Nikon D300 12.3MP Digital SLR Camera (Body Only)

The D300 features Nikons exclusive EXPEED Image Processing System that is central to driving the speed and processing power needed for many of the cameras new features. The D300 features a new 51-point auto focus system with Nikons 3D Focus Tracking feature and two new LiveView shooting modes that allow users to frame a photograph using the cameras high-resolution LCD monitor. The D300 shares a similar Scene Recognition System as found in the D3 that promises to greatly enhance the accuracy of auto focus, auto exposure and auto white balance by recognizing the subject or scene being photographed and applying this information to the calculations for the three functions.

The D300 reacts with lightning speed, powering-up in a mere 0.13 seconds and shooting with an imperceptible 45 millisecond shutter release lag time. The D300 is capable of shooting at a rapid six frames per second and can go as fast as eight frames per second when using the optional MB-D10 Multi-Power Battery Pack. In continuous bursts, the D300 can shoot up to 100 shots at full 12.3 megapixel resolution.

The D300 incorporates a range of innovative technologies and features that will significantly improve the accuracy, control and performance photographers can get from their equipment. Its new Scene Recognition System advances the use of Nikons 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 a picture is taken. This information is used to improve the accuracy of auto focus, auto exposure and auto white balance functions in the D300. For example, the camera can track moving subjects better and by identifying them, it can also automatically select focus points faster and with greater accuracy. It can also analyze highlights and more accurately determine exposure, as well as infer light sources to deliver more accurate white balance detection.

The D300 incorporates Nikons Multi-CAM 3500DX 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 nine, 21 or all 51 focus points. The system also features 3D 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. Nikons new Scene Recognition System and improved focus algorithms also contribute to the impressive performance of the new 51-point AF system.

Taking a cue from the popularity of Nikons D-Lighting technology, the D300 features a new Active D-Lighting mode that, when enabled, provides remarkable real-time highlight and shadow correction with optimized image contrast. Active D-Lighting produces broader tone reproduction in both shadows and highlights by controlling highlights and exposure compensation while applying localized tone control technology to achieve a more pleasing level of contrast across the entire image. And because the advantages of Active D-Lighting are applied as images are captured, image editing time can be shortened.

LCD Screen Size: 3 in
Viewfinder: Fixed eye-level pentaprism
Viewfinder Field of View: 100 %
Self Timer: Yes
Self Timer Delay: 2 - 20 sec
White Balance: Custom, Automatic, Presets
Continuous Shooting Speed: 6 fps

Recording Method: CompactFlash, Microdrive

Connectors: 1 x composite video output, 1 x USB, 1 x remote control, 1 x HDMI output
Included Cable Types: USB , Video