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21 Sep 08 NIKON’S NEW D80™ DIGITAL SLR CAMERA BRINGS ADVANCED PERFORMANCE AND UNMATCHED CREATIVE CONTROL TO PHOTO ENTHUSIASTS

* 10.2 D80 Offers Outstanding Performance, Ease Of Use, Versatile Personal Control and Exciting In-Camera Editing Tools
* All New 7.5x 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6G AF-S IF-ED DX Nikkor Lens Included with the D80 Outfit Creates a Compelling Option for Enthusiasts

MELVILLE, NY, AUGUST 9, 2006 - Building on the extraordinary success of the D70 and D70s, ® (www..com) today introduced the new D80™ camera - an impressively featured, high performance camera that incorporates ’s latest digital and photographic technologies, and offers advanced features as well as automated operation to satisfy any with the passion to create beautiful and preserve special moments. With a new 10.2 effective DX Format and an exclusive high- color processing engine inherited from ’s latest professional cameras, the D80 can render with incredible , sharp detail and vibrant color that is unmatched in this class of cameras. And it can shoot these fast - at speeds of up to 3 frames per second, for up to 100 (in JPEG Normal mode), ensuring that the camera’s always ready for the next fleeting moment.

The D80 works with the efficiency and grace of a fine-tuned instrument, powering up in only 0.18 seconds and capturing a with an imperceptible shutter lag time of just 80 milliseconds (0.08 seconds). A new 11-area auto-focus system detects focus with superb precision and can even track a moving subject across the frame, shifting focus instantly and automatically to any of the 11 auto-focus points that detect the subject. The D80’s large, bright 0.94x affords a remarkable view not found in many , making critical composition easier and more pleasing. The camera’s rechargeable can last up to 2700 shots on a single charge, while also providing a real-time Fuel Gauge of the percentage of charge remaining in the at all times. And like all cameras, the D80 feels solid and substantial while being both compact and comfortable. But more experienced enthusiasts will admire the D80 most for its bevy of creative controls and features that make with the camera so much more enjoyable and rewarding. Its new Optimize image menu, for instance, offers complete control over the look and feel of your , allowing you to boost and create with vivid color, or shoot black-and-white with a choice of four filtration effects, or even create your own custom look that expresses personal style and creativity. Other creative tools include an all-new image Retouch menu for in-camera , built-in i-TTL control with the ability to control up to two remote groups of Speedlights, as well as over 32 Custom settings to customize several attributes of the camera’s performance.

“The D70 and D70s cameras proved to be extraordinarily successful due to the excellent value they offered to passionate enthusiasts when each was introduced. They offered an ideal balance of features, performance, innovation and price, making them appealing to a very broad range of . With the introduction of the D80, is significantly raising the bar for a camera in this class,” said Edward Fasano, general manager for Marketing, SLR System Products at Inc. “By bringing high-end features and technologies inherited from our professional line of cameras to the passionate enthusiast, while making the camera simpler and more enjoyable to use, we believe the D80 will represent the ’sweet spot’ for anyone looking for a new level of camera performance and value. Paired with the new 7.5x 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6G AF-S IF-ED DX -Nikkor lens, the D80’s performance and versatility becomes even more compelling for consumers,” he added.

Unrivaled
At the heart of any lies its image processing engine - a sophisticated processor that determines, among other things, the overall color rendering and of taken with the camera. One of the key advances developed for the D80 is ’s own high- image processing engine that inherits best-of-breed technologies from ’s latest professional cameras, including color independent analog pre-conditioning and high-precision 12-bit processing algorithms, which combine to produce natural-looking that benefit from faithful color and tone reproduction. A new dedicated high-performance processing chip greatly accelerates performance on all levels, while also achieving lower power consumption, assuring more per charge.
The D80 also benefits from ’s exclusive Metering II, to ensure accurate exposures, even in the most challenging lighting conditions. Evaluating, rather than merely measuring or averaging the true content of each scene, input from the system’s frame-wide 420- sensor is automatically referenced against an onboard database of over 30,000 scenes from actual to calculate final exposure value. Variable Center-Weighted metering and Spot metering centered on the active focus area are also available, as are exposure compensation and auto exposure bracketing. Sophisticated exposure automation combined with options for complete user control help to make the D80 an ideal high-performance for passionate enthusiasts.

Speed to Burn
One of the hallmarks of ’s cameras is how fast they operate, not only when capturing , but also when processing them. The D80 proudly carries this tradition forward. Not only is the camera powered up and ready to shoot in only 0.18 seconds, it also reacts at blazing speeds when the shutter button is pressed. With a minimal shutter lag time of just 80 milliseconds (0.08 seconds), and the ability to shoot 3 frames per second up to 100 (in JPEG Normal mode), the camera is ready to shoot whenever that priceless expression or special moment presents itself. shot are processed instantly and recorded rapidly to the inserted SD card. Preview are also displayed near instantly.
The D80’s new 11-area auto-focus system also fulfills its role in the overall speed of the camera, delivering fast and precise focus under varying shooting conditions. Adopting a refined version of ’s advanced Multi-CAM 1000 AF Sensor Module, this new 11-area AF system with center area wide-frame operation adds effective new focusing options that will instill greater confidence in getting the desired shot. An all-new Auto-Area AF mode measures all eleven focus areas and automatically determines which of them are on the primary subject.

Creativity Comes Standard
The D80 is designed to inspire creativity at every level. For this reason, the camera includes a wide assortment of features and tools to empower all kinds of users, ranging from the novice to the seasoned pro, to pursue their creative vision, instantly and right from within the camera.
D80 will enjoy the camera’s built-in Multiple Exposure mode for unique composite image effects, or the Optimize menu options that closely tailor results to the scene at hand or the intended use of an image or to a custom preference of the . Optimization of sharpening, tone (contrast), color, and hue is controlled by the user-selected choice of Normal, Softer, Vivid, More Vivid, Portrait, Custom and Black-and-White. The black-and-white mode can be customized using red, green, yellow and orange filter effects as well as image sharpening and tone compensation.

The D80 also features an all-new image Retouch menu, with exclusive in-camera editing functions that will certainly keep D80 users engaged when they’re not busy shooting. Options within the Retouch menu include:

* D-Lighting: Automatically balances underexposed portions of an image to enhance detail in these areas, without affecting the highlights of the
* In-camera Red-eye Correction: Automatically removes the annoying red-eye effect sometimes caused by .
* Trim: can be trimmed within the camera to produce smaller files with reduced display sizes for easy sharing or greater efficiency for specific end purposes.
* Image Overlay: Merges a pair of selected RAW files taken with the D80 to create a composite image within the camera as a RAW or JPEG file. This feature is especially useful when trying to create a soft-focus effect with two similar
* Monochrome settings: Monochrome settings can be applied to any color image in the camera, to convert it to a pleasing monochromatic , either in black-and-white, sepia or cyanotype
* Filter Effects: Can be used to emulate and apply the effects of a Skylight filter or a Warming filter to any image stored on the inserted . A Customized Color menu within filter effects can also be used to make subtle shifts in color to any image in the camera.

For anyone just beginning to enjoy the added performance and versatility of , creative shooting is as simple as rotating the Digital Vari-Program mode dial on the camera. The D80 has seven preconfigured program modes to optimize the camera for specific shooting conditions and greatly increase the chances of taking a great . In “Portrait” Mode, for example, the camera automatically optimizes the color, hue, and levels to capture the most flattering skin tones, softens the focus of the background to emphasize the face and applies a milder form of in-camera sharpening. Users can choose from Auto, Portrait, Landscape, Close-Up, Sports, Night Landscape or Night Portrait.

The D80 also offers creative ways to share , with its built-in Pictmotion slideshow feature, which includes style selections that control transitions and background music. Shows can be enjoyed on the 2.5-inch LCD, or complete with audio on a television when connected via the supplied AV cable.

Creature Comfort
The D80 features refined ergonomics and design, borne from ’s extensive experience designing successful for over 50 years. As a result, the camera is incredibly comfortable to use and handle, and incorporates several new features that enhance its usability. The D80 features a large and bright with large 0.94x magnification to ensure the clearest view possible for precise composition. Included is a built-in diopter adjustment control knob also makes it easier to fine-tune the view to match eyesight. The ’s integrated grid display can also be turned on to assist with composition.
A large new 2.5-inch 230,000-dot high- LCD provides an ultra-wide 170-degree viewing angle from all directions. Navigating the spacious preview of your is easy with a new dedicated button, magnifying on screen up to 25 times their original size. A new RGB histogram display aids in evaluating exposures with greater precision. Other playback options include single frame, 4 or 9-image thumbnail display, an improved histogram display and highlight point display. A new menu interface featuring refinements to the carefully chosen color scheme and increased font size makes navigation easier on the eye, easier to understand and easier to use. Menus can be customized to display only selected items using the new “My Menu” set.

The D80 is slimmer and more compact than its predecessors, and remains true to ’s commitment to intuitive operation. The size, layout and operation of all buttons and controls are designed for maximum ease of use.

System Strength
With the D80, users also have complete and seamless compatibility with ’s extensive Total Digital Imaging System, and the camera is designed to take advantage of many of the technologies built into accessories. The D80’s powerful built-in Speedlight is compatible with ’s Creative Lighting System, and can wirelessly control up to two groups of Speedlights in full TTL mode, taking the guesswork out of multiple . Compatible Speedlights within the Creative Lighting System include the SB-800, SB-600 and ’s Wireless Close-up Speedlight Systems, featuring the SB-R200.
The D80 also offers unprecedented compatibility with ’s extensive selection of AF Nikkor as well as new DX Nikkor , which are designed exclusively for use with DX format cameras. Nikkor , famous for optical superiority, add to the D80’s ability to deliver outstanding .

The D80 will also have an optional MB-D80 pack available, extending the shooting capability in an ergonomic design that adds shooting stability. Able to run on either one or two EN-EL3e rechargeable or six AA-size , the pack also features an additional command dial and alternative buttons for shutter release and AE-Lock/AF-Lock that make vertical shooting more comfortable.

The D80 is also fully compatible with Capture NX software (available for purchase separately), ’s highly versatile and elegantly simple new editing solution designed to help tap the full potential of NEF (RAW) . Featuring an innovative user interface that provides easier access to powerful and visually intuitive enhancement tools, Capture NX’s powerful image processing and editing tools can also be applied to JPEG and TIFF files to satisfy a broader range of photofinishing needs and applications.

The D80 will be available beginning September 2006 for an estimated selling price of $999.95** for body only and $1299.95** for body and lens outfit, including the new 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6G AF-S IF-ED DX Nikkor Lens. For more information, please visit www..com.

About
, At the Heart of the Image™. Inc. is the world leader in digital imaging, precision and imaging technology and is globally recognized for setting new standards in product design and performance for its award-winning consumer and professional . Inc. distributes the Total Imaging System of consumer and professional cameras, Nikkor , Speedlights and System Accessories; COOLPIX® compact ; COOLSCAN® digital scanners; ; software products and sports and recreational . At the heart of every camera is ’s Exclusive Feature System, making it easy for anyone to take amazing digital . Through the Spirit Initiative™, the company, plays an active role in supporting aspiring and advanced through a variety of philanthropic organizations, educational programs, events and workshops. For more information, dial (800) -US or visit www..com, which links all levels of to the web’s most comprehensive learning and sharing communities.

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21 Sep 08 Nikon(R) Introduces the D2xs(TM) Professional Digital SLR Camera, Delivering Performance Advancements and Enhanced Features

* 12.4- D2xs Offers Unique Combination of Extraordinary , High-Speed and High- in a Single
* Internal and External Refinements Make D2xs a Commendable Successor to ’s Flagship D2x Camera

MELVILLE, N.Y., June 1 — (R) (http://www..com), the world leader in , today introduced the new D2xs(TM) professional camera, incorporating an impressive range of refinements that improve overall camera performance and enhance the user experience. The D2xs shares many performance and design innovations with the current and highly successful D2x camera, including the 12.4 million DX format that renders with high and sharp detail, necessary for demanding professional assignments. The D2xs also hosts a range of upgraded features that make operation significantly more responsive — including refined performance that makes for easier composition when shooting in ’s exclusive High-Speed Crop mode, a new 2.5 inch LCD with a 170-degree wide viewing angle, individually calibrated at the factory to ensure consistent color fidelity, significantly increased life and a wide range of firmware enhancements.

With its numerous refinements, the D2xs is truly equipped to meet the widely varied demands of today’s professional who strive to create that push the boundaries of what’s possible. Not only does the camera successfully combine high , speed and quality, but it also incorporates exclusive technologies that enable unfettered creativity. Options such as the WT-2A Wi-Fi transmitter achieves full wireless remote camera control and transmission, while the revolutionary i-TTL Speedlight technology included in the D2xs ensures radical new possibilities in creative lighting.

“Increasingly, professional have chosen the D2x as their primary workhorse camera due to its remarkable performance and versatility, making it ’s best selling professional camera. With the introduction of the D2xs, has built upon the proven performance of its predecessor and added new technologies and refined features that will
offer professionals an enhanced overall experience,” said Edward Fasano, general manager for Marketing, Products, Inc. “The D2xs is poised to become the next of choice among professional .”

Versatility Refined

Many of the that made the D2x such a success have been retained. The D2xs is capable of capturing 12.4 JPEG or RAW (NEF) at a rate of up to 5 frames per second in continuous shooting mode, and maintains a rapid start-up time, the world’s shortest shutter release time lag of just 37ms, as well as a blackout time of just 105 milliseconds. The D2xs also inherits the popular High-Speed Crop mode that uses a specific central area of the sensor to capture 6.8 at an incredible rate of up to 8 frames per second. A newly developed in the D2xs automatically superimposes a mask over the cropped area within the while in the High-Speed Crop mode, for easier and more confident composition.

The D2xs features ’s acclaimed Mutli-CAM2000 high-speed AF system, with eleven autofocus sensors — nine of which are cross-type and placed in the rule of thirds layout. The D2xs offers improved subject acquisition and tracking as well as a new option for controlling the duration of Lock-On(TM) focus tracking, making it easier to adjust for shooting
different types of scenes and action.

New Image Rendering and Menu Options

With a combination of powerful image-processing technologies and ’s exclusive 1,005 3D-Color Matrix Metering II, the D2xs makes it possible to capture beautiful 2.4- that meet and exceed professional ’ needs for larger files that are rich in detail, color and smooth tonal range. The D2xs has also been refined so demanding can take advantage of ’s 3D-Color Matrix Metering II even in the High-Speed Crop mode. Professional will appreciate the ability to select Adobe RGB in any of the three color modes — making it possible to work with a wider range of colors to match highly diverse assignments and workflow environments, while ideally complementing the NEF file. In-camera creative possibilities are extended even further through the addition of a new Black & White (sRGB) color mode.

shooting in RAW (NEF) will have the ability to shoot in and still retain the color information in the RAW image data, allowing them to easily reverse a image to color using ’s new Capture NX software.

RAW and JPEG taken using the D2xs can be trimmed within the camera to produce of reduced display sizes ranging from 640 x 480 to 2,560 x 1,920 pixels. The resulting smaller files can help improve workflow efficiency by eliminating the time required to download and perform software editing within a computer.

New ISO sensitivity options offer greater convenience to who work under constantly changing lighting conditions such as weddings. A new Auto ISO feature allows to maintain a specific while letting the camera automatically select an appropriate ISO setting, within a predefined range of sensitivities, based on the existing lighting conditions. This feature helps achieve optimum exposure while freeing the to concentrate on composition. ISO sensitivity can also be manually set between ISO-equivalent 100 and 800 in increments of 1/3 EV, or boosted using HI-0.3, HI-0.5, HI-0.7, HI-1 or HI-2 settings when high sensitivity is a priority. The 3 settings between 800 and HI-1 are newly added to give the D2xs finer control over sensitivity.

Refined Ergonomics and Design

The D2xs body is consistent with the exterior styling of the D2-series, adopted from a design created by famed industrial designer, Giorgetto Giugiaro*. The body is proportionate and well balanced, with a well designed interface that is intuitive and seamless.

The D2xs improves upon its predecessor’s energy efficient design, and when combined with the newly developed high-energy EN-EL4a rechargeable lithium-ion , the camera boasts an unprecedented 3,800** shots per charge. ’s highly sophisticated, real-time Fuel Gauge system in the D2xs allows to determine the precise level of remaining charge, number of shots taken per charge and the overall life of the — all at the touch of a button.

A new 2.5-inch, 235,000 dot LCD monitor in the D2xs allows a 170-degree wide viewing angle, and is individually calibrated at the factory to ensure consistent color fidelity. The D2xs also features a new color scheme for menu displays.

Expanded Software Options

The D2xs features a unique Image Authentication feature that, when used with ’s new Image Authentication Software, marks the authentication of an image captured by the camera and can determine whether or not it has been altered since capture. Image data is a critical link in the “chain of evidence” for verifying image authenticity, and D2xs’s hardware and software-based image authentication solution allows easy, secure authentication of for a wide range of requirements. The softwareenables verification of JPEGS, TIFF and NEF (RAW) taken with the D2xs.

A new remote control software called Camera Control Pro is also available for the D2xs, enabling unprecedented remote control operation of many camera functions from a personal computer. Camera Control Pro software is the next generation of camera control software, previously bundled with ’s Capture 4 software, and features substantial advanced features that offer limitless creativity to who need to control their camera remotely. Camera Control Pro can control the D2xs remotely tethering a high-speed USB cable or optional WT-2a wireless transmitter.

The D2xs is also compatible with ’s soon-to-be-released Capture NX(TM) software — a highly versatile yet elegantly simple editing solution that provides easy, yet powerful and visually intuitive image-editing and enhancement tools. With Capture NX, will be able to tap into the full potential of D2xs’s RAW (NEF) files, while also apply powerful image processing and editing tools to JPEG and TIFF files.

The D2xs will be available from authorized retailers in late June for an estimated street price of $4699.95***. For more information, please visit http://www..com

About

, At the Heart of the Image(TM). Inc. is the world leader in digital imaging, precision and imaging technology and is globally recognized for setting new standards in product design and performance for its award-winning consumer and professional . Inc. distributes the Total Imaging System of consumer and professional cameras, Nikkor , Speedlights and System Accessories; COOLPIX(R) compact ; COOLSCAN(R) digital scanners; ; software products and sports and recreational . At the heart of every camera is ’s Exclusive Feature System, making it easy for anyone to take amazing digital . Through the Spirit Initiative(TM), the company, plays an active role in supporting aspiring and advanced through a variety of philanthropic organizations, educational programs, events and workshops. For more information, dial (800) -US or visit http://www..com, which links all levels of to the web’s most comprehensive learning and sharing communities.

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18 Sep 08 Buying a Digital Camera? Read This Buying Guide!

Author: Bob Shanty

Many with upgraded technology are being introduced every day. This makes it more difficult to select a camera, as you are left with a wide range of models to choose from. However, most buyers have specific features and needs in mind. Rather than going for the latest model, buy that best suit your requirements.

What should I look for when buying a ?

The , , , performance and life should all play a significant role in your buying decision. Here are some features to keep in mind while picking the for yourself.

:

is typically defined as the number of pixels that make up a . A is closely related to . You need a high camera to shoot and print highly detailed . If you want to enlarge and crop any of your without loss of clarity, go for cameras that offer a higher . If you do not intend on printing your and would rather email them to friends, a lower camera would be a better choice. They are more affordable and still produce fairly good .

and Connectivity:

Generally, have a removable option, such as a card slot. support a wide range of formats like , sticks, cards, SmartMedia cards and xD cards. Many TVs, laptops, digital frames and some gaming consoles have card readers, so you can easily view that are stored on cards. If you want to save money, store on the cameras internal rather than on a card and transfer them to a PC or Mac using a USB cable. Digital is a huge time and money saver!

:

Rechargeable are highly recommended because they can be charged and reused again. Recent cameras are compatible with NiCad, NiMH and lithium-ion . Though NiCad and NiMH are inexpensive, lithium-ion is worth the extra money. They are long-lasting with low self-discharge rates. You should opt for cameras that are compatible with lithium-ion . A few cameras come with an AC power adapter that can be used to charge the as well.

:

come with two types of , optical and digital. Both of these allow you to take close-ups of a distant subject, although they accomplish this task through different means. The optical magnifies the image before the shot is taken, whereas the digital artificially magnifies the image by enlarging the area but this leads to a loss of . You should pay more attention to the optical rather than the digital when comparing models.

Modes:

Most cameras available today have preset modes for shooting under different conditions. Factors such as exposure, aperture, focussing, light metering, and sensitivity can all be adjusted. Many also include video capture modes, enabling you to take short videos at different frame rate speeds.

ViewFinders and LCD Displays:

The optical is the window you look through when taking a picutre. Although there are with viewfinders, several of the latest models have only an . The lets you view an image as you take it and also plays back and videos saved on your camera. Anti-glare screens are best for buyers who plan on shooting a lot of outdoors. If you need a durable camera for rough use, opt for a scratch resistant screen.

Technology:

also come with innovative technologies that make fun and easy. Do u want to avoid overexposed or darkened faces, recognise multiple faces or optimize the color and tonal qualities of your ? Not a problem. Todays cameras are well equipped with automatic red-eye and camera shake detection and correction as well as multiple face recognition. Not no meantion tons of

What are the different types of cameras and camera accessories online or available through conventional stores?

Point-and-Shoot Models:

Point-and-shoot cameras are a dime a dozen. These entry level models provide low with little magnification. If you do not want to spend time on focusing and figuring out the settings and controls, a point-and-shoot camera is just the ticket. You will find plenty of these models that are low in cost and easy to use.

Intermediate Models:

These models are especially designed for beginners. Equipped with a range of automatic settings, these consumer-level produce flawless . They usually have a of 3.2 to 5 and a 3:1 to 4:1 lens.

Advanced Consumer Models:

If you have taken a class or is one of your hobbies, then you will probably want some additional features. Choose from the many advanced consumer models with higher , quality and morer . These models let you add features based on your needs and give you the freedom to personalize the settings.

Prosumer Models:

When you buy , if consumer models are too basic for you and professional models are too complex, you will love a prosumer model. These have the best of both worlds. They have a vast number of options to work with, like switching between automatic and manual focus, selecting the and adjusting the aperture settings. You will also have the opportunity to express your creative side by manipulating . You can adjust the brightness and contrast levels for truly unique snaps. You can expect a minimum of 5 to 6 in this category. These can take 2 to 3 per second, but tend to be more fragile than other models.

Professional Models:

You will need a top of the line model that sports the latest features to meet your high demands, if you are a professional . Professional models are capable of producing high with magnificent colors and clarity. They have interchangeable and a of up to 14 . These models are the fastest on the market, allowing you to take 5 per second. Professional have a whopping option of at least a 1 GB mini hard disk drive, on an average.

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