Nikon D3 review
Review Date : Mon, 4 Feb 2008
Author : Jamie Harrison
- Product Shots: http://www.whatdigitalcamera.com/equipment/galleries/productshots/nikon/8852/1/0/nikon-d3-product-shots.html
- Sample Photos: http://www.whatdigitalcamera.com/equipment/galleries/sample-images/nikon/9239/1/0/nikon-d3-sample-images_pg_Inspire.html
- Video: http://www.whatdigitalcamera.com/videos/reviews/180327/wdc-video-review-of-the-nikon-d3.html
The range-topping 12.1-megapixel D3 is Nikon's first digital SLR with a full-frame sensor.
| Pros: | Excellent image quality, build, low-light performance, speed, AF system, LCD |
|---|---|
| Cons: | Could argue the resolution could be higher, Live View on fixed LCD |
The Nikon D3 is arguably the most anticipated camera of recent times. It stands out from the pack on several fronts. First, it’s Nikon’s most highly specified camera to date, aimed at the pro market mainly, but is sure to be picked up by the more comfortably-off enthusiast.
Second, it’s Nikon’s first full-frame DSLR, which means that the sensor is the same size as a traditional 35mm frame.
Third, it bridges a gap between its two predecessors, the D2XS and the D2HS. This is possibly the most interesting concept behind the camera. Where previously photographers had to choose between the high resolution D2XS and the low resolution but faster D2HS, the D3 has combined the two into one body. This allows press photographers, say, which is Nikon’s traditional pro market, to shoot high-res for magazine work, or shoot to a fast frame rate for sports or news stories. To a working professional this means they only need to buy one camera, so saving £3,000 immediately.
Verdict
There’s a lot of debate over which is better, the Nikon D3 or the Canon 1D Mk III. The Nikon does seem to have much in its favour, not least the price. While the D3 has arguably a rather conservative resolution by comparison, its performance shows that it isn’t all about the pixel count, and makes a strong case for fewer, but bigger pixels. <br> Overall, the D3 is an extremely well-specified camera with fantastic performance across the board – in the AF system, the speed, and the superb image quality that can be achieved, even at high ISOs. In short, the D3 is as good as it gets right now and as such achieves our highest ever score.
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