Nikon Launches DL Series of Premium P&S Cameras

Nikon Launches DL Series of Premium P&S Cameras

The Nikon DL24-85, DL18-50 & DL24-500 Pair a 1-inch Sensor with Nikkor Lens Technology

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Nikon-DL-thumb

Melville, NY—Nikon introduced its DL series of premium, compact, point-and-shoot cameras—the DL24-85, DL18-50 and DL24-500. The three pocketable, high-end models offer various focal lengths optimized for different types of shooters. They combine Nikkor optics with a 20.8 megapixel (CX-format), 1-inch BSI CMOS sensor and a new Expeed 6A image processor, to produce high-res, low-noise images even when shooting in low light.

Nikon DL24-85 left
DL24–85

DL-series cameras also feature a high-speed hybrid autofocus (AF) system with 105 phase-detection focus areas (with 171 focus points in contrast-detection AF mode). The system is said to enable 20-frames-per-sec continuous shooting for capturing fast action (60 fps with fixed AF), as well as 4K UHD video recording. Dual Detect Optical VR technology is incorporated to compensate for camera shake while shooting handheld or at slower shutter speeds.

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DL18–50

They are Nikon’s first compacts to support 4K UHD video recording (3,840×2,160) at 30p. Multimedia photographers have the ability to utilize PSAM selectable exposure modes while recording, alongside movie features like HDMI output to an external recorder, slow motion recording to 1,200 fps and the ability to grab stills from video. Other creative video functions include: Full HD movie, HD movie, motion snapshot, slow motion, 4-second movie, time-lapse movie, superlapse movie and jump cut.

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DL24–500

“We recognize consumers’ desire for smaller cameras capable of outstanding image quality,” said Masahiro Horie, director, Marketing and Planning, Nikon Inc. “With the new DL line, Nikon is proud to fuse legendary Nikkor optics with the latest innovations in imaging to provide advanced photographers amazingly compact tools capable of capturing photos and video that even the most discerned professional would be proud of.”

Fitting neatly into the palm of a hand, each DL camera features a unique lens design to produce high resolution and pleasing background blur (bokeh) with fast apertures. The lens barrels include a manual focus ring to give users more control over focus. Each Nikkor lens is equipped with a fluorine coating that helps repel dirt, water and oil, and facilitates easy cleaning. And for the first time in a Nikon compact camera, the DL18–50’s lens has Nano Crystal Coat to help reduce ghost and flare, particularly useful when shooting at a wide-angle.

All operate using the familiar Nikon DSLR menu design and an assortment of physical controls. The series also supports RAW (NEF) image capture, PSAM full manual controls and 20+ preset creative options, for use in both still and video shooting. These include picture control, creative mode and multiple exposure lighten functions.

They also have high-resolution 1,037K-dot OLED touch displays. While the DL24–85 and DL18–50 allow for tilting, the DL24–500’s display provides full vari-angle capability. And customization and control is possible utilizing the hot shoe/accessory shoe available on the DL24–85 and DL18–50 that allows use of the compact DF-E1 optional electronic viewfinder. The EVF features 2,359K-dot resolution with eye sensor, a tilting mechanism, diopter adjustment and antireflection coating. And all three are compatible with Nikon i-TTL Speedlights.

To make it easier to shoot and share photos and video, Nikon SnapBridge is available throughout Nikon’s line of premium compacts. SnapBridge uses Bluetooth low energy technology (BLE) to provide an “always on” connection to a smart device. Users can send images from their camera to the smart device (via the SnapBridge app) for sharing on social networks or to the cloud for instant storage. An unlimited number of thumbnails and 20GB of storage will be available for registered Nikon owners and SnapBridge users on Nikon Image Space, Nikon’s free image-storing service. Additionally, built-in Wi-Fi and NFC help facilitate easy connection and sharing.

With SnapBridge, users can also operate their cameras remotely using the app, including embedding information on any image, such as copyright or photographers’ names. And Nikon will send registered users firmware information to their smart device via the SnapBridge app.

DL24–85

Targeted for travel, portraits and general photography, the DL24-85 offers a fast 24–85mm focal range. Compatible with 40.5mm threaded filters, its newly designed Nikkor lens (11 elements in 9 groups) features a 3.6x zoom range (7x with dynamic fine zoom) and a wide f/1.8–2.8 aperture. It also offers Dual Detect Optical VR, AF bracketing and a tilting touch OLED display.

Nikon DL24-85 front
DL24–85

Exclusive to this DL model is a new super macro mode (1:1) that helps capture small subjects in life-size detail. Setting manual zoom on the camera to the super macro position allows users close-up shooting at a 35mm equivalent magnification. Macro photographers can take advantage of select camera functions within the mode, including focus bracketing, manual priority AF (M/A) mode and peaking indication.

DL18–50

For landscape and architecture shooters looking for a compact, ultrawide-angle option, the DL18–50’s focal range starts at a wide 18mm and expands to 50mm (2.8x zoom, 5.5x with dynamic fine zoom). Its wide f/1.8–2.8 aperture makes it easier to produce natural bokeh. This lens is compatible with 46mm filters and features Nikon’s Nano Crystal Coat.

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DL18–50

Architecture shooters can also take advantage of perspective controls to help compensate for image distortion, particularly for shooting tall objects from the ground, like skyscrapers.

DL24–500

This DL reaches a 500mm focal length and 21x optical zoom (42x with dynamic fine zoom). It features: an f/2.8–5.6 aperture; Dual Detect Optical VR; a built-in electronic viewfinder (EVF) with a 2,359K-dot OLED display and an eye sensor; a vari-angle, 1,037K-dot OLED screen; and a stereo microphone input jack.

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DL24–500’s vari-angle LCD monitor

Nikon’s DL24–85, DL18–50 and DL24–500 will be available in early summer 2016 for suggested retail prices of $649.95, $849.95 and $999.95, respectively. Pricing and availability for the optional DF-E1 electronic viewfinder are yet to be announced. nikonusa.com

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