Nikon D3X FX Format Digital SLR
D3X DSLR For Extreme Resolution And High Dynamic Range Capabilities
Dec 2, 2008
The new Nikon D3X is the Hi-Res sibling to their D3 with a full frame sensor optimized for high resolution at the expense of speed and ISO performance. Nikon are building on the D3 platform, currently the top camera for photojournalism and sports photographers with its low light performance in a full frame DSLR. Having conquered that market segment Nikon turned their attention to the high quality image field, normally the province of the cheaper medium format digital cameras from manufacturers such as Hasselblad and Phase One.
“The new 24.5-megapixel FX-format D3X D-SLR provides the extreme resolution and high dynamic range capabilities needed to meet the extraordinary needs of photographic disciplines such as high fashion, commercial advertising and fine art,” said Edward Fasano, general manager for Marketing, SLR Systems Products at Nikon Inc.
Speed
In the Nikon press release they stress the speed of the Nikon D3X, larger file sizes due the greater number of pixels, inevitably take longer to process and store. The burst speed for the D3X is down to five frames per second compared to nine for the D3. Considering the D3X is targeted at situations where the photographer has far more control then the slower burst rate should not be an issue.
ISO
One of the biggest prices to pay for high resolution digital images is the increase in noise from the resultant smaller pixels. In the Nikon D3X this reduced the normal working ISO range down to 100 -1600, far less than the D3.
Body
The D3X shares the same rugged magnesium metal body and weather sealed controls with the D3, making it suitable for landscape photographers who need to go well off the beaten track for their images.
Live View
The Live View system on the D3X is more than a gimmick for P & S graduates unable to hold a camera properly. D3Xs will spend a great deal of time on tripods while photographers carefully consider composition, or waiting for just the right moment to capture the perfect image. This is the proper use for Live View and the D3X has an auto focus system that works in this mode. Another feature landscape photographers will love is the convenient virtual horizon display in Live View mode to avoid unnerving tilts.
In the Studio
There are a number of D3X features to make this new Nikon at home in the professional studio. This includes the Nikon D3X’s ability to transfer the large image files to a computer during shooting via cable or a wireless link marks as a digital camera system for serious professional studios.
Price and Availability
The Nikon D3X will be available in the USA at Nikon Authorized Professional Dealers starting December 2008, and will be available for an estimated selling price of $US7999.95.
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
