Nikon

Nikon introduces the latest D-SLR to its mid-range DX-format line-up, the 24.1 megapixel Nikon D5200, designed to bring out your creative side. From beautiful still photos to smooth Full HD movies, this camera empowers your freedom of expression, letting you capture your own unique view of the world.

24.1 megapixel CMOS image sensor
Vari-angle LCD monitor: View life at a unique angle with a high resolution, 7.5cm (3.0-in), 921k dot vari-angle screen
ireless Mobile Adaptor WU-1a can transmit images from the camera to Apple™ or Android™ smart device and remote shooting*1
High ISO (100-6400) extendable to 25600
39-point AF system with nine cross-type sensors in the center.
2016 pixel RGB metering sensor
Scene Recognition System optimizes exposure, autofocus and white balance
Continuous shooting at 5fps
High dynamic range (HDR)
Active D-Lighting
Full (1080p) HD movies with smooth (up to 60i/50i) recording and a built-in stereo microphone (AF works, but slow as hell)

Available at:

Press release

Breath-taking image quality

The third camera in its series, following the D5000 and the D5100, the Nikon D5200 offers a massive leap in image-quality. In addition to the 24.1-megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor for finely detailed images, the new EXPEED 3 image processor provides high-speed operation and excellent, rich colour reproduction – as well as enhanced movie recording. The high ISO sensitivity (100-6400 which is extendable to 25600) delivers brilliant shots in dark or poorly lit environments as well as producing clear images of fast moving subjects.

The Nikon D5200 shares an AF system, metering sensor and scene recognition with the Nikon D7000 series, giving this camera a new level of performance and much enhanced image quality. The superior accuracy of the 39-point AF system and nine cross-type sensors delivers razor sharp images by focusing precisely on the subject you choose. Meanwhile, the 2,016-pixel RGB metering sensor provides precise data to the camera’s Scene Recognition System, which optimizes exposure, autofocus and white balance immediately before the shutter is released.

Image creations from any angle

The Nikon D5200’s versatile 7.5cm (3-in) vari-angle LCD monitor provides the ultimate freedom and flexibility to take beautiful shots and movies from virtually any position. You can flip, tilt or turn the swivel monitor to get really creative with your angles. In addition, the Nikon D5200 is an intelligently designed lightweight camera, with clear menus and superior ergonomics, making it a pleasure to maneuver and shoot with.

Wireless connectivity to share your creations

Wirelessly transmitting images from your camera to an Apple™ or Android™ smart device is possible by using the optional WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter. This means you can share images that you are proud of with friends via social networks and email for instant reactions. It is even possible to control your camera remotely from your smart device to help you take beautiful shots without disturbing your subjects.

Distinctive HD movies

Effortlessly alternate between shooting stills and Full HD movies with smooth (up to 60i/50i) recording at the flick of a switch. The camera’s subject tracking of moving objects in three dimensions, with full time servo AF (AF-F), ensures focus of moving objects throughout filming. Adding to that, creating movies to be proud of can be achieved with in-movie editing and the camera’s built-in stereo microphone.

Inspirational Effect and Scene modes

Be even more original with the Nikon D5200 Effects mode. A range of seven special effects: Selective Colour, Miniature, High and Low Key, Silhouette, Colour Sketch and Night Vision can be applied in real time to images and movies through Live View so you can see what your final creation will look like before you shoot it. In addition, in-camera High Dynamic Range (HDR) and D-lighting capture detailed images of high-contrast scenes, increasing creative possibilities. You can also select from 16 different Scene modes – they optimize the camera settings, such as shutter speed, ISO and aperture – to the situation you are shooting. It is great for a quick shot or if you are still learning about D-SLR photography.

Official Nikon D3200 topic

Vitaliy_Kiselev — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 05:28:17 -0400

Nikon D3200 offers the full HD experience of high quality 1080p video. Users can create memorable, cinematic quality videos at 24 or 30 fps and easily share HD content online with friends and family or on their own HDTV via the HDMI output.

Continuing down the path that its predecessor, the Nikon D3100, started, the D3200 implements full-time AF during video recording to help capture crisp video even during the most action-packed situations. To boost the production value of any home video, the camera offers manual or automatic exposure control, and a stereo microphone input to attach an optional external microphone such as the compact ME-1 Stereo Microphone. Furthermore, the D3200 offers other HD-SLR advantages including the ability to create a shallow depth of field, amazing low-light video performance and NIKKOR lens versatility.

Capturing videos on the D3200 is simple, even when in Live View. With a dedicated video record button and easy access to the Live View switch, users can capture video clips before the moment is gone. Additionally, videos play with astonishing detail and clarity on the D3200’s 3-inch, high resolution 921,000-dot LCD screen.

Resolutions - 1920 x 1080 (30,25, 24 fps), 1280 x 720 (60, 50 fps), 640 x 424 (30, 25 fps
Format - H.264
Manual control

Links:

http://www.dpreview.com/news/2012/04/19/Nikon-D3200-with-WiFi-Option

Videos:

Nikon D800 topic

Vitaliy_Kiselev — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:13:46 -0500

Specifications:

A 51-point AF system for improved subject acquisition and focus performance under dim lighting. In addition, 11 focus points (five at center with an addition three to each side) are fully functional when lenses with a maximum aperture of f/8 are used.
A 3.2-inch, approximately 921k-dot LCD monitor with reinforced glass, automatic monitor brightness control, and wide viewing angle
A virtual horizon that shows the degree to which the camera is tilted sideways (roll), or forward or backward (pitch) with display in the monitor and viewfinder
A new shutter unit that has passed testing for 200,000 cycles and supports a maximum shutter speed of 1/8000 s and flash sync speed of 1/250 s
Continuous shooting at 4 (FX-format/5 : 4 image area) or 5 (DX-format/1.2x image area) fps*
CompactFlash and SD dual memory card slots
Support for SuperSpeed USB (USB 3.0)

The D800 records movies exhibiting superior resolution with optimal processing of information acquired from the 36.3-million pixel image sensor. Recording of 1920 x 1080p/30-fps full-HD movies is supported, and users can choose to record using the FX-based movie format or the DX-based movie format according to recording conditions. The FX-based movie format offers a shallow depth-of-field with an emphasis on blur characteristics while the DX-based movie format enables recording of movies that bring subjects closer when lenses with short focal lengths are used. The D800 is also equipped with a headphone jack and supports precise adjustment of microphone sensitivity. In addition, it supports simultaneous display of movies or the movie live view display in the camera monitor and on an external monitor. Further, the D800 responds to the needs of professionals who require uncompressed movie files with the ability to record movies directly to an external HDMI recorder in movie live view mode. The D800 also offers a time-lapse photography function that captures images at a selected interval and then combines the images to create a time-lapse movie that shows the changes in a particular scene that occur over time.

Nikon D800 price: $2999.95 Nikon D800E price: $3,299.95

Available at:

Links:

Four thirds (not MFT) lens on Nikon bodies?

ahbleza — Wed, 01 May 2013 17:35:18 -0400

A question: is it possible to use an Olympus 4/3rds lens (not MFT) on a Nikon body? Does someone know where I can get an adaptor?

I found this, but it looks like a conversion rather than just an adaptor: http://www.leitax.com/OlympusOM-lens-for-Nikon-cameras.html

According to the Wikipedia film to flange distance chart the Four Thirds mount has a measure of 38.67mm while Nikon F mount is 46.5mm.

Official Nikon D600 topic

bleach551 — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 18:31:21 -0400

Specifications:

24,3MP CMOS Sensor (total: 24.7 million)
The EXPEED 3 image-processing engine
ISO 100-6400 (boost up to 25.600 Hi-1)
Image sizes FX: 6,016 x 4,016 (L) 4,512 x 3,008 (M) 3,008 x 2,008 (S)
Image sizes DX: 3,936 x 2,624 (L) 2,944 x 1,968 (M) 1,968 x 1,312 (S)
16:9 FX : 6,016 x 3,376 (L) 4,512 x 2,528 (M) 3,008 x 1,688 (S)
16:9 DX: 3,936 x 2,224 (L) 2,944 x 1,664 (M) 1,968 x 1,112 (S)
39 points AF (9 cross-type AF points)
2,016-Segment RGB Meter
Frame Rate: 5,5 FPS.
Flash Sync: 1/200. Built-in Flash
Full HD 1080p24, 25 or 30. 720p60. / MPEG-4, H.264 (bitrate - 24Mbps or 12Mbps)
Uncompressed video recording via HDMI
Auto DX crop mode (for movie!)
30 minute video limit(!)
Stereo mike input and headphone jack
Dual SD card slots
RAW editor
Built in time-lapse functionality
New external battery grip
Shutter: 1/4,000 ~ 30 sec, bulb. Carbon fiber and Kevlar, tested to 150,000 cycles.
Wireless support via WU-1a dongle
100% viewfinder
3.2-inch lcd with 921.000 dots
HDMI-output (clear, usable for recording!)
Battery - EN-EL15
Approximately 141.0 x 113.0 x 82.0 mm (W x H x D)
Weight - 760 gram
Price: $2100 for body, $2,700 for kit, very far from "entry level"

Reviews and previews:

Available at:

Body : http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0099XGZXA
Kit: Use body link above and just add kit lens as separate, it'be cheaper than kit (due to active discounts)

Samples and videos:

Nikon Gamma Controls v0.1 Beta Test

LPowell — Thu, 28 Feb 2013 15:20:29 -0500

Nikon Gamma Controls - v0.1 Beta Test

Overview

Nikon Gamma Controls bring interactive adjustment of the camera's gamma curve to video filming on DSLR's that support Nikon's custom Picture Control profiles. It is comprised of a set of calibrated gamma curves applied to Nikon's built-in Picture Profiles: Neutral, Portrait, Standard, Landscape, Vivid, and Monochrome. Unlike previous custom picture profiles such as Technicolor's Cinestyle, which provides a single, non-adjustable gamma curve that attempts to cover all types of shooting conditions, Nikon Gamma Controls enable the user to select a standardized gamma curve that best suits the illumination of each shot. And since Nikon Gamma Controls are calibrated to industry-standard grading tools, the selected gamma curve can be freely and accurately fine-tuned in a wide range of video editors without loss of image detail.

Gamma Control - Exposure's Hidden Dimension

One of the first challenges that confront videographers is gauging the proper exposure for each shot. While modern DSLR's provide a variety of illumination meters and exposure adjustments, high-contrast scenes can easily exceed the camera's limited dynamic range. In these situations it is often necessary to deliberately underexpose the darker areas of a scene in order to preserve highlight details in the brightest areas. This can result in starkly-lit video images that require significant grading to boost the visibility of shadow details. Unfortunately, the darkest areas in videos compressed with 8-bit H.264 encoders are recorded with noticeably degraded image quality, and this imposes a practical limit on the amount of enhancement that can be applied in post-production.

What is actually needed in these cases are controls that enable the user to set not only the exposure level of the highlights, but to independently control exposure of darker areas as well. When recording video, Nikon cameras convert the RAW sensor data into Rec. 709 video data and compress the scene's dynamic range into a format designed for viewing on consumer televisions. The core mathematical formula used in this conversion is known as the video gamma curve, and it determines the relative brightness of dark and midrange tones compared to the highlights. Broadcast engineers fine-tuned the Rec. 709 gamma curve for television viewing under subdued room lighting - a standard that is not well-optimized for image capture, particularly not for high-contrast lighting situations. For optimal image quality, the camera's gamma curve should ideally be adjusted specifically for each scene.

The Zen of Gamma Control

While there are many ways to adjust the perceived brightness of an image, the gamma function has a uniquely valuable property - it enables you to manipulate the proportional brightness of midrange tones while leaving the exposure of the brightest and darkest shades unchanged. That gives you the ability to protect highlight detail with a conservative exposure setting, while independently adjusting the overall brightness of the image with the gamma control. It is literally an extra dimension of exposure control, demonstrated in the video sequence below. The inset histograms measure the change in midrange brightness as gamma is varied from 1.0 to 0.4:

In practice, Nikon Gamma Controls are a set of seven gamma curves, in this case applied to Nikon's built-in Neutral Picture Profile. I have calibrated the curves with the base Neutral profile as gamma 1.0, decrementing with each step by 0.1 down to a gamma of 0.4. This provides a gamma adjustment range of 2.5:1, covering the full range of practical shooting conditions. The reason I chose this particular scaling is because it matches the calibration of the built-in gamma controls provided by a wide range of video editors. This calibration is so precise that you can grade each of the above clips back to gamma 1.0 simply by applying the same gamma setting that was used to record it. (In other words, to restore a video shot at gamma 0.5 back to the camera's default gamma 1.0 curve, simply grade it with a gamma curve set to 0.5. With a 32-bit video editor, this process is completely reversible - no image details are lost!)

Improving Image Quality with Gamma Control

If Nikon DSLR's recorded videos in uncompressed RAW format, there would be no practical advantage to using gamma control profiles. In addition to filming video, Nikon Gamma Controls can be used in JPEG still photography (e.g. to bring up shadow details in backlit photos). If you capture both JPEG and RAW image formats, however, you'll find that the RAW images are unaltered by Nikon Gamma Controls.

With video, however, the internal H.264 encoder burns the camera's gamma curve permanently into each recording, and it's here that Nikon Gamma Controls can visibly improve shadow detail quality. With a gamma of 0.5, for example, darker shades are recorded with about twice as much mathematical detail as that used in the camera's default gamma 1.0 picture profiles. An additional advantage is that boosting the recorded illumination of shadow details can give you the option of turning down the brightness when grading the video in post, instead of needing to dig image details out of the darkness. The example below shows how grading a video shot at the default gamma of 1.0 produces visibly coarser results than grading with gamma 0.7 or 0.5:

Nikon Gamma Controls Beta Test Info

This initial Beta Release of Nikon Gamma Controls has been thoroughly tested for accuracy and reliability on a Nikon D5100. In addition, I've verified proper operation on Nikon D5200 and D7000 cameras (and confirmed that Nikon D3100 and D3200 do not support custom Picture Controls). In addition, I've confirmed compatibility with the calibration of gamma controls provided in Adobe Premiere Pro and After Effects, versions CS5 - CS6.

My understanding of Nikon's documentation is that all contemporary pro and prosumer DSLR's support custom Picture Controls using a standardized, cross-compatible set of built-in picture profiles. Detailed information on the Nikon Picture Control System is available here:

http://imaging.nikon.com/lineup/microsite/picturecontrol/catalog/PicCon.pdf

The reason I'm releasing this version as a Beta test is because there are additional compatibility issues I don't have the resources to investigate on my own. I would appreciate help in confirming support for Nikon Gamma Controls in the following areas:

Support for custom Picture Controls across Nikon's DSLR models.
Accurate gamma calibration on each of the built-in Picture Profiles.
Calibration of gamma adjustment controls in prominent video editing suites.

With Nikon Gamma Controls v0.1 Beta, I've included the complete set of gamma controls for Nikon's built-in Neutral profile, with default user settings adjusted for video recording. The Neutral profile is well-suited for video and provides a solid baseline for evaluation. Once we have confirmed compatibility with a broad range of Nikon DSLR's and video editing applications, I will generate calibrated gamma control profiles for all six of Nikon's built-in picture profiles and include them in subsequent releases.

Download and Installation of Nikon Gamma Controls

I've packaged Nikon Gamma Controls in a zip file attached to this post. After downloading and unzipping it, you'll find a folder named NIKON, which contains a CUSTOMPC folder that contains a set of Nikon Picture Control profiles. Copy the entire NIKON folder structure to the root folder of a compatible memory card and insert it into your camera.

To install Nikon Gamma Controls, find the "Manage Picture Control" option in the SHOOTING MENU. Select the "Load/Save" option, and then the "Copy to Camera" option. You should then see a list of the Nikon Gamma Controls profiles, starting with one named "Sepia". I included this profile as a convenient placeholder to fill in the seventh slot in the stock "Set Picture Control" menu, at the bottom end of the list of built-in picture profiles.

If your camera works like the Nikon D5100, it will accept up to nine custom profiles, labeled C1-C9. If you load Sepia into C1, it will be displayed along with the built-in profiles on the first page of the Set Picture Control menu. You can then load the seven Neutral Gamma profiles into C2-C8 slots, and they will all fit neatly on the second page of the menu. When loading each profile, the camera will give you the option to revise the profile name. You need to take care at that point, and press the +Magnify button instead of the OK button, to accept the custom profile without changing its name.

Usage of Nikon Gamma Controls

On Nikon DSLR's, video is recorded in Live View mode, and prosumer models work in a quirky manner that can subtly foul up the use of Nikon Gamma Controls. The fundamental problem is that the camera is unable to electronically update the lens aperture after you enter Live View - the lens iris will stay fixed even when the displayed aperture appears to change. In order to reliably set the aperture, you must exit Live View mode to do so.

Once you've set your aperture (in either M or A-priority modes), and returned to Live View, you may want to lock down your exposure with the AE-Lock button. This will work properly as long as you do not exit Live View mode. But beware, because there's a hidden pitfall - if you snap a still photo in Live View mode, the camera will exit and return to Live View. That will silently invalidate the AE-Lock exposure settings and your video exposure will no longer be correct. To be absolutely sure you're shooting with your intended exposure, always engage AE-Lock just before pressing the movie record button.

Once those glitches are under control, you can experiment with the seven profiles in Nikon Gamma Controls. As long as you stay in Live View mode, you can interactively select different gamma settings from 1.0 to 0.4, and evaluate their visible effects on the LCD screen. You can also use gamma bracketing - repeating a shot with a range of gamma settings - without leaving Live View between each recording. This is how I recorded the sample videos and it was very quick and convenient to adjust gamma on-the-fly while composing each shot.

If you examine the user settings in each Neutral Gamma profile, you'll see that I've set Sharpening to 0, Saturation to -2, and Hue to 0. These settings differ from the defaults in the built-in Neutral profile - they're what I found most useful for shooting video. If you experiment with these user settings, be sure to update each of the seven Neutral Gamma profiles the same way. That will preserve your ability to fine-tune the gamma profiles in post, with calibrated grading and intercutting among all Nikon Gamma Controls profiles.

Nikon D4. The new king with uncompressed HDMI output.

bwhitz — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 13:50:39 -0500

The D4 can record 1080p Full HD video at 30/25 or 24p in H.264/MPEG-4 AVC format with broadcast quality full of fine tones and natural colors. Located next to the shutter-release button, the dedicated recording start button makes operation intuitive and easy to access. Maximum recording time for a single clip is 29 min. 59 s. Thanks to Nikon's latest image-processing algorithms, the D4's video ensures a smooth look with fewer "jaggies" and less moiré while maintaining sharp edges, even in dark conditions, by using noise-reduction technology designed specifically for video. With the D4, Full HD video is at your disposal in three formats: FX-based, DX-based or 1,920 x 1,080 crop movie format. The FX-based format renders exquisitely shallow depth of field (DOF) as well as wide-angle shooting. It ensures beautiful movies even at high ISO sensitivity with minimal noise. When a DX lens is attached, DX-based format is automatically selected. This format is useful for creating an extension to the focal length of an existing lens. For an even stronger telephoto effect, the 1,920 x 1,080 crop format brings an approx. 2.7x crop of the picture angle while delivering outstanding video quality and detail, obtaining 1080p Full HD. Versatility like this lets you explore different moods with the large and comprehensive selection of NIKKOR lenses.

-----

Just saw these latest rumors...

http://nikonrumors.com/2011/12/11/nikon-d4-specs-16-2mp-11-fps-102400-native-iso-xqd-memory-card.aspx/

Maybe 2012 will be the year of uncompressed DSLR video...?

One can only hope... With Nikon's dynamic range and organic high-ISO... a D4 with a recorder could be an Alexa killer for 1/10th the price and certainly send the C300 back to the drawing board.

Perhaps there's also still time to give the 1Dx uncompressed output to compete... ?

GH2 vs Nikon D800

ssh — Tue, 02 Apr 2013 14:10:35 -0400

I'm thinking about selling my aging D700 to get D800. I am totally satisfied with D700's stills, and the only reason I'd get D800 is the video. Right now I carry GH2 for video and D700 for stills, would be nice to have the best of both worlds in one body. I bet some of you handled or even own both GH2 and D800. Would you be so kind to share your impressions?

Nikon D7100 or Lumix GH3, next investment

andres — Tue, 26 Mar 2013 11:10:29 -0400

I am hesitating into my next camera and perhaps other are in the same situation, I use my gh1 mostly for private work, interviews, backstage's and teasers for personal projects, Know I am looking for an upgrade, I have leica r lenses that can be fitter on to nikon or m43 so that is not a concern, from what I've seen so far (not much) the D7100 has more noise on the shadows but that is also with much more flat profile compared to the gh3, so it is not fair to say. Resolution wise I think the gh3 wins here but in the dynamic range area the points go to the d7100.

What I need is headphone jack and stop doing double sound for unimportant interviews, so the d5200 is out of the question for me.

d7100 pros The plus is the extra superb photo mode that is great for some stopmotion project I happen to have sometimes. (Communicates with dragon frame) The low gama profiles that combined with a external recorder could develop into something interesting if I wanted to. Low Moire (as far as I've seen) Big Sensor Nice nikon zoom lenses with aperture ring that work with every camera. Aps Sensor 1.5x

cons The sadness of not getting a swivel screen and the unhackability of the camera nature (a big thing). No timelapse, No silent shutter so shutter wear will be a concern. 730g

Gh3 pros The video camera wholeness, The screen, and evf, silent shutter and timelapse mode. posibility of combining it with the metabones adapter to make it 1.3x (we would need to wait and see if it is worth it) (add 400$) Crazzy hacking possibilities Nice to have as a compliment to the bmcc, same adapters and lenses. (possible bcam perhaps) 550g

cons A little moire has been reported Smaller sensor than my gh1 !!!!! need to buy metabones Price is with some big boys. No stopmotion DragonFrame control.

I would like to know members opinion here,

questions for the d7100 Does the camera has histogram with manual leica lenses???? this is really important Does anyone know if the hdmi output is 25p or 50i for pal land or is it 60i like the d5200??? and 422 ???? Do the low isos of the d7100 also have so much noise.????

thanks,

Andrés

Nikon new mirrorless cameras V1 and J1

bleach551 — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 02:36:37 -0400

Here are links.
http://www.nikon.com/news/2011/0921_digital_01.htm

http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/21/nikon-unveils-v1-and-j1-mirrorless-cameras-10-1mp-cmos-2-7-inc/

http://www.dpreview.com/news/1109/11092120nikonlaunch.asp

Inside Nikon V1

Vitaliy_Kiselev — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 10:48:45 -0400

The manufacturer of CMOS image sensor is none other than Aptina, and the device’s part number is C1CC. Die markings on the device are: /APTINA/IMAGING/(M)C1CC©/2010.

The image processor found inside is the EXPEED 3, or EI-160, manufactured by Nikon. Package markings on the device are: //JAPAN/EI-160 1108 Z09.

The Samsung K4X2G323PC-8GD8 DDR SDRAM was one of the memory devices found inside the Nikon V1. Package markings on the device are: SAMSUNG/104/ K4X2G323PC-8GD8/EEL633GJN.

Also found on the circuit board were two Elpida EDE4232A2MA DRAM devices, on both sides of the EXPEED 3 processor. This looks like a total of 1GB of DDR2 memory.

The flash memory found on the device was the M29W128GH-60ZA6 128 Mbit nonvolatile flash memory device. This device was manufactured by STMicroelectronics

One of the devices behind video capture is the Epson E03100F0A video processor chip. Package markings on this device are: E/E03100F0A/F0Z0112/JAPAN.

The TDA9989 is a very low power and very small size high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI) 1.3a transmitter.

Via: http://www.chipworks.com/en/technical-competitive-analysis/resources/recent-teardowns/2011/11/teardown-of-the-nikon-v1-camera-%E2%80%93-aptina-found/

Possible photo of Nikon D400

bleach551 — Fri, 08 Mar 2013 19:35:17 -0500

Here is what could be a photo of the Nikon D400 with a battery grip, but it might just be a photoshop creation. Here is also the link that i got it from.

http://translate.google.de/translate?js=n&prev=_t&hl=de&ie=UTF-8&layout=2&eotf=1&sl=de&tl=en&u=http%3A%2F%2Fanscharius.wordpress.com&act=url

Nikon D7100 Initial 8-page Brochure

bleach551 — Wed, 06 Mar 2013 02:05:13 -0500

Here is the Initial 8-page brochure that Nikon has put out for the Nikon D7100. There might be another one coming later with more pages.

Nikon D5100 compared to Panasonic GH2

LPowell — Sun, 16 Oct 2011 02:30:09 -0400

The Nikon D5100 DSLR was announced in April 2011, as a 16-megapixel APS-C prosumer camera priced midway between Nikon's D3100 and D7000 cameras. It combines the D7000's top-of-the line image sensor with the D3100's consumer-friendly controls and user interfaces. In addition, the D5100 provides two unique features that no other Nikon DSLR shares:

* A swiveling, side-hinged LCD screen with 920K pixels
* 1080p & 720p video at 24, 25, and 30fps, H.264 format

While the semi-pro D7000 provides numerous refinements for still photography, it lacks the D5100's 1080p25 and 1080p30 video modes, as well as its swiveling LCD screen. These omissions make the D7000 less well-adapted to DSLR video purposes than the D5100. However, the D5100 has its own shortcomings:

* Auto-focus works only with AF-S G-style lenses.
* Aperture can only be set in-camera, not by lens aperture ring.
* Manual exposure settings do not work for video recording.
* White balance cannot be manually set in Kelvin degrees.

Compared with the GH2, both D5100 and D7000 cameras lack several key features:

* No histogram display during video recording.
* No visible exposure meter in Live View mode.
* No 50/60fps video modes for slow motion.
* Each video recording is limited to 20 minutes.
* Firmware has not yet been hacked!

In most other respects, the D5100 works similarly to the GH2, and its 20Mbps, B-frame-enabled H.264 encoder produces image quality comparable to an unhacked GH2. On the surface, the D5100 would appear to be a high-quality, semi-automated DSLR that doesn't quite measure up to the GH2's video capabilities. In several respects, however, it surpasses the GH2's weak spots:

* Highest dynamic range of current crop-sensor DSLRs
* Lowest high-ISO noise of current crop-sensor DSLRs
* Imperceptible banding from 14-bit RAW image sensor

DxOMark test comparisons here:
http://www.dxomark.com/index.php/Cameras/Compare-Camera-Sensors/Compare-cameras-side-by-side/%28appareil1%29/698|0/%28brand%29/Nikon/%28appareil2%29/677|0/%28brand2%29/Panasonic/%28appareil3%29/630|0/%28brand3%29/Panasonic

One more notable feature: The D5100's Nikon AF-D lenses can be shared with the GH2.

It was this lens compatibility factor that led me to consider the D5100's merits as a backup video camera. For mobile filming purposes, I had built a pair of shoulder mount rigs with traditional follow focus and matte box. I quickly realized that Micro 4/3 and Canon FD still photography lenses are poorly suited for this purpose, and that for proper focus ring rotation with a follow focus, I needed to use Nikon F-mount lenses. I chose the following set of moderately-priced lenses, all of which have manual focus rings with hard stops and fixed outer lens barrels that neither extend nor rotate:

Rokinon/Samyang 35mm f1.4
Rokinon/Samyang 85mm f1.4
Tokina AT-X 235 Pro 20-35mm f2.8
Tokina AT-X 270 Pro 28-70mm f2.8

These lenses work beautifully with the GH2 in all but two situations - low-light video shooting and portrait photography. For that, I needed a camera with less noise at high ISO's and finer color depth than the GH2's 12-bit RAW image sensor. Hence, the Nikon D5100.

After using the D5100 along with my GH2 and GH1 for a while, I came to some general conclusions about their ISO settings. With video footage, I'm quite intolerant of high-ISO noise, and have placed strict limits on each camera's maximum usable ISO:

GH1: ISO 400 or less, 800 when desperate
GH2: ISO 800 or less, 1600 when desperate
D5100: ISO 1600 or less, 3200 when desperate

Recently I ran controlled high-ISO tests at 1080p24 on all three cameras mounted on a tripod. I used the same lens, the Tokina AT-X Pro 28-70mm f2.8, set at f11. To produce the same field of view on all three, I set the lens to about 50mm on GH1 and GH2, and to about 65mm on the D5100. On the GH1, I installed the 100Mbps Max Latitude Native 24p patch. On the GH2, I installed cbrandin's 66Mbps AQ2 patch. I used the light meter (set to sunlight) in each camera to set exposure at ISO 1600. This produced videos that were reasonably close in exposure levels. More significant variations were visible in the three camera's color balances, which I adjusted to match more closely in each camera (the GH1 really needs its green toned down to match the GH2). I then imported each video file into Premiere CS55.5 and combined them into the following video, with GH1, GH2, and D5100 clips in order:

I also exported a still frame from each clip, which I center-cropped at 100% resolution:

Uncompressed RAW file from the camera

hdsc — Wed, 31 Oct 2012 20:37:09 -0400

Hi, I was wondering if there is a tool to get uncompressed RAW files from Nikon entry level DSLRs?

Entry level DSLRs are crippled by compressing their RAW files by default, which keeps their image quality low compared to high-end models. High-end models have the option of compressed and uncompressed RAW files.

If there is none, this is a good project with great results. Uncompressed RAW files from entry level DSLRs will match the quality of high-end models of the same megapixel.

nikon d7000 or canon 5d II for video?

GravitateMediaGroup — Tue, 18 Dec 2012 00:01:42 -0500

Sorry if there is a topic about this already.

I own a d7000 and have seen some pretty good christmas deals going on for the 5D II.
I'm pretty sure the 5D is the better option, but would like to get some input from people that have used a 5d or both of these cameras. Factor magic lantern into the picture as well.

or, what other options should I weigh in the $1700 range?

Nikon J2, J3, S1 topic

Vitaliy_Kiselev — Thu, 09 Aug 2012 02:38:11 -0400

Specifications and annoucments:

10.1 Megapixel, CX-format (1") CMOS sensor
Expeed 3 image processor
Supports all CX-mount lenses (of which five are now available) with a 2.7X crop factor; optional F-mount adapter lets you use your regular Nikkor lenses
Same AF system as the original 1 System models
Body and mode dial now made from metal
3-inch LCD display with 921,000 pixels (double the resolution of the J1)
Full manual controls with RAW support
Shutter speed range of 30 - 1/16000 sec
ISO range of 100 - 3200, expandable to 6400
Scene Auto Selector for the point-and-shoot crowd
Creative Mode offers panorama, selective color, miniature, backlighting (HDR), and other special effects
Continuous shooting remains at 10 fps with continuous AF, 60 fps without
Built-in flash (same as the J1)
Records Full HD at 30p or 60i with stereo sound (no manual controls)

Available at:

10-30mm kit - http://www.amazon.com/Nikon-Digital-Camera-10-30mm-Black/dp/B008V0IWEC ($546)
double kit - http://www.amazon.com/Nikon-Digital-Camera-10-30mm-30-110mm/dp/B008V0J2ZA ($796)

D800 body dimensions

andrzej — Thu, 13 Dec 2012 10:17:00 -0500

Does anyone know the following: the exact distance from the center of the lens to camera base of a D800? the exact distance from the lens mount face to center of tripod screw of a D800? I would love to know if the camera will work with my panoramic head before buying but this vital information is missing from every review.

Thanks

d5100 monitor support in 30p

heliboy — Sat, 24 Nov 2012 21:57:40 -0500

Does anyone know solution to get the nikon d5100 to support an external monitor in 30p setting. Is there a hack or patch for this dilemma?

Nikon 17-55mm tripod ring solutions?

Micah — Wed, 07 Nov 2012 22:47:54 -0500

I've done some preliminary digging around and nobody seems to have broached this topic so far.

The 17-55 lens has been really enjoyable to shoot with so far, but I'd like to take the tension off the mount of my M43 bodies--it's a beast of a heavy lens!

I've got some ideas about how to assemble a rig to do so, but I'm curious if anybody else has tried this.

is 60fps possible on the d5100?

sbojnik — Fri, 02 Nov 2012 22:37:19 -0400

if at all possible, could you please take a look at making the d5100 do 60 fps? I know the d3200 can do 60fps but uses the expeed3 processor, whereas the d5100 only uses an expeed2.

Nikon D800 and Canon 5D Mark III comparisons

Vitaliy_Kiselev — Mon, 14 May 2012 14:54:00 -0400

Philip B.

Ron Martisen

http://www.ronmartblog.com/2012/05/comparision-nikon-d800-vs-canon-5d-mark.html

Learningdslrvideo

http://www.learningdslrvideo.com/5d-mark-iii-vs-nikon-d800/

Canon 5DMKIII versus Nikon D800 - audio side

Nikon D3200 and WU-1a wireless mobile adapter demo (video)

disneytoy — Tue, 01 May 2012 12:27:32 -0400

http://nikonrumors.com/2012/04/20/nikon-d3200-and-wu-1a-wireless-mobile-adapter-demo-video.aspx/

For $59 this would be a nice new feature for a GH-3. Wifi control. And the D3200 is a $699 camera. So it is technologically possible for the GH-3

D800 versus Canon 5d Mk 3 shootout

brianluce — Wed, 04 Apr 2012 22:57:06 -0400

Emphasis is on video mode.

Nikon D4 Video - Available Light, Internal Recording Codec

Aria — Mon, 19 Mar 2012 18:01:12 -0400

Here is a video that someone made using a Nikon D4 under available light. I don't see any mention of HDMI recording so it seems to be all internal codec. I actually like the look of it. It's a different look than the typical Canon look many are used to, but it still looks good to me for an internal codec.

Nikon D4 sample videos for download on dpreview

zzap64 — Tue, 06 Mar 2012 21:07:25 -0500

dpreview has uploaded 2 sample videos taken with the Nikon D4.

http://www.dpreview.com/articles/6015410449/first-impressions-using-the-nikon-d4/4

I am disappointed with the quality of the video. It is certainly not as sharp, detailed and free of artefacts as the Panasonic GH2 video. It will be interesting to see what the video is like captured through HDMI.

Nikon D3100

Novalis — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 16:50:38 -0500

Is D3100 firmware similar to D5100? Is there a chance for D3100 firmware development?