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Now reading: Nikon D7100 In-Depth Review 119 comments

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Nikon D7100 In-Depth Review

Published Apr 26, 2013 | Amadou Diallo

Buy on Amazon.com From $649.95

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9 Menus: Custom Settings

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Menus cont: Custom Settings

The D7100's exhaustive variety of custom settings are split into seven color coded categories, labeled 'a - g'. This makes it easier to remember a specific option and quicker to enter the custom settings menu at the correct position. You can still scroll through all custom settings options as one big menu if you wish. An asterix (*) is displayed next to any category that has been altered from its default setting. And you can quickly restore all options to their defaults in one go with the 'Reset custom settings' item at the top of the menu.

Custom Settings Menu (a: Autofocus)

Option	Values / Actions	Notes
a1 AF-C priority selection	• Release • Focus	Defines if camera must have focus lock before shutter release in AF-C mode.
a2 AF-S priority selection	• Release • Focus	Defines if camera must have focus lock before shutter release in AF-S mode.
a3 Focus tracking with lock-on	• 5 (Long) • 4 • 3 (Normal) • 2 • 1 (Short) • Off	Controls how focusing is affected by subject distance changing and how quickly the system should react.
a4 AF point illumination	• Auto • On • Off
a5 Focus point wrap-around	• Wrap • No wrap
a6 Number of focus points	• 51 points • 11 points
a7 Built-in AF-assist illuminator	• On • Off

Custom Settings Menu (b: Metering / exposure)

Option	Values / Actions	Notes
b1 ISO sensitivity step value	• 1/3 step • 1/2 step	Set the steps used for selection of ISO sensitivity.
b2 EV steps for exposure cntrl.	• 1/3 step • 1/2 step
b3 Easy exposure compensation	• On (Auto reset) • On • Off	Enables control via a command dial without first pressing the exp. comp. button.
b4 Center weight area	• 6 mm • 8 mm • 10 mm • 13 mm • Average	Sets the diameter of the center-weighted metering area
b5 Fine tune optimal exposure	• Matrix metering • Center-weighted • Spot metering	Allows fine tuning of metered exposure values from -1.0 EV to +1.0 EV in 1/6 EV steps.

Custom Settings Menu (c: Timers / AE Lock)

Option	Values / Actions	Notes
c1 Shutter-release button AE-L	• On • Off	Define AE lock during shutter release half-press.
c2 Standby timer	• 4 s • 6 s • 8 s • 16 s • 30 s • 1 min • 5 min • 10 min • 30 min	Define how long the camera continues to meter with no other operations performed. Longer times reduce battery life.
c3 Self-timer	• Self-timer delay 2 s 5 s 10 s 20 s • Number of shots Choose 1 - 9 • Interval between shots .5 s 1 s 2 s 3 s	Define number of images to be taken at specified intervals.
c4 Monitor off delay	• Playback 4 s 10 s 20 s 1 m 5 m 10 m • Menus 4 s 10 s 20 s 1 m 5 m 10 m • Information display 4 s 10 s 20 s 1 m 5 m 10 m • Image review 2 s 4 s 10 s 20 s 1 m 5 m 10 m • Live view 5 m 10 m 15 m 20 m 30 m No limit	Define how long the rear display remains on when no operations are performed.
c5 Remote on duration	• 1 min • 5 min • 10 min • 15 min	Select the length of time the camera will wait for a signal from the remote before cancelling remote control mode

Custom Settings Menu (d: Shooting / display)

Option	Values / Actions	Notes
d1 Beep	•Volume 3 2 1 Off • Pitch High Low
d2 Viewfinder grid display	• On • Off
d3 ISO display and adjust.	• Show ISO sensitivity • Show ISO/Easy ISO • Show frame count	Determine whether ISO value or frame count is displayed in the top LCD panel.
d4 Screen tips	• On • Off	Activates help comments in the quick settings display
d5 CL mode shooting speed	• 6 fps • 5 fps • 4 fps • 3 fps • 2 fps • 1 fps	Define shooting speed for the Continuous L drive mode.
d6 Max continuous release	• 1 - 100	Maximum shots in a burst.
d7 File Number Sequence	• On • Off • Reset
d8 Information display	• Auto • Manual Dark on light Light on dark	When set to Auto, the infor display changes its color scheme in low light
d9 LCD illumination	• On • Off	Enable to allow a button press to light the control panel.
d10 Exposure delay mode	• 3 s • 2 s • 1 s • Off	Shutter release is delayed to avoid vibration.
d11 Flash warning	• On • Off
d12 MB-D15 battery type	• LR6 (AA alkaline) • HR6 (AA Ni-MH) • FR6 (AA lithium)
d13 Battery order	• Use MB-D15 batteries first • Use camera battery first

Custom Settings Menu (e: Bracketing / flash)

Option	Values / Actions	Notes
e1 Flash sync speed	• 1/320 (Auto FP) • 1/250 (Auto FP) • 1/250 • 1/200 • 1/160 • 1/125 • 1/100 • 1/80 • 1/60
e2 Flash shutter speed	• 1/60 s • 1/30 s • 1/15 s • 1/8 s • 1/4 s • 1/2 s • 1 s • 2 s • 4 s • 8 s • 15 s • 30 s	Set minimum flash shutter speed.
e3 Flash cntrl for built-in flash	• TTL • Manual Full 1/1.3 1/1.7 1/2 1/2.5 1/3.2 1/4 1/5 1/6.4 1/8 1/10 1/13 1/16 1/20 1/25 1/32 1/40 1/50 1/64 1/80 1/100 1/128 • Repeating flash Output Times Frequency • Commander Mode Built-in flash Group A Group B Channel	Set the mode for the built-in flash. Commander mode lets you choose a flash mode and flash compensation for the internal flash and flash groups A and B.
e4 Exposure comp. for flash	• Entire frame • Background only	Choice of how camera adjusts flash level.
e5 Modeling flash	• On • Off	Allow DOF preview button to trigger modeling flash.
e6 Auto bracketing set	• AE & flash • AE only • Flash only • WB bracketing • ADL bracketing
e7 Bracketing order	• Meter > under > over • Under > meter > over

Custom Settings Menu (f: Controls)

Option	Values / Actions	Notes
f1 OK button	• Shooting mode Reset center focus point Highlight active focus pt. Not used • Playback mode Thumbnail on/off View histograms Zoom on/off Choose slot and folder • Live view Reset center focus point Zoom on/off Not used	Define multi selector center button function.
f2 Assign Fn button	• Press Preview FV lock AE/AF lock AE lock only AE lock (hold) AF lock only AF-ON Flash off Bracketing burst + NEF (RAW) Matrix Metering Center-weighted metering Spot metering Framing grid Viewfinder virtual horizon MY MENU Access MY MENU top item Playback None • Press + Command Dials Choose image area 1 step spd/aperture Choose non-CPU lens no. Active D-Lighting HDR None	Define the operation of the Fn button, with and without a Command dial press.
f3 Assign preview button	• Press Preview FV lock AE/AF lock AE lock only AE lock (hold) AF lock only AF-ON Flash off Bracketing burst + NEF (RAW) Matrix Metering Center-weighted metering Spot metering Framing grid Viewfinder virtual horizon MY MENU Access MY MENU top item Playback None • Press + Command Dials Choose image area 1 step spd/aperture Choose non-CPU lens no. Active D-Lighting HDR None	Define the operation of the preview button, with and without a Command dial press.
f4 Assign AE-L/AF-L button	• Press AE/AF lock AE lock only AE lock (hold) AE lock only AF lock only AF-ON FV lock None • Press + Command Dials Choose image area Choose non-CPU lens no. None	Define the operation of the AE-L/AF-L button.
f5 Customize command dials	• Reverse rotation Exposure compensation Shutter speed/aperture • Change main/sub On On (Mode A) Off • Aperture setting Sub-command dial Aperture ring • Menus and playback On On (image rev. exclud.) Off
f6 Release button to use dial	• Yes • No
f7 Slot empty rel. lock	• Release locked • Enable release	Enable shutter release with no card in camera.
f8 Reverse indicators	• + ---- 0 ---- - • - ---- 0 ---- +
f9 Assign MB-D15 AE-L/AF-L button	• AE/AF lock • AE lock only • AE lock (hold) • AF lock only • AF-ON • FV lock • Same as Fn button

Custom Settings Menu (g: Movie)

Option	Values / Actions	Notes
g1 Assign Fn button	• View photo shooting info • AE/AF lock • AE lock only • AE lock (hold) • AF lock only • AF-ON • None	Define Fn button operation in movie mode.
g2Assign Preview button	• View photo shooting info • AE/AF lock • AE lock only • AE lock (hold) • AF lock only • AF-ON • None	Define Preview button operation in movie mode.
g3 Assign AE-L/AF-L button	• View photo shooting info • AE/AF lock • AE lock only • AE lock (hold) • AF lock only • AF-ON • None	Define AE-L/AF-L button operation in movie mode.
g4 Assign shutter button	• Take photos • Record movies	Define shutter button operation in movie mode.

Tags: review, d7100, nikon

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Comments

All (119)

Most popular (2)

Editors' picks (0)

DPR staff (1)

Oldest first

Sucama

I enjoy this camera every day for several years! just add lenses...

1 month agopermalink

AdamX

I would like some comments regarding the focus hunt in live view / video mode. I have a D3100 and have also used a D3300 with the 18-55VR, 55-200VR and 70-300VR. With those cameras and lenses, the hunting action is much more pronounced than what I see in the "focus hunt" video in this review. My question is, is the improvement here because of the D7100, or because of the 18-105VR lens? I suspect it is because of the D7100. I know Nikon is not the best in this area, but as a hobbyist I am fine with what I see in this video. If anyone else sees better performance on any other Nikon DSLR, I would like to hear about it. Thanks.

5 months agopermalink

Richard Butler

Focus hunting is inevitable on current Nikon DSLRs, since they're having to use contrast-detection AF (moving the focus, checking, then moving the lens again).

This is a problem in video because, once focus has been achieved, the camera doesn't have a way of knowing whether it's still in focus without occasionally hunting back and forth to confirm. The best algorithms are pretty good at just assuming they're in focus unless the contrast changes significantly, but any system without depth awareness can be prone to hunting.

5 months agopermalink

AdamX

Thank you Richard. Yes I am aware of this. I am just surprised that it seems a lot better in DPReview video on the D7100 and was curious if it's the camera or the lens to thank for the improvement over the D3X00 bodies I have used.

5 months agopermalink

Michael 59

I have a silly question some might know the answer to. When using the in-camera magnifier/zoom feature while examining photos, how many presses of the "+" button equals 100% image size? I'm always told to use 100% when checking image quality for quality.

7 months agopermalink

Michael 59

Disregard this question. I found my answer right here.

7 months agopermalink

celticperson

Thank you Michael 59! I thought I was going blind. Santa found a way to get me a Nikon d7100, put it on a tripod, hung 8 lbs from the center pole, tethered it to my Windows 10 box, used a new 35 mm prime, adjusted the diopter setting ala Thom Hogan's advice, did everything but single point focus, again, thank you!

8 months agopermalink

Michael 59

I did have some focus issues at first, but after doing some test shots and using a little common sense I figured out what the problem. I was relying on the cameras ability to focus on what I wanted it to focus on. Big mistake! Altough the camera usually does a fair job at choosing the correct subject to focus on it will often miss. I have found that single point AF is best if you know and have a specific object or point you want in focus. If it's distant scenery or things of that nature Auto-Area AF or similar works modes are great for that. Qucik moving subjects are best handled with 3D Tracking. No one focus mode covers every situation as some will claim. Study your camera and what works best with what. My still images are tack sharp now thanks to single-point AF. Be sure you use a good quality lenses also. Preferably Nikon. The camera is only as good as the lenses.

8 months agopermalink

tezclarke

There seems to be a big difference of opinion as to the suitability of the D7100 in this review.
I thought that the D7100 was an 'enthusiast's' camera and good at all things, but I read of focussing problems and quite few other matter which have caused concern.
Is it a good camera producing sharp images with the minimum picture preparation or is it a piece of kit which requires a lot of setting up before each shot?
What is the general opinion here?

8 months ago*permalink

Michael 59

I just recently purchased a refurbished D7100 and love it so far. I've had a D7000 for a few months now and like the solid feel these cameras have, plus the weather sealing. I upgraded from the D5200 to the D7100 for the above reason plus the D7000 and D7100 accept old manual focus lenses, which I have several of. I now have the D7100 and my D7000 as a back up. Both cameras take beautiful pictures and fun to use and actually have more features than most people will ever use, but it's nice to know they are there if needed. I think I'm where I want to be camera wise for a long time.

9 months agopermalink

jay clarke

just ordered the D7100 (first Nikon since the D40) and ordered a couple of lenses to go with the kit lens but will they fit? SIGMA 28-135mm F3.8-5.6 IF Macro Zoom in Nikon Af Fitting....and.......

Sigma EX 28-70mm F2.8-4D Autofocus Zoom Lens.

Jun 14, 2015permalink

GarysInSoCal

Gold award... cool... and the much improved D7200... Silver award... interesting... LOL!

Jun 8, 2015*permalink

io_bg

How is it much improved? The D7100 is already an excellent camera. The only real drawback I can think of is the small buffer which is limiting only a few shooting scenarios.

10 months agopermalink

Aussie Alan

Thinking about buying D7100 body. Have lenses from my d3000. Are they going to fit, or have a fit!!!! Will I suffer the improvements I hope to get unless I buy new lenses. Thanks folks.

Apr 17, 2015permalink

virgost

yeah you can use old as well new lens with the D7100.

Apr 20, 2015permalink

henrikkhach

Hi everyone,

I have a Nikon D7100 and I'm new to Nikon.
I have problem with this camera: when i turn it on the information display is off and I have to press the "i" button turn the display on, is this the Nikon cameras normal behavior?
Is there any way to have the display on at camera's start up.
thanks

Mar 29, 2015permalink

virgost

It is normal... you can read below article for assistance:

http://cameratico.com/articles/nikon-d7100-tips-and-tricks/

Apr 20, 2015permalink

mbrobich

Picked up a refurb from Nikon for $600, pretty sweet deal !! Jpeg, crop mode and 7fps perfect for birding !!!!!

Mar 7, 2015permalink

Rolfens

(virtually) no rolling shutter!

Mar 6, 2015permalink

CHEAW HON MING

It's time for an upgrade — sensor tech, better processing engine, lower noise at high ISO, 60p+4K video, focus peaking ..... Ok just a wish list.

Feb 19, 2015permalink

historianx

Fantastic camera, paid only $896 last month. With FX glass (17-35 F2.8 and 50 F1.4) it's just phenomenal.

Jan 28, 2015permalink

K Alexander

I Have A D 5200 and a D7100 the cameras are great but new to and trying to learn more about them . Taking some classes with a local camera shop soon

Jan 18, 2015permalink

DaDiCarr

I started with a Nikon D 3100, I upgraded to a Nikon D 5100, and now I bought me a second camera body. A Nikon D 7100. My question is will the lenses I have from my previous Cameras fit my Nikon D 7100, and should I expect to get more accurate Pictures.

Jan 17, 2015permalink

Lassoni

Yes they are all same lens mount, and the image quality of D7100 should be superior since the sensor tech is newer (also there's optical low pass filter = better detail)

Jan 28, 2015permalink

DSevenK

They will mount, but whether they're gonna "fit" or not depends on their optical quality. I mean, that the 24.1Mpx sensor is quite demanding and with an entry level lens, you run the risk to nullify the benefits of the extra pixels, and at worst, it might even bring some loss of quality.
@Lassoni, I think you wanted to talk about the lack of optical low pass filter, which is supposed to provide more detailed images.

Feb 16, 2015permalink

virgost

yeah you can use old lenses with this camera. the good thing for this camera that it has built Focus motor for old D lens.

Apr 20, 2015permalink

Bob MMMM

Hmmmm. A week before the CES the price was $895, after the show it's $997. What gives?

Jan 9, 2015permalink

BobFoster

I want to buy the D7100 as a second body to use near my D800E. It will be interesting to use the best lenses mounted on a DX camera. The DX sensor "uses" only the center part(the best part) of the lens which are built for the FX format.

Dec 17, 2014permalink

Seroff

Nice camera by all parameters.
There is no concurrent with all d7100 parameters together.

Dec 2, 2014permalink

amber15

I currently own a D80. I am hoping to upgrade.
My friend is selling is D800, gently used, or should I be considering the D7100 which would be new and less money than this used camera?
I enjoy landscape photography and Macro work.

Nov 24, 2014permalink

AliL

I have a D40X and am thinking of upgrading to a D7100. Will my current lenses be compatible with a D7100. I have 2 lenses that came with the original camera, a Nikon Micro and a Sigma 18-200. Thanks

Nov 10, 2014permalink

ExtraBacon

Absolutely they will!

Nov 22, 2014permalink

BoneCrusherLover

Does anyone know if in the two user mode i can have user 1 for DX mode and then user 2 in 1.3X mode?
Or am i being silly and it explains it all?
Thanks for your time

Nov 4, 2014permalink

Nikonhead

That is one setting that cannot be saved in U1 or U2.

Nov 8, 2014permalink

Michael Flagg

On The D7100 review specification page, I see the available ISO settings as:

ISO 100 – 6400, Lo-1 (ISO 50), Hi-1 (ISO 12,800), Hi-2 (ISO 25,600)

On my D7100 purchased Nov 2013 I see ISO 100-6400, Hi-1 & Hi-2, but I do not see Lo-1(ISO 50).

How do l get Lo-1(ISO 50}?

Oct 15, 2014permalink

DrZeus

Are you using the same firmware version as the review model? That's about the only thing that could affect the menu layout really. You can find it in the setup menu choices.

Feb 20, 2015permalink

woosyin

I am interested to get at new D7100 (my current is a D90). any thing should I look for before getting it?

Oct 7, 2014permalink

Hugo808

A bigger card!

Oct 20, 2014permalink

Lassoni

tripod for landscapes

Jan 28, 2015permalink

joyclick

Is the D7100 stabilized in the body like the D7000?

Sep 25, 2014permalink

Landrum Kelly

No Nikon bodies are stabilized. All stabilization for both Nikon and Canon occurs, if at all, in the lenses--with the designation "VR" for Nikon and "IS" for Canon. Sony's bodies are stabilized in general--but this does not include the NEX series of Sony cameras.

Sep 27, 2014permalink

Pamkly

I'm in the process of choosing a second camera body .I already have to Nikon D5100. Have been reviewing the Nikon D5300 and the Nikon D7100. The processor in the D5300 is slightly faster. These two cameras are very similar. I like landscape, wildlife and macro photography.I have a 3oomm f4 prime lens which I love using. Can anyone out there shed a bit more light on helping me decide which one to buy ? many thanks.

Aug 9, 2014permalink

AlanWatson

Imaging results will be very similar between the D5300 and D7100. The main difference is handling: the 7100 has a larger viewfinder and more direct control, and is bigger. The 5300 has the flippy screen and more menu-driven interface. It really depends on which of these things matter most to you.

Aug 19, 2014permalink

Landrum Kelly

Be careful that the lenses you have will autofocus on the 3000 or 5000 series bodies. The G series will. I do not think that the D series lenses will autofocus on the D3000 or D5000 series.

Sep 27, 2014permalink

A Ahearn

Although I own a 7100, I think you might be better with the less expensive 5300 and use the money towards good quality lenses. Every few years you are likely to trade up your camera body anyways.
Ignoring that I wish the 7100 had the fully articulated LCD. I never have much luck using liveview without my little Hoodman viewer. And to get really sharp landscape photos I try and use the liveview. I chose the 7100 because I came from a 7000 so the 7100 was an easy choice for me. Don't misunderstand me I really like the 7100 and chose it over going with a D610 because the FX lenses I have are fantastic on the DX body.
You don't mention it but if you care about video the 5300 is supposed to have better quality.
Hope this helps.

Oct 15, 2014permalink

DaleB82

Unless I'm hallucinating, there seems to be a noticeable difference between the 5300 and the 7100 in terms of high ISO noise in RAW images, with the D7100 being cleaner. I did not expect to see this, and I'm seriously considering the 7100 based on it.

Dec 2, 2014permalink

DaleB82

Too late to edit, but I realized that the high ISO noise difference in these older tests is nowhere near as obvious as is the "new" studio scene comparison, and that's against the D5200 here, not the D5300. Interesting.

Dec 2, 2014permalink

DrZeus

Like A Ahearn, I too can't believe a flip-out screen has gone. I use mine on the D5000 frequently even though its placement is different from subsequent Nikon models.
I had to giggle at dpreview's 'amazement' at the use of an i button. Am I missing something? My D5000 has this. What's so WOW about it being on the D7100?

Feb 20, 2015permalink

djvergara

I am currently using the new Nikkor 18/300 lens and I find it extremely good for general photography. I use it for nature, flower photography and shooting action such as Polo games. The lens focuses well for me in all situations. Highly recommend it.

Aug 3, 2014permalink

dalycc

Can anyone recommend the best lens for the nikon D7100.
I am comparing the nikon to the canon EOS 70D...does anyone have any input?
Thanks!

Jul 29, 2014permalink

Tonyb1968

What do you want to do?
I have a couple of lenses for my D7100, my cousin recommended a Sigma 17-70mm Macro lens which is great for every day shooting, no real need to swap it (this one)

Sigma 17-70mm f2.8-4 DC Macro OS HSM Lens - Nikon Fit (DX)

And I finally have a good little prime 50mm (FX) which is a bargain for the price, forget the 1.4 and go for the 1.8.

Nikon 50mm f1.8 G AF-S Lens

I also have the 105mm Nikon Macro (FX) 2.8 which isnt cheap but is very good, luckily i purchased it off a friend who had not used it very often as he was upgrading his kit to a D4 and newer lenses.

I think with the top 2 you wont go far wrong for most of your photography but its down to what you enjoy taking photo's of.

Aug 6, 2014permalink

vikrammstein

My recommendations include:
Sigma 17-50 f/2.8 - Great for people photography and a bit of product photography

Nikkor AF-S VR 70-300 f/4.5-5.6G: Amazing zoom lens which might be handy while travelling (Considering you might upgrade to a full frame Nikon in future) You can also go for Sigma's version of 70-300 f/4-5.6 Motorized for Nikon.

Tokina 11-16 f/2.8 (optional): If you're a wide angle buff like me, this becomes a must have. you can also consider Sigma 10-24 f/4 - 5.6

Oh! I have a Nikon D3200, looking for upgrading to either D7100 or a D610. Let me know how is D7100 :)

Cheers and Happy clicking

Sep 1, 2014permalink

2ryan

I bought a Nikon D7100 in the summer of 2013. I bought this camera and Nikkor lenses to take with me to Africa. On my very first safari the camera malfunctioned (the focus was not working, manual or auto). And so I shipped it back to Nikon for repair. I got it back in December! And was still having focus issues. So I called, I wrote to Nikon, I tried everything only to be told to send it back in again for repairs. I received it back again in July. I came back to the US for my sisters wedding with my camera. I took it to Peace Camera in Raleigh NC, a licensed Nikon retailer. They looked at it and told me it appeared the focus issue had been fixed, however, the mount for the lenses was too tight and could cause issues with glass and mirrors and so I should send my camera in AGAIN for repairs. I would seriously consider a different camera manufacturer, one with better customer service and support.

Jul 21, 2014permalink

Diginal

How does the D7100 have anything to do with the lens focusing in manual mode? You sent the camera body back in again for focus issues in December? Now the mount is too tight? You should elaborate more on your trials and your timeline provided because your story being told has way too many holes for me to take seriously. I agree Nikon Customer Service is suspect but that's a common issue and widely known, talking to their reps is an experience but what you describe sounds suspect in rating the D7100 and sounds like the lens....

Jul 26, 2014permalink

TraceyTracey

I am new here and looking because I have had focusing issues with my Nikon D7100 since day 1. I thought it was me, as it was a big step up from my D40x. I read books, watched You-tube videos etc. I spoke to a friend who had the same issue and she purchased this a as a backup camera. She ended up returning hers for credit at Nikon. I am at a loss. I am sending my back today after speaking to the Nikon representative for repair. At 400 ISO my photos are very noisy. My D7100 changes focus randomly. If I set it at AFS and go to take a photo I may miss the photo as it won't focus then I check and it reset itself to AFC or AFA.It also changes the settings randomly on how many focus points I want to use. I just keep reading positive reviews on the camera and think what is going on with mine? My little D40x took such crisp photos. I hope the problem is fixed and I think you can't understand that this is happening unless it happens to you.

Aug 26, 2014*permalink

Help taking the next step

Hello guys.

Do you find that exposure problem in live view annoying?

Jun 26, 2014permalink

Sandmanusd

I think that you will find that most people don't use live view (and SHOULDN"T use live view) to take photos. Using live view while taking photos really slows the camera down with focusing, taking the picture, and displaying the picture after. The viewfinder has an exposure indicator within it. When you look through the viewfinder, it tells you if the shot will be (according to the meter on whatever you happen to be exposing off of) will be exposed properly or not.

I'm not being a smart A%$ but if you are using live view to take photos on a regular basis, chances are you shouldn't be buying a DSLR, especially one of this quality / price. A point and shoot is probably where you want to be looking.

And if you plan on mostly taking videos with a DSLR, then get a Canon 70D, not the D7100. Or better yet, a $300 camcorder for videos.

Basically what I'm saying is that I don't notice it ever, because I'm never in live view.

Jul 18, 2014permalink

davidevans1

I use liveview a lot with a D800 when using a 135mm manual focus lens and tripod. It's 'OK' (takes some practice and zooming in and Ihave to use a Hoodman to view).
The D800 is known to have a comparatively poor screen and the new D810 is upgraded to the same screen as the D7100 I think and so should be far better.

Jul 20, 2014*permalink

DrZeus

I find liveview invaluable for low ground shots of fungi and things (especially with my flip out screen) ... of course it's slow, but it's not like the fungus is going anywhere. And I certainly can't get down there that easily these days.
I wouldn't use it for BIF though!

Feb 20, 2015permalink

lennzy

I got a question. Im thinking about buying this camera for Landscape Photography and im having trouble choosing lenses. Is the Nikon 18-200mm VR II compatible with the D7100 and is it good for landscape photography?

May 26, 2014permalink

ajgaeth

Hi Lennzy,

I just purchased this Camera d7100, been using the Nikon D300 for almost a year. Love the new 7100=) I shoot with the Nikon 18-200mm VR II lens and it seems fine! Sharp photos Great colors still. I also use a 10-20 Sigma Lens on this camera All work Great. Nothing wrong with that lens I use it almost 90% of the time. You can Also rent some glass to try out too! Have fun!

Jun 5, 2014permalink

Buzz Lightyear

If you read reviews of the Nikon 18-200, you'll see it described as having:

◾Pronounced distortion across much of the range
◾Extremely soft at 135mm
◾Rather average close-up performance
◾Zoom creep

Although in the normal to short telephoto range, you might get decent images, but you would not be getting full benefit of the high quality resolution capabilities of the D7100. If you can live with a bit less telephoto reach, the 16-85 lens would be a better match for a "walking around"/landscape lens. If your budget could afford it, adding the excellent Nikon 70-200mm VR (I or II) will blow your mind at the image quality available.

Jun 9, 2014permalink

davidevans1

My wife has the D7100 and was using the Nikon 18-200mm lens. previously she had a D90 and the 18-200 lens was fine, but with the D7100 she wasn't so happy.
She now has a Sigma 24-105mm ART lens (I know it's full frame) and the combination of that lens and the D7100 is superb.
I'd imagine the Nikon 24-120mm F/4 is also excellent with the D7100 but haven't tried it.

Jul 20, 2014permalink

Diginal

Why would it not be compatible? My Nikkor 1963 50mm f1.4 is compatible with my D300 and my D7100, do you mean a good match? Lens choice is highly subjective period, all you will get is opinion regarding ones personal taste and as if that's fact to everyone ... it's not. Zooms are the worst at this; you may like 18mm and the guy 30mm and the next 200mm all 3 of you will have subjective opinions on that matter alone. I suggest you search image results ... they don't include personal preferences and broad analysis involving a lens and are very specific. I want to hear some bs just ask anyone a question about the gear they are using and you'll get plenty. The proof in the pudding is in the results the camera delivers not from the mouth of the user.

Jul 26, 2014*permalink

A Ahearn

The 18-200 is a good all purpose lens. If you are really limiting to Landscape I would suggest either the Sigma 17-50 or the Tokina 11-16 both are 2.8 and shot at 5 or higher provide excellent picture quality on my 7100.

Oct 15, 2014permalink

rugosa

I bought a 18-200VR in 2008 with D300. After 4 months I was so disgusted with the photos I was getting from it that I sold it at a $400 loss just to get rid of it. Allot of the photos were on a tripod, MUP with a remote trigger so they should have come out very sharp but were no where close to being crisp. Lenses that try to do everything do nothing well. Of coarse it depends on what your idea of image quality is. My experience with the 18-200mmVr matches what the reviews say. There are allot of used 18-200mmVR lenses out there for sale fairly cheap which tells you something. I don't own one but from what I've seen the 16-85mmVR gives allot better sharper photos at the cost of less reach.

Mar 23, 2015*permalink

bansheegirl

HELP!!! My normal camera is a D5000 which I shoot very quick powersports with, I decided to upgrage, bought the D5300. Used same settings as my 5000 and almost all photos were out of focus! I'm hearing the 5300 may have a focus problem, so here's my question...the D7100...Is this good for fast sports? I'm talking auto racing, jet ski races, boat races, motorcycles?

Even when I took photos of my dogs, they weren't as crisp and clear as I think they should be.

I'm a little lost and could use all the input I could get. I refuse to go to a Canon so i'm hoping I can get an upgrade for Nikon.

May 11, 2014permalink

au_rick

if it's anything like the D7000, you'll have to use the AF Fine Tune to get your lens to focus correctly and probably use centre focus rather than Auto ?

May 13, 2014permalink

Chuck Lantz

I've gotten great results with my D7100 shooting motorcycle and auto races. The only slight drawback is the buffer size if you do a lot of burst shooting in RAW only or RAW + jpg. In Fine jpg only, you can fire away in bursts with no problem. I'll be shooting an Indy car test session tomorrow with it, and I'll post again when I see the results. So far, the D7100 is doing an outstanding job. I've seen very few negative reviews on the camera, and lots of very positive reviews, many calling it the best DX camera, ever.

Aug 6, 2014*permalink

Glen from Bedford

I know this review has been out there for some time now but I don't see any evidence of "banding" in the samples provided above when increasing the exposure or increasing the brightness in LR. That really puzzles me, because I can create the "banding" issue in almost every one of my D7100 images when increasing the exposure or increasing the brightness. Don't get me wrong, it's not my attention to find fault w/the D7100 but I have a lot of good pics where the "banding" is evident w/out pushing the exposure. And like others, it's now really bugging me to the point where I feel the D7100 is a faulty piece of equipment... much like the D600 was. My D7000 produces no such issues when the exposure or brightness is increased. I read where the sample images of the D7100 at The Imaging Resource do not display banding either. So here's the question... did DPReview and the The Imaging Resource get D7100s w/an improved sensor over production models or are many D7100 faulty and need service.

Apr 15, 2014permalink

ezyernie

I use Topaz for the light banding. There may be other solutions, but that one works for me.

May 1, 2014permalink

Nikonhead

Which Topaz program are you using to get rid on the banding? Denoise?

May 21, 2014permalink

sadatoni

I'm confused. In this review, the 100% coverage viewfinder is mentioned as a prod, but in the K-3 review it is not mentioned. In this review, "6 fps burst rate (7 fps in 1.3x crop mode) is mentioned as a pro". The K-3 review says "Good buffer depth and continuous shooting rate" for a pro. It's over 8 fps. There are other disparities of this type as well.

Apr 11, 2014permalink

svesi

Scoring is relative only to the other cameras in the same category:

K-3 = Semi-professional Interchangeable Lens Camera / DSLR
D300s = Semi-professional Interchangeable Lens Camera / DSLR
EOS 7D = Semi-professional Interchangeable Lens Camera / DSLR

D7100 = Mid Range Interchangeable Lens Camera / DSLR
EOS 70D = Mid Range Interchangeable Lens Camera / DSLR
K-50 = Mid Range Interchangeable Lens Camera / DSLR

Apr 12, 2014permalink

jll59

The Pentax K-3 as Semi- Pro? Hum....

Apr 22, 2014permalink

Awes Khan

i am using nikon d7100 with 18-105 lens
and it is having noise problem in low light
when lights are low for the camera and we use to increase ISO it gives noise problem and grains is shown on the picture
can this problem be solved by settings
because i feel this is a focus problem or may be lens problem

Apr 6, 2014permalink

ezyernie

D5200 and D7100 typically set ISO as high as 3200 in low light, especially on AUTO. check your NR settings and auto ISO settings.

May 1, 2014permalink

bull detector

18-105 is not a good lens and does not really show the real Quality of this camera

May 7, 2014permalink

bull detector

With Canon not admitting that the 70d has Auto focus problems I started to look at the D7100 and found that after a while it gets oil and spots problems on the sensor? Apparently when I starts it keeps on coming back? I really just want a good and reliable camera

Apr 6, 2014permalink

ezyernie

I usually clean the sensor after long shoots.

Sep 2, 2014permalink

TimAZ

To be perfect for class the D7100 needs three things:
* Tiltable touch screen (ala D5300, EOS 70D, EM1, XT1, et al)
* Onboard WiFi
* Onboard GPS
Will we see D7200 at Photokina 2014? Got fingers crossed...

Apr 4, 2014permalink

skyrunr

and USB 3.0!

May 23, 2014permalink

Sandmanusd

Fluffy junk that I'd rather not have if it means they can pack more high end features to take better pictures. The 70D has all those "cool features" and has worse low light performance, isn't as crisp, and has lower Dynamic range... So your "perfect for the class" list should be on the Canon 70D review saying

"To be perfect for the class, the 70D needs three things
*Better low light performance
*Crisper pictures, (Lets get rid of the filter)
*Better Dynamic Range"

Jul 18, 2014permalink

jjlad

I had focus problems on my D7000 for 2 years. Sometimes perfect, often not, The auto focus fine tune adjustments would disappear whenever the camera shut down. It was finally replaced a month ago under warranty with a D7100. What a difference. The sharpness is already well covered here so I'll comment on dynamic range. I shot an event recently and didn't compensate for back-light on some quick shots of the participants. Those color photos looked like silhouettes ...black on white. When I processed them in LR5 though, they actually turned out fine. Even though shot at ISO800 the images had enough range and contained enough data to generate good skin tone and eyes and even fine peach fuzz on arms and cheeks turned out. I could not have saved those from the D7000 even in RAW, because it clipped too hard at both ends ...highlights and shadows. It would also have 'hunted' focus in that situation. So to me the D7100 is excellent and shows what 2 years of technological improvements can do.

Apr 2, 2014permalink

Wannabballers

I owned a D7000 and 2 shutter blades broke off while i was shooting my 6 year olds basketball game. So it's time for a new camera.

Will a D7100 be a significant upgrade? I was thinking about getting a D7100 or a used Nikon D3 for speed. I primarly shoot indoor basketball but now my 4 year old daughter is starting soccer so i'll be shooting some out door sports as well. Can anyone help with suggestions?

Mar 27, 2014permalink

beemerman2k

I have had great luck with my D7000, nonetheless, I upgraded to a D7100 6 months ago. This is a D7000, but very refined. Focusing, metering, the whole package is much more refined than the D7K.

I primarily shoot my kids sports events and I capture in raw and not jpg. I have a fast SD card and I set the color depth to 12bit, that gives me good enough burst when I need it without overrunning the buffer. I don't like to do burst much anyhow, so the shallow buffer hasn't been an issue for me. The D7100 is a stellar camera to capture children's sports.

One more thing, I always shoot indoor sports with either my 35mm F/1.8 or 50mm F/1.8 prime lens. Open aperture to F/2.8, -1 exposure compensation, manual exposure with the shutter set to 400/sec, auto ISO (unless there is a strong backlight, then it's fixed ISO), and I'm golden. These girls don't move so fast that 1/400 sec can't easily handle.

May 8, 2014*permalink

ahzwizerd2

Good luck

Jun 20, 2014permalink

Timothy G

I have owned a D7100 for about a year now and recently I have noticed that the lens does not seem to move after it has lock in place on the mount. Ever after I hear the lens locking by the sound of the 'click' there is still some 'play'.

Has anyone noticed this happen? Is this okay or should I have my camera checked at a service center?

Mar 4, 2014permalink

LiranC

HI Timothy

I just bought D7100 and I Need to ask you about shooting with ISO 1600 and higher.
The pictures are very grainy images, especially the grey and the black areas.
Is it normal? I sent it to the LAB and they told me that is nothing wrong and this is the quality of pictures with this ISO even when using noise reduction normal or high

Mar 17, 2014permalink

NoahRR

Yes, at that high of an iso there will be a lot of visible noise, always try to use the lowest iso you can.

Mar 26, 2014permalink

Awes Khan

i m also suffering from same problem
it is an expensive camera should not give this kind of problem
its a major drawback of this model

Apr 6, 2014*permalink

ahzwizerd2

Please get the book Nikon D7100 for idiots it breaks down all our problems so we can understand real easy. And please read it before useing.
It helped me so much before I threw my camera over the fence.

Jun 20, 2014permalink

Blhtang

I am ready to buy Nikon d7100. Just one question, I have old D200 and sets of lenses. Are those lenses compatible with D7100?

Feb 26, 2014permalink

Rouzbeh

completely compatible...no problem

Mar 2, 2014permalink

ahzwizerd2

Take your lens to cosco and try it on a display it should work mine do.

Jun 20, 2014permalink

Westmill

Actions speak louder than words..... Just ordered a second body :)
Sigma 18-35 F1.8 on one body and the Sigma 50-150 F2.8 on the other !
Also ordered the 18-140 as a walkabout for when I am not in the mood for carrying a lot of weight :)
Still waiting for the D400 though... grrrrrr Please wake up NIKON !!!!!!!

Jan 4, 2014permalink

Guidenet

I just don't see any reason for a D400. If you want and need pro-level features, you don't need to be spinning your wheels on APS-C. Nikon isn't really doing much in the way of DX glass anyway.

Why no go ahead and move up to FX and invest in FX glass? I would imagine that as a percentage people wanting more than entry level, those satisfied with the D7100 make up the most. Those of us Who want or need that next step above the D7100 have long since migrated to FX.

Mar 14, 2014permalink

StillLearning

Birders and Macro photographers are probably at least 2 groups that would like a pro dx. Speed , deep buffer and a rugged body for the elements. To get equivalent FOV glass you need to be wealthy or take out a 2nd mortgage to afford them. I have dx and fx and they each have their purpose.

Mar 16, 2014permalink

Guidenet

Birders and macro shooters should understand that a smaller sensor just makes a smaller crop of a larger image, whatever that image is. No enlargement occurs. The bird is the same size on a crop sensor as on FX. There's just less space around him. The crop sensor just could maybe help you put more pixels on the target. I'd rather have all the advantages of FX, then crop after the fact, if I need to do so.

Mar 20, 2014permalink

dcolak

But that is exactly the advantage of DX. They use much more pixels for the same FOV, which lets you print larger prints - so there is a zoom factor as long as the pixel density on DX is higher than that on FX.

Jun 1, 2014permalink

skyrunr

There's another BIG advantage to DX. The focusing points cover/spread into the 1/3 area of the viewfinder. Why not a D610? The 39pt versus 51pt IS very noticeable.

It also doesn't have the pro (D200/D300S/D700/D3/D4) body layout. The D300S I came from toasted the D610 in low light focusing. I had a D800 for a little while, but it was too valuable (expensive) to take everywhere.

I ended up with the D7100. It wasn't my first choice, but for the money (refurbished) I couldn't be happier with it.

Jul 14, 2014permalink

Bud Robertson

Just upgraded to the D7100 from the D7000. I'm finding it a very capable camera, so far. Could someone tell me if there is somewhere to increase the sharpness in camera? I was sure the D7000 had that option somewhere.

Dec 28, 2013permalink

Entropius

There is; it's in the Picture Controls settings.

Jan 23, 2014permalink

rugosa

I do allot of landscape photography with a D300 (I'm on my second one) and find that increasing sharpening in the camera at more than #3 gives a bad effect . Sharpening later with software is a vast improvement. Check out both ways yourself and see the results at 100 percent.

Nov 9, 2014permalink

Lassoni

it could be af fine tune that is different with different body.. a lens might be +5 , d7000 -4, and now d7100 +2

Jan 28, 2015permalink

sophi loren

i am too much pleased and happy with my nikon D7100. For me the upgradation of D7000 to D7100 worth my bucks.
My bro wrote also a great review about nikon D7100 here is the review

http://www.squidoo.com/nikon-d7100-price-is-the-d7100-worth-the-bucks

thanks everyone :)

Dec 18, 2013permalink

RMLurie

My D7100, bought last May, is fantastic. Together with the 16-85, it is incredible. The dynamic range compared with my D300 is a major upgrade. Photos of a play with spotlights and much dark areas, were wonderful in edited RAW. Used exposure with center weighted aimed at bright area. Unedited, the dark was very dark, but in PS the shadows opened up perfectly. This increased dynamic range is clearly a remarkable advance. This is also shown on page 14 of the review. The 16-85 lens is extremely sharp. In case you didn't get it, I'm very happy with this setup.

Dec 12, 2013*permalink

SHanty

I do not look at the 7100 as this reviewer does, be it a large upgrade. I would not have kept this camera in the 7000s series, certainly not 7100. Many similarities but the changes there are, are so significant, I personally would not have a 7000 and then say I upgraded to the 7100 because they made the 7100 better. Not talking about on the high end or low end of Camera's it is not an upgrade, it is a new way the line is going and I would have labeled it D8000 if you know what I mean, to show the serious differences.

IMO but what do I know. I bought my First Digital Camera when Kodak came out with the DC40, Owned DC50, by then some point and shoots, owned 20 of those, at least. I understand, You can tell me I am off base, I will take it in fun

Dec 10, 2013permalink

maurizio220

Nice camera but 5xxxx series costs less and produces nice files too. One terrible discover after I got d7100... continuos shooting in raw mode stops after only 5/6 shots... this is terrible. it is a very great handicap! you can't do raw smaller files too...

Nov 22, 2013*permalink

Lassoni

1.3x crop should work for birding / action , because you're going to be cropping them "anyway" in the post process. With the option 1.3x on I think you get more buffer.

Jan 28, 2015permalink

Salkareem

It had been a very long decision between Nikon D7100 and D610; I finally bought D7100 for most of my photography work. Using Tamron 24-70 2.8 VC the D7100 provides mind blowing IQ. However, as I often do large size gallery prints I therefore shoot mostly in RAW and post process my image in DXO Optics Pro 9 which provides me the best result for my prints. Consequently, I sold my D800 as I am very pleased with D7100 and the results I get after post processing in DXO Optics Pro 9.

Nov 15, 2013permalink

Tal Shachar

very nice video explanation, but you should put some indoor videos in the video sample movies. Outdoor videos I can see that they are very good quality, but for wedding photographers we want to see whats the video quality in low light conditions.

beside that for Nikon, I think it's really silly to make Interlaced video recording option because it's low quality. Interlaced compared to Progressive is like Optical zoom compared to digital zoom.

Aug 29, 2013permalink

jacyeoh

Very nice review you got there...

Oct 31, 2013permalink


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