Where Is Nikon Cameras From
The Nikon V1 Camera Review – The camera I expected to hate!
By Steve Huff
UPDATE: See my new Nikon V2 review and the new Nikon 32 1.2 Lens Review!
Aye, this is a review of the new Nikon 1 series photographic camera,the Nikon V1 – and yes information technology was a camera I expected to hate (due to the sensor)! But before I get into this V1 camera, permit me talk a little about my Nikon history considering I have always been a fan of Nikon, merely as I am a fan of cameras and photography in general. To those who know me, they know it is my passion and how this website came about 3 years ago. Enjoy!
The Earlier Nikon Digital SLR'due south
I've virtually had them all – D100, D200, D300 but I will talk a little well-nigh the D2h and D700, my two favorite Nikon DSLR'due south e'er. I have not shot a Nikon camera in a couple of years (update: I gave the D800 a quick spin and loved the quality, WOW.) but I used to be a huge Nikon fan. The Nikon D700, IMO, was a game changer in the world of DSLR'southward and when I owned ane with some Ziess drinking glass I was in heaven for quite a while with nice files and loftier ISO capabilities that were the same as the D3. Nikons claim to fame for me was always the rich Nikon "await", or colors which I take always enjoyed for the nearly office. Each photographic camera manufacturer seems to have created a "look" for themselves and their cameras. Nikon has the rich deep colour that is reminiscent of moving picture in many ways, Catechism goes for a more than subdued pastel like color and even Leica has their ain signature colour style which is as well very rich with smashing reds and blues.
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As for the D700, I loved that camera but in reality I realized that I was leaving it at dwelling most of the fourth dimension and never wanted to take information technology places. Why? Because I was the contrary of those people who are "wanting to look like a pro". Me, I would rather exist invisible when shooting, non have a huge monster camera and lens blazing in my subjects face. For pro work it is fine of class only for personal shooting, which is mainly what I was doing back then, it was just too big for my tastes.
Before the D700 I was a HUGE fan of the D2h and D2hs for their small file sizes, and great quality FAT pixels. I shot some amazing images with my D2hs only over again, that camera with a lxx-200 f/two.8 attached was a Brute and information technology killed my arm and back on many days. When I switched to the D700, the D2hs was sold and I enjoyed the lighter camera for a while but even the D700, for me, was too large for a take anywhere and shoot camera…for ME. So eventually I went on a search for small and calorie-free.
The next two shots were taken with a Nikon D2h in 2003/2005
I printed this shot at 20X30 and it looked amazing, fifty-fifty with only 4MP. I recollect it is due to the Fatty pixels..putting only 4 MP on an APS-C sensor. Less is sometimes more.
And then due to simply size and weight, the D700 was sold and there were times that I missed it for it'southward total frame qualities and great high ISO performance even though I eventually replaced it for a Leica M9, which IMO, still provides amazing quality files and has the best available lenses in the world. The problem with the M9 for me these days is it is such a damn expensive piece of gear and frustrations build upwards at times. My focus has went out a couple of times on me in the last twelvemonth, significant my lenses do non focus correctly and when that happens it is a pain. Add to that some random problems that popped upward for many people like the cracked sensor drinking glass and the SD card consequence and I started to become nervous about shooting with my M9! Let's face it, $7000-$8000 is a huge chunk of alter for a camera BODY. I love the M9, and still experience information technology is an amazing photographic camera that provides the best IQ of any digital to engagement, simply it is a bit finicky at times and with me not having the luxury of a huge bank account (no, I do non get rich from this site) I tend to get out it at home these days equally I search for a small mirrorless solution as my take everywhere personal camera.
In the world of smaller mirror-less cams there are PLENTY of choices. I hateful, A TON of choices. It makes it difficult even for ME to choose and I get to play with them all! Plus in 2012 there are many more coming – for instance, look for new things from Leica, Canon, Fuji and others. But for those looking for a photographic camera such every bit the Nikon V1 At present, read on and I volition tell you of my experience with this new camera system.
ENTER THE NIKON 1 Organisation
Nikon V1 – 10mm pancake – click image for larger view
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Nikon has been working on this "1" system for about 4 years now and the 1st question I asked myself when it was announced is " Actually? Four years and they come upwardly with THIS? A Small sensor toy ?". The early on photos of the 1 arrangement did indeed make the cameras await toy like so I told myself I would most probable non even review information technology which was silly really..I acknowledge. For this new system launch Nikon released two cameras. The more consumer oriented "J1" and the so called enthusiasts "V1". This review volition focus on the V1 considering most of you who read this site autumn into the enthusiast camp.
And so…all the buzz is near the smaller sensor in the 1 series cameras. If I can back up a scrap… when I reviewed the Pentax Q a while agone I realized that even with the teeny sensor in information technology, I was getting some damn good paradigm quality for the kind of sensor that was in that photographic camera, so I knew technology was getting better because it was about every bit skilful as I accept seen in a photographic camera of that type. I enjoyed the Q and idea it was unique and fun only I think it may be a super niche production and one that will not sell very well or in any kind of huge numbers. It's too expensive for what it is, and the Q'southward lenses ARE Toy like. Then much so that they even call them "Toy Lenses". Nonetheless, the Q is cool merely not something I would buy for myself due to the cost tag. I do requite Pentax a thumbs upwardly for creating something different and unique though. The 1 affair it showed me is that small sensors today tin be adept.
The V1 with the ten-30 – right out of the camera
When the Nikon i came out I knew that if I looked at or reviewed anything it would be the V1, which is the model Nikon themselves say are for the "enthusiast". I found that odd because in i interview I saw with a Nikon rep he said the 1 system is for those who want a step up from a betoken and shoot but exercise not want or need a DSLR. Then some other interview said the V1 is for the enthusiast. The J1 and V1 share the aforementioned sensor and same quality but the V1 has a better build, EVF and no congenital in flash. So is Nikon telling us that the IQ from these cameras would brand even a die hard enthusiast happy? Hmmm, thats what I was curious about and then I agreed to review the V1. Why non right?
The Nikon V1 with 10-100 Zoom at ISO 400 – images from the V1 are typically sharp simply a chip grainy when viewed at full size – Click image for larger
UPDATE June 2012: I have been photographing these Orangutans for about 12 years and on June 24th 2012 the one pictured here "Dutchess" was put down due to her having a rare grade of cancer. Was a sad day for me every bit I have visited her well over 200 times. This is the concluding shot of her that I took and yous can tell that even at the time of this shot that she was not feeling well.
The Features of the Nikon V1
Here is what Nikon says most the V1 and what it can practise…sounds impressive right?
Witness the Revolutionary New Nikon one Organisation: A Breakthrough in Technology and Design – Capture every moment of an incredible life with an evolution in imaging applied science. At the heart of Nikon ane is EXPEED 3, a culmination of years of dedication to advancing digital imaging technologies. Witness outstanding system functioning, high-speed dual image processors, state-of-the-art focal-airplane phase detection auto focus and the fastest data transfer rates. Superior image quality, tone reproduction, advanced noise reduction, and an ability to create a whole new blazon of image are all delivered with the new Nikon ane
Focus Without Hesitation: Advanced Hybrid AF Puts the Focus in Your Command
Your camera goes with you everywhere since moments worth sharing can happen at any instant. Nikon one V1 delivers an amazing 10fps speed in autofocus and 60fps in manual mode, courtesy of a unique combination of contrast and focal plane phase detect autofocus. Don't permit your inventiveness exist hindered by ho-hum focus speed. Even fast moving action is rendered with amazing clarity – thanks to an incredible 73 point AF array continuously working to ensure everything is sharp and clear
Professional Touches Extend Versatility : Features to Bring Photography into the Incredible
Work like a pro with an avant-garde prepare of features that extend creativity. Flexibility comes to your workflow assuasive limerick with either the electronic viewfinder or Live View LCD panel during both all the same and motion-picture show work. Extend your lighting range by tapping the multi-accessory port and connect the small, still powerful Speedlight unit. Capture perfect sound for all motion-picture show needs by plugging a high quality microphone (support for Nikon's ME-one Microphone with the Every bit-N1000 adapter) into that same port. There's even an optional GPS unit that records longitude, latitude and distance
For Moments that Deserve More: Motility Snapshot Brings the Memory to Life (I have to say, I wish they did left this out. Pure gimmick)
Certain glances at life just cannot be retold with merely a single photo. Bring to life those incredible times by injecting personal interpretation through Motion Snapshot. In a single click, your vision takes flight – bringing moment, move and sound to light. Reveal the essence that can't be captured in a single photo
Extend Your Inventiveness: Simultaneously Capture Full HD (1080p) Movies and Photos
Work with both high resolution photos and Full HD (1080p) movies to bring fifty-fifty more creative expression to life. Outset recording at the touch of a button. See a moment you'd like as a still? Hit the shutter. Autofocus keeps everything in focus, fifty-fifty when working double duty to record movies and photograph stills. Drag product with the addition of varied frame rates in 30/60/400/1200fps. Don't be hindered by working in simply i mode – Nikon ane flexibility gives you more
Merely the Best Photograph Returned : Let the Camera Practise the Work with Smart Photo Selector
Always producing, always looking to frame a shot to perfection? What if at that place was a camera that could do the thinking for you lot – working to render a photo with optimal exposure, subjects in frame, clarity and focus, even eyes open? For times when y'all prefer to just be in the moment and let the camera practice the work, motion the dial to Smart Photo Selector. You find the all-time moment. Nikon 1 V1 will capture it
1 NIKKOR Lenses : Compact, Light, High Operation Optics
Express quality with the revolutionary new i NIKKOR lens organization. Don't exist limited by a single fixed focal length (attack on the Fuji X100?) -select from a growing selection of lenses that incorporate Nikon'south vibration reduction (VR II) applied science for blur-gratis images. Aspherical elements keep lenses compact while maintaining high quality. A silent stepping motor (STM) keeps autofocusing repose – particularly during movie recording. Compactness brings portability, whether using the optional single focal length 10mm or the 30-110mm telephoto. one NIKKOR extends a heritage of precision symbolized by immovability, superior image quality and optical excellence
Low Light
An avant-garde innovative Nikon super loftier-speed AF CMOS imaging sensor, broad ISO range and option to select the all-time lens for the chore gives you even more control over the light. Produce amazing photos in all those moody environments. Tap only ambient light and open the most artistic doors to photographing on the dance flooring, nabbing dramatic sunsets and candlelit moments. For extended range, adhere the 1 Nikon Speedlight for fill wink and more
Electronic Viewfinder
Accustomed to framing your images with a viewfinder? The Nikon ane gives photographers the selection to work with flexibility – using either the 1,440,000 dot (SVGA) electronic viewfinder (EVF) or the large high resolution, 921,000 dot (VGA) LCD panel with 100 percent view. Run across every one of your creations rendered conspicuously on the loftier contrast viewfinder. The photographic camera's eye sensor allows you to toggle between EVF and LCD views by placing your middle to the EVF. A Diopter adjustment is available, also
EXPEED 3 Processor
EXPEED 3 marks the culmination of years of dedication to advancing digital imaging technologies. At the heart of Nikon 1 is EXPEED three, with dual image processors, to deliver outstanding organisation performance, high-speed processing, country-of-the-art phase detection autofocus and the fastest data transfer rates. Witness outstanding prototype quality, tone reproduction and advanced autofocus at unprecedented speeds
Intuitive Simplicity
Piece of cake admission to advanced features are hallmarks of the Nikon 1 system. From the ultra intuitive command and features buttons, easy-to-empathize menu and fast lens mount, yous'll exist expressing thoughts and visions equally never before. Even avant-garde features for photos and movies can be created with one-click ease
LCD Monitor
Check your creativity: frame and share your creations on the large and abrupt 3.0 inch LCD color display. An ultra-high resolution VGA screen featuring 921,000 dots shows every detail to precision. An anti-glare blanket renders like shooting fish in a barrel viewing of photos and Hard disk movies, even outdoors
Speedlight
For instances where available low-cal is not enough to properly illuminate subjects, or when special lighting effects are desired, use the optional Nikon 1 SB-N5 Speedlight. Plug this compact device into the i-TTL hot shoe. Angle the device upwards, down, left or right and bounce light to your creative advantage. No batteries are required to power this device
Pare tones? Nikon V1 and ten two.8
NIkon 10-100
My interest was growing…and so it arrived
When I started to read more than about the V1 I looked at the specs and features and saw that Nikon was boasting the "Fastest Motorcar Focus in the World" and one NIkon rep said information technology put the D3s to shame in the AF department. Bold CLAIMS! Olympus was too boasting the fastest AF a few months ago in regards to the E-P3. The more I read almost the Nikon V1 the more than I was intrigued. I started to go actually curious almost it when I saw some reviewers who never fifty-fifty shot with it calling it a "turd" or maxim that this new CX format is "A dead format". Interesting…it seemed like lxxx% of the enthusiast earth was judging it just due to the sensor size. With other cameras that come up in for less money having larger sensors, many failed to run into the point of the 1 series. What could it mayhap offer that wasn't already beingness provided past a NEX-5n or Panasonic G3?
When the camera arrived to me from B&H Photo along with the lenses I was impressed as soon as my hands striking the camera torso. It was solid. It was sleek. It was black and it felt similar a fully finished product (different some cameras that are rushed out). Later charging the battery, which is the same chunky battery used by the Nikon D7000 I went out to shoot with camera and I had the 10 2.8, 10-30 zoom, and the ten-100 zoom. After only a few shots and hearing the repose mechanical shutter and how solid the camera felt…I was PRAYING the paradigm quality would be proficient because the camera was performing amazingly well in every other area. The auto focus blazed and it was 100% authentic. The LCD was nice and crisp and colorful. The EVF was really skillful and the AF tracking was even pretty damn incredible. If the IQ held up and was skillful plenty for my personal daily shooting and it could shell my Olympus Eastward-P3, I knew correct so I would buy one because I never experienced AF performance and accuracy like this nor have I enjoyed metering this proficient!
The fact is that the V1 is a JOY to shoot! Worry free. Never failing. Fifty-fifty the NEX-7 misses the AF occasionally. This Nikon V1 NEVER MISSED I SHOT as far every bit AF goes. So information technology all came down to the IQ (epitome quality). If that cruel apart and the resulting images looked similar a cheap P&S (signal and shoot) then forget information technology.
Hither are a few shots with a variety of lenses. All shot RAW and processed using Adobe Camera Raw. The Nikon V1…
The V1 with the 10mm at f/ii.viii
The $750 10-100 lens that is optimized for video fully zoomed to 100 and at f/5.6
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The 10-100 again at f/5.6 and 100mm (270mm equivalent)
My video overview of the camera and menus system
My 1st thoughts on the image quality of the Nikon V1 – Splendid only not perfect, and I volition tell you lot why.
My first thoughts of the epitome quality were very expert. I found that the V1 gave me great quality images in good light and when the low-cal brutal a chip I would get a little racket added to my pic, merely it wasn't bad noise, nor was it excessive. The 1 matter I establish that I could non escape from is that it is non easy to get shallow depth of field with this camera/sensor/lens combo, in fact it is not really possible with the current lens lineup to become anywhere near what you would get on a NEX or even Micro 4/3 camera with a fast lens. The lenses for the "1" are all pretty wide in focal length due to the 2.7 crop gene. The sensor is small then the lenses accept to be wider to give us the equivalent and more normal focal lengths. The lenses are as well "slow" with apertures starting at 4.5 for the 100-300 zoom. Nikon did not release any kind of fast primes like a 20 i.iv or 1.seven. And so the Nikon 1 system is not a camera you can pick upward, shoot a portrait with and totally throw out the background focus. You lot can get some shallow depth of field if you become close with the 10 at 2.8, or if y'all zoom out to 110 with the 30-100 and open up it up to 5.vi but this Nikon organization is Non for those who like shallow depth of field or creamy soft looks.If you thought micro 4/3 was at fault for this reason, you will think this even more so with the Nikon 1 organisation.
The V1 and J1 is more than for those who similar their images sharp, in focus, and with nice deep color. The camera puts out some great quality NO QUESTION but you lot will not get super smooth noise costless images. Fifty-fifty at ISO 100, looking at the total size files you lot will see some dissonance, but naught bad or overbearing. The IQ of the V1 is proficient. It's actually adept. Information technology is excellent, especially for what information technology is, and after using both next extensively I much prefer the IQ from the V1 than the Fuji X10, which has an even smaller sensor and no EVF.
No existent complaints from me at all on the V1 until you get to low calorie-free because that is where the weakness comes in of this system. The Boring lenses. In low low-cal, shooting at f/three.5 with the ISO cranked to 1600 yous will not go paradigm quality similar y'all run across in the images here so I am actually hoping for a prissy fast prime to come along for the 1. With faster lenses you can shoot in low calorie-free at a lower ISO. So no, the V1 is not perfect but it was not designed to be. Nikon wouldn't desire to have their DSLR sales drop now would they? I just hope their "fast portrait prime number" arrives sooner than later.
The 10-100 at 100
The 30-110
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10-100
For those that are wondering…How well-nigh sharpness and detail?
The V1 and it's lenses put out a abrupt file, that is for sure. With a resolution of 10 MP you will non have a crazy high res file but you volition get images that are a breeze to piece of work on due to the minor sizes of the files. Also, the NEF (RAW) files of t he V1 are SUPERB and recommended over JPEG. Here is an prototype with a 100% crop embedded. Make certain you click on the paradigm to run into it larger and to see the total 100% ingather.
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with the 10-100 at 100 and f/5.6
and the 10mm at 3.5 stopped down a scrap and at ISO 400 indoors with some window light – why I insist on making this face in photos I volition never understand 🙂
High ISO – How is it?
I compared the higher ISO of the Nikon V1 to the Fuji X10, Olympus E-P3 and Ricoh GRD Iv. The little V1 did VERY good IMO and better than expected.
and the 100% crops
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ISO 800 – low light. If you click the prototype beneath y'all can download the full size out of camera shot. NO noise reduction at all and await how abrupt the epitome is. This was taken in my kitchen at dark, and so just the lights to a higher place. Focus was on the edge of the cardboard box.
The V1 at ISO 3200, NO NOISE REDUCTION – From RAW – SHARO Equally A TAC, NO SMEARING
CLICK THE Image FOR Full SIZE OUT OF CAM FILE – THIS WAS TAKEN AT Dark IN MY KITCHEN. Amazing ISO Functioning Hither.
ISO 6400, No Noise Reduction – Click image for full size
A shot from the V1 at ISO 6400 – In cam JPEG with NR, AT Night
How about a real world high ISO image? ISO 3200 at night with the 10mm
The Nikon V1 is more just nigh taking pictures…information technology also shoots nice HD video
The V1 also shoots peachy video. Not the best I have seen (NEX-5n and seven are meliorate here) merely VERY good with NO Jello effect that I have institute. The video is solid and detailed but the in photographic camera mic does pick upwardly current of air noises very easily. When using the optimized for video 10-100 lens, it is silky smoothen and fun to shoot. Here is a quick video sample using that lens. It was clouded on this day so the video does not expect super colorful or contrasty merely it works for me. The VR on the Nikon lenses piece of work well to stabilize the handheld video as you can see while I tracked the horses at full zoom.
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The gimmicks…Motion Snapshot and Smart Photo Selector
OK, I accept to say that there are Two modes on the dorsum punch that should non accept fabricated information technology to the V1. Instead of these, on the V1 at least, since Nikon says this model is for the "Enthusiast", they should take nixed the Motion Snapshot mode. Basically if you lot switch to Motility SNAPSHOT the camera records a couple seconds of slo mo video and then adds a still shot at the end. Kind of cheesy and you can even choose the music type. Yous can see a sample of this in my video overview farther up this folio. I volition never use this and not sure who will really.
There is also the "Smart Photo Selector" which is not for enthusiasts, lol. Basically you lot aim the camera, press the shutter and even earlier you press down the shutter release all the way the camera starts taking photos and it takes 20 of them. Afterward that information technology picks the best 5, as chosen by the camera, and puts them on your memory card. Supposedly it will capture the smile, the moment, the best focus and framing. I tried it but all I saw was 5 photos that looked near the same. I would have rather Nikon took these off of the V1 and instead put the traditional modes on the punch like A, P, etc.
The J1 and V1 practise not have a pano mode or depression light mode or anything else which I am fine with every bit I never ever used those modes anyhow on the other cameras.
One of the best five from my test of the Smart Photo Selector.
Small sensor vs Larger sensor, APS-C vs CX…is it r
eally that big of a deviation?
So I was out shooting the Nikon V1 for the past few days to evaluate it for this review and I as well brought along the Sony NEX-7 and 50 one.eight lens to run into which photographic camera I enjoyed shooting more than. It'due south a no brainer which i will requite you lot the amend prototype quality correct? Nosotros would all assume the Sony would win without question. Well,it is true BUT is the deviation really THAT huge betwixt the smaller CX sensor in the V1 compared to the APS-C in the NEX-7?
Lately there has been a ton of buzz online near smaller sensors vs larger sensors and some people get downright angry just talking almost a camera like the Nikon V1 due to the pocket-size sensor. It's a fact! Cameras with teeny small sensors like the cheap-ish Point and Shoot cameras at the local shop will never requite you the quality you meet from a larger sensor camera. They have limited dynamic range, non so accurate colors, a hard look to the files, and bad high ISO performance. They are usually cheap in price though and serve their purpose as vacation cameras or family cameras. Near people do not know any better and purchase a signal and shoot at Best Purchase because it looks cool or has the proper noun Canon or Nikon on it and they presume it volition be loftier quality. Sadly that is not ever the case. To those in the know (me, you, usa) we are well aware of what cameras will give meliorate photo quality and the fact of the matter is that sensor size, megapixel count and lenses all contribute to the final quality of a cameras file. Take a large sensor and lower MP count? Expect GREAT quality..deadline amazing. Large sensor with high MP count? And then nosotros volition meet a drib in quality. The same rules employ for a modest sensor. Keep the MP lite and you lot can do great things with a smaller sensor. Pack on also many pixels and it starts to become downhill with decreased calorie-free gathering, dynamic range, colour, etc.
For example, the Sony NEX-7 has a big APS-C size sensor but Sony crammed 24 million pixels on to the sensor which in turn decreased its high ISO functioning a chip when compared to the 16 megapixel NEX-5n. It also makes for some huge files that seem to choke my crumbling iMac. While information technology has an APS-C sized sensor, I think that the NEX-7 loses some ground considering there are so many MP crammed on the sensor. The 16MP NEX-5n seems to exercise a bit better because there are not so many on the same sized sensor. This enables better operation. Even so, the NEX-7 performs Smashing, particularly with RAW files, but how would it compare to something like the Nikon V1 with its smaller "CX" 2.7 crop sensor that has only 10 megapixels? Is Sensor size REALLY THAT IMPORTANT to the every day hobbyist or enthusiast? I wanted to know for myself which his why I shot the NEX-7 with its big sensor and loftier MP count next to the V1 with its small sensor and depression MP count.
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BIGGER SENSOR: The NEX-7 – 24 MP – 1.5 crop sensor (APS-C) – $1349 with kit zoom
The NEX-7 seems to have it all for us gear heads. It has manual command, a gorgeous EVF, tillable LCD, a large APS-C sized sensor with a whopping 24 megapixels crammed in and information technology'south pretty sexy as well with the new Zeiss 24 1.8 and the Sony 50 1.viii lenses. A fleck large with the lenses attached simply withal, a sexy camera thats body is much smaller and sleeker than a DSLR. On the downside, the NEX-7 metering and out of camera colors leave a piffling to be desired in my opinion. When I open a file from a NEX-vii and wait on my screen I am non finding myself proverb "WOW". Not once has my jaw dropped when opening a NEX-vii file (really the same for any NEX camera because as practiced as they are, the colors and the mode it exposes never does information technology for me out of camera) simply after some work and tweaks, they can exist absolutely gorgeous and they have the adequacy to WOW.
The NEX-7 is a smashing camera, and the price is right too for what you get. Information technology may seem expensive just look at the NIkon V1 which is $899 for the V1 body and kit zoom, and the V1 does non have the manual command or larger sensor. $1349 for a NEX-seven and kit zoom. $449 more than for the APS-C sensor, manual controls, tillable LCD, and more than video features similar 24P, 60P, etc. The NEX-vii was made for the enthusiast and Sony finally has some fast glass coming for the NEX arrangement and so is the price worth it? Id say it is because there really isn't much the NEX-7 can not exercise. Is it a Leica M9 or Nikon D3s? No, only it also not $7,000. Even with that said…we tin can not just push button aside something like the V1 when it comes to the decision making…which I will talk more than about below.
The NEX-7 with the 50 i.8 – click the images for larger view
One matter that I discover from the Sony files of the fish (converted from RAW) are that they are rich, have deep blacks, dainty color, and a shine noise free look. Click on them for a larger view. Out of the camera the images were not looking good but processing the RAW files brought out the beauty and colour. To me, information technology is evident these are from a camera with a larger sensor.
SMALLER SENSOR: The Nikon V1 – 10MP – ii.seven crop sensor – ISO 100-6400 – $899 with kit zoom
The Nikon V1 has arrived and there seems to be and so many haters, more often than not those who have non even held the camera. Yes, it is pricey for the specs and having a small sensor but Nikon has packed some serious tech in to the V1 (I did not try the J1) with a very solid build, a very nice EVF, a minimal approach and decent lenses that are insanely abrupt merely sadly, they are all Irksome in the aperture department. The Nikon V1 is FAST, responsive, and never missed focus for me with thousands of shots taken. IN fact I volition go on record now and say the V1 has the fastest and most accurate AF that I have ever seen in a photographic camera (that I take used). It'southward equally fast or faster than my old D700, or 5DII. Faster than the quick Olympus E-P3 and the tracking works similar a amuse equally well. You lot can shoot at 5, x or 60 frames per 2d in full resolution, with RAW. Information technology is an advanced camera with a smaller than average sensor. So why did Nikon cull this sensor? My guess is and then they could make it fast, responsive and a JOY to shoot with.
I already talked nigh this above only my only wish is that they had a fast prime at launch because using these lenses at dark, similar indoors at a political party just doesn't cut information technology unless y'all use the flash. Just in daylight, the photographic camera pumps out photos effortlessly. The metering is AMAZING on the V1, and beats any mirrorless camera I have shot with to appointment. The Nikon 1 is actually almost the perfect photographic camera! If Nikon would have made information technology M9 size, with a large sensor and created sweet Leica similar lenses so information technology would have been game over. This kind of speed, metering, and AF performance in a larger version would KILL the contest. But I am guessing Nikon did not want to kill the sales of their DSLR'southward (just yet) then they had to cripple the V1 in one way…the sensor.
Well, I can not say "cripple". The sensor in this camera is probably the best pocket-size sensor I take seen to engagement but it notwithstanding has limitations which are no shallow depth of field, and more than noise than usual even at low ISO. Other than that though, I am finding the V1 to be pretty damn proficient. IN fact, I am most likely keeping this one and aye, I have to pay full price! I but observe it such a joy to use that I tin can kind of look over any issues with the IQ. Would this hateful I would sell all of my other cameras? No, just I can run into this camera being my goto daily camera simply for the fact that information technology is and then reliable in everything it does.
The fish with the V1 and x-100 at 40mm (108mm equiv)
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ISO 1600…
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10-100 at ISO 800
And so why all the hoopla over Sensor size if the V1 seems to take great quality images? Well one thing I take learned after using the V1 is that the hoopla is actually over nil. But practice not mistake that for me saying the V1 is perfect. It is not. I would non utilise this photographic camera to shoot a concert or for pro piece of work that required high res files merely because the quality drops off some when the lights get low. As well, Nikon makes pro DSLR'due south for pro work and Leica makes an M9 that works amazingly well for concerts and pro work as well. And so in reality, people bitching and moaning over the V1's sensor size is silly. It does exactly equally advertised for its intended target audience, and that audience is someone who wants and upgrade from a indicate and shoot but doesn't desire a DSLR.
This camera is an in between. A camera that gets a lot correct and fiddling incorrect. No, it is non an IQ dream auto and yes the sensor is pocket-size merely did nosotros wait D3 performance here? Even if Nikon put in an APS-C I have a feeling the AF would be slower and the camera equally a whole would be likewise. The lenses would be bigger and and then we would hear complaints most it being also big. I really like the V1. It's a very finished product and you can tell this when yous shoot it. It feels right and in utilise it is such a pleasure to use and know that you nailed the AF, the metering and color.
UPDATE June 2012: How about the V1 vs the new Leica X2?
Well this one is a crazy comparison begging to be done just take a await below at an prototype I shot (just for this test). 1st, the image. Yes, merely a boring exam shot of an old Ac unit. Since the Leica X2 is a 16mp camera with an APS-C sized sensor I crippled the Nikon V1 shot by UPSIZING information technology to 16MP, the same size as the X2 file. At present this will degrade the V1 file but let u.s. encounter how it went:
The epitome I snapped with both cameras. Both were set at f/4, ISO 100 and the V1 had the cheap 10-30 zoom. The Leica has their top quality 24 Elmarit.
Now the 100% crops. Y'all must click them to meet them larger sized and the total 100% crop view
Call back! I upsized the V1 file to 16MP so this degrades the file quality quite a scrap! Interesting to see how much sharper the V1 is over the Leica, which is ever applauded for the sharpness! Crazy.
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and now the V1 crop at 10MP, native resolution
Of course the X2 will requite you lower noise, better and richer IQ overall and the warmer colors that the X2 is known for…just the trivial V1 is holding it'south own! At $749, the V1 is approx $1850 less expensive than the Leica X2 and EVF setup and the V1 is MUCH faster, much more responsive, more solid feeling and takes amazing video. Hmmm. You volition lose out on shallow depth of field though, but and so again, the X2'south 24 2.8 lens doesn't give yous much of that anyway.
Is the cost really that high on the V1?
Many forums are up in a roar talking about how the V1 is way too expensive and that it should be priced at $599. I DISAGREE 100%! Sure, Id honey for it to be $599 but when you lot compare the V1 to other cameras that are $599, the V1 wins every time. For instance, anybody is going nuts over the Fuji X10, which I also enjoyed quite a fleck merely I wouldn't have one of those over a V1. The V1 has a larger sensor, a not bad 100% coverage EVF, a better more solid build, faster AF, improve metering, much ameliorate video, better battery life, is the same size AND you tin can change lenses! The V1 gives you all of this over the X10 for $$150 more. Not bad at all, and certainly non overpriced.
Look at how it stood toe to toe with the $2600 Leica X2 setup above.
Others will say you can get a NIkon D5100 for $100 less. TRUE! But the D5100 is a TOTALLY different blazon of camera! It is a beefy DSLR that feels plastic and fat. The lenses are huge and the V1 has faster AF, is smaller, is built amend, has a GREAT 100% EVF, etc etc etc. The V1 is for those who want a small camera that also has Loftier functioning. The V1 gives u.s. that. If it had an APS-C no 1 would be ownership the D5100 or D7000, etc. Nikon HAD to cripple the V1 with the sensor size when you think about it and then their DSLR sales would not die.
BUT the V1 is Not overpriced in the slightest FOR WHAT Information technology OFFERS.
There is not a mirrorless on the market right now in its toll range that beats it in AF speed or accurateness, in metering, in video, EVF, bombardment life or out of camera color. $749 with a kit lens is simply about perfect. If it was $599 information technology would be the steal of the century. The V1 really is loftier tech, loaded with not the bells and whistles and gimmicks but rather technology that will improve hereafter Nikon models as well.
$899 – Priced right in my opinion for what is on the market place correct now. UPDATE – The V1 is now $749 with kit lens..so the price did come downwards! Now is a great time to buy.
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The PROS and CONS of the Nikon V1
PROS
- Build is height notch for this class of photographic camera
- Speed speed and more speed!
- EVF is very skilful – colorful, bright, and sharp
- AF is accurate – didn't miss one shot while reviewing – 1st time ever
- 5, x, or threescore frames per second
- Mechanical and Electronic Shutters
- Phase notice and Contrast Detect AF – all-time in class AF performance
- Metering is the best Ive seen in any mirrorless camera to date
- Lenses are all sharp and requite keen colour
- HD video has NO Jello consequence
- Feels like a polished and finished product, non rushed or buggy
- Nikon has more lenses planned for 2012
- RAW files are like shooting fish in a barrel to work with due to smaller files sizes
- Menu organization is fast and easy to browse and setup
- Minimalist pattern and functions
- Battery life rocks with the beefy D7000 battery
- Files are very robust when shooting RAW
CONS
- Smaller sensor does accept limitations
- No real shallow depth of field possible
- Can exist noisy when viewing 100% images
- When the lights go down, then does the color
- No tilt-able LCD
- To some, the cost may seem to high
- Strong competition from Panasonic, Olympus, Fuji
- Gimmicky modes should not take been on the V1, should have stayed only on the J1
- Must become to menu to change shooting modes
- Automobile ISO seems to cull Depression shutter speeds that can blur your paradigm
- No live preview of exposure changes on the LCD/EVF
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My conclusion on the Nikon V1
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Well, I think I kind of already wrote my conclusion above then instead of repeating myself again and again I will say this. The Nikon V1 is a new camera system from Nikon. Nikon knows how to build a photographic camera and even though many of united states of america laughed at this camera earlier it was released, and in fact information technology was the photographic camera I expected to hate, I have been proven wrong . I have enjoyed this photographic camera IMMENSELY and the principal reason? The Machine Focus, the Metering, the color and the easy to work with RAW files. The abrupt images and better than expected low low-cal results. The responsiveness, the like shooting fish in a barrel to use menu system and the simple minimal blueprint. The battery life is amazing also as it uses a big and beefy D7000 battery. It'south a damn skillful camera and one that grew on me more and more each day.
Information technology is not perfect though! I wish there were faster lenses, I wish I could become shallow depth of field and I wish that there were some way to customize the Car ISO settings as the camera chooses shutter speeds that are besides depression at times. I as well found that when using the VR mode "Active", which is the default, you tin can get unsharp images. I was seeing quite a few images that should accept been sharp and they were not. Later on changing the VR mode to "Normal" the problem went away so not sure what was going on there. Nikon should have information technology set to "Normal" every bit the default, not "Active". Also, when making changes to exposure you do not see a existent time preview on the LCD similar y'all exercise with the NEX, Olympus, and other cameras.Possibly a firmware update could change this?
UPDATE: Nikon issued a firmware update on 11/21/11 that stock-still the outcome of unsharp images with VR.
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This infant Orangutan was swinging, howling and having a blast. My shutter speed was too slow to freeze the action because I was in lower light, and using the 10-100. Even so, I liked the prototype as it seems to have "feeling".
In whatever case, the V1 is a sweet little machine. At $899, the aforementioned price as an Olympus E-P3, it not only focus faster, is more authentic, has better metering, it too beats the E-P3 in high ISO. Information technology doesn't win out on lenses though and this is where Micro four/iii wins.
The question here is "Who volition purchase this camera"? I really don't know simply permit me interruption it down by list what I think is the competition for Nikon that I have shot with.
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SONY NEX – The NEx-5n is $699 with a kit zoom. $200 less than the V1 and you become a larger APS-C sensor, better high ISO functioning, better video options and an even smaller body. But at the same time the NEX has larger lenses and the kit zoom with the Sony is much softer in comparison with the Nikon. Also, the AF of the Sony is not always authentic. I always use heart signal because I desire to know for sure what the camera is focusing on. I focus and recompose. Many times the Sony NEX will mis focus. The Nikon V1 did not mis focus Once. The Nikon is as well quieter than the NEX and has meliorate AF tracking. With the V1 you can shoot sports, running kids, etc. So you accept to decide what y'all adopt…meliorate IQ or faster AF and usability. Oh, and the V1 meters better than the Sony. All depends on what you lot want in a camera. The 5n has fantastic IQ, V1 has the improve trunk and speed.
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MICRO iv/iii – The Olympus Eastward-P3 is ane of my faves but I take to give credit where it is due. The V1 smokes information technology with AF speed and accuracy, and even beats the E-P3 at high ISO. The 12mp sensor used past Oly IS INDEED showing its historic period when a smaller 2.7 crop sensor can beat it for loftier ISO. BUT the Oly has the vast choice of amazing lenses. Lenses like the 12mm f/2, the 45 1.8 and the Panasonic 25.14 are splendid and FAST. The V1 has NO fast lenses. This i is a toss up. Personal preference really. The V1 images have a certain look just like the E-P3 does, and stays true to the "Nikon Look". Which wait you prefer is up to you. Also, the E-P3 has no built in EVF and that will add together nearly $200 to the cost. Panasonic also has the newer GX1 which promises to be the best M 4/3 to date but once more, no built in EVF (which I employ all the time on the V1). OM-D is out now and it is a better camera but bigger, bulkier and has that M4/iii look. It IS the superior camera but all depends on your wants and needs. I yet love my V1 and I also own the OM-D.
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FUJI X – The Fuji X100 and X10 are out and the Nikon V1 is priced in between them at $899 (Now $749). The Fuji X10 is a great camera but more along the lines of a Bespeak and Shoot. I compared the two cameras and preferred the Nikon V1. In other words, if I were to purchase one of the two it would exist the Nikon V1. The X100 on the other paw has much amend IQ than the V1 in my opinion, and has the faster lens, superior high ISO performance and cool retro look. BUT the X100 is slow to AF, misses focus at times and is still clunky in operation when compared to the Nikon. It besides has no adventure of any other focal length. No zoom, no wide, just 35. So again, information technology all depends on your needs.
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So in that location you lot become. Hopefully you tin can read these reviews and determine what photographic camera will piece of work for you. Any camera mentioned above will give you lot fantastic results merely what you enjoy shooting with is what will thing the most. Information technology is ever good when yous can bond with a photographic camera and KNOW what to await from it. Me? If choosing TODAY (at the time of this writing) between an East-P3, NEX-5n or Fuji X10 for an every twenty-four hours snapshot photographic camera or family camera I would accept the NIkon V1. The strengths seem to outweigh the weaknesses for me right now and the V1 is a photographic camera that tin can even be handed to your wife, your kids or anyone and they could become smashing result with it too. It's simple. It'due south fun. Information technology's the V1, and information technology does more right than information technology does wrong which is a good thing. To those who have been bad mouthing it without even shooting with one, requite information technology a try. You may be surprised. Oh and I volition probably exist adding a few more photos and words to this review over the next 24-hour interval or two, and so check back for updates!
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The 10-100 at around the 70mm marker – f/5.vi. Makes for a great portrait lens if you have good light.
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You can buy the Nikon V1 at B&H Photo below:
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UPDATED – More on the V1…
The Negativity Of the Nikon one Organisation – Why the bitterness?
It'south funny that since posting the review for the V1 I take been getting attacked past the haters of the "1" system on forums, through e-postal service and even on reddit, again, by people who never fifty-fifty shot with 1! Exercise the haters really have nothing better to do than to freak out when a positive review is written on this photographic camera? Should I have stayed "safe" and said information technology is not worth the coin just to be politically correct? I would never do that, and never will.If it was a piece of junk I would take said so. It is quite the opposite. It kills cameras similar the Canon G12, S95, etc. It beats out all Micro four/iii's I have tried in regards to speed, accuracy and metering. It has amazing bombardment life, great image quality for the sensor size and still there are even so people out in that location bashing this camera and telling me I am wrong…Once again, when they never shot with one!
All of this ridiculous banter doesn't alter the facts one bit! This is a skilful camera system and excels in SPEED, AF, EASE OF USE, Abrupt IMAGES, GREAT Color, SUPERB METERING and it does it all with a solidly made body and EVF that works well. I pointed out that the weak link IS the sensor and those looking for DSLR shallow depth of field or fifty-fifty DSLR smooth and clean files will not be happy with the V1. It is non meant to be a DSLR replacement!
I find it deadline funny that when I say something like "I did non care for the Panasonic G3" I get attacked and when I say that I liked this V1, I become attacked every bit well.Even a threat via e-mail telling me I better retract my review! Really?
I say information technology like it is, and write about MY experience with each photographic camera I utilise. I provide pics to dorsum upward what I say also. Good and Bad. I really similar the Nikon V1 (did not care so much for the J1 personally, but I love built in VF'southward and a solid feel) and if you lot can deal with deadening zooms and one tedious-ish pancake then it's a nifty camera to expect into. Oh, and to the guy who e-mailed me and said I lied about this beingness a camera you lot can hand to your wife or kids and they would exist able to get great shots with, my son took some great shots today with the V1 and he never saw it until the moment I handed it to him. 🙂 Zip wrong with the V1 if you need a camera for family unit, vacation, candids, and even portraits. It is not perfect but none of the mirror-less cameras are. Period.
UPDATED – Trying out the J1
Since writing this review I have also tried out the little brother to the V1, the J1. The J1 is $599 (UPDATE, Now $499) compared to the now $749 price of the V1. $250 less. So why would y'all buy a V1 when you can relieve over $200 on a J1? Well, the J1 has a lower res LCD, no EVF, slower buffer, smaller battery and life, no mechanical shutter and is congenital slighter cheaper. It does take a pop up flash that the V1 does non have but after shooting both Id still take a V1 though the J1 is a smashing little camera that gives the same pic quality equally the V1 (same sensor). I love the EVF and the slightly larger build of the V1. I also love the battery life of the V1. The EVF solitary makes it worth the extra $250 to me. Here are a few snaps from the J1 I took during the calendar week that had it and for its current $499 toll with a kit lens, it is the one to beat in this class, no question.
and more from the Nikon V1 below…
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Source: https://www.stevehuffphoto.com/2011/11/14/the-nikon-v1-camera-review-the-camera-i-expected-to-hate/
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