The Nikon D700: A Professional’s Dream Camera, But at What Cost?

The Nikon D700 is a digital single-lens reflex camera (DSLR) that has been a favorite among professional photographers for years. Its exceptional image quality, impressive low-light performance, and durable construction make it an ideal choice for capturing stunning images in various conditions. However, the price of the Nikon D700 can be a significant barrier for many enthusiasts and hobbyists. In this article, we will delve into the world of the Nikon D700, exploring its features, benefits, and, of course, its price.

A Brief Overview of the Nikon D700

The Nikon D700 is a 12.1-megapixel full-frame DSLR camera that was first introduced in 2008. It was designed to provide professional photographers with a reliable and versatile tool for capturing high-quality images in various genres, including portrait, landscape, sports, and wildlife photography. The camera features a 36 x 23.9 mm CMOS sensor, which provides exceptional image quality and low noise levels.

One of the standout features of the Nikon D700 is its impressive low-light performance. The camera’s ISO range extends from 200 to 6400, making it capable of capturing stunning images in challenging lighting conditions. Additionally, the camera’s built-in autofocus system, which features 51 AF points, provides fast and accurate focusing in a wide range of scenarios.

The Price of the Nikon D700: New and Used Options

The price of the Nikon D700 can vary depending on several factors, including the region, retailer, and condition of the camera. Here are some general price ranges to expect:

New Nikon D700

  • Body only: around $2,500 – $3,000 USD
  • Kit with AF-S NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8G ED lens: around $3,500 – $4,500 USD
  • Kit with AF-S VR NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8G IF-ED lens: around $4,500 – $5,500 USD

Used Nikon D700

  • Body only: around $1,200 – $1,800 USD
  • Kit with AF-S NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8G ED lens: around $2,000 – $2,800 USD
  • Kit with AF-S VR NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8G IF-ED lens: around $2,800 – $3,800 USD

It is essential to note that prices may vary depending on the condition, age, and region of the camera. Additionally, prices may fluctuate over time due to changes in demand and supply.

Is the Nikon D700 Worth the Price?

The Nikon D700 is a professional-grade camera that offers exceptional image quality, impressive low-light performance, and durable construction. While the price may seem steep for some, the camera’s features and benefits make it an excellent value for professionals and serious enthusiasts.

Here are some reasons why the Nikon D700 is worth the price:

  • Exceptional Image Quality: The Nikon D700’s 12.1-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor provides stunning image quality, with excellent detail and color accuracy.
  • Impressive Low-Light Performance: The camera’s ISO range extends from 200 to 6400, making it capable of capturing stunning images in challenging lighting conditions.
  • Durable Construction: The Nikon D700’s magnesium alloy body is built to withstand the rigors of professional use, providing a high level of durability and reliability.
  • Fast and Accurate Autofocus: The camera’s built-in autofocus system features 51 AF points, providing fast and accurate focusing in a wide range of scenarios.

Alternatives to the Nikon D700

If the price of the Nikon D700 is out of your budget, there are several alternative cameras that offer similar features and benefits at a lower cost. Here are a few options to consider:

  • Nikon D600: The Nikon D600 is a 24.2-megapixel full-frame DSLR camera that offers similar features to the D700 at a lower price point.
  • Canon EOS 5D Mark III: The Canon EOS 5D Mark III is a 22.3-megapixel full-frame DSLR camera that offers impressive image quality, fast autofocus, and durable construction.

Conclusion

The Nikon D700 is a professional-grade camera that offers exceptional image quality, impressive low-light performance, and durable construction. While the price may seem steep for some, the camera’s features and benefits make it an excellent value for professionals and serious enthusiasts. If you are in the market for a high-quality DSLR camera, the Nikon D700 is definitely worth considering.

Model Price (New) Price (Used)
Nikon D700 Body $2,500 – $3,000 USD $1,200 – $1,800 USD
Nikon D700 Kit with 24-70mm Lens $3,500 – $4,500 USD $2,000 – $2,800 USD
Nikon D700 Kit with 70-200mm Lens $4,500 – $5,500 USD $2,800 – $3,800 USD

Note: Prices may vary depending on the region, retailer, and condition of the camera.

What is the Nikon D700 and who is it designed for?

The Nikon D700 is a professional-grade digital single-lens reflex camera (DSLR) designed for serious photographers who demand high-quality images and advanced features. It’s built to meet the needs of professional photographers, particularly those who specialize in weddings, portrait, landscape, and sports photography.

The D700 is a flagship model that offers exceptional image quality, fast performance, and intuitive controls. It’s designed to withstand the rigors of heavy use and harsh environments, making it an ideal choice for professionals who rely on their cameras to deliver outstanding results in any situation.

What are the key features of the Nikon D700?

The Nikon D700 boasts a 12.1-megapixel full-frame sensor, which provides exceptional image quality and low-light performance. It also features a fast and accurate 51-point autofocus system, advanced Nikon EXPEED image processing, and a wide ISO range of 100-6400. The camera also has a rugged magnesium alloy body, weather-sealing, and a large 3-inch LCD screen.

Other notable features include dual CF card slots, Live View mode, and advanced metering and exposure control. The D700 also supports Nikon’s range of Nikkor lenses, including the latest VR II and AF-S lenses. With its impressive feature set, the D700 is well-equipped to handle the demands of professional photography.

How does the Nikon D700 compare to other professional cameras?

The Nikon D700 competes directly with other high-end DSLRs from Canon, Sony, and Pentax. While each camera has its strengths and weaknesses, the D700 stands out for its exceptional image quality, fast autofocus, and durable construction. It’s also one of the few cameras that offers a full-frame sensor, which provides a distinct advantage in terms of image quality and low-light performance.

When compared to other Nikon models, the D700 sits at the top of the range, offering more advanced features and better performance than the D300 and D90 models. However, it’s worth noting that the D700 is also one of the most expensive cameras in Nikon’s lineup, which may be a barrier for some photographers.

Is the Nikon D700 worth the high price tag?

The Nikon D700 is undoubtedly an expensive camera, with a price tag that may be out of reach for many photographers. However, for professionals who rely on their cameras to deliver exceptional results, the D700 is an investment worth considering. Its exceptional image quality, fast performance, and advanced features make it a valuable tool that can help photographers stay competitive in their field.

While the cost may seem prohibitive, the D700 is a camera that’s built to last, with a durable construction and advanced features that will continue to deliver outstanding results for years to come. For professionals who can justify the expense, the D700 is an excellent choice that’s likely to pay for itself over time.

What kind of lenses are compatible with the Nikon D700?

The Nikon D700 is compatible with a wide range of Nikkor lenses, including AF-S, AF-I, and older AF lenses. The camera also supports Nikon’s latest VR II and AF-S lenses, which offer advanced features such as image stabilization and silent focusing.

In addition to Nikon’s own lenses, the D700 is also compatible with a range of third-party lenses from manufacturers such as Sigma, Tamron, and Tokina. However, it’s worth noting that not all lenses are compatible with the D700’s advanced features, so it’s essential to check compatibility before making a purchase.

What kind of accessories are available for the Nikon D700?

The Nikon D700 has a wide range of accessories available, including camera bags, tripods, flashes, and remote controls. Nikon also offers a range of specialized accessories, such as battery grips, GPS units, and Wi-Fi adapters, which can enhance the camera’s performance and functionality.

Third-party manufacturers also offer a range of accessories, including lenses, filters, and camera cases. Additionally, there are many online resources and communities available, which provide tutorials, guides, and inspiration for photographers using the D700.

Is the Nikon D700 suitable for beginners or hobbyists?

While the Nikon D700 is an exceptional camera, it’s not necessarily the best choice for beginners or hobbyists. The camera’s advanced features and steep learning curve may be overwhelming for those who are new to photography or looking for a more straightforward shooting experience.

Additionally, the D700’s high price tag may be prohibitively expensive for those who are just starting out. For beginners, it may be worth considering more entry-level models, such as the D300 or D90, which offer a more affordable and user-friendly introduction to digital photography.

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