Nikon D3000 10.2 Megapixel Digital SLR Reviews Roundup

MELVILLE, N.Y. (JULY 30, 2009) - Today, Nikon Inc. announced the D3000 digital SLR camera, an affordable answer for users looking to experience the superiority of digital SLR photography or enthusiasts seeking a capable, compact D-SLR. The 10.2-megapixel D3000 has features that make it easier than ever to take great pictures, including the new Guide Mode, which lends a smart helping hand to new D-SLR users, and an extensive Retouch Menu, enabling consumers to edit photos, even without a computer. The D3000, which offers an 11-point autofocus system, also leverages proven Nikon D-SLR technologies, including the exclusive EXPEED? image processing, Active D-Lighting system and 3D Color Matrix Metering II, enabling entry-level D-SLR shooters to take stunning pictures.

"The D3000 combines the best of both worlds, providing picture takers with the ease-of-use currently offered in point-and-shoot cameras alongside the speed, precision and exceptional results that have made Nikon D-SLRs so popular," said Edward Fasano, general manager for Marketing, SLR Systems Products at Nikon Inc. "The D3000 offers everyone the ability to discover the superiority of D-SLR photography at an affordable price point. We look forward to enabling more consumers to explore the possibilities of D-SLR picture taking and, more importantly, capture life's memories faithfully."

Intuitive Assistance On-the-Fly
The D3000 includes the all-new Guide Mode with an easy-to-use interface to help new photographers build confidence in using a D-SLR with step-by-step instruction and inspiration. The Guide Mode, easily accessed by the Mode dial on the top of the camera, displays a variety of shooting situations via the LCD screen, indicating the most appropriate settings for a particular scenario. Users can also see sample photos on the LCD screen, which illustrate the effects of different photo-taking techniques. The Guide Mode also helps users easily review, organize and delete images.

Whether new to D-SLR photography or simply mastering new shooting techniques, the D3000's Guide Mode assists users in exploring effective picture taking solutions at their own pace to make capturing great pictures even easier.

Small in Size, Big on Features
With elegant ergonomics, softly rounded corners, and a comfortable grip, the D3000 packs powerful technology into a compact form factor. Though the D3000 is tiny when compared to professional D-SLR cameras, it boasts a large, bright three-inch 230,000-dot LCD screen, and now features an easier-to-read font size, 20 percent larger than in previous Nikon D-SLRs.

Quick performance and response are at the core of the D3000's design and its 11-point Multi-CAM 1000 autofocus system makes it easy to find and focus on a subject. Also, the D3000 offers split-second shutter response, eliminating the frustration of shutter lag, as well as the ability to capture images up to three frames per second, allowing users capture every moment. Users can enjoy the benefits of Nikon's advanced 3D Subject Tracking, which continuously focuses on a fast moving subject throughout the frame.

The D3000 provides multiple ways for users to engage with their pictures, post capture. It uses Nikon's extensive in-camera Retouch Menu, which allows users to easily apply a variety of fun and dramatic effects to their images even when away from a computer. The D3000 introduces a new Miniature effect, which changes the appearance of distant subjects to look like close-ups of miniature models. The D3000 also inherits the Soft Filter and Color Outline Retouch options from the D5000, allowing users to express their photography in a new and artistic way. As with all Nikon D-SLRs, the camera creates the new retouched image, while preserving the original.

For users who want to take their creativity to the next level, the D3000 also includes the ability to capture images in the NEF (RAW) format, in addition to traditional JPEG. Images captured with D3000 in the NEF (RAW) format include a greater amount of image data, which in turn, affords finer image control and higher uncompressed lossless image quality. With NEF (RAW) images, users can fine-tune the appearance of an image with simple adjustments to things like exposure, color saturation, brightness, and overall tone - especially in the post-production process. Users can use Capture NX 2, Nikon's powerful image editing software, to achieve these desired effects.

Nikon extends the creativity with Stop-Motion Movie Mode. With this mode, users can choose a collection of images within the D3000's Retouch Menu, and the camera then compiles and stitches them into a fun and creative video file.

Renowned Nikon Technology
The D3000 leverages proven Nikon technologies to create the most positive picture taking experience for consumers. The D3000 delivers highly detailed images with vibrant color reproduction and low noise across a broad ISO range, due to its 10.2-megapixel CCD image sensor coupled with Nikon's exclusive EXPEED image processing system. The D3000's normal ISO range extends from ISO 100 to 1600, allowing for low light versatility. Additionally, the D3000's ISO range can expand to a Hi-1 setting of ISO 3200, furthering the opportunities for shots that other cameras miss.

The D3000 also makes use of Nikon's Active D-Lighting system, which automatically compensates to reveal veiled details in shadows and highlights in high-contrast situations. For instance, when selected, Nikon's Active D-Lighting can improve the appearance of fine detail in a person's face that was previously hidden in dark shadows or bring out the highlights in a beautifully backlit landscape.

Nikon's exclusive 3D Color Matrix Metering II, in conjunction with the EXPEED image processing system, contributes to the D3000's ability to capture breathtaking images by instantly evaluating the exposure elements of each scene and comparing it to an onboard database of information from more than 30,000 images. These split-second calculations allow the D3000 to ensure beautiful exposures-even when conditions are extreme.

The D3000 also incorporates Nikon's Integrated Dust Reduction System, which offers a comprehensive solution that combats the accumulation of image-degrading dust from the camera's image sensor. The system not only utilizes an active sensor cleaning function that activates whenever the camera is turned on or off, but also the Airflow Control System to redirect dust particles, limiting their ability to reach the sensor.

System Expandability
Photographers and enthusiasts alike can also appreciate the D3000's system expandability, as the camera can work in conjunction with a variety of Nikon accessories, including a broad assortment of legendary NIKKOR AF-S interchangeable lenses. While the D3000 offers a versatile built-in flash, the camera is also compatible with Nikon's Creative Lighting System and capable of Advanced Wireless Lighting when using the SB-900 Speedlight or the SU-800 Wireless Commander.
The D3000's design also supports Eye-Fi memory card functionality, enabling the convenient wireless transfer of images from the D3000 to a computer, when using Eye-Fi memory cards.* Additionally, photos can be securely written to readily available SD cards, high-capacity SDHC cards and Eye-Fi memory cards, offering users a range of data storage options.

Price and Availability
The D3000 outfit, including the versatile AF-S NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR image stabilization lens, is scheduled to be available at Nikon Authorized dealers beginning in late August 2009 at an estimated selling price of $599.95.

Nikon D3000 Camera Reviews Roundup

byThom: "Battery performance is good, about right for the intended user of the camera. I was able to get more than 1000 images to a charge. Nikon suggests that the camera gets 550 image for the CIPA standard test, and 2000 for their continuous release test. Actual use seems to fall in between those two test patterns. I never approached 2000 images in normal use, though I could duplicate Nikon's numbers with exactly their tes..." - Aug 17 2010 More »
Adorama: "As with other lower-end Nikon DSLRs, the D3000 lacks an internal autofocus engine, and must rely on the less powerful ones built into its G-series lenses. Besides the fact that this limits how many AF lenses will actually focus automatically on this camera, the result (when using lenses with built-in AF engines) is sluggish autofocus performance. Using the included 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens, I found focus to be slo..." - Jun 03 2010 More »	N/A
DPInterface: "The Nikon D3000 is a great camera for new users to test the waters of the digital SLR world - it offers the core experience of using an SLR: good image quality, full manual controls and quick operation. The camera is fairly small, but at the same time comfortable to hold and simple to use. The D3000's number of controls are well-thought out (not too few, but not too many either) and well placed. There's a big 3 inch..." - Feb 11 2010 More »	N/A
NeutralDay: "Clearly intended for the beginner DSLR user, the D3000 delivers both in quality and ease of use. With a price tag of well under $600, there isn't much question of the relative value of the D3000. The D3000 provides a fun and simple photographic experience while possibly enabling the user to learn a thing or two about photography via its "Guide Mode"ProsLightweight and sturdy.Comfortable.Easy user interface..." - Jan 26 2010 More »
MacWorld: "On my test jaunts in outdoor light, the D3000 produced good, natural color, though a little on the cool side; I remedied that by using the Warm mode. My photos were generally sharp, and the autofocus was fast and accurate. The lens did hunt a bit in low light, certainly not uncommon for an entry-level camera. Though the ISO performance was not outstanding, it was quite acceptable at speeds of 400 or less. Start..." - Jan 11 2010 More »
dpreview: "As far as image quality is concerned, the D3000 is a thoroughly satisfying camera, without being exceptional. The white balance system doesn't cope all that well with artificial lighting, but the same is true of the D5000 and D90 as well, and it isn't significantly worse than anything else in the entry-level sector. Like a lot of recent Nikon DSLRs the D3000 has a tendency to deliver rather bright mid tones, which c..." - Dec 11 2009 More »
PhotoReview: "Long exposures showed little evidence of noise right up to ISO 800 and shots taken at ISO 1600 were only slight noise-affected. However, shots taken with the Hi 1 ISO setting, which equates to ISO 3200, were grainy looking and slightly blotchy, although printable at snapshot size. The review camera's auto white balance performance was similar to the D5000's. Shots taken under fluorescent lighting had a faint gr..." - Nov 26 2009 More »
ImgaingResource: "We're sad to see the excellent Nikon D40 fade into history. Nikon has introduced what appeared to be a good quality successor when we wrote our preview. The Nikon D3000 seems to be an amalgam of most of what was great about the D40 and D60 sprinkled with most of what's useful for consumers from the Nikon D5000 and D90. However, after a closer look at its images, and some time spent with the camera, we aren't as exci..." - Oct 31 2009 More »	N/A
RegHardware: "Overall, the new focusing system works very well and, with challenges such as moving subjects, it stays sharp. However, in the testing environment of low light, its accuracy and responsiveness does suffer somewhat. Yet, for a camera at this level, the image quality of the new D3000 is stunning and shows Nikon's perseverance to provide beginners with a seemingly professional performance. Even in challenging lighting..." - Oct 30 2009 More »
Camera Labs: "When Nikon launched the D5000 as its new 'affordable' DSLR, it left a big gap for a true budget model to replace the ageing D40, D40x and D60. Now that model's arrived in the form of the D3000, and as expected, it inherits much from its predecessor, along with picking a few upgraded components from higher-end models. As such, the D3000 employs the body and sensor of the earlier D60, adds a bigger screen and swaps th..." - Oct 25 2009 More »
TrustedReviews: "I've already mentioned the autofocus system, which unquestionably one of the best of any current entry-level camera. It is extremely fast and accurate, and works well in low light even when zoomed in. The AF assist lamp has a range of several meters, and the camera will focus reliably even in total darkness. The pop-up flash is also very good, with nice even frame coverage, a useful range of at least five metres and..." - Oct 22 2009 More »
Digital Camera Info: "Bottom line, there isn't much to applaud here. If you're hot for access to Nikon lenses and can't afford a more sophisticated rig, the D3000 will get the job done. Our image quality testing didn't turn up any major trouble spots, but there was no particular strength either. In fact, the Canon Rebel XS, which carries the same list price, turned in better scores across the board, and offers Live View mode as well.&nbs..." - Oct 01 2009 More »
CNET: "The picture quality is first-rate, although we saw some overexposure on our test shot (oddly the D300S that we reviewed at the same time did the same thing). Much of the credit for this quality has to go to Nikon's 18-55mm VR kit lens, which is much sharper at the edges of the frame than most of its rivals. It's good at its maximum zoom setting, too. Those who've upgraded from a compact may have to look hard to..." - Sep 22 2009 More »
NeoCamera: "The Nikon D3000 shows excellent color accuracy. The Standard setting provides the most realistic rendition of colors. There are 6 Picture Control styles, each can be modified in terms of sharpness, contrast, saturation and hue. The Neutral mode provides slightly a softer and less contrasty look, while both Landscape and Vivid modes show over-the-top-colors not suitable to represent reality. Noise levels are ver..." - Sep 21 2009 More »
Digital Camera Resource Page: "The Nikon D3000 is an easy-to-use, compact digital SLR that won't break the bank. It offers very good photo quality, impressive point-and-shoot guides and help screens, responsive performance, full manual controls and, of course, the expandability that you come to expect from a D-SLR. There thing that separates the D3000 from more expensive D-SLRs is its lack of live view support. While live view can certainly be ha..." - Sep 20 2009 More »	N/A
Digital Camera Review: "Image quality from the Nikon D3000 is great, and maybe one of the best image producers straight out of the camera that I've tested this year. From Active D-Lighting to the different picture modes, the D3000 makes an excellent image and gives you the control to make it how you want it, or for that matter, how you see it. The Active D-Lighting has become a great feature in Nikon cameras, and as you can see from the re..." - Sep 18 2009 More »	N/A
TechRadar: "If you've got a friend or relative who's outgrown their compact and looking for their first SLR, point them in the direction of the D3000. The combination of beginner-friendly features and Nikon optical quality is hard to resist. Owning this camera for a couple of years will give anyone an excellent foundation in serious SLR photography. Be warned though, more intermediate users will outgrow it pretty quic..." - Sep 08 2009 More »
PhotographyBLOG: "As with the Nikon range topping D3x, with the D3000 at the very opposite end of the scale, its manufacturer is again providing the photographer (fledgling in this case) with their own virtual 'wingman', delivering essential aid whilst leaving them to get on with the business of taking photos. Shame there's no movie facility (HD or otherwise), HDMI output, tilting LCD or Live View mode, all features becoming increasi..." - Aug 26 2009 More »
Pocket-lint: "The camera is quick to lock onto target courtesy of 3D subject tracking and 11 auto focus points spread across the frame - not bad at all for an entry-level model, given the D60 only had three AF points - with whichever is/are in use highlighted in the viewfinder when the shutter button is pressed halfway. The consistent D3000 includes the Active D-lighting feature offered throughout the Nikon DSLR range, which..." - Aug 25 2009 More »

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