Nikon D300s Revitalizes the Standard and Measure of Agile, Pro-Level DX-Format D-SLR...

Nikon D300s Revitalizes the Standard and Measure of Agile, Pro-Level DX-Format
D-SLR Design and Performance

MELVILLE, N.Y., July 30 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Nikon announced the D300s
digital SLR, combining 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 51-point autofocus system; the addition of HD
video capture; and faster 7 frame-per-second (fps) continuous shooting, 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 speed, versatility, and agility of the
DX-format for a wide variety of photographers, including advanced enthusiasts,
wedding shooters and photojournalists. The D300s can record HD video clips and
high fidelity audio with an external stereo microphone input, offering users a
D-SLR with full multimedia capabilities. Dual card slots afford users the
ability to seamlessly record stills and video to one CompactFlash(TM) (CF) and
one Secure Digital(TM) (SD) card separately, while one-button Live View, a new
Quiet Shutter Release mode and Active D-Lighting bracketing help users to
capture stunning images like never before.

"Today's photographer demands excellence and value from high-performance
digital SLRs - and the Nikon D300s delivers," said Edward Fasano, general
manager for Marketing, SLR System Products at Nikon, Inc. "It's no secret that
more photographers need to gather multimedia content. In addition to proven
technologies, such as the 51-point autofocus (AF) system and 12.3-megapixel
CMOS sensor, we are more than confident that the D300s' HD movie mode, along
with a host of additional performance enhancements, will broaden the appeal of
the camera to those seeking exceptional still image quality and video
versatility."

The Benchmark of Speed, Performance and Reliability
Whether on the front lines of spot news or behind the scenes at a spring
wedding, users of the D300s can record HD video clips at 720p resolution with
a smooth cinematic 24 fps rate. In addition, the D300s also records high
fidelity audio - either with the convenient built-in microphone or by using
the external stereo microphone input. Photographers can trim video length on
the fly and apply Picture Controls to video, modifying the tone and color.
Additionally, users can autofocus while recording video, using contrast detect
AF, and do so while composing on the D300s' bright three-inch 920,000-dot LCD
screen.

Nikon's applauded AF system, with 51 high density focus points, performs even
faster and more 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, 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 in playback mode on the
high-resolution LCD monitor to check critical focus.

The Nikon exclusive and newly-accelerated Scene Recognition System (SRS)
further refines Nikon's AF performance and light metering. In conjunction with
the 3D Color Matrix Metering II system, the SRS uses precise color and
brightness information from the 1,005-pixel RGB sensor to propel 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, processed through a 16-bit
pipeline for optimal performance, resulting in images with sharp details and
smooth tonal gradations.

The D300s also incorporates Nikon's exclusive EXPEED(TM) image processing.
EXPEED image processing uses an accumulation of sophisticated Nikon
intelligence and technologies to ensure impeccable quality for both still
images and movies, while also achieving high-speed processing and low power
consumption. When using the included EN-EL3e Li-ion rechargeable battery,
photographers can achieve as many as 950 shots under normal shooting
conditions. The optional Multi-Power Battery Pack MB-D10 extends shooting
comfort and supports three types of batteries: R6/AA-size batteries, along
with Nikon's Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL3e and the EN-EL4a Rechargeable
Li-ion Battery. It combines added stability with extended shooting of up to
2,950 shots (*1) per charge and enables faster high-speed continuous shooting
at up to 8 fps (*2).

The reinforced magnesium alloy body is lightweight, ruggedly constructed and
comprehensively sealed and gasketed against the elements at key points, and
the shutter has been proven to a demanding 150,000 cycles. Additionally, the
D300s employs the Integrated Dust Reduction System countermeasures that combat
the accumulation of image-degrading particles on the optical low-pass filter.

World Class Versatility
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 situations, such as backlit subjects or while
outdoors with strong sunlight. ADL bracketing provides users with the ability
to bracket up to five frames of ADL strength to help ensure perfect contrast
throughout the frame, putting an end to the guesswork behind the shot with a
bride's intricate white dress and a groom's tuxedo in the same frame, for
example.

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 you to select the slot containing the card with the most available
capacity. Users can also copy and paste files between cards.

Also added to the D300s is 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 Nikon's Picture Controls to adjust sharpening, brightness,
contrast and color hue. The D300s offers users four presets including
Standard, Neutral, Vivid and Monochrome; while Landscape and Portrait settings
can be downloaded from the Nikon website. While the D300s offers a versatile
built-in flash with wider coverage for a 16mm lens, the camera is also
compatible with Nikon's Creative Lighting System and is capable of controlling
up to two groups of remote units as a master / commander for Advanced Wireless
Lighting.

System Expandability
In addition to compatibility with more than 60 NIKKOR lenses and a broad array
of system accessories, the D300s will also perform well with the recently
announced AF-S NIKKOR 70-200 f/2.8G ED VR II and the AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-200
f/3.5-5.6 ED VR II lenses.

Price and Availability
The Nikon D300s camera body will be available at Nikon Authorized dealers
beginning in late August 2009 at an estimated selling price of $1799.95.** For
more information, please visit www.nikonusa.com.

About Nikon
Nikon, At the Heart of the Image(TM). Nikon Inc. is the world leader in
digital imaging, precision optics and photo imaging technology and is globally
recognized for setting new standards in product design and performance for its
award-winning consumer and professional photographic equipment. Nikon Inc.
distributes consumer and professional digital SLR cameras, NIKKOR optics,
Speedlights and system accessories; Nikon COOLPIX(R) compact digital cameras;
COOLSCAN(R) digital film scanners; 35mm film SLR cameras; Nikon software
products and Nikon sports and recreational optics. For the second consecutive
year, Nikon D Series digital SLR cameras are recognized as "Highest in
Customer Satisfaction with digital SLR cameras, Two Years in a Row, Tied in
2008." according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2007 and 2008 Digital Camera
Usage and Satisfaction Studies(SM). Nikon Corporation, the parent company of
Nikon Inc., recently celebrated the 50th anniversary of its legendary F-mount
lens-mounting system. Only Nikon has sustained an original lens mount for such
an extraordinary period, ensuring that photographers can continue to leverage
their previous investments while still taking advantage of new innovations.
For more information, dial (800) NIKON-UX or visit http://www.nikonusa.com,
which links all levels of photographers to the Web's most comprehensive photo
learning and sharing communities.

*As determined in Nikon performance tests

**Estimated selling price listed is only an estimate. Actual prices are set by
dealers and are subject to change at any time.

(*1) Based on CIPA Standards. When Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL3e is used
for camera body, together with Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL4a and Battery
Chamber Cover BL-3 for the Multi-Power Battery Pack MB-D10.

(*2) Based on CIPA Guidelines. When Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL4a and
Battery Chamber Cover BL-3 are used for the Multi-Power Battery Pack MB-D10,
all of which are sold separately.

SOURCE Nikon Inc.

Geoff Coalter, gcoalter@mww.com, or Frank Filiatrault, ffiliatrault@mww.com,
+1-201-507-9500, both of MWW Group, press.nikonusa.com