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Review The Nikon D300s is the successor to the original D300 that appeared in the UK almost two years ago. Sharing the same 51-point autofocus and 12.3Mp sensor, it’s the cheaper DX format alternative to the top of the range Nikon D3 DSLR, and sits neatly next to the full frame D700.
Nikon's D300s: still for stills, but with video if you need it
The differences from the original D300 are quite subtle from the outside. The Live View Control and Info Buttons have moved, and the Multi control pad on the back has been tinkered with. The previous version was flatter and encouraged more 'OK' confirmations than with the D300s panel, which sticks out more and needs fewer actions for the various prompts.
Unsurprisingly, HD video is the headline grabber with this model, which is recorded as a Motion JPEG AVI file with a resolution of 1280 x 720p at 24fps. The recording time is five minutes at the maximum resolution or 20 minutes at 640 x 424. It might not seem much but is a perfect amount of time for the short events that occur in front of us, while giving the nod to filmmakers with the frame rate choice.
One feature you might find useful – especially if the best man's speech didn't start exactly on time – is the trim editing in-camera of the video shot. You can cut the beginning and end off, though with a five minutes maximum recording time – it's seat of your pants time! We used a Sans Disk Ultra II SDHC card, which was very happy to record burst stills and video, despite not being cutting edge.
If not recording in Auto mode, you should meter and set your aperture/shutter manually for the scene before pressing Live View mode, so the camera will not be tempted to add any video gain and, hence, noise. In short, if it what you’re seeing on the LCD panel would make a good photograph, then you can be reassured that it's going to make very pleasing moving images too.
Nikon D300s
HD video recording, but a five minutes maximum for each shot
In crowded areas the built-in microphone – under the model number in the top right corner – did well, picking out the subject from the background. Like most in this new class of video capable devices, the audio is a bolt on and not a selling point, and it is worth reiterating this is not a camcorder. So expectations should not be as high, especially as it records at 11kHz rather than the professional rate of 48kHz.
-continue to the full review here: http://www.reghardware.co.uk/2009/12/04/review_camera_nikon_d300s_dslr/
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The reviewer rated the Nikon D300s with a score of 80% which is not bad. However, I still think it's a great dslr with HD video capabilities.
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Here's the gist of the review posted by dpreview.com:
Conclusion - Pros
* Highly competitive image quality at all ISO settings
* Excellent high ISO performance with low noise and good levels of detail
* Highly configurable Auto ISO function (can set maximum ISO and minimum shutter speed)
* 7 frames per second continuous shooting speed (8 with battery grip)
* Makes good use of its dual media card slots
* Sophisticated AF system with effective subject tracking
* Excellent build quality with magnesium body and environmental sealing
* Good ergonomics, well shaped and comfortable hand grip
* Well-placed and configurable buttons
* Menu is well organized and quick to use despite its size and the camera's complexity
* Large and bright viewfinder with 100% coverage
* (Relatively) quick contrast detect AF in live view
* Good quality 720p video output
* Easy switch between stills mode, movie mode and live view
* Contrast detection available in movie mode
* External microphone socket
* Useful Active D-Lighting feature protects highlights as well as boosting shadows
* Reliable flash exposures
* Comprehensive wireless flash control
* Wide range of accessories (WiFi, Battery Grip, GPS)
* Good battery life
* Sophisticated interval timer feature
* Comprehensive software bundle
* Built-in AF assist lamp
Conclusion - Cons
* Unreliable white balance under artificial lighting
* Slight tendency to overexpose in contrasty conditions
* Rolling shutter effect when shooting video
* Occasional 'grain' in blue skies, even at base ISO
* Contrast detection AF is slow (as it is on all DSLRs)
* Internal microphone readily records lens noise
* No liveview histogram
Overall conclusion
The D300S isn't nearly as significant a step forward for Nikon as the D300 was but that in part is a testament to how good the D300 was. When we reviewed it, Phil stressed how difficult he'd found it to find things to criticize so it's not surprising that Nikon has found it hard to know what to improve. But there are improvements and ones that will be welcomed by certain sections of the photographic community. The ability to shoot movies, although seemingly gimmicky, does appear to be a benefit both in terms of creative options and commercial potential, so shouldn't be dismissed. The addition of a second card slot and the useful ways in which it can be used also considerably increase the flexibility of the camera.
Image Quality
With a 12 megapixel sensor, it would be easy to think of the D300S as being a touch out-of-date. However, that would be to miss the point, as the difference between 18 megapixels and 12 (20% in each direction), is only of value in certain specific circumstance, especially when you're talking about 12 very well captured and processed megapixels. And that's what you get with the D300S - dependable, quality images which it's very hard to find fault with. The JPEGs may be a little softer than we'd choose but they respond well to the sharpening being pushed up a notch, so it's just a matter of tuning them to suit your purposes. Processing from raw brings even better results.
Handling
Handling is one of the places that the D300S really shines - both its ergonomics and build quality are first class. Although it's easy to initially be intimidated by the sheer number of external controls, you soon become familiar with them and find yourself glad of them. Then, thanks to the high level of customization, you can add other features you want direct access to onto the user-definable function buttons on the front of the camera. Furthermore, if you're unfamiliar with the Nikon way of working (dials and indicators all have positive on the left and negative on the right), the behavior of both can be switched so that it more close resembles the cameras you're used to.
Although the button changes over the D300 are subtle, they make a surprising difference, not least in terms of making access to video really straightforward. There isn't universal agreement here about the positioning of the buttons on the camera's left shoulder (White Balance, ISO and Image Quality), but that's about the only point of contention, despite us all being familiar with different brands.
The final word
The D300S is not the standout product that its predecessor was and unless you find your clients are clamoring for video footage, we can't see much need for existing owners to upgrade. But that shouldn't take away from an absolutely excellent product - a gently polished and refined update of a product that we considered a benchmark when it was released. The EOS 7D may prevent anyone with a foot in the Canon camp from contemplating defection but unless you desperately need that camera's higher resolution, it's hard to overlook the appeal of the Nikon.
I suggest you check out the full review found here: http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/nikond300s/
Those who have clients wanting video footage might want to go for the new Nikon D300s.
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Nikon updates its semi-pro D300S DSLR with video and some welcome tweaks.
EXTERNALLY SIMILAR: The D300S looks practically identical to the D300, except for the model number printed on the front.
With HD video recording suddenly becoming the feature to have in DSLRs, Nikon has been busy updating their DSLR line with new models featuring 720p video recording.
While the first Nikon DSLRs to gain HD video recording were the consumer models like the D90 and the D5000, the company has just started updating its semi-pro and professional models with video recording, starting with the D300S and now the D3S.
Similar but different
Since the D300S has many similar features carried over from the D300, we won’t repeat them in this review. If you want an extensive rundown of the features, check out our D300 review.
Externally, the D300S really does look practically identical to the D300 — even the image sensor has the same 12.21-megapixel count as its predecessor and the 51-point autofocus system is also carried over.
There are differences in the sensor, of course, but we’ll deal with that a little later.
The only thing we’ll say here is that 12-megapixels is definitely more than enough for all but advertising photographers or people who need to make larger than A3 enlargements.
SLIGHTLY DIFFERENT: On the back, the D300S has a few slight differences, most notably a direction pad with a separate middle button like on the D3.
However, physical and the basic feature set are where the similarities end between the D300 and the D300S.
In addition to all this, Nikon has tweaked a number of features and added some new features into the D300S to make an already good camera even better.
The most obvious new feature, of course, is the addition of 720p video recording.
Even here, Nikon has tweaked the way video recording works in the D300S compared with the D90 — most notably, you can now autofocus during video recording, although, like all cameras that do so the sound of the autofocus motor can be heard when focusing.
This brings me to the next new feature — the D300S has a port that accepts a standard external stereo microphone which means you not only get stereo audio recording, but since the microphone is external, it won’t record the autofocus motor sounds when recording video.
As far as video recording goes, the D300S does a pretty good job recording 720p videos, offering a much better level of detail than, say, the Olympus E-P1’s 720p video.
Of course, we’d like to see Nikon start introducing 1080p video recording into their cameras, if only because the company’s nearest competitor is already starting to integrate that into most of their cameras.
As it is, 720p video recording is fine — while we would use video on a DSLR occasionally, if we really wanted to shoot more professional videos, a camcorder is preferable.
Capturing stills
The addition of video isn’t where the major tweaks have been made to the D300S, however — still image capture is where the camera features most of its major enhancements.
We’ll start with the minor, easier to explain tweaks first, the D300S now comes with 7fps (frames per second) continuous shooting speed, slightly up from the 6fps of the D300. No big change here.
One less obvious but welcome change is that this switch to the faster shutter mechanism also results in a much smoother, less clunky shutter. The shutter trips without much vibration at all and viewfinder blackout is also extremely short now.
Unfortunately, in my tests, I discovered that switching to 14-bit NEF RAW recording still slows down the continuous shooting speed though, to about 1.5fps.
This is fine for shooters who don’t use continuous shooting, but might be a problem for sports and action photographers.
One welcome addition is the excellent Virtual Horizon display that was in the D3 has now made into the D300S and you can overlay the Virtual Horizon over an image by pressing the Info button a few times in Live View mode.
Autofocus is practically unchanged — you still get Tripod mode which allows you to autofocus while in Live View mode using contrast detect, while Handheld mode autofocus will have the camera flip the mirror up and use the dedicated phase-detect sensors in the mirror box to focus, blacking out the Live View image for a second or two.
The only major change in autofocus is the ability to do so during video recording.
QUIET MODE: Nestled amongst the usual drive modes is the Q setting, which is meant to lower the decibel level of the shutter and mirror mechanism for use in quiet environments.
Oh yes, if you turn the drive mode dial, you’ll find a Q shooting mode nestled amongst the usual single shot and continuous shooting modes.
This is a relatively new addition to Nikon digital cameras, but anyone who’s owned a Nikon F4S for example, will probably be familiar with this mode, which stands for Quiet mode.
As the name suggests, the Quiet shooting mode attempts to lower the decibel level of the D300S’ shutter and mirror mechanism so that you can use the camera less obtrusively in quiet environments.
In our tests, Quiet shooting mode does indeed reduce the sharpness of the sound of the mirror returning to its down position, although the sound is still pretty noticeable to people sitting next to you.
However, you can delay the mirror return by holding down the shutter release button — while the shutter will trip and take a photo, the mirror won’t flip down till you let the shutter release button go, which I suppose makes sense in a concert where you can delay the louder sound of the mirror and wait for a period when the concert is louder to release the mirror.
Battery life is pretty good on the D300S and it lasted me several days of casual shooting and at least two days of heavy shooting with some video recording before the battery ran down. No complaints there.
Image quality
As far as metering and shooting goes, the D300S seems to perform similarly to the D300 and we’d say there’s no real difference there — if you’re familiar with Nikon’s metering choices, the D300S is not going to surprise you.
In terms of picture quality, Nikon seems to have tweaked the sensor design or noise reduction a bit on the D300S, and it seems to offer slightly better noise performance than the D300.
From our tests, the D300S is practically noiseless at ISO 200 and only some noise is visible at ISO 400.
However, NR kicks in a bit harder at normal settings above ISO 400 and noise actually goes down a bit at ISO 800 and ISO 1600, although at the expense of a bit of detail.
Overall, though we were pretty satisfied with the noise performance of the D300S and would not hesitate to use it all the way up to ISO 1600.
Sharpness was excellent at lower ISO settings and still looked good even at ISO 1600 with the NR taking away most of the chroma noise (colour noise) without smoothing out the detail too much.
Noise was still well-controlled at ISO 3200 but sharpness falls quite significantly at this point and we’d use this setting only when there are no other option.
The D300S has a Hi-1 setting which is equivalent to ISO 6400 but it’s distinctly soft and there’s already a significant colour shift.
If you want to gauge high ISO noise for yourself, you can download our 100% crop comparison shots from
bit.ly/12uSUp.
Conclusion
True to Nikon’s naming conventions, the D300S isn’t a major change from the D300 but the company hasn’t simply slapped on video recording on the D300 and called it a D300S either.
Although Nikon didn’t change what wasn’t broken, the number of small enhancements and additions to the feature set make it a much better and more robust camera overall.
Certainly, if you already own a D300, the changes (apart from perhaps the video recording) won’t make you run out and upgrade, but D200 owners for example, will find the D300S a major step forward as it improves on the D200 in every way.
If you’ve been holding on to a D200, hoping for a major new model with video recording, faster shooting, larger LCD, Live View, Virtual Horizonand such, then the D300S is what you’ve been waiting for.
Of course, if you’re holding out for a more affordable 35mm full-frame camera with video recording, then you’ll probably have to wait till Nikon updates the D700.
Pros: Faster shooting; Virtual Horizon feature; 720p video recording; stereo microphone port built-in; very short viewfinder blackout time; autofocus possible during video recording.
Cons: No 1080p video recording.
D300S
(Nikon Corp)
DSLR camera
Sensor: 12.21-megapixels (4,288 x 2,848pixels)
Shutter: 30sec — 1/8,000sec, plus B
ISO range: 200 — 3200 (100 - 6400 in ISO boost mode)
Exposure modes: P,S,A,M
Viewfinder: Optical, 2.7in external LCD
Battery: 1,500mAh EN-EL3e lithium-ion 1,500mAh EN-EL3e lithium-ion
Storage: SDHC, CompactFlash
Interface: USB 2.0, mini HDMI, composite video out, stereo microphone in
Other features: Live View, 720p 24fps video recording
Dimensions (w x h x d): 14.7 × 11.4 × 7.4cm
Weight: 840g
Price: RM6,698 (body only)
Review unit courtesy of Nikon (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, (03) 7809-3688.
* Product Shots: http://www.whatdigitalcamera.com/equipment/galleries/productshots/nikon/24699/1/0/nikon-d300s-product-shots.html
* Sample Photos: http://www.whatdigitalcamera.com/equipment/galleries/sample-images/nikon/14463/1/0/nikon-d300s-sample-images_pg_Inspire.html
The Nikon D300s adds video and other features to the already exceptional D300 model, but is it enough of an improvement or more of a minor upgrade? The What Digital Camera Nikon D300s review gives you the lowdown...
Product Pros: Image quality, large and clear viewfinder, feature-packed, ergonomics, superb AF system
Product Cons: Small multi-selector pad, AF can be slow bringing subjects into focus, not a significant update over the D300
The Nikon D300s remains remarkably similar to the ever-popular D300. In fact, and as its name suggests, the new model is really more an extension of the D300 as opposed to something built from the ground up. Is this a good thing, or has Nikon missed a trick? The What Digital Camera Nikon D300s review...
Nikon D300s review - Features
The Nikon D300s introduces a movie mode - the main addition over the previous D300. As with Nikon's other recent video-sporting DSLRs, this records 720p high-definition footage (1280 x 720p) as Motion JPEG (M-JPEG) at a rate of 24 frames per second, saved in AVI format - though, compared with its other models, Nikon has given the D300s user a little more functionality, most notably via a dedicated microphone port. This allows the camera to record stereo sound to accompany movie files; otherwise the camera records mono audio through a small microphone on the front of the body. Autofocus is possible during recording, and there's also a basic option to edit movies, whereby any surplus footage from the start or end of the file may be discarded.
In contrast to the D300, activating the D300s' live view function (through which video recording is accessed) is now achieved using a dedicated live view button on the rear, rather than through the release mode dial. In its place on the mode dial is a new Quiet Release option that dampens down the sound of the mirror as it flips up and down, and silences the beep when focus is confirmed. Potentially, this is useful in any environment where it is necessary for noise to be kept to a minimum, for example when shooting wildlife. And for those who do wish to make a lot of noise, Nikon has increased the maximum frame rate from the original D300's 6fps to 7fps for the D300s, which may be boosted even further to 8fps when using the optional MB-D10 battery pack.
Nikon D300s review sample imageNikon has also added a slot for SD media next to the existing CompactFlash one, and with it a number of options as to how these may be configured: using two cards, the camera may use the secondary one as an overflow; recording each file to both, effectively making one a backup; or recording JPEGs to one card and Raw files to the other. Copying files between the two is also possible, while through the movie settings you can choose to assign video files to one card, leaving the other one free for images.
Aside from these and a few other minor changes, the D300s is practically a carbon copy of the D300. The DX format CMOS sensor contains a total of 13.1MP, with an effective 12.3MP that applies a 1.5x conversion factor to the focal length of any mounted lens. The low-pass filter in front of the sensor vibrates itself to dislodge any dust that may have got inside, and may be set to activate either on start-up, shutdown, both or neither, as the user wishes.
The D300s has a sensitivity range that runs from a base of ISO 200 up to ISO 3200, with ISO 100 and 6400 extensions also available on either side of this. When shooting in the Auto ISO mode, it is possible to set a maximum sensitivity and a minimum shutter speed for the respective benefits of noise control and sharpness, while noise reduction is available for both long and high ISO exposures.
With Nikon's Expeed processing system at the helm, a number of the company's now-standard technologies are also present. The D300s has a 1005-pixel metering sensor which works with the Scene Recognition System to adjust focus, exposure and white balance prior to exposure, while the Active D-Lighting facility welcomes a new bracketing function, which takes up to five images with different degrees of the effect applied. The Picture Control System, meanwhile, comprises Standard, Vivid, Natural and Monochrome colour settings (as well as the further options of downloading and creating your own profiles).
Nikon D300s review - Design
Just as the D300s has specifications that closely mirror those of the D300, so does its design. The camera is constructed from a magnesium alloy frame, with rubberised panelling around its grip, thumb rest and sides, and various sealings around the body to prevent water and dust incursion.
The camera's pentaprism viewfinder is identical to that of the D300, with a frame coverage of approximately 100% and a 0.94x magnification factor. The user has the option of overlaying an electronic grid to facilitate level shooting, and all of the key exposure information is viewable at its base.
Nikon D300s review product image - dual card SD & CF slot
Despite the fact that comparable models are constructed from similar materials, there's something about the D300s that gives the impression it's a different beast entirely. Nikon has not skimped on any part of the camera's build quality; it could certainly give some of the more ‘professional' models available on the market, such as Canon's 5D Mark II and Sony's A900, a good run for their money.
Aside from the dedicated live view button, the rear of the D300s also welcomes an info button underneath this for toggling between display options, as well as a multi-selector pad with a central button. This is similar to the type found on both the D3 and D700 bodies, and allows the user to start and stop video recording at short notice. I found it fiddly to use though, as the pad's diameter is shorter than the width of my thumb. This can be problematic when you consider just how many options there are through the various menus and custom settings, and how accessing them quickly and easily is key. I am, however, glad to see Nikon has opted for a card door with a sliding mechanism as opposed to one with its own latch, as on the D300 - this makes it far easier to open in a hurry. The addition of dual CF and SD card slots is a nice touch too.
Verdict
The fact that the D300s is so similar to the original D300 really is testament to how highly specified the original model already was. Many of the changes Nikon has made seem more as justifications for bringing out a new model, rather than the result of any focus groups or market demand. This isn?t to say that the changes in themselves aren?t useful, but perhaps Nikon didn?t consider the few generally subtle additions to the D300s ? mainly that of a movie function ? to be enough reason to introduce a whole new DSLR. As video is the main addition (and however obvious as it may be to state it), it?s clear that the D300s is designed for those who will be using the camera for both still images and video, particularly the latter in a more professional manner when connecting an external microphone. Overall, it adds subtle enhancements to an already excellent camera. -source
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I still think the Nikon D300s is a welcome improvement to dslr users.
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This isn't the first time Nikon has teamed up with sports photographers to showcase the D300s' new 720p video capabilities, but this footage of the world's top hang glider surfing Australia's mysterious "Morning Glory" wave-cloud phenomenon, is just as spectacular.
The D300s was mounted to the front of the hang glider and fitted with a 10.5mm fisheye lens. A custom hardwired trigger and release mechanism was used to fire both video and stills.
Of course, the $1800 D300s now has some serious semi-pro competition from the $1900 Canon 7D. And the 7D is an 18-megapixel, 1080p video beast. Click through the links above for our in-depth primers.
-source
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This is a totally extreme video using the Nikon D300s! I'd be scared to drop an expensive camera from that high!
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Using the D300s was one of the first experiences I had shooting video, but what struck me is how easy it was to learn. Within one day, I was able to pick up the basics of shooting. It was liberating and exciting to explore the possibilities of story telling with more than just still images and audio. Now I feel as if there is a whole world of opportunities to explore.
1) Be patient. Wait for things to happen in front of the frame. I liked the ambiguity and suspense of discovering what might happen in front of the lens instead of always panning and searching for things. Of course panning is useful, but I think it needs to be used minimally.
2) Shoot for a minimum of 5 seconds on the beginning and end of each shot. You need that for editing. It may feel as if you are shooting for longer than you really are so get in the habit of shooting a little longer to make it easier in the editing room.
3) Shoot lots of sequences.
4) Make the tripod your best friend. Use a good one with a fluid head.
5) Same like still photography. Wait for beautiful light. Light is everything. Avoid those high contrast scenes.
6) Shoot and shoot and shoot. It’s the only way to discover and create beautiful work.
As far as the D300s goes, this is a sweet little camera, especially for the price. I am shooting a lot more video now and loving it.
Meeting the locals
Meeting the locals
I had help on this project from Dai Sugano who is an absolute genius and helped me with the editing. His work is very inspiring and he has a unique way of seeing the world. His work is an excellent example of a still photographer moving into video and breaking the mold with originality and creativity. David Barreda and Ashima Narain helped me in the field. Without all these people I would never have been able to make this. It’s really all about collaboration.
Go to www.amivitale.com for more photos
Sample D300s still images here
-source with video and behind the scenes photo
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I'm sure people who previously doubted the Nikon D300s capabilities will turn around after watching this video.
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We like:
Super-tough build; great high-ISO picture quality; excellent HD movie mode; 7 or 8 frames per second continuous shooting
We don't like:
Steep price; DX sensor format; occasionally overexposed pictures
CNET UK judgement:
Camera prices have been rising, but £1,350 still seems pretty rich for a 12-megapixel dSLR, even one with an HD movie mode. And don't forget that's the body-only price. The Nikon D300S remains a smart buy for professionals with numerous DX lenses or who need a fast, flexible second body for their system, but it's no bargain
Full review:
The 12-megapixel D300S could be seen as a 'maintenance release' for Nikon's pro-specified D300. The main addition is a high-definition movie mode, although other enhancements have also been made. The continuous shooting speed, for example, has risen to 7 or 8 frames per second with the optional battery pack. The D300S is no bargain, though, at around £1,350 for the body alone.
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***
DSLRs will always be expensive. The Nikon D300s is also no a consumer level camera so we can't expect it to be cheap. Still, you get good functions from the Nikon D300s for its price.
When Nikon launched their pro-bodied, DX-format D300 in 2007 it marked something of a revolution for Nikon. At last, Nikon cemented their top-level cameras into two categories: FX (cameras packed with 35mm full-frame image sensors) and DX (cameras using APS-C sized image sensors with a 1.5X crop factor). But as far as the rest of the world was concerned, the real revolution came a year later with Nikon's introduction of the D90 -- the first DLSR capable of recording HD video. It's no wonder that Nikon was so eager to take the new high resolution sensor and video mode from their mid-grade D90 and put it into a higher-priced DSLR ... the new Nikon D300S.
We'll explore the video performance of the D300S later in the review, but rest assured, if you liked the video quality from the D90 then you'll feel the same way about the D300S.
BUILD AND DESIGN
The D300S features the same 12.9 megapixel (12.3 million effective pixels) APS-C sensor and Nikon's latest generation EXPEED processor found in the D90. But there aren't many more similarities between Nikon's newest king of the DX format and the older, cheaper D90. The D300S is packed with the same 51-point AF system with color and distance tracking as well as optional viewfinder gridlines from the original D300. In fact, there is little that changed between the popular D300 and the D300S other than the ability to record video, a faster 7 fps continuous shooting speed (8 fps with MB-D10 battery grip), and the inclusion of an SDHC card slot in addition to the CompactFlash card slot.
The D300S marks Nikon's third DSLR camera to be equipped with a 12 megapixel image sensor capable of HD video recording. The mid-tier D90 and the entry-level D5000 offer amateur and enthusiast photographers a still camera that can capture video, but the D300S is Nikon's first pro-level body that doubles as a video camera.
The D300S shares the same 200 to 3200 nominal ISO range (with ISO 100 and 6400 options available), and the ability to use "Active D-Lighting" (Nikon's proprietary feature that boosts shadow details and helps prevent overexposed highlights so you don't have to spend as much time editing your photos after you take them).
The improved EXPEED image processor (inherited from the D90) allows you to capture video at 1280x720 pixel resolution and 24 frames per second (theatrical film speed). The built-in microphone works as well as the built-in microphones on the D90 and D5000, but the D300S includes a mini-jack stereo input that lets you attach an external microphone for better audio recording. There's also a menu option that allows you to control the volume levels for the video recording.
Of course, the EXPEED processing also improves speed for still shooters as well. The continuous shooting speed received a nice boost to 7 frames per second when using the standard EN-EL3e battery compared to 6 fps with the original D300. If you want even more speed, you can connect the optional MB-D10 battery grip ($299 MSRP) for a full 8 fps. When you consider that Canon's 50D is limited to 6.3 fps, the D300S makes a compelling solution for sports photographers.
As previously mentioned, the D300S adds a second memory card slot for SD/SDHC memory media along with the standard CF slot seen in the D300. The SDHC card slot allows photojournalists to quickly transfer images using the built-in SDHC card reader in most laptops. Another convenient benefit to the SDHC slot is that you can use an Eye-Fi card to wirelessly upload images to a computer or the internet whenever you're within range of a Wi-Fi network.
Ergonomics and Controls
The design of the D300S looks virtually identical to the D300, and it requires a keen eye to spot the external differences to these cameras. The D300S will be largely familiar to current D300 and D200 shooters, and Nikon D90 shooters will quickly feel at home with the camera as well.
Nikon D300s
While not physically different from the D300 in any major way, the new D300S features the same rugged magnesium alloy construction and rubber gaskets for extreme weather proofing seen on the D300 and is a step up from the plastic construction of the D90.
Nikon D300S
The D300S has contours and thick rubber grip material with just the right amount of "tacky" texture in all the right places. The deep handgrip provides a firm hold while at the same time maintaining acceptable clearance from the lens barrel, the thumb/palm rest at the rear of the body is nice and large for cradling the thumb and gives you a place to keep your thumb near the controls. The index finger falls naturally onto the shutter button.
Nikon D300S
The button layout is extremely similar to what was used on the D300, so anyone familiar with that camera should have a relatively easy time learning the control interface on the D300S. Live view (using the monitor to compose/capture still images or movies) can be accessed quickly via the live view button.
Nikon D300S
Menus and Modes
Unlike Nikon's consumer-oriented cameras that are loaded with a variety of user-friendly scene modes, there are only four primary shooting modes on the pro-level D300S:
* Program: Camera sets shutter speed and aperture for optimal exposure (photographer controls all other settings)
* Aperture Priority: User selects aperture, camera determines shutter speed
* Shutter Priority: User selects shutter speed, camera determines aperture
* Manual: User selects shutter speed and aperture
In addition to the four primary shooting modes the D300S also offers:
* D-Movie: HD video capture is available at up to 720p (1280 x 720 pixels) and 24 fps in Motion JPEG format
Unlike the entry-level Nikon DSLRs, the D300S will meter with virtually any Nikkor "F" mount lens - a major benefit for photographers who own old glass. The 3D color matrix II metering is restricted to Nikon's type G, D or AF-S and AF-I lenses; matrix metering works with other Nikon AF lenses as well as AI-P, AI, AI-S, AI-modified or E series lenses; center weighted and spot metering are available with every lens except the 120mm Medical Nikkor and the few lenses designed for the Nikon F3AF camera body. During the review period I tested the D300S with the Nikon 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G AF-S DX ED VR, Nikon 24-120mm f/3.5-5.6G ED IF VR, Nikon 85mm f/1.8D, and the Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S DX lenses.
Display/Viewfinder
The D300S features a 3.0 inch, 920,000 dot monitor identical to the one used on the D300 and D90. The monitor offers 100 percent frame coverage and is adjustable via the internal menu for seven levels of brightness. This high resolution screen really has to be seen to be appreciated, it offers much greater detail than most DSLR monitors because the tiny gaps between dots are too small to be seen with the human eye. The extra detail comes in handy when using Live view and when zooming into still images in playback mode to confirm focus.
The viewfinder offers 100% frame coverage and a magnification of 0.94x with a 50mm lens. The built-in diopter provides multiple levels of adjustment between -2 and +1m. In short, this is the same fantastic viewfinder seen in the D300.
-continue reading here with Nikon D300s sample images and Nikon D300s sample videos
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I agree with the conclusion that it's the consumers, not pros, who are embracing DSLRs with video capabilities. The Nikon D300s is one of these cameras.
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Buy the Nikon D300s from B&H Photo
Buy the Nikon D300s from Amazon
Here's a comprehensive review of the Nikon D300s from Photographyblog.com. The review finds the Nikon D300s a superb camera. However, current D300 users are less likely to upgrade due to very small changes.
Introduction
This summer, nearly two years after the introduction of the D300, Nikon announced its successor, the D300s. The new model adds 720p HD video capture with optional autofocus, in-camera video editing, an on-board mono microphone and a stereo microphone input, a dedicated button for Live View access, dual memory card slots, faster continuous shooting, a new Quiet drive mode, a Virtual Horizon to aid you in keeping the camera level, a redesigned eight-way controller with a centred set button, plus an all-new Info button and on-demand screen tips for new users. Pretty much everything else is unchanged from the D300, including the environmentally sealed magnesium-alloy body, the twelve-megapixel DX sensor, the large optical viewfinder with 100% frame coverage and the fixed 3 inch rear screen with 921,000 dots. The Nikon D300s costs £1499.99 / €1821.00 / $1799.95 body only.
- continue with the full article with sample images and sample videos
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Buy the Nikon D300s from B&H Photo
Buy the Nikon D300s from Amazon
Short version: If you are familiar with the Nikon D300, then you can just expect more of the same. The D300s doesn’t do anything ground breaking, but what it does is add some nice features to an already excellent DSLR — most importantly, HD video and SD card support.
The D300s is the latest version of Nikon’s award-winning D300, which was released in August of 2007. The D300s features a 12.3 megapixel, DX-format sensor, and supports an ISO range of 200 to 3200. Nikon also gave the D300s their 51 point auto-focus system, which makes it exceptionally easy to get a crisp image while shooting. The D300s also has the same 3 inch LCD display as the D300 on the back of the body, which is great for reviewing your shots or when you are using the “Live View” mode. At $1800, it’s firmly in the “prosumer” price range.
There are a few major differences from the D300, which I own. The biggest change is the inclusion of video. The D300s allows you to capture video at 24fps, at either 720p (for a 5-minute continuous shot), 640×424 (for 20 minutes), or 320×216 (also 20 minutes). The D300s also has a “quiet shutter” mode, which is perfect for wildlife photography, and they added the ability to use an SD card as well as a CF card, the previous standard. It is possible to use both cards at once, and there are a couple of ways to do that. You can specify that you want video on one, and pictures on the other, use one as overflow for the other, or manually shuffle them between the two cards as you see fit. I actually prefer to use the backup mode, which writes the picture to both cards at the same time.
comparison
Ergonomics: Not much has changed, really: the D300s uses the same magnesium alloy body as the D300, with the same textured rubber that most cameras use. The controls are a bit more intuitive, and the memory card cover release has been replaced with some more function buttons.
Picture Quality: Outstanding. Nikon used a faster processor in the D300s, and it shows. The autofocus (one of the things that didn’t work *quite* right on D300) is fast and intelligent, the picture controls are intuitive, and the end results are outstanding. Nikon’s inclusion of custom picture control settings makes it easy to get everything exactly how you want it, consistently. I use a couple of custom settings that allow me to duplicate the look of some of the most famous types of film, like Fuji Velvia and Agfa Optima.
Video: The 720p looks very impressive. I’ve always been somewhat skeptical of those cameras that try to do two things, because they rarely do them well. Camcorders rarely shoot good still pictures, and still cameras just don’t do video that well. The bad news is, that’s still the case here. Yes, the picture quality is great because the D300s uses great lenses, and a huge (comparatively) sensor. However, the auto-focus is pretty sketchy, and you can REALLY hear the focus motors when you are recording. Also, if you’re not using a tripod, you’re going to have a video that looks like it was filmed by Matt after his energy drink post.
Battery life: The EN-EL3e Li-on battery takes up 950 shots on a single charge, depending on how much time you spending viewing and editing your pictures in camera. I recently went on a trip to Yosemite (the sample pictures you see are from that trip) and shot the entire weekend on one charge. One. That’s pretty damn impressive, and I wasn’t even trying to stretch the battery life out.
Pros: The D300s is a great camera. This is the second version of this model, and Nikon has done a great job improving it. The quiet shutter mode is nice, the auto-focus is faster now, the dual memory slots are nice, if not particularly necessary (SD memory cards are cheaper than CF card though). Also, adding the new dedicated “Info” button was a really good idea.
Cons: Video isn’t quite there yet. Yes, the image quality is much better then what you’ll get from a camcorder, and the HD video is crisp and clear, but that auto-focus noise is just too much (plus it’s slow). I also noticed that the auto ISO and auto WB aren’t accurate all of the time. This could be my personal bias, but I typically end up adjusting those items myself.
Now, in the interest of comparison, I mentioned that I own a D300. I bought one a few months after it came out after much research and reading, and I’m a fan of the original. As such, I was very interested when I heard that Nikon was going to be releasing an update to my much loved D300. Will I be upgrading? Probably not. The video feature isn’t enough to make me switch, and I think I’ll be waiting to go to full frame for my next upgrade. If I didn’t already own D300, would I buy a D300s? Absolutely. No question about it. The Nikon D300s is still the best “prosumer” level DSLR on the market today.
To be fair, there is another possible contender for the crown that is not on the market today just arriving on the market. That would be the Canon 7D. It’s around the same price point (MSRP is actually a bit cheaper, at $1699), and if the published information is to be believed, the Canon’s video modes will be better then the D300s (though likely have the same problems). Canon has stated that their camera will capture HD video at 30, 25, and 24 FPS, and will also allow more manual control then the Nikon. As for the rest, well, the eternal Nikon vs. Canon conflict goes on. We’ll just have to wait and see who exactly rules the roost after the Canon is released. -source with Nikon D300s sample images and Nikon D300s sample video.
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If you're really after the video functions, I think that it's worth getting the Nikon D300s over the old model.
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Buy the Nikon D300s from B&H Photo
Buy the Nikon D300s from Amazon
The Nikon D300 is already quite a nice little DSLR to play with, and the arrival of the D300s raised a lot of questions like... Is the “s’’ worth the extra bucks? To be honest… Not really, but still the D300s is supposed to be a great camera. As far as I'm concerned… I was far from impressed by D300s.
Nikon D300s Specs
- Nikkor AF-S 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6 G ED
- 12.3-megapixel Resolution
- Nikon F-mount
- 3.0-inch LCD with 920,000 pixels, 170 degree viewing angle
- ISO range of 100 to 6400
- Compact Flash and SD/SDHC support
- 720/24p Video recording mode
First Impression
Like the D90 and the D700 we tested earlier, the D300s is an impressive camera when holding it, it's body is made of a strong magnesium alloy. If you love the feel of a Nikon, the D300s won’t disappoint.
While I don't have many complaints concerning its quality and, I'm not a big fan of the new multiselector button. It's unprecise, slow and in the long run a real pain to use. On the other hand I really love the dual memory card slot with both SD/SDHC and Compact Flash… It allows you to store video on one card and photos on another, and provides an automatic back up of each photo you shoot (both SD and CD will have the same contents). It also fills up your SD or CF when either one is full. For those who love shooting pictures in total secrecy… the D300s has a quiet mode, which as you may guess will let you shoot pictures without much noise… Handy if you shoot in a place where camera noise makes a difference.
Let’s Shoot Baby!
Compared with the D300, the D300s has some nice little improvements like its 51AF point and a Visual Horizon that was previously only available on high end models and useful for shooting perfect pictures. It also has an improved Active D-lighting setting now with an Auto Mode and a extra hi, two more than on the D300, and an improved ISO engine that offers cleaner pictures in Hi-ISO than on the D300.
I'm not sure if it was the lens Nikon sent me with the D300s, but I wasn't that impressed by the results. After spending a whole week with it I didn't feel the D90 or D700 magic at all. I didn't enjoy taking pictures with it. Don't get me wrong, pictures are decent, but I had more misses with the D300s than with the D90. Granted I''m not an award winning or a pro photographer (someone who earns money taking pictures), but the D300s didn't feel right to me…
Once you succeed in shooting a picture you're happy with, compared to the D300 not much of a difference… I couldn't see any difference, and this was a little disappointing. Apparently Nikon worked more on adding gizmos than improving photo quality. I'm sure most of you would have preferred improved photo quality more than Nikon’s useless Video Mode.
Original Photo can be downloaded here on our Flickr Account, otherwise you can enjoy them in our photo gallery here below.
What About Video Mode?
The Nikon D300s video mode is pretty much the same as the D90, with a new autofocus. I still believe adding a video mode to a DSLR is a nice, but video isn't Nikon core business and compared with a GH-1 Lumix, the 720/24p mode on the D300s is far from impressive. Also, like the D90, the D300s has the same five minute limitation on video recording… This may be enough for most of you, but not ideal for me. An HD movie freak.
Conclusion:
The D300s takes nice pictures, but I didn't feel the same magic as with the D90 and D700. The camera feels great, but I had more misses with the D300s than I had with the D90 and D700. Maybe the lens that Nikon sent wasn't the best choice. I'm not sure but even with its new gizmos, the D300s isn't much of an improvement over the D300.
If you're happy with your D300, keep it and wait for something better. -source
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I'm surprised that there's are not many sites recommending the Nikon D300s, but that is if you already have a camera. If you don't have a dslr, then the Nikon D300s is still a good buy.
Nikon's D300s is the very same camera we loved two years ago, but with a few new tricks to try to stay relevant in this crazy video-shootin' DSLR world we live in. Namely, 720p video.
Same Ol' Same Ol'
The D300s remains a capable, even impressive camera. I mean, it's not like it got worse: The D300 retains the same sensor, excellent 51-point autofocus system, fantastic chassis build quality and ergonomics—just about the same everything—as the D300, and it still holds up 2 years later, mostly.
Low-light performance is solid, as you can see in the giant sample gallery here that walks through ISO ranges. We're talking fairly good-looking stuff up through ISO1600, though noise starts to creep in there, finally getting oogly around ISO3200. It's no 5D Mark II or D700, but it still stands up. Color saturation remains top-notch, and it seemed to handle white balance even a bit better than 5DMkII we shot alongside it at Giz Gallery last week. Bottom line, though, you're getting the same D300 performance. (Which means D300 reviews are still worth reading.)
So What's New?
• 720p video recording
• Extra SDHC slot
• More Active-D Lighting controls
• Tweaked button layout
Oh Hey, Video
What's majorly new in the D300s is video, and even it's not a whole lot different than what you saw with the D90, which also shot 720p video (and had a similar 12.3MP sensor). But, there's stereo input, and you can autofocus during recording—it's god-awful slow, so you're better off doing it your own damn self. Not to mention movies are capped at 5 measly minutes. And if you're still in live view, you can't actually watch the stuff you've just shot, since the playback button is how you adjust the display's brightness in live view mode.
The video quality itself is good, generally, but pushing past ISO1600, it starts getting a little dicey (Brian's shirt makes my eyes and ears hurt it's so noisy in this clip): Beyond video, my favorite new addition to the D300s are the dual memory card slots, which were formerly a super pro feature. The extra slot holds an SDHC card, which you can use a number of different ways—continuing the storage over from the CF card, duping whatever goes to the CF card, or to save JPEGs from RAW+JPEG shooting. (Handy, since OS X and Aperture don't support D300s RAW files yet.)
And of course, one of the best things about Nikon cameras is that since the lens mount for their SLRs hasn't changed in about 50 years, you can use seriously vintage lenses (and save money), which is something we definitely took advantage of while shooting.
The Value Shopper's Verdict
Here's the thing about the D300s: It's a great camera, no doubt. The problem is two-fold: At $1800, it costs the exact same as the D300 did when it was released two years ago, but beyond video, delivers no major advancements. There's no new pixel-squeezing camera tech here. The other part is that the very shortly forthcoming 7D from Canon is their first direct competitor to Nikon's D_00 semi-pro cameras, and it may make the value proposition look even less fantastic with what appears to be the most advanced video features of any DSLR yet. As it stands, the D300s is a tough purchase call (you can pick up a D300 for $150 less if you don't need video), and certainly not a necessary upgrade. But we hope to head-to-head the 7D and D300s very soon to figure out the best camera you can buy for about $1800.
If only Nikon had just given us the D400 like we'd wanted.
-full article with images
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It seems like Nikon photographers are disappointed with the Nikon D300s. Still, the previous model is already 2 years old.
Looking to make the jump from suitably skilled amateur to perfect pro? Then you’re going to want to take a long, hard look at the Nikon D300s. Chock full of all the latest must have features, it certainly looks a winner. But how did it fare when we cranked it up and started reeling off those pap shots? Read our full Nikon D300s review and we’ll tell you.
Let’s be perfectly clear here. If you’re new to DSLRs, then the D300s is most certainly not for you. However, if you’re looking to make the jump to the top of the camera pile, then the Nikon D300s is definitely worth bearing in mind.
The 840g body feels like it can withstand the kind of battering reserved for the likes of the Land Rover S1 mobile phone. That’s because it’s water and dust resistant, rocking a magnesium alloy frame that we tried our darnedest to dent. Thankfully, it was having none of it. That’s a great sign if your plotting on taking shots in inauspicious climes. The pics we took, admittedly down the local park rather than the nearest ASBO hotspot, were stunning, thanks clearly to the 51-point AF system.
Away from video, manual features are made easy to use on the Nikon D300s thanks to obvious, dedicated buttons for each feature. And the inclusion of dual SD and CF means you can take snaps in JPEG and RAW without chopping and changing.
Ok, the Nikon D300s isn’t without its flaws. And at that price, you’d expect perfection. However, overlook the video gripes, and you’re looking at one sleek piece of kit. Is it worth it? If you’re already reaching David Bailey levels, yes. If not, plump for the D3000 instead. -source
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I'm wondering what king of "chock full" of features he's trying to mention. I didn't see much of it in his review.
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