Nikon D700: Full-frame DSLR

Tuesday, 01 July 2008

2 weeks ago, images of the D700 brochure leaked out to the community. While the photos looked genuine, most people chose to believe that it was another photoshop job by some enthusiast. Today, Nikon finally announces the second full-frame DSLR, amidst fiery discussions among the photography community on the seemingly remote but commercially-justified possibility of a cheaper full-frame model. The most important question is: how will a smaller full-frame DSLR position itself in order not to cannibalise the D3 and possibly D300? Nikon answers with D700 and the following (limitation) features against D3: - slower 5fps or 8fps with vertical grip - less-robust shutter life (similar as D300) - single CF slot - 95% viewfinder coverage (100% for D3) - no 5:4 aspect ratio But D700 compensates with the following advantages to D3: - smaller and lighter body - built-in sensor cleaning - built-in flash The D700 has identical size to D300 except for the taller viewfinder to make room for the full-frame view. The multi-controller is also taken from the D3, and the hardware button placements around the viewfinder follows the D3. In short, D700 is a hybrid of the D300 and D3. If you like the size of D300 and appreciate the sensor advantage of the D3, then D700 will be the one for you. Now that Nikon has offered a wallet-friendly full-frame DSLR, it's not a straightforward choice for semi-pros currently on DX format. For one, you might have to revisit your existing lenses - telezoom lenses no longer has the same zoom multiplier. I am also not very pleased with the 51-point AF sensor cluttered in the centre of the frame. To me, the reason for not switching immediately to FX format is the lenses-availability, as well as lenses portability. Full-frame lenses are generally heavier than DX lenses and will be hard-to-find for a long while. Lens manufacturers have to start overcoming challenges to design full-frame lenses that are sharp from edge-to-edge without compromising size. Worse, they might decide not to cater the full-frame market if they decide to concentrate on the consumer-friendly DX market. The only reasons I would want the D700 is the low-noise sensor and the visually-accurate field of view from a purist point of view (pun intended). And if I feel rich. The D700 is retailing at US$2999, which means the launch street price is below S$5000. Expect it to be on sale in August.

 

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