Here are a few updates to the Nikon D600 Hands-On Review, including a workaround for the lack of an instant zoom button.
Face recognition on review. When you zoom in on an image at any zoom level, the camera can recognize faces. When it recognizes a face, you will see an icon on the lower left part of the screen and you can turn the sub-command dial to view the faces identified in the shot. The camera won't zoom to the face, but will be centered on it as you zoom in the face.
This function can be used somewhat like a workaround for the lack of a single button zoom. What I do is to press the zoom button at least once so that the face recognition indicator will show up, then rotate the sub-command dial to center into a face, then hold down the zoom button. If I then rotate the main command dial, it goes to the next photo at the same zoom level, then I rotate the sub-command dial to let it center on an identified face.
The face recognition works most of the time so long as both eyes, the nose and the mouth are visible. Occasionally, even though the entire face is visible it won't recognize the face. But overall, it works reasonably well.
Low light autofocus. The D600 autofocus is rated to -1EV, which is equivalent to an exposure of ISO 100, f/2.8, 15 seconds (not 1/15 second). I tried a shot at a dimly lit bedroom at an exposure value of 4 and the D600 focused without hesitation at all and was critically in focus, even though the lens wasn't super fast with a maximum aperture of f/4.5.
Ergonomics. From the sleek appearance, I thought it would feel snug in my hand. It doesn't. The grip feels too small for my hand. I think the issue is that the lower part of the grip is not thick enough. Not a huge deal but a D300 or D3 definitely fits my hand better.
Also of note, below the Nikon red swoosh on the grip, there is a seam or edge that feels a little sharp, and for some users, it can cause discomfort to their fingers. With my hands I don't feel it unless I look for it.
Sunday, September 30, 2012
Saturday, September 29, 2012
DIY Adjustment of Your Sigma Lens via USB Dock
Missed this announcement at Photokina (saw it mentioned at the Nikon D600 Club).
That USB Dock looks interesting. Too bad it appears to work only with newer lenses. The old lenses -- the ones that are in most need of firmware updating -- don't seem to be compatible with the USB dock. Unfortunately for my Sigma 50 1.4 and Sigma 50-150, both of which don't focus in LiveView with the D600. argh.
That USB Dock looks interesting. Too bad it appears to work only with newer lenses. The old lenses -- the ones that are in most need of firmware updating -- don't seem to be compatible with the USB dock. Unfortunately for my Sigma 50 1.4 and Sigma 50-150, both of which don't focus in LiveView with the D600. argh.
Friday, September 28, 2012
Nikon D600 DNG raw files show ridiculous Lightroom recovery
We're all still waiting for Adobe's raw support for the Nikon D600. To be fair, Nikon should have allowed DNG support either in-camera like Pentax or at least as a conversion option in View NX2, so that we wouldn't have to wait like this no matter how new the camera is.
Meanwhile I found out that you can trick Lightroom into reading Nikon D600 raw files by altering the EXIF data to specify that the camera model is a model that is already supported by Adobe. The downside is that the image will be cropped, and there is no guarantee that it will behave exactly the way it should.
Sudden slow motion effect using a Nikon D600
Many cameras offer video at a 60fps frame rate, which I find very useful for smooth slow motion. Here is a sample shot with the Nikon D600 (shot at 720p, 60fps).
After shooting the video, I edited it in Photoshop CS6. I split the video at the point where I wanted the slow motion to start, then split that second half again at the point where I wanted slow motion to end. Then I right-clicked on the middle slow-mo segment to change the playback speed. (I also had to adjust the ends of the middle and last segments to provide a smooth transition from slow-mo to normal speed.)
Although the video segments now have different frame rates, I didn't have to change their individual frame rates to make them consistent. I just rendered the entire video to a specified frame rate, making the frame rate consistent throughout the video.
RELATED POSTS:
Nikon D600 Hands-On Review
After shooting the video, I edited it in Photoshop CS6. I split the video at the point where I wanted the slow motion to start, then split that second half again at the point where I wanted slow motion to end. Then I right-clicked on the middle slow-mo segment to change the playback speed. (I also had to adjust the ends of the middle and last segments to provide a smooth transition from slow-mo to normal speed.)
Although the video segments now have different frame rates, I didn't have to change their individual frame rates to make them consistent. I just rendered the entire video to a specified frame rate, making the frame rate consistent throughout the video.
RELATED POSTS:
Nikon D600 Hands-On Review
Thursday, September 27, 2012
Discount on Spinlight Substitute Flashright
You may know that I recently modified a FlashRight diffuser to use it like a Spinlight 360. Here is that post. The Flashright was $99 but recently has been sometimes discounted to around $27. Meanwhile, the makers of Flashright have since launched a new flash diffuser called Lumaburst, which appears to be a Flashright without the internal shield/flag (I'm not sure why it would be more expensive than the Flashright...). The Lumaburst appears to be usable as a modified Spinlight as long as that transparent dome turns. I haven't used it so I don't know if it does. Anyway, they have a discount on the Flashright and Lumaburst:
FYI I have no commissions or anything like that on these and I'm not affiliated with the makers of these products.
Nikon D600 raw and JPEG high ISO studio comparisons on DPReview
DPReview just posted its high ISO studio tests for the Nikon D600, both in raw and JPEG. The results are consistent with what we have seen from the Imaging Resource studio comparison samples.
The comparison tool is here:
DPReview also posted more sample photos. What's interesting is that they mentioned that they took the shots in raw and converted them using a "private beta" of ACR 7.3. Hopefully this means that raw support for the D600 is just around the corner for the rest of us.
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
Just To Let You Know
We got a few requests in the recent "Who Are You?" post, below is a quick summary of the requests in no special order:
Quick Review: Great Light Easy Light by Kevin Clark
One of the photographers I look up to, Jose Antunes, often posts about Craft & Vision e-books. Today he posted about Great Light Easy Light by Kevin Clark. The book discusses how to use flash in a way that looks natural. That is a topic I am always interested in, and the book is only $5 ($4 with discount code EASY4) so I got it.
Usually when an ebook is inexpensive and has large nice photos with fancy layouts, I am a little wary because sometimes there's not a lot of substance and the photos are there just to make a prospective reader think that they can get photos that are just as good -- if only they would buy the book. That is of course almost never true, and as long as you know that, you won't be disappointed.
I'm pleased to say my first impression of the book is wrong. It is short - only 30 pages excluding the cover - but the content is very good. I expected that he would discuss basic lighting techniques (like the difference between hard and soft light, etc. etc.) but actually he discusses intermediate lighting techniques (controlling specularity, negative fill, etc.), which is awesome.
Kevin first discusses mixing flash and ambient and the characteristics of natural-looking light. Then he proceeds to discuss different shooting styles:
- one-light setups
- two-light setups
- three-light setups
- bounce flash setups.
For each setup style he starts off with a discussion of overall concepts for that topic, then moves on to an example of a shooting session where he used that style, showing 4 variations he used for that style (except for the three light setup where he used 2 variations), including lighting diagrams for each variation. Each section is also supplemented by a couple of case studies with large photos with brief one-paragraph descriptions of lighting setups for that photo (but no lighting diagrams).
Kevin's discussion of the concepts is clear. The descriptions of the setups are also clear where there is a lighting diagram. In the other samples without lighting diagrams, I sometimes find his descriptions a bit ambiguous. Example: "Position your softbox about eye level a foot away and slightly in front of (approx. 6-12 inches) your subject's face." Given that the softbox is already eye-level and a foot away, when he said "slightly" in front of I'm not sure if he means in front of the face but 6-12 inches to the side - but isn't the softbox already 1 foot away? :-? Nonetheless, I felt that I did learn the concepts he was trying to teach.
Conclusion.
The techniques in the book are for setup shots and for that purpose it is a very good resource for intermediate photographers (in fact it goes into techniques that are not even discussed in a real book I have about portrait lighting). For candids, the techniques are not directly applicable (because they require setup) but the concepts are very useful and with some creativity, it is possible to find or create the lighting that would create similar results. For anyone interested in lighting portraits, this ebook is a valuable resource and I recommend it.
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Nikon D600 Hands-On Review Part 2
10/5/12 update: added info re Adobe raw support for D600. Also added info re using camera profiles from other cameras.
I tried to finish the review last night but couldn't. So rather than wait to finish the other parts, I'll break this up into part 2 and 3.
Part 1:
• Specifications - highlights. Just want to highlight some of the best and worst parts of the specs.
• What's in the box. Just so you know.
• Body. How the body feels like, etc.
• Menus. I'll highlight some differences from menus of other Nikons.
• Shooting. What it's like to shoot with the D600.
• Live View Photo. Characteristics of the D600's LV Photo mode.
• Image Quality. Noise and dynamic range.
• Lighting. Options for flash photography with the D600.
• Exposure. Tests on the D600's exposure behavior.
Part 2
• Video (Live View Movie). What it's like to shoot a movie with the D600.
• Features. Special features and options of the D600.
• Processing the files. Handling of D600 in post-processing. File sizes and such.
• Sample photos.
Part 3
• Comparisons with other cameras. I compare the D600 with its most likely alternatives, in terms of specs and image quality.
• Suggestions for full frame cameras. My suggestions based on your needs.
• D600 Resources. Helpful links.
• Speculation about D600. Just for fun, a look back at our posts about the D600 all the way leading up to its release.
Part 1 of this review is here: http://betterfamilyphotos.blogspot.com/2012/09/nikon-d600-hands-on-review-part-1.html
Part 3: TBA
9/25/12 Updates to Nikon D600 Hands-On Review Part 1
I will be updating Part 1 of the Nikon D600 Hands-On Review with these additional info:
Auto ISO. I learned that the Auto ISO can be activated without the menus. Just hold the ISO button and rotate the sub-command dial. Cool!
AUTOFOCUS
Speed and accuracy. Autofocus appears to be fast and accurate. The only time I've seen it hunt is when I was trying to focus on a plain black surface with no texture and a texture-less white surface. Those would be challenging or impossible for any camera. In terms of accuracy, the D600 appears to be reasonably accurate but it appears to more likely to misfocus in backlit conditions.
Smarter AF Area Options. In previous Nikons, I could select any AF-Area (Auto, 3D, single, dynamic 9-point, dynamic 21-point, dynamic 39-point) in combination with any AF Mode (AF-C continuous, AF-S single, or AF-A). The problem with this is that with AF-S, dynamic AF points and 3D tracking didn't do anything - it was just the same as single-point autofocus. The D600 remedies this by limiting the available AF-Area modes available under AF-S to Auto and single point only. It's less confusing.
PLAYBACK
Highlights display. Like other cameras, you can display the clipped/blown highlights (aka "blinkies"). With the D600, you can show the clipped highlights for luminosity, red channel, green channel or blue channel. Just press the zoom out button and press left or right.
RGB Histogram display. I learned that in the RGB histogram display you can also display clipped highlights, also by luminosity, or any of the RGB channels. But, while the histogram is zoomable, the highlights are not. In other words, when you zoom in during the RGB histogram display, the histograms will only show the zoomed portion but the highlights will not be shown.
LCD Tint. There seems to be something not quite right with the LCD colors in my opinion. It looks kind of warm under some circumstances. I'm not extra sensitive about this - I've never complained about the LCD color with any other camera I've owned, even point and shoots. But this one looks different. I will try to pin this down.
LIVE VIEW PHOTO
[Not] WYSIWYG. Exposure compensation adjustments can be seen on the Live View Photo mode within a range of +/- 3EV but in dim conditions (e.g. at night), I can only see changes within a range of -3EV to +1EV.
DYNAMIC RANGE; HIGHLIGHT ROLLOFF
I don't have LR4 raw support to test the full extent of the D600's highlight range, but it appears that the D600 has excellent highlight range, much better than I thought. What is also cool is that the highlights appear to blow gradually (similar to negative film or the Fuji S5, if not quite as smooth) making clipping less obvious. I will do more tests on these but check this out:
If you look at the sky, you can't easily pinpoint where the detail ends and the clipping begins. (Actually the histogram seems to show no highlight clipping but I have doubts about the ViewNX2 histogram.) I will do more experiments on this (among others, to see whether this is true for all channels or just luminosity) but for now I am optimistic about the D600's DR and highlight rolloff.
IS THE D600 MORE DEMANDING?
Along with the D3200 and D3x, the D600 is among the highest resolution Nikon cameras. Prior to the D3x, Nikon only had cameras with up to 12mp. Then there was the 24mp D3x but that was considered a specialty camera. For mainstream shooters, the D7000 broke new ground by upping the resolution to 16mp. The D4 came out with 16mp, then shortly thereafter was followed by the D800 with a whopping 36mp.
Because the D800 had such high resolution, Nikon released a technical bulletin that cautioned shooters to be careful with their shooting technique in order to take advantage of the D800's resolution. Thus, you pretty much had to use top-of-the-line lenses, shoot at really high shutter speeds, as much as possible with a tripod, etc. etc. Diffraction was also visible at wider apertures (though if you resize the image to 12mp or 16mp it wasn't any worse). That was one of the things that dissuaded me from the D800 - I couldn't shoot like that.
With the D600's 24mp one of my questions was whether it would be more demanding to shoot with it. My previous cameras had only been 6, 10 or 12mp. My answer is: it does show imperfections more easily but did not require a significant variation from my current shooting technique:
- Lenses: yes, a lens' weaknesses are more visible at 1:1 zoom. You can more clearly see chromatic aberration, fringing, that kind of stuff. Is it bad enough to force me to upgrade my lenses? No, at least not the ones I have.
- Focus: yes, when a subject is out of focus it is easier to tell at 1:1. Fortunately, the D600's autofocus appears to get critical focus a majority of the time. The other times when it is not in critical focus, it still looks ok at my common viewing sizes such as 1600pix.
- Depth of Field: at 1:1 zoom it is easier to observe when an object is outside the depth of field. Objects that seem within the DOF at 50% view may be out of the DOF at 1:1. I just need to be a little more careful with my aperture and focus point.
- Shutter Speed. These days I try to shoot at as high of a shutter speed as I can get in order to get a sharp photo. That approach did not require adjustment for the D600. It also helps that the D600 has an Auto ISO that can be tweaked for 2 stops faster than the 1/focal length rule.
- Tripod. No I don't feel the need to use a tripod.
- Diffraction Limit: I'm sure it's visible at wider apertures - it's just optics/physics but I haven't noticed it.
If you're thinking to yourself that the high res is more of a burden than a benefit, just consider that you can crop more heavily (therefore carrying fewer lenses is possible), and you can apply noise reduction more effectively.
From what I've read, the D600 is noticeably less demanding than the D800.
Auto ISO. I learned that the Auto ISO can be activated without the menus. Just hold the ISO button and rotate the sub-command dial. Cool!
AUTOFOCUS
Speed and accuracy. Autofocus appears to be fast and accurate. The only time I've seen it hunt is when I was trying to focus on a plain black surface with no texture and a texture-less white surface. Those would be challenging or impossible for any camera. In terms of accuracy, the D600 appears to be reasonably accurate but it appears to more likely to misfocus in backlit conditions.
Smarter AF Area Options. In previous Nikons, I could select any AF-Area (Auto, 3D, single, dynamic 9-point, dynamic 21-point, dynamic 39-point) in combination with any AF Mode (AF-C continuous, AF-S single, or AF-A). The problem with this is that with AF-S, dynamic AF points and 3D tracking didn't do anything - it was just the same as single-point autofocus. The D600 remedies this by limiting the available AF-Area modes available under AF-S to Auto and single point only. It's less confusing.
PLAYBACK
Highlights display. Like other cameras, you can display the clipped/blown highlights (aka "blinkies"). With the D600, you can show the clipped highlights for luminosity, red channel, green channel or blue channel. Just press the zoom out button and press left or right.
RGB Histogram display. I learned that in the RGB histogram display you can also display clipped highlights, also by luminosity, or any of the RGB channels. But, while the histogram is zoomable, the highlights are not. In other words, when you zoom in during the RGB histogram display, the histograms will only show the zoomed portion but the highlights will not be shown.
LCD Tint. There seems to be something not quite right with the LCD colors in my opinion. It looks kind of warm under some circumstances. I'm not extra sensitive about this - I've never complained about the LCD color with any other camera I've owned, even point and shoots. But this one looks different. I will try to pin this down.
LIVE VIEW PHOTO
[Not] WYSIWYG. Exposure compensation adjustments can be seen on the Live View Photo mode within a range of +/- 3EV but in dim conditions (e.g. at night), I can only see changes within a range of -3EV to +1EV.
DYNAMIC RANGE; HIGHLIGHT ROLLOFF
I don't have LR4 raw support to test the full extent of the D600's highlight range, but it appears that the D600 has excellent highlight range, much better than I thought. What is also cool is that the highlights appear to blow gradually (similar to negative film or the Fuji S5, if not quite as smooth) making clipping less obvious. I will do more tests on these but check this out:
IS THE D600 MORE DEMANDING?
Along with the D3200 and D3x, the D600 is among the highest resolution Nikon cameras. Prior to the D3x, Nikon only had cameras with up to 12mp. Then there was the 24mp D3x but that was considered a specialty camera. For mainstream shooters, the D7000 broke new ground by upping the resolution to 16mp. The D4 came out with 16mp, then shortly thereafter was followed by the D800 with a whopping 36mp.
Because the D800 had such high resolution, Nikon released a technical bulletin that cautioned shooters to be careful with their shooting technique in order to take advantage of the D800's resolution. Thus, you pretty much had to use top-of-the-line lenses, shoot at really high shutter speeds, as much as possible with a tripod, etc. etc. Diffraction was also visible at wider apertures (though if you resize the image to 12mp or 16mp it wasn't any worse). That was one of the things that dissuaded me from the D800 - I couldn't shoot like that.
With the D600's 24mp one of my questions was whether it would be more demanding to shoot with it. My previous cameras had only been 6, 10 or 12mp. My answer is: it does show imperfections more easily but did not require a significant variation from my current shooting technique:
- Lenses: yes, a lens' weaknesses are more visible at 1:1 zoom. You can more clearly see chromatic aberration, fringing, that kind of stuff. Is it bad enough to force me to upgrade my lenses? No, at least not the ones I have.
- Focus: yes, when a subject is out of focus it is easier to tell at 1:1. Fortunately, the D600's autofocus appears to get critical focus a majority of the time. The other times when it is not in critical focus, it still looks ok at my common viewing sizes such as 1600pix.
- Depth of Field: at 1:1 zoom it is easier to observe when an object is outside the depth of field. Objects that seem within the DOF at 50% view may be out of the DOF at 1:1. I just need to be a little more careful with my aperture and focus point.
- Shutter Speed. These days I try to shoot at as high of a shutter speed as I can get in order to get a sharp photo. That approach did not require adjustment for the D600. It also helps that the D600 has an Auto ISO that can be tweaked for 2 stops faster than the 1/focal length rule.
- Tripod. No I don't feel the need to use a tripod.
- Diffraction Limit: I'm sure it's visible at wider apertures - it's just optics/physics but I haven't noticed it.
If you're thinking to yourself that the high res is more of a burden than a benefit, just consider that you can crop more heavily (therefore carrying fewer lenses is possible), and you can apply noise reduction more effectively.
From what I've read, the D600 is noticeably less demanding than the D800.
Monday, September 24, 2012
Victory Run
Did you catch the space shuttle Endeavor's victory run over California? I was fortunate to have watched the flyby.
I don't usually take sports or animal photos so I don't have a long lens. My longest is the Sigma 50-150, a DX lens. I had a choice of using the D90 or the D600.
If a DX lens is used on a D600, the resolution becomes about 10mp, which is less than the D90's 12mp. Often, for web viewing sizes or small prints, there's no difference between 10 or 12mp. However, I knew that 150mm (225mm equivalent) was too short and I would need to crop heavily. So I chose the D90.
To make sure the exposure wasn't crazy, I used manual exposure and while watiing for the shuttle I set the exposure to avoid blowing highlights. IIRC, I used a very high shutter speed, 1/2500, for maximum sharpness, and an aperture of f/5.6 for adequate DOF, and the D90's base ISO of 200 for low noise.
I didn't have to do much adjustment in Lightroom - this is close to SOOC. I sharpened in Photoshop CS6 using the process used by Ming Thein in his Photoshop Workflow Tutorial (which I will review soon).
Nikon D600, D800: Beware Using Sigma Lenses
I found out that my Sigma 50 1.4 and Sigma 50-150 HSM II (non-OS)
cannot autofocus in live view with the D600. I have not tested with
other Sigma lenses (sold the 10-20 I had) but I suggest you check to
see if your Sigma lens will work with the D600. I understand there are
problems with Sigma's compatibility with the D800 and possibly the
D7000 as well.
Anyway, it appears newer copies of Sigma lenses are able to autofocus,
and there is a procedure for updating the lenses to allow
autofocusing. However, Sigma didn't want to fix mine unless I could
show them a copy of a receipt showing it was bought in the last 5
years. Even then they won't commit to fixing it unless you send your
lens in first. So you might send it there with a receipt and they
might still refuse to fix it. Terrible product support....!
cannot autofocus in live view with the D600. I have not tested with
other Sigma lenses (sold the 10-20 I had) but I suggest you check to
see if your Sigma lens will work with the D600. I understand there are
problems with Sigma's compatibility with the D800 and possibly the
D7000 as well.
Anyway, it appears newer copies of Sigma lenses are able to autofocus,
and there is a procedure for updating the lenses to allow
autofocusing. However, Sigma didn't want to fix mine unless I could
show them a copy of a receipt showing it was bought in the last 5
years. Even then they won't commit to fixing it unless you send your
lens in first. So you might send it there with a receipt and they
might still refuse to fix it. Terrible product support....!
Sunday, September 23, 2012
Further Experiments with the Nikon D600's Exposure
This post is a follow up to my earlier post about experiments on the Nikon D600's exposure. In that post my observation was that the Nikon D600 appeared to have a tendency to not give importance to highlights. For some shooters, the resulting image looks fine. For me, I like to protect highlights and there were way too many blown highlights even with ADL (i.e. the exposure is too "aggressive").
I posted about this observation on DPReview. Here is the thread. I received many helpful suggestions. I tried out the suggestions, and I will discuss the results in this post, learning a few things in the process.
I posted about this observation on DPReview. Here is the thread. I received many helpful suggestions. I tried out the suggestions, and I will discuss the results in this post, learning a few things in the process.
Digital Face Powder ShineOff Discount
ImageTrends ShineOff is one of my favorite Photoshop plugins. It removes specular reflections (shine) from a face which can be caused by sweat or oil. Removing this shine is important to me because it looks more flattering and reduced specularity gives the illusion that a softer light source was used.
Saturday, September 22, 2012
Light Painting A Honda Civic
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| 2008 Honda Civic, click to see a 1200px version |
Posted with BlogsyFriday, September 21, 2012
Experiments on Nikon D600 Exposure
UPDATE: I posted about this on DPReview, got some helpful responses suggesting that there are issues with my shooting method. That DPReview thread is here if you want to check it out. I have done follow up experiments that are inconclusive as to the advice given in that thread. The D600 still appears to overexpose. I will do a followup post about it.
UPDATE 2: 2nd set of experiments here
I've shot with a number of cameras and they all tend to have different exposure tendencies. For example the Pentax K100D and Fuji S5 attempt to avoid blowing highlights, often producing straight-out-of-the-camera (SOOC) images that appear underexposed. The Nikon D80 doesn't seem to be very concerned with highlights and produces SOOC images where the subject is correctly exposed but the image often has blown highlights such as in the background. Then there are cameras such as the Nikon D70 and Nikon D3 which in my opinion have a balanced exposure (taking into account the limits of the sensor's dynamic range).
In this post, I took some test shots with the D600 to evaluate whether the D600 has a tendency to overexpose or underexpose. All shots were taken in raw and processed in View NX2.
UPDATE 2: 2nd set of experiments here
I've shot with a number of cameras and they all tend to have different exposure tendencies. For example the Pentax K100D and Fuji S5 attempt to avoid blowing highlights, often producing straight-out-of-the-camera (SOOC) images that appear underexposed. The Nikon D80 doesn't seem to be very concerned with highlights and produces SOOC images where the subject is correctly exposed but the image often has blown highlights such as in the background. Then there are cameras such as the Nikon D70 and Nikon D3 which in my opinion have a balanced exposure (taking into account the limits of the sensor's dynamic range).
In this post, I took some test shots with the D600 to evaluate whether the D600 has a tendency to overexpose or underexpose. All shots were taken in raw and processed in View NX2.
Updates to Nikon D600 Review
FYI, I've added some updates to the Nikon D600 Review Part 1:
9/21/12 Updates:
added hinged covers for connections,
corrected the description of dedicated ISO, WB, and Qual buttons for the D3,
moved Live View Photo to its own section,
added info about Live View AF modes,
Sigma 50 1.4 focusing issue in live view.
cautionary note about noise,
included a link to the DXO tests.
9/20/12 Updates:
added a video of a 2nd test of continuous shutter buffer.
fixed links to videos (quiet shutter and buffer),
added photos of monitor cover and sync speed tests
I am working on a post about the D600's exposure accuracy or lack thereof. Briefly, it seems that its exposure algorithm is very aggressive, with little regard for blowing highlights. When I finish that post, it will appear as a separate post and will also be included in Part 1 of the review as a new section there.
Thursday, September 20, 2012
Mobile Phone Photography - Part 1: HDR
Mobile phones are getting better and better at taking photos, especially outdoors in good light, they are usually in our pockets all the time, they have a huge DoF, they focus reasonably quickly and they shoot good quality 1080p 30fps videos with stereo sound.
Nikon D600 Manual Now Online
The Nikon D600 manual is now online from Nikon Europe. Nikon USA doesn't have it yet at this time.
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
The Full-Frame, Large Sensor Bonanza!!!
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| Credit: photokina.com |
THE YEAR 2012
This year's Photokina exhibition certainly was different, a few months ago, both Canon and Nikon each announced two new high-end full-frame DSLRs (Canon 5D Mark III, Canon 1DX, Nikon D800, Nikon D4), then just before the end of the year each of them announced a more affordable (not really) full-frame DSLR again (Canon 6D, Nikon D600). And to make matters more exciting, Sony announced the revolutionary A99 full-frame DSLR, and the sweet, expensive RX1. A full-frame Leica completes the picture. Do you see a trend here?
CORRECTION: Nikon D600 Subject-Tracking AF and Face-Priority AF DOES Work
It may still be too early to be sure, but so far I am encountering an issue in live view with the D600.
In live view, the D600 is supposed to have several autofocus area modes. Two of those autofocus modes are face-priority AF and subject-tracking AF. In addition to the autofocus area modes, there are two live view autofocus modes: AF-S (single servo) and AF-F (full-time servo).
With AF-F and subject-tracking AF chosen, the camera is supposed to track a moving subject as it moves around the frame. Similarly, if I choose AF-F and face-priority AF, then the camera is supposed to track a face moving around the frame. My camera does neither of these. Instead, it will just focus on wherever the focus point is pointed. So for example, if I focus on a dog and the dog moves, then instead of tracking the dog, it will just focus on whatever object is occupying the space that was occupied by the dog.
Last night I had problems doing this as well but I thought it was the poor lighting. Now I've tried daylight and window light. Still doesn't work.
I called Nikon Tech Support and they said they will get back to me within 48 hours. If you have a suggestion pls. let me know!
UPDATE:
This sounds stupid but I figured out how to make both face priority and subject tracking work.
1. Face priority. What I did to make it work is to use a more realistic subject - a mannequin head. Apparently a baby doll isn't good enough, nor is a black and white photo of a person. My usual mannequin head worked though. Once face priority is selected, it detects the presence of the face and begins to track it.
2. Subject-tracking. The step that I was missing was to press 'ok' to select the target. I misunderstood how it works and I thought you just put the target under the focal point then start recording. Now I know you have to press ok to confirm the target, then it will track it.
Whew. Sorry for the false alarm. I attribute it to my own inexperience with live view.
UPDATE:
This sounds stupid but I figured out how to make both face priority and subject tracking work.
1. Face priority. What I did to make it work is to use a more realistic subject - a mannequin head. Apparently a baby doll isn't good enough, nor is a black and white photo of a person. My usual mannequin head worked though. Once face priority is selected, it detects the presence of the face and begins to track it.
2. Subject-tracking. The step that I was missing was to press 'ok' to select the target. I misunderstood how it works and I thought you just put the target under the focal point then start recording. Now I know you have to press ok to confirm the target, then it will track it.
Whew. Sorry for the false alarm. I attribute it to my own inexperience with live view.
Nikon D600 Hands-On Review (Part 1)
10/10/12: added link to post re D600 autofocus; note re colors; battery life; circular polarizer in live view
9/30/12: added grip; workaround for instant zoom; lowlight autofocus
9/28/12: added effect of using filters in Live View Photo
9/25/12: MORE UPDATES HERE. Now incorporated into this review.
9/23/12: added: Live View Photo Sigma 50-150 AF issue; info re Live View Photo exposure controls and visibility; LV warm tint?
9/21/12: added preliminary observations on exposure
9/20/12 UPDATE: added a video of a 2nd test of continuous shutter buffer.
9/20/12 UPDATE: fixed links to videos (quiet shutter and buffer), added photos of monitor cover and sync speed tests
OVERVIEW
The Nikon D600 is the lightest and most affordable full-frame DSLR in Nikon's lineup. In my opinion, it is the true successor to the highly-acclaimed and versatile Nikon D700. I'd like to give my preliminary review of the D600 from the point of view of an amateur taking mostly candid photos of people.
*If you would like to know more about my photography experience, it's at the end of the article.
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Nikon D600 Order Update
In case you're wondering, yes indeed, Nikon and Bel-Air Camera came through and I got the Nikon D600 today, on the launch date! I am still going through the many options and will be posting a very detailed review. So far I am happy with the D600 and even happier to report that it contains some cool unexpected features. I plan to finish the review tonight or tomorrow if it proves too long. [To be notified of our review please consider subscribing via Google Reader, or by email (the link is on the right margin of our page). Don't worry it's all anonymous.]
Comment on Canon 6D Video
I watched Canon's sample video for the 6D, entitled "Deep Green." If you look at the 'making of' video for it, you'll see that there were scenes shot at 12800 ISO. :-O
http://web.canon.jp/imaging/eosd/samples/eos6d/
In the Nikon D600 "Capturing the Light" video, there were some low-light scenes but I don't think they used 12800 ISO or else they would have mentioned that (they did mention using 6400 ISO).
http://web.canon.jp/imaging/eosd/samples/eos6d/
In the Nikon D600 "Capturing the Light" video, there were some low-light scenes but I don't think they used 12800 ISO or else they would have mentioned that (they did mention using 6400 ISO).
Monday, September 17, 2012
Compact Cameras to Watch at Photokina
The Nikon D600 and Canon 6D are stealing most of the attention now but there have been a number of interesting compact cameras that have been announced as well.
- Olympus XZ-2 iHS: This is the update to the XZ-1. Although Olympus' reputation took a hit because of its corporate scandal, the XZ-1 was one of the best, if not the best compact in its class in the previous generation. It had great optics, a wide aperture, a low-noise sensor, and a built-in wireless commander. The XZ-2 adds an articulating touch screen.
- Canon Powershot G15. Same sensor as the G12 but the lens is more than 1 stop brighter throughout the zoom range.
- Canon Powershot S110. The Powershot S-series' high end model has usually offered one of the best sensors in its class. This year's S110 adds wi-fi and touch screen but loses GPS.
- Fuji XF1. Retro-looking compact with a large 2/3" sensor (not to be confused with 1/2.3") and a mechanical zoom ring.
Nikon D600 videos (samples and reviews)
by NikonAsia
by Nikon Asia
Short version here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q1arahAKtx0&feature=share&list=PL34C55FE59290F04A
"Making of" Video here. According to Schulz brothers, the video was shot only by the two of them with no other crew.
by TheCameraStore
by DigitalCameraWorld
by WhatDigitalCamera
by WhichWebsite
D600 Unboxing by PC World
Sunday, September 16, 2012
Canon 6D specs; Nikon D600 compared
UPDATE: DPReview posted its hands-on preview.
Canon 6D specs posted on DPReview and Canonrumors. Some of the specs and comparisons with the Nikon D600 (+ = 6D has better spec; - = D600 has better spec):
- 20.2 Megapixels (Nikon D600: 24mp)
- 4.5 fps (Nikon D600: 5.5 fps)
+ 100 - 25600 ISO with option for 50, 51200, 102400 (Nikon D600 maximum native ISO is 6400 with up to 25600 ISO as an option)
o 1/4000 maximum shutter speed (same as Nikon D600; previously reported as 1/8000)
+ Touch screen (DPReview previously reported a touch screen; it has since been revealed that there is no touch screen)
- 11 AF points with 1 cross-type (Nikon D600 has 39 points with 9 cross-type)
+ Autofocus works as low as -3EV (Nikon D600 works as low as -1EV)
+ AF-ON button (Nikon D600 doesn't have a dedicated AF-ON button)
+ 1/8000 shutter speed (Nikon D600 maxes out at 1/4000)
- 97% viewfinder (Nikon D600 is 100%)
+ 1040k pixel LCD (Nikon D600 has 921k)
+ Built-in wireless and GPS (Nikon D600 has wireless and GPS as options)
+ Wireless live view has full exposure control (Nikon D600 wireless live view only has shutter control)
- time lapse through intervalometer (Nikon D600 has built-in intervalometer)
- single axis level (Nikon D600 has dual axis level)
- single card slot (Nikon D600 has dual SD slots)
- no built-in flash (Nikon D600 has a pop-up flash with commander)
- 1/180 sync speed (Nikon D600 has 1/200 sync speed with option for 1/250 at reduced range)
- external microphone jack (Nikon D600 has external microphone and headphone jacks)
- no uncompressed HDMI output (which Nikon D600 has)
+ Micro AF Adjust has separate settings for wide angle and telephoto focal lengths of a zoom lens (Nikon D600 has AF fine-tuning but with only one setting per lens)
o Price: $2099 (same as the Nikon D600).
- According to Amazon it will ship in October 2012 (Nikon D600 ships on September 18, 2012)
Chart comparing specs from Tested.com here
PREORDER OPTIONS:
Amazon
Adorama
B&H
Canon 6D specs posted on DPReview and Canonrumors. Some of the specs and comparisons with the Nikon D600 (+ = 6D has better spec; - = D600 has better spec):
- 20.2 Megapixels (Nikon D600: 24mp)
- 4.5 fps (Nikon D600: 5.5 fps)
+ 100 - 25600 ISO with option for 50, 51200, 102400 (Nikon D600 maximum native ISO is 6400 with up to 25600 ISO as an option)
o 1/4000 maximum shutter speed (same as Nikon D600; previously reported as 1/8000)
- 11 AF points with 1 cross-type (Nikon D600 has 39 points with 9 cross-type)
+ Autofocus works as low as -3EV (Nikon D600 works as low as -1EV)
+ AF-ON button (Nikon D600 doesn't have a dedicated AF-ON button)
+ 1/8000 shutter speed (Nikon D600 maxes out at 1/4000)
- 97% viewfinder (Nikon D600 is 100%)
+ 1040k pixel LCD (Nikon D600 has 921k)
+ Built-in wireless and GPS (Nikon D600 has wireless and GPS as options)
+ Wireless live view has full exposure control (Nikon D600 wireless live view only has shutter control)
- time lapse through intervalometer (Nikon D600 has built-in intervalometer)
- single axis level (Nikon D600 has dual axis level)
- single card slot (Nikon D600 has dual SD slots)
- no built-in flash (Nikon D600 has a pop-up flash with commander)
- 1/180 sync speed (Nikon D600 has 1/200 sync speed with option for 1/250 at reduced range)
- external microphone jack (Nikon D600 has external microphone and headphone jacks)
- no uncompressed HDMI output (which Nikon D600 has)
+ Micro AF Adjust has separate settings for wide angle and telephoto focal lengths of a zoom lens (Nikon D600 has AF fine-tuning but with only one setting per lens)
o Price: $2099 (same as the Nikon D600).
- According to Amazon it will ship in October 2012 (Nikon D600 ships on September 18, 2012)
Chart comparing specs from Tested.com here
PREORDER OPTIONS:
Amazon
Adorama
B&H
Nikon D600 High ISO noise comparisons
9/19 UPDATE: DXO posts D600 sensor scores... http://www.dxomark.com/index.php/Publications/DxOMark-Reviews/Nikon-D600-sets-high-bar-for-sensor-image-quality/Measurement
9/18 UPDATE: Added D7000 comparisons
I'm eagerly anticipating my Nikon D600 preorder. Meanwhile, Imaging Resource has already posted Nikon D600 sample shots using their standard studio test shot. I used the shots to get a preview of the D600's high ISO performance.
Samples from Imaging Resource:
For these comparisons, I looked at the "Indoor Portrait, No Flash" test shots. I used Lightroom to compare the shots side by side without any edits (the D600 shot is on the right, while the shot from the other camera is on the left).
Friday, September 14, 2012
Nikon D600 Raw samples by Imaging Resource
Imaging Resource just posted over 120 Nikon D600 sample shots, including raw files!
Notes:
1. Lightroom doesn't have support for the Nikon D600 raw files yet. The files can be opened in the current version of ViewNX2.
2. The raw files are around 40mb each.
Notes:
1. Lightroom doesn't have support for the Nikon D600 raw files yet. The files can be opened in the current version of ViewNX2.
2. The raw files are around 40mb each.
Guide: Building a Photo/Video Editing PC
Who said people aren't easily influenced? I certainly am, I saw this post on Gavin Hoey's new website, and I was instantly intrigued, I didn't know that more RAM affected Photoshop that much, I was intrigued about the fall of the prices for the SSDs, and the idea kept hunting me for almost three weeks until I succumbed to the lure of an even faster PC (I already had a fast one) and I built a new one, more details after the jump.
Full-resolution Nikon D600 Samples at All ISOs
DPReview updated its Nikon D600 gallery to include full resolution samples throughout the ISO range, from 100 to 25600.
My impression is that high ISO noise is at least as good as, if not better than, the Nikon D3 when resized to the same resolution as the D3.
As for dynamic range, the large patches of blownout highlights even at 100 ISO seem concerning but I am assuming these are SOOC JPEGs, and I am hoping that with a raw file, much of those highlights can be recovered.
Canon Powershot G15
UPDATE: Canon Powershot G15 preview by DPReview here
Canonrumors showed a photo of the new Canon Powershot G15. The lens is the equivalent of 28-140mm f/1.8-2.8.
Canonrumors showed a photo of the new Canon Powershot G15. The lens is the equivalent of 28-140mm f/1.8-2.8.
The skipping of G13 might be expected, but in case you're wondering why G14 was skipped, it's because the number 4 is considered unlucky in Chinese, Japanese and Korean cultures because it is a homonym for death. There was never a Powershot G4 either.
Then and Now
From time to time I look at photos I've taken in the past to analyze how I can continue to improve. Here are some comparisons between some photos I've taken before and some that I took recently.
-----------
Comparison 1: Post-processing
Comparison 1: Post-processing
 |
| April 2011 |
 |
| September 2012 |
The shots here were taken in similar ambient conditions (sun above and behind the subjects, subjects facing open light). In the top one I added flash bounced off a reflector. The bottom one was all ambient. These days I use my flash less and rely more on post-processing.
In terms of composition, both were taken with a wide angle lens (around 24mm equivalent) but the top one was taken much closer to the subject for a more casual, intimate feel, while the lower one is more formal and the foliage takes on a more prominent role as a natural frame.
For me the biggest difference is how the two shots were processed. Both have deep blacks and bright highlights but the top one looks more contrasty, while the bottom one has much less contrast in the midtones. The bottom one is also less saturated, and looks more natural to me.
BTW, the top was with a D300 and Tamron 17-50 VC while the bottom was with an LX5. Until we got the LX5, I was bringing the D300 everywhere. Now I make a conscious decision to bring a DSLR or the LX5 depending on the opportunities I'm likely to encounter, and the kinds of shots I want (taking into account the depth of field I would want, and whether I could use the 10-17 fisheye, 11-16 ultrawide, or Sigma 50-150 for telephoto).
RELATED POSTS:
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Comparison 2: Backlit shots
 |
| October 2009 |
 |
| August 2012 |
In this pair of shots, the ambient conditions again appear similar by the look of the shadows (cloudless sky, sun at around the same angle). The most significant differences in these two shots are the intent and the camera. In the top one, I did not care about preserving highlights and as you can see the sky was blasted to white. Now, I actively seek to preserve highlights as much as possible, which leads to the second difference -- the camera. The shot on top was taken with a Nikon D80, while the bottom one was taken with a Fuji S5 which has exceptional highlight range. With the Fuji S5 and my active intent to preserve highlights (by choosing an exposure that avoids blownout highlights), I was able to preserve all highlights in this contrasty scene.
RELATED POSTS:
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Comparison 3: Direct Sunlight
 |
| October 2009 |
 |
| August 2012 |
Both of these shots were taken in direct sunlight (although in the top one, the sun is at a lower angle) but the way the sun was used is very different. In the top shot, the sun was acting as key light. In the bottom shot, the sun was acting as an accent light.
RELATED POSTS:
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Comparison 4: Parades
 |
| August 2009 |
 |
| August 2009 |
 |
| December 2009 |
 |
| October 2011 |
 |
| August 2012 |
The three shots on top are representative of the kinds of photos I used to take when we watch parades. At that time, I had been using the Tamron 28-75 on a Nikon D80, giving an equivalent focal length of 42mm at its widest, which is to say not wide at all. I've since switched to the Tamron 17-50 VC and positioned myself further away from my kids so I can capture more of the event. Recently I also acquired the Tokina 11-16 ultrawide and Tokina 10-17 fisheye which allow me to capture more of the scene and enable me to get shots of the parade even when my position is not ideal.
RELATED POSTS:
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Comparison 5: Night Portraits
 |
| September 2008 |
 |
| October 2011 |
 |
| December 2011 |
These were all shot in Disneyland, on Main Street. In the top shot, I was able to get a sharp shot in low light by using flash, while also preserving some of the ambience by allowing a sufficient amount of ambient light from the background. The problem (besides the dude on the right) is that the flash looks very unnatural. Now, I use two solutions for this kind of situation.
The first alternative is to use bounce flash. Yes it can be done, even outdoors. In the middle shot, I just bounced the flash off the shop windows. To make this work, you need three tools: First, a fast (i.e. wide aperture) lens -- f/2.8 or wider. Here I used the Tamron 17-50 VC. Second, you also need a camera with decent noise at ISO 1600 or preferably ISO 3200 or above (here I was using the D300 at 1600 ISO, which is so-so). Third, you need a powerful flash. I was using the SB-800, zoomed to 105mm. It was on TTL so I don't know how much power it used but I am almost sure it was close to full power.
The second alternative is to use a handheld umbrella. In the bottom shot, I was using the Lumix LX5 with the Lastolite Brolly Grip.
RELATED POSTS:
UHS-1 SD Cards for your Nikon D600
I ordered two Transcend 32GB UHS-1 SD cards from Amazon (currently $29.99). I think it has the best value right now. It has a speed of 85/45mb read/write. I have used Transcend CF Cards (the gold one with 600x speed) for the last 6 months on the Fuji S5 and Nikon D3, and they seem fine.
By comparison, there is a Sandisk Extreme 32GB UHS-1 (currently $32.05) but the speed is only 45mb. At the high end, there is the Sandisk Extreme Pro 32GB UHS-1 with 95mbps but it's currently $68.66 each.
I intend to set the D600's slot 2 as backup (not overflow or for JPEGs). I don't want to lose photos (which has happened to me before - once is enough).
By comparison, there is a Sandisk Extreme 32GB UHS-1 (currently $32.05) but the speed is only 45mb. At the high end, there is the Sandisk Extreme Pro 32GB UHS-1 with 95mbps but it's currently $68.66 each.
I intend to set the D600's slot 2 as backup (not overflow or for JPEGs). I don't want to lose photos (which has happened to me before - once is enough).
Thursday, September 13, 2012
The Nikon D600's Tragic Flaw
David Hobby (THE Strobist) posted about the Nikon D600's tragic flaw: its 1/200 sync speed. If you're new to flash photography, you may be wondering why there was a groan from lighting enthusiasts when they found out about this.
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Nikon D600 Release 9/18/12; Amazon.com accepting Nikon D600 preorders
Current link: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0099XGZXA/ref=amb_link_365315942_3?ie=UTF8&me=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=top-1&pf_rd_r=F72CC630B2844E2DA8B1&pf_rd_t=301&pf_rd_p=1397184062&pf_rd_i=nikon%20d600
States that it is to be shipped September 18, 2012.
Yes, I preordered one in case my Bel-Air order falls through.
My order says for delivery 9/21 to 9/25
As for the WU-1b adapter, it is available for preorder for $59.95 from B&H Photo.
UPDATE:
1. I followed up on my Bel-Air Camera preorder. Michael said Nikon sends dealers at least one camera that they are prohibited from selling (only to be used as a demo). He said I should call back Monday but so far they haven't received the camera yet.
2. I received an email from Amazon re my preorder from them. The email was from a member of their "Concierge Team" which has the task of keeping buyers informed about the status of their preorder. Nice touch.
"I see your order is expected to be delivered to your _________ address by Sep 20, 2012. As you may already know, this camera is available for pre-order only. We'll ship the camera to you once it's been released and we've received inventory. I'll keep an eye on your order to be sure it goes as expected. We will also e-mail you again when the order ships to provide a tracking number and additional information about the shipment of your order.
If you ever have concerns about this order, please feel free to get in touch with me. You can contact the Amazon Camera Concierge team directly by calling us at 1-877-344-0195. We’re available Monday - Saturday / 6:00am - 6:00pm PST, any member of the Concierge team would be happy to help you.
I hope this helps. We look forward to seeing you again soon."
3. I preordered the WU-1b from Adorama. They have it available for $50, $10 less than everyone else. Thanks to Nikonrumors.com for this info.
States that it is to be shipped September 18, 2012.
Yes, I preordered one in case my Bel-Air order falls through.
My order says for delivery 9/21 to 9/25
As for the WU-1b adapter, it is available for preorder for $59.95 from B&H Photo.
UPDATE:
1. I followed up on my Bel-Air Camera preorder. Michael said Nikon sends dealers at least one camera that they are prohibited from selling (only to be used as a demo). He said I should call back Monday but so far they haven't received the camera yet.
2. I received an email from Amazon re my preorder from them. The email was from a member of their "Concierge Team" which has the task of keeping buyers informed about the status of their preorder. Nice touch.
"I see your order is expected to be delivered to your _________ address by Sep 20, 2012. As you may already know, this camera is available for pre-order only. We'll ship the camera to you once it's been released and we've received inventory. I'll keep an eye on your order to be sure it goes as expected. We will also e-mail you again when the order ships to provide a tracking number and additional information about the shipment of your order.
If you ever have concerns about this order, please feel free to get in touch with me. You can contact the Amazon Camera Concierge team directly by calling us at 1-877-344-0195. We’re available Monday - Saturday / 6:00am - 6:00pm PST, any member of the Concierge team would be happy to help you.
I hope this helps. We look forward to seeing you again soon."
3. I preordered the WU-1b from Adorama. They have it available for $50, $10 less than everyone else. Thanks to Nikonrumors.com for this info.
Nikon D600 Officially Announced for $2099
DPReview preview: http://www.dpreview.com/previews/nikon-d600/
NikonRumors.com preview: http://nikonrumors.com/2012/09/13/nikon-d600-nikkor-18-5mm-f1-8-lens-ut-1-communication-unit-announcements.aspx/
Price: $2099
See how well the specs stacked up to our speculation (o = correct; x = wrong; ? = TBD)
o EXPEED 3 processor (D3200)
o ISO up to 6400, expandable to 25600 (D7000). Additional info: base ISO is 100.
o 2016-pixel RGB sensor D7000)
o Image sensor cleaning (D7000 and D3200)
o 39 focus points with option of using 9 or 21 focus points (D7000).
x 3D Color Matrix Metering III (D3200). Correct info: 3D Color Matrix Metering II
o warm lighting option under AWB (D7000)
o Magnesium-alloy body (D7000)
o Double SD card slots, SDXC compatible (D7000) Additional info: UHS-1 compatible
o 150,000 shutter life (D7000)
o Quiet shutter mode (D7000 and D3200)
o Mode dial with U1 and U2 modes (D7000)
o Virtual horizon (like D7000)
o Continuous AF during movie recording (D7000 and D3200)
x Sync speed: 1/250 with 1/320 option (D7000). Correct info: 1/200, with 1/250 option.
o Face priority AF (D7000 and D3200)
o You can view the histogram of a magnified area (D7000)
o Zoom on a face automatically during playback (D7000, D3200)
o Optional adapter with Wireless capability (D3200)
o GPS option (D7000 and D3200)
o Video at 1080p/30 (24fps optional) with manual setting of shutter speed and ISO (D3200)
o 720p @ 60fps for slow motion (d3200)
o External microphone option (D7000 and D3200)
o In-camera movie editing (D7000 and D3200)
o Built-in popup commander (D7000)
o Retouch menu (D7000)
o Eye-Fi compatible (D3200)
Disappointments:
- I'm very surprised by the sync speed of 1/200* and shutter speed of 1/4000. This is the first time a higher-end and newer model has a lower spec than an older and lower-end model. Oh well.
*The D600 is the first Nikon camera that has a natural sync speed of 1/200 but allows 1/250 with a reduction in flash range. Some previous high-end Nikons (D700, D300, D300S, D7000) allowed a sync speed of 1/250 with a 1/320 option with a reduction in flash range.
- Auto exposure bracketing is only 2 or 3 frames. Argh.
- Picture control button. WTH was Nikon thinking...
- Multi-Cam 4800 focus system. This is not a surprise - it's the same as the D7000, but I've heard that the D7000 focusing isn't very good. I had the chance to handle a D7000 briefly and found nothing wrong with it. I hope it's ok.
- No AF-ON button. You can assign the Fn button or AE-L button as the AF-ON button but still it would have been nice to have it.
- No PC Sync. This was not a surprise but should be noted by you hardcore strobists.
- Remote control is infrared. However see below re wireless adapter.
Features that I think are cool:
- Smarter Auto ISO. The D4 and D800 included a new auto ISO feature that took into account the focal length in adjusting the ISO. The D600 has this feature.
- 100% viewfinder. When I saw the leaked pics of a square viewfinder I was very nervous, because all prior Nikon full frames had a round viewfinder. I was worried that the rectangular shape meant somehow that it wasn't a 100% viewfinder. Fortunately the D600 is 100%.
- 100 Base ISO. Having a low ISO makes it more likely that I can use a wide aperture for shallow DOF.
- Built-in HDR mode. Takes 2 shots, combines them. Some people may think it's for amateurs but I think it's useful.
- Switch between FX or DX in movie mode. This is interesting. I can get access to two sets of focal range without changing lenses, while maintaining full HD resolution.
- Time lapse movie mode. Introduced in the D4 and D800, and adopted in the D600. Not sure I'll use it often but it will be fun to play with.
- Wireless adapter. I'd love to have remote liveview with my phone.
- 720p 60fps for slow motion.
- Fast Contrast-detect AF. The D600 has the same contrast detect AF system for live view found in the D4 and D800.
- Uncompressed HDMI. I'm not a video guy but those of you who are might appreciate this.
- Autofocus fine-tuning (aka micro AF adjust). This is not a cutting edge feature but after seeing non-pro specs I was worried about it. If the D600 didn't have it, it would have been a deal-breaker for me. Fortunately, the brochure says the D600 does have AF fine-tuning.
I'm not disappointed at the price. I thought it would be $2200. I never believed it would be $1500. If you're looking for a $1500 full frame Nikon, you can always get a used D700, which is still a fine camera if you don't need video. And if you think $2100 is expensive, consider that the 24mp Nikon D3X came out just 3 years ago at $8000 and is still on sale at Amazon for $7000 (I am guessing that the D600 will meet or exceed the D3x in image quality, though of course the D3x is better built, etc. etc.). Also, if it makes you feel better, the D600 is being sold in Japan for ¥215,000, which is around $2769 at current exchange rates. So you're getting almost 25% off the Japanese price.
As for me, I will push through with my preorder. The D800 is not worth the extra $900, and I don't need the extra 12mp to bloat my images.
Amazon D600 Preorder page (appears and disappears): http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0099XGZXA/ref=amb_link_365315942_3?ie=UTF8&me=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=top-1&pf_rd_r=75593538587A4ADB8992&pf_rd_t=301&pf_rd_p=1397184062&pf_rd_i=nikon%20d600
High ISO sample (ISO 3200): http://chsvimg.nikon.com/lineup/dslr/d600/img/sample01/img_07_l.jpg Hard to tell the quality. Looks too dark to critique, and looks like a lot of noise reduction was used.
ISO 800 sample: http://chsvimg.nikon.com/lineup/dslr/d600/img/sample01/img_04_l.jpg Looks good but I didn't expect anything less.
NikonRumors.com preview: http://nikonrumors.com/2012/09/13/nikon-d600-nikkor-18-5mm-f1-8-lens-ut-1-communication-unit-announcements.aspx/
Price: $2099
See how well the specs stacked up to our speculation (o = correct; x = wrong; ? = TBD)
o EXPEED 3 processor (D3200)
o ISO up to 6400, expandable to 25600 (D7000). Additional info: base ISO is 100.
o 2016-pixel RGB sensor D7000)
o Image sensor cleaning (D7000 and D3200)
o 39 focus points with option of using 9 or 21 focus points (D7000).
x 3D Color Matrix Metering III (D3200). Correct info: 3D Color Matrix Metering II
o warm lighting option under AWB (D7000)
o Magnesium-alloy body (D7000)
o Double SD card slots, SDXC compatible (D7000) Additional info: UHS-1 compatible
o 150,000 shutter life (D7000)
o Quiet shutter mode (D7000 and D3200)
o Mode dial with U1 and U2 modes (D7000)
o Virtual horizon (like D7000)
o Continuous AF during movie recording (D7000 and D3200)
x Sync speed: 1/250 with 1/320 option (D7000). Correct info: 1/200, with 1/250 option.
o Face priority AF (D7000 and D3200)
o You can view the histogram of a magnified area (D7000)
o Zoom on a face automatically during playback (D7000, D3200)
o Optional adapter with Wireless capability (D3200)
o GPS option (D7000 and D3200)
o Video at 1080p/30 (24fps optional) with manual setting of shutter speed and ISO (D3200)
o 720p @ 60fps for slow motion (d3200)
o External microphone option (D7000 and D3200)
o In-camera movie editing (D7000 and D3200)
o Built-in popup commander (D7000)
o Retouch menu (D7000)
o Eye-Fi compatible (D3200)
Disappointments:
- I'm very surprised by the sync speed of 1/200* and shutter speed of 1/4000. This is the first time a higher-end and newer model has a lower spec than an older and lower-end model. Oh well.
*The D600 is the first Nikon camera that has a natural sync speed of 1/200 but allows 1/250 with a reduction in flash range. Some previous high-end Nikons (D700, D300, D300S, D7000) allowed a sync speed of 1/250 with a 1/320 option with a reduction in flash range.
- Auto exposure bracketing is only 2 or 3 frames. Argh.
- Picture control button. WTH was Nikon thinking...
- Multi-Cam 4800 focus system. This is not a surprise - it's the same as the D7000, but I've heard that the D7000 focusing isn't very good. I had the chance to handle a D7000 briefly and found nothing wrong with it. I hope it's ok.
- No AF-ON button. You can assign the Fn button or AE-L button as the AF-ON button but still it would have been nice to have it.
- No PC Sync. This was not a surprise but should be noted by you hardcore strobists.
- Remote control is infrared. However see below re wireless adapter.
Features that I think are cool:
- Smarter Auto ISO. The D4 and D800 included a new auto ISO feature that took into account the focal length in adjusting the ISO. The D600 has this feature.
- 100% viewfinder. When I saw the leaked pics of a square viewfinder I was very nervous, because all prior Nikon full frames had a round viewfinder. I was worried that the rectangular shape meant somehow that it wasn't a 100% viewfinder. Fortunately the D600 is 100%.
- 100 Base ISO. Having a low ISO makes it more likely that I can use a wide aperture for shallow DOF.
- Built-in HDR mode. Takes 2 shots, combines them. Some people may think it's for amateurs but I think it's useful.
- Switch between FX or DX in movie mode. This is interesting. I can get access to two sets of focal range without changing lenses, while maintaining full HD resolution.
- Time lapse movie mode. Introduced in the D4 and D800, and adopted in the D600. Not sure I'll use it often but it will be fun to play with.
- Wireless adapter. I'd love to have remote liveview with my phone.
- 720p 60fps for slow motion.
- Fast Contrast-detect AF. The D600 has the same contrast detect AF system for live view found in the D4 and D800.
- Uncompressed HDMI. I'm not a video guy but those of you who are might appreciate this.
- Autofocus fine-tuning (aka micro AF adjust). This is not a cutting edge feature but after seeing non-pro specs I was worried about it. If the D600 didn't have it, it would have been a deal-breaker for me. Fortunately, the brochure says the D600 does have AF fine-tuning.
I'm not disappointed at the price. I thought it would be $2200. I never believed it would be $1500. If you're looking for a $1500 full frame Nikon, you can always get a used D700, which is still a fine camera if you don't need video. And if you think $2100 is expensive, consider that the 24mp Nikon D3X came out just 3 years ago at $8000 and is still on sale at Amazon for $7000 (I am guessing that the D600 will meet or exceed the D3x in image quality, though of course the D3x is better built, etc. etc.). Also, if it makes you feel better, the D600 is being sold in Japan for ¥215,000, which is around $2769 at current exchange rates. So you're getting almost 25% off the Japanese price.
As for me, I will push through with my preorder. The D800 is not worth the extra $900, and I don't need the extra 12mp to bloat my images.
Amazon D600 Preorder page (appears and disappears): http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0099XGZXA/ref=amb_link_365315942_3?ie=UTF8&me=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=top-1&pf_rd_r=75593538587A4ADB8992&pf_rd_t=301&pf_rd_p=1397184062&pf_rd_i=nikon%20d600
High ISO sample (ISO 3200): http://chsvimg.nikon.com/lineup/dslr/d600/img/sample01/img_07_l.jpg Hard to tell the quality. Looks too dark to critique, and looks like a lot of noise reduction was used.
ISO 800 sample: http://chsvimg.nikon.com/lineup/dslr/d600/img/sample01/img_04_l.jpg Looks good but I didn't expect anything less.
I'm calling BS on the Malaysian forum's Nikon D600 specs
Yesterday, Nikonrumors.com posted specs of the D600 that were reported in a Malaysian forum. I expressed doubts about the shutter speed and sync speed based on my observation that newer, higher-end Nikons always have equal or better specs than older, lower-end Nikons.
I noticed that the post about the D600 included a quote about the white balance:
"The D600's intelligent auto white balance algorithm renders white as truly white even when shot under a wide range of light sources, including mercury vapor light. The D600 analyzes color and brightness information of the scene before shooting utilizing Scene Recognition System, and detects the light source highly accurately by referencing its massive collection of in-camera shooting data. The D600 also carries another auto white balance mode that maintains warm lighting ambience when you shoot under incandescent light"
Read more on NikonRumors.com: http://nikonrumors.com/2012/09/11/more-nikon-d600-leaks-full-specs-and-new-images.aspx/#ixzz26HOvgUGb
Read more on NikonRumors.com: http://nikonrumors.com/2012/09/11/more-nikon-d600-leaks-full-specs-and-new-images.aspx/#ixzz26HOvgUGb
It got me thinking, if they have a quote, it must be official information right? Well check out this quote: "The D7000's intelligent auto white balance algorithm renders white as truly white even when shot under a wide range of light sources, including mercury vapor light. The D7000 analyzes color and brightness information of the scene before shooting utilizing Scene Recognition System, and detects the light source highly accurately by referencing its massive collection of in-camera shooting data. The D7000 also carries another auto white balance mode that maintains warm lighting ambience when you shoot under incandescent light." Source: http://imaging.nikon.com/lineup/dslr/d7000/features02.htm
Well, is it possible Nikon just copies and pastes its marketing blurb about white balance on every camera it produces?
D800: "The D800/D800E's auto white balance is incredibly accurate in a diverse range of shooting situations, aided by unique Nikon technology that effectively identifies your light sources, both natural and artificial. With the 91K-pixel RGB sensor and the image sensor working together, the camera renders white as white with supreme accuracy. Or if you prefer, the auto white balance can be set to reflect the warmth of ambient, incandescent lighting." Source: http://imaging.nikon.com/lineup/dslr/d800/features01.htm
D4: "Incorporating years of research into ambient lighting, the unique Nikon auto white balance technologies in the D4 are capable of identifying and compensating for a broad range of artificial and natural light sources. Using data from the image sensor and 91K-pixel RGB sensor, the camera can automatically render white as white with supreme accuracy, or can incorporate the warmth of ambient, incandescent lighting as required." Source: http://imaging.nikon.com/lineup/dslr/d4/features01.htm
D3200: "The D3200 analyzes color and brightness information of the scene utilizing the light source identification function of Scene Recognition System and detects the light source precisely by referencing the in-camera database for auto white balance. In this way, it can determine the ideal white balance even with difficult light sources." Source: http://imaging.nikon.com/lineup/dslr/d3200/features01.htm
So, I don't think the Malaysian forum's D600 specs are anything more than speculation. For them to make it sound like they have the 'real' info by pretending to quote from Nikon information is BULL. If they do correspond with the real specs, it would just be a coincidence. And for now I'm reasserting the shutter speed, sync speed, commander mode, etc. Again: I believe the D600 will have equal or better specs than the D7000 and D3200 in every respect. Anyway the D600 announcement is only hours away. We'll know soon enough.
UPDATE: FYI here is the real language about white balance in the brochure
"By effectively identifying every type of light source, Nikon’s auto white balance feature delivers incredibly ccurate results. Choose from two options: Auto 1 renders white as white, while Auto 2 renders warmer hues under incandescent light sources. Now with the D600, you can alternate between Auto 1 and 2 during in-camera NEF (RAW) processing even after you shoot."
and here is the real language in the D600 webpage:
"The D600 detects color and brightness information of the shooting scene before shooting utilizing Scene Recognition System and identifies the light source highly accurately by referencing its massive collection of in-camera shooting data. In addition to the conventional setting of Auto 1 (Normal) that compensates lighting colors, the D600 allows you to set another auto white balance mode, Auto 2 (Keep warm lighting colors), that maintains warm lighting ambience when you shoot under incandescent light. If the image is shot in RAW, these modes can be applied using the NEF (RAW) processing of the D600's in-camera retouch menus regardless of the shooting setting."
Unfortunately the 1/4000 max shutter speed is true, and so is the 1/200 sync speed, but at least there's a non-HSS 1/250 option (with slightly reduced flash range).
These are minimum specifications:
EXPEED 3 processor (D3200)
ISO up to 6400, expandable to 25600 (D7000)
2016-pixel RGB sensor D7000)
Image sensor cleaning (D7000 and D3200)
39 focus points with option of using 9 or 21 focus points (D7000).
2016-pixel RGB sensor (D7000)
3D Color Matrix Metering III (D3200)
warm lighting option under AWB (D7000)
Magnesium-alloy body (D7000)
Double SD card slots, SDXC compatible (D7000)
150,000 shutter life (D7000)
Quiet shutter mode (D7000 and D3200)
Mode dial with U1 and U2 modes (D7000)
Virtual horizon (like D7000)
Continuous AF during movie recording (D7000 and D3200)
Sync speed: 1/250 with 1/320 option (D7000)
Face priority AF (D7000 and D3200)
You can view the histogram of a magnified area (D7000)
Zoom on a face automatically during playback (D7000, D3200)
Optional adapter with Wireless capability (D3200)
GPS option (D7000 and D3200)
Video at 1080p/30 (24fps optional) with manual setting of shutter speed and ISO (D3200)
720p @ 60fps for slow motion (d3200)
External microphone option (D7000 and D3200)
In-camera movie editing (D7000 and D3200)
Built-in popup commander (D7000)
Retouch menu (D7000)
Eye-Fi compatible (D3200)
What I'm not sure of:
- Sensor: 24mp like the Sony a99? 16mp like the D4?
- Viewfinder coverage: D7000 has 100% coverage but it is DX; having 100% coverage for FX is more difficult and expensive.
- I also don't know if Nikon views the D300S as being a higher-end model or a lower-end model than the D600. If Nikon views the D600 as a higher-end model, then the D600 will have 51 focus points, PC sync, and a dedicated AF-ON button, just like the D300S.
Who Are You?
I have always wondered about the readers of this blog, do we (me & Mic) have regular readers subscribed to the blog? Statistics can only tell you so much, we have around a thousand daily page views, and I see lots of references coming from links posted in dpreview forums and Google searches, and the majority of hits comes from the US & Canada.
Recently I've started becoming less motivated to write blog posts and reviews. You know, when you write an exciting mail to someone or a long blog post that you spent a few days preparing and writing, at the beginning you are very excited and keep waiting for feedback, opinions from anyone who read what you wrote, any response, but time passes and the silence becomes more deafening, until you forget all about what you wrote and surrender. That's exactly what we lack here, feedback, and that's a strong demotivator.
Do we have regular readers who actually read our posts? Or do we just get hits from people searching for a certain topic and leaving again?
This is an attempt to find out, I'd love to see your comment and learn about the reality of our readers. I have the following posts coming in no certain order, if you want to see a certain topic sooner than the others, please let me know in the comments.
Recently I've started becoming less motivated to write blog posts and reviews. You know, when you write an exciting mail to someone or a long blog post that you spent a few days preparing and writing, at the beginning you are very excited and keep waiting for feedback, opinions from anyone who read what you wrote, any response, but time passes and the silence becomes more deafening, until you forget all about what you wrote and surrender. That's exactly what we lack here, feedback, and that's a strong demotivator.
Do we have regular readers who actually read our posts? Or do we just get hits from people searching for a certain topic and leaving again?
This is an attempt to find out, I'd love to see your comment and learn about the reality of our readers. I have the following posts coming in no certain order, if you want to see a certain topic sooner than the others, please let me know in the comments.
- Building a Video & Photo Editing PC
- Shooting Techniques
- Post Processing Techniques (Lightroom 4)
- Canon 24-105 Review
- Canon 100 Macro L Review
- Phone Photography
- Canon 5D Mark II Review
- ColorMunki Display Review
- Blogsy Review
- How iPad helps with photography
- Future purchases & products (Nexus 7, Color Gels, Light stand, RF Triggers, Westcott 43” Umbrella, etc...)
- Canon 600EX-RT Flash (why?)
- Vanguard Heralder 28 Camera Bag Review
- Vanguard Up-rise 15Z Camera Bag Review
- Manfrotto Tripod Review
- Yongnuo 560 II Review
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
Nikon D600 specs
Nikonrumors.com posted the D600's supposed specs, from a Malaysian forum. If you read the comments, a number of readers have complaints about the sync speed (supposedly 1/200), shutter speed (tops out at 1/4000) and no mention of a commander.
I myself am guessing as well, but I have serious doubts about the sync speed and shutter speed. Historically, all higher-end Nikon models have incorporated all "features" that have been included in older lower-end models. So, for example, the D800 is higher end than the D7000. If you look at the specs, the D800 has all of the D7000's features or improves upon them. See this comparison.
But, you may ask, the D3200 can use the WU-1a wireless adapter whereas the higher-end D800 cannot. Yes, that's true that's why I said higher-end Nikons incorporate features of older lower-end models. The D3200 is newer than the D800 therefore the D800 doesn't necessarily include everything the D3200 has. Similarly, newer lower-end Nikons can sometimes leapfrog some specs of older higher-end Nikons. For example, the D7000 has some specs that are better than those of the higher-end D300S. Also note that I'm talking about 'features.' I don't include resolution or fps or a swivel-out screen. It's kind of arbitrary but I think you know what I mean.
Going back to the D600 specs. The D600 is higher-end than the D7000 and of course the D3200. That's why I believe the D600 will have equal or better specs than the D7000 (and certainly the D3200) in every respect, meaning a sync speed of 1/250 (1/320 with slight reduction in range), 1/8000 shutter speed, and a commander mode. That is also how I speculated that the D600 would have a wireless adapter (like the older and lower-end D3200), which apparently has been all but confirmed by Nikon.
Of course, it's possible that for the first time, a higher-end newer Nikon (the D600) won't have better specs than a lower-end and older Nikon (D7000), but I would not bet on it. So let's not start a riot about the D600 sync speed or shutter speed or commander mode just yet. :)
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