Nikon D700

Description

Nikon D700

Global description

The Nikon D700 is perfect if you consider yourself as either an amateur or professional photographer - or even somewhere in between. You don't want a simple, run-of-the-mill digital camera like the next person. This camera is considered to be one of the best compact SLR cameras around, and is basically a modified, shrunk-down version of its predecessor, the D3.

The camera fits well into any studio environment as well as being just what you need for wedding photography, landscape art or portraits. Its predecessor, the Nikon D3, was recommended for the fast-paced world of news and/or sport, but if you have that extra time to think about your composition (even if it's just pictures of the family at the park) it should be on your list!

The D700 is perfect for fast shooting and in-the-moment photography, whether it's vibrant colours at a market abroad or the autumn tones of the trees in your local park. It is designed to give you great results and quickly, but not at the same speed and demands of the media.

For anyone feeling intimidated by the size of SLR cameras and thinking they should stick with their standard snap-a-minute digital camera, the camera fits snugly into the hands. It has all the zeal and excitement of the D3 but without too much bulk - what more could you need?

Qualities

There's no denying the image quality is superb with the Nikon D700 - some say megapixels aren't what they used to be but with 12.1 of them packed into this compact SLR, your prints will be crystal clear, even if you enlarge them as a canvas print.

The autofocus performance is very impressive, compared to other similar models such as the Canon 5D Mark II. This means you can photograph even the craziest of children and in low light conditions, while all the while being in complete focus.

The camera was sculpted to fit into your hands, meaning it is comfortable to use whether you're just taking a few snaps or you're undertaking a full-on shoot. There is the option of an attachable grip if you feel you need more substance to how the camera feels, adding to its 1kg weight. It is light enough to carry around but heavy enough for it to feel up to the job.

The battery life is substantial for a smaller SLR camera. Intensive usage, which includes setting up with the various menus, is not a problem.

The LCD on the rear of the D700 is a generous 3-inch in size, allowing you to see your handywork in seconds and in breathtaking high resolution. You can also zoom in to see the finer details - a very handy tool for the perfectionists amongst us!

The more established photographers will be happy to learn this camera is compatible with lenses dating back as far as the 1970s, so need to replace all those collector's items! Simply attach and shoot.

Downfalls

Even a camera such as the Nikon D700 has its faults, although there is not a massive list.

This model has a single slot for your CF (compact flash) memory card. Its predecessor, the D3 was famed for having two slots, allowing for a backup system with obviously more space.

It can be deemed a noisy camera - this could be down to its fast frame rate - so this camera is a no go if you want to take photos of wildlife and need that imperative silence!

While this is designed to be a compact SLR camera, the D700 is not exactly small and will take up quite some room in your hand baggage if you're planning to take it on holiday. If you're looking for a great camera to capture the action of your children on holiday but need room to pack the bucket and space too, this might be too big!

Due to image quality you will get, you will either need a lot of spare memory on your computer or to invest in a large external drive.