21 Sep 08 Nikon Introduces Light, Small and Easy to Use D50
- 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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21 Sep 08 Nikon Named ‘The Official Camera of the Boston Red Sox’
World Leader in Photography to Partner With World Champions to Create Photo Friendly Fenway
MELVILLE, N.Y., April 25 — If you thought the 2004 Boston Red Sox run to the title was memorable, 2005 at Fenway Park should capture more memories than ever before. Nikon today announced that it has been named “The Official Camera of the Boston Red Sox,” as part of a multi-faceted sponsoring partnership. In addition to radio sponsorship on the Red Sox radio network WEEI 850 AM, and signage throughout historic Fenway Park and the photographers’ wells, Nikon digital photography will make a tremendous impact at the country’s oldest professional baseball stadium.
“Nikon is proud to partner with the World Champions of baseball, the Boston Red Sox,” said Anna Marie Bakker, general manager of Communications for Nikon Inc, based in Melville, NY. “After a season of amazing memories, Nikon is excited to serve as the team’s official camera, as thousands of new memories will be captured this season with Nikon cameras throughout Fenway Park.”
Nikon has become the title sponsor of FanFoto — a unique service that allows eight FanFoto photographers outfitted in brightly colored Nikon-branded uniforms to take pictures of fans in the stadium and concourses. A New England icon for more than 104 years, the hallowed grounds of Fenway Park present a number of amazing photo opportunities, and Nikon will make sure that the charm and nostalgia from the Green Monster to Pesky’s Pole are captured for generations to come with FanFoto. Photographed fans will receive a Nikon ticket with the game date, URL and gallery number for online reference. The Red Sox are expanding the service to be offered at pre-game parties, luxury suites and VIP events.
As part of Nikon’s ongoing commitment to serve the professional photographers who provide a tremendous service to the baseball community and sports fans everywhere, Nikon will also create The Nikon Darkroom at a location in Fenway Park. The Nikon Darkroom will serve as a ‘locker room’ for all the professional photographers shooting at home games. Working photographers can utilize the Nikon Darkroom to store the equipment they’re not using, download photos, or even as a location to work or rest on game day. Nikon will also host a professional photographer’s luncheon at Fenway Park on June 1, 2005. The event will offer professional shooters an opportunity to try the latest Nikon offerings, and even have their own equipment cleaned and repaired.
“We are thrilled that Nikon has joined our family of corporate partners,” said Sam Kennedy, Senior Vice President of Sales & Marketing for the Boston Red Sox. “In addition to tremendous exposure inside Fenway Park with a new centerfield sign and signage on the photo well railings, we have partnered with Nikon to provide better services and work space for the professional photographers that come to Fenway Park. We look forward to a long and mutually beneficial relationship with Nikon.”
Catch all the action at Fenway Park this season. For more information about Nikon Inc. please visit http://www.nikonusa.com.
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21 Sep 08 Nikon Adds New AF-S NR 18-70mm f/3.5-4.5G IF-ED Lens To Growing Line of Optics Dedicated To Nikon Digital SLR Cameras
MELVILLE, NY, JANUARY 28, 2005 - Marking another significant advancement in lens design, Nikon® (www.nikondigitalusa.com), the world leader in photography, today introduced the versatile new AF-S DX Nikkor™ 18-70mm f/3.5-4.5G IF-ED lens, further expanding Nikon’s successful line of DX Nikkor digital-dedicated lenses. Developed to be compatible with all Nikon D-series digital SLR Cameras, the AF-S DX 18-70mm f/3.5-4.5G IF-ED lens will be included as the standard zoom lens in the recently announced Nikon D70 digital SLR camera Outfit.
The AF-S DX 18-70mm f/3.5-4.5G IF-ED covers a very popular focal length range (equivalent to 27-105mm in 35mm format), and offers a selection of Nikon’s highly regarded technologies such as Silent Wave motor (AF-S) for super fast and quiet autofocus operation, Extra-Low Dispersion glass (ED) for minimized chromatic aberrations, and Internal Focusing (IF) for convenient and balanced handling. In addition, the AF-S DX 18-70mm f/3.5-4.5G IF-ED also incorporates hallmark Nikon features that customers have come to expect from Nikkor lenses, such as distance information guide window, a reliable metal lens mount for years of durability, and a M/A mode for seamless switching between autofocus and manual modes.
“With the introduction of the remarkable new D70 digital SLR camera, the AF-S DX 18-70mm f/3.5-4.5G IF-ED lens fulfills the need among Nikon digital SLR customers for a versatile, compact new lens that offers a popular zoom range and advanced features,” said Richard LoPinto, vice president for SLR camera systems, Nikon, Inc. “Less than 13 months ago, Nikon announced its first DX Nikkor lens, and today with the introduction of the AF-S DX 18-70mm
f/3.5-4.5G IF-ED, Nikon has expanded this line to include four lenses, offering Nikon photographers the broadest range of digital-dedicated lenses in the market, all with exceptional performance, quality and value,” he added.
Designed exclusively for use with DX Format SLR cameras, DX Nikkor lenses deliver a versatile range of angle-of-view, 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 four lenses. These include:
* AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-70mm f/3.5-4.5 IF-ED: 76 degrees - 22 degrees
50′ angle-of-view
* AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 17-55mm f/2.8G IF-ED: 79 degrees - 28 degrees 50′
angle-of-view
* AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 12-24mm f/4G IF-ED: 99 degrees - 61 degrees
angle-of-view
* AF DX Fisheye-Nikkor 10.5mm f/2.8G ED lens: 180 degrees angle-of-view
When used with a Nikon digital SLR camera and Nikon Capture(TM) software, images shot with the AF DX Fisheye-Nikkor 10.5mm lens can be transformed into ultra-wide angle rectilinear images with a choice of 100 degrees and 130 degrees horizontal angles of view.
The AF-S DX 18-70mm f/3.5-4.5G IF-ED will be packaged with the newly announced D70 digital SLR camera. The D70 Outfit (including lens) will be available for a suggested retail price of $1999, and an anticipated street price of $1299. Sold separately, the lens will have a suggested retail price of $590. The lens will be available in Spring 2004.
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21 Sep 08 Nikon Brings State-of-the-Art to Mid-Range with New SB-600 Speedlight
New SB-600 Expands Nikon’s Creative Lighting System Featuring i-TTL; Offers Versatile Wireless Functions With SB-800 & D70 Built-in Speedlight
MELVILLE, NY, JANUARY 28, 2005 - Nikon® (www.nikondigitalusa.com), the world leader in photography, today introduced the versatile new SB-600™ Speedlight, the latest addition to Nikon’s Creative Lighting System. Featuring Nikon’s next generation i-TTL™ flash control technology, the SB-600 delivers automatic balance fill-flash and advanced wireless lighting capabilities for outstanding results and creative possibilities. The SB-600 is seamlessly compatible with the newly announced D70 digital SLR camera’s built-in speedlight as well as the Nikon D2H professional digital SLR. The SB-600 effectively integrates with the recently announced Nikon SB-800 Speedlight, both individually and in arrangements of multiple SB-600/800 speedlights, offering consistent i-TTL control for automatic and accurate lighting for creative and complex situations.
Designed for a variety of customers ranging from experienced and amateur photographers to beginning enthusiasts, the SB-600 incorporates a host of new features designed to make flash photography simple, accurate and creative. As part of the newly evolving Nikon Creative Lighting System, the SB-600 includes support for Nikon Advanced wireless TTL operation, and can function as a remote flash when controlled by the SB-800 Speedlight or the D70 digital SLR camera’s built-in speedlight set to Commander Mode. Additionally, the SB-600’s Auto FP High Speed Sync Mode allows it to fire at shutter speeds as high as 1/8000 second when used with the D2H professional digital SLR camera. Other major features include Flash Value (FV) Lock, flash color information, wide area AF illuminator and built-in modeling flash.
“When developing the Creative Lighting System, Nikon’s goal was to deliver a powerful lighting system that was easy to use, offered tremendous creative control without being overly complicated and integrated the advantages of digital technology to make flash photography more accurate than ever before. With the introduction of the SB-600, Nikon is realizing that goal,” said Richard LoPinto, vice president for SLR camera systems at Nikon, Inc.
“Nikon’s i-TTL technology is the backbone of the Creative Lighting System, and the SB-600 inherits this inventive technology. Together with the recently introduced Nikon SB-800 Speedlight, and the D70’s built-in speedlight set to Commander Mode, the SB-600 will unleash tremendous creativity and excitement among all kinds of photographers,” he added.
SB-600: Continuing Advanced Wireless Lighting
The SB-600 speedlight features wireless TTL technology first introduced in Nikon’s SB-800 Speedlight. Photographers using the SB-800 as the Controller can employ up to three groups of compatible Speedlights, with any quantity of compatible SB-600 and SB-800 speedlights within each of the three groups, to achieve Advanced Wireless i-TTL exposure control. Most major functions of the
SB-600 can be controlled remotely by the master SB-800. Photographers using the D70 digital SLR camera’s built-in speedlight as the Commander Speedlight can employ any number SB-600 speedlights within one group for wireless i-TTL operation. The SB-600 can be remotely controlled either in i-TTL mode or manual mode for maximum creativity. Used with the D2H, the SB-600 can employ up to four individual frequency channels, and three groups of flash units.
The selection of channel settings help photographers avoid inadvertently triggering flashes not being used by them. Used with Nikon’s D70 camera’s built-in i-TTL speedlight as the Commander, the SB-600 settings require use of Channel 3, Group A.
In addition to the wireless capabilities, the SB-600 offers a host of additional features for Nikon’s Creative Lighting System. Highlights of the features are:
* FV-Lock: FV-Lock (Flash Value Lock) is comparable to the way an
AE-Lock functions in a camera for ambient light exposure metering. Once the camera measures a correct flash value, the SB-600 locks this value until the photographer resets it — helping to maintain the flash value exposure as the photographer adjusts composition for a scene.
* Auto FP High-Speed Sync Flash: The SB-600’s Auto FP function can be used with the Nikon D2H to automatically fire the speedlight in i-TTL mode at shutter speeds up to 1/8000 second, offering excellent opportunities to use flash in brighter light, with faster aperture lenses and for faster action scenes.
* Modeling Flash: A modeling flash feature in the SB-600 fires a stroboscopic burst of light for approximately one second, allowing photographers to visually confirm lighting and shadow effects before shooting.
* Auto White Balance Adjustment using Flash Color Temperature
Information: The SB-600 achieves a high level of color accuracy when used with the D70 or the D2H. With changes in the duration of light emitted by any speedlight, there are always slight variations of color temperature. Using the D70 or D2H in Auto White Balance mode, the SB-600 communicates these slight variations in color data back to the D70 or D2H and the camera’s auto white balance system implements the fine adjustment needed for overall excellent white balance.
* Manual Mode: The SB-600 also offers a full manual mode with power ratios from full power to 1/64 power, in 1/2 step increments for independent flash output control and creative lighting effects.
* Custom Settings: Custom settings in the SB-600 allow photographers to personalize the speedlight according to selected preferences.
* Wide Area Illuminators: The SB-600 features a wide area illuminator that assumes autofocus assist functions in low light conditions. The
Illuminator covers all AF-points in all Nikon SLR cameras, including the D2H’s new 11-point AF sensors, giving photographers the freedom to compose their shots creatively and shoot with confidence.
* Additional features: Additional features in the SB-600 include a large
LCD screen, ergonomic controls, a rotating flash head which tilts horizontally and vertically, accessory filters for special color effects and emulation of fluorescent and incandescent lighting, front and side ready-light indicators for easy viewing, and a locking flash shoe.
The SB-600 is compatible with all Nikon digital and film SLR cameras, achieving performance that is limited by each camera’s capability. The SB-600 will realize full i-TTL control when used with the D2H or D70 digital SLR cameras, and D-TTL control and Auto Aperture Flash (AA) when used with the D1, D1X, D1H and D100 digital SLR cameras. The SB-600 will offer TTL and Non-TTL Auto Flash control when used with all Nikon film SLR cameras. The SB-600 Speedlight will be available at Nikon authorized dealer locations in Spring 2004. Price will be announced approximately 30 days prior to first sales.
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21 Sep 08 Nikon Steadies the Action With New AF-S VR Nikkor 300MM F2.8G IF-ED Lens
Popular Long Range, Fast Aperture Lens Now Features Nikon’s Renowned Vibration Reduction Technology
MELVILLE, NY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2004 - Nikon (www.nikonusa.com), the world leader in photography, today announced an all-new AF-S VR Nikkor 300mm f/2.8G IF-ED super-telephoto lens that features Nikon’s remarkable Vibration Reduction (VR) technology. Designed to work seamlessly with Nikon’s digital and film SLR cameras, this new lens offers professional sports and action photographers a high level of quality, precision and performance.
“Nikon shooters will attest that Vibration Reduction technology works more effectively in achieving sharper pictures in low light or shaky conditions than any other existing technology. Now sports and action photographers can reap the benefits of VR in a focal length they most often use. Coupled with the added advantage of Nikon’s new Nano-Crystal AR coat, photographers can expect very sharp, high-contrast images from the new AF-S VR Nikkor 300mm f/2.8G IF-ED lens,” said Jerry Grossman, vice president of Marketing, Nikon Inc.
Based on the extremely popular and well received AF-S Nikkor 300mm f/2.8G IF-ED II, the new lens has been upgraded in specifications and performance to fully satisfy professional photographers. The first addition to this fast and powerful lens is the benefit of VR (Vibration Reduction) - an innovation that allows photographers to take high-quality handheld shots indoors and in dark locations at shutter speeds three stops slower without compromising the sharpness of the picture. A choice of two VR modes allows photographers to best match their shooting conditions and further augments the effectiveness of VR performance. Normal mode primarily compensates for camera shake, and includes automatic panning detection as well as automatic tripod detection. Active mode effectively compensates for vibration in situations where it is pronounced and frequent, such as when shooting from a moving vehicle.
Along with the adoption of VR technology, the new lens also offers handy access to a control pad on the side of the barrel for seamless usability. A Focus Mode switch enables instant and easy switching between M/A (Manual-Priority Autofocus) and M (Manual Focus) modes, while a Focus Limiter switch restricts AF-servo movement within a selected shooting distance range. New Focus Preset buttons can instantly recall a preset focal point - a priceless feature when photographers shooting sports need to quickly return focus to a specific location such as a base or a team’s goal.
The AF-S VR Nikkor 300mm f/2.8G IF-ED also benefits from Nikon’s new Nano-Crystal AR Coat, which demonstrates superior anti-reflective properties to virtually eliminate ghost and flare to provide clear and vivid images when shooting under powerful sunlight or indoors under spotlights.
The features already incorporated in the lens’ predecessor are carried over as well. This includes Nikon’s exclusive SWM (Silent Wave Motor) that combines fast and accurate autofocusing with super-quiet operation, ED glass elements that minimize chromatic aberration, Internal Focusing (IF) for smoother focusing and a better balanced body, as well as a rubber ring on the lens mount that delivers the same level of resistance to dust and drops of water as Nikon’s professional cameras such as the F6 and D2X and D2H.
Compatibility with Nikon’s TC-14EII (1.4x), new TC-17EII (1.7x), and TC-20EII (2.0x) teleconverters extends the flexibility and total reach of the lens to as long as 600mm when mounted on a 35mm film SLR. When mounted on a Nikon digital SLR, photographers can achieve an angle of view equivalent to a 900mm lens.
The AF-S VR Nikkor 300mm f/2.8G IF-ED lens is scheduled to be available at authorized Nikon dealers beginning January 2005.
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21 Sep 08 Nikon Introduces New SB-800 Speedlight With i-TTL Technology
Designed For D2H Professional Digital SLR, SB-800 Offers Full Wireless Remote Control for Multiple Speedlights; New Level of Color Accuracy
MELVILLE, NY, JULY 22, 2003 - Nikon (www.nikonusa.com), the world leader in photography, today introduced the SB-800™ speedlight, the foundation for a new Nikon Creative Lighting System. The SB-800 features powerful new i-TTL™ flash control system for automatic balanced fill-flash and advanced wireless lighting capabilities that delivers outstanding results creative new possibilities. The SB-800’s i-TTL Balanced Fill-Flash control utilizes Nikon’s new Advanced Data Communication system to introduce improved monitor-pre-flash and wireless operation.
Designed for professional photographers and photo enthusiasts, the SB-800 offers groundbreaking new features when used with Nikon’s new D2H professional digital SLR camera. These features include advanced wireless control for multiple SB-800 speedlights that are controlled by a master speedlight, new Auto FP high-speed sync, new Flash Value (FV) lock, flash color information communication for improved color accuracy and a new Wide-Area AF Assist Illuminator that is tailored to the D2H’s new 11-area Multi-Cam 2000 AF sensor module. Combined with other Nikon digital SLR cameras, the SB-800 offers performance comparable to the highly successful Nikon SB-80DX speedlight.
“While developing the new D2H professional digital SLR camera, Nikon recognized the opportunity to create a new speedlight system that could harness the revolutionary technology incorporated in the camera and respond to professional photographers’ needs. The result is the SB-800 speedlight, Nikon’s most advanced lighting system, featuring revolutionary new i-TTL advanced wireless control capabilities,” said Richard LoPinto, vice president for SLR camera systems at Nikon, Inc. “The SB-800 will find creative uses in studios, remote locations and any number of picture-taking situations where photographers need to carry a compact, versatile and powerful light system that works automatically and maintains tremendous creative control,” he added.
SB-800: Advanced Wireless Lighting Control for Easier Creative Lighting
The SB-800 speedlight system features new wireless technology that enables photographers to fully control up to four groups of SB-800 speedlights wirelessly. This set of four includes one Master Controller and three remote groups - each of which can contain any number of SB-800 speedlights for total lighting control. A majority of features for speedlights within each group can be individually controlled from the Master Controller. These settings are made and confirmed on the Master Controller’s large dot-matrix LCD screen. All speedlights within this wireless arrangement can operate in i-TTL mode for completely automatic flash exposures - which are calculated via a new monitor pre-flash function that measures light from each source and combines them with overall camera exposure readings - producing an accurate, well exposed photograph with balanced lighting. Each group within the wireless arrangement can also be programmed to different flash modes such as i-TTL AA, or Manual mode, or any combination of these modes.
One of the most appealing features of Nikon’s i-TTL wireless system is the ability to adjust flash compensation settings on the fly for each group of speedlights, from the Master Controller. This makes controlling light output from speedlights placed in hard to reach locations simple and effortless. The SB-800 makes multiple flash photography as easy as using a single speedlight mounted on a camera, without the hassles of cables or stands.
In addition to wireless flash capabilities, the SB-800 offers significant new features designed for high-speed photography and exceptional overall accuracy. Highlights of these new features include:
- Auto White Balance Adjustment using Flash Color Temperature Information: The SB-800 achieves a high level of color accuracy when used with the D2H digital SLR camera. With changes in the duration of light emitted by a speedlight, there are slight variations of color temperature. Using the D2H in Auto White Balance mode, the SB-800 communicates these slight variations in color data back to D2H and the camera’s auto white balance system implements the fine adjustment needed for overall excellent white balance.
- FV-Lock: FV-Lock (Flash Value Lock) is comparable to the way an AE-Lock functions in a camera. Once the camera measures a correct flash value, the SB-800 locks this value until the photographer resets it - helping to maintain the flash value for correct exposure of the subject.
- Auto FP High-Speed Sync Flash: The SB-800’s Auto FP function can automatically fire the speedlight in i-TTL mode at shutter speeds up to 1/8,000 second, offering excellent opportunities to use flash in bright light with fast aperture lenses.
- Modeling Flash: A modeling flash feature in the SB-800 fires a stroboscopic burst of light for approximately one second, allowing photographers to visually confirm lighting and shadow effects before shooting.
- Quick Battery Recycle Pack: Included with the SB-800 Speedlight is the SD-800 Quick Battery Recycle pack that cuts recycling time in the SB-800 to as short as 2.7 seconds for full power manual flash.
- Additional features: Additional features in the SB-800 include zoom coverage, bounce and rotating flash head, large LCD read-out panel, accessory filters for special color effects and emulation of fluorescent and incandescent lighting, robust locking flash shoe, and autofocus assist light.
Seamless Functionality Within Nikon’s Total Imaging System
The SB-800 offers 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash function with Nikon’s F5, F100, N80 and N75 35mm film SLR cameras and offers Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash with the N65 35mm film SLR camera. The SB-800 also provides D-TTL performance with Nikon digital SLR cameras including the D1x, D1H, D1, and D100. With the new D2H digital SLR camera, the speedlight offers advanced i-TTL control. The D2H is also fully compatible with all DX-series Nikon speedlights, including the SB-80DX, SB-50DX and SB-28DX. The SB-800 speedlight will be available at Nikon authorized dealer locations in the fourth quarter of 2003.
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21 Sep 08 Caring for Your Digital Camera
Author: Monty Alexander
Most of the digital cameras have auto-focusing which enables even a kid to take decent photography. The LCD viewer helps in getting the right composition of the image. The preview of the images clicked allows keeping the best one from the lot and deleting the rest thus saving on space for more clicks.
Digital cameras don’t come cheap. With the kind of features and utility levels of a digital camera a good one costs above ten thousand. Good brands included Canon digital camera, Nikon digital camera, Sony digital camera etc. A digital SLR (Single Lens Reflex) would start from thirty thousand and run into lakhs. Digital SLR’s are hi-end cameras with professional features and good image quality. When one spends so much on a good quality digital camera taking care of it is also very important. All parts of the camera should be taken care of and there are equipments available in the market for the same. These equipments are one time moderate investment in keeping your expensive camera in good condition.
Camera parts like the lens, viewfinder and the LCD screen are the most essential elements of a camera. These parts should be regularly cleaned and taken care of. There is a blower available in the market which helps to dust off the dirt on the lens. One should never touch the lens, the viewfinder or the LCD display with fingers. The blower helps in removing the dirt and a lens cleaning solution helps in removing the sticky particles on the lens or viewfinder. The cameras lens cover should be put on when not in use this is the best way to protect your cameras eyes. Once the lens and viewfinder are cleaned the camera assures clear pictures and good view of the image.
Digital camera batteries should be taken out when not in use. If you intend to store your camera for a long time the batteries should be removed and on the next usage they should be charged and then used. Batteries discharge over a period of time and using them without recharging or storing them may hamper your camera and its performance. Also the camera should be stored in a cool dry place. Keeping your expensive Canon digital camera inside your car in summers will hamper the camera and you will have to bear a heavy price for your carelessness. Camera accessories like the extendable memory card should also be taken care off. The card should not be taken out while transferring pictures and should be stored properly when not in use. This enables good performance of the card otherwise it could be corrupted and will turn useless. Thus taking mediocre care of your digital camera and spending a little amount on its care would help in maintaining and making your camera viable for years together.
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20 Sep 08 Easy to Use Nikon Digital Camera
Camera is an option of capturing the beautiful moments of life. Many years ago, capturing the beautiful moment was not easy. Users or photographers had to set the camera and after a boring process it was possible to capture the pictures. Now everything has changed. Continue improvements of camera have changed methods of capturing. Photography used for professional or entertainment is easy now. Digital camera has changed the methods of capturing photos and videos.
There are many camera manufacturers available in the photography market, but Nikon digital camera has occupied a special place in the photography market as well as in the heart of users. All digital cameras are good for something, but users want clear and detailed image captured by the camera. Users also want camera that should be easy to use and have a few functions like simple camera. For that Nikon digital cameras are suitable for you. Suddenly occurred actions can be easily captured with its help.
People are sure of buying Nikon digital camera because they know that they are paying for quality, durability, functionality and reputation. The advantage of these digital cameras is that it gives the opportunity to amateur photographer to have the quality professional shot. Nikon produced less expensive units of their professional cameras. Nikon houses a top camera manufacturer reputation in the photography world.
Nikon D2X is packed with all possible features, which most amateurs will hardly use in a lifetime as this camera is very expensive. Nikon D80 shares many features such as improved auto-focus, interchangeable lenses, 10.2 mega-pixels, wider flash range and longer battery life. Digital cameras are loaded with hi-speed USB card reader, memory card, lenses and LCD screens.
Now Nikon FX format D700 DSLR is the camera that will definitely fit for your needs. This newly launched digital camera equipped with 12.1 mega-pixel FX-format sensors. It can work with an area of up to 36.0 x 23.9mm. It is capable of taking 5 frames per second that gives you an option of shooting anything successfully. Nikon P4 houses 8 mega-pixels with 2.5 inch viewing screen with auto mode. Nikon S50C offers 7.2mega-pixels and houses a wireless interface. This camera is impressive with 3 inch viewing screen, three times optical and four times digital zoom.
There are a lot of Nikon digital cameras available and they are their own reputation in various areas. You are to select one according to your requirements.
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