Nikon D300S

At 840 grams without battery or card, it lands in the hand like a tool built to last—dense, deliberate, and ready for the job.

Overview

The Nikon D300S is a digital single-lens reflex camera (DSLR) positioned in the midrange segment of Nikon’s lineup at the time of its release. Announced on July 30, 2009, and shipping in late August of that year, it arrived as a refined successor to the well-regarded Nikon D300. With a 12.3-megapixel DX-format (APS-C) sensor, the D300S delivers image quality that, even years later, holds up in daylight and well-lit conditions. It supports 720p HD video recording—a notable addition for its era— The 3.0-inch LCD monitor, packing 920,000 dots, was sharp for its time, offering clear composition and playback, Continuous shooting hits 7 frames per second, making it a capable option for action and wildlife shooters on a budget.

manufactured in Thailand, the D300S feels substantial and a trait valued by outdoor photographers. The shutter is rated to 150,000 cycles, a testament to its durability, and the camera supports aperture priority, shutter priority, and manual exposure modes, giving users full creative control. Power comes from the EN-EL3e rechargeable lithium-ion battery, a familiar unit for Nikon DSLR users of the era, offering an estimated 950 shots per charge under CIPA standards—a strong performance that reduced the need for constant spares in the field. Dimensions clock in at approximately 147 x 114 x 74 mm, making it compact enough for handheld use but large enough to house a deep grip and extensive button layout.

Specifications

Historical Context

The Nikon D300S replaced the earlier Nikon D300, incorporating minor but meaningful updates including video recording It inherits much of the D300’s core design and performance, functioning more as an evolution than a revolution. Positioned as a midrange DSLR,

Collectibility & Value

Originally listed at US$1,799.95, the D300S commanded a premium at launch, reflecting its prosumer positioning. By 2025, used examples appear on the market for significantly less—such as a low-shutter-count body with accessories listed for $300—indicating its transition from working tool to budget or nostalgic option. Despite its age, the D300S remains one of the older DSLRs still considered a "gem" by segments of the photography community,

eBay Listings

Near MINT Nikon D D300S 12.3 MP Digital SLR Camera Black (Bo

$174

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