Melville, NY—The Nikon D850 is a powerful, full-frame DSLR camera built to provide professional photographers and multimedia creators with a combination of high resolution and high speed.
The 45.7 megapixel D850 is Nikon’s first DSLR with an FX-format, backside-illuminated (BSI) CMOS sensor. In addition to a still capture rate of 7 frames per second (fps) at full resolution, with full AF/AE, the D850 records full-frame, 4K UHD video at 24/30 fps. And using the optional battery grip and EN-EL18a/b battery, the camera is said to achieve full-res, continuous bursts of 9 fps.
It buffers approximately 51 frames of 14-bit lossless RAW capture/170 frames of 12-bit lossless. Furthermore, shooters can choose from three sizes of RAW files: large (45.4MP); medium (25.6MP); and small (11.4MP). Additionally, the D850 lets users batch process RAW files in camera, saving time in postproduction.
“The Nikon D850 is much more than a camera; rather it’s a statement that Nikon is continuing to listen to customer needs, to innovate for the next 100 years and bring to market a full-frame DSLR that exceeds the expectations of the professionals that rely on this caliber of camera to make a living,” said Kosuke Kawaura, director of Marketing and Planning, Nikon Inc.
The camera is also said to deliver “intense clarity and accurate skin tones for portraits, with the added benefit of low-light ability for weddings and events. It is versatile enough to be used for landscapes and fine art where broad dynamic range is critical, for sports that require a high frame rate and decisive AF, or for video creators who want 4K UHD flexibility.”
Nikon D850 Specs & Features
To achieve a combination of high resolution, dynamic range, ISO and processing power, its CMOS sensor—sans an optical low-pass filter—works with Nikon’s most powerful image processor, the Expeed 5. The pair was engineered to approach medium-format-level resolution. And the incorporation of a BSI CMOS sensor, which captures light more efficiently, results in a wider dynamic range and low-noise image capture.
The D850 has an ISO range of 64–25,600, which is expandable down to ISO 32 and up to 102,400. In addition, it uses the flagship Nikon D5’s 153-point, Multi-Cam 20K autofocus system. The AF system features 99 cross-type sensors, 15 of which are sensitive to f/8.
Built for the Pros
The Nikon D850 also hosts a range of new features to enhance workflow. They include a tilting, 3.2-inch, 2.36M-dot, LCD monitor with Nikon’s most extensive touch functionality ever. Complementing the LCD is Nikon’s widest and brightest optical viewfinder. Its 0.75x viewfinder magnification is the highest ever in a Nikon DSLR.
Moreover, the DSLR offers the ability to operate with an electronic shutter in live view. When in this mode, users can shoot in complete silence. This is ideal for weddings and also events where the shutter sound is discouraged. The electronic shutter operates at up to 6 fps (AF/AE locked) at full resolution. Furthermore, an additional mode enables 8.6MP capture in DX image area mode at up to 30 fps.
In addition, for macro, product and landscape photographers, the camera’s focus shift photography feature lets users automatically shoot up to 300 shots at adjustable focus step intervals to infinity. These can then be assembled into a focus-stacked image using third-party software.
Like the D5 and D500, this DSLR also supports radio-controlled advanced wireless lighting with the optional SB-5000 Speedlight and WR-A10 and WR-R10 accessories.
Pro Video Features
Multimedia creators can also capture Full HD 1080p video at up to 120 fps (4x or 5x) for slow-motion video. Users can additionally create 4K UHD time-lapse videos in-camera. Or they can use the built-in intervalometer to capture images for an ultrahigh resolution 8K time lapse that can be assembled in postproduction. And when shooting Full HD or in live view for stills, focus peaking can be enabled. This will highlight in-focus subjects in the frame to help ensure sharpness.
Additional video features include: a highlight display mode that uses zebra patterns to spot overblown highlights; zebra patterns come in two selectable varieties; using HDMI, users can record uncompressed, broadcast-quality 4:2:2 8-bit 4K UHD footage to an external digital recorder while also recording to a card; an onboard stereo microphone; inputs for headphones and microphone; and also a new audio attenuator to regulate sound levels.
Additional D850 Features
The D850 specs state is can capture up to 1,840 shots at full resolution or approximately 70 minutes of video on a single battery charge. Those who opt for the optional battery grip can expect up to 5140 shots (CIPA standard).
Other features include: dual memory card slots—an SD slot and a XQD for high-speed capture and transfer; buttons that light up at the turn of a dial to increase visibility at night or in low light; five shooting formats, including FX, 1.2x, DX, 5:4 or 1:1 square with viewfinder shading for composition; and an always-on Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) connection as well as Wi-Fi for transfer and remote capture.
Furthermore, with the optional ES-2 film digitizing adapter and compatible Micro-Nikkor lens, the D850 enables superhigh-res digitizing of 35mm slides or negatives, converting them in-camera to positives.
The weather-sealed, magnesium alloy D850 will have a suggested retail price (SRP) of $3,299.95. It will be available in September 2017. The MB-D18 multi power battery pack will have an SRP of $399.95. The ES-2 film digitalizing adapter will have an SRP of $149.95.
D850 Livestream Event
For those who want to learn more about the Nikon D850, Nikon will conduct a live stream discussion on August 29 at 6:00 p.m. EDT. Visit nikonusa.com/live to tune in.
