Blast from The Past: Nikon's Legendary D3 Takes on Latest Mirrorless Z8
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- Опубліковано 9 чер 2023
- You can buy a used D3S with AF-S Nikkor 28-300/3.5-5.6 (the very same kit used by legendary photographer Jay Maisel in New York City in the early 2000s) for less than ONE THIRD the price of a new Z8 body ALONE over at the sponsor for this video (#KEH). We borrowed the same lens and a slightly earlier version of the D3S (the original D3) and compared it to Nikon's latest Z8 with the Nikkor Z 24-120/4 on the Streets of New York. Thank you, KEH!
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Hi all. A bit overwhelmed by the wonderfully rich commentary! Thank you for sharing! As I always say: what an incredible audience! At this point, please forgive me if I don’t respond to each and every comment, much as I would like! 🥰🖖🏻🙏🏻
I recently went back to dslrs and after much research, i recommend getting the d700 over the d3 for its sensor cleaning feature. It has the same sensor as the D3. If you want to go a step up then get the D3S, it has a slightly improved sensor with bigger individual pixels and the same color science and it has the sensor cleaning feature of the D700. These 3 cameras have the best color science that Nikon has ever put out in the last 20 years.
Well now nicely put. Not for nothing but ..whilst the Z8 was faster on the focus and produced true to the eye colors in just about every instance, there is something magical about the mechanical reflex of the DSLR that the ZED lineup cannot reproduce.
I'm glad to see that someone is still dealing with the quality of dslr, especially earlier production, it's also a fact that a lot of impressions today come down to dealing with the specifications that are available online, and as such comments mostly, and it's smaller the number of those who draw impressions based on their field work, because in my opinion that is the most important, field work is not the same for everyone, nor are the working conditions, and the light is the same. I believe that for a few people, a high resolution, either for photo or video, is completely insignificant if the way of thinking is wrong. My opinion is that the D4s, D5 and D6 are extremely powerful machines, who can handle them of course.
I've been shooting professionally for over 30 years. I bought a new D3 in 2009, and continue to use it today. It's simply the best camera I've ever owned. The body was designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro, who also worked with Ferrari and Maserati. The grip feels perfect in your hand. 12 megapixels has never really been an issue. Newer cameras may provide greater output and clinically clean files, but it's tough to match the more organic looking images produced by the legendary D3.
I work (car photographer) with Nikon D3 and 28-300. Yes, it is heavy combination for whole day work, and it is not the best for the low light conditions. But, for dynamic photography, like moving cars, it just works fine... D3 is a beast, like you've said.
I use a D3 and D4s! Got them at great prices and had extra money for good glass! Zero regrets
Good choices! Enjoy!
These arguments that you make, Hugh, for the ' DSLR experience ' are exactly why I bought a D810 recently (from KEH no less......) and although the contrasts between my Sony mirrorless cameras and the D cameras is significant, it is apples and oranges at a certain level. I just like the feel of the machine in my hand, and ( bonus !!!!!) the battery seems to last forever. Good video.
Enjoy it, Brad! Thanks for sharing.🖖🏻
The D810 is my favorite nikon DSLR. Especially when pared with a grip (battery will literally last a week of shooting) and nikkor 70-200 f2.8 VRII lens, and some fast primes, it’s something special
@@ethannarrow5209 correct
My second comment. So my “new” 17 year old Nikon D200 finally arrived. A fine specimen that looks about one year old. I only had time for a few pot shots around the backyard but yes my eyes liked the colors from this camera. Using a file enlargement method I learned I was able to bump the image size up to 5000 on the long side with no noticeable image degradation. That gives me a 11x17 @ 300dpi. I don’t print bigger than that.
The camera’s build is first class and a 28mm prime keeps the size manageable and delivers a 42.5 mm equivalent view. Perfect for me. Is retro for everyone? Of course not but it’s better than one imagines.
There is a Nikon forum I participate in and some are displaying snapshot images taken with a Z9 and 300 4.5. That is $8500 worth of camera equipment. I can put a just as good snapshot with this $135 D200 and a $100 Nikon F prime.
If one really needs and has the income for a z8 or 9 and $3000 lenses that’s great. My point is the equipment we had 15 years ago was very capable and few of us ever need anything more.
Point well made! 👊🏻
Great comment austinnite
The D200 was a much anticipated camera in its day. People didn’t have all the social media like today, but it was talked about as much as the Z8 was, and probably almost as much as the ‘speculation’ over the Z6III !? And when it was finally released, some people I know, waited months and months to get theirs!
I still use my S5PRO, which is based on the D200, I believe. Image quality is very nice, but the review screen is horrible. I’m thinking a D3 will be a nice, possibly painful weight-wise lol, addition.
@@jimstenlund6017 Hi Jim, and Yes, your Fuge S5 was based upon the D200, mainly in body, as Fuji used their own brand of Voodoo in the sensor. It was on back order as well as the D200. I remember helping my Studio Photographer friend with the lighting, taking photos of my baby girl, and he was using the model previous to your Fuji I believe? I do recall it was hit and miss with the focus? We talked about the newly announced D200, and I also remember it was the one of the most anticipated cameras ever to be released.
Yes, the D3 will be heavy, and I would suggest picking up a D3s if You can. Take care
I have "better" cameras than my D3 but the D3 is the only one I envisage never selling. That must tell you something.
Thank you for the video.
I am a hobbyist photographer for the last twenty years. Not to downgrade to the mirrorless system was the best decision I ever made in my photography life. It was a decision based on meticulous analysis.
Happily use older Canon pro bodies with native lenses and shoot everyday - a pleasure I’m not ready to part with.
I know Nikon D3 is a legendary camera. Had I been a Nikon shooter; this would be my goto camera for every shooting venture. I own it's cousin brother Canon 1D Mark IV, an all-purpose camera.
Thanks again.
Your presentation was refreshing. I put you in my D3S playlist. Also plan on including you in my mentions in future D3S reference videos.
Of course I love your UA-cam channel. And I wish I could find a Leica Q3 today but I look at my closet and see my Nikon D3 and a D4S that have both been sitting dormant since my daughter graduated from college and I no longer watch her rowing on the Charles River. You have reminded me that there is still great value in those bodies since I have an amazing collection of f mount glass. So many of us are the kind of folks who just want whatever's next or care more about what they could have than what they do. Thanks for reminding me to dig into what I already own and go out and shoot. Of course there is something so exquisite about that Leica Q3 which of course you have spoken about very highly as well. Thanks for an amazing and thoughtfully presented UA-cam channel that always brings joy to my day.
Thank you for sharing such a lovely comment, Greg!
@@3BMEP you mean so much to so many of us. I hope you know that
I'm using the D3s with Voigtlander F mount primes and I'm very happy with the image quality.
Great video and fun trip back in time to when I practically lived with my D3S attached to my hip. One other positive for the D3S is it’s absolutely built like a tank and isn’t a body you have to baby. A true working shooter’s body.
I had a D2x and I loved it. And I'm a long time Canon/ Hasselblad/ Sony guy. Now I have to add Nikon to my list of beloved camera list. I gave it to my nephew who's an aspiring and talented photographer. He is loving the D2x now.
I have been thinking about the D3s also. My friend was an event photographer in NYC for many years and used a D3s and then the D4. He swears by the old Nikon's. I'm grateful I'm not a brand snob. I just love using all these camera that are available at such amazing deals.
Excellent summation, Hugh. The feeling of shooting these old bodies is hard to quantify. I just bought a Canon 1Ds - their first full frame DSLR , from 2002 - simply because at $250 Australian dollars I couldn't say no! It is an absolute tank and the key features / controls are precisely where you'd want. The 45 point AF system is surprisingly good - though since this was Canon's wedding / journo flagship at the time, perhaps I shouldn't be surprised. And there's still the one key factor even two decades on. Sometimes, in some places, for some people, an optical viewfinder is still better than the modern trend of EVF's . For me, at least. The biggest issue now is how often would I be willing to carry such a large camera, and how does that feed into decisions such as how much to spend on EF glass. A nifty 50 and the 35/2 , 100/2 might be about as far as we stretch for this old "dinosaur".
Bought a D3x a couple years ago and didn’t break the bank. I use all my primes from my F Photomic with fabulous results. Great camera! Thanks for a great video.
I had a D3 and D4 for a number of years and loved them both, they just felt right. Pair either one up with an old school 300mm f/2.8 and you have a true (5lb) beast of a camera. But for the back screen failing, I'd still be using it today along with my Z6ii.
Another great video, thank you.
Thanks for “weighing in” Phil! 😉
Although I own newer Nikons, I have a D3s and a D700 and won't part with them. I love the results I get and I don't worry about MPs or a little softness.
I am currently using aD800 and I am thinking about buying a second body. I am interested in either a D700 or D300, I hear very often their image quality is very unique in a positive way. Since you have experience with the D700, I would appreciate your opinion. My main concern is to pair it with my FX lenses and then take advantage of either the benefits of crop or the full frame.
I use the D700 with FX lenses and with a 24-70mm lens or the 24-85. That is the lens range I mostly use. To me, the colors are unique. I have a D850 and like that camera, but the D700 works well for me. I also have a D4s. Heavy cameras do not bother me. If you buy one, look at the shutter count, the dealer's rating and the return policy. I have been lucky getting my cameras in pristine condition. It takes patience to find a good one.
@@edc5338 thanks for you opinion buddy! Nice. To know you kinda can compare it with the d850.
I have a d800 which I use as a main camera (just jumping from enthusiast to “pro-level” mostly for product and marketing material so pretty controlled environment) but now I’m landing more weddings and events and I see the benefits of having a second camera not only for backup but for the benefit of having 2 lenses etc.
I shoot mainly on JPEG and overall results are good, I save a ton of time on post production. And I use raw only on dedicated shots when I know is going to be pixel detail post production.
I also don’t buy too much into MP count or sheet-specs but more into convenience for example button/function location etc. therefore I kinda prefer the d700 than d750. D700 feels more in the d800 range but I’m not so sure if it is really meets the needs.
Some colleagues tell to go for more mp as cropping and low light capability is way better in d750 but I still see here and there good photographers shooting the d700 with pretty nice results and for the price difference I could even get a d300 to pair with the fx lenses and have some fun around with the extra focal length without compromising the higher-end/working bodies
So my set up idea is d800 as main, d700 as second. Based on your experience with different sensors and models do you think is okay or better to go for the d750?
The D750 is a great camera and I used to own one. You can get a great deal on one now. I have a D780 now in my Nikon collection. The D700 made me more aware of my compositions so I wouldn't have to crop but cropping isn't that bad of an issue. If you do pro shoots, cropping is a factor.
@@edc5338 thank you! 👍
I've been shooting with 'super zooms' for many years, despite what the lens snobs say I should be doing to get nice photos (maybe they haven't checked mine and saw that I'm already doing OK)...and I've been really happy with them. Even MORE so with the Nikon Z super zooms. One underrated and less known super zoom that is sharp, nice bokeh but a bit slower to focus is the Tamron 28-300 made for Nikon DSLRs.
I used to shoot sports with D3s bodies back in the day, and they were absolute beasts. Nver let me down in some pretty horrible conditions, and they got carted around and took a battering, but still kept delivering. I've now moved to mirrorless, but sometimes I miss the old days
The Al-Gore-Rhythm (he invented the internet), is a funny thing. Today I purchased a Nikon D4s with a 1049 clicks on it, and this video pops up. Thanks for explaining the magic of the OVF, with your comment about dynamic range. I’ve never quite had the words to explain what is missing in every mirrorless camera I’ve used. Brilliantly communicated.
Thank you. I own a D3 and know eventually the lure of mirrorless will get me. But, even though the D3 is heavy, it has the best ergonomics of any camera I've picked up and has the most satisfying shutter sound. I hope I can practice restraint going to the Z8 for a couple more years, but the Z bodies really seem to handle low light in a unique way.
Still have my D3s and will keep it (even though I'm now using the Z9 for all my pro work). The D3s a hall-of-famer. The sensor, despite the low megapixel count we're accustomed to today, demonstrates wonderful tonal transitions and lovely color. Paired with high quality Nikkor-like an excellent prime as you suggest-it can produce lovely images, particularly when doing portraiture. Moreover, the D3s' megapixels seem to respond very well to upscaling using programs like the latest version of Topaz Gigapixel AI, should you need more resolution.
Im happy with my z5 and wouldnt want anything more
@@pilsplease7561 Totally fair! There really are no bad cameras today. As I often say, the size of one's imagination is more important than the size of one's sensor.
I agree with everything in your video! I started with Nikon F 35mm in highschool; learned the whole process in photo class (shame this is no longer a course in a vast majority of schools). I then went to a D40 with an SB-400 flash and various DX lenses (started with the kit) from B&H back in the day. I used the heck out of that unit. It died at 262k actuations (maybe that's a record who knows) and sits on my bookshelf as a conversation piece. I then went to a D300s and made the move to FF with a D700 when that came out. I've amassed a small collection of F Mount lenses over the years. Just the other day I bought a 50k actuation D3S with a 1.4g 85mm fx, 20mm Zeiss 2.8 fx, 50mm 1.4 Nikon fx, and a 70-200mm VR2 fx all for $800. A local "pro" just moved onto the Z series and mount. He had this collection sitting on his shelf collecting dust and the wife decided in them moving he had to get rid of stuff. He noticed how I was into photography (my interest is hobby and fun; I don't make a living with it) and offered it to me for that knowing it would be in a good home after we had talked about photography interests for a while. There's no way I could have afforded any of this kit new back when it was new. Although I could justify it now I don't think I could with the Z equivalent.
So this brings me to my point. Pro's or really anyone that makes a living in various ways with their camera is going to go to the Z system (some immediately some in the future but eventually all of that crowd will) for their work. This leaves a ton of used equipment becoming available for little or nothing that would be amazing for new learners or someone that's been doing it for a while but wants to upgrade; still loving the process as you described. For my interest this is perfect, I love photography for the process and the enjoyment. For me these older legendary cameras / lenses are amazing and it makes it fun. Flip side if I was a commercial photographer or making my money I'd want the latest and greatest. Yes the latest and greatest makes the process boring but as someone making money that's probably what you want; the process gets out of your way.
I'm loving it since mirrorless came out I can now afford lenses and bodies that I couldn't a few years ago I picked up the 80-200 2.8 afd a few months ago and love it
I used the Nikon D3x for 10 years at the Department of Veterans Affairs. And, at the time of my retirement in 2020 it was still in use.
Great video Hugh. I've just bought my first mirrorless (used Z6) and I'm impressed with some of the things it can do, but I can't say I like shooting with it better than my D3S & D3X (which I bought used about 5 years back.) Because I'm an amateur portrait and street shooter, I just don't need the speed, Eye-AF, & EVF. I'll just stop people in the street and photo them in single shot mode with a prime. I'm not going to dump the Z6 - the video is fantastic and I'm super impressed with how it enables superb manual focus with the chipped AF-D lenses (with the green square around the focus point.) That came as a lovely surprise when I tried the old Nikkor 105 AF-D Micro on the converter. Overall though the two D3S & X variants are hard to beat for both pleasure of handling use, and the look of their output. Tim (Southern England)
I have a Nikon D2X.... and my original D100. Upgraded to Z7 / Z9 / Z30 since.
Thank you for the video.
Great video. I am normally a Fuji shooter (X-2), but I love going out occasionally with my old D700. It was my first real camera when I got into photography back in 2007-2008. I love the view and process of using a DSLR, and the D700 still puts out great images. However, as much as I love it I never expect to get "keepers" from it now its more of a "for the love of the game" camera and nostalgia. My Fuji and Leica (Q2-M) are my cameras I use when I expect keepers....hold that thought (hehe)... I do tend to get a large % of keepers when I shoot film because I take so long to hit the shutter. Again, great video.
Keepers is an undervalued metric. Thanks!
I use Fujifilm XH-2 and GFX and I've just shot some images with my D700 that were used in an add for tourism.
You can definitely get as you say keepers with the D700, but it all depends on how you use it. It never stopped being a professional tool, just because of its age.
@@stevenbamford5245 so "keepers" is not really the idea I was going for, I just was trying to keep the post brief. What I'm really trying to get across is when I go out with the X-H2, I go out with a pretty good focus and intentionality of what I am going to look for and shoot. I don't actually just spray away when I am on digital, I tend to treat the process more like film. But when I go out with my D700, (which I love and would never sell) I tend to shoot anything I see that interests me, but I'm not really selective or focused about it. What I actually tend to do quite frequently is scout a place with the D700 (28mm or the kit 24-120mm) and stuff I like I'll go back later with the fuji and a lens for a specific shot. So keepers should have been phrased more along the lines of images taken with the intention of using them when I hit the shutter. But you are correct about the D700, and I don't underestimate its quality. I mostly shoot landscape and cityscape stuff so the MPs are an asset for that usually.
Loved my D4s "and all that glass"
But now shot Fuji X-T4 with my favourite Viltrox 75mm f1.2.
Time moves on and there are so many new toys to play with.
Be lucky stay safe.
Awesome peace of information! LOl, love the John Stewart thing you got going.
Never selling my d5! Love everything about it! Files are beautiful and with the stunning 85 1.4g you get such beautiful and character!
I don't photograph because I need to make money. I don't need to impress with giant prints. I don't have grand creative visions that I need my equipment to perfectly help me realise. I like working with, and sometimes against, the confines of the situation and the equipment. To me that's a lot more rewarding than chiselling out a preconceived vision. As opposed to painters, photographers can almost never escape the real world. I like to embrace that.
To me, a D700 with a mix of lenses, from the zoom trinity to quirky old Ai glass and modern AF primes, is thoroughly enjoyable to use. Technically, the 24-70/2.8 is infinitely better than the 1978 vintage O-series 35/2, but guess which one is more often on the camera? If the manual lens is in my bag, I don't care if I have to throw away a bunch of images due to missed focus.
I shot a big dinner for a friend. Switching to black and white was the only way to make the D700 make acceptable images at the required ISO speeds of 3200+. A disaster for a modern professional event photographer or journalist. For me, it was a lot of fun and resulted in some great images.
For people who don't see cameras and lenses as purely a means to an end, I highly recommend going with a DSLR system that's natively backwards compatible with relatively cheap vintage lenses. Even the modern high speed low drag lenses are coming down in price on the used market.
Absolutely agree with you. I love the D3 and works fine. An excellent demonstration of awesome Japanese engineering. Hugh, once again… thanks for the video !!!
Hi, Ignacio! Nice to see you here!
Good call Hugh. It recalled many happy memories of shooting with the D3/S and finally, the D4. Just to add one comment - they might have been a bit heavy, but the ergonomics of those cameras is peerless, partly thanks to the involvement of Ital Design - ciao Giorgetto Giugiaro.
I had the D3 for many years and absolutely loved it. My favorite combo was with the Zeiss Distagon 35/2 ZF - fantastic lens! I could shoot at night on the streets of Paris at ISO 3200 and still have excellent color reproduction and image contrast. Those were 12 amazing megapixels! I even printed one image (shot in daylight though) at 90x120cm. It's still hanging on a friend's wall 🙂
That lens is unbelievable, so easy to focus and the images it spits out are jaw dropping, plus if looked after it will last forever, built like a tank much like the D3 - a perfect combo, albeit very heavy for a 35. I have the 85 and the 135mm of that same distagon set, and looking to get my hands on the 28mm, I wonder has anyone here tried it ?
My favourite combo was very similar, D700 with the same Zeiss 35/2 ZF. I miss it, partly because of the DSLR experience and the image quality.
@@hazybrain7 - A friend had the 135 and that was a beast of a lens! I never had the opportunity to try the 28 or 25, though. I bet they would all still perform well adapted to the Z mount!
@@jameskezman Yes, they work great on the Z-mount Nikons. The ZF.2 series, with CPU contacts, is better than the original ZF. AF confirmation even works.
Nice video Hugh. It’s certainly a great time to be into photography: one needn’t spend tons of money to have fun.
I recently bought a D800 from KEH. Using all of my old glass, it's my favorite camera. Having invested in the Z system, and loving the results... there's something about the SLR experience that I love. If you can, get the best of both worlds.
I kept my favorite F-mount lenses for this exact reason. At some point, a D3s may be acquired...
I had the D1h from new I think it was 1.7mp loved the thing, but drown it. Replaced it with the D3s this thing is still going strong, never misses a beat, love this camera to death, even tried some vintage Takumar lenses on it the results were sweet.
You know Hugh there is a trend on UA-cam with folks going retro with CCD sensor cameras. I am going through 23 years of photos on cd’s and am rather delighted at the look photos taken with cameras like my old Olympus E1, Nikon D50 and Nikon D200. Sure they are limited in file size and high ISO ability but they do have a very pleasing look. So much so that for fun I purchased a 18 year old Nikon D50 for a whopping $49 and tomorrow a Nikon D200 arrives that I traded for an aging Oly P&S. I still shoot B&W film so this is still modern tech for me lol.
Thanks for sharing, Mike!
Agree. Imo part of the appeal lies in the fact that early days, manufacturers were trying to find the colours and textures of film stocks in their digital sensors. Leica and Olympus in particular used Kodak made sensors and the colours and tones from these are quite different to current high mp sensors. But even early Canon and Nikon models (5D, D700) have unique looks. I have a D200, K10D, 5D Minnie, Oly E-300 , Canon 5D and probably some others and still like the look you can get from them. It may or may not be "better" , but I believe they're certainly different.
I'm a wedding photographer and the D3s /28-300 is my main ax. The pro level sensor on that camera is far superior to their prosumer cameras like the D810 which I also had for a period of time. Last year when I wore out my first d3s with around 400,000 exposures on it, I replaced it with another. I was able to find an excellent plus body at KEH at a great price, came in with 6000 clicks on it. I don't worry too much about the lens as it's wedding and portrait work. I do have primes for when things get dark or technical. Lightroom has the profiles for the lens anyway, so that evens things out a lot. I do have a small z50 for a kick around camera and I love it, it's the D3S's little brother.
Just for yucks I took my 25yo F5 on a trip to photograph wild Mustangs in Utah last week (along with a modern Digital Camera) and it was so incredibly gratifying to hold and shoot a camera that is the great great grandparent of every professional digital Nikon. Yeah it’s heavy but it’s so perfectly balanced it feels great in hand and the joy I felt using it superseded any aches I felt after a long day in the wilderness. That said, it actually made my decision to now purchase the z9 easier knowing that it will feel just as wonderful - and tough. Thanks, Hugh, for the wonderful trip back in time.
My pleasure. 😊🖖🏻
Great video as always Hugh …… I just bought one in London for £300……. Only 35k actuations …… good condition and it produces such lovely files …….. I think you got it spot on with your comment comparing it to film equivalents ….. it’s so nice to get the instant feedback I can’t get from my also wonderful F5 ….. but also be able to swap lenses….. and computers also love the size of the files!
Very nice video and breakdown. For me the use of the older DSLR's comes from their incredible intuitive controls and the immediacy of how they react. It's simple and fast to change in the field without digging into any menus. But beyond that, the value in buying the MANY incredible F Mount professional lenses of the past is my biggest selling point on them. I don't think I'll ever stop using the Nikkor 400mm f/3.5
I agree that the D3/D3s is one of the most legendary Nikon cameras, and I may get one at some point for nostalgic reasons. To get much of the same performance, under $1k [KEH prices], the D700 is a worthy substitute.
I shoot that camera professionally (D700) with a SB-900 and a power pack. Colors are out of this world. The only camera model I found that could beat the colors is Fujifilms GFX line which doesn’t even count. Durable beast, it’s even compatible with my F100 lenses which stay glued to my camera.
Funny enough KEH is having an overstock sale and I finally ordered the Nikkor 135mm AI f2.8 🎉
The manual 135/2.8 is a nice compact lens for events and concerts ;)
Just get it already
@@georgedavall9449 I got the F5 recently. That's my splurge for the moment.
I use my 28-300mm with my Z9 all the time. It’s my go-to lens for daytime parades. I still have a D4S but rarely use it.
Hugh, thank you for this. Quick question: what is the strap/wrap around your hand/wrist that holds the camera? This looks very helpful.
Peak Design
I've been shooting with older Nikon DSLRs since last september, to have anice change of pace from mirrorless cameras (curently deep in the Fujifilm system).
I had some lenses lying around from the film era in Nikon F mount and I figured it would be better to stay within the F mount rather than investing into EF mount.
Got myself a Nikon D700 for about 300 bucks in pristine condition (and about 30k shutter actuations, so basically brand new) and really I can't understate how good these cameras are just for the sheer confidence they put in you and your abilities when the shot turns out perfect. Since then, I bought a D2H (truly a hidden gem in the rough) and a D1X and been eying a D3 or D3S.
The thing that has been stopping me about the D3/D3S is really the fact that I have (and love) the D700, which is nothing else than a D3 in a smaller body. Close to the same burst speed (8fps on D700, 9fps on both D3 and D3S), same autofocus, same sensor. The biggest difference between the two is the form factor and the fact that the D3 has dual CF slots while the D700 only has one, but I wouldn't use thos camera in setting that require backups anyway, so 1 CF card in the D700 is completely okay. D700's viewfinder is 95% coverage, but I really stopped paying attention to that after a week or so of use. Just became automatic in my head like "oh yeah there is a bit of the frame that I don't see". I can understand that it might be a downer for a lot of people thoug, but like everything, we can get used to anything if we put in the work.
You called the D3S a steal at 600 bucks, I've seen D700 as low as 180 bucks on websites like MPB in full working order. If you want to get a camera from that Nikon era to shoot for fun, it might be really hard to justify anything else for the money than the D700 in my opinion.
Thanks for such a rich contribution to the discussion!
@@3BMEP Indeed! I am slowly building my collection of wonderful Nikons of yore, which began w my new D300 in 2009; then added D700; then D800; now vintage glass; and now I have the Z9 for special situations such as important events where backup matters, or shooting w vintage telephoto manual focus lenses that benefit from some focusing assistance. It is great to have the power of the Z9 and the artful control of the older DSLRs. And, yes, I really want to add a D3 to the collection even though it makes no sense at all given the other gear I have.
Remember when the D3 was released. I met Scott Sheppard from Inside Digital TV and we tested the D3. The image quality was really good. I could still do all my pro work with a D3--seriously. At the time, It was the best low light camera in the industry!
I have the D3 and it has 7,000 shutter clicks, was able to get a store demo model. That camera still takes phenomenal photos that look good printed at 11”x14”.
👊🏻💯
Absolutely in love with my Z6 - picked up used through MPB at 800€ it feels like an absolute bargain for a wonderfully handling and hugely capable camera. The only thing it isnt is pocketable, though still far from the size of an elephant like the D3 (hah)
Lol. I remember a married couple I met year's ago who owned both Canon and Nikon. The guy could pocket his D3 in his coat 🤣 He was using a 50mm F1.8E pancake lens. It looked like a woman's purse.
I love it too, the only annoying thing is the screen not turning sideway for portrait shooting like my old xt2.
i still adore and often use my d700 and 300, the smaller siblings. So much i considered selling both for a D3.
Hi Hugh. As you know I am out of Nikon for a while and yet sitting in a drawer I have my D3 and a bunch of lenses that I never sold. Occasionally I play with it, but, most importantly to me, the emotional impact of that camera is still vivid in my memory.
Great reason to keep them, Ico. Maybe things to be passed on to future generations!
@@3BMEP indeed!!
Brilliant! Thank you!
You're very welcome! 😊🖖🏻
I just started learning photography. I purchased a D3400 for $200 to start and a D850 for $800 to use as I progress. Both with lenses and in superb condition. Hopefully, I didn't overpay 😢 for such old cameras. I just noticed your review gives the highest praise to the newer model.
I would have been astounded by a D850 when I started photography . Don’t worry about it - just enjoy!
Would recommend the Pentax k1000
Another accolade for the Z8. Great video thanks Hugh.
My pleasure, Thomas.
The D3s was my workhorse from 2009 to 2015. I probably put close to 200K images on it - mostly sports and action. It was only when I transititioned to portraiture that I found the 12MP limiting. And honestly, after shooting say 3 day national track meet, it was a bit too heavy and bulky. But it was a fantastic camera.
If you're looking for an even better bargain, check out the D700 . . . Its the "prosumer" variant of the D3 and has the same 12.1 megapixel sensor and processor as the D3. Low shutter count D700s are roughly 2/3s the price of a D3S and produce excellent image quality.
I am a user for D3+Nikkor 17-35 2.8D. These old things gives you all the legendary feelings you want from Nikon, without spending time on film development or manual focus! And it cost about 1/10 of the original price. Nikon F dslr really worth owning during 2020s if you want to use a flagship workhorse in very low price.
great info, thanks
Glad it was helpful! 😊🖖🏻
fab video on the d3,...i bought one a few days ago...i love it that you can get some nice low shutter count older pro cameras at a fraction of the price new,i got a d1x years ago and it does take soulful pics with a 50mm lens i found....ive since bought a d2x a d3 and a D800e and a few more nikon lenses....i thought to myself how many cameras do u need but i just love having them...like old friends in a way
I understand! 😊🖖🏻
Great video! Would have liked this compared to the best DSLR ever made, the D850 which is about a 3rd the price. WITH CROPPING ABILITY !!
Great honor to the D3 series loved it please make one for D800/850 series your voice crashes all
I’ll look into it.
A steal - for sure. I loved my D3 and I still have a D3S. I took it out for sport in all weathers including biblical rain.Things like the rear screen are noticeably poor by modern standards but if you can't get photographs to die for with one of these old pro monsters, you're doing something wrong. I once had a sports picture printed up by a client from one third of a frame for a vinyl that covered a sports hall door, and it was still pretty sharp. The only two things I would say is that the D700 is a bigger steal by far; and that I would choose from the Nikon Hall of Fame the D4 for those few extra megapixels but mainly for its gorgeous sensor, which was also fitted to the Df. Then you can match to all the truly great Nikkors including my favourite AF-D lenses and even the AI and AI-S if you like. The batteries last all day and there's no switching on and off all the time. These were great, great cameras and they still are.
As always, Simon, a pleasure to read.
i had one of these, i loved it. after it I had a canon 5d ii and was so disappointed, wish i still had that nikon.
I miss shooting B&W film on my F3hp, but I really miss the keeper rate of my old F5. I don't miss the darkroom enough to go back!
I hear you, Mike!
I love my D3!
You have a very enjoyable way with words.
Thank you!🙂🖖
Loved it.
😊🖖🏻👊🏻
Still using D3's smaller brother D700 as a main body today. Amazzing camera with great output. The only its downside - you can't think viable enough reason to change it for something newer 😅
Other than autofocus, I love my D4 but I really love my F6. I had to do a band photo shoot a few days ago, and still have issues with the Z6ii viewfinder. But the autofocus cannot be beat by the other two.
The F6 was amazing. It seems that the F5 is higher on the "Legendary" scale. The F6, like the D6, was almost an afterthought during the transition to the newer technology, SLR --> DSLR --> MILC.
As a professional sports photographer, I still rate the d3 as the greatest camera ever made. It'll be coming with me to the Olympics this summer as my primary body - perhaps paired with a d6 if I can get my hands on one - because it's so extraordinarily reliable in all conditions. I know I can always get images that have the wow factor even when conditions are working against me. It's truly remarkable, and the 12MP has seldom been an issue for me.
The D3 had higher first year sales than the Z9. Both technological breakthroughs. Sadly, the 12 megapixel files from my D3 do not usually generate large enough jpegs for my stock agency now (5 MB minimum). So many great images from that camera, but almost every one of them on a tripod. But I do regret using the F mount 24-120 f/4 lens for travel that I now don't remember owning.
Oh I kinda like that lens for landscapes. What did not make it for you, if I could ask?
@@jackmatthews9390 There are 2-3 iterations of the F-mount 24-120mm f/4 lens. You may be referring to different ones.
I have the D700 with a battery grip and high capacity battery, and the D3. I felt the D3 was still substantially heavier the the d700 with all the bells and whistles. I guess you can argue that I need to do more curls in the gym. But you really can't deny how uncomfortably heavy the D3 was.
As the saying goes: it isn't what you've got but what you do with it that matters. I have the newer Lumix S cameras and given the choice I usually leave the house with my D3 and the 135mm 2.8. For what I shoot it's absolutely magic.
always fun. thanks for the effort and the sharing. i am an appreciative subscriber. i do need to share: i STILL use my D700 in-studio with AIS lenses AND i often use my Nikon D750 with my 24-120/4 as an all-in-one travel kit. i also VERY much adore the D750 + 85/1.4D for in-studio portraits. i'm just saying. ;-)
I found the 24-120/4 F variant a bit weak, imediatley sold it again
Good point, in this film revival time, comparing the D3 with 35mm TX400. Even 12MP digital blows the socks off 35mm film. I shot a lot of medium and large format TX400 in my day - 50 years ago - not because I made a sport of lugging around heavy, expensive, fragile and slow gear, but because commercial clients did not accept the quality from 35mm cameras. It passed for newsprint, which was dire at the time, but not even for magazine work, and definitely not for commercial.
Someday I bet I'll get a D850 just because I loved it so much. Maybe D750 - still a better fit for my hand. But damned I love them both.
Did the D3s have the sensor cleaning option? I had a D3 back in 2007 for about two months. Its dirty sensor drove me crazy! Probably wouldn't have been a problem had I been Jay, with just a 28-300mm. But alas, I'm prime guy. When the D700 came out with automatic sensor cleaning, I couldn't ditch the D3 fast enough.
I added a D4 to the kit in 2012, but that only lasted until the stellar D810 came out. By then, the form factor of the smaller bodies had won me over.
I still have, use and love my 850s, even though I now have a Z9 and Z8.
The D3 was a ground braking camera, and you did a great job extolling its virtues, but I can't help but think that the D700/810/850 family of cameras managed to eclipse their bigger siblings at every turn.
... For whatever my opinion is worth! 😊 Cheers!
I’ve never experienced the D3 as I started with the D700, which still works perfectly. Although I’ve supplemented my D700 with a D850 as I don’t need the “shoot fast, shoot a lot” capabilities of the Z series…
While I’m sure the new Z series are amazing cameras, my older equipment is paid for…
Perhaps I should pick up some more “old school” equipment and see what photography was like in days gone by.
There's a lady who does just that on YT. Her name is "one month two camera's". Hopefully Hugh does more of these.
Clearly you want the Nikkor 50mm f/1.2 AIS lens!
or an Ai converted 55/1.2, which is cheaper on the used marked but still fascinating.
Hugh love your channel, although Im a novice. Im confused , the D3 full frame, the 28 to 300 Dx lens ? does one still get the full frame shots ? Sorry for sounding uneducated on the subject.
It’s the 18-300 that’s a DX lens, not the 28-300).
Ok, thx Hugh, so the 28-300 is an FX lens ?
@@3BMEP
@@bayouboy8644 yep
Just yesterday I took out my almost forgotten D3. Since many years, I shoot with Olympus MFT, some weddings and events. A much lighter and smaller solution, and at ISO 1600 "good enough". I use it also for video. Nikon mirrorless came too late for me. So I still have a big collection of Nikkors from all ages and the D3 and D800 sleepings in their bags and being too valuable to sell them now for some hundred Euros.
I just wanted to see, if the battery of the D3 is still alive, since I already lost two of them for not charging over the years. And what should I say, it was the same battery charge from 2020 or so and it had more than 50% capacity. The focus point dial was a little bit sticky, and the flash sync door came off, but otherwise it was in a very good working condition. It even got a new shutter from NPS, 10 years ago and might live very long.
So yesterday I took it out for the first time after many years, just a 50/1.4 G attached. The camera is big enough, I want to use one small lens to compensate it. I just shot some photos in the street, and it was pure fun. Real photography again, having my F, F2, F3, F4 still in mind! Nothing against the Olympus, but the shutter lag of the Nikon is shorter, it is much more responsive, very easy to handle, and forces you to be more creative. Now I ordered a used 24-85 VR as small standard zoom. At 12 mpx it should be good enough.
So I decided, that the D3 will be my standard photo machine again, when I take photos for myself and go with the car and tripod.
I had a D2x until recently awesome camera. Would love a Z system eventually but it’s funny seeing this once expensive cameras becoming totally affordable
The flip side of this comment: It's cool seeing these once expensive cameras still have some value!
Still shoot my D3 each week :) still love the images!!
I have owned a D200, D300, D700, D800 and D3. I had begun shooting weddings and my favorite set was the D700 and D3. I was shooting much of NYC and got into doing model portfolios successfully. More recently when the Z7 became available, I snapped one up. And found that my favorite 3D Focus Tracking had vanished. I have used the Z7 for shooting minor leagues baseball but miss the 3D. It rests quietly in my closet. Now I find that Nikon has added 3D to some of the newer models. Having reached 83 years old, I find that somehow the D3 has been mysteriously gaining weight. I had retired when surgical masks became mandatory in most of NYC. But the Z8 idea has now been tickling me. Thanks for this video.
I am currently using aD800 and I am thinking about buying a second body. I am interested in either a D700 or D300, I hear very often their image quality is very unique in a positive way. Since you have experience with the D700, I would appreciate your opinion. My main concern is to pair it with my FX lenses and then take advantage of either the benefits of crop or the full frame.
@@RickL.-zn4ur - my answer is that I still use the D700 and D3 because of how they result in beautiful smooth colors. Their sensors are identical but the D700 has a 95% viewfinder and one memory card slot. Which is easy to work with once you know about it. My D300 is somewhere in the back of my equipment closet.
@@lescobrandon3047 thanks! Do
You
Use it professionally? Is a body still capable to deliver weddings and events?
@@RickL.-zn4ur - Yes, but retired in 2019 due to governmental actions. I was 83 last week.
@@lescobrandon3047 congrats!!! 👏👏
Follow-up challenge - The Z50 with kit lenses against the D3 and 28-300. ;) I already know what I'd prefer because I went from a D500/D750/D7100 to the Z50. I liked it enough to get a Z7II, but was unhappy with the Z7II. I've also tried the Z8 and have the ZF on pre-order. I'm kind of a fan of the A7CII overall though, and I'm still getting used to it. HEIF HLG images are pretty nice!
Oh, for the Good Old Days, of taking a torch into the cave with you multicolored clays to paint a real picture.
Multicolored clays..? Luxury! Back in my day, it were a bit of old burnt twig... ; )
Now you are just bragging!
Welcome to the power of historical mythique D3S world!!! I’m happy you stop for once to be so enthousiaste to always the last technology and share the same spirit as I do at my modest level on my Channel
😉
@@3BMEP moreover, that's why I bought a D6... crazy AF, optical viewfinder, 20 million pixels more than enough, unique and non-existent F optical ranges in Z mount :
28mm f/1.4
58mm f/1.4
105mm f/1.4
200mm f/2 VRii
the 58mm is not that good... depending on situation.
But the D6 !!!
I just got a Nikon D3 followed by the Nikon D2Xs, and instead of the NIkon Zoom, that I got myself a Tamron 28~300 AF Zoom, And I am happy with it. As I also love using my Nikkor Manual Focus Primes Lenses.. I do not like the Nikon Line that you have to get the Nikon Adapter to use the F mount lenses to the Z Mount... More weight, meaning slightly soft images... But I do Have my Fuji Mirrorless Models, and in using are my Nikon Niikor Manual Lenses via FX mount - Nikon F mount adapter.... Happy?
I've owned and sold a lot sensors/brands over the years. One has stuck to right now, March 2024, my D3. (My Zs are fun, too.)
I still worked with a d3S, I m so surprise to see how the image is nice in the viewfinder, and I like the the color with it. With the 180mmf 2,8 it' s very pleasant. working same time with Z9 and D3S change the perception af what i see
Some of these 'throw-back' videos had me considering the 180mm f/2.8D lens. Sadly, I realized it would only be manual focus with the FTZ adapter.
@@UnconventionalReasoning Sadly is the word... but anyway It' a nice lens and with D3S (or d700)it's very nice) the number of pixels doesn't define a nice picture !
@@pascalbeltrami2919 Yes, I've completely switched from basically one or two DSLRs to one or two mirrorless cameras. The D700 was given to a friend 7 or 8 years ago.
What is your opinion on Nikon D3x comparing to D3 or D3s? I just ordered an used D3x in ‘like new’ condition. I hope I made the right decision.
I have the Nikon d700 with the 28-300Vr , Amazing lens from the day one i bought it its always on my camera, you can make everything with it , portraits , landscapes , street photography etc. You cant much the colors of the d700 with any modern mirroless.
I’ve heard this before about the D700
oh yes you can
Yes, Nikon D3 and D700 have superb color production unmatched by any DSLR or mirrorless camera other than perhaps some early medium format or first low megapixel APS-C cameras, period. The physical foundation for the natural color production is of course the full frame sensor 8.45 µm pixel size that enables high photon gathering capacity and use of a strong Bayer filter. Different Sony a7s's have also the same pixel size, but they emphasize low-light and high ISO performance instead of the color reproduction.
Although D3 and D700 share the same Nikon made (designed) sensor, it is possible that D700 signal processing enables even better color production as D3 emphasizes speed for action and low-light photography. And D700 came out one year after D3 so there was time to tweak the image processing.
Pseudo-experts claim that practically any camera can match D700 in post-processing. This is however not true as can be seen simply comparing raw file histograms: depending on the subject, D700 histograms can have much more primary information (intensity separation and variance) than other cameras. And that is impossible to reproduce post. To check yourself, make a photo of wood that has some red hues and observe how other cameras than D700 flatten out and interpolate histograms resulting in much less vibrant and natural colors.
Just bought a clean D3S and an 18-35mm lens for $337 on Ebay! Can't get a better deal than that! Also bough the 28-300mm lens for under $200!
Still have my original D3. At sports work, I use a D3s, faster, better ISO.. Low light and complex scenarios a D5. D4s was sold, to buy the D5.
My plan is to upgrade to the Z8 next year. Up to now I only have my D700 and a D300S. I also have a large amount of valuable F mount lenses. I am happy with my photos, but I sometimes can’t get the shot at the perfect moment because I didn’t get the focus right on the spot and that really drives me mad sometimes.
Sounds good to me!
One consideration: only F-mount G and E series lenses will autofocus with the FTZ adapter.
Can you make a review on new Sennheiser EW DP and compare it to Sony UMP-D21 and even tell some other better altertives in Sennheiser
Thanks for your well balanced and entertaining video...Indeed, the D3 was/is a Classic camera. I'd wager that the D700 with say a 50mm f1.4g. and the Z8 with equivalent would be a closer challenge with the D700 and said lens creating more pleasing, characterful, 3 dimensional images...!?!?
STG, I have been thinking about this.
Couldn't be happier with my Z5.
MY z5 and 24-120g work great together. I bought a D700 a few years.ago and just love using it.
My favourite photo I got is taken with a D2x and a 35mm ais
The better buy is the D700. If you need to choose between a DSLR or the mirrorless system, your first consideration is if you want video. If you do then go mirrorless. The second consideration is the need for focusing speed and accuracy. If so go mirrorless. The last consideration is budget. DSLRs are a lot cheaper now (second hand) and mirrorless with their new lenses are significantly more expensive. If you want the best possible images then go with mirrorless.