| D200
Preview
by Digital Darrell
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METERING
SYSTEM
Nikon
has created an exclusive metering system called 3-D Matrix
Metering II. This is an enhanced version of the older Matrix
Metering system. It uses a 1005-pixel RGB Exposure/Color Matrix
Metering Sensor to more accurately determine the size of shadow
and highlight areas. It not only senses the brightness of
light, like in older metering systems, but it also evaluates
color, contrast, selected focus area, and subject to camera
distance. It then compares the current image with a database
of over 30,000 images. The new 3-D Matrix Metering System
II provides consistently accurate exposures.
-
Once
again, this is the same system used in the D2x, which is known
for its accurate metering. It looks like our new mini-D2x,
the D200, will give us similar accuracy. I honestly feel that
NO other camera manufacturer's metering system is as fast
or accurate as Nikons.
The
exposure modes available in the D200 are the same as you've
grown used to in most Nikons. It has P-Programmed Auto with
Flexible Program, S-Shutter-Priority Auto, A-Aperture Priority
Auto, and M-Manual. Here is a brief bit of information on
each of these modes:
P
- Programmed Auto with Flexible Program:
This is a "multi-program" system that sets both
shutter speed and aperture automatically. It has a "flexible
program" which allows one to turn the command dials
to change shutter or aperture, and the camera will adjust
the other. Nikon calls this a "swift selection of alternate
combinations." That sounds about right!
S
- Shutter-Priority Auto: This mode allows
the user to select a shutter speed between 30 seconds and
1/8000th of a second. The camera then adjusts the aperture
for proper exposure. Users concerned most with shutter speed,
such as sport shooters, will want to use this mode extensively.
A
- Aperture Priority Auto: With Aperture
Priority, one adjusts the aperture for maximum depth of
field, or lack thereof, and the camera automatically adjusts
the shutter speed for correct exposure. Nature and portrait
shooters will appreciate this mode.
M
- Manual: This gives one complete control
over the camera's metering system. Both aperture and shutter
speed are set manually in whatever combination of values
the user likes best.
As
with the autofocus system, one can learn to use these metering
modes to more effectively control the camera under varying
conditions. Nikon makes photography fun and easy!
D200 BODY AND SEALING
While
the D100 was made of high impact plastic, the D200 is truly
built tough, with a light but strong magnesium alloy frame.
The whole body is sealed at the critical seams with o-rings
and gaskets to ensure that you can use the camera in light
weather without ruining it. If this isn't the mark of a truly
professional camera, I don't know what is!
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