User Friendly Cameras with High-Quality Components
MELVILLE, NY (February 21, 2006) - The Nikon COOLPIX family of digital cameras is pleased to announce the addition of three new cameras in its L, or Life, series. The Nikon COOLPIX L2, L3 and L4 combine high-quality design and construction with easy to use features available at affordable prices. All three cameras boast a sharp 3x optical Zoom-Nikkor lens, a big, bright 2.0-inch LCD and lightweight, compact body style (slimmest in it’s class with AA-type batteries) while offering high resolution of 6.0 effective megapixels for the COOLPIX L2, 5.1 effective megapixels for the COOLPIX L3 and 4.0 effective megapixels for the COOLPIX L4.
“The COOLPIX L-series cameras are ideal for entry-level to intermediate users who are looking for easy to use, beautifully designed cameras” says Bill Giordano, General Manager of Consumer Product Marketing for Nikon, Inc. “Each of these cameras feature Nikon’s Exclusive Feature System, which helps users improve their images in-camera. With these attractive price points and easy operability, anyone can take better pictures right out of the box.”
Nikon has developed the L Series with the snapshot consumer in mind and created well-featured cameras that can easily turn those snapshots into lasting memories. Unique to COOLPIX digital cameras, and now for the first time available throughout the line-up, is Nikon’s Exclusive Feature System, which gives users the power to automatically improve recorded images in-camera. This combination of in-camera features provides a quick, easy and seamless answer to dark pictures, blurry or out-of-focus shots and red eyes. The system includes:
- In-Camera Red-Eye Fix™: automatically detects and corrects red eye, a common condition that occurs in flash photography. You may never see red eye again.
- Face-Priority AF*: automatically finds and focuses on a persons face within the frame, providing sharp focus to produce clear, crisp portraits wherever the subject is positioned in the frame.
- D-Lighting: selects and creates a copy of images with excessive backlight or insufficient flash illumination, adding light and detail where necessary.
- Blur Warning: alerts the user that a shot has resulted in a blurry picture allowing for it to be retaken before leaving the scene.
- Best Shot Selector (BSS): automatically identifies and saves the sharpest shot from ten sequential shots.
Additionally, the L Series cameras include handy features such as, TV Quality Movie Mode** function (recording movies at up to 30fps with sound on the L2 and L3), Single and Continuous AF, Choice of White Balance and Noise Reduction to ensure better color reproduction in darker lighting conditions.
The COOLPIX L2, L3 and L4 all have a streamlined, easy to carry design that features a smooth, stylish finish and a curved grip that contributes to both design elegance and shooting stability. Adding to the cameras’ convenient portability, all of L-series models are AA-size battery and SD memory card compatible, with 32 MB of internal memory for the L2 and L3 and 16MB for the L4. If the user is unsure of which camera setting to use, the on-camera Help button can be pressed to display simple explanations for functions in the main menu. Each camera is packaged with a complimentary copy of Nikon’s PictureProject™ Software.
The big, bright, easy-to-view 2.0-inch LCD features new icons, function selection and color scheme and a choice of 15 Scene Modes - including four with Scene Assist, which displays useful framing guides in the monitor helping the user to compose the shot with optimal results - providing users with the ability to achieve crisp, clear images in a variety of situations such as Beach/Snow, Fireworks, Museum, Party/Indoor and more.
The COOLPIX L2 and L3 will be available in late February 2006 with MSRP’s of $199.95 for the L3 and $249.95 for the L2. The COOLPIX L4 will be available in March 2006 with an MSRP of $149.95. For more information about the L-series cameras and other COOLPIX cameras, please visit www.nikondigital.com.
*Face-recognition capability may be limited in some shooting conditions.
** COOLPIX L4 does not record sound in the Movie Mode.
Tags: batteries, Battery, coolpix l3, digital cam, Digital Camera, Digital cameras, flash, flash photography, images, internal memory, megapix, megapixel, megapixels, memories, memory, memory card, new camera, nikon, nikon coolpix, nikondigital, optical zoom, photo, photograph, photography, picture, pictures, pixel, red eye, resolution, sd memory card, snapshots, white balance, zoom
Nikon Incorporates SLR-Inspired Technology Into a Compact Digital Camera
MELVILLE, NY (February 21, 2006) - Nikon today announced the COOLPIX P3 and P4, an expansion to its more advanced and feature-rich P, or Performance, Series of digital cameras. Designed for the photographer who enjoys a high level of control, advanced imaging technologies and the ability to take creative control of their photography, these two exciting new cameras combine 8.1 effective megapixels with a wide range of advanced in-camera technologies, taking compact digital photography to the next level.
“The COOLPIX P3 and P4 are the perfect camera for consumers who are looking for a customizable photography experience,” says Bill Giordano, General Manager of Consumer Product Marketing for Nikon, Inc. “These cameras take many technologies first available in Nikon’s SLR line and makes them readily and easily available to consumers looking for a capable, compact digital camera at a very attractive price.”
Nikon has added its Vibration Reduction (VR) system, a feature adapted directly from Nikon’s world-renowned SLR lenses, to the P Series cameras allowing them to capture rock-steady images at shutter speeds of up to three stops slower that could normally be hand held. VR capability is available at the push of a button in two modes (Normal and Active) in order to compensate for camera movement. VR Normal compensates for minor movements, most often associated with handheld shooting, while VR Active compensates for more pronounced movements, such as the vibration of a moving vehicle. An electronic adaptation of Vibration Reduction also applies to movie shooting, allowing for sharp video in low light conditions and keeping subjects clear during panning while helping to support faster framing on the cameras’ incredible, bright 2.5-inch LCD.
COOLPIX P Series digital camera users will enjoy the flexibility of a full array of exposure control settings similar to Nikon’s SLR models. Covering a broader area of the frame, the new 11 wide-area AF achieves better results in more diverse compositions - leaving photographers free to concentrate on the shot while the camera automatically achieves superior, sharp focus almost anywhere in the frame. In addition, there are 17 shooting modes, including nine advanced scene modes that allow photographers to produce pictures better suited to their own personal tastes - through the use of three effects that vary brightness, color intensity, sharpness, noise reduction and more.
To add even greater control, both cameras offer Aperture-priority Auto mode to let photographers benefit from aperture control in 1/3EV steps. Users can select large apertures for attractive background blurring or stop down to small apertures to extend crisp focus into the distance - all while the camera automatically selects the most appropriate shutter speed for optimized exposure.
To help photographers capture the action as it happens, both cameras feature continuous shooting at up to 1.8 frames per second, which is complimented by a five shot buffer that allows users to shoot in a continuous burst, with the camera recording the last five images taken. This speed allows the P Series cameras to be a great companion for SLR shooters looking for a smaller but powerful camera to take anywhere.
An addition to the successful COOLPIX P1 and P2 cameras, the new P3 also comes equipped with the ability to transfer images wirelessly through the camera’s built in Wi-Fi feature*. Nikon’s wireless solution is fun and convenient and allows consumers to send their pictures wirelessly to a computer. In addition, pictures can be sent wirelessly to any PictBridge-enabled printer**. The Wi-Fi feature to transfer images to a computer is built into the camera and requires no additional accessories.
Unique to COOLPIX digital cameras, and now for the first time available throughout the line-up, is Nikon’s Exclusive Feature System, which gives users the power to automatically improve recorded images in-camera. This combination of in-camera features provides a quick, easy and seamless answer to underexposed pictures due to excessive backlight or insufficient flash, blurry or out-of-focus shots and red eyes. The system includes:
- In-Camera Red-Eye Fix™: automatically detects and corrects red eye, a common condition that occurs in flash photography. You may never see red eye again.
- Face-Priority AF***: automatically finds and focuses on a persons face within the frame, providing sharp focus to produce clear, crisp portraits wherever the subject is positioned in the frame.
- D-Lighting: selects and creates a copy of images with excessive backlight or insufficient flash illumination, adding light and detail where necessary
- Blur Warning: alerts the user that a shot has resulted in a blurry picture allowing for it to be retaken before leaving the scene.
- Best Shot Selector (BSS): automatically identifies and saves the sharpest shot from ten sequential shots.
Additionally, the P Series cameras include handy features such as, TV Quality Movie Mode
function (recording movies at up to 30 fps with sound limited only by the available memory, Single and Continuous AF, Choice of White Balance and Noise Reduction to ensure better color reproduction in darker lighting conditions.
The COOLPIX P3 and P4 will be available in March 2006 with a MSRP of $449.95 and $399.95, respectively. The Wireless Print Adaptor (PD-10) is currently available and has an MSRP of $49.95. For more information about these models and other COOLPIX cameras, please visit www.nikondigital.com.
Tags: compact digital, compact digital camera, digital cam, Digital Camera, digital camera user, digital camera users, Digital cameras, digital photograph, digital photography, exposure control, flash, flash photography, images, lense, lenses, megapix, megapixel, megapixels, memory, new camera, nikon, nikon inc, nikondigital, photo, photograph, photographer, photographers, photography, picture, pictures, pixel, red eye, sharpness, shutter speed, shutter speeds, white balance
MELVILLE, N.Y., Oct. 3 — Photographers have long known that a memorable photograph needs to not only capture the essence of the subject in front of the lens, but also the heart and soul of the photographer behind the lens. While Jill Enfield photographs seemingly ordinary objects, her unique style of hand-coloring images presents an art that is all her own. NikonNet’s inspiring monthly showcase, “Legends Behind the Lens” honors Jill Enfield during October with a portfolio of her most recognizable art, and a glimpse into the thought and technique behind her hand-crafted masterpieces.
“NikonNet is proud to honor the work of Jill Enfield,” said Anna Marie Bakker of Nikon Inc. “Jill’s work is unique and has inspired other photographers to experiment with alternative processes.”
“Photography is a jumping off point,” Enfield remarks. “It’s not what I do, or certainly not all that I do. I use photography to do my artwork. I guess it’s not so much that I’m just a photographer. I want to make these other pieces, and they start with photography because I don’t draw and I don’t really paint.”
Enfield enjoys the process of creating the image, as much as she values the end result. She comments, “I like to work in the darkroom and I like to work with my hands. I especially like having a lot of choices.” The alternative processes and hand-coloring are ways of going beyond the mechanical aspect of photography to put a personal stamp on the work. “I can give an image additional emotional weight,” says Enfield. “The colors I use when I hand-color a photograph are not an attempt to recreate what I saw when I took the picture, but rather to depict how the place made me feel when I saw it. The image is my memory of that feeling.”
Jill also teaches the alternative processes she uses: cyanotype, kallitype, palladium and Van Dyke Brown. To learn more about Jill Enfield, visit NikonNet’s “Legends Behind the Lens” series at http://www.nikonnet.com.
About “Legends Behind the Lens”
NikonNet’s “Legends Behind the Lens” series aims to educate users and, in turn, breathe excitement into photography. Nikon has assembled a comprehensive and intriguing collection of artists to share their most incredible, challenging, emotional and exciting experiences on NikonNet.
This inspiring monthly program offers a behind-the-scenes look into the personalities and philosophies behind the world’s greatest and most famous photographers. “Legends Behind the Lens” also offers portfolio galleries with a new photo added each day of the month, as well as tips and tricks of the trade from featured professionals.
Past “Legends” in the series include Kevin Gilbert, Nancy Brown, Joe Buissink, Steven Weinberg, B. Moose Peterson, Eddie Adams, Jay Maisel and Howard Bingham.
Tags: images, memory, nikon, nikon inc, photo, photograph, photographer, photographers, photographs, photography, picture
6.1-Megapixel D70s Features Internal and External Refinements to Become a Worthy Successor to the Venerable D70 Digital SLR Camera
MELVILLE, NY, APRIL 20, 2005 - Incorporating upgrades based on user feedback and advancement in technologies, Nikon® (www.nikondigital.com) today introduced the D70s™ 6.1-effective megapixel digital SLR camera. The D70s builds on the success of its popular predecessor, the D70, with multiple internal and external refinements including an improved autofocus system, larger LCD monitor, the addition of a remote cord port, new graphic user interface, among several other enhancements. Designed for a broad range of consumers from experienced and amateur photographers to beginning photo enthusiasts and hobbyists, the D70s offers a proven track record of superior image quality, robust performance, and advanced new features.
The Nikon D70s maintains leadership in its class of cameras and offers tremendous value to customers by combining various new and existing technologies into a comprehensive feature set. Its DX format 6.1-effective megapixel CCD sensor is optimized to deliver images with excellent sharpness and clarity. An improved autofocus system delivers enhanced performance, especially in Dynamic area AF and Dynamic area AF with closest subject priority modes. This combined with Nikon’s unique Dynamic Buffer technology (that allows the camera to continuously take up to 144 pictures at a speed of three pictures per second*) makes the D70s even more responsive and when photographing fast moving subjects.
“Nikon’s commitment to its customers is exemplified with the introduction of the D70s. Nikon has taken an internationally best-selling digital SLR camera and made it even more appealing to hobbyists and photo enthusiasts by incorporating a range of enhancements and new features that were based largely on the feedback we received from our customers and research findings,” said Steve Heiner, general manager of Digital SLR Systems for Nikon Inc. “The D70s now represents the best combination of performance and value for photo enthusiasts, and offers superb image quality, advanced speed and simple, intuitive usability. We are confident the D70s will continue to build on the popularity of the D70.”
Smart New Enhancements
The D70s incorporates a host of new enhancements and refinements internally and externally, in addition to all of the advanced features and innovations found in the D70:
- A refined 5-area autofocus system now has an all-area search priority to go along with the camera
- single area, dynamic area, and close subject priorities, improving the camera’s ability to acquire focus on fast moving subjects within the frame.
- The camera now boasts a larger 2.0″ LCD monitor, making it easier for users to review images and access menus.
- A new remote port for the MC-DC1 electronic cable release (optional) allows users to trigger the camera and hold the shutter open via an electronic cable release
- A built-in Speedlight with a wider angle of coverage, supports 18mm lenses.
- A new easier-to-read menu design in the D70s uses color-coded menus, and a larger type-face.
- A higher capacity EN-EL3a battery offers users more pictures per charge. The EN-EL3a battery comes with a new, smaller MH-18a battery charger. Both the new battery and charger are included with the D70s.
System Versatility: DX Nikkor Lenses
The D70s joins Nikon’s current selection of digital SLR models and inherits the popular DX format sensor and Nikon F-Mount, making it seamlessly compatible with all AF Nikkor lenses and Nikon’s exclusive DX Nikkor lenses. Designed exclusively for use with DX Format digital SLR cameras, DX Nikkor lenses deliver a wider picture angle, higher performance, and outstanding center-to-edge-to-corner image quality, while realizing smaller and lighter designs. All DX Nikkor lenses have a picture angle comparable to that of 35mm format lenses with a 1.5x factor. Since the introduction of the DX Nikkor lenses, the series has grown to include six lenses. These include:
- New AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED
- New AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 55-200mm f/4-5.6G ED
- AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-70mm f/3.5-4.5 IF-ED
- AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 17-55mm f/2.8G IF-ED
- AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 12-24mm f/4G IF-ED
- AF DX Fisheye-Nikkor 10.5mm f/2.8G ED
Simplified Creativity: Revolutionary Built-in Speedlight with i-TTL
Taking its cue from the D70, the D70s’ built-in Speedlight offers a level of performance that is unrivalled in any other digital SLR camera in its class. Designed to be a part of Nikon’s growing Creative Lighting System, the D70s’ built-in Speedlight adopts Nikon’s exclusive i-TTL flash control technology. In addition to normal on-camera use, the D70s’ built-in Speedlight can also be used in Commander Mode to remotely control one group of multiple SB-600 or SB-800 Speedlights wirelessly, offering users remarkable creative lighting control while still maintaining point-and-shoot simplicity. Alternately, an SB-800 can be mounted on the D70s and used as the Master Speedlight for even more control of up to three remote groups of wireless Speedlights, with each group consisting of any number of Nikon SB-800 or SB-600 Speedlight units. The D70s lets you shoot at synchronized speeds up to 1/500 second for great fill effects under brighter light conditions, while FV Lock maintains the measured flash value while recomposing the shot so you still achieve the appropriate flash output for the subject.
Powerful Software: New Nikon PictureProject™ and PictureProject In Touch
Software is a key component of the digital photography experience, and a key component of Nikon’s Total Imaging System. After conducting exhaustive worldwide research into customer expectations, requirements and work habits, Nikon has developed the new PictureProject 1.5 image management and editing software. Based entirely on a new software architecture that empowers customers of varying skill levels to maximize their digital photography experience, Nikon PictureProject 1.5 boasts powerful features wrapped into a brand new interface that navigates quickly and is easy to master. While PictureProject 1.5 is already a dynamic new addition to Nikon photography, the software also supports plug-ins, allowing users to add new features, as technology and the digital camera market evolve. The software allows users to easily transfer images to PC’s or MAC’s and browse, organize, and share them. With support for JPEG, TIFF and NEF and compressed NEF (RAW) files, PictureProject 1.5 works in close unison with Nikon Capture 4.2 as the ideal companion to its powerful feature set.
With Nikon’s PictureProject In Touch™, users can share photos without attaching them in an email or uploading them to a website. PictureProject In Touch is a free desktop software application, available via download on www.nikonnet.com and included with the newest version 1.5 of PictureProject™ software. It enables the fast, seamless and easy transfer of pictures between a sender and one or more recipients and can be viewed as full-screen slide shows with the click of a button. With this powerful software, Nikon can ensure that its customers will always keep ahead of the technology curve.
The Nikon D70s will be available either as an Outfit or a Set. The D70s Outfit includes the camera body, rechargeable battery, charger, new Nikon PictureProject™
software, neck strap and the new high-performance AF-S DX Nikkor 18-70mm f/3.5-4.5G IF-ED lens. The D70s Set includes all items mentioned above except the lens. The D70s Outfit will be available for an estimated street price of $1199.95, while the D70s Set (body only) will be available for an estimated street price of $899.95*1. The camera will ship in early May 2005.
MAJOR FEATURES OF THE NIKON D70s DIGITAL SLR
Accurate, vivid color
- 6.1 effective megapixels Nikon DX Format CCD imaging sensor produces 3,008 x 2,000-pixel images with high resolution and superbly sharp details.
- Advanced digital image processor uses advanced algorithms to optimize image quality, while also controlling auto white balance, auto tone and color control, as well as real-time processes to diminish digital noise and produce beautiful long exposure shots.
- Accurate white balance achieved by Nikon’s acclaimed 3D Color Matrix Meter with 1,005-pixel for highly precise control over white balance under widely varied lighting conditions.
High Performance and Quick Response
- Continuous shooting at 3 frames per second for a continuous burst of up to 144 pictures (When using JPEG NORMAL - Large setting, and a SanDisk SDCFH (Ultra II), SDCFX (Extreme/Extreme III), or Lexar Media 80X WA CompactFlash™ card) thanks to improved buffer memory handling, faster image processing, increased memory card access speed and greater system bus bandwidth. (The number of
continuous shots possible in a single burst may be fewer depending on the type of CF card used.)
- Ultra-short shutter time lag is hardly noticeable and offers very quick response.
- Immediate power-up has the D70s ready to take pictures before your finger can reach the shutter button.
- High-speed, high precision 5-area AF system with predictive focus tracking and Lock-on™ ensures quick response and sharp focus, while an AF-assist illuminator helps ensure top performance in dark situations.
- Fast shutter speed with a range from 30 to 1/8,000 sec. for full creative control.
- Fast flash sync shutter speeds up to 1/500 sec. available for great fill-effects under brighter light conditions.
Optimized and Predictable Results
- Seven Automated Digital Vari-Program selections easily accessed from the Mode Dial deliver automatic operation that optimizes white balance, sharpening, tone, color, saturation and hue for crisp and vivid results that match the intended shot. Selections include Auto, Portrait, Landscape, Close-up, Sports, Night Portrait, and Night Landscape.
- Image enhancement options optimize sharpening, contrast, tone, color, saturation and hue while using Auto Multi Program [P], Shutter-Priority Auto [S], [Aperture-Priority Auto A], or [Manual M] exposure modes to best match the scene or intended use for the picture. The easy to set choices include Normal, Vivid, Sharp, Soft, Direct print, Landscape or Custom optimization
- Optimized exposure with a choice of three TTL exposure modes, including Nikon’s acclaimed 3D Color Matrix Meter with 1,005-pixel RGB Sensor, variable Center-Weighted Meter and choice of Spot Meters.
- Nikon’s built-in iTTL automatic balanced Fill-Flash can shoot at synchronized speeds up to 1/500 second for great fill effects when shooting in brighter lighting conditions; compatibility within Nikon’s Creative Lighting System.
- Flash exposure compensation; a comprehensive selection of compensation tools enable more versatile picture taking; tools for ambient light, flash illumination and the two combined are provided.
- New Generation Color Reproduction System offers a choice of three color modes to ensure the best match for the shot when operating the camera manually.
Mode Ia: Renders natural-looking skin tones out of the camera. (sRGB)
Mode II: Realizes a wider color range suited for processing or retouching. (Adobe RGB)
Mode IIIa: Renders vivid landscape and flora colors out of the camera. (sRGB)
- JPEG and NEF Combination Filing System enables simultaneous recording of compressed NEF (RAW) and JPEG data for the same shot to optimize and accelerate workflow.
- Exclusive use of Compressed NEF files to maximize number of raw images possible for each
CF card used.
Creative and Versatile System for Subtle Expression
- High-Quality Nikkor lenses: The unrivalled performance of AF, AF-S and DX Nikkor lenses expand creative possibilities to the maximum.
- Built-in auto pop-up flash features exclusive i-TTL flash control, fast 1/500 sec. flash sync shutter speed, and supports Nikon’s Creative Lighting System for wireless control of remote SB-600 and SB-800 Speedlights. Also supports wide-angle lenses up to 18mm.
- ISO flash shoe makes it easy to attach an SB-600 or SB-800 Speedlight directly to the camera.
- Integrated Nikon Software Solutions:
Nikon Capture 4 (optional) is a comprehensive image editing and remote camera control package that fully supports NEF* (compressed and uncompressed) (RAW), TIFF and JPEG data. Among other features, the package offers Image Dust Off sensor dust and particle shade removal control; D-Lighting for scene-specific automatic dodge and burn control; and transformation of shots from the AF DX Fisheye-Nikkor 10.5mm f/2.8G ED lens to ultra-wideangle images.
Picture Project is Nikon’s versatile bundled software that simplifies and improves data transfer, as well as browsing and editing of image files. Picture Project introduces an entirely new intuitive user interface, and supports exclusive Nikon plug-ins for added function.
Improved Overall Performance
- Large 2 inch LCD monitor with user-friendly menus located directly below the viewfinder displays bigger menu fonts and icons that use familiar keywords for ease of understanding. A protective clear LCD cover is also included with the D70s.
- Versatile LCD playback options include Single frame, Thumbnail (4 or 9 segments), Zoom playback (up to 4.7x), Slide show, Histogram indication, and Highlight point displays with automatic image rotation for vertical shots.
- 25 Custom Settings allow you to personalize the operation of your D70s to match your shooting style or the demands of different shooting conditions
- Remote control operation made available with optional ML-L3 (IR) or MC-DC1 electronic cable release.
- Direct printing from the D70 to any PictBridge compatible printer using the supplied USB cable.
Tags: 35mm, 3d color matrix, amateur photographer, amateur photographers, Battery, camera body, CCD, ccd sensor, compactflash, d70s nikon, digital cam, Digital Camera, digital camera market, digital image, digital photograph, digital photography, digital slr, digital slr camera, digital slr cameras, flash, flash exposure, image editing, image processor, image quality, images, lense, lenses, megapix, megapixel, megapixel ccd, megapixels, memory, memory card, nikkor lenses, nikon, nikon d70, nikon d70s, nikon inc, nikondigital, photo, photo enthusiast, photo enthusiasts, photograph, photographer, photographers, photography, photos, picture, pictures, pixel, raw images, rechargeable battery, resolution, saturation, sharpness, shutter speed, shutter speeds, slr camera, slr cameras, slr systems, viewfinder, white balance, zoom
- D50’s Ease-of-Use and Attractive Pricing Set to Bring the Thrill of Nikon Digital SLR Performance to More Consumers than Ever Before
- 6.1-Megapixel D50 Arrives in Stores in June 2005 for an Estimated Street Price of $899.95 (D50 outfit, with the new AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED lens)
- Two New DX Nikkor Lenses Offer More Options and Versatility
MELVILLE, NY, APRIL 20, 2005 - Nikon® (www.nikonusa.com) has taken another bold step forward in redefining the digital SLR landscape today by introducing the highly anticipated D50™ digital SLR camera. The D50 is the smallest, lightest and easiest-to-use Nikon digital SLR camera to date, and is designed for the broadest range of consumers including family memory-keepers looking to take advantage of the image quality, speed and responsiveness Nikon digital SLR’s offer, as well as photo enthusiasts and amateur photographers who want to capture brilliant digital pictures with vibrant color and immaculate sharpness. The new entry-level D50 makes exceptional digital SLR photography a reality for everyone.
“With the new D50, Nikon intends to bring a fulfilling digital SLR photography experience to more consumers than ever before and help them capture their most precious memories with great quality and ease. The D50 inherits the high image quality, responsiveness and speed consumers have come to expect of Nikon’s digital SLR cameras, while also embodying a simple, intuitive and compact design, so anyone in the family can use it without hesitation,” said Steve Heiner, general manager for Digital SLR Camera Systems at Nikon Inc. “The attractive price for the D50 will expand the market substantially and ensure many more people can enjoy shooting with a Nikon digital SLR this year.”
The Ultimate Family Camera
The D50 stands out as ideal for families searching for that perfect camera to capture timeless memories during important occasions and life events such as weddings, first homeruns, birthdays, prom night, and golden anniversaries, among others. The D50 is the perfect combination of intelligent, easy-to-use features and impeccable image quality, and at an estimated street price of $899 (for the D50 outfit with the AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED lens), it represents an excellent value for its capabilities. The camera’s seven Digital Vari-Program modes make capturing the moment easier than ever, and the new “Child” mode, for example, assures that moms and dads don’t have to be photography experts to capture the most vivid color and contrast when taking pictures of their children. The D50’s “Child” mode automatically adjusts several of the camera’s settings, including ISO, shutter speeds, and white balance, to produce optimized images when taking pictures of children. The D50 promises to be an ideal tool for parents who refuse to let memories pass them by.
The D50 also includes a full range of manual controls and custom settings, so users can grow with the camera, and advanced photo enthusiasts can find themselves right at home with a D50 in their hands.
Hallmark Nikon Image Quality and Performance
The D50 incorporates several important new Nikon technologies to ensure a rich, yet simplified experience for consumers. With a new 6.1 effective megapixel Nikon DX Format CCD image sensor and a highly advanced image processing engine, the D50 produces dazzlingly faithful images capable of tremendous enlargement, yet manageable in overall file size. Nikon’s new 3D Color Matrix Metering II ensures accurate exposure control in all types of lighting situations by automatically comparing input from its frame-wide 420-pixel metering sensor for each scene to a large onboard database of over 30,000 scenes from actual photography. Professionals and amateurs alike rely on Nikon’s exclusive light metering technologies that produce ideal exposures instantly. Newly developed exposure evaluation methods detect highlights and shadows in the frame, and compensate for them to help prevent inaccurate exposure. Shutter speed choices in the D50 extend from 30 seconds to an action-stopping 1/4,000
second. A high-speed flash sync speed up to 1/500 second makes great fill flash photography possible and Nikon’s i-TTL flash technology makes it automatic.
Simple Sophistication
The next evolution of Nikon’s popular scene-optimized Digital Vari-Program modes simplifies picture taking, and helps users take incredible pictures with very little effort. The Digital Vari-Program modes also free up the user to think about capturing special and fleeting moments instead of getting overwhelmed with buttons and dials. Selecting one of the seven simple icons from the handy exposure mode dial optimizes otherwise complex settings and ISO-equivalent sensitivity to produce consistently remarkable results. The newly added “Child” mode mentioned earlier makes it easier to take memorable pictures of the little ones complete with vivid color and contrast that are ready to print without the fuss of adjustments within the computer.
Instant Gratification
Unlike lesser systems, the Nikon D50 is always ready to shoot when that special moment or expression presents itself. From the moment the power is turned on, the D50 is ready to shoot in an imperceptible 0.2 seconds. The shutter responds almost instantly when a picture is taken, thereby minimizing “shutter-lag” and virtually eliminating a common frustration of digital photography. Continuous shooting at 2.5 pictures per second can be maintained for a burst of up to 137 pictures, making action photography a reality. Pictures taken are instantly processed and recorded to a compact SD (Secure Digital) memory card, and a new USB 2.0 Hi-Speed interface supports faster transfer of images when connected to a computer.
Compact, Lightweight and Designed to Go Everywhere
The D50’s compact, lightweight design makes it easy to carry the camera anywhere there’s a good moment to capture. Its smart design and easily accessible controls provide handling efficiency and ease of operation, helping bring the fun back to picture taking. Newly designed plain-language menus are displayed clearly on the large 2.0-inch LCD screen, and intuitive help menus are available for on-the-spot reference.
A high capacity rechargeable lithium-ion battery helps extend mobility and convenience by delivering the power to shoot up to 2,000** images on a single charge.
Interchangeable Lenses: The Nikkor Advantage
One of the unique benefits of shooting with a Nikon digital SLR is the ability to take advantage of the expansive creative possibilities offered by interchangeable Nikkor lenses. With the introduction of the D50, Nikon also introduced two new DX Nikkor lenses that are ideally paired with the D50 to offer consumers a broad zoom range, while maintaining a lightweight and ultra- compact size. Designed exclusively for Nikon’s D-series digital SLR cameras, DX Nikkor lenses are optimized to achieve outstanding center-to-edge-to-corner image quality, when used with any of Nikon’s digital SLR cameras. Nikon’s DX Nikkor range now includes six high performance lenses that offer unmatched wide-angle coverage and versatility:
-New AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED
-New AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 55-200mm f/4-5.6G ED
-AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-70mm f/3.5-4.5 ED-IF
-AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 17-55mm f/2.8G ED-IF
-AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 12-24mm f/4G ED-IF
-AF DX Fisheye-Nikkor 10.5mm f/2.8G ED
The D50 also offers seamless compatibility with Nikon’s extensive family of over 50 high-performance AF Nikkor lenses, providing the same superb color reproduction, razor-sharp image clarity and fast and accurate autofocus performance relied upon by the countless number of professional photographers who use Nikon’s pro digital SLR cameras everyday.
Managing and Sharing with Nikon PictureProject™ Software
Sharing pictures is fun, and Nikon’s new PictureProject software is designed to eliminate the complexities typically associated with sharing, managing and editing pictures on a computer. After conducting exhaustive worldwide research into consumer habits, expectations and requirements, Nikon developed its PictureProject software to be a simple, easy-to-use, and powerful application that addresses most frustrations associated with managing pictures on a computer. PictureProject boasts powerful features wrapped into an intuitive interface that navigates quickly and is easy to master.
The software allows users to easily transfer images to PC’s or MAC’s and browse, organize, and share them. Pictures taken in vertical orientation are automatically rotated. Controls for retouch tasks including brightness and red-eye correction, are intuitive and fast. PictureProject’s In Touch™ plug-in allows users to share photos with friends and relatives without attaching them in an email or uploading them to a website. Instead Pictureproject in-Touch facilitates a direct transfer of the pictures from the sender’s computer to a recipient’s computer. PictureProject In-Touch is included in the newest version 1.5 of PictureProject software and can also be downloaded free of charge via www.nikonnet.com.
With support for JPEG, TIFF and NEF and compressed NEF (RAW) files, PictureProject also works in close unison with Nikon Capture 4 as the ideal companion to its powerful feature set. Capture 4 is Nikon’s advanced image management and editing software designed to offer the most robust and comprehensive performance with Nikon’s NEF (RAW) files. While PictureProject is already a dynamic component to Nikon photography, the software also supports plug-ins, allowing users to add new features, as technology and the digital camera market evolve.
As part of Nikon’s Total Imaging System, the D50 inherits the advantages of the various components of this system, including high-quality AF and DX Nikkor lenses, the SB-800 and SB-600 Speedlights, which enable use of Nikon’s Creative Lighting System, as well as versatile software options, to deliver a new level of operating ease, expanded creative possibilities, and pure enjoyment. The Nikon D50 presents the perfect opportunity for anyone to start enjoying the advantages of Nikon digital SLR photography today.
The Nikon D50 outfit, including the new AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED lens, will be available in June for an estimated selling price of $899.95***.
MAJOR FEATURES OF THE NIKON D50 DIGITAL SLR
Vivid color and sharp details straight from the camera
- New 6.1 effective megapixel Nikon DX Format CCD imaging sensor that produces 3,008 x 2,000-pixel images with accurate color, high resolution and sharp details for great pictures capable of significant enlargement, or cropping for creative effect. File sizes remain manageable, making it easier to take and store more great pictures.
- Advanced digital image processor that marks a further evolution of analog and digital processing and pre-conditioning technologies, producing images that require no preparation in a computer and are ready to print straight from the camera. Image quality is optimized, including auto white balance, auto tone and color control, and real-time processes diminish digital noise to produce beautiful long exposure shots.
- 3D Color Matrix Metering II ensures accurate exposure control and white balance.
Instant, precise response
- Near-instant 0.2-second power-up, and short shutter release lag (response) time.
- Continuous shooting at 2.5 frames per second for a continuous burst of up to 137 pictures without having to wait for the camera to record the images to the SD memory card. (Using JPEG NORMAL - Large settings, and a SanDisk Ultra II 256MB SD Card) The number of continuous shots possible in a single burst may be fewer depending on the type of SD card used.
- Fast 5-area AF system with predictive focus tracking and Lock-on™ delivers greater precision with fast, more consistent subject acquisition and improved focus tracking to capture all the action as it happens. Automatic AF-assist illuminator helps ensure top AF performance in dark situations.
- Fast shutter speed with a range from 30 to 1/4,000 sec.
- Fast flash sync shutter speeds up to 1/500 sec. for great fill-effects under brighter light and back lighted conditions.
- Fast data transfer and recording to SD memory cards keeps the D50 always ready to shoot in any situation.
Accurate automated and manual control for predictable results
- Seven Digital Vari-Program selections for automatic adjustment of all the settings necessary to produce incredible digital photographs including ISO-equivalent sensitivity, white balance, sharpening, tone (contrast), color, saturation and hue for crisp and vivid results that match the intended shot. Selections include Auto, Portrait, Landscape, Child, Sports, Close up, and Night Portrait.
- Image enhancement options optimize sharpening, tone (contrast), color, saturation or hue while using Auto Multi Program [P], Shutter-Priority Auto [S], Aperture-Priority Auto [A], or Manual [M] exposure modes to best match the picture taking situation. The easy to set choices include Normal, Vivid, Sharp, Soft, Direct print, Landscape or Custom optimization.
- Automatic control over ISO-equivalent sensitivity from ISO 200 to 1600; can also be set manually.
- Optimized exposure with a choice of three TTL (Through The Lens) exposure modes: 3D Color Matrix Metering II with 420-pixel RGB Sensor, variable Center-Weighted Meter, or choice of Spot Meters.
- Auto exposure bracketing helps achieve the exact results desired.
- Flash exposure compensation.
- A choice of three color modes ensures the best match for the shot when operating the camera manually.
Mode Ia: Renders natural-looking skin tones out of the camera. (sRGB)
Mode II: Realizes a wider color range suited for processing or retouching. (Adobe RGB)
Mode IIIa: Renders vivid landscape and flora colors out of the camera. (sRGB)
- Simultaneous recording of compressed NEF (RAW) and JPEG image files for the same shot helps by providing a smaller JPEG image file that can be quickly sent via email and a compressed NEF (RAW) file for more creative flexibility using Nikon PictureProject or Capture software for further enhancement.
Intuitive handling and operating ease
- Light and compact:
Dimensions (W x H x D): 133 x 102 x 76mm (5.3 x 4.1 x 3.0 in.)
Weight: Approx. 540g (1 lb. 3 oz.) without battery.
- Intuitive and familiar operation with ergonomically designed and sensibly located buttons and controls, including the handy multi selector and mode dial.
- Quality optical viewfinder features diopter correction and information display.
- New large 2.0-inch LCD monitor located directly below the viewfinder displays the large fonts of the easy-to-view easy-to-understand menu design, and the intuitive help system dialogs that make understanding camera settings easy.
- Versatile LCD playback options include Single image playback, Thumbnail image playback (4 or 9 pictures at a time), Zoom playback, Slide show, easy Histogram indication for determining highlights and shadow values, and Highlight point displays for even quicker highlight information, with automatic image rotation for vertical shots.
- LCD control panel on camera top makes it easy to confirm settings and camera status.
- Long-life rechargeable lithium-ion battery with power to shoot up to 2,000 images*1 on a single charge.
- Custom Settings for personalizing camera operation to match the individual’s shooting style, or different picture taking conditions.
- Wireless remote control of the D50 can be achieved with the optional ML-L3 remote control.
Easy image handling
- New Small Picture function for saving photos within the camera at the reduced sizes of 640×480, 320×240, or 160×120 for Internet use - either for mail attachments or placement on web pages.
- In-camera page setup support makes it easy to print directly from the D50 to any PictBridge compatible printer via the supplied USB cable.
- Up to 36 alphanumeric characters can be entered in each image’s EXIF header (file information) for personal identification when images are viewed in PictureProject software.
- Video connector and supplied video cable makes it easy to connect the D50 directly to a television for playing slideshows or viewing individual images
Creative and versatile system components
- High-quality Nikkor lenses: The unrivalled performance of AF, AF-S and DX Nikkor lenses greatly expands creative possibilities.
- Built-in auto pop-up flash features exclusive i-TTL flash control, fast 1/500 sec. flash sync shutter speed, and coverage for lenses as wide as 18mm.
- Supports Nikon’s Creative Lighting System when using a SB-800 and SB-600 Speedlight mounted on the ISO flash shoe for additional on camera flash output in large rooms, or for longer distance picture situations. Also allows off-camera multiple flash lighting with iTTL Technology with SB-800 and SB-600.
- Integrated Nikon Software Solutions:
Nikon Capture 4 (Ver. 4.3) (optional) is a comprehensive image editing and remote camera control package that fully supports NEF, (RAW), TIFF and JPEG data. Among other features, the package offers Image Dust Off sensor dust and particle shade removal control, D-Lighting for scene-specific automatic dodge and burn control.
PictureProject is Nikon’s versatile bundled software that simplifies and improves data transfer, as well as browsing and editing of image files. PictureProject features an intuitive user interface, and supports optional plug-ins that add functionality and creative options.
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MELVILLE, N.Y., March 24 — Common shooting situations have continued to pose unique challenges to casual snap-shooters, like avoiding dark pictures and blurred subjects in portraits. Nikon engineers dared to ask, ‘How can we address these issues within the camera?’
The answer is a new suite of Nikon technology designed specifically for the Coolpix line of digital cameras that includes the proprietary Face Priority Auto Focus (AF), In-Camera Red-Eye Fix and the new D-Lighting feature. These technologies work together in conjunction with the camera to make it easier than ever to capture great pictures.
Face Priority Auto Focus Ensures Sharp Portraits
Imagine a camera smart enough to find a face in a scene. Nikon’s new Face-Priority AF can do just that when selected using the camera’s Portrait Scene Mode. As its name suggests, Face-Priority AF uses technology transparent to the user to actually identify up to three faces within a scene and then sets the camera’s focus point accordingly. The function even brackets the faces on the camera’s LCD screen and tracks the faces if they move about during composition. With multiple faces, the camera will determine its focus points based on the closest subject within the shot. The bracket shows confirmation once focus is locked and then turns green to prompt the user to take the picture. The result is crisp, sharp portraits at the press of a single button.
“Face Priority AF is a revolutionary step forward for the everyday snap shooter,” said Bill Giordano, General Manager of Marketing for Nikon Inc. “This state-of-the-art technology, makes taking beautiful snap shots as easy as turning on the camera, framing the shot and pressing the shutter release. It’s really that simple.”
In-Camera Red-Eye Fix Says Goodbye to Red Eye
Beyond faces, most Nikon Coolpix cameras can automatically detect and remove red-eye directly within the camera with Nikon’s exclusive In-Camera Red-Eye Fix(TM) technology. This elegant solution to common red-eye pictures detects and corrects red eyes in most typical situations without the need to press buttons or select and highlight the eyes in playback. Nikon’s red-eye solution is completely transparent to the user and the result is simple - less red-eye photographs straight from the camera.
D-Lighting Addresses and Eliminates Dark Photos
Tricky lighting situations or insufficient flash can sometimes lead to dark photographs. Nikon’s new D-Lighting function is a tool to fix problems that occur with excessive backlighting and underexposed images from affecting the quality of the resulting pictures. D-Lighting, selected in Playback, automatically compensates for insufficient flash or excessive back lighting in order to obtain a balanced exposure throughout the frame. After applying D-Lighting, the camera saves the original image and a corrected copy to the camera’s internal or removable memory. An application of D-Lighting can literally turn a dark, throwaway shot into a frame-able memory.
A combination of these exclusive and exciting new technologies are available on new Nikon Coolpix digital cameras including the Coolpix 4600, 5600, 5900, 7900 and S1. For more information, please visit http://www.nikondigital.com.
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Nikon F6™ Becomes the Next Legendary F-Series Camera That Offers Cutting-Edge Technologies to 35mm Film Photography
MELVILLE, NY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2004 - Responding to the demands of professionals and enthusiasts around the world, Nikon (www.nikonusa.com) today introduced the F6™ 35mm professional SLR - a flagship film camera that seamlessly blends cutting-edge new technologies and uncompromising craftsmanship to offer film enthusiasts the finest shooting experience an SLR camera can offer.
The F6 benefits from the aggressive advancements in camera technology Nikon has made in response to an explosive demand for high-end digital cameras. It embodies Nikon’s latest technological advancements, such as the Multi-CAM200 11-area AF system for exceptionally high-speed autofocus operation with outstanding accuracy, and the i-TTL Creative Lighting System for incomparable flash photography. The F6 features a newly refined proprietary 3D Color Matrix Metering system for improved accuracy in scene recognition and exposure. The camera also operates at highly subdued noise levels to ensure the ultimate shooting experience. For film shooters, the F6 undoubtedly represents the epitome of 35mm SLR photography and cutting edge performance.
“While many professional photographers have rapidly adopted digital photography in their workflow, there are several who enjoy the choice of using 35m film, depending on the situation or circumstance they are photographing in. Nikon recognizes this, and with the F6 and the newly announced D2X digital SLR camera, we are offering photographers the best cameras in both categories, for a seamless experience in performance, features and usability,” said Jerry Grossman, vice president of Marketing, Nikon Inc.
The F6 is the sixth model in a legendary series of F-series professional film SLR cameras from Nikon. First introduced with the Nikon F in 1959, the series has transcended newer challenges over the years with successive new models. The original Nikon F was succeeded by the F2 (1971), F3 (1980), F4 (1988) and the critically acclaimed F5 in 1996. Each of these cameras inherited select elements from its predecessors, including the legendary Nikon F mount and a consistent design philosophy to offer professionals tools of the highest caliber and performance. Each successive model also raised the bar for innovation and technological advancement to meet the increasingly diversified needs of professional photographers. Today, tens of thousands of Nikon F-series SLR cameras and Nikkor lenses are put to test daily around the world, helping photographers make great pictures. The new Nikon F6 promises to uphold Nikon’s tradition of innovation and enduring value.
F6 offers New Features for Film Fanatics
The Nikon F6 35mm film SLR camera earns its right to become the next flagship Nikon F-Series professional camera by incorporating remarkable new technologies and design enhancements that give photographers who prefer film the highest level of performance in an SLR camera. In addition to incorporating Nikon’s new Multi-CAM2000 11-area AF system and powerful i-TTL Creative Lighting System, the F6 also incorporates several fine refinements in design and construction. It features an improved Nikon 3D Color Matrix Metering system for greater accuracy in scene recognition and exposure, as well as a new shutter unit crafted from DuPont™ KEVLAR® and a special aluminum alloy for unparalleled reliability, lighting-quick movement and precision. Nikon engineers have successfully subdued the camera’s operational sounds by using a professional echoic chamber to measure sound and vibration meticulously and then craft the camera with parts that have been highly refined for absolute minimum vibration, and frequency of movement attenuated to a level below that detectable by the human ear. Constructed on an aluminum-alloy die-cast chassis with magnesium-alloy front body and covers (top, bottom) and strategically placed rubber surfaces, the F6 is built like a tank, and has undergone several reliability and rigidity tests to ensure flawless performance. A self-diagnostic shutter incorporated in the camera has undergone testing to assure accurate release up to and beyond 150,000 cycles, even in the most extreme environmental conditions. The F6 undoubtedly goes beyond Nikon’s uncompromising standards of quality, durability and rigidity that photographers around the world expect and trust.
The F6 also features a variety of exciting, innovative control options such as a customizable function button, built-in data back functions, shooting data memory and compatibility with a new Multi Power Battery Pack MB-40. This new power pack boosts the camera”s framing rate from a native 5.5 frames per second to a full 8 frames per second, allowing Nikon engineers to reduce the size of the F6 significantly from its predecessor, the F5. With the convenience and versatility afforded by 41 Custom Settings, photographers can also fine-tune the F6 to suit their individual shooting preferences and requirements.
The new flagship film SLR also boasts a number of dedicated accessories. These include the Multi Power Battery Pack MB-40, interchangeable focusing screens (seven types), Data Reader MV-1 and camera cases. The Nikon F6 is scheduled to be available at Nikon authorized dealers in October 2004.
Nikon F6 Feature Highlights
High-precision shutter unit
No shutter unit in any other camera comes close to matching the precision and durability of the F6’s assembly. Created from cutting-edge materials - DuPontTM KEVLAR® and a special aluminum alloy - the blades of the shutter unit offer unparalleled reliability and are extremely lightweight, for lightning-quick movement. For enhanced accuracy, the movement of the blades was carefully analyzed during the design process using a high-speed video camera and computer simulations, enabling unprecedented precision even at shutter speeds of up to 1/8,000 second.
DuPontTM and KEVLAR® are trademarks and registered trademarks of DuPont or its affiliates.
Minimized operational sound and vibration
Nikon engineers were so intent on subduing the camera’s operational sounds that they used a professional audio room to properly gauge the sound quality and frequency. The degree of vibration to which every part of the camera would be subjected was measured. This meticulous approach has resulted in a camera comprised of parts that have been highly refined for absolute minimum vibration, and frequency of movement attenuated to a level below that detectable by the human ear.
Highly efficient mechanics
The development of the F6 marks the first time 3D computer movement analysis has ever been applied to an SLR. This technique reveals the degree of power distributed to or generated by particular parts in specific directions. This made it possible for Nikon to optimize the mechanical operation of the camera with fewer parts, leading to lower power consumption and higher durability
Harsh environmental testing
To ensure the camera could withstand the most severe conditions and environments, the F6 has been subjected to rigorous testing. The F6’s astonishing reliability is a function of Nikon’s “the right material for the right place” approach. Nikon engineers considered countless situations for camera use, then submitted the F6 to real-life testing to virtually guarantee exceptional dependability wherever and whenever photographers shoot.
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Author: Christine Peppler
From all of the books, advertisements, and products in stores it would appear that no one continues to use a film camera. This isn’t true of course. Although a digital camera can offer much greater control during the editing process and perhaps even a cost savings over the long run, a traditional film camera still has advantages for some consumers. One of those being that if their film camera is a good one and meets their needs, there is no reason to change.
However, for those who do decide to switch to a digital camera there will be significant differences to which they must adjust. Certainly the technology behind a digital camera makes them different; how images are captured and stored, the optics themselves, pixels, resolution, and so forth. But there are a handful of basic changes to which even those who photograph on a very limited and casual basis will need to adapt.
Response Time
With a more affordable, point-and-shoot type digital camera there can be a significant delay between pressing the button and the camera actually taking the picture. These cameras are somewhat like a small computer. During the lag time it is focusing but this can cause some great shots to be missed.
Of course, spending the time to shop for a camera with less lag time is one solution; and certainly many of the more expense models don’t suffer this issue. However, there is a simple adjustment which can produce a significant reduction in the lag time. The photographer can set up the shot, aim the camera at the subject, and press the button down half way and hold it. At this point, the digital camera will begin the process of focusing. Then, a couple of seconds or more later, when the photographer and subject are ready, the button is depressed entirely and the picture is taken almost immediately. Obviously, this requires the photographer to anticipate and prepare before taking a shot.
Battery Life
Because much of what a digital camera does consumes energy from the battery, they are known to drain batteries very quickly. One of the particularly power greedy functions unique to a digital camera is that of powering an LCD screen. Again there are a number of things users can do to assure they don’t run out of power and to reduce the rate at which the camera uses the energy.
To avoid a trickling discharge, batteries should be removed from the camera when the device won’t be used for more that a week or two and, likewise, a digital camera should be powered off if the user doesn’t anticipate taking a shot for another 30 minutes or so. Using the “sleep mode” is good also, to assure that even if the user forgets, the camera gets powered off.
Using the viewfinder instead of the LCD screen to frame shots is wise when you wish to save power. Users can also avoid using flash whenever their subject is more than 12 feet or so away, since the flash will be ineffective anyway and drain power needlessly. Those traveling with a digital camera also need to be sure to carry a backup battery to avoid problems.
A final recommendation is to use other power sources when possible. Use AC power when performing various functions such as downloading or use a card reader to download from the memory cards and remove the camera from the process entirely. Pictures can be edited on the computer rather than on the camera to save additional power.
The Viewing System
A digital camera often has an optical viewfinder which is separate from the lens through which the camera takes the picture. Thus, when a subject is somewhat near, what a photographer sees, and what the camera sees are two different things. Using the LCD to frame a shot is also difficult because in order to see the screen, the camera is held away from the body, making it difficult to hold the camera steady for a good shot. The fix for this is to use the “correction marks” visible through the viewfinder which approximate the border of the image that the camera is seeing versus using the LCD screen. This also allows the user to keep the camera closer to the body in a steady fashion.
Another option is to buy a camera with an electronic viewfinder which takes the image captured by the lens, and electronically transfers it to a display screen allowing the user to accurately frame the picture. Use of an electronic viewfinder however will increase power consumption.
The third option is to buy a digital camera with a TTL mechanism. With TTL, the photographer views a scene through the same lens that records the image and is thus able to frame a scene accurately. This option however is generally available only on more expensive camera models.
Despite these differences, digital cameras do offer some tremendous advantages; from being able to view photos instantly, edit them, print them at home, share them easily on the internet, and so forth which make them worth the small effort to adjust to their unique characteristics.
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Author: Sinta Makah
It helps when learning to use your new digital camera to also know what some of the more common terms mean. Below you will find many of these common terms defined..
Automatic Mode — A setting that sets the focus, exposure and white-balance automatically.
Burst Mode or Continuous Capture Mode — a series of pictures taken one after another at quickly timed intervals with one press of the shutter button.
Compression — The process of compacting digital data, images and text by deleting selected information.
Digital Zoom — Cropping and magnifying the center part of an image.
JPEG — The predominant format used for image compression in digital cameras
Lag Time — The pause between the time the shutter button is pressed and when the camera actually captures the image
LCD — (Liquid-Crystal Display) is a small screen on a digital camera for viewing images.
Lens — A circular and transparent glass or plastic piece that has the function of collecting light and focusing it on the sensor to capture the image.
Megabyte — (MB) Measures 1024 Kilobytes, and refers to the amount of information in a file, or how much information can
be contained on a Memory Card, Hard Drive or Disk.
Pixels — Tiny units of color that make up digital pictures. Pixels also measure digital resolution. One million pixels
adds up to one mega-pixel.
RGB — Refers to Red, Green, Blue colors used on computers to create all other colors.
Resolution — Camera resolution describes the number of pixels used to create the image, which determines the amount of
detail a camera can capture. The more pixels a camera has, the more detail it can register and the larger the picture can be
printed.
Storage Card — The removable storage device which holds images taken with the camera, comparable to film, but much smaller. Also called a digital camera memory card…
Viewfinder — The optical “window” to look through to compose the scene.
White Balance — White balancing adjusts the camera to compensate for the type of light (daylight, fluorescent, incandescent, etc.,) or lighting conditions in the scene so it will look normal to the human eye.
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Author: Komang Setiabudi
Where are you going today? Are you going alone or together with your friends or family? Don’t forget to bring your camera. Don’t leave home without your camera. A lot of unique thing happen in the street. You can capture anything with your camera.
What is your camera? Do you still have your grandfather’s camera? Many people still use SLR (single lens reflection) cameras. A SLR camera is great because you can create photography art. A professional photographer will use both digital and analog camera.
If you go to the city and enter the camera shops, there are not many conventional cameras available now. Most people are preferred to use a compact digital camera. A digital camera is slim, full with features and easy to use. You don’t have to bring a big size camera and film wherever you want to take some pictures.
When you need to buy a digital camera you must think about the price, brand, features, picture quality, mega pixel, services and guarantee, etc. You can choose many brands such as Kodak, Canon, Pentax, Panasonic Lumix, Leica, Casio, Nikon, Sanyo, Samsung, Sony, and other brand. A digital camera starts from 1.3 mega pixels and above 10 mega pixels. You can get a good quality picture from 4 or more mega pixel resolutions. Don’t buy a digital camera below the 4 mega pixels because the picture quality is not so good when you print your photo. Recently, Canon PowerShot, Casio Exilim, Sony Cyber-shot, Panasonic Lumix and other Chinese brand Mikona camera promote 12.1 Megapixel digital cameras. Wow…
The latest digital camera also equipped with face detection technology, high sensitive ISO, anti shake, anti blur, auto focus, internal editing, and other high tech features. Also you can connect your digital camera to view full HDTV 1080p for better images. You don’t have to buy a separate video camera if you are a traveler because a compact size digital camera also equipped with a capability to make a movie. It’s incredible.
Before you make a decision please consider the feature of the camera. Don’t forget to check the brochure and browse the information in the Internet. Make sure that the lenses size, zoom, and flash light, battery life, etc. fits your needs. Ask the shop owner about bonus if you choose a particular brand. Sometime they give some bonuses such as external memory or soft case. Most digital camera also include video capture capability, but make sure that you can make a video or movie with sound or audio. Video without audio is not complete. It’s a great idea if you purchase a digital camera in a promotion season. Digital cameras are now available for both professional photographers and amateur enthusiasts. A professional digital camera is expensive and the size it’s bigger than the compact size digital camera.
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