The D800 in 2018: 3 reasons to get one

[@Backsplash67]

I bought my D800 6 months ago as the market price dropped below $1,000. Use it for landscapes and seascapes, and it is wonderful! I would definitely put into the TOP 3 REASONS the availability of used D series lenses. These are the lenses made by Nikon 1990 - 2005. All metal construction in Japan Astounding optical quality. And selling at 30% of the price of new glass. THis is the biggest "secret" in camera equipment.

[@douglasritchie2836]

Hi Elliot, When the D800 came out I thought all my dreams came true, 6 years on it is still a fantastic camera, my son now uses it and it still produces beautiful 20x30 inch prints. I now use a couple of D 810s for Professional Landscape work, no need to upgrade to the D850 yet.

[@elliotnahm]

Great to hear your D800 is in good hands.

[@WhittyPics]

Just 20X30? It will produce prints a lot bigger than that. I know a professional photographer that has made 40X60s out of his.

[@douglasritchie2836]

Hi Dennis, you are right, just most of the prints I sell are 20x30 but I have had a few 40 x 60 and they looked terrific.

[@jamesjackson4264]

Get the 850 when the 860 comes out. Until then you not missing nothing.

[@evanleebodies]

The D800e was the last DSLR I bought and to this day it never fails to surprise

[@damiancouzoff2925]

I still think the same about my d800e

[@2ifbysea]

I still use the Nikon D700 a true work horse Thanks for the review!

[@CarlyWaarly]

Not needing the 810 or the D850 we went for another D800 as back up but use both D800 equally. Love this model and picked one up for 1/3rd the price that we paid new. It was in mint condition with 2800 exposures, so a gift (Ebay, I know we took a risk but did thorough research with the seller) The image quality is that similar to Hasselblad V system. In 1975 we were trained on Hasselblad V system, the images were pin sharp and gave a special quality about them. It was thought only Carl Zeiss could reproduce such images but I find the image quality similar with the pro lenses and this D800 body. If anything perhaps we should have gone with the D800E but with post production this can be simulated. Used originally for portraits and still life work we have used on demolition site work with frame rates more than adequate. (Well trained in timed shots instead of blasting out frame rates) Recommend this camera without hesitation and agree that the D850 is far too expensive for what it is!

[@elliotnahm]

The D800e still commands a $200-$300 USD price above the D800. However, if you look long enough, like on Craigslist, you will find some sellers putting those at the same price. If my current D800 were to break down, I would very much consider a D800e. The only major reason why I would choose a D850 over another D800 is for video but, let's be honest, Nikon hasn't been well known for video.

[@WhittyPics]

Neither of my D800s have many clicks on them. I think one may have 12,000 and the other is less than 5,000. Both my cameras are mint and you probably bought one from an occasional hobby user like me. From what I understand the D800e is very similar to the D810. Maybe one more stop of ISO performance. It isn't really a deal breaker. ISO 6400 works fine for me if I need it and the noise can be easily cleaned up. I am curious what you do in post to get similar results to a D800e? Are you just adding a little more unsharp mask or are there other Lightroom tricks you are using? I have been extremely please with the image quality out of these cameras. There is a lot of room for cropping if I need to.

[@jamesjackson4264]

The 810 is the best bang for the buck going right now. I choose the 800e become of money. The 800 is at a banging price right now. I would choose the 800 over anything new. Put the savings in glass. You $1000 you could get a 800 then pick on a lens. 80-200, 50 1.4, sigma 35 1.4, 85 1.4d, tamron 24-70. Put either on of those on it and you got a great set up for under $1000. That’s winning!!!

[@declanmurphy1006]

I got a d800 today, with battery grip, for 480 euro :) Great camera.

[@elliotnahm]

Oh, good buy!

[@jamesjackson4264]

These things are dirt cheap now.

[@bobb1708]

I've had my D800 a little over 2 yrs now. Still in love.

[@vangmx]

My loving and beautiful wife bought me a D800 as a wedding gift back in 2013 (I did buy her the Tifanny diamond ring though) and I still use it today in 2018. Honestly, 36-megapixels is overkill! Fine jpegs are about 10-15mb and 50mb for raw BUT if you want to see the best that a D800 can do, shoot at raw and you'll be blown away by the detail especially if you're using quality glass (I mainly use 50mm 1.8g, 80-200mm 2.8 non-D and Tokina 28-70mm 2.6). My previous camera was a D70 w/ 50mm 1.8D and I've printed 36x24 posters with just 6 megapixels (original file was raw). Also, the D800 is the last in the D8xx series that was "Made in Japan" though I have no doubts about Nikon's excellent quality across Thailand, China and Vietnam. It's just nice to have that label still. :) My only gripes about the D800 is that it doesn't have the fastest FPS (only 4) and its 1080p video FX mode technically isn't full-frame (there's actually a slight 1.1x crop) but I don't often shoot video (technically to get the same depth of field with 1.85:1 flat 35mm, you should be shooting at DX video mode where the sensor is close to Super-35 format) and I'm not shooting sports. Anyway, it has been and still is a great camera for me.

[@elliotnahm]

I didn't know that its video recording had a slight crop! And I agree that its slower fps and small buffer aren't that great. Luckily for me, my needs don't require more than what is there.

[@vangmx]

Yeah, just did a quick check. FX video mode on the D800 only uses 32.8 x 18.4mm of the 35.9 x 24mm sensor, which is about a 1.09x crop. It's not too noticeable but technically it's not full frame (or in motion picture terms, Vistavision) compared to the 5D.

[@chocloditelensman]

Furthermore, I love your review. And lastly, have a wonderful day.

[@UrielX1212]

Great camera. I have had mine since 2013. Just sent it out to get the rubbers replaced but it has served me well for 30,000 shutter actuations.

[@elliotnahm]

Great to hear, mate!

[@UrielX1212]

@@elliotnahm Got it back last week and it looks brand new. The pictures it takes are still mind blowing in terms of image quality.

[@elliotnahm]

@@UrielX1212 Nice! It does set the bar quite high for image quality.

[@frederikvanreusel]

How does it perform compared to a D3500 or D7500 or something similar at ISO 6400?

[@CaseyCJL]

2:15 - what do you mean by the autofocus is lacking? does that mean is just focus's slower or is the focus not as clear so the images look worse? thanks.

[@jamesjackson4264]

CaseyCJL not to answer for him but it lacks in speed. It’s plenty fast but 810 is better as well as the wonderful 850. Lens plays a role also.

[@frederikvanreusel]

Is it worth the upgarde from a D3500 to a D800?

[@eddwingregg6999]

What is the printer that you are using - the Epson "what"?

[@dzeng]

Congrats on the D800. Thought about it too but ended up getting the D3 for about $700. Better AF, FPS, build quality and ergonomics was something I was after instead. Don't need 36MP.

[@elliotnahm]

36 megapixels can be a demand on your system. Whenever I travel, editing on my laptop can be a little slow. I've also hadn't used my images in any media that requires 36 megapixels yet.

[@normanowczarzak4050]

Today I took my wife and D3 to have a walk in the forest to try a little bit of high speed sync photography and I have to say D3 is still very capable camera, pleasant camera to use, just like I said before D3 and D800 would be a dream combo! Best bang for your buck!

[@JohnFooteClayton]

I have a D3 and D810, covers everything

[@WhittyPics]

D800 and D500 is the combo I carry. It all goes back to intended use. The D3 is a tank for sure. Build quality is probably one of Nikon's best.

[@lonnieclemens8028]

I would like to see some pictures taken with the D800.

[@Петр-й2б7щ]

D800 or 800e or 810?? Is AF works good in all of this models? No sport photos

[@Stefan1968ful]

Sure, it is still a good camera. This fact does not change simply because it is some years old. It still can make good pictures. That we need to change the camera body is just what the marketing of Sony & Co tells us. But reality is not like that. I had a Nikon D800 until recently and changed to a Nikon D4s just because I developed more into the direction of Sport / Action.

[@elliotnahm]

You've got the right tool for you needs. I personally think that people keep buying stuff because they don't have what they really need pinned down. I was like that for a while. There was a point when I had 10 lenses. I've now cut that down to 5.

[@stephenparkin2701]

Don't consider it old tech my D3 STILL BEATS new cameras and DON'T FORGET when these came out they were the best and still are

[@paulhyland3528]

I'm in the market at the moment to upgrade from my d700, UK second hand market the d800 and d 750 are similar priced. I'm leaning towards the 750 After shooting a wedding with the d750 which was brilliant with great noise performance. But I keep looking at the d800... What's your view

[@elliotnahm]

From what I know, the D800 can't touch the D750 for low light shots. The max I would dare shoot the D800 is at ISO 1600, and I would need to get the exposure right. Any pushing of the shadows in post introduces bad magenta or green noise to the image. Sounds like you've already found the right tool, the D750, for the weddings you shoot.

[@AD.H.]

You can find a D800 Like New for $1000 or D750 Like New for at least $1500-$1700

[@gregorymehlhose1441]

D750 has reliability issues. Nikon has several recalls

[@cammelhurse5118]

Been shooting DX since 2013 (Nikon D7100) Planning on Upgrading to a Nikon D800 or Nikon D3s by February 2019.

[@nbrooks1799]

I currently own a D3 and D800, I've owned a couple of D3s' in the past. The D3s is an amazing camera, built like a tank and the low-light is superior to the D3, which was the only advantage for me. The D800 is great, that 36mp sensor blows me away every time I use it but 4fps is far too slow as a primary body for me, hence owning the D3. I would say if budget can stretch, get both; however, if I had to sell one it would be the D800. It all depend what your shooting as they do very different things, they aren't often compared.

[@cammelhurse5118]

@@nbrooks1799 I'm a Headshot, Fashion & Event Photographer but I also film. So I'm leaning more towards the D800 & I'll just get the D3s by June next year.

[@elliotnahm]

@@cammelhurse5118 Thanks for sharing your goals! Hope you're close to that D3s.

[@MoisesSimana]

On Point. Bought an D810 for $920 at Roberts camera. With money save I bought the nikons 24-70 2.8 50mm 1.8 and a 28-300.

[@Mcivstx]

I recently jumped from DX to FX (wanted nikon mirrorless DX or FX but sadly not released yet) and picked up a d800 for around 700 and just felt it was a side step rather than an upgrade to my d7100. I enjoy things like the better low light capabilities and dynamic range but because I mainly do sports and wildlife the loss in range was for me a bad trade do to my longest lens being an 80-200 2.8. Hopefully when my 80-400vr gets here i might start using my d800 more but right now its sitting in the bag as a secondary.

[@elliotnahm]

Sports & Wildlife do greatly benefit from the crop sensor. I wish that Nikon/Canon would develop more serious lenses for their crop bodies. For now, we get to lug around full frame glass for them.

[@touyube481]

Can this camera do wildlife portrait and astrophotography ? Thanks for answering, great video

[@gregorymehlhose1441]

It can do all you stated. Although astrophotography can get noisy with a f2.8 lens. I recommend a f1.8 or lower for astro

[@practicalconservation5017]

I was just gifted my FIL's D800. Before he gave it to me, his main use for it was wildlife photography. So, yes.

[@elliotnahm]

I have done some wildlife, and astro with the D800. Those subjects aren't my forte but, I'm happy with what I've gotten.

[@touyube481]

@@elliotnahm thanks for the answer but i bought the z6 👍🏻

[@CameraMystique]

It's an excellent camera - will be current when we will be using 8K monitors (8K = 33 mp), and the printing technology hasn't even caught up yet with the D800 sensor.

[@elliotnahm]

Agreed.

[@jamesjackson4264]

But for the price they going for why not already have it.

[@ImagineReading]

Great job. Great info. Down to earth and to the point. Thanks. I shoot with a d800e. I'm still learning and looking for a decent 35mm or 50mm prime lens.

[@annagibsonofficial]

Do you have to have a CF card to save photos? or just an SD card?

[@nbrooks1799]

You can save photos to either SD or CF. Or you can save photos to both, I shoot mine to SD and use the CF as an overflow.

[@annagibsonofficial]

@@nbrooks1799 Thanks!

[@lokatpic]

Nice job. What about the D 750?

[@elliotnahm]

The D750 has better autofocus, and shadow recovery. It might be worth looking at the Nikon Z6 since it's on sale right now.

[@gentlegnt]

Love my D800. I have a D7100 as well. Love it as a 2nd camera body, but, looking at A7III to replace 2nd body. Issue? Adapter to work on Tamron G2 lens (telephoto lens is where I have issue). Using prime lens? No issues with 3rd party adapters. Aperture and other electronic issue are main problem, but not with D800 dslr. Will keep using until either it or I die. (Hopefully I go 1st!!). 😁 Thanks for video!👍🏾📸

[@elliotnahm]

Last I've heard, the F to E mount adapters are not good at all in contrast to the EF to E mount adapters. The D800 is still a camera at now bargain prices. However, mirrorless cameras do hold advantages that may be worth the upfront cost in the long run.

[@marcoferrito9672]

I have a nikond3100 and I want to buy a FF. I have a samyang 14mm, a nikkor 50mm, and a 70-300 (DX)..I shoot a lot of landscape. do you think that d800 is the best buy for me?

[@elliotnahm]

I really do like my D800 but, you should evaluate if it's right for you. The 70-300mm DX lens won't really work on the D800 (I mean, it will work but, DX lens on full frame sensor is a waste), so you need to make sure that you have the funds to get the appropriate glass. While the D800 may be inexpensive on the used market, lenses will still cost a fair bit.

[@jamesjackson4264]

Look into the d lenses. They are a steal. 35mm f2 $100, 50mm 1.4 $130, 80-200 $400. That three great primes for under $600. That’s crazy.

[@WhittyPics]

I have 2 of them and I am not selling either one. The image quality is awesome though it is a slow camera. If I need speed I grab my D500.

[@elliotnahm]

4 fps and a 14 shot buffer sure can be quite slow. Luckily for me, I don't shoot anything that requires more.

[@toddysurcharge771]

Dennis W - I have the same combo and there is no situation one of them can't handle. I use d800e for landscape and portraits.....and the d500 for sports, wildlife or action.

[@silverblack78]

Great video! I love my D800 too! Of course, I'm dreaming about a D850... but the price is too high. A used D4s should be a huge improvement too.

[@jamesjackson4264]

Sergio Pappalardo the D4S is still to pricey. Great as it may be. The D4 is creeping down in price tho. Once it hits the $1000 range I am in. Pair that with a 800 and you the coolest kid on the block.

[@l0vehb]

I hear that several D800 lot have left focus issues, Is there anybody see this problem during using?

[@elliotnahm]

I have read about that issue. I guess I'm fortunate in that my unit wasn't affected by that.

[@nekroteria8839]

I've good mine today. Compared to my D7200 its I bit weaker in low light. Either it was harder to focus. Thought I will be the only one. Someones got some more info?

[@gam3955]

With a Sigma 85 mm 1,4 DG ART Plus, it’s a beast!

[@elliotnahm]

All of Sigma's primes really do shine on the D800. I had the Sigma 50mm F1.4, and it has been the sharpest lens I've used yet. Sadly, I just never really used primes so I've sold them all off.

[@normanowczarzak4050]

I have D3 but D800 as a second body would be great!

[@magik8566]

Watch it or the D800/D800E will become your main body LOL! It's a great cam!

[@nikoaiello]

I have D3 and D800 for weddings perfect combo

[@normanowczarzak4050]

nicolas aiello that is what I am going to get for weddings as well :-D

[@overAlexxx650]

me too

[@daltonthomas5723]

I have a D3s, getting a D800 tomorow, I think the two bodies will compliment each other well

[@akivashapero8306]

I just got a D800 with under 700 shutter actuations for $500.

[@dmt99vn]

Still worry about auto focus issue of D800 series and the fee error. otherwise its the best buy camera

[@elliotnahm]

Paying a little to fix it isn't really an issue, it's how long it takes Nikon to service old cameras that can stink. If you can shell out for two D800 bodies, you should be covered for a long time.

[@BenjaminKanarek]

I have 4 x Nikon FF bodies, 2 x D800e's a D800 and D810. I didn't opt for the D850, as I want all of my outputs to be the same 36.3 megapixels. Far from obsolete. I use them all of the time for magazines the likes of ELLE, STYLE, Harper's BAZAAR , VOGUE, etc... The output is one of the best I have ever experienced and still is. MF quality ad that fabulous 5:4 crop mode which I use so often to match the crop factor of the magazines I shoot for. That crop mode is still 30.2 megapixels and matches at least 75% of the formats I shoot in. That way I see what I will get and the top focus points as a result of the crop factor appear lower into the area of the eyes and face in a more accomodating manner.

[@elliotnahm]

Nice!

[@jamesjackson4264]

Mr. Ben I love your work. I been stalking you for some time. I myself am thinking about shooting in 5:4 since most my clients like to go to Instagram with the pics. Wish I had the 810 for the quote shutter but that’s on the only reason. I shot the 800e. Thanks for the inspiration.

[@obscurazone]

Just to add - I would choose/use CF cards over SD cards ANY DAY of the week. Faster and more reliable. Also, the D800 takes both ;-) Also also, the D800 is an absolute monster of a Camera. I'll never sell mine. Final note - I am a fashion designer, so shooting fabrics/clothing is a big part of using the D800. It is more suitable than the D800e (or D810) for shooting fabrics, as it has an in built anti alias filter glued to the sensor which helps to eradicate/limit moiré artifacts in the image. If that stuff is important to your work, then it is just something to be aware of.

[@helthuismartin]

Ive got 3 of them with grip.

[@elliotnahm]

Nice!

[@jamesjackson4264]

Is that you angry. Lol.

[@JoeSchmoeLivesHere]

2018?? Pffft ;) I *just* got one in March 2019 .... and am *BLOWN AWAY* by this camera.

[@elliotnahm]

Nice, mine's still going too!

[@maximilianlindner]

I just bought on for 350 bucks as an upgrade over my D700. Oh My God Am I Excited!! :O:O:O:O:O:O

[@jamesjackson4264]

Max Lindner dude you won.

[@thomastuorto9929]

Well said vid! BenQ monitor? if so classy, wish I had 1!

[@elliotnahm]

BenQ makes some great monitors. I have bought mine refurbished. Try to look at the BenQ outlet to save a good chunk of money. There's no need to kill your bank account!

[@photography3569]

Ive also a proud owner, but i also bought a D750 for fast moving subjects. Dani Diamond is still using his D800 and 85 1.4 for his work. I would recommand the 70 200e fl, its not cheap, but the IQ is mindblowing! I you want, watch some photos on instagram/facebook Anderson Quattra. Have a gread day! ..this Tamron .. i want it ;)

[@elliotnahm]

The new Nikon 70-200 sure is an expensive purchase! I bought a second-hand Tamron 70-200 VC for $500 USD, and that has been enough for me.

[@steveward5262]

great Video my friend , Legend!!!! thanks!!

[@pabloferrer1839]

Gracias really good advice buena palabra.

[@ericzenteno2531]

Thanks Elliot! I sold my D800E for going with newer D750, and how I regret that movement. I mostly do portraits, so I really miss the resolution and sharpness the D800E gave me. Perhaps for weddings D750 is a better tool, but for portraits and landscapes I stick to the D800E. Thanks for reminding me to sell the D750 and go back to the D800E 😁

[@elliotnahm]

Ha! Why not have both? :P

[@jamesjackson4264]

The 750 is so so. I would still pick the 800e for weddings. You could sale and get the 800e and a lens and break out even.

[@johnniehall1947]

Well done

[@RedBulZ]

Nikon D3S in 2018: 3 reasons to get one

[@jamesjackson4264]

RedBulZ low light is first, build is second, reliability is third. Down size is megapixels. But 12 is plenty. Especially if you can compose like a star. Not sure what you shot but the 800 to me is a better buy at the around the same price or 800e. 810 is the best bang for the buck but it’s still pricey for most. If you don’t need low light as much the 800.

[@WaniMedia]

I just got me a mint copy lol

[@elliotnahm]

Ooo!

[@pilgrammedia7295]

i still use my d3 for weddings 53,000 shutter accusations

[@jamesjackson4264]

pilgram driver that’s still a great camera

[@christiandavis3108]

nice info

[@THEJEDEYEMASTER]

if you shot in log, then at least add some editing. the flat look for the video is horrible.

[@elliotnahm]

There's a reason why I haven't made another video for a whole year. I'm not so good at this stuff.

[@MrCouvade]

600 dollars for a really good used one... and they tru in a 28mm autofocus lens

[@jamesjackson4264]

Photobymike Michael Green you made off like a bandit.

[@emreerdinc7182]

ı use same d800 for 6year many hard conditions area and weather (dusty factory ,under rain etc.) only change mirror system when 300.000 shoot ( it cause autofocus problem) I like my d800

[@elliotnahm]

Glad to hear. When my D800 breaks down, I'll probably end up just replacing it with another one, or consider a newer camera. It took Nikon 6 weeks (plus 2 more weeks for shipping) to get my D800 back to me. I may be just a hobbyist but, I lost quite a few opportunities.

[@dimitristsakiris820]

Very nice man!That frame was unbearable btw lol!

[@elliotnahm]

Ugh, the framing and the swaying the tripod was doing. I'm kind of regretting buying the Manfrotto BeFree tripod (way too late to return it). I didn't think it'd sway like that with the Panasonic G7.

[@dimitristsakiris820]

Elliot Nahm dont worry about anything man just keep up the good work!😉

[@alistairm9351]

Good advice. Thanks.

[@OlegKorsak]

1) no money 2) no money 3) no money

[@magik8566]

:( sad

[@jamesjackson4264]

When you get the money it will be even a better buy. Hell the 810 could be cheap by then.

[@AG-nj3ky]

I would not touch the d800 anymore. A d7200 scores better in most technical aspects. The d800 has one stop better noise performance and more pixels. But it is bigger, heavier and still more expensive. Same goes for the fx lenses. So I dont get the point here. Obviously one is trying to save money by buying an older fx system. However a lot of compromises are made when compared to the inferior dx factor being even cheaper.

[@elliotnahm]

The only thing that D7200 has over the D800 is having 1080p video at 60 fps. It's the same focusing system in both cameras, and the D800 does have better noise and resolution as you've already stated. The D7200's shooting speed is like 7 fps which isn't a huge leap from 4.4 fps on the D800. Honestly, if you're needing the higher frames, get a D500. About the FX vs DX prices, you'll find that over time that your statement doesn't hold up very well. To start things off, a used D7200 is selling for around $700, very close to the D800. If you really want to save money with DX and have the better body, get a refurbished D7100 for $420. There are very few good lenses for Nikon DX. Those that are worthwhile will cost you. The Nikon 35mm F1.8 DX sells for $200 new $100 used. The Nikon 50mm F1.8 FX is the same. The Sigma 18-35 F1.8 is $800 brand new, and around $550 used. It's a fabulous lens but you're paying nearly the same price as a Tamron 24-70 F2.8 (gen 1) which has more range , weather sealing, and stabilization. The G2 version isn't the biggest leap in price either if you desire the latest. The only lens that I would swear by on DX is the Sigma 50-150 F2.8 but they don't even make that anymore, and used prices are inflated because it's so desirable. Get a used Nikon 70-200 F4, or Tamron's new 70-210 F4 (for even less than the Nikon) for roughly the same price as the Sigma. I'm not very well convinced that you've done your research on the cost of a camera system. If DX is what suits your needs, that's great. But, don't be spreading false information around like this.

[@AG-nj3ky]

Elliot Nahm Spreading false information? Everything i said about the cameras is true. Go to cameradecision website and compare them yourself. With the lens options you comparing aples with peers. How about this a 17-55 2.8 at 500 dollar used against a 1000 dollar 24-75 2.8 with less range? You are comparing a one of kind 1.8 zoomlens with an much older tamron lens wtf? How about comparing a tamron 17-50 at 250 dollar with the tamron 24-70? Furthermore, seems like you also missed my point about size and weight which is a huge deal. What spreading false information is, is that you make it sound as a 700 dollar deal on a d800 is easy to find. A more reasonable price would be around 1000 dollar.

[@elliotnahm]

Fabian, I heavily disagree with your statements, and find them to be rather misguided. This is a long one but, if you take the time to read you'll see why my arguments are valid. Your comparison between a 17-50 mm F2.8 for APS-C vs. a 24-70 mm F2.8 for full-frame is rather misleading. With the crop factor in mind, the 17-50mm is a 25.5-75 mm focal length. While the 17-50 grants an extra 5 mm of reach on the long end, it doesn't produce as wide of an angle as the 24-70 at only 25.5. The difference between 25.5 mm and 24 mm is much greater than 75 mm to 70 mm. You can't crop wider. More over on crop factor, you have conveniently disregarded what the crop factor does to the aperture and the final result from it. An F2.8 lens on APS-C produces images very close to F4 on full-frame. You are not getting the same F2.8 results. That's why I looked to the Sigma 18-35 F1.8 because that's the only APS-C lens that can produce the most similar results. I am not comparing "apples to pears" here. If your work does not require that shallow depth of field, then that's fine but, you are the one making the compromise here. Those who want the flexibility between the shallow depth of field or not will be better off with a full frame sensor. Talking about a year a lens is released is an incredibly weak argument. If you want to talk about release dates then you must really despise Nikon's 24-70 which was released back in 2009. Oh, there's the one with VR released in 2013 but, that's running the same 2009 optics with the VR just slapped in there. The Tamron 24-70 and the Sigma 18-35 were released within a year of each other. Optics don't go obsolete in a year like that. The only point you have any steady ground on is price. A Sigma/Tamron 17-50mm F2.8 is certainly cheaper than a Tamron 24-70mm F2.8. But, "cheaper" is the key word here. They are cheaper in both price and quality. As I've stated before, there are very few good lenses for APS-C sensors. I don't know why the lens manufacturers have ignored APS-C like they have, but that's how it has been. Sigma is pretty much the only one that has put any considerable effort behind quality APS-C lenses. Once you get your 17-50mm F2.8, what then? What's the next decent APS-C lens? If the 17-50mm is all you need, great, but once again you are the one making the compromise here. Those who want the flexibility of having greater choice will be better off with a full frame sensor. If size is that important to you, go for a Micro 4/3 camera. You have indicated that the smaller sensor isn't a big deal to you. Olympus and Panasonic produce amazing optics with their systems that will compare favorably against any APS-C counterpart. Why? Because there are more quality m4/3 lenses, and there are a greater selection of dedicated m4/3 lenses than APS-C. Otherwise you're putting full-frame glass on your APS-C body to have the best results and that's counter productive to your argument. Lastly, D800s being sold for close to $700 isn't some mystical unicorn. I've also given the range of $750 to $950 USD in the video, so you cherry picking the unstated $700 is rather convenient for you... Go to eBay and set the filters for Used and Sold Listings. You'll see a wide range of prices but there are many sold listings that have completed for under $800. And don't comment about the cameras having a 40k shutter count, that's only a fifth of the expected life of the camera (though take caution and make sure the camera has been well taken care of).

[@BenjaminKanarek]

Fabian, the depth of field and crop potential is great with FX lenses. I do think a D7200 would be great if you are shooting birds and want to take advantage of that 1.5x factor, i.e. 300 = 450 mm etc.

[@toddysurcharge771]

@@BenjaminKanarek if you cropped in a d800e shot at 100mm to make it 150mm equivalent....I think it looks better than the d7200 shot at 150mm natively. Especially if 150mm is the end of the lens focal length since there is usually softness at the very ends of zoom lenses.

[@hertsman5]

No...2024