Nikon D700 12.1MP Digital SLR Camera with 24-120mm f/3.5-5.6G ED IF VR Nikkor Zoom Lens

I purchased the Nikon D700 about three weeks ago now and it is an awesome camera. My previous frame of reference is my four year old Canon 20D and the D700 beats the Canon on every front. The added dynamic range of the Nikon's full-frame sensor means most photos are well exposed - including the sky and shadows. Often only minor adjustments are required post camera (I use Lightroom 2). I've also found that the autofocus on the Nikon D700 is light years ahead of the Canon. Focusing is not a problem. Then there is the low light performance of the Nikon D700. Wow! Indoor photography without flash is now possible. I purchased my D700 in a kit with Nikon's 24-120 mm zoom lense with vibration reduction. The vibration reduction combined with the ability to shoot at higher ISO settings means photos of moving subjects can be shot at higher shutter speeds - resulting in less blur. Overall, I am very satisfied with the D700.

I'm upgrading from a D200. By comparison, the low light capability is outstanding and the image quality is even better. Highly recommended. I didn't sell my first born for the D700 but it would be arguably worth it. :)

I have taken photographs for more than 30 years and have used a D3 for the past 8 months after using a D2hs for several years.

I had the opportunity to use a D700 today. A friend had purchased this camera and I was helping her get acquainted with its functions.

I must say, I was VERY disappointed. Its playback function is inferior when reviewing shots, and its overall ease of use just doesn't compare to the D3. Now, I agree it shouldn't be as good as the D3, its a 1500 or 1600 $s cheaper than the D3, but for $3000, I expected more of a professional model; It isn't. I could give a couple thousand words and introduce issue after issue that I have with this camera, but what for?

Let me just say, don't buy the D700 thinking you are getting a professional type of camera, you aren't. Don't get the D700 thinking you are getting anything but what you are getting: a VERY cheap, inferior version of the D3.

I'll let others proclaim this cameras greatness, but for me. . .its junk.

Sorry



In response to Jun Shikano, (Japan), your response is nonsensical and delusional. To say, infer or boast that the performance of the 700 is on par with the 3 is just laughable. It's like saying the Volkswagon Beetle's performance is on par with a S-class Mercedes. . . I don't want to break the bubble of delusion you have surrounded yourself with, concerning your inferior DSL, but I will since you have basically lied about the comparison.

The 700 is a good camera if you are a rank amature and don't know any better, but if anyone wants consistent professional mechanics and output, they won't choose such a inferior machine. You may evan occasionally get GREAT shots with the 700, but no one is going to risk their livelihood on substandard junk-which is what the 700 is-in comparison to the 3.

I am sorry you are so delusional, but, frankly you are, IMO.

The title says it all - fantastic camera, awful lens. I give the D700 5 stars with no reservations, but the 24-120 lens is a shame for Nikon and should have never even be allowed into production. The lens is designed to be unsharp and have significant distortions and no amount of stopping down can improve the situation. The only positive thing I can say about it is that the tonal reproduction is great,
I returned this combo and bought D700 body only.

I've owned it for over a month now and this seems to be the digital SLR I've wanted since I stopped using my old Nikon F. I have owned the D200 and D300, but as expected, this surpasses all. You really need to look through the viewfinder to appreciate the beauty of full frame. It is as if someone turned on the light. And with a fast lens, it is so much brighter than a cropped sensor camera. I added Nikon's magnifying eyepiece and rubber cup - as a result I use autofocus a lot less.
The other aspect that sets this camera apart is its ability to render color. It is hard to articulate, but there is a certain "rightness" to the colors.
There are too many features to discuss, but one that I really have come to appreciate is auto ISO. In low light situations, the full frame sensor is simply masterful at letting you shoot at ISO 3200 when needed.
This camera cries out for good glass. Do not put a cheap lens on this camera! Not only will it expose any fault a lens has, but you will cheat yourself out of the superb results this camera will yield. I splurged for the 24-70 f2.8, and it is a marvelous lens, very sharp and contrasty, albeit large, somewhat ostentatious and heavy. I am getting some unwanted "that's a big camera" comments. It is not a kit for times when discretion is needed. If you want the ultimate portrait camera, this paired with the 85mm f1.4 or 1.8 would be it. Great job Nikon!