Nikon D810 via Adorama
Photo geeks, gear heads, and camera nerds listen up! This post is just for you. Nikon today (or yesterday by the time I post this…) just announced the new D810, a consolidation of the D800 and the D800E. I’m a photographer and not a gear review guy, but I get a lot of requests from readers to weigh in…. should you get one? Should you pass? While that is much more of a personal question, my hope is to add a little value to the core camera geek’s potential purchaser’s day by sharing my initial thoughts. Keep in mind, I’m referring mostly to the ‘concept’ of the camera (is it a good camera in the line of pro / am lineup), do the specs make sense, and do I think it’s a good value.
So then, here’s a quick 2 cents… The D800 was a super solid camera when I posted about it two years ago, but the D810 adds a handful of meaningful upgrades to the system. Some of its improvements below:
_36.3 megapixel full-frame sensor (same as D800) but paired with Expeed 4 processing for sharper images, 30% faster
_up to 5fps still image shooting (7 if you’re in DX with a battery grip)
_1080p HD video at 60, 30, and 24 fps.
_noise-free images from ISO range of 64-12,800 (expands to ISO 32-51,200).
_Live View with spot white balance
_Built in stereo microphone for audio recording
_weight = 31.7 oz (roughly the same as the D800)
_Expeed 4 engine
_51-point AF (straight outta the D4s)
_Zebra stripes for exposure checking in video mode
_Uncompressed HDMI output with simultaneous recording to memory card (bonus)
This might look and feel like the same camera as the D800, but that upgrade to the Expeed 4 processing is going to make a LOT of the difference here (same processing system from the D4s I think!) It’ll allow for crisper shots at high ISOs and jettisons the low pass filter from earlier iterations of the D800. Not only that, but thanks to the updated processor, the D810 shoots slightly faster as well. Note: I have had ZERO face time with the camera, so I can’t go too in-depth on all the changes, but if they send me one, I’ll have more to say/share (BTW, I’m not counting on it. They got scared of me when I started using iPhones and Canon’s to shoot video… Golden boy to Anarchist 🙂
If you haven’t seen the pictures of it, she’s very, very similar to the D800, but check out images of the camera below in case you want to get an idea of what you’re in for.
The question I’m asked every time a new camera comes out… Chase, are you getting this camera? My answer in this case is no. But not that I wouldn’t want it… It just can’t replace my D4. It would be great wildlife or portrait shooter, but I do too much high speed action and need that 10 or 11 Fps. I also don’t need to chop up my sensor to get 36 megapixels… But I see why some people would love it. So that’s all for me on this quick hit. You asked, so I posted 😉 LMK what y’all think/ first impressions/feelings and I’ll try to respond?
[Reminder that Nikon plays close attention to this blog, so your comments on this post — glowing or otherwise — might help inform Nikon about what you’re thinking.]Get all the juicy Nikon D810 updates and/or pre-order over at Adorama.
A good part of my business is architecture and I will be getting the D810. I gave up my Phase One back a while ago for the easier handling of the D800. It’s really a great camera. I know a few guys who would switch to Nikon if/when they finally release a 17mm t/s. Thanks for the post, Chase!
Amazing camera, no doubt
Hello internet!
I own a d800 since a couple of years and do mostly studio with flash and on location natural light photography. I’m not into sports or action therefore the d4/d4s is not really my stuff. I often print out large and love the 36mpx. Sure the files are huge, sure you need to spend money into storage but that’s little pain compared to the benefits. For what I do, I see no other better camera out there in the nikon canon lineup. This d810 comes out at great timing since I was regretting not having the D800e (was afraid of noire) which actually shouldn’t be if a problem. I needed a little extra to go from d800 to d800e. And there it is with this new release. Love the Native ISO 64 will help open up aperture a stop in studio while you cannot turn down that much your studio lighting gear. The new focus from the d4s is welcome as well since my d800 is one with focus issue. I can’t wait to check out how great the new matrix highlight whatever exposition mode goes for natural light shots… Not sure what the expeed 4 will bring but ok I’ll take it. I understand the s raw files are 9mpx, that’s kind of a disappointment, would have been great in 16 to 24 range.
I also look forward checking out the electronic shutter feature for landscape photography.
Video is not my stuff therefore can’t talk about it.
As a conclusion I look forward to switching even though I know it’ s probably not worth the money.
I’ll be buying it next month.
I really wish it had integrated GPS. If they don’t come up with GPS in their next generation of SLR’s, I’ll probably move to Canon. Given the amount of traveling I do, it is close to becoming a deal breaker. Same with wifi. The chips are so cheap and small now, there is no reason not to integrate them.
I appreciate the fact that they (Nikon) are at least trying too pay attention to the filmmakers but it will take more than zebras to push me. I just bought the Panasonic GH4 and can’t believe how amazing it is. I also have two Nikon D600’s (full frame rocks) but the filmmaker features on the GH4 blow my mind. I thought I’d never leave Nikon but will do so if they don’t realize that people want more video features in a DSLR.
P.S. Hey Chase, having dinner at mkt on Saturday night. Can’t wait, I’ve heard it’s amazing!!