Nikon Sets a New Benchmark in Digital Photography With Two New Professional Digital SLR Cameras
Nikon D1X(TM) - Optimized for High Image Sharpness and
Nikon D1H(TM) - Optimized for Action Photography and Fast Workflow
Significantly Advance Pro Digital SLR Photography
MELVILLE, N.Y., Feb. 5 /PRNewswire/ -- Nikon, the leader in professional
precision optics, 35mm and digital imaging technology, is again setting the
standard in digital camera technology, performance and image quality with the
introduction of two new professional digital SLR cameras, Nikon models D1X(TM)
and D1H(TM). The D1X and D1H offer the most advanced image quality, speed,
operation and functionality never before available in a professional digital
SLR camera. Both models include advanced capabilities for color reproduction,
white balance and precision exposure control, while the D1X is optimized for
superior image quality, and the D1H is optimized for action photography, with
continuous shooting up to five (5) frames per second, making it the fastest
and most action-oriented pro digital SLR available today.
The new models were developed in response to the needs of pro
photographers who require the most sophisticated technology for making
pictures: image quality, image management, creative color reproduction,
superior file management and file transmission. The D1X is optimized for
higher resolution and the more demanding image resolution requirements for
high-tech, publishing, scientific and other photography that requires
extremely high detail, whereas the D1H is designed for fast-action based
photography and faster post photography workflow processing. Each model
concentrates on selected key aspects of picture taking and presents
photographers with a choice that handles virtually every type of photography.
Together, the new models combine with the Nikon Total Pro Imaging System to
advance any pro photographer's ability to most effectively implement digital
photography into their workflow.
The new models evolved from Nikon's highly successful D1(TM) Professional
Digital SLR Camera and ensuing in-depth research to discover how photographers
and their businesses are developing the use of digital photography. Since its
introduction in June 1999, the D1 has set a new standard for image quality,
speed, operability and performance in digital imaging. It has quickly become
the world's leading pro digital SLR camera, and brought digital photography to
the same level of performance for which Nikon's superior 35mm SLR cameras are
known worldwide.
The D1X and D1H form the digital core of Nikon's Professional Total
Imaging System, which together with world-class 35mm SLR models F5(R) and
F100(TM), Nikkor optics, Speedlights, System Accessories and Nikon
Professional Services Support, present a complete system that has time-proven
its formidability. The System includes the newest tools that photographers
will need as they create the world's greatest pictures and meet the challenges
of sophisticated clients. Nikon's Professional Total Imaging System will now
boast the amazing combination of two 35mm SLRs, the F5 and F100, plus the D1
and the new Nikon D1X and D1H models.
"The D1X and D1H push the boundaries of digital photography to a higher
standard of total image quality and greater picture taking performance," said
Richard LoPinto, vice president, SLR Camera Systems, Nikon Inc. "The cameras
reflect Nikon's commitment to provide advanced capabilities to pro
photographers who demand the ultimate combination of total image quality,
performance, durability and system compatibility," he added.
Digital-ness, Camera-ness and Nikon Total Image Quality
The D1X and D1H were developed with a combination of what Nikon refers to
as "camera-ness" and "digital-ness." Camera-ness refers to the ergonomic
design, created to allow photographers to follow their instinct, and to feel
totally comfortable as they use the camera.
Digital-ness implies the image recording, as well as post-picture making
processes such as saving, file transfer, transmission and issues of assuring
necessary image quality for each picture's intended use; all of which are
serious issues for ensuring effective use of digital photography.
Both D1X and D1H have nearly identical camera-ness. When shooting,
photographers will hardly notice differences among the camera models.
Controls, operation, weight, balance and other handling characteristics are
virtually identical among the digital models and very similar to those in
Nikon's 35mm cameras. Reaching into the camera bag and shooting with a D1X,
D1H or D1 as well as a Nikon 35mm F5 and F100 will be a seamless transition;
controls are highly consistent, as are features such as exposure metering, TTL
flash and other essential controls. Among the digital SLR cameras, the
differences include certain aspects of how the digital functions operate, as
well as the imaging design priorities for each model. Photographers will
choose the model that best suits the imaging priorities for the assignment.
Digital-ness establishes the essence of the difference between the
two models. The D1X is designed for professionals requiring higher image
quality for use in a wide range of applications, including pre-press,
advertising, graphic arts, commercial photography, education, technology,
scientific and others.
The D1H expands the potential for newspaper photographers and other
fast-breaking communication industries as well as professional sports
photography where speed is an essential component of the workflow process.
D1X - Optimized for Color Reproduction and Exposure Management
The D1X features a 5.47 mega pixel CCD and powerful algorithm set.
Through interpolation it can produce 8-bit 17.7-megabyte TIFF files, and with
the next Nikon Capture Version it will produce 16-bit 34.4-megabyte TIFF
files. Advanced capabilities for color reproduction, white balance and
precision exposure control help assure superior image quality. With the newly
enlarged file sizes comes higher spatial resolution, higher image sharpness
and a host of additional advanced features, all derived from Nikon's newest
digital advances for color reproduction, color balance and exposure
management.
D1H - Optimized for Fast-Action Photography
The D1H is optimized for action and sports shooting and faster work-flow
operations by providing picture taking speeds up to five (5) pictures per
second and a buffer that will hold up to 40 pictures for 7.9 megabyte files.
With this performance, the D1H becomes the fastest and most action-oriented
pro digital SLR on the market (as of February 2001).
Using Nikon's 2.74-megapixels CCD and the camera's newly advanced
image-processing algorithms, the D1H's high-quality action capability will
clearly establish new standards of performance. Faster workflow will also be
evident from the camera's IEEE-1394 image transfer system, which provides
faster image processing and data transfer from Compact Flash Card media for a
computer's hard drive.
Nikon Capture Software - The Next Revolution in Digital Image Software
Complementing the new models will be a new version of Nikon Capture. This
new version advances performance with full 16-bit image quality and control
that is ideal for post-processing of Nikon's NEF (Nikon Electronic Files) raw
files as well as a host of other file formats that are produced by the D1X and
D1H. The new Capture will also work effectively with the Nikon D1. NEF files
are composed of raw CCD data that is later processed into final images using
Nikon Capture software.
Product Availability
The Nikon D1X Professional Digital SLR camera will be available in
Spring 2001, with an anticipated street price of approximately $5,500. The
Nikon D1H Professional Digital SLR camera will be available in Summer 2001,
with an anticipated street price of approximately $4,500.
About Nikon
Nikon Inc., the world leader in precision optics, 35mm and digital imaging
technology, is recognized for setting new standards in product design and
performance in consumer and professional photographic equipment. Nikon Inc.
distributes the Nikon Total Imaging System of consumer and professional 35mm
film and digital SLR cameras, Nikkor optics, Speedlights and System
Accessories; Advanced Photo System cameras; 35mm compact cameras; Coolpix(R)
compact digital cameras; Coolscan(R) digital film scanners; Nikonos(R)
underwater photographic systems; and Nikon sports and recreational optics.
The company plays an active role in supporting aspiring and advanced
photographers through a variety of organizations, educational programs, events
and workshops. For product information, contact Nikon at (800) NIKON-US or
visit http://www.nikonusa.com , which links all levels of photographers to the web's
most comprehensive photo learning and sharing communities.
Nikon D1X and D1H Professional Digital SLR Cameras
Major Features and Specifications
Total Image Quality
Exclusive feature for D1X: 23.7 x 15.6mm 5.47 megapixel CCD, which
interpolates the files to a 5.9 megapixel equivalent. The camera produces a
selection of JPEG files, TIFF formats at 17.7 megabytes, and Nikon NEF saved
as TIFF 17.7 megabytes at 8-bit color depth or when using new Nikon Capture
software, 34.4 megabytes at 16-bit color depth; (4024 x 1324) sensor processed
to 3,009 x 1960 pixel output); 5.4 megapixel CCD can also operate to produce
output performance as a 2.7 megapixel CCD; ISO equivalency 125-800; Continuous
picture rate up to 3.0 pictures per second with 9-frame buffer for files sizes
up to 17.7 megabytes.
Exclusive feature for D1H: 23.7 x 15.6mm 2.74 megapixel CCD; produces a
selection of JPEG files, and TIFF file size of 7.9 megabytes with 8-bit color
depth and using NEF files with Nikon Capture produces up to 15 megabytes
16-bit color depth; 2012 x 1324 sensor processed to 2,000 x 1,312-pixel
output); ISO equivalency 200-1600; Continuous picture rate up to 5.0 pictures
per second with 40-frame buffer for file sizes up to 7.9 megabytes.
The following features are provided in both D1X and D1H:
Imaging Processing System
* Newly designed Advanced Image Processing System featuring Nikon 3-D
Digital Matrix Image Control with new algorithm. Provides (1) Precise
exposure control using exclusive 3-D Color Matrix metering, (2) TTL
White Balance with combination of Automatic and manual controls, (3)
Tone compensation and Unsharp Masking.
* Two color modes selectable for choice of color space environments
(Mode 1 optimized for sRGB and Mode 2 optimized for Adobe RGB color
spaces).
* Advanced noise reduction performance throughout the effective ISO
equivalency range. D1X ISO-equivalent 125-800, D1H
ISO-equivalent 200-1,600.
Enhanced speed
* Fast shutter release time and start-up
* One-touch playback and return to picture capture mode
* Enlarged playback and thumbnail playback (choice of 9 and 4 thumbnail
display)
* 100% playback coverage on color monitor
* Super high-speed image processing with newly developed system LSI for
rapid throughput and shutter availability
* Fast picture taking speeds, with D1H up to 5 frames per second* for 7.5
megabyte images (*world's fastest digital Interchangeable-lens digital
SLR camera as of Feb 2001) and up to 3 pictures per second with D1X for
17.7 megabyte files
* Advanced image buffer system for up to 40 consecutive shots in JPEG mode
with D1H and up to 9 consecutive shots in JPEG mode for D1X
* Top shutter speed of 1/16,000 sec.; D-TTL flash sync speed up to
1/500 sec; FP flash sync up to 1/8000 using Nikon SB-28DX speedlight
* Faster IEEE1394 interface
Camera operation
* Supports Compact Flash(TM) Card (Type I/II) and Microdrive(TM)
(1Gbyte Type) (does not support 340 MB Microdrive)
* Newly developed 130,000-dot TFT color monitor with white-light LED
backlighting
* Camera set-up via Custom Settings selectable on TFT color monitor for
simple, quick operation (in four languages: French, German, English,
Japanese).
* One-touch playback for quick review and instant return to Shooting Mode.
* Image segment viewing playback and thumbnail playback (in either 9 or
4 segments) for quick image evaluation after shooting.
* 100% area-accurate playback coverage on TFT color monitor.
* GPS position information saved within image data file (if connected to
GPS unit via RS-232C interface)
* 3-D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash with five-segment TTL Multi Sensor
with newly developed algorithms for enhanced performance
* Compressed NEF file (raw CCD data) save mode to increase CF card
capacity and image transfer speed without sacrificing image quality.
* Shared ergonomics and F-mount system compatibility with Nikon
professional SLR body and accessory range.
* Lightweight, durable magnesium (Mg) body
* Image aspect ratio compared to 35mm format, factor 1.5X
Nikon System Compatibility
* Uses Nikon F lens mount and full selection of autofocus Nikkor optics;
best performance when used with D-type AF Nikkor versions
* Uses Nikon D-TTL compatible speedlights (SB-28DX, new SB-50DX, other
Nikon Speedlights operate with non-TTL operation)
* Uses same broad selection of individual Nikon accessories as Nikon D1;
refer to Nikon Full-Line Product Guide for details
* Uses same interchangeable battery, battery charger, AC adapter and other
dedicated accessories as Nikon D1
Product Availability and Price
* Nikon D1X Professional Digital SLR Camera Set is scheduled for delivery
during Spring 2001. Anticipated street price is $5,500
* Nikon D1H Professional Digital SLR Camera Set is scheduled for delivery
Summer 2001. Anticipated street price is $4,500
* Both D1X and D1H are Nikon Professional Digital Products and are offered
by Nikon Inc. through Authorized Professional Digital Products Dealers
D1X and D1H Accessories
* Set consists of: respective SLR camera body model, neck strap, Video
cable, Nikon View Software, Rechargeable battery EN-4, Quick Charger
MH-16, body cap BF-1A.
* Optional accessories: AC Adapter EH-4, Replacement/additional batteries
EN-4, Capture Software, IEEE-1394 Connecting cable SC-D1 and E-Type
Interchangeable Focusing Screen, MH-17 Automobile Recharge Adapter
* Replacement charger MH-16, Nikon Capture Software, Nikon View
Notes:
Set requires the following additional products in order to become fully
operational:
Compatible Nikkor lens, (2) Type I or II compatible compact flash data
storage card, (3) Compatible computer system, (4) Nikon Capture software is an
optional product, but is required in order to use the IEEE-1394 connecting
cable to handle NEF raw data files and for remote control operation from a
compatible computer
* Nikon Speedlight SB-28DX or SB-50DX is required for TTL flash exposure
control.
* Other Nikon speedlights can be used for non-TTL operation.
* The EN-4 battery is used exclusively with the D1H, D1X and D1 models
* The MH-16 charger is used exclusively with the EN-4 battery. Nikon's
MH-15 battery charger is also compatible.
* AC Adapter EH-4 is recommended when cameras are used for long studio
picture taking sessions. Do not use any other AC adapter.
* Nikon View software is provided with the Set and provides image
management capabilities
* For additional performance add the optional IEEE-1394 cable and Nikon
Capture software.
* IEEE-1394 performance differs among computers, so confirm specifications
for IEEE-1394 computer performance.
* AF, AF-G, AF-I, AF-S AI and AI-S Nikkor lenses and many other special
Nikkor lenses are compatible with the cameras; highest performance is
possible when using any D-Type AF Nikkor lens. Performance with lenses
and speedlights other than Nikon's brand cannot be assured.
* Capture software includes Windows and Macintosh versions.
Nikon, Nikon View and Nikon Capture are trademarks of Nikon Inc.
Products and brand names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their
respective companies.
SOURCE Nikon Inc.
