Choosing the D700 over the D850....Am I Crazy?

[@jimmyroberts4333]

I had a D850. It and I could never get along. There were always problems with the photos. It didn't matter how I set up the camera. It was a big disappointment. I sold it. So I am back to using my D700 and totally satisfied with it. Have others with the D850 also had issues with it?

[@popofoto]

Yes, the D700 is a great camera-I had it-but I love my D600 even more! The photos that come out of it always amaze me. The great thing about the D600/610 sensor is that you can without any worries expose to the right and then pull the shadows without harsh noise. Colors from D700 might be nicer but the dynamic range of the D600 is just amazing.

[@martifingers]

I think you just helped me decide to get a D600!

[@Kinnup7]

You made the right choice and I can help you find closure with this topic…just send me the D850 😉

[@nickreid5939]

D810 ❤

[@royjohnson6623]

@@nickreid5939 Ottima la 810 ma la 850 ha un sistema af molto superiore e rumore piu' contenuto ad alti iso

[@isaiasanchez1987]

I'm going through the same thing now with my D700 and Z6. I did a side by side comparison trying to match all settings and there was almost no difference. 🤯 as a matter of fact, in the dark, the D700 outperformed with the tonal gradations. I'm floored, and still happy i have my D700. Remember, photograpy is an emotional decision, not just technical. I LOVE my D700 and bought it a new lense. Voigtlander 58mm f1.4... match made in heaven!

[@wildthang9355]

This comment, was seriously so profound thank you

[@dharmabob2]

I'd be interested to see the results with the Voigtlander. Have you got a link please

[@MichaelVincentMagic]

Never crazy, the D700 is awesome - it’s all about the image quality. The D700 sensor is magic pixidust

[@rexko381]

If possible, Try D4 or D4s. I think image processing algorithm in D4(s) is the best among D700, d800, d810, d850, D3(s, x). Of course, ignore all the differences among those models.

[@MikeWarville]

I've just bought a D700, so thank you for sharing your views, much appreciated 🤗👍

[@KevinKennedy-u5o]

Exactly! Well stated. I love both cameras, but I still prefer shooting the D700 in the circumstances you describe: top of which is the file size!!

[@timdudley5449]

I have a D610,i really like it, but i find myself going back to my favorite D200. I love the color i get from it

[@averymcdaniel423]

I have both. The D200 is magical

[@MMPAspergerian]

I'm in the same boat as you, there's something truly magical about the D700 and being my go to.

[@jivaro77]

how shall I put it?, ermm ..an incredible combination of cameras and lens are photos the ones when you look back 30 or 40 yrs from now,, reminds you vividly the moment when you took the shots.

[@pauldardeau5532]

Enjoyed the video. I don't think you're crazy at all. I like the colors better on the D700. Also, the D700 has an almost film-like look that I love.

[@peteF776]

I love My 700, my choice of walkabout camera, fantastic picture quality and it doesn't murder the memory space in the computer. I have an 800e and a Z7, love the 7 but I am going to back to the 700 for general use again.

[@rongrantga]

I bought a D610 back in December and it was an improvement over my D7000 . Then I got a D700 and fell in love with the image quality and color rendition. I use a 105mm F2.8 Micro lens most of the time but sometimes use the 105mm F2.5. Both are incredibly sharp. I'll keep the other cameras for video. Loving the D700!

[@lm205]

The d610 is pretty good too, and can be found for under $500 with low shutters. But the D700 is not overrated at all either, and it is as good as advertised - I have a couple of them. It's probably all I need for a long time.

[@matmc4750]

Same got the 700 to start doing concerts got the 610 a bit after and I love the 700 taking it as my back up on a shoot at the end of the month but I have a feeling I'm gonna get better shots with the 700 since I'm going to be shooting someone with dark skin at golden/blue hour and the 610 autofocus is not on par w the 700

[@barrydelaney6748]

My go-to camera is my D700! I love it!

[@astraeusone]

One issue with d850 is a tad much yellow in skin tones as evident on the last comparison pair of images. I hope there is a Lightroom fix...

[@jharrelphoto]

I go back and forth with this. I always end up back with the d700. I’m currently shooting with a z7ii and have 5 of the top lenses for the system including the 14-24 and 24-70 2.8s. I made up my mind that I’m selling all of it and going back to d700. I just love the output from that camera. Newer cameras to me are just way too sharp and clinical.

[@dankabanuckphotography5989]

Love that..lol. I totally agree. New cameras make everything way sharper than what we see in real life...atleast in my opinion.

[@AdamJonesPhoto]

I have printed images from the d700 that are 5foot x 3foot and look great! Close up of horses face with loads of detail and beautiful colours. Don't get sucked into believing you need the latest cameras people lol!

[@jornmulder]

grain on d850 with iso 64 ? What ? how then ?

[@03_imadeelangmahesaabiyuda49]

hey i have a problem with nikon d700 the exposure meter seem not work, i mean im balance it to center but the result sometimes darker and sometimes too bright, any ideas?

[@alanstamey9279]

You should do a video on the best lenses for the Nikon D700

[@Drmikekuna]

Specific cameras hit a magic point. They usually combines a good sensor, good ergonomics, and good enough focusing and response. I used a Nikon D300 for years because it had that magical combination. I liked the image quality; it felt right in my hands. The controls were laid out so that I could find what I needed quickly and easily. Although I don't use the D300 now, I couldn't sell it. My favorite pro camera is a Canon 5DIV for the same reasons. When I hike about, I like an older Fuji X100S and a Canon M6II. The Fuji has more charm, but the Canon is more capable. And so it goes. Cameras have been great for the last 15+ years.... so many excellent choices out there, but nothing beats a pro-level DSLR as they were built to last and built to work.

[@dankabanuckphotography5989]

100%

[@reganalbertson1593]

My D700 is for my "fill the frame" shots that will have limited cropping. Big group pix and the like, I use the 35mp D810. I am looking at migrating into the Z cameras, as there is a quality video capability the F mounts just don't have. “The things you really need are few and easy to come by; but the things you can imagine you need are infinite, and you will never be satisfied.” EPICURUS

[@hughwolfe1176]

I’ve been shooting a D700 since 2010, but I had some thoughts on mirrorless when those started appearing. I decided against due to their diminutive size by comparison. That and I didn’t like the idea of having to purchase another set of lenses. Yes I know there’s an adapter, but it’s kind of band-aiding your photography until you break down and spend the money on the proper lenses… I’d always wanted a D850, finally just took the leap and did it so now I can shoot either body with the same lenses. Do I carry both when out shooting, no way it’s just too much stuff to carry… Will I ever consider mirrorless again. Perhaps the Z8 as it’s big enough to feel right to me. But that’s a long ways off in the future, if at all as I’m late 60’s now.

[@marcp.1752]

Same here, bought my 1st D700 back into 2010, when it was 2 years on the market. Bought my 2nd Backup D700 into 2023, for like 200 bucks, into mint condition, with less than 10k shutter actuations.

[@MrSimonj1970]

I used nothing else for 13 years, loved that camera, but my Z6 is in a different league in less-ideal conditions. In most conditions you can't tell the difference. I once had a huge print made and it looked fantastic!

[@edc5338]

I have a D850 and do use it but I prefer the D700 or D3s. Go Figure. I don't plan on getting a Nikon Z camera. Too much invested in F lenses and I like the results I get. If I get a mirrorless, it may be a small Fuji or Sony A camera.

[@javiersalido8073]

Just bought the d700, I’m coming from the 5d mk1 and the difference is huge, I can’t believe the flexibility of the files… I just think I got the wrong lens, the 24-85 3.5 and the images are too sharp, almost unreal… thinking on getting the 50 1.8 or something similar… recommendations are welcome. Thanks for the video.

[@dankabanuckphotography5989]

I love the 24-70 2.8 and probably use it 75% of the time.

[@richfaltisco3226]

I got 2 nikon af-p lenses. The 18-55 and the 70-300. I am shocked at how good they are. Fast, silent, incredibly sharp, great colors, amazing macro with the 18-55. These are the dx versions. Yes, i have a D700. I shot a 3 day church event with it. The color gradation is breathtaking.

[@cristianbalate]

I still have the D700 but I prefer more D750 for the faster focus especially in low light and for the 2 card slots. Thanks for the review!

[@rustybangus9535]

My partner has a Z8. Found me a used D700 at a local shop. Being fortunate enough to be able to compare both camera's raw files, I couldn't believe that I actually prefer the D700's photos. Don't get me wrong, the Z8 is a beast, but the D700 colors, file size, and the ability to drive AF-D lenses won me over. To each his own!

[@terrygoyan]

Right now I'm shooting with a D750 and a D500. Really don't see a need to "upgrade" as the picture quality is great with both bodies. The only thing I would like is for a bigger buffer on the D750. It slows down quickly when shooting action. 10 years ago I did a three shot pano with a D3s (12 mega pixel camera) and did a print 12 inches by 48 inches. Looks great! The latest and greatest is not needed for beautiful prints! I've got my eyes open for a D700!

[@greaterlifedonna4168]

I have the D700 and love it. Try the Canon 5D classic Mark 1 you will love it . I also just got a Nikon D2x and let me tell you they are the best image out of camera I have ever seen????? Wow, wow wow. Cost me $190. Amazing camera. I own D4 , D300, D200 Canon 1Dx mark ii and I have to say my favorite is D2x. AM I CRAZY????

[@dankabanuckphotography5989]

Thanks for the tip on the Canon. Been wondering which Canon may be great to try. Crazy?...no..just a little G.A.S...lol.

[@greaterlifedonna4168]

Try used photo pro they pop up from time to time. 👍

[@dingo3718]

I don't have an 850 ,but i have a d700 the images I get from this is more than enough for anyone's appetite.

[@bjoern_wunderlich]

The reason for this is the CFA. All cameras today have a weak CFA. Why? To turn up the ISO range. Disadvantage: in red there are also other colors like disturbing blue. I have 2 D700 & 1 D810. What do I use 90% of the time? Guess... Greetings

[@marcp.1752]

It's not true. The AA filter inside the OPLF is not weak usually, only with very specific models. And the CFA can't being "weak" technically, what you mean is the Anti Aliasing filter, inside the OPLF - optical low pass filter, FYI The CFA is simply the color filter array, which is besides Sigmas Foveon 3-layer design and Fujifilm X-Trans always a Bayer CFA, color filter array. Just the CFA makes color possible, the Sensor itself sees only monochrome wihout the CFA from a technical point, mind you. So it's just false, what you say here.

[@bjoern_wunderlich]

@@marcp.1752 No, i don't mean the AA.

[@marcp.1752]

@@bjoern_wunderlich Then you're more wrong, than you ever could be. A CFA isn't being strong or light, only the AA. Seems you've no knowledge about, how camera Sensors do work. No hard feelings.

[@bjoern_wunderlich]

​@@marcp.1752 Why are you getting so upset? Maybe you're right, maybe not. I also know that there are various AA filters. I got my knowledge from people who develop sensors. Anyway, I'm not upset about it. So, please don't get personal. Thank you very much .

[@marcp.1752]

@@bjoern_wunderlich Not being upset. But since 97 in digital photography. 84 with film. Just said no hard feelings before, i didn't meant anything bad, Bjoern.

[@lanatrzczka]

I very much respect the point you made about selling prints. I think that point is completely lost with most photography channels. Personally, I've sold more prints that I took with my Nikon D40 and later D90 than any other supposedly "better" camera. I will say one thing about those two cameras, and I'm not sure that it applies to the D700 or not. Grass is a little too green in that generation of Nikon cameras.

[@kermitage]

Man, those D850 colours do suck in comparison to the D700 ones! Amazing stuff!

[@sdhute]

Any favorite lenses ? Up in the air between fx or DX

[@dankabanuckphotography5989]

I use the 24-70 2.8 more than anything , then the 70-200 after that. Both are FX. Even when I was shooting my D3200 and D7200 I was buying FX lenses with that assumption I would go full frame at some point. I do have the Sigma 17-50 2.8 which is a DX lens. Good lens for the money actually. I think a DX body is ideal for sports and wild life because you get the extra reach with FX lenses and the majority if the sensor is using the sharpest part of the lens.

[@cowboy7x]

Been using the 700 for years. It's always the one I grab for a shoot. However, I would NOT do any professional work without a backup. And the D850 would be it. The ONLY flaw with the 700, (and not a flaw really) is that lack of an additional memory card as backup. I'd buy more used 700's if it had additional slots. I'm on my 3rd now.

[@dankabanuckphotography5989]

I agree, wish it had 2 card slots. I may be in the market for another. One of mine seems to have a sticky shutter.

[@MrZorbatron]

As an outdoor and landscape person, I really prefer the D800E and D850. On the other hand, the D700 seems to just get better results with portrait work (which I have no interest in) in way that's hard to explain. I have a couple of friends who are professional photographers who swear up and down on the D610 and D700.

[@ThomasLatcham123]

The video was thought provoking good job well done

[@socksonfeet8125]

This is hilarious, I end up grabbing my D300 more than my D750, similarly. Smaller files sizes, plus extra zoom from crop sensor. I still want a D700 but I wonder if it would be redundant because I have a D750.

[@dankabanuckphotography5989]

Crazy right? The D700 has the Panasonic sensor which renders a different color pallet. Really, that's what it's known for. It won't necessarily give you better images then what you have but it will give that D700 look.

[@socksonfeet8125]

@@dankabanuckphotography5989 thank you for the info I had no idea it had a Panasonic sensor. I might have to try one out someday.

[@orion8262]

I just got a D3 after getting a D800, must say I am very happy with it. And indeed 12 megapixel is enough (actually 90% of the time I shoot black and white analogue) so about dynamic range well couldn’t be happier.

[@paul_broeker]

I agree! I have a D850 and two old Nikons: D3 and D700, which share the same sensor. The images from the old cameras just pop right out of the camera. It magical! In every other respect - pixel count, autofocus, screen, connectivity, video mode - the D850 shines. But the main goal in photography should be to get great stills without the need for tweaking the images afterwards. Nonetheless, the D850 is a great camera. The best overall picture profile for the D850 is "portrait" for me. The "vibrant" profile messes with the skin tones too much, although I like it for nature photography.

[@NeonCucumber]

Lol you're not alone. Been getting back into it the last year... and my previous cams were D700 and D300... been tinkering for almost a year with my new cams... then was looking back at my pics from 2008 and I'm like... uuummm why do I like my old images and colors better? Needless to say I'm going back to the D700 for photos.... all is not lost. The new cams will still be great for video.

[@badger67]

You're not crazy mate, it's the rest of the world that's gone crazy. I used SLR's back in the 80's and 90's and I sold the lot due to other interests. Bought a second hand D3000 in 2015 ( the lens was an old 35-80mm f:4 D, therefore incompatible) and couldn't use it. Menu? ADR? I put it in a draw and forgot about it 😅 Anyway, moved to Spain (bear with me) with a huge castle on our doorstep and decided to give the D3000 another go. Eventually I was pushing it beyond it's capabilities. It's ISO performance was very poor over 400. I picked up the D300s last October for £70 (5k shutter actuations 👍) whilst working with my mate. He wanted to upgrade his lenses and he gave me his pre VR 18-55 kitty and an old Sigma 70-210mm. The learning curve of the menu wasn't as steep and I soon got going. I customised the buttons and no more diving into the menus. The difference between the two cameras was huge. The 12mp D300s is the crop sensor version of the D700 and it's glorious 😊. The old 35-80mm works great with the built in motor 👍. The 18-55mm is a fantastic versatile lens. Not quite macro, but you can get pretty close to your subject. I would love to get a 35mm 1.4 prime, and build up some 2.8 zooms. A D850 would be very nice, but do I need one? Not really. That's a thought, why don't you reduce the size of the images on camera. You could use the D850 for low light conditions and the D700 for everything else. Decision's decisions eh? 😅 As I said, it's not you that's crazy, it's the rest of the world that's losing the plot. 👍

[@dankabanuckphotography5989]

The world is completely insane..lol. I could reduce the size but I'm always feeling like I want to collect as much data as possible when I pull the trigger...lol... I should do that and compare it to the D7200...maybe a future video of that would be cool.

[@villegas24]

We are getting reminders that sensors are peaking and differences will be minimal unless you go full niche pro cinematic

[@paco355]

Still using my 1dx mark 1 : )

[@LamultianiPersonalizat]

You cannot compare the Nikon d700 with any device, the colors are clearly superior, the d700 is a masterpiece of photography, there is no such device ever made. The colors are absolutely fantastic on the Nikon d700, there is no comparison with other cameras, I've tried them all, sony, panasonic, canon, Nikon d750, d810, d 850, z 6, absolutely all, the Nikon d700 has direct and real colors , there is no longer such a camera, I'm only talking about JpGs. They are all toys compared to the Nikon D700, the difference is huge!

[@kchappelle]

Thanks for the video. Hey I just bought a D3S on eBay, Waiting for delivery. What do you think about this camera against either one of the 850 or 700?

[@dankabanuckphotography5989]

The D3S is the same sensor as the D700..it's the pro version. Colors are a little different but it's a great camera.

[@kchappelle]

@@dankabanuckphotography5989 Thanks. 🙏

[@PhillipConroy]

The D3s does not share the same sensor as the D700. The D3 has the same sensor but the D700 version has been tweaked compared to the the D3

[@kchappelle]

@@PhillipConroy thanks for the reply

[@MrKravmagadude]

Really liked this video. You express the turmoil we all have! I'm a pro photographer here in England. I gave up thinking about gear a long time ago. However... my best images (i.e., the ones the clients like the most) come from the D700, The canon 5D (original) and the D500 (simply an awesome camera), but leader by a smidge is the D700. Not the ones shot on my 1DXmk2, D800/850, Sony's or Fuji (we have lots of cameras in our range..). And, the most popular wedding image I've ever shot? The one that seals the deal? From a Canon Digital IXUS500. Go figure!

[@dankabanuckphotography5989]

Love that. Thanks for sharing. It's the result that matters, not how you got there.

[@GaryInSoCal]

I've owned both the D700 and D610... loved both of those cameras... their JPEG images are very clean with favorable color... BUT... I've fine-tuned my D810 to get even better images out of it than those 2 cameras mentioned. With it's (now) fantastic color, better dynamic range and larger files, the D810 is now my 'lifetime keeper' camera. Definitely considering a D780 for it's low-noise perfection over all previous Nikon DSLRs... ;)

[@ggabesz80]

How did you tune it?

[@ggabesz80]

You are the best, thanks! :)

[@itsjim2875]

Dan, I know exactly what you mean. I have 2 - D700s, one I keep in it's original box with fewer than 1000 shots on it, the other is my daily driver. After having a D700 for a couple of years I decided that it might be nice to add a D850...don't know why, just figured it would be cool to have (arguably) two of the best DSLRs ever made. Over a period of a few months I took the D850 out for a few shots (less than 100 total), while letting it sit in it's box most of the time while I continued reaching for the D700. I couldn't understand why, but I just preferred shooting with the D700. And it twill work fine in probably 97% of the situations where you might think a D850 would be better. So, I sold the D850 and happily continue using a D700. You can't beat the colors.

[@paulsimmonds2030]

Pixel peepers and those that truly understand the science, always have to have the latest and greatest gear. However, as you mentioned, file sizes for 45+ mp cameras are huge! My philosophy has always been “Is the customer happy?” And my customers have been happy even when using a Canon 30D at 8mp and enlarging to 40”x30” I am now using a Nikon D500 with 21mp. The file sizes are manageable, but I have the advantage of 10fps for 200 images without the camera farting and spluttering to a standstill! I don’t need that function, but it offers a huge safety net. Customers don’t care about 45mp, or whether the camera is full-frame or aps-c. They care about the final image.

[@dankabanuckphotography5989]

100% agree. I'd like to add a D500 to my arsenal.

[@tmewborn1]

I own D850 and D610 I still use the D610 a lot. Love both Camera’s

[@dance2jam]

Dan, first, thanks for the video. I find myself wishing for an orderly discussion similar to Steve Perry, Simon D'Entremont or Gerald Undone for this kind of thing. What do I mean by this? A quick outline (you did get to it) of why you prefer the D700 over the D850, and then what other reasons you would prefer one over the other. You did cover that you shoot people - and 12 megapixels is enough for you - and the file saving space (the d700 in LLC 14 bit is about 25mb file size, D850 in LLC 14bit is double that at about 50mb file size). You also alluded that you like the unique "monochromatic" electronic noise of the d700 over the multicolor noise of most other Nikon cameras including the d850. Fair enough. The D700 was (and still is) a tremendous camera, so no argument from me. It is the heaviest current camera I own (D700, D850, Z9). I shoot predominately sports, action (dance), and wildlife. You know well that those shooting product photography, museum reproduction, high resolution landscape in good light have different needs from their photography and systems. I still take my D700 out often to remind myself what the images look like and what it felt like before I picked up a camera. I will tell you one place "mirrorless" and the Nikon Z9 has made a huge difference even doing portraits (and yes, Canon and Sony cameras can do this as well). - Using lenses with shallow DOF (i.e. 105mm f/1.4 or 200mm f/2) and nailing sharp eyes without user or subject fatigue. It goes without saying, that because of WYSIWYG EVF and subject detection, getting out of focus portraits or a poorly exposed photo, is mostly a thing of the past. No "black out" of course means you also always see the photo you are taking (not true of DSLRs). You mention "The client doesn't care", and that is, in general, very true. That said, Dan, I have taken many non-studio, outdoor still images of portraits and action with the lenses I just mentioned, and I'm left picking up the subjects jaw off the floor. Doesn't matter whether it is an action hockey portrait or photographer friend. The most recent example was a woman who said she "hates" her appearance in portraits - then saw the LCD screen of the Z9 with the 105 f/1.4 and 200mm f/2 and immediately loved them. The sheer speed at which you can work, recompose, and nail focus even with shallow DOF is perhaps the single most impressive thing about Nikon's new mirrorless cameras. The edge-to-edge AF point coverage and shear speed and accuracy of the AF point is a "game changer". Shooting at events with silent "shutter" since there is no shutter is great (church, golf, concert) and your subject doesn't try and pose - but is more natural - because they do not hear the camera clicking (especially the wildlife). Yes, I could get similar shots with the D700, but it would take much more time to move the focus point where I want it and just get a shot I wanted. Just sayin. CF Express cards are durable and fast. Compact Flash cards are still cheap, but the pins are not so forgiving. The one card slot can, for some, may be an issue. The loud and heavy shutter slap can also wake you up. And if you shoot video - well, that's for another day. Point is for what you shoot, I would encourage you to try out a Nikon Z8/Z9 with f-mount lenses and the FTZii - as the focus is far faster and more accurate than on the D850. You could lower your file size by shooting HE* and see if an eventual move to mirrorless would be worth it for you. If you remember the joy of with digital photography of being able to see your images immediately, then for me, this was a similar joy to watching the camera find the eye before I can even hit AF-On. Watching the focus box move with the object and the object stay in focus as you recompose a moving target (athletes, BIF) is exhilarating. I will give you this one caveat though, the Z9 is a complicated menu AF mode beast, that can be tamed if you take your time. Results just "out-of-the-box" may be frustrating (as a friend of mine found out after I talked him into buying one). That said, a year later, he never picks up his D850 anymore. Neither does the Pro that started me (and who I talked into the Z9 - told me to get lost because I was bad for his wallet). The D700 compared to the D850 - grapefruit vs orange. Both great and sweet. Pick the one that brings the joy of photography to you. One thing I didn't hear you mention - is that 12 megapixels is very forgiving at handheld slow shutter speeds. ;-) By the way, thank you for posting some images that you took in the video.

[@v.bourdeix]

Good points, the eye autofocus is the number one feature that motivates me to move from D700 to a Z8, but that's not going to happen soon as it means I need to buy te body + the lenses, probably not less than $6k to $10k expense depending on the glass I'd buy, which is a bit too much for me right now.

[@dance2jam]

@@v.bourdeix Just the body and adapter to start. I do not own a Z lens yet, and I've owned the Z9 for 2 1/2 years. The Z8's is just a different animal compared to the D700. Looking forward to hearing about your experience.

[@petepictures]

Cool, I actually went to enjoy more the CCD sensors , lately- D70S ;D80; D200

[@marcp.1752]

D700 does have a custom, Nikon designed CMOS Sensor, btw. It's not CCD. 🙂 But i still enjoy my D70s, D80.

[@utube321piotr]

D3 and D700 have a much different non-Sony sensor along with software that crunches images. Martin Castein praises D700 highly along with Canon 5D m1 and m2 models for their own separate reasons. In my limited experience I can see why. Great video.

[@kennygo8300]

I've kept my old gear. FF cameras for me are the D800 and Z5. However, I prefer the file sizes from my D7200 and D300. The old D300 with a Sigma 17-50mm 2.8 is what I shoot with the most. Like you mentioned describing the D700, the D300 has better rendering of skin tones. Since street photography is the bulk of my shooting (enthusiast, not a pro), the images I get from it are "better" than my other cameras. I use the other cameras for different things, but I could probably live without the rest of them. Of course, the D800 is my landscape camera. I wouldn't get rid of it.

[@brookegrinstead]

I thought I was the only one who still uses the D700 for family portraits, portraiture, etc. I am intrigued by the z8 a little for landscape action though. THX

[@robbellphoto]

Great video

[@dankabanuckphotography5989]

Thank you.

[@RhettAnderson]

I'm using my D700 and my Canon 5D Classic all the time now. Those two hit the spot.

[@v.bourdeix]

I've been using the D700 for 12 years now and it's a beast. The only thing that I find pretty annoying is the viewfinder that isn't 100%, so there's a difference between what fits the frame in the viewfinder and the final image.

[@DJSIC82]

the D810 is also a beast of a camera.

[@dorfschmidt4833]

Older cameras take just as good photos as the new ones. Have the D700 too.

[@davidroberts6766]

I still use both!

[@lescobrandon3047]

I have many Nikon cameras through the years including a D700 and D3. The only issue since they use the same sensors is that the D3 has a 100% viewfinder while the D7oo has something like a 95% viewfinder. No problem as long as you check what you shot.

[@Poraqui]

You process the pics with which software?

[@dankabanuckphotography5989]

Lightroom

[@Poraqui]

@@dankabanuckphotography5989 Thank you. So, if using NEF/Raw, you use Adobe or camera matching profiles to get those D700 colours?

[@dankabanuckphotography5989]

I just use the default in lightroom@@Poraqui

[@georgemahlum6542]

Although I mostly use canon mirrorless nowdays...My current favorite nikon dslr is the D750. Cheers

[@Fotoklasika]

i have Nikon D700 and Nikon D850...And D700 clear winner on photography process, idea, art, because you don't need to spend more time in post processing:) Nowdays cameras focusing on procesing...Both stuff is fun for me...But skintones - D700 winner...If you make photography without mistakes (like film photographers did) - Then you don't need D850:) If you love post processing - Now for it i have digital 50MP medium format camera (woth 23mm (18mm ekv FF) lens ) for extreme post...But D700 is my Fine ART/portraits camera with manual Zeiss Classic 35mm f1.4🎉

[@mrca2004]

I have both because bought the d700 in 2008 and used it professionally til 2018. I still shoot it for personal work because it is plenty of mp for on line and if it gets trashed at the beach, I really don't care, as after 16 years, it has paid for itself many times over and it still works perfectly. Nikon products hold up, period. But I want the 46 mp for larger prints and more detail plus the dynamic range never ceases to amaze me after knowing what the d700 limitations after 16 years with it.

[@zeitwille]

just a side note: ISO for the d700 is 100 if you put in LO. I copy everything you feel about the d700. never used the 850 but would love to. but still, file sizes and costs are still too high for most applications. been shooting all kinds of events on a 100k shutter d700 with the 85mm 1.8, 28-85 3.5-4.5 and the fabulous 70-210 f4. never ever, even high ticket clients, complained about the delivered images having not enough MP or anything. it's quite the opposite: like you said, especially the skin colours and other renditions, as we can see in your portraits, have this value that people appreciate . sometimes I even think that I get booked more than all those Sony shooters because of the "d700 look". 🤣

[@dankabanuckphotography5989]

People love the images from the D700. You have to assume that if they look at your portfolio..it's the "Look" that wins them over.

[@a_lucientes]

I love the D700. I was sad when I gave away and sold my film cameras but im holding onto the D700 even if I add a Z 8 (Im debating on how) I never bought the D850 but I do love a lot of things abt it

[@quickstrike209]

Not at all. I choose my d700 over my 850 all the time. Only time I use the 850 is when I know the print is going to have to be very large.

[@stevensager2854]

You're not crazy, great cameras are great cameras. I have a collection of about 10 to 15 cameras, and they're rotating constantly as a stop using different ones. The d700 is very special. So is the Nikon DF . But also if you ever looked into Canon the 6d would blow your mind

[@Andy-rk9mu]

Thx for the vlog and samples. Are they JPG or you do post of raw files though? (owner of 2 D700 here)

[@dankabanuckphotography5989]

Those are JPG and they are actually the low-res proofs I sent to the client.

[@ThrottleJunkie31415]

You are not crazy! I’m still shooting a Nikon D 70. I have found nothing that gives me the same results. I believe it’s the CCD sensor. Hey, some of my favorite pictures I shot with an iPhone 3GS. Stick with the one you love!

[@cartermac64]

Have to agree. I had a D800 and now a D810. I have lots of D800 and D810 'Test' folders with different types of glass. When comparing the D700 at the same time its the D700 pictures are the ones that I have kept and disgarded the others. Go figure.

[@Andy-rk9mu]

Also, I came across an opinion that D810 is actually better than 850 in terms of colors ...

[@RandyMoe]

Loved my lost D700.

[@quazisanjeed6395]

Being a Canon user, I can bet Nikon D700 images will look nicer. How do I know? Because, I own a Canon 5D Classic.

[@HeikoSieger]

You are not crazy. I had the D700 for 10 years and got a D850. I decided to give my D700 to family and kind of regret it. It's an amazing camera. The D850 takes a little getting used to, but it too is fantastic. However, for portraits I think the D700 is actually better as the lower megapixel count is more forgiving and starting at ISO 200 allows you faster shutter speeds. For landscape / cityscape I prefer the D850 though. I've got now a Z7-II and lately a Z8 as well. The Z7-II pretty much replaced the D850 in everything but fast action or bird photography, simply because of the better Z lenses. But that is another story. If you're invested in Nikon F mount glass, then both the D700 and the D850 are great choices. Some old manual focus lenses work great on the D700 and produce a very individual and unique look, like for example the 50/f1.4 AIS or the 105/f2.5 AIS. Those lenses are less good on the D850 simply because they can't match the high resolution of the camera.

[@dankabanuckphotography5989]

Thanks for the input. I am really starting to love the D850 but for events and portraits I'm sticking with the D700. I'll go to mirrorless eventually...probably the Z8 or Z9 but the means have to justify the ends. I'm interested in the better glass and in-body stabilization.

[@ahmedaiham9614]

@@dankabanuckphotography5989I found the Zf’s capabilities to be pretty good steal for its price! I have a d700 and a rx100 m3 and for future proofing I think one way to go hehe

[@daniel_913]

I have the D700 with a Zeiss Planar 50/1.4. I also have a D800, but the D700 produces magical images. It has a character. Hard to explain but people who shoot with the D700 will know what I mean.

[@marcp.1752]

Same here Dan. D700 over any other "modern" Nikon. Why? The reason(s) are dead simple: 1) AF is fast enough 2) IQ is excellent for my needs 3) I am perfectly fine, settled with 12 MP 4) Don't shoot billboards, or street ads 5) Made Canvas prints up to 120x80cm - perfectly fine with 12/13 MP via D700 or 5D. 6) Like the IQ from that old Matsushita Sensor much 7) DR is good enough 8) weathersealed body 9) Enjoy my old AF-D lenses 10) I love an OVF, optical viewfinder - EVFs, no matter how many mill dots, always have a weird color space, not true to life, like the naked eye, and i always get eye strain, swindel, headaches via EVF, after 2-5 mins using it, go figure.

[@thegreatsiberianitch]

I don't think you're crazy. I think technology is sort of coming to wall as to what is actually useful to most people, even professionals. Also, companies focus more on cost of production and profits rather than creating the "best" quality product. Business majors dominating the art sector. Two often opposing hemspheres of thought. To me, it makes sense that that the older stuff is better in terms of practical purposes. In contrast, coming from a canon 5d mkii, I recently got an om-d e-m5 mki with a lens for less than 300 bucks to "test the waters" of mft and I'm intersted in its image stabalization for low light. Its a fun little camera and it makes me interested in the later ii and iii versions and other om-d's in general. Just some thoughts. We are lucky to have so much excellent technology at bargain prices now. So cool. I wouldn't have been able to afford this stuff otherwise.

[@CarlyWaarly]

If it is thought a camera is needed because it is the latest, it was purchased under misconception. You clearly did not need a D850 as proven with preference for the D700. We still use Nikon D3 and D4s, they are fabulous, along with D800's and D850 but they are used for different situations. Each photographer has their own personal preference and it ends there. Who gives a stuff what other photographers are using, we also use D3200, D5300 they too are excellent but no less better than other cameras. A D3200 could cover the work displayed with appropriate lens. All this baloney on KZbin, one has to chuckle! All the best.

[@thegreatsiberianitch]

What do you choose the d3 vs d4 for? Any particular use case or what you have available?

[@CarlyWaarly]

Ergonomics and ease of use, speed and image quality, more or less point and shoot, they were going for a song on ebay in mint condition, always wanted them but used medium and large format for work, so never needed them until Hasselblad lost favour with Fujiblad tat!. Would not touch another Hasselblad product!@@thegreatsiberianitch

[@FryChicken]

The D700 has a flash that I used all day today. The D500, D780, and D850 do not. What an unbelievably stupid decision.

[@musiqueetmontagne]

Exactly, the fill flash for portraits against the light, on its lowest value usually, gives a film like look and a little catchlight. I miss the convenience of that on other cameras.

[@romansivers]

I’m surprised to hear that your 4-year old computer chokes on the files. My computer (knock on wood) is 16+ years old. I’m processing files from D800e with no problem. Granted, I’m talking about 36MP and not 45MP, but that’s not that big of a jump. Obviously my 12MP files from D700/D3/D3s are faster, but 36MP files are fast enough. I suspect the main difference is that I use Nikon’s software, and it does not need to re-render every raw file. I guess if you use Lightroom then yeah, this non-stop rendering would drive me crazy also. Perhaps, give Nikon’s software a try?

[@dankabanuckphotography5989]

I agree and I have 16 gigs of RAM. I have cleared a lot of of my hard drive but still have issues. I have never used the Nikon software but it may be worth a try. Thanks.

[@8000jcp]

its like i always say, dont over megapixel people photos

[@artsilva]

Try matching up your WB settings if you're going to revisit the comparisons. I think the reason the lower color luminance in the D850 is the increase in DR and tonal depth. Having said that I too have owned my D850 since last august and I love it and it's colors from my perspective, vibrant and true to life colors I might add. I am also looking for a cheaper everyday lower MP body to use as well and the D700 is on my short list of possibilities.

[@williamchan8866]

The D780 is actually the best dslr Nikon has really made….its got cleaner image and better dynamic range then the d850…..plus you can go into mirrorless mode for all its benefits. It’s actually the most complex dslr Nikon has ever made. But it’s getting no attention coz of mirrorless. Just wanted to add its file size is perfect and I do have the d700 as well….i got it new when it was still in production. For some things it’s great still. But do check out the d780 it really does hit the sweet spot.

[@dankabanuckphotography5989]

Thank for you comment. I honestly have never given the D780 any thought. I will put it on my radar.

[@Jason_Red]

So the Z6 should be the same, because of the same sensor?

[@RobertWilliamssoonerpa]

I have both. I tend to reach for the D850 specifically when I am trying to get every detail down to the molecular level, ha. I'll use it more for architecture or macro and then use the D700 for natural landscape. Thats just me. You're not THAT crazy, ha

[@Mr1BOSANAC]

How much do photographers make at the low end, not including begginers?

[@jornmulder]

would love to get a d850, still got a d7000, i think my d7000 had its best time :(

[@dankabanuckphotography5989]

I like my D850 but I tend to process the images to try to make them look like the D700...for people. I have a 7200 I will likely be selling. Been a great camera but not really using it any longer.

[@gasbike100mpg]

the D700 pics were overexposed, which is IMHO why those pics look better, the darker 850 pic was more realistic, but not as appealing. I didnt see any magical D700 stuff from these pics, not by a long shot. thanks for the vid though, i liked it.

[@Perry23K]

I think by now if you follow people interested in image quality and color science then you know the Nikon D700 is the best of the full Nikon line up, including the Z series. That does not mean it competes with bigger resolution sensors for cropability or detail in shadows or autofocus speed or framerate! But if you care about your camera's image quality and the beauty of color rendition then the D700 is it. I have owned many cameras and the only camera I feel comes close in those areas is the Fuji x100s. I now own a D500, a Z7II but just acquired my third D700 because it is so great for producing beautiful photos with a wide variety of lenses. So no, you aren't crazy, you just spotted what so many of us have also realized, there is no reason to purchase or use any camera other than the Nikon D700.

[@dharmabob2]

Interesting isnt it. Ive got the D700 and D800 and was thinking of going mirrorless but you've convinced me otherwise. Why waste my hard earned cash?

[@adrianvanleeuwen]

I own the D700 (which as you know is 12mp) and also the D750 and D780 (both at 24mp). While I do love the colors of the D700, the extra details captured by the 24mp cameras work well for my use in portraits (and anything for commercial use), which gives more fine detail in hair and clothing in portraits for large printing (especially good for group photos). You can't go wrong with any of these cameras. I used the D700 as a wedding camera for years. However, it is worth considering the D750 or D780. A used D750 is a bargain if you can find one with a low shutter count. But I agree the D700 is a classic camera, great colours, and works well for today's use.

[@PunjabiGymBeats]

Hows the D780 for weddings.? I don't like Mirrorless camera look & afraid if D780 have same IQ as Z6 with AA Filter..? had D700 & Z6 previously and loved D700 IQ and surprisingly more sharper than Z6.

[@pmolanes]

you should under expose a little with d850 to get better images

[@ShiningStarStudios]

We'll buy the 850 from you!

[@dankabanuckphotography5989]

Ha...thanks but I'm actually liking the D850..lol

[@billr6983]

I chose a Sony SLT-A57 over an Alpha A7MK4. Mostly because I'm poor and can't afford an A7! lol

[@blizzbee]

Whatever happens, D700 is the keeper! 🔥🔥