Nikon goes to plaid with a ludicrous ISO 409600 D4s

Discussion in 'Digital Cameras & Equipment' started by Roger, Feb 25, 2014.

  1. Roger

    Roger Member Staff Member

    Yep ISO that high. Which kind of looks like 6400 from six years ago. Amazing.

    It's been a whole since we've seen a new generation not increase MP, even a little.

    It stays at 16mp.
     
  2. Tim

    Tim Administrator Staff Member

    Oh my word! ; Might be time to change teams if this keeps up. ; WOW.
     
  3. Tim

    Tim Administrator Staff Member

    Here is more on the D4s...

    [​IMG]
    CLICK FOR B&H's NIKON D4s PAGE

    Product Highlights
    • 16.2MP FX-Format CMOS Sensor
    • EXPEED 4 Image Processor
    • 3.2" 921k-Dot LCD Monitor
    • Full HD 1080p Video Recording at 60 fps
    • Multi-CAM 3500FX 51-Point AF Sensor
    • Native ISO 25600, Extended to ISO 409600
    • 11 fps Shooting for 200 Shots with AE/AF
    • 91k-Pixel RGB Sensor and Group Area AF
    • 14-Bit RAW Files and 12-Bit RAW S Format
    • 1000 Base-T Gigabit Wired LAN Support
    The Nikon D4S DSLR Camera features a full-frame, FX-format 16.2MP CMOS sensor and EXPEED 4 image processor to produce high-resolution still imagery and full HD 1080p movies with notable image detail, quality, and sensitivity. The combination of these two technologies affords exceptional image quality, marked by smooth tonal gradations and vivid, yet accurate, color reproduction as well as an expansive dynamic range. Championing working in a wide variety of lighting conditions, the D4S also features a broad native sensitivity range, from ISO 100-25600, that is further expandable to an equivalent ISO 409600 to benefit working in difficult lighting conditions. Furthermore, the processing power of the EXPEED 4 also affords a full-resolution continuous shooting rate of 11 fps for up to 200 frames with maintained auto-exposure and autofocus.

    Aiding the imaging prowess of this camera is an equally refined 51-point autofocus system, which can be configured to utilize five AF points as a single focusing point in the Group Area AF setting for heightened initial subject recognition. The 3D Color Matrix Metering III system, along with the 91,000-pixel RGB sensor, also benefits the focusing abilities of the D4S as well as provides accurate exposure metering to suit a vast array of subjects and lighting conditions.

    Complementing a fast, time-sensitive workflow, this camera also employs numerous strategies designed to benefit fast offloading and transferring of files. Support is available for a 1000 Base-T (Gigabit) wired LAN connection and file recording is possible in a 12-bit RAW SIZE S file size to help expedite post-production. When recording movies or time lapse imagery, optional external recorders can be used to record uncompressed movie files, with simultaneous recording to memory cards and live view monitoring possible.
    ; 16.2MP FX-Format CMOS Sensor and EXPEED 4 Image Processor ; The 16.2 megapixel full-frame (FX) CMOS sensor and EXPEED 4 image processor work in tandem to deliver high overall image quality with notable detail, dynamic range, color accuracy, and low-light sensitivity to a native ISO 25600, which is further expandable to an exceptional ISO 409600. Furthermore, the EXPEED 4 processor also contributes to a wealth of speed throughout the camera, including a full-resolution JPEG continuous shooting rate of 11 fps for up to 200 shots with maintained autofocus and auto-exposure metering. When working in the 14-bit RAW shooting mode, up to 104 shots can be recorded at 11 fps. ; Full HD Movie Recording ; Also benefitting from the enhanced processing power is the ability to records full HD 1080p video at frame rates up to 60 fps. Multi-area modes enables you to narrow your effective field of view during recording, too, in FX, DX, and 2.7x Crop settings to offer more versatility during shooting. ISO Auto Control is available when working in manual exposure mode as well as real-time adjustable audio settings with enhanced wind noise reduction and selectable frequency ranges such as Wide Range and Voice Range.

    Recording to an optional external recorder is possible in order to gain an uncompressed video signal via the HDMI port and, when recording externally, use of the camera's LCD monitor for live view monitoring is possible. Additionally, simultaneous recording to both memory cards and an external recording device is also possible for instant backing up and duplicating of files. 2MP still images can also be recorded simultaneously during video recording. ; 51-Point Advanced Multi-CAM 3500FX AF Sensor ; Supporting the exceptional imaging capabilities of the D4S is an apt autofocus system that employs up to 51 distinct points, with options available to use 9, 21, or all 51 points depending on the situation. 3D Tracking, as part of the intelligent Scene Recognition System, also works to benefit maintained focusing on moving subjects for greater accuracy when shooting at high continuous shooting speeds.

    For even faster initial focusing and subject recognition, five AF sensors can be used together as a single focus point with the Group Area AF setting. Furthermore, Single-point AF, Dynamic-area AF (with 9, 21, or 51 points selectable), 3D-tracking (using all 51 points), and Auto-area AF modes are also available.

    When working in live view, for either still or movie shooting, a contrast-based AF system is employed to acquire focus precisely and can function in continuous, full-time servo mode to better-suit working with moving subjects. Four distinct AF-area modes are available when using the contrast-detection focusing method: Face-priority AF, Wide-area AF, Normal-area AF, and Subject-tracking AF. ; Scene Recognition System and Exposure Metering ; The intelligent Scene Recognition System with 3D Color Matrix Metering III utilizes a 91,000-pixel RGB sensor to evaluate and analyze all aspects within a scene, including brightness, contrast, subject distance, and the scene colors, to quickly determine an accurate exposure and white balance setting to best render the scene at hand. The information gathered is also checked against onboard reference images to ensure consistency from image to image in regard to exposure, white balance, i-TTL flash settings, and subject-tracking AF performance. ; Camera Design Features ;
    • A 3.2" 921k-dot LCD monitor is available as a large means for live view monitoring, image playback, and menu navigation. Additionally, monitor color settings can be manually adjusted to match external monitors or other color balance requirements.
    • Both a CompactFlash and an XQD card slot are available to extend file saving capabilities by permitting either overflow recording or in-camera file duplicating. Additionally, optional HDMI-connected external recorders are supported for recording uncompressed video and time lapse sequences.
    • The ergonomic grip and overall form factor are shaped to benefit handling for extended periods of time and are further accentuated by anti-slip, textured joysticks and easy-to-open card slot covers. Additionally, most of the rear buttons on the rear of the camera are illuminated for greater visibility when working in dim lighting conditions.
    • The durable magnesium alloy body features extensive weather sealing to protect the camera from dust, moisture, and electromagnetic interference.
    • A highly durable shutter has been tested to 400,000 cycles and works in concert with an enhanced mirror balancer for better visibility and reduced mirror vibration when working in high-speed continuous shooting modes.
    • The included EN-EL18a rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack provides up to approximately 3,020 shots per charge (in single-frame mode, based on CIPA standards).
    ; Connectivity and Image Transferring ;
    • The built-in wired LAN function of 1000 Base-T (Gigabit) standard enables high-speed, seamless transferring of still imagery and movie files for expediting an entire post-production workflow.
    • For wireless file transferring, the D4S is compatible with the optional WT-5A and WT-4A Wireless Transmitters.
    ; Other Camera Features ;
    • An enhanced interval timer permits recording up to 9,999 frames with intervals as long as one week. Recording can be done directly to memory cards, to an optional external recorder, or to both media types simultaneously. Furthermore, exposure smoothing and flicker reduction benefit time lapse playback for more seamless, fluidly-rendered movies.
    • RAW (NEF) files can be recorded as lossless compressed or compressed at either 12 or 14-bit depth. Additionally, files can be saved in the RAW SIZE S format to help expedite one's workflow while still maintaining the image quality-related assets of the RAW format.
    • When working in live view, FX, DX and 2.7x image area modes are available.
    • When shooting with the viewfinder, a custom setting permits toggling Face Detection on or off depending on the exposure metering bias desired.
    • Auto ISO sensitivity control allows you to select a minimum shutter speed at which camera shake can be controlled from and then will automatically set the ISO value in order to best render the scene. A maximum sensitivity level can also be set in order to maintain overall noise levels.
    • Spot White Balance control for live view shooting makes setting the white balance as easy as pointing to the area in the frame that should be white. Additionally, 1-6 preset white balance settings can be stored for easier switching between different light sources.
    • Picture Control modes allow you to set predefined looks to imagery in-camera and include Landscape, Monochrome, Neutral, Portrait, Standard, Vivid, and user-customizable settings.
    • Playback functions: Auto Image Rotation, Full-Frame and Thumbnail (4, 9, or 72 images or calendar), GPS data display, Highlights, Histogram Display, Image Comment , IPTC information embedding and display, Movie Playback, Movie Slideshow, Photo Information, Playback with Zoom, Slideshow, and Voice Memo.
    • In-camera image editing: Color Balance, D-Lighting, Distortion Control, Edit Movie, Filter Effects, Image Overlay, Monochrome, NEF (RAW) Processing, Perspective Control, Red-Eye Correction, Re-size, Side-by-Side Comparison, Straighten, and Trim.
    • Language support: Arabic, Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), Czech, Danish, Dutch, English, Finnish, French, German, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese (Portugal and Brazil), Romanian, Russian, Spanish, Swedish, Thai, Turkish, and Ukrainian.
    ;
     
  4. Tim

    Tim Administrator Staff Member

    From B&H Insights:
    Unveiled: The Nikon D4S DSLR is the New Standard-Bearer ;
    By John R. Harris
    Published: Tuesday, February 25, 2014 - 3:01am ;

    Professional Nikon shooters have been waiting with bated breath for the update to the D4, and that day has finally arrived. The Nikon D4S DSLR Camera has been announced as the new flagship Nikon DSLR and it brings with it a few major upgrades and numerous minor improvements to justify the two-year wait.

    For starters the image processing engine has been upgraded to the EXPEED 4, and with that comes a cascade of minor improvements that affect video capture, live view and playback capabilities, low-light sensitivity, shooting duration and of course, performance speeds. The sensor on the D4S is an improved version of the same 16.2MP FX-format CMOS sensor in the D4. Sharp details, vibrant colors, subtle tones and smooth gradations are the result. The ISO sensitivity range now runs from 100 to 25,600 and can be expanded from 50 to 409,600, improving capability in low light as well as reducing noise within the native range.
    [​IMG]

    Overall speed performance is increased 30% according to Nikon, including a bump from 10 fps continuous shooting on the D4 to 11fps on the D4S. When using the compatible XQD high speed memory card, the number of full resolution JPEG continuous shots increases to 200 compared to 170 from the D4; and when shooting 14-bit compressed RAW format, the maximum is 104 compared to 76 from the D4. Speaking of RAW, the D4S still supports 12-bit and 14-bit RAW files but now provides a RAW SIZE S setting for smaller 12-bit uncompressed NEF files to speed up your workflow and still retain post-production control. Five image area modes are selectable when shooting stills in Live View: FX, DX, 1.5x, 5:4 and 1.2x.
    READ THE REST OF THE ARTICLE HERE
     
    Last edited by a moderator: Apr 11, 2014
  5. Roger

    Roger Member Staff Member

    They didn't include 4K video. Tsk tsk tsk.
     
  6. jbwolffiv

    jbwolffiv Member

    Does anyone have $6500 I can borrow (with no plans of returning)?
     
  7. ddindy

    ddindy Member Staff Member

    As much as I'd love to have one, what I really hope this means is Nikon will put the guts of the D4S in a D700 body.
     
  8. Oh Fudge!!

    [​IMG]

    As someone who JUST bought the D4 (almost two years ago) I am Deeply, (DEEPLY!) disturbed that they would upgrade this camera SO substantially (and in SUCH a useful manner ; ;) ; ;) )

    Why the bump up from 10 fps continuous shooting on the D4 to 11fps on the D4S (Now with a bigger buffer!) is enough to pitch my old and moldy D4 in the trash and blow my child's college fund on the new D4S. The next time* I am on the side lines covering an NFL game I shall be "In like Flynn" as I spray and pray.

    *=not ever gonna happen.

    Of course the Video upgrades will come in useful when I finally learn how to shoot commercials or, God Forbid, You tube videos. That 60 fps in full HD will capture my video series entitled "How to yell at family members that are less than motivated" rather nicely.

    I get goosebumps when I think of all the shots I'm going to miss if I decide to depend on the five AF sensors that can be used together as a single focus point with the Group Area AF setting. Again this is another setting only a sports (Or BIRD photographer would love)

    Then there is the durable magnesium alloy body that features extensive weather sealing to protect the camera from dust, moisture, and electromagnetic interference. Hopefully they made the camera to be more "BOUNCY" when it is dropped like what ever Tim was shooting with at Pixelmania 2013. (I'm still having auditory flash backs and hearing that sound!! < BANG, bang, clatter, clatter. clatter....)

    I'm going to be quietly weeping in my pillow at the thought of all I am missing.... :'(

    NOT!!!

    (Sorry for the gloating but the rest of you slackers need to upgrade ; :p (Kidding, there is no camera (lack of) envy here...)

    ~Joanie
     
  9. Here here!!! ; OOOOH...I'm saving already for that one! ; :D

    And I absolutely love the Spaceballs reference in the heading...so funny. ; ;D
     
  10. Y'all do know that that usable ISO limit on the D4 is 12,800 right??? If you start to go higher, like on a dark ride, your pictures tend to look like checkered table cloths from the grain, even with post processing corrections. Unless they are really tiny pictures.

    So all this sensor does is maybe make the workable ISO go up to 25,600...

    Ok, ok, I hear all the crying in the peanut gallery. I'll stop now.....

    Signed, the 'Mean Girl' on the site
     
  11. ELinder

    ELinder Member

    Actually, the upgrade is exactly what I was hoping for and need. The grouping AF points will definitely help in low light/low contrast situations where things are moving fast and if the noise and DR at ISO 12,800 is now like it was at say 1/2 to 1stop lower on the D4 it'll let me expand the sizes of prints I can offer and digital downloads.

    Erich
     
  12. Scottwdw

    Scottwdw Member

    And, yet, with all the technology, improvements and a hefty price to match, Nikon still could not fit in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. ; ::)
     
  13. Scottwdw

    Scottwdw Member

    Nikon learned their lesson with the D3/D700. ; When the D3s came out notice there was no D700s ever made. ; I mentioned this on a Nikon board about putting the D4 sensor into a prosumer body like a D710 or something and was told, rather firmly, if I wanted a PRO camera then buy the D4 at twice what a D710 would be priced at. ; So...Nikon is being loud and clear that they will never again do a D700-like camera. ; It also looks like a D400 will never be made, too.

    Nikon shooters not willing to "invest" in PRO bodies will have to put up with D610's and D7100's which are handicapped to not erode sales of the D4-class. I believe Nikon is making a mistake. ; There are lots of shooters who are not professionals who would be willing to invest in a D700 class at half the cost of the D4/s to get near PRO like capabilities.
     
  14. I really believe this to be true. It's the stratification of offerings to support bloated pricing.

    ~Joanie
     
  15. Scottwdw

    Scottwdw Member

    Bingo!
     
  16. ELinder

    ELinder Member

    I suspect the D800 refresh/replacement will be what you're looking for. It's now the oldest FX camera, and I think they'll soon drop in the Exspeed 4 processor like they just did with the D4s. That'll let them keep the 36mp but make everything else faster. Not as fast as the D4, yes on purpose, but fast enough for most needs.

    Erich
     
  17. HW

    HW Member

  18. ELinder

    ELinder Member

    Battery is all charged up and it's appropriately dark and gray outside to test the ISO differences. Unfortunately it's also snowing again. Doh! I'm shooting a 4 day horse show next weekend where I'll put the D4s thru it's paces. From what I'm seeing in other people's early tests, I can't wait to get to the Haunted Mansion with a 35/1.4. I may finally get a keeper of the watchman and his dog. :)

    Erich
     
  19. ELinder

    ELinder Member

    After putting almost 4,000 shots thru the D4S, I like it. As awesome as the D4 is, the D4S is just awesomer. All the moaning and bitching online about how this is a non-upgrade is obviously from people who've never had their hands on one. Noise is a definite full stop better. I'm shooting at ISO12,800 and using less that half the noise reduction I was, and what noise there is has a different feel to it and is less obnoxious to me. This is both JPG and RAW, so it's not just different processing. Autofocus is definitely improved quite a bit in crappy conditions, meaning low light with low contrast. My keeper rate is definitely higher. The new group AF function is cool. As far as I can tell, it's behaving the same as single point, but with one humongous point. I'm also noticing that I'm getting about 1/3rd stop more light out of the sensor, that is, I've been able to bump up the shutter speed or f-stop with the same exposure results as I was with the D4 under similar conditions.

    For a new buyer, I'd say don't sweat the $500 price increase and just buy it. If you're upgrading from a D4, I'd say do it only if you're shooting on the ragged edge already. I like the new camera enough my D4 is about to go up for sale.

    Erich
     
  20. Scottwdw

    Scottwdw Member

    Thanks for the user report, Erich! ; Hope you can recoup your investment costs quickly. ; Where were these cameras when my daughter was riding all those years, eh? ; :)
     

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