The revolutionary 12.1 effective megapixel D3 features Nikon?s new FX-format CMOS sensor, measuring 23.9 x 36mm, which is nearly identical to the size of 35mm film. With the fastest startup time, shortest viewfinder blackout time, and shortest shutter lag of any digital SLR camera as well as the capability to shoot up to nine frames per second at full FX-format resolution, the D3 is the world?s fastest digital SLR camera in its class.* (*as of August 2007)
Designed with sports photographers and photojournalists in mind, the Nikon D3 introduces an astounding list of brand new features and technologies that make it the most sophisticated and advanced Nikon digital SLR to date. In addition to the new FX-format CMOS sensor, the D3 incorporates Nikon?s new EXPEED Image Processing System that is central to the blazing speed and processing power needed for many of the D3?s new features.
Nikon?s Sensor Formats: FX and DX
While the DX-format has been widely accepted by professional photographers and photo enthusiasts around the world, there is an increasing demand among professionals for a digital SLR camera that features higher ISO sensitivity, wider dynamic range and offers the same relationship between picture angle and depth-of-field that were the hallmarks of the 35mm film format.
Responding to this demand, Nikon has developed the D3 as its first digital SLR camera that features the Nikon FX-format CMOS sensor to meet the real-world requirements of its professional customers. The D3 delivers full resolution 12.1 megapixel images at up to nine frames per second when used with conventional AF-Nikkor lenses. When used with DX Nikkor lenses, the D3 automatically switches to the DX-format mode that uses a cropped portion of the sensor to generate 5.1 megapixel resolution images. While in this mode, the D3 automatically masks the portion of the viewfinder that will not be photographed and enables the capability to shoot up to 11 frames per second.
The Most Intelligent Nikon Ever The D3 introduces a range of innovative technologies and features that significantly improve the accuracy, control and performance professional photographers can get from their equipment. Nikon?s exclusive Scene Recognition System advances the use of Nikon?s acclaimed 1,005-segment sensor to recognize colors and light patterns that help the camera determine the subject and the type of scene being photographed, before an image is captured. This information is also used to improve the accuracy of auto focus, auto exposure and auto white balance detection functions in the D3. For example, the camera can track moving subjects better in all directions and by identifying them it can also automatically select focus points faster and with greater accuracy. It can also analyze scene highlights and more accurately determine exposure, as well as infer light sources to deliver more accurate white balance.
The D3 incorporates Nikon?s new Multi-CAM 3500FX auto focus module that features an intelligent array of 15 cross-type sensors and 36 horizontal sensors. These sensors can either 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 color and light information to accurately track the subject. Nikon's new Scene Recognition System and improved focus algorithms also contribute to the impressive performance of the new 51-point AF system.
Nikon's new Picture Control System makes it easy for users of all experience levels to select and apply adjustments to how their pictures are rendered and create optimized settings to suit their individual preferences. The Picture Control System offers four basic setting options ? Standard, Neutral, Vivid and Monochrome. These can be directly modified for easy adjustment and customization of image parameters, such as sharpening, tone compensation, brightness and saturation. Photographers can customize and store up to nine customized options in the D3 and export up to 99 to a CF memory card, enabling photographers to share settings among multiple D3 cameras.
The Fastest Camera in its Class The D3 has the fastest reaction times of any camera in its class. Its shutter release time lag is only 37 milliseconds, and its start-up time is approximately 0.12 seconds. It is capable of continuously shooting approximately nine frames per second in full resolution with FX-format, up to 64 consecutive frames in JPEG, Normal compression. For NEF (RAW) files, the D3 can shoot up to 20 or up to 17 consecutive frames depending on whether it is set to 12-bit or 14-bit images. When using a DX-format lens, the camera automatically switches to DX-format mode, adjusting the resolution of the camera to 5.1 megapixels. In the DX-format mode, photographers also have the opportunity to increase the speed at which the camera can take pictures by limiting the auto exposure and going up to 10 frames per second or limiting both auto exposure and auto focus and going up to 11 frames per second.
Refined Ergonomics and Usability
The camera?s viewfinder provides virtually 100 percent coverage for accurate framing, while an ultra-high definition, 920,000-dot VGA LCD screen on the rear of the camera displays images with vivid color and clarity. The 170-degree wide viewing angle makes composing shots using the LCD screen in LiveView mode easy. The D3 also features a unique Virtual Horizon digital level sensor that indicates the camera?s alignment relative to the true horizon on the rear LCD screen or in the viewfinder.
The D3 also features two CompactFlash card slots that can be used for consecutive recording (overflow), simultaneous recording (backup), separating recording of RAW and JPEG files or even copying pictures between the two cards. Images can be displayed directly from the camera to a high-definition monitor using the camera?s HDMI port and an optional cable.
The D3 is designed for professional use in demanding conditions. The exterior of the D3 is crafted of magnesium alloy and the camera?s shutter mechanism is tested to 300,000-cycle releases. The 3.0-inch LCD is strengthened with tempered glass and the D3?s comprehensive array of rubber gaskets and seals protect vulnerable entry points from dust and moisture.
Specifications:
Effective Pixels: 12.1 million Image Size (pixels): FX format (36 x 24): 4,256 x 2,832 (L), 3,184 x 2,120 (M), 2,128 x 1,416 (S) 5:4 (30 x 24): 3,552 x 2,832 (L), 2,656 x 2,120 (M), 1,776 x 1,416 (S) DX format (24 x 16): 2,784 x 1,848 (L), 2,080 x 1,384 (M), 1,392 x 920 (S) Image Sensor: CMOS sensor, 23.9 x 36.0 mm; total pixels: 12.87 million; Nikon FX format Sensitivity: ISO 200 to 6,400 in steps of 1/3, 1/2, or 1 EV; sensitivity decreases approx. 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, or 1 (ISO 100 equivalent) EV below ISO 200, and increases approx. 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, 1 (ISO 12,800 equivalent), or 2 (ISO 25,600 equivalent) EV over ISO 6,400 Storage System: Compressed 12/14-bit NEF (RAW, Lossless compressed): approx. 60-80 percent Compressed 12/14-bit NEF (RAW, Compressed): approx. 45-60 percent JPEG: JPEG-baseline-compliant; can be selected from Size priority and Optimal quality Storage Media: CompactFlash(TM) (Type I/II, compliant with UDMA); Microdrives Release Modes: 1) Single-frame [S] mode 2) Continuous low-speed [CL] mode: 1-9 frames per second* 3) Continuous high-speed [CH] mode: 9 fps (9-11 fps with DX format)* 4) LiveView [LV] mode 5) Self-timer mode 6) Mirror-up [Mup] mode *With Continuous-servo AF, S or M exposure mode, shutter speed 1/250 s or faster; other settings are set at Default White Balance: Auto (TTL white balance with main image sensor and 1,005-pixel RGB sensor); Seven manual modes can be preset with fine-tuning; color temperature setting; white balance bracketing: 2 to 9 exposures in increments of 1, 2 or 3 LiveView: Handheld mode: TLL phase-difference AF with 51 focus areas (15 cross-type sensors) Tripod mode: focal-plane contrast AF on a desired point within a specific area LCD Monitor: 3 in., approx. 920,000-dot (VGA), 170-degree wide-viewing angle, 100 percent TFT LCD with brightness adjustment Playback Function : 1) Full frame, 2) Thumbnail (4 or 9 segments) 3) Zoom 4) Slideshow 5) Histogram indication 6) Shooting data 7) Highlight point display 8) Auto image rotation Video Output : NTSC or PAL; simultaneous playback from both the video output and on the LCD monitor available HDMI Output: Supports HDMI version 1.3a; Type A connector is provided as HDMI output terminal; simultaneous playback from both the HDMI output terminal and on the LCD monitor not available Interface: Hi-speed USB Lens Mount: Nikon F mount with AF coupling and AF contacts Compatible Lenses*1: 1) Type G or D AF Nikkor: All functions supported 2) DX AF Nikkor: All functions supported except FX-format (36x24)/5:4 (30x24) image size 3) AF Nikkor other than type G or D*2: All functions supported except 3D Color Matrix Metering II 4) AI-P Nikkor: All functions supported except autofocus and 3D Color Matrix Metering II 5) Non-CPU AI Nikkor: Can be used in exposure modes A and M; electronic rangefinder can be used if maximum aperture is f/5.6 or faster; Color Matrix Metering and aperture value display supported if user provides lens data *1. IX Nikkor lenses cannot be used *2. Excluding lenses for F3AF. Picture Angle: Equivalent to angle produced by lens focal length (1.5 times when DX format is selected) Viewfinder: SLR-type with fixed eye-level pentaprism; built-in diopter adjustment (-3 to +1 m-1) Eyepoint: 18 mm (-1.0 m-1) Focusing Screen: Type B BriteView Clear Matte VI screen Viewfinder Frame Coverage: Approx. 100 percent (vertical/horizontal) Viewfinder Magnification: Approx. 0.7x (50mm f/1.4 lens at infinity; -1.0 m-1) Reflex Mirror Quick-return type Lens Aperture: Instant-return type, with depth-of-field preview button Autofocus: Autofocus TTL phase detection, 51 focus points (15 cross-type sensors) by Nikon Multi-CAM 3500FX autofocus module; Detection: -1 to +19 EV (ISO 100 at 20 degree C/68 degree F); AF fine adjustment possible. Focal-plane contrast [in LiveView (Tripod) mode] Focus Point: Single AF point can be selected from 51 or 11 focus points AF-Area Mode: 1) Single-point AF 2) Dynamic AF [number of AF areas: 9, 21, 51, 51 (3D-tracking)] 3) Automatic-area AF Focus Lock: Focus can be locked by pressing AE-L/AF-L button or by pressing shutter-release button halfway (single-point AF in AF-S) Exposure Metering System : TTL full-aperture exposure metering using 1,005-pixel RGB sensor 1) 3D Color Matrix Metering II (type G and D lenses); Color Matrix Metering II (other CPU lenses); Color Matrix Metering (non-CPU lenses if user provides lens data) 2) Center-weighted: Weight of 75 percent given to 8-, 15- or 20-mm circle in center of frame, or weighting based on average of entire frame 3) Spot: Meters 4-mm circle (about 1.5 percent of frame) centered on selected focus area (on center focus area when non-CPU lens is used) Metering Range: 1) 0 to 20 EV (Matrix or center-weighted metering) 2) 2 to 20 EV (Spot metering) (ISO 100 equivalent, f/1.4 lens, at 20 degrees C/68 degrees F) Exposure Meter Coupling: Combined CPU and AI Exposure Modes: 1) Programmed Auto (P) with flexible program, 2) Shutter-Priority Auto (S), 3) Aperture-Priority Auto (A), 4) Manual (M) Exposure Compensation: plus or minus 5 EV in increments of 1/3, 1/2 or 1 EV Exposure Lock: Exposure locked at detected value with AE-L/AF-L button Exposure Bracketing: Exposure and/or flash bracketing (2 to 9 exposures in increments of 1/3, 1/2, 2/3 or 1 EV) Picture Control System: Four setting options: Standard, Neutral, Vivid, Monochrome; each option can be adjusted Shutter: Electronically controlled vertical-travel focal-plane shutter; 1/8,000 to 30 s in steps of 1/3, 1/2 or 1 EV; Bulb Sync Contact: X=1/250 s; flash synchronization at up to 1/250 s Flash Control: 1) TTL flash control with 1,005-pixel RGB sensor; i-TTL balanced fill-flash and standard i-TTL fill-flash available with SB-800, 600 or 400 2) Auto aperture (AA): Available with SB-800 and CPU lens 3) Non-TTL auto (A): Available with SB-800, 28, 27 or 22s 4) Range-priority manual (GN): Available with SB-800 Flash Sync Modes: 1) Front-curtain sync (normal), 2) Slow sync, 3) Rear-curtain sync, 4) Red-eye reduction, 5) Redeye reduction with slow sync Sync Terminal: ISO 519 standard terminal Accessory Shoe: Standard ISO 518 hot-shoe contact with safety lock Creative Lighting System: With Speedlights such as SB-800, SB-600, SB-R200, supports Advanced Wireless Lighting, Auto FP High-Speed Sync, Flash Color Information Communication, modeling flash and FV lock Self-timer: Electronically controlled timer with duration of 2, 3, 10 or 20 sec. 10-pin Terminal: 1) GPS: NMEA 0183 (Ver. 2.01 and 3.01) interface standard supported with 9-pin D-sub cable and MC-35 GPS Cable (optional) 2) Remote control: via 10-pin terminal Depth-of-field: When CPU lens is attached, lens aperture can be stopped down to value selected by user (A and M modes) or value selected by camera (P and S modes) Supported Languages: Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), Dutch, English, Finnish, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Swedish Power Source: One EN-EL4a/EL4 Rechargeable Li-ion Battery, MH-22 Quick Charger, EH-6 AC Adapter (optional) Tripod Socket: 1/4 in. (ISO 1222) Dimensions (W x H x D): 6.3 x 6.2 x 3.4 in. Approx. (159.5 x 157 x 87.5 mm) Weight: Approx. 2.7 lb. (1,240 g) without battery, memory card, body cap or accessory shoe cover
