Camera Review - Nikon D700

Nikon Europe is pleased to announce the introduction of an all-new FX-format digital SLR: the 12.1 megapixel Nikon D700, designed to enable many more photographers to enjoy the acclaimed image quality of the Nikon D3, but in a smaller form factor. ”The Nikon D3 has taken the action photography industry by storm, motivating many pros to change brands and we expect the Nikon D700 to continue that trend,” said Robert Cristina, Manager Professional Products and NPS at Nikon Europe. He added: “The Nikon D700 excels in the extreme low-light and high-contrast conditions under which today’s cameras are judged and affirms Nikon’s ongoing commitment to meeting tomorrows imaging needs too.”




The Nikon D700 inherits the ‘must have’ image quality of the Nikon D3. Using the same core technologies such as the highly-sensitive 12.1 effective megapixel CMOS image sensor with large pixel pitch and gapless micro lens array that affords bright, clean files across a broad ISO range. The Nikon D700 SLR also features the same innovative EXPEED high-speed image-processing system, 14-bit A/D conversion and 16-bit processing pipeline to provide the detail and smooth gradation necessary for outstanding print enlargement and reproduction.




The D700 is ideal for those seeking a perfectly-balanced DSLR on the move, without compromising durability or environmental resistance to moisture and dust. The Nikon D700 body incorporates an image sensor cleaning system that uses high frequency vibrations to reduce the accumulation of dust on the image sensor surface. A responsive 5fps is possible with the compact 1500mAh EN-EL3e lithium-ion battery, with up to 8 fps possible by attaching the optional MB-D10 battery pack to use the powerful 2500mAh EN-EL4a battery if desired. This offers complete power supply integration for those already using the D3 and D300. Another first is the practical i-TTL built-in pop up flash with 24mm lens coverage, ideal for discrete flash lighting when a full size Speedlight might be too cumbersome.

Despite its attractive price tag, the D700 makes no compromises in its comprehensive feature array with a highly responsive shutter release time lag of just 40ms, the acclaimed accuracy of the 51-point MultiCAM3500 AF system, DX Crop Mode and Live View with contrast-detect AF displayed on the same high-definition 3-inch TFT monitor used on the D3 and D300.

One of the most important advantages of FX format cameras is the viewfinder experience and the D700 features an outstanding solid glass pentaprism, 95% coverage and adjustable AF point LED illumination for a bright, uninterrupted view. A clever new feature is the ability to display the Virtual Horizon level indicator during Live View mode to determine camera orientation at arms length.

The Nikon D700 D-SLR is designed for the future without ignoring the past. As Nikon celebrates the 75th anniversary of the very first NIKKOR lens, and with well over 40 million sold, intelligent image processing technologies to control peripheral illumination (Vignette) and chromatic aberration enable photographers to rediscover the creative possibilities of their existing NIKKOR F mount lenses. For newcomers, the ever-expanding Nikon Total Imaging System provides lenses, Speedlights, Software and accessories for every photographic challenge both now and in the future.

The Nikon D700 SLR is supplied with battery EN-EL3e, Nikon charger, and Nikon Software Suite and will go on sale on 25th July 2008 with a MSRP guide price of €2599. (calculated in USD 4,093.43 and GBP 2,052.24)

Nikon D700 Key Features:

• Large image sensor, developed by Nikon; 12.1 effective megapixels
• Wide sensitivity range
• High-speed performance
• EXPEED image processing
• Scene Recognition System
• Picture Control System
• Active D-Lighting
• AF system with high-density 51-point AF
• Choose from two Live View modes
• DX cropping mode
• High-definition, 3-inch VGA, TFT LCD monitor with wide viewing angle
• Viewfinder provides 95% frame coverage, 0.72x magnification in FX format
• Image Sensor Cleaning
• Built-in flash with wireless commander function
• Engineered durability
• Multi-Power Battery Pack MB-D10 (option)
• Exclusive Wireless Transmitter WT-4/4A (option)
• Fine tuning for AF
• Improved Function button feature
• HDMI output (High-Definition TV) supported
• Info display
• My Menu
• Electronic Virtual Horizon
• ViewNX/Nikon Transfer image-management software included in Software Suite CD-ROM