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Nikon D700 12.1MP FX-Format CMOS Digital SLR Camera with 3.0-Inch LCD (Body Only) (OLD MODEL)
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Purchase options and add-ons
Brand | Nikon |
Model Name | Nikon D700 12.1MP FX-Format CMOS Digital SLR Camera with 3.0-Inch LCD |
Maximum Webcam Image Resolution | 12.1 MP |
Photo Sensor Size | Full Frame (35mm) |
Image Stabilization | None |
Max Shutter Speed | 1/8000 seconds |
Min Shutter Speed | 30 seconds |
Metering Description | Multi, Center-weighted, Average, Spot |
Exposure Control Type | aperture-priority, bulb, shutter-priority, Manual, Automatic |
Form Factor | Mid-size SLR |
About this item
- 12.1-megapixel FX-format (23.9 x 36mm) CMOS sensor; body only
- 3.0-inch, 920,000-dot VGA color monitor; 170-degree wide-angle viewing and tempered-glass protection
- Fast, accurate 51-point AF system; 3D Focus Tracking and two Live View shooting modes
- Base ISO range from 200-6400 can be expanded to range from ISO 100 (Lo-1) to 25,600 (Hi-2); 0.12-second start-up speed
- Capture images to CF I/II cards; compliant high-speed UDMA CF cards that will enable recording speeds up to 35 megabytes/second
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This Item Nikon D700 12.1MP FX-Format CMOS Digital SLR Camera with 3.0-Inch LCD (Body Only) (OLD MODEL) | Recommendations | dummy | dummy | dummy | dummy | |
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Price | $398.00$398.00 | $1,799.00$1,799.00 | $959.95$959.95 | $1,696.95$1,696.95 | $839.99$839.99 | $699.99$699.99 |
Delivery | Get it as soon as Tuesday, Apr 2 | Get it as soon as Thursday, Mar 28 | Get it as soon as Tomorrow, Mar 27 | Get it as soon as Tomorrow, Mar 27 | Get it as soon as Sunday, Mar 31 | Get it Apr 3 - 5 |
Customer Ratings | ||||||
Picture quality | 4.6 | 4.6 | 4.6 | 4.6 | 4.2 | 3.9 |
Battery life | 5.0 | 4.2 | 4.7 | 4.4 | 5.0 | — |
Auto focus | 4.7 | — | 4.7 | 4.6 | 4.2 | 4.0 |
For landscape photography | 4.6 | 4.6 | — | 4.7 | 4.8 | — |
Quality of material | 3.5 | — | 4.5 | 4.6 | 4.2 | — |
Sold By | Akiyacamera | Wholesale Photo | Electronics Basket | Green's Camera World | BYDEALS | Willoughby's Established 1898 |
display type | LCD | LCD | LCD | LED | LCD | LCD |
display size | 3 inches | 3.2 inches | 3.2 inches | 3.2 inches | 3 inches | 2 inches |
lens type | interchangeable | not included | Interchangeable | Close-Up | zoom | zoom |
zoom type | — | Optical Zoom | — | Digital Zoom, Optical Zoom | Optical | Optical |
shooting modes | LiveView shooting: Handheld mode, Tripod mode | Landscape, High dynamic rang, Portrait | Photography Live View mode, Movie Live View mode | Movie mode, burst mode, manual mode | Landscape, Advanced Scene Modes, Manual, High Key, Shutter-Priority Auto (S), Night Portrait, Portrait, Blossom, Candlelight, Dusk / Dawn, Party / Indoor, Night Landscape, U2 (user setting 2), Low Key, Close-up, Autumn Colors, Silhouette, Sunset, Automatic, Beach / Snow, Food, Child, Aperture Priority, Sports, Programmed Auto with flexible Program (P) | Landscape, Portrait, Close-up, Night Portrait, Children, Sports |
connectivity tech | HDMI, USB | HDMI, USB | HDMI, USB | HDMI, USB | USB 2.0 A/V out HDMI Mic input GPS connection | USB |
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Product information
Auto Focus Technology | Phase Detection, Selective single-point, Multi-area, Single, Continuous, Live View |
---|---|
Display Resolution Maximum | 922,000 |
Photo Sensor Size | Full Frame (35mm) |
Photo Sensor Technology | CMOS |
Effective Still Resolution | 12.87 MP |
Maximum Webcam Image Resolution | 12.1 MP |
White balance settings | Auto |
JPEG quality level | Basic, Fine, Normal |
Camera Flash | Built-In |
Image Stabilization | None |
Flash Sync Speed | 1/250_sec |
Supported Image Format | JPEG; DCF 2.0, DPOF and Exif 2.21 compliant |
Video Capture Format | FHD 1080p |
Video Capture Resolution | FHD 1080p |
Video Standard | MPEG 4 |
Viewfinder Magnification | 0.72x |
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Viewfinder Type | Optical |
Screen Size | 3 Inches |
Display Type | LCD |
Model Name | Nikon D700 12.1MP FX-Format CMOS Digital SLR Camera with 3.0-Inch LCD |
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Brand | Nikon |
Model Number | 25444 |
Customer Reviews |
4.2 out of 5 stars |
Best Sellers Rank | #195,067 in Electronics (See Top 100 in Electronics) #317 in DSLR Cameras |
ASIN | B001BTCSI6 |
Number of Items | 1 |
Color | Black |
Included Components | カメラボディのみ |
Assembly Required | No |
Age Range (Description) | Adult |
Processor Description | Expeed |
Item Dimensions LxWxH | 5.79 x 3.03 x 4.84 inches |
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Item Weight | 2.37 Pounds |
Warranty Type | Limited |
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Warranty & Support
Feedback
Lens Type | interchangeable |
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Optical Zoom | 5 x |
Real Angle of View | 170 Degrees |
Autofocus Points | 51 |
Camera Lens Description | Lens not included; Nikon F-mount accommodates a wide range of AF lenses |
Compatible Mountings | Nikon F (FX) |
Focus Type | Automatic with Manual |
Maximum Focal Length | 1.5 Millimeters |
Expanded ISO Maximum | 25600 |
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Expanded ISO Minimum | 100 |
Max Shutter Speed | 1/8000 seconds |
Min Shutter Speed | 30 seconds |
Exposure Control Type | aperture-priority, bulb, shutter-priority, Manual, Automatic |
Metering Description | Multi, Center-weighted, Average, Spot |
Light Sensitivity | ISO 200-6400, ISO 100, ISO 12800, ISO 25600 |
Shooting Modes | LiveView shooting: Handheld mode, Tripod mode |
Batteries Required? | Yes |
---|---|
Number of Batteries | 1 Lithium Metal batteries required. (included) |
Are Batteries Included | Yes |
Rechargeable Battery Included | No |
Battery Cell Composition | Lithium Ion |
Battery Description | Lithium-Ion EN-EL3e rechargeable battery & charger |
Battery Weight | 50 Grams |
Battery Life | 1000 Photos |
Removable Memory | CompactFlash |
Target Gender | Unisex |
Connectivity Technology | USB, HDMI |
Continuous Shooting Speed | 5.09 |
Wireless Communication Technology | None |
Flash Memory Type | Compact Flash (Type I) |
Memory Slots Available | 1 CompactFlash© (CF) card |
Memory Storage Capacity | 32 GB |
Special Feature | 920,000-dot VGA color LCD with 170° wide-angle viewing |
Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant |
Skill Level | Professional |
Specific Uses For Product | Photography |
Supported Audio Format | JPEG; DCF 2.0, DPOF and Exif 2.21 compliant |
Form Factor | Mid-size SLR |
Hardware Interface | AV Port |
Audio Recording | Yes |
Photo Sensor Technology | CMOS |
GPS | Optional |
Product Description
Product Description
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 6400.1-Year Manufacturers Limited Warranty.
From the Manufacturer
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 Nikons 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, Nikons 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 Nikons sophisticated Scene Recognition System and a new active dust reduction system.
Nikons 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 D700 Digital SLR Highlights
The legendary Nikon FX-Format CMOS sensor The D700s 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 Nikons first self-cleaning system designed for the FX-format sensor. Utilizing four distinct vibration frequencies, the D700 frees image degrading dust particles from the sensors 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. Nikons 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. Nikons 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 subjects 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. Nikons 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, Nikons 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 photographers 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 D700s 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.
Nikon D700 Digital SLR: Highly recommended by dpreview.com When we reviewed Nikon's first full-frame DSLR, the D3, in April this year we said it was 'possibly the most compelling, capable and well-rounded professional digital SLR ever made.' Only three months later Nikon announced another full-frame camera with the D700. The new model's 'compact' dimensions and much more affordable price tag make it a more appealing proposition than the D3 to many professional photographers and serious amateurs alike but can it keep up the high standards that have been set by its bigger brother?
›Read the full Nikon D700 digital SLR review at dpreview.com
Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers like the image quality, quality and lighting of the camera. For example, they mention it produces nice images, phenomenal, excellent pictures indoor or outdoor, and captures detail and color like film. The body feels very solid and is super reliable. Customers are also impresseded with the low light performance, saying it does a superb job in both low light and high contrast situations. They say it's an amazing value for the money and well worth the wait. Customers also appreciate the autofocus speed and accuracy, saying the speed is good.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers are satisfied with the image quality of the camera. They mention that it produces nice images, phenomenal in low light situations, and excellent pictures indoor or outdoor. It captures detail and color like film, and produces more natural looking images. The images are brighter than their eyes see them, and smoother with less noise. They also say that the camera is perfect for wedding photographers and ideal for taking indoor photos when it's dark.
"...Like its big brother Nikon D3, D700 has incredible clean image at high ISO setting, 51 AF points with several tracking modes include 3D tracking...." Read more
"...Unless you're always shooting in the dark with no flash, images are clean up to ISO 3200 and still usable at ISO 6400 with the proper exposure and..." Read more
"...from my DX D60 (jpegs only) - and looking at fine detail, the image is much smoother and the noise much less, just as one would hope...." Read more
"...I may stick with my D200 for awhile, as it still works great an produces nice images...." Read more
Customers are satisfied with the quality of the camera. They mention that it is well-made, has great materials, and is super reliable. The body feels very solid, and the built is like a tank. The camera is in excellent shape, with almost no wear and tear could be seen cosmetically. The standard Nikon quality is not new, but shooting at high ISOs with no noise is.
"...D700 body feels very solid and made by magnesium alloy body. It has textured rubber in the grip area...." Read more
"...Though the rest of the camera is designed and built tight and solid.All in all, I am extremely happy with the D700!..." Read more
"...Super reliable. Never a glitch, or a hiccup at any events I have shot. You can't go wrong with this beast.UPDATED: 3/10/2010:WOW...." Read more
"...What a huge difference. The weight, solid feel, control feel, all are top notch on the D700 (and assuming the D300s as well)...." Read more
Customers like the value of the camera. They mention that it's amazing value for the money, saves them money, and is the most inexpensive full frame sensor Nikon produces at the moment.
"...Overall this is great camera, with a great price of this class.Subjective Rating - Relative to competitors..." Read more
"...oil spots on the sensor, but on paper, the D600 is a great full frame camera for the money. Pro's may consider one as a backup body...." Read more
"...All in all, I am extremely happy with the D700! It is so worth the price. (I paid a little over 2 grand as of 12/08)" Read more
"...It's worth the extra cash...." Read more
Customers are impressed with the lighting of the camera. They say it does a superb job in both low light and high contrast situations. The camera produces incredible results under changing light conditions. The viewfinder is significantly brighter, and the lighting looks absolutely flawless.
"...It is great in bright or extremely low light. I will say it is all-around camera. The image quality is fantastic...." Read more
"...Although it works ok in regular Auto mode, the exposures are a touch off when shooting portraits compared to identical shots paired with the D100..." Read more
"...Composing shots is A LOT more comfortable and the viewfinder is significantly brighter...." Read more
"...close second to the D3, pics once setup are quite similar, it works well in low-light, and also I am happy to just take a walk with it in auto mode,..." Read more
Customers are satisfied with the performance of the camera. They mention that the autofocus speed and accuracy is great, the auto focus is quick, and the image quality is excellent. The continuous shooting speed is good at 5 fps, and it has a quick response. The quality is awesome and the performance at high ISO is superb. The build is superior and the autofocusing tracking is pretty snappy.
"...D700 has continuous shooting speed are good (5 fps), but when you attached the battery grip, it becomes 8 fps, which is great for sports or wildlife...." Read more
"...everything about it was perfect for me: Full frame, made in Japan, performance, speed, size, lightweight yet beefy construction...." Read more
"...Better high ISO performance up to 6400. I really like taking photos at night and that is what pushed me to get this camera...." Read more
"...1. Superior build2. Better autofocus..." Read more
Customers like the noise reduction of the camera. They mention that it offers top-class, low noise hi ISO image quality. The shutter is quieter than F100 and auto focus tracking is pretty. They also say that the sound is very distinct and that the low light AF and noise is much better than D90 or D7000.
"...The noise in Nikon looks more natural compared to camera of other brand...." Read more
"...- and looking at fine detail, the image is much smoother and the noise much less, just as one would hope...." Read more
"...Also sound quality is easily superior and conveniently monitored on a dedicated video cam, without the need for some camera frame and a zillion..." Read more
"...The shutter is quieter than F100 (more like F5) and auto focus tracking is pretty snappy and dead on...." Read more
Customers find the digital camera easy to use. They mention that the menus are very easy to navigate, and the camera has great manual controls. They also appreciate the understandable manual and the superb handling. Overall, customers say the camera is perfect for advanced amateurs and is a great choice for those looking for a simple and effective digital camera.
"...Nevertheless, the control and handling are great, just like Nikon D300. Nikon has different philosophy than other cameras such as Canon...." Read more
"...2. Nice understandable manual, which is not always true with Japanese cameras...." Read more
"...More buttons! Making changes is much easier and you don't have to dig through menus if you want to change something...." Read more
"...The menus are very easy to navigate and setup your custom settings for different subject and lighting conditions...." Read more
Customers like the picture quality of the camera. They mention that the high resolution is pretty good, the images are clean at ISO 1600, and very usable at ISO 3200. They appreciate the higher image sharpness, and the fact that it's a full frame DSLR with a big LCD screen.
"...The great image quality in high ISO is due to Nikon full frame sensor which has only 12 megapixel and software that control the chroma/color noise..." Read more
"...Yes, I repeat myself. I just love this camera so much. Images are clean at ISO 1600, and very usable at ISO 3200...." Read more
"...It reminded me of Canons..whose high resolution are pretty good but soft in low light...." Read more
"...1. Considerably higher megapixel count2. Higher image sharpness3. Built in HD vid4...." Read more
Reviews with images
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What is special about Nikon D700?
Like its big brother Nikon D3, D700 has incredible clean image at high ISO setting, 51 AF points with several tracking modes include 3D tracking. It shoots 5 fps but can be boost to 8 fps with battery grip attached. Unlike D3, it has compact size but it is not light. It is 995 g.
Body and Handling
Nikon D700's body is similar to Nikon D300 (a crop sensor DSLR camera or DX) in many ways. But of course it has a little bit different here and there. For example. D700 is taller and wider to accommodate larger viewfinder.
D700 body feels very solid and made by magnesium alloy body. It has textured rubber in the grip area. As discussed above, the camera is quite heavy, but it helps to balance the camera especially if you mount it with heavy pro grade lenses.
Although regarded as pro camera, D700 body is not as tough and reliable as top of the line pro camera and some advanced crop sensor camera. There are some irritations for example the rubber side door open up occasionally and the built-in flash also opens up because the flash button is quite sensitive to touch.
Nevertheless, the control and handling are great, just like Nikon D300. Nikon has different philosophy than other cameras such as Canon. Instead pressing button, dial and pressing button again, Nikon requires you to press and hold the button and then dial. It is so to avoid accidental change of setting. There is no more mode dial, but there are so many dedicated buttons for all important camera settings such as ISO, WB, Mode, Metering, Auto focus mode, and many more.
D700 also has top LCD screen like some advanced Nikon cameras (D90, D300), but it is a bit smaller to make room for the viewfinder and flash. So there is no AF points position in the top LCD. But most of the crucial information are there.
The other great thing about the camera is you can program function button and depth of field preview button to other function that you like, it could be activating live view, or set the focus point to center, etc. There wide customization available to suit your shooting style and preferences.
Although this camera has only 95% viewfinder coverage (Both D3 and D300 has 100% coverage), the size of the viewfinder are very big and it will amazed most of people that use crop sensor camera without fail.
Image Quality and Auto ISO
Image quality in high ISO is the best in the world (along with Nikon D3). Images are very clean up to ISO 4000. Image at ISO 6400 is very usable and great in print up to 8' X 11'. The great image quality in high ISO is due to Nikon full frame sensor which has only 12 megapixel and software that control the chroma/color noise out of the image. The noise in Nikon looks more natural compared to camera of other brand.
For pixel peepers (people who likes to zoom in 100% in digital images), you will be very satisfied. D700 is very sharp (depends on the lens too) up to pixel level.
One of my favorite feature of D700 and also Nikon D90 is the Auto ISO limiter. You can effectively limit the ISO and minimum shutter speed. The Auto ISO works very well and accurate most of the time. My favorite way to use this is to set the camera to Auto ISO, and then use Aperture mode and let the camera adjust the rest for me.
LCD Screen
It is 3' LCD Screen with 920k res which is standard for mid range camera in the late 2008 and 2009 camera. It is very detailed and relatively good in bright light condition.
Menu
Like other Nikon cameras, I feel Nikon menu is pretty confusing because they throw all over items regardless if the item is popular item or not. Therefore, it might take you some time to find some of your favorite menu items. To be fair, Nikon has my menu tab, where you can choose and put the menu item in this tab. Overall, I feel menu could be improved. Canon cameras menu for example, is easier, more logical and simple to navigate.
Auto Focus system & Continuous shooting speed
Nikon D700 has 51 AF points. It is the same as Nikon D3 or D300. It has several dynamic tracking modes include 3D tracking which is very fast and accurate. The AF speed varies depend on what kind of Nikon lens you use. Old Nikon lenses usually slower in AF, same as customer grade AF-S lens like 35mm AF-S f/1.8G lens.
D700 has continuous shooting speed are good (5 fps), but when you attached the battery grip, it becomes 8 fps, which is great for sports or wildlife. It cost several hundred more for the grip, but it worth it, because not only you get more frames per second, but it is easier to shoot in portrait mode. The drawback is the entire package becomes bulky and heavy.
Lens compatibility
Investing in FX / full frame Nikon cameras means that you are ready to spend money, not only for the camera, but you need to spare some money to get the lenses as well. As a FX camera, D700 does not compatible with many consumer grade lenses which has "DX" letters attached in the lens name. You can still use DX lenses, but your image will be cropped and you will get only 5 megapixel image. Nikon has several primes that work very well with D700 such as Nikon 50mm f/1.4G, Nikon 35mm f/2D and Nikon 85mm f/1.4D. For zoom lenses, there are Nikon 14-24mm f/2.8, Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8 and Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8 VR.
Most of the lenses above are expensive, but there are some affordable solutions (third party lenses) that cost a lot less, but they are really good for Nikon D700.
Creative Lighting System
Unlike D3 which has no built-in flash, D700 has built in flash. It is due for a reason, to fit in wireless commander features or also called Creative Lighting System (CLS). This system is not perfect because it won't work in certain position and situation, for example in bright daylight, in a great distance, or if the line of sight to the flashes are blocked. However CLS is fun to use and save you money. Nikon D90 also has built-in AF motor so it is compatible with older Nikon AF-D lenses which we often found in fixed focal length lenses / primes.
Competitors
Nikon D700 has three major competitors in compact full frame DSLR class and some competition from crop sensor DSLR class.
In the full frame category, Nikon D700 competes with Canon 5D mark II and Sony A900. 5D mark II has video mode, and 21 MP, but the image is not as clean as D700 in low light, Also, 5D mark II has old auto focus system which is slower and it also have slower 3.9 fps continuous shooting.
Sony A900 has double the resolution of D700, 100% coverage viewfinder and 5 fps continuous shooting. A900 does not have sophisticated AF system and live view.
Photographers that consider to get D700 should also consider Nikon D300/D300s and Canon EOS 7D. They are not only cheaper but have most of the features D700 has. The other benefit of crops sensor camera is the crop factor of 1.5 (Nikon cameras) / 1.6 (Canon cameras) so you get more reach for sports or wildlife. The drawback of crop sensor camera is it won't be have great image quality in high ISO.
Conclusion
Nikon D700 is an very versatile camera for any kind of assignments. It is great for portrait, wedding, sports, photo journalistic assignments. It is great in bright or extremely low light. I will say it is all-around camera. The image quality is fantastic. However, I will not recommend it for travel because it is an heavy camera, and I don't recommend it to use in extreme environment condition because the built quality and seal is not as good as Nikon D3 or Canon 1D series. For outdoor field sports such as football or soccer, you might miss crop sensor DSLR camera because it has extra reach. Overall this is great camera, with a great price of this class.
Subjective Rating - Relative to competitors
* Image Quality: 5/5
* Features: 4/5
* Performance: 5/5
* Body and Handling: 4/5
* Value for money: 4/5
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With the money I've saved (vs. getting a D800), I've been able to add other photography gear like a studio strobe, lighting modifiers, and the AWESOME Nikon 85mm f/1.8 AFS.
I'd eventually like to add a D3S or D800E as a primary (and keep the D700 for a backup camera) in 8-12 months.
For those considering the D600 and D700: if you're a hobbyist, the D600 will probably meet 99% of your needs. It's got a great 24MP sensor, improved high ISO capability, smaller body, dual card slots, movie mode, etc. Basically a mid-range DSLR camera with all the features one would expect in 2012/2013. I can't speak to the quality issues regarding oil spots on the sensor, but on paper, the D600 is a great full frame camera for the money. Pro's may consider one as a backup body.
Where the D700 trumps it is in ergonomics, weather sealing, and autofocus. If any of those matter, then the D700 is still a very strong contender.
Original review: I won't get into the specs, but give my take on how this camera holds up being a generation older than the current competition.
At current used prices it matches up very closely to the new Nikon full frame kid on the block-- D600, although the ergonomics and features of the D700 are closer to the the D800.
The D700's lineage is from the mighty D3 so you're getting essentially the same camera in a smaller body. Slap on the optional hand grip and you can fire away at 8 FPS. The sensor and processor don't quite match up today's semipro DSLRs, but it is still VERY GOOD. Unless you're always shooting in the dark with no flash, images are clean up to ISO 3200 and still usable at ISO 6400 with the proper exposure and post processing. I rarely go up to 3200, so that was no big deal to me.
The only major omission is the lack of a movie mode, though that really wasn't a deal breaker for me. Other features you may miss: No custom modes on the mode dial, single card slot (unlockable), and live view isn't that useful.
It's hard not to get caught up with GAS (Gear Acquisition Syndrome), but you really have to consider that last gen cameras are still capable of producing the same high quality images as any new camera today. Besides, the money saved could be best used for lenses, lighting, and photography lessons.