Nikon 1 J3 review – Dynamic range
The Nikon 1 J3 has a dynamic range of approximately 11EV, which by today’s standards is rather modest. However, in most real-world situations, such as a high-contrast landscape, it is difficult to note real differences between this camera and some entry-level DSLRs that officially test more favourably. Some highlight clipping can occur, so it is worth making use of the settings to increase tonal detail, such as Active D-Lighting.
A creative mode I regularly used is ‘backlighting’, to which HDR can be added. This is ideal for high-contrast landscapes because the tonal detail in the sky can be kept, but the midtone and shadow details are brightened. Rather than the overall exposure looking dull, it looks – for want of a better word – dynamic.
