Sunday, June 8, 2014

Nikon Df - The Revisit

I've had quite a few people on various forums ask how I have been liking the Nikon Df since I've had it now for an extended period of time.  I thought I would take the time to go back and revisit the Df and give an updated view on my thoughts and share some additional images.


It's been just over 6 months of using the Df and it is still my favorite camera to use.  The auto focus system works just fine and I've not had any issues with it in any lighting situations.  You'll be able to see in some of the sample images provided, some pretty low light scenes.


I find that I much prefer using prime lenses on it than zooms.  My main prime focal lengths are the Nikon 24/2.8, 50/1.8D and Tamron 90/2.8.   For me they feel better balanced, and for shooting street, they are quick focusing and less intimidating than big zooms.


For zooms, I occasionally use the Tamron 70-300/4-5.6 VC and the Nikon 24-85/3.5-4.5VR or 28-85/3.5-4.5.  They provide great image quality for the Df sensor.


I'm still shooting the camera using the "legacy" dials and hardly ever use the more modern control wheel scheme.   Obviously, there are times when I cannot avoid the control wheel when using some of the above mentioned zooms.


I've really connected with the Nikon Df.  I carry it with me all the time and have it connected with a Black Rapid strap system.


The only downside I have found is the screw in eyepiece does not have a locking mechanism and I've lost one.   Now, I make sure that the eyepiece is screwed in properly every time I get the camera out of the bag.
What more can I say about that D4 sensor!  It is fabulous.  Great rendering, wonderful dynamic range, phenomenal hi ISO performance - all still impressive today as it was 6 months ago.


I've used just about every new camera system that has come down the line including the Fuji X series cameras and the Olympus OMD series mirrorless.  While they may be smaller - they are not yet up to the performance level that I require for me to use them exclusively.



2 comments:

  1. Nice images, especially the b&w cafe shot! The tone rendering is very appealing. Did the image require a lot post-processing?

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    Replies
    1. Not a lot. I use onOne Photo plug ins with Lightroom. That particular one was there "City Street" preset.

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