Both the D3 and D300 employ a 920,000-dot 3-inch VGA monitor for displaying high-resolution images with superb tonal gradation. Compared to the previous 2.5-inch monitor, the new, larger monitor also provides dramatically improved viewing with its approximately 920,000-dot resolution — about four times greater than the previous 230,000 dots. This improved intuitive image check accuracy shows its strengths not just during image playback but during Live View shooting as well. An image can be zoomed with a single click of the Multi Selector center button (depending on Custom Settings) for instant, more accurate focus confirmation, even during time-critical photo shoots. With the wide 170-degree viewing angle, your subject can be clearly and easily inspected even when shooting difficult scenes using the Live View handheld mode in normal shooting position. Visibility is also improved when shooting outdoors. The monitor gives clearer definition to camera settings and menu displays without smudging small fonts or text edges.
It’s not at all uncommon for professional photographers to use more than one unit of the same camera model when shooting, and for such professionals, uniform monitor display quality is vital. To achieve uniform high-resolution monitor output with any D3 or D300 camera body, each camera is individually RGB-calibrated to Nikon standards at the time of shipping, to achieve precise color reproduction.
Photographers using digital cameras have access to so many settings. To make their lives easier, Nikon has designed easily customizable menus that allow each photographer to intuitively select from the many choices available, as necessary. Another important factor in providing a comfortable shooting experience is the menu layout that offers continuity across all models so the photographer can quickly adapt to whichever camera they have in hand. Nikon defined the basic layout of its menu interface when it launched the D1H in 2001, and has used this layout in all new models since, while constantly working to improve ease of operation. With this in mind, the D3 and D300 also include innovations for improving the resolution of the monitor, such as the sharp, highly visible fonts, letter size and readability. Most settings can be made using the Multi Selector switch alone, ensuring that all photographers soon become comfortable with its intuitive operation. And when using more than one camera during shooting, a memory card can be used to copy settings from one camera to another, to maintain uniformity.
The D3 and D300 feature a built-in acceleration sensor for detecting camera angle. It detects the degree to which the camera is tilting and displays that left or right tilt in the LCD monitor. This feature also allows you to confirm that the camera is level, whether it is used horizontally or vertically. Because the Virtual Horizon level indicator is visible through the viewfinder as well, you can check for possible tilting when setting up the camera or during shooting.
This feature enables recording of audio notes related to the subject and shooting conditions. The audio can be played back on the camera, and voice notes can be recorded afterwards as well.
