Nikon D700 info and updates
The Nikon D700
Information about Nikon’s D700 full frame camera
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Launched in 2008 the full frame (FX) D700 was still for sale in 2012, and has only been superceded in some ways by the D600 in Sept. 2012 or the much higher spec D800/D800E
This page is actively maintained for firmware updates and any other info we find.

D700 Key features
- 12.1 megapixel full-frame sensor (8.45µm pixel pitch)
- ISO 200 – 6400 (with boost up to ISO 25600 and down to ISO 100)
- 14-bit A/D conversion, 12 channel readout
- New Kevlar / carbon fibre composite shutter with 150,000 exposure durability
- Multi-CAM3500FX Auto Focus sensor (51-point, 15 cross-type, more vertical coverage)
- Auto-focus tracking by colour (using information from 1005-pixel AE sensor)
- 95% coverage, 0.72x magnification viewfinder
- Auto-focus calibration (fine-tuning), fixed body or up to 20 separate lens settings
- 5 frames per second continuous with auto-focus tracking
- Optional MB-D10 Battery Pack (same as D300), increases burst rate to 8 fps
- UDMA compatible single CF card slot *
- 3.0″ 922,000 pixel LCD monitor
- Virtual horizon indicates if camera is level (like an aircraft cockpit display)
- HDMI HD video output
- Magnesium alloy body with connections and buttons sealed against moisture
D700 information
- Specifications
- Nikon Sample Images
- Sample images
- 24 page, 10MB PDF D700 brochure[PDF]
- Press release (Eu)
- Firmware v1.01 available: Nikon
Latest info
2012
February
25th Price reduction ($500) in the US and the D700 will continue to be supplied [NR]
2009 January
21st D700 firmware v1.01 available: Nikon
The following improvements have been made in version 1.01
– When Custom Setting a4 Focus tracking with lock-on was set to Off in Continuous-servo AF, the lens drive moved gradually without achieving focus. This issue has been resolved.
– When the Speedlight SB-800 was mounted on the camera with flash mode set to Distance-priority manual (GN) mode, and then the exposure meters were reactivated or the camera was turned on, the distance information displayed on the SB-800 changed. This issue has been resolved.
– When the Multi-Power Battery Pack MB-D10 was mounted on the camera and an EN-EL3e battery inserted in the camera but no batteries inserted in the MB-D10, and SB-900 flash mode set to TTL auto flash mode, the flash mode changed to A mode when the exposure meters turned off or were reactivated, or the camera was turned off or on. This issue has been resolved. (This issue has also been resolved with SB-900 firmware Ver. 5.02.)
– An issue that, in extremely rare cases, resulted in noticeable black dots in images captured with Long exp. NR in the shooting menu set to On has been resolved.
– Manamah, displayed in the Time zone options for the World time item in the setup menu, has been changed to Manama.
2008 October
4th Excellent review from Thom Hogan
July
27th I’ve had several comments (thanks) from people who’ve received their D700s. Some with a free 8GB card rather than the advertised 4GB
22nd The user manual is available for download from Nikon. I got mine from www.nikon.co.uk – unfortunately links don’t work, so you’ll have to go to ‘Customer Services’ > ‘Support and downloads’ where you can find the PDF.
7th I’m told that the price in Denmark (when released) has dropped to approx ~£1590. The D3 itself is also down to around £2550 in the UK
1st It’s official (at last ;-) £1999 in the UK, $2999 in the US
D700 Key features
12.1 megapixel full-frame sensor (8.45µm pixel pitch)
Image Sensor Cleaning (vibration) *
ISO 200 – 6400 (with boost up to ISO 25600 and down to ISO 100)
Also supports DX lenses, viewfinder automatically masks (5.1 megapixels with DX lens)
14-bit A/D conversion, 12 channel readout
Same ultra-fast startup and shutter lag as D3
Nikon EXPEED image processor (Capture NX processing and NR algorithms, lower power)
New Kevlar / carbon fibre composite shutter with 150,000 exposure durability *
Multi-CAM3500FX Auto Focus sensor (51-point, 15 cross-type, more vertical coverage)
Auto-focus tracking by colour (using information from 1005-pixel AE sensor)
95% coverage, 0.72x magnification viewfinder *
Auto-focus calibration (fine-tuning), fixed body or up to 20 separate lens settings
Scene Recognition System (uses AE sensor, AF sensor)
Picture Control image parameter presets
5 frames per second continuous with auto-focus tracking*
Optional MB-D10 Battery Pack (same as D300), increases burst rate to 8 fps *
UDMA compatible single CF card slot *
3.0″ 922,000 pixel LCD monitor
Live View with either phase detect (mirror up/down) or contrast detect Auto Focus
Virtual horizon indicates if camera is level (like an aircraft cockpit display)
HDMI HD video output
‘Active D-Lighting’ (adjusts metering as well as applying D-Lighting curve)
Detailed ‘Control Panel’ type display on LCD monitor, changes colour in darkness
Magnesium alloy body with connections and buttons sealed against moisture
D700 Specifications
Price (body only) | UK: £1999, US: $ 2999, EU: € 2599 |
Body material | Magnesium alloy |
Sensor | 36 x 23.9 mm CMOS sensor FX format RGB Colour Filter Array Built-in fixed low-pass filter 12.87 million total pixels 12.1 million effective pixels 3:2 aspect ratio |
Image processor | Nikon EXPEED |
A/D conversion | 14 bit |
Image sizes (FX format) |
4256 x 2832 [L; 12.1 MP] 3184 x 2120 [M; 6.8 MP] 2128 x 1416 [S; 3.0 MP] |
Image sizes (DX format) |
2784 x 1848 [L; 5.1 MP] 2080 x 1384 [M; 2.9 MP] 1392 x 920 [S; 1.3 MP]] |
File formats | NEF (12-bit or 14-bit, compressed or lossless compressed RAW) NEF + JPEG TIFF JPEG (EXIF 2.21) |
Lens mount | Nikon F mount with AF coupling and AF contacts No field of view crop (full-frame) When using DX lenses / DX mode 1.5x FOV crop |
Usable lenses | DX AF Nikkor: All functions supported Type G or D AF Nikkor: All functions supported (PC Micro-Nikkors do not support some functions) Other AF Nikkor: All functions supported except 3D Colour Matrix Metering II. Lenses for F3AF not supported. IX Nikkor lenses not supported. AI-P Nikkor: All functions supported except autofocus and 3D Colour Matrix Metering II Non-CPU AI Nikkor: Can be used in exposure modes A and M; electronic rangefinder can be used if maximum aperture is f/5.6 or faster; Colour Matrix Metering and aperture value display supported if user provides lens data |
Auto Focus | 51 focus points (15 cross-type sensors) Multi-CAM 3500FX AF working range: -1 to +19 EV (ISO 100, normal temperature) AF fine tuning possible Contrast Detect in Live View (Tripod) mode |
Lens Servo | Single Servo AF [S] Continuous Servo AF [C] Manual focus [M] Focus Tracking automatically activated by subject’s status in [S] or [C] AF |
Focus Point | Single point from 51 or 11 focus points Liveview (Tripod mode): Contrast AF on a desired point anywhere within frame |
AF Area Mode | Single point AF Dynamic Area AF [9 points, 21 points, 51 points, 51 points (3D-tracking)] Automatic-area AF |
Focus Lock | Focus can be locked by pressing shutter-release button halfway (single-servo AF) or by pressing AE-L/AF-L button |
AF assist | AF-assist illuminator (range approx. 0.5-3 m/1.6-9.8 ft.) |
Exposure modes | Program Auto [P] with flexible program Shutter-Priority Auto [S] Aperture-Priority Auto [A] Manual [M] |
Metering | TTL full-aperture exposure metering using 1005-pixel RGB sensor 3D Colour Matrix Metering II (type G and D lenses); colour matrix metering II (other CPU lenses); colour matrix metering (non-CPU lenses if user provides lens data; metering performed) Center-weighted: Weight of 75% given to 8, 15, or 20 mm dia. circle in center of frame or weighting based on average of entire frame Spot: Meters approx. 4 mm dia. circle (about 1.5% of frame) centered on selected focus point (on center focus point when non-CPU lens is used) |
Metering range | 3D Colour Matrix Metering: 0 to 20 EV Center-Weighted Metering: 0 to 20 EV Spot Metering: 2 to 20 EV At normal temperature (20°C/68°F), ISO 100 equivalent, f/1.4 lens |
Meter coupling | CPU and AI |
Exposure lock | Locked using AE-L/AF-L button |
Exposure bracketing | 2 to 9 frames 1/3, 1/2, 2/3 or 1 EV steps |
Exposure compen. | +/-5.0 EV 1/3, 1/2 or 1 EV steps |
Sensitivity | Default: ISO 200 – 6400 in 1/3, 1/2 or 1.0 EV steps Boost: 100 – 12800 in 1/3, 1/2 or 1.0 EV steps, HI2 = ISO 25600 |
Shutter | Electronically-controlled vertical-travel focal plane shutter 30 to 1/8000 sec (1/3, 1/2 or 1.0 EV steps) Flash X-Sync: 1/250 sec Bulb |
DOF Preview | Stop-down lens aperture by pressing button Activates modeling flash |
White balance | Auto (1005-pixel CCD, image sensor) Presets (seven) with fine tuning Manual presets (five) Colour temperature in Kelvin (2500 – 10000 K) White balance bracketing (2 to 9 frames in increments of 1, 2 or 3 |
Picture Control | Standard Neutral Vivid Monochrome |
Image parameters | Sharpening: Auto, 10 levels Contrast: Auto, 6 levels, Custom tone curve Brightness: 3 levels Saturation: Auto, 7 levels Hue: 7 levels |
Colour space | sRGB Adobe RGB |
Viewfinder | Optical-type fixed eye-level pentaprism Built-in diopter adjustment (-3 to +1m-1) Eyepoint: 18 mm (at -1.0m-1) Focusing screen: Type B BriteView Clear Matte VI screen Frame coverage 95% Viewfinder magnification approx 0.72x with 50 mm f/1.4 lens |
Focusing screen | B-type BrightView Clear Matte IV Screen Superimposed focus brackets On-demand grid lines |
LCD monitor | 3.0 ” TFT LCD Approx. 920,000 pixels (VGA; 640 x 480 x 3 colours) 170° viewing angle 100% frame coverage Brightness adjustment |
LCD Liveview | Handheld mode: TLL phase-detect AF with 51 focus areas (15 cross-type sensors) Tripod mode: focal-plane contrast AF on a desired point within a specific area |
Shooting modes | Single frame Continuous Low [CL]: 1 – 5 fps (1 – 7 fps with Battery Grip) Continuous High [CH]: 5 fps (8 fps with Battery Grip) Liveview [LV] Self-Timer (programmable) Mirror-up mode |
Self-timer | 2 to 20 sec custom |
Flash | Manual pop-up type Guide number of 17/56 (ISO 200, m/ft.) or 12/39 (ISO 100, m/ft.) |
Flash control | TTL flash control with 1,005-pixel RGB sensor; i-TTL balanced fill-flash and standard i-TTL fill-flash available with SB-900, 800, 600 or 400 Auto aperture (AA): Available with SB-900, 800 and CPU lens Non-TTL auto (A): Available with SB-900, 800, 28, 27 or 22s Distance-priority manual (GN): Available with SB-900, 800 |
Flash Sync Mode | Front-curtain Sync (normal) Red-Eye Reduction Red-Eye Reduction with Slow Sync Slow Sync Rear-curtain Sync |
Flash Accessory Shoe | ISO 518 standard-type hot shoe contact; Safety lock mechanism provided |
Flash Sync Terminal | ISO 519 standard terminal, lock screw provided |
Flash compensation | -3 to +1 EV 1/3, 1/2 or 1 EV steps |
Creative Lighting System | With Speedlights such as SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, SB-R200, or SU-800 (commander only), supports Advanced Wireless Lighting, Auto FP High-Speed Sync, Flash Colour Information Communication, modeling flash and FV lock; built-in flash can be used as a commander |
Orientation sensor | Tags images with camera orientation |
Playback mode | Full frame Thumbnail (4 or 9 images) Zoom Slideshow RGB histogram Shooting data Highlight point Auto image rotation image comment (up to 36 characters) |
Languages | Chinese (Simplified and Traditional) Dutch English Finnish French German Italian Japanese Korean Polish Portuguese Russian Spanish Swedish |
Connectivity | USB 2.0 (Hi-Speed) Mini-B connector HDMI video out (version 1.3a, Type C mini connector provided) Remote control 10-pin terminal PC Sync flash terminal |
10-pin terminal | GPS: NMEA 0183 (Ver. 2.01 and 3.01) interface standard supported with 9-pin D-sub cable and GPS Cable MC-35 (optional) Remote control: via 10-pin terminal |
Storage | Compact Flash Type I or II UDMA supported 36 characters of text can be input and stored in EXIF header |
Power | Lithium-Ion EN-EL3e Included dual battery charger MH-18a Optional AC adapter EH-5a/EH-5 Optional Battery Pack MB-D10 |
Dimensions | Approx. 147 x 123 x 77 mm/5.8 x 4.8 x 3.0 in. |
Weight (no batt) | Approx. 995 g/2.19 lb. |
Operating environment | Temperature: 0 – 40 °C / 32 – 104 °F, Humidity: under 85% (no condensation) |
Box contents | Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL3e, Quick Charger MH-18a, USB Cable UC-E4, Video Cable EG-D100, Camera Strap AN-D700, Body Cap BF-1A, Accessory Shoe Cover BS-1, LCD Monitor Cover BM-9, Software Suite CD-ROM (Supplied accessories may differ depending on country or area) |
Optional accessories | Wireless Transmitter WT-4, Magnifying Eyepiece DK-17M, AC Adapter EH-5a, Capture NX 2 Software, Camera Control Pro 2 Software, Image Authentication Software |
THE AGILE NEW NIKON D700 FX-FORMAT D-SLR CAMERA DELIVERS PERFORMANCE INSPIRED BY THE NIKON D3 IN A SMALLER, LIGHTER DESIGNNikon’s Second FX-Format Camera Delivers Peak Pro Performance in a Versatile Form-FactorMELVILLE, N.Y. (July 1, 2008) – Nikon, Inc. today introduced the new D700 digital SLR camera featuring a 12.1-effective megapixel Nikon FX-format sensor that measures 23.9 x 36mm, which is nearly identical to the size of 35mm film. Benefiting from Nikon’s legacy of imaging technology innovation, the D700 offers both advanced and professional photographers stunning image quality, accurate colour reproduction and revolutionary low light performance.
Building on the immense success of the Nikon D3 professional D-SLR camera, the D700 offers pro-level performance and an extensive array of features and innovations in a comfortably nimble platform. In addition to the Nikon-original FX-format CMOS sensor, the D700 incorporates Nikon’s EXPEED Image Processing System, Nikon’s renowned 51-point auto focus system with 3D Focus Tracking and two Live View shooting modes that allow photographers to frame a shot using the camera’s three-inch high-resolution LCD monitor. The D700 also features Nikon’s sophisticated Scene Recognition System and a new active dust reduction system. Nikon’s flagship FX and DX-format cameras, the D3 and D300 respectively, established new benchmarks for digital image quality, speed, and unmatched ISO performance. The D700 maintains this new measure with exceptional overall image quality, broad tonal range and depth, and extremely low noise throughout its native ISO range of 200 to 6400. “Nikon FX-format cameras have teamed with our strong lineup of DX-format models to offer photographers unprecedented advancements in performance and versatility along with the freedom to choose the format that best serves their needs. Today’s introduction of the D700 offers an important new option to photographers who need the overall performance and imaging perspective Nikon FX-format cameras offer,” said Edward Fasano, general manager for marketing, SLR System Products at Nikon, Inc. “Nikon has developed a host of innovative technologies such as the Scene Recognition System and Picture Control, incorporating them into both FX and DX-format digital SLRs to ensure that photographers can leverage the advantages of both formats seamlessly, and achieve the end-results that best fulfill their photographic vision.” The legendary Nikon FX-Format CMOS sensor The D700’s 12.1-megapixel FX-format CMOS image sensor provides exceptional image quality throughout its remarkable ISO sensitivity range. A large pixel size of 8.45 µm allows for an extremely low signal-to-noise ratio and a wide dynamic range. The 12-channel readout enables accelerated information transfer, allowing the D700 to shoot at speeds of up to eight frames per second at full resolution (using the optional MB-D10 Multi Power Battery Pack) and quickly write image data onto the CompactFlash™ card. The D700 offers a versatile base ISO range from 200-6400 but can be expanded to range from ISO 100 (Lo-1) to 25,600 (Hi-2) affording photographers the new-found confidence to shoot in the widest variety of lighting conditions from the brightest midday sun to dim interiors. Images previously thought to be impossible to create without complex lighting set-ups or lengthy post-processing are now captured easily and faithfully with the D700, unleashing new and diverse shooting possibilities. Also new to the D700 is Nikon’s first self-cleaning system designed for the FX-format sensor. Utilizing four distinct vibration frequencies, the D700 frees image degrading dust particles from the sensor’s optical low-pass filter at start-up, shut-down or on demand. As an added benefit, the mirror box and entire shutter mechanism are constructed of materials that resist creating debris that can affect image purity. Fastest speed and autofocus in its class The D700 starts up in a mere 0.12 seconds and has a nearly imperceptible shutter-lag response time of 0.40 milliseconds, making this an extraordinarily responsive tool for the demanding photographer. The D700 can record full-resolution JPEG images at an astounding five frames per second (fps), or eight fps with the optional MB-D10 battery pack for up to 100 images, or up to 17 lossless 14-bit Nikon NEF (RAW) files. To write images efficiently, the Nikon D700 is also compliant with the next-generation of high-speed UDMA CompactFlash™ cards that will enable recording speeds up to 35 megabytes/second. The D700 offers one of the fastest and most accurate advanced AF systems on the market today. Nikon’s Multi-CAM 3500FX autofocus sensor module features 51 AF points and the ability to use 3D tracking to focus and lock-on a moving subject. The 15 cross-type sensors and 36 horizontal sensors can be used individually or in groups, with the option for Single Area AF mode and Dynamic AF modes using groups of either 9, 21 or all 51 focus points. The system also features 3D Focus Tracking with automatic focus point switching that takes advantage of all 51 AF points as it uses scene colour content and light information to accurately track the subject. Intelligent features for sophisticated performance The D700 relies on a wealth of innovative Nikon technologies to help photographers create superb images. Nikon’s Scene Recognition System analyzes information from the 1,005-pixel RGB light sensor for use in auto exposure, auto white balance and autofocus calculations. The Scene Recognition System also assists autofocus by tracking subject position and automatically shifts the AF points used to match the subject’s movement within the frame. This system also contributes to higher accuracy of auto exposure and auto white balance detection, resulting in sharp landscapes, flattering portraits and engaging action shots. Photographers also have the option to enhance their pictures during or after capture with the Picture Control System and Active D-Lighting. Nikon’s Picture Control System enables users to adjust their images to pre-set parameters such as Standard, Neutral, Vivid and Monochrome that apply tweaks to image sharpening, tone compensation, brightness, overall tone and saturation. D-Lighting uses localized tone control technology to further optimize highlight and shadow detail while also maintaining natural contrast, giving photographers the ability to capture more perfectly exposed images, even in unusual lighting conditions. Active D-Lighting lets photographers choose from various intensities during capture, while a new Automatic mode also applies varying levels of D-Lighting as, and when needed, to enhance photos while shooting. Enhanced Live View modes and viewfinder Ideal for studio, remote applications and more, Nikon’s Live View allows the photographer to compose the subject on the bright three-inch, TFT LCD monitor. In Handheld mode, the user is able to recompose the frame prior to actual shooting; familiar TTL phase-detection AF is activated, using all 51 AF points. Tripod mode is designed for precise focus accuracy with still subjects and tripod stabilization. It enables focal-plane contrast-detect AF on a desired point within a specific area. Remote view, focusing and shooting can also be controlled from a PC (via connection or wireless) using the optional Nikon Camera Control Pro 2 software. Additionally, the Virtual Horizon feature on the D700 can now be superimposed over the Live View monitor image to aid composition. While using Live View to compose or review images and settings, users will appreciate the ultra-high resolution 920,000-dot VGA, three-inch TFT LCD monitor with tempered glass that provides a wide 170-degree viewing angle. The large monitor is remarkably effective when confirming the focus with enlarged playback images. The camera also outputs a video signal to an HD television using the new smaller HDMI-C standard, which is an excellent solution for workshop demonstrations or shooting tethered for clients. Photographers will also be able to compose images easily using the wide and bright viewfinder that features an eye-level pentaprism with high refraction index and provides a 95 percent frame coverage with 0.72x magnification. Each of the 51 AF points, as well as a framing grid, can also be superimposed on the finder screen to suit the photographer’s personal preferences. Rugged construction and durability High-strength magnesium alloy is used for the construction of the camera body, rear body and mirror box to create a precision platform, reduce weight and provide rugged durability. The camera is tested to stand up to the rigors of the globetrotting photographer and is weather sealed using precision O-rings where connections are made to effectively combat dust and moisture. The shutter unit employs an assembly made of a new composite carbon fiber and Kevlar hybrid material. Tested on fully assembled cameras, the D700’s shutter unit has been proven through 150,000 cycles under demanding conditions. The self-diagnostic shutter constantly monitors and maintains shutter precision to ensure peak performance. Price and availability The new FX-format Nikon D700 D-SLR camera will be available late July 2008, and will have an estimated selling price of $2,999.95 (body only).* About Nikon For J.D. Power and Associates award information go to jdpower.com |
Info below this point is from rumours we received, but is left here for archive purposes
June 30th A German site has news of D700 info in a print magazine (Profiphoto) Info (in French) on the new D700 appears
There are some detailed scans of the specs (in German) in this DPR thread.
It’s worth noting that the orginal scan of the German magazine looks as if the bottom of the flash sticks out from the page ;-)
29th The rumour flood of images and specs for the D700 build up, ready for some form of announcement.
Available at the end of July
According to Slashgear, the D700 price is up at a Danish store – not an entirely convincing picture… however I’ve since been told (thanks) that Photografica in Denmark have been accepting orders for the D700 for a few days now. This is what they are saying…
The D700 features:
36×23.9mm CMOS sensor FX format 12.1mp effective
RGB Colour filter array, build in low pass filter
EXPEED processor, 14-bit
NEF, NEF+jpeg, TIFF, Jpeg file formats
Auto crop when using DX lenses. All other lenses usable.
51 point AF, 15 cross type sensors
Live view mode
3D Colourmatrix II metering modes
ISO 100 – 25600
CF card slot FAT32
Accu and grip same as MB-D10 (from D300)
The best coverage of the mass of fake pictures and info is at MC, although the ‘brochure shots’ below are now widely believed to be true
18th There are supposed pictures of some D700 promotional printed materials on FM (original on Xitec)
There is a lengthy thread discussing this and many more pictures on FM.
The price is supposed to be ~$3000
Sensor: 12.1MP CMOS (as per D3) 14-bit linear ADC, 16-bit data pipelines
Resolution: 12.1MP in FX, 5MP in DX
Format: FX and DX
Frame Rate: 5 FPS; up to 6.5 FPS in cropped DX mode.
Rear LCD: 3″
Storage: Single CF card
Grip: MB-D10
Further down the thread there are more images, including info on new lenses – suggesting that Nikon will have 3 T/S lenses (24 and 45mm shown)
If this lot’s been faked, I take my hat off to the creators… photographing printed documents just looks so much more authentic ;-)
Current rumours would then have 3 Nikon FF cameras (D3, D3x, D700), several from Canon (1Ds, 1Ds2, 1Ds3, 3D, 5D, 6/7D) and at least one from Sony (A900) ;-)
The Nikon D3 specs – until we get D700 ones…
Nikon D3 Key Features for comparison
First ever Nikon DSLR with a Full-Frame (36 x 24 mm) sensor (aka FX format)
12.1 megapixel full-frame sensor (8.45µm pixel pitch)
ISO 200 – 6400 (with boost up to ISO 25,600)
Also supports DX lenses, viewfinder automatically masks (5.1 megapixels with DX lens)
5:4 ratio crop mode (10 megapixels, up to 9 fps, viewfinder masked)
14-bit A/D conversion, 12 channel readout
Nikon EXPEED image processor (Capture NX processing and NR algorithms, lower power)
Super fast operation (power-up 12 ms, shutter lag 41 ms, black-out 74 ms)
New Kevlar / carbon fibre composite shutter with 300,000 exposure durability
New Multi-CAM3500FX Auto Focus sensor (51-point, 15 cross-type, more vertical coverage)
Auto-focus tracking by colour (using information from 1005-pixel AE sensor)
Auto-focus calibration (fine-tuning) now available (fixed body or up to 20 separate lens settings)
Scene Recognition System (uses AE sensor, AF sensor)
Picture Control image parameter presets (replace colour Modes I, II and III)
Custom image parameters now support brightness as well as contrast
Nine frames per second continuous with auto-focus tracking
Eleven frames per second continuous without auto-focus tracking
Ten / eleven frames per second continuous in DX-crop mode (AF / no-AF)
Dual Compact Flash card slots (overflow, back-up, RAW on 1 / JPEG on 2, copy)
Compact Flash UDMA support
3.0″ 922,000 pixel LCD monitor
Live View with either phase detect (mirror up/down) or contrast detect Auto Focus
Virtual horizon indicates if camera is level (like an aircraft cockpit display)
HDMI HD video output
‘Active D-Lighting’ (adjusts metering as well as applying D-Lighting curve)
Detailed ‘Control Panel’ type display on LCD monitor, changes colour in darkness
New MB-D10 vertical grip fully integrates into body, multi battery type compatible
Buttons sealed against moisture
Dual battery charger as standard
Nikon D3 specifications
Price (body only) | US: $ 4999 UK: £ 3399 EU: € 5180 |
Body material | Magnesium alloy |
Sensor | 36 x 23.9 mm CMOS sensor FX format RGB colour Filter Array Built-in fixed low-pass filter 12.9 million total pixels 12.1 million effective pixels 3:2 aspect ratio |
Image processor | Nikon EXPEED |
A/D conversion | 14 bit |
Image sizes (FX format) |
4256 x 2832 [L; 12.1 MP] 3184 x 2120 [M; 6.8 MP] 2128 x 1416 [S; 3.0 MP] |
Image sizes (DX format) |
2784 x 1848 [L; 5.1 MP] 2080 x 1384 [M; 2.9 MP] 1392 x 920 [S; 1.3 MP]] |
Image sizes (5:4 format) |
3552 x 2832 [L; 10.0 MP] 2656 x 2120 [M; 5.6 MP] 1776 x 1416 [S; 2.5 MP] |
File formats | NEF (12-bit or 14-bit, compressed or lossless compressed RAW) NEF + JPEG TIFF JPEG (EXIF 2.21) |
NEF compression | Compressed 12/14-bit NEF (RAW, Lossless compressed): approx. 60-80% Compressed 12/14-bit NEF (RAW, Compressed): approx. 45-60% |
Lens mount | Nikon F mount with AF coupling and AF contacts No field of view crop (full-frame) When using DX lenses / DX mode 1.5x FOV crop |
Usable lenses | Type G or D AF NIKKOR: All functions supported DX AF NIKKOR: All functions supported except FX-format (36×24)/5:4 (30×24) image size AF NIKKOR other than type G or D: All functions supported except 3D colour Matrix Metering II AI-P NIKKOR: All functions supported except autofocus and 3D colour Matrix Metering II Non-CPU AI NIKKOR: Can be used in exposure modes A and M; electronic rangefinder can be used if maximum aperture is f/5.6 or faster; colour Matrix Metering and aperture value display supported if user provides lens data * IX NIKKOR lenses cannot be used * Excluding lenses for F3AF |
Auto Focus | 51 focus points (15 cross-type sensors) Multi-CAM 3500FX AF working range: -1 to +19 EV (ISO 100, normal temperature) Contrast Detect in Live View (Tripod) mode |
Lens Servo | Single Servo AF [S] Continuous Servo AF [C] Manual focus [M] Focus Tracking automatically activated by subject’s status in [S] or [C] AF |
Focus Point | Single point from 51 or 11 focus points Liveview (Tripod mode): Contrast AF on a desired point anywhere within frame |
AF Area Mode | Single point AF Dynamic Area AF [9 points, 21 points, 51 points, 51 points (3D-tracking)] Automatic-area AF |
Focus Lock |
Focus can be locked by pressing shutter-release button halfway (single-servo AF) or by pressing AE-L/AF-L button |
AF assist | External Speedlite only |
Exposure modes | Program Auto [P] with flexible program Shutter-Priority Auto [S] Aperture-Priority Auto [A] Manual [M] |
Metering |
TTL full-aperture exposure metering using 1005-pixel RGB sensor |
Metering range | 3D colour Matrix Metering: 0 to 20 EV Center-Weighted Metering: 0 to 20 EV Spot Metering: 2 to 20 EV At normal temperature (20°C/68°F), ISO 100 equivalent, f/1.4 lens |
Meter coupling | CPU and AI |
Exposure lock | Locked using AE-L/AF-L button |
Exposure bracketing | 2 to 9 frames 1/3, 1/2, 2/3 or 1 EV steps |
Exposure compen. | +/-5.0 EV 1/3, 1/2 or 1 EV steps |
Sensitivity | Default: ISO 200 – 6400 in 1/3, 1/2 or 1.0 EV steps Boost: 100 – 12800 in 1/3, 1/2 or 1.0 EV steps, HI2 = ISO 25600 |
Shutter | Electronically-controlled vertical-travel focal plane shutter 30 to 1/8000 sec (1/3, 1/2 or 1.0 EV steps) Flash X-Sync: 1/250 sec Bulb |
DOF Preview | Stop-down lens aperture by pressing button Activates modelling flash |
White balance | Auto (1005-pixel CCD, image sensor) Presets (seven) with fine tuning Manual presets (four) colour temperature in Kelvin (2500 – 10000 K, 31 steps) White balance bracketing (2 to 9 frames, 10,20,30 MIRED steps) |
Picture Control | Standard Neutral Vivid Monochrome |
Image parameters | Sharpening: Auto, 7 levels Contrast: Auto, 5 levels, Custom tone curve Brightness: 3 levels Saturation: Auto, 5 levels Hue: 5 levels |
colour space | sRGB (Standard and Vivid modes) Adobe RGB (Neutral mode) |
Viewfinder | Optical-type fixed eye-level pentaprism Built-in diopter adjustment (-3 to +1m-1) Eyepoint: 18 mm (at -1.0m-1) Focusing screen: Type B BriteView Clear Matte VI screen Frame coverage 100% Viewfinder magnification approx 0.7x with 50 mm f/1.4 lens |
Focusing screen | B-type BrightView Clear Matte Screen II Superimposed focus brackets On-demand grid lines |
LCD monitor | 3.0 ” TFT LCD 922,000 pixels 170° viewing angle Brightness adjustment |
LCD Liveview | Handheld mode: TLL phase-difference AF with 51 focus areas (15 cross-type sensors) Tripod mode: focal-plane contrast AF on a desired point within a specific area |
Shooting modes | Single frame Continuous Low [CL]: 1 – 9 fps Continuous High [CH]: 9 fps (9 – 11 fps with DX format) Liveview [LV] Self-Timer (programmable) Mirror-up mode |
Continuous buffer | JPEG Large/Normal: 64 shots (at 9 fps) RAW: no data yet |
Self-timer | 2 to 20 sec custom |
Flash control | TTL flash control with 1,005-pixel RGB sensor; i-TTL balanced fill-flash and standard i-TTL fill-flash available with SB-800, 600 or 400 AA (Auto Aperture-type) flash: Available with SB-800 used with CPU lens Non-TTL Auto: Available with Speedlights such as SB-800, 28, 27, and 22S Range-priority manual flash; available with SB-800 |
Flash Sync Mode | Front-curtain Sync (normal) Red-Eye Reduction Red-Eye Reduction with Slow Sync Slow Sync Rear-curtain Sync |
Flash Accessory Shoe | ISO 518 standard-type hot shoe contact; Safety lock mechanism provided |
Flash Sync Terminal | ISO 519 standard terminal, lock screw provided |
Flash compensation | -3 to +1 EV 1/3, 1/2 or 1 EV steps |
Creative Lighting System |
With Speedlights such as SB-800, SB-600, SB-400, SB-R200, supports Advanced Wireless Lighting, Auto FP High-Speed Sync, Flash colour Information Communication, modeling flash and FV lock |
Orientation sensor | Tags images with camera orientation |
Playback mode | Full frame Thumbnail (4 or 9 images) One-touch zoom Slideshow RGB histogram Shooting data Highlight point Auto image rotation |
Languages |
Chinese (Simplified and Traditional) |
Custom functions | ? custom functions |
Connectivity | USB 2.0 (Hi-Speed) Mini-B connector HDMI video out (version 1.3a, Type A connector) Remote control 10-pin terminal PC Sync flash terminal |
10-pin terminal |
GPS: NMEA 0183 (Ver. 2.01 and 3.01) interface standard supported with 9-pin D-sub cable and GPS Cable MC-35 (optional) |
Communications | FTP and PTP/IP file transfer with optional Wireless Transmitter WT-3 (IEEE 802.11 b/g) |
Storage | Dual Compact Flash Type I or II Dual modes: overflow, back-up, RAW on 1 / JPEG on 2, copy UDMA, Microdrive and FAT32 supported 36 characters of text can be input and stored in EXIF header |
Power | Lithium-Ion EN-EL4a/EL4 Included dual battery charger MH-22 Optional AC adapter EH-6 |
Battery monitoring | The LCD monitor on the camera back displays the following information about the battery: Remaining charge (%) No. of shots taken since last charge Battery life (5 stages) |
Dimensions | 160 x 157 x 88 mm (6.3 x 6.2 x 3.4 in) |
Weight (no batt) | 1240 g (2.7 lb) |
Operating environment |
Temperature: 0 – 40 °C / 32 – 104 °F, Humidity: under 85% (no condensation) |
Box contents |
Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL4a, Quick Charger MH-22, USB Cable UC-E4, Audio Video Cable EG-D2, Camera Strap AN-D3, Body Cap BF-1A, Accessory Shoe Cap BS-2, Eyepiece DK-17, Battery Chamber Cover BL-4, USB Cable Clip, Software Suite CD-ROM |
Optional accessories |
Wireless Transmitter WT-4, Magnifying Eyepiece DK-17M, AC Adapter EH-6, Capture NX Software, Camera Control Pro 2 Software, Image Authentication Software |
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