The lower end of Nikon’s DSLR range has had a shake up today with the launch of the new Nikon D3000. The model shares many similarities with the recent D5000 model, with exception of the tilt screen and movie mode, and replaces the D60 as the entry-point to the DSLR range. Featuring a 10.2 megapixel sensor, it offers an ISO range of 100-1600, expanding to 3200 with a Hi1 setting. The EXPEED processor also allows for functions such as Scene recognition and D-lighting.
One stand out feature of this camera is the new Guide mode, which expands upon the help functions seen previously, offering an easy to use interface that helps users to select the best shooting modes and functions for their shots. The camera also features an 11-AF system, a 3in LCD screen and in-camera editing with effects such as the new Miniature mode for a tilt and shift effect.
The D3000 is due for release on the 28th August 2009 and will cost £429.99 body only, or £499 with the 18-55 VR lens. See the Nikon website for more details.

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Nikon Digital SLR Camera D3000 Specifications

• Lens mount: Nikon F mount
• Effective picture angle: Approx. 1.5 x lens focal length (Nikon DX format)
• Effective pixels: 10.2 million
• Image sensor: 23.6 x 15.8 mm CCD sensor
• Image size (pixels): 3,872 x 2,592 [L], 2,896 x 1,944 [M], 1,936 x 1,296 [S]
• Dust-reduction system: Image Sensor Cleaning, Airflow Control System, Image Dust Off reference data
• File format: NEF (RAW), JPEG, RAW+JPEG
• Picture Control System: Standard, Neutral, Vivid, Monochrome, Portrait, Landscape
• Media: SD (Secure Digital) memory cards, SDHC compliant
• Viewfinder: Eye-level pentamirror single-lens reflex, approx 95% coverage
• Shutter: 1/4000 to 30 s in steps of 1/3 EV, Bulb
• Frame advance rate: Up to 3 fps
• Metering: TTL exposure metering using 420-pixel RGB sensor; Matrix: 3D color matrix metering II, Center-weighted, Spot
• Exposure compensation: -5 to +5 EV in increments of 1/3 EV
• ISO sensitivity: ISO 100 to 1600 plus Hi1 ISO 3200 equivalent
• Active D-Lighting: On or Off
• Autofocus: Nikon Multi-CAM 1000 autofocus sensor module with TTL phase detection, 11 focus points (including one cross-type sensor), and AF-assist illuminator
• Built-in flash: GN 12, 13 with manual flash
• Dimensions: 126 x 97 x 64 mm
• Weight: Approx. 485 g

A first look at the new D3000 and D300s cameras from Nikon