Digital Camera News and Reviews

AF-S DX Nikkor 35mm F/1.8G

Nikon has announced the new AF-S DX Nikkor 35mm F/1.8G. According to Nikon this is the first fixed focal length lens with such fast aperture.
This lens seems very interesting for Nikon photographers who want to separate they want to photograph from the background. This is especially a good feature for portraits.

The Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 35mm F/1.8G lens will be available in March 2009 and cost about $200.

Press release:
Nikon Introduces The Fastest DX-Format Lens To Date: The AF-S DX Nikkor 35mm F/1.8G

MELVILLE, N.Y. (Feb. 8, 2009) – Nikon Inc. today announced the AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G lens, which is the first fixed focal length, fast-aperture DX-format lens that affords photographers superb image quality along with the creative possibilities and versatility of the classic 50mm focal length (FX-format equivalent of 52mm). When mounted on a DX-format camera body, it enables photographers to document their world with a lens that produces a picture angle similar to the field of vision as seen through the human eye. Whether new to D-SLRs or a seasoned enthusiast, users will appreciate the extreme low-light performance and the expanded ability to dramatically separate the subject and background with the new 35mm DX lens’ wide f/1.8 aperture.

“The development and release of the 35mm f/1.8 NIKKOR lens delivers new and added versatility to the Nikon DX-format digital SLR system and provides DX-format photographers with a broader range of fast-aperture lens options,” said Edward Fasano, general manager for marketing, SLR Systems Products at Nikon Inc. “This f/1.8 prime lens provides users with exceptional control of background and foreground, superb low-light ability, and the natural focal length that has been the staple of photography since its inception.”

Lightweight, compact and affordable, this lens can easily become a fast favorite for any level of photographer, and is the perfect complement to D60 users who are just starting to learn D-SLR photography or enthusiasts who love their D90. The AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G lens is ideal for travel, general photography, landscape shooting, portraiture or pushing creative boundaries. The stunning sharpness, clarity and color reproduction are all proof positive of more than 75 years of NIKKOR heritage and experience in optics engineering.

This lens continues the tradition of NIKKOR precision optics to provide photographers with sharp, high-resolution images and the ability to focus as close as 0.98 feet, while the integration of an ultra-compact Silent Wave Motor ensures fast, whisper-quiet AF operation.

The 35mm DX lens construction consists of eight elements in three groups, with an aspherical element to reduce size and weight, while contributing to the enhanced balance when mounted on a smaller DX-format D-SLR. A rounded diaphragm opening combined with the nine-blade aperture contributes to a substantially more circular bokeh for a more natural appearance of out-of-focus background elements. Additionally, instances of lens flare and chromatic aberration are suppressed using Nikon’s exclusive Super Integrated Coatings, which also help ensure vividly accurate color balance.

The AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G lens is scheduled to be available at Nikon authorized dealers beginning March 2009 at an estimated selling price of $199.95.* For more information, please visit www.nikonusa.com.

Nikon Coolpix L100

Nikon has unveiled a new budget superzoom digital camera. The camera is called Nikon Coolpix L100 and features a 15x optical zoom lens and 10 megapixels.

Some key features for the Nikon Coolpix L100:
-15x optical zoom lens (28 – 420mm)
-10 megapixel sensor
-3″ LCD screen
-Image stabilization
-44MB of built-in memory

The Nikon Coolpix L100 will be available in February 2009 and cost about $280.

Press release:
Powerful New L100 Packs Performance, High-Powered Zoom And Advance Functions Into An Easy To Use Camera

The L100 Boasts 15x Zoom and High-Speed Shooting

MELVILLE, NY (Feb. 2, 2009) – Nikon Inc. today introduced the new L100, a powerful photographic tool that blends ease-of-use with advanced shooting functions. Optimized for action shots, high-powered zoom and simple operation, the L100 is equipped and ready to help capture every precious moment with quality and clarity that will make lasting memories an even greater joy. The L100 is one of three new L-Series cameras announced today. For consumers seeking a fully-featured camera at a competitive price, Nikon also introduced the L20 and L19, presenting consumers with a strong value proposition.

“The L100 represents a fantastic choice for the family photographer who needs to capture everything from soccer games to portraits,” said Bill Giordano, General Manager Marketing, COOLPIX for Nikon Inc. “It also extends our tradition of previous L-Series cameras, combining ease-of-use, high performance and a tremendous value for consumers.”

The L100 achieves its versatility through its 15x Optical Zoom-NIKKOR lens. Covering 28mm wide-angle to 420mm super-telephoto shooting, the lens’ broad focal range can readily handle everything from landscapes and group shots, to tight close-ups and shots taken from a distance.

Additional features of the 10.0-megapixel L100 include:

*

Large, bright 3.0-inch high-resolution LCD with anti-reflection coating for easy composition and reviewing of images.

*

New Sport Continuous Scene Mode for shooting at up to 13fps1 (up to 30 frames when consumers set the resolution to 3MP or lower). This high-speed capture setting helps photographers stay ahead of the action, whether on the football, baseball or soccer fields.
*

4-Way Vibration Reduction (VR) Image Stabilization
o

Optical VR image stabilization compensates for the effects of camera shake by moving the image sensor, producing clearer, sharper results in lower lighting or unsteady conditions.
o

Motion Detection automatically detects moving subjects and adjusts shutter speed and the ISO setting to compensate for camera shake and subject movement.
o

High ISO 32002 capability creates new opportunities to take sharper, more natural-looking photos in lower light conditions.
o

Nikon’s original Best Shot Selector (BSS) automatically takes up to 10 shots while the user presses the shutter, and saves the sharpest image.
*

Smart Portrait System, which integrates the following to make it a snap to capture stunning portrait photos of friends and family:
o

In-Camera Red-Eye Fix™, which automatically fixes most instances of red-eye.
o

Enhanced Face-Priority AF, which can detect up to 12 faces from a variety of angles, including straight on, from the side, or even in a multitude of three-quarter positions.
o

Smile Mode, which automatically detects when your subject smiles and releases the shutter.
o

Blink Warning, which displays a warning message, should the camera detect that the subject has blinked.

The new L100 camera will be available nationwide beginning April 2009 and will retail for $279.95.

COOLPIX L20 and L19
Nikon complements the L100 with two new cameras that successfully blend features and price to create a strong value proposition. The L19 (8.0 megapixels) and L20 (10 megapixels) cameras leverage proven Nikon innovations, including NIKKOR Glass Lenses, EXPEED™ Digital Image Processing concept, Smart Portrait System, Motion Detection and Easy Auto Mode with Scene Auto Selector. These features combine to create digital compact cameras that combine high performance with outstanding operating ease.

The design of the L19 and L20 cameras complement Nikon’s technology innovation to offer ease-of-use, versatility and portability. For example, the large high-resolution 3.0-inch (L20) and 2.7-inch (L19) LCD monitors offer a bright image that consumers can easily view, even outdoors. The cameras also include dedicated buttons on the top of the body, which make it easy for consumers to switch between shooting and playback modes, as well as contours on the large thumb rest and the body itself to ensure a solid grip. Finally, the cameras are powered by (2) AA-batteries, available anywhere.

The L20 will be available in Deep Red beginning February 2009 and will retail for $129.95. The L19 will be available in Bright Silver beginning February 2009 and will retail for $109.95.

For more information about the new L-Series COOLPIX cameras, as well as the full line of COOLPIX products, please visit http://www.nikonusa.com, which links all levels of photographers to the Web’s most comprehensive photo learning and sharing communities.

Nikon Coolpix L20

Among the budget cameras in the Nikon L-series we find the Nikon Coolpix L20. This camera features a 10 megapixel sensor, 3.6x optical zoom and 2.7″ LCD. It is closely releated to the Coolpix L19, but has 2 more megapixels and cost a bit more.

Some key features for the Nikon Coolpix L20:
-10 megapixel sensor
-3.6x optical zoom lens (38 – 136mm)
-2.7″ LCD screen
-20MB of built-in memory

The Nikon Coolpix L20 will be released in February 2009 and cost about $130.

Press release:
Powerful New L100 Packs Performance, High-Powered Zoom And Advance Functions Into An Easy To Use Camera

The L100 Boasts 15x Zoom and High-Speed Shooting

MELVILLE, NY (Feb. 2, 2009) – Nikon Inc. today introduced the new L100, a powerful photographic tool that blends ease-of-use with advanced shooting functions. Optimized for action shots, high-powered zoom and simple operation, the L100 is equipped and ready to help capture every precious moment with quality and clarity that will make lasting memories an even greater joy. The L100 is one of three new L-Series cameras announced today. For consumers seeking a fully-featured camera at a competitive price, Nikon also introduced the L20 and L19, presenting consumers with a strong value proposition.

“The L100 represents a fantastic choice for the family photographer who needs to capture everything from soccer games to portraits,” said Bill Giordano, General Manager Marketing, COOLPIX for Nikon Inc. “It also extends our tradition of previous L-Series cameras, combining ease-of-use, high performance and a tremendous value for consumers.”

The L100 achieves its versatility through its 15x Optical Zoom-NIKKOR lens. Covering 28mm wide-angle to 420mm super-telephoto shooting, the lens’ broad focal range can readily handle everything from landscapes and group shots, to tight close-ups and shots taken from a distance.

Additional features of the 10.0-megapixel L100 include:

*

Large, bright 3.0-inch high-resolution LCD with anti-reflection coating for easy composition and reviewing of images.

*

New Sport Continuous Scene Mode for shooting at up to 13fps1 (up to 30 frames when consumers set the resolution to 3MP or lower). This high-speed capture setting helps photographers stay ahead of the action, whether on the football, baseball or soccer fields.
*

4-Way Vibration Reduction (VR) Image Stabilization
o

Optical VR image stabilization compensates for the effects of camera shake by moving the image sensor, producing clearer, sharper results in lower lighting or unsteady conditions.
o

Motion Detection automatically detects moving subjects and adjusts shutter speed and the ISO setting to compensate for camera shake and subject movement.
o

High ISO 32002 capability creates new opportunities to take sharper, more natural-looking photos in lower light conditions.
o

Nikon’s original Best Shot Selector (BSS) automatically takes up to 10 shots while the user presses the shutter, and saves the sharpest image.
*

Smart Portrait System, which integrates the following to make it a snap to capture stunning portrait photos of friends and family:
o

In-Camera Red-Eye Fix™, which automatically fixes most instances of red-eye.
o

Enhanced Face-Priority AF, which can detect up to 12 faces from a variety of angles, including straight on, from the side, or even in a multitude of three-quarter positions.
o

Smile Mode, which automatically detects when your subject smiles and releases the shutter.
o

Blink Warning, which displays a warning message, should the camera detect that the subject has blinked.

The new L100 camera will be available nationwide beginning April 2009 and will retail for $279.95.

COOLPIX L20 and L19
Nikon complements the L100 with two new cameras that successfully blend features and price to create a strong value proposition. The L19 (8.0 megapixels) and L20 (10 megapixels) cameras leverage proven Nikon innovations, including NIKKOR Glass Lenses, EXPEED™ Digital Image Processing concept, Smart Portrait System, Motion Detection and Easy Auto Mode with Scene Auto Selector. These features combine to create digital compact cameras that combine high performance with outstanding operating ease.

The design of the L19 and L20 cameras complement Nikon’s technology innovation to offer ease-of-use, versatility and portability. For example, the large high-resolution 3.0-inch (L20) and 2.7-inch (L19) LCD monitors offer a bright image that consumers can easily view, even outdoors. The cameras also include dedicated buttons on the top of the body, which make it easy for consumers to switch between shooting and playback modes, as well as contours on the large thumb rest and the body itself to ensure a solid grip. Finally, the cameras are powered by (2) AA-batteries, available anywhere.

The L20 will be available in Deep Red beginning February 2009 and will retail for $129.95. The L19 will be available in Bright Silver beginning February 2009 and will retail for $109.95.

For more information about the new L-Series COOLPIX cameras, as well as the full line of COOLPIX products, please visit http://www.nikonusa.com, which links all levels of photographers to the Web’s most comprehensive photo learning and sharing communities.

Nikon Coolpix L19

Nikon has announced a new line of budget cameras. Among them we find the Nikon Coolpix L19 with a megapixel sensor and a 3.6x optical zoom lens. The camera is closely related to its big brother the Coolpix L20.

Some key features for the Nikon Coolpix L19:
-8 megapixel sensor
-3.6x optical zoom (41 – 145mm)
-2.7″ LCD screen
-20MB of built-in memory

The Nikon Coolpix L19 will be on the marked in February 2009 and cost about $110.

Press release:
Powerful New L100 Packs Performance, High-Powered Zoom And Advance Functions Into An Easy To Use Camera

The L100 Boasts 15x Zoom and High-Speed Shooting

MELVILLE, NY (Feb. 2, 2009) – Nikon Inc. today introduced the new L100, a powerful photographic tool that blends ease-of-use with advanced shooting functions. Optimized for action shots, high-powered zoom and simple operation, the L100 is equipped and ready to help capture every precious moment with quality and clarity that will make lasting memories an even greater joy. The L100 is one of three new L-Series cameras announced today. For consumers seeking a fully-featured camera at a competitive price, Nikon also introduced the L20 and L19, presenting consumers with a strong value proposition.

“The L100 represents a fantastic choice for the family photographer who needs to capture everything from soccer games to portraits,” said Bill Giordano, General Manager Marketing, COOLPIX for Nikon Inc. “It also extends our tradition of previous L-Series cameras, combining ease-of-use, high performance and a tremendous value for consumers.”

The L100 achieves its versatility through its 15x Optical Zoom-NIKKOR lens. Covering 28mm wide-angle to 420mm super-telephoto shooting, the lens’ broad focal range can readily handle everything from landscapes and group shots, to tight close-ups and shots taken from a distance.

Additional features of the 10.0-megapixel L100 include:

*

Large, bright 3.0-inch high-resolution LCD with anti-reflection coating for easy composition and reviewing of images.

*

New Sport Continuous Scene Mode for shooting at up to 13fps1 (up to 30 frames when consumers set the resolution to 3MP or lower). This high-speed capture setting helps photographers stay ahead of the action, whether on the football, baseball or soccer fields.
*

4-Way Vibration Reduction (VR) Image Stabilization
o

Optical VR image stabilization compensates for the effects of camera shake by moving the image sensor, producing clearer, sharper results in lower lighting or unsteady conditions.
o

Motion Detection automatically detects moving subjects and adjusts shutter speed and the ISO setting to compensate for camera shake and subject movement.
o

High ISO 32002 capability creates new opportunities to take sharper, more natural-looking photos in lower light conditions.
o

Nikon’s original Best Shot Selector (BSS) automatically takes up to 10 shots while the user presses the shutter, and saves the sharpest image.
*

Smart Portrait System, which integrates the following to make it a snap to capture stunning portrait photos of friends and family:
o

In-Camera Red-Eye Fix™, which automatically fixes most instances of red-eye.
o

Enhanced Face-Priority AF, which can detect up to 12 faces from a variety of angles, including straight on, from the side, or even in a multitude of three-quarter positions.
o

Smile Mode, which automatically detects when your subject smiles and releases the shutter.
o

Blink Warning, which displays a warning message, should the camera detect that the subject has blinked.

The new L100 camera will be available nationwide beginning April 2009 and will retail for $279.95.

COOLPIX L20 and L19
Nikon complements the L100 with two new cameras that successfully blend features and price to create a strong value proposition. The L19 (8.0 megapixels) and L20 (10 megapixels) cameras leverage proven Nikon innovations, including NIKKOR Glass Lenses, EXPEED™ Digital Image Processing concept, Smart Portrait System, Motion Detection and Easy Auto Mode with Scene Auto Selector. These features combine to create digital compact cameras that combine high performance with outstanding operating ease.

The design of the L19 and L20 cameras complement Nikon’s technology innovation to offer ease-of-use, versatility and portability. For example, the large high-resolution 3.0-inch (L20) and 2.7-inch (L19) LCD monitors offer a bright image that consumers can easily view, even outdoors. The cameras also include dedicated buttons on the top of the body, which make it easy for consumers to switch between shooting and playback modes, as well as contours on the large thumb rest and the body itself to ensure a solid grip. Finally, the cameras are powered by (2) AA-batteries, available anywhere.

The L20 will be available in Deep Red beginning February 2009 and will retail for $129.95. The L19 will be available in Bright Silver beginning February 2009 and will retail for $109.95.

For more information about the new L-Series COOLPIX cameras, as well as the full line of COOLPIX products, please visit http://www.nikonusa.com, which links all levels of photographers to the Web’s most comprehensive photo learning and sharing communities.