Nikon D3S In-depth review
Compared to...
Studio scene comparison (JPEG)
Nikon D3S vs. Nikon D3
- Nikon D3S: Nikkor 85mm mm F1.8 lens, Aperture Priority, ISO 200 (default base), JPEG Large/Fine, Manual WB, Default Parameters (Standard), Self-Timer (with exposure delay), ADL off
- Nikon D3: Nikkor 85mm mm F1.8 lens, Aperture Priority, ISO 200 (default base), JPEG Large/Fine, Manual WB, Default Parameters (Standard), Self-Timer (with exposure delay), ADL off
Nikon D3S |
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5.1MB JPEG (4256 x 2832) |
5.1MB JPEG (4256 x 2832) |
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It is no surprise that at their native base ISO sensitivity setting of ISO 200 (equivalent) both the D3 and D3S offer essentially indistinguishable image quality. We understand from Nikon that apart from the addition of a sensor-cleaning mechanism, the most important physical difference between the two cameras' sensors is a new, more efficient array of microlenses in the D3S. This is intended to increase light-gathering efficiency of the 12 million photodiodes in low light, (as well as minimize light fall-off towards the edges of the frame) but we're not surprised to see that it has no noticeable benefit in the bright, high contrast environment of our studio.
The D3S's standard JPEG profile appears to deliver slightly more contrast than the D3's, but to any practical extent, the two cameras are on a par here, and both deliver a lot of detail for their pixel count.
Gear in this story
Gear in this story
DPReview Gold Award
89%
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Feb 16, 2010
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Oct 14, 2009
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Feb 13, 2013
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Feb 6, 2013
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When Nikon released the full-frame D3 in 2007, it changed the professional photography industry. It was also a pivotal piece of equipment for Senior Editor Barney Britton.
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