23 July 2008
New top-of-the-range Speedlight flash gun, new lenses and two new firmware updates
The Nikon SB-900 is the brand new top-of-the-range Speedlight flash gun.
Replacing the SB-800 model, the SB900 incorporates a moving diffuser and light source that can zoom from 17mm to 200mm in just 1.2 seconds while maintaining an even light distribution. The SB 900 automatically detects the fitting of fluorescent or incandescent colour filters, instructing the camera to switch to the appropriate white balance setting. The versatile SB-900 provides a choice of three illumination patterns (centre-weighted/standard/even) that can be selected to suit a particular subject. Firmware update via the Nikon D3 and D700 cameras is possible, the world's first available flash unit firmware update function via a digital SLR camera. The Nikon SB-900 costs 379.99 / 79.99 / $499.95 and will be available from August 2008.
New PC-E Micro NIKKOR 45mm f/2.8D ED and PC-E Micro NIKKOR 85mm f/2.8D perspective control lenses.
Designed for specialist applications in architecture, commercial and landscape photography, the PC-E 85mm and 45mm lenses offer a tilt/shift mechanism, revolving capability and auto aperture control. The 45mm focal length of the PC-E Micro Nikkor 45mm f/2.8D ED lens is ideal for a natural looking perspective that can be controlled creatively by the photographer. The PC-E Micro NIKKOR 85mm f/2.8D lens replaces the existing PC Micro NIKKOR 85mm f/2.8D and is ideal for tabletop photography and creative portraiture. Both lenses will be available from August 2008 for 1349.99 / 800 / $1,799.95 each.
Nikon D3 Firmware Update 2.00
Nikon have released a new firmware update, version 2.00, for the D3 DSLR camera. The most notable changes are improvements to the autofocus and auto white balance performance, and the resolution of an issue that caused the battery indicator to blink, regardless of the actual battery charge.
Nikon D300 Firmware Update 1.03
Nikon have released a firmware update, v1.03, for the D300 DSLR camera. This firmware update resolves an issue which, in rare cases, causes the battery indicator to blink whilst shooting regardless of the level of charge in the battery.