Nikon has introduced its latest D3000 digital SLR camera, which offers 10.2-megapixel resolution, an easy-to-use guide mode, an 11-point autofocus system and the ADL (Active D-Lighting) system.

The new guide mode offered with this D3000 allows new SLR users to view step-by-step instructions on the 3-inch LCD screen for common shooting situations and recommended scene modes to use for each subject. Users can also adjust images with the in-camera retouch feature.

Images are crisply captured with an 11-point autofocus system, split-second shutter time and 3-D subject tracking options.Images can be taken with a film speed setting from ISO 100 to ISO 3200.

Features new to this camera include the miniature effect, which changes the appearance of distant objects so that they resemble close-ups of miniature models, soft filter and color outline retouch.

Like the D300, the D3000 features the ADL system, which automatically reduces dark or backlit images by recovering missing brightness and detail.

The D3000 can be used with the full line of Nikkor AF-S lenses as well as the creative lighting system.

The camera kit, including the body and AF-S Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR image stabilization lens, has an estimated selling price of $599.