Nikon Releases D300s . . . with Hi-Def Video

It had to happen. All the talk (yet again) about convergence, combined with the success of the most highly (technically) converged devices yet - Apple's iPhone and iPod Touch - have everybody in a raving tizzy. Nikon was first to the post with its D90 Digital SLR (DSLR) containing a 720p hi-def video option (which I guess makes it a DSLR/V, no?!). Canon followed with the full-frame 5D MKII DSLR/V, Nikon added the D5000 DSLR/V to its entry-level, and now just released the long-awaited successor to its vastly successful D300 - the D300s. It's the top-of-the-line APS-C sensor-based camera in Nikon's lineup (Nikon uses the acronym "DX" rather than APS-C). The camera provides 12.3 stunning, high resolution megapixels, superb handling in a weather sealed, magnesium-framed body, LiveView, the best 3" rear LCD (also high resolution) in the industry, all the semi-pro and many of the pro feature bells & whistles, and, well, what more could you want? I used the D300 for a couple years, as do many other amateurs, hobbyists and pros to this day. It's among the finest cameras ever made. The D300s trumps it. You need this one if you're serious about great still photography and/or combining still and incredible hi-def shooting. Imagine being able to use great Nikon lenses to create the same gorgeously shallow depth-of-field you see in the movies? Pre-order your D300s at Amazon or B&H Photo.

RED to announce "Big Change" soon

RED's Digital Still and Motion Camera (DSMC) system looks like it will be announced sometime soon. The Camera promises to be an interesting hybrid which offers HD video and high megapixel still image capture.

Sony Ads Reveal 24 Megapixel Full Frame DSLR

Sony's revealed the A900 DSLR, which features a full frame 24.6 megapixel Exmor CMOS sensor, via an ill timed ad. It will also features Sony's Dual BIONZ image processing engine, a 3-inch Hybrid LCD with "Intelligent Preview," 5 fps continuous shooting, and Sony's SteadyShot image stabilization. There is no price or release date mentioned in the Ad but all should come clear as we approach Photokina.

RED Looking To Release DSLR

Last year RED released an ultra high resolution video camera called RED ONE. This camera has made a lot of filmmakers stop and take notice. RED are now looking at producing a DSLR which could feature a resolution of up to 25 Megapixels. If this happens it'll mean another player will have entered the market and one who may trump the players who currently enjoy being the leaders in the DSLR market. Time will tell ... I'll stick with my Canon gear. Thanks to Engadget on this one.

Nikon Unveil D90 DSLR

Nikon have unveiled their new D90 DSLR. The D90 features a new 12.3 megapixel Nikon DX-format CMOS image sensor with an Integrated Dust Reduction System. The DSLR has a Low-noise capability which ranges from ISO 200 to 3200, it also has support for ISO 6400. The camera can also record video using their D-Movie mode, which records in AVI format at 320 x 216, 640 x 424 or 1,280 x 720. Other features include: Scene Recognition System based on 420 pixel RGB sensor for improved autofocus, autofocus and auto white balance, in addition to Face Detection. Multi-CAM 1000 autofocus with 11 AF points. 3-inch, VGA Live View LCD. 4.5 fps continuous shooting 0.15 second startup 65ms shutter release lag. SD / SDHC storage. HDMI output The Nikon should be available in kit form for around $1,299. For more info visit Nikon.com

Canon Eos 50D Announced

Canon have officially unveiled the EOS 50D. The 15.1 megapixel DSLR features an APS-C sized CMOS sensor, DIGIC 4 image processor, up to ISO 12800 support, a 3.0-inch LCD with Live View, face detection, HDMI output, 6.3fps burst mode. It also uses the same AF system found in Canon's 40D but with a new Microadjustment feature. This Prosumer centric model should have an SRP of $1,599 with Canon's EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM zoom lens -- $1,399 for the body only.

Nikon Release D700 DSLR

Nikon have just released the D700 digital SLR camera. This DSLR is aimed at the Prosumer and is based upon technologies found in their D3, boasting pro-level performance and an extensive array of features and innovations. It also features the Nikon FX-format CMOS sensor, Nikon’s EXPEED Image Processing System, Nikon’s renowned 51-point auto focus system with 3D Focus Tracking and two Live View shooting modes. Having seen Live View in use on the D3, it is something I wish I had on my Canon DSLR.

Sony Alpha A900 Slated For Fall Release.

Sony are showing their new 25 megapixel Alpha A900 at Photo Imaging Expo 2008 in Japan. The new camera is not slated for released until this Autumn but folks are already speculating on how Canon and Nikon will respond. Myself, I'm interested only in finding out more on the cameras performance which includes features like a full frame sensor, Liveview and a HDMI port. Visit the MasterChong blog where there is some excellent coverage and photos.

Nikon Unveil Full Frame D3 & new D300

After what has to be one of the longest waits Nikon released a Full Frame D-SLR, featuring a CMOS based 12.1 megapixel sensor. D3. The D3 is centred around speed and sensitivity, with a base sensitivity of ISO 200 to 6400 and an additional two stop range above that (up to ISO 25600). The D3 can shoot at nine frames per second with AF tracking, and up to eleven frames per second without. The D3 should be available in November, at around US$5000. Other capabilities included their new EXPEED image processor, a new 51-point AF sensor, color AF tracking, dual CF compartments featuring UDMA support, an amazing 3.0" Live View Display, HDMI video output, and even a virtual horizon function which can tell you when you're holding the D3 level.The D300 also features a 12 megapixel CMOS sensor, albeit a 1.5x FCF, 14-bit A/D conversion, EXPEED image processor, sensitivity up to ISO 6400, HDMI video output, UDMA CF support and the 3.0" Live View Display. The D300 should be available in November, at around US$1800.