Just Posted: Nikon 1 V1 and J1 review: Digital Photography Review

at first I was critical of this system, but after a bit of thought this camera makes sense. I'd complain if the 2.7 crop factor sensor actually meant a decrease in overall IQ, however this camera offers M43 level performance which isn't really a compromise.

The way I understand it, this camera is designed to be a camera that prioritises capturing things. There are also other things that this camera does that M43 and other MILC will be unable to do, such as the high FPS burst, or always-in-focus video.

Sure, you might go "why not manual focus", or question why you'd need such a high burst rate, and that, that is just marketing but thats really the cry of photographers who are a bit too conservative and who need to realise that 'good photography' doesn't mean shooting with your hands tied behind your back.

I hope the next J1/V1 iteration has a better processor/PASM dial, or at least an option to activate an "advanced mode"

1 upvote

Holy Bat-cave! Thats a pricey lil toy there Robin.

3 upvotes

I think this is a fair review just because of the inflated price, but I don't think we should overlook it's advantages. This offers strong competition to the LX5, S95/S100 and G12, if not so much to the CSC cameras, especially with newer 16mp and up sensors. I might still get one, as it is so much better than a compact and I don't always want the bulk of either a DSLR, or mirrorless with lens and EVF attachment.

As a deluxe take-anywhere camera, I think this will be a big hit with pros and amateurs alike and in fact V1 is already being snapped up by the former, who aren't 'replacing' larger systems any time soon. Does popularity equate to quality? Perhaps not, but word of mouth recommendation is based around real-life usability, which is why Nikon's P300 also did well in sales, despite a small sensor (no, not because of the Nikon branding!)

I expect we will see Nikon's 'serious' APS-C based system in the near future, using sensor-based AF to make it easily compatible with DX lenses.

Comment edited 6 minutes after posting

2 upvotes

The price is right if the camera delivers, and as far as I'm concerned it does. AF performance seems to be an afterthought to DPR reviewers, as if there is something more important in a hand-carry camera. Because of the AF systems, neither the NEX 5N nor the D-P3 is a satisfying camera because one is forced to forgo many photo ops, or accept cute but blurry photos. I believe this is the reason the V1/J1 are moving so well. You can stick any score on it you like. People like sharp photos, regardless of the situation, and I believe this is the reason the cameras will do well in the near term. In the future, who knows what will come? But for now the V1 is as near as you can get to a compact DSLR substitute.

2 upvotes

This argument can be held the other way around too. Other people buy DSLR's mostly for their much greater DOF control, DR, resolution etc. None of which the N1 system really excels at over the higher end compacts.

3 upvotes

BackInTheGame: You got it all wrong.

From the V1/J1 review:
"The J1 and V1's contrast-detection AF systems, which take over when light levels are too low for effective phase-detection AF (and remember that this is the camera's decision, not the photographer's) are less impressive. Focussing is less positive (AF wobbles quickly around the target rather than locking straight on it) but impressively accurate when it gets a 'lock'. The problem is that even in average interior room light, both cameras struggle to find that lock. They rarely give up completely (and built-in AF illuminators are on hand in both cameras) but we've been surprised by how frequently they falter."

The Panasonic/NEX MILCs offer AF performance that are "roughly on par with that of entry-level DSLRs" - from http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/panasonicdmcgf3/page7.asp

2 upvotes

@G Davidson: I too bought a mirrorless mainly because I want to be able to play with low DOF. If you see Steve Huffs enthusiastics threads on the J1/V1, you will be able to see by his pictures that the 1s fail to deliver in that aspect. The 1s may be good compact cameras, but then why offer interchangeabiltiy for lenses? Standard Nikon lenses are no good except for tele so you have to buy new lenses. And the same applies for other brands. With a Nex you can use legacy or premium glass in the same way as any APS-C DSLR. And with a small sensor, you can build a small capable zoom lens like Olympus XZ1, Fuji X10 etc. So Canon may be more on the right track than Nikon in that regard, though I don't like the G1x either :-). So you don't need changing lenses.

0 upvotes

I would just compare the path 2 giants - Sony and Nikon have taken with regards to their MILC systems. You have to put traditional DSLR into context. On one hand Nikon produces amazing DSLR and lenses (ALL RANGES) but now builds this ever compromising 1 system. On the other hand Sony's DSLR offering is not widely accepted but (purely to gain market and beat the leaders) they are doing wonders to their MILC systems. APS-C sensors, excellent view finders, gorgeous screens, new fast lenses. With what I have seen, people never bashed NEX series cameras so bad when they came out. Not just because they knew that NEX was great but the "potential" the system had.

Comment edited 2 times, last edit 15 minutes after posting

4 upvotes

I've had both the NEX5 and the NEX5n and neither satisfied me as much as the Nikon 1 V1, particularly in regard to video.

0 upvotes

At least the NEX cameras do not struggle to AF like the V1/J1

0 upvotes

Unless somethings moving of course.

0 upvotes

V1/J1 apply in-camera RAW NR? Naughty, naughty Nikon made a mockery of DXOMark...

3 upvotes

Yes, I noticed that - noise on RAW image is lower than GF3 at ISO1600 but detail has been smeared - dead giveaway of NR applied to so-called RAW image.

0 upvotes

DxOMark mention this in their review of the Nikon 1 cameras. They say that they've noticed that the RAW files are "cooked" from ISO 800 and up. Since DxO measures and compares RAW sensor performance, not final image quality, they have had to estimate the true amount of noise present before in-camera NR. However, because the camera user can't get around the in-camera NR, the DxO scores for such cameras aren't that useful to the consumer.

0 upvotes

As a professional, what I would dearly like is a small easily carried camera that offers good IQ, good AF and a useful variety of lenses. I do not need or want scene recognition, video, face detection, auto ISO or any other of the latest fripperies.

The Leica M9P with autofocus as fast as a D3s would be my dream small camera I think.

Comment edited 57 seconds after posting

6 upvotes

I'm always a little puzzled by comments like this. The features you mention can always be turned off. As long as they're not compulsory and don't get in the way of a camera's basic functionality then what's the problem?

3 upvotes

Dapple, I'm always a little puzzled by comments like yours. Whilst the features can be turned off, they certainly add to the complexity of the menus, making them less intuitive and more cumbersome. Further, they add unnecessary cost to the camera. MPA's comments are certainly valid for him and many others. MPA apparently wants a simple still camera. This is not puzzling at all.

2 upvotes

I think one problem is that once you start to automate, you need various features to effectively simulate a photographer choosing appropriate settings. For example, face-detect AF is hugely effective when the AF system may otherwise settle on whatever is nearer or more contrasty. Similarly, with scene detection the best lighting depends a lot on the environment at the time. It just comes down to the fact that fiddling around with all these menus can get in the way of a pro who might make the better settings for f-stop, exposure and ISO using their experience, usually only needing those controls.

We need simple, clean menus to appear, with advanced ones being more hidden. Steve Jobs made a big deal of tackling the sheer messiness of interfaces and digital cameras are a prime culprit here, putting power in the hands of users without a sense of doing it intuitively, which traditional range-finders manage so well. I'd like to have the control, but a clean, simple interface to use.

Comment edited 2 times, last edit 3 minutes after posting

0 upvotes

I concur to MPA's wish. Hardly achievable though, because the plague that hit the photographic industry lately bears a single name: marketers. When people who know how to sell start dictating what a professional of a certain guild should use, we're all doomed. Camera industry is no exception.
My now-retired Kodak DCS520 had the most amazing feature a press photojournalist could ask for: a game of Pong. Believe it or not this was a fantastic feature to kill time while waiting for a press conference. Other than that it was pure camera and the shutter lasted 350 THOUSAND frames without missing a beat. (It still works today.) No custom functions of the custom functions, no art filters, no 1080-BS.
I think the industry is now mature enough to listen to the professionals and separate "prosumer" and "enthusiast" markets from photographers. It is about time. And I wouldn't mind paying, say, an extra $50 for a pro-version firmware that gets rid of all the unnecessary cr@p in the menus.

1 upvote

I am still waiting for a NEX/PEN-like camera with FF sensor + 35 f/1.8 + 50 f/1.4 + 85 f/1.8 lenses. No one's got it. The first company to fulfill my dream gets the vote from my wallet.

1 upvote

Photonuts.. "I am still waiting for a NEX/PEN-like camera with FF sensor + 35 f/1.8 + 50 f/1.4 + 85 f/1.8 lenses. No one's got it. The first company to fulfill my dream gets the vote from my wallet."

You can get the PEN or Panasonic M43 with the Leica F1.4 lens which offers decent DOF, better than any Nikon 1 series or NEX right now.

0 upvotes

so, seems MPA and andix don't even want or need to go into menus.. so why care how complex they are?

0 upvotes

> Leica [...] with autofocus [...]

I LOLd.

Who know, may be the OM-D would be the thing you are seeking: it is rumored to have focus faster than fast.

0 upvotes

A) 115 g / 4.1 oz, $0 Kit: 10-30mm F3.5-5.6 VR
27-81mm F9.4-15.1 (FL & DOF: 35mm equivalent)

B) 175 g / 6.2 oz, $249.95: 30-110mm F3.8-5.6 VR
81-297mm F10.3-15.1 (FL & DOF: 35mm equivalent)

C) 77 g / 2.8 oz, $249.95: 10mm F2.8
27mm F7.6 (FL & DOF: 35mm equivalent)

D) 515g / 18.2 oz, $749.95: 10-100mm F4.5-5.6 PD-Zoom
27-270mm F12.2-15.1 (FL & DOF: 35mm equivalent)

J1 Body: 9.7oz (277g)
V1 Body: 10.4oz (294g)

Body Lens combos:
J1-A) 277g + 115g = 392g
J1-B) 277g + 75g = 352g
J1-C) 277g + 77g = 354g
J1-D) 277g + 515g = 792g

V1-A) 294g + 115g = 409g
V1-B) 294g + 75g = 369g
V1-C) 294g + 77g = 371g
V1-D) 294g + 515g = 809g

Excludes weight of batteries and memory card (not stated (yet)).

Assuming one carries just one lens w/ body, or opts for one FL prime/zoom for a body.

Comment edited 1 minute after posting

0 upvotes

Can you also include the price of the V1/J1 + lens in your list?

1 upvote

You seem a little schizophrenic on page 7 with these sentences:

the lack of either onscreen exposure simulation or live histogram make shooting in manual exposure mode much less straightforward than it should (and easily could) be. Shooting in manual exposure mode is easier

Also page 5 photo caption missing a word or something:

While the has a visibly thicker body

Comment edited 4 minutes after posting

0 upvotes

It's not schizophrenic as manual exposure mode is in fact the easiest mode of all in photography provided exposure simulation live preview is available, direct, and fulltime while one makes exposure adjustments (uninterrupted by toggling or resorting to obscuring adjustment menus). (like on any PowerShot G... or a D3/D3x/D3s with it enabled for that matter).
Not all dcam systems offer it; the V1/J1 lacks it, much like an OVF lacks 'exposure simulation' preview on a film camera...
Nikon Pros ask for it specifically when dealing with handling the 'look' of any exposure on the new D4... (but it is a normal feature on mfr's like Canon's EOS LV dSLRs or prosumer PowerShot dcams).

2 upvotes

Sorry - the point about manual exposure mode was an editing error (mine) and has been fixed. That comment was originally elsewhere in the review.

0 upvotes

Dont think the reviewer gave it a fair look...to rate performance average doesnt say much..and truthfully performance is anything but average on this gem of a camera....every review other than Dpreview gushed about this camera...how many cams do you know that do 60 FPS conitnuous....and held steady most are in focus....Im dismissing this guy as an anti fanboy...lol

3 upvotes

Multiple reviewers were involved in this review, as you'll see from the byline on the introduction page.

We gave both J1 and V1 due credit for their strengths but I think we've also given a fair assessment of their weaknesses. What - specifically - have we got wrong, in your opinion?

8 upvotes

I think you should have split the review and made one for the J1 and one for the V1.

0 upvotes

Michael:

From the review:

"The J1 and V1's contrast-detection AF systems, which take over when light levels are too low for effective phase-detection AF (and remember that this is the camera's decision, not the photographer's) are less impressive. Focusing is less positive (AF wobbles quickly around the target rather than locking straight on it) but impressively accurate when it gets a 'lock'. The problem is that even in average interior room light, both cameras struggle to find that lock. They rarely give up completely (and built-in AF illuminators are on hand in both cameras) but we've been surprised by how frequently they falter."

If that is not enough to be a show-stopper, I do not know what is. One will like to carry small lightweight cameras to parties and dinners 'cos they can remain inconspicuous... but if their AF falter in low light, they are as good as useless IMO.

9 upvotes

DPReview receive no promotion payments from Nikon.

2 upvotes

@ Jaelkay - we never have, and we never will (and the same goes for all manufacturers).

3 upvotes

Michael, we know you enjoy your V1, but I'd say that DPR's review is very consistent with others. There are a lot of good things abou the 1 series, and in many ways the image quality Nikon has been able to squeeze out of a relatively small sensor is impressive.

But their point that the cameras don't quite work wither for P&S upgraders or enthusiasts is spot-on. The controls are not well set up at all for anyone who wants any sort of manual control, and choosing to put things like AEL/AFL on shortcuts, rather than the much more useful ISO and white balance, is very odd.

The main advantage of the 1 series is its fast continuous shooting ad the object tracking provided by its AF. So for people who shoot a lot of kids sports, its great. Beyond that there are probably equally good or better choices from other manufacturers.

Many people will find that the 1 series fits their needs but that doesn't mean that DPR's assessment is off track.

1 upvote

I am a m43 user and in no way a Nikon fanboy, but I don't think this camera is getting a fair shake.

I have no problem printing tack-sharp at 13x19 with the Panasonic G2 (and others print even larger), so if the V1 and J1 are that good, than I have no issues with the image quality.

In fact, I don't see how people can talk about "better" and "worse" IQ, without any reference to a real world standard. How big do you print? Is it good enough for that?

IMHO, all of the manufacturers provide good enough IQ at this point in time, that it is the features of the camera that we should be looking at, especially performance and handling. I haven't touched a J1 or V1, so I'll take DPReview's word for it that the handling is terrible. But I find the autofocus and continuous shooting intriguing. That means /much/ more to me than pixel-peeping.

4 upvotes

Interesting...

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/studiocomparefullscreen.asp#baseDir=%2Freviews_data&cameraDataSubdir=boxshot&indexFileName=boxshotindex.xml&presetsFileName=boxshotpresets.xml&showDescriptions=false&headerTitle=Studio%20scene&headerSubTitle=Standard%20studio%20scene%20comparison&masterCamera=canon_eos600d&masterSample=img_6894&slotsCount=4&slot0Camera=canon_eos600d&slot0Sample=img_6894&slot0DisableCameraSelection=true&slot0DisableSampleSelection=true&slot0LinkWithMaster=true&slot1Camera=sony_nex5n&slot1Sample=dsc00791&slot2Camera=panasonic_dmcgh2&slot2Sample=p1010472-gh2-iso6400&slot3Camera=nikon_v1&slot3Sample=dsc_0336&x=-0.33666107431167674&y=1.2609871822395489

Found out the Nikon V1/J1 lacks exposure simulation live preview (no surprise, neither do their Coolpix dcams or most dSLRs), only their pro dSLRs offer it (D3/D3x/D3s... maybe D4) and 'partially' D5100.

However, G1 X like all PS G's and EOS LV dSLRs do have such sophisticated live exposure simulation preview.

2 upvotes

I can only tell you what my eyes see which,I know, is completely subjective. The Sample prints are supurb and they all have a "dimensionality" similar to what I see in my Foveon sensor SD1. That's in the V model.

0 upvotes

If I was buying a compact I'd spend the extra on a j1, lovely to use and good pics for it's size and it isn't laden with stupid scene and editing modes that no-one ever uses.

Would be best for a nikon user who wants a small carry about camera.

Very fast to use.

1 upvote

For the price these are selling for (in NZ at least) you would have to be crazy or a "soccer Mom" with more money than sense.

7 upvotes

"If you shoot in the default Auto ISO mode for example (which we suspect most point-and-shoot photographers will) you'll be disappointed by how many of your pictures seem blurry, thanks to the long shutter speeds the J1 and V1 insist on using in marginal light when they could increase the ISO instead."

Thank you so much for someone finally mentioning this, lol. Seriously though, I've had friends with Nikon's, and they find it nearly impossible to get a usable indoor pic because of the extremely low shutter speeds the camera chooses in indoor lighting, rather than increasing the iso.

10 upvotes

Very good camera in terms of IQ ,focus and even white balance. When used with the fmount it become abit slower almost good. Image quality comparable with D300. The only problem is that of wide angle lenses. I think Nikon has to think about it !!! I really enjoyed taking photos with the Nikon J1 . If it was a 20 mp it would be much much better

Comment edited 2 minutes after posting

0 upvotes

Image quality comparable with the D300? Not... LOL! Sorry, used both cameras, the 1 series doesn't compare to a D300 esp in lower light.

2 upvotes

I think people really interested in this camera should turn their focus on the Canon G1 X instead. Or if they insist on interchangeable lenses, the Sony Nex cameras are hard to beat.

But I feel these small interchangeable lens cameras are a waste. You still need a bag to carry it and the lens's and accessories around. IMO an entry level DSLR is the way to go. You get a nice viewfinder and you won't sacrifice quality and features to save a little size and weight.

If you learn the proper techniques of how to hold your DSLR while using, the strain is none to minimal.

For transportation purposes, buy a great quality bag with a nice shoulder strap. Take a look at thinktank bags.

IMO these small, sleek interchangeable lens cameras are a gimmick.

11 upvotes

Agree.

I would really like to see Nikon put this sensor in a fixed lens compact camera. That would likely be a good compromise between camera size/quality.

You could then build a much smaller than G1x camera, with better quality than micro-sensor cameras.

1 upvote

What I find even more amusing is how people used to whine about the small grip of Rebel cameras when MILCs hardly have any grip.

3 upvotes

Can't say I agree. I usually carry my mirrorless (E-PL2+20/1.7) in a coat pocket and a zoom (either 9-18mm or 14-42) in another. Can't do that w/ my T2i or any DSLR. In addition, you only need a small bag/lighter tripod to support a mirrorless kit.

None of the entry level DSLR have a 'nice viewfinder'. To me, 'nice' means: large, bright and 100% coverage. You don't get that unless you buy a 7D/K-5/D7000 or higher. On the other hand, the Pany G3 has an EVF that has 100% coverage and almost as big as an FF viewfiender, while being smaller than entry level DSLRs. I like using the VF-2 EVF on my camera, and just like the LCD, it shows WB, ISO, etc. changes on the fly. No OVF on any DSLR can do that.

Granted, the Nikon 1 is somewhat crippled, but IQ and feature set of other mirrorless are good enough for most users. My E-PL2 has direct asccess to PASM and exposure settings, has many bracketing modes, has IBIS, can wirelessly (with TTL) control other flash units via the pop-up, and so on.

3 upvotes

Agreed with you on some interchangeables like the NEX, some of their lenses are DSLR sized, might as well get a small DSLR. However, A bag is not needed, esp with a M43 small body with F1.7 Pancake lens, you will still get decent IQ. Agreed on proper technique with a DSLR and proper shoulder strap as well, reduces the load considerably.

Comment edited 17 seconds after posting

0 upvotes

"I usually carry my mirrorless (E-PL2+20/1.7) in a coat pocket and a zoom (either 9-18mm or 14-42) in another. Can't do that w/ my T2i or any DSLR"

That's fine in weather I suppose when you want to wear a coat.

1 upvote

I can easily put my Nex 5n with the large kit lens & EVF mounted in the pocket of my jackets. Can't do that with a rebel.
I can also carry the camera for hours around my necks without pain.
Only a small compact will be easier, albeit with lower IQ.
The 1s are LARGER than the Nex.
As others have stated, best thing for Nikon would be to put the sensor in a smaller body with integrated lens, aka G1X.

0 upvotes

fun to mount on a 600 mm lens for birding

2 upvotes

IMO, Nikon should get more credit for taking a considered approach and releasing a well-engineered system that works, rather than rushing-out some beta version full of kludges and firmware bugs, as some manufacturers have done...

5 upvotes

I've read lots of raves about the focus system but this is the first time I've read that it turns off PDAF in low light. Seeing that most current CDAF systems work well (blazing fast with the new Olympus cameras), it seems to be a very limited advantage unless you are photographing action.

9 upvotes

The switch to CDAF is dependant on the aperture of the lens. Just one more reason why Nikon needs faster lenses and soon.

2 upvotes

Yes, but faster (f/2.8 or larger) lenses make no sense for this set-up 'cos the bodies are far too small. There is a reason the current NEX and m43 line-ups do not have a single f/2.8 zoom lens. :)

0 upvotes

photo nuts - a fast zoom would make sense for these Nikons and be only good reason for the smaller sensor, surprise you think the opposite.

0 upvotes

"By photo nuts (Jan 21, 2012 at 00:00:16 GMT)
Yes, but faster (f/2.8 or larger) lenses make no sense for this set-up 'cos the bodies are far too small. There is a reason the current NEX and m43 line-ups do not have a single f/2.8 zoom lens. :)"

Granted these aren't zooms, but you forget the M43 Leica F1.4 lens and M43 Panasonic F1.7 pancake which are fast and small, compared to Nex lenses.

0 upvotes

The V1/J1 system is the first serious Nikon's mistake in my opinion. It is most certainly a mistake from the viewpoint of advanced photographers and serious enthusiast photographers. But maybe, and only maybe, it might reveal itself as a good selling stuff for would-be photographers who were so far shunning the big DSLR's with big lenses - now they maybe will think: this is made for us - the same stuff as the big DSLR's - just much smaller! And they might even end up happy with these high tech toy cameras and Nikon will happily sell them all the production-cost-efficient additional toy-accessories like F-mount lens adapters and other funny things!

I hope the Second Coming will be soon and this sell-buy-buy-sell trickery will vanish for all eternity.

12 upvotes

when the V1 gets sold for $499 with kit lens 10-30 or a pancake 10mm.. I will buy one but not for the MSRP or even current Street price..

I have played with a V1 one at a store and I liked the fast AF.. other than that...teh V1 doesn;t have a built in flash? really?...
.

Comment edited 2 minutes after posting

0 upvotes

The problem is that the PEN Mini (which can AF just as quickly - it's AF tracking it can't compete with), has a list price of $499 and is currently selling around the $449 mark. The J1 may eventually match that price but I'd be surprised if the V1 drops that low before end-of-life sales.

7 upvotes

But the AF-C performance is what counts for many kinds of shooting.

1 upvote

The AF-C performance is limited to good lighting if using the kit zoom.

5 upvotes

How much is the Pen mini once you attach an EVF? Surely it should be compared with the J1?

Comment edited 26 seconds after posting

0 upvotes

PerL: Spoken like a true fanboy

1 upvote

Yes. I am a fan of AF-C that actually works.

0 upvotes

oh.. for the asking price of the V1.. I would have wanted the EVF on the left hand side, and a hot shoe, Green/auto mode, PSAM..scene modes, art filters (like oly MFT cams) then, I might buy it..

I am a nikon DSLR user..

0 upvotes

Agreed... I got a GF3 body and Leica M43 F1.4 lens for $799, same as the V1 and far better depth of field and IQ indoors no flash

1 upvote

I wish the Canon G1X had the Nikon 1's focusing system. That's the only area where the Nikon 1 excels.

2 upvotes

Quite the opposite. The Nikon 1's AF is thoroughly UNimpressive:

"The J1 and V1's contrast-detection AF systems, which take over when light levels are too low for effective phase-detection AF (and remember that this is the camera's decision, not the photographer's) are less impressive. Focussing is less positive (AF wobbles quickly around the target rather than locking straight on it) but impressively accurate when it gets a 'lock'. The problem is that even in average interior room light, both cameras struggle to find that lock. They rarely give up completely (and built-in AF illuminators are on hand in both cameras) but we've been surprised by how frequently they falter." - from the review

6 upvotes

The focussing is actually very, very good. You've either not used one or if you have, you've not used it properly.

1 upvote

LOL 69% and no star for a $949 camera. This camera was a colossal dud just like everyone predicted.

19 upvotes

I am just wondering what is worst - blazing fast and accurate AF, excellent out-of camera JPEGs or the jello-free movies.

C'mon guys - does every new camera must be the same as those already out? The V1 is built around a bit different philosophy and while for one it may be just a camera for vacation with family, for other maybe their "serious" camera. So what? If you do not like something it does not mean that it is a ... dud, dude.

I keep waiting for a EVIL camera I would really like, but I do not keep mocking all the rest.

4 upvotes

Thank you. I too don't like people bashing products like they are junk. If you don't like something, that's fine, just move on. Bashing this camera is like telling all those that use and like it they are fools. Nikon put a lot of time and effort to produce something a little different than the main stream. It's a new system with great potential. I've seen enough images that tells me it's a great little camera.

4 upvotes

Really? Selling like hotcakes does not indicate it's a dud to me. Or to any sentient person.

1 upvote

Well, that's the funny thing. The V1's not a dud, it's selling well and even pros are affectionados. Although I too have a problem with the pricing, I don't with the quality. It being small (with EVF), well-constructed and having fast AF in many situations are big pluses however you look at it. Cameras sell for their pluses, the minuses usually are just what appear when inappropriate comparisons are made.

It's a bit like saying (as some here do) that mirrorless cameras are pointless when you could use a DSLR. For their users, the advantages are clear so they buy them, perhaps as backup and it's the same here. The problem of categorising the N1 is it's unique sensor size today, leading to it seeming like a pointless waste or a transcendent miracle, depending on people's perspectives.

Comment edited 7 minutes after posting

1 upvote

Yet, it is selling well... probably mostly due to brand recognition, distribution and Kutcher? Bet you if the J/V1 doesn't have the Nikon (or Canon) brand, it sell a lot less, lol.

2 upvotes

Yeah, only 69%.. pretty low score.. about what I figured.. A lot of it has to do with the over inflated price. Drop that price at least $250 then I might consider one.

1 upvote

Jaelkay,
Just because something sells well, doesn't make it a great product. The D3S, D3X don't sell as well as the NIkon 1 system, so I guess they aren't good? LOL!

1 upvote

Fullframer, the fact you don't like it means even less.

0 upvotes

I think this camera just does not mesh well with the metrics used by DPR, nor with the pro/enthusiast 'photogrrapher' values of its typical readership. But I think it will very well suit people who want better pictures without the faff of being a "photographer" (even if they happen to be one).

I don't understand why a camera has to have a plethora of manual controls, except because the camera is not capable of doing what it should without manual intervention.

This camera has radical solutions to the simple question "how do I get more keepers?".

It seems to have been designed to overcome the biggest problem with existing camera design - that the camera is the thing that gets in the way of taking pictures.

Comment edited 44 seconds after posting

1 upvote

The main issue with the V1/J1 is that unless you need the AF capabilities, there are much better choices for a mirror-less ILC. Even the better AF capabilities of the J1/V1 will only matter to people who wont use a DSLR as even an entry level DSLR is better suited for tracking and shooting moving subjects.

The AF capabilities are further handicapped by the control scheme of the camera which severely limits it's usefulness for shooting moving/rapidly changing subjects.

The only real compelling thing about the J1/V1 is what the on sensor phase detection AF will mean for future designs.

5 upvotes

I looked these at Target today. They had them in all kinds of colors, even pink.
Built quality looks very mediocre.

5 upvotes

Just about any camera these days can take outstanding shots when conditions are good. It's when it gets to the margins that the differences between cameras becomes clear, and while this looks to be a great 'appliance', disappointed that they put a small sensor in it and dumbed it down somewhat.

Turns out to be a great fashion statement rather than a compact for the pointy end, which is a shame really.

8 upvotes

I sure wish we had the Panasonic GX1 and Canon G1-X reviews to compare against the Nikon 1 cameras. Those are the only cameras from those manufactures that really go head to head(G1-X not as much) against the 1 series. Thanks for getting the Nikon 1 review up though.

0 upvotes

I'd say the Panasonic G3 is a pretty good match head on with the V1.

1 upvote

The GF3, G3 and E-PM1 are all closer matches.

The GX1 review is on its way but we've not even heard when a reviewable G1 X will become available, so that one's in 'wishful thinking' territory for now.

3 upvotes

The GF3 may be a good match for the J1. However, the GX1 is definitely the direct competitor for the V1.

3 upvotes

I'd still argue the G3 is a closer match for the V1. (Except with a better sensor, flip-out screen, more controls and a lower price tag)

Comment edited 27 seconds after posting

11 upvotes

Richard, it seems like the reason you think those other cameras are a better match is because the GX1 just blows away the V1 in almost every category, while those other cameras aren't as good and the V1 can just barely hold its own against them.

2 upvotes

I'm thinking the same thing, these are all flagships in their own way. The lightly built cameras are a bit different as the V1, despite having simple controls, is solidly-built and small. To me, the G3 is dated and relatively huge due to the SLR-styling.

0 upvotes

IcyVeins, that makes no sense. The G3 is more capable in nearly every way than the GX1.

0 upvotes

Wrong, the G3 is nearly the same camera except much bigger and heavier, it does have a swivel screen and internal EVF but GX1 has an optional EVF and is better suited for the pancake powerzoom lens, it's also much nicer looking and IQ is slightly better than G3 according to DXOMark

0 upvotes

"better suited", "nicer looking" - subjective. "much heavier"? - snapsort says 336g vs 318g. "IQ slightly better"? - again according to snapsort, DXOMark gives 56 to the G3 vs 55 for the GX1, so you'd appear to be wrong there.

Anyway, none of that explains why the GX1 "blows away" the V1 but the G3 doesn't. With all the hyperbole going around, no wonder people get so worked up in these forums...

Comment edited 3 minutes after posting

0 upvotes

Why does the Comparo meter for RAW images default to showing the Olympus XZ-1 instead of the EPL-3? The XZ-1 is not in the Nikon 1's class at all.

1 upvote

The XZ-1 has a smaller sensor but much brighter lens, offering greater control over depth-of-field than the J1 or V1 kit lens. It's also pocketable, unlike the Nikon. This makes it an interesting comparison, we think.

The 12MP Four Thirds sensor is already represented on that page (by the GF3), so adding the E-PL3 wouldn't give much more insight. However, there's nothing to stop you selecting it if you want to make that comparison.

Comment edited 20 seconds after posting

7 upvotes

Thanks for the reply. I see where you are coming from by including it. However, I was under the impression(Before your clarification) that the reviews always defaulted to only showing comparison cameras in the same class.

0 upvotes

A puzzle - in the comparisons pages, JPEG and RAW, the Olympus XZ-1 cropped images are bigger than those for the J1 - but both cameras have 10Mp sensors.
Why the size difference? - it appears to make comparisons of detail rendering impossible.

Comment edited 2 times, last edit 8 minutes after posting

0 upvotes

"at medium to low ISO settings the J1 and V1 produce images that at worst are hard to tell apart at a pixel level from those created by the considerably larger 12MP Micro Four Thirds sensor, and at high ISO settings actually slightly better." Huh? Look at them compared to the Olympus E-PL1 and it's not even close. The Olympus clearly out resolves the Nikons. Stunningly obvious, so I'm not sure what DPR is looking at.

7 upvotes

Thanks for the thorough and tell-it-like-it-is review.

7 upvotes

I think the review dont give enough credit for the unique speed and AF - the major shortcomings of other mirrorless cameras.

1 upvote

Tracking AF is definitely a strength of the camera which dpreview does acknowledge - they say that it is the only mirrorless in the market to provide that. However the single-shot Af and responsiveness of V1/J1 is not better than other mirrorless cameras. I have tried J1 and olympus e-pm1 side by side and e-pm1 was faster in AF and more responsive. And a major issue currently is that the smaller sensor has not provided a size advantage for now. Again look at a e-pm1 with kit-lens and a J1 with kit-lens side by side and the e-pm1 is as compact if not more and is cheaper, has a better sensor, is more responsive, provides more controls. Hard to to recommend the J1 over it.

5 upvotes

@random78 The 30-110 is definitely more compact than, say, the 45-175X lens for m43, and the V1 is clearly smaller than the G3, for example, but it's not so significant that I think it's worth the smaller sensor size. If and when Nikon releases more lenses for it we'll have to reassess.

0 upvotes

A fast AF-C mode is essential if you want DSLR like action shooting capability. The Nikon 1 cameras are the only choice if one wants that. That is why pros like Rob Galbraith likes them.

0 upvotes

@Dolan - Lenses are definitely the key - the system has a potential of being interesting given the right lenses. So waiting to see what Nikon releases in future

@PerL - Just because a 'Pro' likes it has no bearing on whether it is suitable for me or another user. I am pefectly capable of evaluating how well it meets my needs, thank you :) Once again if you need great tracking AF in a very small package then yes Nikon 1 is the only choice. However if tracking AF is not high on the priority list (which it is not for me), then Nikon 1 in its current state does not offer much to recommend it over other alternatives

Comment edited 1 minute after posting

2 upvotes

DPReview points out the WORST SHORTCOMING of the V1/J1 series as compared to other mirrorless cameras from Panasonic and Sony.

From the V1/J1 review:
"The J1 and V1's contrast-detection AF systems, which take over when light levels are too low for effective phase-detection AF (and remember that this is the camera's decision, not the photographer's) are less impressive. Focussing is less positive (AF wobbles quickly around the target rather than locking straight on it) but impressively accurate when it gets a 'lock'. The problem is that even in average interior room light, both cameras struggle to find that lock. They rarely give up completely (and built-in AF illuminators are on hand in both cameras) but we've been surprised by how frequently they falter."

The Panasonic/NEX MILCs offer AF performance that are "roughly on par with that of entry-level DSLRs" - from http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/panasonicdmcgf3/page7.asp

0 upvotes

Seems pretty accurate. A camera with enthusiast features but few external controls...not good. The V1 should've had a lot more external controls and the J1 as is for the P&S crowd.

5 upvotes

That's too bad about the relatively low score. Many pros have given this camera a big thumbs up for every day usage...and of course, I personally thing it's an outstanding camera, even though it lacks some external controls I'd love to have. My gallery full of outstanding photos from the V1 is evidence enough for me that it's a great camera.

6 upvotes

Care to share some of the Outstanding ones for us?

10 upvotes

I've yet to hear a photographer/pundit/blogger say anything overly positive about this system. All I hear is "disappointing for the price" and dpreview seems to agree. When you can get a full size dslr or one of many micro systems these make no sense.

Comment edited 2 minutes after posting

11 upvotes

My gallery full of outstanding photos from my old Canon D30, Olympus E-1 and EPL-1 that is enough evidence for me that they are great cameras.

0 upvotes

@AshMills I've seen some very good output from the Nikon 1s out there -- it's capable of really nice stuff.

Have a look here: http://www.flickr.com/cameras/nikon/1_v1/ for starters and then check out some samples from the better photogs using it. As long as you don't need shallow DoF there's not really much else holding the shooter back.

2 upvotes

Sure....here ya go AshMills...the samples I was referring to - two of my galleries, all with the V1:
http://www.openbloom.com/GEAR-Etc-1/Nikon-1-V1/19648888_Nn5D4F

http://www.openbloom.com/VACATION-AND-SHORT-TRIPS/MUSEUMS-ZOOS/US-Air-Force-Museum-Nikon-V1/21029581_xcd28D

4 upvotes

@DWR0082 -- both Rob Galbraith and Steve Huff are quite positive about the system in general.

2 upvotes

So what is with those photos that can't be done with other cameras?

2 upvotes

Either you want/need AF tracking or you don't. If you don't need AF tracking, you don't REALLY need AF, but it's nice to have. No argument about the smaller sensor etc. but it's the only non-DSLR that can realistically track...

1 upvote

@QuarterToDoom -- you could make that argument about virtually any camera reviewed here.

2 upvotes

I think that's a pretty fair and balance review. It matches my initial thoughts of the system pretty well. As I've got more and more used to the system, I've come to better appreciate what this little marvel is capable of. At the end of the day, reviews are really just numbers, subjectively plugged in by people who have limited exposure to what they are testing. The best review is the user's experience and outcomes from actual use.

2 upvotes

Thanks, they look great.

1 upvote

Thank you for this excellent gallery, it gives me confidence that it is a camera worthy of use. I can think of some additions I'd like to the system (brighter lens, real flash socket, normal controls, etc), but it already seems like something I'd really enjoy using.

1 upvote

D200_4me:
Your photos are great. I enjoyed them. They demonstrate that V1 is a capable camera in the hands of great photographers. The only issue is whether it is worth the price while there are other options which are equally or more capable but cheaper.

2 upvotes

I have shot outstanding photos with my 2005 Sony P150 7 Mpx digicam, I have shot more outstanding pictures with an Oly XZ1 10 Mpx small sensor.

What is your point? DPR don't say it is a bad camera, only that many users will get much more from cameras of other manufacturers. Price and capabilities simly don't match. If Nikon would sell them for 500 Euros as premium compact camera, the verdict would be better.

@DOlan: I enjoy reading Steves pages, but his mania for the 1 has become tedious. That picture with strobist lighting he is so happy about, shows an utterly mediocre large DOF picture any compact camera could have made.

Comment edited 2 minutes after posting

0 upvotes

D200_4me, thank you for the great galleries.

0 upvotes


Nikon launches 1 S1 and 1 J3 1-system mirrorless camera and 1 Nikkor lenses Jan 8, 2013	Just Posted: Nikon 1 V2 Preview Samples Jan 2, 2013	Nikon announces digiscoping adapters for 1 System cameras Nov 23, 2012	Hands-on with the Nikon 1 V2 - 14MP mirrorless camera with built-in EVF Oct 25, 2012

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	Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX50V Apr 24, 2013
	Panasonic Lumix DMC-G6 Apr 24, 2013
	Panasonic Lumix DMC-LF1 Apr 24, 2013
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	Samsung NX1100 Apr 11, 2013
	Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF6 Apr 9, 2013
	Fujifilm FinePix S8400W Mar 22, 2013
	Fujifilm FinePix XP200 Mar 22, 2013

FLICKR	150
Would you move to a full frame DSLR?	150
* this week through your m43 - 2013.05.20 *	82
Why is the 55-210 so big?	74
Sony A mount cameras could go mirrorless in 2014	67
Do you change lenses in the fields?	65
OMD Shutter shock revisited...and a possible ...	63
Pentax FF rumor gaining steam	50
To owners of M4/3 and D-SLRs: which came first?	49
My Friend + his daughter for retouch	44
stolen D800 in Paris.	43
Why does my photo lack detail...?	42
Has digital stitching made high megapixel ...	40
Canon 10mm vs 18mm for landscapes	36
Macro lens for micro four thirds, any good choice?	35
I sold my Canon...	34
Struggling with new AF-S 80-400mm	30
My GR Just Arrived - Some Quick Full Size ...	27
It's time to stop whining about Adobe. . .	27
NYC Nightscapes	27

Just Posted: Nikon 1 V1 and J1 review

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