THE AGILE NEW NIKON D700 FX-FORMAT D-SLR CAMERA DELIVERS PERFORMANCE
INSPIRED BY THE NIKON D3 IN A SMALLER, LIGHTER DESIGN
Nikon’s Second FX-Format Camera Delivers Peak Pro Performance in a
Versatile Form-Factor
MELVILLE, N.Y. (July 1, 2008) — Nikon, Inc. today introduced the new D700
digital SLR camera featuring a 12.1-effective megapixel Nikon FX-format
sensor that measures 23.9 x 36mm, which is nearly identical to the size of
35mm film. Benefiting from Nikon’s legacy of imaging technology innovation,
the D700 offers both advanced and professional photographers stunning image
quality, accurate color reproduction and revolutionary low light
performance.
Building on the immense success of the Nikon D3 professional D-SLR camera,
the D700 offers pro-level performance and an extensive array of features
and innovations in a comfortably nimble platform. In addition to the
Nikon-original FX-format CMOS sensor, the D700 incorporates Nikon’s EXPEED
Image Processing System, Nikon’s renowned 51-point auto focus system with
3D Focus Tracking and two Live View shooting modes that allow photographers
to frame a shot using the camera’s three-inch high-resolution LCD monitor.
The D700 also features Nikon’s sophisticated Scene Recognition System and a
new active dust reduction system.
Nikon’s flagship FX and DX-format cameras, the D3 and D300 respectively,
established new benchmarks for digital image quality, speed, and unmatched
ISO performance. The D700 maintains this new measure with exceptional
overall image quality, broad tonal range and depth, and extremely low noise
throughout its native ISO range of 200 to 6400.
“Nikon FX-format cameras have teamed with our strong lineup of DX-format
models to offer photographers unprecedented advancements in performance and
versatility along with the freedom to choose the format that best serves
their needs. Today’s introduction of the D700 offers an important new
option to photographers who need the overall performance and imaging
perspective Nikon FX-format cameras offer,” said Edward Fasano, general
manager for marketing, SLR System Products at Nikon, Inc. “Nikon has
developed a host of innovative technologies such as the Scene Recognition
System and Picture Control, incorporating them into both FX and DX-format
digital SLRs to ensure that photographers can leverage the advantages of
both formats seamlessly, and achieve the end-results that best fulfill
their photographic vision.”
The legendary Nikon FX-Format CMOS sensor
The D700’s 12.1-megapixel FX-format CMOS image sensor provides exceptional
image quality throughout its remarkable ISO sensitivity range. A large
pixel size of 8.45 µm allows for an extremely low signal-to-noise ratio and
a wide dynamic range. The 12-channel readout enables accelerated
information transfer, allowing the D700 to shoot at speeds of up to eight
frames per second at full resolution (using the optional MB-D10 Multi Power
Battery Pack) and quickly write image data onto the CompactFlash card.
The D700 offers a versatile base ISO range from 200-6400 but can be
expanded to range from ISO 100 (Lo-1) to 25,600 (Hi-2) affording
photographers the new-found confidence to shoot in the widest variety of
lighting conditions from the brightest midday sun to dim interiors. Images
previously thought to be impossible to create without complex lighting
set-ups or lengthy post-processing are now captured easily and faithfully
with the D700, unleashing new and diverse shooting possibilities.
Also new to the D700 is Nikon’s first self-cleaning system designed for the
FX-format sensor. Utilizing four distinct vibration frequencies, the D700
frees image degrading dust particles from the sensor’s optical low-pass
filter at start-up, shut-down or on demand. As an added benefit, the mirror
box and entire shutter mechanism are constructed of materials that resist
creating debris that can affect image purity.
Fastest speed and autofocus in its class
The D700 starts up in a mere 0.12 seconds and has a nearly imperceptible
shutter-lag response time of 0.40 milliseconds, making this an
extraordinarily responsive tool for the demanding photographer. The D700
can record full-resolution JPEG images at an astounding five frames per
second (fps), or eight fps with the optional MB-D10 battery pack for up to
100 images, or up to 17 lossless 14-bit Nikon NEF (RAW) files. To write
images efficiently, the Nikon D700 is also compliant with the
next-generation of high-speed UDMA CompactFlash cards that will enable
recording speeds up to 35 megabytes/second.
The D700 offers one of the fastest and most accurate advanced AF systems on
the market today. Nikon’s Multi-CAM 3500FX autofocus sensor module features
51 AF points and the ability to use 3D tracking to focus and lock-on a
moving subject. The 15 cross-type sensors and 36 horizontal sensors can be
used individually or in groups, with the option for Single Area AF mode and
Dynamic AF modes using groups of either 9, 21 or all 51 focus points. The
system also features 3D Focus Tracking with automatic focus point switching
that takes advantage of all 51 AF points as it uses scene color content and
light information to accurately track the subject.
Intelligent features for sophisticated performance
The D700 relies on a wealth of innovative Nikon technologies to help
photographers create superb images. Nikon’s Scene Recognition System
analyzes information from the 1,005-pixel RGB light sensor for use in auto
exposure, auto white balance and autofocus calculations. The Scene
Recognition System also assists autofocus by tracking subject position and
automatically shifts the AF points used to match the subject’s movement
within the frame. This system also contributes to higher accuracy of auto
exposure and auto white balance detection, resulting in sharp landscapes,
flattering portraits and engaging action shots.
Photographers also have the option to enhance their pictures during or
after capture with the Picture Control System and Active D-Lighting.
Nikon’s Picture Control System enables users to adjust their images to
pre-set parameters such as Standard, Neutral, Vivid and Monochrome that
apply tweaks to image sharpening, tone compensation, brightness, overall
tone and saturation. D-Lighting uses localized tone control technology to
further optimize highlight and shadow detail while also maintaining natural
contrast, giving photographers the ability to capture more perfectly
exposed images, even in unusual lighting conditions. Active D-Lighting lets
photographers choose from various intensities during capture, while a new
Automatic mode also applies varying levels of D-Lighting as, and when
needed, to enhance photos while shooting.
Enhanced Live View modes and viewfinder
Ideal for studio, remote applications and more, Nikon’s Live View allows
the photographer to compose the subject on the bright three-inch, TFT LCD
monitor. In Handheld mode, the user is able to recompose the frame prior to
actual shooting; familiar TTL phase-detection AF is activated, using all 51
AF points. Tripod mode is designed for precise focus accuracy with still
subjects and tripod stabilization. It enables focal-plane contrast-detect
AF on a desired point within a specific area. Remote view, focusing and
shooting can also be controlled from a PC (via connection or wireless)
using the optional Nikon Camera Control Pro 2 software. Additionally, the
Virtual Horizon feature on the D700 can now be superimposed over the Live
View monitor image to aid composition.
While using Live View to compose or review images and settings, users will
appreciate the ultra-high resolution 920,000-dot VGA, three-inch TFT LCD
monitor with tempered glass that provides a wide 170-degree viewing angle.
The large monitor is remarkably effective when confirming the focus with
enlarged playback images. The camera also outputs a video signal to an HD
television using the new smaller HDMI-C standard, which is an excellent
solution for workshop demonstrations or shooting tethered for clients.
Photographers will also be able to compose images easily using the wide and
bright viewfinder that features an eye-level pentaprism with high
refraction index and provides a 95 percent frame coverage with 0.72x
magnification. Each of the 51 AF points, as well as a framing grid, can
also be superimposed on the finder screen to suit the photographer’s
personal preferences.
Rugged construction and durability
High-strength magnesium alloy is used for the construction of the camera
body, rear body and mirror box to create a precision platform, reduce
weight and provide rugged durability. The camera is tested to stand up to
the rigors of the globetrotting photographer and is weather sealed using
precision O-rings where connections are made to effectively combat dust and
moisture.
The shutter unit employs an assembly made of a new composite carbon fiber
and Kevlar hybrid material. Tested on fully assembled cameras, the D700’s
shutter unit has been proven through 150,000 cycles under demanding
conditions. The self-diagnostic shutter constantly monitors and maintains
shutter precision to ensure peak performance.
Price and availability
The new FX-format Nikon D700 D-SLR camera will be available late July 2008,
and will have an estimated selling price of $2,999.95 (body only).*
About Nikon
Nikon, At the Heart of the Image. 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 compact digital
cameras; COOLSCAN digital film scanners; 35mm film SLR cameras; Nikon
software products and Nikon sports and recreational optics. Nikon D Series
digital SLR cameras are recognized as “Highest in Customer Satisfaction
with digital SLR cameras,” according to the latest J.D. Power and
Associates 2007 digital Camera Satisfaction Study. Nikon Corporation, the
parent company of Nikon Inc., recently celebrated its 90th anniversary and
announced the production of over 40 million NIKKOR SLR interchangeable
lenses. 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.
