The best thing out there...so far
Written: Mar 27 '01 (Updated Apr 12 '01)
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Pros: It does everything you would need from a professional grade film body.
Cons: Micro drives and batteries need work. Requires Nikon DX model flash for consistency.
The Bottom Line: You get what you pay for for this price. It's the best professional digital camera out there.
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| halamtx's Full Review: Nikon D1X SET Digital Camera |
I am a professional newspaper and magazine journalist. I used the D1 extensively while working on staff at the San Antonio Express News. The camera is rugged and built much like the F5 in usability. The image quality and size availible is impressive. Nikon has also come out with 2 newer versions of the D1, the D1X has better image quality and the D1H which has a faster continuous shooting (5 frames per second). The preview screen is a real luxury....once you get used to being able to proof your work instantly you won't want to go back. It's a little brighter than the actual image...but pretty true in color.
However, the micro drives are very fragile and expensive. They are the only non-rugged aspect of the camera probably wouldn't be a concern if they are not put through heavy journalism use. Also the recharageable batteries have much shorter life spans between recharges than other cameras. I find that if I don't recharge the battery after about 12 hours of shooting...I'm pretty much out of luck. The battery life is affected by how often you use the preview screen versus just shooting.
Also you really need to get the SB-26DX flash too if you're getting this camera. It will work with normal flashes but the exposure will be pretty erratic. The perfect flash exposure on the D1 with the sb-26DX is to put it on TTL mode, and dial the flash power down 3 full stops. I know thatsound wacky...but give it a try if you have exposure difficulty.
If this camera is still too expensive and you need a professional grade digital camera, you should consider the Fuji Finepix S1. It is newer than the D1. It is also high quality image production, accepts all Nikon f mount lenses but is not as fast in continuous shooting. It retails for about $2800.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 5000
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Epinions.com ID: halamtx
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Location: Austin, TX
Reviews written: 41
Trusted by: 0 members
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