Nikon Z6, Z7, and Z50 Firmware Update Fixes Subject Tracking

In Nikon’s effort to continue to add functionality, features and support to our Z series cameras, Nikon today has announced a major firmware update.

Improved Focus Tracking Functionality 

·      

• Subject-tracking AF can now be initiated via the Fn1 or Fn2 button on the camera or the Fn1 or Fn2 button on the lens.
• Subject tracking is started by pressing the AF-ON button or by pressing the shutter-release button halfway with AF-C (continuous-servo autofocus).
• Subject-tracking AF enabled in photo mode has been changed to more closely resemble that of the 3D-tracking option for digital SLR cameras.

Animal detection Autofocus

• Custom Setting a4 (Auto-area AF face/eye detection) adds dogs and cats to the subjects supported by face- and eye-detection autofocus. As a result, the camera can now detect and focus on the faces and eyes of dogs and cats. Animal face detection (but not eye detection) is also available in movie mode.

CFexpress additional brands added

• Added support for ProGrade and Lexar CFexpress memory cards (Type B).

NIKON Z6 Firmware 3.0

https://downloadcenter.nikonimglib.com/en/download/fw/353.html

NIKON Z7 Firmware 3.0 

https://downloadcenter.nikonimglib.com/en/download/fw/352.html

Nikon has also released a firmware update to the Z50:

• Added support for the focus limit switch available on certain Z mount lenses (as of February 12, 2020, only the NIKKOR Z 70–200mm f/2.8 VR S). The lens Fn2 button is not supported.
• Movie footage shot in self-portrait mode is now filmed using AF-F (full-time autofocus), regardless of the option selected for autofocus mode.

NIKON Z50 Firmware 1.10 

https://downloadcenter.nikonimglib.com/en/download/fw/354.html

Keep on capturing time…
Darrell Young

Darrell Young is an active member of the Nikonians User Community, Nikon Professional Services (NPS), Professional Photographers of America (PPA), North American Nature Photography Association (NANPA), and the author of 24 photography books from NikoniansPress and Picture and Pen Press, through Rocky Nook. You may review a few of Darrell’s Nikon books here. He has been an avid photographer since 1968 when his mother gave him a Brownie Hawkeye camera.

This website was created to support the readers of his educational books, photography students, and clients. Visitors to this website will find articles and reviews designed to inform, teach, and help you enjoy your photographic journey.

Join Darrell on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter

Copyright © 2019 Darrell Young, All Rights Reserved

Nikon D810 Released

Digital SLR camera D810

June 26, 2014

An effective pixel count of 36.3-million pixels for the sharpest, best image quality in Nikon history

TOKYO - Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the release of the D810, a Nikon FX-format digital SLR camera.

The D810 is a digital SLR camera that boasts incredibly superior definition and image quality made possible with a new Nikon FX-format CMOS sensor with no optical low-pass filter, adoption of the latest EXPEED 4 image-processing engine, an effective pixel count of 36.3-million pixels, and a standard range of sensitivities from ISO 64 to ISO 12800. Not only does it offer extremely accurate AF, but vibrations generated inside the camera have been reduced to maximize the resolution of its 36.3-million pixels for sharp and clear images. The camera also supports recording of smooth, extremely sharp 60p full-HD (1920 x 1080) movies. What's more, high-speed continuous shooting at up to 5 fps with the FX-format image area and up to 7 fps* with the DX-format image area is possible for excellent response to a wide variety of scenes.

• *When powered by the AC Adapter EH-5b or the Multi-Power Battery Pack MB-D12 with batteries other than the Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL15.

D810 Development Background

The D800 and D800E, added to Nikon's lineup of Nikon FX-format cameras in March 2012, drew great attention from professional and advanced amateur photographers as digital SLR cameras offering superior image quality nearly equal to that of medium-format cameras. The performance of these two cameras was well received around the world, earning them a number of prestigious awards, including a respected Technical Image Press Association (TIPA) Award 2012 and a European Imaging and Sound Association (EISA) Photo Award presented to the D800.
Developed with this background, the D810 offers the best image quality in the history of Nikon, as well as functions that increase the certainty and reliability of this superior image quality, to respond to the expectations of photographers who demand superior clarity, sharpness, and image quality from their photos.

D810 Primary Features

1. The first digital SLR camera in Nikon's history to offer a minimum standard sensitivity of ISO 64 at which superior clarity and image quality with rich tones is achieved
   A minimum standard sensitivity of ISO 64, at which the same broad dynamic range available with ISO 100 is possible, was achieved through the adoption of a new FX-format CMOS sensor and by increasing the volume of light information that can be accumulated. This enables suppression of loss of detail in highlights (blown highlights) and beautiful rendering of subjects with rich tones, even when a fast lens is used in bright surroundings. In addition, collaboration with the same EXPEED 4 image-processing engine adopted for the D4S achieves a broad range of standard sensitivities up to ISO 12800 (Lo 1, Hi 1, and Hi 2 settings are also available).
2. Further increases in imaging flexibility: The Picture Control system, Nikon's exclusive advanced system for image processing
   A new "Flat" Picture Control option has been added with the D810. Less in-camera processing is applied to images captured at a Picture Control setting of "Flat" than to those captured at a setting of "Neutral", enabling maximization of the amount of subject information acquired. The "Flat" setting prevents loss of detail in highlights and shadows, as well as over-saturation of colors, enabling adjustment of image quality and post-processing for richer tone characteristics, including contrast and colors. In addition, a "Clarity"*1 option has been added to adjustment settings for each Picture Control, allowing users to make images sharper or softer without over-emphasizing outlines and edges in images, and each setting can be adjusted in increments of 0.25 step*2, enabling more precise adjustment that makes it easier to achieve imaging that better reflects user intent.
   • *1Can be applied only to still images.
   • *2Does not apply to Quick Adjust.
3. Extremely precise AF and superior vibration suppression that maximize the resolution of the 36.3-million-pixel effective pixel count
   In order to make the most of the incredibly high pixel count of 36.3-million effective pixels, the precision of the 51-point AF system has been increased with adoption of the Advanced Multi-CAM 3500FX autofocus sensor module and improvements to the focusing algorithm, ensuring exact autofocus acquisition on the intended portion of a still subject. In addition, mechanical operation of components such as the mirror and shutter has been improved for significant reduction in the amount of internal vibration generated. The end result is a system capable of maximizing the superior rendering performance of NIKKOR lenses and the superior definition of the D810's CMOS sensor.
4. High-speed continuous shooting at approximately 5 fps in FX format and approximately 7 fps* in DX format makes capture of a broader range of subjects possible
   Adoption of a new CMOS sensor and the EXPEED 4 image-processing engine makes high-speed continuous shooting at approximately 5 fps in FX format and approximately 7 fps* in DX format possible with the D810. This makes capture of a broader range of subjects/scenes possible with excellent response with not only still subjects, but also moving subjects such as wildlife and sports scenes.
   • *When powered by the AC Adapter EH-5b or the Multi-Power Battery Pack MB-D12 with batteries other than the Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL15.
5. Full-HD movie recording with which picture quality and operation has been significantly improved
   The full-HD movie recording function, capable of recording extremely sharp and clear movies exhibiting significantly fewer moiré patterns and jaggies, and less color aliasing, supports 60p recording for smoother expression of subject movement. In addition, operation has been improved with Auto ISO Sensitivity Control in M exposure mode, enabling exposure control with aperture value and shutter speed locked and automatic adjustment of only ISO sensitivity, as well as a highlight display that shows the brightest areas of the frame in which detail may be lost with display of slanted lines. Beautiful time-lapse movies with which variations in exposure between frames are controlled can also be generated in-camera.

D810 Additional Features

• An electronic front-curtain shutter that prevents blur in images with minimization of vibration resulting from the operation of mechanisms with shooting
• Highlight-weighted metering, with which exposure values that reduce loss of detail in highlights (blown highlights) are determined, convenient for capturing theater scenes and the like
• The first Nikon FX-format camera with an OLED viewfinder display; an optical viewfinder with frame coverage of approximately 100% that offers better light transmissivity and colors, and makes it easier to achieve the optimal focus when fast lenses are used
• A 1229k-dot LCD monitor with bright RGBW array equipped with the "Monitor color balance" function that allows users to adjust monitor colors
• A "Split-screen display zoom" function that displays enlarged views of two separate areas of the frame side-by-side for checking level if the building is aligned with the horizon with live view photography
• Advanced Scene Recognition System, which utilizes a 91K-pixel RGB sensor, for highly precise automatic control over auto exposure (AE), autofocus (AF), and auto white balance (AWB)
• RAW recording at an image size of "Small"
• Multi-area mode full-HD D-movie that allows users to choose between two movie formats (image areas), FX-based and DX-based
• Improved movie sound quality with "Wind noise reduction" and "Frequency response" ("Wide range"/"Vocal range") settings
• Optimal layout of operational controls, and a grip sized and shaped for a firm, steady hold even when large lenses are used
• Effective sealing for superior resistance to dust and water

• Except where noted, all specifications provided apply to use at an ambient temperature of 23° C (± 3° C) with a fully charged battery, in accordance with Camera & Imaging Products Association (CIPA) standards.

• Products, brand names and service names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.
• Specifications, design, product name and supplied accessories may differ by country or area. Specifications and equipment are subject to change without any notice or obligation on the part of the manufacture.

• Find your local Nikon website for further product information

Why Postprocess Images?

Some have asked what is the point of postprocessing images. Here is an example of why I shoot in RAW and postprocess afterwards. This image was taken in RAW+JPEG mode so that I had a RAW and a JPEG image to work with. The image on the left is a camera-created JPEG, with no postprocessing (the famous SOOC). The image on the right is a RAW image after minor postprocessing.

Click picture for larger view

(Shooting specs: Nikon D800, AF-S Nikkor 24-85mm f/3.5-4.5G ED VR lens at 34mm, 0.3 sec at f/14, ISO 50, on tripod, with Hoya HD circular polarizer, SD Picture Control).

Notice how my interpretation is quite different from the camera's? That's the point!

Camera-created images will rarely have the snap of a postprocessed image. Notice how I have pulled a bit more detail out of the water, where the camera burned it out. RAW images simply have more "headroom," or the ability to access a larger amount of highlight and dark image data. At the same time, I selectively raised the brightness, increased contrast, and added a small amount of extra saturation to the colors. If you had done the brightness and contrast increase as a global operation on a JPEG, the background would have improved, but any detail in the water would have been obliterated.

Years ago, I didn't like using flash. I told everyone that I just liked natural light photography. Secretly, flash was never one of my strong points in photography. Later, I learned how to use flash and suddenly, I found I really enjoyed flash photography. I honestly feel that shooting RAW and then postprocessing is similar. Many photographers don't have the tools or know how to do serious postprocessing, other than global adjustments. Therefore they don't "like" post processing. Later, they aquire some good software tools, learn some techniques, and finally understand the limitations of SOOC.

The camera's built-in software can rarely give you an ultimate picture, for the simple reason that the camera is an averaging device. It wants to make things as average as possible. Unless a person seriously tweaks their Picture Controls, or uses full manual, the SOOC image is created according to the standards of the software programmers at Nikon.

The human eye can probably see twice as much dynamic range as even the best of production cameras. Therefore, no JPEG image can even come close to capturing the full range of what the human eye can see. There must be a way to add to that dynamic range to make it closer to what a human can perceive. The RAW image, with its greater "headroom," contains significantly more detail to call upon. When converted to JPEG, the image can contain a better representation of what the human eye initially saw.

Therefore, in reality, a postprocessed image is more accurate than any JPEG image can possibly be. I know these are fighting words to some, however, other than photojournalists who have no time to postprocess images, the majority of fine artists postprocess their images for a serious reason. To capture reality more closely to what they perceived with their own eyes.

This is why many photographers—especially landscape artists—shoot in RAW and postprocess the image. You have more detail to work with and the final JPEG image can look better after postprocessing.

Keep on capturing time...

Darrell Young

Darrell Young is an active member of the Nikonians User Community, Nikon Professional Services (NPS), Professional Photographers of America (PPA), North American Nature Photography Association (NANPA), and the author of 15 photography books from NikoniansPress through Rocky Nook, including Beyond Point-and-Shoot, Mastering the Nikon D610, Mastering the Nikon D800, Mastering the Nikon D7100, and the upcoming Mastering the Olympus OM-D E-M1, to name a few. He’s been an avid photographer since 1968 when his mother gave him a Brownie Hawkeye camera.

His website, www.PictureAndPen.com, was created to support the readers of his educational books, photography students, and clients. Visitors to his website will find articles and reviews designed to inform, teach, and help you enjoy your photographic journey.

Join Darrell on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+

Mastering the Nikon D600 by Darrell Young

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 28, 2013

CONTACT:
Joan Dixon
Rocky Nook, Inc.
Ph: (805) 687-8727
Fx: (805) 687-2204

press@rockynook.com

see: www.rockynook.com

Mastering the Nikon D600 – New from Rocky Nook Santa Barbara, CA— March 28, 2013 – Mastering the Nikon D600 by Darrell Young provides a wealth of experience-based information and insights for owners of the new D600 camera. Darrell is determined to help the user navigate past the confusion that often comes with complex and powerful professional camera equipment. 

This book explores the features and capabilities of the camera in a way that far surpasses the user’s manual. It guides readers through the camera features with step-bystep setting adjustments; color illustrations; and detailed how, when, and why explanations for each option. Every button, dial, switch, and menu configuration setting is explored in a user-friendly manner, with suggestions for setup according to various shooting styles.

Mastering the Nikon D600 by Darrell Young

Darrell’s friendly and informative writing style allows readers to easily follow directions while feeling as if a friend dropped in to share his knowledge. The learning experience for new D600 users goes beyond just the camera itself and covers basic photography technique. For a review copy or more information please email press@rockynook.com. Please include your delivery address and contact information.

About the Author

Darrell Young (Digital Darrell) is an information technology engineer by trade. He’s been an avid photographer since 1968 when his mother gave him a Brownie Hawkeye camera. Darrell has used Nikon cameras and Nikkor lenses since 1980. He has an incurable case of Nikon Acquisition Syndrome (NAS) and delights in working with Nikon’s newest digital cameras. Living near Great Smoky Mountains National Park has given him a real concern
for, and interest in, nature photography.

He loves to write, as you can see in the Resources area of the Nikonians.org community. He joined the community in 2000 and his literary contributions led to an invitation to become a Founding Member of the Nikonians Writers Guild.

Additional Resources

For more information about the book, including table of contents, author bios, and cover graphic, see: http://www.rockynook.com/book/0/264/mastering-the-nikon-d600.html

Mastering the Nikon D600
Darrell Young
Published by Rocky Nook
978-1-937538-19-4, 568 pages, $39.95 US, $41.95 CA
Soft Cover 6”x9"
To place an order:
order@oreilly.com
1-800-998-9938
1-707-827-7000

About Rocky Nook

Rocky Nook’s books are distributed worldwide by O’Reilly Media. Rocky Nook was founded in early 2006 in Santa Barbara, California, and is closely associated with dpunkt.verlag, a leading publisher of books on technology based in Heidelberg, Germany. The focus of Rocky Nook's publications is on digital photography.

However, other areas related to modern photography, such as imaging and computer technology, are also important to us. Our mission is to demystify the cutting-edge developments in digital photography, providing practical instruction to enhance the skills of amateur and professional photographers. Our books offer in-depth information on technological advances in the digital photography workflow. We strive to support the efficiency and creativity of our readers, with the ultimate goal of fostering outstanding image quality.

For information about the book and about Rocky Nook, see: www.rockynook.com

You Don't Know WHAT You Don't Know!

The real problem we all face when coming over from the film or point-and-shoot (P&S) world is a simple thing:

We do not know WHAT we do not know.

There is so much to learn when coming from the camera-does-it-all world, or the film world. White balance, RAW vs JPEG, postprocessing, workflow, Color spaces, histograms, software, etc. In the beginning, we know that we don't know, but we don't know WHAT we don't know. The only way to know what we don't know, is to be exposed to something new and realize we didn't know that. Only then do we know we didn't know that before. This may sound silly, but it's actually quite profound.

When I first started learning about the video standards in HD-SLR cameras, I had no idea what I didn't know, so I bought an extremely complex book for a lot of money so I could peer into what I don't know and figure out where to start. Once I did that, I started learning what I needed to learn right away, and added to it new things as I went along. Learning WHAT I didn't know, by looking through a book, helped me tremendously. The bottom line, if one has no idea something even exists, then one doesn't know WHAT one doesn't know.

Never be ashamed to hang it all out there in front of experienced people. They will look upon your plight with understanding, remembering the time that they didn't know WHAT they didn't know. Make mistakes, screw it up good. Post your errors. Only then  will you learn WHAT you need to learn.

Once you've learned the new things you must now learn, you will be way ahead of the game.  All of us went through this. No matter our backgrounds, we all haven't the foggiest idea of what we need to learn first, until someone helps us. If you are in a position to help a newbie. Do it! Someone helped you, you weren't born with the knowledge you have now. You know WHAT the new shooter doesn't know. Help ease the transition!

Keep on capturing time...
Darrell Young

Nikon D800/E and Eye-Fi Card Incompatibily Warning

Eye-fi upload for Eye-Fi X2 Pro cards does not work properly in Ad hoc or Direct mode in the Nikon D800/E cameras, due to the design of the SD port (more metal in the camera’s body, blocks the signal). I was able to establish ad hoc (Direct) contact with my laptop computer using an 8 GB Eye-Fi X2 Pro card when I was testing for my book; however, I was only a few feet away. The problem is simply that the D800/E camera has such a strong metal body that the Wi-Fi signal from an Eye-Fi card cannot make it out of the camera very well, seriously reducing the card’s signal range.

This has also been a reported problem in the older M-series Leica DSLR cameras because of their metal bodies, so much so that Leica has included a glass plate, in their brand new M series line, over the SD card slot, to allow Eye-Fi signal to escape.

Eye-Fi posted the following information on their website:

http://support.eye.fi/cameras/nikon/d800_/_d800e

“Eye-Fi engineering has found and confirmed a compatibility issue with the Eye-Fi card that impacts the use of Direct Mode in the Nikon D800. We are currently investigating an issue with the D800's SD slot that appears to contribute to a lack of steady signal while the Eye-Fi card is in Direct Mode which makes the Direct Mode feature incompatible with the camera. The Nikon D800/D800e passes all other wireless network tests and is compatible with wireless transfers via a wireless router.”

I called and spoke to Eye-Fi about this issue. A senior technician was pulled into the conversation. Even though their paragraph above states that the card is compatible with normal (non-direct, non-ad hoc) Wi-Fi image transfer with a Wi-Fi router in the middle, the senior tech said the company does not list the Nikon D800/E as compatible (in any way) with “any known” Eye-Fi cards.

This is a troubling situation, for the simple reason that Nikon has included Eye-Fi support in the camera for a device that has insufficient signal strength to be used at any useful range with the D800/E. The technician stated that you may or may not be able to use an Eye-Fi card to communicate with your tablet, smart phone, or computer. It varies according to the signal strength of your Wi-Fi router (for internet transfer), and the send/receive signal strength of your tablet, phone, or computer (for Direct or Ad hoc transfer). Because of the inconsistency, they now list the card as incompatible.

I have included this information in the errata document for my book, which can be downloaded, but wanted to post it for the benefit of those who are considering purchasing an Eye-Fi card to use with their D800/D800E cameras. Even though Nikon has given the camera Eye-Fi support, it may or may not work well, or at all, for you!

Keep on capturing time...
Darrell Young

Nikon D600 – The Enthusiastic Enthusiast’s Camera

The Nikon® D600 is a D7000-style, advanced-enthusiast camera, on steroids. It’s the next step for an especially enthusiastic enthusiast who simply must have a full-frame sensor and needs the 24 megapixels for larger image size. It is not only an amazing still camera, but like its big sister the Nikon D800, can stream uncompressed, clean video, with no camera overlays from its HDMI port to an external recording device, such as an Atomos Ninja-2.

For the photographer who has always desired a full-frame (FX) HD-SLR but couldn’t afford the extra cost, the Nikon D600 changes everything. For only US$2099.95, you can acquire an FX camera with image quality like the very expensive Nikon D3X (at lower ISOs). All those Nikkor prime lenses you’ve been collecting and the new FX Nikkor lenses you’ve desired can now be used to their full advantage.

Briefly, let’s look at the most important specs of the camera:

• Available September 18, 2012 for US$2099.95 (or US$2699.95 with AF-S Nikkor 24-85mm f/3.5-5.6G lens )
• 24.3-megapixel FX-Format CMOS sensor (35.9 x 24mm) 
• EXPEED 3 image processing engine
• 100% Viewfinder coverage with glass prism
• 3.2" LCD Monitor with 921K dots and ambient-light auto brightness control
• Uncompressed, clean HDMI output (no overlays)
• Weather-sealing on most critical points
• ISO range: 100-6400 (extended to: Lo-1 or ISO 50 and Hi-2 or ISO 25,600)
• 39 point AF system with new MultiCAM 4800FX AF Module
• Nine cross-type sensors, with seven AF points active to f/8
• 2,016-pixel RGB sensor for exposure
• AF modes: Single point, Continuous AF, Dynamic AF, and 3D tracking
• EN-EL15 Li-ion battery (Same as D800 and D7000)
• 5.5 fps shooting speed at full FX resolution
• Shutter tested to 150,000 shooting cycles
• Maximum shutter speed of 1/4000s
• Flash sync speed of 1/200s
• Locking Mode dial to prevent accidental adjustments while shooting
• Two SD card slots with latest SDXC and UHS-I2 high-speed standards
• Built-in flash (guide number of approximately 12/39 m/ft, ISO 100, 20°C/68°F)
• U1 and U2 User settings like on the D7000
• Several SCENE modes
• Auto DX crop mode
• One-touch access to Picture Controls (new dedicated button)
• Built in Time-lapse function
• Built-in HDR mode
• Built-in Speedlight Commander Mode for Nikon CLS control
• New MB-D14 battery grip
• Built-in AF motor 
• H.264/MPEG-4 AVC Video compression
• Full HD (1080p) with 30p, 25p, 24p, HD with 60p, 50p, 30p, 25p
• 29 minutes and 59 seconds (or 20 minutes Full HD) movie segment length
• Headphone Jack for monitoring sound
• Live view photography and Movie live view modes
• Measures approximately 141.0 x 113.0 x 82.0 mm (W x H x D) and weighs approximately 760 g
• Ready to shooting in 0.13 seconds with a 0.052 second shutter release
• WU-1b Wireless Adapter is available (50 foot range)

Positioned between the Nikon D7000 and the Nikon D800, the D600 fills a gap that has needed filling for several years. Before now, the only way to own a DSLR having an FX sensor and an affordable price was to buy a used 12-megapixel Nikon D700 or save your pennies for the 36-megapixel Nikon D800. 

Now you have a real choice! There is no need to settle for an older model, when a brand new Nikon D600 provides all the new features expected in a modern HD-SLR camera, at a price that the everyday photographer can afford. Sure, this is not Coolpix pricing, but you are not a Coolpix shooter, you are an advanced enthusiast.

Keep on capturing time…

Darrell Young

Download Nikon D600 Brochure here: 

http://chsvimg.nikon.com/lineup/dslr/d600/pdf/d600_20p.pdf

<<<>>>

Here’s the official press release:

PERFORMANCE THAT FUELS THE PASSION: THE NEW NIKON D600 PUTS FX-FORMAT IN FOCUS FOR PHOTO ENTHUSIASTS

As Nikon’s Smallest, Lightest and Most Affordable Full-Frame HD-SLR, the D600 Packs in Powerful, Pro-Grade Photo and Video Features with Wireless Sharing and Capture Capabilities

MELVILLE, N.Y. (September 13, 2012) – Today, Nikon Inc. announced the 24.3-megapixel (MP) D600, a camera that is designed to deliver the image quality and performance benefits of a full frame FX-format sensor to the enthusiast looking to take their dedication to the next level. The Nikon D600 offers a remarkable value, merging the perfect combination of a lightweight, compact form factor and superior image quality, making the leap into FX-format photography more attractive than ever. 

 

Whether shooting stills or Full HD video, advanced features and Nikon technologies like the newly developed high resolution CMOS sensor and EXPEED 3 image processing engine are designed to meet the needs of the most demanding creative vision. Additionally, Nikon’s new optional WU-1b wireless adapter allows users to shoot high quality HD-SLR images and transfer them to their mobile device, making it easier to stay connected, without the need for wires.

 

“For many, image making is so much more than a hobby; it is a way of life that changes the way the world is perceived. The Nikon D600 represents a new category of camera for this user and demonstrates Nikon’s devotion to the passionate photographer who is always looking for new ways to express their creativity through their photos and HD videos,” said Bo Kajiwara, Vice President of Marketing, Planning and Customer Experience, Nikon Inc. “By offering users the advanced FX-format and key features inherited from our professional cameras, along with new functions like optional wireless capabilities, Nikon is inspiring photographers by providing an imaging experience that satisfies like never before.“

 

Superior Image Quality

Nikon’s FX-format offers photographers exciting image quality possibilities, from dazzling dynamic range and exacting detail to stellar low-light ability. The D600 employs Nikon’s newly developed, large 24.3 MP FX-format CMOS Sensor (35.9 x 24mm) to offer photographers a versatile camera that provides amazing image quality and sharpness, with ample resolution to tackle almost any project. Because the needs of the advanced amateur varies widely, the new CMOS sensor provides a wide ISO range from 100-6400 (expandable from 50-25,600) to give photographers maximum low-light flexibility yielding clean images with minimal noise and accurate color. The full ISO range can also be used while capturing HD video in challenging light. Nikon’s exclusive EXPEED 3 image processing engine interprets the massive amount of image data flowing from the sensor to quickly process images and HD video. The result is striking images and impressive HD video that exhibits faithful color reproduction and tonal range throughout the frame.

Precision Technology Engineered for the Enthusiast

Enthusiasts of all types demand the best from their gear, and the Nikon D600 is a camera engineered with intuitive features that give photographers an edge in the field. Whether shooting lush landscapes, action sports or the elusive animals of the Serengeti, Nikon’s Scene Recognition System and 2,016 pixel RGB sensor excels in any situation. By recognizing the scene prior to capture, the system meticulously analyzes factors such as color and brightness with extraordinary precision and compares all the data using Nikon’s exclusive 30,000 image database. The result is enhanced AF performance and flattering exposures.

For precise AF performance in a wide variety of shooting conditions, the D600 features a 39 point AF system with the new MultiCAM 4800FX AF module. This AF array is well suited to a wide variety of shooting styles and disciplines, offering AF modes to let users select a single point, continuous AF, Dynamic AF or use 3D tracking to keep pace with a moving subject throughout the frame. Additionally, the system features nine cross type sensors for maximum accuracy, while seven AF points are fully functional when using compatible NIKKOR lenses and teleconverters with an aperture value up to f/8 for extreme telephoto applications.

To keep up with action sports, active wildlife or the photo opportunity that unexpectedly arises, the D600 is ready to shoot in 0.13 seconds, with a 0.052 second shutter release.  The camera emphasizes speed and performance, from overall operation and image processing, helped in part by the exceptional EXPEED 3 processing engine. The camera is also capable of bursts of images at 5.5 frames per second (fps) at full resolution with full AF, to capture decisive moments. To further enhance speed and workflow, images and video can also be rapidly transferred to dual SD card slots that are compatible with the latest SDXC and UHS-1 high speed standards.

Enthusiasts will also appreciate other thoughtful features made to appeal to more advanced photographers, such as the 100% frame coverage seen through optical viewfinder. The wide and bright view makes it easy to compose in a variety of conditions, and affords the ability to enjoy shooting for hours on end with minimal eye fatigue. Additionally, the D600 features several scene modes and features to enhance creativity, including one-touch access to Picture Control functions through a new dedicated button. Photographers can also shoot images in High Dynamic (HDR) mode for amazing highlights, and create awe-inspiring time lapses with ease.

 

Experience Full HD

The Nikon D600 has advanced video features that are ideal for those ready to embrace the world of HD-SLR video, as well as those already enjoying its benefits such as manual control, depth of field, low-light ability and lensing options. This camera gives users the ability to record Full HD at varying frame rates and resolutions including 1080p video at 30, 25 or 24p, and 720p video at 60, 50 and 30p. When shooting HD video at the highest quality setting, up to 20 minutes can be recorded, or up to 29 minutes and 59 seconds in normal quality for added convenience when shooting static shots such as interviews and events. The large 3.2-inch 921K dot LCD screen makes it easy to preview images or video captured, navigate the menu system or confirm critical HD focus, while automatic brightness control adapts seamlessly to changing lighting conditions.

Sophisticated video features help to increase the production value on any project, including full manual control of exposure, and the ability to switch between FX and DX-format (1.5X) at Full HD for a telephoto boost and alter depth of field. Users can opt to focus manually or can take advantage of the full-time AF while recording to help ensure faces are in focus or track a moving subject. Additionally, videographers have the ability to capture audio with the onboard microphone or record stereo audio externally using the mic input. Audio can be monitored through the headphone jack and levels can be displayed on the LCD with peaking. 

In addition to the ability to play back HD video and images through the HDMI terminal, users are also able to experience pro-grade video features in the Nikon D600. For monitoring and streaming applications, the image can be displayed on the LCD screen while simultaneously shown on another monitor through the HDMI, with or without shooting data. What’s more, the D600 adds the ability to transfer uncompressed video via the HDMI connection, which can then be routed to a digital recorder or similar device.  

Remote Sharing and Capture

Photography is a form of expression, which can now be shared more ways than ever before through social networks and online communities. To accompany the D600, Nikon has also announced the optional WU-1b Wireless Adapter that allows users to connect wirelessly to the camera. A companion Wireless Mobile Adapter Utility application for Android™ based mobile devices is also available at no additional cost. 1 Furthermore, an application for the iPhone® and iPad® mobile digital devices will be available on September 15, 2012.  

When connected, users are able to share their images taken with the D600 through their mobile device to their social circles, as well as send and download images from their camera to a compatible device.3 The adapter also allows users to remotely fire the D600’s shutter from up to 50 feet from the camera, which is ideal for capturing photos from unique vantage points.

NIKKOR, Speedlight and System Compatibility

Supporting the D600 is Nikon’s heritage in optical excellence, more than 70 NIKKOR AF and AF-S compatible lenses for maximum versatility. Those with DX-format lenses will also be happy to know that these lenses can also be used on the camera as well as the ability to set DX crop for stills or video to extend the reach of telephoto or telephoto zoom lenses.

The new Nikon HD-SLR is also a gateway to Nikon’s renowned Creative Lighting System (CLS) which illuminates a whole new world of creative image making using multiple Speedlights. A built-in Speedlight commander can control multiple Speedlights such as Nikon’s SB-700, SB-910 or Wireless Close Up Speedlight System, and the camera can also control up to two individual speedlight groups for further creative control.

Constructed to Inspire

Built to withstand the wide variety of shooting conditions enthusiasts face, the body of the D600 is sealed and gasketed against dirt and moisture. The camera uses magnesium alloy top and rear construction to provide a lightweight camera with maximum durability. The shutter has been tested for 150,000 cycles, and sensor cleaning is also employed. The battery is rated for approximately 900 shots, affording photographers the ability to shoot all day. Additionally, the optional MB-D14 Multi Power Battery Pack extends the grip for comfort and can effectively double the battery capacity when using two batteries.

The D600 is also built with an emphasis on handling with thoughtful ergonomics and button placement, in a body that is compact enough to carry comfortably on any excursion. The hand grip has been improved for comfort, while the overall impression from using the camera is reassuringly solid. To avoid accidental engagement, the shutter button has been recessed, while the Mode Dial can be locked.

Price and Availability

The Nikon D600 will be available on September 18, 2012 for the suggested retail price (SRP) of $2,099.95*, for body only, or with the AF-S NIKKOR 24-85mm f/3.5-4.5G ED VR for the SRP of $2,699.95*. The WU-1b will be also available on September 18, 2012 for an SRP of $59.95*. The MB-D14 Multi Power Battery Pack will be available in late September for an SRP of $322.00*. For more information on the new Nikon D600 and other Nikon products, please visit www.nikonusa.com.

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; 35mm film SLR cameras; Nikon software products and Nikon sports and recreational optics as well as the new Nikon 1 advanced camera with interchangeable lens system. In 2012, production of NIKKOR lenses surpassed 70 million, creating a new milestone in Nikon's heritage of superior optics. For more information, dial (800) NIKON-US or visit http://www.nikonusa.com, which links all levels of photographers to the Web's most comprehensive photo learning and sharing communities. Connect with Nikon and other photographers on Facebook athttp://www.facebook.com/nikon and get the latest news and information from Twitter by following @NikonUSA.

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1 Android and Google Play are trademarks of Google Inc.

2 iPad ,iPhone and iTunes are registered trademarks of Apple Inc.

3The Wireless Mobile Adapter Utility Application must be installed on the smart device before it can be used with the WU-1b Wireless Mobile Adapter connected to the Nikon D600. The application can be downloaded free of charge from Google Play™. for use with an Android platform smartphone (2.3 series or later) and tablet (3.0 series or later). For the iOS mobile platform, the application can be downloaded free of charge from iTunes® online store on September 15, 2012 for use with iOS version 5.1 or 5.1.1.

*SRP (Suggested Retail Price) listed only as a suggestion. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time.

Specifications, equipment and release dates are subject to change without any notice or obligation on the part of the manufacturer.

Mastering the Nikon D800 - New from NikoniansPress and RockyNook

CONTACT:   Mary Rotman (707) 827-7119 rockynookpr@oreilly.com    Joan Dixon Ph. (805) 687-8727 Fx: (805) 687-2204 joan@rockynook.com Mastering the Nikon D800—New from Rocky Nook Santa Barbara, CA—August 21, 2012—Mastering the Nikon D800 (Rocky Nook, $39.95 USD), by Darrell Young provides a wealth of experience-based information and insights for owners of the new D800 camera. Darrell is determined to help the user navigate past the confusion that often comes with complex and powerful professional camera equipment. This book explores the features and capabilities of the camera in a way that far surpasses the user's manual. It guides readers through the camera features with step-by-step setting adjustments; color illustrations; and detailed how, when, and why explanations for each option. Every button, dial, switch, and menu configuration setting is explored in a user-friendly manner, with suggestions for setup according to various shooting styles. Darrell's friendly and informative writing style allows readers to easily follow directions, while feeling as if a friend dropped in to share his knowledge. The learning experience for new D800 users goes beyond just the camera itself and covers basic photography technique. For a review copy or more information please email rockynookpr@oreilly.com. Please include your delivery address and contact information. About the Author Darrell Young (DigitalDarrell) is an information technology engineer by trade. He's been an avid photographer since 1968 when his mother gave him a Brownie Hawkeye camera. Darrell has used Nikon cameras and Nikkor lenses since 1980. He has an incurable case of Nikon Acquisition Syndrom (NAS) and delights in working with Nikon's newest digital cameras.Living near Great Smoky Mountains National Park has given him a real concern for, and interest in, nature photography. He loves to write, as you can see in the Resources area of the Nikonians.org community. He joined the community in 2000 and his literary contributions led to an invitation to become a Founding Member of the Nikonians Writers Guild. View Darrell Young's full profile page. Additional Resources For more information about the book, including table of contents, author bios, and cover graphic, see: http://shop.oreilly.com/product/9781937538057.do Mastering the Nikon D800 Publisher: Rocky Nook By Darrell Young Print ISBN: 9781937538057 Pages: 576 (est.) Print Price: $39.95 order@oreilly.com 1-800-998-9938 1-707-827-7000 About Rocky Nook Rocky Nook's books are distributed internationally by O'Reilly Media. Rocky Nook was founded in early 2006 in Santa Barbara, California, and is closely associated with dpunkt.verlag, a leading publisher of books on technology based in Heidelberg, Germany. The focus of Rocky Nook's publications is on digital photography and computing. About O'Reilly O'Reilly Media spreads the knowledge of innovators through its books, online services, magazines, and conferences. Since 1978, O'Reilly Media has been a chronicler and catalyst of cutting-edge development, homing in on the technology trends that really matter and spurring their adoption by amplifying "faint signals" from the alpha geeks who are creating the future. An active participant in the technology community, the company has a long history of advocacy, meme-making, and evangelism. # # # O'Reilly is a registered trademark of O'Reilly Media, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Spreading the knowledge of innovators. oreilly.com You are receiving this email because you are a public relations contact with O'Reilly Media.If you would like to stop receiving any and all press releases from O'Reilly, please emailpress@oreilly.com. O'Reilly Media is a Distributor for Rocky Nook O'Reilly Media, Inc. 1005 Gravenstein Highway North, Sebastopol, CA 95472 (707) 827-7000