D3100 ‘well ahead’ says Nikon

August 22, 2010: Nikon Australia has announced a September launch for the D3100, the newest addition to its DX-format DSLR range.

The lightweight, entry-level D3100 is equipped with Nikon’s new 14.2-megapixel CMOS image sensor, refined image processing system and D-Movie function.

‘Delivering full 1080p video capability with full autofocus, the D3100 is packed with a range of innovative features placing it well ahead of any other entry-level digital SLR on the market,’ said Nick Segger, Nikon Australia senior marketing manager.

The D3100 features a comprehensive Guide mode, enabling photographers of any ability to navigate their way around all camera functions and operations. The D3100 has inherited Guide mode settings from the D3000, with new options added.

The D3100 weighs just 450g (body), making it the lightest DSLR in Nikon’s current lineup.

It’s equipped with the D-Movie function that enables recording of high-definition movies (with monaural sound) by simply pressing the movie-record button.

In addition, the camera also offers an AF-F focus mode for movie recording. When AF-F mode is enabled, the camera focuses continuously during movie recording removing the need for holding the shutter-release button down halfway.

The D3100 also offers in-camera movie editing functions that allow users to save a single frame as a still image or delete unnecessary portions from the beginning or end of movie files.

The camera has standard ISO sensitivity up to 3200. Using the Hi 2 setting, sensitivity is increased to ISO 12800.

Live View shooting can be accessed by simply rotating the live view switch. This makes shooting feel more like shooting with a compact digital camera, easing the transition to digital SLR for beginners.

The D3100 is equipped with a scene auto selector function. When live view mode is enabled in Auto or Auto (flash off) mode, the camera automatically analyses the scene and selects the appropriate shooting mode from Portrait, Landscape, Close up or Night portrait.

Other features:
– Equipped with a face detection function capable of detecting up to 35 human faces (D3000: up to 5 faces);
– Addition of an independent movie-record button and release-mode selector. Improved rubber grip:
– Equipped with a Consumer Electronics Control (CEC) bus that enables remote control playback of images and movies recorded with the camera when the camera is connected to a high-definition TV;
– Bundled with new ViewNX 2 software.