Unless you’ve never been to photography website, this is no surprise. As per their usual use of the Cone of Un-Silence, Nikon has made the official announcements that we’ve known about for weeks. They’ve updated the D300 to the D300s, and introduced the D3000. They have also (finally) updated the awesome 70-200 lens. Perhaps the biggest surprise is an update to the relatively new 18-200mm lens.

Nikon D300s

There are no really big new features in the D300S. They did add video, but that is pretty much standard now in this class of DSLR.

Here is the list of new and or upgraded features between the D300 and the D300s.

  • 720p HD video, including autofocus while recording
  • SD card slot in addition to existing CF slot
  • Faster continuous shooting (7fps, vs. 6fps)
  • Socket for external microphone
  • Live View and Info buttons
  • Discrete ‘OK’ button in multi controller
  • Interactive settings display screen
  • Auto and Extra High Active D-Lighting options
  • Quiet drive mode
  • Virtual horizon

You can read all of the details on the Amazon website. [amtap amazon:asin=B002JCSV6M]

Nikon D3000

The D300 is the newest entry level DSLR from Nikon replacing the D60. Same 10MP sensor and 3fps shooting. They have upgraded the LCD to 3″ and it inherits the AF system from the D5000 and D90. This should be a kick butt camera for those just moving from compact cameras to a DSLR. It will be $600 with the 18-55mm lens.

Here are the key features:

  • 10.2megapixel CCD sensor. Even in low light the image resolution makes easy work of big prints and sharp enlargements.
  • 11-point autofocus system. Keeps even the fastest moving subjects in focus, often the biggest challenge for compact cameras
  • Fast response. The start up time and shutter lag means you can capture the shot almost instantly, without the delayed response time common of compact cameras
  • Guide mode. Simply the easiest way to get great pictures, without having to read the manual
  • 3-inch TFT. With pictures this good, you will need a great screen to share them with friends and family
  • EXPEED image processing. Exclusive system to deliver rich, bright results close to what you saw with your own eyes
  • Picture Controls. Lets you set the look and mood of your images before you shoot
  • 3 fps continuous shooting allows you to capture fast-moving action at 3 frames per second
  • Intuitive ergonomics. We challenge anyone to pick up a D3000 and it not to feel part of your hand
  • Stylish discrete appearance. The D3000 does not become a barrier between you and your subject, resulting in natural looking expressions
  • Compact, light and durable. It won’t fit in your pocket, but with pictures this good you will find a shoulder to hang it on

You can read the rest of the details and purchase one on the Amazon website. [amtap amazon:asin=B002JCSV5I]

Nikon 70-200 AF-S F2.8G ED VRII

All new optical formula which is said to improve edge sharpness especially on the FX format cameras. Nikon also claims improved VR and sharper faster auto focus. Shockingly they have made it HEAVIER than the original even though it is slightly smaller…

You can read the rest of the details on the Nikon website.

Nikon AF-S 18-200mm F3.5-5.6G ED VRII

Lastly and most surprising to me is the update to the 18-200mm lens although it did address the number one complaint with the lens, zoom creep. Otherwise mostly the same features.

You can read the rest of the details and order it from my Amazon store. [amtap amazon:asin=B002JCSV8A]

My take on to buy or not to buy.

  • If you own a D300 there is no real need to buy the “s” version.
  • If you don’t own a DSLR and cannot afford the D300s buy the D3000.
  • If you own the 70-200 and you own an FX body, sorry fork it over and buy the new one.
  • If you own the old 18-200mm and hate using because of the lens creep then sell it and buy the new one. If you have been on the fence about the lens, now is the time to buy.