Melville, N.Y. – Following on the popularity of its entry D3000
d-SLR,
introduced Thursday the
model D3100, which will add a 14.2-megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor and an
enhanced Guide Mode to entice consumers to step into the advanced camera
segment.
The D3100 will be added to the d-SLR between the D3000 and D5000
models, and will be available as part of a kit with an AF-S Nikkor 18-55mm
f/3.5-5.6G VR image stabilization lens for a $699 estimated selling price,
beginning in September.
The D3100 adds a number of features not found in the D3000,
including FullHD video recording, and an improved Guide mode that offers
in-camera instructions to taking creative photos.
The feature now adds sample assist images that change with the
camera settings to help achieve a desired look and feel, while guiding users in
understanding photographic techniques.
Nikon also bills the camera as “the world’s first d-SLR to
introduce full time auto focus (AF) in Live View and D-Movie mode.”
Other features include a new Expeed 2 image processing engine,
split-second shutter response and a fast 11-point AF system.
For improved low-light shooting, the D3100 offers ISO 3,200
(expandable to 12,800) capability.
Other features include a 3-inch LCD and 1080/24p and 720/24p, 30p
video recording using the H.264 AVCHD codec (MOV file format). Video is further
assisted with full time AF for D-Movie video shooting including Live View mode.
An HDMI connection is included for connection to TVs for
playback, and includes the HDMI-CEC standard enabling control of the camera
connected components with one remote.
Face detection technology is included to lock focus on up to 35
human faces.
While playing movies back in the camera, users are able to edit
recorded videos by clipping footage from the beginning or end of a movie.
The D3100 is compatible with the new SDXC memory card format.
Other exclusive Nikon
technologies include the Active D-Lighting system, which automatically rescues
dark or backlit images, and Nikon’s Scene Recognition system, which uses the
420-pixel RGB color 3D Matrix Meter to set exposures under a variety of
conditions.
The D3100 also includes 3D Subject Tracking to continuously focus
on fast moving subjects through the frame, and a fast 3-shot per second shutter
speed to eliminate annoying shutter lag. To ensure clear images, the camera
also has an integrated dust-reduction system that combats the accumulation dust
on the image sensor.
A Quiet Shutter Release mode also substantially reduces the sound
of the mirror while shooting.
An in-camera Retouch Menu aids in adding various effects and
fixes to images without a computer.
To complement the camera, Nikon also introduced the AF-S DX Nikkor
55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G VR lens (shipping in September at a $400 estimate street
price), targeting wildlife photographers.
Also announced were three additional Nikkor lenses slated for
September delivery including: the AF-S 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR ($1,300), AF-S
24-120mm f/4G ED VR ($1,050) and AF-S 85mm f/1.4G ($1,700). The zoom lenses
utilize Nikon’s Vibration Reduction (VR) II Image Stabilization system that
provides up to four stops of correction to help create blur-free images.
The 85mm f/1.4 and 24-120mm f/4, lenses include Nikon’s exclusive
Nano-Crystal Coat that reduces ghosting and flare.
Additionally, all of the new lenses feature Nikon’s Silent Wave
Motor (SWM) technology for fast, quiet AF performance and Nikon’s Super
Integrated Coating (SIC) for color consistency and reduced flaring.
