Nikon D3 Review
By
September 16th, 2008
Summary
The Nikon D300 SLR Digital Camera offers outstanding image quality, multi-functional technologies and fast response. It comes with an impressive resolution of 12.3 megapixels, speedy 6 fps frame advance, a self-cleaning sensor unit and a high definition 3" VGA LCD display. This is all combined with Nikon's legendary durability. The camera also features Nikon's exclusive EXPEED Image Processing System that is central to driving the speed and processing power needed for many of the camera's features; such as the 51-point auto focus system with Nikon's 3D Focus Tracking feature, and two LiveView shooting modes that allow users to frame a photograph using the camera's high-resolution LCD monitor.
Specs
Effective pixels
12.1 million
Image sensor
CMOS sensor, 36.0 x 23.9 mm; total pixels: 12.87 million; Nikon FX format
Image size (pixels)
FX format (36 x 24): 4,256 x 2,832 [L], 3,184 x 2,120 [M], 2,128 x 1,416 [S]
5:4 (30 x 24): 3,552 x 2,832 [L], 2,656 x 2,120 [M], 1,776 x 1,416 [S]
DX format (24 x 16): 2,784 x 1,848 [L], 2,080 x 1,384 [M], 1,392 x 920 [S]
Sensitivity
ISO 200 to 6,400 in steps of 1/3, 1/2, or 1 EV; sensitivity decreases approx. 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, or 1 (ISO 100 equivalent) EV below ISO 200, and increases approx. 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, 1 (ISO 12,800 equivalent), or 2 (ISO 25,600 equivalent) EV over ISO 6,400
Storage media
CompactFlash (Type I/II, compliant with UDMA); Microdrives
LCD monitor
3-in., approx. 920,000-dot (VGA), 170-degree wide-viewing-angle, 100% frame coverage, low-temperature polysilicon TFT LCD with brightness adjustment
Exposure metering
TTL full-aperture exposure metering using 1,005-pixel RGB sensor
1) 3D Color Matrix Metering II (type G and D lenses); Color Matrix Metering II (other CPU lenses); Color Matrix Metering (non-CPU lenses if user provides lens data)
2) Center-weighted: Weight of 75% given to 8-, 15- or 20-mm circle in center of frame, or weighting based on average of entire frame
3) Spot: Meters 4-mm circle (about 1.5% of frame) centered on selected focus area (on center focus area when non-CPU lens is used)
Exposure modes
1) Programmed Auto (P) with flexible program,
2) Shutter-Priority Auto (S),
3) Aperture-Priority Auto (A),
4) Manual (M)
Interface
Hi-speed USB
Power sources
One Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL4a/EL4, Quick Charger MH-22, AC Adapter EH-6 (optional)
Dimensions (W x H x D)
Approx. 159.5 x 157 x 87.5 mm (6.3 x 6.2 x 3.4 in.)
Weight
Approx. 1,240 g (2.7 lb.) without battery, memory card, body cap or accessory shoe cover