0 D-SLR

by David Gussman

Touting it as the new entry-level D-SLR, Nikon has enhanced the resolution from the D40 with a 10.2 megapixel sensor (up from 6.1), and included Nikon's EXSPEED processor (previously seen in the D3 and D330 models) and enhanced active dynamic lighting. A couple of new features also included are a dual dust-removal system and what it calls its Airflow Control System. Essentially it's an air vent that is at the bottom of the camera and has air move away from the sensor when the shutter is depressed—it's an interesting design that should theoretically keep dust out completely.

The D60 also includes many of the D40x's enhancements over the D40, like a 2.5-inch LCD and in-camera image editing such as red eye correction. A new power-conserving feature shuts the LCD off when the optical viewer is being used. So when reviewing pictures and the need arises to take a picture, just snap the shot and the LCD will turn off automatically. Last but not least, a fun feature added to the D60 is a stop animation movie feature that will allow the user to string together up to 100 JPEG clips to produce a movie.

All in all, I was expecting a little more from Nikon to counter Canon's new XSi announcement. There really isn't that big a difference from the D40x, and I'd be willing to bet the price will be similar as well. Packaged with a 3X zoom Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G lens, the D60 will be available in February and pricing will be announced 30 days before the release.

The most interesting lens released today is the new 24mm tilt/shift lens. It basically allows the photographer to mechanically shift the lens to increase perspective. I had a chance to preview it at CES and I can't wait to get it into our Labs and try it out. Essentially, it can correct linear distortion and correct the view to what an actual human eye sees. For example, the angle of a building may not come out looking correct as an eye would see it. This lens will correct for that and make it seem much more accurate. The 24mm Nikkor lens debuts in the spring for about $1,930.