The D300S digital SLR, combines professional-level performance with agility and enhanced D-Movie capabilities to deliver a new benchmark for creative versatility. Engineered to leverage proven Nikon technologies, including a 12.3 megapixel CMOS sensor and the 51-point autofocus system; the addition of HD video capture; and a faster 7 frames-per-second (fps), the Nikon D300S balances form factor, performance, versatility and reliability for serious photo enthusiasts and professionals.
The D300S retains the photographer-friendly features of the critically acclaimed D300, while enhancing the speed, versatility and agility of the DX-format for a wide variety of photographers, including advanced enthusiasts, wedding photographers and photojournalists. The D300S can record HD video clips and high-fidelity audio with an external stereo microphone input, offering users a digital SLR with full multimedia capabilities. Dual card slots afford users the ability to seamlessly record stills and video to one CompactFlash (CF) and one Secure Digital (SD) card separately, while one-button Live View, a new Quiet Shutter Release mode and Active-D Lighting bracketing help users capture stunning images like never before.
The D300S can record HD video clips at 720p resolution with a smooth cinematic 24 fps rate. In addition, the D300S records high fidelity audio either with the convenient built-in microphone or by using the external stereo microphone input trim video length and apply Picture Controls to video, modifying the tone and colour. Users can also autofocus while recording video using contrast detect AF, making it easy to compose on the D300Ss bright 3-inch 920,000 dot LCD screen.
Nikons acclaimed AF system, with 51 high-density focus points, performs fast and accurately on the new D300S. The Multi-CAM 3500DX AF module uses 15 cross type sensors to provide unparalleled focus performance across the frame. The D300S offers multiple focus modes, including single-point AF mode, which allows photographers to choose a single AF point; and a dynamic-area AF mode, where users can select from nine, 21 or 51 AF points with 3D tracking. Additionally, the added Face Detection System lets users instantly zoom in on a human face during playback mode on the high-resolution LCD monitor to check critical focus.
Nikons exclusive and now faster Scene Recognition System (SRS) further refines Nikon's AF performance and light metering. In conjunction with the 3D Colour Matrix Metering II system, the SRS uses precise colour and brightness information from the 1,005-pixel RGB sensor to drive AF, auto exposure, i-TTL flash control and auto white balance to unprecedented accuracy.
The renowned 12.3 megapixel DX-format CMOS image sensor in the D300S delivers extraordinary image quality and low noise throughout the entire ISO sensitivity range from 200 to 3200 (Lo-1 at 100 and 6400 at Hi-1). The D300S captures image data using 14 bit A/D conversion, and processes through a 16-bit pipeline for optimal performance, resulting in images with sharp details and smooth tonal gradations.
The D300S also incorporates Nikons exclusive EXPEED advanced digital image processing system technologies. EXPEED uses an accumulation of sophisticated Nikon intelligence and technologies to ensure impeccable quality for both still images and movie clips, while also achieving high-speed processing and low power consumption. When using the included EN-EL3e Li-Ion rechargeable battery, photographers can achieve approximately 950 shots under normal shooting conditions.
The reinforced magnesium alloy body is lightweight, ruggedly constructed and comprehensively sealed and gasketed against the elements at key points, and the shutter is proven to a demanding 150,000 cycles. Additionally, the D300S employs an Integrated Dust Reduction System to combat the accumulation of image degrading particles on the optical low-pass filter.
With the D300S, Nikon introduces the ability to bracket Active D-Lighting (ADL). By localizing tone control, ADL restores shadow and highlight detail typically lost in high contrast ?ations, such as backlit subjects or in bight-light conditions. ADL bracketing provides users with the ability to bracket up to five frames of ADL strength to help ensure perfect contrast throughout the frame.
Additionally, the D300S features two memory card slots one CF and one SD used simultaneously in a variety of configurations to match users preferences. Among the many options available, stills and video can record to separate cards, or slots can be assigned for JPEG and RAW recording. The D300S offers 'overflow' or 'backup' modes, and when shooting D-Movie clips, it allows the user to select the slot containing the card with the most available capacity. Users can also copy and paste files between cards.
The D300S also features a Quiet Shutter Release mode, which substantially reduces the sound of the mirror while shooting. Quickly accessed by selecting 'Q' on the release mode dial, this feature is ideal for the photographer who wishes to remain unobtrusive.
To further expand versatility, users have the ability to fine-tune their images using Nikons Picture Controls to adjust sharpening, brightness, contrast, saturation and colour hue. The D300S offers users four presets including Standard, Neutral, Vivid and Monochrome, while Landscape and Portrait settings can be downloaded from the Nikon customer support website. The D300S offers a versatile built-in flash with wider coverage for a 16mm lens, and is also compatible with Nikons Creative Lighting System that makes it capable of controlling up to two groups of remote units as a master/commander for Advanced Wireless Lighting. |