Full frame SLR camera. Full frame cameras - pros and cons

Transition to a new, more high level shooting involves purchasing a professional camera with a full-frame sensor. Choosing such a camera is not an easy task, as it requires maximum attention to the capabilities and features of the camera. In addition, different models cost differently and it is important for the buyer to know what he is giving his money for.

In our comparison today, we will look at full-frame Nikon cameras. Over the past five months, there have been changes in the camera line significant changes. Updated models have appeared that require our attention. In this article we will compare cameras that appeared in the fall of 2013 and those whose release was announced in the first half of 2014. Let's start with a brief analysis of the main functions of each, and then compare the technical characteristics.

Nikon DF full frame camera

A full-frame camera with a retro style, the Nikon DF was announced on November 5, 2013. The camera is a stylish and high-quality tool for effective shooting. Outwardly, it resembles the best Nikon film cameras, which were popular back in the 70s and 80s. The front of the camera looks like Nikon FM.

Most of the technical capabilities of the model coincide with the characteristics of the Nikon D610 camera. The image processor and autofocus system were borrowed from this model. Nikon DF matrix with a resolution of 16 megapixels, the same as that of the flagship D4 model. The most important advantage of the camera is its compatibility with the entire line of Nikon lenses.

Key features of Nikon DF

• 16-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor (same as the D4);
• ISO 100-25600 (expandable to ISO 50 – 204800);
• Maximum continuous shooting 5.5 fps;
• 39-point AF system with 9 cross-shaped AF points;
• 3.2-inch LCD display with a resolution of 921 thousand dots;
• Compatible with all Nikon F-Mount lenses (including pre-Ai standard);
• Single SD card slot;
• Battery EN-EL14a (records 1400 frames on one charge).

The name for Nikon DF was not chosen by chance. The combination of the letters “D” and “F” indicates the fusion of new and old. The camera, which looks like the flagships of the once popular “F” series, has all the best technical qualities of the modern “D” series.

The Nikon DF boasts a full-size sensor, a 39-point autofocus system, and a maximum shooting speed of 5.5 frames per second. The LCD display on the back of the camera has a resolution of 921 thousand dots and its diagonal is 3.2 inches.

Lack of video in Nikon DF

A striking feature of the Nikon DF is the lack of video recording capabilities. Today, when almost every camera allows you to shoot videos, it is surprising to see a camera that does not have this ability. The decision to abandon video filming was not made by chance. Nikon engineers decided that the presence of video would make the Nikon DF too modern; it would be an ordinary DSLR dressed in a retro style that did not convey the magical spirit of film cameras. This is a professional camera for serious people who strive for pure photography.

Nikon DF viewfinder

The Nikon DF optical viewfinder is very large, the same size as the D800. A large viewfinder with 100% coverage is a necessary feature for a camera that should capture the spirit of old film flagships. Thus, the F3's viewfinder is significantly larger than that of the new Nikon DF, even though this model is equipped with one of the largest modern viewfinders.

Lens included with Nikon DF

The Nikon DF full-frame camera comes complete with a fast 50 mm F1.8G AF-S Nikkor lens, which has also been improved and is slightly different from similar models. The main difference between the lens is its appearance; the camera was designed in such a way as to match the style of Nikon DF itself.

Nikon DF price

Nikon DF can be purchased in two color options - silver and black. The camera costs $2,750 if you buy the model without a lens, and $3,000 if the Nikon DF is purchased with the AF-S Nikkor 50mm F1.8G.

Nikon D610 full frame camera

The Nikon D610 SLR camera was introduced on October 8, 2013, it replaced the Nikon D600, which went on sale in 2012. The success of the sale of the previous model was very doubtful due to a serious omission on the part of Nikon engineers. The fact is that immediately after the D600 appeared on the market, users began to complain about the accumulation of dust in the camera. The appearance of the Nikon D610 brought a number of improvements and a solution to the problem with dust in the matrix. In addition, the camera has improved automatic white balance and an updated shutter.

The Nikon D610 professional camera is equipped with a 24.3 megapixel sensor, a 39-point autofocus system and shoots at 6 frames in burst mode. The camera also features a silent focusing mode at 3 frames per second.

Key features of Nikon D610

• 24.3 megapixel full-frame sensor and DX mode with shooting with a resolution of 10.5 megapixels;
• ISO 100-6400 (expandable to ISO 50-25600);
• Continuous shooting speed 6 frames per second. In Quiet Continuous mode, the continuous shooting speed is 3 frames per second;
• 39 point AF system with 9 cross focus points
• Accurate automatic white balance;
• Display, 3.2 inches diagonal with a resolution of 921 thousand dots;
• Dual SD memory card slot;
• Video recording in 1080p30 format.

Video recording in Nikon D610

The D610 has many of the same video features as the D800, including the ability to record HD video at 30 frames per second. The camera has a 3.5 mm jack for headphones and a stereo microphone, as well as manual audio control. The quality of videos created by Nikon D610 is very good. Automatic exposure and white balance allow you to capture beautiful, natural colors. Videos can be recorded at 30, 25 or 24 frames per second. The D610 uses H.264/MPEG-4 data compression and optimizes motion capture while maintaining high video quality. Videos can be shot in any FX or DX mode of the camera.

The disadvantage is the presence of a mono microphone, while mid-range cameras, such as the Nikon D5300, are already equipped with stereo microphones.

Autofocus in Nikon D610

Nikon D610 autofocus is represented by a system of 39 points, of which 9 are cross-shaped sensors. Although there are a lot of focal points, they are all concentrated closer to the center of the frame, which gives less freedom when photographing sports or wildlife events.

As for focus performance, when working with good lighting, there are no complaints about the accuracy and speed of autofocus. Some errors may occur when shooting in semi-darkness. During continuous shooting, the Nikon D610's autofocus is also accurate.

Lens included Nikon D610

Nikon D610 DSLR camera is sold complete with universal lens 24-85 mm F 3.5-4.5 G ED VR. The lens covers the optimal range of focal lengths for most shooting situations.

Nikon D610 price

A camera complete with a 24-85 mm F3.5-4.5 G ED VR lens will cost about $2,600. In addition, it is possible to purchase a camera with other lenses or purchase only the body. If you buy only the case, the cost will be $2000.

Professional camera Nikon 4Ds

Nikon 4Ds was announced on February 25, 2014. The professional camera replaced the previous Nikon 4D model. And despite the fact that the cameras are very similar, the new model has a number of improvements. Nikon has equipped the 4Ds with a new EXPEED4 image processor, which allows the camera to create more photos and videos on a single battery charge. The camera supports 1080 60p video recording and has better performance when shooting at high ISOs. The camera has a large buffer and processes data 30% faster than the previous model.

The Nikon 4Ds professional camera allows you to record data in parallel to an external recorder and memory card, allowing simultaneous image viewing and uncompressed video recording via HDMI.

Key features of Nikon 4Ds

• 16-megapixel full-frame matrix;
• ISO 100-25600 (expandable to ISO 50 - 409600);
• 51 point autofocus system (same as D4);
• Shooting 11 fps with continuous autofocus;
• Video recording 1080/60p.;
• CompactFlash and XQD memory card slots;
• Battery EN-EL18a (3020 shots on one charge).

Autofocus Nikon 4Ds

Despite the fact that the camera's focusing system remains the same, and Nikon 4Ds, like Nikon 4D, has 51 focusing points, company representatives claim that the focus algorithm itself has been significantly improved.

Nikon has revised the mirror mechanism, thereby allowing you to shoot not only at a higher speed during continuous shooting, but also making focusing better and more accurate. Models in this series have always been the best in terms of wildlife and sports photography, and Nikon 4Ds is no exception. Nikon 4Ds shoots at 11 frames per second with continuous focus. At the same time, the camera's buffer allows you to shoot for approximately 19 seconds without stopping.

Another advantage of nature photography is a special function that automatically switches focus points when the camera is rotated. If you shoot in a horizontal position and suddenly turn the camera vertically, the focus points will immediately be replaced by those corresponding to the new orientation of the camera. Nikon 4Ds provides five-point group focusing for greater accuracy and best quality result.

Nikon 4Ds video recording

One of the important innovations of the camera is the shooting of videos in 1080 format with a frequency of 60p and 50p. Nikon 4Ds shoots one video for 10 minutes, after which there is a short pause and video recording resumes. The D4S allows you to simultaneously shoot video and broadcast it to a large screen via a dedicated HDMI port.

Lens included in Nikon 4Ds and price

The Nikon 4Ds professional camera comes without a lens, but is compatible with all Nikon F-mount models. The 4Ds can be purchased for about $6,500.

Professional camera

On June 26, Nikon announced the release of a new model of the full-frame camera D810, which replaced the D800. The Nikon D810 is a professional DSLR camera equipped with a huge 36.3 megapixel CMOS sensor (without optical low-pass filter) and an EXPEED 4 image processor. The camera has an ISO range of 64 to 12,800, expandable to 32-51200 units. The camera's shutter mechanism has been changed, and the first curtain has been replaced with an electronic one, this helps reduce the risk of shutter shake during photography.

The D810 offers high-quality HD video recording at 1080/60p/24p, with manual control over exposure, focus and audio controls. Nikon D810, like the flagship 4Ds camera, allows you to simultaneously record video to a memory card and broadcast it to the display, thanks to the HDMI port.

Key features of Nikon D810

• 36.3-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor (no low-pass filter);
• ISO 64-12800 (extended to ISO 32-51200);
• Expeed 4 image processor;
• 5 frames per second continuous shooting in full resolution;
• Display with a diagonal of 3.2 inches and a resolution of 1229 thousand dots;
• Improved scene recognition system;
• 51-point autofocus system with group focus;
• Auto ISO is available in manual exposure mode;
• Parallel video recording and broadcast via HDMI;
• Built-in stereo microphone.

Lack of OLPF and ISO 64 filter in Nikon D810

The Nikon D810 matrix has a resolution of 36 megapixels, but does not have an anti-aliasing filter, or, as it is also called, a low-pass filter. This allows you to take not just large pictures with the camera, but photographs with maximum clarity and sharpness. The engineers worked hard, and now, despite the fact that there is no OLPF, the risk of the moire effect is minimal.

The Nikon D810's light sensitivity range starts at 64 ISO and can be expanded to 32 ISO, allowing you to shoot at long shutter speeds even in bright sunny weather, creating original slow-motion photos.

Replacing the first curtain

For high-quality shooting with long exposures, it is important that there is no slightest vibration or shake in the camera. To minimize vibrations, the first Nikon D810 curtain was replaced with an electronic one.

Group autofocus in Nikon D810

The presence of group autofocus in the camera allows you to take photographs using the D810 at several points at once. The camera focuses on a point and automatically activates neighboring points for focus. As a result, we get a group of five points on which the focus occurs. The presence of this mode allows you to make more accurate and better adjustments to the subject, and when shooting moving objects, the risk of making a mistake in focus will be minimal.

Lens included Nikon D810 and price

The professional Nikon D810 camera comes without a lens and costs over $3,300. If you want to purchase a model complete with optics, please contact your sales representative. Often, when purchasing expensive cameras, there is a discount on certain lenses.

Now is the time to look at the basic settings of all four full-frame cameras. After reviewing the table, we will summarize and decide which full-frame camera is suitable for this or that type of shooting, and also note the main advantages of each model.

Nikon cameras DF, Nikon D610, Nikon 4Ds and Nikon D810 along with a 50mm f/1.8 lens

Options	Nikon DF	Nikon D610	Nikon 4Ds	Nikon D810
Cost of the camera	$2750 (body only), $3000 (with 50mm F1.8 lens)	$2000 (body only), $2600 (with 24-85mm F3.5-4.5 lens)	6500 $	3300-3600 $
Housing material	Magnesium alloy	Magnesium alloy (top and back) and polycarbonate	Magnesium alloy	Magnesium alloy
Maximum frame size	4928 x 3280	6016 x 4016	4928 x 3280	7360 x 4912
Effective sensor resolution	16 megapixels	24 megapixels	16 megapixels	36 megapixels
Matrix size	Full frame (36 x 23.9 mm)	Full frame (35.9 x 24 mm)	Full frame (36 x 23.9 mm)	Full frame (35.9 x 24 mm)
Sensor type	CMOS	CMOS	CMOS	CMOS
CPU	Exped 3	Exped 3	Expedition 4	EXPEED 4
Color space	SRGB, AdobeRGB	SRGB, Adobe RGB	SRGB, AdobeRGB	SRGB, AdobeRGB
ISO	100 - 25600 (expandable to 50-204800)	100 - 6400 (expandable to 50 - 25600)	100-25600 (expandable to 50-409600)	64-12800 (expandable to ISO 32-51200)
White balance presets	12	12	12	12
Custom White Balance	Yes (4)	Yes (4)	Yes (4)	Yes (6)
Uncompressed format	RAW+TIFF	RAW	RAW+TIFF	RAW+TIFF
File Format	JPEG (EXIF 2.3), RAW (NEF), TIFF	JPEG, NEF (RAW): 12 or 14 bit	NEF 12 or 14-bit, NEF+JPEG, TIFF, JPEG	JPEG (Exif 2.3, DCF 2.0), RAW (NEF), TIFF (RGB)
Autofocus		Contrast, Phase, Multi-Zone, Center Weighted, Single Point, Tracking, Continuous, Face Detection, Live View	Contrast, Phase, Multi-Zone, Center Weighted, Single Point, Tracking, Continuous, Face Detection, Live View	Contrast, Phase, Multi-Zone, Center Weighted, Single Point, Tracking, Continuous, Face Detection, Live View
Number of focus points	39	39	51	51
Lens mount	Nikon F	Nikon F	Nikon F	Nikon F
Display	Fixed	Fixed	Fixed	Fixed
Screen size	3.2 inches	3.2 inches	3.2 inches	3.2 inches
Screen resolution	921000	921000	921000	1229000
Viewfinder	Optical (pentaprism)	Optical (pentaprism)	Optical (pentaprism)	Optic
Viewfinder coverage	100%	100%	100%	100%
Minimum shutter speed	30 sec	30 sec	30 sec	30 sec
Maximum shutter speed	1/4000 sec	1/4000 sec	1/8000 sec	1/8000 sec
Exposure Modes		Manual, semi-automatic modes with shutter speed and aperture priority, Programmable mode	Manual, semi-automatic modes with shutter speed and aperture priority, Programmable mode with flexible settings	Manual, semi-automatic modes with shutter speed and aperture priority, Programmable mode
Built-in flash	No	Yes	No	Yes
External flash support	Through the hot shoe	Through the hot shoe	Through the hot shoe	Through the hot shoe
Flash Modes	Auto, High-speed sync, Front-curtain sync, Rear-curtain sync, Red-eye reduction	Auto, On, Off, Red-eye reduction, Slow sync, Rear curtain sync	Auto, High-Speed ​​Sync, Front-Curtain Sync, Rear-Curtain Sync, Red-Eye Reduction, Red-Eye Reduction + Slow Sync, Slow Rear-Curtain Sync, Off	Front-curtain sync, Slow sync, Rear-curtain sync, Red-eye reduction, Red-eye reduction + Slow sync, Slow rear-curtain sync
Flash sync speed	1/250 sec	1/200 sec	1/250 sec	1/250 sec
Shooting mode	Single, Continuous, Silent Focus, Self-timer		Single, Continuous, Continuous High Speed, Quiet Focus, Self-timer	Single, Continuous, Continuous High Speed, Quiet Focus, Self-timer
Continuous shooting	6 frames per second	6 frames per second	11 frames per second	5 frames per second
Self-timer	Yes (2, 5, 10 or 20 sec)	Yes	Yes (2-20 seconds, up to 9 frames at 0.5, 1, 2 or 3 second intervals)	Yes (2, 5, 10, 20 sec up to 9 frames)
Exposure compensation	± 3 (1/3 EV steps)	± 5 (in steps of 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV, 2/3 EV and 1 EV)		± 5 (in steps of 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV and 1 EV)
White Balance Compensation	Yes (2 or 3 frames in increments of 1/3 and 1/2)	Yes (2 or 3 frames in increments of 1, 2 and 3)	Yes (2-9 frames in increments of 1, 2 or 3)	Yes (2-9 frames in steps of 1, 2 and 3)
Microphone	Mono	Mono	Mono	Stereo
Types of memory cards	SD/SDHC/SDXC cards	SD/SDHC/SDXC x 2 slots	CompactFlash, XQD	SD / SDHC / SDXC, CompactFlash (UDMA compatible)
USB	USB 2.0 (480 Mbps)	USB 2.0 (480 Mbps)	USB 2.0 (480 Mbps)	USB 3.0 (5 Gbps)
Wireless connection	via WU-1a	mobile adapter Wu-1b	WT-5A or WT-4A	WT-5A or Eye-Fi
weather seal	Yes		Yes (Water and dustproof)	Yes
Battery	Battery	Battery	Battery	Battery
Battery Description	EN-EL14/EN-EL14a	EN-EL15	EN-EL18a	EN-EL15
Battery life (CIPA)	1400	900	3020	1200
Weight (incl. batteries)	760 grams	850 grams	1350 grams	980 grams
Dimensions	144 x 110 x 67 mm	141 x 113 x 82 mm	160 x 157 x 91 mm	146 x 123 x 82 mm

Let's sum it up

The most impressive, and at the same time the most expensive camera in the comparison is the Nikon 4Ds. The camera is equipped with the latest processing processor and has an impressive ISO range. The camera's focusing system consists of 51 points, and the focusing speed is impressive. A professional camera is initially designed for photographing active events - sports and wildlife. The continuous shooting speed is 11 frames per second, and the buffer can hold up to 200 photos. Of course, you can shoot with a camera in a studio, but there is no point in buying it just for this purpose, since for these purposes you can buy a cheaper camera, for example Nikon D810 or Nikon D610. The camera's self-timer mode allows you to shoot up to 9 frames with different shutter delays, and also gives you the ability to shoot with a delay of up to 20 seconds. Nikon 4Ds has a weather seal that protects not only from cold weather, but also from moisture and dust. On one battery charge you can shoot more than 3000 frames. The camera's fantastic capabilities make it possible to create incredible shots.

Next on the list is the Nikon D810. This high-performance camera produces images in huge resolution, allowing you to print them in large size, or crop if necessary. Photosensitivity capabilities make it possible to shoot with long shutter speeds, even in bright light. The autofocus system consists of 51 points distributed evenly throughout the frame. In addition, the model is equipped with a display with the highest resolution. Continuous shooting of the Nikon D810 is only 5 frames per second. This is not much from a photography point of view, but quite impressive considering that the matrix resolution is 36 megapixels. A professional camera allows you to take photographs both in the studio and outdoors.

Nikon D610 is Nikon's cheapest full-frame camera. It hides a lot of interesting features and delivers incredible performance. This is the ideal camera for those photographers who want to switch to shooting with a professional camera. The camera has high resolution matrix and shoots 6 frames per second. It has a weather seal that protects against adverse conditions - rain, snow and dust. This is not a camera for those new to photography, but a camera for those starting a professional photography career.

The Nikon DF is a converted Nikon D610 with some features from the Nikon 4D. This is a stylish and expensive camera for true connoisseurs of quality and design. There is probably no more beautiful and fashionable SLR camera than the Nikon DF. But style is not the main advantage of the model; it hides excellent performance and allows you to take high-quality photographs. Don't forget that the camera costs almost $750 more than the Nikon D610, and you're paying a lot of that money for the camera's design.

For six months now I have been the very happy owner of a Canon EOS 6D and, having shot more than 15,000 frames during this time, I can reliably talk about its pros and cons. But first, a little about your activities and the reason for the purchase.

I am a professional photographer in a small town. I specialize in family, children's, studio, wedding, fashion photography and related areas of photography. At the beginning of the summer of 2016, my old Canon 500D, which served me faithfully for 8 (!) years, broke down, there was no point in repairing such an old camera, savings did not allow me to take a swing at 5Dm3, but I really wanted to switch to FF - under these conditions, there was a choice only one is obvious.

The camera cost me about 86,000 (with a price of about 105,000 in official partner stores, i.e. suppliers of “white” equipment, at that time). No, it was not purchased from famous Indians at VDNH. The discount of almost 20 thousand was obtained due to the already annual cashback from Canon and coupons from the Svyaznoy store, Googled in 10 minutes. Nowadays you can buy a camera even cheaper if you follow the same scheme. Well, or go to stores with gray equipment.

General impressions of the camera: I’m completely satisfied with it, it’s enough for work, new opportunities have opened up. But you need to understand that the camera is NOT DESIGNED for dynamic reporting. I was slightly shocked by some reviews in which people complain about focusing or rate of fire - my dears, this is all indicated in the camera’s characteristics, why buy a device that has nothing to do with your type of activity, and then blame the mirror?

It’s perfect for leisurely creative photography! At the end of the review, I’ll tell you how not to make a mistake when choosing a camera and what to look for when buying.

What pleased you with the 6D?

1. Good working ISOs

This is the most important plus and an inexhaustible source of joy for me. With my old camera, I couldn’t even dream of shooting at ISO 2000-4000, which meant that entire genres were closed to me, and the picture in dimly lit rooms was indigestible. Now everything has changed, I have gained greater freedom, in the twilight of a restaurant I no longer necessarily grab a flash, in simple Soviet apartments there is enough light from the window, you can safely experiment with night photo shoots and even astrophotography. But photos can speak louder than a thousand words:

Filmed in a closed church, cloudy day, the only light source is a medium-sized window:

At 100% magnification:

The quality is more than acceptable for use on the web, a personal album, and even for A4 printing.

And here is a photo from a report on the arrival of my regular client’s husband from the army. The train arrived at one in the morning, with only city illumination for illumination:

Same source + flash on the ground behind:

Light from a curtained window:

Suddenly, during the shooting, a strong thunderstorm began, in the blink of an eye it became dark, like late evening, and heavy rain poured:

The only light source is candles:

I think you understood my point. The camera is very friendly with high ISOs! Of course, at 8000 the mess starts, but this range is enough for work. With this camera I was able to see for the first time Milky Way without leaving the city!

2. Full frame and all that it entails

Wide-angle lenses have finally become so, and to use my favorite 135mm from Canon, you no longer need to travel 5 km per shoot. In general, the legs are resting

I almost never leave this lens, so this is important to me. Now sometimes I even manage to fit in a cramped studio with him. A few examples of photos with my favorite and 6D:

3.GPS and Wi-fi

Filming takes me to the craziest places, and not only hometown, but also throughout Russia, and sometimes beyond its borders, so keeping track of the map of your movements is a kind of little game for me. But unfortunately, GPS noticeably affects the camera’s operating time without recharging, so I don’t always keep it turned on. I often take one or two frames in a new place with GPS turned on, so that I have a mark that “I was here”

GPS is very accurate, determines the location with an accuracy of up to a meter, you can then see what happened during the shooting using the map tab in Lightroom or a program from Canon.

Here is a map from one of my photo days at one stable, it’s clear that during the 8 hours of shooting I did a fair amount of running:

4.Other nice little things

• The raw file size is noticeably smaller than on my old camera, but the resolution is higher.
• Long-lasting battery (can easily withstand an entire wedding or several smaller shoots without recharging)
• Uses SD cards (for me this is a plus, since there are a lot of SD cards left from the 500D and I didn’t have to buy cards of a different format)
• 3 different resolutions for raw (very useful when you know for sure that large photos are not boring)

And now about the unpleasant stuff:

I won’t find fault with the design and placement of the buttons (especially since it clearly wins in comparison with the 5Dm3), since this is a matter of individual preference and a matter of habit. The first time was difficult, changing settings required several seconds of “stupidity” on my part, since the controls were radically different from my previous camera. But this is a matter of practice, now I feel quite comfortable with it.

All of the listed disadvantages do not interfere with working in my genres, so my rating for the camera is 4.75, rounded to 5.

And now some photos under different lighting conditions.

The perfect golden hour

And now about how to choose a camera and not make a mistake.

The first question you should ask yourself is “who am I and why do I need a camera?”

Everything else will depend on the answer to this question. Here are the possible answers that come to my mind:

1) You are an amateur photographer, you know little about technical side photographs, you need a camera to

• photograph family, children, get-togethers with friends, parties, in general for social purposes. In this case, you definitely don't need a 6D, even if your friend has one and you like the photos from it. For these purposes, there are more budget solutions that are no worse and do not weigh more than a kilogram with a lens. Pay attention to the most budget DSLR models, and spend the saved money on a good fast lens and on-camera flash; in your case, much more will depend on them than on the camera. You can take a closer look at used cameras.
• take pictures while traveling, hiking, trips, in general for tourist purposes. You don't need a 6D either. Pay attention to mirrorless cameras with interchangeable lenses; when packing suitcases, long walks and on mountain trails, size will matter and every gram will count. The motivation to carry 1.5 kg of camera equipment with you disappears quite quickly when you go on 10 km walks in mountainous areas.
• shoot for yourself - macro, objects, portraits, in general for creative purposes. For you, I have the same advice as for the first point - a budget DSLR + a good lens. The 6D is only worth buying if the lion's share of your creativity is shooting in low light and your budget allows.

2) You are a professional or are going to become one in the near future, you need a camera to

• shoot a report, sporting events, club parties, etc., in general, everything that is in constant motion. The 6D will absolutely not suit you and its characteristics simply scream about it. Pay attention to the number of frames per second, the shortest shutter speed, the focusing system, and then choose according to your budget; reportage cameras sometimes cost half a million. Don't skimp on memory cards, as they can also affect your burst shooting speed.
• shoot portraits in the studio or outdoors, subjects, macro, in general, everything that allows you to shoot thoughtfully and slowly. 6D is perfect for these purposes for professionals of any level. In some circles there has been a somewhat snobbish attitude towards it, saying that it is not the most serious camera for a professional, but in my opinion this is a misconception, and thousands of professionals will support me in this. However, if you are a novice photographer, I would advise you to pay attention to more budget crops, you will always have time to change the camera when you realize that the crop has become cramped for you, but if you immediately invest in a full frame and end up with a photo you are not it will be a shame, and the camera will not be suitable for home purposes. Invest in lenses and lighting equipment - they play a much larger role in the final picture than the camera itself, and full frame- it’s not a magic wand and won’t automatically make your photos better, just keep practicing and learning, and you’ll always have time to switch to expensive equipment.

To summarize, I will say that 6D left a mostly positive impression, allowed me to expand my horizons, and opened up something that was previously inaccessible. And I can definitely recommend this camera. I hope that we have many more years of adventures ahead of us.

If you still have any questions after reading my review, write in the comments and I will definitely answer them.

@talentonatural77

We have selected the 10 best full frame SLR cameras for 2018. Studio heavyweights optimal for enthusiasts and two cameras for photojournalists.

Despite the fact that mirrorless cameras are advancing, you shouldn’t write off DSLRs too early. In this selection we included mid-range and top-end DSLR cameras.

1.Nikon D850

Nikon D850 is the company's flagship and, according to the editors, the best SLR camera on the market.

The 45.4 MP full-frame sensor delivers stunningly clear images with huge dynamic range and high operating ISO. Fast autofocus is provided by a 153-point system. Video recording available in 4K format with all necessary

Nikon's signature deep-grip, spill-resistant design and rotating touchscreen display provide incredible ease of use.

A 30.4 MP matrix and 61-point autofocus make this camera excellent options for professionals. With this resolution, you can shoot footage of any genre and not suffer from a clogged disk.

The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is one of the best DSLR cameras available today. Although it lost the top of the chart to the D850.

3.Nikon D810

Despite the release of the D850, this model is still a very powerful tool.

36.3 megapixel matrix, high detail, no AA filter, wide dynamic range and 1200 frames on one battery. The camera copes with scenes of any complexity thanks to the 51-point autofocus system from the reportage D4S.

It doesn't have a rotatable display, Wi-Fi or 4K, but it remains an excellent studio and reportage camera with water resistance and high resolution.

4. Canon EOS 5DS

If you need to get maximum resolution, then you should choose the Canon 5DS with its 50.6 megapixel matrix. This is the highest resolution among DSLR cameras today.

Stunning detail, low noise and good dynamic range make this camera ideal for the studio and landscape photographer.

The other side of the coin is slowness, lack of Wi-Fi and 4k video, and, of course, huge files requiring huge memory cards and hard drives.

5.Nikon D750

The first four places were taken by very expensive cameras. In 4th place is the Nikon D750, the main advantage of which is its affordable price.

The camera is equipped with a 24.3-megapixel matrix, a 51-point autofocus system and a high operating ISO. Camera body with water and dust protection like the D810, tilting display and built-in Wi-Fi.

Nikon D750 is a harmonious and affordable full-frame SLR camera.

6. Sony Alpha A99 II

https://www.instagram.com/digitalrev/

Strictly speaking, the Sony A99 II is a pseudo-DSLR; it is equipped with a translucent mirror and an electronic viewfinder. But still, half of it is a DSLR and therefore ends up in our selection.

Autofocus when shooting at 12 fps, a 42.2-megapixel matrix with back illumination, a built-in stabilizer and ample shooting capabilities in 4k format.

The flagship and best DSLR for photojournalists. D5 is attached to lenses at the Olympics and various world championships.

Everything in the camera is subordinated to one goal - to take the desired frame. 20.8 megapixel matrix, shooting speed 12 frames per second, unprecedented maximum sensitivity ISO 3,280,000. 173-point autofocus system.

The ability to shoot video in 4k is limited to 3 minutes. But these are minor things.

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A photojournalist chooses a camera based on the system his news agency uses.

The Canon 1D X Mark II received a 20.2 megapixel sensor, 61 focus points and a shooting speed of 14 frames per second, which is more than the D5.

The camera does not boast a huge maximum ISO, here it is weaker than the D5, but nevertheless, in low light the camera produces high-quality images even at high values.

9. Canon EOS 6D Mark II

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The specifications of the 6D Mark II are quite simple. 26.2 MP sensor, 45 autofocus points, rotating touch display and excellent autofocus performance in Live View.

The disadvantages are weak dynamic range and autofocus with small frame coverage.

The company has done a lot of work on the 6D Mark II and has made a nice camera for enthusiasts who want to upgrade to a full frame camera.

10. Pentax K-1 mark II

This is a unique and controversial DSLR camera.

The Pentax K-1 mark II is equipped with a time-tested 36-megapixel sensor with good dynamic range, serious weather protection, built-in GPS, the ability to shoot handheld in Pixel Shift mode, and a ton of features not available on other cameras on the market.

However, it also has a lot of weak points. The shooting speed is limited to 4.4 frames per second, there is no 4k video recording, and the autofocus area does not cover the entire frame.

P.S.

All these models have mirrorless cameras breathing in their backs. On this moment The market for full-frame mirrorless cameras is represented by the Sony A7R III and , which by their third iteration have become close to ideal. Plus the first reportage Sony A9. You won't see it in stadiums yet, but this is partly due to logistics.

Very soon, or more precisely on August 23, they will be joined by the first full-frame mirrorless Nikon Z, followed by the full-frame Canon. The timing of the announcement of the latter is not known, but reports are coming that Canon is trying its best to make it happen as soon as possible.

At the same time, do not forget mirrorless cameras with APS-C matrices. They become serious players. Especially Fujifilm with its X-H1 (read it, it's cool) and the future one, which we expect to see on.

Full-frame DSLR cameras are now at the peak of their popularity. There are several reasons for this. On the one hand, traditional SLR cameras have APS-C A strong competitor has appeared - mirrorless cameras, which, in terms of characteristics such as price and compactness, are superior to DSLR cameras.

On the other hand, more and more models of SLR cameras are moving towards the professional segment, receiving the filling of older models, including a full-frame matrix, becoming cheaper and moving from the category of purely professional cameras to the more widespread category of advanced cameras for amateur photographers.
A synonym for a top-end camera is the presence of full-frame full-frame matrix (FF), about which many people only know that FF is good.

Today we will try to answer popular questions from amateur photographers about full-frame cameras and help you navigate the current models.

The matrix in the camera is the case when size matters. The smallest matrices are usually used in mobile phones, a little more (1/2.3) - in point-and-shoot cameras and camera phones, even more (Micro 4/3, 1", APS-C) - in mirrorless cameras, APS-C (25.1x16.7 mm) - in regular SLR cameras , full-frame (36x24 mm) - in older models of SLR cameras. The full-frame sensor gets its name because it has the same dimensions as a full-frame 35mm film. Therefore, the focal length on lenses is usually indicated “in 35 mm equivalent.”

Low noise at high ISO values, shallow depth of field, wide dynamic range, smooth transitions in midtones - this is what (and in general everything) will affect the quality of photography when switching to an FF camera. Strictly speaking, a camera with a full-frame sensor is needed by those who want to use professional fast lenses more efficiently and shoot at high ISO values. A full-frame sensor is not one big plus.

Compared to cameras with APS-C sensors, FF cameras are much inferior in shooting speed. Also sensors with crop factor a larger unit will be more convenient for working with telephoto lenses.

In addition to size, the difference between a full-frame and a crop sensor is the increased frame space. The crop sensor increases the focal length in proportion to its crop factor. Shooting with an APS-C camera (crop factor 1.5) with a 50 mm lens, we will get photos that look like they were taken with a 75 mm lens. On the other hand, a full-frame sensor does not crop the image, which means that with the same 50 mm lens you can shoot landscapes and fit a much larger lens into the frame without using wide-angle lenses.

Before purchasing an FF camera, you should carefully study the list of compatible lenses, their prices, and remember that a full-frame camera is very demanding on the quality of the optics. Paired with a mid-price lens that blurs or darkens the image at the edges, it will not be able to reveal even part of the potential of a large matrix. And good optics cost a lot of money, from $400 to several thousand.

Fast prime lenses, including wide-angle ones, work great on full-frame cameras. Alternatively, you can start by purchasing a budget 50mm F/1.8 for the FF camera mount. But you will have to give up the available zooms, as well as a number of wide-angles - 10-22, 10-20, 11-16, 10-24.

In the entire history of digital full-frame cameras, only a few dozen models have gone on sale. Moreover, only three companies produce such equipment for the mass buyer - Canon, Nikon, Sony. The last full-frame Kodak camera was released in 2004, and the Pentax model shown in 2001 never went on sale, and not everyone can afford Leica cameras: average price for Leica M9 without lens is 140 thousand rubles.

Current models

Canon EOS 5D Mark III and Canon 6D

Average price without lens: 100 thousand and 60 thousand.

2012 brought an update to all existing full-frame cameras, including the legendary Canon 5D series.

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The Canon EOS 5D Mark III has received important updates in all respects: a new sensor, processor, display, autofocus system and two memory card slots, as well as expanded video recording capabilities. The new 3.2-inch screen has a resolution of 1.04 million dots, an anti-reflective transparent layer and protective glass with an additional anti-reflective coating. The camera can shoot in multiple exposure mode with various overlay methods and independently create HDR in four styles.

The DIGIC 5+ processor is 17 times faster than the processor in the Mark II, which in practice gives an increase in signal output speed from the matrix and almost doubles the shooting speed, from 3.9 to 6 frames per second. Paired with Canon lenses The camera itself corrects vignetting and removes chromatic aberrations. The Rate function, implemented for the first time in DSLRs from this manufacturer, allows you to compare fixed and automatic exposure on the camera screen. Accurate autofocus is ensured by a 61-point focusing system (instead of 9-point in the 5D Mark II), migrated from the older 1Dx. An important update also affected video recording: the length of the video was increased from 12 minutes to 30.

Another Canon camera occupied the niche between the crop 7D and full-frame 5D, and the appearance of an affordable FF model in the lineup allowed Canon to position the 5D as a more professional device. Full-frame, budget (key word), lightweight by the standards of FF DSLRs (only 770 g), the 6D has become a direct competitor to the Nikon D600.

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When comparing the specs of the 6D and the Mark III, there aren't many differences that stand out, although the cameras have a $1,500 price difference. The 6D matrix resolution is lower (20.2 million pixels versus 22.3 for the Mark 3), the rate of fire is lower (4.5 fps versus 6 fps), there is no second slot for a memory card, an 11-point focusing system instead of 61-point point. Strictly speaking, Canon presented a slightly modernized version of the Mark II in a compact body.

The 6D is comparable in size to the Canon 60D and is the most compact DSLR FF camera. From older cameras, the 6D received a fast DIGIC 5+ processor and a 3.2-inch screen with a resolution of 1.04 million dots. The second slot for a memory card is unlikely to be of interest to the potential audience of this camera (SD is used), but the built-in GPS and Wi-Fi modules will be very useful. Via Wi-Fi, pictures can be transferred to smartphones and tablets (available free apps for Android or iOS). Unfortunately, the camera can only work with EF optics—you’ll have to forget about the EF-S and EF-M mounts.

Nikon D600 and Nikon D800

Average price without lens: 56 thousand and 90 thousand.

The Nikon D700, released five years ago, was naturally opposed to the Canon 5D Mark 2, respectively, after the upgrade to Mark 3, the appearance of the D800 was quite expected. This time Nikon has released a full-frame camera with an incredibly high resolution (36 megapixels, image resolution is 7360 x 4912 pixels) and in two modifications - with and without a low-pass filter (D800E). Modification with antialiasing went on sale for $300 more. It's interesting that the D800 is no longer a stripped-down version of one of the company's older cameras, as was the case with the D700 and D3. However, the design and arrangement of elements on the body remained similar to the D700.

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In addition to the stunning 36-megapixel CMOS matrix, the camera has a 3.2-inch touchscreen display with a resolution of 921,000 dots and a viewing angle of 170 degrees - the same screen installed in the older Nikon D4. The screen is protected by durable Hardlex glass. Fun fact: Hardlex is used in Boeing aircraft cockpits.

Rate of fire is not the strong point of full-frame cameras. The D800 shoots at 4.6 frames per second, which is sufficient for many situations, not including sports and reportage shooting. But the new processor allows you to fully unleash the potential of the 51-point focusing system, including 15 cross-type sensors.

Finally, compared to the D700, the camera has received improvements in video recording. The length of a single video is still limited to 30 minutes, but when shooting, you can use DX mode (simulated APS-C) and shoot with lenses that simulate 1.5x magnification. You can connect an external microphone to the camera to record stereo sound, or settle for mono with the built-in microphone. A nice option is that the sound volume can be adjusted during shooting.

The Nikon D600 uses a viewfinder with 100% frame coverage. Professional cameras are produced without a built-in flash, but, realizing that the user does not always want to spend money on accessories, Nikon added a built-in flash to the D600.

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It comes in handy to break up shadows when shooting backlit, or can serve as a boost when shooting in the studio. Another important advantage of the camera is the focusing system, and here Nikon really has something to contrast with the 11-point focusing system of the Canon 6D: backlight, 39 points, 9 of which are cross-shaped. The D600 also has an interesting function of switching to DX mode, in which the camera simulates working with an APS-C sensor: the equivalent focal length of the lenses increases by 1.5 times, and the length of a series of images increases to 100 frames in JPEG and up to 30 in RAW versus 30 in JPEG and 15 in RAW in normal mode. The DX mode allows you to connect lenses from ASC cameras, which will be important if you are switching from crop to full frame, but cannot yet afford to upgrade all the necessary lenses. The built-in drive is useful for working with lenses without a built-in motor. Wi-Fi and GPS modules for the D600 will need to be purchased separately.

Sony Alpha a7 and Sony Alpha a99

Average price without lens: 60 thousand and 95 thousand.

Sony was the last to tackle full-frame cameras, but approached this issue in its own style: the company's first experiments concerned FF cameras with a translucent mirror, in which autofocus worked when recording video. The second major claim to success was the release of the full-frame compact RX1, which shook the general idea of ​​what an FF camera could look like. Next is the external full-frame camera lens QX10, attached to the smartphone. The icing on the cake is the announcement of two full-frame mirrorless cameras at once.

Sony Alpha a7 also marked the end of the history of NEX cameras; from now on, the Japanese plan to release mirrorless cameras in the Alpha series. Sony also refuses to use the word “mirror,” replacing it with the general wording “camera with interchangeable lenses.”

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The Sony Alpha a7 interchangeable lens camera is a tiny camera with a full-frame sensor, Wi-Fi and NFC modules, 117-point focusing and a high-quality flip-up display. The OLED electronic viewfinder has 100% frame coverage and 0.71x magnification. The Alpha a7 can operate in automatic and semi-automatic modes, with shutter priority, aperture priority, or fully manual settings. The mode wheel includes video recording, automatic panorama shooting and scene mode selection. Two variations of the camera are available for sale - with a low-pass filter (a7) and without it (a7r). The a7 uses a 24-megapixel sensor, and the a7r uses a 36-megapixel sensor. Main question when using the Sony Alpha a7 it is optics. Formally, the a7 is compatible with the E-mount (NEX lenses), but they are poorly suited for a full-frame sensor. So far, only 5 compatible lenses have been presented, and by the end of 2015, Sony plans to increase the fleet of FE optics to 16 models. You can use lenses from SLT-alpha using adapters LA-EA3 and LA-AE4.

To compete with the Canon EOS 5D Mark III and Nikon D800, Sony has the Alpha a99 model. Lightweight (only 733 g), with a high-quality flip-out and rotating OLED screen with a resolution of 2,300,000 dots, the a99 is aimed largely at videographers.

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Professional photographers may be put off by the electronic viewfinder and the far from capacious battery. Another weak point of the Alpha a99 was the focusing system (19 points in total, 11 cross-shaped), which the manufacturer compensates for with the function of manual control of the focusing range.

The full-frame sensor, combined with proprietary translucent mirror technology, allows you to record videos with automatic focus and Full HD resolution at 24/50/60 frames per second. Information about sound recording on both channels is displayed on the display, and professional sound settings are available via an XLR adapter.

From professional video cameras, the A99 controller for quickly changing shooting parameters for video recording is something that other camera manufacturers are not yet able to offer.

Results

Full-frame cameras for the mass market are a controversial phenomenon. On the one hand, the above advantages over cameras with an APS-C sensor are obvious.

On the other hand, without high-quality optics, purchasing an FF model may not meet expectations, but good lenses will require additional expenses. The lack of a built-in flash, considerable dimensions, weight - all these are also arguments against buying a full-frame camera for personal use, without the purpose of earning money. The exception is the compact full-frame Sony a7, but taking into account its high price for a mirrorless camera and the small range of compatible lenses, it can only be recommended for purchase by someone who clearly understands why he needs this particular camera.

One of the most important and basic parameters of any photographic equipment is size of the photosensitive sensor of the camera. And we are not talking here, but about the actual physical area of ​​the photosensitive element.

Previously, most photographers shot with film cameras, which used the so-called 35mm film(film standard since the distant 1930s). Those were quite a long time ago, and somewhere since 2000, digital SLR cameras (DSLRs) became very popular, the principle of operation of which remained the same as in film cameras, but instead of film, the digital SLR cameras began to use an electronic light-sensitive matrix, which forms the image .

That's just the price for making such a matrix hundreds of times more expensive than regular film. Due to the huge price of producing an analogue of 35mm film and the general complexity of manufacturing a huge matrix with millions of transistors, a number of manufacturers began to produce crop sensor cameras. Concept ‘ cropped matrix’ means that we are talking about a smaller matrix than the standard 35mm film size.

Crop factor(Crop – from English “ cut") is an indicator for cropped matrices; it measures the ratio of the diagonal of a standard 35mm film frame to the diagonal of the cropped matrix. The most popular crop factors among CZK are K=1.3, 1.5, 1.6, 2.0. For example, K=1.6 means that the diagonal of the camera matrix is ​​1.6 times smaller than the diagonal of a full-frame sensor or the diagonal of 35mm film.

In fact, not all central control cameras are equipped with a cropped matrix; now there are many cameras with a matrix size equal to the size of 35mm film, and K=1.0. Cameras that there is a matrix the size of a classic 35mm film, are called full frame digital SLR cameras.

Cropped cameras are usually APS-C cameras with K=1.5-1.6, or APS-H cameras with K=1.3. Full frame cameras are usually called Full Frame. For example, cropped APS-C Nikon cameras are called Nikon DX, and full-frame ones are called Nikon FX.

DX (cropped camera, APS-C type, K=1.5) 23.6 by 15.8 mm 372.88 sq.mm.

FX (full frame camera, K=1.0) has a matrix with dimensions of approximately 36 by 23.9 mm, the area of ​​such a matrix will be equal to 860.4 sq.mm

Now we divide the areas of the matrices and we get that the DX matrix is ​​smaller than the full-frame matrix in 2.25 times. To quickly calculate the real difference in the physical dimensions of a full-frame and cropped camera, just square the crop factor. So, DX cameras use a crop factor K=1.5, we find that the areas of DX and FX cameras differ by 1.5*1.5=2.25 times.

If we install a standard (for example) lens with a focal length of 50mm on a cropped camera and look through the viewfinder, we will see that the viewing angle has become narrower than with the same lens on a full-frame camera. Don't worry, there's nothing wrong with the lens, just because the sensor of a cropped camera is smaller, it only “cuts out” the central area of ​​the frame, as shown in the example below.

The difference between a cropped and full frame camera. The first photo was taken with a full frame camera and a 50mm lens, the second photo was taken with a cropped camera and the same lens. The viewing angle on the cropped camera has become smaller.

At the same time, many people have the opinion that the lens is changing - but this is just an illusion. In fact, the viewing angle that a person observes in the viewfinder changes, the lens does not change. - This physical quantity lens and it will remain the same on any camera. But because of this illusion, it is convenient to say that the visible image on a cropped camera is similar to a 75mm lens (50mm*1.5=75mm) when used on a full-frame sensor. That is, if you take two tripods and two cameras - one full-frame, the other cropped, and attach a lens with a focal length of 75mm to the full-frame one, and a lens with a focal length of 50mm to the cropped one - then in the end we will see an identical picture, since they have viewing angles will be the same.

Conclusions:

Cropped cameras (cropped matrices) are simply smaller matrices, and in order to understand the amount of matrix reduction, the concept of crop factor is used. The crop factor is convenient to use to obtain the EGF of lenses when using them on cropped cameras. To get the EGF of any lens, when using it on a cropped camera, just multiply the value focal length of this lens to the crop factor of the camera.

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