Resolution Chart Comparison (JPEG)
Shots here are of our 'version two' resolution chart which provides for measurement of resolution up to 4000 LPH (Lines Per Picture Height). A value of 20 equates to 2000 lines per picture height. For each camera the relevant prime lens was used. The chart is shot at a full range of apertures and the sharpest image selected. Studio light, cameras set to aperture priority (optimum aperture selected), image parameters default. Exposure compensation set to deliver approximately 80% luminance of white area.
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| Nikon D300s (3.4 MB; 12 MP) | Canon EOS 7D (4.8MB, 18 MP) |
|---|---|
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| Pentax K7 (8.6 MB, 14.5 MP) | Canon EOS 50D (4.1 MB, 15.1 MP) |
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| Nikon D300S | Canon EOS 7D |
|---|---|
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| Pentax K-7 | Canon EOS 50D |
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| Nikon D300S | Canon EOS 7D |
|---|---|
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| Pentax K-7 | Canon EOS 50D |
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| Nikon D300S | Canon EOS 7D |
|---|---|
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| Pentax K7 | Canon EOS 50D |
Measurable results
| Camera | Measurement | Absolute resolution |
Extinction resolution |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nikon D300S | Horizontal LPH | 2200 | 2500 |
| Vertical LPH | 2100 | 2600 | |
| Canon EOS 7D | Horizontal LPH | 2500 | * 3100 |
| Vertical LPH | 2450 | * 3050 | |
| Pentax K-7 | Horizontal LPH | 2300 | * 2700 |
| Vertical LPH | 2250 | * 2650 | |
| Canon EOS 50D | Horizontal LPH | 2250 | 2700 |
| Vertical LPH | 2200 | 2700 |
| * | Moiré is visible |
|---|---|
| + | Chart maximum |
| LPH | Lines per Picture Height (to allow for different aspect ratios the measurement is the same for horizontal and vertical) |
| Absolute resolution | Point at which all lines of a resolution bar are still visible and defined, beyond this resolution loss of detail occurs (below Nyquist frequency). |
| Extinction resolution | Detail beyond camera's definition (becomes aliased) |
The soft JPEGs we've already seen in this review do nothing to help the D300S in this test - any resolution disadvantage of its lower pixel count is exacerbated by its rather smooth output. As a result, it is out-performed by both Canons. Similarly soft JPEGs from the Pentax mean the Nikon doesn't look too outclassed.
