Nikon D3200 Best !

Nikon D3200

Well, 2012 is proving that Nikon didn't get that memo, because after launching the 36.3-megapixel D800, it's now announced a 24.2-megapixel entry-level DSLR. The Nikon D3200 HD-SLR has a DX-format CMOS sensor, shoots Full HD (1080p) and is being released with an optional WiFi unit supporting image upload and remote viewing/shutter release.

Nikon's argument for the 24.2-megapixel 6,016 x 4,000 pixel sensor (up from 14.2 megapixels in the D3100) is that it allows for incredibly sharp and detailed images, meaning users can get high quality shots even when having to crop heavily into an image. When shooting RAW and JPEG Fine each image could take up 31.9 MB. It also features an 11-point AF system and the same EXPEED 3 image processing engine as the Nikon D4, which promises to produce life-like images with vivid colors and smooth tonal gradations while also cutting image noise. 

The 5.0 x 3.8 x 3.1-inch (125 x 96 x 76.5 mm) camera has an improved 3-inch 921k-dot screen with a 160-degree viewing angle and brightness adjustment. Released alongside the Nikon D3200 is the new WU-1a wireless adapter. Wi-Fi shooting means images can be taken remotely using a compatible smart device within a distance of up to 49 feet (15 meters), and using the camera's Live View preview on the smart device to frame and compose the subject. 

Meanwhile, Assist Images helps D3200 owners to identify the shot they want to take – giving them help with enhancing the quality of their pictures. 

Newcomers to D-SLR photography will benefit from the camera’s intuitive features, such as the Guide Mode that takes you step by step through the photography process to capture high quality images to be proud of. 

“This high powered camera offers superior image quality, with an incredibly high megapixel count, as well as Full HD video for creative photographers,” he added. 

Nikon's recent cashback promo gave us a twinge that new consumer models might be around the corner, but as of today there's just the one: the almost entry-level D3200, which Nikon hopes will complement the cheaper D3100 without supplanting it. Quite a lot, actually: a hefty resolution upgrade to 24-megapixels with an Expeed 3 processing engine, versus 14-megapixels mustered by D3100; an extra ISO notch of 6400, providing more flexibility in low-light situations; and also a much higher-res LCD display for cleaner live-viewing and playback, with around four times as many pixels as the D3100's grainy window. Nikon makes a really big deal out of Guide Mode, which has been expanded on the D3200 to offer even more tuition to DSLR newcomers. Of course, if you actually digest what Guide Mode tells you, or if you simply read up on the basics of photography online, then this feature will quickly become irrelevant, so it probably shouldn't be regarded as a determining factor in any buying decision, even if it is a nice thing for newcomers to have. 

Are the better resolution, image processing, LCD and ISO worth the money? Hmmm... 

It seems the pixel race is far from over as Nikon’s latest entry-level DSLR notches up almost double its predecessor’s count. Mat Gallagher takes a first look at the new Nikon D3200 

It seems the pixel race is far from over as Nikon’s latest entry-level DSLR notches up almost double its predecessor’s count. 

Nikon bows to megapixel mania

Attending the launch event in London, I had the chance to sample the camera and talk to the Nikon team about its development. The focusing system remains the capable Multi-CAM 1000 with 11-point AF including a cross-type centre point. It also features the EXPEED 3 processor, as used by the D4, D800 and Nikon 1. 

The most significant part of this camera, however, has to be the sensor. This is a 24.2-million-pixel DX format CMOS device, making this the highest resolution consumer Nikon DSLR to date and only surpassed in the professional range by the D800 and D3X. Such a high resolution seems a strange choice for an entry-level camera but, as Nikon confirms, this is a sector of the market where the number of pixels matter most. It puts it ahead of high-end compact system cameras from Sony and Samsung and, Nikon believes, gives the option for users to crop their images much more closely without losing substantial quality. Smaller pixels make the sensor more prone to noise and a greater signal-to-noise ratio. Nikon claim that the noise levels can match those of the old camera, which shows that significant development has been made to the sensor but we’re told in some conditions the D3100 out performs the newer model. Sensors in Nikon cameras have in recent times performed very well with regard to noise, so we look forward to testing whether this is still the case with such a high resolution. 

The D3200 allows users to crop into their photos as part of the in-camera editing controls after taking the photo, though it is a slight shame this cropping cannot be applied pre-capture, as a form of digital zoom. 

The essential accessory for this camera is a small WiFi module that plugs into the mini USB port on the side of the D3200. Taking its power from the camera to ensure a smaller form, this module allows you to send your images from your camera to a Smartphone, and then upload and share with the world. As well as sending images, the unit allows the camera to be controlled remotely, including firing the trigger and even previewing the live view screen.