Nikon's latest D300 digital SLR camera, featuring new HD movie capabilities, is equipped with a 12.3-megapixel CMOS sensor, improved Scene Recognition system and bracketed Active D-Lighting (ADL).

In HD video mode, the D300 records at 720 pixels/24 frames per second and records high-fidelity audio with either a built-in or external stereo microphone. While shooting video, users select 9-, 21- or 51-point autofocus and enable 3-D tracking.

For metering, the Scene Recognition and 3D Color Matrix Metering II Systems operate off the 1,005p RGB sensor. Photos can be taken at a film speed range of ISO 220 to ISO 3200.

Exposure settings are now more easily adjusted with the ADL system. By bracketing exposure levels in up to five locations on backlit or strongly lighted subjects, photographers can adjust shadows and highlights to create more balanced images.

Other features include dual memory card storage slots, quiet shutter release mode and a variety of in-camera picture controls.

The D300 is compatible with more than 60 Nikkor lenses, as well as the recently released AF-S Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II and AF-S DX Nikkor 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 ED VR II lenses.

The camera body has a suggested retail price of $1,799.