New DSLR Brings Continuous Focus 1080p

2010.08.19

Nikon made an impressive announcement earlier today. Their new D3100 DSLR brings both 1080p HD video recording and continuous auto-focus while filming. This also happens to be an entry-level DSLR which budget-conscious buyers will sure to appreciate instead of envying such new features on a high-priced model instead.

This new DSLR sports a 14 megapixels CMOS sensor capable an ISO range of 100-3200 expandable to 12800. It is equipped with a 11-point autofocus system capable of tracking subjects in 3D and the usual features found on DSLR including: full-manual controls, custom-white-balance and continuous shooting.

The movie capability of the D3100 can record full-HD video at 1920x1080 @ 24 FPS and 720p video at up to 30 FPS. During any of these modes, which are started as usual from the live-view display, the D3100 uses a contrast-detect AF system to maintain focus and track faces continuously. Videos are saved in a MOV file using the space-efficient AVCHD codec. Large video files can be saved to SDXC cards which exist in sizes of 64GB and more.

The D3100 will be available in Canada during September at a suggested price of $699 including an 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 kit lens. Models sold in Canada will come with a 2 year warranty as well.

US Buyers can already pre-order the D3100 single-lens kit from Amazon.com. A dual-lens kit from Amazon.com is also available. Canadian and international buyers can pre-order from BHPhoto.

• Digital Camera