The new Nikon Df is a delicious looking camera, beautifully
styled in traditional late '70s early '80s camera garb. Just like my favorite two Nikon film cameras,
the F3 and FE2.
Inside it is basically a D4 in a lighter body. So who will buy it? I doubt a pro will; however cashed up
amatuers who shot film on Nikon cameras in their younger years are prime
targets. Those who appreciate classic
styling in a modern body and wish to reminise about their photography from 30+
years ago.
That's a generation ahead of me, but I appreciate old
cameras - I now have a dozen or so, including 4 Leicas - and its also why I
like the classic styling of my Fuji X100.
The specs are interesting too. Nikon chose to use the lower resolution D4
sensor, rather than the higher resolution D600 or D800 sensors. This 16MP sensor does have exceptional low
light performance, with 200,000+ ISO capability and is also the lightest full
frame Nikon available. Clearly a camera
designed for you to go out and take pictures, rather than photographing test
charts.
One feature I really like is the external wheel dedicated to
ISO. This is an excellent feature, as
it is one of the controls I use the most.
One thing that is a little odd is the combination of a Nikon 50mm f1.8
with slightly retro styling. Sure its a
good lens, but its kinda basic. What
about the new 58mm f1.4 instead? That
seems like it would be a killer combination with this camera, if not quite
expensive at $4,500 or so.
Would I buy a Df? If
I could afford it, in a heart beat!
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| Nikon D600 - Tamron 24-135mm f3.5-5.6 |
I must disagree about the styling. I think it's kind of ugly, especially looking directly from the front. I like the look of the F3. This camera reminds me of the FA I briefly had, except the FA is better looking :)
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