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New Nikon D4 Pro DSLR Camera
Make way for the new Nikon D4 digital SLR camera. This baby boasts an FX-format 16.2-megapixel CMOS Sensor for superior image quality. Its large 3.2" ultra-sharp 921,000-dot LCD monitor features automatic brightness control, adjusting visibility based on the environment to ensure bright, clear playback, menu browsing and Live View shooting.
The LCD gives you the power to enlarge images up to 46X for focus confirmation. EXPEED 3 optimized for still image and HD video capture ensures high color fidelity, fine tones and a high, expandable dynamic range. A quicker, more responsive 51-point autofocus system captures subjects in your choice of two ways: With the points working like a net to capture subjects in motion or concentrating on achieving pinpoint accuracy.
For challenging conditions and situations, the Nikon D4 allows you to drop from the standard ISO 100 down to ISO 50 equivalent, or conversely, increase sensitivity up to ISO 204800 equivalent. Wow. Shoot with confidence under virtually all lighting conditions. Enjoy full 1080p HD broadcast quality video at 30 or 24 fps in H.264/MPEG-4 AVC HD format, and record clips up to 29 minutes 59 seconds long. You can also see simultaneous Live View output on external monitors and record uncompressed video courtesy of the HDMI terminal.
Not one, but two Live View shooting modes are at your fingertips: Photography Live View and Movie Live View. Easily confirm exposure, white balance, monitor hue, histogram, focus mode, AF area mode and focusing accuracy. Nikon has separated flash compensation and exposure compensation in this camera to give you greater creative control.
You’re also sure to appreciate the dedicated Nikon Picture Control Button offering six preset options: Standard, Neutral, Vivid, Monochrome, Landscape and Portrait for still images and video. You also get nine customizable settings offering sophisticated and personalized color control. Time-lapse shooting enables you to capture a broad scope of subjects at blazing-fast speed. Face detection via the optical viewfinder and detailed scene analysis with the 91K-pixel RGB sensor allow for superb auto exposure, auto white balance detection, AF performance and i-TTL flash exposure.
The D4 sports an extremely durable magnesium alloy body with weather sealing, so you can 
confidently expect peak performance even in harsh environments. The camera’s shutter has been put to the test and has proven to be good for 400,000 cycles at extreme continuous burst rates over extended periods of time—so you need not worry about that, either.
The Nikon D4 is compatible with the WT-5A wireless transmitter: Transmit images to an FTP server or computer via Image transmission mode. In PC mode, operate the D4 with Camera Control Pro 2. There’s also an HTTP mode, enabling you to use a Web browser on your computer or smart phone, display thumbnails of images stored in the camera’s memory cards, or create slide shows, view images, manipulate simple camera controls for remote shooting, or even start live view shooting, including video recording.
A true power saver, the D4 runs on the new, compact and high-capacity EN-EL18 rechargeable Li-ion battery. You can count on extended battery life and the ability to capture roughly 2,600 images on a single charge. Convinced yet? We look forward to getting our hands on a new D4 soon.
Nikon also released a New Nikkor AF-S 85mm f-1.8G read the announcement about this latest lens.
Comments
i want this...cam
This camera looks awesome... but really... think about it... photography is still about composition and light. It is about how you can use the existing light to create great images. But I would like to really get some input on Nikon glass. It seems (atleast to me), that more professionals use Canon these days than Nikon, and also Nikon has fallen behind in terms of glass. I would much rather have a simplified set of lenses (like the L-series) that tells me... look if you buy anything from this range you are getting the best. This way I don't have to know the difference between ED, G and what ever other abbreviations Nikon has for its glass. So ladies and gents, can we please talk about glass that would be worthy of such a titan?
You are right that physics and optics and the energy of light generate the picture. But it is the electronics and software that captures it.
The weakest link in your equipment determines what you can get: Glass, camera, skill, experience, preparedness, maybe luck, patience, etc.
For me I benefit from incredible picture control, very fast, several times in a row.
Example: consider this repeating series of images: ISO 6400 at f2.8 minimum 1/320 sec then: ISO 200 at f4.5 with a plus 1.3EV spot meter at 1/2000 sec: then back to low light. This changes every 3.5 to 4 seconds. I compose and shoot 3 to 5 frames at each setting and then change to the next setting. And then back again. Usually for 4 to 5 minutes at a time. This ain't no point and shoot camera scenario.
My Nikons can do things that Cannon hasn't drempt about. (Or maybe they have, but it hasn't happened yet)
Cannon users don't understand the ISO Auto settings with minimum shutter speed that is my main stay in fast changing low to medium light and fast action.
I use excellant Glass, selected for the task. Maybe even two bodies with different lenses, but capturing the fleeting image, for me is more limited by the camera body.
For 30min max of recording? For that price it should be 60min if not continuous recording. I will go with an actual video camera until they make a DSLR that can shoot at least 60min of video. But the iso capability is very tempting. They also need XLR ports with preamps and a mixer. Check Canon's EOS C300 at .http://www.bhphotovideo.com/indepth/canon/announcements/new-canon-eos-c300c300-pl-cinema-cameras
PS Yes I know that Panasonic makes one that shoots DLSR, but nothing can be Nikon’s glass. And I love Nikon and Canon's that just my preference.
I was told that Nikon has a long term problem with their sensors. Nikon was getting their sensors from Sony in the past (built to their own specs) but since Sony is now pussing to gain market share and respect in the professtional market they are keeping the larger chips for their own use. This is why Nikon has been only releasing cameras with slightly higher sensors for the past two years and trying to offer expanded range to increase their offerings. Compared to Cannon and Sony they are falling behind in sensor size.
Has anyone else heard of this? I am a HUGE Nikon fan and would hate to see them fall behind and Sony just misses something compared to Nikon.
Frankly, I was disppointed to see the increase in image size. I'd rather have a 12MP image with even better quality in low light.
Considering that the Nikon D3200 has 36MP, I think Nikon's decision to keep the D4's pixel count low was deliberate. That helps keep Nikon on top of the event/action/wildlife game. The D4 is relatively poor for landscape or portraits.
I'm from Vietnam. I'm very happy with my D3s and my D700 some of my lenses are Tamron. The Nikon fast lens are very good but too expensive to have. I was a long time photographer and I know one thing: lenses and camera can help us taking best quality pictures but good pictures depend on the "exact moment" you shoot not more. School can teach you about all tecniques but "no one" can teach you when to shoot. But from long long time ago i'm still using Nikon and one more thing I can tell you I die with my Nikon...
Now 70 retiring at 64, I retired my10 film shooting Nikon bodies and and many lenses to learn Digi. I aspire to take the BEST of the BEST photos: surf/surfing, football/baseball/volleyball. racing indoor and outdoor, daytime and night time as well as indoor events like concerts and weddings. I started by making a painful decision to start with D90 buying fast Nikon lenses to start and wait as long as it took for THE NIKON that replace the D3X with the "ultimate pro camera". I have the money and strength use a pro cam. This NEW D4 sounds awesome but not what I am waiting for. If the next pro Nikon is a D3X replacement for action photog's will it answer my dream of THE FAST and THE LOW LIGHT pro cam?
Hello,
Since the D4 has yet to ship, we have no idea what of if a D4X would offer. One might assume based on the previous "X" models, the camera would be faster handling, but at this early point in time, we do not know.
The price is too high- thinking cannon?
Learn to spell will you!!!!!!! PLEASE
Que tipo de cartão ela irá usar? Será o CF ou ou SDHC???
A D7000 mostrou-se eficiente com slots de 2 cartões SDHC ? Será o mesmo sistema?
Hello;
Lamento, eu não falo português.
The D7000 DSLR features twin SD card slots with SD, SDHC, SDXC memory card compatibility that offers a several recording options including designating separate NEF (RAW) JPEG and movie files
We have a department dedicated to our Brazilian customers, I cannot help you with an order shiped there.
phone: 0800-891-0325
fax: 0800-891-0320
For our Portuguese Speaking Customers: vendas@bhphotovideo.com
Serious question:
Does anyone know how the D4 performs on long exposures (> 120 secs) at 100 or 200 ISO?
To be precise, does the increased pixel count of the D4 increase the noise levels compared with D3 performance?
An informed answer (as opposed to supposition/assumption) would be appreciated.
Thanks
If it is really 6k for the body, then I guess my good old F100 and D100 will get to continue providing me with great service for a few more years. Besides, when I have the time, I prefer simple, yet elegant large format and pinhole cameras any day over all the techno-babble.
The camera, I'm sure, will be amazing and for the "money no object" guys at Sports Illustrated and other action pro shooters, it will be their next purchase. But for me, $6K is a lot of money. Plus, I wonder what pro would go to an assignment with only 1 body - so that means $12K?
My hope was that the new camera would come in at the same price as the current D3s so all of the dentists and doctors with lightly used Nikons in their Billingham bags would trade them in so I could afford to buy one used for CHEAP!!! Ha!
At these prices, I'm thinking that might not happen.
Nice camera. My hat's off to Nikon. Unless I hit the PowerBall, this one will have to remain just a dream.
This is a full frame camera like you had when you used 35mm film. It's not the tiny APS size format almost all DSLR cameras use. It is outragously expensive but so were the APS format DSLR when they were first introduced.
Though it is a full frame format, it will also shoot in the DX format, as well as a 2.7 format. All while maintaining 1080 resolution.
Love the camera, hate the price. I think I can wait a bit until the Camera comes down in price.
Now that we have actual photographs and description, the rumors were way off. This camera is a work of art, a precision camera designed for true Professionals. It's comparable to, or better than Canon's new Pro model, and it's in the same price range as well. This is no toy, and a Professional Photographer would not think twice before buying this camera. The people that are complaining about the price do not understand that this is a tool, a tool of the Photographers trade. Photographers invest twenty thousand dollars or more on their lenses, why would they want a five hundred dollar body? There are many cameras to suite all the complainers, they start in that $500.00 range. I'm sure that those cameras are designed for the people that are complaining. Those people should not even be window shopping over here. I really think that those complaining about the price should know that this type of camera was not designed with them in mind, They are looking at something that's out of their league. This camera may very well be the best that NIKON has designed. I am very impressed! High quality has never been known to be inexpensive!
I am in dilemma all the while keeping my sincererity to my nikon lenses and a few of the leica prime lenses. Should i go for the D4 or just wait for the new leica M. Pocket wise there will be bigger holes left and right. Any trade off for D2X, D100 and Leica M6 Platinum Bodies. Lenses not for sale I got mine from B&H Perth.
The only camera to compare the D4 to is the D3. Later on in the year the 4DS and 4DX will be released. Those you can compare to the 3DS and 3DX.
Seems there are guys here who don't know that high pixel count per square inch of sensor, or whatever measure you use, is bad for noise suppersion, while big pixels are good! The new D4 have a few millions, on a very big sensor, while a NEX-7 has almost twice as many on a much smaller sensor, thus it has lots of noise problems.
I personally prefer less noise problems, than more, so for me the new Nikon ia a move in the right direction!
Only 16.3MP? Really? My Canon 60D has 18. Sheesh. I was expecting more for the big D4 release. ::yawn::
I also started out w/ a Nikkormat back in the 70's and have been true to Nikon ever since. It took me awhile to switch to digital, but I do love my D300. I also subscribe to a couple of Photo mags, and the pros are using everything from film (Velvia) to D200's, up to the latest and greatest. I still have my F100, and I'm not sure what to do with that. A bit reluctant to part with it for some reason. I do notice the weight difference between film & digital cameras. I recently traveled to the Azores and used a Slinger camera strap - was easy to use and distributed the weight nicely while hiking and walking all over the place. I pack as minimally as possible. The D4 looks pretty awesome. I like the low/high ISO feature. Maybe someday.
Nikon marketing is sending a strong message to the pro and semi pro photographers with such a steep price for so very little. . It's obvious they are more intrested in capturing OPP consumers with Ashton Kutcher being the spokeperson for Nikon. My assumption is Nikon needs to supliment his salary / fees by charging crazy prices for semi pro equiptment. After reviewing the specs on the D4 there is no logical reason to buy this product except for the Expeed 3 processor. I for one, am very disappointed with the direction Nikon has taken. They no longer appeal to the pro. They have taken a "me Too" position when they should be displaying a strong leadership position in an industry they helped forge.
I will wait until the spring of 2012 to see if Nikon decided to play like a big boy again in the pro arena. If not I intend to update my equiptment with a MFG who is serrious about top quality image capturing at reasonable costs. Innovation is key to any product launch, the D4 lacks true innovation.
OMG !!!! It's not 3D ... AAAAaaaaaahhh
FML.... That just means that cannon and sony are not coming out with 3d DSLRs too.... :'(
D4.... Can we expect a son of D4/D700 update soon?????
This is a great news. At last Nikon opened the deadlock. This model will enable Nikon to stay ahead and not change the model for comming 5 years. And.... LOL..... Canon can take clue of the user reactions to announce 5D mark III with what customer wants. Canon can now go for mark III without video capability as C300 is there for that purpose. At this sun set time (slowing economy) we need afordable tool with only required features.
Very impressive features I'd love to try out, but I have to face facts:
1. I'm not a pro and never will be one.(At least not a D3 or D4 caliber pro)
2. I don't anticipate having the funds to ever purchase a D4.
3. Even if someone gave me a D4 I couldn't get around enough to ever use it to it's potential.
You pros and rich amatuers enjoy the features to the best of your ability as I plug along with my old D50. I had the oportunity to shoot with a D300 once and was amazed at the difference in image quality, so I can only try to imagine the difference a D4 would make. BTW....if any of you guys or gals had a D80-D200 retired on a shelf gathering dust that you could donate(or nearly donate) to me it would definitely still have some drool factor remaining for me.
I enjoyed reading the article and the comments very much. The comments are often more educational than the article.
I read Nikon's D4 announcement, as well as this one from B&H, but nowhere did I read anything about two features which would be very important to me and would compel me to upgrade from my D3s: Autofocus in movie mode and being able to view what I am shooting through the eyepiece, instead of having to rely on the monitor on the back of the camera (try using that in sunlight - an articulated instead of a fixed monitor on the back of the camera would at least help adjust for that). Not having either of those two features on my D3s severely limits my ability to shoot movies with these cameras, and I have no interest in getting another camera that requires external ways of monitoring and adjusting focus, or viewing through external monitors. Therefore this new flagship model is not, as Nikon says, "the ultimate in versatility and functionality." I guess I'll just continue to wait...
the reason you can't see through the eyepiece while in movie mode (or liveview for that matter) is related to the fundamental design of a SLR camera: the mirror that sends the image from the lens directly to the pentaprism/viewfinder (when its down) OR the film/digital sensor (when it flips up).
so if you're shooting in movie mode, the mirror is already flipped up and the shutter is wide open so the sensor can record the movie. that's why you can't see through the eyepiece.
and the D4 does have AF in movie mode.
What, no built in GPS? And I thought the CF card was dead. Apparently not so.
16.1 MP? I expected at least 21-26 MP for the top of the line.
Yeah... no joke.
Great looking camera, but why only 16.2 megapixels?
Why not 24 megapixels to compete with Canon?
I was told that Nikon is not offering larger chips because Sony has been making their chips in the past for them (to their specs) but they are holding back on the larger chips because Sony is trying to gain market share in the professtional market. Nikon has not been keeping pace with Canon or Sony for the past few years since Sony entered the higher end market! I am a huge Nikon fan and still get the pictures I want with the size chips they offer but Nikon is offering much smaller sensors for the same price it seems. How much longer is Nikon going to keep making new cameras with 25% less pixals?
Uncompressed video from the HDMI! Nice. Wonder if its 8 or 10 bit.
tang-ina this!!!
Wish Nikon would work on giving some of us cameras that take only pictures! NO VIDEO and use the money diffeence in providing cameras and lenses with added improvements or lesser pricing.
I fully agree. I never ever do video and it´s a waste having to pay for it. No sense in having a more complex device than it could be, either.
I'm a Canon shooter but all my equipment needs replacing so I'm open to switching. Has Nikon Pro Services improved any? I can send my gear off to Canon's Pro Service and have in back in one week, how long is Nikon taking.
What is a compatible HD recorder that has an HDMI input? Format?
Hello,
The ATOMOS Ninja 2.0 Video Hard Disk Recorder captures real-time, high-quality 10-bit Apple ProRes video files with resolutions up to 1920 x 1080. Connect it to the HDMI output of your camcorder to bypass the camcorder's internal compression – you'll enjoy 4:2:2 capture at various selectable quality levels.
The nanoFlash Bundle from Convergent Design records video, audio and timecode from an HD-SDI stream onto readily available CompactFlash (CF) cards, employing the high quality Sony 4:2:2 MPEG2 codec for compression. Boasting an incredibly small size and super low-power consumption, the nanoFlash stands poised to revolutionize the broadcast video industry.
High-Quality MPEG2 Compressed Recording using Sony hardware CODEC module, stored into Quicktime (MOV), MXF, or MPG file formats with audio and timecode.
I am really wow-ing. I started with a D40 X then last year went to a D300S which I love. . . maybe one day. . . . dreaming
Amazing but expensive. There's some videos of the D4 in action on Paul D's blog:
http://paul-d.tv/blog/2012/01/06/and-so-it-begins-nikon-d4-hdslr-announced/
hola cuanto cuesta la camara en pesos mexicanos, pueden hace envios a mexico, estado de queretaro, cuanto costaria.
saludos
Hola:
Lo sentimos pero Nikon no nos permite vender sus productos fuera de los EEUU.
Yo lo siento, no hablo español.
Para ventas via E-mail "en español" spanish@bhphotovideo.com
Gracias
Just pre-ordered mine. The D3 I've had for 3 1/2 years (and paid $5k for) will be another backup. As a working pro this looks terrific.
First: To B&H, Please delete all the negative comments from this post because it floods this with useless information. The negative comments take away from useful, objective or positive comments on a new product by Nikon.
Second: Back to the Nikon D4. I hope reviews come out shortly as I am interested to see how this product performs and compared to current Nikon line, mainly D3s and D3X, as well as its competitor, Canon.
BT... last I checked, this is still a FREE SPEACH country. We all have a right to express an opinion!
LJN,
No arguments with you about free speech but lets be more objective rather than giving a negative opinion and criticisms. This product just came out and some people are already bashing it without any further information or experience with the D4. Unless you and any others have had the opportunity to use the D4 prior to the launch, then your opinion doesn't help anyone here who may consider purchasing this. I and most people are on this blog to get information on price and specs.
I don't think you understand the whole concept of 'Free Speech'. The First Amendment was made to protect 'unpopular speech' and to allow for 'unpopular voices' to be heard. If everyone was allowed to only say what you agreed with there would be no point to having the First Amendment. Please, educate yourself.
As to the camera, I am sure D4 will be a hit as was D3s. The choice of upgrade for many will come down to one thing: how important is video to your work?
Finally, there is no such thing as a 'pro camera body'. A pro uses various tools for a job. If a job requires a more expensive tool they will buy it and use it. If they can get away with using something cheaper that gets the job done they will do that instead. I know plenty of talented wedding photographers who use D700 and D90's. It works for them and they get paid. At the end that's all that matters and the tools used are dictated by the requirements of the job.
I agree.
Seems unreal that so many plopped down 6K for pre-order without even waiting for reviews.
I am on the fence because am thinking of buying the D3s but I will wait for reviews which have comparisons.
ESTABA A PUNTO DE COMPRAR LA D3S... CUANTO VA A INCREMENTAR..$$$$$
Hola;
La diferencia de precio entre la D3 y D4 son $ 800. Yo lo siento, no hablo español.
Para ventas via E-mail "en español" spanish@bhphotovideo.com
Gracias
I'm going to sell the house and get two.
Not sure if that $6,000 is the retail or street.
It appears that your housing market hasn't hit bottom yet like mine has. I am going to sell mine house and buy one camera body. I will have to polish some Coke Bottles and make my own lens though. :-)
Where's the D800?
I am disappointed. The D7000 already does a great job with 16 mp. Granted that at high ISO ...very low light, its image quality degrades a little more than the FX cameras. But not much, and that isn't the common use of such cameras. To me this camera should have come in as a 24 megapixel FX. It's technologically possible, it is the size most commentators have viewed as comparable to film, and it would blow away the whole market if it had D700 sensitivity. At this point, I personally am not going to spend however many thousands are involved to get less.
Wait for the D4s or D4x for higher resolution. It's coming.
For those of you comparing the D4 to the size, weight, and price of pro-sumer camera's, such as the D90, D700, etc. you simply do not know what you're talking about. It's like comparing apples to oranges. This is not some camera a grandma would be usinbg at home to take pictures of her dog. This is a PROFESSIONAL tool which is designed to be used by PROFESSIONAL photographers. You people who take photos of bugs and pets do not qualify as professionals, no matter what you think or how good you think you are.
The weight of this camera is in-line with other professional offerings from both Nikon and Canon.
The price of this camera is actually cheap compared to past FULL-FRAME professional offerings from either Canon or Nikon.
This tool is what is what it is and was designed for the working professional, please don't bash it pro-sumers until you educate yourself. After you do that, then come back here and offer us an educated opinion in this forum.
well put. i have been trying to think of something to say and you nailed it.
Just for the record - I know of several " PROFESSIONAL" photographers who often reach for a D700 for some of their assignments. It is lighter than the D3(s) while still offering very close to the same image quality and should not even be mentioned in the same sentence as a D90.
I'm one of those "prosumers" you mention, and I agree with you 100%!! If I were to "go pro" I would probably desire this camera, but for me it's way more than I NEED. But I'm not going to dis it, either! It sounds like a great camera, and that's probably an understatement. I appreciate it for what it is--an awesome upgrade for you pros out there, who I respect and admire. I've done some wedding photography back in the film days, and even from my meager experience, I know it's a lot of hard work in addition to talent that makes a good pro, so I don't begrudge anyone who has the desire and/or means to buy this new offering. I can't wait to hear real-world reviews after it releases for sale.
Why can't Nikon make a D4 without the video. the video I think is useless. I would understand for a photojournalist it might be usful. But wild life photographers would just prefer a DSLR without the video and not pay for a feature they are not going to use anyway.
This is NOT a professional level camera - this camera is aimed at the amatuer market. When would you every use it? Can't shoot video anf still at the same time. Naw - this is an attempt by Nikon to steal some of Canon's thunder.
I would argue with you on that. I am a prof photographer, having shot for Modern Luxury, Vogue, MTV, President Obama, on and on and on. All I use are Nikon D3s'
Magazine covers, billboards, art, all compete with the HD4 systems which I debated on buying. I haven't shot Video with it, but image quality will surpase Canon's which is where the D3s failed on.
This is a professional camera! For video, 80% of the quality is post production. I would prefer a Red Epic, but $60k better out do a $6k camera. Still I have two cinema photographers that shoot for me, and the SLR's are very popular now for shooting.
Very precise and correct.
Any talk about a D 400 soon ??
Hello,
Not that we've heard. We will post any offical announcments ASAP.
Finally the D4. 6K for 16mp & vid HD. How long a wait for the D3x replacement? I'll wait for 30mp.
Why wait for 30MP 35mm when you can get 30MP+ in medium format today?!
Ouch....$6K?! At that price, the Leica M9 starts to look tempting, as does any of the entry-level medium format digital offerings.
I have a nikon D 2Xs and i´ve been waiting a lot for a change, now nikon presents the new D4 but I´m not sure if for me is better than the D3X . is smart wait for the D4X ?? I´m a little dissapointed.
According to the limited information in the review, it appears this camera only has one processor. How will this perform compared to Canon's 1Dx with two processors?
but they're not using the same processor. it's not like they're both using the identical processor from a third party vendor. both use their own proprietary processor, so you can't compare the merely on the quantity of processors.
Hello,
We'll have to wait for both cameras to become available and field tested to see what the differences might be.
If this body costs $6,000-USD - I'd rather spend a little more for the D3X. But I'll be sticking with my D7000 for now.
I don't know how you can even compair D7000, a consumer camera, for the pro lineup.
D3x is great but not in low light like the D3 and now D4. Depends on what you are shooting, but the image quality between the two cameras is off the chart. I have compaired the D700 to the D3s and there was a huge difference in color, and image quality using the same light, lens, etc.
I've got some change in my pocket, going ging a ling a ling, might have to stick with my Kodak Brownie, still takes great HDR Pics for now. Lol
To those who complain about the price: this camera is not for you, this camera is for experienced professionals who makes a (good) living producing images and/or press agencies that supply the best equipment to their photographers. Nikon produces a wide array of camera bodies that complies with every budget. If you're a hobbyist or semi-professional then I would strongly urge you to spend your money wisely and invest in good lenses, not camera bodies.
I agree - no point in having cheap glass on a camera body!!
I actually wish it didn't have the video. It looks like a solid, top of the food chain camera. Adding video just ups the cost of production and resale and adds one more potential problem should anything get wonky with it. Make a separate video camera. I jumped to Nikon from a life with Canon a year ago and won't go back.
All I can say is wow! I am definitely in line for this one. I am also extremely excited about finally being able to record video via an uncompressed clean HDMI out. That's a HUGE game changer for those of us who use HDSLRs for video.
Currently I have been using the D7000 for stills/video and the HD video compression is less to be desired for anything more than local or online video presentation. Of course the stills are absolutely beautiful. That's what the camera is for after all. :)
SAMPLES OF D7000 video:
http://vimeo.com/29506127
http://vimeo.com/25434139
In all of this talk about video being uncompressed via HDMI, nobody has addressed uncompressed what? Is this HD video 4:0:0, 4:1:0, 4:1:1, or pro broadcast 4:2:2? It would surprise me if a camera in the quoted price range could actually capture 4:2:2 HD video or go all out with 4:4:4 and lose nothing in the capture sampling process. Has Nikon published the HD image sampling value and what is it? Let's not forget, you want to capture at the highest quality, if you're going to be adding effects or recompressing with each save on the NLE. And then even if you captured stellar video, if you edited it on a system that strips off the higher sampling depth to something it can handle, you haven't gained all that much.
hey Dr Doug, according to this video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=jT0Pb5SNXmU
the d4 has 8bit 4:2:2 uncompressed over HDMI
which makes it broadcast compatible. only issue i have is 8bit since 10bit is actually the standart for broadcast. 8bit is still ok. as we know mk2 5d was used for TV show (i think it was House)
Always Canon is superior. Much better then Nikon, specially with image quality.
On what planet?
From a video point-of-view i'd buy a f100 or af100 in a heartbeat before spending 5K+ for
this camera. How ever i'm sure it is a great still camera I have been working with a 1D II
and love it at still less than 5K. Who knows this may be a pre-active response to more
of the up-coming C series camera's from Canon.
Wrong way to go Nikon. Going down 8 MP and adding 1080 video? Please, The majority of people who want high end pro dslrs do NOT want video capabilities in their cameras. Just because the average consumer wants an all in one package, doesn't mean the rest of us do. You are alienating a certain group of people... The more crap you add onto a camera or anything, the more likely something will not work properly. I thought the 24.5MP D3X was the best on the market. This is a huge disappoinment in my opinion. What is that thud we heard? The sound of Nikons being dropped off at the local camera shop for a trade in to upgrade to Canons..
Nikon may have lost me as a lifelong owner of equipment. This is supposed to be the breakthrough? Maybe a D4X is in the works and will have a bigger censor.. But this D4 is just lame and sad.
if you're complaint is only about megapixels, canon's new flagship DSLR, the 1Dx, is 18MP, down from 21mp of the 1Ds. so even canon is heading towards a more reasonable MP count in favor of larger sensor pixel size for high ISO/low light performance. and if you just need high MP for studio work, then there is still the D3X.
and even if there will be a D4X or something else in the Nikon full frame pipeline that has a higher MP count in the future, it won't have a bigger sensor (not "censor"). the lenses have an imaging area that covers a full frame sensor, not something bigger.
further more, your complaint about the additional video capabilities and "more crap..add onto a camera" will lead people to buy canons doesn't make much sense. like it or not, the features that both companies keep introducing are response to users as well as what the other one is doing. sorry to tell you, but you will see video and other "crap" features when you "upgrade" to a canon.
it just sounds like you've never owned a full frame Nikon OR Canon, but just like to complain for no good reason.
There is a large worldwide market and Nikon have responded to the requirements of professional photographers globally.
Video and Still can go together very well, in war zones having both in one camera has been a huge advantage. At the London Olympics still camera men will be able to take video just as easily as getting a still. Any pro camera needs to meet the needs of a very diverse set of users few may use all of the features, many will only master those they need or understand.
Dismissing a launch of a new camera which uses the advances of the intervening years to upgrade functionality is very short sighted.
If the size of the sensor is a key factor for you then move up to the Hasselblad H4D-200MS’s "amazing 200 million-pixel resolution brings unprecedented detail and resolution to your still life and studio photography".
It's not like the D3X was discontinued. Still IS one of the best cameras on the market and clearly if you don't intend on using a video function, don't buy this. Your efforts to drop a camera company and all the glass you may own are reminiscent of a child complaining about a new toy while all the toys he still loves are right behind him.
What application do you need 24+ MP? I have 16 now and it is way too much for what I do. Have you ever seen what even a 10MP image looks like in life comparison?
And you want a bigger sensor? I'm not so sure you read the specs on this camera... A bigger sensor would be a whole new line than Nikon or even Canon offers- Hasselblad Medium Format.
Video may not be for you, don't buy this camera. Or don't use the video function. I know DSLR owners who have never used the video capabilities because they don't need to. Hell, I know other owners and keep their stuff on AUTO all of the time.
Your opinion is discredited by your ignorance.
Maybe I could sell a kidney and some limbs to buy it.
Tooo much $$$$ ! You kidding or what ?
No one has ever asked me to shoot stills AND video. They hire a video person AND a still person. Having a camera that does both must be for a "special use group" ... non-pros that think they need both, or corporate HR types who think they'll need both (but don't). I just hope they don't replace the D3 with this thing. Another example of how Nikon is amatuer consumer driven. Really, do you Need this - I think not!
I have been hired to shoot stills and video. And use cameras for both of those. However, I love my dslr for video because the depth of field is incredible on it. It's also the camera I grab when I'll need video and photo of events.
I know a number of working photogs that use both frequently and while they may be a minority, they are growing, whether you like it or not. Nikon made a great camera for journalist who do it all with one small kit, studio photographers that need resolution and dynamic range, and filmmakers that don't want to buy an F3.
Looks great. I am glad I didn't go with the D3s. But why did they go with the XQD card? Sony is the only one who makes them!!!
somebody help the dummy. what is an XQD card?
It looks great. Glad I didn't get the D3s- But why does it use the XQD card? Sony is the only one who makes them.....
Hello,
XQD was recently announced by the Compact Flash Association and is based around the PCI Express specifications, allowing write speeds of 125MB/sec and beyond. Sony has become the first company to offer a range memory cards in the XQD format.
Sony claims that, when used in the brand new Nikon D4, (currently the only camera supporting the format), the cards can record up to around 100 frames in RAW format in continuous shooting mode. The first cards will be available from the end of January.
Sony has also announced a USB 3.0 card reader for the format.
According to a Nikon (Tokyo) Press Release:
"The entire photographic workflow is faster with the D4. Superior, high-speed response with a power-up time of approximately 0.12 s*1 and a release time lag of roughly 0.042 s*1. In addition, support for high-speed, next-generation XQD memory cards enables a continuous shooting frame rate of 10 fps for up to approximately 100 shots even with shooting in RAW format*2. The camera is also equipped with dual memory card slots, one for XQD memory cards and one for CompactFlash memory cards, for smooth handling of images. What's more, professional photographers can work much faster with high-speed transfer of images to a computer when an XQD memory card reader supporting SuperSpeed USB (USB 3.0)*3 is used."
*1Measured according to CIPA guidelines
*2When a Sony XQD memory card H-series (QD-H16G, QD-H32) is used with capture of compressed 12-bit NEF (RAW) images (based on Nikon testing standards)
*3Sony MRW-E80 (based on Sony testing standards)
Nikon is pricing itself out of the market, look at sony nex7 for example, have no interest in 16mp at that price
You can't compare the NEX7 to the D4. The D4 is a professional camera with professional image quality. Period.
Thanks but no thanks. I shoot both Nikon and Canon but at this time I'd rather get 3 5D Mk IIs for the price of this. I'll wait for a year or two.
I've worked with Nikons for over 4 years now and believe them to be the mercedes of cameras.
I would love to buy this but 6 grand$$$$. Nikon, come on!!!
Ill have to wait for it to drop around 4,000.
I would have to sell both of my d300s and still have to come up with the differance. I don't think it's worth it right now. I'll wait!!!
C'mon guys. For a lot less you could get a real professional video camera that uses XLR audio and mega controls over the image. This is nothing buy hype for folks with more money than brains.
Panasonic, Sony, Canon make awesome video cameras in the $$$$$ range. You get more for a lot less.
And the ergonomics of the camera for video are ridiculous without adding another $5,000 in hardware to make it more "video usable". And only 30 minute shoot time? At 3 pounds, weight for this SLR is obscene.
Have you noticed the wave of people moving away from HD-DSLRs with video towards camcorders and DSLRs, each good for a separate job? These people have done their homework.
Check out Sony NEX-FS100UK camcorder with interchangeable lens (18-200mm lens supplied) all for $5399.00 at B&H after $200 mail-in rebate. Sensor is the size of APS-C (about 23 x 13mm), which is huge for camcorder. The output is awesome, even in low light. It does true 1920 x 1080p at various frame rates.
As for DSLR, the D4 is amazing but so are the D300S and the D700.
Also, I prefer an appropriate level of megapixels for sensor size rather than a mega-high level because you get bigger pixels per unit of sensor and thus less noise and more info per pixel. 16mp is about the optimum on a full frame sensor, if I'm not mistaken.
Sounds great! Oh by the way, does that professional video camera have an f/1.4 lens for superior low light performance and amazingly shallow cinematic depth of field? Oh... wait.
Whatever......Right now I have more brains than money...hence I am selling my Harley to get this baby and a few good pieces of glass!!!.... love the HD video offering of the D4, I like to switch from stills to motion picture on the fly so having my camera and video set-up all-in-one works for me!!!
As for the weight?...I work out and love the heavy feel, gives me more steady control. My advise to all you weaklings?..buy a point and shoot or build some muscle.
As for price?...buy a point and shoot or save up/sell something/find a way....quit whining!!!
Lol. I second that
The 30 minute video shoot time is not a technical limitation. It's there because if they go over it qualifies the camera as a video recorder, not a still camera. Puts it into a different tax bracket. GH2 has the same limit.
This is interesting, I thought it was always a technological limitation. Thanks for this.
You must be kidding ? Name one camera with APS-C, let alone Full Frame senzor.
As for D4, 1Dx will be wiping floor with it, photo or video...
I agree.
oh wow very nice..... let me sale a kidney for that 6 grand price tag.
What is the buffer size? If I can shoot 10/11 fps, how many shots before I have to pause for the buffer to dump to a memory card? This info is not provided in the D4's tech specs.
advertised at 200 pic buffer... we shall see...
Hello,
According to Nikon:
The camera's large buffer memory allows shooting up to approx. 100 frames*2 in RAW and up to 200 frames*3 in JPEG (when using SONY XQD Memory Card H series QD-H32 with 32 GB capacity).
The email that B&H sent last night said 200!!! Holy Jesus, that's a big buffer. Maybe that is just for DX crop mode?
200 jpg and 105 raw
Send me a sample....I'll tell ya what I think...D90 ? D5100 ? or this ?
Did you Really just ask that question? D90? D5100? Or D4?
Thats like saying, do I want a Kite? or Helicopter or a F-22 Fighter Jet.
Read the specs and price on all of them... Please, PLEASE? READ?
Hey, it is $6K for the body, so it is a comparative bargin to the D3... hope it is up to snuff.
Already put 3 through college.......yipppeee, this bad girl come to me soon and sits with her older sister D3!
It appears one has a choice, either buy this camera or send the kid to college.
Why did they limit the resolution to just 16? Hardly better than the D300
The D4 image quality will be light years ahead of the D300 that is for sure. IQ has nothing to do with pixel count.
At some point one reaches the resolution limits imposed by the optics, pickup structure, or even the physics of light. Attempting to increase the pixel count beyond that without a bigger sensor area may sound good in advertising but doesn't give you any more information in the photograph. If you need more resolution, consider large format film. For example, an 8x10 camera with fine grain film would approach a gigapixel (1000 megapixel).
If that's the case, how is the rumored 36MP on the D800 justified?
Is it likely that the D800 sensor is that much bigger?
The sensor will be the same size - the d800 isn't going to be medium format or something.
Very well put! Not too many of today's photogs shot 8x10 film.
btw, Camera wars are good for us! Both camera systems are great, look at the top pros today. There are great Canon shooters and Nikon shooters, but all in all, a camera is a camera, is a camera, they all just sit there, until you pick it up and shoot!
Indeed... either system you choose it all boils down to the eye you have. Any photographer with a legitimate skill can figure out how to create his vision through any camera. I've honestly gotten some of my better shots with my ancient medium format Diana simply because it was the only camera I had with me. That being said GO NIKON lol.
Gee it isn't a bit complex is it? It has something like 22 buttons to work with!!! At first glanse it look cool but to me it is over done with controls(buttons). Why does everyone offer picture style buttons anyway? How often do you change your picture style setting?
I actually prefer Nikon's button-heavy approach compared with Canon's "stick it in a menu system" approach. After you have worked with any professional Nikon for just a few weeks, you can find buttons and make adjustments very easily without removing your eye from the camera. I'm not a Nikon fanboy either, I just like the buttons.
Am a proffesional photographer. Have worked with Nikon for 35 years and added Canons four years ago. Sold Canons last year. Love Nikon...still able to use 30 year old lenses and love the new ones.
Controls, very user friendly. Nikon way more dependable on jobs than Canon. Canons always in shop, not Nikon. Wish the new one had no video and a little less costly.
I am a button guy also...menu navigation sucks!!
i so wanted this last year... will order it today ..
Ive been wanting to upgrade my D2Sx, and looked at the D3s really closely. Glad I waited. Wow the stats on this camera are incredible. Got to visit my friendly banker now.
Price?
Anyone?
read above, it's been mentioned a few times... ;o)
So Nikon finally joins the race with a true competitor
I am so glad to see this from what use to be the standard of photography.
WELCOME BACK NIKON.
wow WHAT AN AWESOME CAMERA This looks to be my next option I am in the market for another camera I think thisis the one for me.thank you Nikon for being the Best .
B&H-----HOW MUCH? WHEN?---RON ROSS
and Feb 16,2012.
$5,999.
I think I need a cold shower!
Ditto.
My sentiments exactly.