Nikon D7100 SLR Camera Review: Finishing the Megapixel Race? New height. Review of SLR camera Nikon D7100 New top crop nikon d7100

01.03.2022

For a long time I sat down and collected my thoughts to write this review about the Nikon D7100 DSLR, but it still didn’t work out. And now, probably, it will not work out very well. And all because I will not write about the advantages of the camera, I will write about its shortcomings. And, in my opinion, the D7100 has enough of them.

The question of buying the next SLR field Nikon D3000 I got up about a year ago, I wanted to buy something more professional. There was not enough money for a full-frame, and even with my current needs, I can do a good job with a cropped matrix.

Specifications Nikon D7100

SLR camera, CMOS sensor, 24.1 MP (1.5 crop (23.5 x 15.6 mm), 3.2 TFT screen ( with autofocus and Live View). Case material: plastic, metal. Protected from moisture and dust. Length 106.5 mm, width 135.5 mm, thickness 135.5 mm. Weight 765 g (with battery and memory card). 100-25 600. Nikon F mount. Photo size 6000 x 4000. 6 fps, JPEG (although the buffer is only 3 frames RAW). Video 1920 x 1080 30 fps (manufacturer claims 60 fps). Exposure 5EV; +5EV in 1/3 or 1/2 EV increments. Shutter speed 1/8000 s - 30 s. Memory SD, SDHC, SDXC. Battery Li-ion (EN-EL15) 1900 mAh. HDMI mini, Microphone and headphone outputs.

Experience using the Nikon D7100 camera

Read all the characteristics and think that this is not a camera, but a fairy tale. really made a masterpiece ... In fact, everything is not so. Having sold my Nikon D3000 for cheap, I began to read forums, reviews, watch videos on YouTube. The choice fell on D7100. Everywhere he is praised, everywhere he is the best in his class.

Okay, I’ll buy it, it wasn’t ...

$1200 for the carcass, + $240 for the AF-S NIKKOR 18-105mm f3.5-5.6G ED lens. This is taking into account the fact that I already had several lenses ( , .

The build quality does not raise questions, as well as ergonomics. The SLR is almost the same size as the Nikon D600, and of course, larger than the D3000.

Menus, settings - almost everything is intuitive, although sometimes you can get confused. The secondary display is a very handy feature. For commercial photo shoots, I only use it. 51 focus points. It's really cool. Use the joystick to select the place in the frame where the focus should be. At 11 points, the photo will have to be cropped.

Two memory cards, with the ability to record the same picture on both media. There is a built-in stereo microphone.

So, a lot has already been said and written about the advantages of the D7100, but I got the opinion that people just took it for a day, walked around, took a couple of shots, read the characteristics and that’s it. Here's a finished review for you. In many places, attention was paid to the absence of a low-pass filter, i.e. The image must be very sharp. There is one caveat - the use of professional lenses.

It's hard for me to imagine that someone would buy a lens for $1500 for a DX camera, given that the use of DX lenses at full frame is not recommended (we get a tough one). Those. we get DX for DX. All. If you still install a telephoto camera like Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f / 2.8G ED VR II, costing more than $ 2000, then why buy the D7100, it is better to buy at least D600, a full-length SLR.

More than once mentioned about the new processor, which is responsible for image processing.

Minuses

Noisy Matrix. When the photo is enlarged by 100%, we see noise that appears at ISO greater than 400. It is very strange, a DSLR costing more than $ 1k should have a working ISO of at least 1000. Most likely, the noise appears due to the matrix, which hardly differs from DX cameras of the younger generation of this series. It was simply stupidly programmatically increased. Hence the noise. If you are photographing for , then this will be a real joint. The image will need to be reduced to 5-7 megapixels in order to pass the inspection of the inspectors.

Buffer. When shooting, the declared speed is 6 fps. In reality, sometimes it turns out to take up to 6 frames, but not in one second ... Further, when the buffer is filled, which is only 6 frames, the camera freezes for 7 seconds, which is really very sad, especially when shooting reportage. And I'm not talking about this if you shoot nature. The working series consists of 2-3 frames, then it turns out to work normally for a couple of scenes (cards grade 10).

Someone will say that these are minor disadvantages and you can get used to them, but I will say that these are really the things that you should pay attention to. I will not upload photos with examples, I just wrote about mine experience using Nikon D7100.

For future photographers, I recommend taking a cheaper DX camera (Body) from this series, a lens, and you will be happy for the first time. In general, take a Canon and a lens, it costs an order of magnitude cheaper. And Sigma lenses can then be transferred to a full frame without any problems.

A little later I will post how Nikon D7100 shoots a video.

For the opportunity to review this camera Nikon D7100body thanks to the Paparazzi chain of stores, where you can purchase this camera and other photo equipment - http://www.fotomagazinpaparazzi.ua

Nikon D7100 is a very interesting camera, it's a breath of fresh air among cameras. A brand new one with a standard lens came to my review Nikon D7100. This review provides information only on the camera itself. Nikon D7100body.

Matrix Nikon D7100

Nikon D7100 uses a 24.7MP sensor, only 24MP is effective, which allows you to take pictures of 6000 * 4000 pixels. Sometimes they indicate the size at 24.1MP, but these different numbers 24.7, 24.0, 24.1 do not matter, anyway, the picture is created using 24.000.000 pixels, so I will speak strictly about 24MP. Most likely, the Nikon D7100 uses the same matrix as the . A complete list of all used sensors (matrices) on the Nikon CZK can be viewed. True, due to the different body kit of the matrix and different processing of the output signal, in the end we can get a different image. Now you won’t surprise anyone, and they aren’t always so useful, I advise you to look into my section.

The main feature is not 24MP matrices, but no optical low pass filter in front of the matrix (OLPF - optical low-pass filter, LPF - low-pass filter). Speaking very roughly, the absence of an OLPF filter will help to squeeze the maximum sharpness out of the lens and get the maximum details in the photo. I wonder why the camera was not called Nikon 'D7100E' like Nikon D800E.

The camera can use ISO 100-6400 and expand its value to ISO 25.600 (ISO HI2). There is no great benefit from ISO Hi1, HI2, it is also strange that the Nikon D7100 does not use ISO 50 (), as they do, D800E, D4s, an additional ISO stop would not be superfluous. Nikon D7100 works very well with and can independently select the desired shutter speed for each lens. In auto mode, the Auto ISO function can be set to 5 stops for fine adjustment, from shorter auto to longer auto. Also, you can set the range of auto ISO, for example from ISO 800 to HI1.

Another distinguishing feature of the Nikon D7100 is spot in Live View mode. The function is very useful and you need to get used to it. In Live View mode, it is enough to select the PRE mode, hold down the WB button and wait for the yellow rectangle to appear, moving the rectangle, you need to set it to the point at which the measurement will be performed. To measure in this selected area, you need to press the shutter button, while the camera will not take a picture, but will only measure.

This is what two cameras look like - Nikon D7100, with similar matrices

Nikon D7100 Focusing System

Nikon D7100 uses an updated focus module Advanced Multicam 3500DX with 51 focus points, 15 of which are cruciform. Rumor has it that Nikon D7100 is a small Nikon D4. Don't believe it. Despite the fact that Nikon D4 and Nikon D7100 use 51 focus points, they have different focus modules. Nikon D7100 uses Advanced Multicam 3500DX, while Nikon D4 has Advanced Multicam 3500FX. The difference is that the Nikon D4 can focus with f/8.0 lenses with 11 points, while the Nikon D7100 can only focus with one point. I have written in more detail about focus modules. But still, the Nikon D7100 focus module 'on paper' looks better than the , , D3x, as it can work with dark F / 5.6-F / 8.0 lenses using one central focus point. To put it bluntly, the D7100 should focus better in poor lighting conditions. In fact, I did not notice much difference.

It's very nice that the Nikon D7100 good viewfinder coverage with focus points, same as , . And most importantly, when working in 1.3x mode, the focus point coverage becomes simply wonderful. It cannot even boast such high-quality focus area coverage in its High Speed Crop mode. In fact, the quality of tracking moving objects in focus, the possibility of framing, etc. depend on the area covered by focus points.

Nikon D7100 works very well in dynamic focus area selection mode. In this case, 9, 21 or 51 focus points can be used. I advise you to play around with these modes. Another important way autofocus works is the 3D-tracking function, which is very useful for shooting subjects moving in the frame. 3D tracking works in tandem with a metering system that can recognize the type of scene being shot and improve the performance of the auto focus system.

The Nikon D7100 has fine-tuning focus. You can also set the focus mode priority for, AF-S, you can find more details about focusing on Nikon cameras. Of course, the Nikon D7100 has a built-in focus motor that allows you to use a bunch of lenses.

1.3x crop mode

The Nikon D7100 came up with one tricky mode of operation. You can shoot using the entire area of the sensor in the normal DX mode (24 x 16 mm), or you can select the crop mode 1.3 x (18 x 12 mm). In the 1.3x mode, the EGF of lenses equals the DF multiplied by 2. For example, if you install fifty dollars on the Nikon D7100, then the EGF will become equal to 100 mm. This is logical, because 1.5 x 1.3 \u003d 1.95 (approximately 2). This mode can save some money for those who like to shoot from afar. In 1.3 mode, you can take pictures 4800 by 3200 pixels (15.3MP), which is quite enough even for serious post-processing. Personally, I liked the mode because of the increase in the coverage area with focus points and the increase in shooting speed up to 7 fps. By the way, this mode also works when shooting video.

In 1.3x mode inactive area does not darken in the viewfinder, for example, in the camera in the high speed crop mode, the inactive area is darkened, which increases the usability of such a cropped mode. To start the 1.3x cropping mode, just press the INFO button and select DX there<->1.3x.

Buffer

The camera buffer is small. With one memory card, if you turn off all additional functions that improve the quality of images, such as

Active
Auth. distortion control
Under. noise for lengths. exposure
Under. noise for high ISO
Auto ISO

Then in JPEG mode it is placed in the buffer

9 shots, JPEG L optimal quality
12 shots, JPEG L size priority
12 shots, JPEG L optimal quality in 1.3X mode
15 shots, JPEG L size priority in 1.3X mode
about 4-5 shots JPEG L optimal quality with all additional functions turned on to the maximum at ISO HI2

6 shots, 14-bit, lossless compression
7 shots, 14-bit, normal compression
7 shots, 12-bit, lossless compression
8 shots, 12-bit, normal compression
7 shots, 14-bit, lossless compression, 1.3x mode
8 shots, 14-bit, normal compression, 1.3x mode
8 shots, 12-bit, lossless compression, 1.3x mode
10 shots, 12-bit, normal compression, 1.3x mode
5 shots, 14-bit, lossless compression, DX RAW + JPEG L quality priority
near 3-4 shots, 14-bit, lossless compression with all additional functions turned on to the maximum at ISO HI2

It turns out that the maximum buffer can hold in RAW format only 10 shots, and at the best shooting quality '14-bit, lossless compression' - the buffer accommodates total 6 shots. Due to the fact that the pictures are very heavy, the camera after 6 pictures in RAW (NEF) format will not take the next frame until at least one picture is written from the buffer to the memory card. With my ADATA SDHC 32GB class 10 card, the camera freezes for a long time during shooting. I checked, if you use two memory cards, then this does not save the situation with stopping the camera during burst shooting. In order to maximize continuous shooting, you should use the fastest memory cards, or shoot in JPEG.

RAW files with 14-bit color depth, lossless compression in DX mode weigh up to 40MB. Unlike professional cameras such as Nikon D7100 cannot use uncompressed RAW format. For huge, heavy files on camera, you can find two nests for type cards SD, SDHC, SDXC UHS-I. You can set up work with cards for:

Overflow. When the first card is filled, the entry is made on the second.
Reservation - the same picture is recorded on both cards. Very useful for capturing very important events, where you need to ensure that the data is not lost in any way.
Write RAW to one card and JPEG files to another. Just a handy feature.

It's strange to me that Nikon can't really solve the speed problem with 14-bit color depth, this problem is still very acute in models and, forcing them to run at a snail's speed of 2.5 frames per second. And then she migrated to, and.

Nikon D7100 with 18-105 VR side view. Plugs for different connectors on the camera.

Shooting, exposure metering system, turn-on speed

You can shoot at shutter speeds from 30 seconds to 1/8000 s, it's good that the Nikon D7100 does not have a truncated 1/4000 s, which is set to . The camera shutter must work at least 150,000 cycles- Pretty good for an amateur camera. Also, the Nikon D7100 uses independent mirror and aperture control, this allows for very small shutter lag. Lag is only 0.052s. Unlike many cameras, the Nikon D7100 doesn't have to lower the mirror to get a Live View shot - it just releases the shutter. In other cameras, for example, it is responsible for controlling the mirror and aperture, which works in the standard cycle and in Live View the mirror must always be lowered, only after which the shooting can be performed.

That's not all, the Nikon D7100 uses a new one in the optical viewfinder. Now the bottom info line glows white instead of green, the new organic EL technology has improved the perception of information in bright shooting conditions and reduced the 'brakes' of such a display in the cold.

The body of the camera is half finished magnesium alloy. The case has special rubber seals. The most important thing is Nikon D7100 has a weatherproof and dustproof housing, it is officially stated that the security of the camera is no worse than, . The camera is pleasant to the touch, well assembled. The front and rear control dials are rubberized. The camera has a comfortable grip. In serious conditions, I did not test the camera :), but for complete dust and moisture protection, appropriate lenses are needed. I don’t know where to look for a list of dust-proof or waterproof Nikon lenses.

Housing Nikon D7100. Yellow indicates seals for weather and dust protection

The camera weighs 765g with battery.

Photo examples

All photos taken with Nikon D7100 and . Photos without processing, on-camera JPEG Fine L, VI, only reduced in size to 3 MP and imprinted data. Here is the original (VI, matrix metering).

Useful features and functions

Active, automatic control of chromatic aberration and distortion. True, these functions reduce the number of frames in the series, although the official website says that EXPEED 3 copes with this.
Optional monochrome display for quick camera operation. The display has a green backlight, the backlight is turned on using the camera power button.
HDR with different levels, can be set to Moderate, Normal, High, Super high and Auto level. The camera takes two pictures in a row and merges them into one.
For fans of photo processing and shooting with various interesting filters, a whole bunch of them have been installed in the Nikon D7100. There are even two effects for shooting video.
To easily set up the camera without any extra effort, there are special automatic modes, here is a set: Portrait, Landscape, Child, Sports, Macro, Night portrait, Night landscape, Party, Indoor, Beach, Snow, Sunset, Twilight (almost a saga :)) , Dawn, Pet portrait, Candlelight, Flower, Autumn colors, Products. I am often asked if a D7100 level camera is suitable for a beginner - I answer that it will, now you understand that it will be easier for a beginner to shoot with such a huge set of automatic modes.
Possibility to use booster MB-D15. Can connect Nikon D7100 from the network using an EH-5b AC adapter with an EP-5B connector.
I like very much shooting mode locks on the shooting control wheel. Some write that this prevents quick access to different shooting modes, but in reality this is a very useful feature. Very often, you can accidentally knock down the shooting mode, for example, from 'A' to 'M', because of which you can get a bunch of defective photos. I really missed such a blocker on my .
Outputs for an external microphone, USB, HDMI, 3.5 headphone output. Another connector for camera control.
The Nikon D7100 can remotely control other external flashes. You can read more details in the section. Nikon D7100 also supports fast sync with external flashes, in more detail. The minimum sync with the built-in flash is 1/320 sec.
The camera can be operated remotely using the WR-1 module or the WR-R10+WR-T10 kit, which use radio control. The WR-1 allows you to remotely control almost all camera functions. I have not used this device, but it should be something interesting. Nikon D7100 can also use the WU-1a adapter to transfer files and control the camera using devices based on IOS, Android. You can also use the UT-1 module to transfer data from the camera using WLAN (wi-fi). Finally, you can use the GP-1/GP-1A to record GPS data with every shot you take. In short, they made a lot of new trinkets for the camera, now the main thing is to deal with them all.
Virtual horizon in Live View and in the optical viewfinder. True, you need to try to include a virtual horizon in .
Interval shooting, .
Of course, the camera has a sensor cleaning system.
Nikon D7100 has 3 programmable buttons, but the functions that you can hang on them are not very useful in work.
In RGB View mode, you can view the histogram for any selected area of the image.
You can set the center button in picture playback mode to quickly zoom in on a picture. This is a very, very useful feature. I recommend that you turn it on. This is done using the setting f1 -> View Mode -> Zoom on / off. -> desired magnification. The same can be done for quick zoom in Live View. In shooting mode, I advise you to set the button to ‘Select center. focus points.’ (the third trick is here).
, and .
The camera uses a pentaprism with a special coating in the optical viewfinder. The coverage of the field of view is 100%.
Quiet shooting mode 'Q'. And modes for U1, U2 for convenient camera setup 'for yourself'.
The easiest method to remotely control the shutter release is to use the remote control. The camera has two infrared receivers for the remote control, front and rear.

Camera control wheel and new 'I' button

Personal impressions of the Nikon D7100

The camera is great, but still I expecting an heir with its all-magnesium body, 8 fps, and a bunch of thin useful little things, as a result got a very nice upgrade Nikon D7000. Because the Nikon D7100 is still with an amateur camera. It is very strange that Nikon D300s are not written off, but they do not replace it either. Users of the D300s are forced to either go full frame or sink to the D7100 level. The situation is the same for Canon, where the advanced 7D will not be replaced by a new APS-C camera. There seems to be a serious plot against photographers who want to use the highest quality APS-C cameras.

Nikon D7100 is an amateur camera, this indirectly confirms the location of the camera on official websites

The division into classes is not only a convention, but also a huge number of subtleties, which are sometimes very difficult to write about, but which become very useful with experience and are felt in practice. Therefore, be extremely careful.

In general, the situation with the choice of a good advanced Nikon camera has become more acute. Of the new advanced Nikon cameras, I personally observe a dilemma - either / with its full frame and 39 focus points in the center, or the Nikon D7100 with a cropped matrix, but with an excellent focusing system and a bunch of small goodies. Personally, I think that the D7100 is p turned out very pretty, with fewer complaints than the Nikon D600

This is how the Nikon D7100 looks like with a standard (whale lens) Nikon 18-105mm 1: 3.5-5.6G ED Nikkor VR AF-S SWM DX IF Aspherical supplied

Prices for modern Nikon cameras in popular stores can be viewed at this link.

In comments Can I ask you a question on the topic and you will definitely answer, and you can also express your opinion or describe your experience. For the selection of photographic equipment, I recommend large catalogs, such as E-katalog. Many little things for photos can be found on Aliexpress.

Findings:

Nikon D7100 - best advanced amateur DX camera for 2013 (at the time when I am writing a review about it). Nikon D7100 in 1.3x mode has best viewfinder coverage with focus points, has no low-pass filter and can be accelerated up to 7 fps. Here's what's new in the Nikon D7100:

New 3.2" display with 1.229.000 dots of the new type RGBW
Real-time spot metering via Live View
New WR-1 radio remote control, new MB-D15 battery pack
New UT-1 Wireless Fast Data Transfer Device
The new Advanced Multi-CAM 3500DX focus sensor is the first Nikon DX camera that can focus with 'dark' lenses with a maximum aperture of up to F / 8.0 inclusive.
New mechanism for separate control of the mirror and aperture
New 1.3X cropping mode, which also works in video mode (before that, among DX cameras, something similar was only in , )
New i-button control (in addition to the Info button)
The first DX camera without a low pass filter
New organic EL display for optical viewfinder (instead of )

All in all, it's a good camera. If there is funds, then as an amateur advanced Nikon DX camera recommend it is Nikon D7100, perhaps it will help in choosing.

The release of the Nikon D7100 is not just a planned update, it is a very interesting restructuring of the lineup. The camera is designed not only to replace the D7000, but also to become an alternative to the discontinued D300s. It is possible that there will be no other replacement for the three hundred at all, the Nikon D600 does an excellent job with this.

Nikon D7100, official portrait

The D7100 has no direct competitor from Canon, and of the available models, only the Pentax K-5 IIs are close in spirit. Let's compare their main characteristics.

Specifications, equipment


	Nikon D7100	Nikon D7000	Pentax K-5IIs
Class	SLR camera	SLR camera	SLR camera
Matrix	APS-C (23.5 x 15.6 mm), CMOS, 24.1 MP	APS-C (23.5 x 15.6 mm), CMOS, 16.2 MP	APS-C (23.7 x 15.7 mm), CMOS, 16.3 MP
Bayonet type	Nikon F	Nikon F	Pentax KAF2
Picture format	JPEG, RAW (maximum resolution 6000 x 4000)	JPEG, RAW (maximum resolution 4928 x 3264)	JPEG, RAW(maximum resolution 4928 x 3264)
Video Format	MPEG-4, AVCHD (1920 x 1080, 30 fps)	MPEG-4, AVCHD (1920 x 1080, 24 fps)	Motion JPEG (1920 x 1080, 25 fps)
ISO range		ISO 100-6400 (expandable to 25600)	ISO 100-12800 (expandable to 51200)
Shutter speed range	1/8000–30 s	1/8000–30 s	1/8000–30 s
Viewfinder	Optical (pentaprism), 100% frame coverage, magnification 0.94x	Optical (pentaprism), 100% frame coverage, 0.95x magnification	Optical (pentaprism), 100% frame coverage, magnification 0.92x
Screen	LCD, diagonal - 3.2", resolution - 1,228,000 dots	LCD, diagonal - 3", resolution - 921,000 dots	LCD, diagonal - 3", resolution - 921,000 dots, tilted design
Flash		Built-in guide number 12m @ ISO 100	Built-in guide number 13m @ ISO 100
Memory	SD/SDHC/SDXC card, 2 slots	SD/SDHC/SDXC cards	SD/SDHC/SDXC Cards, Memory Stick Pro Duo/ Pro-HG Duo
Interfaces	USB/ AV, HDMI,	USB/AV, HDMI,	USB/AV, HDMI
Battery		Lithium-Ion EN-EL15, 1800 mAh	Lithium-Ion D-LI90P, 1860 mAh
Dimensions and weight	136 x 107 x 76mm, 765g	132 x 105 x 77 mm, 780 g	131 x 97 x 73 mm, 760 g

The Nikon D7100 comes with a shoulder strap, eyecup for the viewfinder, a set of caps and plugs, an EN-EL15 battery, an MH-25 charger, a USB cable, a user manual and a disc with the proprietary ViewNX2 application. In a word, nothing unusual, the vast majority of mirrorless cameras are equipped in approximately the same way.

Design and ergonomics

Nikon D7100 looks very similar to its predecessor, and this is not surprising - even then the ergonomics were almost impeccable. In addition, changes in appearance within two adjacent generations have never been too striking for Nikon. However, some exterior changes are still present, and searches in the field of ergonomics do not stop.

The front side of the housing Nikon D7100

The case has become more streamlined, and the overall quality of workmanship is still at the highest level. The device fits comfortably in your hands. Plugs, keys, scrollers, rubberized surfaces - everything is done in the best traditions. The case is made of magnesium alloy and has dust and moisture protection, and access to all connectors is securely closed with rubber plugs. In the presence of weatherproof optics, you can not be afraid to once again get the camera in the rain. In the figure, the yellow lines indicate the paths of the sealing gaskets. As you can see, each control has its own protective gasket. The same high level of security is implemented in the Nikon D800.

The location of the protective pads in the front of the Nikon D7100

All buttons are in their places, access to them is clearly verified. Switching to the D7100 from simpler DSLRs will not take too long to get used to the layout of the controls.

The dimensions of the camera have been slightly increased in comparison with the D7000, and the weight has been reduced, but also not significantly. It is not possible to feel the difference of 15 g without weighing. Due to the use of a cropped sensor, the Nikon D7100 outperforms the full-frame D600 by a little less than a hundred grams of weight and a few millimeters in terms of body dimensions.

On the front side there are a number of secondary controls, such as the aperture repeater button (reprogrammable), the Fn key, the manual / automatic focus switch with the autofocus algorithm selection button, as well as the flash cocking button and quick access to bracketing settings. In the upper right corner is the IR receiver window, and on the left, just above the "Pv" button, there is an autofocus assist lamp. In its place and a mount with a button for fixing the lens. A front scroller is built into the top of the handle, which sets the default aperture value. It is convenient to manage it with both index and middle fingers. The handle and the opposite part of the front panel are covered with rubber pads.

Top panel Nikon D7100

The top panel is densely filled with more important elements. The pop-up flash, stereo microphone grilles and hot shoe are grouped into one unit along with the pentaprism and viewfinder. To the right is a monochrome auxiliary display, and above it, in fact, on the upper edge of the handle, there is a shutter button with a power switch, as well as buttons for starting video recording, setting the type of metering and entering exposure compensation. The backlight of the mini-display is turned on by turning the power lever far, and can also be activated through the menu.

Mode selector on the top panel of the D7100 and connectors on the left side

The mode selector is crowded on the left edge, and it shares this place with an additional feed method selector. Both selectors are equipped with latches, so that accidental operation is excluded. At the same time, in order to move any of the discs, you have to use three fingers of your left hand at once. The most inconvenient element to use was the broach mode selector. Six positions of the switch are responsible for shooting a single shot, shooting bursts at a frequency of 1 to 5 frames per second, burst shooting at a maximum rate of 6 fps, silent shutter mode, as well as shooting with a timer and mirror up.

The back side of the body Nikon D7100

The screen occupies about half of the usable area of the rear panel. It should be noted that there is a rather large empty space on the right, reserved for the comfortable placement of the thumb. This part is rubberized, and below you can see the window of the second IR sensor. To the right of the screen placed a joystick with a central button. It performs both menu navigation and focus point selection functions. The joystick is paired with a switch responsible for blocking (position "L"). Just below is another combo control. Pressing the "Lv" button puts the camera in Live View mode, and turning the lever allows you to switch between photo and video modes. Nearby is a light indicator for working with a memory card, as well as an “info” button.

To the left of the display are 7 buttons of the same size. They are responsible for entering playback mode, launching the main menu of the camera, deleting pictures, adjusting the white balance and protecting pictures, zooming and changing ISO. The "i" key is responsible for quickly launching certain functions both in live view and when using the viewfinder.

Ports and connectors on the left side of the Nikon D7100

008 Nikon D7100 left view

The left side shows three large plugs, behind which are USB, mini HDMI, headphone and microphone jacks, as well as an output for connecting GPS and Wi-Fi modules.

Memory card slots on the right side of the Nikon D7100

On the opposite edge, under a massive cover, there are two compartments for SD memory cards. The algorithm for the joint operation of two slots can be set in the menu. The second memory card can be used either after the first one is full, or work in hot standby mode, or record frames in RAW, while the first card will receive pictures exclusively in JPEG format.

The bottom end of the housing Nikon D7100

On the bottom is the battery compartment, tripod thread and slot for an extra battery grip.

Screen, viewfinder, interface

The new Nikon D7100 display, never seen before, deserves the highest praise. Diagonal 3.2 inches is more than enough for comfortable frame building and simultaneous output of service information lines. The resolution of 1,228,800 dots is slightly higher than the screen resolution of Nikon D600, D800 and even D4. This is due to the addition of a fourth white sub-pixel to the classic RGB pattern. Due to this, the screen has gained in brightness and has become more economical in cases where the maximum maximum backlight level is not required. The space between the LED matrix and the protective glass is filled with transparent rubber. Color reproduction, contrast, brightness and wide viewing angles of the display sometimes tempt to use it instead of the viewfinder. Comprehensive information about shooting parameters is displayed on the display, and a grid or an electronic horizon function can also be added.

Buttons to the left of the screen and Nikon D7100 viewfinder eye

Optical pentaprism viewfinder with 100% frame coverage is characterized by a magnification of 0.94x. The eyecup does not protrude much beyond the dimensions of the body and is quite comfortable, and for photographers with visual impairments there is a diopter correction mechanism. To display service information and display the autofocus point, there is a grid of energy-saving organic LEDs. Service information about shooting parameters is displayed in white on a black background below, and the focus point has a red tint and the brightness can be adjusted.

The secondary display is backlit in a pleasant green color. The screen is also very informative - most of the basic settings are presented here.

The software interface is well known from other Nikon DSLR models. The menu is divided into 6 sections: playback menu, shooting menu, custom settings menu, setup menu, retouch menu, and recent settings menu. The user settings menu is the most extensive. Its six subsections are additionally marked with letters. When scrolling through most of the settings, a question mark icon appears in the lower left corner of the display. By clicking on the appropriate button, you can get a fairly detailed hint.

The vast majority of settings are understandable and in Russified form. By the way, in a simplified form, the same menu is also present in the new advanced compact Nikon Coolpix A. However, a rotating disk was used for navigation, in most cases more convenient than a conventional joystick.

Functionality

The key item on the list of innovations is the new sensor, the resolution of which has grown from 16 to 24 megapixels. A similar sensor was used in the amateur D5200 DSLR, and its manufacturer is Toshiba. The modified matrix is devoid of an optical low-pass filter designed to combat moiré. The elimination of the low pass filter became a trend just last year, and the main inspiration for the elimination of the filter is Nikon. An important property of the Nikon D7100 is the ability to work with the sensor in 1.3x mode, when only its central part is used. The crop factor in this case will be 1.5*1.3=2, which gives a number of special advantages. The equivalent focal length in this case also doubles, the maximum burst rate increases from 6 to 7 frames per second by reducing the image resolution to 15.4 megapixels, and video recording becomes possible at 60 frames per second with interlaced scanning. And, finally, phase focusing sensors in this mode cover virtually the entire frame.

APS-C CMOS sensor Nikon D7100

The sensitivity of the matrix is set in the range from 100 to 6400 ISO units, however, in advanced mode, values \u200b\u200bare selectable within ISO 50-25600. Auto ISO settings allow you to set the upper sensitivity threshold, as well as the maximum shutter speed. The sensor is also equipped with a self-cleaning piezoelectric dust system, directly borrowed from the D7000.

Nikon EXPEED 3 Processor

The tasks of processing data and controlling the camera as a whole are entrusted to the EXPEED 3 processor, which has already been found in both SLR and mirrorless cameras from Nikon last year. The processor provides a burst rate of 6 frames per second in full resolution and 7 frames in 1.3x crop mode. However, all the achievements in terms of rate of fire are spoiled by the extremely shallow buffer depth. The first ten shots in full resolution are taken at the stated high frequency, after which the descent occurs no more than once per second. This clearly limits the use of the Nikon D7100 as a reportage tool. But the camera turns on instantly: in a tenth of a second. This is the fastest DSLR in its class, and the anti-record belongs to SLT cameras from Sony.

Nikon Multi-CAM 3500DX

The most important link in any DSLR camera is the focus module. In our case, a Nikon Multi-CAM 3500DX system is used with 51 sensors, 15 of which are cruciform. The Nikon D7000, recall, had 39 phase focusing sensors, 9 of them were cruciform. Focusing is possible in light conditions from -2 to +19 EV. The central cross sensor supports focusing on lenses with a maximum aperture of F8.0, and 15 sensors can fire at a maximum aperture of F5.6. To speed up work, when special accuracy is not required, you can refuse to use 51 sensors and work with only 11 points.

Contrast focusing algorithms have also been optimized, although SLR cameras lose a lot to mirrorless ones in this parameter. Tracking focus works quite tolerably both when shooting photos and videos. One thing is missing - the focus peaking function. Manual focusing in live view mode looks like a dubious pleasure.

Exposure is measured using a dedicated 2-kilopixel sensor of the 3D Color Matrix Metering II system, borrowed from the Nikon D7000. The sensor is not only involved in focusing and metering exposure, but is also used for scene recognition, white balance, flash output control, and so on.

The shooting modes on the external selector include both the standard P, A, S, M modes, as well as the flash off mode, the scene selection mode, the artistic effects mode and two customizable modes: C1 and C2.

The mechanical shutter is capable of operating at shutter speeds from 1/8000 s to 30 s, as well as operating in full manual shutter mode. The actuation resource remains the same at 150,000, although the shutter mechanism itself has been slightly improved to provide a higher burst rate.

Exposure compensation is available from -5 to +5 EV in steps of 1/3 or 1/2 EV. Three basic methods are used to measure exposure - center-weighted, matrix and spot. It is also noteworthy that the point method can also be used to determine the white balance. This method only works for live view.

The standard hot shoe is complemented by a built-in flash with a guide number of 12m at ISO 100. It should be noted that the flash cocking mechanism fires even when the power is off. The flash can also pop up automatically when shooting in Auto and Scene modes. Synchronization with external flashes is possible in 1/320 s.

Nikon D7100 offers a number of special features, such as multi-level Active D-lighting, expanding the dynamic range, HDR shooting mode, optical distortion correction function, interval shooting up to 999 frames and multiple exposure. There is also a proprietary artistic mode Picture Control, applicable to shooting photos and videos and includes six filters - Standard, Neutral, Vivid, Monochrome, Portrait and Landscape. Each of these filters can be fine-tuned manually.

As already noted, the Nikon D7100 can work simultaneously with two SD / SDHC / SDXC memory cards. Eye-Fi drives are also supported in the D7100. But oddly enough, the Nikon D7100 does not contain either a built-in GPS module or Wi-Fi. The situation is saved by additional accessories, for which you will have to pay separately. The camera is compatible with the GP-1 and GP-1a receivers, allowing you to add location data to your shots. The WU-1a transmitter allows you to connect the camera to an Android or iOS smartphone or tablet. To do this, you need to download a special free application. Unfortunately, it will not be possible to use both GPS and Wi-Fi modules at the same time - there is only one connector for connecting. Not well thought out? However, compared to the D7000, this is a significant step forward.

Impressions, test photos, video

Working with Nikon D7100 left a lot of positive impressions. The camera is so thought out that after it you don’t want to return to gray everyday life with a compact mirrorless camera. The merits of a DX flagship will be appreciated by all those who know what a SLR camera can do in general. As for the quality of the output picture, there is practically nothing to complain about here.

The camera comes with an AF-S DX Nikkor 18-105 mm f/3.5-5.6 G ED VR lens, a versatile and fairly sharp zoom. The camera sensor is devoid of a low-pass filter, but you can appreciate all the delights of improved detailing only with the help of high-end optics, which do not include whale “glasses”. As for the noise, the situation is quite well illustrated by the given pictures. The ISO 6400 level can be considered quite comfortable.

ISO100.JPG Nikon D7100 @ ISO 100

ISO100.JPG Nikon D7100 @ ISO 200

ISO100.JPG Nikon D7100 @ ISO 400

ISO100.JPG Nikon D7100 @ ISO 800

ISO100.JPG Nikon D7100 @ ISO 1600

ISO100.JPG Nikon D7100 @ ISO 3200

ISO100.JPG Nikon D7100 @ ISO6400

ISO100.JPG Nikon D7100 @ ISO 12800

ISO100.JPG Nikon D7100 @ ISO 25600

The test shots show a wide dynamic range even without Active D-Lighting, color saturation and excellent detail even when using the included zoom lens. I would also like to note the error-free operation of the phase autofocus.

Nikon D7100, ISO 100, 22mm F4, 1/50s

Nikon D7100, ISO 125, 105mm F5.6, 1/160s

Capture unforgettable action photos with the extremely powerful D7100.

This feature-packed, ultra-lightweight and compact model, housed in a rugged housing and featuring the highest quality DX sensor, takes photography to new heights. With no optical low-pass filter (OLPF), the D7100 makes the most of the 24.1-megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor to deliver impressively high resolution and exceptional clarity, even in the finest textures. Its 51-point autofocus (AF) system captures images quickly and accurately like a pro. This high-quality, weather and dust resistant DSLR with magnesium alloy top and rear covers shoots at 6fps, delivers extra telephoto with an innovative 1.3x crop function, and maintains a sensitivity of 100– 6400 ISO, which allows you to take excellent pictures in low light conditions or when the subject moves quickly.

Shoot with viewfinder or live view, apply special effects to photos or live Full HD movies, and send images wirelessly* to your smart device for social sharing - whatever you do, wherever No matter where you are headed, the D7100 provides exceptional control.

24.1 megapixel DX format CMOS sensor without low pass filter

Allows you to get extremely sharp images with excellent detail.

AF system for professional use

Uses 51 focus points(of which 15 are cross-type), providing fast and accurate autofocus .

Continuous shooting at 6fps

Allows you not to miss an important moment when moving fast.

1.3x crop function that expands the possibilities of DX format

Provides additional telephoto effect, faster shooting (up to 7fps) and wider AF coverage.

Wireless¹

The camera is compatible with the WU-1a Wireless Adapter.

EXPEED 3 Image Processor

Provides high speed performance, accurate color reproduction and improved noise reduction.

2016-pixel RGB metering sensor with Scene Recognition System

Demonstrates exceptionally accurate metering for perfect exposure, and optimizes automatic exposure (AE), autofocus (AF), and auto white balance for perfect accuracy.

Full HD D-Movie Recording:

1080p at frame rates up to 60i/50i and 30p/25p/24p for smooth movie recording.

ISO sensitivity from 100 to 6400, expandable to ISO 25600: ensures exceptional performance when shooting in low light conditions.

Viewfinder with superior performance: features almost 100% frame coverage and 0.94x magnification.

High Quality LCD Monitor: has a diagonal of 8 cm, a resolution of 1229 thousand dots and a wide viewing angle.

Convenient compact body: The camera's impressive capabilities are packaged in a compact body that weighs only 675g.

Robust housing with magnesium alloy covers: protected from dust and moisture.

Dual memory card slots: allow you to copy when one of the cards is full, or backup or save RAW and JPEG files separately from each other.

Availability: The improved i button and spot white balance function enable fast and accurate white balance setting in live view.

Active D-Lighting (ADL): preserves detail in highlights and shadows, helping to create images with excellent color balance.

High Dynamic Range Mode (HDR): combines two shots taken with the same shutter release to create one detailed image of a high-contrast scene.

Effect Mode: allows you to apply selected effects to both photos and movies in live view.

NIKKOR Lenses: With proven NIKKOR lenses, you can take full advantage of the camera's 24.1 megapixels and 1.3x crop mode to create superb images, while enjoying the exceptional portability of DX format lenses.

Remote control: Shoot wirelessly using the WR-R10 Wireless Transceiver and WR-T10 Wireless Transmitter, or shoot bursts while controlling camera settings with the WR-1.

Those. characteristics

SLR digital camera

lens mount

Nikon F mount (with AF pairing and AF contacts)

Effective angle of view

Nikon DX format; focal length in 35mm format is equivalent to approx. 1.5x lens focal length when using FX format

Effective number of pixels

23.5 x 15.6 mm CMOS sensor

Total number of pixels

Dust removal system

Image sensor cleaning function, data for dust removal function (requires optional software Capture NX-D)

Data storage image size (in pixels)

Image area DX (24 x 16): 6000 x 4000 (large), 4496 x 3000 (medium), 2992 x 2000 (small); image area 1.3 (18 x 12): 4800 x 3200 (large), 3600 x 2400 (medium), 2400 x 1600 (small); DX (24 x 16) image area photos taken in movie live view: 6000 x 3368 (large), 4496 x 2528 (medium), 2992 x 1860 (small); 1.3x image area (18 x 12) photos taken in movie live view: 4800 x 2696 (large), 3600 x 2024 (medium), 2400 x 1344 (small);

Data storage - file format

NEF (RAW): 12-bit or 14-bit, lossless or conventional compression; JPEG: JPEG-Baseline compatible with fine (approx. 1:4), normal (approx. 1:8), or low (approx. 1:16) compression (size priority); the compression function "Optimal quality" is available; NEF (RAW) + JPEG: One photo is recorded simultaneously in both NEF (RAW) and JPEG formats

Picture Control System

Standard, Neutral, Vivid, Monochrome, Portrait, Landscape; the ability to change the selected Picture Control and save custom Picture Controls

Data carriers

SDHC and SDXC memory cards compatible with SD (Secure Digital) and UHS-I

double socket

Slot 2 can be used for overflow or backup or separate storage of copies created in NEF and JPEG simultaneous shooting mode; it is possible to copy pictures from one card to another.

File system

DCF 2.0 (Design Rule for Camera File System), DPOF (Digital Print Order Format), Exif 2.3 (Compatible Image File Format for Digital Cameras), PictBridge

Viewfinder

Mirror direct viewfinder with pentaprism

Frame coverage

Approx. 100% horizontal and 100% vertical

Increase

Approx. 0.94x (with 50mm f/1.4 lens focused at infinity; -1.0m-1 corrected)

Viewfinder focus point

19.5 mm (-1.0 m-1; from the center surface of the viewfinder eyepiece lens)

Diopter setting

Focusing screen

Type B BriteView Clear Matte Mark II screen with AF area brackets (framing grid can be displayed)

Quick return type

Depth of field preview

Pressing the depth-of-field preview button sets the lens aperture value selected by the user (modes A and M) or the camera (other modes)

Lens aperture

Momentary return type with electronic control

Compatible lenses

Compatible with AF NIKKOR lenses, including type G and D lenses (some restrictions apply to PC lenses), DX lenses, AI-P NIKKOR lenses, and non-CPU AI lenses (modes A and M only). IX-NIKKOR lenses, lenses for the F3AF camera, and non-AI lenses cannot be used. The electronic rangefinder can be used with lenses with a maximum aperture of f/5.6 or faster (the electronic rangefinder maintains a center focus point with lenses with a maximum aperture of f/8 or faster).

shutter type

Shutter with electronic control and vertical travel of shutters

Excerpt

1/8000 to 30 seconds in steps of 1/3 or 1/2 EV, Bulb, Bulb, X250

Sync Speed

X=1/250 s; shutter sync at 1/320 s or slower (flash shooting distance decreases at shutter speeds between 1/320 and 1/250 s)

Shooting modes

Single frame (S), continuous low speed (CL), continuous high speed (CH), quiet shutter (Q), self-timer, mirror up (MUP); interval shooting supported

Approximate shooting speed

JPEG and 12-bit NEF (RAW) images recorded with CL image area selected at DX (24 x 16): 1–6 fps, CH: 6 fps. JPEG and 12-bit NEF (RAW) images recorded with CL image area selected at 1.3 (18 x 12): 1 to 6 fps, CH: 7 fps. 14-bit NEF (RAW) images recorded with CL image area selected DX (24 x 16): 1–5 fps, CH: 5 fps. 14-bit NEF (RAW) images recorded with Image Area CL set to 1.3 (18 x 12): 1 to 6 fps, CH: 6 fps

Self-timer

2 s, 5 s, 10 s, 20 s; 1 to 9 exposures at intervals of 0.5, 1, 2 or 3 s

Remote control modes

Delayed descent, quick descent, mirror up

Exposure - metering mode

TTL exposure metering with 2016-pixel RGB sensor

Exposure - metering method

Matrix: 3D color matrix metering II (type G and D lenses); color matrix metering II (other CPU lenses); color matrix metering is available on non-CPU lenses by specifying lens options. Center-weighted: 75% of measurements are on the 8 mm circle in the center of the frame. Circle diameter can be changed to 6mm, 10mm, or 13mm at the center of the frame, or a weighted average across the entire frame (non-CPU lenses use an 8mm circle) Spot: Meters 3.5mm circle (approx. 2.5% frame) centered on the selected focus point (center focus point if non-CPU lens is used).

Exposure - range (ISO 100, f/1.4 lens, 20°C)

Matrix or center-weighted metering: 0 to 20 EV Spot metering: 2 to 20 EV

Pairing with a light meter

With CPU and AI

Metering method

Automatic modes (auto; auto (flash off)); programmed automatic mode with flexible program (P); shutter-priority auto (S); aperture-priority auto (A); manual mode (M); scene modes (Portrait; Landscape; Child; Sports; Macro; Night Portrait; Night Landscape; Party/Indoor; Beach/Snow; Sunset; Dusk/Dawn; Pet Portrait; Candlelight; Bloom; Autumn Colors; Food); special effects modes (Night Vision; Color Sketch; Miniature Effect; Selective Color; Silhouette; High Key; Low Key); U1 (user settings 1); U2 (user settings 2)

Exposure compensation

Can be adjusted from -5 to +5 EV in 1/3 or 1/2 EV increments in P, S, A, and M modes

Exposure bracketing

Flash bracketing

2 to 5 frames in increments of 1/3, 1/2, 2/3, 1, 2, or 3 EV

White balance bracketing

2 to 5 frames in increments of 1, 2, or 3

Active D-Lighting bracketing

2 frames using selected value for one frame or 3 frames using preset values for all frames

Exposure lock

Illumination is locked at the measured value using the AE-L/AF-L button (AE-L/AF-L)

ISO sensitivity

ISO 100-6400 in 1/3 or 1/2 EV increments. Can be set to about 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, 1, or 2 EV (ISO 25600 equivalent) above ISO 6400; auto ISO sensitivity control available

Active D-Lighting

Auto, Super Boost, Boost, Normal, Low, Off

Focus - autofocus

Advanced Nikon Multi-CAM 3500DX autofocus sensor module with TTL phase detection, fine tuning, 51 focus points (including 15 cross-type sensors; center focus point available at apertures below f/5.6 and above f/8, or at f/8 ) and AF-assist illuminator (range approx. 0.5 to 3 m)

Focusing - sensing range

-2 to +19 EV (ISO 100 @ 20°C)

Focusing - lens drive

Autofocus (AF): Single-servo AF (AF-S); continuous servo AF (AF-C); automatic mode selection AF-S/AF-C (AF-A); predictive focus tracking activated automatically according to subject status. Manual Focus (M): Possibility to use an electronic rangefinder.

Focus points

Choose from 51 or 11 focus points

AF area mode

Single point AF; 9-, 21-, or 51-point dynamic AF, 3D tracking, auto-area AF

Focus lock

Focus is locked by pressing the shutter-release button halfway (single-servo AF) or by pressing the AE-L/AF-L (AE-L/AF-L) button

Built-in flash

Auto, Portrait, Child, Macro, Night portrait, Party/indoor, Pet portrait, Color sketch: Auto flash with auto pop-up. Modes P, S, A, M, Food: Manually deployed at the push of a button.

Flash - guide number

Approx. 12, 12 with manual flash (m, ISO 100, 20°C)

Flash control

TTL: i-TTL flash control with 2016-pixel RGB sensor available with built-in flash and SB-910, SB-900, SB-800, SB-700, SB-600, or SB-400; i-TTL balanced fill-flash for digital SLR is used with matrix or center-weighted metering, and standard i-TTL fill-flash for digital SLR is used with spot metering

Flash Mode

Auto; automatic mode with red-eye reduction; automatic slow synchronization; automatic slow sync with red-eye reduction; fill flash; red-eye reduction; slow synchronization; slow sync with red-eye reduction; slow rear-curtain sync; rear curtain sync; off; auto FP high-speed sync supported

Flash compensation

-3 to +1 EV in 1/3 or 1/2 EV steps

Flash-ready indicator

Lights up when the built-in or optional flash is fully charged; flashes after flash is fired at full power

Flash - accessory shoe

ISO 518 hot shoe with sync, data and safety lock

Nikon Creative Lighting System

Advanced Wireless Lighting is supported with SB-910, SB-900, SB-800, or SB-700 as a master flash and SB-600 or SB-R200 as a remote flash, and SU-800 as a commander. The built-in flash can serve as a master flash in commander mode. Auto FP high-speed sync and modeling light are supported with all CLS-compatible flash units except SB-400; flash color information transmission and flash output lock supported with all CLS-compatible flash units

Flash - sync contact

AS-15 Sync Terminal Adapter (Sold Separately)

white balance

Auto (2 options), Incandescent, Fluorescent (7 options), Direct sunlight, Flash, Cloudy, Shade, Preset manual (up to 6 values can be stored, spot white balance can be measured in live view), color temperature selectable (2500–10,000 K); fine tuning available for all values

Live view - modes

Live view photography (still images), movie live view (movies)

Live View - lens drive

Autofocus (AF): Single-servo AF (AF-S); full-time AF tracking (AF-F) Manual focus (M).

Live View - AF area mode

Face-priority AF, Wide area AF, Normal area AF, Subject tracking AF

Live View - Autofocus

Anywhere contrast-detection AF (camera selects focus point automatically when face-priority AF or subject tracking AF is selected)

Movies - exposure metering

TTL exposure metering with main sensor

Movies - exposure metering method

matrix

Video file format

Videos - compression

H.264/MPEG-4 Advanced Video Coding

Movies - audio recording format

Linear PCM

Videos - Sound Recorder

Built-in or external stereo microphone; sensitivity can be adjusted

8 cm TFT monitor, approx. 1229k dots (VGA; 640 x 4 x 480 = 1228800 dots), FOV approx. 170°, almost 100% frame coverage and brightness control

View

Full-frame and thumbnail playback (4, 9, or 72 images or calendar) with playback zoom, movie playback, slide show (pictures and/or movies), histogram display, highlights, photo information, GPS data display, and auto image rotation

Hi-Speed USB

HDMI mini connector (Type C)

Connector(s) for accessories

Wireless remote controller: WR-1 and WR-R10 (optional); remote control cable: MC-DC2 (sold separately); GPS device: GP-1 (sold separately)

Audio input

Stereo mini jack (3.5 mm diameter; supports power when plugged in)

Audio output

Stereo mini jack (3.5 mm diameter)

Supported languages

English, Arabic, Bengali, Hungarian, Vietnamese, Dutch, Greek, Danish, Indonesian, Spanish, Italian, Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), Korean, German, Norwegian, Persian, Polish, Portuguese (European and Brazilian), Romanian, Russian , Thai, Tamil, Turkish, Ukrainian, Finnish, French, Hindi, Czech, Swedish, Japanese

One rechargeable Li-ion battery EN-EL15

battery pack

Multi-purpose battery pack MB-D15 (available separately) with one Nikon EN-EL15 rechargeable Li-ion battery or six AA-size alkaline, nickel-metal hydride or lithium batteries

AC adapter

AC adapter EH-5b; Requires EP-5B power connector (sold separately)

tripod socket

Diameter 1/4" (ISO 1222)

Dimensions (W x H x D)

Approx. 135.5 x 106.5 x 76 mm

Approx. 765 g with battery and memory card, but without protective cover; approx. 675 g (camera body only)

Working environment - temperature

Shortly after the release of the full-frame flagship, Nikon presented the camera D7100 (Suggested retail price for the camera itself is $1,199.95 or $1,599.95 with an 18-105mm VR lens), which can be described as the most advanced camera in the Nikon line in the mid-price range. Replacing the D7000 and the aging D300s in Nikon's top line of DX-format cameras, the new model D7100 provides phase detection focusing with at least 51 points (of which 15 are cross-shaped), a 24-megapixel APS-C sensor with a removed low-pass filter, improved movie capabilities, as well as several devices that increase usability, such as a larger LCD screen.

In fact, while there is still demand for APS-C format models, their future is highly questionable. Recently, full-frame cameras have become extremely affordable, adding to the controversy: Is the average amateur photographer really willing to shell out $1,600 for such a camera and regret adding another $1,000 for full-frame image quality?

This camera is a big deal..

The D7100 feels big, heavy and serious, just like the D7000 that it replaced (although D300s owners might find it small and light).

There's plenty of room for your palm and fingers, and the fully rubberized surface provides a secure grip. In fact, the design of the case has not changed much compared to the previous model. The button layout is almost identical, except for the video button - which is now on the top panel - and minor changes to the layout of the rear control panel.

In particular, I liked the newly highlighted preview button, thanks to which the video shooting process should not be so tricky. Also a good innovation, in our opinion, was the less protruding focus lock button, since it is used very infrequently.

In fact, the process of photographing with the D7100 will most likely begin with a long learning curve. If you have not previously photographed with Nikon cameras, we advise you to start by exploring what awaits you. Compared to Canon cameras, which are more intuitive for beginners, Nikon devices are more geared towards manual settings.

At first, this makes the process of working with Nikon cameras slow and confusing, but once you start to memorize the interface, everything speeds up due to the large number of mastered options. As with most Nikon DSLRs, the D7100 takes an expert to operate, and if you're not already, you will soon be.

In particular, thanks to the ability to change mode settings on the fly with just one button, such as changing the exposure, or white balance without entering a complex menu, the process of photographing with the D7100 becomes ultimately efficient.

The viewfinder deserves special attention. The camera is equipped with a bright pentaprism reflex viewfinder that has 100% coverage and a magnification of 0.94x. Combined with the B BriteView Clear Matte Mark II focusing OLED screen, the viewfinder provides comfortable operation. The only negative we found is the reduced diopter adjustment range from -2 to +1 (from -3 to +1 for the D7000).

Like its predecessor, the D7100 features a secondary monochrome display on the top of the camera that has a green backlight for easy shooting in low light. A visual diagram of the display is shown below:

Testing - no surprises.

After subjecting the D7100 to a series of laboratory tests, we found that none of the parameters came as a pleasant or unpleasant surprise. Very high sharpness, even with a standard lens, and excellent color reproduction, as you would expect from Nikon, again on top. Noise reduction can range from mild to very pronounced, and behaves predictably according to the user's settings, without any noise in the image.

One factor holding back camera performance is white balance, which Nikon has struggled with for years. Despite the color accuracy of the D7100's images, determining the exact white balance can be quite problematic. Nikon does not allow you to select a specific area for the white balance pattern in a single frame. That is, if you photograph someone with a white card in your hand (as we did, for example), the camera may select the wall behind the card as white balance, or something else equally useless for this purpose.

Coming back to the benefits, the D7100 does the best video of any sub-$2,000 Nikon camera. Motion is amazingly clean and smooth at 30p (a new feature released this year), ensuring video content is consistently crisp and beautiful, in bright light and in low light alike.

The camera's dynamic range made a strong impression as it was able to cover more than eight stops at ISO 100, and continued to hold that value also at ISO 200. From this point on, the dynamic range gradually decreases, although the camera still delivers five stops at ISO 800, which is respectable. , and almost three stops at maximum ISO 6400.

There are some improvements, although this is more of a simple update.

Other significant additions to the D7100 include an all-new 24-megapixel sensor and movie mode, which are the biggest changes this year. A range of full-HD shooting options are now available, including 30p, 60i, 25p, and 50i options, as well as 60p and 50p options for dynamic 1280x720 shooting.

Unfortunately, along with the improvement in video performance, the shooting control process still leaves a lot to be desired. You will not be able to capture anything on video until you switch to the preview mode; the camera will not do this automatically. Once you do this, you can adjust the shutter speed and ISO, but not at the time of recording. Moreover, you can’t adjust the aperture at all in preview mode. In video mode, this can only be done after you exit Preview mode, make the necessary changes, and return to Preview mode again - even if you are shooting video in aperture priority or fully in manual mode. And it's weird.

Aside from the video improvements, other changes are not that significant. For example, the LCD screen has been enlarged to 3.2 inches with a resolution of 1.2 megapixels, which is quite substantial overall. The updated 51-point autofocus system proved to be incredibly useful and sensitive, as it covers almost the entire frame in the focus area.

In fact, if you take a picture using a 1.3 crop factor, the focus points will cover the entire frame in the horizontal plane (which will increase the maximum frame rate to 7 frames per second). In this mode, when using a crop factor of 1.5x DX, the total crop factor reaches 2x. This is useful, for example, when shooting fast action or in wildlife, which allows the photographer to save on expensive and exotic super-telephoto lenses. For example, instead of spending $10,300 on a Nikkor 600mm f/4G lens, D7100 users can get similar results with a stunning 300mm f/4G lens that costs just $1,495. And that's not to mention a weight reduction of more than 3 kg (7 lbs).

We also appreciated amenities such as a secondary display backlight, which makes it easier to take pictures at night. Even in the D7100, it is worth noting the built-in focus drive, which (unlike the same D5200 for example) allows the camera to be compatible even with the oldest Nikon lenses. Also, Nikon has updated the information bar at the bottom of the viewfinder window on the OLED, although this change is of little practical value.

Conclusion. Both amateurs and professionals, everyone will like itD7100.

As Nikon's most expensive non-full-frame camera to date (apart from the old D300s), a professional photographer would be inclined to describe the D7100 as "the best of the rest." But this is a bad idea. This camera is as geared towards professionals as it is to beginner full-frame cameras, and almost $1,000 less than the next model up in the class. When a photographer is just starting out in their career, even the cheapest full-frame camera can be a waste. It is for such cases that the D7100 is an excellent alternative.

While Nikon has made no effort to improve the main menu, the button layout has improved slightly over the years. Once you get past the initial tutorial, you'll see that the D7100 is a powerful and versatile machine, accurate enough to take any shot you want. We just had a lot of fun testing the camera out in the fields.

Of course, management is worth nothing without high image quality. While none of the D7100 test results impressed us, the camera performed consistently well in all tests, almost all of which were always slightly above average. Sharpness, color reproduction, noise reduction, dynamic range - if we tested them, then the D7100 would have a high chance of passing them.

The exception is white balance. Well, why do all Nikon SLR cameras have constant difficulties with this? Guys, let's get together.

White balance aside, the D7100 has little to complain about. Compared to previous models, video shooting is definitely better, albeit with some quirks in handling, while the market is already full of better video-oriented SLR cameras. Nikon could have done more to explain its "unique" control techniques to new users in a more accessible way. For example, a beginner is unlikely to be able to discover such a function as holding down the white balance button in order to preset it, and it would be nice to know such things so as not to carry around a thick instruction manual.

These are all minor quibbles. Of course, the Nikon D7100 is a "flagship" camera that is affordable for ordinary consumers and acceptable for professional use. The ergonomic and well-designed control panel makes shooting a pleasure, and the resulting photos are simply gorgeous. If you'd like to save money and don't have any prejudice against a smaller sensor, consider this camera as an alternative to the D600.