Nikon Unveils Innovative D5 Pro DSLR

Nikon unveiled its newest professional DSLR at the Consumer Electronics Show in January. Touted by Nikon as a game changer, the camera has impressive low light capabilities and boasts most powerful processor ever.

According to Nikon, “The low light performance of the D5 might make it a legend.” The native ISO range of 100 to 102,400 (expandable to Hi-5, ISO 3,280,000) is the largest to date in a Nikon full-frame DSLR.

The AF system is also completely redesigned. It features a 153 focus points, 99 cross-type sensors and a dedicated processor. According to Nikon, the D5 works in near darkness (EV -4) and will allow photographers to capture images that they may not have previously attempted due to light conditions. The camera also features a new 180K pixel RGB metering system and Advanced Scene Recognition System, which is tended to produce balanced exposures and optimum white balance even when shooting in challenging light conditions.

Below are several other key features:

• New 20.8MP FX-format CMOS image sensor and EXPEED 5 image processing
• 4K Ultra High Definition (UHD) video recording and pro-grade video features, such as full HD 1080p video at a variety of frame rates, uncompressed HDMI out, simultaneous live view and headphone/microphone connections.
• 12 fps continuous shooting with full AF and AE performance; delivers up to 200 shots in a single burst
• High resolution XGA Touchscreen LCD with a smartphone-like interface

Looking at the design and model(s)

Photographers can opt for a model with dual Compact Flash slots or dual XQD card slots (which are which are up to 35 percent faster than CF cards). Nikon has also improved the camera’s built-in Ethernet connection, with for image transfer speeds up to 1.5x faster than the D4S.

The body design and button/dial placement will be familiar to Nikon devotees. As with other flagship models, the rugged D5 can survive the elements — it is dust and weather-sealed with a magnesium alloy body. For owners of Nikkor camera lenses, the D5 features the popular “F” lens mount.

The D5 is currently available for preorder on sites such as Amazon.com and is expected to be available at the end of March. It will sell for $6,500.