Latest News on Nikon D800, Nikon D400 and Nikon D4 / D4X by Raphael Chieza
Further to our last update on this subject earlier in August, we've been seeing a lot of news and info filtering through the internet on the Nikon D800 and other future Nikon pro bodies. Perhaps one of the most talked about item is the resolution of the sensor for upcoming models. Will it be 16 megapixels or 24 megapixels or some other number? If Nikon were to make a Canon 5D Mark II replica… 24 megapixels would seem the obvious choice but that does not agree with how Nikon's current lineup is positioned. Nikon has never been about resolution per se but rather the improvement of the overall system. That's why it seems reasonable to see the D800 at a lower resolution to the 5D2 but delivering high ISO performance and superb image quality. With that said, there is still a market for a higher resolution camera but that is pretty much covered by the Nikon D3X at this time and I don't believe that Nikon will relinquish their noise handling advantage for the sake more megapixels or to offer 2 ''non-professional'' FX bodies. The launch of the D800 will most likely be preceded by the D4 with the D400 and D4X even further down the time line.
Other than the Nikon D4 and Nikon D800 which we have got some tentative information, the specs for te other models are pure conjecture. We've been told that with the slowdown of sales for the D3S and D700, Nikon is getting ready to launch new FX format cameras but won't announce it until later in the year or early 2011 to give the D3100 and D7000 more opportunities to establish themselves in the market. Our source has been disturbingly quiet after the last update so it's good to get an update at this time. Would I wait… looking at the specs below… The Nikon D400 is not really worth the wait even though it will be better and unless you are really keen on movie mode with full frame, there is no need to wait for the new FX formats either. You can expect the new bodies to be all incremental improvements over their predecessors so there really isn't much to jump up and down about.
Passport Sling™: The Camera Shoulder Bag Redefined
Okay, this is an unexpected kind of camera bag, but we think you'll like its unique form and inventive functions. The Passport Sling gives you freedom for your every move, protection for your DSLR and lots of space for your personal items. Unzip the front to reveal an expansion compartment that adds about 30% more storage space—enough room to accommodate things like a light jacket, lunch, cool souvenir or farmers market find.
Wear the Passport Sling high or low on the body, depending on the activity. The shoulder strap includes a cam lock buckle that adjusts for an ideal fit. A fully padded camera box includes a built-in memory card pocket and may be removed allowing the bag to be collapsed and packed into a larger bag for travel. Also includes: detachable shoulder pad, interior and exterior pockets.
The Passport Sling is available in Black, Sky Blue and Mica. All colors may not be available in all countries. Check with your local distributor for availability.
Just unzip the front of the sling and get about 30% more space for your personal items.
Bright lining lets you see your gear easily; interior pockets fit a cell phone, keys, cash, or other personal items.
The fully padded collapsible camera box includes a built-in memory card pocket.
Remove the camera box and collapse the sling to fit inside a larger bag for travel.
A motorsports blogger takes our Passport Sling for a test run with winning results
"As a NASCAR blogger, it's really important for me to have everything I need right at my fingertips and have complete freedom of movement when I'm at the track. The Passport Sling does all of that for me.
NASCAR is an all-day outdoor sport, so you have to be ready for anything. From press conferences to pit road, I'm constantly on the move. You never know when an amazing photo or interview opportunity will present itself. During a race weekend, I always have my camera, notebook, pens, digital recorder and tons of personal stuff like my zip-up hoodie, wallet, keys, and bottled water on me at all times.
To me, the Passport Sling is like having a personal assistant strapped to my body; it's always there to hand me anything I need in less than a moment's notice. It's been wonderful to have a carrying solution that's comfortable, versatile and stylish."
Valli Hilaire writes The Fast and the Fabulous — a motorsports blog dedicated to NASCAR® and IndyCar®. Valli provides a female fan's perspective of racing. She offers her opinions on the latest headlines and shares her race weekend experiences. The Fast and the Fabulous is like a reality show in blog format, illustrated with photos, news, reviews and interviews.
In 2009, The Fast and the Fabulous was included in the NASCAR® Citizen Journalists Media Corp, a new initiative by NASCAR® to recognize the changing media landscape and provide more access to independent media publishers.
PASSPORT SLING™ INTERIOR CAMERA COMPARTMENT: 4.1W x 7.5D x 7.5H in. 10.5 x 19 x 19 cm FULLY EXPANDED INTERIOR (EXCLUDING CAMERA COMPARTMENT): 5.1W x 6.3D x 15H in. 13 x 16 x 38 cm FITS: DSLR with attached zoom lens; one extra lens or flash; memory card; personal items
"As a NASCAR blogger, it's really important for me to have everything I need right at my fingertips and have complete freedom of movement when I'm at the track. The Passport Sling does all of that for me. 