Extraordinary still and HD video imaging performance converge in the fast and agile 12.3-megapixel, DX-format D300S, delivering D-SLR versatility.
Key Features:
- 12.3-megapixel DX-format CMOS Image Sensor
- Continuous Shooting up to 7 fps
- Nikon EXPEED Image Processing
- D-Movie HD Video
- One-button Live View
- 3-inch Super-density 920,000-dot VGA LCD Monitor
- Low Noise ISO Sensitivity from 200 to 3200
- Fast, Accurate 51-point Autofocus
- 1,005-Pixel 3D Color Matrix Metering II
- Scene Recognition System
- Dual memory card slots (CF and SD)
- Dynamic Integrated Dust Reduction System
- Picture Control Settings
- Nikon's Active D-Lighting
- In-Camera Image Editing
- Rugged and Durable
- 100% Viewfinder Accuracy
- Virtual Horizon Graphic Indicator
- Up to 950 shots per EN-EL3e battery charge*
The Nikon 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 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™ (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 to capture stunning images like never before.
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™ 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.