Nikon D300 DSLR Camera Body {12.3MP}

The combination of easy controls with pro-level features and performance makes the Nikon D300 camera a great mid-range digital SLR for beginners and photographers looking to step-up from an entry-level like the Nikon D3000. With a 12.3-megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor and continuous shooting speed of six frames per second, you’ll capture all the action in high-resolution quality. The Nikon D300 is a powerful digital camera that can perform excellently for a wide range of photography styles and genres.

Highlights

• Magnesium alloy weather sealed body
• Fast, accurate 51-point auto focus with 3D focus tracking and three dynamic AF modes
• The 3.0-inch super density 920,000-dot VGA color monitor
• 12.3 Megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor
• Nikon Expeed image processor
• Continuous shooting from 6 fps up to 8 fps
• Low-Noise ISO 100-3200 expandable to 6400
• Nikon's exclusive Scene Recognition System (SRS)
• Nikon's Active D-Lighting Image enhancement

Picture Control System

The unique Picture Control system makes it easy for photographers of all levels to customize how their pictures are rendered and optimize settings to their personal tastes. The four basic settings are Standard, Neutral, Vivid and Monochrome. However, the imaging parameters for these can be modified (i.e. sharpening, tone compensation, brightness, etc.) and stored in the camera. Up to nine customized options can be stored in the D300 and up to 99 can be exported to a CF memory card.

Nikon's EXPEED Image Processing System

Similar to the D3, the D300 features Nikon's exclusive EXPEED Image Processing System that is central to driving the speed and processing power needed for many of the camera's new features. It features a new 51-point auto focus system with Nikon's 3D Focus Tracking feature and two new Live View shooting modes that allow users to frame a photograph using the camera's high-resolution LCD monitor. Sharing a similar Scene Recognition System as found in the D3, the Nikon D300 promises to greatly enhance the accuracy of auto focus, auto exposure and auto white balance by recognizing the subject or scene being photographed and applying this information to the calculations for the three functions.

Live View Shooting Modes

The D300's Live View feature offers two modes for confirming subjects and composition on the new 920,000-dot, high-resolution 3-inch LCD monitor while shooting. The Tripod mode is designed for precise focus and accuracy when the camera is on a stable platform and the subject is not moving. In this mode, the camera focuses on the subject using focal-plane contrast and any point on the LCD screen can be selected as the focus point for the picture. The second mode, called Handheld mode, allows photographers to use the camera's conventional TTL focusing system with all 51-points and 15 cross-type points available. When using this mode, the camera activates focusing immediately when the shutter button is pressed to ensure accurate focus.

Rugged Body Construction

Beginners and pros will get a long life out of the Nikon D300 which also features a sturdy magnesium alloy build and rubber gaskets and seals that protect against dust and moisture.

Staff Review

“I really enjoyed testing out the Nikon D300 camera. It’s a great DSLR with features that appeal to enthusiasts and professionals. My favorite feature would be the Picture Control System that lets me make presets for the type of adjustments I want made to my photos. It comes in handy if you already have a routine when you edit your photos later in Photoshop or Lightroom. The presets can save you some time on the simple adjustments like saturation or contrast. The only downside about the Nikon D300 is the size of the grip. It’s pretty awkward to hold if you have small hands.” – Arielle Antonio, photographer

This camera is popular for:

• Nature and outdoor photos
• Newborns and portraits
• Sports photography