Melville, NY—Nikon introduced two models in the Nikon 1 system of compact interchangeable-lens cameras, the Nikon 1 J4 and Nikon 1 S2, for photographers looking to upgrade from a point-and-shoot camera or step up from a smartphone.
Also announced were new Nikon 1 accessories: the WP-N3 underwater case for the J4 and S2; and the waterproof SB-N10 Speedlight.
“The new Nikon 1 J4 and Nikon 1 S2 offer the ideal combination of impressive speed, compact size, powerful imaging performance and creative tools that photographers of any level can appreciate,” said Masahiro Horie, director, Marketing and Planning, Nikon Inc. “Possessing the renowned rapid performance of the Nikon 1 system and the ability to instantly share amazing images and HD video, Nikon’s newest Nikon 1 cameras are great on-the-go companions for ensuring every unforgettable moment is captured.”
Like the recently announced Nikon 1 V3, both the 1 J4 and Nikon 1 S2 cameras feature fast continuous shooting at 20 frames per second (fps) at full resolution. Additionally, the J4 boasts 171 contrast-detect focus areas and 105 phase-detect AF points for enhanced autofocus accuracy when capturing stills or HD video.
The J4 features a new 18.4 megapixel CX-format CMOS image sensor, while the S2 uses a 14.2MP CMOS sensor. Both employ the Expeed 4A image processor, developed to render family portraits, landscapes or action sports with true colors. When shooting in low-light settings, users can utilize an increased ISO range, expandable to 12,800, for better performance without a flash.
Nikon also made several advancements to the cameras’ HD video capabilities, enabling 1080/60p Full HD video for 10 minutes per clip and adding electronic vibration reduction (e-VR) for smoother video in either 1080/30p or 720/30p recording. Both cameras also simultaneously capture still images during video recording. Using their auto image capture feature, full-size images are automatically taken throughout recording, and the 20 best photos on the J4 and 10 best on the S2 are saved.
There’s a slow view mode on the Nikon 1 J4, allowing users to slow down the frame and capture each moment. And the J4 can record slow motion HD movies in 1,280×720 resolution at 120 fps. Other video options include jump cut, fast motion and four-second video.
The ergonomically designed duo also feature: fast start-up; ISO sensitivity noise reduction; a traditional Nikon 1 multi-selector for menu access (1 S2); a touch-screen interface with touch shutter on the J4 (tapping the screen will instantly snap a photo); support for microSD memory cards; and such creative modes as selective color, miniature effect and easy panorama (J4), as well as cross process, toy camera and creative pallet effects.
Both CSCs permit users to share their photos via social networks. The J4 provides built-in Wi-Fi connectivity that syncs it to a smartphone or tablet for web uploading. The S2 offers the same capability via Nikon’s optional WU-1a wireless mobile adapter.
New Nikon 1 Accessories
For those who want to take the Nikon 1 system underwater, Nikon introduced the WP-N3 waterproof case for use with the Nikon 1 J4 (with 1 Nikkor 10–30mm f/4.5–5.6 PD-Zoom) and Nikon 1 S2 (with 1 Nikkor 11–27.5mm f/3.5–5.6 lens). The WP-N3 is capable of operating at a depth of approximately 147.6 feet.
Also for underwater shooting, Nikon announced the waterproof SB-N10 Speedlight, which is compatible with the WP-N1, WP-N2 and WP-N3 waterproof cases, as well as the first waterproof, shockproof and freezeproof compact interchangeable-lens camera, the Nikon 1 AW1 (when using the new fiber optic cable adapter). The flash unit is waterproof to 328 feet. The WP-N3 case, SB-N10 Speedlight and fiber optic cable adapter will be available in May 2014; pricing will be determined.
Available in May, the Nikon 1 J4, kitted with the 1 Nikkor 10–30mm f/3.5–5.6 PD-Zoom lens, comes in black, white, silver and orange for a suggested retail price (SRP) of $599.95. A kit with the 1 Nikkor 10–100mm f/4.0–5.6 VR lens is available for $1,049.95 SRP. A two lens kit that includes the 1 Nikkor 10–30mm f/3.5–5.6 PD-Zoom and 1 Nikkor VR 30–110mm f/3.8–5.6 lenses has an SRP of $849.95.
Shipping in June, the Nikon 1 S2, kitted with the 1 Nikkor 11–27.5mm f/3.5–5.6 lens, will be offered in black, white, red and yellow; $449.95. A two lens kit with the 1 Nikkor 11–27.5mm f/3.5–5.6 and 1 Nikkor VR 30–110mm f/3.8–5.6 lenses will retail for $699.95. nikonusa.com
