Nikon just announced the 14-megapixel J3 interchangeable lens camera to their System 1 line. The J3 is even faster than previous models, supporting high-speed cotinuous shooting at approximately 15 fps with AF tracking, all in the world’s smallest body. The Slow View function, which enables capture of just the perfect moment, and Live Image Control, a feature that allows users to preview the effects of settings in the camera monitor prior to shooting, have been added to the J3. In addition, the Smart Photo Selector and Motion Snapshot functions have been improved and the camera has been equipped with Advanced Movie mode, which enables adjustment of settings (in P, S, A, and M exposure modes) for movie recording. What’s more, the minimalistic design using metal on the front surface of the camera is available in five color options for a more elegant and precise exterior finish.
The Nikon 1 J3 features a 14.2-megapixel CX-format CMOS sensor with EXPEED 3A image processing engine. Nikon claims the shortest release time at approximately 80 milliseconds, and the world’s fastest high-speed continuous shooting at 15 frames-per-second with continuous 73-point AF array. The camera also offers a wide ISO range from 160 to 6400, allowing users even more freedom and capabilities when capturing content in low-light situations. A bright 3-inch LCD screens and integrated flash round out its feature set.
Shooting modes include Auto Mode, Creative Mode, Advanced Movie, Motion Snapshot and Best Moment Capture, all of which are easily accessible and applied. When in Auto Mode, the camera will automatically select the optimal settings for the scene, so that the shooter can concentrate on framing the photo. When in Creative Mode, shooters can utilize full manual exposure controls (P,S,A,M) as well as Selective Color, Miniature, Soft, Night Landscape, Backlighting and Night Portrait modes to help achieve the desired results that they seek. The Nikon 1 J3 also provides access to Easy Panorama Mode to provide a wide perspective for vast landscapes or interiors.
When in Advanced Movie Mode, the simultaneous shooting of Full HD video and high-resolution stills of a subject or scene is achievable. Furthermore, full manual exposure controls (P,S,A,M) can be used and slow motion movies at both 400 fps and 1200 fps can also be captured when in this mode. Enhanced Motion Snapshot Mode provides users with the option of capturing a quick passing moment with a short, slow-motion movie sequence in addition to a single defining still image. When using Motion Snapshot, in-camera electronic Vibration Reduction (eVR) can be applied to assist in removing blur from images.
With Best Moment Capture Mode, shooters can explore the benefits of two dynamic features, Slow View and Smart Photo Selector. In Slow View, the pressing of the shutter button halfway down once focus is achieved will allow users to capture live action (approx. 1.33 seconds), while the view of the subject is displayed at five times slower than normal speed (approx. 6.66 seconds) on the camera’s LCD screen. Furthermore, the slowed-down view is looped over and over until a full-press of the shutter is made. By viewing action slowed down, users have more opportunities to capture the perfect moment. When Smart Photo Selector is used, shooters can capture up to 20 shots with one press of the shutter button. The camera will then automatically identify the five best images to keep based on exposure, focus and facial recognition factors.
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Like the Nikon 1 V2, the Nikon 1 J3 is designed to work with Nikon’s optional WU-1b Wireless Mobile Adapter. When the WU-1b is connected, users have the ability to capture high-quality images and can then easily transfer them wirelessly to a smart device. Once transferred, images can be shared with family and friends or posted to status pages on social media networks. If using the free Wireless Mobile Adapter Utility application for Android platform smart devices as well as iPhone and iPad 3 mobile digital devices, J3 users will have the ability to remotely take photos with the camera from a smartphone or tablet.
Price and Availability
The Nikon 1 J3 digital camera with the 10-30mm lens will be available in February 2013 for $599.95.
