Classics are back in fashion. Nikon Df DSLR camera review

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Finally we get to medium format cameras. Getting here is not easy because... Either you end up in the territory of eccentric film producers or you go into sky-high prices.

IN in this case The second option was chosen, but we will consider the first one a little later. Let me say right away that the camera is not mine, but I would really like to have one.
The price of such a camera is not exactly bitey, but it can swallow you alive.

Mamiya DF+ with Leaf Credo 40 digital back

What is a medium format camera

Cameras are divided according to the size of the photosensitive element (film or digital sensor).

small format- 24x36mm (film type 135, digital sensor 24x36mm and sensor options with crop factor from 35mm),
medium format- 6 x 4.5cm, 6 x 6cm, 6 x 7cm, 6 x 9cm, etc. (film type 120 and 220, corresponding sensor sizes and their crop options),
large format- 9 x 12cm, 4 x 5 inches, 13x18 cm, 8x10 inches, etc. (sheet film, scanning digital backs).

What do you get when you change your camera from 35mm to medium format?

The most important thing you get is high image detail And high color accuracy. The first is due to the larger sensor size, large pixel and high-quality optics.

Quality of modern lenses Schneider Kreuznach simply amazing! And was it worth doubting... The company is no less ancient and eminent (famous for the quality of its products) than Carl Zeiss.

And the second is thanks to the 16bit ADC (on 35mm DSLRs it’s still 14bit) and the type of CCD sensor (on 35mm cameras it’s been CMOS for a long time).

What do you lose when you change your camera from 35mm to medium format?

1. The first and most noticeable thing is money. Medium format cameras are significantly more expensive than 35mm cameras. Medium format cameras are larger, all the elements of these cameras are also larger and, accordingly, more expensive.

There are, of course, old-style medium format film cameras. For example, or They also have their own relish, but modern medium format cameras, firstly, are equipped with very modern lenses High Quality, and the old ones - by what was relevant during the years of production of old cameras. This way we lose some of the benefits of the format. Secondly, old cameras are not efficient if you shoot on film and, in addition to the photographer, also depend on the film, developing and printing. The quality of the image with modern medium format cameras shooting on a digital back depends only on the photographer. Essentially, you avoid all those intermediate processes of developing and printing, which in the case of shooting on film you have to trust to other people.

2. Efficiency of shooting. The shooting speed on a modern medium format camera is approximately 1 frame per second. For reportage high-speed shooting, 1 fps is not enough. On the other hand, with the proper skill, earlier.

3. The ability to constantly hold the camera in your hands. Most digital medium format cameras are heavy. Their weight is approximately 2.8 kg. fully assembled. Get a tripod.
Only cameras with a shaft viewfinder, which are free of a pentaprism, can be called lightweight. For example, Sinar/Rollei Hy6. Even with a digital back, it can weigh less than a 35mm DSLR with a battery grip. But such cameras as a complete set can be very expensive, more than a million rubles (from 35,000 USD).

Myths and legends about medium format cameras

1. For that kind of money, a camera should shoot itself and every frame should be a masterpiece.

For that kind of money you will get exactly what is described in the advantages of medium format above. The camera itself doesn’t shoot anything, much less choose the subject. The beauty of the frame depends on the photographer, not from the camera. Only the technical side of shooting depends on the camera. For example, can you then print your masterpiece the size of a photo wallpaper, if necessary.

2. A camera for that kind of money should be universal.

This is wrong. Like any highly specialized equipment, a medium format camera is designed for professional-level shooting quality and convenience. For example, these cameras are not designed for high-speed shooting and video shooting. Both suggest low quality for which the camera was not designed. For such filming, you need a reportage rapid-fire camera or video camera.

update: On this moment There is a medium format camera Pentax 645Z with the ability to shoot video, but the quality of video recording in this camera is very low and cannot be seriously considered. Pentax 645Z video capabilities test by Arkady Shapoval

Medium format cameras are not intended for hunting photography. Those. For medium format they do not produce huge super telephoto lenses, such as for 35mm cameras. Otherwise the weight would not be liftable at all. Even a 35mm camera with a 500-600mm lens is no longer intended for carrying (the weight of only a 600mm lens is 4kg), but only for transportation.
What can we say about 300-600mm medium format lenses? The weight of a 600mm lens can be about 6kg.

So get ready for thoughtful, high-quality shots.

3. A camera for that kind of money should be light.

A modern medium format camera includes two independent elements: a camera and a digital back. I have already written why medium format cameras are generally not light. Glass in a pentaprism. If you buy an even more expensive one with a mine viewfinder, you can have a lightweight camera. But besides the camera there is also a digital back. This is essentially an entire microcomputer the size of a Rubik's cube. It has a built-in large sensor, a high-performance processor, a bunch of electronics and a fan (maybe passive cooling) so that it all doesn’t overheat. It is relatively heavy.

If you want a lightweight camera with low image quality and its own disadvantages, then there are now many mirrorless cameras and digital point-and-shoot cameras on sale for every taste. And your smartphone is always at hand. All cameras with decent image quality are neither light nor small. For now.
Now medium format cameras with CMOS sensors from Sony(Pentax 645Z, Mamiya Leaf Credo 50, Hasseblad H5Dc and Phase One IQ250). What this means for users is still unclear. The track of CMOS sensors is “curve”, as can be seen on 35mm cameras.

It’s also worth paying attention to the fact that many fashion photographers shoot with digital medium format cameras and don’t complain. There are many women among them.

You notice the weight of the camera mainly at the moment of transition from a light camera to a heavier one, and then you get used to it.

4. Such an expensive camera should have a very complex menu with a bunch of functions.

But here it’s just the opposite. The controls are very simple. The digital back screen itself is touch-sensitive. There are only four icons on it (camera settings, ISO, white balance and backdrop settings). There are very few subsections within these icons and all are intuitive.
Zooming in and out of photos when viewing occurs in the same way as on a smartphone. But here you slide your finger up or down along the screen. If you move your finger across the screen, the image shifts to the side where you drag it. Press twice quickly to increase to 100%.
You can view the histogram and overexposure.

Sample pictures

I took a lot of test shots from this place and I know what the details from this place can look like on different lenses. Including top-end Zeiss. The Mamiya DF+ camera with a Leaf Credo 40 digital back had a standard (read “whale”) lens Mamiya (Schneider Kreuznach) AF 80/2.8 LS D. The detail is amazing. But this is only 40 megapixels!

The frame is reduced to 4000 pixels in width. originals below

Original pictures

Nikon D800 fell and is "resting"

How to work with Leaf Credo digital backdrop

Translation from English: Evtifeev D.S.
Pictures: from the official Credo Quick Guide and complete guide Mamiya 645DF+ & Credo.

At the moment, the Credo family of digital backs includes models: 40, 60, 80 (40, 60.5 and 80 megapixels, respectively).
The dynamic range of these digital backs is 12.5 stops.
All backs support USB 3.0 and FireWire connections.

All three digital backs are equipped with a 3.2" LCD touch screen with a resolution of 1.15 megapixels and four touch buttons along the edges of the screen.
Credo digital backs use a CompactFlash memory card.

Credo digital backs use the 3S data integrity verification system. Every time you insert a memory card they check the integrity of your data. This option can be disabled.

Most memory cards are sold already formatted. But it is recommended to reformat the memory card in the digital back. For example, my 32 GB Transcend memory card did not work without reformatting.

Digital back equipment

Credo digital backdrop
- Charger for two batteries for the Credo digital back
- 12 V power supply. (Attention! there are no special inscriptions on it that it is for the backdrop, and the connector is standard. Do not confuse it with another)
- two batteries 7.2 V 3400 mAh
- USB 3.0 cable (3 meters)
- FireWire 800-800 cable (4.5m)
- software Capture One 8 (bonus)
- neutral patches
- LCC calibration plate
- wipes for cleaning optics
- wipes for cleaning the digital back
- instructions for “quick start”
- (only for Credo 40 and Credo 50)
- USB Drive (?)

Leaf Credo digital back menu

Start menu after “loading” the backdrop.

Home Key - Returns you to this screen from deep within the child menus.
“Gallery” key - takes you to viewing pictures from any other menu.
Back key - takes you back one screen (to the previous one)
Dynamic Menu key - additional options, different depending on which menu you are in

As you can see, there are few settings. Let's go through them in more detail.

Digital back settings

Camera settings

User selection (A, B, C - to quickly load your settings if someone else is using the camera besides you)
- exposure mode selection (P, AV, Tv, M, X)
- selection of autofocus area (auto, center, left, right)
- selection of exposure metering type (average, center-weighted, spot)

Custom Functions

Function type (A, B, C)
- exposure step (1/3, ½, 1)
- when changing lenses (last aperture value, minimum, maximum aperture)
- sleep timer (15sec, 30sec, 60sec, disabled)

Additionally

Battery type (alkaline, NiCd, NiMh, Li-ion)
- bracketing (3 exposures, 5, 7)
- front rear wheel (change functions - changes aperture/changes shutter speed)
- does the rear wheel work in P mode (yes, no)
- direction of wheel rotation (clockwise - decrease, clockwise - increase)

AEL/AFL button (change button functions - auto exposure lock/auto focus lock)
- shutter button (functions of the AE and AF buttons when the shutter button is pressed halfway. AF - activate autofocus, AF & AE - activate autofocus and auto exposure lock, only release the shutter using the shutter button.)
- setting the function of the AEL button (locking the exposure for only one frame, locking the exposure until the AEL button is pressed again, locking the exposure while the AEL button is pressed)

AFL Settings

Functions of the AFL button (one press to lock focus, work as a shutter button, lock autofocus until the next press)
- AEL button (pressing for 2 seconds automatically sets: shutter speed, aperture, does nothing)
- autofocus illumination (on/off). Usually turns off if a flash is installed that itself has an AF illuminator.

Flash Sync

Flash synchronization can be first or second curtain. Installed through this menu.
- sound signal (when an object is in focus, by pressing any button, disabled)

Shutter in Tv/Av/P modes

This menu is only relevant for the Mamiya 645DF+ camera with a lens with a central shutter.

Shutter operation:

- central (only the central shutter works at shutter speeds from 1-1/1600 sec)

Attention: On the LCD screen of the Mamiya 645DF+ you will see an LS (center) or FS (focal) icon depending on which shutter you are using.

Shutter in M/X modes

This menu is relevant for the camera Mamiya 645DF+ when using a lens with a central shutter.

In mode X(flash sync) locks shutter speeds to the range of 1/60-1/125, regardless of what type of shutter is currently running.

For both modes, you can choose the type of shutter that will work:
- mixed (the central one operates at shutter speeds from 1 sec to 1/1600 sec. Longer and shorter shutter speeds are processed by the focal length shutter. The central shutter operates with flash at all shutter speeds.
- central (only the central shutter works at shutter speeds from 1-1/1600 sec). Synchronization at all its shutter speeds.
- focal (only the focal shutter works at shutter speeds from 1 min. to 1/4000 sec. Flash synchronization is possible from 1/60 sec. - 1/125 sec.)

Autofocus in this menu can be configured for accuracy or speed.

In this menu you can select the current set of settings (A, B, C) or return them to the factory settings.

Power management

Turn off the display after (5sec, 20sec, 1min, 5min, always on)
- charging the battery when working with the cord (slow, fast, no charging). Allows you to keep your laptop battery charged when you remove it from being connected to it.
- auto shutdown (1min, 5min, 30min, 2hours)

Formatting a memory card (fat16 or fat32 depending on the card capacity)
- disk check (yes/no)
- saving to... (car, memory card, via firewire to computer)

File format. Both options are RAW. (IIQ L - full format lossless, IIQ S - smaller size, lossy).
- camera mode (normal, RZ67PROIID - only for RZ67 PRO II D camera)
- shutter delay (the sensor turns off when not in use. When shooting, it wakes up. Options: normal or zero.). Zero should only be used for technical filming (apparently, in this mode the sensor does not turn off at all).
- image orientation (0, 80, 120, 270 degrees). Causes the backdrop to mark all captured images as being taken at this rotation angle. Otherwise, it focuses on the built-in level.

Auto preview (on/off)
- display (adjust brightness, turn off display after...)

Installing new firmware

Changing ISO and White Balance

Viewing pictures

Click the "Gallery" button to switch to photo viewing mode
- Use the swipe gesture to move around the gallery

Single click on the picture selects the photo
- Double clicking on the picture enlarges the image 100%
- Increase by an arbitrary scale (from 6% to 400%) using the right bar (finger, up - increase, down - decrease)

Navigate through the photo using the bottom bar and left bar (from icon to icon).

In this mode, you can also select all pictures at once and click the “Trash” icon to delete all pictures. If you change your mind, you can also deselect all pictures using the corresponding icon (several pictures on the icon)

Grid mode. You can turn on the grid mode and select the grid mode that suits you. Available options: " Golden ratio", 3x3, 3x4, central cross, rectangle, "Fibonacci spiral". You can also select the line type that will be used to display the grid. The grid is needed to check whether your shot matches the classic composition schemes.

Dear friends! Today we would like to present to your attention a test of the Nikon DF camera, which was published by photographer Vitaly Ptashenchuk in his magazine. From this report you will learn about what exactly attracted Vitaly to the camera, and you will also see a test of the camera’s capabilities for shooting in the dark, an assessment of the dynamic range and very interesting final conclusions.

Most recently I tested the D750 camera from Nikon, and here again is a camera model from this manufacturer - Nikon DF.

This camera primarily attracts people with its appearance, and not only for photo fans. People who paid attention to this camera during the shooting process inadvertently mistook it for a film camera. All thanks to the vintage appearance. The camera is available in two colors: silver and black. I got my hands on a black model with a standard AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G. I also additionally tested it together with the AF-S NIKKOR 35mm F1.4G.

What I would like to note, first of all, in addition to appearance, is how the camera lies in the hand. The shutter button is located conveniently and is a pleasure to press. Perhaps even more enjoyable is the sound of the shutter being released. Well, the most important thing is the quality of the picture, but more on that later.

What I really liked was the speed of readiness for work, the weight, the bright viewfinder, fast access to the choice of ISO, shutter speed. What I didn’t like was the aperture selection wheel. It is very inconveniently located, and when using lenses that do not allow you to change the aperture with a ring on the lens itself, it causes some inconvenience. This is especially noticeable when shooting a quick report. I usually shoot in fully manual mode and prefer to change the shutter speed/aperture/ISO parameters during the shooting process depending on the circumstances, not trusting the operation of semi-automatic modes. The inconvenience is that the wheel rotates very tightly and is almost impossible to turn with one finger. On the other hand, this is perhaps the only negative in ergonomics.

The screen on the back of the carcass is of very high quality - the color rendition is almost identical to what I had on my calibrated Apple monitor. For comparison, when shooting with two cameras Nikon DF and Canon 5D mark III, the actual color rendition of the screen is worse on the latter. In Nikon DF, you can see on the screen exactly the colors that will be displayed on the monitor, almost without distortion. This camera is very captivating, especially when color perception plays one of the main roles in certain types filming.

The camera has only one slot for an SD memory card, which, in general, pushes it far away from the professional segment. The SD slot is located next to the battery, which, if a battery grip is installed, makes it very difficult to quickly access to change the memory card. On the other hand, it was very convenient for me to use this camera without a handle, due to its light weight and convenient dimensions.

The battery compartment is closed with a “vintage twist”, in general it is convenient; it did not unscrew spontaneously even once during the entire test.

The camera body is made partly of plastic and partly of magnesium alloy. As you can see in the photographs, the paint on the case tends to wear off over time, so perhaps those who like to keep their equipment in perfect appearance should think about a case or very careful handling.

The ISO dial and exposure compensation dial are located on top of each other. To change ISO, you need to hold down the aluminum button to the left below the disk and rotate the disk itself. To adjust the exposure, hold down the button above the dial and rotate the corresponding dial. At first, this may not seem very convenient, but none of the wheels will accidentally spin and spoil the next frame with an accidentally changed parameter.

Still, there is one big advantage that all the main adjustments are made on “mechanical knobs”, since all the parameters for shooting are always before your eyes.

The camera does not have modes such as photo transfer via Wi-Fi and video recording. If the latter may not be needed by the photographer, then the Wi-Fi module would absolutely not ruin this camera. On the other hand, the presence of Wi-Fi would definitely affect the battery life.

On the left side, under the rubber seals, there are USB, HDMI connectors and a connector for connecting a remote control. By the way, you can also use a cable that is attached to the shutter button - a kind of tribute to the past.

It’s probably worth mentioning the most important thing, namely, the matrix of this camera. It is the same as in the flagship - Nikon D4. And in fact, I was convinced that the working ISO of this carcass is 12,800. Yes, that’s right. With a properly exposed photo, noise is almost unnoticeable, and for the most part it can be easily corrected in post-processing.

What I also like is the excellent dynamic range of the matrix, which allows you to draw out shadows (when shooting in RAW format).

The situation with lighting is a little opposite - the camera does not cope with overexposure very well, and it is much easier to restore a photo that is underexposed by two stops than an overexposed one.

There is also a big plus of the ergonomics of this camera - pressing the shutter button can be done smoothly, due to which it becomes possible to shoot at long exposures without fear of smears.

A few examples of photographs. Minor adjustments were made to light, shadows, exposure and contrast in post-production. At the end of the article you can find a link to the archive with the sources and “twist” the RAW converter settings to your taste.

To compare the features of shooting in low light and street lighting, I took pictures with two Nikon DF and CANON 5D mark III cameras.

White balance settings are the same for both cameras. In my opinion, Nikon perceives colors better. It is clear that everything in the converter can be adjusted to your taste, but with some pictures from the Nikon DF, less processing time was required than with pictures from the 5D mark III.

Another test - shooting with different ISO settings

ISO 50 with SpyderCheckr profile applied

As you can see in the photo above, the colors still differ from the real ones, but only slightly.

In general, to summarize, I would like to note that the camera was created primarily for connoisseurs. Not for those in a hurry, who need to shoot a frantic report. It is designed to calmly walk around the city, sit in a cozy cafe and leisurely wait for the moment when an interesting passer-by passes through the window, or some event occurs. Imagine that you are in no hurry, you have a lot, a lot of time. You sit on a bench in the park, or stand on a street illuminated by yellowish-green lanterns, find the perfect composition and wait for that very right moment. You just need to wait for that very moment, and you don’t have to worry about the shooting conditions - the camera can easily cope with almost any task in low light conditions.

Until now I have never written a review of a camera from a competing manufacturer, but the new Nikon announcement simply does not allow you to pass it by. The new Nikon Df fulfills the desires of many photographers for digital SLR cameras. Hand on heart, if it weren’t for the Canon optics fleet, I would gladly switch to this particular camera. Judge for yourself: full frame, durable and lightweight magnesium body, weatherproof, shutter life of 150,000 operations, modern electronic components and of course retro design from film cameras with big amount additional controls. And another important advantage is the lack of video functions; of course, this may seem controversial to some, but for me video is an absolutely unnecessary function in the camera.

Appearance of Nikon Df

Of course, the first thing that attracts attention about this camera is the body. Unlike most modern SLR cameras, which are similar to each other, this has a very unusual design that is inherent in film cameras of the last century. Chopped shapes, an abundance of wheels, a small information screen on top, plus the ability to choose the camera in all-black or two-tone silver-black. By the way, the kit will include an AF-S 50mm f/1.8G NIKKOR lens in a special retro version, but more on that later.

The overall design of the camera entailed global changes in governing bodies. They are made as analog as possible, i.e. All main exposure parameters can be set mechanically using special wheels, and not through the menu, as is usually done now. All settings for shooting modes and parameters are moved to the top.

On the left is a dual control dial for ISO and exposure compensation. The wheels are fixed separately with different buttons and the likelihood of accidentally changing the setting is zero. However, this approach also has a disadvantage; when shooting through the viewfinder, changing the ISO without looking at the camera itself will not be so easy. Through the menu you can select the auto ISO mode, in which the sensitivity value set on the disk will be considered the minimum possible.

The hot shoe is located in the middle; traditionally, a plug is included in the kit. There is no built-in flash in the camera, which can also be considered a plus, because... There is no benefit from it when shooting.

On the right side there is a camera power ring, combined with the shutter button. The shooting mode dial has only four settings: manual, aperture priority, shutter priority and program. As you can see, there are no script modes, much less an auto mode. Below them is a small screen displaying shooting parameters, battery charge and the number of frames remaining on the flash drive. There is also a button to turn on the backlight. The most interesting thing is the shutter speed dial, again with a lock. You can either set the required value on it, or select the 1/3 step setting and set it in a more familiar way, using the wheel. The shutter speed dial is combined with a shutter mode switch - normal, high-speed shooting, delayed shutter, quiet mode and mirror pre-raise.

At the back, everything is more traditional, the main space is occupied by a large display with a diagonal of 8 cm and a resolution of 921 thousand dots. The screen is covered with reinforced glass, so there is no need to worry about scratches. Unlike video shooting, LiveView mode is present. The buttons are familiar, there is a four-position focus point selection controller. Something unusual is the exposure metering mode switch with three modes: spot, matrix and center-weighted. The viewfinder is made on the basis of a pentaprism with 100% frame coverage. Some disadvantage is the inability to change the focusing screen, which would be convenient when shooting with lenses without autofocus.

On the left side of the camera there are already standard USB, HDMI and a connector for connecting additional equipment. At the bottom there is a tripod socket and a combined battery and SD memory card compartment.

As mentioned above, the case is made of magnesium alloy and is protected from adverse weather conditions at the Nikon D800 level.

Specifications

Despite the fact that Nikon Df is the most compact and lightest 35mm SLR camera, its technical side is excellent. The camera uses a 16 megapixel full-frame sensor from Nikon D4 in conjunction with the Expeed 3 processor. On the one hand, this ensures high detail and quality of images at high ISOs, on the other hand, it allows you to maintain an acceptable RAW file size. A purely marketing ploy - the ability to raise the ISO value to 204800, naturally the image quality will be extremely low, but the highest sensitivity threshold among camera manufacturers has been reached!

The high-quality shutter mechanism allows you to take pictures at 5.5 frames per second. The declared service life is 150,000 cycles. The minimum shutter speed has been slightly reduced relative to older models, its value is 1/4000 sec. The Nikon Df is equipped with the already familiar 39-point Multi-CAM 4800 autofocus module (9 cross-type points). A 2016-pixel RGB sensor is responsible for exposure metering. Possibility of connecting additional GPS and Wi-Fi module. Full list characteristics you can find in.

As you can see, the technical characteristics are at the level of modern models, but there is one feature that sets Nikon Df apart - it is compatible with NIKKOR lenses without AI. The folding lever on the mount allows you to use even very old NIKKOR lenses without AI. Additional setup in the camera menu, allows you to manually set the parameters of the lens used and perform exposure metering. By the way, the so-called “screwdriver” is also present, so the camera works without problems with lenses without a built-in focusing motor.

At the end, a few words about the price of the new product. In the US, the recommended price for the camera is $2,750. A set of Nikon DF and a special version of the AF-S 50mm f/1.8G NIKKOR lens will also go on sale. The lens is optically completely similar to the regular Nikon AF-S 50mm f/1.8G NIKKOR, the only difference is in the external design. This set will cost $3000, and the lens separately will cost $279.

Classics never go out of date. For the photo market in the last couple of years, this statement is more relevant than ever: one after another, different manufacturers are releasing cameras with a retro style, with a classic design, with pseudo-mechanical controls... But until recently, such new products appeared mainly among compacts and mirrorless cameras. The first modern retro-DSLR was Nikon Df, introduced in November 2013. A large and solid camera with convenient manual controls and a design in the best traditions of Nikon DSLRs is not just a photographer’s tool, it is already an element of image. It was created specifically for those who are familiar with the legendary Nikon film DSLRs.

This particular model ended up in our test studio today. We will dedicate our big test to her in the “Week with an Expert” format. Every day we will publish new parts of this test, talking about shooting with this interesting camera. Stay in touch and stay tuned for updates!

Today I propose to take a closer look at this new product, understand its functions and characteristics. Let's start, as always, with the matrix. Nikon Df has something to be proud of here: it inherited its matrix from the flagship Nikon D4 DSLR. This is a 16-megapixel CMOS sensor with dimensions of 24x36 mm. Thus, Nikon Df is today one of the smallest megapixel modern full-frame cameras. But what may seem like a disadvantage to a novice photographer, an experienced photographer would rather see as an advantage: fewer pixels mean larger pixels, larger pixel size means higher image quality at high ISOs. Is this really so - we will check very soon!

The hero of our Df test borrowed the Expeed 3 processor from the Nikon D610, which was released a little earlier. He also inherited the autofocus system, consisting of 39 points, nine of which are cross-shaped. The Multi-CAM4800 autofocus sensor has a sensitivity down to -1EV.

The continuous shooting speed is stated at 5.5 fps. Moreover, the shutter mechanism is designed for 150,000 guaranteed operations. The minimum shutter speed required by the shutter is 1/4000 s. Synchronization speed with external flashes is 1/200 s.

It is noteworthy that Nikon Df became one of the first last years real cameras: he can't shoot video. This is unlikely to be attributed to the miscalculations of marketers or the disadvantages of the camera. I am more than sure that people who buy such cameras either do not use the video recording function at all, or use other devices for this.

We've almost figured out the contents of the camera, let's move on to the body. Most of the body is made of lightweight and durable magnesium alloy. Sensitive electronics are protected from weather and dust by seals installed at the joints of parts, as well as under buttons and other controls.

There are a couple more in Nikon Df interesting features that make this DSLR a true modern classic. It is compatible with retro accessories. For example, you can use a real mechanical cable release instead of an electronic one. There is a corresponding connector in the shutter button. But that's not all: Nikon Df is compatible with all optics equipped with an F mount, including non-Ai lenses produced before 1977. To work with such optics, the camera bayonet is equipped with a folding tab for connecting to the lens aperture. Well, we will have the opportunity to check the work with old optics during our test!

Needless to say, the Nikon Df viewfinder is excellent for manual focusing? In size it is inferior only to some heroes of the last century such as Nikon F3. Among modern cameras, cameras such as the Nikon D4 or Nikon D800 can boast a similarly sized viewfinder with a magnification of x0.7 and 100% coverage of the frame area. Naturally, there is a real pentaprism inside the viewfinder, and not a pentamirror as in cheaper models.

Despite the seemingly small battery (the Nikon Df uses an EN-EL14a battery with a capacity of 1230 mAh), the camera is capable of taking up to 1400 frames on a single charge - a lot even by modern standards!

A special camera needs a special lens: apparently, this is the thinking at Nikon. Nikon Df will be sold with a special version of the AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8 lens, made in retro style. It was in this configuration that the camera came to us for testing.

Stay in touch. Very soon we will publish the second part of the test, entirely devoted to a description of the controls of this unusual camera.

The newest cameras in this segment were surrounded by a halo of gossip, rumors and hopes. And now, finally, the moment has come when Nikon laid its cards on the table.

Nikon DF Key Features:

• magnesium alloy housing with weather seals;
• 16.2 Megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor (same as Nikon D4);
• sensitivity range ISO 100 - 128 00 (expandable to 50 - 204 800);
• shutter speed range 30 – 1/4000 sec., flash sync speed 1/200 sec.;
• 39-point autofocus system (same as in Nikon D610), 9 cross-shaped sensors, focusing up to f/8;
• 2,016-pixel RGB sensor;
• EXPEED 3 processor;
• large 3.2-inch LCD display with a resolution of 921,000 pixels;
• pentaprism as an optical viewfinder with 100% coverage and approximately 0.7x magnification;
• SD card slot;
• maximum continuous shooting speed up to 5.5 frames per second;
• dimensions 143.5 x 110 x 66.5 mm;
• weight with battery and memory card 760 g;
• cost $2,749 for the body version, $2,999 with the new Special Edition AF-S 50mmf/1.8G lens.

It's obvious that The camera is capable of producing very high quality images in all conditions thanks to the D4's excellent 16.2 Megapixel sensor. For those who are not chasing 24 or 36 Megapixels, this resolution will seem fine. On the other side A 39-point autofocus system similar to the D600/D610 looks a little out of place in such a device. Surely many users would prefer to see a simpler autofocus system here (for example, 11-point cross), which would cover more of the frame. And finally, The shutter speed range also leaves much to be desired with a maximum of 1/4000 sec. For such a price, you should expect at least 1/8000 sec., which is especially important for shooting in daytime with the prime lens aperture open. On the other hand, this was not a big problem for D700 owners.

A pleasant surprise was the use of retro styling, namely a waterproof (similar to the D610) case. It’s not customary to protect old-fashioned switches and levers from moisture, which makes it all the more pleasant to learn about such an option in Nikon DF. In any case, analog controls are not completely analog, because, for example, the shutter speed selection system is not connected directly to the shutter mechanism. The back of the camera features a massive 3.2-inch LCD display for easy viewing of images. It is strange that the Nikon DF announcement does not indicate the ability to record video (perhaps something will change with a firmware update), but there is a Live View mode.

If you look only at the specifications of the Nikon DF camera, then it is worth noting that it is more expensive than the Nikon D610 (a comparison with this camera cannot be avoided, since they are similar in characteristics), but is somewhat inferior in technical characteristics. For example, the Nikon DF only takes one SD card and can shoot at 5.5 frames per second, which is identical to the discontinued Nikon D600 but half a frame slower than the Nikon D610. The new product also does not have a built-in flash (for some this is important) or a video recording mode. And this is a rather significant omission since the days of Nikon D90 and Canon 5D Mark ll (the first two DSLRs with video recording support), when it became prerequisite. And all this for such a huge cost? Already now, for photographers working with mid-level equipment, buying a Nikon DF does not make sense. However, there will be buyers who will find other features in the camera other than technical characteristics.

Characteristic features of Nikon DF.

The Nikon DF is like a photographer's typewriter. Like a typewriter, it clicks, types, and responds to pressure. But underneath the retro styling and analogue controls is a modern processor and powerful focusing system. It's like hiding a modern MacBook in a typewriter. The camera is ideal for those who want a symbiosis of the pleasure of working with a film camera and the flexibility of a digital camera. The camera can shoot more than 5 frames per second, but you don't really want to chase those numbers. The model is capable of creating HDR images, but this is not written on the body. This is a device for photography, slow, thoughtful, artistic. In the end, it's hard to argue that the Nikon DF will be liked even by those who criticize it.

Appearance.

An amazing camera that the more you look at it, the more you like it. Available in black and silver-black versions, for those who want a model closer to modern devices or a completely retro camera. The emphasis on design in this camera is not accidental. Agree that it is much more pleasant to use a device that you like not only for the quality of the pictures you take, but also for its stylish appearance, which is pleasant to hold in your hands. Secondly, people around will react to a photographer with a Nikon DF in his hands completely differently than, for example, to a photographer with a D800. Therefore, the latest emphasis of manufacturers on the retro form factor is not at all accidental. This design is virtually timeless, so it's no surprise that so many users love retro devices.

Control.

One of the reasons for the popularity of the Fujifilm X series is the analog switches and controls. You clearly feel the feedback from the camera from the clicks of buttons and levers. With a Nikon DF camera you'll look at the LCD less often. Nikon assures you that all mechanical switches can be distributed on the surface of the body, be it a small M/A/S/P mode dial, shutter speed, ISO or exposure compensation. You can also use the switch to change the shooting speed or set the shutter timer.

Nikon DF as the successor to the Nikon F film series and replacement for the Nikon D700.

The Nikon DF camera is entirely focused on the photography process. It has most of the features of digital cameras, but doesn't advertise it at all. In some ways, it resembles the Nikon D700 thanks to its flagship sensor. However, not all photographers will be happy about switching from Nikon D700 to Nikon DF, because in some respects the new product is inferior to modern ones digital cameras. At the same time, many amateur photographers finally received the camera they were waiting for. Less technical innovation? No problem. No video recording? On paper, an absolute minus. But for those who care about reducing opportunities, this is an absolute plus.

Of course, Nikon DF does not show outstanding results when shooting sports events or wildlife, so in these parameters it cannot be a full replacement for the Nikon D700.

Official press release.

Melville, New York (November 4, 2013). The new Nikon DF camera is a modern classic and is designed for those who want to feel connected to their camera, who enjoy photography in unfamiliar places and who want satisfaction in the act of shooting. Today it was announced that Nikon DF is a unique device, combining the advanced characteristics of DSLR devices and the heritage of Nikon film cameras. The Nikon DF pays homage to the style of the Nikon F series 35mm film cameras, but uses technology similar to the flagship professional DSLR Nikon D4. Complete with similar style AF-S lens The NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G, Nikon's latest FX camera format, is a versatile option for creative photographers who value style.

“Nikon cameras have played an important role in documenting world history for more than 50 years and have established themselves as trusted companions for enthusiast photographers. Nikon DF represents much more than just heritage legendary series cameras The camera allows the user to truly enjoy creating amazing images.", said Masahiro Hori, director of marketing and planning at Nikon Inc. "Classic design and functional equipment according to last word technology. Nikon DF brings together the best of the past and present of full-frame photography."

A modern masterpiece with a classic design that lets you feel the small switches and details, and embodies the best of Nikon's long-lasting heritage. The camera makes it easy to discern a pentaprism in the outline of the body, which is now made of durable and lightweight magnesium alloy. The top of the body houses elegant and sophisticated mechanical adjustment switches, allowing you to tactilely feel adjustments such as the click of a shutter adjustment. Additionally, it is worth noting the classic ISO control, exposure compensation, shutter control, while modern management also available. The intuitive layout of the controls allows you to quickly adjust all important shooting parameters.

Nikon DF was designed with an emphasis on the body details that made previous generations of Nikon cameras famous. For example, a textured leather surface for a comfortable grip with a built-in shutter button. The design also recalls the compact nature of previous generation cameras, creating the smallest and lightest FX format camera in the Nikon family.

As for technical characteristics, the Nikon DF camera received 16.2 Megapixel FX CMOS sensor, inherited from the professional flagship camera Nikon D4. Large sensor (36 x 23.9 mm) allows you to create truly high-quality images in high resolution and difficult lighting conditions. Whether you're photographing landscapes, wildlife or wedding photo shoot, footage captured with Nikon DF is characterized by amazing brightness, accurate color reproduction and wide dynamic range. In addition, Nikon's exclusive EXPEED 3 processor allows you to obtain natural color depth in the frame with amazingly accurate reproduction of small details and nuances.

Like many professional cameras, Nikon DF works in a wide range of lighting conditions thanks to its wide range ISO 100 to 12,800 with stunning expandability to 204,800. Combinations low level noise in the frame and a wide spectrum allows you to use the camera to solve journalistic problems.

Nikon DF represents the culmination of many years of engineering experience and exchanges with photographers around the world. With its proven autofocus system and compatibility with a wide range of lenses, Nikon DF incorporates all the best camera features of all time.

Autofocus system . The convenience and accuracy of the 39-point system is proof of the benefits of modern technology. The system also has 9 cross-shaped dots, and 7 dots can operate down to f/8. Users will also be able to choose from a variety of AF modes: 9-point, 21-point, 39-point and 39-point with 3D Tracking and Auto Area AF;

2,016-pixel RGB sensor shooting and scene recognition system. This feature allows you to analyze each shooting scenario and determine the correct parameters for shooting, resulting in accurate white balance settings and precise autofocus selection. For shooting sports, wildlife and other fast-moving subjects, the Nikon DF has a continuous shooting speed of up to 5.5 frames per second;

3.2-inch LCD display and glass pentaprism viewfinder. Users can easily see the quality of their photos on the 921,000 pixel LCD screen, which also makes Live View easy to use. Using the optical viewfinder, users will be able to enjoy 100% frame coverage. Moreover, the image in the viewfinder is also digitized.

Connection and instant data transfer. An important functional feature is the ability to additionally connect the WU-1aWirelessMobileAdapter adapter, which will allow you to download and instantly share data with users on the Internet.

Functions and modes. Users have a wide range of different shooting modes to choose from. Nikon DF also has the ability to shoot in HDR mode, which allows you to combine multiple images with different dynamic ranges into one. It is also possible to shoot in JPEG, TIFF or RAW file formats.

NIKKOR lens support . Also, the Nikon DF camera is compatible with all modern AF, AF-S, DX or AF-DNIKKOR lenses, as well as classic Ai and non-AiNIKKOR lenses.

Accessory support. Nikon DF is compatible with the Creative Lighting System (CLS), allowing you to use an i-TTL flash or flash group. It is also possible to remotely control the shutter, as well as connect an AR-3 cable.

Classic FX format prime lens NIKKOR Special Edition.

The new AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G Special Edition lens is the result of a combination of classic NIKKOR style and modern optics. The lens design is similar to the original NIKKOR Ai lenses in color, texture and aluminum mounting ring. This optic is ideal for everyday portraits, landscapes and casual shots, thanks to its wide seven-blade aperture for natural blur and dramatic depth of field. Despite its classic design, the AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G Special Edition allows photographers to capture images that are sharp and clear anywhere in the frame.

Price and start of sales.

Nikon DF will be available at the end of November 2013 in classic black and silver colors. Recommended retail price for the body kit will be $2,750, while for a set with an AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G Special Edition lens the cost will be $3,000. In addition to the classic design, Nikon will offer black or brown leather cases for the CF-DC6B and CF-DC6S, with pricing to be announced.