Saturday, October 17, 2009

Nikon D3s

I received an email two days from a photographer and friend of mine. It was a follow up to an exhibit that is coming up. Included was a link asking if I had a chance to see the new D3s. I have not. But, I am very very impressed with this camera. I am not going to get into to many technical details, as I have not actually used this camera. What I will mention are the key features that complete this digital master piece.

Key features that make this camera stand out (from NikonUsa.com) :

Nikon-original FX-format CMOS Sensor
Newly engineered for striking image fidelity and low-noise, optimizing pixel size and count in a 12.1-megapixel sensor to produce extraordinarily rich files.

Low Noise ISO Sensitivity from 200 to 12,800
Renowned low-noise performance at 12,800, plus expanded settings to an astounding ISO 102,400 (equivalent) and ISO 100 (equivalent).

1,005-Pixel 3D Color Matrix Metering II
Nikon-pioneered RGB metering includes color information to intelligently determine more accurate exposures.

100% Viewfinder Coverage

Dual CF Card Slots with Overflow Backup and Copy Options

Approx 4,200 Images per Battery Charge

The one thing that puts me off about this camera is the 12 mega pixels it is limited to. I feel this way because the features that are packed into this amazing body are semi limited to the pixels capabilities. Had they included a sensor that is capable of 20+ then I think this camera would be one of the greatest Nikon DSRL models they have yet to produce. However, being able to have an ISO that reaches 102,400 is pretty much out of this world. I am very curious to see what am image looks like at this ISO setting. I am even much more curious to see what conditions (i.e time of day, quantity of light)  a camera of this magnitude  can function in. Unless you are shooting and bracketing multiple shots, (HDR) then a camera like this would render any tripod useless. The street price for the D3s is surprisingly lower than I expected at a mere $5,199.00 This is just change compared to other pro level cameras. Yet very affordable. If I hadn’t been so persuaded by Canon, I might consider upgrading to the D3s. Regardless of what I am shooting with, I think this is a great camera with outstanding features. A camera worth upgrading to. 

2 comments:

Tony said...

Wow, that's practically a night-vision camera.

Canon? I thought you were a stalwart Nikon fan...

Jeffrey Byrnes said...

That is just how it was described on the Gizmodo site Peter sent me.

I am a Nikon fan. Its what I own. But for business purposes I also use a Canon. Which is what we are leaning toward for nothing but studio/business purposes. I love my Nikons dont get me wrong, but Canon is slowing making a way into my business. That is, until we start shooting with Hasselblads...