Nikon D300 first look review Digital SLR Review

As the replacement to the D200, the Nikon D300 has the same body but offers higher resolution, faster shoot speeds and more focus areas.

Nikon D300: Specifications

• Sensor: CMOS - 12.3 Mp
• Image Size: 4288 x 2848
• Lens: Takes Nikkor AF and DX lenses
• Focus: 51-point Advanced TTL Auto/Manual
• Exposure: Auto/AP/SP/M
• Metering: 3D Matrix II/CW/Spot
• Monitor: 3in LCD
• Other Features: Upto 8fps
• Movie Mode: No
• Storage: CompactFlash I/II
• Batteries: Li-Ion Pack
• AC Adaptor: Optional
• Video Output: Yes
• Size/Weight: 147x114x74mm – 825g
• Transfer: USB 2.0

Nikon D300: Controls

1. The focus selection switch
2. Quality setting
3. White Balance
4. ISO setting
5. Top LCD plate
6. Mode selection
7. Exposure compensation
8. Front shooting wheel

Upgraded features are not cosmetic, though in fact the D300 is virtually identical in appearance to the D200. Noticeable differences are the large 12.3Mp CMOS DX sensor, world's first 51 focus points AF system, a 3in. colour LCD screen, a self cleaning sensor with four active vibration points and an upgraded ASIC processor with new EXPEED technology.

Nikon D300: Handling
The D300 is a heavy beast but it makes it feel more of a camera and you know that great things will come of it. The camera has a good grip and feels great in the hands which is to be expected. Two selector dials are situated around the shutter release to control the shutter speed and aperture. The 3in LCD screen dominates the rear of the camera with a separate screen for altering ISO, Resolution and White balance below. The screen is bright and has no motion blur. The Live view feature is not continuous as the camera must first be focused before the screen will enable so it not like a compact where images can be continuously taken with the screen. The camera can be linked up to a PC and the images viewed from its screen too when the camera is in tripod mode.

The D300 has a 6fps capability but that can be pushed to 8fps with the optional battery grip which is an upgrade to the D200's 5fps.

The sensor has been redesigned and now the microlenses are gapless on the front which increases the amount of light available to the sensor. Once the brighter image has been captured, it goes to the processor which is an upgraded EXPEED sensor for faster processing and lower power consumption.

The major improvement to the D300 is the ground breaking 51 point Focus area. As the camera is focused, the main centre of the screen gives a satisfying red glow to say it is focused.

The D300 is a dream to use and hold, the download time screams past leaving the camera begging for more. Whilst I used it I was blown away by the performance and sheer colossal power of it. The D300 acted like a Professional DSLR, not the Semi-Pro that Nikon class it as.

The Nikon D300 costs around £1159 and is available from warehouse Express here:

Nikon D300