News

Nikon announced the AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 ED VR II and the AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II, two telephoto zoom lenses further refined to provide photographers with exceptional optics for outstanding image clarity and sharpness, both featuring Vibration Reduction (VR II) image stabilization. The 18-200mm, Nikon’s best-selling premium high-ratio zoom ever, offers enthusiasts excellent versatility. The 70-200mm f/2.8, now benefiting from Nikon's exclusive Nano Crystal Coat, retains its status as a preeminent choice for discerning professionals in a multitude of shooting disciplines.  

Both of these lenses use Nikon’s VR II image stabilization technology, which is engineered specifically for, and optimized to, function most effectively for each lens design to substantially reduce camera shake-related image blur.  VR II allows photographers to shoot handheld at as many as four shutter speeds slower than would otherwise be possible, better assuring dramatically sharper images—even in challenging lighting conditions. Two VR modes are available: “Normal” mode, ideal for everyday use and panning a subject; and “Active” mode, for use in instances where more constant vibration (i.e. camera shake) is present, such as when shooting from a moving vehicle. 

The “go-to” lens of demanding professionals and serious enthusiasts, the 70-200mm f/2.8 is one of the most useful and sought after high-performance lenses for sports, wildlife, portrait, travel and news photographers. Nikon has further refined the lens, with an enhanced optical formula featuring seven extra low dispersion (ED) glass elements. These elements provide the ultimate in rendering characteristics to capture vibrant, high resolution images with optimal contrast. Image quality is further enhanced by Nikon’s Nano Crystal Coat, which reduces instances of lens flare and ghosting, elevating optical performance, even in tricky conditions such as those found in professional sports settings and stage events.

Designed to deliver the pinnacle of image quality in a wide variety of conditions, the new 70-200mm VR II lens also includes a Silent Wave Motor (SWM) for fast, quiet autofocusing. The SWM takes full advantage of 3D tracking autofocus (AF) systems, such as those found on the FX-format D3X, D3 and D700 D-SLR cameras. Three focus modes are available - M, A/M and M/A - for automatically focusing, manually focusing or fine tuning AF performance to best suit the photographers’ needs. Nine rounded diaphragm blades contribute to a more attractive bokeh, allowing photographers create soft and more naturally separated backgrounds that better highlight the subject.

The AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-200mm, the next generation of Nikon’s all-time best-selling premium high-ratio zoom, combines an 11X zoom range with VR II to provide DX-format enthusiasts with an extremely versatile zoom range in a compact form-factor. Nikon enhanced construction to include a zoom lock switch, to allow photographers to secure the lens barrel at its minimum length, eliminating the natural gravitational effect that can draw the barrel downward during transport. The inclusion of Nikon’s exclusive Super Integrated Coating (SIC) reduces instances of ghosting or flaring. Whether shooting artistic landscapes or vacation snapshots, this lens provides fast and quiet AF operation with the help of Nikon’s SWM technology.

Designed to be a one-lens solution and weighing in at a scant 19.9 ounces and measuring only 3.8 inches in length, this lens provides an extraordinary (35mm equivalent) picture angle of 27-300mm when mounted on any Nikon DX-format camera such as the new D300s or D3000 D-SLR cameras. Additionally, the optical formula contains two ED glass elements and three aspherical lenses to minimize chromatic aberration and distortion. The resulting images exhibit extreme sharpness, extraordinarily vibrant color and crisp contrast.

Price and Availability
The AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 ED VR II lens is scheduled to be available at Nikon authorized dealers beginning September 2009 at an estimated selling price of $849.95. The AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II lens is scheduled to be available at Nikon authorized dealers beginning November 2009 at an estimated selling price of $2399.95.  For more information, please visit www.nikonusa.com.

...

From October 5-8, Nikon will sponsor 100 of the worlds most promising young
photojournalists who will gather in rural upstate New York for the 20th annual
Eddie Adams workshop, also known as "Barnstorm". These handpicked
students will be mentored by seasoned professional photographers and photo editors
during the four-day intense workshop. They will learn the skills needed to perfect
the art of telling a compelling story with photography and leave with lifelong
friends and an unforgettable experience. Students will also have the opportunity
to try out Nikon's new D3 and D300 professional digital SLR cameras and
get technical advice from Nikon experts available on-site.

...

Incorporating
upgrades based on user feedback and advancement in technologies, Nikon (www.nikondigital.com)
today introduced the D70s 6.1-effective megapixel digital SLR camera. The D70s
builds on the success of the D70, with multiple internal and external refinements
including an improved autofocus system, larger LCD monitor, the addition of
a remote cord port, new graphic user interface, among several other enhancements.
The Nikon D70s has a DX format 6.1-effective megapixel CCD sensor and an improved
autofocus system delivers enhanced performance, especially in Dynamic area AF
and Dynamic area AF with closest subject priority modes. This combined with
Nikon's unique Dynamic Buffer technology (that allows the camera to continuously
take up to 144 pictures at a speed of three pictures per second) makes the D70s
even more responsive and when photographing fast moving subjects.



The D70s incorporates a host of new enhancements and refinements internally
and externally, in addition to all of the advanced features and innovations
found in the D70:

· A refined 5-area autofocus system now has an all-area search priority
to go along with the camera's single area, dynamic area, and close subject
priorities, improving the camera's ability to acquire focus on fast moving
subjects within the frame.

· The camera now boasts a larger 2.0" LCD monitor, making it easier
for users to review images and access menus.

· A new remote port for the MC-DC1 electronic cable release (optional)
allows users to trigger the camera and hold the shutter open via an electronic
cable release

· A built-in Speedlight with a wider angle of coverage, supports 18mm
lenses.

· A new easier-to-read menu design in the D70s uses color-coded menus,
and a larger type-face.

· A higher capacity EN-EL3a battery offers users more pictures per charge.
The EN-EL3a battery comes with a new, smaller MH-18a battery charger. Both the
new battery and charger are included with the D70s.

...

Nikon has introduced the high-resolution D200 digital SLR--a high performance
model that combines an array of new technologies with advanced capabilities
inherited from Nikon's venerable D2X professional digital camera. The
D200 features a newly developed 10.2 megapixel CCD image, high-speed 4-channel
data output that contributes to 5fps continuous shooting performance, and an
advanced Optical Low Pass Filter that helps prevent moiré, color fringing
and shifting while improving resolving power.

...

Nikon Inc. has introduced the latest generation of its image processing and editing
software, Capture NX 2. Capture NX 2 utilizes U Point technology to give photographers
access to Control Points that enhance color, exposure, and other image quality
settings quickly and easily. New technologies abound in Capture NX 2, including
the new Selection Control Point that places a commanding suite of image editing
tools at the user's fingertips.



In addition, Capture NX 2 adds an advanced Auto Retouch Brush for seamless retouching,
an improved yet simple user interface, updated menus. It also offers advanced
RAW (NEF) processing capabilities, simplified image-browsing, selection and labeling
as well as improved batch-processing capabilities, superior color management and
comprehensive system compatibility with Nikon's EXPEED image processing
concept.



Capture NX 2 also enables simplified editing and processing for most JPEG and
TIFF files regardless of camera manufacturer or model. Its broad range of editing
tools makes image retouching, enhancing and editing simple and intuitive, allowing
users to immediately see the effects as they are applied.



New Additions to Capture NX 2

· Selection Control Points: Now users can selectively edit
photographs without the need to manually outline or mask the area for editing.
Simply place a Selection Control Point anywhere on the photograph then choose
from almost any adjustment such as D-Lighting, Unsharp Mask or noise reduction,
while limiting the "reach" of that adjustment to just the selected
area.



· Auto Retouch Brush: Capture NX 2 adds an automatic retouch
tool to its image editing toolbox, allowing users to seamlessly remove blemishes,
dust, and other distracting elements from photographs while maintaining the integrity
of the image.



· Shadow/Highlight Adjustment: With just a simple slider
adjustment, users can easily open up shadows or recover blown out highlights.



· Redesigned GUI with Customizable Workspaces: As part
of an interface redesign, the new Capture NX 2 includes a Workspace feature that
maximizes the tool and palette layout for the task at hand. Users can create unique
custom workspaces ideal for working with single or multiple monitors. All palettes
and windows within can be docked or undocked or hidden as needed. Predefined workspaces
include: Browser, Metadata, Edit, or an optimized combination of each. In addition,
users can access their most used folders with the new "Favorite Folder"
feature.



· Improved Edit List: Nikon's Capture NX 2 also incorporates
an improved edit list that allows users to apply common enhancements to images
with ease. Common tools like tone curves, exposure compensation, contrast, and
highlight and shadow protection are just a click away via the Quick Fix menu.
The improved edit list allows for camera and lens corrections like color moiré
reduction, dust off, auto color aberration, auto red-eye correction, vignette
control and fisheye lens correction.



Simultaneous Use of Tools: Users can now complete image editing faster than ever
before with the use of simultaneous tools. For example, users can adjust the brightness
and contrast of an image while boosting the color of the image at the same time.



· Filters, Ratings and Sorting Toolbar: Capture NX 2 offers
an advanced filtering system in its tool bar, affording users an efficient way
to filter through hundreds of images by user-defined labels, ratings, file types
and file attributes. What's more, these new filters, ratings and sorting
tools are integrated into the metadata palette, allowing users the ability to
easily edit and view XMP/IPTC information.



Capture NX 2 will be available for purchase throughout the United States in late
June 2008 with a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $179.95 (full
version) or $109.95 (upgrade). A 60-day free trial version will be available today
for users who wish to experience all that Capture NX 2 offers. For more information,
and to download the 60-day trial version please visit www.nikonusa.com.

Back in April Nikon introduced a selection of special edition DSLRs, commemorative lenses, binoculars and collectibles in celebration of the company’s 100th Anniversary, which falls on July 25. And now the iconic brand has added to their collection of anniversary products with a snazzy leather camera bag, 10 limited-edition posters, and vintage t-shirts for men and women.

Nikon has just introduced a special new DSLR kit for film buffs. Called the Nikon D750 Filmmaker’s Kit, the package includes some essentials for photographers interested in getting started in the world of cinema.