NIKON Announces D3100

Nikon recently announced the availability of the new D3100. The 14.2-megapixel D3100 is the worlds first HDSLR to introduce full time auto focus (AF) in Live View and D-Movie mode to effortlessly achieve the critical focus needed when shooting Full HD 1080p video. With the Nikon D3100 Users can record cinematic 24p video clips, or shoot at 24 or 30 frames-per-second at 720p, ideal for sharing online. By incorporating interchangeable NIKKOR lenses, users are able to create a variety of photography effects to video such as isolating subjects with a shallow depth of field, and recording in low light conditions. The D3100 is the first HDSLR to implement full time AF for D-Movie video shooting and while in Live View mode. Using contrast based AF, the D3100 automatically focuses on subjects when Live View is activated to aid shooting when using the LCD. The D3100 camera also uses Face Detection technology to lock focus on up to 35 human faces, a feat not even accomplished with consumer camcorders. To further simplify movie shooting, Live View is activated at a single flick of a dedicated switch, and HD video recording is achieved by a simple press of a button. Sharing and editing video clips is also easier, as the D3100 records movies in the versatile H.264 AVCHD codec (.mov file). While playing movies back in the camera, users are able to edit recorded videos by clipping footage from the beginning or end of a movie. High Definition movies and stills can be shared with family and friends on an HD television via HDMI output. Additionally, the D3100 is compatible with the new SDXC memory card format to store large amounts of photo and video data so users can shoot multiple scenes without interruption. The D3100 D-SLR camera outfit, including the kit AF-S NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR image stabilization lens, is scheduled to be available at Nikon Authorized dealers beginning in mid September 2010, at an estimated selling price of $700