Nikon Announces New FX-Format D4 Multimedia Digital SLR

Nikon Canada today announced the release of the new Nikon D4 digital SLR, engineered to fuse swift performance with innovative new features to create tack-sharp images and videos. The company also announced the release of the AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G lens, a versatile prime lens ideal for travel, low-light landscape, portraiture, and capturing movies with extreme depth of field.

Some of the key features of the Nikon D4 include:
- A 16.2 megapixel FX-format CMOS sensor
- Advanced Multi-Cam 3500 AF autofocus system, the next generation of Nikon’s proven 51-point AF system
- New 91,000-pixel 3D Colour Matrix Metering III
- Full HD 1080p recording capability
- EXPEED 3 dual-core image processing engine

For complete details, please see the full press release below.

Mississauga, ON, January 5, 2012 – Today, Nikon Canada announced the
new Nikon D4 digital SLR. Building upon the legacy of the proven Nikon
flagship digital SLRs, the D4 is engineered to give today’s
professional multimedia photographers a new apex of speed and accuracy
with unparalleled image quality, low-light capability and Full HD
(1080p) video recording. It hosts a multitude of advanced new features
and functions that deliver a new standard of performance for
professionals and enthusiasts to ensure high-speed response times and
tack-sharp images.

Nikon also announced today the addition of a new FX-format lens, the
AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G, to its legendary line of NIKKOR lenses. The new
AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G is a fast, fixed focal-length lens with medium
telephoto capabilities and a large maximum aperture of f/1.8 that is
capable of performing a wide variety of imaging tasks with amazing
sharpness and clarity.

Nikon D4
Every aspect of the new Nikon D4 digital SLR has been designed to
emphasize rapid response and seamless operation to help professional
photographers consistently capture amazing content. Nikon’s proven
51-point AF system has been further enhanced for maximum speed in a
variety of challenging shooting situations, even at 10 frames per second
(fps). The D4 easily assumes the role as the new flagship digital SLR
with a new 16.2 megapixel FX-format CMOS sensor, coupled with the latest
generation of Nikon’s EXPEED 3 Image-processing engine to help produce
images and videos with stunning clarity and colour. Photographers are
also able to shoot in even the most challenging environments and
lighting conditions with Nikon’s new 91,000-pixel 3D Colour Matrix
Metering III, and a broad ISO range from 100 to a staggering 204,800,
for low-light capture like never before. The D4 is engineered for the
modern professional and incorporates never-before-seen HD-SLR video
features for those who also need to capture multimedia content from the
field.

“The quality of an image is important to photographers of all skill
levels,” said Gregory Flasch, National Advertising and Communications
Manager at Nikon Canada. “Nikon’s new flagship digital SLR will
exceed the expectations of even the most demanding of still and
multimedia photographers. Besides overall performance and burst speed,
the D4 leverages Nikon’s most advanced AF system to-date, and enhances
workflow speed to give professionals the edge in the field.”

Velocity Meets Versatility
Speed is a necessity for today’s multimedia photographer as every
millisecond makes a difference once the action commences. Whether a job
relies on fast processing power, burst rate, write speed, enhanced
workflow, or even streamlined camera controls, the D4 is the epitome of
professional-calibre photographic horsepower. Ready to shoot in less
than 0.012 seconds, the new Nikon D4 can capture full resolution JPEG or
RAW files at up to 10 fps with full AF / AE, or up to 11 fps with AF /
AE locked. Immediately before image capture, the camera interprets data
from the AF sensor, such as subject colour as detected on the
91,000-pixel RGB sensor, to deliver consistently tack-sharp focus frame
after frame. Whether a photographer is shooting a home-court fast break
under gymnasium lighting or the downhill slalom in the bright sun and
frigid temperatures, the D4 will produce consistently great results.

The Advanced Multi-Cam 3500 AF autofocus system is the next generation
of Nikon’s proven 51-point AF system. Fully customizable, it offers
users the ability to capture fast-moving subjects and track focus with
precision, or select a single AF point with pinpoint accuracy. The Nikon
D4 digital SLR aligns 15 cross-type sensors in the centre to detect
contrast data in both vertical and horizontal planes. In addition to
detecting each AF-NIKKOR lens with an aperture of f/5.6 or lower, the
camera also utilizes nine cross-type sensors that are fully functional
when using compatible NIKKOR lenses and TC14E or TC17E teleconverters.
It can also use a single cross-type sensor when using compatible NIKKOR
lenses and the TC20E teleconverter with an aperture value up to f/8,
which is a great advantage to those shooting sports and wildlife. For
maximum versatility in situations such as photographing nature from afar
or competition from the sidelines, photographers are also able to select
multiple AF modes, including normal, wide area, face tracking and
subject tracking, to best suit the scene.

The Nikon D4 also employs a new 91,000-pixel RGB 3D Colour Matrix
Metering system that meticulously analyzes each scene and recognizes
factors such as colour and brightness with unprecedented precision. This
data is then interpreted and compared against the D4’s on-board
database to implement various settings, resulting in vibrant images with
faithful colour reproduction and balanced exposure. In addition, this
new AF sensor now has the ability to detect up to 16 human faces with
startling accuracy even when shooting through the optical viewfinder,
allowing for correct exposure when the subject is backlit. Furthermore,
in order to capture every brief moment from a bouquet toss to a photo
finish under nearly any condition, the 51 focus points deliver fast and
accurate detection down to a -2 EV with every AF-NIKKOR lens.

All of this image data is funneled through a 16-bit pipeline and is
written to dual-card slots which have been optimized for the latest
UDMA-7 Compact Flash™ cards, as well as the new XQD™ memory card. The D4
is the first professional camera to harness the capabilities of this new
durable and compact format, which offers the blazing fast write times
and extended capacity that is essential for today’s multimedia
professional shooting both stills and videos.

Image Quality That Hits the Mark
The heart of the new D4 is the Nikon-developed 16.2 megapixel FX-format
(36 x 23.9mm) CMOS sensor that provides amazing image quality, brilliant
dynamic range and vivid colours in nearly any lighting condition. By
achieving the optimal balance of resolution and sensor size,
professional photographers will realize exceptionally sharp, clean and
well-saturated images throughout the entire ISO range.

Like the D3 and D3s before it, the D4 retains Nikon’s status as the
sovereign of low-light capture ability, with a native ISO range from 100
to 12,800 ISO, expandable from 50 (Lo-1) to an incredible 204,800
(Hi-4). From a candlelit first dance to nocturnal wildlife, the large
7.3µ pixel size absorbs the maximum amount of light to excel in any
situation. Additionally, the sensor’s construction features a gapless
micro-lens structure and anti-reflective coating which further
contributes to images that retain natural depth and tones with smooth
colour gradation. For the ultimate in versatility, photographers can
also take advantage of the camera’s extreme high ISO ability while
recording videos.

Another factor contributing to the camera’s rapid performance and
stellar image quality is Nikon’s new EXPEED 3 Image Processing Engine
that helps professionals create images with amazing resolution, colour
and dynamic range in both still images and videos. From image processing
to transfer, the new engine is capable of processing massive amounts of
data, exacting optimal colour, perfect tonality and minimized noise
throughout the frame.

There is also a variety of shooting options available to help capture
the highest quality images and videos. In addition to standard
uncompressed NEF (RAW) files, the D4 is capable of shooting smaller
compressed RAW files to ease storage and speed up workflow. Users are
also able to capture even more dynamic range using the in-camera High
Dynamic Range (HDR) function to merge consecutive exposures. For deep
contrast and further tonality, Active D-Lighting can be activated during
shooting for balanced exposures even in backlit scenes. Additionally,
the camera features a dedicated button for quick access to Nikon’s
Picture Controls, allowing users to quickly select one of six presets.

Professional Multimedia Features
The Nikon D4 is engineered with innovative new features for the
multimedia professional who requires a smaller form factor, low-light
ability and NIKKOR lens versatility that only a Nikon HD-SLR can offer.
The new features add functionality for those professionals looking for
the best possible experience to capture a moment in Full HD 1080P video
at various frame rates, providing footage that is more than suitable for
broadcast.

● Full HD (1080p) video recording – Users have the choice of various
resolutions and frame rates, including 1080p 30/24fps and 60 fps at
720p. By utilizing the B-Frame data compression method, users can record
H.264 / MPEG-4 AVC format video with unmatched integrity for up to 20
minutes per clip. This format also allows for more accurate video data
to be transferred, thereby requiring less memory capacity. The sensor
reads image data at astoundingly fast rates, which results in less
instances of rolling shutter distortion.
● Full manual control of exposure – Shutter speed, aperture and ISO
can be changed while recording to adapt to lighting and alter depth of
field for professional cinematic results that help realize a creative
vision.
● Uncompressed output: simultaneous Live View – By using the
camera’s HDMI port instead of the CF or XQD card, users can stream
an uncompressed Full HD signal directly out of the camera. This footage
can be ported into an LCD display, appropriate external recording device
or routed through a monitor and then to the recording device,
eliminating the need for multiple connections.
● Audio recording for professionals – The Nikon D4 features a stereo
headphone jack for accurate monitoring of audio levels while recording.
Output can be adjusted in up to 30 steps for precise audio adjustment.
The D4 offers high-fidelity audio recording control with audio levels
that can be set and monitored on the camera’s LCD screen. The
microphone connected via the stereo mic jack can also be adjusted with
up to 20 steps of sensitivity for accurate sound reproduction.
● Multi-area Mode Full HD 1080p Videos: FX/DX, and 2.7x crop mode at
1080p video modes – Whether shooting for depth of field in FX-format
mode, or looking for the extra 1.5x telephoto benefits of DX mode, the
high resolution sensor of the D4 allows videographers to retain full
1080p HD resolution no matter which they choose. With the 2.7x crop,
users can experience ultra-telephoto benefits in Full HD resolution at
16:9 aspect ratio.
● Simultaneous Live View output without display / simultaneous
monitor – Shooters have the option to send the display signal directly
to an attached monitor via the HDMI port. This signal can be viewed on
the camera’s LCD screen and external monitor simultaneously.
Additionally, the image data display can be cleared from the screen to
remove distracting data or when feeding a live signal.
● Full-time AF – In addition to manual focus, four modes are
available, including normal, wide area, face priority and subject
tracking, which uses fast contrast detect AF to accurately focus while
recording video and in live view.
● New LCD screen – The large 921K dot high resolution 3.2-inch LCD
screen includes auto brightness adjustment. Users can also zoom in by up
to 46x to check critical HD focus.
● Time-lapse shooting – This new feature combines a selected frame
rate and “shooting interval” in a dedicated time lapse photography
menu. Playback can be achieved with a wide variety of speeds from 24x to
36,000x while producing a fully finished movie file output for faster
multimedia workflows.
● Remote shutter operation – Using dedicated Movie Custom Settings,
recording can be set to engage by the shutter release button, and users
can now use a variety of remote accessories to trigger movie recording.

● NIKKOR lens compatibility – The highest calibre optics are vital to
creating HD images and Nikon is the world leader in optics manufacturing
with a legacy spanning more than 75 years. Nikon has a vast NIKKOR lens
system featuring more than 50 lenses with a variety of focal lengths and
features, including VR II vibration reduction technology.

Professional Construction, Superior Operability
The chassis of the Nikon D4 is built with magnesium alloy for maximum
durability and reliability. The body of the camera incorporates gaskets
for resistance to dirt and moisture, as well as electromagnetic
interference. Photographers are able to easily compose through the
bright optical viewfinder, which offers 100 percent frame coverage. The
shutter has been tested to withstand 400,000 cycles for maximum
durability, while sensor cleaning is employed by vibrating the OLPF. The
self-diagnostic shutter unit also encompasses a mirror balancer to
minimize the residual “bounce” to enhance AF and extend viewing
time. What’s more, the viewfinder is coated with a new thermal shield
finish which works to resist overheating during prolonged use, enhancing
overall reliability. Users can easily compose on the camera’s wide,
bright and scratch-resistant 921,000-dot high resolution 3.2-inch LCD
screen.

The overall controls and operability of the camera have also been
engineered with a renewed emphasis on speed and functionality. During
critical moments, users will appreciate refined button layouts with
improved ergonomics, such as a quick AF-mode selector placed near the
lens mount for fast access on the fly. A new joystick style sub-selector
is also placed on the rear of the camera for AF point and option
selection, while vertical controls have been enhanced for improved
operability. Finally, key control buttons on the back of the camera can
be illuminated, making the camera simple to operate in complete
darkness.

Nikon has also made enhancements to overall workflow, adding options to
streamline the process and maximize shooting time. Users are now able to
automatically generate IPTC data for their images and image sets, making
organizing and chronicling images easier for both photographers and
their editors. A wired Ethernet port is also utilized so that a user can
shoot tethered and transfer images easily and quickly to clients. In
addition, Nikon has introduced the new WT-5A Wireless File Transmitter,
to transmit via FTP server or computer. The device can be set to
transfer either automatically or manually selected images. This device
also allows for remote operation of the camera using Nikon’s Camera
Control Pro 2 software. A mobile application is in development to
control the camera using this accessory, which will include the ability
to trigger the shutter and record video, making this a must-have remote
accessory for many professionals.

AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G
The AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G is a versatile prime lens ideal for travel,
general photography, low-light, landscape, portraiture and capturing
movies with extreme depth of field. It is designed to capture photos
utilizing beautiful image blur achieved due to its large maximum
aperture. Furthermore, the AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G is lightweight and
easy to carry, and provides an equivalent focal length of 127mm when
attached to a Nikon DX-format digital SLR camera body.

The construction of the AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G consists of nine
optical elements, with a seven-blade diaphragm which contributes to a
substantially more circular bokeh for a natural appearance to
out-of-focus background elements. Additionally, instances of lens flare
and chromatic aberration are suppressed using Nikon’s exclusive Super
Integrated Coatings, which also help ensure vividly accurate colour
balance.

The AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G comes equipped with a carefully engineered
optical system optimized to deliver superior image quality. The
integration of an ultra-compact Silent Wave Motor (SWM) ensures fast,
whisper-quiet AF operation, which is essential when recording movies.
The AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G also features two focus modes, M/A
(manual-priority autofocus) and M (manual) to further enhance
versatility and adapt to a shooter’s needs. Additionally, Internal
Focus (IF) design prevents the front element from rotating, allowing for
the use of filters and attachments.

Price and Availability
The Nikon D4 is scheduled to be available at Authorized Nikon Canada
Dealers on February 16, 2012 at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail
Price (MSRP) of $6,299.95.

The AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G is scheduled to be available at Authorized
Nikon Canada Dealers on March 22, 2012 for an MSRP of $529.95.

To see the new D4 digital SLR, visit Nikon at the 2012 International
Consumer Electronics Show (CES) at booth # 11039 from January 10-13th,
2012 in Las Vegas, NV.

Exclusive Canadian Warranty
Nikon Canada offers a one-year warranty for the D4 purchased from an
Authorized Nikon Canada Dealer. Additionally, Nikon Canada offers a
five-year warranty for all NIKKOR lenses purchased from an Authorized
Nikon Canada Dealer. Consumer’s investment is protected by Nikon
Canada’s warranties with in-Canada service.