Comparison of Nikon D300 and D300S cameras. Nikon D300S: Test semi-professional "Creek" with new lenses. Comparison "By side"

The camera D300S is a professional mirror camera in a compact case with a DX format matrix, expanding the capabilities of photographers that appreciate creative freedom. The D-Movie feature is enclosed in the compact package from Nikon Corporation and the built-in photo editing feature, which allows you to quickly switch between shooting excellent pictures and stereo sounds *. This camera is distinguished by an extremely sensitive 12.3 megapixel CMOS matrix and supports continuous surveillance with an unrivaled speed of 7 frames per second. CF and SD card slots increase flexibility when working, allowing you to capture the pictures on one memory card, and the videos on the other. The proven 51-point AF System Nikon Corporation provides coverage of the larger area of \u200b\u200bthe frame and high sensitivity in conditions of insufficient lighting. Selectable image management modes simplify the subsequent image processing, and the 3-inch LCD screen supports the D-MOVIE function and two frame layout modes on the monitor. Protected by reliable, lightweight, moisture and dustproof case from the magnesium alloy the camera D300S will change your view to the profession of the photographer.

* Requires a compatible stereo microphone.

CMOS-matrix DX format with a resolution of 12.3 megapixels. Built-in module Self-cleaning matrix to a minimum reduces the effect of dust.

Continuous photography at a speed of 7 frames per second (8 frames per second with an optional MB-D10 batterytery).

Function D-Movie. Provides a record of excellent high-definition videos with stereo sound *, as well as the function of starting and stopping editing.

Double memory card jacks: CF and SD sockets for high flexibility when working.

200-3200 ISO units: You can increase the equivalent of 6400 ISO units or reduce to an equivalent of 100 ISO units.

Expeed Image Processing System with the 14-bit analog-to-digital conversion and 16-bit image processing helps to get magnificent color shades.

AF MULTI-CAM3500DX system with 51st point. The ability to select and configure one of the modes with 9, 21 or 51 focus points.

Speed Thanks to the inclusion of only 0.13 s and low shutter response delay (no more than 45 ms).

Silent shooting mode: Ideal for photographing with a quiet shutter due to a significant reduction in noise from the work of the camera mechanisms.

Snapshot control modes Simplify image processing in the camera, allowing you to adjust the parameters of the image before shooting and control the sharpness, contrast, brightness, saturation, and shades of images in various color modes.

3-inch LCD Monitor VGA with a resolution of 920,000 points C a wide angle view of 170 degrees.

Active D-Lighting feature helps receiving excellent images with high contrast due to the automatic correction of the tonality at the time of shooting.

Wear-resistant magnesium alloy housing: moisture and dustproof.

Reliable shutter mechanism, Tested for 150,000 trigger cycles.

Video output HDMI Allows you to connect the camera to high definition video systems.

Intuitive ergonomic design With the optimal location of the buttons ensures fast operation and convenience.

D300S is a compact professional mirror camera with a DX format matrix, expanding photographers that appreciate creative freedom. The D-Movie function from the Nikon Corporation and the built-in photo editing feature, which allows you to quickly switch between shooting excellent pictures and sounds with sound. This camera is distinguished by an extremely sensitive 12.3 megapixel CMOS matrix and supports continuous surveillance with an unrivaled speed of 7 frames per second. CF and SD card slots increase flexibility when working, allowing you to capture the pictures on one memory card, and the videos on the other. The proven 51-point AF System Nikon Corporation provides coverage of the larger area of \u200b\u200bthe frame and high sensitivity in conditions of insufficient lighting. Selectable image management modes simplify the subsequent image processing, and the 3-inch LCD screen supports the D-MOVIE function and two frame layout modes on the monitor. Protected by reliable, lightweight, moisture and dustproof case from the magnesium alloy the camera D300S will change your view to the profession of the photographer.

Camera in work

The first thing I want to write is once again about ergonomics. We have already noted that the nikon D300S handle is rather massive. Hold the camera is comfortable even with one hand, despite the considerable weight. All fingers right hand Enough space on the handle. Thanks to a special notch for the fingertips, the camera is comfortable to wear in a relaxed hand, without fear that it will slip out. The area under the thumb on the rear panel is embossed, does not slip.

The number of controls is just a huge! However, for not a very experienced photographer, it is rather minus. To learn their purpose and all the more program the camera control logic under its shooting style - the task is not one day. In the same time, professional photographer It can always access almost any function without breaking from the viewfinder, literally for one click on the corresponding button. The camera is ideal for reportage shooting.

All buttons are quite comfortable. There is only a small claim to the location of the front control wheel. For his rotation, it is necessary to change the rules of the right hand. For myself, I set up the camera in such a way that all the basic operations were performed using the rear, more convenient for me, the control wheel, and the frontmost did not use.

Separate praise deserves the work of the chamber shutter. When the shutter is triggered, almost no vibrations are created. The sound of the shutter is soft, quiet. But you can make it even quieter! The camera provides a special mode of operation of the Quiet shutter. In this mode, the mirror moves with a noticeable slowdown and almost silently. In all other shooting modes, the mirror move is very fast. Dimming the viewfinder during shooting is minimized. Serial shooting speed can reach 7 frames / s. But if it seems to you that it is too fast, then in the menu you can assign a serial shooting speed yourself and save this value for CL mode (slow serial shooting).

The Nikon D300s pentaprismable viewfinder is simply great. Not so many APS-C format cameras have viewfinder of this class. The frame coating area is 100%, an increase of 0.94x. The viewfinder is indicated by all major settings, focus points. Additionally, you can enable the indication of the grid to simplify the crop.

Autofocus Nikon D300S quite corresponds to the camera class. Among the Slirlock with the APS-C frame format the best system Autofocus today is simply not. In fairness, it should be noted that the AUFTCUS system is similar in the Canon EOS 7D. But to say that one of these two cameras is better than the autofocus, and the other is worse, it is impossible.

The Nikon D300S phase focus module consists of 51 points. Points are arranged in such a way that they cover most of the frame. You can use all points to focus, and you can limit ourselves to 9 or 21 points. Possible focus with 3D tracking 51 points. You can also set the priority of the descent or the priority of focusing for frame and continuous autofocus modes separately. Also in the menu you can set the time of the object through an obstacle for the tracking autofocus (long, normal, quickly, disabled). Focus is also possible when shooting in Live View mode. You can use a phase autofocus with a preliminary lowering of the mirror (dimming the display is less than a second), and you can focus on a contrasting principle. The contrast autofocus is slower than phase, but also quite tenacious. Problems when it does not occur.

Interface

Almost all camera control during shooting is carried out using hot buttons and monochrome display on the top panel. The main display is not activated (if it does not include the display indication by the INFO button). Even the white balance will have to choose using the pictograms on the auxiliary diplege. As such, the Nikon D300S is no quick-screen menu. There is only the ability to display information in the form of a table about the basic camera settings by pressing the INFO button. Repeated Pressing the Info button gives access to the rapid editing of settings saved in the current memory bank. The fact is that there are several memory banks in the Nikon D300S for storing a number of camera system settings.

The settings that are not available using individual controls are hidden in the main menu. The menu is very extensive, broken into several tabs. It is not so easy to figure it out as it may seem at first glance. But this is not minus Nikon D300S, but rather a consequence of a huge number of available settings and additional functions.

To shoot slowly occurring processes, a function of interval shooting is provided. Unfortunately, during the test, there was not enough Ukrainian in order to fully test this feature.

A electronic level appeared in the chamber, which can be useful when photographing the architecture and landscapes.

To solve possible problems with the accuracy of autofocus, an accurate adjustment of the focusing system for a specific lens is provided.

RAW files may have several types of compression: compression without loss, usual compression, without compression. Also, the camera supports shooting 14-bit RAW files. The color depth is installed in the menu: 12 or 14 bits (when set to color depth 14 bits, the speed of the camera drops).

Photo recording can be carried out as one, so at the same time on two USB flash drives: CompactFlash and SD. It is possible to mirror the two flash drives, recording RAW files per one, and JPEG to another. It is possible to use the second flash drive only if the first is overflowing. Also, you can also set the menu on which of the two flash drives video will be written. As in all modern Nikon mirrors, the maximum ISO value installed automatically may be limited to the menu. In the same menu item, you can limit the maximum allowable exposure value.

The metal case has moisture and dust.

Video shooting

The camera can record video with a resolution up to 1280x720 and a 24 frame frequency / s. To record the sound, you can use a built-in or external microphone. During video recording, autofocus is possible on a contrasting principle. To enable the video, you must go to Live View mode, and then press the NavipaD central button.

With its output model Nikon. The D300 made a big impression sufficient to dreamed it with the best semi-professional digital mirror camera existing on the market. In many ways, it still holds its position and is sold almost at the same price as in its release. This success left Nikon in bewilderment regarding how to further improve its flagship model with APS-C sensor.

Although most additions D300S. Based on those that were already presented in Nikon cameras released after D300 (virtual horizon display from D3, video shooting from D90), yet there is one really new feature - this is the use of an autofocus system with a contrast definition in video mode, which is first implemented for the first time In a digital SLR camera Nikon. The focus system is not the fastest, which we had to see, besides this, you will need to use the socket for an external microphone if you want to avoid loud sounds that create an autofocus motor.

The D300S inherited an unlocking door of the memory card compartment, which was first to be seen in the D700, but now this compartment includes CF and SD card slots. As expected for the camera of this level, the information on the cards is written in the following ways: Maps are used by one by one, the backup is carried out on the second card, the RAW and JPEG formats are recorded on different cards, also in this way, you can separate the photographers and videos. In fact, many changes make the D300S more similar to the D700, including the standard Nikon Multi-Retrol Multi-Retainer for Contemporary "Slirlock", which (it is on this camera) turns on the video recording when working in Live View mode.

The speed of continuous shooting increased slightly, now you can shoot 7 frames / sec when using the battery inside or 8 frames / s with a battery handle holder. The settings menu is now the same as most modern "mirrors" - interactive, allowing you to change the shooting parameters more quickly, two new features of the Active D-Lighting function ("Auto" and "Extra High" function were also dodanes. To top it all, a quiet focus drive mode appeared, which was first presented in the D5000.

However, against the background of the Canon EOS 7D, clearly-oriented on professionals, and perfectly performed, but cheaper Pentax K-7, the Nikon camera, like a non-essential D300 update, does not look convincing.

Comparison D300S VS. D300 (main differences)

HD video recording with a resolution of 720p and 24 boards / sec
Ability to connect an external microphone for stereo
Built-in basic video editing tools
Increased serial shooting speed up to 7 frames / sec (6 frames / sec in D300)
Two CF and SD Memory Card Slots (CF only in D300)
Silent shutter shutter
Multi-Controller on the rear camera panel (borrowed in D3)
Interactive settings menu
Live View mode button (Live View is drive mode in D300)
Info basic information output button
HDMI type C interface (type A in D300)
Two Additional Features Active D-Lighting: Auto and Extra High
Displays a virtual horizon
Built image editing ability (Reduced RAW format)

The main functions of the D300S.

13.1-megapixel CMOS sensor DX format (12.3 million effective pixels)
720p HD video
3-inch LCD monitor (920 thousand points)
Image sensor cleaning system (matrix shift)
51 Autofocus (3D Tracking)
IS0 200-3200 light sensitivity range (expansion to 6400)
Continuous shooting at a speed of 7 frames / s (buffer (number of frames): 17 RAW, 44 JPEG FINE, 100 JPEG NORMAL)
Expeed Image Processing Processor
Presets of Picture Controls - Parameters match the entire modern line of digital mirror cameras Nikon
EN-EL3E battery (the same as in D300)
Index view 72 images in playback mode
14-bit analog-digital conversion
High speed (inclusion -13 ms, shutter trigger delay - 45 ms, dimming image - 100 ms)
Resource shutter - 150 thousand triggements
Multi-Cam3500dx autofocus sensor (51 point, 15 cross-sensor, greater vertical coating)
AF tracking mode (used information from 1005-pixel sensor AE)
Now possible calibration (accurate adjustment) of autofocus
Scene recognition system (used Sensor AE and Sensor AF)
PICTURE CONTROL Image Parameters Presets (Color Replacement Modes I, II and III)
General image parameters now support brightness and contrast
Compact Flash UDMA Memory Card Support
Live VIEW mode with phase autofocus (lowering / lifting mirrors) or contrast
HDMI output for HD video
The Active D-Lighting feature (adjusts the exposer, and also uses the D-Lighting curve)
Detailed information panel on the LCD monitor changes color in the dark
New rechargeable handle holder for vertical shooting is compatible with Multi-Battery batteries type
Buttons are protected by special seals from moisture


12.3-Megapixel CMOS sensor DX format	Pentarrotaida viewfinder

Main board with image processing processor	Expeed processor

51-point autofocus module MULTI-CAM 3500DX	Placing 51 autofocus points in the frame (approx.)

1005-pixel exposure sensor

Corps material	Magnesium alloy
Sensor	. 23.6 x 15.8 mm CMOS matrix . DX format . RGB primary colors filter . Built-in low frequency filter (with self-cleaning mechanism) . 13.1 million (total pixel) . 12.3 million (number of effective pixels) . Aspect ratio 3: 2
Image processing processor	Nikon Expeed.
Analog-to-digital conversion	14 bits
Image dimensions	. 4288 x 2848. . 3216 x 2136. . 2144 x 1424.
Image sizes (video) *	. 1280 x 720 @ 24 K / s * . 640 x 424 @ 24 K / s * . 320 x 216 @ 24 K / s *
File format	. NEF (12 bits or 14 bits, compressed or compressed without loss RAW) . NEF + JPEG. . TIFF. . JPEG (EXIF 2.21) . AVI * . Motion JPEG *
Compression NEF.	. 12/14-bit NEF compression (RAW, compressed without loss): . 12/14-bit compression NEF (RAW, compressed): Approx.
Bayonet lens	. Bayonet Nikon F with hidden AF and AF contacts . 1.5x CROP Fields Review
Compatible lenses	. DX AF NIKKOR: All features are available. . AF NIKKOR, equipped with D / G bayonets (except IX Nikkor lenses): All features are available (except PC Micro-Nikkor) . AF NIKKOR, not equipped with D / G bayonets (except for lenses for F3AF): All functions are available, except 3D color matrix metering II (3D-Color Matrix Metering II) . AI-P Nikkor: All features are available, except for autofocus, 3D color matrix measurement (3D-Color Matrix Metering II) . Ai Nikkor, not equipped with a microprocessor: can be used in exposure modes a and m; The electronic rangefinder can be used when f / 5.6 Lights and more; Displays the color matrix measurement and luminosity is supported if the user specifies the information about the lens.
Dust removal system	. Sensor self-cleaning mechanism ("Clean Image Sensor") . Dust removal using software (Availability requires Capture NX)
Autofocus	. 51 Focus Point (15 Cross Sensors) . Multi-Cam 3500DX . AF operating range: from -1 to +19 EV (ISO 100, at normal temperature) . Definition of contrast in Live View mode (tripod mode)
Autofocus (video) *	AF in contrast is possible at any point within the frame (tripod mode) *
Lens drive	. Foreign drive AF [s] . Continuous AF [C] . Manual focus [M] . Focusing tracking is automatically activated depending on the movement of the shooting object in [S] or [C] AF modes
Focus point	. One point of 51 or 11 focus points . Live View Mode: Contrast AF at any point in the frame
AF. zone mode	. One point AF. . Dynamic zone af . Automatic AF
Focus lock	Focus can be blocked by double-pin the descent button (shedding AF drive) or by pressing the AE-L / AF-L button
Highlighting autofocus	. There is a special light bulb . Approx. Range from 0.5 to 3 m
Exposure modes	. Software Auto [P] with flexible selection of the program . The priority of auto excerpts [s] . The priority of the aperture of the car [A] . Manual [M]
Exposer	TTL measurement with a 1005-pixel RGB sensor . 3D color matrix measurement II (for lenses of type G and D); Color matrix measurement II (for other lenses with a microprocessor); Color matrix measurement (exposable is carried out for lenses without a microprocessor, if the user indicates the lens parameters in the settings) . Centrally weighted: 75% of measurements are on the circle with a diameter of 8 mm in the center of the frame. Circle diameter can be changed by 6, 10 or 13 mm in the center of the frame or weighted averaging over the entire frame area (8-mm circle with a lens without a microprocessor) . Point: measurement in a circle with a diameter of 3 mm (about 2% frame), the center of which coincides with the selected focus point (with a central focus point if a lens without a microprocessor is installed)
Expose range	. 3D Color Matrix Measurement: from 0 to 20 EV . Centrally weighted measurement: from 0 to 20 EV . Cottage measurement: from 2 to 20 EV . At normal temperature, 20 ° C, equivalent ISO 100 photosensitivity, F / 1.4 lens
Conjugation with exposure meter	Combined with microprocessor and ai
Lock exposure	Using the AE-L / AF-L button
Bracketing exposure	From 2 to 9 frames in 1/3, 1/2, 2/3 or 1 EV increments
Exploid	. +/- 5.0 EV. . in step 1/3, 1/2 or 1 EV
Sensitivity iso.	. Default: from 200 to 3200 ISO in 1/3, 1/2 or 1 EV step . Ability to increase: from 100 to 6400 ISO in 1/3, 1/2 or 1 EV increments
Gate	. Shutter with electronic control and vertical stones, focal shutter . Exposure: from 30 to 1/8000 seconds (in 1/3, 1/2 or 1 EV) . Flash X-SYNC: 1/250 s (up to 1/320 seconds with a reduced leading number) . By hand
Preview depth of field	. Dimming the lenses when you press the button . Activates modeling flash
White balance	. Auto (1005-pixen CCD, image sensor) . Preset modes (seven) with precise tuning . Manual presets (five) * . Color temperature in Celvin degrees (2500 - 10,000 K, 31 steps) . White balance bracketing (from 2 to 9 frames in increments 1, 2 or 3)
Snapshot Management System (Picture Control)	. Standard . Neutral . Bright . Monochrome
Image Parameters	. Fast setting: 5 parameters (sharpness, contrast and saturation on the pre-installed level) * . Sharpness: Auto, 10 levels * . Contrast: Auto, 7 levels , . Brightness: 3 levels . Saturation: Auto, 7 levels . Tint: 5 levels *
Color space	. SRGB. . Adobe RGB.
Viewfinder	. Mirror direct viewfinder with pentadrism . Built-in diopter tuning (from -2 to +1 m-1) . Viewfinder Focus Point: 19.5 mm (-1.0 M-1) . Frame covering: 100% . Increased viewfinder 0.94X with lens 50 mm F / 1.4; -1.0 M-1
Focusing screen	. Matte screen type in BriteView II . Applied Frame AF Zone . Display Mesh Crop by Requirements
LCD monitor	. 3.0 "TFT LCD Display . 920000 pixels * (VGA; 640 x 480 x 3 colors) . Viewing angle: 170 ° . Tuning brightness . 100% frame covering
Live View on LCD Screen	. Manual mode: autofocus with the TLL phase definition, with 51 focus points (15 cross-sensor) . Tripod mode: Autofocus with contrast definition function at any point of frame
Shooting modes	. Frame by frame . Continuous (Low) . Continuous (High) . Quiet descent [Q] * . Self-timer (ability to customize) . Lifting mirrors
Continuous shooting	. With built-in battery: up to 6 k / s . With adapter alternating current or the MB-D10 battery pack and another battery other than the en-el3e lithium-ion battery: up to 8 to / s . 12-bit RAW - at full speed, 14-bit RAW - only 2.5 k / s
Self-timer	. 2, 5, 10 or 20 seconds *
Flash control	. TTL: TTL flash control using a 1005-pixel RGB sensor. . Built-in Flashes SB-900, SB-800, SB-600 or SB-400: Balanced Flash Flash I-TTL and Standard I-TTL Flash . Mode with automatic diaphragm: for flash SB-900 or SB-800, which are used with lenses with built-in microprocessor . Automatic mode without TTL controls: Supported for flashes SB-900, SB-800, SB-28, SB-27 or SB-22S . Handmade distance priority: Available with SB-900 and SB-800 flashes
Flash Synchronization Mode	. Synchronization for the front curtain (normal) . Suppression of the effect of "red eyes" . Slow synchronization with the suppression of the effect of "red eyes" . Slow synchronization . Rear Curtain Synchronization
Built-in flash	. Flash with manual extension using the button . Lead number (ISO 200, M): Approx. 17 (manual mode 18) . Lead number (ISO 100, M): Approx. 12 (manual mode 13)
Shoe for accessories	Standard "hot" shoe with an ISO 518 connector with synchronizing contact; Protecting lock
Flash power correction	. from -3 to +1 EV . with 1/3, 1/2 or 1 EV step *
Creative Lighting System (CLS) Nikon	Improved wireless control is supported with a built-in flash, SB-900, SB-800 or SU-800 flashes as the lead and SB-900, SB-800, SB-600 or SB-R200 as slaves; Automatic high-speed FP synchronization and modeling light are supported with all CLS-compatible flashes, except SB-400; Transfer of color information about the flash and flash power lock supported with all CLS-compatible flashes
View mode	. Frame by frame . Reduced images (4, 9 or 72 * Snapshot) . One-time increase . Show slides . Displaying the RGB histogram . Display of set data . Extlope . Automatic rotation of the image . Creating comments to pictures (up to 36 characters) *
Supported languages \u200b\u200b. Norwegian	. Chinese (simplified and traditional letter) . Dutch . English. . Finnish . French . German . Italian . Japanese . Korean . Polish . Portuguese . Russian . Spanish . Swedish . Danish *
Interface	. USB 2.0 Connector (Hi-Speed) of the MINI-B type . HDMI mini disclosure (type C) * . 10-pin connector for connecting an additional remote control . USB connector for synchronization with PC
10-pin connector	. GPS: Connecting the GPS GP-1 or GPS device compatible with NMEA0183 version 2.01 or 3.01 (optional GPS MC-35 cable and cable with 9-pin D-Sub connector) . Remote Control: Connection through a 10-pin connector
Information carriers	. Type I CompactFlash Memory Cards (compatible with UDMA) . SD memory cards compatible with SDHC
Food	. Lithium-ion rechargeable battery EN-EL3E (7.4 V, 1500 mAh) . MH-18A Charger Complete . EH-5A / EH-5 AC adapter (optional) . Battery unit / vertical handle MB-D10 holder (optional)
Vertical handle holder	. Battery unit / vertical handle MB-D10 holder (optional) . With one lithium-ion battery EN-EL3E, EN-EL4A / EN-EL4 or eight alkaline (LR6), Ni-MH (HR6), lithium (FR6) or nickel-manganese (Zr6) batteries R6 / AA; Lithium-ion rechargeable batteries EN-EL4A / EN-EL4 and Battery R6 / AA sizes
Battery Charge Control	LCD monitor on the rear camera panel displays the following information: . Balance balance (%) . Number of pictures made since the last recharging . Battery Resource (5 Stages)
Dimensions	147 x 114 x 74 mm
Weight (without battery)	840 g
Weight (with battery)	918 g
Supplies supplies	. Lithium-ion rechargeable battery EN-EL3E . Fast Charger MH-18A . DK-5 eyepiece cover . Rubber headband DK-23 . UC-E4 USB Cable . Audio / Video Cabel EG-D2 . An-DC4 Camera Belt . BM-8 LCD Monitor Protective Cover . BF-1A bayonet cover . Cover Shoe for accessories BS-1 . Software CD
Additional accessories	Powerful MB-D10 battery pack, WT-4 wireless transmitter, increasing ochel DK-21M, AC adapter EH-5A, Capture NX, Camera Control Pro 2

* Innovation or change compared to D300

With the exception of a pair of change regarding the buttons and the recycled compartment cover for memory cards, the externally D300S is practically no different from its predecessor. A small speaker on the right at the bottom on the rear panel and the three holes of the microphone under the number of the model are the only physical differences.

Design

In hand

Most of the high-grade digital mirror cameras have a magnesium alloy housing, but at one time the D300 has become an example of a particularly heavy and well-collected design. And although the D300S inherited the same good assembly, it is no longer so distinguished against the background of competitive models as the older model. However, the D300S differs from other analogues in terms of ergonomics.

Despite the fact that the parameters of ergonomics depend on individual preferences and shapes / sizes of the hand, the basic principles are universal - well-hosted buttons can be both a bit more and less convenient for different users, but if it has easy access without the need to change the position of grip Cameras, it is believed that they are successfully located. The main feature of the D300S is excellently located controls - control disks and most adjusting buttons are near, two special buttons on the front panel of the camera are also easily accessible. The only thing that the White balance settings buttons, ISO and image quality on the top left part of the camera cause doubts (not everyone likes the location of the buttons while holding the device near the eye).

Comparison "By side"

Among the "Slirlock" on the market, with an APS-C size sensor, equipped with the same sophisticated autofocus system, as in the D300S, perhaps, the only worthy competitor is Canon EOS 7D. Although the model-analogs from Olympus, Pentax and Sony are approximate to the Canon model, which includes 19 AF crosspoints (although not to Nikon with a 51 point, 15 of which are cross), none of them can be compared with the level of complexity of the point selection Autofocus in the camera. Despite the fact that Nikon D300S offers fewer ways to ensure the use of the correct focus point, it is able to track objects at different points of focusing based on distance and color than the competitors cannot boast.

LCD monitor

The D300S is equipped with the same LCD display with a resolution of 921600 points, as well as its predecessor. Thanks to the combination of three points (red, green and blue) to obtain one full-color pixel, these points are displayed with a pixel matrix 640x480. D300 (along with Sony A700) was one of the first cameras with a similar screen that provides the same permission as in the VGA computer display of the 80s. That a high resolution It has a positive impact in terms of assessing the quality of the image taken when viewing both the entire picture and the approximate part of it.

High resolution also means that the user interface can be extremely detailed and include information on each page, which will help simplify the management of an extremely extensive menu. D300S has a plastic protective cover that prevents the LCD display from scratches when used.

Top Control Panel

D300 includes one control panel. This large display fully takes the entire right upper part of the camera and displays information about all settings. The scoreboard has a green backlight, which turns on by moving the power switch to the "light bulb" position, it springs and immediately returns to the "On" position ("ON"), the backlight remains enabled for the time interval "Auto Meter-Off" (CSM C2). You can also configure the camera so that the backlight is activated each time when you click any button (CSM D8). It is worth paying attention to that even when the camera is turned off (in the "OFF" position), the number of remaining frames on the memory card or message is displayed on this display, if the memory card is not installed in the slot (it shows that the camera is not turned off, but is located In standby).

View in the viewfinder

The image presented below does not show a typical viewfinder view, and demonstrates the position of all possible data, including 51 Point AF, the status of the battery, as well as the lines of the layout lattice. All information is presented in the form of several overlays. different species LCD display, so focal points are completely invisible until they are selected.

1. Focus indicator
2. Exposer mode
3. Lock automatic exposure
4. Flash Power Lock (FV)
5. Synchronization Flash Indicator
6. Exposure
7. Diaphragm indicator
8. Diaphragm (number F / number of stops)
9. Exposure mode
10. Electronic exposure scale / exposure
11. Flash Power Correction Indicator
12. Exploor Indicator
13. ISO / AUTO ISO Sensitivity Indicator
14. The meaning of ISO sensitivity
15. The remaining number of pictures / buffer / exposure value
16. Indicator thousand
17. Flash Readiness Indicator

The diagram is taken from the D300 user manual with Nikon permission.

Viewfinder size

The parameter that is hidden in specifications to digital "mirrors" is the size of the viewfinder (often it makes it impossible to compare between competitive models). The viewfinder size is a key factor that affects the convenience of using the "Mirrors" - than it is more, the easier it is to drive a picture and focus on the shooting object, and also makes the shooting process more joyful and fascinating.

Taking into account the method of measuring the viewfinder (using a fix lens, not a lens with an equivalent increase), you also need to consider the sensor size. The values \u200b\u200bin the figure below we received, separating the coefficients of the approximation stated by manufacturers to relative crop factors. The D300S remains the same 0.94x increase and 100% frame coating, as in its predecessor.

Crop viewfinder

Nikon D300S refers to a limited number of digital mirror cameras offering a 100% frame coating (along with EOS 7D and K-7). As a result, the user sees in the viewfinder exactly the picture that the sensor registers, which allows optimizing the composition.

Nikon D300S: Viewfinder with 100% frame covering

Rechargeable battery and charger

Battery information available in the chamber:

The top control board displays a five-segment battery charge indicator
When selecting Setup Menu -\u003e Battery INFO displays:
. Rechargeable counter (in percent)
. Number of pictures (estimated number of frames at the current charge)
. Duration of charge (scale from 0 to 4, indicating the battery charge duration)

Battery unit / vertical handle holder (optional)

Together with the D300S, you can use the same battery pack (vertical handle holder), as with its predecessor. The handle is connected to the camera using special connectors located at the bottom of the camera that provide power and control without the need to remove the built-in battery or open the battery compartment cover, which allows you to quickly attach or disconnect the holder handle. MB-D10 supports a number of batteries: EN-EL3E (used in the camera), capacious EN-EL4A (used in the D3 series) or with AA batteries. The use of AA batteries or EN-EL4A batteries allows you to slightly increase the speed of continuous shooting up to 8 frames / sec. (Images D300)

Memory Card Office

The D300S borrowed a compartment cover for memory cards in the D700, refusing to a safe snap-down version applied to D300. The new lid opens with a shift, and also has the same level of seal as around the slots themselves for memory cards. The most noticeable change is that now behind the lid is two slots for memory cards.

Battery compartment

The batch for the battery is located inside the chamber grip region. The compartment cover opens with a small lever, inside the battery is held without falling out and without the use of the valve.

Connectors

The D300S received a microphone connector, which is under a large rubber plug on the left sidebar. Also there are composite output A / V, HDMI port, input for a constant power supply and USB connector. The HDMI output can be defined in the camera setup menu (the following options are possible: Auto, 480p, 576p, 720p or 1080i).

The PC-SYNC flash socket and DF / GPS connectors are located in the front left corner of the camera for rubber plugs that are securely attached to the camera. (PC-SYNC Nest Images on D300)

Camera base / tripod nest

Flash

The extended D300S flash is activated by manually by pressing a small button on the left side of the camera directly under the flash. A hand can be raised the flash to the desired height above the lens (convenient when using blend and to reduce the effect of "red eyes"). Right under the descent button there is another button that changes the flash modes and the flash power correction button (from -3.0 to +1.0 EV).

"Hot Shoe"

Bayonet.

In the following image, the left can be seen by the bayonet D300S with a lowered mirror, and on the right - with a raised mirror and an open curtain (seen sensor). The lenses are screwed clockwise and fixed by turning counterclockwise. The camera is equipped with a standard Bionet f from Nikon and can be used with almost the entire Nikkor F lenses (however, some features available with new lens type G or D). As already mentioned at the beginning of the review, the D300 also supports the diaphragm ring on older AI lenses. (Images D300)

Self-cleaning sensor

Nikon D300S is equipped with the same self-cleaning matrix, like the D300. The system works in the same way as other similar solutions - piezoelectric elements vibrate and shake the surface filter, which, in the theory, should remove any small dust particles that are set on the sensor. In practice, when the dwarf was found, which began to appear on the image on small diaphragms, it was possible to remove it with just one activation of the matrix cleaning function in the camera menu.

Included

The delivery kit may differ depending on the region:

Digital D300S Mirror Camera with Bayonet Lid
BM-8 LCD Monitor Protective Cover
Shoulder strap
DK-5 eyepiece cover
Rubber headband DK-23
Lithium-ion rechargeable battery EN-EL3E
Fast Charger MH-18A and AC Cable
USB cable
Cable A / V
Software CD
Instruction

Comparison of Studio Results (High ISO Sensitivity)

In this section, we compare the results of the D300S with pictures obtained by 7D, K-7 and 50D (using the default settings), when shooting in the studio at high sensitivity, especially pay attention to the fields in the shadows. Here is a comparison of images of the camera in JPEG format. And the ability to produce good results immediately in the chamber can be a present advantage.

ISO 1600.

ISO 3200.

ISO 6400.

The first model, D300, was famous for high quality images on high sensitivity, not because its sensor was much better than that of competitors (Sony A700 has a very similar sensor), and since the camera has owned a good JPEG format processing system, creating very acceptable results on High sensitivity. This became possible due to the excellent operation of the noise suppression system, providing the optimal balance between the level of parts and a decrease in noise, as well as maintaining good saturation for the realistic view of the resulting image.

It is not surprising that competitors do not lag behind and demonstrate good results. For example, the tested canon models provide a very similar level of noise, as well as a very good noise balance / detail / saturation. Based on the results, it is difficult to choose between representatives from Canon or Nikon, with the difference alone that Canon EOS 7D retains a slightly more detail over the entire sensitivity range, and Canon EOS 50D lags behind competitors on high ISO.

Conclusions "For"

High competitive image quality throughout the ISO sensitivity range
Excellent work at high ISO sensitivity with low noise and large number of parts
AUTO ISO automatic sensitivity selection feature has a wide range of setting (can set the maximum ISO sensitivity and minimal shutter speed)
Continuous shooting at a speed of 7 frames per second (8 frames / sec when using the holder battery handle)
Comfortable slots for two types of memory cards
The sophisticated AF system with an effective implementation of the surveillance
Excellent assembly quality, including magnesium alloy housing and seals to protect against dangerous factors ambient
Good ergonomics, comfortable shape of the chamber grip
Conveniently located and easily customizable buttons
The menu is well organized and provides a quick response, despite its size and complexity of the device.
Large and bright viewfinder with 100% coating
Relatively fast autofocus in contrast in Live View mode
Video output for video good quality 720p
Simple switching between photography modes, video and Live View
Detection in contrast available in video mode
External microphone socket
The useful feature of active D-Lighting protects against excessive lights and shadows.
Reliable work flashes
Full Wireless Flash Control
Wide accessories set (WiFi, battery pack, GPS)
Big battery life
Improved interval timer function
Full Software Set
Built-in highlighting autofocus

Conclusions "Against"

Unreliable white balance in artificial lighting
A small tendency to overexposure in high contrast
Effect of Rolling Shutter when shooting video
The "graininess" appears in the blue sky, even on major sensitivity
Slow autofocus in contrast (like all digital "mirrors")
Built-in microphone willingly records lens noise

General conclusion

D300S is not the same essential step forward for Nikon, as in the case of the D300, which partially serves as the proof of how successful the D300 model was. During testing, the D300 camera was very difficult to find disadvantages for constructive criticism, so it is not surprising that the company's engineers did not know how to improve this model. But still, improvises were presented in the heir, some of whom would particularly please certain cola of photographers. The ability to shoot a video, although in the appearance of "with frills", is indeed an advantage in relation to both creative opportunities and commercial potential, which cannot be unnoticed. Adding a second memory card slot and possible methods Its applications also significantly increase the level of versatility of using the camera.

Image quality

Considering the 12-megapixel D300S sensor, it would be possible to say that the camera is not entirely relevant. But it would be incorrect because the difference between 18 and 12 megapixels (20% in both relations) plays a role only under certain specific conditions, especially in this case. D300S provides excellent quality images to which it is difficult to find face. Images in JPEG format may seem slightly blurred, in our opinion, but they can easily adjust sharpness at your discretion. RAW format processing will provide even better results.

Control

Management is one of the greatest advantages of D300S - ergonomics and assembly quality meet the highest requirements. Although first can scare the number of external controls, but after reading with them you will be very glad that they are in the chamber. And thanks to the high level of device device to your requirements, you can assign other functions to function buttons to which you go to direct access. In addition, if you are not familiar with the principle of work "Slirlock" Nikon (all controls and indicators have a positive value to the right and negative - to the left), it is necessary to consider that it can be changed so that it is to mostly remind you the way to set the camera, Which you used before.

Although the changes relating to the buttons compared to the D300 model are insignificant, they still constitute the main difference, and not only in relation to direct video access. We also did not reach a general agreement regarding the location of the buttons on the left side of the camera (white balance, ISO and image quality). But this, perhaps, was the only object of the dispute, despite the fact that we have already been familiar with the similar models of other brands.

The last word

The D300S camera is not the same outstanding product that its predecessor has become at one time. Therefore, in our opinion, there is no significant reasons for owners of the older model to replace it if only your customers require video shooting. But this should not reduce the advantages of the excellent novelty D300S - a more sophisticated and improved update of the model, which set a new level of quality after its exit. The main competitor of D300S is Canon EOS 7D, but if you do not critically need a high sensitivity of the latter, the model from Nikon will become a very attractive option.

Based on materials dpreview.com.
Translation: Popile Katerina

In hand shooting mode, the camera uses a quick phase focus (mirror rises, the camera focuses and the mirror is lowered) and slower autofocus in contrast, which is used in tripod mode. In order to perfectly enjoy the sharpness, it is possible to increase the part of the frame. The increase is divided into 7 stages and is completed with a maximum increase of 1: 1 ratio.

All menu settings options, like all the values \u200b\u200bof user settings, can be saved as profiles (menu banks) and give them names. It is very convenient for multipurpose use of the camera and allows you to prepare for shooting in the minimum time, simply downloading the saved bank. In mastering the menu, the Help button is significantly helped, outputting a text explanation to the selected item.

The camera has perfectly proven itself in all modes. And although automatic work Exposure complaints did not cause, you have the opportunity to fit even better in the histogram: thanks to the function of the active D-Lighting, the camera makes the expiration so as not to beat the light, providing the camera better hitting the histogram. The D-Lighting settings can now be prescribed by the camera on their own, and for faders of soft tone transitions there is even more powerful value - Extra High.

When shooting with an active D-Lighting, the recording time of the picture on the memory card is slightly increasing and the serial shooting buffer significantly decreases. A simple d-lighting is also available through the menu, optimizing the dynamic range after shooting, software. In addition, there is a custom image management mode, which allows you to configure such parameters as sharpness, contrast, brightness, saturation, and tonality. You can also apply the effects of filters and toning to your taste.

In view mode, up to 72 shots can be displayed simultaneously. Information about the filmed frame is divided into several pages and includes file information general (Color space, vignetting correction, white balance parameters, etc.), GPS data, brightness histogram and RGB channels. Therefore, the photographer is at all difficult to obtain comprehensive information on the selected material without using the computer.

Images are also conveniently deleted - you just need to press the removal button again; In the Canon cameras, snapshots are deleted as well, only to confirm you need to twist the wheel, which is frankly annoying if you need to remove several pictures in a row.

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