Nikon D3X Review
A number of photographers were unimpressed with the Nikon D3X when it was first released. They complained that it was basically the same as the D3 only for the fact that it has twice as many megapixels. This they argued, was not enough of a justification to charge roughly double the price.
Overview
Indeed, Nikon have a history of adding the letter X in front of products to indicate that the new camera is merely a high resolution version of the old product. Make no mistake, the Nikon D3X is for professionals only. It may be a cheap alternative for a studio photographer as a digital back is even more expensive. However, for everyone else this is not a financially sound deal. Another problem is the fact that large image files fill up hard drives in double quick time. So is the Nikon D3X really worth its $7,000 price tag?
Design
The D3X is roughly the same size as the D3 but it has 24 megapixels. It is about 2.7 pounds in weight with no memory card or battery. Indeed the only way to differentiate between the two is via the X label. As one would expect for the price, the D3X is incredibly durable as it is built using materials made from a magnesium alloy with protection against dust and moisture. You get a free battery with your purchase which can take up to 4,400 shots before having to be recharged.
Other accessories include a camera strap, Nikon’s Software Suite and USB and AV cables. There is no sensor cleaning system on-board nor is there a video option despite the presence of a Live View button. It does have a multitude of other options including Wi-Fi.
Menu And Display
Anyone who has used a D3 will take about 5 seconds to get used to the D3X as it is virtually identical. It is a comfortable camera with a good handhold and it allows you to place your thumb on the rear of the camera. It is a big camera but even users with small hands will be able to use it for prolonged periods of time without becoming tired. Every one of the enormous number of controls and gadgets are within easy reach.
If you are not familiar with Nikon products, the menu will be extremely intimidating thanks to the large number of options. There are a variety of custom items which should entertain even the most experienced photographer. The camera has four distinct Picture Controls: Monochrome, Neutral, Vivid and Standard. These can be adjusted in moments with sharpness, brightness and contrast all easily changed and saved if you choose. The Live View button is best left for studio shots.
The monitor is 3 inches high and has 921,000 dot LCD which is crystal clear. The screen can be viewed at an angle of 170 degrees and is visible in almost every type of light. The viewfinder is stunning and offers users 100% viewing and is also incredibly clear.
Performance
The D3X gives you a 5fps continuous shooting speed is which monumentally impressive when you take into account that it is 24 megapixels you are dealing with. It should be noted however that the Crop Mode takes it down to 10 megapixels. The D3X shoots 31 frames in a continuous burst and has a shutter lag of just 0.02 seconds. It also offers a crazy 51 point Auto Focus system which delivers incredible performance.
As usual, the Nikon F bayonet mount is used for lenses and the D3X is compatible with dozens of other Nikon lenses. It should be noted that certain lenses will not support some of the camera’s functions. Older lenses will probably not support auto focus for example.
Quality Of Images
For around $7,000 you would hope that the image quality would be sensational and thankfully it is. The zoom feature is quite superb and allows you to see intricate details of subjects you are taking pictures of. For example, you should be able to zoom in on a leaf and see the small lines and insects crawling on it.
The color of the images are also fantastic when on default and there are numerous options that enable you to change settings. That said, the default settings will provide great results in over 90% of situations. This camera’s ISO can be set as low as 50 and as high as 6400. The general ISO is between 100 and 1600 however because Nikon states this camera is designed for those looking to control the lighting.
Nikon D3x Photos
Overall
As has already been mentioned, this camera is only for professionals thanks to the hefty price tag. The pictures it delivers are sensational and the amount of features it possesses is more than enough to produce perfect pictures. However, there are similar cameras on the market for several thousand dollars less and you would expect a $7,000 camera to be equipped with a video mode.
