Nikon Digital SLR Guide

Nikon D800 / D800E 36-Megapixel Full Frame DSLR

Nikon’s highest resolution camera body to date, the D800 features an amazing 36.3-megapixel full-frame CMOS image sensor that delivers maximum quality imagery and broadcast grade video. Designed for the commercial or landscape photographers who demand the absolute highest resolution still photography, the D800 is also aimed at filmmakers and media professionals who require the mobility and lightweight aspects of a compact HD DSLR.

The tradeoff for this extreme resolution is that it’s limited to shooting at only 4 FPS (if you add the accessory grip it can shoot up to 6 FPS). Another tradeoff is that with 75MB full resolution RAW files, a D800 might also require a few new hard drives, and possibly even a new computer.

The D800E is identical to the D800, with the exception of a different configuration of the optical low pass filter that sits in front of the sensor. The D800E offers a slight increase in image sharpness, but with the risk of moiré and false color reproduction when shooting some subjects.

Nikon D800 Intro >>

Price: $2999
36.3-megapixel FX format (full-frame) CMOS sensor
EXPEED 3 image processing
1080p HD video at 30 or 24 frames per second and 60 FPS at 720p
Stereo headphone jack, stereo mic jack and 30-step in-camera audio levels control
Full time auto focus in video mode
Built-in intervalometer with in-camera with in-camera time-lapse video output
Same 51-point auto focus system as the D4
Sensitivity from ISO 100 to 6400, expandable to ISO 50 and ISO 25,600 (Hi-2)
91,000 pixel 3D Matrix Metering system
4 frames per second burst (6 frames per second with battery pack)
3.2-inch 921k-dot LCD display
Built-in pop-up flash
Weather-sealed magnesium alloy body