D3 Extraordinary Speed...Uncompromised Versatility

Extraordinary Speed...
Uncompromised Versatility

Flagship pro D-SLR with a 12.1-MP FX-format CMOS sensor, blazing 9 fps shooting at full FX resolution and low-noise performance up to 6400 ISO.

EnlargeD3 25434
Price$4,999.95*ESP

Supplied Accessories

  • EN-EL4a Rechargeable Li-ion Battery
  • MH-22 Quick Charger
  • UC-E4 USB Cable
  • EG-D2 Audio Video Cable
  • AN-D3 Camera Strap
  • BF-1A Body Cap
  • BS-2 Accessory Shoe Cap
  • DK-17 Eyepiece
  • BL-4 Battery Chamber Cover
  • USB Cable Clip
  • Software Suite CD-ROM

*Supplied accessories may differ depending on country or area.

Key Features

Nikon's original 12.1-megapixel FX-format (23.9 x 36mm) CMOS sensor: Couple Nikon's exclusive digital image processing system with the 12.1-megapixel FX-format and you'll get breathtakingly rich images while also reducing noise to unprecedented levels with even higher ISOs.

Extreme low-noise ISO range with advanced noise reduction: This enables photographers to confidently select from 200-6400 ISO with an expanded range that includes: Lo-1 (100 ISO), Hi-1 (12,800 ISO) and Hi-2 (25,600 ISO).

Selectable 12-Bit or 14-Bit A/D Conversion: The choice of selecting bit depths at 12-bit (4,096 tones) or 14-bit (16,384 tones), both yielding incredible image quality through a full 16-bit processing pipeline, enables photographers to choose smaller files at faster operating speeds, as opposed to larger files with smoother tonal gradations at slower operating speeds.

Fast, accurate 51-point auto focus with 3D focus tracking: Add onto that, three dynamic AF modes to deliver exacting autofocus precision at blazing speeds.

Nikon's exclusive Scene Recognition System (SRS): Improved 1,005-pixel 3D Color Matrix Metering II provides even more intelligent auto exposure capabilities, along with smarter auto white balance detection and faster, more accurate AF performance.

Nikon's exclusive Active D-Lighting:  Image enhancement provided on the fly while shooting produces broader tone reproduction in both shadows and highlights by controlling light intensity and exposure compensation while applying localized tone control technology to achieve the right level of contrast across the entire image for sharp, detailed results.

Nikon's self-diagnostic shutter system: Tested to 300,000 cycles, this system is a clear indication of advanced engineering and durable construction.

Continuous shooting at up to 9 frames per second: At full FX resolution and up to 11fps in the DX crop mode, the D3 offers uncompromised shooting speeds for fast-action and sports photography.

Nikon's exclusive EXPEED Image Processing Technology: The foundation of Nikon’s newest Image Processing Systems, EXPEED incorporates the concepts, innovations and years of Nikon’s digital image processing experience, providing superior image quality with state-of-the-art technologies at blazing processing speeds.

3.0-inch super density 921,000-dot VGA color monitor: With 170-degree, wide-angle viewing and tempered glass protection, you'll get even better critical image review capabilities.

Two Live View shooting modes: Use either hand-held or with a tripod when shooting in a studio, remote situations or from challenging angles.

New Picture Control settings: This gives photographers dramatically advanced color control with 4 preset options; standard, neutral, vivid and monochrome, as well as 9 customizable settings.

The World's First Virtual Horizon Graphics Indicator: The D3's super-density color LCD monitor, teamed with Nikon's innovative Electronic Virtual Horizon delivers instant and accurate confirmation of the D3's position relative to "horizon level." You can also level the D3 while looking through the viewfinder or on the top-deck LCD.

Comprehensive state-of-the-art dust and moisture countermeasures and electromagnetic interference: With a rugged, durable and precise magnesium-alloy chassis and body, the D3 goes beyond other D-SLRs to protect against invasive moisture, dust and even electromagnetic interference. A comprehensive series of O-rings and other specialized seals, combined with additional engineering, keeps you shooting when lesser cameras would fail.

Experience It

*ESP (Estimated Selling Price) listed only as an estimate. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time.

Specifications

  • Total Pixels
    12.87 million
     
  • Effective Pixels
    12.1 million
     
  • Image Sensor Format
    FX
     
  • Image Sensor Type
    CMOS
     
  • Sensor Size
    36.0 x 23.9mm
     
  • Dust-Off Reference Photo
    Yes
     
  • Image Area (pixels)
    FX-format
    (L) 4,256 x 2,832
    (M) 3,184 x 2,120
    (S) 2,128 x 1,416
    5:4 format (30 x 24)
    (L) 3,552 x 2,832
    (M) 2,656 x 2,120
    (S) 1,776 x 1,416
    DX-format
    (L) 2,784 x 1,848
    (M) 2,080 x 1,384
    (S) 1,392 x 920
     
  • Storage Media
    CompactFlash© (Type I/II, compliant with UDMA)
    MicroDrive©
     
  • File Format
    Uncompressed 12/14-bit NEF (RAW)
    Compressed 12/14-bit NEF (RAW, Lossless compressed): approx. 60-80 percent
    Compressed 12/14-bit NEF (RAW, Compressed): approx. 45-60 percent
    JPEG: JPEG-baseline-compliant; can be selected from Size Priority and Optimal Quality
    TIFF (RGB)
    WAV
     
  • Picture Control
    Standard
    Neutral
    Vivid
    Monochrome
    Nine User-customizable Settings
     
  • LCD Monitor Size
    3 in. diagonal
     
  • LCD Monitor Type
    VGA TFT
    Super Density
     
  • LCD Monitor Resolution
    921,000 Dots
     
  • LCD Monitor Angle of View
    170-degree wide-viewing angle
     
  • LCD Monitor Adjustments
    Brightness, 7 levels
     
  • Live View Shooting
    Handheld mode
    Tripod mode
     
  • Virtual Horizon Camera Indicator
    Yes
     
  • Playback Functions
    Full frame
    Thumbnail (4, 9 or 16 segments)
    Zoom
    Slideshow
    Histogram display
    Shooting data
    Highlight point display
    Auto image rotation
    Voice Memo
     
  • Image Comment
    Yes
    Up to 36 characters
     
  • Voice Memo Function
    Yes
     
  • Lens Mount
    Nikon F bayonet mount
     
  • Compatible Lenses

    1) Type G or D AF NIKKOR: All functions supported

    2) DX AF NIKKOR: All functions supported except FX-format (36x24)/5:4 (30x24) image size

    3) AF NIKKOR other than type G or D*2: All functions supported except 3D Color Matrix Metering II

    4) AI-P NIKKOR: All functions supported except autofocus and 3D Color Matrix Metering II

    5) Non-CPU AI NIKKOR: Can be used in exposure modes A and M; electronic rangefinder can be used if maximum aperture is f/5.6 or faster; Color Matrix Metering and aperture value display supported if user provides lens data

     
  • Viewfinder
    SLR-type with fixed eye-level pentaprism
     
  • Viewfinder Frame Coverage
    Approx. 100%
     
  • Viewfinder Magnification
    Approx.

    0.7x (50mm f/1.4 lens at infinity; -1.0m-1)

     
  • Autofocus System

    Autofocus TTL phase detection, 51 focus points (15 cross-type sensors) by Nikon Multi-CAM 3500FX autofocus module; Detection: -1 to +19 EV (ISO 100 at 20°C/68°F); AF fine adjustment possible. Focal-plane contrast [in LiveView (Tripod) mode]

     
  • Focus Modes
    Single-servo AF (S)
    Continuous-servo (C)
    Manual
     
  • Focus Lock
    AE-L/AF-L button
    Half press of shutter-release button (single-point AF in AF-S)
     
  • Maximum Autofocus Areas/Points
    51
     
  • Single-point AF Mode
    Yes
     
  • Dynamic AF Mode
    Yes
    Number of AF points: 9, 21, 51 and 51 (3D-tracking)
     
  • Auto-area AF Mode
    Yes
     
  • Focusing Screen
    BriteView Clear Matte VI - Type B
     
  • Interchangeable Focusing Screens
    Yes
    BriteView Clear Matte VI - Type B
    Clear Matte VI - Type E
     
  • Depth-of-field Control
    Yes
     
  • White Balance
    Sun
    Shade
    Fluorescent
    Incandescent
    Flash
    Preset
    Fine Tune by Kelvin color temperature setting
     
  • White Balance Bracketing
    Yes, 2 to 9 exposures, in increments of 1, 2 or 3
     
  • Exposure Metering System
    1,005-pixel RGB sensor 3D Color Matrix Metering II
    Variable Center-weighted
    Spot AF
    Spot meter centered on selected focus point (on center focus point when non-CPU lens is used)
     
  • Lowest Standard ISO Sensitivity
    200 in steps of 1/3
    1/2
    1 EV
     
  • Highest Standard ISO Sensitivity
    6400in steps of 1/3
    1/2
    1EV
     
  • Lowest Expanded ISO Sensitivity

    Lo-1 (ISO 100 equivalent, in steps of 1/3, 1/2, 1 EV)

     
  • Highest Expanded ISO Sensitivity

    HI-2 (ISO 25,600 equivalent)

     
  • Expanded ISO Sensitivity Options

    Hi-1, (ISO-12,800 equivalent), in 1/3, 1/2 or 1 EV steps

    Hi-2, (ISO-25,600 equivalent), 1 EV step

     
  • Metering Range

    1) 0 to 20 EV (Matrix or center-weighted metering); 2) 2 to 20 EV (Spot metering) (ISO 100 equivalent, f/1.4 lens, at 20 degrees C/68 degrees F)

     
  • Exposure Modes
    Programmed Auto (P) with flexible Program
    Shutter-Priority Auto (S)
    Aperture-Priority Auto (A)
    Manual (M)
     
  • Exposure Compensation
    ±5 EV in increments of 1/3
    1/2
    1
     
  • Exposure Lock
    Yes
    Exposure locked at detected value with AE-L/AF-L button
     
  • Exposure Bracketing
    Yes
    From 2 to 9 exposures in increments of 1/3, 1/2, 2/3 or 1
     
  • Top Continuous Shooting Speed at full resolution
    9 frames per second
     
  • Continuous Shooting Options
    FX-format
    CH: Up to 9 frames per second
    CL: Up to 8 frames per second
    5:4 format
    CH: Up to 9 frames per second
    CL: Up to 8 frames per second
    DX-format
    CH: Up to 11 frames per second
    CL: Up to 10 frames per second
     
  • Slowest Shutter Speed
    30 sec. in steps of 1/3
    1/2
    1 EV
     
  • Fastest Shutter Speed
    1/8000 sec. in steps of 1/3
    1/2
    1 EV
     
  • Bulb Shutter Setting
    Yes
     
  • Shutter type
    Electronically controlled vertical-travel focal-plane
     
  • Self-timer
    Electronically controlled timer with duration of 2, 5, 10 or 20 sec.
     
  • Built-in Flash
    No
     
  • Flash Control

    1) TTL flash control with 1,005-pixel RGB sensor; i-TTL balanced fill-flash and standard i-TTL fill-flash available with SB-900, SB-800, SB-600 or SB-400
    2) Auto aperture (AA): Available with SB,900, SB-800 and CPU lens
    3) Non-TTL auto (A): Available with SB-900, SB-800, SB-28, SB-27 or SB-22s
    4) Range-priority manual (GN): Available with SB-900 and SB-800

     
  • Flash Sync Modes
    Front-curtain sync (normal)
    Slow sync
    Rear-curtain sync
    Red-eye reduction
    Red-eye reduction with slow sync
     
  • Mirror Lock Up
    Yes
     
  • Card Slot
    2 CompactFlash© cards
     
  • File System
    Compliant with DCF 2.0
    DPOF
    EXIF 2.21
     
  • Exposure Meter Coupling
    CPU
    AI
     
  • Shutter Release Modes
    Single-frame [S] mode
    Continuous low-speed [CL] mode; 1-9 frames per second
    Continuous high-speed [CH] mode; 9 frames per second (9-11 frames per second with DX format)
    Live View [LV] mode
    Self-timer mode
    Mirror-up [Mup] mode
     
  • Picture Angle
    Equivalent to angle produced by lens focal length (1.5 times when DX format is selected)
     
  • Viewfinder Eyepoint

    18 mm (-1.0 m-1)

     
  • Reflex Mirror
    Quick-return type
     
  • Lens Aperture
    Instant-return type with depth-of-field preview button
     
  • Autofocus Fine Tune
    Yes
     
  • Flash Sync Speed
    Up to 1/250
     
  • X-Sync Speed
    1/250
     
  • FP High Speed Sync
    Up to 1/8000
     
  • Nikon Creative Lighting System Compatibility
    Yes
     
  • In-Camera Image Editing
    Trim
    D-Lighting
    Color Balance
    Image Overlay
    Side-by-Side Comparison
    Filter Effects
    Monochrome
    Red-eye Correction
     
  • Battery Type
    Rechargeable
     
  • Battery / Batteries
    EN-EL4a Lithium-ion Battery
    EN-EL4 Lithium-ion Battery
     
  • Battery Life (shots per charge)
    4,300 shots (CIPA)
    4,700 shots (Nikon Standard)
     
  • AC Adapter
    EH-6 AC Adapter
     
  • Battery Charger
    MH-21 Quick Charger
    MH-22 Quick Charger
     
  • Supplied Software
    Software Suite CD-ROM
     
  • Optional Accessories
    WT-4a Wireless Transmitter, DK-17M Magnifying Eyepiece, EH-6 AC Adapter, Capture NX Software, Camera Control Pro 2 Software, Image Authentication Software
     
  • Interface
    Hi-speed USB
    NTSC
    PAL
    HDMI
    10-pin Terminal
     
  • Approx. Dimensions
    Width 6.3 in. (159.5mm)
    Height 6.2 in. (157mm)
    Depth 3.4 in. (87.5mm)
     
  • Approx. Weight
    43.7 oz. (1,240g)
     
  • Accessory Shoe
    Yes
     
  • Flash Sync Terminal
    Yes
     
  • Tripod Socket
    ¼ inch 20
     
  • Save/Load Camera settings
    Yes
     
  • Date, Time and Daylight Savings Time Settings
    Yes
     
  • World Time Setting
    Yes
     
  • Supported Languages
    Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), Dutch, English, Finnish, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Swedish
     
  • Supplied Accessories
    • EN-EL4a Rechargeable Li-ion Battery
    • MH-22 Quick Charger
    • UC-E4 USB Cable
    • EG-D2 Audio Video Cable
    • AN-D3 Camera Strap
    • BF-1A Body Cap
    • BS-2 Accessory Shoe Cap
    • DK-17 Eyepiece
    • BL-4 Battery Chamber Cover
    • USB Cable Clip
    • Software Suite CD-ROM

    *Supplied accessories may differ depending on country or area.

     

*ESP (Estimated Selling Price) listed only as an estimate. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time.

**Specifications and equipment are subject to change without any notice or obligation on the part of the manufacturer.

*ESP (Estimated Selling Price) listed only as an estimate. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time.

*ESP (Estimated Selling Price) listed only as an estimate. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time.

*ESP (Estimated Selling Price) listed only as an estimate. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time.

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Industry Recognition

*ESP (Estimated Selling Price) listed only as an estimate. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time.

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Manual

Resources

*ESP (Estimated Selling Price) listed only as an estimate. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time.

Award Winner

July/August 2008, Nikon D3, Camera of the Year

The editors of American PHOTO crowned the Nikon D3 the Camera of the Year, applauding its light-gathering capabilities and amazing firing rate. They were also impressed with the Live View autofocus and overflow/backup memory card slots along with many other advanced features that allow the Nikon D3 to shine over its competitors. Editors also found that the D3’s large viewfinder and prodigious responsiveness make you feel like you’re taking better photos.


Review

March 2008, D3 Review

by Shun Cheung

Photo.net’s Shun Cheung named the D3 a “top choice” in his recent review, highlighting the D3’s versatility in photographic applications both in and out of the studio. Cheung was blown away by the D3’s prowess in low-light shooting situations, praising it as simply “wonderful.” In addition, Cheung was impressed by the myriad of in-camera editing features, noting their effectiveness when making adjustments on the fly.

Review

Nikon D3 Review

by Jonathan Barkey
2007-11-12 01:01:01

American Photo's Jonathan Barkey applauded the new Nikon D3 for setting world records. Barkey praised the D3's blazing-fast shooting capabilities and said its LCD screen was one of the sharpest in its class. Moreover, Barkey gave accolades to the D3's large and unbelievably smart autofocus system that generates some of the best images in its class.

Review

Nikon D3 Review

by Michael McNamara
2008-01-07 01:01:01

Popular Photography and Imaging's Michael McNamara hailed the D3 as "The Greatest Nikon Ever," crowning it on the issue's cover and via a lengthy article naming the five main reasons for the D3's success. McNamara lauded the D3’s rock-solid build and sophisticated design, praised the FX format, and advanced 51-point autofocus system as well.

Review

February 26, 2008, Nikon D3

by J. Keenan

DigitalCameraReview.com’s J. Keenan, a Nikon shooter since 1975, took the D3 for a test drive and was thoroughly pleased. Keenan was impressed by the D3’s incredibly quick response and FX-format advantage when shooting at wide angles. The D3’s solid build also won Keenan’s heart with its ergonomic design, perfectly placed grips and weather sealing. Likening the camera to a thoroughbred racehorse, the D3 performed well past the quarter post in all areas including autofocus, battery life and, most importantly, image quality.

Review

February 2008, Nikon D3

by Laurie Excell

Photoshop User’s Laurie Excell lauded the D3 for its image-capturing excellence, commenting that Nikon has put the “wide” back in wide angle thanks to the D3’s FX-format sensor. Excell was blown away by the D3’s lightning quick response and stunning image quality, especially in low-light shooting situations and branded the D3 a Photoshop User

“Hot Pick.”

Review

February 2008, Nikon D3

by Dan Havlik

PDN’s Dan Havlik dubbed the D3 the digital SLR camera Nikon shooters have been “pining for,” chalking up the D3’s performance to the integration of the FX-format image sensor and other camera innovations like Live View, blazing burst speeds and amazing low-noise performance at high ISO’s. Additionally, Havlik enjoyed the large, bright, 3-inch LCD screen for composing and reviewing images and the benefit of recording to the D3’s dual CompactFlash card slots

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