Canon 5D MK III vs Nikon D800 with Nathan Elson

The Canon 5D MkIII and the Nikon D800 are two of the hottest cameras on the market so we put them to the test in our first of three videos. Local commercial photographer Nathan Elson (www.nathanelson.com) joins up with The Camera Store's Chris Niccolls to see how these two cameras stack up in the image quality department.
Special thanks to Mallory McGowan (www.MalloryMcGowan.com), our stylist for this shoot. Kevin Murray and Mark Langridge for their gracious assistance. Gina Baccari and Alina Cox for being our models, happily working throughout difficult conditions. Special thanks also to Nathan Elson for helping with his photographic expertise and able co-hosting.
Shot and Edited by Jordan Drake
Filmed on the Nikon D4

[@NathanElson]

Sorry I'm not sure what you're asking... The photos in this test were shot under both controlled lighting (in studio) as well as florescent lighting (in parking garage).

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

I initially exported the video in 1080P, but at such a huge length only the 720P version would meet KZbin's upload restrictions. I could compress the 1080P version further, but that would sort of defeat the point. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

That's the nicest thing anyone on KZbin has ever said to us! Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

Part 1 was all shot RAW, and edited in Lightroom 4. Part 2 used the default JPEG compression, but with Noise Reduction turned off on both cameras. Part 3 was shot on Neutral profiles, with sharpening and contrast turned all the way down. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

Yup, I love their Neon Duo support. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@StepphanMcPherson]

Thanks for taking the time to put this together, well done gentlemen !!

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

I always shoot with the flattest profiles possible and then grade the images to my liking in software later. There is a type of look I like, so the images look quite similar regardless of what camera I filmed on. I also try and use large sensor cameras, so the depth of field is usually quite similar shoot to shoot. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

We were analysing the images in Lightroom, which zooms into 100%. Because the Nikon files are higher resolution, the comparison tool zooms in more on the Nikon. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@Lydomina]

This is the best video I've found on these cameras. You really put the cameras through their paces, and the whole time I didn't once feel like I was being pushed either way out of personal bias.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

I used a a Foton Neon Duo camera support. While not a steadicam, it does make using DSLRs for long periods a lot more comfortable and stable. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@fishnose1]

Now, THIS is how a comparative review is done. Kudos, guys.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

The 5D Mark III is a better video camera than the Mk II as you gain a headphone jack, improved audio pre-amp, an option for lower compression, and a 720/60P mode. See part 3 of this series for more detailed information. Jordan @ The Cameras Store TV

[@FinalLugiaGuardian]

So everyone's busy and I'm... I'm Chris Nichols. Lol.

[@mjames978]

Great review, well done, 10years on just purchased a secondhand D800

[@NathanElson]

I get what you're saying, but what I'm telling you is that the actual hi-res files, without the compression of youtube, there are no blown out hot spots, all of the detail is retained for both cameras. Regardless of how expensive your monitor is, youtube is messing with the highlights and shadows that you see here :)

[@NathanElson]

Images were imported directly into LR 4.1. No other software was used before viewing the RAW files, and no adjustments were made.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

KZbin's file size limit wouldn't let me upload a reasonably compressed 1080P version of this ridiculously long video. A decently compressed 720P version is better than a 1080P version with dancing pixels. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@NathanElson]

Its the manfrotto 804RC2 and I prefer to be able to control my up/down and side-to-side movements independently as opposed to a ball head that just moves all over the place.

[@dksculpture]

A very good comparison. The high quality of the studio work gives credibility to the entire review.

[@appacana]

Guys, you have just kicked DigitalRev, Jared Polin, Dombower in the nuts with this video. Very awesome.

[@NathanElson]

The light leak issue doesn't actually affect the final exposure, and it also only comes into play when doing super long exposures, which obviously based on a review shooting these cameras in a portrait situation, isn't a factor. So yes, in a portrait situation, they are very comparable cameras.

[@iSOBigD]

Great review so far, guys. Looking forward to the other 2 videos!

[@Wishwader]

Great comparison of the two cameras. Clearly a lot of effort went into finding the pros and cons of both.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

You're in better hands now! The cameralabs test only analyzed JPEG capture, we looked at RAW quality. Our upcoming second video was shot in JPEG, and from what we've seen, cameralabs seems to be onto something... Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@ThanujaLRupasinghe]

Thank you very much Jordan...

[@97adhib]

dude you guys really need to start making more videos, your videos are so in depth and just so good, yet you put videos up like every month! MORE VIDEOS!

[@BrianCarey]

Thanks Guys!

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

I haven't shot a project on the D800 yet. The upcoming D800 vs 5D III shootout will have my full review though. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@mp4podcastDOTcom]

When you check the ideo mode please check for moire and aliasing thank you.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

Just google 'Nathan Elson switch' and his detailed blog entry will show up. Message me if you need the link. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

Only your UK trip includes a stopover in the Great White North.. We're based in sunny Calgary, Canada. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@FalloutConspiracy]

I'm enjoying these reviews Chris!. They're very in-depth and thorough giving us a clearer picture of the product. Subscribed!

[@rjcss1974]

Thanks for the great comparison. The best that I've seen till now! Can't wait to see the next two! Keep up the great work. Cheers!

[@NathanElson]

Its not zoomed in more, its zoomed in at 100% for both photos based on their resolution. The higher resolution of the D800 makes for a larger image at 100%.

[@lapalala98]

Best comparison video, can't wait to see part 2 and 3.

[@hanstaufilm]

Digitalrev = more entertainment but less knowledge, Thecamerastore = Knowledge and entertainment are on the same level :) both channel are good, its just that I prefer this channel more

[@ShawnDickens]

Why is this video only mid resolution? The idea of looking at 22MP and 36MP images on a 2MP (1080p) video is not ideal, but what is the MP of 720p video? This is one of the first videos I've seen in years that didn't lag while loading, so it's nice that youtube could finally load it's content on demand.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

Nikkor 24mm F1.4. Most of the filming in the studio was with this lens. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@NathanElson]

I could really say whatever I wanted, which is why they asked me to do the video :) There are no repercussions to any opinion that I have, and I'm a Nikon shooter (and actually so is Chris a.k.a. the other guy). Canon just happened to make a really good camera, and I think they are pretty on par with one another. All I can be is honest about it. Cheers

[@fernanddurler4709]

Surely we should be looking at the respective lens quality and differences used?

[@Taogunner]

very nice and insightful ... no bias honestly

[@maxxandlouie]

I've seen them all... THIS IS SO FAR, THE BEST COMPARISON REVIEW MADE, between the two cameras, WAY BETTER THAN THE CHINESE GUY, THE FRO HEAD AND THOSE GUYS WITH THE HEAVY ACCENTS! Thank you!

[@NathanElson]

I'll agree 100% with this. I do plan on shooting in a much more high contrast situation to get a true feel for the DR.

[@niccollsvideo]

We tried to keep parity as much as possible with 24-70 2.8s and the latest 70-200 2.8s from both companies. In the store we only had a Canon 1.2 50mm so we put that up against the Nikkor AF-s 50mm 1.4. Not the same but close. Most shooting was with the 70-200.

[@CRANKYONE100]

As much as i love watching DigitalRev for a laugh, their not much chop when it comes to proper analysis/comaprisons of cameras. So thanks for being the first team to do it properly .IMAGES, IMAGES is what we want!!...cheers Canucks!

[@Rye042]

great job guys, this really breaks down both the strengths and weakness of the cameras, and the bonus video review of d4 is great!!! Awesome!

[@kenyee88]

looking forward to the video test...nicely done w/ this comparison.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

No this video was filmed at 30 fps, the smooth movement comes from shooting at a natural 1/60th second shutter speed. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@biffy7]

Excellent video guys. The pacing (editing) is just right. Congrats.

[@mokhtarchahine]

Interesting, Thank you Nathan. Wonderful work on this video and in your portfolio. Truly enjoyed them both.

[@NathanElson]

Yes, but at that point in the video we were looking to see how much detail was IN the shadows, so how much shadow was on the face, or not on the face, is kind of a moot point.

[@HesselFolkertsma]

I have to agree, I generally really like DRtv (used to be in one of their competitions) but CameraStoreTV does a perfect blend between information and humor. Keep it up guys!

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

I'm bad at my job. It was a sound mixing issue. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

The light leak issue is insanely minor. If you are doing very long exposures in pitch black situations it will effect exposure. I think the D800 and 5D III should be compared as they are the current entry level full-frame DSLRs from the two largest producers. The D800 has its issues as well. Trust me, I'll bring them up in part 3. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@niccollsvideo]

You got it Xeno. Our next video in the series is going to focus on action photography and we should have lots of dark shadows and crappy light to deal with. We'll make sure to revisit this topic and push the files hard. Thanks for your input. Chris Niccolls

[@XuandePD]

You say it like it's a bad thing. They're making an informative video for people already interested in the cameras, and hoping they will buy the gear from The Camera Store instead of elsewhere. They're also helping customers make better informed choices. I don't see what the problem is.

[@holockcreateinc]

Been waiting for you guys to do a review on the D800 for so long!!! Great vid!!! Fantastic! Even as a big fan of Digitalrev, I mean you guys really rock and are the best at the moment by FAR in providing camera analysis and reviews! Keep up the good work!! Cheers!

[@YannickKhong]

Chris, I wish could provide a link to you guys about pulling out shadows out of dark areas on both cameras. I'm sure you will find the 5dmkIII to show a lot more color casts when doing so.

[@AlmightyUniden]

The only thing I would say about the high ISO is that in low light where almost no light is hitting the sensor, the 5D mark 3 is a lot cleaner. I'm saying that from personal experience. However when the scenes are set up with enough lights that there are no total shadows, both are good.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

Finally! Someone has elevated the level of discourse!

[@PhilippeClairo]

Shooting at ISO 25,000 (or so) isn't about being able to print at this point, but being able to shoot an image! I'm sure some journalists out there will benefit from it, so that the shot is in the can, but not always in your fashion mag! Having said that, glad to see both cameras at work in realistic situations, as always, great job!

[@JohnMacLeanPhotography]

A couple more things, since I just finished watching. 1. What Camera Calibration settings in LR4 did you use for each body? 2. The stairwell shots from both cameras seemed to be far-focused past her face. Was that intentional, or did the cameras miss the target? Thanks for putting this video up! John MacLean

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

All Nathan's shot were captured in RAW. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@FalloutConspiracy]

Lol @ "Everybody's working really hard. I'm uhhh.. Well I'm Chris Nicols." Idk why but that made me laugh.

[@iSOBigD]

They're cameras meant for taking pictures. They're semi-pro to pro models, not pocket-sized consumer ones. Their main goal is amazing image quality, that's why they have the larger sensor. Both Nikon and Canon have other cameras at 16/18 MP which are 1/3 of the price or less and again, deliver great images and video. If your goal is fitting a camera in your pocket, then from that point of view, all DSLRs suck, yes.

[@GabrielMora-VOX_Photography]

Thanks guys for this amazing video/review. Totally awesome, love to hear non-biased perspectives and down to Earth attitude. Great job.

[@AyshaRemeithiStudio]

This is my favorite episode you guys did! Very informative and it was nice to see Jordan infront of the lens this time :) I am glad to know that Canon fixed the focus issue on the latest 5DMKIII.

[@2SHOTDAVE]

Why is it every time they zoom the nikon side is closer, making it better to see detail?

[@madanmdaniel]

Amazing reviews...fantastic work. Definitely the most professionally done comparison review that I have seen so far...looking forward to the next review in this series. By the way...I also think that both are amazing cameras and a giant leap into the future.

[@GordonBurnsVideo]

Thanks guys - that was a good balanced comparison. I would agree that overall there's not a great deal of differenec between the two. Either camera is pretty amazing. I own a D800 and appear to have a back focus issue which is being looked at by Nikon right now. That said I trust it will be sorted and I will be delighted with it. You missed out doing a video test between the cameras and that one is an interesting debate too.

[@Annettely]

Although the 5d mark ii is more useful for still photo shooting would it still be better for video film (moving pictures) as well since we dont need instant focusing?

[@yobmas722]

"everyone is working really hard, and uhm im chris niccolls".. xD lol the best line in the video so far

[@wonderwall135]

fyi for the outdoor part at 7:24 - 8:00 the audio only comes through the right speaker.

[@NathanElson]

I totally see it.

[@CaptRB]

I own a rather expensive monitor and it's calibrated. Look at the models' highlights. The D800 is retaining more detail, while the 5D3 is losing them due to DR. This is a very good view of the difference, or imagine a wedding scene in sunlight with blacks and whites in bright light. The D800 has the advantage and it's been noted virtually everywhere, but ignored here. Doing portrait/candid shooting this is not a small thing.

[@fleetingdays]

Thank you Chris and Mallory! If I didn't have so much Canon Glass, I would consider a Nikon.

[@TheLittleWorldofGaz]

really nice review, I agree with what you said about the cameras. Nikon has the edge on MP, canon AF is a tad better but both are great cameras. No arguing, if you're a canon shooter the mk3 is the natural progression for you, nikon guy the d800 is your next camera and that's how it'll be in 99% of situations.

[@dfdtdfdx]

Please continue filming with D4. Low light shot was amazing with D4, can't get those types of shot with D800.

[@NathanElson]

Like I said in the video, in my opinion, there is no reason for either Canon or Nikon shooters to consider switching camps. Both of these cameras are awesome for portrait work :)

[@averageguy1261]

Wow, everyone looks so young. Jordan has so much hair!

[@NathanElson]

It was shot on a white background, not a green screen, as previously stated :) I would know, I took the photo.

[@kauxkaux]

Thaaaaaaaks a lot for your refreshing, real world, not pidel measurebating reviews!

[@ofboriken]

Around the 7 min mark, right when they go out side and you can see the boom mike, I lost sound. What happened?

[@DJChuckB2009]

Awesome. Thank you guys!

[@profgerwinmeneses]

ILL BE WAITING FOR THE PART 3 .. THANKS A LOT FOR THIS INFORMATIONAL VIDEO.. 2 THUMBS UP

[@bjrnsolum9801]

Thank you for the tip, and will probably buy Nikon D800E soon :)

[@dswatson83]

How did you process the Canon raw files. There are noted issues with the software Canon provided. The software is heavily softening the images though there are several methods to get around this. You may need to revisit these with Lightroom 4.1 with Canon support depending on what you used.

[@Pjotrpost]

Thanks guy's, These are in my opinion definitely the best comparing video's between these two camera's. No BS and stupid trying to be funny comparisons, like the geek from digitalrev. I was thinking about switching to Nikon, but this video changed my mind and i'm gonne save some money for the mark iii. Although i do not like the fact Canon is so much more expensive than Nikon :P

[@ExotiqBeautii]

omg, you guys have the best review! im tired of looking for picture quality tests and running into videos that take pictures of circles and building windows. i understand they want to show the sharpness, but i want to be able to see how they translate with glamour and portraits.

[@cooloox]

What you really need to do is test the cameras yourself. Canon and Nikon cameras produce excellent images and no one will know which camera took which shot when you mix them up and drop them on a table. Therefore, the critical decider as to which camera to buy is which feels better in YOUR hands, which is the fastest and most logical to operate for how YOU think, which focuses fastest and most accurately, which offers the best number of lenses for YOUR needs, etc. The guys in this video are very Nikon biased and it comes across in every video they make. I take people's opinions with a grain of salt as a Canon fan will try to sell you on Canon and a Nikon fan will try to sell you on Nikon. For straight out image quality you can do a search on the net along the lines of "Nikon D800 sample images" and then "Canon 5D Mark 3 sample images" and look at many different sites for each camera. You shouldn't find much difference, if any, as both camera produce excellent images. Look especially at images of people as faces seem to show quality differences more than almost any other subject. Busy scenes, such as brick buildings, city scenes and fields of flowers look good on even a cheap compact camera, but human faces separate the toys from the real cameras. The overall feel and handling is what matters most.

[@mcrazza]

Yep. Full marks for this vid. Really good. It was quite interesting to hear Nathan's remarks about the two cameras from a portraiture perspective. I have to also say that his images looked SUPERB too. Nice insightful post script from Jordan about the D4 too. A little disappointed to hear about some of the D4's shortcomings. Looking forward to hearing what he has to say about the 5D3.

[@Jeanbobinho]

The youtube subtitle at 6:59 : "richard skin tones and slobodan army yahoo it's just a little bit more punch"

[@Dizzydude101]

It stopped being dual channel audio and is only coming out of the right channel, not sure why!

[@yangboi88]

nice...i've been waiting for a review like this...with real life usage...i'll be looking forward to the next couple of videos.

[@keepybeepy]

The low light ISO shoot seems to have the Canon front focused.

[@ThanujaLRupasinghe]

If the light leak doesn’t affect the final exposure, there is no problem is it. I think Canon USA should contact you for camera technical issues. Are those comparing portraits should be taken in a studio which uses florescent light or a studio that totally depend on flashes and use controled light?

[@martinbenford3442]

Nikon d800 Excellent

[@TravelingDorks]

When will you guys be posting the follow up video? I'm dying to watch it!

[@Lydomina]

This is the very definition of a cool story....bro.

[@alkevinzmedia]

thank you guys for this video and all of them really detailed and perplexed information that draws me to your videos :)

[@0y0chang0]

Excellent video, very professional, interesting comparisons, and really focuses on what is actually being produced by the cameras rather than just repeating camera manufacturer's spec sheets. Oh and that is some very nice camerawork with that D4. Would be interesting to compare the D4 to the D800.