Digital-SLR camera Nikon D3100

August 19, 2010
An entry level digital-SLR camera with a new CMOS image sensor, image-processing engine and helpful Guide mode that makes capturing beautiful images easy



TOKYO – Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the release of the Nikon D3100, an entry level Nikon DX-format digital-SLR camera. The camera is equipped with a new CMOS image sensor developed by Nikon and a new image-processing engine that enable capture of high-definition images exhibiting superior image quality, and a Guide mode that allows users to capture images just as they intended.

The following lens kit will also be released.
D3100 and AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR
D3100 and AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR

D3100 with AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR

The number of people advancing from a compact digital camera to a digital-SLR camera for better quality images and a more authentic photography experience has been increasing in recent years. However, many have indicated that digital-SLR cameras are difficult to master. To respond to this concern of users advancing to a digital-SLR camera, Nikon began equipping its entry level digital-SLR cameras with a Guide mode that displays instructions for the most basic camera operations for shooting, image playback and editing and the application of camera settings, in the camera monitor. The first camera to be equipped with Guide mode was the Nikon D3000 released in August 2009. This function has proven to be very popular with users.

A new DX-format CMOS image sensor developed by Nikon and the new image-processing engine, EXPEED 2, have been adopted for the new D3100, enabling capture of images exhibiting excellent image quality and definition. The D3100 has also inherited Guide mode from the D3000, with the addition of more options and assist images that make the camera easier to understand and operate. The D3100 is also equipped with a live view function that allows the user to frame images in the monitor, and the D-Movie function that provides support for high-definition movie recording. While the D3100 offers authentic digital-SLR camera performance, it is also an extremely lightweight digital-SLR camera from which even beginners can expect beautiful images that accurately reflect their shooting intent.


D3100 primary features
1. A new DX-format CMOS image sensor and image-processing engine, EXPEED 2, both developed by Nikon enable capture of high-definition images with superior image quality
The D3100 is equipped with a new Nikon DX-format CMOS image sensor and a new image-processing engine, EXPEED 2, both developed by Nikon. The CMOS image sensor offers an effective pixel count of 14.2-million pixels (D3000: CCD image sensor with 10.2-million effective pixels) and enables capture of high-definition images exhibiting superior image quality with extremely detailed rendering and rich tones. The camera also makes the most of its standard sensitivity settings up to ISO 3200 (D3000: ISO 100–1600) and additional increases up to HI 2 (ISO 12800 equivalent), with shooting under dim lighting, such as in the evening or indoors, as well as with sports scenes of rapidly moving subjects.
EXPEED 2 is Nikon's new image-processing engine, developed by refining the concepts, know-how and technologies regarding digital images that Nikon has spent years cultivating. It maximizes the performance of the CMOS image sensor to suppress noise in still images and movies and produces images that faithfully reproduce vivid colors.


2. A refined Guide mode that is even easier to use
Guide mode has been refined to make most camera operations even easier, from shooting to image playback and editing to the application of camera settings, regardless of the user's skill level.


Assist images
The D3100 displays assist images that show the effect of various camera settings, giving users an idea of the results they can expect with specified settings. For example, when "Soften backgrounds" is selected and an aperture value is specified, the assist image displayed in the monitor changes to show the effect that aperture setting will have on images. This allows users to confirm that images will appear as they intended prior to shooting and reduces the number of unsuccessful shots.



Assist image sample
Assist image sample1
Assist image sample2
Other new functions built into Guide mode
(1) Selection from 3 shooting techniques: "Use the viewfinder," "Use live view," "Shoot movies"
(2) "Bring more into focus" and "Show water flowing" options have been added to the "Advanced operation" menu for shooting
(3) "Movie settings," "HDMI," "Flicker reduction" and "Eye-Fi upload"* options have been added to the "Set Up" menu for applying basic camera settings"



*:
Only available when compatible Eye-Fi memory card is inserted

3. Live view mode that allows users to use the camera monitor to easily frame still image or movies
By simply rotating the live view switch, the view through the lens is displayed in the monitor, enabling immediate live view recording. This makes shooting feel more like shooting with a compact digital camera, easing the transition to digital-SLR for beginners. In addition, various information such as the shooting mode, time remaining (movie mode) and battery indicator, can be shown in the live view display.


4. D-Movie for recording and editing full-HD movies and AF-F (full-time servo AF) focus mode for movie recording
The D3100 is equipped with the D-Movie function that enables recording of high-definition movies (with monaural sound) by simply pressing the movie-record button. Movies can be recorded with the same aperture and other settings applied in Guide mode, and movies that take full advantage of the characteristics of individual interchangeable lenses, whether wide-angle, telephoto or fisheye, can be recorded for movies that are only possible with a digital-SLR camera. In addition, the camera also offers an AF-F (full-time servo AF) focus mode for movie recording. When AF-F mode is enabled, the camera focuses continuously during movie recording without the need for holding the shutter-release button down halfway. The D3100 also offers in-camera movie editing functions that allow users to save a single frame as a still image or delete unnecessary portions from the beginning or end of movie files.


5. Scene auto selector built in
The D3100 is equipped with the scene auto selector function. When live view mode is enabled in Auto or Auto (flash off) mode, the camera automatically analyzes the scene and selects the appropriate shooting mode from Portrait, Landscape, Close up or Night portrait.* This function allows users achieve the intended images while leaving all settings up to the camera.



*:
Scene auto selector is disabled with manual focusing.

Other functions and features new to the D3100

* Equipped with a face detection function capable of detecting up to 35 human faces (D3000: up to 5 faces)
* Operation has been improved with the addition of an independent movie-record button and release-mode selector. In addition, the rubber grip provides a better fit.
* Equipped with a Consumer Electronics Control (CEC) bus that enables remote control playback of images and movies recorded with the camera when the camera is connected to a high-definition TV
* Equipped with a new exposure compensation algorithm for greater flexibility and performance with NEF (RAW) processing
* The new ViewNX 2 software is bundled with the D3100

Nikon D3100 digital-SLR camera primary specifications
Type Single-lens reflex digital camera
Lens mount Nikon F mount (with AF contacts)
Effective pixels 14.2 million
Image sensor 23.1 x 15.4 mm CMOS sensor
Image size (pixels) 4,608 x 3,072 [L]
3,456 x 2,304 [M]
2,304 x 1,536 [S]
File format 1) NEF(RAW), 2)JPEG, 3)NEF(RAW)+JPEG
Media SD (Secure Digital) memory cards *1, SDHC- and SDXC-compliant
Frame advance rate Up to 3 fps *2
ISO sensitivity ISO 100 to 3200 in steps of 1 EV; Can also be set to approx. 1 EV above ISO 3200 (ISO 6400 equivalent) or to approx. 2 EV above ISO 3200 (ISO 12800 equivalent); auto ISO sensitivity control available
Movie Frame size (pixels) and frame rate: 1,920 x 1,080; 24 p - 1,280 x 720; 30 p - 1,280 x 720; 25 p - 1,280 x 720; 24 p - 640 x 424; 24 p
Maximum Recording Time:10 min.
File format/Video compression: MOV, H.264/MPEG-4 Advanced Video Cording
Audio recording device; Supported:monaural recording with built-in microphone.
LCD monitor 3-in., approx. 230 k-dot TFT LCD with brightness adjustment
Power source Battery; One rechargeable Li-ion EN-EL14 battery
AC adapter(optional);EH-5a AC adapter; requires EP-5 power connector
Dimensions (approx.)
(W x H x D) 124 X 96 X 74.5mm
Weight (approx.) 455g without battery, memory card, or body cap,
505g;with battery and memory card but without body cap
Major supplied accessories EN-EL14 rechargeable Li-ion battery, MH-24 battery charger, AN-DC3 camera strap, ViewNX 2 CD-ROM, Ferrite Core (2 types)

AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR

August 19, 2010
A DX-format super-telephoto zoom lens with built-in vibration reduction for simple and enjoyable 5.5X super-telephoto shooting



TOKYO – Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the release of the AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR. This DX-format super-telephoto zoom lens covers the 55mm to 300mm range of focal lengths and is equipped with Nikon's latest vibration reduction mechanism, VR II, for simple and enjoyable super-telephoto photography.
AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR

AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR

As a super-telephoto lens covering the 55mm to 300mm range of focal lengths, the AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR is capable of capturing the main subject at sporting events, indoor events or in vacation photos largely, even from a distance. Equipped with Nikon's own VR II vibration reduction mechanism, blur caused by camera shake is significantly reduced, even with super-telephoto shooting, allowing users to shoot comfortably and focus their attention on photo opportunities. As Nikon's first interchangeable lens with a high refractive index (HRI) lens element, this lens is compact and lightweight, making it very portable despite being a super-telephoto zoom lens. This allows users to easily carry the lens with them and enjoy super-telephoto shooting anytime and anywhere. This lens provides a wide variety of users, from those who use the D3100 and D5000 entry-level Nikon DX-format digital-SLR cameras to users of high-end digital-SLR cameras such as the D300S, with the means to enjoy super-telephoto shooting and to expand their photography techniques and skill.


AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR Primary Features

* A 5.5X magnification and support for super-telephoto shooting at up to 300mm. It exhibits excellent contrast and sharp rend super-telephoto zoom lens with a focal length of 55-300mm
* The first interchangeable lens to utilize a high refractive index (HRI) lens element, which allows for a more compact and lightweight size, as well as offering pleasing rendering performance
With a refractive index of 2.0 or higher, the use of a single HRI lens element provides the same benefits as multiple elements made of standard optical glass. In addition, as this single lens element also compensates for focal plane curvature and spherical aberration, the lens itself could be made smaller and lighter yet still offer 5.5Xering throughout the entire frame even at maximum aperture.
* Built-in vibration reduction (VR II) offering camera shake compensation equivalent to a shutter speed increase of approximately four steps
The benefits of vibration reduction are best demonstrated with super-telephoto shooting.
This feature stabilizes the view through the viewfinder for simpler focusing.
* Two ED lens elements used for superior chromatic aberration compensation
* Equipped with a Silent Wave Motor (SWM) for extremely quiet autofocusing

AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR Primary Specifications
Focal length: 55-300mm
Maximum aperture: f/4.5-5.6
Minimum aperture: f/22-29
Lens construction: 17 elements in 11 groups (2 ED, 1 HRI lens elements)
Angle of view: 28° 50' – 5° 20'
Minimum focus distance: 1.4 m (throughout the entire zoom range)
Maximum reproduction ratio: 0.28x
No. of diaphragm blades: 9 (rounded)
Filter attachment size: 58mm
Dimensions: Approximately 76.5mm (maximum diameter) X 123mm (distance from the camera's lens-mount flange)
Weight: Approximately 530 g
Supplied accessories: 58mm snap-on Front Lens Cap LC-58, Rear Lens Cap LF-4, Bayonet Hood HB-57, Flexible Lens Pouch CL-1020

AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G, AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR and AF-S NIKKOR 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR

August 19, 2010
Three Nikon FX-format compatible lenses offering the superior image quality and performance of the NIKKOR brand



TOKYO – Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the release of three new lenses compatible with Nikon FX-format digital-SLR cameras. The AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G is a fast, mid-telephoto prime (fixed focal length) lens that combines a large maximum aperture of f/1.4 with beautiful blur characteristics and superior rendering. The AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR is a 5X standard zoom lens with a fixed maximum aperture of f/4 throughout its entire zoom range. Nano Crystal Coat has been deposited on some lens elements for fine, clear images, and the lens is equipped with Nikon's latest vibration reduction mechanism, VR II. The NIKKOR 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR is a 10.7X super-telephoto lens that covers a broad range of focal lengths from the wide-angle 28mm to telephoto 300mm. This lens is also equipped with the VR II vibration reduction mechanism.

Nikon has long had the support of professional and advanced amateur photographers for its consistent development of innovative products that respond to the demands of users and are equipped with the optical technologies Nikon has spent years cultivating as a manufacturer of optical devices. Nikon will continue to offer exceptional products, including FX-format compatible lenses that strengthen and enrich the NIKKOR lens lineup with superior functions and performance that satisfy the needs of professional and advanced amateur photographers.


AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G Primary Features
AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G

AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G

* A fast, high-performance mid-telephoto 85mm fixed focal length lens with a maximum aperture of f/1.4 that offers superior image quality
Adoption of a maximum aperture of f/1.4 and rounded diaphragm (9 blades) enables the expression of bright and beautiful blur characteristics. The lens exhibits excellent rendering capability with shooting all distances, from close-up to infinity, making it especially suited to portrait photography. It is also an excellent choice for shooting in relatively dark situations, such as indoors or for capturing night landscapes.
* A new optical design that makes the most of the performance expected of the latest fast fixed focal length NIKKOR lens
* Nano Crystal Coat adopted to significantly reduce ghost and flare
* Equipped with a Silent Wave Motor (SWM) for extremely quiet autofocusing
* Equipped with two focus modes, M/A and M, as well as a new and improved manual focus drive mechanism
The lens offers two focus modes, M/A (autofocus with manual override) and M (manual). In addition, the new and improved manual focus drive mechanism reduces manual focus time lag for improved manual focus operation in M/A mode.
* Nikon's internal focusing (IF) system has been adopted with no increase in the length of the lens

AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR Primary Features
AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR

AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR

* A 5X standard zoom lens with a fixed maximum aperture of f/4 through the full 24mm to 120mm range of focal lengths
A 5X standard zoom lens that offers superior function and performance. This zoom lens has a high reproduction ratio that is both practical and functional for professional and advanced amateur photographers. It consistently demonstrates excellent rendering performance.
* Built-in vibration reduction (VR II) offering camera shake compensation equivalent to a shutter speed increase of approximately four steps
Equipped with two VR modes, Normal and Active, the vibration reduction function responds to a variety of shooting scenes.
* Nano Crystal Coat adopted to significantly reduce ghost and flare
* Nikon's internal focusing (IF) system has been adopted with no increase in the length of the lens
* Equipped with two ED and three aspherical lens elements for superior optical performance
* Equipped with two focus modes, M/A (autofocus with manual override) and M (manual)
* Equipped with a Silent Wave Motor (SWM) for extremely quiet autofocusing

AF-S NIKKOR 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Primary Features
AF-S NIKKOR 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR

AF-S NIKKOR 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR

* A 10.7X, high-performance and high-power zoom lens covering focal lengths from 28mm to 300mm
This single 10.7X lens covers a broad range of angles of view, making it extremely practical for shooting at a variety of focal lengths, from wide-angle landscape shots to telephoto shooting.
* A size and weight that makes it very portable
* Built-in vibration reduction (VR II) offering camera shake compensation equivalent to a shutter speed increase of approximately four steps
Equipped with two VR modes, Normal and Active, the vibration reduction function responds to a variety of shooting scenes.
* The f/5.6 maximum aperture at the maximum telephoto position enables capture of bright images
* Equipped with two ED and three aspherical lens elements for superior optical performance
* Nikon's internal focusing (IF) system has been adopted with no increase in the length of the lens
* Equipped with a Silent Wave Motor (SWM) for extremely quiet autofocusing
* Equipped with two focus modes, M/A (autofocus with manual override) and M (manual)
* A zoom lock has been adopted to prevent the lens from extending due to its own weight

AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G Primary Specifications
Focal length: 85mm
Maximum aperture: f/1.4
Minimum aperture: f/16
Lens construction: 10 elements in 9 groups (including elements with Nano Crystal Coat)
Angle of view: 28° 30' (18° 50' with Nikon DX-format D-SLR cameras)
Minimum focus distance: 0.85 m
Maximum reproduction ratio: 0.12X
No. of diaphragm blades: 9 (rounded)
Filter attachment size: 77mm
Dimensions: Approximately 86.5mm (maximum diameter) X 84mm (distance from the camera's lens-mount flange)
Weight: Approximately 595 g
Supplied accessories: 77 mm snap-on Front Lens Cap LC-77, Rear Lens Cap, Bayonet Hood HB-55, Flexible Lens Pouch CL-1118
AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR Primary Specifications
Focal length: 24-120mm
Maximum aperture: f/4
Minimum aperture: f/22
Lens construction: 17 elements in 13 groups (2 ED and 3 aspherical lens elements, including elements with Nano Crystal Coat)
Angle of view: 84°–20° 20' (61° –13° 20' with Nikon DX-format D-SLR cameras)
Minimum focus distance: 0.45 m
Maximum reproduction ratio: 0.24X (at maximum telephoto position)
No. of diaphragm blades: 9 (rounded)
Filter attachment size: 77mm
Dimensions: Approximately 84mm (maximum diameter) X 103.5mm (distance from the camera's lens-mount flange)
Weight: Approximately 710 g
Supplied accessories: 77mm snap-on Front Lens Cap LC-77, Rear Lens Cap, Bayonet Hood HB-53, Flexible Lens Pouch CL-1218
AF-S NIKKOR 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Primary Specifications
Focal length: 28-300mm
Maximum aperture: f/3.5-5.6
Minimum aperture: f/22, f/38
Lens construction: 19 elements in 14 groups (2 ED and 3 aspherical lens elements)
Angle of view: 75°–8° 10' (53° –5° 20' with Nikon DX-format D-SLR cameras)
Minimum focus distance: 0.5 m (throughout the entire zoom range)
Maximum reproduction ratio: 0.32X (at maximum telephoto position)
No. of diaphragm blades: 9 (rounded)
Filter attachment size: 77mm
Dimensions: Approximately 83mm (maximum diameter) X 114.5mm (distance from the camera's lens-mount flange)
Weight: Approximately 800 g
Supplied accessories: 77mm snap-on Front Lens Cap LC-77, Rear Lens Cap, Bayonet Hood HB-50, Flexible Lens Pouch CL-1120

Of course, we couldn't have gone home without having tested the video mode's headlining continuous autofocus feature -- we weren't able to tell how much motor noise might have gone into the clips, but the bundled 18-55mm lens was able to autofocus or track subjects at reasonable speeds, provided that we weren't zooming or moving about too rapidly. The only real bug we noticed was that sometimes the tracking may get overridden by large nearby objects with similar colors, so hopefully the final firmware will reduce this error. Another concern is with the new 1,030mAh battery -- no word on how many shots or video hours it can provide, but we shall find out when this $699 DSLR comes out next month.