LCD, viewfinder and video
Another feature shared by the D800 and D4 is the 3.2in LCD screen. The screen is slightly bigger than the 3in version in the last generation of models, but the 921,000-dot resolution remains. A sensor next to the screen detects the ambient light and adjusts the brightness, contrast and saturation accordingly.
This function means that in a variety of lighting conditions the screen will appear the same to the eye and viewable even in bright light. The LCD screen also features a new glass-and-panel design for an improved viewing angle, thanks in part to a resin between the glass and screen where previously there was an air pocket.
Unlike the D700, the D800’s viewfinder has a 100% frame coverage, which is excellent for precise framing. It is also bright to aid focusing, although for critical focusing it is best to use the LCD screen with focus magnification.
When a crop mode is selected, the electronic overlay in the viewfinder displays a marker to indicate the frame edges. An option for shading out the unused areas of the frame would be useful because it is easy to forget where the crop is effective. Wideangle DX lenses display a cutoff in the corners, but not in the final image. Another display in the viewfinder (and LCD) is for the dual-axis virtual horizon, which can be brought up by pressing a function button.
With the high resolution of the D800, not only is Nikon setting a benchmark for stills cameras, but it is also aiming at the video market. It is possible to capture high-quality, full HD (1080p) footage for a maximum 29mins 59secs recording time. Enthusiast film-makers will appreciate full-time contrast-detection AF in movie capture, with face priority and subject-tracking AF available.
Furthermore, connections are included for an external mic with 20 adjustment levels, sound level monitoring, headphones and clean HDMI output at 1080p/720p for live view, without compression. As I mention in Focal points, edits to video files can be made in-camera.
