Nikon D3100 shows promise and brings optimism

Nikon D3100 with GP-1 (Image Source: Nikon, Inc.)

Nikon announces the D3100. It’s Nikon’s smallest and least expensive DSLR, targeted towards point & shoot users who want to step up to a DSLR. It’s an entry-level camera – no big deal, right? This camera has me surprised and excited! Why? Because…

1. In terms of mega-pixels, the D3100 is second only to the D3X in Nikon’s line up. I’m hoping this means that the D90/D300 replacement is at least the same, if not more.
2. New movie-mode options. All firsts for Nikon DSLR to do: 1080p, 30fps (720p and lower), MOV, H.264/MPEG-4 file format, and full-time servo AF.
3. First DX camera to shoot up to ISO 12,800. I don’t know how usable it is, but at least it’s an option. Even though my camera shoots up to ISO 6400, I’ve never used it. Early ISO samples look impressive.
4. Nikon’s newest image processor, EXPEED 2. 

Why is this significant? Because if Nikon can make an entry-level camera with these specs, imagine what the D90, D300s, or D700 replacement will be. The release of the D3100 should make photographers very happy, whether they plan on purchasing it or not. It’s a sign of great things to come, at Nikon.

Looking at the table, I believe the entry-level D3100 and the mid-level D90 are quite comparable. With the newer D3100, you’ll lose the better viewfinder, the better FPS, and better LCD resolution found on the D90, but you’ll gain more mega-pixels, higher ISO capabilities, better movie mode, and SDXC card support all in a smaller, lighter, and less expensive package. Until we see more image samples, these specs may mean nothing. However, considering that Nikon has used its new image-processing engine, EXPEED 2, I’m optimistic that the image quality should be great.