Nikon D800: Conclusion

Conclusion

With its 36 megapixel sensor, sophisticated feature set and amazing image quality, the Nikon D800 offers a solid--and more affordable--alternative to photographers who crave medium-format files without stretching a budget to the breaking point. It's no speed demon with a continuous shooting speed of about 4fps but it's not designed that way. It's great for studio, portrait and product photographers, as well as landscape shooters who want the ultimate amount of information. Heed our warning, though. Be sure your computer and storage systems are up to the task of handling large files. This camera's files can quickly eat up valuable space on your hard drive. An external hard drive is a necessity when purchasing this camera.

With DSLR video becoming more ubiquitous, Nikon has done a good job of expanding the D800's video capabilities. If you've not shot video with a DSLR before, be prepared for a learning curve especially in focusing. The D800's AF--like many other DSLRs--requires some special skills, but the results are well worth the effort.

Whether or not you have an interest in shooting video, though, the D800 is first and foremost an excellent camera for capturing stills. And, if you're a pro with a high speed D4, the D800 is the perfect complement for your portrait or studio needs.

Pros:

• Excellent image quality
• Large files that allow cropping
• Broad dynamic range
• Sophisticated feature set
• Expanded video functionality

Cons:

• No "small" RAW options
• CF and SD card slots vs. dual CF slots
• Moderate 4fps continuous shooting
• Focus hunting in video AF

Individual Ratings: *

Image/Video Quality 
Features 
Design/Ease of Use 
Performance 
Expandability 
* Ratings averaged to produce final score