Photography Bay

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Archives for June 30, 2008

Nikon D700 Officially Announced

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Nikon has just officially announced the new full frame D700 DSLR, which we’ve all been expecting since leaked images and rumors began piling up a couple of weeks ago.  The Nikon D700 has the same high ISO capabilities as the D3, with sensitivity up to ISO 25600.

The key specs to the new Nikon D700 are as follows:

Nikon D700 Key Features

  • 12.1 megapixel FX (full-frame) CMOS sensor with high signal-to-noise ratio, wide dynamic range, and built-in self-cleaning sensor unit that minimizes dust.
  • ISO 200 – 6400: extendable up to 25600 (equivalent) and down to ISO 100 (equivalent).
  • 5fps continuous shooting (8fps with optional MB-D10 battery pack with lithium-ion battery EN-EL4a or 8 AA batteries).
  • EXPEED image processing engine with 14-bit A/D conversion and 16-bit image processing for superb detail and tonal gradation.
  • Advanced Scene Recognition System combines the camera’s metering and AF sensors for precise exposures and sharply defined images.
  • Multi-CAM3500FX 51-point AF system. Individually selectable or configurable in 9-point, 21-point and 51-point coverage settings.
  • Picture Controls streamline in-camera image processing by enabling the pre-set customization of image parameters such as sharpening, contrast, brightness, hue and saturation in various color modes.
  • 920,000 dot 3-inch VGA LCD monitor with wide, 170-degree viewing angle.
  • Live View with Autofocus enables composition of images by use of the LCD monitor. Two modes are supported: Handheld or Tripod.
  • DX Crop Mode can be automatically enabled when a DX format lens is attached.
  • Quick response: approx. 40 ms shutter-lag.
  • Active D-Lighting enables superior high-contrast images by automatically applying tone compensation at the moment of capture.
  • HDMI video output interface enables connection to high-definition video systems.
  • Intuitive ergonomics with optimized button placement for fast and comfortable handling.
  • Durable Magnesium alloy body: moisture and dust resistant.
  • Wireless LAN and Ethernet support via optional Wireless Transmitter WT-4.

The Nikon D700 is expected to be in stores within a month or so. We will have more coming very soon on the D700, so stay tuned to Photography Bay’s Nikon D700 page for the latest. For now, you can read Nikon’s press release below for a complete overview of the new D700.

Nikon D700 Press Release

Nikon FX-format digital SLR – exceptional performance combined with superior mobility and functional versatility to provide serious photographers with outstanding value

TOKYO – Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the introduction of its newest FX-format digital SLR, the Nikon D700.

The D700 features an FX-format first introduced with the Nikon D3. Highly praised for its outstanding features, the D3 established a new level of professional performance in terms of overall image quality, extraordinarily low noise, ISO sensitivity range, continuous high-speed shooting, color gradation, image crispness, durability, weather-resistant operation, system versatility and more. [Read more…]

 

Nikon SB-900

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The Nikon SB-900 has just been announced along with the new D700.  For the details a features offered by the SB-900, see the press release below.

TOKYO – Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the introduction of the Nikon Speedlight SB-900, a new external i-TTL flash unit with advanced features. The SB-900 offers a powerful guide number of 48/157.5 (ISO 200, meters/feet) and an incredible array of creative flash functions. The SB-900 is an ideal way to solve lighting challenges and extend Nikon D-SLR creativity.

The SB-900 is a high-performance Speedlight developed as the successor to the hugely successful Nikon SB-800. Practical functionality was emphasized in designing the SB-900, especially evident when used with Nikon digital SLR cameras compatible with the Nikon Creative Lighting System. It provides a wide 17-200 mm auto zoom range (expanded from the SB-800’s 24-105mm), three illumination patterns, newly designed, streamlined operation with a full-information LCD panel, and AF-Assist illumination compatible with new-generation AF sensors. The SB-900 has an improved booster circuit for high-speed recycle time. In addition, firmware can be uploaded via a Nikon digital SLR camera-a world’s first* for flash units, assuring that the SB-900 can accept technological advancements. The SB-900 serves as the new core for the Nikon Creative Lighting System when used in combination with current Nikon digital SLRs, and it supports Advanced Wireless Lighting as a master or a remote Speedlight, inviting photographers to explore the many creative possibilities.

Additional new functions include 180 degrees of left or right head swivel, a special built-in overheat protection system and automatic filter detection for unprecedented white balance correction, even in fluorescent lighting conditions.

With the SB-900, users can enjoy all the benefits of the Nikon Creative Lighting System for both automation and comprehensive control, enabling endless lighting possibilities.

*The world’s first flash unit with a user-applied firmware update function via a digital SLR camera as of July 1, 2008 (according to research conducted by NIKON CORPORATION).

Nikon D700 – Magazine Leak

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This image of a magazine spread featuring the Nikon D700 looks pretty convincing. You can also see what appears to the the Nikon SB-900 flash. It surfaced in the DP Review forums earlier today.

[via]

Many publications will get pre-release cameras in order to make it to press with the latest news. In exchange, they generally must enter into a non-disclosure agreement (NDA); however, Photography Bay doesn’t have any such agreement with Nikon, or else I wouldn’t be posting this info. The official press release from Nikon can’t be too far behind now.

Stay tuned to Photography Bay’s Nikon D700 page for the latest news on this new camera.