NOTE: You can now pre-order some items mentioned in this article. Upon arrival of the new products, they will be shipped out on a first-come, first served basis; your credit cards will not be charged until your order is shipped.
Nikon today introduced the D7000, a DX-format (APS sensor) DSLR with a new 16.2MP sensor developed by Nikon, and many new or improved features and technologies that will appeal to photo enthusiasts and, very possibly, some pros as well. Its 1080p HD video make it an attractive option for serious videographers, too.
Key features include:
- 16.2MP CMOS sensor
- EXPEED 2 Processor
- 6fps burst rate
- New 39-point AF System with 9 center cross-type sensors
- Scene recognition analyzes subjects from 30,000 image database
- Native ISO 100-6400, expandable to 25,600; first DX camera to offer this range
- Full 1080p HD Movies at 24, 30 fps
- Full-time autofocus while shooting movies
- Exposure adjustment during movie shooting
- Dust- and moisture-proof, magnesium-alloy body, 150,000 cycle-rated shutter
- i-TTL wireless flash system now with sensor that detects ambient light
- Twin SD card slots
- 3-inch, 921k dot LCD monitor
- 100% viewfinder frame coverage
- In-camera RAW image processing
- Special effects filters
Nikon claims its EXPEED 2 processor will deliver a 50-millisecond shutter response and up to 100 images at full burst speed, and its 14-bit Analog/Digital conversion is said to provide more even tonal gradations and better image quality. The new AF system is said to improve focus acquisition and faster tracking capabilities, and photographers can control the AF points for single-point AF, or configure it in combinations of 9, 21, 39, or a 21-point ring.The D7000 will be available in mid-October for around $1,199.95 body only, $1,499.95 with the 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR AF-S DX zoom lens. For details and specs, read the Nikon press release or pre-order it now.
Pair of Popular Pro Lenses Updated
In addition, Nikon today announced two new pro lenses: The AF-S 35mm f/1.4G and AF-S 200mm f/2 ED VR II. Full specs and details are in the Nikon press release.The 35mm f/1.4G is an update of Nikon’s classic standard wide lens and works as a normal lens on DX-format sensor cameras. The lens has 10 optical elements in 7 groups with one aspherical lens that Nikon says eliminates coma and other aberrations even at widest aperture. A Rear Focus system improves AF speed while eliminating front barrel rotation. M/A (manual priority AF) mode and Manual focus allow for a good balance of automation and control. Availability: Mid-November, $1,799.95.The 200mm f/2G ED VR II replaces a classic fast-aperture tele lens that is popular among wedding, portrait, sports, nature and fashion shooters. The big improvement is Nikon’s next-generation VR II vibration reduction image stabilization system, which Nikon says gives up to 4 stops of anti-shake correction. The lens focuses internally, so the barrel length doesn’t change. There are three focus modes—AF, AF/M, and M. The lens consists of 13 optical elements in 9 groups, with 3 Extra-low Dispersion and one Super ED glass elements to minimize chromatic aberration, even at maximum aperture shooting. Availability: October, $5,999.95. Pre-order now.
Powerful new SB-700 Speedlight Flash
Finally, Nikon today introduced the SB-700 Speedlight, which boasts more efficient use of batteries, better flash coverage, a wide zoom range, three distribution patterns for flash-to-scene customization, and full wireless operation with multiple flash setups. Recycle time is 2.5 seconds with NiMH batteries, 3 seconds with AA Alkalines. With a Guide number of 28/92 (at ISO 100), its flash shooting distance can range as far as 66 feet, depending on camera settings, and the head swivels and tilts for flexible bounce flash. The SB-700 will be available in mid-November for around $329.95, and will be bundled with a Speedlight Stand, Bounce Adapter, Color Filter Holder, Intelligent Color Filter Kit, Diffuser Dome and soft case. Check the Nikon press release for details and full specs.
