Digital SLR (single-lens reflex) cameras are known for outstanding image quality and large resolution numbers. Even with that in mind, Nikon has taken a huge step forward with the November 30 release of its D3X digital SLR camera, which offers 24.5 megapixels of resolution and brags of “commercial-quality” images.
This is an impressive camera, offering shooting speeds of up to five frames per second, even at the highest resolution—just don’t ask me where you’re going to store all of the photos, each of which could carry up to 138MB of image data. For professional-level photographers, the Nikon D3X shows great promise to go with its great price tag of $8,000. (Compare Prices)
What does the introduction of a 24.5-megapixel camera mean for consumer-level photographers? Probably not much. No beginner to intermediate photographer is going to have a use for such a high-resolution camera.
However, the continued push by manufacturers for more megapixels in top-level cameras should lead to one good thing for consumers: Steady price drops for high-quality intermediate and beginner-level digital cameras, thanks to the trickle-down effect in technological advancements. At some point, however, the amount of resolution in a camera for consumer-level models will hit a limit where bigger isn’t better, it simply occupies too much storage space.
Photo courtesy Nikon
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