21 Sep 08 NEW NIKON COOLPIX L6 TAKES 1,000 SHOTS RIGHT OUT OF THE BOX

Camera technology enhancements provide consumers with long lasting photographic capability

MELVILLE, NY (August 24, 2006) - Nikon is redefining the phrase “user-friendly” with its latest addition to the COOLPIX family of digital cameras, the L6. In addition to having 6.0 megapixels, an incredible, bright 2.5 inch LCD screen and Nikon’s In-Camera Image Innovations, the L6 can take an unprecedented 1,000 pictures on a single set of the included Energizer® e2® Lithium® AA batteries, the most of any camera in its class.

“Nikon’s new COOLPIX L6 and its partnership with Energizer represent a continued dedication to improving the photography experience for the consumer,” said Bill Giordano, General Manager Marketing, COOLPIX for Nikon, Inc. With the L6, you may never have to worry about missing valuable photo opportunities again because the camera is always ready.”

In addition to having ground breaking battery life, the COOLPIX L6 offers a higher light sensitivity, up to ISO 800, than many conventional compact digital cameras, allowing the user to shoot pictures in a lower light without having to worry about their pictures being dark or blurry. The L6 has a higher shutter speed option for freezing time and capturing fast-moving subjects. In addition to these innovations, the camera boasts 6.0 megapixels for generating beautiful prints and a 3x optical Zoom-Nikkor glass lens for creative freedom and an incredible, bright 2.5 inch LCD screen for effortless composition and display.

Like every camera in the COOLPIX family, the L6 is equipped with Nikon’s In-Camera Image Innovations to fix common photo problems. This system includes Face-priority AF*, which automatically finds and focuses on a subject’s face, In-Camera Red-Eye Fix, which automatically corrects red-eye, and D-Lighting, an innovation that automatically corrects images with insufficient light. Furthermore, the L6 is equipped with Blur Warning, which alerts the user when an image is blurred and Best Shot Selector, a feature which automatically identifies and saves the sharpest image from a series.

In addition to these features, the L6 has 15 scene modes, which simplify picture taking by automatically programming the camera’s settings for great pictures in a variety of locations. Other features include color options for adding different color effects to your pictures, a date counter which visually records the number of days until a special occasion, and several white balance choices. Included with the L6 is a complimentary copy of PictureProject, Nikon’s imaging software for organizing, editing and sharing pictures.

The COOLPIX L6 offers 23 MB of internal memory and is compatible with an array of SD memory cards. The L6 uses PictBridge to easily connect to compatible printers.

The COOLPIX L6 will be available in stores September 2006 with an MSRP of $199.95. For more information about the L6 and the full line of COOLPIX cameras, please visit www.nikondigital.com.

*Face-recognition capability may be limited in some shooting conditions.

About Nikon
Nikon, At the Heart of the Image™. Nikon Inc. is the world leader in digital imaging, precision optics and photo imaging technology and is globally recognized for setting new standards in product design and performance for its award-winning consumer and professional photographic equipment. Nikon Inc. distributes the Nikon Total Imaging System of consumer and professional digital SLR cameras, Nikkor optics, Speedlights and System Accessories; Nikon COOLPIX® compact digital cameras; COOLSCAN® digital film scanners; 35mm film SLR cameras; Nikon software products and Nikon sports and recreational optics. At the heart of every Nikon camera is Nikon’s Exclusive Feature System, making it easy for anyone to take amazing digital pictures. Through the Nikon Spirit Initiative™, the company, plays an active role in supporting aspiring and advanced photographers through a variety of philanthropic organizations, educational programs, events and workshops. For more information, dial (800) NIKON-US or visit www.nikonusa.com, which links all levels of photographers to the web’s most comprehensive photo learning and sharing communities.

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21 Sep 08 NIKON PRESENTS FIVE NEW COOLPIX CAMERAS

Nikon’s New COOLPIX Digital Cameras Developed with Consumer’s Digital Photography Needs in Mind

MELVILLE, NY (August 24, 2006) - Consumers stand in front of a digital camera counter telling themselves they want an easy to use camera that takes great pictures. Nikon today unveiled two new “L” or Life series cameras and three new “S” or Style series cameras with the consumer’s picture taking needs in mind. These new cameras incorporate existing Nikon technologies that have excited so many new digital camera users and added additional useful features to enhance the overall photography experience.

“Developed with the consumer in mind, Nikon has combined exceptional features with world-renowned quality design and style at attractive prices,” says Bill Giordano, General Manager Marketing, COOLPIX for Nikon, Inc. “From entry-level to advanced technologies, our designers and engineers have done an outstanding job of adopting design styles and intuitive technology that directly address what the consumer asks for - a camera that looks great and performs just as well.”

Every camera in the COOLPIX family is equipped with Nikon’s In-camera Image Innovations to fix common photo problems. This system includes Face-priority AF*, which automatically finds and focuses on a subject’s face, In-Camera Red-Eye Fix, which automatically corrects red-eye, and D-Lighting, an innovation that automatically corrects images with insufficient light. The cameras are also equipped with Blur Warning, which alerts the user when an image is blurred, and Best Shot Selector, a feature which automatically identifies and saves the sharpest image from a series.

In addition, every new COOLPIX camera features TV Quality Move Mode** (recording movies at up to 30 fps with sound), Noise Reduction - to produce better results during low-light conditions; a broad choice of White Balance selections and a convenient Help Button, which is never further than a push of a button away, giving easy-to-understand explanations for all functions throughout the menu.

Memories Made Easy with Nikon’s COOLPIX L5
Continuing the Life series digital cameras, Nikon has introduced the COOLPIX L5 which combines high-quality features like a 5x Zoom-Nikkor glass lens, an incredible, bright 2.5 inch LCD and same advanced Lens Shift Vibration Reduction (VR) found in many Nikon DSLR lens systems. Lens shift VR technology allows the user to make the most of the 5x zoom. Adding to the convenience are three unique Nikon image innovations accessible via a One-Touch portrait button, which activates Face-priority AF, In-Camera Red-Eye Fix and D-Lighting. The L5 runs on two AA-batteries which power this 7.2 effective megapixel camera and is compatible with the widely available SD memory card.

Nikon’s COOLPIX L6 Keeps Memories Going and Going
Nikon’s L6 digital camera adds powerful imaging performance, easy operation and outstanding battery life that allows the user to shoot with greater confidence for better-looking results. The L6 boasts 6.0 effective megapixels and a 3x Zoom-Nikkor glass lens, making it a cinch to capture everything from pleasing portraits to expansive landscapes with true-to-life color and fine detail. The L6 can take an unprecedented 1,000 pictures on a single set of the included Energizer® e2® Lithium® AA batteries, the most of any camera in its class.

Highly convenient, such extended battery life is ideally suited for travel or when capturing important events, such as a wedding, where you can’t afford to run out of power.

The COOLPIX L6 offers light sensitivity beyond conventional compact digitals, with settings up to ISO 800. This means users can shoot pictures in lower light without having to use a long exposure. It also allows users to select higher shutter speeds for the capture of fast-moving subjects.

Nikon’s COOLPIX S9 Blends Stunning Design with Innovative Picture Technology
Nikon unveils new the COOLPIX S9 for style-savvy consumers who want a fashionable camera at exceptional price. The S9 blends beautiful aesthetic attributes and advanced imaging technology. The S9 is a 6.1 megapixel, easy-to-use camera in a slim, stylish body. The camera is equipped with a 3x Zoom-Nikkor ED glass lens to ensure sharp, creative freedom and a 2.5 inch LCD screen to compose and share images.

For ease of use, the COOLPIX S9 makes it seamless for consumers to access Nikon’s In-camera Image Innovations through a One-Touch Portrait Button, located on the top of the camera.

The COOLPIX S9 offers a Stop-Motion feature for creating fun, stop-motion animated video shorts. To use the feature, the consumer simply needs to pose an object that they want to animate, take a picture, re-position the object and photograph again. Opaque versions of previous shots are shown on the camera’s LCD to assist users when positioning and repositioning their object. Once shooting is completed, the S9 automatically creates a Quicktime™ video of the object’s movement in-camera.

The COOLPIX S10 Offers Adventurers and Photo Enthusiasts Image Stabilization in a Mighty 10x Zoom Camera

The new COOLPIX S10 features an incredible 10x optical Zoom-Nikkor glass lens, Vibration Reduction (VR), 6.0 effective megapixels, a 2.5″ LCD and an innovative, compact swivel design allowing the long-zoom camera to fit into a shirt pocket. The powerful 10x, optical zoom combined with Nikon’s VR and innovative body design gives digital photographers unprecedented freedom and creativity with the ability to take pictures from a wide range of angles such as overhead, from the hip and even self portraits.

With the advantage of Vibration Reduction (VR) capability, the COOLPIX S10 allows users to overcome camera shake to take sharper, more stable pictures in a range of shooting situations. The S10 includes a High-Sensitivity option up to an impressive ISO 800.

Furthermore, the COOLPIX S10 adds new entertainment to photography with Nikon’s Pictmotion function that lets users combine images, movies, music and visual styles for automatically produced audiovisual shows, in-camera. It’s easy for everyone to gather and watch Pictmotion shows together because the LCD of the COOLPIX S10 has an impressively wide viewing angle of 170 degrees.

The New COOLPIX S7c Takes Great Images and E-mails Them!
The new COOLPIX S7c combines high-quality imaging performance and style with impressive new photo sharing technology to make the S7c the most technologically advanced compact digital camera that Nikon has ever released.

The S7c is a 7.1 effective megapixel camera with a 3x Zoom-Nikkor ED glass lens with a One-Touch Portrait Button that acts as a shortcut to three Nikon In-Camera Image Innovations. The COOLPIX S7c also offers Vibration Reduction (VR), Pictmotion and a High-Sensitivity mode up to a 1600 ISO and the new Stop-Motion feature.

The S7c incorporates Wireless transfer, which enables a photographer to send pictures from the camera’s memory to a computer or printer wirelessly. The COOLPIX S7c is also compatible with Nikon’s all-new COOLPIX CONNECT service that lets users take pictures and then e-mail them to friends across the world in mere seconds.

Nikon and T-Mobile™ have partnered to give Nikon customers the amazing ability to email pictures directly from the new COOLPIX S7c.The first time you connect your COOLPIX S7c in one of the 7,000 T-Mobile HotSpot locations, your one year of complimentary T-Mobile Camera Wi-Fi service (for digital cameras) will be automatically activated*. Simply turn on your COOLPIX S7c, choose Wi-Fi mode to automatically connect your camera to the T-Mobile Hotspot or open access network, and you can email pictures directly from your COOLPIX S7c. You are connected right out of the box!

The new COOLPIX camera line-up will be available nationwide September 2006. For more information about this and other COOLPIX cameras, please visit www.nikondigital.com.

* One year of T-Mobile HotSpot service begins from the first time you automatically connect in a T-Mobile HotSpot location. Does not include access at Wi-Fi roaming locations. This offer expires on September 30, 2007.

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21 Sep 08 NIKON® INTRODUCES THE 70-300MM F/4.5-5.6G ED-IF AF-S VR ZOOM-NIKKOR LENS

New Lens Offers Enhanced Nikon VR (VRII) Vibration Reduction System in a Compact, 4.3x Zoom Lens for Nikon DX Format Digital and 35mm Film SLR Cameras

MELVILLE, NY, AUGUST 9, 2006 - Nikon Inc. (www.nikondigital.com) today introduced the new 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED-IF AF-S VR Zoom-Nikkor lens, a 4.3x zoom lens that is ideal for telephoto shooting opportunities. It incorporates many of Nikon’s most advanced lens design attributes such as Extra Low Dispersion (ED) glass, Silent Wave Motor technology (SWM) and Enhanced Vibration Reduction (VR II), in a design engineered for use with both Nikon DX format digital and 35mm film SLR cameras. With a high-powered 70-300mm focal length range, the lens is ideal for sports, action, wildlife, travel and portrait photography, among other telephoto applications. When used on a Nikon DX format digital SLR, this lens approximates the picture angle performance of a 105-450mm lens on a 35mm SLR camera.

“Nikon’s range of Nikkor lenses with Vibration Reduction technology has grown substantially and the new 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED-IF AF-S VR Zoom-Nikkor lens is another excellent addition, offering both Nikon digital and 35mm SLR photographers an advanced high-powered zoom lens in a surprisingly compact, lightweight design,” said Edward Fasano, general manager for Marketing, SLR Systems Products, at Nikon Inc. “High quality lens design requires a challenging blend of art, science and, of course, photographic experience. With the new 70-300mm AF-S VR Zoom-Nikkor, Nikon engineers have again met that challenge, producing a lens whose optical performance delivers clarity and contrast typically found only in lenses costing substantially more,” he added.

Beyond the lens’ incredible optical versatility is the benefit of Enhanced VR II Vibration Reduction - an innovation that makes it possible to take substantially sharper handheld pictures at slower shutter speeds than would otherwise be possible. This provides the distinct advantage of being able to shoot more effectively in a much broader variety of challenging conditions. With the new Nikon VR II advantage, users can take pictures at shutter speeds as many as 4 stops slower* than they ordinarily could shoot without the image degrading blur associated with camera shake at slow shutter speeds. Nikon’s advanced VR technology further enhances picture taking potential with a choice of two modes to match most shooting conditions. VR Normal Mode primarily compensates for camera shake, and includes automatic panning detection, as well as automatic tripod detection. VR Active Mode effectively compensates for vibration in situations where it is more pronounced and more frequent, such as when shooting from a moving vehicle.

To further ensure outstanding optical performance, the 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED-IF AF-S VR Zoom-Nikkor features two Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) glass elements and three complex aspherical lens elements that provide for higher resolution, high-contrast images while minimizing chromatic aberration, astigmatism and other forms of distortion. The lens also features Nikon’s compact Silent Wave Motor technology (SWM), which combines fast and precise autofocusing with super-quiet operation, as well as Internal Focusing (IF) construction that allows the lens to focus without changing its external size, improving balance and handling characteristics.

The 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED-IF AF-S VR Zoom-Nikkor lens will be available beginning October 2006 with a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $669.00**. For more information about Nikon and Nikkor optics, please visit www.nikondigital.com.

*Under Nikon measurement conditions.

** Manufacturers Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) are for reference only. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time.

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

* 12.4-Megapixel D2xs Offers Unique Combination of Extraordinary Image Quality, High-Speed and High-Resolution in a Single Camera Body
* Internal and External Refinements Make D2xs a Commendable Successor to Nikon’s Flagship D2x Digital SLR Camera

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

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

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

Versatility Refined

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

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

New Image Rendering and Menu Options

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

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

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

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

Refined Ergonomics and Design

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

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

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

Expanded Software Options

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

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

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

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

About Nikon

Nikon, At the Heart of the Image(TM). Nikon Inc. is the world leader in digital imaging, precision optics and photo imaging technology and is globally recognized for setting new standards in product design and performance for its award-winning consumer and professional photographic equipment. Nikon Inc. distributes the Nikon Total Imaging System of consumer and professional digital SLR cameras, Nikkor optics, Speedlights and System Accessories; Nikon COOLPIX(R) compact digital cameras; COOLSCAN(R) digital film scanners; 35mm film SLR cameras; Nikon software products and Nikon sports and recreational optics. At the heart of every Nikon camera is Nikon’s Exclusive Feature System, making it easy for anyone to take amazing digital pictures. Through the Nikon Spirit Initiative(TM), the company, plays an active role in supporting aspiring and advanced photographers through a variety of philanthropic organizations, educational programs, events and workshops. For more information, dial (800) NIKON-US or visit http://www.nikonusa.com, which links all levels of photographers to the web’s most comprehensive photo learning and sharing communities.

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21 Sep 08 COOLPIX P3 and P4 Offer Powerful Performance

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

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21 Sep 08 Nikon Unveils First Ever Macro Lens With Vibration Reduction

New Nikkor Lens Offers Quiet Autofocusing and Enhanced VR for Close-Up Photography with Nikon digital and 35mm film SLR cameras

MELVILLE, NY, FEBRUARY 21, 2006 - Professional photographers and enthusiasts seeking the latest opportunity to enhance their extreme close-up and general photography possibilities can rely on Nikon’s new 105mm f/2.8G ED-IF AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor. Nikon Inc. (www.nikonusa.com) today introduced the world’s first macro lens equipped with Nikon Vibration Reduction (VR) and Silent Wave Motor (SWM) systems. Engineered for use with Nikon digital and 35mm film SLR cameras, this lens offers a host of Nikon’s advanced optical features and technologies including Nano Crystal Coat, Extra Low Dispersion (ED) glass and Internal Focusing (IF) design.

“We are excited to offer the 105mm f/2.8G ED-IF AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor as the newest addition to Nikon’s range of high performance Nikkor lenses that deliver unmatched optical performance and advanced capabilities. Extreme close-up photography is one of the most demanding and popular forms of photography, and this new lens significantly extends the range of conditions under which professionals and enthusiasts can achieve outstanding results,” said Edward Fasano, general manager for Marketing, SLR Systems Products, at Nikon Inc. “With enhanced VR II technology built into the lens, photographers can shoot hand-held at shutter speeds up to four stops slower than would otherwise be possible, and still get razor sharp pictures.”

Combined with the Silent Wave Motor technology and Internal Focusing system, the 105mm f/2.8G ED-IF AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor provides handling characteristics that better enable superior close-up photography under a broad range low-light conditions. And like other high-performance Micro-Nikkor lenses, the new 105mm f/2.8G ED-IF AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor is perfectly suited for general photography as well.

The 105mm f/2.8G ED-IF AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor features Nikon’s enhanced Vibration Reduction System (VR II) which substantially improves high-quality hand held close-up shooting. The VR II function minimizes the negative effects of camera shake by offering users the ability to take pictures at shutter speeds as many as 4 stops slower* than would otherwise be possible, without the image degrading blur associated with slow shutter speeds. Nikon’s VR technology further enhances picture taking potential with a choice of two modes to match most shooting conditions. VR Normal Mode primarily compensates for camera shake, and includes automatic panning detection, as well as automatic tripod detection. VR Active Mode effectively compensates for vibration in situations where it is more pronounced and more frequent, such as when shooting from a moving vehicle.

The addition of SWM delivers faster and quieter auto-focusing, along with quick switching between autofocus and manual operation. Near-silent focusing can also be attributed to the Internal Focus (IF) design which also provides a constant lens length and eliminates front lens rotation, making it an ideal lens for use with the new Nikon Wireless Close-Up Speedlight System. Together, the SMW, VR II and IF components provide the photographer sharp images at close range (macro shooting focus of 31cm) without disturbing the subject during focus.

The 105mm f/2.8G ED-IF AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor optical formula is highlighted with Nikon’s Nano Crystal Coat and Extra Low Dispersion (ED) glass. These highly advanced optical technologies provide higher-quality resolution and high-contrast images by reducing chromatic aberrations and virtually eliminating reflections caused by multiple internal lens elements.
The AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED lens will be available beginning in March 2006 for an estimated selling price of approximately $799.00**. For more information about Nikon and the Nikkor brand of optics, please visit www.nikonusa.com.

105mm f/2.8G ED-IF AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor: Major Features

- The world’s first macro lens equipped with SWM and VR systems
- VR II Vibration Reduction technology allows photographers to shoot hand-held at as many as 4 shutter speeds slower* (at near infinity to 1/3x shooting and approx. 1 step at near 1:1) than would otherwise be possible, assuring dramatically sharper hand-held images.
- Incorporates Silent Wave Motor (SWM) for fast and quiet autofocusing, and quick switching between autofocus and manual operation.
- Engineered for use with Nikon digital and 35mm film SLR cameras.
- Offers a 105mm focal length (picture angle equivalent to 157.5mm with Nikon DX format).
- Design incorporates 14 elements in 12 groups (with 1 ED glass and 1 Nano Crystal Coat-deposited lens elements).
- ED glass and Nano Crystal Coat combine to minimize chromatic aberration, providing higher resolution and high-contrast images.
- Employs a nine-blade rounded diaphragm opening ensuring that out-of-focus elements appear more natural.
- Offers a Maximum reproduction ratio of 1:1.
- Enables focusing from as close as 31cm (12.2 in.) from the subject through its entire focal range.
- M/A mode for rapid switching between autofocus and manual focus operation.
- Internal Focusing (IF) design simplifies the use of circular polarizing filters.
- HB-38 Bayonet Lens Hood (included) greatly reduces stray light, enhancing image quality.
- Supplied with CL-1020 Flexible Lens Pouch

Tags: 35mm, capabilities, contrast images, film, focal length, image quality, images, lense, lenses, new lens, nikkor lenses, nikon, nikon digital, nikon inc, nikonusa, optical performance, optics, photo, photograph, photographer, photographers, photography, picture, pictures, professional photographer, professional photographers, resolution, shutter speed, shutter speeds, slr camera, slr cameras, slr systems

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21 Sep 08 Nikon Unveils the New D200 Digital SLR Camera

10.2 Megapixel D200 Digital SLR Delivers Outstanding Image Quality with Blazing Speed, Rugged Construction and Intelligent Features

MELVILLE, NY (November 1, 2005) - Nikon (www.nikondigital.com) today introduced the highly anticipated new D200 - a precision-engineered, high performance digital SLR camera designed to satisfy the requirements of passionate and demanding photographers. Combining brand new technologies with advanced features inherited from Nikon’s venerable D2X professional digital SLR camera, the D200 incorporates more must-have features than any other camera in its class, enabling photographers to capture images in a way once reserved only for professionals.

The D200 promises an extremely satisfying shooting experience, with a winning combination of quality, performance, construction and advanced system features. Employing a newly developed 10.2 effective megapixel Nikon DX Format CCD image sensor, the D200 captures images with remarkable resolution and clarity. Its sophisticated 1005-pixel 3D Color Matrix Metering II system ensures ideal exposures while an advanced Nikon image processing engine renders images with superb clarity and smooth color gradations. The D200 reacts with lighting speed, powering-up in a mere 0.15 seconds, and firing in an imperceptible 50 millisecond shutter release lag time. It can shoot five frames per second with a drastically shortened viewfinder blackout time of just 105 milliseconds between shots. Its large, bright viewfinder offers 0.94x magnification for comfortable and precise composition while a new 2.5 inch LCD screen provides ultra-wide 170 degrees viewing angle from all directions. With an all new 11-area Autofocus system, robust control of Nikon’s i-TTL Creative Lighting System and advanced Wi-Fi image-transmission options*, the D200 is a perfect fit for discriminating photographers and a natural choice for wedding, event and action photographers.

“Nikon has spent considerable time and effort to truly understand the qualities and features photographers desire in an advanced digital SLR camera. The D200 embodies this research and delivers a camera that’s built to the requirements of passionate photographers, and meets demands for resolution, speed, precision, and ultimate image quality. The D200 represents an unmatched combination of quality, performance and value that’s hard to resist,” said Edward Fasano, general manager for Marketing, SLR Systems Products, at Nikon Inc. “The D200 is hands-down the most capable digital SLR camera in its category.”

SMARTER

The D200 embodies a host of intelligent technologies that deliver remarkably precise control and accurate automatic features. Equipped with Nikon’s exclusive 1,005 pixel 3D Color Matrix Metering II, the D200 seamlessly determines ideal exposures even in complex lighting conditions. Capturing scene elements including brightness, contrast and color content with a unique 1,005-pixel RGB-enabled sensor, this advanced system employs further improved algorithms for even better evaluation of large area highlight and shadow detail. The 3D Color Matrix Metering II light metering system also uses an onboard database of detailed exposure information from over 30,000 actual images against which instantaneous real-time comparisons are made as part of determining exposures. Rather than merely looking at light levels, a complex, yet transparent evaluation of overall scene content takes place, ensuring highly accurate exposures, even in challenging lighting conditions.

The 10.2 effective megapixel image sensor on the D200 incorporates a high-speed 4-channel data output and a new Optical Low Pass Filter that significantly reduces any incidence of moir© as well as color fringing and shifting. Furthermore, 4-channel output allows the D200 to inherit the advanced image-processing engine of the Nikon D2x professional digital SLR that combines color-independent preconditioning prior to A/D conversion with advanced digital image processing algorithms to deliver fine color gradations with smooth, consistent transitions. Photographers can take advantage of the D200’s advanced image optimizing functionality that allows them to fine tune image characteristics such as sharpness, tone, color, saturation, and hue. Photographers can also select from preset options like Normal, Softer, Vivid, More Vivid, Portrait and Black-and-White.

One of the most notable new features of the D200 is its all new 11-area AF system, convertible to a 7-wide area AF system, both based on Nikon’s advanced Multi-Cam 1000 AF Sensor Module. Not only does this AF system support the photographer with fast and precise auto focus under a variety of shooting conditions, but it also offers a pleasing array of functions for greater flexibility - allowing an individual area to be selected from either the 11-area AF or 7-wide area AF sensors for Single AF or making use of multiple sensors to enable Dynamic AF, Closest Subject Priority Dynamic AF and Group Dynamic AF.

Running out of power on the D200 is harder than ever, since in addition to its remarkable capacity of up to 1800 shots per charge, the D200 also features an intelligent power management Fuel Gauge feature that constantly monitors the battery’s precise remaining power in 1% increments. It also displays the total number of shots taken on each charge as well as overall life of the battery, so photographers can easily tell when to replace a battery.

The D200 is a wireless whiz, and features Nikon’s advanced i-TTL wireless Speedlight control built right into the camera, as well as wireless image transfer over a 802.11b/g Wi-Fi network built into the optional WT-3 Wireless Transmitter (available Spring 2006). The camera’s powerful built-in Speedlight, capable of coverage for lenses as wide as 18mm, features a Commander Mode that can wirelessly control up to two separate groups of an unlimited number of i-TTL speedlights such as the SB-800, SB-600 or SB-R200. The Commander Mode in the D200 can adjust flash compensation settings for each of the two groups on the fly, making light output control from speedlights placed in hard to reach locations simple and effortless.

FASTER

The D200 is faster than any other camera in its class, making its handling exceptionally responsive. The D200 can shoot continuously at up to five frames per second, capturing up to an impressive 37 JPEG images** or up to 22 NEF (RAW) images, making it ideal for action, wedding and event photography. Featuring an industry leading power-up time of 0.15 seconds, the D200 is ready to shoot when the photographer is ready. Its reduced shutter release time lag of 50 milliseconds is nearly undetectable and when shooting in its continuous burst mode of five frames per second, its shortened viewfinder blackout time (between each successive shot) of just 105 milliseconds proves especially useful in keeping an eye on a moving subject.

STRONGER

The D200 is designed with long term durability, ruggedness and precision in mind. Built on a magnesium alloy chassis and body cover, the D200 combines light weight with high-level durability and protects performance integrity. It also features an enhanced environmental sealing system that helps protect exterior seams from potentially damaging moisture and dust. The D200’s double-bladed shutter unit is tested to well over 100,000 cycles, ensuring highly reliable performance year after year. The shutter unit also employs a refined mirror balance mechanism that allows the mirror to complete its motion cycle and reach a complete stop with virtually no image degrading mirror bounce.

The Ultimate Shooting Experience

Nikon is renowned for the distinct usability and handling of its digital SLRs, and the D200 continues this tradition. Photographers handling the camera will immediately notice its large, bright viewfinder with 0.94x magnification that ensures the clearest view possible for precise composition. Viewing excellence is taken further with an expansive 2.5-inch high-resolution LCD that provides an ultra-wide 170? viewing angle from all directions. It also offers the ability to magnify images by up to 400% to enable photographers to closely inspect images for fine details while offering a selectable RGB histogram display, which allows photographers to make better-informed exposure decisions through the viewing of a composite RGB histogram, or a separate histogram for each individual color channel. The D200 also features the largest top LCD panel among cameras in its class to convey maximum information at a glance with easy access to shooting data including shooting mode, battery condition, card information, gridline display, shutter speed, F-stop and number of remaining shots.
Refined menus on the D200 offer a streamlined and visually enhanced view of camera setup and custom setting options. Photographers can access an expanded on-board Help feature to view brief descriptions of every one of the camera’s menu items. The D200 also features a “Recent Settings” menu that reflects the last 14 settings adjusted, offering a quick way to revisit these settings.

Nikon’s Digital Imaging System

Like all Nikon SLR cameras, the D200 also offers the advantages of compatibility with Nikon’s superior and comprehensive Digital Imaging System. High image quality is assured through compatibility with over 50 outstanding AF Nikkor lenses, including Nikon’s DX Nikkor lenses engineered exclusively for use with Nikon digital SLRs and an extensive array of AF Nikkors designed for use on digital and 35mm SLRs. The D200 also offers compatibility with the Nikon Creative Lighting System, enabling high-precision flash photography with SB-800, SB-600 and the Nikon Wireless Close-up Lighting Systems. Outlined below are groundbreaking technologies and system features that enable photographers to achieve results not possible with any other system:

New Wireless Transmitter WT-3 (Available Spring 2006)

Nikon is leading the imaging world with wireless image transfer technology via Wi-Fi. The D200 marks the announcement of the Wireless Transmitter WT-3, offering photographers creative new ways to set up their workflow. The new IEEE802.11b/g compatible Wireless Transmitter WT-3 provides fast image transmission with improved security and compatibility with the latest protocols. It also provides alternative buttons for shutter release and AF-start as well as an extra command dial to facilitate more comfortable shooting in vertical format.

i-TTL Speedlight Technology

Nikon’s i-TTL speedlight technology is arguably the most robust and advanced speedlight system in the world, and holds limitless possibilities for all kinds of photographers using creative lighting. i-TTL technology built-in to the D200 allows photographers to wirelessly control in full TTL, up to 2 groups of Speedlights, with any number of individual speedlights in each group. Photographers can shed all cords and cables or the need to ever calculate flash and distance ratios, because the i-TTL systems is capable of making all exposure calculations in real time, wirelessly, during the exposure to deliver a perfect flash exposure in any situation. Photographers can even maintain full output control of each group of speedlights from the D200’s built-in speedlight. This technology can potentially distill an entire portrait lighting system into a small set of multiple SB800, SB600 or SB-R200 Speedlights.

Nikkor® Lenses

As a company that built its reputation with the superb quality of its lenses, Nikon’s renowned Nikkor® brand of optics offer D200 users a tremendous choice of over 50 high quality lenses ranging from highly specialized exotic ones such as the AF DX Fisheye-Nikkor 10.5mm f/2.8G ED to broad zoom range lenses for everyday photography, such as the newly announced AF-S DX VR Zoom-Nikkor 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G IF-ED lens. The D200 is compatible with DX Nikkor lenses that are optimized for Nikon’s digital SLR camera sensors as well as legendary AF Nikkor lenses, delivering outstanding system digital SLR flexibility. This ensures that D200 users will always find a high quality Nikkor lens that’s just perfect for their photography.

Nikon PictureProject and Capture 4.4 Software

The D200 will include a complimentary copy of Nikon’s PictureProject software, a $49.95 value, and an easy-to-use yet powerful software application that provides image transfer, organization, editing, and design functions for JPEG and NEF (RAW) images produced with the camera. PictureProject can also convert NEF (RAW) files to JPEG or TIFF format finished files, as well as save in the original NEF file format. PictureProject is an essential accessory and is compatible with the new D200 and all prior Nikon digital SLR models and COOLPIX Models. The D200 is also compatible with Nikon Capture 4.4 software (sold separately), a new version of Capture that has the specifications to open NEF files from the D200 and all other Nikon digital SLR models. This newest version features greatly enhanced NEF (RAW) processing capabilities as well as Nikon Capture Camera Control that allows remote camera operation when connected to a computer via the included USB cable or wirelessly using the new Wireless Transmitter WT-3 (sold separately). This versatility is especially useful when photographers may need to continue shooting with their D200 while simultaneously having someone else edit incoming images.

The NEF (RAW) files from the D200 comprise not only the RAW image data captured by the 10.2 effective megapixel image sensor but also a thumbnail image and a Nikon “Instruction Set” of the cameras settings at the time of shooting. NEF allows the Instruction Set data - such as white balance, color balance and tone curves and more - to be adjusted for each recorded image at any time after shooting through the use of Nikon Capture software. Use of Nikon Capture also allows a NEF file to be saved as a NEF, ensuring a record of the original Instruction Set is always preserved, even if several newer Instruction Sets are saved to the file. This ensures that photographers never loose the original settings and image data of a NEF (RAW) file, and reverting back to the original image requires just a few clicks in Capture software.

Version 4.4 of Nikon Capture software offers a flexible, stable and creative workflow approach for any photographer in both professional and personal use through Nikon’s unique approach referred to as the “Camera to NEF to Capture Dynamic Link” performance. Newly added features for Capture include automatic highlight recovery when using Exposure Compensation at values lower than 0 EV and Black and White conversion support in Tone Compensation.

The D200 will be available in late December 2005 for an estimated selling price of $1699.95***. For more information, please visit www.nikondigital.com.

Tags: 35mm, 3d color matrix, auto focus, Battery, black and white, camera operation, camera sensor, capabilities, CCD, ccd image sensor, digital image, digital slr, digital slr camera, digital slrs, flash, flash exposure, flash photography, image quality, image sensor, images, lcd screen, lense, lenses, megapix, megapixel, nikkor lenses, nikon, nikon d2x, nikon digital, nikon digital slr, nikon inc, nikon slr cameras, nikondigital, optics, photo, photograph, photographer, photographers, photography, picture, pixel, professional digital, resolution, saturation, sharpness, shutter speed, slr camera, slr cameras, slr systems, viewfinder, white balance, zoom

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21 Sep 08 Nikon Adds New 18-200MM Lens to its Nikkor Line of Lenses

New Lens Offers Enhanced VR Vibration Reduction System in a Compact and Lightweight 11.1x High Power Zoom Lens for Nikon Digital SLRs

MELVILLE, NY, NOVEMBER 1, 2005 â€“ Nikon Inc. (www.nikonusa.com) today introduced the new 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G IF-ED AF-S DX VR Zoom-Nikkor lens, a compact, lightweight 11.1x zoom lens that is ideal for high performance everyday photography and incorporates advanced features such as Nikonâ€™s Extra Low Dispersion (ED) glass, Silent Wave Motor technology (SWM) and Enhanced Vibration Reduction (VR II), in a DX-Nikkor design engineered exclusively for use with Nikon DX format digital SLR cameras. With a remarkable 18-200mm focal length range (picture angle equivalent to a 27-300mm lens in 35mm format), the lens conveniently covers everything from wide landscapes to tight portraits and action photography. Advanced Nikon engineering has lent the lens a compact lightweight design that offers excellent handling characteristics and superb optical quality.

â€œNikonâ€™s range of DX Nikkor lenses, designed specifically for Nikon digital SLR cameras, has grown substantially since the introduction of the category, and the new 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G IF-ED AF-S DX VR Zoom-Nikkor lens is an excellent addition offering Nikon digital SLR photographers an advanced all-purpose lens with superb optical performance and Enhanced Vibration Reduction capabilities,â€ said Edward Fasano, general manager for Marketing, SLR Systems Products, at Nikon Inc. â€œNikkor lenses are famous for their breathtaking sharpness, optimal contrast and consistent color rendition across its range of lenses with varying focal lengths. Now with the 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G IF-ED AF-S DX VR Zoom-Nikkor, Nikon photographers will be able to take advantage of remarkable versatility in one lens with assurance of the outstanding Nikkor image performance that has made Nikkor lenses renowned worldwide.â€

Beyond the lens’ incredible optical versatility is the benefit of Enhanced VR II Vibration Reduction an innovation that makes it possible to take substantially sharper handheld pictures at slower shutter speeds than would otherwise be possible. This provides the distinct advantage of being able to shoot more effectively in a much broader variety of challenging conditions. With the new Nikon VR II advantage, users can take pictures at shutter speeds as many as 4 stops slower* than they ordinarily could shoot without the image degrading blur associated with camera shake at slow shutter speeds. Nikonâ€™s VR technology further enhances picture taking potential with a choice of two modes to match most shooting conditions. VR Normal Mode primarily compensates for camera shake, and includes automatic panning detection, as well as automatic tripod detection. VR Active Mode effectively compensates for vibration in situations where it is more pronounced and more frequent, such as when shooting from a moving vehicle.

To further ensure outstanding optical performance, the 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G IF-ED AF-S DX VR Zoom-Nikkor features two Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) glass elements and three complex aspherical lens elements that provide for higher resolution, high-contrast images while minimizing chromatic aberration, astigmatism and other forms of distortion. The lens also features Nikonâ€™s compact Silent Wave Motor technology (SWM), which combines fast and precise autofocusing with super-quiet operation, as well as Internal Focusing (IF) construction that allows the lens to focus without changing its external size, improving balance and handling chrematistics.

All of Nikonâ€™s DX Nikkor lenses are engineered exclusively for use with Nikon DX format digital SLR cameras, making the lens smaller and lighter while providing exceptional center-to-edge-to-corner image quality and overall optical performance. With the addition of the 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G IF-ED AF-S DX VR Zoom-Nikkor lens, Nikon photographers can choose from over 50 Nikkor lenses, ranging from the amazing 10.5mm f/2.8G ED AF DX Fisheye to the astounding 600mm f/4D ED-IF AF-S II super Telephoto.

The 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G IF-ED AF-S DX VR Zoom-Nikkor lens will be available beginning in December 2005 for an estimated selling price of $699.95**. For more information about Nikon and the Nikkor brand of optics, please visit www.nikonusa.com.

18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G IF-ED AF-S DX VR Zoom-Nikkor Major Features

â€¢ Offers the broad 18-200mm focal range (11.1x zoom) for use in a variety of situations (equivalent to a 27-300 mm lens in 35mm format)
â€¢ VR II Vibration Reduction system offers the practical equivalent of using a shutter speed 4 stops faster
â€¢ Two ED glass and three complex aspherical lens elements minimize chromatic aberration, astigmatism and other forms of distortion, while ensuring high resolution and contrast
â€¢ Incorporates a compact SWM (Silent Wave Motor) for quiet focusing
ô€‚ƒ Delivers high-level optical performance that is specially designed for use with the Nikon digital SLRs
â€¢ Employs a seven-blade rounded diaphragm opening that achieves a natural blur for out-of-focus elements
â€¢ Enables focusing from as close as 50cm (20 in.) from the subject through its entire focal range
â€¢ M/A mode for rapid switching between autofocus and manual focus operation
â€¢ Internal Focusing (IF) design simplifies the use of circular polarizing filters
â€¢ Nikon Super Integrated Coating (SIC) offers superb color reproduction while minimizing ghosting and flare
â€¢ Flower-shaped Lens Hood HB-35 (included) greatly reduces stray light, enhancing image quality

Tags: 35mm, action photography, capabilities, contrast images, digital slr, digital slr camera, digital slr cameras, digital slrs, focal length, focal length range, image quality, images, lense, lenses, new lens, nikkor lenses, nikon, nikon digital, nikon digital slr, nikon digital slr camera, nikon digital slr cameras, nikon inc, nikonusa, optical performance, optics, photo, photograph, photographer, photographers, photography, picture, pictures, resolution, sharpness, shutter speed, shutter speeds, slr camera, slr cameras, slr systems, zoom

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21 Sep 08 Nikon’s New R1C1 and R1 Wireless Speedlight Systems Bring Simplicity and Automation to Close-Up Flash Photographry

Latest Additions to Nikonâ€™s i-TTL Wireless Creative Lighting System Simplify Lighting for Close-Up Photography and Prove Versatile for Much More

MELVILLE, NY, NOVEMBER 1, 2005 â€“ Nikon Inc. (www.nikonusa.com) today introduced two new Wireless Close-Up Speedlight Systems â€“ the R1C1 and the R1 â€“ both designed to seamlessly fit within Nikonâ€™s i-TTL Wireless Creative Lighting System. Comprised of the SU-800 Wireless Speedlight Commander, two SB-R200 Wireless Remote Speedlights and a host of useful accessories and mounting adapters all neatly packaged in one complete kit, the R1C1 offers photographers using Nikon i-TTL capable SLRs, including D2Xâ„¢, D2hsâ„¢, D2Hâ„¢ and F6â„¢ a compelling new way to get outstanding results with their close-up photography while bringing an amazing level of simplicity and automation to the lighting process. The R1 shares all of the components of the R1C1 with the exception of the SU-800 Wireless Speedlight Commander. The R1 is designed to take advantage of Nikon i-TTL digital SLR cameras that feature a Wireless Commander built into the cameraâ€™s on-board Speedlight system, such as the D70â„¢, D70sâ„¢ and the newly announced D200â„¢.

The R1C1 and the R1 systems greatly enhance the versatility of Nikonâ€™s Creative Lighting System, currently consisting of the SB-800 and SB-600 Speedlights. They offer photographers a myriad of choices and options in creating customized lighting solutions, ranging from a compact, portable lighting set-up for close-up photography to more elaborate lighting arrangements using several i-TTL enabled speedlights. Regardless of the complexity of the lighting arrangements, Nikonâ€™s i-TTL technology promises an astounding level of simplicity in achieving the desired lighting effects and accurate exposures. Photographers can shed all cords and cables and the need to calculate flash and distance ratios, because, when used with a compatible Nikon camera, i-TTL technology is capable of making all exposure calculations in real time, wirelessly, during the exposure to deliver consistently accurate flash exposures in virtually any situation.

Packaged as complete systems, the R1C1 and the R1 Wireless Close-Up Speedlight Systems are designed to produce automated creative close-up lighting solutions without any clutter or hassle of connecting cables. The system outfits come in a sturdy and fitted system case that includes all the accessories and adapters a photographer may need to begin capturing beautifully illuminated pictures immediately.

The R1C1 consists of two SB-R200 Wireless Remote Speedlights, the SU-800 Wireless Speedlight Commander, and an SX-1 Attachment Ring that is used to attach the two SB-R200s to the front of the lens. Additionally, the outfit contains a comprehensive assortment of accessories to help users master and enjoy close-up flash photography, including the SW-11 Extreme Close-Up Positioning Adapter, SJ-R200 Color Filter Set, SW-12 Set Diffuser, SW-C1 Flexible Arm Clip and a set of five adapter rings to ensure the SX-1 Attachment Ring can be mounted on virtually any NikkorÂ® lenses designed for close range photography.

For photographers who want to use an SB-800 or the built-in Speedlight of D200, D70s and D70 cameras as a commander, the R1 Wireless Close-Up Speedlight System, which comes without the SU-800, is ideal.

Components of the R1C1 and R1 Wireless Close-Up Speedlight Systems are also available individually, offering photographers versatility and creative control. The SB-R200 Speedlight is a highly capable lighting tool with a guide number of 14/46 (ISO 200, m/ft.). In addition to attaching it to the front of the lens for close-up photography purposes, photographers can also hold it in their hand while shooting for off-camera directional lighting, or freely position it by using the AS-20 Speedlight Stands, supplied with both the R1C1 and R1 systems. The SU-800 Wireless Speedlight Commander, also available individually, adds versatility to the Nikon Creative Lighting System by providing wireless flash output level controls for the SB-800, SB-600 or new SB-R200 remote Speedlight units when mounted on Nikon SLR cameras that are compatible with Nikonâ€™s Creative Lighting System. These include the D2X, D2hs, D2H, D200, D70s, D70 and D50â„¢ digital SLR cameras, as well as the F6 35mm film SLR camera.

The Nikon R1C1 and R1 Wireless Close-Up Speedlight Systems will be available in December 2005 for an estimated selling price of $680.00* and $430.00* respectively. The Nikon SU-800 Wireless Speedlight Commander and SB-R200 Wireless Remote Speedlights will also be available individually in December 2005 for an estimated selling price of $265.00* and $155.00* respectively. For more information about Nikonâ€™s Creative Lighting System and Nikonâ€™s Speedlights, please visit www.nikonusa.com.

Contents of Nikon R1C1 & R1 Wireless Close-Up Speedlight Systems

â€¢ Two Wireless Close-Up Speedlight System configurations are available: Nikon Wireless â€¢ Close-Up Speedlight System R1C1 and Nikon Wireless Close-Up Speedlight System R1 (identical to R1C1 but SU-800 is not included). The system includes:
â€¢ SU-800 Wireless Speedlight Commander: (not included in the R1 outfit). Includes the SS-SU800 Soft Case
â€¢ SB-R200 Wireless Remote Speedlight (2): Includes (2) AS-20 Speedlight stand, (2)
â€¢ SS-R200 Soft Case, (2) SJ-R200 Filter Set, and (2) SZ-1 Color Filter Holder
â€¢ SX-1 Attachment Ring: Enables SB-R200(s) to be attached to the front of the lens.
â€¢ Accepts up to eight SB-R200 Speedlights (maximum four when attached to camera or up to eight off-camera)
â€¢ SG-3IR IR Panel for Built-in Flash: Prevents pre-flash light from built-in Speedlight (D200, D70s or D70) from influencing exposures in extreme close-up situations
â€¢ Adapter Ring Set: Enables SX-1 to be attached to lenses with filter attachment sizes of Ã¸52mm, Ã¸62mm, Ã¸67mm, Ã¸72mm, and Ã¸77mm
â€¢ SW-11 Extreme Close-Up Positioning Adapter (2): Angles the SB-R200â€™s flash light toward the optical axis to create lighting effects when taking extreme close-up shots
â€¢ SW-12 Translucent Diffuser Panel: Provides the ability to bounce and/or soften light
â€¢ SW-C1 Flexible Arm Clip: Used to mount SW-12 Diffuser to the SX-1 Attachment Ring.
â€¢ Clamp design allows mounting to other objects, adding flexibility
â€¢ SS-MS1 Close-up Speedlight Outfit Case: Houses complete System and included accessories plus space for an additional SB-R200 Speedlight
â€¢ SB-R200 Wireless Remote Speedlight: Major Features
â€¢ Supports the Nikon Creative Lighting System
â€¢ Functions only as a remote Speedlight unit
â€¢ Supports i-TTL (for automatic balanced Fill-Flash), D-TTL, TTL, Manual
â€¢ Accurate i-TTL flash control achieved through flash exposure monitoring control
â€¢ Guide Number of 10/33 [ISO100, m/ft], 14/46 [ISO200, m/ft]
â€¢ Advanced Wireless Lighting available
â€¢ Auto FP High-Speed Sync; use with fast shutter speeds achieves effective blurring of out-of-focus background elements
â€¢ FV lock holds flash value, enabling recomposition prior to shooting
â€¢ AS-20 Speedlight stand (supplied)
â€¢ SS-R200 Soft Case (supplied)
â€¢ SJ-R200 Color Filter Set (supplied)
â€¢ SZ-1Color Filter Holder (supplied)
Note: The SB-R200 cannot be attached to the cameraâ€™s accessory shoe.

SU-800 Wireless Speedlight Commander: Major Features
â€¢ When using i-TTL compatible Nikon SLR cameras and Speedlights, user can divide the Speedlight units into three groups and control the flash output independently for each group
â€¢ Features a Commander function that can trigger wireless remote flash (SB-800, SB-600, or SB-R200) units without a master flash unit
â€¢ One-touch switching between close-up and Commander modes
â€¢ Easy-to-use close-up flash operations. Two types of operations: Dual-light close-up flash and Triple-light close-up flash
â€¢ Easy-to-view LCD panel
â€¢ Compact and lightweight
â€¢ SS-SU800 Soft Case (supplied)
â€¢ When using the SU-800 with cameras not compatible with i-TTL flash control, only close-up flash operation (using cords) is possible in use with the optional SC-30 TTL Cord.

Tags: 35mm, digital slr, digital slr camera, digital slr cameras, film, flash, flash exposure, flash light, flash photography, flash unit, iso 200, lense, lenses, nikon, nikon inc, nikon slr cameras, nikonusa, photo, photograph, photographer, photographers, photography, picture, pictures, shutter speed, shutter speeds, slr camera, slr cameras

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21 Sep 08 Nikon School Announces New Schedule for Its Popular One-Day Photography Seminars

Nikon School Visits 19 Cities Nationwide, Featuring Expert Instruction by Leading Imaging Professionals for Digital SLR Photographers of All Levels

MELVILLE, N.Y., Oct. 27 — Nikon Inc., the world leader in photography, has released the new schedule for its popular Nikon School (http://www.nikonschool.com), one of the most comprehensive photography education and training programs available today. The two separate one-day seminars are taught by some of the best experts in the digital imaging industry and are aimed to help photographers at all levels better understand and enhance their digital photography experience.

“The Nikon School of Photography: Introduction to Digital SLR Photography” covers the basics of digital photography, terminology, technology and techniques for specific challenges, such as transferring and editing images while “Next Steps in Digital Photography: Streamlined Workflow Techniques” focuses on the more experienced digital photographers covering a wide range of technical and creative concepts. Courses begin on October 22nd.

“The Nikon School places great importance on educating and enhancing the skills of photographers,” said Anna Marie Bakker, Director of Communications for Nikon Inc. “Digital imaging is increasingly prominent in both the workplace and the home and, as the world leader in photography, Nikon recognizes the need to educate and inform the photographic community so that both professionals and enthusiasts can have a positive and enlightening digital photography experience.”

Nikon School of Photography: Introduction to Digital SLR Photography

Created for anyone who is new to digital photography or considering the purchase of a digital SLR camera, Nikon School’s Introduction to Digital SLR Photography will teach students the features of digital SLR cameras through live menu demonstrations and provide the opportunity to learn about white balance, exposure modes, resolution and flash. Instructors will combine both technical and creative techniques, teaching exposure and composition, f/stops, shutter speeds, and use of light. The goal of the course is to help budding photographers unleash creative potential while understanding the computing fundamentals that will help foster a greater comprehension of photography.

Illustrations will show how to prepare images for printing, sending via e-mail, posting to a website, archiving and more. Sessions are held on Saturdays from 9:30am - 4:30pm for a fee of $119, which includes lunch, Nikon School of Photography Handbook, Nikon Guide to SLR Photography, and Nikon Guide to Digital Photography.

Next Steps in Digital Photography: Streamlined Workflow Techniques

Experienced digital SLR photographers and those looking to step up their abilities to the next level will be interested in attending Nikon School’s Next Steps in Digital Photography: Streamlined Workflow Techniques course. Continuously updated to reflect the latest industry developments and recent Nikon-driven technological advances, the one-day course focuses on expanding students’ understanding of the digital workflow process. The course is intended for digital photographers who shoot for personal, business or professional purposes, as well as enthusiasts who want to elevate their abilities to the next level. Individuals interested in purchasing a digital SLR will also benefit from the course’s insights. The course offers a clear,
concise presentation on the rapidly changing world of digital photography and provides photographers with tips and helpful hints on emerging imaging techniques and intricacies of the digital workflow necessary to produce better images more efficiently. One-day sessions are scheduled on Sundays from 9:30am - 4:30pm for a fee of $159, which includes lunch, Nikon School of Photography Handbook, and Nikon Guide to Creative Lighting Techniques.

To learn more about Nikon School offerings, the instructors, course schedules and registration, visit the Nikon School website at http://www.nikonschool.com.

Tags: digital photograph, digital photographer, digital photography, digital slr, digital slr camera, digital slr cameras, digital slr photography, flash, images, nikon, nikon inc, photo, photograph, photographer, photographers, photography, resolution, shutter speed, shutter speeds, slr camera, slr cameras, slr photography, white balance

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