Nikon d800 specifications. Nikon D800 is the junior full-frame model. What's under the hood

The highlight of the Nikon D800 is the 36.3MP full-frame sensor that produces TIFF files up to 212MB in size. Borrowed from the D4: 91005-dot RGB sensor, 3.2-inch 921K-dot LCD, Expeed 3 processor, providing a start time of no more than 0.12 seconds, 51-point autofocus system with 15 cross sensors type and lens with 100 percent frame coverage. For the first time, a USB 3.0 interface (5 Gb / s) is provided for uploading 36.3 MP images. To save materials, there are two slots for memory cards SD and CF.

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Nikon D800 camera of the year: first test in Russia

When Nikon introduced the Nikon D800 in February, it took the photography community by storm. The fact is that a lot of people expected to get a new second professional camera, and some - the first one, focusing on the previously existing pair of D3 / D700 cameras. They were almost the same in terms of capabilities, and the main difference between the D700 was a more compact body. This is why this model attracted many people: if high-speed continuous shooting and a large battery supply are not required, we shoot with a compact camera, but if we need these features, we attach a battery grip.

The Nikon D800 is the highest resolution narrow format SLR camera available today. Its release a few months ago for many professional photographers seriously raised the question of the advisability of using medium format cameras with digital backs in their work.

In the spring, at the Photoforum exhibition in Moscow, you could stand for more than an hour to hold the D800 in your hands and take a couple of shots on your flash drive. Now that the hype for this camera has subsided, we decided to write this review based on our own experience with it.

Key Features Nikon D800

• 36.3 MP CMOS sensor
• ISO 100-6400 units, expandable to 50-25600
• Continuous shooting 4 fps, 5 fps in 1.2x/DX mode.
• Autofocus system Multi-CAM3500FX with 51 points
• Full HD video recording
• Output uncompressed video via HDMI
• Processor EXPEED 3
• Display 8 cm, resolution 921k dots
• 91K-pixel metering sensor with permanent face detection
• Viewfinder with 100% coverage
• 200,000 shutter cycles
• Shutter speed range 1/8000-30 s; sync speed up to 1/250 s.
• Memory cards: CF and SD.
• Built-in i-TTL Speedlight
• Magnesium alloy housing, water and dust resistant

Matrix

Let's start the description with it, since it is the matrix with a resolution of 36.8 megapixels (effective 36.3 megapixels) that distinguishes this camera from all other DSLRs.

We have seen from our own practice that 36 megapixels is not a marketing gimmick. The matrix really gives out very detailed images.

Also very interesting is the fact that the D800 has a twin brother (or, if you like, a twin sister) - D800E. The only significant difference between the cameras is the D800E's lack of an optical low pass filter.

This makes it possible to take pictures with more detail than the simple D800, but the likelihood of moiré increases many times over. Nevertheless, such a camera can be used without problems in genres like landscape, where the occurrence of moiré is almost impossible.

Appearance

Being a professional camera, Nikon D800 does not look as brutal as, for example, D3X or D4. On the contrary, the camera is very compact. Oddly enough, we will attribute the compactness of this camera to the pluses rather than the minuses, since if you are not a reporter, then you most likely do not need to carry a camera with a huge battery and greatly overestimated dust and moisture protection.

In the hands of the camera is quite pleasant to the touch and is well balanced with a small weight lenses, well, serious telephoto cameras need to be put on serious reportage cameras (and, moreover, on their own tripods).

It should be noted that Nikon has always paid close attention to ergonomics and tactile sensations. And this time, the developers can safely put a test, since there are no complaints about the materials, the shape of the handle, or the convenience of the grip. In the hand, the camera is very comfortable, and, importantly (given the compactness of the body), the lower finger does not fall off anywhere.

Frame

Since the D800 is a professional camera, it received a body made entirely of magnesium alloy.

We haven't tested it, but we think you can hope for moderate dust / moisture protection and shock resistance. Of course, not from blows from a height on the asphalt, but in the right package, you can safely check it in your luggage.

USB 3.0

Direct-to-computer photographers will be pleased to see the camera's first USB 3.0 interface, which allows data transfer rates up to 5 Gb/s. In our opinion, USB 3.0, coupled with a higher resolution, gives the D800 a chance to become a very popular studio camera.

Naturally, if your computer does not support the new USB, then data will be transferred using the USB 2.0 protocol, that is, at speeds up to 480 Mb / s.

Ergonomics

The camera has a built-in flash, which can only work as a control flash and support two groups of flashes using the Nikon CLS (Creative Lighting System) system. The latter, in turn, is supported by all modern and some older Nikon flash models.

The front of the camera houses two very handy function buttons that can be programmed for one of a variety of modes, from checking depth of field to turning on a virtual horizon. They can also be set to control the aperture in video mode, which videographers will certainly appreciate.

The camera has a new focus mode switch. In the D700, it was three-position: frame-by-frame, continuous and manual. In the Nikon D800, it has become two-position: autofocus and manual.

There is a button on the switch itself, when pressed, you can select the focus area and the autofocus mode - frame-by-frame, tracking or automatic selection from the two previous modes.

Many note that the physical switch was more convenient, since there was no need to be distracted by the modes. On the other hand, in the camera, all settings are duplicated in the viewfinder and on the second display.

The camera does not have a physical switch for the type of autofocus (point, dynamic and 3D), now it works through the side autofocus button.

Display

The nice thing is that the camera received a display from the flagship of the Nikon D4 line, it has a diagonal of 8 cm (3.2 inches), a resolution of 921,000 dots and an anti-glare coating.

The display features a richer color space close to sRGB. The display also has a built-in light sensor that analyzes the ambient light and adjusts the screen settings. And not only brightness, but also saturation, contrast and gamma, optimizing the picture so that the user sees the photo as close to reality as possible. All these innovations make it possible to work with the monitor in bright sunlight without big problems.

And that is not all! Between the monitor and the protective glass there is a layer of cunning gel, which reduces the risk of fogging during sudden changes in temperature, which is especially important in our climate.

Viewfinder

The viewfinder isn't surprising, it's just big and bright, with 100% frame coverage, just like a full-frame DSLR should be. The magnification is 0.7x, like that of the reporting flagship D4 and the main competitor of the Canon EOS 5D Mark III.

Autofocus

As it should be in professional photography, autofocus is one of the strong points of the new camera. The camera focuses very quickly, even in low light conditions.

A large focus area, coupled with 51 points, gives complete freedom.

Memory cards

The camera has two slots for SD and CF memory cards, allowing for parallel or sequential recording, as well as assigning different RAW / JPG or Photo / Video materials to different formats.

live view

Compared to the D700, the D800's live view experience has been taken to a whole new level. The Lv mode switch is now placed on the rear panel and is easily accessible.

Switching between photo and video live view is done using the rotary switch.

In live view mode, you can not only evaluate the frame on the screen, but also zoom in on the desired area for manual focusing.

metering

As usual, there are three types of metering in the camera:

• Spot: exposure is measured at the focus point (approximately 1.5% of the frame).
• Center-weighted: in this mode, 3/4 of the data is taken from the center of the frame, with a diameter of about 8–20 mm. The rest of the data is taken from the rest of the frame.
• Matrix: 3D color matrix metering provides exposure metering across the entire frame. In order to accurately determine the exposure, in addition to estimating the illumination, the camera analyzes the distribution of colors, tones and the distance to the subject.

All of them work flawlessly.

Shooting in crop mode

Here's an interesting point: the D800 allows you to use lenses of the DX family, designed for cropped cameras. When such a lens is connected, the camera switches to DX mode and takes information only from the part of the matrix where the lens projects the image. Thus, 36 megapixels turn into 15, but the autofocus zone remains in place, and focus points are located almost on the entire frame area.

ISO

ISO standard range 100-6400, expandable to 50-25600.

The D700 had an Auto ISO mode that raises the ISO value if the calculated shutter speed gets longer than you set. For example, if you shoot with a telephoto lens and your minimum shutter speed is 1/200, in the Auto ISO settings you can specify that the camera does not set slower shutter speeds, but only raises the ISO.

As you understand, the normal maximum shutter speed for handheld shooting depends on the focal length of the lens, and if a shutter speed of 1/60 s is sufficient for a focal length of 50 mm, then for 200 mm, it is advisable to use a shutter speed of 1/200 and shorter.

In the D800, you can not only specify the maximum allowable shutter speed, but also tie the shutter speed to the focal length of the lens, auto mode, (unless, of course, the lens is electronic and transmits such data to the camera). In this mode, the camera will change the maximum shutter speed and ISO based on the focal length you are using. This is insanely convenient when working with zoom lenses.

You can also fine-tune the auto exposure by making it shorter or longer than the normal limit by two stops.

For the sensitivity test, we chose two areas of the frame. Pictures were taken in RAW, noise reduction in the camera was turned off, conversion to Capture One 7 with default settings.

Click below to see areas at all ISO values.

The built-in noise canceler doesn't make sense. Firstly, it fights noise rather poorly, and secondly, noise can be easily, quickly and with a large degree of control removed in Photoshop using the appropriate plug-in or action.

The choice of shooting mode, as in the D700, is done using the mode button. This is a hallmark of professional Nikon cameras, which have only the main shooting modes P, S, A and M.

In place of the mode dial, the D800 has a control unit for four main shooting functions: format (RAW / JPG) and file quality, white balance, ISO and bracketing.

Battery

The camera works with the new EN-EL15 battery already used in the D7000 and 1 V1 mirrorless. The battery charge is enough for shooting 900-1000 frames or 60 minutes of video shooting.

If desired, you can equip the camera with an MB-D12 battery pack, which can be powered by AA batteries or an EN-EL18 battery from a reportage Nikon D4.

Shooting video

In recent years, shooting video with SLR cameras has evolved from marketing to a separate, rapidly growing industry.

The camera shoots video at a resolution of 1920 × 1080 at 30, 25 and 24 frames per second. At a resolution of 1280 x 720, the frame rate can be 60, 50, 30 and 25 frames per second.

The video is saved in MOV format using the H.264/MPEG-4 (Advanced Video Coding) codec, which allows you to get the maximum picture quality, the maximum video length is 30 minutes.

The D800 also received two very important features for cameramen.

• Manual microphone level control.
  You can connect an external microphone and manually control its sensitivity level (20 levels and auto mode). The camera is equipped with a port for connecting headphones, allowing you to control the sound level.
• Ability to output uncompressed video through the HDMI port.
  You can record videos with maximum quality to an external device, or display videos on an external screen. However, the camera does not allow you to simultaneously record video to a memory card and output uncompressed video via HDMI. When recording video to a card, only 720p resolution can be output via HDMI.

It is also worth noting that when outputting via HDMI, the camera will display exposure and autofocus information by default. This is convenient when outputting data to an external monitor, but to record data via HDMI, this feature must be disabled through the menu.

There is a separate button for recording video, which is located next to the shutter button and is active only in live view video mode.

In Live view mode, it became possible to fully control the exposure and at the same time see in the picture the changes that occur in the frame.

Unfortunately, autofocus in video mode leaves much to be desired: it works slowly and often misses, and even the camera records the sound from the focusing lens.

It is best to focus before shooting a video and then start recording.

Like photos, videos can be shot with two different crop settings - FX and DX. In the first option, the camera receives data from almost the entire matrix (from 91% to be exact), and in the second, from a section the size of a standard cropped matrix. Thus, you can change the angle of view of the lens due to the crop factor, without losing the quality and size of the video.

The camera has the ability to set shooting with an interval. It is enough to choose the shooting parameters, the interval between frames and the number of required frames. After that, you can start shooting or select a start time. This mode can be used to later combine photos into videos and create a time-lapse (time-lapse) video, very fashionable lately on the net.

Time-lapse - time-lapse photography

However, for shooting time-lapse in the camera there is a separate function, it is called “time-lapse photography”. Essentially the same thing, just done a little differently. You need to specify the interval between frames, the duration of the shooting (and not the number of frames, as in the previous mode). After receiving this data, the camera will calculate the duration of the video. After all the frames are shot, the camera will stitch the frames together and make a video with the parameters that are specified in the video mode settings menu.

The materials from which the video is assembled will be deleted automatically.

Embedded processing capabilities

Here's a pretty impressive list of footage processing options; in this regard, the camera has something to play with.

• D-Lighting (working with underexposed and overexposed areas)
• Red-eye reduction
• framing
• monochrome
• color filter effect
• Color balance
• Image Overlay
• RAW processing (RAW->JPG conversion)
• Change of size
• Fast processing (auto)
• Alignment (horizon level)
• Distortion control (correction of distortion)
• Fisheye (effect)
• Color outline (effect)
• Color sketch (effect)
• Perspective control
• miniature effect
• Selective color (convert to B&W and restore one color)
• Edit Clip (Select Video Start/End Point and Save Still Frame)

HDR

The D800 has the ability to shoot in HDR mode for capturing images with a wide dynamic range.

In HDR mode, when you press the shutter button, the camera takes two frames at once with different exposures, and then combines them into one file with the light areas of one frame and the dark areas of the other. Of course, the mode is available only when shooting in TIFF or JPG format.

You can choose the spread of exposures yourself within the range of 1 to 3 EV or automatic mode.

When you turn on HDR mode, the camera gives you two options: turn on the mode for only one frame or for a series of frames. This is very convenient when you only need to take one shot: the camera will automatically return you to normal shooting mode, but you will have to switch the file format manually.

Of course, HDR should not be considered a complete tool for creating HDR images, because you do not get the source files and therefore have no control over the process.

It makes more sense to see this mode as an opportunity to show the client right on the spot how this or that landscape will look after your HDR processing.

Active D Lighting

Active D-Lighting (ADL) mode has appeared in Nikon DSLRs for a long time. It works quite simply: the camera pulls out details in underexposed and overexposed areas of the image.

The advantage of this mode compared to HDR is that it works with the RAW format. Thus, by opening the file in a native converter (View NX2 or Capture NX 2), you can turn off this feature or reduce the value with which it works.

In modern cameras, this feature is quite controversial. The fact is that it is easier to adjust the exposure in such a way as to preserve the details in the bright areas, and extend the natural underlights during processing. Fortunately, the rich dynamic range of RAW files of modern cameras allows you to do this without much loss.

test frames

Files converted directly from RAW without processing, full-size JPG, can be downloaded as an archive.

conclusions

Nikon was very timely in offering photographers a camera capable of solving almost all tasks in modern commercial and amateur photography. The only thing missing from the D800 is the features that highly specialized cameras like the D4 and similar professional reportage models should have. Apparently, this is why Nikon has managed to achieve the best price-quality ratio in the professional SLR segment today, as well as to oust many competitors, especially in the medium format camera segment.

Nikon Russia introduces Nikon professional equipment service program. When buying professional equipment from dealers with the status"Professional Nikon Dealer", you get 1 year warranty and 3 years service.

One of the reasons for this laudatory introduction is that the D800 is equipped with a 36-megapixel sensor. Taking into account the criticism about the weak 12-megapixel sensor on the D700, Nikon engineers decided to triple the resolution of their new offspring. To fully explain the revolutionary technical step of the company, it must be said that the 36 MP D800, costing only three and a half thousand dollars, is head and shoulders above the previous, most powerful photo product of the company, the Nikon DX3, which has 24.5 megapixels and costs about $14,000 !

The Nikon D800 has effectively divided the line of high-end full-frame cameras into two clear lines: the high-resolution D800 itself and the high-speed D4, which has an incredibly high light sensitivity of ISO 204,800! This is a very bold move for the company. While the D700 was like the smaller D3 and the Canon 5D Mark III is like its companion the 1D X, the D800 and D4 are completely different cameras.

Nikon D700 Nikon D800

Effective megapixels	12.1MP	36.3MP
ISO sensitivity (natural)	ISO200-6400	ISO100-6400
ISO sensitivity (extended)	ISO100-25,600	ISO50-25,600
AF points	51	51
Maximum f-stop	f/5.6	f/8
Continuous Shooting Speed	5 fps	4 fps
Exposure Sensor	1005 pixel RGB	91,000 pixel RGB
Autofocus System	MultiCAM 3500FX	Advanced Multi-CAM 3500FX
AF distance	-1 to +19 EV (ISO100, 20°C)	-2 to +19 EV (ISO100, 20°C)
Video Resolution	N.A.	1080: 30p/25p/24p, 720: 60p/50p/30p/25p
Video Compression	N.A.	H.264/MPEG-4 Advanced Video Coding
Microphone	Not	Mono
speaker	Not	Mono
Memory card slot	1 x CF card	1 x CF card, 1 x SD/SDHC/SDXC memory card
Dimensions	147x123x77	146x123x81.5
The weight	1074g	1000g
Battery Life Cycle	1000 photos	900 photos
Price	$2888	$3488

Design and management

Designed by renowned Italian industrial designer Giorgetto Giugiaro, the D800 is a pretty monster. While Canon's DSLR flagships have always looked understated, in keeping with the aesthetic principles of the Japanese, Nikon's flagships have always been reminiscent of Italian supercars, powerful, leashed wild cats with their graceful contours. The D800 is particularly striking, with smoother lines, and the main curves of the plastics give the association of a muscular black panther tensed before the jump. The branded red line looks especially impressive, emphasizing the predatory nature of this “photo-monster”.

Elements of the D4's mirrored flagship are mirrored in the D800, with the shutter button dropping down at a lower angle, making it more accessible and easier to press with your finger. Nikon's signature red stripe - below the shutter button - has been reduced to a single line, and the D800 finally gets the video recorder, focus selector, and Live View buttons of the D4. It is now possible to set the ISO value to Auto using the front control stick, avoiding having to navigate through menus to get to this setting. The body of the D800 is made of magnesium alloy, which means that it can withstand quite a lot of impact - the body certainly feels good in the hands, a kind of monolithic fantastic tool. The D800 is also water and dust resistant, and remarkably, it is 10% lighter than the D700 and slightly wider at around 4.5mm.

The D800's ease of use is top notch; it lies comfortably in the hands, and the controls are quite intuitive. Unlike that of the Canon 5D Mark III, where power switch located on the opposite side of the shutter button, the D800 (and Nikon's entire DLSR line) has a special Power switch, located around the shutter button, which means that you can turn on the camera and take a picture with just one hand.

Lever arm Focus Mode Selection, first seen on the D7000 and then on the D4, reappears on the D800. Button located at the top of the lever Focus mode, allows you to switch between different auto focus (AF) modes - by pressing this button and operating the command joystick. While users initially didn't like the D7000's focus-mode switching approach, they've since become accustomed to it, and have found that it really allows you to change the way you autofocus by touch - without having to take your eyes off the viewfinder.

The dial for selecting the shutter release method (normal, timer, etc.) has been significantly modified. Now it is much wider and its main modes are labeled on the side. On the main surface of the camera, where the D700 had only Quality, White Balance and ISO buttons, the D800 gets another button - Bracketing. Due to the new video record button - Record, located just above the shutter button, the Mode button has been moved back a little so as not to interfere with other controls. Some users have complained that this makes the Mode button not as convenient as it used to be, but this is most likely a matter of habit.

If you're worried about transferring files that will inevitably be large due to the huge resolution of the sensor, then the D800 has the foresight to come with a built-in USB 3.0 port that offers significantly faster file transfer speeds to your computer.

Design and Control - Auto-Focus and other measurements

NikonD800 has the same 9, 21 and 51 autofocus points as D4. However, the ability D4 show all three focusing methods at the same time, when selected, not available on D800. Instead of this D800 when choosing the number of points, it will show only one of the three possible modes - this does not affect the quality of shooting so much, but it is a small unfortunate omission on the part of the developers.
The D800 uses the same AF sensor module as the D4's Advanced Multi-CAM 3500FX, which uses 51 autofocus points, 15 of which are cross type. It came as an unexpected surprise that the D800 focuses more slowly than the D4 in low light conditions. This is probably due to the larger 36 MP sensor resolution of the D800 compared to the 16 MP of the D4.

In good light conditions, the D800's autofocus proved to be one of the most accurate and fastest. However, in low light, the D800 lost both to its D4 colleague and its closest competitor, the Canon 5D Mark III. However, it should be noted that if the D800 has already focused and locked the focus, it will remain tone locked in all situations - even when moving, while the 5D Mark III can sometimes get confused and lose its focus point between shots.

The D800's tendency to focus slowly in low light, coupled with its continuous shooting speed of just 4fps, makes it an unimportant choice as a sports camera. In fact, the D800 is able to achieve 6fps continuous shooting, but that's only when powered by the optional MB-D12 Multi-power Battery Pack, and only when using DX resolution, not its record-breaking FX resolution. For comparison, the previous generation D700 almost matched the speed of the 5D Mark III, with a shooting speed of 5 frames per second, and when using the optional MB-D10 battery, it produced all 8 frames / s.

To be honest, sports photography is not what the D800 was designed for. While the D800 won't be able to track fast-moving targets, it should be more than capable of capturing normal events with adequate lighting, such as weddings or concerts. And we have to give credit to the D800's function of subjective rather than objective observation. Face detection on the D800 turned out to be more accurate than on the D4 - we noticed that the camera focuses more accurately on faces using Auto Focus than the D4 does.

We didn't have any problems with the white balance measurement system. The D800 delivered balanced and accurate results during our use of it. In fact, we didn't touch the exposure compensation button at all, except when an adjustment was required for some kind of effect.

Design & Control - LCD Monitor & Live View

The LCD monitor of the new product from Nikon has become a little larger than that of its predecessor D700 - 3.2 inches versus 3. The image scale on the new screen, in the preview mode, zooms up to 46x, which is a good help when you intend to make sure the quality 36 megapixel snapshot. The screen is equipped with an anti-fogging layer and an anti-reflective coating, which can be seen on the D4 screen. Plus, the camera also has an ambient light sensor next to the screen, set the brightness mode to -=Auto=- and the camera will automatically adjust the screen brightness based on the ambient light. The only disappointment with the new screen is that the number of pixels on it has remained the same, even though it has grown in size. With 921,000 pixels, the D800 clearly falls short of the 5D Mark III's magnificent 3.2-inch screen of 1.04 million pixels.

The D800 has a very handy Live View switch, carried over from the D700 and D4. When shooting in Live View mode, the camera pauses briefly to display the current exposure settings. From them you can always determine exactly what your final image will look like. Taking a quality photo or video becomes next to impossible if your settings are underexposed, or if you're in a low light environment, so the initial Live View demo will give you a guess at your shutter speed settings when you tap the shutter button lightly, but still didn't press it.

Like the D4, but unlike the 5D Mark III, the D800 displays useful exposure information on the screen without cluttering it with unnecessary information. The D800 also received an external microphone and headphone jack, and can also show audio levels in Live View. Audio levels can be adjusted to suit the environment, but unfortunately, like the D4, audio levels cannot be changed during recording.

Image quality

Image Quality - Sharpness and Dynamic Range

As expected, the clarity achieved with the D800 is phenomenal - we've never seen such detail and dynamic range in photos taken with other DSLRs before.

There is a well-known problem with increasing the number of megapixels without changing the size of the sensor itself - this means that each individual pixel on the sensor becomes smaller. By tripling the number of megapixels, the size of a single pixel has been halved, from 8.45µm in the D700 to 4.88µm in the D800. Generally speaking, there is a consensus that larger sensors with larger pixels produce better looking images with less noise and higher dynamic range. This is not always true because you have to take into account how the sensor and its surrounding electronics were designed, as well as the algorithms used in the camera's image processor. But if nothing else changes, increasing the number of pixels while maintaining the same sensor size results in more image noise and significantly reduces dynamic range.

In the case of the D800, we actually saw that while the image noise was increased, so was the dynamic range. Talking about image noise on a 36MP sensor is tricky because downsampling - when a large image is downsampled to a smaller resolution - also plays a big role.

As we mentioned earlier, the amount of detail you can find in D800 images is astounding. This makes the camera suitable for high-resolution work, and it also handles cropped resolutions well. At the same time, the size of each image has become significantly larger, with JPEG files averaging 20MB while RAW files are around 40MB. Nikon claims that RAW files can be up to 75MB in size. This means that not only will you be able to take fewer photos on older memory cards, you may also need to completely upgrade your camera hardware if your current gadgets can't keep up with the D800's progress.

High resolution not only places higher demands on your equipment, but also on interchangeable lenses. While we didn't find any issues using the D800 with the lens Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8 and 70-200mm f/2.8, photographer Ming Zein tested eleven lenses Nikkor With D800 and found that:

« If you plan to take the best from D800/D800E, then you will find yourself having to rethink your lens collection. What worked brilliantly with D700- doesn't work as well for D800 » .

Have images D800 amazingly high dynamic range at low ISO, even JPEG compression behaves like RAW files made by other DSLR cameras.

When taking pictures in JPEG format, we found that the images D800 tend to look a little washed out using the default Standard Picture Control , and can always use a little more contrast and even a little more saturation when digitally processed. These standard photographs differ from those on 5D Mark III and D4 JPEG files that look great right out of the camera. It seems that D800, as it were, is held back on image processing to save more detail for photographers who prefer to have as much of it as possible to work with afterwards.

Image Quality - Noise

On the previous page, we said that the high amount of detail and wide dynamic range in D800 images come at a price, and that price is higher image noise. With more detail, we also see more noise distributed throughout the image taken with the D800.

Downsampling, or reducing image resolution, also has an effect on the presence of noise in photos because noise will look less noticeable at lower resolutions (this is noticeable when noisy digital photos look less noisy after downsizing them for the web or for a mobile phone screen). So, evaluating the noise of an image taken with the D800 also plays a role in determining the final resolution of the photo. Not all users will print or display their images in full - 36 megapixel - resolution (7360 x 4912), which when printed will be 25 x 16 inches, at 300 ppi, or the size of an A2 sheet!

If we were to look at image noise based on the full resolution of the D800 shots, we would say that images look good up to ISO3200, and noise becomes noticeable as early as ISO6400, which is the D800's native ISO limit and the number we would shoot at. to still get acceptable image quality. Depending on the resolution of the photo, you can shoot well up to the first extended level of ISO12,800, but in general we advise you to avoid shooting at high D800 values, such as ISO25,600, as the distinctness and luminosity of an individual grain (pixel) is quite noticeable at such ISO settings.

Digital cameras always play an unequal game between photo resolution detail and photo noise. While the Canon 5D Mark III is quite aggressive, with its noise reduction at higher ISO settings for JPEG compression resulting in cleaner images but less detail, the D800 seems to hit the noise reduction more easily, producing "noisy" images, while retaining more detail. Again, when the D800 shoots at the higher 36MP resolution, if these images are cropped to the Mark III's native 22MP resolution, the image noise will be almost invisible and detail will still be preserved. In general, we've found that images taken with the D800 at high ISO settings will always look better with a bit of noise reduction applied in post-production.

Image quality - Downscaling for image quality

We heard that some potential owners D800 think about taking photos at a lower resolution because they feel like 36 megapixels is more than they need. Also, their opinion is influenced by the reduction in the file sizes of each image. But what we've found is that more image detail can be preserved if users shoot at the maximum 36-megapixels and then self-compress the images to a lower resolution. This approach showed the best result when choosing between detail and photo size.

Video

Video quality

Just like in still images taken with the D800, we see almost the same detailed video footage. The video recorder handles sharp camera shakes with ease and captures excellent quality panoramic recordings. Shooting video, however, is a bit prone to moire.

Multimedia journalist Dan Chang did a comprehensive test review between the video quality of the D800 and the Canon 5D Mark III and concluded:

« Essentially, the D800 and 5D Mark III are very similar. I would give an extra pointNikon, due to the accuracy of auto-settings and high-quality detailing. However,Canona clear win in terms of shooting in low light and moiré conditions. Personally, I prefer the ease of operation and color reproduction fromCanon(especially in mixed lighting) - others may prefer a model fromNikon».

Nikon fans have long been waiting for the company's response to a successful model from Canon. And the new DSLR, with full-HD video capability, might be exactly what they were expecting, and at half the price of another full-HDDSLR camera, the D4. Just like the D4, the D800 can shoot 1080p movies at 30, 25 or 24 frames per second (up to 24 Mbps). The D800 also has the ability to stream video via an HDMI cable.

Photo examples

Full-size examples of images, with EXIF ​​data, can be viewed on Yandex photos, click to view.

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Conclusion

It would not be an exaggeration to say that the new Nikon D800 DSLR is a quantum leap into the future of photography. Equipping the camera with a new 36-megapixel full-size sensor is a very bold move for Nikon. Some development details may or may not have gone as the company would have liked, but by trying to push the envelope, Nikon managed to do it with confidence.

In terms of ergonomics, almost everything has been improved from the D700 predecessor. The switches on the camera are superbly thought out, the controls are laid out very intuitively, it fits comfortably in the hand, and it's lighter than the D700. The only major downside we found with the new camera is that battery life is now somewhat lower than the D700's - 900 shots versus 1000 shots (estimated by CIPA). Although this is not entirely Nikon's fault; batteries had to be changed due to new battery standards in Japan.

The quality of the resulting images is breathtaking - pictures are full of fine details and rich tones in high dynamic range. We feel confident when we say that the D800 produces the most detailed images of any DSLR camera to date, but it's not without its losses: even though the shots have better detail, the noise in the images is also quite noticeable. If you're shooting at high ISO settings, you'll find that the images taken by the D800 will always benefit from a bit of noise reduction. At the same time, not every photographer will use the full 36 megapixel resolution (which is near the maximum print size for A2 at 300 ppi).

Another price that D800 owners will have to pay for the huge photo resolution is large file sizes; JPEGs average 20MB and RAW files 40MB, but in some cases RAW files can be as large as 75MB. This means a potential upgrade to the hardware and accessories you already own, from larger memory cards for your camera to larger hard drives for long-term storage of your photos. While users may be able to shoot at lower resolutions, we advise against doing so as we have found that self-subsampling ( forced image resolution reduction) retains a lot more detail than if you let the camera's processor do it.

Due to the D800's 36-megapixel resolution, its slower continuous shooting speed, and larger file sizes, it may seem to many that the D800 is for professional photographers who benefit the most from high image detail and high dynamic range - the most important factors for photographers. who shoot landscapes and work in studios. But we're inclined to believe that if you're able to handle the high-end workflow that goes hand in hand with 36-megapixel imaging, the D800 can also perform just as well as a general-purpose camera, with all the joys it brings. higher resolution.

Nikon D800 vs. World

We would be careless in our review of the D800 if we didn't mention its sister camera, the D800E. The two cameras are virtually identical, except that the D800E does not come with the standard optical low pass filter found on most digital cameras. This filter prevents moiré effects from appearing in photos by blurring fine details. Without this filter, images taken by the D800E are richer and more detailed, but there is a risk of moire when photographing repeating subjects. Therefore, the D800E is recommended for photographers who shoot natural landscapes or individual plants.

When we visited Nikon's headquarters in Tokyo, we could clearly see the detailed differences between two identical images taken from the D800 and D800E, but only in A3 size. Viewing such images at a size smaller than A3 is doubtful, and hardly anyone would be able to determine which picture belongs to which camera. Whether or not moire will prove to be a significant problem when using the D800E on a daily basis can only be determined by further testing. When shooting a vibrant landscape, some early tests show that the D800E shows even more fine detail without moiré patterns than the D800.

Some users will wonder how the Nikon D800 performs compared to its closest competitor, the Canon 5D Mark III. But we cannot assert that such a comparison is really possible. Both camera models are distinctly different cameras. While the 5D Mark III is like the 1D X Lite, only with 22 megapixels and 6fps continuous shooting; The D800 is lighter than its D4 counterpart, but has a 36MP sensor and only 4fps shooting. As a result, the D800 can't match Canon's continuous shooting speed, but the 5D Mark III can't compete with Nikon's in terms of detail.

We doubt that Canon or Nikon users will drastically change favorites simply based on the release of one new camera. The D800 produces more detailed images, but also has a lot of photo noise (unless sub-sampling is applied), and it will also cost more to replace accessories. The Canon 5D Mark III has a high shooting speed, but less detail in the images.

The novelty, judging by the digital index, has replaced the Nikon D700 camera, which was introduced back in the summer of 2008. With the current rate of updating model lines, this can be considered longevity. At the same time, the manufacturer does not position the D800 as a replacement for the D700, however, in parallel with the release of the tested camera, the “seven hundredth” was discontinued.

Outwardly, the D800 almost does not differ from the D700, but inside there are more than enough changes. We list only the main ones. From the sensor in one fell swoop, they began to shoot a resolution three times greater than before - 36.3 megapixels versus 12.1. The moment is very controversial, because even the top D4, which was introduced almost simultaneously with the D800, is half as much - 16.6 megapixels. In addition, it is worth noting the slightly enlarged screen and the viewfinder, which now covers 100% of the field of view, and not 95%, as in the D700.

With the same dimensions, the weight of the novelty has become 174 grams less. It uses a 91k dot RGB sensor, while the D700 has 1005 dots (the same as the cropped D300s). But that's not all, in addition to CF cards (UDMA), the camera can use SD and UHS-I compatible SDHC memory cards, as well as SDXC memory cards, in addition, the D800 became the first certified camera with USB 3.0 support (backwards compatible with older USB bus versions). In general, even serious innovations are many.

⇡ Specifications declared by the manufacturer

Nikon D800
Image sensor	35.9x24.0mm CMOS sensor (FX Nikon format) Total Pixels: 36.8MP
Effective number of points, MP	36,3
Image save format	Photo frame: NEF (RAW): 12-bit or 14-bit lossless compressed or uncompressed TIFF (RGB) JPEG: JPEG-Baseline compliant with fine (approx. 1:4), normal (approx. 1:8), or low (approx. 1:16) compression (size priority) Video: MOV (H.264/MPEG-4 Advanced Video Coding)
lens mount	Nikon F mount (with AF pairing and AF contacts)
Frame size in pixels	photo frame: FX (36x24): 7360x4912 (L), 5520x3680 (M), 3680x2456 (S) Image area 1.2x (30x20): 6144x4080(L), 4608x3056(M), 3072x2040(S) Image area DX (24x16): 4800x3200(L), 3600x2400(M), 2400x1600(S) Image area 5:4 (30x24): 6144x4912 (L), 4608x3680 (M), 3072x2456 (S) FX format photos taken in live view for movies: 6720x3776 (L), 5040x2832 (M), 3360x1888 (S) DX format photos taken in live view for movies: 4800x2704 (L), 3600x2024 (M), 2400x1352 (S) Video: 1920x1080; 30p (progressive), 25p, 24p 1280x720; 60p, 50p, 30p, 25p. Actual movie frame rate for 60p, 50p, 30p, 25p and 24p: 59.94, 50, 29.97, 25 and 23.976 fps respectively
Sensitivity, units in ISO equivalent	100-6400 in steps of 1/3, 1/2 or 1 EV
Exposure range, s	1/8000 to 30 in 1/3, 1/2 or 1 EV steps; excerpt by hand
metering	Matrix, center-weighted, spot
exposure compensation	+/-5 EV in 1/3, 1/2 or EV steps
Built-in flash	Flash with manually pop-up button; guide number 12
Self-timer	2 s, 5 s, 10 s, 20 s; 1 to 9 exposures at 0.5, 1, 2, or 3 s intervals
Information storage device	SD (Secure Digital) and UHS-I compatible SDHC and SDXC memory cards; Type I CompactFlash memory cards (UDMA compatible)
LCD display	8.0 cm (3.2 inches), 921K dots
Interfaces	HDMI, USB 3.0, 10-pin remote control connector, audio output (mini-jack 3.5 mm), microphone connector (mini-jack 3.5 mm)
Food	Li-ion battery EN-EL15.14 Wh
Dimensions (WxHxD), mm	146x123x81.5
Weight, g	1000 (incl. battery/batteries and memory card) 900 (without accessories)

⇡ Delivery set

A full-fledged commercial sample was provided for testing in a box and with all the appropriate options. So, in addition to the camera, the following was found in the box: a battery, a charger, a USB cable, a USB cable holder, a bayonet cover, a screen cover, as well as a disk with additional software, a quick reference guide and a complete user manual.

⇡ Appearance and usability

As already mentioned, the appearance of the camera has changed slightly, and only an experienced user, without looking at the model name, will be able to identify it at a glance. Although the difference in weight is felt without weighing, the camera has become much lighter. It is difficult to notice a slightly enlarged screen right away, but the fact that a video key has appeared, and the focus area switch has disappeared from the back side and a button for switching to Live View mode with a display mode switch (photo and video mode) has settled in its place, is immediately noticeable. In addition, another button has appeared in the upper part inside the drive mode selection ring, which, depending on the camera settings, is responsible for changing the parameters of bracketing, multiple exposure, or the HDR dynamic range expansion mode.

Magnesium alloy parts are used in the design of the case, in addition, the case is dust and moisture resistant, so it is quite possible to work with it even in not particularly favorable conditions. Although a caveat needs to be made here: the camera is protected, but through the lens, if it is not protected, it is quite possible to draw in dust and moisture, especially if it is a lens with a variable focal length.

The camera is very comfortable in a medium-sized hand, and thanks to the rubber pads on the front and back, it is easy to hold - the hand is not particularly tired even with very long use without special straps.

Front view

In front there is a lens mount with a lock key on the right side and two keys similar in appearance - on the left, but the latter do not perform any functions by default, they are programmable. Also on the front is an autofocus assist lamp, a front command dial, a built-in monaural microphone, and separate rubber covers that hide the wired remote control connector and flash sync connector. Why they were placed not on the side, but on the front side, is not clear. Of course, installing them under a single cover with all the other connectors, as in the case of a competitor from Canon, is also not worth it, but still it would be much more convenient from the side.

On the back side is a large 3.2-inch screen. Above the display are the view and delete keys, a viewfinder with eyepiece lock and diopter control dial, a lock button with a metering mode selection ring, and a focus key.

Viewfinder

To the left of the screen are four keys: call the main menu, lock the picture, zoom in and out, and the enter key. To the right of the display are the control dial and the switch with the enter key in the center. The latter is surrounded by a ring for switching focus areas. There is also a speaker, a key for switching to LiveView mode with a real-time view mode switch, and a key for changing the information output mode.

View from above

On top is a pop-up flash with a “shoe” for installing accessories at the base. To the left of the flash there is a drive mode dial equipped with a lock. Within it fit four parameter settings keys using command dials, they are responsible for choosing the format for saving the picture, setting the white balance, sensitivity and bracketing (depending on the camera settings, the last button can also be responsible for setting multiple exposure and HDR mode). To the right of the flash, a monochrome segment display with green backlight is installed, as well as keys for selecting the mode of setting the exposure pair, video recording, introducing exposure shift and the shutter button with the power lever familiar to Nikonists, which in the extreme position is responsible for activating the backlight of the additional display, as well as the simultaneous output information on the main display if this function is activated in the settings.

Bottom view

At the bottom are the battery compartment, tripod mount connector and a rubber plug that hides the battery pack connector.

Left side view

The left side of the camera is also quite busy. Here is the flash lock key, the button for selecting the mode of its operation, as well as the switch for manual and automatic focusing with the key for selecting the mode and focus area. Right there, under the rubber door, there are connectors for connecting an HDMI cable and an external microphone, an analog audio output and a very specific connector for connecting a USB cable, which requires the installation of a special holder from the kit. It is worth recalling that the camera supports the USB 3.0 standard, so the cable is a little unusual. It is composite, and one part of it is analogous to a conventional microUSB connector, which is used in many cameras and smartphones / phones, so if necessary, you can use a regular cable, but data exchange, regardless of the type of USB bus used on the PC, will be carried out at speeds corresponding to USB 2.0 version.

Right side view

The right side surface is also not empty. There is a cover that hides the slots for installing memory cards in SD and CF formats. It is worth paying a little attention to the data distribution system between the cards. Any of the cards can be assigned as the main one. Of course, this should be assigned to a card with a higher write speed. Data distribution is possible in three modes: overflow (recording to an additional card is carried out when the main one overflows), reservation (data are duplicated), as well as RAW+JPEG (in this mode, recording is made to the main card in RAW format, and to the additional card in JPEG) . To record video, you can also manually specify the media used, but there are no special requirements for speed, because even an SD Class 6 memory card is enough to record a video stream in 1080p format.

Please note that this comparison is based solely on the specifications of the cameras as stated in the specifications of the models.

Judging by the results of the comparison, the Nikon D800 outperforms the Df in most respects. Of course, so far this comparison is based only on the data that is indicated in the specifications of the cameras.

Specification	Nikon Df	Nikon D800
Sensor resolution
Sensor type
Sensor size
Pixel size
Low pass filter
Dust removal
Image size
CPU
Viewfinder type	Pentaprism	Pentaprism
Viewfinder coverage
Built-in flash
Flash sync speed
Memory cards
Continuous Shooting Speed	5.5 fps	4.6 fps
Maximum shutter speed	1/4000 to 30 seconds	1/8000 to 30 seconds
Shutter Reliability	150,000 cycles	200,000 cycles
Metering sensor	2016 pixel RGB sensor 3D Color Matrix Metering ll	91,000 pixel RGB sensor 3D Color Matrix Metering lll
Minimum ISO
Standard ISO sensitivity
Increase ISO
Auto focus system	Multi-CAM 4800DX	Multi-CAM 4800DX
Focus points	39, 9 cruciform	51, 11 cruciform
Detection
Compatible with AI lenses
Video recording capability
Video output		MOV compressed
Maximum video resolution		1920x1080 (1080p) 30p, 24p
Audio recording		Built-in microphone, the ability to connect an external stereo microphone
LCD display size	3.2" TFT-LCD	3.2" TFT-LCD
LCD screen resolution	921,000 dots	921,000 dots
Built-in GPS
wifi module	Eye-Fi compatible, WU-1a	Eye-Fi compatible, WT-4A
Battery	EN-EL14a lithium-ion battery	EN-EL15 lithium-ion battery
Charger
weather seal
	Magnesium alloy top and back panel	magnesium alloy
Weight (body only)
	143.5 x 110 x 66.5mm	144.7 x 121.92 x 81.28mm
Price	$2,749	$2,999

One important difference between the two models is the matrix. The D800 offers a huge 36 megapixel sensor, while the Nikon Df has a 16 megapixel sensor. The huge resolution of the sensor ceases to be the advantage of the camera when it comes to comparing ISO performance. The D800 has a lower native ISO, in the 100-6400 range, while the Df has a sensitivity range in the ISO 100-12800 range. Sensor resolution is very individual, with some users opting for a lower resolution in exchange for better performance. The high resolution of the sensor is only useful for large-format prints and framing. In addition, Nikon D800 creates massive JPEG and RAW files. Experienced photographers know that large files put a lot of strain on the camera when shooting bursts and take a toll on the computer when post-processing RAW images.

Working with the D800 is full of its own nuances and moments that not every master will like. So, for example, when working with the D800 and setting the shutter speed, you should set the values ​​\u200b\u200bby a few points more and make the shutter speed faster. Working with the camera often requires the use of a tripod, all this is necessary for the best clarity and sharpness of the shots. Generally, portrait photographers are reluctant to take on the D800, for the reasons mentioned above. In this regard, Nikon Df may be more attractive to a certain circle of photographers. The camera creates small files with a decent resolution, which will be enough for most images. The new camera will work great with most Nikkor lenses, and you can connect both modern AF-S models and classic AI manual focus optics to the camera. The camera works great in low light conditions, the pictures are clear, without noise.