Wednesday, September 15, 2010

Nikon D7000 announced and previewed (15/09/2010)

Pre-Photokina 2010: Nikon has released the D7000 mid-level digital SLR. Housed in a magnesium alloy body, the feature-rich camera incorporates a 16.2Mp CMOS sensor, faster 'Expeed 2'-branded processor, 921k dot 3.0" LCD and can record 1080p24 full HD movies. It features the company's latest 39-point AF system with 3D tracking and 2,016 pixel RGB metering sensor. It will start shipping with the 18-105mm VR kit lens from October 2010 at a retail price of £1299.99. We've had a pre-production D7000 in the office for long enough for us to prepare an full hands-on preview looking at the camera, its features and where it'll sit in the range.

The new Nikon D7000 (Full-HD Video Recording)

Nikon UK, 15 September, 2010 – Nikon launches the D7000, a D-SLR that offers exceptional image quality, reliability and performance packed into a durable and portable body.
Jordi Brinkman, Product Manager for Nikon Europe, says: “The exciting new D7000 is the ideal next camera for D-SLR owners who want to further indulge their passion for photography with a camera that boasts more advanced features providing creative power. It has a new image sensor, EXPEED 2, AF system and metering sensor to ensure great performance in a highly durable body. In fact, it has everything you need in your next SLR but in a size you wouldn’t expect.”

Exceptional image quality
The D7000 includes a range of new features to ensure superior image quality including 16.2 effective megapixels with the newly developed Nikon DX format CMOS image sensor. The camera boasts a new image-processing engine, EXPEED 2, which delivers higher image quality, higher speed processing and multiple functions with more power. And the D7000’s increased ISO sensitivity (100-6400, extendable up to 25600) ensures exceptional detail with minimal noise when capturing fast moving subjects or in poor light situations, even without the flash.

Outstanding reliability
The D7000’s bright Glass Pentaprism Viewfinder with approximate 100% frame coverage and 0.94x magnification gives you the most precise view and focus of any scene, and it is always ready when you are with a shutter speed of 1/8000s, tested to 150,000 cycles. What is more, the camera is protected by magnesium alloy top and rear covers and has durable sealing against dust and moisture so it is prepared for even the most testing of situations.
When it comes to storage, the D7000 again provides you with maximum reliability. The twin SD memory card slots allow for added storage capacity and give you the freedom to manage your images and video in the way you want to either by saving more of them, keeping different formats separate or always having backup space when you need it.

Enhanced performance
The D7000’s newly developed AF system featuring 39 focus points, including 9 cross-type sensors in the centre, gives you the sharpest focus, no matter where your subject is in the frame. And with Nikon’s new 2,016 pixel RGB metering sensor to enhance the effectiveness of the Scene Recognition System, plus High Speed Continuous shooting capability at 6FPS, you can be sure to capture incredibly accurate, high-quality images every time.
 
Full-HD D-Movie with AF-F mode
The D7000 has direct access to a movie record button so you can capture footage in full HD (1080p) with greater ease. The AF-F gives continuous focus during movie recording, which is captured using MPEG4 AVC/H.264 compression, and has a stereo microphone jack for quality sound recording. This means superior image quality and operability when using the D-Movie function.
The D7000s built-in movie editing functions also give you the freedom to chose the start and end points of your footage and switch to selected frames for capturing still images without relying on a computer – letting you edit and share your films quickly and easily.

Optional accessories  
Nikon is also launching the new Speedlight SB-700, a feature-packed yet easy-to-use flash unit. The SB-700 offers lighting benefits that greatly surpass the camera onboard flash, allowing total control over scene or subject lighting to create beautiful, professional looking results.
To guarantee great performance for longer, the D7000 also has a dedicated Multi-Power Battery Pack MB-D11 (optional) that enables seamless switching of power supply with the in-camera battery, vertical shooting and further stabilizes the body when using a long telephoto lens.
The D7000 is compatible with the GP-1 GPS (Global Positioning System) unit which records location information in the image file and of course, the camera supports a wide variety of NIKKOR lenses.

Key features:
  • Nikon DX-format, newly developed 16.2MP CMOS sensor: with expanded sensitivity range, this high-pixel sensor offers outstanding colour and detail for both pictures and movie
  • New EXPEED 2 image processing: achieves higher image quality, higher speed processing and multiple functions, with lower energy consumption
  • High ISO (100-6400, extendable up to 25600) sensitivity: offers low noise whilst still providing extremely sharp detail
  • New 2,016-pixel RGB metering sensor: the high-pixel RGB sensor will enhance the effectiveness of the Scene Recognition System for high-quality images every time
  • Newly developed AF system featuring 39 focus points including 9 cross-type sensors in the center: delivers superior subject acquisition and tracking performance, so you can achieve the right focus no matter where your subject is on the screen
  • Glass Pentaprism Viewfinder with approx 100% frame coverage and 0.94x magnification: for the most precise view and focus of any scene
  • High durability with magnesium alloy top and rear, sealing against dust and moisture: allowing you to shoot with confidence even in the toughest conditions
  • Full HD D-Movie with AF-F modes and in-camera editing functions to choose the start and end points of your movies and save individual frames as still images. It also supports an external microphone input for quality stereo sound recording  
  • HDMI connectivity: so you can view your images or watch your HDTV movies on a full HD television
  • Easy access Live View with new Contrast-detect AF modes: face detection with contrast AF is faster and more powerful than ever. Up to 35 people can be detected within approx. 0.08 seconds, even if subjects are not directly looking at the camera. Subject Tracking keeps moving subjects in focus. Normal area AF is recommended for pinpoint focus and wide-area AF for handheld shooting
  • Durable shutter unit with shutter speed up to 1/8,000: proved by 150,000 cycles of shutter-release testing
  • Twin SD memory card slots: offer more capacity for saving images, more options for organising your images and videos or extra backup so you can manage your images exactly as you want them.
  • High Speed Continuous shooting at 6FPS: With approx. 0.05-second release time lag and 6 frames-per-second shooting, you won’t miss a moment
  • Extensive playback functions: including 72-thumbnail display, calendar display and image sorting by date
  • In-camera retouch functions (retouch menu) including movie editing function and new color sketch
  • Tone and colour control: Picture Controls lets you set the look and mood of your pictures and movies before you shoot
  • ViewNX 2 free bundled software, will be bundled with the D7000: 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 movies
  • 7.5 cm (3-in.) LCD Monitor:, the approximately 920k-dot TFT LCD monitor has a VGA wide-viewing angle (170°) with reinforced glass so you can immediately see your work in detail
  • Supports a wide variety of NIKKOR lenses
  • Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL15 : intelligent power management to give maximum performance with minimized power usage
Will be available at Megacom Enterprise soon...

Nikon announces AF-S Nikkor 35mm f/1.4G lens (15/09/2010)

Pre-Photokina 2010: Nikon has introduced the AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.4G wide-angle fast prime lens. Offering a large f/1.4 aperture, the lens is made up of 10 elements in seven groups, including one aspherical glass element. It comes in a weather-sealed magnesium alloy body and incorporates the company's Silent Wave Motor (SWM) for quieter auto-focusing, along with Nano-Crystal coating to reduce flare. The lens will start shipping from November 19, 2010 at a retail price of £1699.99.

The new Nikon AF-S 35mm f/1.4G (Nano Coated) 

Nikon UK, 15 September 2010 – Nikon today announces a completely new, fast-aperture NIKKOR lens – the AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.4G. This is the third f/1.4 prime NIKKOR lens to be developed in the past six months further extending creative opportunities for professional photographers.
Zurab Kiknadze, Product Manager Lenses, Accessories & Software, Nikon Europe says: “The AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.4G sets a new benchmark for reportage and news photographers. It combines amazing contrast and resolution with brilliant low-light performance. Seen alongside the 24mm f/1.4 and 85mm f/1.4 lenses announced recently, this new lens underlines Nikon’s ongoing drive to deliver the ultimate range of optics for photographers.”

Award winning photojournalist Kadir van Lohuizen of photo agency NOOR was amongst the first to view the new AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.4G. He said: “The 35mm is the standard ‘street’ lens for many of us at NOOR and we are really excited about this new version, it’s amazing. This fast prime lens will make it possible to shoot at almost every light condition at the highest-quality possible.” He added: “It’s going to take our documentary projects to a new level for sure.”

Light Command
The AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.4G has been developed to deliver stunning images in all situations. An entirely new optical design with ten elements in seven groups (including one aspherical glass element) and a rounded, nine-blade diaphragm enables the photographer to make full use of the shallow depth of field that f/1.4 aperture lenses offer. Crystal sharp detail with super smooth bokeh separation sets your subject in the spotlight and offers a different look from images taken with the professional f/2.8 zoom lenses.

Night Photography
The optical construction incorporates Nano Crystal Coat and minimises reflections and sagittal blur, which means this lens renders point light sources and shadows with natural clarity, ideal for night scenes and astrophotography.  The fast aperture also provides a bright viewfinder and is great for exploring the creative potential that the shallow depth of field can bring to the work of fine-art photographers and photojournalists.      

Streetwise
The AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.4G is built to work as hard as you do and is a robust and reliable performer wherever your photography might take you. The dedicated Silent Wave Motor (SWM) ensures discreet but accurate autofocus. It operates with smooth gearing and has a broad focus ring for fine manual focus accuracy down to the minimum focusing distance of 30cm. The tough magnesium construction features subtle grooves to assist a left-hand grip as well as rubber mount and switch sealing to deter dust and moisture. Weighing in at a solid 600g, it is designed to balance well with FX format DSLRs such as the D700 and D3 series. 
The lens is supplied with a HB-59 hood, and a soft pouch.

 

AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.4G lens specifications

Focal length35mm
Diagonal Angle of view (FF)63˚ (44˚ with Nikon DX format)
Maximum apertureF1.4
Minimum apertureF16
Lens Construction• 10 elements/7 groups
• 1 aspherical lens element
Number of diaphragm blades9, rounded
Minimum focus30cm
Maximum magnification0.2x
AF motor typeSilent Wave Motor
Image stabilizationYes
Filter thread67mm
Weight600 g
Dimensions83mm diameter x 89.5 mm length


Will be available at Megacom Enterprise soon....

Nikon releases AF-S Nikkor 200mm f/2G ED VR II lens (15/09/2010)

Pre-Photokina 2010: Nikon has released an updated version of its 200mm F2 VR professional lens. Retaining the same lens construction as its predecessor, the AF-S Nikkor 200mm F2G ED VR II features the company's latest, second generation Vibration Reduction technology (VR II) and adds adds a new mode onto the AF switch. It also includes nano-crystal coating to reduce ghosting and flare. Priced at £5299.99, it will be start shipping next month.

The new Nikon AF-S 200mm f/2G ED VR II (Nano Coated)

Nikon UK, 15 September 2010 – Nikon today announces a completely new professional telephoto lens AF-S NIKKOR 200mm f/2G ED VR II to replace AF-S VR NIKKOR 200mm f/2G IF-ED. The new lens features Nano Crystal Coat, the new generation of Vibration Reduction technology (VR II) and a new A/M focus mode, making it the ideal lens for serious photographers seeking uncompromised performance.
The lens retains the optical construction of its predecessor and delivers outstanding image quality with excellent sharpness, contrast and definition as well as smooth bokeh making it the perfect choice for photographers shooting stage events and indoor sports.
Zurab Kiknadze, Product Manager Lenses, Accessories and Software, Nikon Europe says: "The updates and improvements implemented in the new version of this highly regarded 200mm lens bring it in line with the latest NIKKOR technologies, providing even more shooting comfort and stability while delivering outstanding results."
The update of this popular lens follows feedback from professional photographers. The improved handling and usability combined with outstanding image quality is testament to Nikon’s commitment to meet the needs of professional photographers and to continually improve its line-up of professional, high-performance NIKKOR lenses.

Pin-sharp action shotsThe AF-S NIKKOR 200mm f/2G ED VR II now features second generation Vibration Reduction technology (VR II), which provides compensation equivalent to a shutter speed four stops faster, making it easier to capture sharp images during hand-held shooting. The system incorporates two modes: Normal for general handheld shooting and Active to compensate for the vibration caused by, for example, moving vehicles.
The Silent Wave Motor (SMW) ensures quiet and accurate autofocus performance, so it won’t disturb the subject or event.
The A/M mode has been added to the existing M/A and M modes. This additional focusing mode gives the autofocus system priority, even if the focus ring is being handled during shooting.

Crystal clearThe lens construction of 13 elements in nine groups with three ED glass and one Super ED glass elements, together with Nikon’s unique Nano Crystal Coat, ensures highest-quality images. The ED glass construction delivers sharp and contrast-rich images whilst the Nano Crystal Coat effectively reduces ghost and flare, meaning the lens can be used with confidence, even when shooting into bright light. The lens also stands out because of its pleasing bokeh and subject-background separation, due to its large f/2 aperture combined with a rounded nine-blade diaphragm.

Built for the toughest of requirementsThe AF-S NIKKOR 200mm f/2G ED VR II is built to meet the stringent demands of the professional photographer. The durable magnesium body and weather sealing means it’s ideal for even the toughest of shooting conditions, protecting from moisture and dust. For extra peace of mind, Nikon’s exclusive, detachable meniscus glass protects the large front glass element from accidental scratches.
The lens is fully compatible with all current Nikon teleconverters, increasing its versatility by allowing for extended tele reach. The AF-S NIKKOR 200mm f/2G ED VR II is supplied with lens hood HK-31, tripod-mount, drop-in filter holder and a high quality ballistic nylon case CL-L1 in the style of a shoulder bag

 

NIKKOR 200mm f/2G ED VR II specifications

Focal length200mm
Diagonal Angle of view (FF)12˚ 20' (8˚ with Nikon DX format)
Maximum apertureF2
Minimum apertureF22
Lens Construction• 13 elements/9 groups
• 3 ED lens elements
• 1 Super ED lens elements
Number of diaphragm blades9, rounded
Minimum focus1.9m (6.2ft)
Maximum magnification0.12x
AF motor typeSilent Wave Motor
Image stabilizationYes, VR II (4 stops)
Filter thread52mm drop-in
Weight2930 g
Dimensions124mm diameter x 204 mm length

This item will be available soon and can be pre-order now. Thank you

Nikon releases Speedlight SB-700 flashgun (15/09/2010)

Pre-Photokina 2010: Nikon has announced the Speedlight SB-700 flashgun. With a guide number of 38 (at ISO 100 at 120mm on an FX camera), it is a more powerful replacement for the SB-600, gaining the operation and handling improvements introduced with the SB-900. Like the SB-600 it offers wireless control and similar recycle times. Its multi-step auto zoom offers extended reach from 24 to 120mm, rather than the 600's 24-85mm. Physical features includes a rotating head, built-in bounce card and a supplied diffuser.



The New Nikon SpeedLight SB-700

Nikon UK, 15 September 2010 – Nikon today is pleased to announce a new Speedlight – the SB-700. Packed with features, this is an easy-to-use, yet sophisticated flash in a compact body. It will be a welcome addition to anyone looking to develop their lighting skills and explore the options of the Nikon Creative Lighting system.
Zurab Kiknadze, Product Manager Lenses, Accessories and Software, Nikon Europe BV says: “SB-700 offers users the opportunity to expand their creative potential beyond the built-in camera flash. It integrates flawlessly with Nikon’s DSLR cameras, taking advantage of i-TTL to provide optimal results with minimum of effort.”
Inheriting the advanced features of the professional SB-900 flash, the new flash also boasts an intuitive interface and easy-to-understand operating system. It features Nikon’s i-TTL, through-the-lens metering system, ensuring accurate light measuring as well as multi-step auto zoom, which automatically detects the lens focal length and adjusts the flash output accordingly for angles of view from 24mm to 120mm.
Users have the choice of three illumination patterns, which can be quickly selected to match different shooting scenarios. The high performance Speedlight is ideal for a wide range of applications, from portrait and studio to events and night-time photography. 

Built for versatility
The SB-700 is compatible with FX and DX cameras and its fast wireless control will make the flash attractive for a wide range of customers, including advanced photographers seeking to extend their Creative Lighting System. It can act as a master, controlling up to two groups of flashes and their light ratios, and can also act as a remote unit in a flash set up.
With its rotating head and built-in bounce card, the photographer can use the flash to direct the light and bounce it off ceilings or walls. The SB-700 also comes with the practical Nikon Diffusion Dome to soften the light and even the shadows of direct flash.
The flash has a mounting foot lock lever, through which the flash can be securely attached to the camera, preventing it from coming loose. There is also an optional weather-sealed mount available for outdoor photography.

Major features:
  • The new, improved LCD panel interface and an intuitive layout of switches make it quick and easy to set the features.
  •  With a maximum guide number of 38 (for an FX camera, at the standard illumination setting at ISO 100 at 120mm) the flash is powerful and versatile to suit most lighting conditions.
  • The multi-step power zoom automatically responds to the current focal length of the lens attached to the camera and covers angles of view, ranging from 24mm to 120mm.
  • Three illumination patterns can quickly be selected to match each shooting situation, making it the ideal flash for a range of scenarios. The Centre-weighted pattern offers more power and higher guide number which highlights the subject from its surroundings. The Even setting works well for indoor group shots or a flat surface whilst the Standard setting has a slight emphasis on the centre.
  • The high-speed recycling time is only approximately 2.5 seconds with NiMH batteries and alkaline batteries and approximately 3.5 seconds with lithium batteries.
  • The quick wireless control mode allows the user to change the light ratios of A and B group Speedlight units and can also act as a remote unit in the Nikon Creative Lighting System.
  • The SB-700 automatically detects flash head heat and delays the recycling time if the temperature of the flash head rises, protecting the flash from heat damage.
  • The firmware of the flash can easily be updated through Nikon DSLR cameras.
  • The SB-700 comes with fluorescent and incandescent hard, plastic-type colour filters, which are more durable, heat-resistant and easier to use than the conventional film-type filters. The flash automatically detects these two hard-type colour filters and instructs the camera to set the optimum colour temperature. The optional colour filter set SJ-4 is also available.
Will be available at Megacom Enterprise soon...