| | Nikon's original 12.1-megapixel FX-format (23.9 x 36mm) CMOS sensor | Couple Nikon's exclusive digital image processing system with the 12.1-megapixel FX-format and you'll get breathtakingly rich images while also reducing noise to unprecedented levels with even higher ISOs. |
| | Continuous shooting at up to 9 frames per second | At full FX resolution and up to 11fps in the DX crop mode, the D3 offers uncompromised shooting speeds for fast-action and sports photography. |
| | Extreme low-noise ISO range with advanced noise reduction | This enables photographers to confidently select from 200-6400 ISO with an expanded range that includes: Lo-1 (100 ISO), Hi-1 (12,800 ISO) and Hi-2 (25,600 ISO). |
| | Nikon's exclusive EXPEED Image Processing Technology | The foundation of Nikon’s newest Image Processing Systems, EXPEED incorporates the concepts, innovations and years of Nikon’s digital image processing experience, providing superior image quality with state-of-the-art technologies at blazing processing speeds. |
| | Selectable 12-Bit or 14-Bit A/D Conversion | The choice of selecting bit depths at 12-bit (4,096 tones) or 14-bit (16,384 tones), both yielding incredible image quality through a full 16-bit processing pipeline, enables photographers to choose smaller files at faster operating speeds, as opposed to larger files with smoother tonal gradations at slower operating speeds. |
| | 3.0-inch super density 921,000-dot VGA color monitor | With 170-degree, wide-angle viewing and tempered glass protection, you'll get even better critical image review capabilities. |
| | Fast, accurate 51-point auto focus with 3D focus tracking | Add onto that, three dynamic AF modes to deliver exacting autofocus precision at blazing speeds. |
| | Two Live View shooting modes | Use either hand-held or with a tripod when shooting in a studio, remote situations or from challenging angles. |
| | Nikon's exclusive Scene Recognition System (SRS) | Improved 1,005-pixel 3D Color Matrix Metering II provides even more intelligent auto exposure capabilities, along with smarter auto white balance detection and faster, more accurate AF performance. |
| | New Picture Control settings | This gives photographers dramatically advanced color control with 4 preset options; standard, neutral, vivid and monochrome, as well as 9 customizable settings. |
| | Nikon's exclusive Active D-Lighting | Image enhancement provided on the fly while shooting produces broader tone reproduction in both shadows and highlights by controlling light intensity and exposure compensation while applying localized tone control technology to achieve the right level of contrast across the entire image for sharp, detailed results. |
| | The World's First Virtual Horizon Graphics Indicator | The D3's super-density color LCD monitor, teamed with Nikon's innovative Electronic Virtual Horizon delivers instant and accurate confirmation of the D3's position relative to "horizon level." You can also level the D3 while looking through the viewfinder or on the top-deck LCD. |
| | Nikon's self-diagnostic shutter system | Tested to 300,000 cycles, this system is a clear indication of advanced engineering and durable construction. |
| | Comprehensive state-of-the-art dust and moisture countermeasures and electromagnetic interference | With a rugged, durable and precise magnesium-alloy chassis and body, the D3 goes beyond other D-SLRs to protect against invasive moisture, dust and even electromagnetic interference. A comprehensive series of O-rings and other specialized seals, combined with additional engineering, keeps you shooting when lesser cameras would fail. |