?]

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Nikon D7000 Digital Field Guide
by Thomas
(1)
Publication Date: January 11, 2011

Buy new: $19.99 $12.87

(Visit the Hot New Releases in Photography list for authoritative information on this product’s current rank.) Details

Product Description
Master your Nikon D7000 with this go-anywhere guide

The Nikon D7000 is the first new mid-level Nikon DSLR camera that features full 1080p HD video with full-time autofocus. This full-color guide is packed with expert advice and full-color photos to both educate and inspire as you get better acquainted with your Nikon D7000. The handy trim size allows you to take it with you wherever you go so you can frequently refer to the top-notch tips, tricks, and techniques for getting unique and memorable photos and handling problematic shooting situations. Practical examples take you beyond the basics of the functions of each button and lavish photos exemplify the professional-level photographs that you can achieve.

• Walks you through the essential controls, features, and functions of the Nikon D7000 using step-by-step instructions
• Includes full-color images of each menu screen to reinforce your understanding
• Features full-color photos, how-to information, and no-fail formulas, all aimed at helping you get great digital photos with the D7000
• Includes a grey and color checker card to help you capture perfect color in any environment
• Delves into the more advanced features of the D7000

Author Tip: Using Ultra-Wide Angle Lenses

Ultra-wide angle lenses are a great way to add an interesting effect to your images. Ultra-wide lenses bend and distort your images, which allows you to portray your subjects in a way that the human eye can’t see. This gives your photos an out of the ordinary look that attracts attention from even the most casual observer.

Getting up close to your subject distorts the perspective causing close-up areas to look huge and areas behind to look inordinately small. This is usually not recommended for portraits of people, but can be used for comedic effect and works especially well for pets.

Using an ultra-wide lens close-up pulls the viewer right into the scene and creates the illusion of extreme depth, which can give your photos an almost 3 -D feeling.

Stepping back from the subject and photographing from further away stretches out the apparent distance between the camera and the subject causing short spans to look immense. Use this technique to add a sense of space and depth to your photos.

Since ultra-wide lenses fit so much of the scene into your photograph you really need to pay attention to your composition. Keep a close eye on the foreground and edges of the frame. An empty foreground and a small subject can make your image boring. Get up close and fill the foreground with your subject, but try to exclude distracting elements from the edges of the frame.

When shooting from a distance, your subject is sure to be small. Use the foreground to include leading lines that draw attention to the subject or to create a near-far dynamic that conveys the apparent distance between the subject and the camera.

Example: Motocross Rider Example: Boston Terrier Example: Skateboarder

Click on any of the images above to find out more about the photo.

[ Product Details | Technical Details | All Customer Reviews | All Offers ]

Popularity: 6% [?]

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Nikon D3100 Digital Field Guide
by Thomas
(4)
Publication Date: December 7, 2010

Buy new: $19.99 $13.49
17 used & new from $12.65

(Visit the Hot New Releases in Photography list for authoritative information on this product’s current rank.) Details

Product Description
Expert advice helps you master your camera and capture great photos

The Nikon D3100 features full 1080p high-definition video with full-time autofocus and is an ideal upgrade for point-and-shoot camera owners who want to learn the features of a dSLR. This go-anywhere, full-color guide is the perfect companion for getting started with your Nikon D3100. Packed with nearly 300 lavish photos and professional-level tips and techniques, this handy reference explains how to make the most of the full-time autofocus and takes you through the more advanced features of the D3100.

• Walks you through the controls, features, and functions of the Nikon D3100 using step-by-step instructions
• Provides full-color images of each menu screen of the D3100
• Teaches you how to adjust white balance, autofocus, exposure, and explains why and how to adjust each of these settings
• Demonstrates how to capture portraits, candids, sports action, travel, and cinematic-quality movies

The Nikon D3100 Digital Field Guide goes beyond the owner’s manual to offer you amazing examples, helpful tips and tricks, and invaluable advice for taking memorable photos and movies.

Author Tip: Using Leading Lines

One of the easiest ways to make your images more dynamic and interesting is by using leading lines. Leading lines draw the viewer’s eye through the scene, generate dramatic tension by creating or dividing negative space, lead the eye to the subject, or they can do any combination of these.

Leading lines exist everywhere, both in nature and in man-made structures. Oftentimes when composing a photograph we unwittingly include leading lines because in real life, just as in a photograph, our eyes tend to be drawn to leading lines.

The key is to recognize leading lines so you can use them more effectively in your photographs. Some leading line subjects are obvious, a path or trail leading off into the distance, railroad tracks, handrails or stairways. Some leading lines are less obvious, the curving shore line of a beach or the gentle sloping curve of a hill or mountain leading off into the distance.

Keep an eye out for leading lines and incorporate them into your images when you can. Keep in mind that the leading line doesn’t always have to be the key subject, sometimes the subtle use of a leading line is best.

Snail Shell In this almost surreal shot of a snail shell, the spiral draws your eye into the image. I purposely underexposed the shot to let the background go dark to further focus the eye on the center of the photograph.

Shot with the Nikon D3100 with Nikon 105mm f/2.8 VR for 1/500 second at f/4.8, ISO 800 Matrix metering.

Arts Center In this photo of the Long Center for Performing Arts in Austin, Texas, the balustrade leads the eye up through the image while it and the columns make separations in the dark negative space.

Shot with the Nikon D3100 with Sigma 17-70mm f/2.8-4 OS at 17mm for 0.6 seconds at f/8, ISO 200, Matrix metering.

Abandoned Grain Elevator The strong vertical pattern of these abandoned grain elevators creates a dynamic tension. Using the MC Picture Control and increasing the contrast serves to highlight the “lines within lines” of the texture of the concrete. Leaving the plants in the foreground adds a bit of an organic element to an otherwise harsh composition.

Shot with the Nikon D3100 with Nikon 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 VR at 18mm for 1/320 second at f/10, ISO 640 (Auto-ISO), Matrix metering.

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Popularity: 4% [?]

Join Mark Ellwood as he sits down with Steve Heiner to discuss exciting new D-SLR and NIKKOR products. This podcast includes the just announced Nikon D3100 with full HD 1080p video capture with full time autofocus, and Nikon’s Guide Mode to make D-SLR photography fun and easy. We will also talk about four new NIKKOR lenses, the new AF-S DX 55-300mm, AF-S 28-300mm, the AF-S 24-120mm f/4 and the amazing AF-S 85mm f/1.4.

Play audio

Popularity: 5% [?]

MELVILLE, NY (September 27, 2010) – Nikon Corporation (Makoto Kimura, President) is pleased to announce the ten judges for the 33rd Nikon Photo Contest International 2010-2011. The Nikon Photo Contest International is the world’s largest international photo contest, and provides an opportunity for photographers to express themselves and to share their feelings and impressions with people around the world through their photographs.

Since the contest’s inception in 1969, the Nikon Photo Contest International has steadily gained notoriety with photographers from every corner of the Earth with more than 320,000 photographers submitting over 1,310,000 photos. During the 2008-2009 contest, more than 18,000 photographers from 153 countries submitted more than 51,000 photos. These numbers represent a new record for the largest number of entries by the most applicants from the most countries ever, making the Nikon Photo Contest International a truly global event.

The Nikon Photo Contest International 2010-2011 Judges 
The appointed judges of the Nikon Photo Contest International 2010-2011 have been selected from various professional photographic fields. In response to the cross-cultural nature of the competition, the selected judges have been chosen for their knowledge and expertise of digital photography and their understanding of current photographic trends.

1. Mr. Hiromi Tsuchida (Chief of Judges) – Affiliate Professor at the Osaka University of Arts
2. Mr. Teruo Sekiguchi – Affiliate Professor at Kurashiki University of Science and the Arts
3. Ms. Yoshino Oishi – Freelance Documentary Photographer
4. Mr. Sanjiro Minamikawa – European Culture Photographer
5. Mr. Masato Terauchi – Independent Photographer
6. Mr. Hiroshi Osaka – Award Winning Photographer
7. Mr. Vincent Munier (France) – Nature Photographer
8. Ms. Robin Layton (USA) – Photojournalist and Artist
9. Mr. David Dare (Hong Kong) – Nikon-Walkley Award Winning Photographer
10. Ms. Yurie Nagashima (Japan) – Award Winning Photographer

For more information on the Nikon Photo Contest International 2010-2011 judges:
http://imaging.nikon.com/products/imaging/activity/npci/npci2010-2011/profile.htm

Entry Period:
Wednesday, September 1, 2010 through Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Entry Method:
Fill out an application form on the Nikon Photo Contest International 2010-2011 website http://www.nikon-npci.com/ and transmit image data through the website.

Direct entry link here: http://entry.nikon-npci.com/npci20102011

Awards and Prizes:
A total of 53 prizes will be awarded, with one photo receiving the contest’s Grand Prize. From each category, 16 photos will receive first, second and third prizes. Four photos entered by photographers aged under 30 [born on or after January 1, 1981] will receive Emerging Talent Awards, and 16 Emerging Talent Award runners-up will have the chance to exhibit their entries in the contest’s Mini Gallery.

Winners will be announced June 2011 with an exhibition of the winning photographs planned.* The goal of the Nikon Photo Contest International is to provide an opportunity for photographers to express themselves and to share their own feelings and impressions with people around the world through their photographs.

*Exhibition venue and dates to be decided at a later date.
**Prizes to be awarded are subject to change without previous announcement. Prizes may not be exchanged for cash.

Popularity: 4% [?]

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Nikon D7000 16.2MP DX-Format CMOS Digital SLR with 3.0 Inch LCD and 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6 AF-S DX VR ED Nikkor Lens
by Nikon
Date first available at Amazon.com: September 13, 2010

Buy new: $1,499.00

(Ranking is updated hourly. Visit the Hot New Releases in Digital SLRs list for authoritative information on this product’s current rank.) Read more

Technical Details
- High Resolution 16.2 MP DX-format CMOS sensor
- High Speed 6 frames per second continuous shooting up to 100 shots
- Breathtaking Full 1080p HD Movies with Full Time Autofocus
- Dynamic ISO range from 100 to 6400
- Ground-breaking 2,016-pixel RGB (3D Color Matrix) exposure sensor

Product Description
Announced September 15, 2010 by Nikon!
Available for Pre-Order Now!

Nikon D7000 DX-Format Digital SLR Camera w/18-105mm DX VR Lens Features

Meet the new Nikon D7000, a camera ready to go wherever your photography or cinematography takes you. Experience stunning images with sharp resolution and smooth tonal gradation, thanks to the 16 megapixel DX-format CMOS image sensor and a powerful EXPEED 2 image processing engine. Take advantage of its wide ISO range of 100 to 6400 (expandable to 25,600) and its incredibly low levels of noise. Expect your images tack-sharp and accurately exposed, thanks to the camera’s 39-point AF and Scene Recognition System using a 2,016-pixel RGB matrix metering sensor. And with an approx. 0.052-second release time lag and approx. 6 frames-per-second shooting, you won’t miss a moment.

You’ll see exactly what you’re capturing with the approx. 100% frame coverage viewfinder, and for those who want to shoot both stills and movies, the D7000’s D-Movie capabilities now include Full HD 1080p capture with full-time autofocus and manual exposure. All of this advanced imaging technology is kept safe beneath the magnesium alloy covering the top and rear chassis of a compact body, whose sealing has been severely tested against moisture and dust. The D7000 is ready to shoot indoors and out, and at 150,000 cycles tested, the camera’s durable shutter unit helps you keep shooting. Combine all this with the unmatched NIKKOR lens lineup and Creative Lighting System and you have everything you need to explore your imagination to its fullest. Where can creative freedom like this take you? Find out, with the D7000.

• High Resolution 16.2 MP DX-format CMOS sensor
• High Speed 6 frames per second continuous shooting up to 100 shots
• Breathtaking Full 1080p HD Movies with Full Time Autofocus
• Dynamic ISO range from 100 to 6400
• Ground-breaking 2,016-pixel RGB (3D Color Matrix

[ Product Details | Technical Details | All Customer Reviews | All Offers ]

Popularity: 5% [?]

The D7000 Offers Creative Freedom with Advanced Features Such as a:

• New 16.2-Megapixel DX-Format CMOS Sensor;
• Six FPS Shooting;
• 39-Point AF System;
• 1080p HD Movie with Full Time Autofocus

Nikon Inc. introduced the new D7000 digital SLR camera designed to fulfill the needs of passionate photographers who demand exceptional performance, reliability, and unprecedented levels of control and versatility in a compact form factor. Engineered as an ideal balance of durability and functionality, the D7000 D-SLR features a multitude of new enhancements and updated Nikon technologies, which results in stunning photos and amazing full HD (High Definition) movies.

Continuing the tradition of innovative technology that began with the revolutionary D90, the first D-SLR to capture HD movie, the D7000 features a new 16.2-megapixel CMOS sensor with low-light ability never before seen in a DX-format (APS-C) camera. The new EXPEED 2 TM image-processing engine fuels the enhanced performance of the D7000 along with a new 39-point AF system and groundbreaking new 2,016 pixel RGB 3D Matrix Metering System to deliver amazing image quality in a variety of shooting conditions. Additionally, the D7000 D-SLR provides full 1080p HD movie capability with full-time auto focus (AF), enabling users to capture their world with both striking still and moving images.

“The D7000 D-SLR creates a new class of Nikon camera by delivering exceptional quality, control and an innovative feature set; this is a camera that enables D-SLR users to achieve a true expression of their creative vision, while concentrating primarily on image quality above all else,” said Lisa Osorio, general manager of marketing at Nikon Inc. “When you combine the innovation of the agile D7000 with the exceptional and robust line of NIKKOR lenses and accessories, the potential for D-SLR photographers and filmmakers is limitless.”

Unparalleled Performance From Unrivaled Technologies
With its new 16.2-megapixel CMOS image sensor and Nikon’s new EXPEED 2 image processing system, the D7000 D-SLR delivers superior image quality with low noise. The EXPEED 2 image-processing engine combined with a 14-bit Analog / Digital conversion brings a new level of even tonal gradations while managing color, contrast, exposure, and noise resulting in brilliant image quality. EXPEED 2 also manages the D7000’s speedy 50-millisecond shutter response, blazing AF speed and rapid six frame-per-second (fps) burst speed for up to 100 images.

The D7000 D-SLR features an all-new 39-point AF System, which includes nine center cross-type sensors that operate with more than 60 NIKKOR lenses. The 39 points in the new Multi-CAM 4800DX AF module work together to provide superior subject acquisition and fast tracking capabilities, allowing photographers to confidently capture a player stealing third from the sideline to fast-moving wildlife. Additionally, photographers can activate dynamic or single point AF, configurable in combinations of 9, 21 or 39 or a 21-point ring to match a variety of shooting styles and situations. Photographers can activate 3D tracking, which continuously follows moving subjects within the 39 AF points, highlighting the activated AF point in the viewfinder.

Utilizing Nikon’s exclusive Scene Recognition System, the camera analyzes subject information from a database containing more than 30,000 images to optimize focus, exposure and white balance. To assist in creating amazing imagery, the Scene Recognition System reads data from a groundbreaking 2,016-pixel 3D Color Matrix Meter RGB sensor that examines the scene’s brightness and color data then optimizes the camera’s performance prior to the actual exposure. Another revolutionary Nikon first, this system interprets scene data for improved control of light metering and i-TTL flash output. Additionally this new sensor allows for a new “Ambient” white balance setting which can be activated to allow warm rendering in Automatic White Balance.

Nikon Continues the Low-Light Fight
The D7000 D-SLR continues Nikon’s tradition of providing photographers the confidence to shoot in low-light, knowing they will capture high quality low-noise images. The camera’s native ISO range of 100-6400 affords the versatility to photograph in challenging lighting conditions, such as when indoors or in the evening. The ISO range can be expanded to a Hi-2 setting of 25,600, which was previously found only in Nikon FX-format territory. The resolution of the camera renders a pixel size of 4.78 µm, which allows more light to be gathered, resulting in a correctly exposed image that has less noise and finer grain.

Full 1080p HD Movies with Advanced Video Features
Building upon the popular D90 D-SLR, the Nikon D7000 captures breathtaking full 1080p HD movies with full-time autofocus and manual exposure control. To keep critical HD focus, users can choose to engage a variety of AF functions, including face priority to track up to 35 human faces, subject-tracking and normal or wide-area autofocus.

Advanced movie features also allow exposure adjustment on the fly while recording. The D7000 D-SLR offers variable frame rates and resolutions, and can record 1080p at a cinema-like 24 fps, or a web-friendly 720p at either 24 or 30 fps for up to 20 minutes per clip. Once recorded, users are able to edit and trim video clips in the camera to save time in post production. Whether utilizing a wireless or hot shoe mounted microphone, sound can be recorded via the stereo microphone input for professional audio results.

To further simplify movie shooting, Live View is activated by a single dedicated switch, and HD video recording is achieved by pressing a single button. The D7000 D-SLR also incorporates a built-in HDMI output CEC compliant (Consumer Electronic Control) that allows users to connect it to a HDTV and playback with most HDTV remote controls.

By adding versatile NIKKOR lenses to the equation, photographers can create a variety of photo perspectives to video such as isolating subjects with a shallow depth of field, and recording in low-light conditions. Combining the D7000 D-SLR with NIKKOR lenses also delivers the sharpness essential for HD video, and Nikon’s innovative Vibration Reduction (VR) II technology helps to eliminate the effects of camera shake.

No Compromise: Enhanced Build Quality, Durability and Usability
The compact design is lightweight enough for a full days use, but has a reassuring heft that hints at Nikon’s reputation for reliability. The durable camera body consists of a magnesium-alloy top and rear covers and a 150,000 cycle-rated shutter system. Additionally, the D7000 D-SLR is dust and moisture sealed and features Nikon’s dust reduction system to remove image-degrading particles from the image sensor. Among the well laid out ergonomics, users will immediately notice a new Mode Dial that eschews traditional Scene Mode icons for more advanced manual functions and two user-defined settings (U1, U2) to adapt to a users shooting style on the fly. Placed under the control wheel is a Release Mode dial, which allows access the burst modes, timer, or the Quiet Shutter, to soften the cameras operation when shooting in sensitive environments such as a ceremonies or nature.

When framing lush landscapes or tight telephoto shots from afar, users will appreciate the large, bright glass pentaprism optical viewfinder has approximately 100% frame coverage and approximately 0.94x magnification. The three-inch, 921,000-dot super-density LCD monitor with 170-degree viewing delivers bright, crisp image playback and precise Live View and movie shooting.

The D7000 D-SLR features twin SD card slots with SD, SDHC, SDXC memory card compatibility that offers several recording options including designating separate NEF (RAW) JPEG and movie files. The built-in i-TTL Speedlight flash offers coverage for lenses as wide as 16mm and has Wireless Commander support so users can choose how to light their subjects. The D7000 was designed to provide maximum performance with minimized power usage and also employs a new EN-EL15 battery which enables up to 1050 shots when fully charged.

Nikon Technologies That Empower and Inspire
The D7000 D-SLR contains many features aimed at empowering the user with creative freedom including the ability to process RAW images directly in the camera, and add in special effects using the retouch menu. Among the many editing options are color filters, distortion control for a fisheye effect, perspective control for a miniature effect, or a new color sketch filter that creates a sketch-styled image. As always, manipulated images are saved as copies while the original is retained.

The Picture Control system also allows the choice for Standard, Neutral, Vivid, Monochrome, Portrait, or Landscape settings to apply a personal look and feel to their pictures, and it’s versatile Scene Modes let them choose from Portrait, Landscape, Child, Sports, Close-up or Night Portrait for stunning results even in challenging conditions.

Price and Availability
The D7000 D-SLR camera will be available throughout the United States beginning mid-October 2010 at an MSRP* of $1199.95 for body only and $1499.95 for body and lens outfit that includes the AF-S DX Zoom-NIKKOR 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens. For more information, please visit: www.nikonusa.com.

The camera is available for pre-order from:

Amazon USA:

Amazon UK: Nikon D7000 Body Only , Nikon D7000 18-105 VR Kit

Amazon DE: Nikon D7000 SLR-Digitalkamera (16 Megapixel, 39 AF-Punkte, LiveView, Full-HD-Video) Gehäuse

Popularity: 5% [?]

DSLR Cameras

Best DSLR Professional: Nikon D3s

Nikon D3S is FX-format professional digital SLR camera! Like the D3 before it, D3S brings a new level of flexibility and an uncompromising HD D-Movie mode for Nikon D-SLRs professionally. In D3S is meticulously designed for professional photographers, whose tasks demand nothing less than the ability to capture extreme image fidelity and stunning detail. The camera is ideal for sports and reportage photo-journalism

Best DSLR Expert: Canon EOS 7D

Canon EOS 7D e designed for demanding users. EOS 7D shows that using a small sensor APS-C is not an obstacle for achieving high image quality. The new CMOS 18MP, EOS 7D provides superb results up to 3200 ISO. Photographers will love the action shooting 1/8000s shutter speed and ultra-fast frame rates. Exceptional HD video camera that makes the choice of professional video creators.

Best DSLR Advanced: Canon EOS 550D / Rebel T2i

With its 18MP sensor, Canon EOS 550D / Rebel T2i compete with more expensive competitors. This advanced DSLR includes 1920 x 1080 Full-HD video mode, effective Live View, an impressive number of settings and functions and is dedicated to demanding users, but definitely for use by all amateur photographers and enthusiasts. An excellent compromise between price and quality.

Best DSLR Entry Level: Pentax K-x

Choose a camera that redefines the entry-level digital SLR category. The PENTAX K-x offers high-end features including Live View, HD video and photographic performance that challenges higher class models. Pentax Kx has a 12.4 megapixel sensor, a large 2.7 inch LCD display, and can do Widescreen HD 720p video at 24 FPS.

Lenses

Best Professional Lens: Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II

The AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II telephoto zoom lens has been developed for use with digital and film based Nikon SLR cameras. A number of unique Nikon technologies have been adopted for this lens, including the use of seven ED glass elements, Nano Crystal Coat, a vibration reduction (VR II) system that provides camera shake compensation equivalent to increases in shutter speed by four steps, and a Silent Wave Motor (SWM). This fast f/2.8 Zoom-Nikkor lens is perfect for sports, photojournalism and wildlife photography.

Best Expert Lens: Sony 28-75mm f/2.8 SAM

With its precision optics, compact size and wide 75 degree angle of view, the Sony 28-75mm f/2.8 wide-angle lens is an excellent choice for sharp, high-contrast shots when you’re working indoors, with people in groups, or in landscapes and urban scenes. It’s also ideal when you want a panoramic or inclusive shot with lots of detail. Mounted on your compatible Sony Alpha DSLR camera, this lightweight wide-angle lens provides a near-standard 42mm focal length (35mm equivalent). With wide-angle optics and deep depth of field, this lens creates sharp, high-contrast photos that capture more detail in both foreground and background; its compact size and light weight make it an ideal lens to carry when traveling or for long shooting sessions; and a built-in sliding lens hood protects your optics and makes it faster to switch lenses.

Best Entry Level Lens: Sigma 17-70mm f/2.8-4 DC Macro OS

Designed for use on APS-C sensor DSLR cameras, this universal level corresponds to 26 105 mm (equivalent). Sigma 17-70mm f/2.8-4 differs from standard models of university diaphragm aperture (f/2.8-4), OS function to stabilize and appreciate autofocus system HSM. Sigma 17-70mm f/2.8-4 DC Macro OS is a modern, good zoom and makes high-end optical features are available to all at low cost.

Camcorders

Best Expert Camcorder: JVC Everio GZ-HM1

Everio GZ-HM1 possible to make videos with the extension Full HD (1920 × 1080 pixels) with a frequency of 60 frames per second. The camera is equipped with 10.6 megapixel CMOS matrix back backlight, which enables shooting in places with low light up without difficulty. Sensitivity of the Everio GZ-HM1 reach ISO 6400. Digital camera belonging to semi Everio camcorders. In innovation used lens Konica Minolta company equipped with 10 optical zoom folded and having the ability to capture video in H.264 format. The video can be instantly uploaded to YouTube or iMovie, without the need for further processing. The camera is equipped with built-in flash memory capacity within the 64 GB. Storage capacity can be increased through the slot drive memory SD / SDHC (32 GB). Camcorder Everio GZ-HM1 maintain a special proprietary technology for image stabilization A. I. S. (Advanced Image Stabilizer). The camera allows taking pictures with 10 megapixel extension. It is also possible to shoot video with slow rate to 600 frames per second. The link between innovation and monitor or television is carried out through HDMI port.

Photo Monitors

Best Photo Monitor: Eizo Color Edge CG243W

The ColorEdge CG243W is a 24.1-inch monitor for still and moving image color work such as digital photography, soft proofing, and post production. It features an in-plane switching (IPS) panel, 12-bit hardware calibration, a 3D look-up table, and uniform brightness and color across the screen. EIZO’s ColorNavigator calibration software is bundled with the CG243W and can be used with a measurement device to calibrate the monitor in less than five minutes. EIZO ColorEdge CG243W Wins TIPA 2010 Award for Best Photo Monitor

Popularity: 3% [?]