Nikon D610 Announced With Updated Shutter

Earlier this morning, Nikon South Africa announced the new D610 full-frame DSLR. The Nikon D610 follows hot on the heels of the excellent Nikon D600 DSLR, and offers a few minor upgrades over its predecessor.

Specifications

Building on the excellent specifications of the Nikon D600, the D610 introduces a new shutter mechanism, as well as an improved automatic white balance system. The new shutter allows for faster 6 frames per second continuous shooting and quieter operation, and it also addresses and fixes the infamous oil problem that affected selected D600 shutters.

With the new shutter, here’s the updated key specifications:

• 24.3 megapixel full-frame FX-format CMOS sensor
• 10.5 megapixel DX-format crop mode
• ISO 100-6400, expandable to ISO 50-25,600 equivalent
• Maximum 6 frames per second continuous shooting
• Quieter shutter operation.
• 39-point AF system with 9 cross-type AF points
• 3.2″ 921k-dot LCD monitor
• 1080p30 full HD video recording with stereo sound
• Headphone jack for audio monitoring in movie mode
• Uncompressed video-out via HDMI
• Improved automatic white balance system

Pricing and Availability

Nikon South Africa has not revealed local pricing information or availability yet – we’ll update the post with more information and a pre-order link as soon as we have it!

Product Images

Press Release

Johannesburg, South Africa, 8 October 2013 – Nikon in South Africa today announces the latest addition to its formidable line-up of FX format (full-frame) D-SLRs, the Nikon D610.

An exciting option for those who are ready to take the next step in their photographic journey, this 24.3-megapixel D-SLR allows keen photographers to hone their skills, develop their vision, and define their style through the kind of full-frame image quality that only the FX-format can offer.

Full frame, full detail, full freedom: The 24.3-megapixel FX-format image sensor captures every detail with lifelike sharpness, and continuous shooting speeds have increased to 6 frames-per-second (as compared to the camera’s predecessor, the Nikon D600). Nikon’s new Quiet Release burst mode allows you to shoot in near-silence, and a robust, lightweight build frees photographers to explore the full-frame advantage in any environment. Combined with the optical prowess of NIKKOR lenses, the Nikon D610 is a superb opportunity to explore new realms of creativity through the kind of image quality that only the FX format can offer.

Marli van Schalkwyk, Head of Marketing for Nikon in South Africa, says: “We’re excited about the possibilities that the Nikon D610 offers, especially for those looking to step up into full-frame photography. Fast, powerful, and quiet when you want it to be, this camera is ahead of the competition in terms of image quality and specifications. Combine its spectacular image quality with its solid yet lightweight build, and the Nikon D610 is the only serious choice for full-frame explorers.”

The full perspective: Exceptional depth and detail

For those ready to take their photography to the next level, the D610’s 24.3-megapixel FX-format CMOS sensor will open up new worlds of photographic depth and detail. From true wide-angle to super telephoto, the sensor captures every element with lifelike sharpness at up to 6 fps. Offering outstanding levels of detail and tonal range, plus superb low-light capability, the Nikon D610 captures photos that are crisp and clean, and video is impressive even at higher ISO settings. The ISO range goes from 100–6400, and is extendable up to 25,600 (equivalent) or down to 50 (equivalent) for maximum flexibility under all lighting conditions, whether shooting photos or video.

Always fast and quiet when necessary

Designed to bring the full-frame advantage to any shooting situation, the Nikon D610 captures action with ease and makes it possible to shoot in near-silence when necessary. Faster than its predecessor, the Nikon D610 offers at up to 6 frames-per-second (6 fps) in both FX and DX formats, making it easier than ever to capture fast-moving subjects. For situations when silence is key, Nikon’s new Quiet Release burst mode reduces the sound of the camera’s mirror return mechanism, so it’s easier to capture elusive subjects, such as wildlife, at up to 3 fps.

Pro Nikon image technology

Packing a range of technology from Nikon’s professional D-SLRs into a lightweight body, the Nikon D610 is fully equipped to capture life in true full-frame splendour. Featuring the same EXPEED 3 image processor and AF sensitivity as Nikon’s flagship D4, speed and precision are second to none.

Highly sensitive autofocus system: The Nikon D610’s Multi-CAM 4800 39-point AF system boasts AF sensitivity inherited from Nikon’s flagship D4, enabling superior subject acquisition in any light. Compatible with lenses up to f/8 combined open aperture, and sensitive down to -2 EV (ISO 100, 20 °C/68 °F), the AF system achieves sharp shots even under moonlight. Coverage is individually selectable or configurable 9-, 21-, and 39-point settings, and AF modes such as dynamic-area AF and 3D-tracking maintain focus on even the smallest subjects, however unpredictable their movements may be. Simplified selection of AF modes such as AF-A, AF-S, and AF-C is possible without taking your eye away from the viewfinder.

Advanced Scene Recognition with 2,016-pixel RGB sensor: The Nikon D610’s Advanced Scene Recognition system incorporates Nikon’s renowned 2,016-pixel RGB metering sensor that meticulously analyses each scene for outstanding accuracy. It can detect human faces with startling exactness through the optical viewfinder, and recognise a scene’s colours and brightness with unprecedented precision. This level of detailed scene analysis is also utilised to support more accurate autofocus; auto exposure and i-TTL flash exposure results in a diverse range of compositional and lighting situations.

EXPEED 3 image processing: Equipped with the same image-processing engine as Nikon’s flagship D4, the Nikon D610 makes light work of data-rich tasks without sacrificing speed and quality. The 16-bit image processing offers richer colours and tones than ever before, delivering smooth gradations with abundant detail and tone all the way up the scale to pure white, even when shooting in JPEG.

Full-frame D-Movies: Broadcast quality video

Designed to ensure large-format movie shooting at its best, the Nikon D610 features the same multi-area Full HD D-Movie as found in Nikon’s acclaimed D800. Since the camera offers a wide variety of movie applications, a comprehensive variety of frame rates, and convenient custom controls—which enable full control over live view operation when filming—photographers can move from inspiring stills to broadcast quality video with ease.

Frame rates: Full HD (1080p) movies can be recorded in 30p, 25p, and 24p, with 60p, 50p, and 25p options at 720p. Full HD movie clips can be up to approximately 29 minutes 59 seconds long.

Multi-area mode: Full HD (1080p) recording is possible in both FX and DX formats, enabling exceptional freedom of expression.

High-fidelity audio control: With the Nikon D610, movies sound as good as they look. A microphone jack allows use of an external stereo microphone for crisp sound recording, and there is an audio out for external headphones.

Uncompressed HDMI output: The Nikon D610 offers the possibility to transmit an uncompressed live video stream at 1080p to external recorders, and output will automatically drop to 1080i if an external monitor is detected. The uncompressed data is output at the designated image size and frame rate, and is clean of the information overlay that can be simultaneously displayed on the camera’s TFT monitor.

In-camera creative tools

A range of creative and practical in-camera tools enable photographers to make the most of every shooting opportunity and take full advantage of the creative freedom that full-frame FX-format photography affords. They include:

Time-lapse shooting: Create time-lapse photography through simple menu operations, with no need for elaborate calculations and editing. Easily save images as movie files and view slow action in fast playback, with playback rates from 24 to 36,000 times faster than normal.  Use interval timer shooting to trigger the shutter at preset intervals.

HDR (High Dynamic Range) mode: shoots one overexposed and one underexposed frame in a single shutter release. The range can be widened by up to ±3 EV for different looks, full of saturation and tonal gradation, while the smoothness of the edg¬e where the two exposures meet can be adjusted for a more natural appearance.

Picture Controls: Customise the look of your stills and videos by fine-tuning parameters such as sharpness, saturation, and hue. This feature can be directly accessed via a dedicated button.

Scene modes: 19 scene modes optimise settings such as shutter speed, ISO, and aperture for superior results every time. An ideal way to quickly capture perfect shots.

In-camera editing: Menus include an array of useful features, encompassing options to correct red-eye and colour balance, as well as D-Lighting, RAW processing, and resize options. Filter effects include Skylight, Cross screen, Miniature, Colour outline, Colour sketch, and Selective colour. Quick retouch options include distortion control, perspective control, straighten, and fisheye. There is also an movie editing feature that enables the start and end point of movie clips to be designated in order to save them more efficiently.

Full-frame freedom

With the Nikon D610, it’s possible to capture and share the full perspective from anywhere. Nikon’s wireless mobile adapter enables wireless image transfer, and double SD card slots provide multiple options for recording and storing large files. It’s possible to write RAW and JPEG data to separate cards, copy from one card to another, and select a slot according to the remaining capacity during video shooting.

Wi-Fi: Nikon’s optional WU-1b Mobile Adapter allows images to be transferred directly to any smartphone or tablet, and enables the camera to be controlled remotely via the smart device. A great way to easily share high-quality images, preview shots on a larger screen, or experiment with full-frame self-portraits.

Efficient power management: A reworking of the D800’s circuits now enables approximately 900 shots  of still image shooting or approximately 60 minutes of movie live view.  All on one charge of a Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL15.

Storage media: High-speed dual SD card slots support SDXC and UHS-I memory cards.

Full-frame strength

Built to withstand severe conditions, the lightweight Nikon D610 boasts the same robust build and responsive handling as its predecessor. Durable magnesium alloy is used for the camera’s top and rear frames, and the camera is weather-sealed to the same degree as Nikon’s professional D800 SLR, ensuring enhanced resistance to moisture and dust. The camera’s fast response, reliable operation, and conveniently placed buttons and controls enable smooth, comfortable handling and the flexibility to respond quickly to even unexpected shooting opportunities.

Fast response: Start-up is approximately 0.13 s , shutter release time lag is minimised to approximately 0.052 s3, with continuous shooting capability of approximately 6 fps capability in FX and DX formats.

High-precision, high-durability shutter: The shutter unit has been tested to 150,000 cycles of release to prove durability and precision. It boasts a speed range of 1/4000 to 30 s; and features an intelligent self-diagnostic shutter monitor and a drive unit designed to reduce the demand on power when the shutter is raised for extended periods during movie shooting.

Precision 8 cm (3.2-in.), approx. 921k-dot, wide-viewing-angle LCD monitor with automatic monitor brightness control: Delivers bright, crisp image playback with wide colour reproduction capacity. LCD brightness is automatically adjusted according to the viewing environment.

Glass prism optical viewfinder: With approximately 100% frame coverage and 0.7x magnification (50 mm f/1.4 lens at infinity, -1.0m-1).

Dual-axis electronic virtual horizon: Offers accurate confirmation of level shooting by letting you check the LCD monitor, or the viewfinder, for both the camera’s position in relation to the horizontal plane and its pitch (forward or rear rotation).

The NIKKOR advantage

Whatever your ideas, experience, or creative vision, Nikon’s legendary NIKKOR lenses represent the only true option for complete FX-format integrity. Pair the Nikon D610 with a NIKKOR lens, and you have the optical power to draw out the full potential of the camera’s 24.3-megapixel sensor. The NIKKOR name has become synonymous with high-performance and unrivalled image quality, and 2013 marks the 80th anniversary of NIKKOR as well as the year in which the total production of NIKKOR lenses reached 80 million. With more than 80 types of lenses in their current line-up, Nikon ensures photographers have every chance to make the most of the FX sensor’s incredible properties, including stunningly shallow depth of field—a feature that allows for beautiful bokeh effects when paired with a fast NIKKOR prime lens.

Optional accessories

Multi-Power Battery Pack MB-D14: Accommodates a variety of batteries including AA-sized batteries of various types and Nikon’s Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL15 (see specifications). The MB-D14 has its own dedicated shutter-release button and command dials for more comfortable composition when shooting with the camera in vertical orientation.

Creative Lighting System: Compatible with Nikon’s creative lighting system, the D610 supports the use of powerful and versatile i-TTL Speedlight flash units such as the professional SB-910 or the easy-to-use SB-700.

Capture NX 2—fast, powerful and creative image processing: To accommodate the imaging power of the D610’s 24.3-megapixel sensor, the latest Capture NX 2 is faster than before and boasts full 64-bit compatibility.

Camera Control Pro 2—versatile remote camera controls: The software offers numerous improvements to make the D610’s Live View operation exceptionally smooth. Aside from controlling exposure mode, shutter speed, and aperture, creative controls include remote start and stop for movie shooting and switching between Live View for stills and movies.