Nikon Officially Announced the D500 Camera

Nikon D500 DX camera

* * *  Nikon also announced the D5 full frame camera  * * *

My favorite APS-C camera, the Canon EOS-7D may have finally met its match after 5 years. The Nikon D500 looks like an impressive camera on paper. I have no interest in the 4K video or the SnapBridge features. They do little for a wildlife photographer like myself but the new AF system on the D500 looks interesting.

My readers know I have picked the EOS-7D as the best value camera in wildlife photography four years in a row. The EOS-7D Mark II was announced over one and a half years ago and I expect Canon to release a major firmware upgrade to the Mark II some time in the second half of 2016 or early 2017 to extend the life of the camera and tuneup the AF system a bit until the Mark III appears some time in 2018.




TOKYO - Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the release of the D500, a DX-format digital SLR camera that packs the incredible performance of the D5, Nikon's flagship FX-format model, into an agile body. The camera has a list price of $2,000 and is available in March 2016.

The D500 incorporates the same powerful 153-point AF system as the D5, ensuring precise subject acquisition even during high-speed continuous shooting at approx. 10 fps. It supports 4K UHD movies, meeting the demands of multimedia professionals, while the new EXPEED 5 image-processing engine enables it to deliver high-quality images and movies and realizes a wide sensitivity range from ISO 100 to 51200, expandable to Hi 5 (ISO 1640000 equivalent).

The D500 combines the agility of the DX system with superior usability. It employs a touch-screen, tilting monitor, and features SnapBridge support, which enhances the value of your images via constant wireless connection with a smart device. The camera is compatible with the newly released MB-D17 Multi-Power Battery Pack (optional), which can be used with various types of battery.

D500 Primary features

Powerful 153-point AF achieves superior subject acquisition performance across a wide range of situations

The D500's Multi-CAM 20K autofocus sensor module offers a dense configuration of 153 focus points (99 cross sensors) that covers an extremely wide portion of the image area, meaning that even fast-moving subjects can be acquired precisely. AF capability is extended down to -4 EV with the central point and -3 EV with all other points, making AF usable even in extremely low light or when shooting low-contrast subjects. A newly employed AF engine and 180K-pixel RGB sensor also contribute to achieving exceptional AF performance in a variety of scenes.

High-speed continuous shooting at approx. 10 fps for up to 200 shots (14-bit lossless compressed RAW)

The D500 delivers high-speed continuous shooting at approx. 10 fps for up to 200 shots in JPEG and in 14-bit lossless compressed RAW, without any drop in shooting speed. Even moving subjects can be tracked accurately across a wide field of view at this rapid rate, taking advantage of the camera's stable viewfinder image and a widest-ever diagonal viewing angle of approx. 30.8°.

Unique benefits of a compact DX system — added agility in telephoto shooting

Nikon's DX-format D500 provides an angle of view equivalent to that of a lens with an approx. 1.5x longer focal length. This permits telephoto shooting using smaller, lighter lenses with a shorter focal length, while taking advantage of performance that rivals the D5 FX-format flagship model. The camera's agility is also enhanced by the kit lens, AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-80mm f/2.8-4E ED VR, the lightweight 5x normal zoom lens, which weighs only approx. 1340 g/2 lb 15.3 oz when attached to the D500.

4K UHD video, suitable for professional productions
The D500 can record 4K UHD (3840 x 2160)/30p/25p/24p as well as 1080/60p video for up to 29 min. 59 s, with simultaneous output via HDMI available. It is also possible to generate 4K UHD time-lapse movies within the camera. In Full HD or HD mode, the D500's electronic Vibration Reduction function reduces the effects of camera shake in the horizontal, vertical and rotational directions during hand-held movie recording, while Active D-Lighting preserves details in highlights and shadows to capture footage with natural brightness.

New EXPEED 5 image-processing engine achieves sensitivity up to ISO 51200, expandable to Hi 5 (equivalent to ISO 1640000)

The D500's new EXPEED 5 image-processing engine, as used in the D5, delivers standard ISO sensitivity from 100 to 51200, expandable down to Lo 1 (ISO 50 equivalent) and up to Hi 5 (ISO 1640000 equivalent). It can capture exceptionally high-definition images, while effectively reducing noise even at high ISO settings. The new 180K-pixel RGB sensor (approx. 180,000 pixels) further improves the performance of the camera's Advanced Scene Recognition System, and its flicker reduction for still images reduces exposure variations even under flickering light sources.

Touch-screen, tilting 8-cm/3.2-in. high-resolution monitor ensures more comfortable shooting for professionals and advanced amateurs

The D500's touch-panel monitor enables a variety of functions, including instant switching of images using the frame advance bar and text input — shared with the D5 — as well as touch AF and touch shutter (in still shooting). The tilting monitor with 3-axis hinge structure allows you to shoot from more flexible angles for stills and movies. And its large 8-cm/3.2-in. screen with significantly enhanced 2359k-dot resolution lets you confirm focus in amazingly precise detail.

SnapBridge support lets you link with a smart device via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi

The D500 can be constantly connected to a smart device with the SnapBridge application installed (to be available as a free download), via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. This enables a variety of features: you can automatically transfer images taken with the D500 to your smart device, as well as upload them automatically to NIKON IMAGE SPACE. You can also use the smart device to browse images stored in the camera, as well as embed images with its location and date/time information. SnapBridge dramatically enhances the value and convenience of images taken with the D500.

WT-7/A/B/C Wireless Transmitter (optional) enables high-speed wired/wireless LAN communication

Nikon's WT-7/A/B/C Wireless Transmitter is aimed at professionals who need to transfer images more quickly than they can with built-in wireless LAN. When attached to the D500, it allows images and movie files to be transferred to computers or FTP server via both wired and wireless LAN. The D500 with WT-7/A/B/C can be used as a wireless LAN access point, permitting easy connections with computers and smart devices.

Download User Manual of the D500 camera from Nikon here.

Nikon Officially Announced the D5 Camera

Nikon D5 20MP full frame camera

* * *  Download Nikon D5 User Manual  * * *

* * *  Nikon Professional Services offers tips on D5 camera  * * *

* * *  See how Nikon D5 stack up against Canon EOS-1D X Mark II  * * *

Nikon finally announced the D5 camera, almost 4 years to the day the D4 was announced. The list price is $6,500. They have also announced the D500 DX camera. Now I am waiting for the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II camera. It should be announced next month. See how the two cameras stack up against each other. Ready for my pre-order. More to come . . . . .

TOKYO - Nikon Corporation today announces the new D5, a FX-format flagship digital SLR camera that challenges photographers to outperform their highest standards, and set new benchmarks for speed, accuracy and image quality. Expanding the possibilities of image capture for professional photographers, the new D5 places the needs of the professional at the centre of innovation with features that enable smooth and reliable responsiveness to a wide variety of scenes and subjects.

From the refined acquisition of subjects in motion, to 4K video in UHD, the D5 creates opportunities for dauntless photographers working in demanding shooting environments to push their gear to new limits. With a next generation AF system the intelligent and versatile tracking of moving subjects enables the richness and realism of every split-second moment to be captured. The D5 boasts a wide range of ISO sensitivity up to 102400, expandable to Hi 5 (ISO 3280000 equivalent) — the most expanded sensitivity range in Nikon history — for astronomical twilight with minimum illumination, capturing details and colors beyond the limits of the human eye.

"The Nikon D5 is not just about technical excellence, but the marriage of elegant technologies. Speed and refined image quality have never converged so extensively, making it truly the camera that the industry has been waiting for," said Tadashi Nakayama, Corporate Vice President, Sector Manager of Marketing Sector, Imaging Business Unit. "The D5 represents what we are trying to do for the entire digital SLR category: Bringing technologies together to meet and anticipate the demands of professional photographers, empowering them to push the boundaries of their craft," he continues.

Outperform, Outdo, Outlast: The Pinnacle of Digital SLR Engineering for Professionals

The D5 enables the precise capture of subjects under the most demanding conditions with a new-generation 153-point AF system and a stable viewfinder image that makes tracking moving subjects easy, even during high-speed continuous shooting at approximately 12 fps*1, making the camera ideal for photojournalists capturing heart-racing sporting action and majestic animal migrations. Image quality is further enhanced by the pairing of the new Nikon FX-format CMOS sensor and the brand new EXPEED 5 image-processing engine, for the most vibrant, true-to-life colors and sumptuous details. Together with the highest standard ISO sensitivity in Nikon history, up to102400, photographers are liberated from the challenges of shooting in low-light environments whether covering evening events or shooting indoors. In another first for the FX-format range, the D5 takes movie-making to new cinematic heights with the ability to shoot in 4K UHD 2160/30p format, in-line with the increasing appetite from professionals for the production of high quality video content.

Convenient Connectivity, Simplified Workflows

In addition, new and improved features and functions, such as a high-resolution touch screen LCD monitor, faster wired networks (via built-in Ethernet connector) and wireless networks*2, and double memory card slots*3 that use the same type of media, to simplify and speed up the professional photographer's workflow, while placing the D5 in the center of the connected ecosystem for visual communication.

Designed for the Field and the Studio

The camera's Advanced Scene Recognition System, which has adopted a new 180k-pixel RGB sensor, contributes to greater AF, AE, and AWB performance. This, along with a design that consumes less power and adoption of a highly precise and durable shutter, ensures durability, and gives photographers greater control over their gear as well as image quality. The D5 also completely integrates into any professional photographer's comprehensive ecosystem of Nikon accessories. Compatibility with the new Nikon Creative Lighting System functions, radio-controlled Advanced Wireless Lighting (AWL) and unified flash control, all work to ensure the production of superlative image quality and a seamless studio workflow*4

    *1Possible in Continuous high speed (CH) release mode with shutter speeds of 1/250 s or faster

    *2When used with WT-6/A/B/C Wireless Transmitter (available separately)

    *3The camera is available in two versions, two XQD cards or two CompactFlash cards

    *4When used with Speedlight SB-5000 (available separately)

Primary features

Next-generation Intelligent AF System

The entire AF system has been completely re-vamped with adoption of the Multi-CAM 20K autofocus sensor module. This sensor module offers 153 focus points (99 of which are cross-type sensors) for broad and dense coverage of the entire image area. The center focus point has a detection range beginning at an incredible -4 EV, and detection with other focus points begins at -3 EV*, enabling autofocusing even under extremely dim lighting, and with subjects exhibiting very low contrast. In addition, equipping the camera with a dedicated AF engine capable of high-speed calculation and collaboration with the 180K-pixel RGB sensor have ensured that extremely reliable AF performance is demonstrated with a variety of scenes.

        *At ISO 100, 20 °C/68 °F

High-speed continuous shooting at approx. 12 fps with swift subject tracking

The D5 is capable of high-speed continuous shooting at approximately 12 fps*1 (w/ AF and AE tracking) in all image quality modes and at all ISO sensitivity settings. What's more, adoption of a new mirror drive mechanism achieves a more stable viewfinder image that makes continuous tracking of rapidly moving subjects easy, even with high-speed continuous shooting. Further, up to 200*2 12-bit lossless compressed RAW images can be captured with a single burst of continuous shooting.

        *1Possible in Continuous high speed (CH) release mode with shutter speeds of 1/250 s or faster

        *2When Lexar Professional 2933x XQD 2.0 memory cards are used

Exceptional ISO sensitivity

Collaboration between the new Nikon FX-format CMOS sensor and the new EXPEED 5 image-processing engine, both developed by Nikon, have enabled the highest standard ISO sensitivity in Nikon history, that of ISO 102400. High-sensitivity image quality at these never-before-seen levels achieves superior imaging quality, even within the high ISO 3200 to 12800 range often used with sports photography and the like. In addition, the image sensor's broad dynamic range enables rich and natural expression of tones for accurate reproduction of the finest details, even with extremely vivid subjects with which the expression of textures is especially difficult.

Cinematic brilliance with 4K UHD (30p) movie capability

The D5 supports movie creation in 4K, which offers a resolution higher than HD or full-HD movies, an indispensable feature for professionals involved in film-making and video content creation. High-resolution 4K UHD (3840 x 2160)/30p, 25p, 24p movies can be recorded to a memory card inserted in the camera, or, with simultaneous HDMI output, they can be displayed on an external monitor or recorded as uncompressed video to an external recorder. With support for the maximum standard sensitivity of ISO 102400, as well as even higher sensitivity settings up to Hi 5 (equivalent to ISO 3280000), even movies recorded at these high sensitivities will exhibit superior picture quality. 4K UHD time-lapse movies can also be generated in-camera.

Improved functionality and streamlined workflows

A high-resolution 3.2-in., approx. 2,359k-dot touch screen LCD monitor

Adoption of a touch screen for the display monitor enables nimble confirmation and high-speed navigation of a large number of images using a frame advance bar, and supports an efficient workflow with text input and the like. The large 3.2-inch, approximately 2,359k-dot high-resolution monitor enables extremely clear display with live view photography, even when the display is enlarged, for fast focus confirmation.

Connect through wired and wireless networks

The communications system has been significantly improved to support communications twice as fast as with the D4S, with both wired networks using the Ethernet connector built into the D5, and wireless networks when the new Wireless Transmitter WT-6/A/B/C (available separately) is used with the D5.

Versatile image storage options

Two versions of the D5 are available. Both are equipped with double memory card slots supporting a single media type; one XQD cards and one CompactFlash cards.

Accessories for high-speed connected convenience: WT-6/A/B/C Wireless Transmitter(available separately)

When connected to the D5, the high-speed transfer of image data to a computer*1 or an FTP server over a wireless network is possible. The maximum range is approximately 200 m*2. Communications are significantly faster with support for the new IEEE 802.11ac (2x2 VHT80) standard. Wireless control over the camera from a computer is also possible using Camera Control Pro 2 (available separately). A D5 to which a WT-6/A/B/C is connected may be used as a wireless LAN access point, and a direct connection to a computer or smartphone is also achievable.

Nikon Will Announce D5 Camera At CES 2016

Nikon D5 20MP DSLR camera

* * *  Nikon D5 camera officially announced. See it here  * * *

The top-of-the-line Nikon D5 camera will be announced at the CES 2016 starting tomorrow in Las Vegas. The Canon EOS-1D X Mark II camera should follow soon, possibly in February or at the latest early March. More to come. Keep checking back.

Nikon D5 expected specifications :

• Two D5 body types - D5 XQD-type and D5 CF-Type
• New 20.82 MP CMOS sensor
• EXPEED 5.4K processing engine
• 153 AF points, 99-point cross sensor, F8 corresponding 15 points
• Continuous shooting (continuous shooting up to 200 frames in 14bit lossless compression RAW) -12 fps in the AF / AE tracking
• Continuous shooting speed with mirror lockup, 14 fps (AE / AF fixed)
• Highest ISO - 102,400
• Extended sensitivity - Hi5 - ISO 3,280,000
• 3.2-inch 2.36 million dots LCD touchscreen
• Memory card slots - D5 (XQD-Type) is double XQD, D5 (CF-Type): double CF
• Shutter speed - 30 seconds to 1/8,000 sec
• Finder coverage - 100% (FX), magnification: 0.72x
• SuperSpeed - (USB 3.0 Micro-B terminal)
• Battery - EN-EL18a
• Weight (battery and cards) D5 (XQD-Type) : 1405g. D5 (CF-Type) : 1415g
• Shipping starts in March, 2016

Visit Canon USA Interactive Booth at the CES 2016

MELVILLE, N.Y. — At the 2016 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, NV January 6-9, Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, will challenge attendees to see the impossible at booth #13106 in the Central Hall. Canon’s booth will feature a Canon 8K Ride Experience where attendees can see the future of visual imaging and experience, firsthand, the physical and emotional reactions that take place when an 8K video projected on a large screen simulates a physical journey. There will also be an 8K Photo Gallery that displays precise moments from an 8K video. The Canon booth itself will be composed of three environments simulating a home, an office, and a professional studio. Within each zone Canon will offer hands-on demonstrations of current real-world imaging solutions for attendees to experience themselves.

“We believe there really is only one way for our valued customers and users to truly understand and embody Canon See Impossible and that is through seeing and experiencing real life examples of how Canon digital imaging solutions can impact their daily lives on both a professional and personal level,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, president and COO, Canon U.S.A., Inc. “We are excited for attendees to experience these solutions at our CES 2016 booth as well as have them enjoy the unique Canon 8K Ride Experience, which will be new to most attendees.”

Introduced at Canon EXPO, held this past September in NYC, this 8K Ride Experience projects 8K video on large screens surrounding viewers to give them a unique sense of movement while sitting or standing still. By experiencing imagery from all angles, the technology can simulate a physical journey often sparking a physical or emotional reaction.

In the home environment attendees can experience the power of an image as photo enthusiasts, crafters, and artists will have the opportunity to take part in hands-on demonstrations using Canon cameras and lenses to create different perspectives and print the images captured on Canon PIXMA printers. The office environment will allow visitors to see a smarter workplace showing how Canon products work together to streamline daily activities in a real-world office setting. The future of creativity can be seen as Canon invites visitors to step into a professional studio environment and experience a day in the life of a photographer or videographer. Speakers and demonstrations will feature the full range of Canon imaging products and how they meet the needs of today’s creative image makers.

At the booth’s center, attendees can navigate up the Canon Lens Tower, which showcases large and long-zoom lenses from Canon’s line of more than 103 Canon EF Series lenses as well as Canon’s innovative CINE-SERVO 50-1000mm lens capable of shooting brilliant 4K video at up to 1500mm with its built-in 1.5x extender. The tower will offer a unique and innovative 360 degree visual perspective of the CES show floor. Visitors are also encouraged to browse Canon’s photo gallery featuring images captured with Canon EOS DSLR and PowerShot cameras and printed on Canon imagePROGRAF and PIXMA PRO inkjet printers including the new imagePROGRAF PRO-1000 printer. Canon service and support technicians will be on hand to answer questions via live chat as well as demonstrate Canon Maintenance Service live in the booth.

Visit Canon at CES 2016 Booth #13106 in the Central Hall to view all three unique environments, see first-hand the latest products and the enjoy the 8K Ride Experience and 8K Photo Gallery. Follow Canon throughout the show on Instagram at @CanonUSA and Twitter at @CanonUSAimaging. Use #CanonCES to join the conversation.

Nikon Top-of-the-Line D5 Camera Photos Leaked

* * *  Read the announcement of the Nikon D5 camera here  * * *

In my earlier post, I have written about the Nikon D5 camera perhaps being announced for the upcoming CES 2016 in Las Vegas in January.

Now leaked photos of the new camera are out. This new DSLR is being mass produced right now at Nikon's Sendai plant in Japan. That means the announcement cannot be far behind and the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II camera will soon follow. Keep checking back. More to come . . . .

Nikon D5 20MP full frame camera

What To Expect From CES 2016 in January

The Consumer Electronic Show is only about one month away and takes places on January 6 - 9, 2016 in Las Vegas. Generally, this is a big trade show for electronic, photographic and entertainment companies featuring their 'must have' gadgets and new technologies.

Photographic companies usually showcase their consumer grade cameras and gear with one notable exception. Nikon announced their top-of-the-line DSLR camera, the D4 at the CES 2012. There is a chance they may choose to announce its replacement, the D5 camera at the show in January again. In addition, I reported yesterday Nikon may be in the process of buying Samsung's mirrorless business and they may also make an announcement at the show as well. Samsung has 'officially' denied the rumor but do you really expect them to confirm it before the deal is signed and sealed?

Canon normally announces a few low end PowerShot point-n-shoot cameras at the Show and is not expected to showcase their soon to be released, top-of-the-line EOS-1D X Mark II or the EOS-5D Mark IV until Q1 and Q2 respectively. The smallest DSLR on the market, the Rebel SL1 was announce on October, 2014. Canon may introduce its replacement, the Rebel SL2 and perhaps the EOS-80D DSLR cameras at the Show. Of course, Canon can choose to announce more products after the CES as well, perhaps at the end of the month. Keep checking back. More to come . . . . .

Canon EOS-70Da and EOS-80D Cameras Coming

I have just gotten back from my Polar Bear Photo Tour in the Canadian sub Arctic. Trying to catch up on some Canon photo news when I was away. It was quite a productive trip. The weather was 'milder' than past years and I will be processing the photos when I have a chance to rest up and look at them.

Canon introduced the EOS-60Da in 2012. It is essentially an EOS-60D but geared towards the Astronomy segment of the photography market. Apparently, Canon may be ready to update this camera with the EOS-70Da. The specs will be similar to the EOS-70D but may be equipped with a slightly higher pixel sensor and larger buffer to handle the increase in data processing. The new camera may be announced in time for the Consumer Electronic Show in Las Vegas in January 2016.

The EOS-80D can be expected to debut some time in the first half of 2016. It may come with a mid 20MP sensor, a DIGIC 6 processor, Dual Pixel CMOS technology and improved video capabilities but no 4K video. I am waiting for the EOS-1D X Mk II and EOS-5D Mk IV to debut early to mid 2016 for my next DSLR purchase. Keep checking back for the latest information and development.