Nikon released further details on the D70 DSLR. Looks like this is the second sub-$1000
DSLR - the other is the $899 Digital Rebel EOS 300D - and it certainly provides a new
price point for others to aim at. Though priced $100 more than the EOS 300D, it provides
more features, a much larger image buffer. Nikon also claim very fast operation, but don't
specify exact shutter lag times. Along with the D70 there is a new 18-70/3.5-4.5
which looks like it may be the "standard" lens sold with the camera, beating out
Canon's EF-S18-55/3.5-5.6 offering by 15mm, though it does cost 3x as much ($300 vs.
$100).
Price $999 ($1299 with 18-70/3.5-5.6)
Shipping date - Spring 2004
6MP CCD sensor (1.5x multiplier)
1/500s flash sync
Built in speedlite with i-TTL
3 frames/sec for 144 images (JPEG/normal with SanDisk 256 MB Ultra II CF)
Simultaneous JPEG and NEF recording
New Picture Project software
5 zone AF
Up to 2000 images/charge on Li-ion battery
Can be powered using 3xCR2 batteries
25 custom settings
The following materal is from Nikon's Press Release
MELVILLE, N.Y., Jan. 28 /PRNewswire/ -- Adding yet another groundbreaking camera to its
popular D-series digital SLR line up, Nikon(R) (http://www.nikonusa.com) today introduced
the highly anticipated D70(TM) 6.1- effective megapixel digital SLR camera. Designed for a
broad range of consumers from experienced and amateur photographers to beginners taking
their first steps into digital SLR photography, the D70 surges ahead with more features,
more performance, and more value than any other camera in its category.
Built from ground up as a digital SLR, the Nikon D70 offers tremendous value to
consumers by incorporating many advanced features and new innovations that make
photography with the D70 faster, easier and better. Its DX format 6.1-effective megapixel
CCD sensor is optimized to deliver images with excellent sharpness and clarity, while a
new advanced system Large Scale Integrated Circuit (LSI) processor ensures images with
vivid color, accurate white balance and minimized noise. Nikon's new Dynamic Buffer
technology allows the D70 to continuously take up to 144 pictures at a speed of three
pictures per second (when using JPEG NORMAL -- Large image settings, and a SanDisk(R) 256
MB Ultra II CompactFlash(TM) card). Additional features such as exclusive new Digital
Vari-Program(TM) modes, simultaneous compressed NEF (RAW) and JPEG writing capabilities,
and new i-TTL flash compatibility with sync speed of 1/500 second further cement the D70's
place as a clear leader in its class of cameras.
At an estimated street price under $999 (for the body), Nikon's D70 is by far the most
capable digital SLR camera body in the market today. Ever since the introduction of the
groundbreaking D-Series professional cameras including the D1, D1X, D1H and D2H, Nikon has
been in constant pursuit of bringing an exceptional combination of product, performance,
technology and price to a broader range of customers. This led to the introduction of the
immensely popular D100 camera, now followed by the D70.
The D70 is Nikon's newest step in expanding the digital SLR camera market, and delivers
the ultimate combination of innovative features, robust performance and very affordable
price. The D70 will create a new 'sweet spot' within the total market and create
excitement among all sorts of customers who enjoy photographs, as well as the process of
making photographs and are now ready to expand into the realm of digital SLR photography.
The D70 is destined to be among the world's best selling digital SLR cameras.
"Less expensive models typically have fewer features and trimmed back performance.
Such is not the case with the D70. A close look will reveal that its performance and
features are not superficial, but with depth. Its exposure control, white balance and
flash operation systems are loaded with performance that goes well beyond the expected.
Yet with its simplicity and undemanding usability, the D70 will attract a wide range of
customers," said Richard LoPinto, vice president for SLR camera systems at Nikon Inc.
"With 25 custom settings the D70 stands apart from the competition and provides every
D70 customer with plenty of room to grow. As these customers develop their photographic
skills and creativity, the D70 will stand ready to offer them a depth of technology,
features and performance that will further inspire them to make great pictures. Nikon is
certain that the D70's powerful technology will provide users with the confidence to
experiment and get creative," he added. More Options: D70 Outfit or Set
The Nikon D70 will be available either as an Outfit or a Set. The D70 Outfit includes
the camera body, rechargeable battery, charger, new Nikon PictureProject(TM) software,
neckstrap and the new high-performance AF-S DX Nikkor 18-70mm f/3.5-4.5G IF-ED lens. The
D70 Set includes all items mentioned above except the lens. Available for a remarkably
affordable anticipated street price of $1299 (for D70 Outfit) and $999 (for D70 Set), the
camera will ship in Spring 2004.
More Quality and Detail: 6.1 MP CCD Sensor, Advanced System Digital LSI
The D70 incorporates a next-generation 6.1-effective megapixel DX Format CCD image
sensor that produces 3,008 x 2,000-pixel images, and is optimized to deliver a wide
dynamic range and superbly sharp details. Each of the sensor's pixels incorporates
individual micro-optics that precisely align the image from the camera's lens to optimize
performance. These micro-optics enable the compatibility between Nikon digital SLR models
and the entire line of Nikon's AF Nikkor and DX Nikkor optics. Like the D70, all Nikon
digital SLR cameras employ the DX Format, establishing uniformity across the entire range.
No other system employs compatibility to this extent.
Nikon programmed the D70's advanced system LSI processor for improved performance to
produce vivid colors and clarity, optimized auto white balance, auto tone and color
control, and to run real-time processes that diminish digital noise in long exposure shots
for cleaner overall results. The LSI and its double-path bus also maximizes system
performance for faster processing of compressed Nikon Electronic Format (NEF) RAW files
using Nikon's file compression technology, fast dynamic memory buffer, fast simultaneous
recording of JPEG and compressed NEF (RAW) files, and near-instant LCD image monitor
display.
More Speed: Faster Processing, Dynamic Buffer Technology, Fast Autofocus
Photographers know that even the slightest delay in taking a picture can mean missing
the decisive moment and losing a great photograph. That's why Nikon's D70 has been
designed to offer faster operation at nearly every level of performance. The camera is
ready to shoot the instant it is turned on, and shutter-lag time is unrivaled in its
class. Images are processed and written to memory faster. Compressed NEF (RAW) files are
processed and stored exponentially faster, making shooting in compressed NEF mode easier
and more convenient than ever. In fact, nearly twice as many compressed NEF files can be
written to a CompactFlash(TM) card, when compared to uncompressed NEF files. This presents
photographers with an impressive advantage of pristine image data at minimized file sizes.
Thanks to Nikon's new Dynamic Buffer technology, faster image processing, increased memory
card access speed and greater system bus bandwidth, the D70 can shoot a rapid three frames
per second for a continuous burst of up to 144 pictures (when using JPEG NORMAL - Large
settings, and a SanDisk(R) 256 MB Ultra II CompactFlash(TM) card). Automatic image
rotation within the camera further ensures that images taken with the D70 are ready to be
shared immediately (write-to-card speed enhancements will vary among CF cards).
More Innovation & Simplicity: Digital Vari-Program Modes, Redesigned Menu
The D70 combines versatile personal control and image enhancement options with seven
new Digital Vari-Program selections for powerful automatic operation that helps you
achieve great results with smooth gradations and rich tones, under even complex shooting
conditions. The ingenious Digital Vari-Program modes are designed for those moments when
photographers want to capture a scene quickly, without fumbling with camera settings or
distracting their enjoyment of the scene. Just select one of the seven Digital
Vari-Program modes to match your shot, and the D70 automatically optimizes white balance,
sharpening, tone (contrast), color, saturation and hue for optimal results according to
the type of picture you're taking. For example, select Portrait mode and the camera will
automatically enhance the image with beautiful skin tones, complimentary edge sharpening
and soft background focus that highlights your subject. Or choose from Auto, Landscape,
Close-up, Sports, Night Portrait, or Night Landscape for similar automated performance
that corresponds to the given scene. Images from the D70 and its Digital Vari-Program
modes are optimized for the evolving PictBridge(TM) technology that allows in-camera
selections and direct printing from the camera to a compatible Pictbridge(TM) printer.
Additionally, the D70's menus have been redesigned to offer quick access to the most often
used features of the camera. Users will have a choice of customizing their menu to display
simple or advanced options, choice depending upon their skill level. A unique help button
on the camera temporarily displays a short description for each of the 25 different custom
settings featured in the D70, offering users immediate help when customizing their camera.
More System Versatility: DX Nikkor Lenses
The D70 joins Nikon's current selection of digital SLR models and inherits the popular
DX format sensor and Nikon F-Mount. The F-Mount will allow photographers to not only use
high quality DX Nikkor lenses, but also maintain seamless compatibility with all AF Nikkor
lenses and the D70. Designed exclusively for Nikon's D-series digital SLR cameras, DX
Nikkor lenses are optimized to achieve outstanding center-to-edge-to-corner image quality,
when used with any of Nikon's digital SLR cameras including the D1, D1X, D1H, D100, D2H,
and the new D70. Nikon's range of DX Nikkor includes four high performance lenses that
offer unmatched wide-angle coverage and versatility:
AF DX Fisheye-Nikkor 10.5mm f/2.8G ED: 180 degrees angle-of-view
When used with a Nikon digital SLR camera and Capture software, images shot with the AF
DX Fisheye-Nikkor 10.5mm lens can be transformed into ultra-wide angle rectilinear images
with a choice of 100 degrees and 130 degrees horizontal angles of view.
More Simplified Creativity: Revolutionary Built-in Speedlight with i-TTL
The D70's built-in speedlight offers a level of performance that simply doesn't exist
in any other digital SLR camera. Designed to be a part of Nikon's growing Creative
Lighting System, the D70's built-in speedlight adopts Nikon's exclusive i-TTL flash
control technology. The speedlight automatically pops up and fires when natural lighting
is inadequate or to add balanced Fill-Flash when there is strong backlighting. In
addition, i-TTL technology improves the accuracy of fill-flash exposure and white balance
in a picture, by seamlessly integrating color information gathered from the speedlight's
monitor pre-flash with information from the system's 1,005-pixel RGB sensor. The D70 lets
you shoot at synchronized speeds up to 1/500 second for great fill effects under brighter
light conditions, while FV Lock maintains the measured flash value while recomposing the
shot so you still achieve the appropriate flash output for the subject. Built-in Manual
Mode with Power Ratio from full output to 1/64 power in 1/2 step increments puts you in
control of flash output to match your creative preferences, and flash exposure
compensation lets you increase or reduce flash output for yet finer control over results.
The D70's built-in speedlight can also be used in Commander Mode to remotely control one
group of multiple wireless SB-600 and/or SB-800 Speedlights for new opportunities in flash
picture taking not realized with lesser systems. Alternately, you can attach an SB-800
used as the Master Speedlight and use it for even more control of up to three remote
groups of wireless speedlights, with each group consisting of any number of Nikon SB-800
or SB-600 Speedlight units.
More Powerful Software: New Nikon PictureProject(TM)
Software is a key component of the digital photography experience, and a key component
of Nikon's Total Imaging System. After conducting exhaustive worldwide research into
customer expectations, requirements and work habits, Nikon has developed the new
PictureProject image management and editing software. Based entirely on a new software
architecture that empowers customers of varying skill levels to maximize their digital
photography experience, Nikon PictureProject boasts powerful features wrapped into a brand
new interface that navigates quickly and is easy to master. While PictureProject is
already a dynamic new addition to Nikon photography, the software also supports plug-ins,
allowing users to add new features, as technology and the digital camera market evolve.
The software allows users to easily transfer images to PC's or MAC's and browse, organize,
and share them. Pictures taken in vertical orientation are automatically rotated. Controls
for retouch tasks including brightness and red-eye correction, are intuitive and fast.
With support for JPEG, TIFF and NEF and compressed NEF (RAW) files, PictureProject works
in close unison with Nikon Capture 4 as the ideal companion to its powerful feature set.
With this powerful new software, Nikon can ensure that its customers will always keep
ahead of the technology curve. A new upgraded version of Capture 4 (Version 4.1) will
become available approximately one month after the introduction of the D70.
MAJOR FEATURES OF THE NIKON D70 DIGITAL SLR
Accurate, vivid color
6.1 effective megapixels
New Nikon DX Format CCD imaging sensor features an improved signal to noise ratio and
broader dynamic range that produces 3,008 x 2,000-pixel images with high resolution and
superbly sharp details.
New advanced digital image processor uses next-generation algorithms to optimize image
quality, while also controlling auto white balance, auto tone and color control, as well
as real-time processes to diminish digital noise and produce beautiful long exposure
shots.
Accurate white balance achieved by Nikon's acclaimed 3D Color Matrix Meter with
1,005-pixel for highly precise control over white balance regardless of lighting
conditions.
High Performance and Quick Response
Continuous shooting at 3 frames per second for a continuous burst of up to 144 pictures
(using JPEG NORMAL - Large settings, and a SanDisk 256MB Ultra II CompactFlash(TM) card)
thanks to improved buffer memory handling, faster image processing, increased memory card
access speed and greater system bus bandwidth. The number of continuous shots possible in
a single burst may be fewer depending on the type of CF card used.
Ultra-short shutter time lag is hardly noticeable and unrivalled in its class.
Immediate power-up has the D70 ready to take pictures before your finger can reach the
shutter button.
High performance System LSI uses next-generation programming to greatly increase the
speed of all processing and writing operations. This includes vastly improved recording
times for compressed NEF (Nikon Electronic Format) files and the inclusion of a
simultaneous NEF + JPEG file save setting.
High-speed, high precision 5-area AF system with predictive focus tracking and
Lock-on(TM) ensures quick response and sharp focus, while an AF-assist illuminator helps
ensure top performance in dark situations.
Fast shutter speed with a range from 30 to 1/8,000 sec. for full creative control.
Fast flash sync shutter speeds up to 1/500 sec. available for great fill-effects under
brighter light conditions.
Optimized and Predictable Results
Seven New Automated Digital Vari-Program selections easily accessed from the Mode Dial
deliver automatic operation that optimizes white balance, sharpening, tone, color,
saturation and hue for crisp and vivid results that match the intended shot. Selections
include Auto, Portrait, Landscape, Close-up, Sports, Night Portrait, and Night Landscape.
Image enhancement options optimize sharpening, contrast, tone, color, saturation and hue
while using Auto Multi Program [P], Shutter-Priority Auto [S], [Aperture-Priority Auto A],
or [Manual M] exposure modes to best match the scene or intended use for the picture. The
easy to set choices include Normal, Vivid, Sharp, Soft, Direct print, Landscape or Custom
optimization
Optimized exposure with a choice of three TTL exposure modes, including Nikon's
acclaimed 3D Color Matrix Meter with 1,005-pixel RGB Sensor, variable Center-Weighted
Meter and choice of Spot Meters.
Nikon's built-in iTTL automatic balanced Fill-Flash can shoot at synchronized speeds up
to 1/500 second for great fill effects when shooting in brighter lighting conditions;
compatibility within Nikon's Creative Lighting System.
Flash exposure compensation; a comprehensive selection of compensation tools enable more
versatile picture taking; tools for ambient light, flash illumination and the two combined
are provided.
New Generation Color Reproduction System offers a choice of three color modes to ensure
the best match for the shot when operating the camera manually. Mode Ia: Renders
natural-looking skin tones out of the camera. (sRGB) Mode II: Realizes a wider color range
suited for processing or retouching. (Adobe RGB) Mode IIIa: Renders vivid landscape and
flora colors out of the camera. (sRGB)
New JPEG and NEF Combination Filing System enables simultaneous recording of compressed
NEF (RAW) and JPEG data for the same shot to optimize and accelerate workflow.
Exclusive use of Compressed NEF files to maximize number of raw images possible for each
CF card used.
Creative and Versatile System for Subtle Expression
High-Quality Nikkor lenses: The unrivalled performance of AF, AF-S and DX Nikkor lenses
expand creative possibilities to the maximum.
Built-in auto pop-up flash features exclusive i-TTL flash control, fast 1/500 sec. flash
sync shutter speed, and supports Nikon's Creative Lighting System for wireless control of
remote SB-600 and SB-800 Speedlights.
ISO flash shoe makes it easy to attach an SB-600 or SB-800 Speedlight directly to the
camera.
Integrated Nikon Software Solutions: Nikon Capture 4.1 (optional) is a comprehensive
image editing and remote camera control package that fully supports NEF (compressed and
uncompressed) (RAW), TIFF and JPEG data. Among other features, the package offers Image
Dust Off sensor dust and particle shade removal control; Digital DEE(TM) scene-specific
automatic dodge and burn control; and transformation of shots from the AF DX Fisheye-
Nikkor 10.5mm f/2.8G ED lens to ultra-wideangle images. PictureProject is Nikon's
versatile new bundled software that simplifies and improves data transfer, as well as
browsing and editing of image files. PictureProject introduces an entirely new intuitive
user interface, and supports plug-in files for added function.
Improved Overall Performance
Light and compact: The smallest Nikon Digital SLR camera
Large LCD monitor with user-friendly menus located directly below the viewfinder
displays bigger menu fonts and icons that use familiar keywords for ease of understanding.
A protective clear LCD cover is also included with the D70.
Versatile LCD playback options include Single frame, Thumbnail (4 or 9 segments), Zoom
playback (up to 4.7x), Slide show, Histogram indication, and Highlight point displays with
automatic image rotation for vertical shots.
Proven lithium-ion battery system delivers excellent capacity and long life to shoot up
to approx. 2,000 pictures on a single charge. Capacity varies with equipment load and
environment conditions. (Same battery and charger as used in Nikon D100)
Compatible with disposable batteries for added flexibility, the D70 ships with a battery
holder that allows it to be powered by three disposable CR2 batteries.
25 Custom Settings allow you to personalize the operation of your D70 to match your
shooting style or the demands of different shooting conditions
Wireless remote control operation made available with optional ML-L3 (IR) remote
control.
Direct printing from the D70 to any PictBridge compatible printer using the supplied USB
cable.
Where to buy?
Ritz are now taking pre-orders for expected delivery starting later this month. They offer free shipping and no sales tax.
