Nikon D300s 12MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera (Body Only)

Review Nikon D300s 12MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera (Body Only)

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12.3-megapixel effective recording * APS-C-size CMOS image sensor (23.6 x 15.8 mm) * high-def movie mode with sound * high-res 3" LCD (920,000 dots) with Live View for composing shots on-screen in real-time * pentaprism optical SLR viewfinder (with diopter adjustment) * Dynamic Integrated Dust Reduction System to keep image sensor clean for spotless photos * Nikon EXPEED image processor for fast, accurate shooting and longer battery life * 51-point autofocus system for rapid, precise autofocusing * 1005-pixel 3D Color Matrix Metering II for accurate automatic exposure control, plus center-weighted and spot metering modes * Active D-Lighting mode for better shadow and highlight detail in high-contrast shooting conditions * built-in flash and flash exposure compensation * in-camera image editing functions, including: edit movie, D-Lighting, image overlay, monochrome, NEF (RAW) processing and more * AVI movie files (Motion JPEG) up to 1280 x 720 resolution at 24 frames per second with mono sound *
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Technical Details

- 12-megapixel CMOS image sensor for high resolution, low-noise images
- Body only; lenses sold separately
- Nikon EXPEED image processing; D-Movie HD Video for cinematic 24 fps, 720p HD movie clips
- 3-inch Super-density 920,000-dot VGA LCD; one-button Live View
- Capture images to SD/SDHC memory cards (not included)
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 "Impressed" 2010-02-24
By Tim Todd (Kingston, WA)
First, I did not buy this for video. I am a photographer. If video was my main concern then I would have bought a video camera. The rolling shutter issue commonly mentioned does happen but only when moving or shaking the camera so fast it would make anyone watching the video dizzy or sick. I have played with the video for the fun of it and non of the videos have had the rolling shutter issue so I really don't think it is much of a problem. I would like to see video dropped so that real useful functions can be added like built-in GPS, voice memos, and built-in wireless data transfer just to name a few.



Without getting long winded in trying to explain every technical detail I can tell you that this camera will offer incredible creative control. My D300s replaced a D200 and I am in awe at the improvements the D300s has over the D200. The two cameras are not even a close comparison. The D300s is faster in every category and has great high iso noise reduction, especially for a DX sized sensor.



I shoot a lot of winter sports and the D300s has great battery life in cold weather. I am also happy with how quick and accurate the autofocus tracks a fast moving subject. I should mention though that autofocus is noticeably slower when using a Sigma or Tamron lens. The Nikon lenses are lightning fast.



All the controls are logically placed and understandable. The menu is incredibly easy to navigate. I especially like how well you can customize nearly every button on the camera to do what ever suits your needs.



Another feature I like is how well it controls multiple flash units. This handles the Nikon Creative Lighting System with precision. I could keep rambling on about how much I am enjoying the D300s but I am tired and will stop here.



I would highly recommend this camera! It makes me smile every time I use it.

 "The D300s Delivers As Advertised" 2010-02-23
By Jimmy (Little Rock, AR)
I've had my eye on the D300s for quite sometime now and after finally getting one, I can say without a doubt that this camera is quite simply spectacular. It has yet to disappoint me and I seriously doubt it will...ever.



My first day of testing was at a local horse track and it lived up to the billing in it's ability to capture the fast action on the track. I used a Sigma 70-200mm f2.8 for the majority of the day and I was very pleased with the results of the two. I see very little if any difference in terms of overall quality in the Sigma over the Nikkor. Matched with the D300s, it's a shooters dream.



The only setback I have encountered so far is user related in having to overcome the feeling of being overwhelmed by all of the features that the D300s provides. If you shot a lesser amateur model such as the D60, this is really a step up and you will be challenged in terms of shot composition and camera settings. There is no Auto mode or a dial for Sports or what have you. So, really it makes you become a better photographer because you have to learn how set the camera for the best results. I really like this aspect.



I could get into details, but there are many others here who do a better job of that so I will just say that I really like this camera very much and am proud to be an owner of another fantastic product from Nikon.



-Jimmy Jones

Little Rock, Arkansas

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 "D300s is all that!" 2010-02-12
By Tj Fitzpatrick (Torrance, CA)
I've been using a D70 & D200. The D300s is by far the best I've used yet. I borrowed a D700 for a weekend and still prefer the D300s. Amazon had the best price, no tax and no delivery charge. Amazon & Nikon is a winning team!

 "Nikon D300S" 2010-02-05
By David S. Guptill
The D300S has all the features the bigger boys have at half to 1/5th the cost. It is a DX camera meaning it does not have a full frame sensor. The good news is all my Nikon lenses work, unlike the problems with the full frame Nikons. It is not as heavy as the more expensive Nikons and as fast as I need it to be. I can use my full creativity with this camera and get the picture with no lag time like you get with the point and shoot cameras. 12.5 megapixels is plenty of pixels to work with for large prints or small. With the battery grip you can shoot all day. Having dual memory cards, one for the picture and one for the RAW is a great idea.



I looked at other camera companies but my lens investment prevented me from making that change. Moving to one of the full frame Nikons would have required a similar lens investment as my DX lenses would not work the same, either.



Over all if you are looking for a fast, tack sharp camera with all the latest features Nikon can pack into a camera, the D300s is your camera.

 "Excellent D300s" 2010-01-30
By Connie Tam
I have upgraded from d90 due to the dual card capability and the faster frame per second. I'm very happy with the performance. However, the function of the preview next/previous image using main command dial is not exist anymore. D90, D80, and D300 have the ability to scroll through images using the main command dial.


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Buy Nikon D300s 12MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera (Body Only) Now
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Nikon D5000 12.3 MP DX Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens and 2.7-inch Vari-angle LCD

Review Nikon D5000 12.3 MP DX Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens and 2.7-inch Vari-angle LCD

Buy Cheap Nikon D5000 12.3 MP DX Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens and 2.7-inch Vari-angle LCD From Here Now!
A remarkable blend of simplicity and highly advanced D-SLR capabilities, the compact and powerful D5000 offers breathtaking 12.3-megapixel image quality, along with a flexible, Vari-angle, Live View monitor for fresh picture-taking perspectives. Nikon's EXPEED image processing further enhances performance, contributing to split-second shutter response and continuous shooting at up to 4 frames-per-second to capture fast action and precise moments perfectly.
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Technical Details

- 12.3-megapixel DX-format CMOS image sensor
- Outfit includes the 3x AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens with image stabilization
- D-Movie Mode with sound; record 720p HD movie clips
- Vari-angle color 2.7-inch LCD monitor; one-button Live View
- Capture images to SD/SDHC memory cards (not included)
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 "Perfect for new dSLR owners" 2010-03-05
By C. Webb
This is my first digital SLR camera so I don't have many other points of reference. However, coming form a point and shoot world, the Nikon D5000 has proven itself to be an excellent entry point for me.



Used to being able to slide a camera into my pocket, I was concerned about the size of the camera. However, the Nikon D5000 is very light compared to some of my friends' SLRs, and this makes the camera very portable. My first trip out was to the zoo, and I quick adjusted to the form factor and found it very easy to carry and use. My only complaint in this department is the strap that comes with the camera. The standard Nikon strap was uncomfortable for me, and a bit cumbersome but that is certainly a matter of personal opinion so your mileage may vary.



The Auto, and Scene settings will be familiar to anyone who has used a digital camera in recent years and result in great shots with very little effort. The real power of course is in manual mode, and even my experiments there have yielded some really nice results.



All the various features can be a bit overwhelming. The manuals are just "ok" I'm afraid, so you woudl be well served to grab a book or one of Nikon's Camera School videos to help you along. In fact the Nikon website has all the basic "getting to know your camera" videos for the D500 for free.



If you are hoping to use some of your old Nikon lenses with this camera, be aware that there is no focus motor in the body. The D5000 makes use of motorized autofocus lenses, so keep that in mind.



All in all, a fantastic entry-level camera, with great features at a great price.

 "Best value Nikon DSLR" 2010-02-23
By M. JAMES (Bahrain)
What a joy it has been using this Nikon D5000 for the past 9 months. I specialize in street and beach photography and was suffering from neck and shoulder pains after toting my old D2x around all day. My D5000 generally wears an 18-200VR

making this a very light combo indeed. Although it is in no way a normal choice for a professional I can buy 5 of these before I get into D3 territory pricewise. It doesn't have the weather sealing that the pro models have, but where I live it doesn't rain!. The shutter is consumer grade but has now clicked 81,000 times and shows no signs of giving up. I ratchet up the color tone to vivid and shoot mainly JPEG's in Normal file size. I do some occasional studio work, both nude and portraiture

and I would defy anyone to tell the difference between my D2x results and those of my D5000, all shot in NEF and put through Nikon Capture. With the 17-55mm attached it does feel out of balance with such a weighty lens, but again I have tended to use this combo only in the studio. Battery life has been extraordinary and I have often passed the 700 exposure mark before putting in a freshly charged one. The somewhat flimsy build quality - compared with metal cased pro bodies - is a problem that is easily overcome. For just [...] bucks Camera Armor make a tough silicone skin for the D5000 and it works a treat for me. if you are on a budget, or just downright mean, like me, this camera offers great picture quality and ease of use.

A steal at the price.

 "You will not find a better DSLR in this range!!!" 2010-02-16
By M. Molton
Go ahead and get this over the D3000 and under the D90. This thing is easy to use if you don't know what you are doing and has all the options if you do. You can really take pro pictures as an amateur. I bought the 18-55mm kit and added the 35mm F/1.8 lens for $189. I use the 35mm for most everything around the house and the 18-55mm will get it done when out sightseeing. I bought the Patriot 8gb class 10 SD card and it is super fast with this camera at a very cheap price tag of $26.

 "Hands on comparison with T1i" 2010-02-16
By David Sarek (Florida, USA)
My research boiled down to a face-off between the D5000 and Canon T1i. Initially, I was leaning toward the T1i but when I went to the local electronics retailer and compared them side by side the D5000 won out. There were just a few features that were not obvious to me from the written reviews that tipped the balance in favor of the Nikon. Before we get into the details, just let me say that I'm not a pro - just an amateur, but have used a DSLR for a couple of years, and film SLRs prior to that.



Layout/Design: The D5000 seems to have a better grip and button/control layout. For example, the index finger can operate the on/off switch, and reach nearby buttons while resting on the shutter button. The thumb can manipulate the command dial to select desired values for factors such as ISO, Exposure Compensation, etc. - all while you keep the finger on the shutter button. On the T1i, you must remove your finger from the shutter button, select a setting button (e.g. ISO), and then move the command dial with your index finger. This just doesn't seem as good a design to me.



Shooting Info/Status Display LCD: On the Canon, I noticed a lot of "white" space where no information was displayed and the values seemed to have random pattern. Indeed, if you compare the exposure info layout to the predecessor XSi you will see several differences. I also noticed that the T1i does not show several items on the main info display: Flash Mode (except in Creative Auto mode where it is ~apparently~ important enough to be displayed), Bracketing Mode, and Focus Points that are available on the Nikon. Exposure Compensation is shown, but is less than obvious (its a small hash mark under the exposure meter). To me, flash mode (on/off/red-eye, etc.) is pretty important and should be always visible. On the Nikon, every key bit of exposure info is displayed on the single shooting info display. The layout is very uniform - the key settings are in the main area, and the less often used info is on the right and bottom borders. The layout is nearly identical to other recent Nikon models.



Auto/Scene Mode Flexibility: I discovered that the Nikon, unlike the Canon, allows one to modify many exposure settings even in the automated Scene (Digital Vari-Program) modes. These include ISO, white balance, Auto Focus Mode, AF Area, AF Point, etc. The only adjustment possible on most scene modes on the T1i is image size/quality (check the Function Availability Table). I think this is quite a limitation, I think the ability to tell the camera that I'm taking a portrait but also override ISO, or auto white balance if I choose offers much more flexility and control.



Auto Focus: Some reviews mentioned this but it may not be obvious to newbies. In low light the DSLR needs to use a assist light to focus quickly and accurately. The T1i requires the flash to be deployed for this to happen, while the Nikon has an independent focus assist lamp which is always available (unless manually disabled). Most find this lamp to be less annoying than the Canon's flash strobe.



Built-in Help: When you are attempting to change an exposure setting, or menu option and forget what the functions does, etc. the D5000 has a help button that provides a pop-up explanation on the LCD display. This is great for new to SLR users and even seasoned photographers when facing a menu option you haven't used in a while. The Canon does not have anything like this.



So, there are a few features that sold me on the D5000. I've had it for about two months now and am very happy with it. The easy of use, speed, and picture quality has been superb in my opinion. Hope this helps!

 "D5000" 2010-02-13
By J. Chaney (Raleigh, NC)
For what it is, this has been an excellent camera. I'm coming over from film and this is my first foray into DSLR's, and this camera has done all I've asked it to do. The functions of this camera depend more on the capabilities of the user than the camera. I have used the kit lens from night shots to snow shots, used 2 of my old film lenses (the 50mm f1/8 is my favorite), and this camera has responded very well. If you want a pick up and take photos gem, buy a point and shoot. If you know how to use an SLR, this is great camera for the price lacking only in fps, some upper end functionality, and is in my opinion an excellent lower cost alternative to the D90.


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Buy Nikon D5000 12.3 MP DX Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens and 2.7-inch Vari-angle LCD Now
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