DxOMark has published their first comparison between Canon and Nikon telephoto lenses. In the article they compare the AF-S Nikkor 500mm f/4G ED VR with the latest Canon EF 500mm f/4L IS II USM, and new Sony 500mm f/4 G SSM for the Alpha SLTs. As a bonus, they've also included a head to head with Nikon's premier super-telephoto the AF-S Nikkor 600mm f/4G ED VR and the Canon equivalent EF 600mm f/4L IS II USM.
To read the article please visit the DxOMark site.
NIKON UK Press Statement 26-March-2012
Nikon UK can confirm a correction to the originally published recommended retail prices (RRP) on the D800, D800E and D4 products.
Due to a local internal systems error, the incorrect RRPs on the D800, D800E and D4 products were communicated in the UK and Irish markets at the time of announcement. The correct RRPs for the products should have been D4: £5289.99, D800: £2,599.99 and D800E: £2,899.99. We would like to apologise sincerely to our customers for this unfortunate mistake, which has been corrected with immediate effect. We know that there has been strong consumer interest in these products and a high level of pre-orders placed with retailers; Nikon will be honouring the original prices to retailers on all customer pre-orders placed before March 24th 2012.
Press release:
A PROFESSIONAL VIEW: NIKON CONFIRMS FOCUS ON IMAGING SHOW
Stand D40, Hall 9 &10 4- 7th March 2012
London, UK, February 2012: Nikon UK is pleased to announce it will be exhibiting its full professional line up at Europe’s biggest annual imaging show, Focus on Imaging, from 4th – 7th March.
Following a spate of recent product launches, Nikon will be showcasing its exciting new products, including the new Nikon D4 and D800 professional cameras. A range of lenses will also be available to try out with the help of a team of Nikon experts who will be on hand to assist with any technical queries.
Along with the chance to check out the new products, an exciting seminar schedule has been lined up to include well-known names such as wildlife photographer Andy Rouse, national sports photographer Mark Pain and fashion photographer John Wright, who will give some insight into his experience of shooting stills and movie with a new D800 camera. Plus, Nikon has scheduled 3 seminars every day covering the details of the new products.
For full details on Nikon’s line up of guest speakers, please click here (pdf download)
Jeremy Gilbert, Nikon’s Group Marketing Manager says: “We’ve taken a slightly different approach this year and will using the show as a platform to showcase our professional equipment; we’ve just launched two very exciting professional cameras which are likely to get a lot of attention at the show.
He added: “The Focus on Imaging show is a great opportunity for visitors to get their hands on the cameras and talk to our team of experts before they buy.”
Nikon started producing technical guides, in-depth sales brochures, alongside the regular brochure as far back as 1980 for the F3 and then for every successive pro film SLR since up to the F5. The format has since changed for digital cameras, with the guides concentrating on how to maximise performance of certain features. Nikon USA has released a guide in pdf of the forthcoming D800 and D800E models with guidance on how to achieve optimal resolution from the 36MP sensor, while taking care to avoid, or correct for colour artifacts, including moire.
Please follow the link here to download.
Although slated for a mid-March release the AF-S 85mm f/1.8 G has already started to appear on dealer's shelves (we received ours for testing only yesterday). We hope to post some example shots later in the day.
To buy from Jessops UK at £469.95, please follow the link here. US readers can buy from Adorama at $499.95, please follow the link here.
Thank you for buying from this site's links.
Press release:
Nikon D800 – Get the Big Picture
RRPs
D800: £2399.99 / Eur 2829
Sales start date: 22nd March 2012 (TBC)
D800E: £2689.99 / Eur 171 (selected retailers only)
Sales start date: 12th April 2012 (TBC)
MB-D12: £379.99 / Eur 448
London, UK, 7th February 2012 Nikon today announces a groundbreaking new 36.3 megapixel FX-format professional D-SLR, the Nikon D800.
Designed to answer the needs of tomorrow’s photography and video today, the masterful Nikon D800 is packed with new technology that delivers unprecedented levels of depth and detail in photography, and offers all the flexibility necessary to shoot broadcast quality video.
Firmly establishing a league of its own, the Nikon D800 offers imaging potential to rival medium format cameras, but with all of the agility of the D-SLR format — giving professionals who demand attention to detail the freedom to create monumental images.
In an industry first, this exciting launch includes a special edition of the D800 – the Nikon D800E. With a modified optical filter, the D800E offers a unique alternative for those seeking the ultimate in definition.
Kentaro Kusakari, Product Planning Manager, Nikon UK says: “The D800 sets a new benchmark for photographers shooting both still images and video. The combination of the powerful 36.3 megapixel resolution that records detail like never before, and the comprehensive video options will captivate photographers and moviemakers of all disciplines. He adds: “We’re excited about the D800 and know it will help to shape the future of the way we capture images and movies.”
The big picture
The groundbreaking 36.3 megapixel FX-format (full-frame) CMOS sensor incorporates key technologies that enables unprecedented levels of detail and tonal range.
12-channel readout with 14-bit A/D conversion and high signal-to-noise ratio: delivers images of remarkable quality with low noise and wide dynamic range.
Broad ISO: offering an ISO range of 100–6400, extendable up to 25600 (equivalent) and down to 50 (equivalent), the D800 will set a new benchmark for D-SLRs with this level of resolution. The camera’s intelligent noise reduction systems manage noise without sacrificing fine details, allowing superb flexibility under all lighting conditions: images are crisp and clean, even at higher ISO settings.
Peak performance
Equipped with Nikon’s next-generation EXPEED 3 image-processing engine, the D800 makes light work of data-rich tasks without sacrificing the speed and quality that professionals are accustomed to.
16-bit image processing: offering richer colours and tones than ever before, this cutting-edge image processor delivers smooth gradations with abundant detail and tone all the way up the scale to pure white, even when shooting in JPEG.
Broadcast quality video
For professionals whose workflow demands video, the D800 offers all the flexibility required for a wide variety of movie applications. It’s large format movie shooting at its best, with a comprehensive variety of frame rates.
Frame rates: Full HD (1080p) movies can be recorded in 30p, 25p and 24p, with 60p, 50p and 25p options at 720p. Movie clips can be up to 29:59 minutes long.
Multi-Format Full HD D-Movie: as introduced with the D4, Full HD recording is possible in both FX and DX based formats, enabling exceptional freedom of expression.
High-fidelity audio control: responding to feedback from the industry, the D800 sets a new standard for D-SLR audio recording, enabling your movies to sound as good as they look. Aside from the external stereo microphone input, an audio out for external headphones lets you fine tune audio in isolation, both before and during movie recording. A line input setting for PCM linear recorders is also provided.
Uncompressed HDMI output: for those who need the purest video output for professional quality editing, the D800 offers the possibility to output the uncompressed live view to external recorders and monitors. As with the Nikon D4, this data is output at the designated image size and frame rate, and is clean of the information overlay that can be simultaneously displayed on the camera’s TFT monitor.
Convenient custom controls: have been implemented for live view operation. Instead of rotating the command dial, power aperture enables smoother aperture control using assigned buttons on the front of the camera. Index marking helps you tag important frames in the timeline by attaching markers during movie recording, which makes for easy location during editing.
Advanced scene recognition with 91K-pixel RGB sensor
Nikon’s revolutionary Advanced Scene Recognition System now incorporates a newly designed 91,000-pixel RGB sensor that meticulously analyses each scene for outstanding accuracy. It can detect human faces with startling exactness even with exclusive use of the optical viewfinder, and recognises a scene’s colours and brightness with unprecedented precision.
This level of detailed scene analysis is also utilised to support more accurate autofocus; auto exposure and i-TTL flash exposure results in a diverse range of compositional and lighting situations. For example, 3D-subject tracking is particularly improved when shooting smaller subjects.
Implementing Nikon’s highly-acclaimed Multi-CAM 3500FX AF system — with individually selectable or configurable 9-, 21- and 51-point coverage settings — the autofocus sensor module and algorithms have been re-engineered to significantly improve low light acquisition sensitivity capabilities down to -2 EV (ISO 100, 20°C/68°F). The overall performance is similar to the latest flagship of Nikon, the D4: AF operation is even possible under a combined aperture value of f8 (e.g. a 600mm f/4 AF-S lens combined with 2x-teleconverter TC-20EIII) with 11 AF sensor involved, and with 15 AF sensors between f/5.6 and f/8.
Simplified AF and AF-area mode selection is now possible without taking your eye away from the viewfinder.
Responsive and intuitive
The Nikon D800 responds as quickly as you do, with secure, conveniently placed, buttons and controls that quickly become an extension of your hand.
Fast response: start-up is approx. 0.12 seconds[1], release time lag is minimized to approx. 0.042 seconds[2] (equivalent to that of the D4), with continuous approx. 4 fps capability in FX-format and crop modes, pushed to approx. 6 fps capability in DX-format Crop mode with the optional Multi-Power Battery Pack MB-D12.
Precision 8-cm (3.2-in.), approx. 921k-dot, wide-viewing-angle LCD monitor with automatic monitor brightness control: delivers bright, crisp image playback with a much wider color reproduction capacity. LCD brightness is automatically adjusted according to the viewing environment and images can be magnified up to 46x during playback, which can be a big help for spot focus confirmation.
Glass prism optical viewfinder with approximately 100% frame coverage and 0.7x magnification (50mm f/1.4 lens at infinity, -1.0m-1).
Dual-axis electronic virtual horizon offers accurate confirmation of level shooting by letting you check the LCD monitor, or the viewfinder, for both the camera’s position in relation to the horizontal plane and its pitch (forward or rear rotation).
Enhanced ergonomics: buttons and dials have been strategically laid out for fluid operation. Improvements around the shutter-release button mean your index finger can rest comfortably for longer periods of time, while the designated movie record button means you’re ready to trigger movie shooting in an instant.
Release mode dial: mode visibility and operability has been improved via a four-button layout and release mode dial on the camera’s top panel, along with dedicated buttons for ISO, White Balance and Image Quality. A new bracketing button has been strategically placed to aid such features as HDR.
Direct access to Picture Controls via a new, dedicated button, rather than via the menu. Picture Controls let you customise the look of your stills and videos by fine-tuning parameters such as sharpness, saturation, and hue.
Durability
Despite its light weight and compact size, the D800 is as tough as Nikon’s professional single digit cameras, with extensive weather and dust sealing throughout to ensure you can keep working when the going gets tough.
High-precision, high-durability shutter: the shutter unit has been tested to well over 200,000 cycles of release to prove durability and precision. Boasts a speed range of 1/8000 to 30s; features an intelligent self-diagnostic shutter monitor and, for the first time, a drive unit designed to reduce the demand on power when the shutter is raised for extended periods during movie shooting.
Efficient power management: a re-working of the D800’s circuits now enables approx. 850 shots[3] of still image shooting or approx. 60 min. of movie live view[4]. All on one charge of a Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL15.
Build quality: as reliable on the road as it is in the studio, the D800 boasts a weather- and dust-sealed magnesium alloy body that weighs in at approx. 10% lighter than the D700.
Storage media: high-speed CF (UDMA 7) and SD (SDXC and UHS-1) dual card slots.
High-speed data transfer with USB 3.0.
Nikon D800E - The ultimate alternative
The Nikon D800E is a special edition of the D800, specifically designed for those seeking absolute definition.
Incorporating an optical filter with anti-aliasing properties removed in order to facilitate the sharpest images possible, this is an ideal tool for photographers who can control light, distance and their subject to the degree where they can mitigate the increased risk of moiré[5] and false colour. Aside from the optical filter, all functions and features are the same as on the D800.
Creative expansion tools
The D800 incorporates a variety of creative and practical tools for those too busy to spend time in excessive post-production.
Time-lapse movies: the D800 extends the popular time-lapse photography function by saving images as a movie file in the camera. With playback rates from 24 to 36,000 times faster than normal.
HDR (High Dynamic Range) shoots one overexposed and one underexposed frame in a single shutter release. The range can be widened by up to 3 EV for different looks, full of saturation and tonal gradation, while the smoothness of the edge where the two exposures meet can be adjusted for a more natural appearance.
Refined colour temperature control enables minute control over white balance. The monitor hue of live view and the resulting image’s white balance can be adjusted so that the two are aligned. Colour temperature can be manually set in 10-Kelvin increments, or in mired units.
Auto shutter speed control for auto ISO sensitivity control: a new auto option for minimum shutter speed, which automatically controls the balance between shutter speed and ISO sensitivity based on the focal length of the lens being used.
Four image area options: for the first time in a camera of this class, you can choose from a variety of image crop modes, all visually masked in the viewfinder. 5:4 (30.0 x 24.0 mm), 1.2x (30.0 x 19.9 mm), and DX-format (23.4 x 15.6 mm).
In-camera editing: captured images and movies can be altered and edited in camera and on the fly if required. Retouch menus include an array of useful features such as NEF (RAW) processing, resize, distortion control, fisheye, miniature effect, red-eye correction, filter effects and image overlay — as well as the ability to designate the start and end point of movie clips all at once, in order to save them more efficiently.
Accessories
Multi-Power Battery Pack MB-D12 (optional) accommodates a variety of batteries (see specifications) and utilises the same integral magnesium alloy construction and weather sealing as the D800 body itself. You also get approx. 6 fps continuous shooting speed[6] in DX-format. The MB-D12 has its own dedicated shutter-release button and command dials for vertical composition shooting.
Nikon SB-910 (optional) — unparalleled lighting performance: Nikon’s SB-910 offers versatile i-TTL for on-camera or wireless flash control, refined operability and a powerful guide number of 34/112 (ISO 100, m/ft, STD, FX format, zoom 35mm). Menus and controls have been improved for more operational ease. Hard-type incandescent and fluorescent colour filters are included, which can adjust your D800‘s white balance instantly.
Capture NX 2 (optional) — Fast, powerful and creative image processing: to accommodate the imaging power of the D800’s 36.3 effective megapixels, the latest Capture NX 2 is faster than before and 64-bit compatible[7].
Camera Control Pro 2 (optional) — Versatile remote camera controls: aside from controlling exposure mode, shutter speed, and aperture, the software now offers numerous improvements to make the D800’s live view operation exceptionally smooth. New creative controls include remote start and stop for movie shooting and switching between live view for stills and movies.
ViewNX 2 (supplied) — Browse, edit, share and more: this bundled, all-in-one software implements an easy-to-use interface and an array of editing functions, including basic editing of RAW files and D-Movies. Seamlessly integrates with my Picturetown, Nikon’s photo sharing and storage service.
B&H Photo in the US are taking pre-orders for the newly announced D800 ($2,999.95) and D800E ($3,299.95). Please follow the link here.
Amazon has added the D800 for $2,999, please follow the link here.
UK readers can pre-order the D800 from Warehouse Express at £2,399 (inc VAT), and Jessops are listing both models for pre-order at £2399.95 and £2689.95, please follow the link here.
Nikon UK has revised the price on the WT-5 wireless transmitter, announced alongside the new pro D4 DSLR. The price has been revised upwards, unfortunately, from £499 to £649 (inc. VAT).
Pre-order at Adorama (US) here at $877.00. Thank you for buying through this site's links.
Nikon has released a new 85mm f/1.8, replacing the old version originally introduced in the late 80's. As expected it has a SWM a new optical construction and lacks an aperture ring, being a G-series lens but it also lacks the Nano crystal coat, which while not unexpected is a pity - it's likely to flare without a hood. All the same, the optical quality looks good at f/1.8, if the MTF chart below is to be believed.
To buy from Jessops UK at £469.95, please follow the link here. US readers can buy from Adorama at $499.95, please follow the link here.
Press release:
AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G — Master of Character
RRP: £469.99 / Eur 554.00
Sales start date: 22nd March 12 (tbc)
London, UK, 6th January 12: Nikon today announces a new fast aperture medium-telephoto lens – the AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G.
The combination of the classic focal length, large (f/1.8) aperture and re-designed optical system that meets the requirements of today’s D-SLRs, delivers superb image quality whilst offering photographers an affordable way to take advantage of Nikon’s rich legacy of renowned 85mm NIKKOR optics.
Kentaro Kusakari, Product Planning Manager, Nikon UK says: “This new lens is ideal for photographers looking to experience the benefits of a fast medium-telephoto lens, whether they are shooting portraits in a studio or on location making the most of natural light.”
Classic character
The classic 85 mm focal length allows for tight head and shoulder shots with extreme detail. The fast f/1.8 aperture perfectly balances sharpness and bokeh, so you can single out subjects beautifully, and it provides a bright viewfinder image that makes it easier to compose your shots. An excellent choice when shooting in low light, the fast aperture also helps you shoot with available light and still capture striking, sharp images.
New optical design
The new 85mm f1.8 lens is an ideal portrait lens that features an all-new optical design that has been optimised to meet the requirements of today’s D-SLRs. Compromising 9 elements in 9 groups, it offers superb image quality and makes an attractive choice for videographers. The dedicated Silent Wave Motor (SWM) ensures discreet but accurate autofocus.
Ergonomics
Weighing in at only 350 grams, this weather-sealed compact new 85mm lens is lighter than its predecessors. Compatible with Nikon FX-format D-SLRs, it offers a 127.5mm (equivalent) focal length when used with Nikon DX-format D-SLRs, and is fully compatible with entry level D-SLRs that do not have a built in autofocus motor.
The lens is supplied with a lens hood HB-62, and a soft pouch CL-1015.
Interesting MTF chart, shows maximum aperture only, but in terms of resolution the edges are are almost as sharply defined as the centre, though that drops right in the corners as you might expect. What's interesting is the drop between the edges and centre, showing some curvature of field (though it's unlikely to have any real world effect). The top (red) lines closely correlate to visible lens contrast, and are technically the more important for most photographers (resolution isn't everything). This chart shows the lens should possess excellent contrast across the frame and, perhaps, even outstanding bokeh (remember though we're talking about max aperture only, a second MTF chart stopped down would give us more information). Comparing the MTF chart with that of the AF-S 85mm f/1.4G (see link here), it appears the new lens has slightly better resolution, contrast and bokeh, at least at their respective maximum apertures (though, it should be noted, we're not comparing the same aperture).
AF-S 85mm f/1.8G at f/2.2. Image courtesy of Nikon.
100-percent crop at f1.8, using a D700. Image copyright of this site.
After a series of unfortunate leaks, the successor to the Nikon D3 was launched yesterday at a press conference in London. With a full frame 16.2-megapixel CMOS sensor and extended video capabilities, the new D4 is the new flagship model and update to the D3s - with the new naming convention it seems unlikely now that we'll see a D4x (but you never know, a D4s could be introduced in 12-months time with the D4x to follow). However, just in time for the Olympic Games in London, the new D4 has several important features (remote control over WLAN with new WT-5, AF with the 600mm f/4 and 2x converter, uncompressed HDMI output for external recording) and the adoption of a new card format, XQD, though after this announcement about CFast, I'm a bit surprised. I hope either to expand on them here or at a later day in a review. A spokesperson for Nikon UK confirmed to the DJP that the new camera will be available in March, not mid-Feb as advised at the launch, at £4,799.99.
UPDATE 8th Jan: UK retailer Jessops is taking pre-orders for the new D4 at £4,799.95 (inc VAT), please follow the link here.
Press release:
The Nikon D4 – Built to push limits
RRP: £4,799.99 / Eur 5,658
Sales start date: 16th February 2012 (tbc)
London, UK, 6th January 2012: Nikon today announces the launch of the D4, its new flagship D-SLR for photographers who are looking for the ultimate digital SLR camera to revolutionize photography.
Designed to push the limits and realize every shooting opportunity, this new professional FX-format camera brings new levels of image quality, speed and precision to both still photography and video.
Equipped with a 16.2-megapixel FX-format sensor, phenomenally high ISO and Nikon’s powerful EXPEED3 image processing engine, the new model offers uncompromised performance and unrivaled versatility in extreme lighting and environmental conditions.
“The introduction of the Nikon D4 sets a new benchmark for photography,” says Kentaro Kusakari, Product Planning Manager, Nikon UK. “We’re proud to be launching a new flagship model that exceeds the capabilities of its world renowned predecessor, the Nikon D3. This new camera has been designed for class leading professionals looking to push the limits of photography and improve their workflow. We’re confident that the Nikon D4 will help take them to the next level.”
Uncompromised Image quality—Exceptional speed
Engineered to deliver remarkable image integrity in the most diverse lighting conditions, the D4 offers blisteringly fast fps performance and sets a new benchmark in low-noise performance. The 16.2 megapixel FX-format (full-frame) CMOS sensor with fast channel readout delivers up to 11 fps—faster than any other Nikon DSLR camera.
Images of remarkable quality with low noise and wide dynamic range can be realized even at high ISO sensitivities thanks to the optimized noise reduction design and 14-bit A/D signal processing built into the sensor. The phenomenal ISO range sets a new benchmark of ISO12800 and extends the range one EV further to make ISO 100 a standard. For more challenging conditions, equivalent ISO 50 and ISO 204,800 sensitivities make the D4 the camera of choice for photographers who typically face extreme lighting challenges.
Super-charged EXPEED3 image processing engine
Thanks to Nikon’s next-generation EXPEED 3 image-processing engine, the D4 makes light work of multiple data-rich tasks without sacrificing the speed and quality that pros are accustomed to. High-speed 16-bit image processing follows the 14-bit A/D conversion to deliver submission-ready JPEGs straight out of the camera. Performance is never compromised, even when undertaking the most data-intensive tasks. Images boast faithful, well-saturated colour and natural depth. Even when shooting in dim lighting at high ISO sensitivities, the camera’s intelligent, performance-proven noise reduction lowers noise without degrading image sharpness.
Broadcast quality video
For professionals whose workflow demands video, the D4 offers all the flexibility required for a wide variety of movie applications. It’s large format movie shooting at its best, with a comprehensive variety of frame rates.
Frame rates: Full HD (1080p) movies can be recorded in 30p, 25p and 24p, with 60p, 50p, 30p and 25p options at 720p. Movie clips can be close to 30 minutes long (approx. 29.59 min).
Multi-area mode: Full HD (1080p) recording is possible in both FX and DX based formats as well as in native Full HD (1920x1080) crop.
High-fidelity audio control: responding to feedback from the industry, the D4 introduces new possibilities for D-SLR audio recording that enable your movies to sound as good as they look. Aside from the external stereo microphone input, an audio out for external headphones lets you fine tune audio in isolation.
Uncompressed HDMI output: for those who need the purest video output for professional quality editing, the D4 offers the possibility to output the uncompressed live view to external recorders and monitors. The first time this has been possible in an SLR camera, data is output at 1080i (Full HD) at the designated image size and frame rate. Data output can be scaled down if necessary and is clean of the information overlay that can be simultaneously displayed on the camera’s TFT monitor.
Convenient custom controls: live view operation is enhanced thanks to convenient custom controls. Instead of rotating the command dial, power aperture enables smoother aperture control via assigned buttons on the front of the camera. Index marking enables important frames to be tagged in the timeline during movie recording, which makes for easy location during editing.
New levels of speed and accuracy
When it comes to nailing decisive moments, the D4’s enhanced auto operation gives photographers a clear advantage.
Advanced scene recognition with 91K-pixel RGB sensor: Nikon’s revolutionary Advanced Scene Recognition System now incorporates the newly designed 91,000-pixel RGB sensor that meticulously analyses each scene for outstanding accuracy.
3D-subject tracking is particularly improved when shooting and tracking smaller subjects. Human faces are detected with startling exactness even when working in real time through the optical viewfinder. This level of detailed scene analysis is also utilised to support more accurate autofocus and auto exposure, even under the most challenging lighting conditions.
Advanced Multi-CAM3500FX AF Sensor Module: Nikon’s highly acclaimed Multi-CAM 3500FX AF system —with individually selectable or configurable 9-, 21- and 51-point coverage settings — has been re-engineered for faster subject detection.
The autofocus sensor module and algorithms significantly improve low light acquisition sensitivity capabilities down to -2 EV (ISO 100, 20°C/68°F). All 51 focus type sensors are fully responsive with any AF NIKKOR lens f/5.6 and—for the first time—this superb performance does not end at f/5.6 apertures.
Powerful AF sensors compatible up to f/8: the D4 maintains the power of the eleven central AF sensors, including one cross-type even if the combined open aperture value is f/8. A big plus for shooting sports and wildlife, this delivers a new level of detection potential when combining, for example, a 600mm f/4 AF-NIKKOR lens with a NIKKOR 2.0x teleconverter. If the combined aperture value is between f/5.6 and f/8, you even have the power of fifteen central AF sensors available, of which nine are cross type sensors.
Faster total workflow speed
The D4’s speed runs across its entire workflow.
Newly developed Kevlar/carbon fiber-composite shutter unit: the new, highly durable shutter unit offers a standard life cycle rating of 400,000 releases, with a maximum shutter speed of 1/8000 to 30s and flash synchronization at up to 1/250 sec. An intelligent self-diagnostic shutter monitor and a drive unit reduce the demand on power when the shutter is raised for extended periods during movie shooting.
Fast response: start-up is approx. 0.12 seconds[1], release time lag is minimised to approx. 0.042 seconds[2] (equivalent to that of the D3S), with approx. up to 11 fps capability in FX-format and all crop modes.
Storage media: the D4 offers two card slots. One for high-speed CF (UDMA 7) cards and one for high-speed, high-capacity XQD card slot.
Connectivity: a powerful data communication and control system makes both wired and wireless LAN file transfer faster and easier than ever. Wireless LAN support is available via the compact, newly designed WT-5 Wireless Transmitter, which features HTTP and FTP connection modes and also allows for the simultaneous release of several cameras equipped with WT-5. HTTP mode has also been designed to work with iPhone screen resolutions. For the first time in a Nikon camera, a wired LAN connection is integrated into the camera body.
Always up to the job
Every millisecond can count, and the D4’s improved operability helps photographers respond quickly to changing situations.
Intuitive horizontal and vertical control: each orientation has identically laid-out controls, conveniently placed so that the camera may quickly become an extension of your hand whether you shoot in landscape or portrait.
Simplified AF and AF-area mode selection: now possible without taking your eye away from the viewfinder.
Precision 8-cm (3.2-in.), approx. 921k-dot, wide-viewing-angle LCD monitor with automatic brightness control. The monitor delivers bright, crisp image playback with a much wider colour reproduction capacity. LCD brightness is automatically adjusted according to the viewing environment and images can be magnified up to 46x during playback, which can be a big help for spot focus confirmation.
Glass prism optical viewfinder: offers approximately 100% frame coverage and 0.7x magnification (50mm f/1.4 lens at infinity, -1.0m-1). The high eyepoint design of Nikon’s viewfinders is renowned for minimizing visual fatigue when using the camera for extended periods of time.
Dual-axis electronic virtual horizon: offers accurate confirmation of level shooting by letting you check the LCD monitor, or the viewfinder, for both the camera’s position in relation to the horizontal plane and its pitch (forward or rear rotation).
Direct access to Picture Controls: via a dedicated button, rather than the menu. Picture Controls let you customize the look of your stills and videos by fine-tuning parameters such as sharpness, saturation, and hue.
Complete control over workflow
The D4 is built for speed, but not for speed alone. Readiness and versatility go hand in hand with control options that can deliver a real advantage when time is of the essence.
Time-lapse movies: the D4 extends the popular time-lapse photography function by saving images as a movie file in the camera. With playback rates from 24 to 36,000 times faster than normal.
HDR (High Dynamic Range): shoots one overexposed and one underexposed frame in a single shutter release. The range can be widened by up to 3 EV for different looks, full of saturation and tonal gradation. The smoothness of the edge where the two exposures meet can be adjusted for a more natural look.
Refined colour temperature control: enables minute control over white balance. The monitor hue of live view and the resulting image’s white balance can be adjusted so that the two are aligned. Colour temperature can be manually set in 10-Kelvin increments, or in mired units.
Four image area options: you can choose from a variety of image crop modes, all visually masked in the viewfinder. 5:4 (30.0 x 24.0 mm), 1.2x (30.0 x 19.9 mm), and DX-format (23.4 x 15.6 mm).
In-camera editing: captured images and movies can be altered and edited in camera and on the fly if required. Retouch menus include an array of useful features such as NEF (RAW) processing, resize, distortion and perspective control just to name some of them. On top of that it has the ability to designate the start and end point of movie clips all at once, in order to save them more efficiently.
Accessories
Compact WT-5 Wireless Transmitter (optional): attaches to the camera’s designated interface connector and is powered by the camera body. It features HTTP and FTP connection modes and allows for the simultaneous release of several cameras equipped with WT-5.
GP-1 GPS unit (optional): records location information such as latitude, longitude, altitude and time (UTC) as ‘geotags’ in the image data (Exif) and allows simultaneous operation together with the WT-5.
Compact Stereo Microphone ME-1 (optional): records clear sound while significantly reducing mechanical noise.
Nikon SB-910 (optional)—Unparalleled lighting performance: offers versatile i-TTL for on-camera or wireless flash control, refined operability and a powerful guide number of 34/112 (ISO 100, m/ft, STD, FX format, zoom 35mm). Menus and controls have been improved for more operational ease. Hard-type incandescent and fluorescent colour filters are included, which can adjust your D4’s white balance instantly.
Capture NX 2 (optional)—Fast, powerful and creative image processing: to accommodate the imaging power of the D4, Capture NX 2 is faster than before and boasts full 64-bit compatibility.
Camera Control Pro 2 (optional)—Versatile remote camera controls: aside from controlling exposure mode, shutter speed, and aperture, this software now offers numerous improvements to make the D4’s live view operation exceptionally smooth. New creative controls include remote start and stop for movie shooting and the option to switch quickly between stills and movies in live view.
ViewNX 2 (supplied)—Browse, edit, share and more: bundled, all-in-one software implements an easy-to-use interface and an array of editing functions, including basic editing of RAW files and D-Movies. Seamlessly integrates with my Picturetown, Nikon’s photo sharing and storage service
Storage media: the D4 offers two card slots. One for high-speed CF (UDMA 7) cards and one for high-speed, high-capacity XQD card slot.
As this particular perspective shows, the D4's curvaceous body is a departure for Nikon. Their top-of-the-range model is looking more like rival offerings.
For more information, please visit www.nikon.co.uk
Nikon has announced the new SB-910 Speedlight, the replacement for the earlier top-of-the-range SB-900. The new model has redesigned controls and clearer UI (user interface) as well as a redesigned thermal protection system. The new model will be available from 15th December with an RRP of £449.95 / 522.00 Euros (inc VAT).
Buy from Jessops online at £369.95 inc VAT. US readers can buy via Adorama Camera for $546.95. Thank you for buying through this site's links.
More information can be found at the Nikon website.
Nikon say the SB-910 has a new, clearer user interface.
Press release:
London, UK, 30 November 2011: Nikon today introduces a brand-new flagship i-TTL Speedlight; the Nikon SB-910 that replaces the highly regarded SB-900.
Fast, versatile and powerful, with re-designed menus and controls, the SB-910 offers extensive opportunities for on-camera or wireless flash photography. A powerful tool for professionals who demand studio quality lighting, the new model combines enhanced operation with an extended zoom range of 17-200mm and three illumination patterns for total control over flash coverage.
“The SB-900 cemented its position as a class-leading flash”, says Zurab Kiknadze, Product Manager, Lenses, Accessories & Software, Nikon Europe. He goes on: “and now the new SB-910 is set to continue this legacy, taking operability to the next level with improved ergonomics and more intuitive control.”
Light Control
The SB-910 is a powerful portable light source that delivers precise flash exposures and seamless fill-flash performance—even in challenging lighting situations. Perfect for professionals seeking complete control over the quality of light, it offers Centre-weighted, Even and Standard illumination patterns to accommodate any shooting environment and can cover a zoom range of 17-200mm while maintaining an even light distribution. Bounce flash capability is provided through a head that can be tilted up to 90º, down to 7º and rotated horizontally through 180º to the right and to the left. The thermal protection system has been improved allowing more optimal heat detection and recycling time management.
Smooth Operator
The SB-910 boasts refined ergonomics and re-designed menus for more intuitive control, with the same reliability as its predecessor. Menus are clearer and the selector dial incorporates a groove so you can feel when you change settings. Illuminated buttons offer better visibility in the dark and the SB-910 includes hard cover (plastic) colour filters that are more durable and easier to attach.
Part of the acclaimed Nikon Creative Lighting System, the SB-910 is easily incorporated into multiple-flash lighting set-ups.
Major Features
· Professional i-TTL (intelligent TTL) Speedlight: compatible with FX- and DX-format SLR cameras. Part of the Nikon Creative Lighting System, it offers total control over flash coverage.
· Guide number: 34 (STD)/39 (CW)/31 (EVEN) (FX-format, ISO 100, m, at 35 mm)
Maximum guide number: 54.5 (CW, FX-format, ISO 100, m, at 135 mm)
· Centre-weighted, Even and Standard illumination patterns: Centre-weighted mode concentrates illumination to the centre of the frame, useful when using a telephoto lens. Even mode diffuses light evenly across the frame, useful when taking group shots. Standard mode offers a standard balance of power and light distribution.
· Multi-step auto zoom covers wide 17-200mm zoom range.
· Refined ergonomics for intuitive operation. Boasts a large LCD screen, clear menu systems, conveniently placed controls and illuminated buttons that offer more comfortable operation in low light.
· Automatic detection of sensor format: automatically recognizes FX- or DX-format cameras.
· High-speed recycling time of 2.3 seconds when using LR6 NiMH batteries.
· AF-Assist illumination: compatible with Multi-CAM 3500 FX/DX AF sensor module.
· Bounce capability: rotates 180º horizontally to the right and to the left; tilts up to 90º and down to 7º.
· Thermal protection system: warns of excessive heat buildup during high intensity firing.
· Hard-type incandescent and fluorescent colour filters included.
· Automatic filter detection: Speedlight automatically adjusts the attached camera’s colour temperature settings according to the colour of the filter being used.
· Firmware can be upgraded via the storage media in the attached camera.
More information can be found at the Nikon website.
Ahead of the rumored mirrorless camera that has been circulating on the internet, Nikon has announced the successor to the P7000 compact, and challenger to the Canon G12. The new P7100 boasts faster response times and a tilting screen. There wasn't that much wrong with the P7000 but image processing was tardy (but not unbearably slow as reported with some hysteria on the internet) so the new model sounds promising. Canon, however, should be close to revealing the new G13, and let's not forget the Panasonic LX5 and the superb Olympus XZ1 (both those are smaller physically, feature wider, faster lenses and optional EVFs).
When less is more: Nikon’s new COOLPIX P7100
COOLPIX P7000 successor comes with faster processing, quicker response times, and tilting screen
RRP: £499.99 / 580.00 Euros
Sales start date: 22nd September 2011
London, UK, 24 Aug 2011 - Nikon today unveils its latest high performance COOLPIX model, the P7100. Successor to the well-received P7000, the COOLPIX P7100 offers improved image quality, reduced time lag, faster autofocus speeds, and quicker start up times. A new tilting 7.5 cm (3-in.) LCD monitor makes it easier to compose images and capture attention-grabbing movies when shooting from unusual angles or tricky vantage points.
The perfect compact companion for any enthusiast D-SLR photographer, the COOLPIX P7100 guarantees superb images thanks to a wide-angle 7.1x zoom NIKKOR lens with 28mm to 200mm range (35mm format equivalent), RAW file format, fast EXPEED C2 processing system, quick response and full manual controls. The large 10.1 effective megapixel 1/1.7” CCD sensor facilitates wide dynamic range and exceptional low light performance, and lets you crop creatively, capture outstandingly detailed images, and produce stunningly-sharp poster-size enlargements.
Nicolas Gillet, Product Manager for Consumer Products at Nikon Europe, comments: “The COOLPIX P7100 is a compact master. Those familiar with the P7000 will recognize this camera’s commitment to putting the user in control, with front and rear command dials and customisable zoom memory that lets you preset up to 7 different focal lengths and then switch quickly between them, as if using interchangeable lenses. We think that the new features, such as the tilting screen and faster response times, will make this the camera of choice for D-SLR like operability with superior mobility.”
Superb image quality
The COOLPIX P7100 boasts a raft of advanced technology more commonly found in D-SLR cameras to ensure the best image quality available. Its large 1/1.7” sensor and EXPEED C2 image processing system gives enhanced low light performance and movie recording. The 7.1x zoom NIKKOR lens has two ED glass elements to reduce chromatic aberration and fringing at longer focal lengths, and a Natural Density filter for greater exposure control. The fast EXPEED C2 image processing engine fully leverages the large CCD image sensor for superb resolution, fine details and cleaner images with less noise, whether you’re shooting at high (up to 3200 and 12800 ISO) or low sensitivity settings.
When you want to get creative, the COOLPIX P7100 has a range of special effects to shoot still images in, including Cross Processing that manipulates the colors for images with dramatic colour shifts and increased contrast and saturation, and Selective Color that lets you emphasize a colour of your choice and turns the rest of the image to monochrome. To make sure you get the look you want, you can review your choice of effect on the LCD screen before shooting.
Advanced movie capabilities
To ensure high-quality films when you’re on the move, the COOLPIX P7100 records in HD (720p) with optical zoom and autofocus, and offers frame rates of 24fps. So that scenes are captured exactly as you want them, it is possible to set the white balance before recording begins and also use the Auto Exposure (AE) lock to set your preferred autoexposure at any time during shooting.
The COOLPIX P7100 also features a built-in HDMI connector with HDMI-CEC support for output to a HDTV and supports use of an external microphone. The COOLPIX P7100 is available in black.
EXPEED C2
The original EXPEED image processing system incorporated all of the accumulated expertise and technologies developed throughout Nikon’s long history. The latest evolution of Nikon’s renowned system, EXPEED C2, expands the possibilities of photography even further, with enhanced movie recording, high-sensitivity performance and maximum image quality. EXPEED C2 maximizes sensor performance for clear, lifelike images that exhibit vivid colours, reduced noise and smooth tonal gradations for outstanding photos and movies.
ViewNX 2
ViewNX 2 is an all-in-one software package that enables users to quickly import, browse, edit and share still images and movies. Building upon the highly successful ViewNX software, ViewNX 2 is a user-friendly suite that offers a huge range of features, going well beyond those supplied as part of a PC’s operating system. Newly-incorporated advanced movie-editing functions have been taken directly from Nikon’s award-winning DSLR range, enabling users to trim clips and blend still images into stunning movie footage. ViewNX 2 comes with all Nikon digital cameras and is also available as a free download.
Nikon my Picturetown
You can now back-up your images safely and securely using my Picturetown, the free online digital photo storage and sharing service brought to you by Nikon. Easily share photo memories with friends and organise precious memories into online collections. You get 2GB of space free to use for storing thousands of memories and you can upgrade your membership to Gold Account at any time if you need to store more pictures.
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