The new D7100 boost of 24.1 MP DX-format CMOS sensor without an OLPF (AA) filter, better ISO Range, EXPEED 3 image processor  same as on the D4, D800 and D600 Full Frame Camera, High speed 6 frames per second, 2,016-pixel RGB (3D Color Matrix) metering sensor, 3.2-inch LCD display that is accompanied by an OLED display within the viewfinder itself and the Twin SD, SDHC, SDXC memory card compatibility.

If you intend to continue using DX body or if you are a new photographer looking for a DX camera, the D7100 is worth a buy in terms of specs, also note the earlier Pro-DX body has never had any updates in the last 4-5 years and the chances for a Pro-DX body release (if there has to be one) looks quite in the distant. The D7100 is available for Pre-order with Nikon 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR DX Lens for $1599 and the body alone for $1199.

Check Nikon Press Release [link]

Download Nikon D7100 Brochure in PDF format [here]

Nikon Manual Viewer [link]

Here are few quick tips on Lunar Eclipse Photography, these setting are for DSLR cameras, but it should work on advanced point and shoot compact cameras too. Please check on your camera user manual guide.
• Use telephoto lens (focal length above 200mm recommended). If you don’t have one try to use wide angle lens with some interesting foreground or landscape feature, in this case the moon will appear small.
• Use the camera’s built in light meter to determine the exposure for you since the brightness of the moon shall vary during the total eclipse.
• Use Manual mode, set the aperture and shutter speed for the correct exposure of the moon.
• Use spot/point metering mode.
• Use Tripod. If you don’t have a tripod, use stable place to set your camera or least use sturdy support to balance your hand.
• If you set the camera to aperture mode instead of manual mode, choose the maximum aperture for your lens to give the fastest shutter speed at ISO 100.
• Low ISO (check your camera setting for low ISO) preferred if you are using Tripod. You can also use higher ISO depending on your camera setting to reduce blur caused by long exposure. Higher ISO shall increase noise in your photograph, which can be reduced to certain degree while PP (post processing).
• To prevent camera shake, use a cable release. If you don’t have one, you can still use the self-timer so that the shutter will activate in a few seconds after you press the button.
• Turn on Image stabilization (some camera lens denotes as IS, VR and OS) if you are shooting hand-held. If on tripod, it’s best to off Image stabilization to reduce motion blur.
• Noise Reduction ON/OFF depending on your choice. Turning On Noise Reduction increases the time for camera to process and save images to memory card. Noise Reduction feature can be done while PP.
• Fill the moon in your frame to see the beautiful 3D spherical appearance of the moon.
• Some photographers shoot the moon going through the entire eclipse using time lapse photography. Though I haven’t used this feature, the images can be combined in Photoshop as well as made into a video. You can see time lapse photo done by my blogger friend Mathai here.

The best photographic and imaging products in a number of categories, announced between April 1, 2010 and March 31, 2011, were selected for the TIPA Awards 2011 through voting by editors from member camera and imaging magazines from nine European countries, Australia, Canada, China, the United States of America and South Africa.

Reasons for D7000 selection as the TIPA Awards 2011’s Best D-SLR Advanced

The Nikon D7000 impressed us as the definition of a state-of-the-art DX-format D-SLR (APS-C size) with its 16.2-MP CMOS sensor, 6-fps continuous shooting for up to 100 shots and ability to record full 1080p HD movies with full-time AF. With twin SD card slots, a 100% viewfinder and a bright 3-inch LCD for live view operation, the camera is extremely versatile in the field. The magnesium alloy top and rear covers, special weather and dust seals plus 150,000-cycle rated shutter system give it a pro feel.

 Reasons for COOLPIX P300 selection as the TIPA Awards 2011’s Best General Compact Camera 

The Nikon COOLPIX P300 is a stylish compact camera with a remarkably powerful f/1.8 lens starting at the 24 mm (35 mm equivalent) focal length and offering 4.2x optical zoom. The use of High Refraction Index glass further ensures sharp, high-contrast images. Combined with its powerful 12.2-megapixel backside illumination CMOS sensor, this camera provides excellent image quality even in dim lighting conditions. The P300 can record movies in full HD (1080 p), but also in slow motion with a recording speed of up to 120 fps.

(As published in Nikon Website)