With what we have been hearing of the upcoming Nikon D5100, it is already possible to give some indications about the importance of this new Digital SLR camera.
Of course, this is going to be everything that we came to expect from a DSLR camera: 16+ MP resolution and Full HD video capture. But under significantly under $1000 (or 1000€), the Nikon D5100 is going to offer a very significant step up: Enormous ISO sensitivity (up to ISO 102,400) that was previously associated with pro cameras only (the Nikon D3s).
As could be expected, Nikon did not include in a D5100 an FX/Full-Frame sensor and the processor of the D3s, but they are bringing a few good ideas to improve significantly the maximum sensitivity. Not only do they use what appears to be currently the best sensor technology (from their long-term partnership with Sony, the sensor can go up to a native ISO 6400), but they also added some pretty cute algorithms to get better HDR and maximum sensitivity. Nevertheless, we will have to wait for the detailed technical description.
All that comes in a small package with a lot of nice features like the tilt-and-swivel 3″ LCD screen and stereo sound on Full HD (if you provide an external microphone, of course). And, the camera body may be small, but the front grip is large enough to make it very stable in even the biggest hands.
Finally, here are the features of the Nikon D5100 as they can be deduced from the leaks and the rumors on the Internet:
- 16.2 MP DX/APS-C digital sensor
- Sensitivity: ISO 100-6400
New Night Vision mode (with ISO up to 102,400)NewHDR feature- EXPEED 2 processor
- Continuous shooting @ 4 fps
- Shutter: 4s – 1/4000s
1/8000s, with quiet shutter mode - Full HD video (1920×1080p) @ 30 fps
- Video special effects (SFX): Selective colors, miniature effect, etc.
- Stereo microphone input (compatible with the new ME-1)
- Tilt and swivel 3″ LCD screen
- Battery: EN-EL14
- Weight: xxx g
Price currently undisclosed.
Availability: Probably in May 2011, if not indirectly impacted by the Japan 11 March earthquake.
Photos of the Nikon D5100:
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Source: NikonRumors.