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Nikon has announced the D3300, an entry-level “HD-SLR” packed with features and technologies from the company’s more professional models. The D3000 includes a 24.2 megapixel DX-format (other companies call this size, APS-C) CMOS image sensor that does have an optical low pass filter (OLPF). Removing the OLPF boosts resolution and image sharpness. The EXPEED 4 image processor is also onboard, allowing up to 5 frames-per-second continuous shooting, helping capture more accurate colors, and improving image quality even at higher ISOs. Speaking of which, the D3300 has a pretty wide ISO range, from 100 to 12800.

The Nikon D3300 boasts Full 1080p HD video recording at up to 60p, along with full-time 11-point AF (autofocus). It is also the first Nikon HD-SLR to feature Easy Panorama Mode, one of four new Effects Modes that also include Photo Illustration, Super Vivid, and Pop. The official press release lists 13 In-camera Effects as well, but it’s not clear as to whether or not that includes, or is in addition to, the four mentioned above.

By the way, are you nervous about making the jump from point-and-shoot to an DSLR?

Nikon’s got you covered with Guide Mode, which helps beginners learn the basic functions of the D3300. In Guide Mode, you have access to four options: 1) Shoot photos using example images, to help you learn framing; 2) View/Delete; 3) Setup; and 4) Retouch, to fix images in-camera.

If you need Wi-Fi compatibility, the D3300 will work, but only if you purchase the optional WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter. From there, and with a free app, it’s easy to use smartphones and tablet devices as a remote control shutter button, or as an external “Live View” monitor display.

Nikon D3300 HD-SLR features:

• 24.2-megapixel DX-format (APS-C) CMOS image sensor
• no optical low pass filter (OLPF)
• EXPEED 4 image processor
• Full 1080/60p HD Video Recording
• with Full-time AF (autofocus)
• 3.0-inch Display
• 100 – 12800 ISO
• 11-point Autofocus System
• 5 frames-per-second Continuous Shooting
• Wi-Fi Capable (with OPTIONAL WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter)
• 13 In-Camera Effects
• 4 New Effects Modes
• Photo Illustration
• Super Vivid
• Pop
• Easy Panorama Mode
• Guide Mode
• Shoot Photos Using Example Images
• View/Delete
• Setup
• Retouch (images in-camera)
• Compact Body (4.9″ x 3.8″ x 2.9″)

The Nikon D3300 HD-SLR will be available this February (2014) — in black, red, or grey — as part of a $649.95 kit that includes the AF-S NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR II lens. The kit lens will also be available separately for $249.95. And, finally, Nikon is introducing a new prime lens — the AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G — that will hit stores on February 20, 2014 with a $599.95 MSRP.

(above includes OPTIONAL WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter)