Nikon has announced a new replacement for the D200, the new D300, aimed at the high-end consumer market and photo enthusiasts. At 12.3 mega-pixels, this new camera features the Nikon exclusive "Expeed Technology" (does anyone think that name is hokey besides me?) that is supposed to drive performance to the next level.

The D300 has a 51-point auto-focus system and 3D focus tracking (what used to be known as "predictive auto-focus" in the film SLR world). This feature is supposed to use an embedded computer processor to determine the rate of travel a target is moving toward the camera and compensate for that to give you a better chance of getting a clear shot. That is a big plus for all you Nascar fans out there.

The D300 has a magnesium alloy body, that means it is rugged. Like most of the competition, the camera has a self-cleaning sensor. There is a 3 inch LCD to preview your images, too. The camera is also fully sealed to help prevent moisture and dust from getting inside. This is a great camera for the sports shooter who wants a good working camera for the trenches and doesn't have the $5000 it takes to buy the D3 or other "professional" rig.

The D300 is a lot of camera for the price ($1800.00 est. street). You'll most likely see a lot of packaged deals for around $2000 this coming holiday season. The camera will be available some time in November.