Quite a number of announcements from Nikon today, the refined AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR II and AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II lenses, plus the entry-level D3000 digital SLR. Now, here comes the D300S.

The Nikon D300S is more of a refinement, rather than a revolutionary successor, of the tried and tested D300. It builds up on the features found on the D300.

The D300S features a 12.3-megapixel sensor (probably the same as that found on the D300), 720p video recording (stereo sound can be recorded through an optional external mic), 3-inch live view-capable high pixel density LCD screen, and a 51-point autofocus system.

The D300S also features dual memory card slots, one CompactFlash (CF) and one Secure Digital (SD) slot. You have the option to select the primary recording slot and there are three recording methods:

1. Overflow – uses the secondary card for recording once the primary is full
2. Backup – uses both cards to store the same images a.k.a. mirror copy
3. RAW primary, JPEG secondary – stores RAW files on the primary card and high quality JPEG on the secondary

The Nikon D300s camera body will be available from Nikon Authorized dealers starting late August 2009 for an estimated price of $1799.95.

[via Nikon USA Press Release]