NIKON D2H with new lenses and accessories

07/22/2003 07:48:34 AM · #1

Nikon announces a new generation digital imaging system for professional photographers

The Nikon D2H Digital SLR camera ushers in a new era of ultra-fast, high-quality action photography, that expands the existing DX format

TORONTO, July 22 /CNW/ - Nikon Canada today announced the crowning jewel
of its line of DX Format products for professional photographers. The
Nikon D2H debuts as the much-anticipated, high-speed, total image quality Digital SLR camera that photojournalists and photo enthusiasts have been looking for.

Nikon also announced three new innovative lenses, a brand new wireless
flash system and an advanced Nikon Capture software, all compatible with the Nikon D2H, as well as other Nikon Digital SLRs, that allow professionals the highest standards of flexibility, creativity and return on investment.

"The Nikon D2H is a major step forward in Nikon innovation," said Peter
Burke, President, Nikon Canada. "It features the first Nikon-developed DX sensor and an impressive array of exclusive features to improve speed, response, resolution and handling that will establish it as the professional's choice in photojournalism and sports photography."

Since the launch of the D1 series and successful introduction of the
Nikon DX Format in September 1999, Nikon has been conducting extensive
research into the needs of photographers in every field and discipline.

This research, coupled with painstaking analysis of feedback from Nikon
users worldwide, has led to a string of technological and design innovations for the Nikon DX Format, aimed at enhancing system performance for the serious photographer.

Nikon D2H

The Nikon D2H is the first Digital SLR in the world capable of continuous shooting at eight frames per second for up to 40 consecutive JPEG or 25 RAW (NEF - Nikon Electronic Image File) full-resolution (2,464 x 1,632-pixel) images. The Nikon D2H also offers the shortest 37ms shutter time lag of any Digital SLR today, making this camera as responsive as the highly-acclaimed Nikon F5 professional system film SLR. Instant power-up means the D2H is ready to shoot when you are. Together, these high-speed functions give photographers exceptional control over moving subjects and rapidly unfolding events.

The Nikon D2H has an image resolution of 4.1 effective megapixels. "We
chose a four megapixel resolution as the right combination to achieve the speed and image quality we wanted to have with this camera," says Burke.

"Photography is about more than megapixels. It's about superior optics and having the right camera to do the job. The Nikon D2H gives professionals the speed they're looking for along with legendary Nikon image quality superior to any Digital SLR on the market."

Nikon's exclusive new JFET imaging sensor LBCAST, the first Nikon-
designed sensor, combines performance innovations to reduce power consumption and minimize digital noise, all while increasing speed and image quality. The new sensor, designed around the DX Format, is built to read two channels of data from each pixel simultaneously (both in NEF-RAW and JPEG) to achieve maximum speed in image reproduction and to deliver the instant responsiveness that professionals need to capture the moment.

Another milestone technology incorporated in the Nikon D2H is the
camera's new Multi-CAM 2000 Autofocus (AF) Sensor Module, which ensures quick response and razor-sharp focus in all shooting conditions.

This high-speed, high-precision AF system features 11 sensors of which
nine are cross-type sensors that effectively cover the majority of the image area.

Despite being a powerhouse of Nikon technologies, the D2H comes in an
easy-to-handle magnesium alloy body that is tightly sealed to resist exposure to dust and water drops - and sturdy enough to withstand the rigors of globe-trotting photojournalism. Photographers will especially appreciate the large buttons and controls, all logically placed for smooth, intuitive handling. The camera's ergonomic design and styling was created by famed industrial designer Giorgetto Giugiaro, exclusively for the Nikon D2H.

Wireless Freedom for Professional Photographers

Wireless Transmitter WT-1

The Nikon D2H takes digital photography to the leading edge of
professional shooting technology with wireless capabilities that allow
photographers to transfer photos and sound data back to a studio or newsroom wirelessly using the optional Wireless Transmitter WT-1 and IEEE 802.11b compatible access points. Photographers have more freedom of movement and the ability to deliver photos on deadline.

Speedlight SB-800

Wireless is also a key feature of Nikon's new Speedlight SB-800 multiple
flash system. The SB-800 forms the core of a new Creative Lighting System optimized for the D2H to make advanced wireless lighting as easy to use as a single on-camera speedlight. The new i-TTL Flash Control system delivers outstanding results as well as new creative possibilities. This system allows photographers to use up to three remote i-TTL speedlight groups controlled through a multi-channeled master SB-800.

Nikon DX Lenses

Although professional photographers can use their existing arsenal of
film lenses with Nikon Digital SLRs, Nikon DX lenses are developed exclusively for use with Nikon DX Format Digital SLR cameras, providing a circle of coverage that matches the DX sensor exactly, and eliminating the chromatic aberration and distortion often found with other systems.

DX Format lenses are lightweight and compact, allowing photographers more portability and manageability with their systems.

- AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 17-55mm f/2.8G IF-ED Wide-angle to Medium Telephoto Lens

This versatile wide-angle to medium telephoto 3.2x zoom lens is the
perfect complement to the D2H, designed to cover the most practical
focal range for all Nikon Digital SLRs. When mounted on any of the
Nikon D2H, D1-series or D100 Digital SLR cameras, the picture angle is
the equivalent to 25.5 ~ 82.5mm on a 35mm format camera. This
multi-purpose lens maintains a fast f/2.8 aperture, making it
general-purpose and easy-to-use for all photographers shooting multiple
types of scenarios.

- AF DX Fisheye-Nikkor 10.5mm f/2.8G ED Lens

An important addition to the Nikon DX format Digital SLR lineup, this
is the first fisheye lens developed exclusively for DX Format cameras
as well as the first to achieve a full-frame 180 degrees picture angle.
The ultra-wide-angle focal length of 10.5mm brings digital camera users
a picture angle equivalent to that of a 16mm fisheye lens on a 35mm
format camera.

- AF-S VR Zoom-Nikkor 200-400mm f/4G IF-ED Super Telephoto Lens

Targeted at serious photographers, this lens can be used with both film
and Nikon D-series SLRs. When used with a DX Format Digital SLR, this
lens offers incredible range, operating as a 300-600mm supertelephoto
lens, with a picture angle up to the equivalent of 900mm with the
TC-14EII and 1200mm with the TC-20EII teleconverter. It features
Nikon's Vibration Reduction (VR) system and exclusive built-in
SWM (Silent Wave Motor) for fast, quiet autofocus.

Nikon Capture 4

Nikon Capture 4 is a comprehensive image-editing and remote camera
control software package that fully supports NEF (Nikon Electronic image
File), TIFF and JPEG images from the D2H. Features of the new version include Image Dust Off sensor dust & particle shade removal control, Digital DEE(TM) scene-specific automatic dodge and burn control, a transformation function that creates two varieties of ultra-wideangle image from those shot using the AF DX Fisheye-Nikkor 10.5mm f/2.8G ED, as well as improved batch processing.

Product Availability

All products are scheduled to be available in October 2003 at authorized
Nikon Canada professional dealers.

Morgan (aka Michael Martin)

Jacko

Canon EOS-20D

07/22/2003 08:17:29 AM · #2

Hey Nikon God, thanks for the update. Did you pick up a couple of D2Hs to complement your two D1Xs. :) I can't wait to see what Nikon will come out with to compete with the Canon 1Ds (11 Megapixels).

Imagine that: 40 frames at 8 frames per second. Sweet. Funny to see only a 4 megapixel sensor, even though they say it is to increase speed. Should be a function where you could switch (from let's say 8 MPs) to 4Mps to get optimum shooting speed. 4MP is enough for most sport photography pics in news papers and magaszines.

Still looks like a cool camera. Any guesses what it will cost. I say $2700 so it can compete against the Canon 1D.

Thanks Morgan.

07/22/2003 10:02:18 AM · #3

Jacques,

This is just for the H-series, I am curious to learn what is planned for the X-series. The D2H is definitely for news, sports and generally for fast action photography. The proposed D2x will be for high resolution photography like fashion, portraits, and science. I heard it will be announced in September.

Cheers,
Michael

Jacko

Canon EOS-20D

Nikon AF-S Nikkor 17-35mm f/2.8D IF-ED

07/22/2003 10:53:53 AM · #4

This type of competition might bring down the price of the Canon 1D. Must ... resist ... temptation. Nah, I'm having too much fun being part of team 10D. Dang, did you see the cute chicks we have on our team?.

;)

RiderGal

Nikon D300

07/22/2003 11:43:41 AM · #5

DROOL... :-p pant pant... DROOL.... yummy new D2H :-p hehehehe....

Jacko

Canon EOS-20D

07/22/2003 11:48:52 AM · #6

I knew this news would make you all hot and bothered.

Originally posted by RiderGal:

DROOL... :-p pant pant... DROOL.... yummy new D2H :-p hehehehe....

07/22/2003 03:26:10 PM · #7

Originally posted by RiderGal:

DROOL... :-p pant pant... DROOL.... yummy new D2H :-p hehehehe....

Talya,

Just think. You could shoot an indoor sporting event at MSG and be live via an 802.11b hotspot going to a web site, newspaper, TV, magazine (yes, even Sports Illustrated), or wherever. There are too many applications for this sort of interface, let alone interfacing to laptops and desktop computers, strobes, and all sorts of other accessories. I sense that this Wi-FI interface idea will be a very hot topic in the years to come. Now Canon has to catch up (Sorry Jacques).

So, Talya, even if you drooled on it or used it in the shower, there are simply no cables to short circuit, so it will even work for you too. Simply incredible.

Cheers,
Michael

Message edited by author 2003-07-22 15:29:37.

Diversq

Canon EOS-10D

07/22/2003 03:31:10 PM · #8

Originally posted by Jacko:

Did someone say cute chicks, point'em out jacko, I love cute chicks..

Gordon

RIM BlackBerry Curve

Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM

07/22/2003 03:36:23 PM · #9

It sounds like the Wireless is a bolt on extra - that right ? It's hard to read the details through all the marketing-ese.

The new sensor is a 1.5x multipler compared to a standard 35mm ?

They are developing new lenses that aren't compatible with 35mm film cameras ?

Sounds good - nice and fast too. Would be great for sports.

jimmythefish

Canon EOS-10D

07/22/2003 03:54:33 PM · #10

I'd be interested in seeing the price on it...

After doing some track and field photography with my F717 for Pacific Sport in Victoria, I am now more interested in a sports camera than anything else. I talked to a few people with the 1D this weekend (I was shooting the Canadian Track and Field Champs) and one woman said that she also owns a 10D and compared to the 1D, the 10D is virtually unusable for sports. I would concur - 3fps is not fast enough to effectively bracket a moment like a high jump. I have been considering a 10D (I have a the contacts and the portfolio to start charging for my work) but now am really considering saving for a 1D and a telephoto zoom L series lens. It would be tax deductible, which would make a huge difference. Might as well get what I really want, and start being a 'professional' in my spare time...

Shots from this weekend at this link...the F717 is OK but I don't get all the shots available (Warning! Current challenge photos contained within).

//www.photo.net/photodb/folder?folder_id=320808

I'm waitlisted for a masters degree program in the fall but if I don't go (and thus not forced to buy food with camera money) I think that's the direction I'm taking.

Message edited by author 2003-07-22 16:02:54.

07/22/2003 07:08:20 PM · #11

Originally posted by jimmythefish:

I'd be interested in seeing the price on it...

Earlier today, I tried to learn the pricing from my contacts at Nikon Canada. But, they are tightlipped about it and will not budge. So, if anyone else has information, please share it.

I did a deal on one of my two Nikon D1x camera bodies today. I took a beating as the price dropped. But, I am now in the cue for the D2x which is expected to be announced in September or there abouts. It should be interesting to learn what features it will have included.

With regards to the Wi-Fi feature, I understand that it is an internal installation with just an antenna sticking out of it.

matt betea

Nikon D100

07/22/2003 08:35:16 PM · #12

You are correct, the WT-1, screws to the bottom. It's powered by the cam and images are run through usb 2.0. Yes the new sensor has the same crop factor as before, but from what I've been reading, it's totally designed and manufactured in house. No more Sony. Any lens that is designated with the "DX" is specifically for Nikon DSLR. It is still the same mount. But I believe the image circle and optics are specifically calibrated and manufactured for the DX image sensor.

If it's got the great high ISO performance that I've heard at a couple places. It's going to be interesting to see what they do with the DX2 in regards to resolution. Hopefully they found a way to combat pixel size/density vs noise. Unless they use a different sensor for the DX2 for resolution instead of for fps.

Originally posted by Gordon:

Message edited by author 2003-07-22 20:37:21.

07/22/2003 10:43:45 PM · #13

Matt,

Interesting news. I was not aware that Sony was making the CCD chips.

Cheers,
Michael

matt betea

Nikon D100

07/22/2003 11:32:52 PM · #14

I apologize, the way I worded it, made it sound like all DSLR were Sony sensors. I believe the D1 series were supplied by Toshiba and the D100 was the only DSLR of Nikon's to use a Sony sensor. I'm sure about the D100, but not 100% on the D1 series. Something I read a while back.

But I wonder if they will keep the Sony's for the higher resolution cameras (DX2, D100 successor?). Sony recently introduced a new 4 color ccd. I guess it's all just speculation until these other cams are produced.

Message edited by author 2003-07-22 23:41:56.

07/23/2003 06:22:28 AM · #15

Originally posted by matt betea:

Matt, can you elaborate on what you mean by a four colour CCD? I understand RGB, or RGBY, or Y,R-Y,B-Y, but what sort of colour matrix is used for a four colour CCD? I am very curious to learn more. Michael

bod

07/23/2003 06:39:50 AM · #16

Sony announce new RGBE CCD

07/23/2003 07:04:42 AM · #17

Originally posted by bod:

Sony announce new RGBE CCD

Very cool link BOD. It is similar to the old video days when we used tubes instead of CCD sensors. In the 1960s and '70's, there were one or two models of commercial and broadcast four-tube cameras sold that added the fourth tube for grey scale dynamic range improvement. Later, the grey scale was derived from the green channel tube, so only three tubes (RGB) were used for the next few decades. As they say, "everything old is new again". Michael