The Nikon D300 is currently the darling of the DSLR market. Nikon has built the D300 on a Magnesium frame with weather sealing that makes it the top crop-sensor model, or DX format in Nikon lingo, in their current lineup. It is really a Pro model, but with pricing at the upper end of the prosumer market. This formula has worked well for Nikon. The D300 is selling very, very well. We were not immune to the charms of the D300 as you saw in our blog Singing the Praises of the Nikon D300.

The Nikon D3 has similarly created huge excitement in the full-frame DSLR market, which Nikon calls FX format. It is hard not to notice its stand-out high speed performance - with its normal ISO range to 6400 and expansion to an amazing and usable ISO 25600. There is also the raw speed in image capture to make the most of this amazing sensitivity. The D3 can fire at a blistering 9 fps in full-frame, or up to 11 fps in DX (APS-C) mode.

At $5000 the D3 is something of a value compared to the $8000 Canon 1Ds Mark III, but it really couldn’t compete in value with Canon’s aging full-frame 5D, which is now selling for around $2000, down substantially from the price of $3500 when it was first introduced.

Photo Enthusiasts have been clamoring for another Nikon full-frame to fill that void – a full-frame to fit the space between the $5000 D3 and the $1800 APS-C D300. Clearly Nikon was listening intently to those wishes. Today they announced a new full-frame Nikon D700 that will be available in the market beginning the end of this month.

No one was really surprised that Nikon introduced another FX DSLR as it was widely expected that Nikon would not sit back as Canon introduced the successor to the 5D, likely the 5D Mark II. That introduction is widely expected at Photokina in Germany in late September, but there have been many other expected dates for the 5D successor that have come and gone. The Nikon surprise was the introduction of the D700 NOW, some 3 to 4 months before Photokina. Most expected the cheaper full-frame to be perhaps announced at Photokina, or maybe even later to put some distance between the D3 and D300 introductions late last year.

So what is the D700? In simplest terms take the full-frame FX sensor and electronics from the D3. Put them in the smaller but rugged body of the D300, and add unique 3-phase self-cleaning to the sensor. The result is basically the D700.

This makes the D700 the first full-frame DSLR with a built-in pop-up flash, which will likely be trashed by traditionalists. However, given Nikon’s superb wireless flash system many will welcome the ability to control exterior flashes with the built-in flash, as can be done on the D300. 

The D700 also uses the same MB-D10 Battery Grip used by the current D300, and it manages 8 fps full-frame compared to the 9 fps of the D3. There is no DX speed-up, however, and 8 fps is the top speed. Put this in perspective by comparing it to the Canon 5D at 3 fps.

A Closer Look

Looking closely at the Nikon D700 you might think you are examining a D300 instead. That is certainly by design. The D700 brings the widely-praised Nikon full-frame CMOS sensor to the smaller and lighter form-factor of the D300. The ergonomics of the D300 are superb, so expect the D700 to be an easier camera to carry around all day than taller and heavier D3.

Separating the integral battery grip does not mean the D700 sacrifices dust and water sealing. The D700 features the same weather-sealing that was used on the D300 and D3. The MB-D10 Battery Grip also contains weather sealing to protect the camera in harsher conditions.

D700 Compared to D3

The D700 is much more compact than the D3. By moving the D3 sensor to a D300 body and removing the integrated battery grip of the D3, Nikon has reduced the height and weight of the D700 substantially compared to the D3. The D700 is also 40% lower in cost - $3000 versus $5000.

The MB-D10 Multi-Power Battery Grip that was introduced with the D300 also fits the D700. Adding the MB-D10 brings the shooting speed as high as 8 fps, which is the same as the Nikon D300 with the Battery Grip. This is just a bit lower than the 9fps with the D3.

To be completely fair the D700 plus grip is taller than the D3 with the integrated power grip. However, you do have the option with the D700 of leaving the grip off when 5 frames-per-second is enough speed. That is not an option with the D3 as you always have the added size and weight of the integrated grip.

Other differences are a 95% viewfinder compared to a 100% viewfinder on the D3. There is also a 5:4 ratio shooting option on the D3 which is missing on the D700. The D700 does retain the ability to mount all APS-C Nikon lenses, just like the D3, and shoot in a crop-sensor mode. This is in stark contrast to Canon EF-S lenses for their APS-C models which will not even mount on the Canon 5D or 1Ds models.

Nikon is using the D300 shutter, or one rated at the same life as the D300, in the D700. This means a rated shutter life of 150,000 actuations for the D700, compared to a rated 300,000 actuations for the D3. With most prosumer models with a rated life of 50,000 or 100,000 the rated life for the D700 still puts it in Pro company.

Nikon Press Announcement

MELVILLE, N.Y. (July 1, 2008) – Nikon, Inc. today introduced the new D700 digital SLR camera featuring a 12.1-effective megapixel Nikon FX-format sensor that measures 23.9 x 36mm, which is nearly identical to the size of 35mm film. Benefiting from Nikon’s legacy of imaging technology innovation, the D700 offers both advanced and professional photographers stunning image quality, accurate color reproduction and revolutionary low light performance.

Building on the immense success of the Nikon D3 professional D-SLR camera, the D700 offers pro-level performance and an extensive array of features and innovations in a comfortably nimble platform. In addition to the Nikon-original FX-format CMOS sensor, the D700 incorporates Nikon's EXPEED Image Processing System, Nikon’s renowned 51-point auto focus system with 3D Focus Tracking and two Live View shooting modes that allow photographers to frame a shot using the camera's three-inch high-resolution LCD monitor. The D700 also features Nikon’s sophisticated Scene Recognition System and a new active dust reduction system.

Nikon’s flagship FX and DX-format cameras, the D3 and D300 respectively, established new benchmarks for digital image quality, speed, and unmatched ISO performance. The D700 maintains this new measure with exceptional overall image quality, broad tonal range and depth, and extremely low noise throughout its native ISO range of 200 to 6400.

“Nikon FX-format cameras have teamed with our strong lineup of DX-format models to offer photographers unprecedented advancements in performance and versatility along with the freedom to choose the format that best serves their needs. Today’s introduction of the D700 offers an important new option to photographers who need the overall performance and imaging perspective Nikon FX-format cameras offer,” said Edward Fasano, general manager for marketing, SLR System Products at Nikon, Inc. “Nikon has developed a host of innovative technologies such as the Scene Recognition System and Picture Control, incorporating them into both FX and DX-format digital SLRs to ensure that photographers can leverage the advantages of both formats seamlessly, and achieve the end-results that best fulfill their photographic vision.”

The legendary Nikon FX-Format CMOS sensor

The D700’s 12.1-megapixel FX-format CMOS image sensor provides exceptional image quality throughout its remarkable ISO sensitivity range. A large pixel size of 8.45 µm allows for an extremely low signal-to-noise ratio and a wide dynamic range. The 12-channel readout enables accelerated information transfer, allowing the D700 to shoot at speeds of up to eight frames per second at full resolution (using the optional MB-D10 Multi Power Battery Pack) and quickly write image data onto the CompactFlash™ card.

The D700 offers a versatile base ISO range from 200-6400 but can be expanded to range from ISO 100 (Lo-1) to 25,600 (Hi-2) affording photographers the new-found confidence to shoot in the widest variety of lighting conditions from the brightest midday sun to dim interiors. Images previously thought to be impossible to create without complex lighting set-ups or lengthy post-processing are now captured easily and faithfully with the D700, unleashing new and diverse shooting possibilities.

Also new to the D700 is Nikon’s first self-cleaning system designed for the FX-format sensor. Utilizing four distinct vibration frequencies, the D700 frees image degrading dust particles from the sensor’s optical low-pass filter at start-up, shut-down or on demand. As an added benefit, the mirror box and entire shutter mechanism are constructed of materials that resist creating debris that can affect image purity.

Fastest speed and autofocus in its class

The D700 starts up in a mere 0.12 seconds and has a nearly imperceptible shutter-lag response time of 0.40 milliseconds, making this an extraordinarily responsive tool for the demanding photographer. The D700 can record full-resolution JPEG images at an astounding five frames per second (fps), or eight fps with the optional MB-D10 battery pack for up to 100 images, or up to 17 lossless 14-bit Nikon NEF (RAW) files. To write images efficiently, the Nikon D700 is also compliant with the next-generation of high-speed UDMA CompactFlash™ cards that will enable recording speeds up to 35 megabytes/second.

The D700 offers one of the fastest and most accurate advanced AF systems on the market today. Nikon’s Multi-CAM 3500FX autofocus sensor module features 51 AF points and the ability to use 3D tracking to focus and lock-on a moving subject. The 15 cross-type sensors and 36 horizontal sensors can be used individually or in groups, with the option for Single Area AF mode and Dynamic AF modes using groups of either 9, 21 or all 51 focus points. The system also features 3D Focus Tracking with automatic focus point switching that takes advantage of all 51 AF points as it uses scene color content and light information to accurately track the subject.

Intelligent features for sophisticated performance

The D700 relies on a wealth of innovative Nikon technologies to help photographers create superb images. Nikon’s Scene Recognition System analyzes information from the 1,005-pixel RGB light sensor for use in auto exposure, auto white balance and autofocus calculations. The Scene Recognition System also assists autofocus by tracking subject position and automatically shifts the AF points used to match the subject’s movement within the frame. This system also contributes to higher accuracy of auto exposure and auto white balance detection, resulting in sharp landscapes, flattering portraits and engaging action shots.

Photographers also have the option to enhance their pictures during or after capture with the Picture Control System and Active D-Lighting. Nikon’s Picture Control System enables users to adjust their images to pre-set parameters such as Standard, Neutral, Vivid and Monochrome that apply tweaks to image sharpening, tone compensation, brightness, overall tone and saturation. D-Lighting uses localized tone control technology to further optimize highlight and shadow detail while also maintaining natural contrast, giving photographers the ability to capture more perfectly exposed images, even in unusual lighting conditions. Active D-Lighting lets photographers choose from various intensities during capture, while a new Automatic mode also applies varying levels of D-Lighting as, and when needed, to enhance photos while shooting.

Enhanced Live View modes and viewfinder

Ideal for studio, remote applications and more, Nikon’s Live View allows the photographer to compose the subject on the bright three-inch, TFT LCD monitor. In Handheld mode, the user is able to recompose the frame prior to actual shooting; familiar TTL phase-detection AF is activated, using all 51 AF points. Tripod mode is designed for precise focus accuracy with still subjects and tripod stabilization. It enables focal-plane contrast-detect AF on a desired point within a specific area. Remote view, focusing and shooting can also be controlled from a PC (via connection or wireless) using the optional Nikon Camera Control Pro 2 software. Additionally, the Virtual Horizon feature on the D700 can now be superimposed over the Live View monitor image to aid composition.

While using Live View to compose or review images and settings, users will appreciate the ultra-high resolution 920,000-dot VGA, three-inch TFT LCD monitor with tempered glass that provides a wide 170-degree viewing angle. The large monitor is remarkably effective when confirming the focus with enlarged playback images. The camera also outputs a video signal to an HD television using the new smaller HDMI-C standard, which is an excellent solution for workshop demonstrations or shooting tethered for clients.

Photographers will also be able to compose images easily using the wide and bright viewfinder that features an eye-level pentaprism with high refraction index and provides a 95 percent frame coverage with 0.72x magnification. Each of the 51 AF points, as well as a framing grid, can also be superimposed on the finder screen to suit the photographer’s personal preferences.

Rugged construction and durability

High-strength magnesium alloy is used for the construction of the camera body, rear body and mirror box to create a precision platform, reduce weight and provide rugged durability. The camera is tested to stand up to the rigors of the globetrotting photographer and is weather sealed using precision O-rings where connections are made to effectively combat dust and moisture.

The shutter unit employs an assembly made of a new composite carbon fiber and Kevlar hybrid material. Tested on fully assembled cameras, the D700’s shutter unit has been proven through 150,000 cycles under demanding conditions. The self-diagnostic shutter constantly monitors and maintains shutter precision to ensure peak performance.

Price and availability

The new FX-format Nikon D700 D-SLR camera will be available late July 2008, and will have an estimated selling price of $2,999.95 (body only).

Our Take

The announcement of the D700 fills a huge hole in the Nikon model lineup. The $5000 full-frame D3 and $1800 crop-sensor D300 have both been extremely well-received. However, there was nothing in-between, and the D700 fills that void nicely. As Nikon’s second, and most affordable, FX (full-frame) model the D700 should sell very well – at least until the launch of Canon’s replacement for the aging 5D. 

Nikon’s new models at the top have clearly out-shined the best from Canon. The 40D has been left to fight for market share on price, and the superb $8000 1Ds Mark III has lost many recent sales to the cheaper D3 with its remarkable performance to ISO 25600. At the top this has been a down-cycle for Canon, but it is likely a cycle and not the last battle in a war. At the entry level most would concede that the new Canon entry models – the XSi and 1000D just introduced in Europe are much stronger than the warmed over D60 and an aging D80 that is looking very short on features these days. As an aside the entry Canon 1000D will make its way to the US around September, but it will be called the Canon XS. 

All of this will likely turn upside down again this September at Photokina in Germany. Photokina is still an every other year show, and the big guns like Canon and Nikon usually reserve big announcements for this show. The replacement for the Canon 5D is expected, and we will likely see a new Nikon replacement for the D80 with new bells and whistles gleaned from the D300. There will be many other surprises as well.

This brings us to the larger issue of the D700, and that is why is Nikon introducing the D700 now? This model was expected, but it was not expected until Photokina or later. Nikon could just be trying to strike again at Canon market share in a pre-emptive strike. Or Nikon could know or expect that the 5D replacement will be so good that it will hurt their D3 sales and cut into any sales of of a new lower-priced full-frame like the D700. In that situation you get the camera out first to capture sales while you can.

We don’t really know which scenario is the case, or if either is. We do know something unusual is going on to bring the D700 to market now. Either way the D700 is a really nice new choice in the full-frame DSLR market. Those who wanted a D3 but who didn’t want to spend $5000 or lug around a big, heavy speed demon will flock to the D700. It answers all their concerns and accelerates the move of the Professional DSLR market to the full-frame, no-crop-factor sensor.