Nikon D3 review

The D3 is the successor to the pro-level D2Xs and is the first DSLR from Nikon to feature a full-frame Cmos sensor, bursts up to 9 frames per second and sensor sensitivity running to a genuine ISO6400.

The D3 improves on its predecessor with a new 51-point AF system, larger 3in VGA resolution colour monitor with auto-focus during Live View, and a 14-bit A/D conversion option in addition to the usual 12bit capture.

Like arch-rival Canon's Eos 1D Mk III, the D3 is built for high-speed operation - and packing a 12.1-megapixel full-frame sensor, it is also likely to appeal to imaging creatives pitching for high-value location and studio work.

File size roughly matches that of the departing D2Xs and easily interpolates to the minimum 50MB standard required of picture libraries. As an added incentive, unlike Nikon's semi-pro D300, the 14-bit capture option available for Raw capture doesn't slow down the D3's blazing speed.

The D3 may share a similar number of pixels with the D2Xs but the physically larger sensor means that each one is larger. This accounts for the D3's genuine maximum ISO6400 sensitivity with an approximate two-stop gain control up to an unprecedented ISO25,600.

Like other pro models on the market, the D3 is built tough and boasts a large magnesium alloy body along with both vertical and horizontal grips, and some duplicated controls for convenience.

Other than a larger glass prism and viewfinder, the D3 looks very similar to the D2 models and the layout remains largely unchanged. Some of the oversize buttons now have clearer labelling while both fore and aft selector dials, which are used for exposure control, are slightly slanted for improved operation.

Overall the body is bigger though and the weight has increased by 170g, about 10%. Despite that, we think the balance isn't impaired at all and with the much larger and brighter viewfinder, the D3's handling is a step up from the D2Xs.

Some Nikon users may lament the loss of the 11-point AF system but the 51-point variant here, with its 15 ultra-sensitive cross-type sensors tightly grouped in the centre, works well. This AF system is shared with the semi-pro D300 but focus detection covers a smaller area overall because of the larger full-frame sensor. Over our test period we found it just as suitable for fast-moving subjects but when compared to the earlier 11-point version, the options are extensive, resulting in a steeper learning curve.

Nevertheless it works well when used with the maker's AF-S lenses and arguably the layout is superior to the Canon system on the latest pro-Eos models. And, as you would expect, the D3 is compatible with Nikon's extensive range of Nikkor lenses.

Although rivals also sport large 3in displays, the D3 boasts a higher resolution 920k pixel panel with superb colour accuracy, gradation and detail. It lacks the cover of earlier models but the tempered glass screen appears suitably robust, though like others it's prone to smearing and some reflection.

Two Live View modes are offered - one hand-held, using the camera's 51-point phase detection AF; the other a handy tripod option that adopts a slower-focusing contrast-detection system.

Few users are likely to relish the hand-held route other than for occasional overhead shooting perhaps. But there are real benefits to be had from the tripod mode for still-life work and some macro applications. In this mode, using the camera's well-shaped d-pad, you can place a small rectangular focus detection point anywhere on the screen and when using manual focus, enlarge the area up to 10x in magnification. This produces super-accurate results.