Nikon Digital SLR Cameras

Details:

The Nikon D3100 is HDMI compatible so you can connect your camera to an HD television to view your movies in full HD from your sofa. And it features a 14.2 CMOS sensor and a 3 inch LCD.

This camera is a follow-up to last year's entry-level D3000. This includes continuous auto-focus, a special HD video-recording feature that no other D-SLR has yet to offer.

Until today, D-SLRs could only auto-focus on command, but it was very slow since the camera's processor must capture image information, save it, display it on the LCD and auto-focus. This camera is able to accomplish this thanks to a new image processor called the Expeed 2,  though no specific information was given about its CPU or clock speed.

This camera users will have the option to record video in different HD sizes and frame rates. Captures at 1080p will be available at 24 frames per second, while 720p will allow for captures at 24 and 30 frames per second.This is the best entry-level digital SLR currently available. A host of features and excellent image quality sends this camera to the top of the pack.

The body gets a slight refresh, gaining an extra button to the left of the screen, a drive mode switch at the base of the mode dial, a sprung lever to engage live view and a direct record movie button. There are also revisions made to the feature-teaching, hand-holding 'Guide Mode' and an additional autofocus mode to allow better focusing in live view and autofocus during video shooting.The most significant exterior changes come in the form of the shooting mode selector switch, now integrated into the mode dial, which changes between single, continuous, timer and quiet mode shooting.

Camera key features:

•     DX-format, 14.2 megapixel CMOS image sensor: The high pixel sensor will give you outstanding colour and detail in pictures and movies you’ll want to see again and again
•     New EXPEED 2 image processing engine: Provides enhanced movie recording, high-sensitivity performance and maximum image quality. EXPEED 2 maximises CMOS sensor performance for clear, lifelike images that exhibit vivid colours, reduced noise and smooth tonal gradations for outstanding photos and movies
•     High ISO (100-3200) sensitivity: Extendable up to 12800: Indoor shots or fast-moving children need never be blurry or dull again, even without a flash
•     Guide Mode: Simply the easiest way to learn how to get great pictures, without having to read the manual
•     D-Movie – full HD (1920 x 1080) at 24fps movie clips: Record beautiful HD movie clips with sound and achieve exceptional image quality with high ISO sensitivity. NIKKOR lenses can be used for cinematic effects and simple edits can be made in-camera. In addition, HDMI connectivity means you can watch your HD movies on an HD television
•     Live View with new AF-F mode and Scene Auto Selector: The new Live View provides an intuitive and familiar way of taking pictures and it includes a Scene Auto Selector, which automatically selects the best mode to match the scene. The AF-F mode keeps subjects in focus without the need to press the shutter release button
•     7.5 cm (3-inch) monitor: A great platform on which to share your beautiful images and movies with friends and family
•     11-point autofocus system: The quick and accurate autofocus ensures everything is in focus so you get the sharpest image
•     Active D-Lighting: Bright sunshine need never wash out detail again. The balance of light and shade can be preserved forever
•     Picture control: Lets you set the look and mood of your images before you shoot. You can choose from six settings: Standard, Vivid, Neutral, Monochrome, Portrait and Landscape
•     In-camera image and movie editing: Why wait for a PC? Retouching, filter effects and red-eye correction can be achieved in the palm of your hand
•     Compact, light and durable: It’s the smallest and lightest D-SLR yet so you can sling it over your shoulder, ready for any picture or movie moment. Also, with improved ergonomics, you’ll now have direct access to shutter release, Live View and movie modes.
•     Dual Integrated Dust Reduction System: Image Sensor Cleaning and Airflow Control systems keep dust away from the camera’s image sensor for clear, spot-free images
•     New software, ViewNX2 will be bundled: It inherits the basic operations of ViewNX whilst providing much enhanced operability, including a refined GUI, and a range of easy-to-use features allowing you to edit photos as well as movie.

*1 Source: GFK, D3000 best selling D-SLR in Europe first half year 2010.
*2 This exclusively designed for use with NIKKOR AF-S and AF-I lenses that are equipped with an autofocus motor