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The Nikon D3S exhibits FX-format multimedia versatility engineered for demanding pro use at up to 9 fps. Both still images and smooth 24 fps HD video render edge-to-edge sharpness, rich color and broad tonal range, while barrier-breaking performance enables low-noise shooting at ISO 12,800. What was once impossible is now reality thanks to Nikon ingenuity and exclusive technologies such as EXPEED image processing, reinforced by Nikon's Scene Recognition System.
- Dual CF Card Slots with Overflow, Backup and Copy Option
- Virtual Horizon Graphic Indicator
- Up to 4,300 Images per Battery Charge
Nikon-original FX-format CMOS Sensor
Newly engineered for striking image fidelity and low-noise, optimizing pixel size and count in a 12.1-megapixel sensor to produce extraordinarily rich files.
Low Noise ISO Sensitivity from 200 to 12,800
Renowned low-noise performance at 12,800, plus expanded settings to an astounding ISO 102,400 (equivalent) and ISO 100 (equivalent).
Continuous Shooting Up to 9 FPS
Secure exacting moments in time with an expanded buffer, allowing continuous capture of up to 82 JPEG (fine) or 36 14-bit NEF (RAW) images.
HD Video Capture
Record smooth 24 fps HD video, leveraging low noise D3S image quality along with high fidelity stereo sound capability.
One-button Live View with Two Shooting Modes
Two modes for studio or remote shooting?Tripod Mode offers 27x magnification for precise focus confirmation.
3-Inch Super-density 921,000-dot VGA LCD Monitor
D3S monitors are individually calibrated during assembly to assure accuracy.
Dynamic Integrated Dust Reduction System
Ultrasonic process combats the accumulation of dust on the optical low pass filter, safeguarding image quality.
Nikon EXPEED Image Processing
Drives breathtakingly rich image fidelity, low noise and fast image processing.
Fast, Accurate 51-Point AF System
4 Dynamic modes and 15 cross-type sensors deliver AF precision and razor sharpness.
1,005-Pixel 3D Color Matrix Metering II
Nikon-pioneered RGB metering includes color information to intelligently determine more accurate exposures.
Scene Recognition System
Referencing an onboard image database, teamed with RGB metering, SRS enhances exposure and white balance evaluation and improves AF speed and accuracy.
Rugged and Precise Magnesium Alloy Construction
Effectively protected from invasive dust, moisture and electromagnetic interference with a self-diagnostic shutter mechanism tested to exceed 300,000 cycles.
Nikon Picture Control
Four preset options and 9 customizable settings provide personalized style control.
The D3S is uniquely qualified to meet the changing needs of photographers whose assignments demand 100% from them and their equipment.
Leading with uncompromising FX-format multimedia versatility and engineered for demanding professional use at up to 9 fps, the D3S' rugged magnesium alloy construction, comprehensively sealed against dust and moisture, delivers on its promises of superiority.Exacting moments in time are captured to an expanded buffer, allowing continuous capture of up to 82 JPEG (fine) or 36 14-bit NEF (RAW) images.
Nikon's newly engineered, original 12.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, teamed with exclusive technologies such as EXPEED image processing, Nikon's Scene Recognition System and a fast, accurate 51-area AF system, work together to assure that both still and smooth 24 fps HD video files exhibit incredible edge-to-edge sharpness, rich color depth and broad tonal range, while barrier-breaking performance enables low-noise ISO sensitivity to 12,800.
Expanded ISO sensitivities of 25,600, 51,200 and an astounding 102,400, shatter many long-standing rules of photography. Audio to accompany HD video is preserved with a built-in microphone, while high fidelity stereo sound is recorded through the external Mic input using an optional microphone. More proven technologies include Nikon's renowned 1,005-pixel RGB 3D Color Matrix Metering II, assuring exacting exposure evaluation and white balance detection.
Precise image review and menu access comes to life with the D3S' tempered glass-protected and individually factory-calibrated 3-inch, 921,000-dot Live View monitor.
A self-diagnostic shutter, tested to beyond 300,000 cycles, and a myriad of inherent benefits stemming from decades of Nikon design experience, round out the D3S' qualifications
Customers most agreed on the following attributes:
from Fremont, Ca on 12/16/2010
Comments about Nikon Nikon D3S FX-format Digital SLR Camera (Body Only):
I love doing wildlife images, and with the D3s I can get into low early morning light with a high ISO and capture the images I want with out using flash and startle the animal. The 9 fps is a really great plus for flying birds that are landing on or taking off from water. Getting more action images of animals being animals. The down side is the cost, but to me the cost is worth it.
from San Diego on 10/5/2010
Comments about Nikon Nikon D3S FX-format Digital SLR Camera (Body Only):
[...] Very low price...
[1 of 1 customers found this review helpful]
from MD on 10/2/2010
Comments about Nikon Nikon D3S FX-format Digital SLR Camera (Body Only):
It is an amazing, extraordinary, and awesome camera! I have had it since August 2010 and I still am amazed. One can read articles reviews, websites material, and criticism about the Nikon D3s but until you have actually had the opportunity to use one, you just will not know.
As a side note, I did not buy the Nikon D3s for the video feature. I have used it several times and found that it is a neat feature. So the 720p vs 1280p argument did not matter to me. I still prefer a traditional handheld video camera for making videos.
Anyway, if you are ready to upgrade to the FX format or a new camera and want a superior DSLR camera that can perform in ANY situation then the Nikon D3s is it! Go for it!
from Mount Joy, PA on 9/28/2010
Comments about Nikon Nikon D3S FX-format Digital SLR Camera (Body Only):
I love the low light capability! This camera keeps amazing me every time I use it!
from Carlsbad on 9/28/2010
Comments about Nikon Nikon D3S FX-format Digital SLR Camera (Body Only):
I have D300 and I need higher ISO camera body. That's why I bought D3S and for the low light shooting, it never let me down.
from Ft. Mill, SC on 9/28/2010
Comments about Nikon Nikon D3S FX-format Digital SLR Camera (Body Only):
Great for sports photography and low light situations because of the high ISO capabilities
Comments about Nikon Nikon D3S FX-format Digital SLR Camera (Body Only):
I mainly use this camera to photograph sporting events. It works amazingly!!! The noise is remarkably low and the full frame FX sensor provides crisp, clear photos even when you have to crop extremely tight. I would recommend this to anyone as it is very east to use right out of the box.
Comments about Nikon Nikon D3S FX-format Digital SLR Camera (Body Only):
This is a real photography thing.
[5 of 6 customers found this review helpful]
from Memphis on 3/21/2010
Comments about Nikon Nikon D3S FX-format Digital SLR Camera (Body Only):
This is an outstanding pro-body. Excellent low light capability with quick and accurate auto-focus. While some may feel that the camera is heavy, it is actually lighter than the D300/MB-D10 combo.
[2 of 8 customers found this review helpful]
from westchester,ny on 3/7/2010
Comments about Nikon Nikon D3S FX-format Digital SLR Camera (Body Only):
a little heavy, can take a picture in your closet
record time on video could be longer, and it should be full 1080p not 720
[3 of 6 customers found this review helpful]
from Hayward, CA on 5/3/2008
Comments about Nikon Nikon D3S FX-format Digital SLR Camera (Body Only):
An excellent all-around action or wildlife lens. The magnesium casing makes this 300mm lens approximately one-pound lighter than comparable 300mm f/2.8 lenses. This lens is extremely sharp even when shooting wide-open at f/2.8. Also extremely sharp when used with TC-14e teleconverter. Very good autofocus when used with D1 or D2-series digital SLR cameras.