Nikon unveils D70s dSLR camera

Posted on Wednesday, April 20 2005 @ 23:10 CEST by Thomas De Maesschalck
Nikon today introduced the successor to the Nikon D70: the Nikon D70s. The new digital SLR camera employs the Nikon DX Format sensor and features the same Nikon F lens mount design as all other Nikon SLR cameras for seamless compatibility with all AF Nikkor lenses as well as the high quality DX Nikkor lenses.

Demonstrating just how well Nikon understands that performance is paramount when capturing precious moments, every system within the camera is optimized to keep the photographer on top of the action. Powering up in a mere 0.2 seconds, the D70s is ready to shoot the instant it is turned on. Shutter release time lag is minimized for quick response that makes shooting more efficient and more enjoyable. It is also capable of shooting a rapid 3 frames per second for a continuous burst of 144 pictures.

Nikon D70s


Shutter speeds of 30 to 1/8,000 sec. ensure full creative control. The built-in auto pop-up flash can synchronize at shutter speeds of up to 1/500 sec. for great fill flash effects. Its new optimized design also increases flash coverage to support lenses as wide as 18mm. Sensitivity can be set between ISO 200 to 1600 or controlled automatically (AUTO ISO) across the same range of settings to maximize available light.

The 5-area autofocus system continues to feature a cross-type sensor in the center, broad frame coverage, and class-leading low light detection, but is improved to deliver greater precision with fast, more consistent subject acquisition and improved focus tracking. Also included is an AF-assist illuminator to help maximize performance when shooting in low lighting conditions.

The D70s' advanced System LSI processor produces the finest in vivid colors and clarity, while maximizing the speed of file compression, memory buffer handling, simultaneous recording of JPEG and NEF (Nikon Electronic Format) files, and near-instant LCD image display.

The 6.1 effective megapixel Nikon DX Format CCD image sensor features wide dynamic range and a high signal to noise ratio that produces 3,008 x 2,000-pixel images with high resolution and superbly sharp details suited for making large prints, or for cropping for creative detail.

Nikon's 3D Color Matrix Metering with 1,005-pixel sensor delivers consistently accurate exposure automatically by measuring brightness, color, contrast, selected focus area, and subject-to-camera distance information for each shot, and then referencing the results against an onboard database of 30,000 scenes from actual photography. Variable center-weighted metering and a choice of five spot meters are also available, as are exposure compensation, and auto exposure bracketing.

The D70s produces natural coloration by matching white balance to the light source of the shot. Advanced Auto white balance is capable of handling most situations, although the flexible options include white balance bracketing, a choice of six specific manual settings with fine-tuning, as well as a preset option for using a gray or white object as a reference for white balance.

Innovative shooting options simplify the photographic process, whether controlled manually or via advanced automatic operation. Of particular note are the seven automated Digital Vari-Program selections accessed from the mode dial for a combination of personal control and powerful automatic operation that helps achieve great results under complex shooting conditions, even when in a hurry to catch the shot.

The new high-energy rechargeable lithium-ion battery EN-EL3a delivers the power to shoot up to 2,500 images* on a single charge. The D70s can also be powered by the EN-EL3 battery used by the Nikon D100 and D70, or by CR2 batteries when using the optional battery holder (MS-D70).

Controls are located for easier access and smoother operation. Newly designed menus are presented clearly and in plain language on the large 2.0-inch LCD monitor, while intuitive help dialogs are available for on-the-spot reference to the respective menu selections.

Remote control options are also expanded for the D70s, with the new optional Remote Cord (MC-DC1) adding greater convenience and ease of use in a wider variety of shooting situations, including long exposures and close-ups. Cable-free operation is also available with the optional Wireless Remote Control ML-L3. A third option involves Nikon Capture 4 (Ver. 4.2) software, which can be used to control the D70s from a computer via the USB connection.

Diverse playback options, versatile custom settings, a USB interface for easy connectivity or direct printing to any PictBridge compatible printer, and a bevy of other features make the D70s a top-performer amongst digital SLR cameras.

Combine the inherit advantages of the camera's outstanding performance with the empowering and inspiring components of Nikon's Total Imaging System, including high-quality AF, AF-S and DX Nikkor lenses, advanced Speedlight technologies, and versatile software options. Top it off with superb pictures that are vivid, accurate in color, and crisp and clean in detail, and you discover the sheer enjoyment, expanded creative possibilities, and increased shutter opportunities of Nikon digital SLR photography with the D70s.

More specifications at Nikon


About the Author

Thomas De Maesschalck

Thomas has been messing with computer since early childhood and firmly believes the Internet is the best thing since sliced bread. Enjoys playing with new tech, is fascinated by science, and passionate about financial markets. When not behind a computer, he can be found with running shoes on or lifting heavy weights in the weight room.



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