Las Vegas, NV—Nikon announced its latest DX-format DSLR: the entry-level D5500 is a lightweight camera that offers a robust feature set, built-in Wi-Fi connectivity and the ability to capture photos and Full HD video.
Nikon also expanded its Nikkor lens line with two additions: the AF-S DX Nikkor 55–200mm f/4–5.6G ED VR II zoom lens for DX-format shooters; and the FX-format AF-S Nikkor 300mm f/4E PF ED VR with advanced phase Fresnel optics for lightweight, super-telephoto performance.
“Whether capturing an unforgettable sunset or the game winning goal, the Nikon D5500 was designed to foster creativity and provide the tools any budding photographer needs to easily capture and share amazing images and HD video,” said Masahiro Horie, director, Marketing and Planning, Nikon Inc. “Additionally, the new DX-format 55–200mm and FX-format 300mm f/4 lenses reaffirm Nikon’s steadfast commitment to expanding the Nikkor lens lineup with versatile additions for both DX and FX-format DSLR shooters.”
Geared for photographers ready to take storytelling to a new level, the D5500 sports a 24.2 megapixel CMOS sensor with no optical low-pass filter and a new 3.2-inch vari-angle touch-operation LCD screen—housed in a compact monocoque design that makes the D5500 one of Nikon’s lightest DSLRs. Weighing 14.8 ounces, the D5500 measures a compact 4.9×3.8×2.8 inches. The monocoque structural skin is said to increase durability and allow users to securely and comfortably hand-hold.
The removal of the D5500’s 24.2MP sensor’s OLPF allows for a high level of detail and sharpness from an affordable DSLR, while the addition of the Expeed 4 image processor works to improve overall speed and performance. When shooting in low light, users can take advantage of expanded settings of ISO 100–25,600.
Nikon’s first ever DSLR with touch operation, the D5500’s LCD panel is intuitively designed for easy menu navigation. Uses can choose their focus point via touch AF, pinch in to check focus and activate the shutter with the touch of a fingertip. A new Fn (function) touch feature gives one-touch access to AF point selection, aperture, ISO sensitivity, AF area mode and more. The 1,037K-dot, vari-angle screen also permits photographers to capture images and video from new perspectives, shooting above crowds, getting on a toddler’s level or simply taking selfies.
Other features include: a 39-point autofocus (AF) system with nine cross-type sensors to lock onto even the fastest moving subjects; 3D tracking mode; a 2,016-pixel RGB sensor and Nikon’s scene recognition system; 5 frame-per-second bursts; Full HD 1080/60p video recording with full-time AF and stereo sound; 16 scene modes that choose the right settings for various scenarios; effects modes; and picture controls like the new “flat” option.
Nikon’s “Snapbridge” allows users to quickly and easily send photos wirelessly from their Wi-Fi enabled Nikon DSLR, Nikon 1 or Coolpix cameras to a compatible smartphone or tablet. The D5500 offers built-in Wi-Fi, enabling users to shoot, tag and share photos. They can also use their smart devices to shoot remotely.
Companion Telephoto Lenses
For DX-format shooters, in addition to Nikon’s standard, retractable design AF-S DX Nikkor 18–55mm f/3.5–5.6G VR II kit lens, Nikon added a 3.6x zoom lens to help take photographers from wide angle to telephoto. Compact and lightweight, the retractable design AF-S DX Nikkor 55–200mm f/4–5.6G ED VR II also features three stops of VR image stabilization and a silent wave motor (SWM) to aid in quiet, precise AF operation.
Nikon also introduced the AF-S Nikkor 300mm f/4E PF ED VR, a light 300mm full-frame fixed focal length AF lens that is nearly 30% shorter and 1.5 pounds lighter than its predecessor. It utilizes Phase Fresnel optical technology to help correct chromatic aberration and reduce its overall size and weight. The FX-format lens also features 4.5 stops of VR image stabilization, a VR sport mode, VR tripod detection and the latest Nikkor optical technologies, including electromagnetic aperture control, an SWM, ED glass for further controlling chromatic aberrations and Nano Crystal coat.
The Nikon D5500 will ship early February, in black and red, in two kit configurations: with the AF-S DX Nikkor 18–55mm f/3.5–5.6G VR II lens for a suggested retail price of $999.95; or with the AF-S DX Nikkor 18–140mm f/3.5–5.6G ED VR lens for $1,199.95. The D5500 will also sell body only for $899.95. The AF-S DX Nikkor 55–200mm f/4–5.6G ED VR II and AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/4E PF ED VR lenses will be available in early February for $349.95 and $1,999.95, respectively. nikonusa.com
