[CaymanImaging]

I was looking at the preorder listings for the K5 and D7000 just now on B&H and clicked on the features tab. I was blown away from the write up Nikon got. It was like I was reading an adult book. While the K5 was lucky to get a paragraph or too. Maybe I should send my K5 money to someone else.

From B&H...

Nikon

Look into my eyes; look deep into my eyes... Oh, right - this is the Internet - You can't see my eyes. And even if you could, being the well-informed lover of photography that you are, you wouldn't need me to hypnotize you in order to believe all the wonders of Nikon's D7000 DSLR Camera, would you? No, of course you wouldn't.

Anyway, my dear reader let's cut to the chase and take a look at the wondrous D7000 in all its glory. Here's a quick hit in case you need the skinny now: 16.2MP DX-Format CMOS sensor that works together with Nikon's EXPEED 2 image processor, 1080p HD video with full time autofocus, 6FPS burst shooting, a 39-Point AF System, autofocus fine tuning, a 3" LCD display and pentaprism optical viewfinder, and dual SD/SDHC/SDXC memory card slots. Breathe. I repeat: breathe. (Yes, Nikon took it to the mat with the D7000)

Nikon assures us that the D7000, "concentrates primarily on image quality above all else", giving the DSLR photographer and filmmaker what the company calls "a new class of Nikon camera". So, when it came to video recording, Nikon didn't skimp out on capabilities. The D7000 boasts 1080p HD video capture, while providing a number of other recording options including manual exposure control. Capture video with the cinema quality 24fps or record Internet-friendly video at 720p in 24 or 30fps - up to 20 minutes per clip. To enhance your video utilize an optional wireless or hot shoe mounted microphone using the stereo mic input. The camera also features, full time autofocus, and Live View for video capture. When you're all done shooting and ready to share on the big screen, there's an HDMI output for one-cable connection to your HDTV.

Let's return to the camera's main focus - digital stills, shall we? We shall. The 16.2MP DX-format CMOS sensor and Nikon's proprietary EXPEED 2 image processing engine help you to make beautiful, engaging, gorgeous, and bewitching RAW, JPEG, and RAW+JPEG images. It's true! You'll have enough pixel-power to make wall-sized murals of - well, anything really - if that's your sort of thing. But even if it's not on your agenda to make photo wallpaper, the D7000's imaging capabilities give you the tools you need to create detailed, bright, and pro-quality images.

Helping the sensor and processor take those stunning photos are functions like Nikon's RGB 3D Matrix Metering System, the built-in i-TTL flash with Speedlight compatibility, and a 39 point AF system. The latter just so happens to make the D7000 compatible with over 60 NIKKOR lenses. Other helpful functions include: 14-bit analog/digital conversion, a 100-6400 ISO setting, 6 frame-per-second burst speed for up to 100 images, along with numerous other features.

No matter - video or still - as mentioned above, the D7000 records to durable and easy-to-use SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards. The camera has twin memory card slots - meaning there's no need to change media mid-shoot. Just move onto the second card without interruption.

What else can I possibly impart onto you about the Nikon D7000? Well, in addition to the major bells and whistles the camera also gives you its Picture Control system. Choose from scene settings like vivid, monochrome, and landscape. You can also utilize scene modes with names like child, close-up, and night portrait. Other creative controls include in-camera RAW image processing and the ability to add in special effects like fisheye and a miniature effect.


16.2MP DX-Format Sensor + EXPEED 2 Image Processing System
With its 16.2MP CMOS image sensor and Nikon's new EXPEED 2 image processing system, the D7000 DSLR delivers superior image quality with low noise. The EXPEED 2 image processing engine combined with a 14-bit analog/digital conversion brings a new level of even tonal gradations while managing color, contrast, exposure, and noise resulting in brilliant image quality. EXPEED 2 also manages the D7000's speedy 5-millisecond shutter response, blazing AF speed and rapid six frames-per-second (fps) burst speed for up to 100 images
Full 1080p High Definition Video Capture with the D-Movie Function
Building upon the popular D90 DSLR, the Nikon D7000 captures breathtaking full 1080p HD movies with full-time autofocus and manual exposure control using the D-Movie function. To keep critical HD focus, users can choose to engage a variety of AF functions, including face priority to track up to 35 human faces, subject-tracking and normal or wide-area autofocus
Advanced movie features also allow exposure adjustment on the fly while recording. The D7000 DSLR offers variable frame rates and resolutions, and can record 1080p at a cinema-like 24fps, or a web-friendly 720p at either 24 or 30fps for up to 20 minutes per clip. Once recorded, users are able to edit and trim video clips in the camera to save time in post production. Whether utilizing a wireless or hot shoe mounted microphone, sound can be recorded via the stereo microphone input for professional audio results

To further simplify movie shooting, Live View is activated by a single dedicated switch, and HD video recording is achieved by pressing a single button. The D7000 DSLR also incorporates a built-in HDMI output CEC compliant (Consumer Electronic Control) that allows users to connect it to a HDTV and playback with most HDTV remote controls

By adding versatile NIKKOR lenses to the equation, photographers can create a variety of photo perspectives with video such as isolating subjects with a shallow depth of field, and recording in low light conditions. Combining the D7000 DSLR with NIKKOR lenses also delivers the sharpness essential for HD video, and Nikon's innovative Vibration Reduction (VR) II technology helps to eliminate the effects of camera shake

39 Point AF System
The D7000 DSLR features a 39 point AF System, which includes nine center cross-type sensors that operate with more than 60 NIKKOR lenses. The 39 points in the new Multi-CAM 4800DX AF module work together to provide superior subject acquisition and fast tracking capabilities, allowing photographers to confidently capture a player stealing third from the sideline to fast-moving wildlife. Additionally, photographers can activate dynamic or single point AF, configurable in combinations of 9, 21 or 39 or a 21 point ring to match a variety of shooting styles and situations. Photographers can activate 3D tracking, which continuously follows moving subjects within the 39 AF points, highlighting the activated AF point in the viewfinder
An additional feature of the autofocus system is AF fine tune. Photographers sometimes require an extra level of ultra-fine AF tuning. This feature allows you to individually fine-tune and register the autofocus position for up to 12 lens models, then apply that compensation whenever the same lens is attached. You can also register adjustments uniformly regardless of the type of lens used

RGB 3D Matrix Metering System + Scene Recognition System
Utilizing Nikon's exclusive Scene Recognition System, the camera analyzes subject information from a database containing more than 30,000 images to optimize focus, exposure and white balance. To assist in creating amazing imagery, the Scene Recognition System reads data from a groundbreaking 2,016 pixel RGB 3D Matrix Metering sensor that examines the scene's brightness and color data then optimizes the camera's performance prior to the actual exposure. Another revolutionary Nikon first, this system interprets scene data for improved control of light metering and i-TTL flash output. Additionally this sensor allows for an "Ambient" white balance setting which can be activated to allow warm rendering in Automatic White Balance
Built-In i-TTL Flash + Speedlight Compatibility
The built-in iTTL Speedlight pops up in a flash, and it offers wide-angle flash-coverage that accommodates 16mm lenses. The camera also has Wireless Commander support so users can maximize the potential of Nikon's creative lighting options. Using the integral flash set to Wireless Commander in combination with one or several off-camera Nikon Speedlights, the shooter can create a unique look for each and every photograph. Up to 8 Speedlights can be fired at once - including Nikon's flagship SB-900, as well as the SB-600 and SB-700
Low Light Image Capture
The D7000 DSLR continues Nikon's tradition of providing photographers the confidence to shoot in low light, knowing they will capture high quality low-noise images. The camera's native ISO range of 100-6400 affords the versatility to photograph in challenging lighting conditions, such as when indoors or in the evening. The ISO range can be expanded to a Hi-2 setting of 25,600, which was previously found only in Nikon FX-format territory. The camera allows more light to be gathered, resulting in a correctly exposed image that has less noise and finer grain
Enhanced Build Quality, Durability, and Usability
The compact design is lightweight enough for a full days use, but has a reassuring heft that hints at Nikon's reputation for reliability. The durable camera body consists of a magnesium-alloy top and rear covers and a 150,000 cycle-rated shutter system. Additionally, the D7000 DSLR is dust and moisture sealed and features Nikon's dust reduction system to remove image-degrading particles from the image sensor. Among the well laid out ergonomics, users will immediately notice a Mode Dial that eschews traditional Scene Mode icons for more advanced manual functions and two user-defined settings (U1 and U2) to adapt to a users shooting style on the fly. Placed under the control wheel is a Release Mode dial, which allows access the burst modes, timer, or the Quiet Shutter, to soften the cameras operation when shooting in sensitive environments such as a ceremonies or nature
Pentaprism Optical Viewfinder + 170° 3" LCD Display
When framing lush landscapes or tight telephoto shots from afar, users will appreciate the large, bright glass pentaprism optical viewfinder has approximately 100% frame coverage and approximately 0.94x magnification. The 3", 921,000 dot super-density LCD monitor with 170° viewing delivers bright, crisp image playback and precise Live View and movie shooting
Twin Memory Card Slots
The D7000 DSLR features twin SD card slots with SD, SDHC, SDXC memory card compatibility that offers a several recording options including designating separate NEF (RAW) JPEG and movie files
Long Life EN-EL15 Battery
The D7000 was designed to provide maximum performance with minimized power usage. The camera employs a new EN-EL15 battery which enables up to 1050 shots when fully charged
Creative Controls
The D7000 DSLR contains many features aimed at empowering the user with creative freedom including the ability to process RAW images directly in the camera, and add in special effects using the retouch menu. Among the many editing options are color filters, distortion control for a fisheye effect, perspective control for a miniature effect, or a new color sketch filter that creates a sketch-styled image. As always, manipulated images are saved as copies while the original is retained
The Picture Control system also allows the choice for standard, neutral, vivid, monochrome, portrait, or landscape settings to apply a personal look and feel to their pictures, and it's versatile scene modes let them choose from portrait, landscape, child, sports, close-up or night portrait for stunning results even in challenging conditions

Optional Multi-Power MB-D11 Battery Pack
To guarantee great performance for longer, the D7000 also has a dedicated Multi-Power Battery Pack MB-D11 (optional) that enables seamless switching of power supply with the in-camera battery, vertical shooting and further stabilizes the body when using a long telephoto lens

Pentax lol Poor little Pentax

Pentax steps up and delivers a top-of-the-line APS-C camera--the K-5 Digital SLR Camera Body (Black), featuring a low-noise 16.3MP CMOS high resolution sensor, sensitivity up to a best-in-class ISO 51200, 7 frames-per-second shooting capability and a responsive, high-precision 11-point auto-focus system. A high performing PRIME II imaging engine produces rich-gradation, very high resolution digital images. Plus, full HD video at 1920 x 1080 pixels.


The K-5 makes advances in plenty of other areas as well, such as faster autofocusing speed, and an upgraded High Dynamic Range (HDR) function that can even be used without a tripod. A bright, clear 3" LCD display with 921,000 dots resolution makes it easy to compose and review your images, or use the bright viewfinder for composition, secure in the knowledge that the highly accurate 77-segment metering system will deliver the goods every time. Shake Reduction image stabilization makes it possible to shoot at 2.5 to 4 shutter speeds slower without seeing camera shake in your photos. A lens is not included.

And all of this photo goodness is packed into a body of sturdy, lightweight magnesium alloy on a chassis of stainless steel. The 77 special seals in the body give you a dustproof, weather-resistant and cold-resistant camera, for reliable operation in harsh conditions, at temperatures as low as 14°F (-10°C). An extremely reliable shutter unit provides a top shutter speed of 1/8000 second and is tested to 100,000 shutter releases. A stellar performer.

• High resolution 16.3 megapixel CMOS sensor w integrated AD conversion circuitry
• High sensitivity 80-51200 ISO range with improved noise performance
• Speedy 7 FPS captures fast action shots
• Highly responsive and accurate 11 point SAFOX IX+ autofocus system with dedicated AF assist lamp and light wavelength sensor
• Widescreen 1080p HD video at 25 FPS, with sound via built-in or external 3.5mm stereo microphone jack
• Large 3" LCD with 921,000 dots of resolution
• Fully weather sealed and coldproof design
• Durable magnesium alloy covers surround a rugged stainless steel chassis
• Highly accurate 77 segment metering system
• Pentaprism viewfinder with 100% field of view and 0.92X magnification
• Pentax body-based Shake Reduction (SR) stabilization system
• A maximum 1/8000 second shutter speed
• HDMI port outputs high definition images and video (and sound)
• Native support for both PENTAX PEF and Adobe DNG 14 bit RAW files
• Improved in-camera HDR image capture
• A wide range of in-camera image processing and special effects filters
• Customizable RAW/Fx button
• Built-in electronic level with tilt scale display
• SDXC memory card compatibility (via firmware update)

[Vaikis_]

write email to B&H, why you cry here at forum ? For me Nikon looks a lot of "bla bla bla", for Pentax they put just spec

[causey]

write email to B&H, why you cry here at forum ? For me Nikon looks a lot of "bla bla bla", for Pentax they put just spec

Just hope many will make the difference.

[MRRiley]

Better yet, post this question in the Ask B&H Photo forum right here on PF

Of course it could have something to do with the fact that it takes flowery seductive language to sell a Nikon, while the K5 stands on it's features and sells itself!

Mike

[pxpaulx]

That just kinda reads like a whitty/sarcastic and partially condescending young employee got alittle over zealous at the spec sheet (be it a BH employee or some dim wit marketer at Nikon). It is also possible they have actually had a chance to preview the camera, and since the K5 pre-release firmware was sent to Photokina the weekend before the camera was announced direct from Japan, I highly doubt anyone at B&H have come close to the K5. Aside from Photokina reports, there is absolutely nothing coming close to a review of the K5 out there yet (only initial impressions), so why would you expect any more?

[CaymanImaging]

Better yet, post this question in the Ask B&H Photo forum right here on PF

Of course it could have something to do with the fact that it takes flowery seductive language to sell a Nikon, while the K5 stands on it's features and sells itself!

Mike

Mike, I think I'll do that. I forgot about them being on PF.

And for you others, no tears were shead, I just thought it was kinda funny.

[pxpaulx]

Of course it could have something to do with the fact that it takes flowery seductive language to sell a Nikon, while the K5 stands on it's features and sells itself!

Mike

Pentax totally needs to do some manly man commercials like the ones old spice has been running this year. It would be hilarious. I am also getting tired of the stupid canon 'moving photograph' commercials. It is called HD video, been around awhile.

If only there was...a...budget.

[JohnBee]

Nikon

Behold! the power of the marketing machine.
Unfortunately, Nikon has a bigger one than Pentax.

Though I have to say, how much harder is it for Pentax to build taller product benefit outlines?

[pxpaulx]

Behold! the power of the marketing machine.
Unfortunately, Nikon has a bigger one than Pentax.

Though I have to say, how much harder is it for Pentax to build taller product benefit outlines?

Totally, I am sure someone here on the forum would be happy to transcribe that PR youtube video Pentax put out for the K5 so they could have a giant wall of text-babble for their marketing materials! Or, we could just ask for their cue cards

[HeavyD]

It's all about the $$$ B&H knows that Pentax is a niche brand, while Nikon is considered more main stream. Plus I'm sure they get some sort of kick back from Nikon. I can't stand B&H or Adorama. I prefer Abes of Maine, much lower prices, in stock items and I don't have to pay sales tax.

[opiedog]

don't blame B&H. Blame Pentax marketing!
you don't expect the folks from B&H to do a write up for pentax. that's the job of the company's marketing dept.

[Vaikis_]

don't blame B&H. Blame Pentax marketing!
you don't expect the folks from B&H to do a write up for pentax. that's the job of the company's marketing dept.

you are right and wrong
B&H can use this info: PENTAX K-5 The flagship model of PENTAX K digital SLR camera series, offering high-quality images and user-friendly operation to satisfy the demands of advanced amateurs

[hcarvalhoalves]

Correction:

Pentax gets NO BULLS***!!

What is this crap?

Look into my eyes; look deep into my eyes... Oh, right - this is the Internet - You can't see my eyes. And even if you could, being the well-informed lover of photography that you are, you wouldn't need me to hypnotize you in order to believe all the wonders of Nikon's D7000 DSLR Camera, would you? No, of course you wouldn't.

I don't see exactly how Pentax brand image can align with herding blabber like this.

[hut234]

I have no idea what the Nikon piece said. I couldn't get past the opening. If I was a Nikon aficionado I'd be embarrassed.

[mickey]

Nikon's write-up was far longer, but was it really better than the one for Pentax.
It wouldn't be unrealistic to imagine the "writer", at his desk with Microsft Word open, dreaming up an intriguing sales pitch out of pure sexual fantasy for a bit of hardware...probably climaxing into a sock.

Anyway, the Pentax write-up was good.

I'm off to bed with my K10D.