Find a used Nikon DF at MPB and support the the channel by using the links below: MPB US, prf.hn/l/55Mbp8x MPB UK, prf.hn/l/8jyv0Ap MPB EU, prf.hn/l/G9yZkMp
True story, Nikon photographer for 40 years. Journalism, sports, studio work I did it all. I had come to dislike the sterile look of DSLRs and wanted something I was familiar with in my film days. Here it gets crazy. A buddy and I drove to a casino, I put a few dollars in a slot machine and won 3,000 dollars. I immediately drove to the camera store and bought this camera. I've loved it ever since. Thanks casino!
@@odyseuszkoskiniotis6266 because all the companies have a similar product, fuji has the X pro 3.( despite the fact DF is full frame and its better in low light). A small-medium size full frame with a fantastic sensor for mainly photography. The DF is great the way it is it just needs an updated sensor (D5 or D850) with 20-25 megapixels.
Wife: "Why did you just buy such an expensive camera"? Me: "Mattias Burling said it's awesome" Wife: "And if Mattias Burling said jumping off a cliff was awesome would you do that too" ? Me: "I'd probably have 5 good reasons"
It seems a lot of commenters still miss one huge point of this camera. It is a DSLR with physical controls. Or to be more precise, the only DSLR with physical controls (at least to my knowledge). It is about Operational Speed. Not missing the action while fiddling with menus and trying to see tiny displays. Having to use one, two or even three different buttons to change a simple part of the exposure triangle. Its why many choose Fuji or Leica. And if shooters like us also fancy a small full frame DSLR.. then this is it. The DF is a unique camera. There are no alternatives to it. Its the DF or nothing. And IMO it has NOTHING to do with looks. I actually don't find it very good looking compared to many cameras. With that said I feel the $1-1200 price tag is what it is. Since there is nothing to compare to within the context of the genre.. why go on about it. I think its affordable if not down right cheap.
I personally think that Kai at DigitalRev played a major part in discrediting this camera in his video. In that video I think he was foolish. Photographers from old school film and manual control including focus, understand and appreciate physical control. New the price is €2.549 in Germany... that is not cheap when there is a wife to persuade :) A.,
Hey Mattias, you have used a Nikon d750 before, how do you find the colors from the D750 compare to the DF? Over here in the USA, the DF is more like $1800
@@AlexJacksonSmith Kai is a terrible photographer and his humour is a bit like a sub par Jeremy Clarkson's. As such I don't take his opinion very seriously.
Hmmm... I don't think TheNickle got the joke on that one... "For the Toooaster??? Noooo... I think I'll absorb the risk on this one. Cause that's how I Liiiiiiiive... on the eeeeegde!! Hahahahahaha!! John Pinette!! RIP
I have a Df. It takes beautiful images. As you say the High ISO performance and dynamic range of the camera are really good. Plus the battery lasts ages on a single charge.
I have two Df bodies, it’s my favorite camera EVER. It’s such a delight to use, I often go out and shoot just because I want to feel it in my hand. I have three Ai-S lenses, 28mm f/2.8 (CRC), 50mm f/1.2 and 105mm f.1.8 and I feel like this is the way it was designed to be used. It’s awesome with manual lenses. If the new mirrorless bodies are like the Df, I’m already sold. Heard they’re working on a 55mm f/0.95!
Michael Neebul how does the manual focus work on the DF? Curious, I am interested in getting one, but being used to the Fuji X system and it’s focus peaking has spoiled me some, can you speak on the focus assistance that it has (the DF). Have you used any of the X system cameras and how does it compare (considering the old school camera look)
Manual focus on Df is perfect with focus indicator light, I prefer using Df with Milvus lenses to Nikon AF lens. Comparing with Fuji X cameras, IMHO, Df is much easier to handle, for Fuji X, even XT2, is little bit too small to grab.
Michael Neebul - "I have two Df bodies, it’s my..." - Thanks you answered my main question. Oh for good AIS lens support. Now that is really important. There is something really special with those old lenses. Nice that someone else feels the same. I wanted the Df but the price, the price.... perhaps later. A.,
I have now retired from my photographic career, I take photos for free and for me. I began my career with Nikon and Canon SLR cameras, shooting mostly wildlife, scenic and travel across Oceania, Asia and North America. I still have over $85k of Canon gear, which I have used since I went digital and I shall continue to use it. I chose to switch brands for this body alone because of what it is specifically and I am happy that I have done so. Its intent is to re-create, as much as possible, the experience that photographers had when using a film camera. But it recognizes that digital photography has other elements that film did not have and it has tried to deal with those without losing the analogue interface. The experience of using film required a discipline of approach that one does not have to have today and what some regard as shortcomings, I see as a recreation of those conditions, and I'm fine with it. This camera is all about taking time to enjoy the process of taking a photo, as well as the final outcome. In a similar situation my daughter's boyfriend asked about my record turntable and asked why I would still have one of those when an MP3 player was much more efficient. My response was that playing a record became an occasion in its own right and that was a big part of the enjoyment for me - in exactly the same way as taking a photo with the Df does. Let me address some of the criticisms I have seen hurled at this: 1. It's a STILL photographers' camera - that deserves no apology, there are many DSLRs out there that do video just fine. 2. It doesn't have a built-in flash. Neither did the film cameras, but it has a perfectly serviceable flash hot shoe with all the capabilities of any Nikon camera built-in. 3. The unit does not have enough focusing points. It has a lot more that film cameras did and it works fine. 4. There is only one card slot. Film cameras could only hold one film at a time. In the days of film I could carry only a limited amount of film and that had a finite life in the very hot conditions. When I took a photo I would not know if it came out for maybe a month before it was developed. The temptation was to take several bracketing shots, but then there was the limited film capacity to consider. It generated a discipline of being sparing and very careful with my settings and composition. I still do that today with digital and shoot a lot less than my digital native contemporaries. 5. The controls have lock on them - yep and so did most of the film cameras, it's about learning to get used to them, once you do it's automatic. I love the brilliant performance of the sensor. According to DXO, it has been tweaked for low-light work, and I can shoot hand-held in available light in very dim conditions. Sure, I have other cameras, including high-end MILC R5 and R6 units, but for sheer enjoyment of the activity, I go back to the Df.
Thanks for reminding me why I got my Df. Sometimes I forget these premises. Im an enthusiast started in the digital photographic era. And sometimes I feel Im gettin behind for not having a more specs and features gear for say family, travel and leisure photography. A Df, exactly what a pro like you might pick for such occasions, not tasks.
This video was published 4 years ago, and here I am still in awe of what this camera can do. I recently picked up a nikon d1x, d80, and a d700 and it's amazing what you can do with these old beauties. The d1x I really just purchased to place on my camera shelf, but it works and produces usable files. The D80 is also going on the camera shelf, due to it being my first DSLR many years ago. I sold it when I got my D7100 but I felt bad about it for years so it's finally mine again. The D700 is old but it still produces excellent files. I think the next camera on my list is this DF. Sadly they're still over 1k (US). My current camera is a Z6ii which is a fantastic piece of equipment, but it makes things feel a little too easy. Sometimes it's nice to pull out the old boys because they make you work for it a bit more.
I bought a Df (instead of a D700) based on this review and I have no regrets at all. I use it with the 50/1.2 that’s usually on my F3 and it is a delight. Beautiful colors, manual operation, RAW files that are good enough (when I want better resolution I use medium or large format film). Thanks for being a voice of reason about this weird but great camera.
@@nicolas.leger3 lol how old is this. Well, been using the same as cards now for 7 years and no issues. So not really an issue. The memory card thing is really not as big a issue people ocd about
@@pathfindercod4638 It's not bad until it is. Just because you've been lucky doesn't mean everyone else will be. Personal use? Not a big deal. Paid work? Not backed up? Lunacy.
I am delighted to say I’m a Df owner. My best camera ever and the files are sharp and beautiful. I bought it this April (2021) with only 824 frames used from a reliable source. I’m using three D lenses, 28mm, 35mm and 50mm which suits me fine. With the a battery which lasts 1400 what else do I want. There is no video (good), small file size (good) and has an amazing history behind it. It’s a super camera I only dreamed about. I’m one happy man.
I learned the basics of photography on a Nikon FM I purchased in 1977. I'm an old school geek to be sure. My first digital photography camera was a Nikon DF. I purchased in '14. The first day I used it, it felt like I'd been using it for years. I've never had even one minor problem with my DF. This camera is simply a joy to use. I've made a lot of money in my live as a videographer. If I want to shoot video I use a video camera. If I want to take incredible photographs, I use my DF.
I spent a lot of time thinking about full frame DSLRs, and decided on the Df. First, no video. Second, manual controls. I get tired of trying to remember which wheel and which button - so this was the perfect answer. And, I bought mine new. I use it a lot when I'm not shooting film. I can use my Nikon glass, too, which is an added attraction. Finally, the images are great and the size of the files is perfect.
What I really like from all of your reviews are you did not only speak about the camera's specs but also shows STUNNING images that can be produced by the camera in your review. That sets you apart from so many youtube camera reviewer that are just talking and talking and talking about the spec of the camera and only show few great images (or no image at all). And to be honest, after watching some of your review, I almost always check the local online shop to see if I can get a good deal on the camera that I've just see in your video. Oh, one more thing: I like your accent :D Good job :D
Just picked up the Df a few weeks back (40K shutter count in silver) and it’s a joy to use! It really is one of Nikon’s best kept secrets. Would highly recommend the DK-17m eye piece if you want more precise focus with manual lenses.
I have mine almost 2 years now and I still like it. I like it even more every time I shoot with is. The low light performance is stunning, the colours are vivid and the pictures look very quiet. Yes, you need to get used to the camera. It is not like going from D7200 to D750. Also using old lenses is a joy. Images look stunning. Last but not least, everyone who sees me walking with the camera thinks it is not a digital so it is less intimidating.
5 Reasons to subscribe to Mattias Burling 1. His choice of cameras to review - always pique one’s interest. 2. He videography and description - easy to follow and no nonsense. 3. His photography - beautiful! 4. His voice - just like listening to a buddy you haven’t seen in a while. 5. His dog.
When I was looking at a Df, the salesperson suggested that I buy a used one just in case I didn't like it. I discovered that I would have gladly payed for a new one. This is the one DSLR that I've tried that actually WANTS you to use it in full manual.
It’s sad that so many people who would otherwise love this camera were turned off by the early reviews. I’ve never met anyone who bought one and didn’t love it. I loved mine so much I bought a 2nd one last year.
Df is rad! It’s so fun to make photos with this camera. I’m currently 1700 km’s into a 2500 km hike, and have not regretted lugging my Df and two primes along with me.
So Mattias, here it is, January 2020. And, guess what? I bought a Dƒ when it first came out and loved shooting with it, for all the reasons you state in this 2018 video, However, I found myself using it less and less (in favor of a newer camera), so I converted it to a 590 nm IR camera., which has served me quite well. But, I've missed that original Dƒ and it's beautiful files, so yesterday I bought a used, in excellent condition Dƒ and I'm really looking forward to using it. That "newer" camera and others since then have their place, for sure, but the Dƒ is truly special!
Great review!! LOL on the rage breaks. I have shot with my Df since 2013 and I still have not desired any other camera. The pictures pop better in color and clarity than even my newer higher pixel count camera I gave to my daughter. Being able to see all your main settings at a quick glace is a huge plus for me. I shoot all sorts of gigs from weddings, rock bands, landscapes, wildlife, products, billboards and it delivers!
It’s my favourite ever Nikon DSLR. The results are astonishing in my experience and I consider it the Nikon Leica. The only downside is that it does not have the split rangefinder like the Leica M’s. However I’ve found the dot focusing method when using manual lens more than sufficient. My latest purchase is a Voitlander 28mm manual lens as this is the way I want to go. The video is a fair and honest review of the Nikon Love Child camera and still very valid in 2021.
Thank you for your review of the is camera. I have considered the DF camera for quite some time. I don't have to tell you about the controversy that surrounds it. Fortunately, I have been viewing your videos for more that a year now. I own the Fuji X-T2 and agree with you opinion about that cameras abilities. Long story short, I purchased a Nikon DF ,in pristine condition with a very low shutter count and I'm thoroughly pleased with it. It is everything that you said it would be and the quality of the images coming from it are "WOW" inducing. I have longed for a full frame DSLR in a small form. This is not much larger than the X-T2. Again,thank you and keep doing what you are doing,providing expert opinion on equipment that you have used.
Incredible camera. Unfortunately I sold mine to dip my toes in the Fujifilm waters. Big mistake. The Df is of a much higher quality. It is indeed completely misunderstood. It was never meant to be purely a retro camera. It’s a fusion between the Nikon F, the Nikon F4 and the Nikon D4. As such it is the rosetta stone of Nikon cameras. You can use all lenses with unmatched possibilities for control. Mattias touches on the ISO dial and how the mode dial makes the shutter dial into a sort of fast recall function. (That’s the same on the F4 btw, tons of reviewers never understood this). The Df is tons of fun because you can do so many lens and control combinations. From pre-AI Nikkors to the latest G Nikkors combined with the multiple exposure controls mean you can use it in a myriad ways. The Nikon Df was Tetsuo Goto’s swansong. Goto was responsible for the F3, F4, F5, D3, D700. His department was known as “Goto’s laboratory” inside Nikon. The Df was meant as a camera that brought joy and pride of ownership and he encouraged user customisation. Check out Gray’s homage to the Df where they post pictures of Goto’s own customised and insanely cool Df. I will buy it again someday. Thanks for the video!
I have to Df's: one is a silver with black unit that I got used with a shutter count of 1200, and other is the super rare (Japan market only) black with gold special edition (10,000 count) both were immaculate and they come with all the packing etc. I love using these cameras, and often get asked about them when I am out shooting.
We need more choice of simplified high end DSLRs. Too many features on most of them these days and that distracts from taking photos. I rarely use video and never use any of the effects available on my DSLR Nikon. Having grown up with SLRs I still prefer that layout. Manual focus on DSLRs is also rubbish. What happened to split screen focus.
I use the grid in the veiw finder on my DF and have no problems focusing at all, there is a focus aid in the view finder you can use instead if you struggle focusing by just plain sight.....Ive always had a grid style focus screen in all my nikon film cameras, because when you use a telephoto lens the split screen focus turns black and doesnt work and the grid lines are great for when you want to ensure your image is level in the view finder.
Mattias, I am finally getting around to reviewing the Df. You and I tend to agree on the cameras we like and when we review them. The bad press on this camera is mass social hysteria, it is absolutely fantastic. The press totally got this wrong because they decided what the Nikon Df should have been vs. reviewing it objectively to what it actually is. This is a camera designed for deliberate, slower photography, it shouldn't be compared to any other DSLR since there is nothing like it. I'll be helping to balance out the opinion on the Df when I publish my review soon, and like you, I absolutely love it. Cheers to your objectivity and photographic first style of reviews.
Fantastic pictures and great to see a review once more. Particularly the fanboy breaks. Your comments are very humble. Owning D series and Df both have their particular things. But having said that I shoot Df with such more pleasure. 80% with manual old vintage lenses dating back to early 1960, which deliver such a nice rendering and sweet image quality. The tactile feedback of these lenses is like the Df. The metering tab on the Df allows these lenses to be used using my own developed conversion method which is unlike other conversion not visible once mounted on the Df and provide full metering possibilities. Compliments for the way of presenting this.
almost fell of my chair with the " Fanboy Rage Breaks ", Seriously hilarious but you forgot one, " Its NOT Mirrorless! " I'm sure that sent a few over the edge LOL.
Nikon Df was my go to for 2 years. Attach the light weight 70-300 and you have a lightweight sharp system for landscapes. Attach a 12-24 and the viewfinder will blow your mind. Nice review. Thanks for giving the Df it’s props.
IMO the Df was Nikons pivotal camera. It set the stage for the next wave that is rumored to come up. Matthias is so right. The colors, I swear the colors out of the Df are just rich and there’s such a creaminess to the images, much better than the legendary d700/d3 IQ. The dynamic rage is just fantastic and coupled with old school Nikon lenses the Df is just stupid fun. Stick a sharp modern lens on it with lots of micro contrast, shoot B&W and I promise you it will be hard to find something similar. I’ve paired it with an Otus and i just laugh at all the naysayers of this camera. Good job MB. Gave you the thumbs up on this one!
@@ThePlodger Hi ! May I ask , is Df's color also better than, say Canon 5D, Oly E1 and Sigma Quattro series ? What camera you would recommend for B&W and color work ? Thanks in advance!
I love that this camera has an aperture ring, a shutter speed dial and an ISO dial that is intuitive to use and easy to identify at a glance. I don’t know why every camera doesn’t have this anymore. If I am given a modern Canon, Nikon, Sony, etc, (anything that isn’t Fujifilm or an old film camera) I have to google how to change the exposure settings because it’s not intuitive. I shouldn’t have to google how to change the aperture, shutter speed, or iso, or spend more than 5 minutes figuring it out. Wish all camera companies could start using those controls again. it would be really cool to see you review the new Fuji XT100 and compare it against the A6000/A7/XT20.
While I love the dials on the DF and XT2 (and my old film cameras) I don’t have much issue on my Sony, I have 3 dials, front dial for aperture, rear dial for shutter speed, thumb wheel for ISO, easy peasy or I just set auto iso and life’s even easier, yes it’s not labaled on the dial itself but it’s in my EVF and display so it’s still super convenient
I just figured out that each speed setting on the speed dial allows you to command dial +/- 1/3 and 2/3 stop. For example, if you set the speed dial on 1/60, using the command dial you can get 1/40, 1/50, 1/60, 1/80, and 1/100. So it gives some room to play the exposure, yet limit the room about right within the lens focal length. I love this! Genius!
I do feel that this camera is joyful to use. It all boils down what works for you and what camera that sparks joy. I always enjoy the vintage look with the dials. I'd see myself using it 😊 and you are killing it with your shots and your dog is very lovely ❤
I know a photographer with a birth defect on one of his hands. He shot film cameras all the way until this camera came out because he could operate dials on film cameras with his disfigured hand, but not buttons on modern digital cameras. He was so happy when this camera came out and he could shoot digital with all of his Nikon film lenses. It made me think about how these modern digital devices can be ableist in a sense. I switched to the X100 system a year ago now, and have never looked back. Film controls are a better user experience than spending time in menu screens.
Just picked up a used one a few months ago for less than half of retail. I love shooting with the Df. I don't care what anybody thinks of this camera; it is my favorite and I take it with me everywhere. The sensor is magical, the camera is relatively lightweight, 16 megapixels is perfect, and I can shoot all my old Nikon primes. Just remember to switch the camera off. Leaving it on will drain the battery slowly over the course a few days, which was really surprising.
Hi Matthias, I bought it today. Under 25k shots. Your positive review convinced me... I had a D4 which I loved... Sold it 1 year ago because of the weight... I missed the image quality... But hated the weight. And people on the street considered me a pro... I have small mirrorless and this one. I'm ready to go again... 10x
Love your videos. I shoot both fuji and Nikon and this camera has been on my used acquisition list for a bit. I will not waffle about purchasing one after hearing your review. Thank you for such thoughtful reviews. Will
I have one, bought it in 2013 when it first appeared, and absolutely love it. I gotten used to actually think before I just mindlessly press the button, I had to go back to reading and understand what my dad used to do in the 60 and 70ies (he was a professional photographer, a noted portrait specialist in his day), I believe I am a better, more educated, ammateur photgrapher because of it. I use it with a number of lenses. The portraits I take with the prime 135/f2 are just amazing, but even the "lazy" 28-300 "everything-to-everybody" lens, which I take to places like treks in Nepal (where I really cannot be bothered to take more than one lens) - even that is good enough, because of the excellent processor together with the the ISO power this camera delivers. To note, I also owned a couple of Leica M Monochroms (both the 240 and the 246) - so I own up to being... ammm,.....idiosyncratic, to say the least. Love them both.
Wish Canon would do a retro looking DSLR, Looking for a used DF. Question: Does this camera accept ALL Nikon lenses, old manual style glass and new lenses?
I love this Nikon Df, a pure photographer camera with retro style and demands you to handle it like one. I call it the Miata of camera world, unique, classic and functional.
I really like the DF, all the controls, looks like a real camera. The best feature is no video! Nikon should update it with the new sensor from the D6, at 24mp; but keep the video away from this camera. Unfortunately, even in 2018, the DF is still out of my price range. Nikon could make a similar camera, with crop sensor ( like the upcoming D7600), without video and built quality of the DF. We need to have more choices when buying new cameras.
man you can buy a used one in a good quality second hand stores in a fantastic condition. But make sure it is a good quality specialized second hand store. I got mine from wix.com based in UK. On line store and they have walk in stores around the country....
Having owned the Nikon Df in silver, then later on in black. This is the camera I still think about today, even currently owning the X1D. Just very easy simple to use, and looks gorgeous, a lot of people when I last had it, never knew that Nikon made this type of camera haha.
The dials felt great, seems like modern digital bodies are still playing catch up with older film bodies. Maybe to offset the cost of electronics? We've kind of regressed in terms of build unless you go with Leica. I hope they attempt this style some more.
Agreed. And I love being able to choose to use the controls or set it to regular DSLR style if I feel like it or pass it on to a friend or less experienced shooter.
The Df is a fabulous camera for all the reasons you mentioned. I've been using mine since launch and have never had reason to doubt the quality of the camera with it's milled metal mechanical dials or the superb images produced. Remember, this camera predated the current retro rage and does it better than any of them.
Thanks, Mattias, for this video! I like this camera very much! Because of all the dials on the top, which are so easy and straightforward for old school photographers. This is how all the digital cameras should be. And of course its high ISO capability and its beauty (reminds me of the classical Nikon FE or FM).
I use it mostly with a 60mm 2.8 micro-nikkor.. it's a light, versatile lens for general walking around stuff. The colours are stunningly deep and rich. Regarding the low light ability, I took a casual portrait one day which got quite a lot of positive feedback. While looking at it some time later, I was a little taken aback to see the auto-chosen iso was 20319. Such a quiet little tool, you forget where its sensor and processor came from. It is some camera.
I had never heard of this camera because I began photography with Canon 13 years ago then switched to Fuji (but kept my Canon cameras and lenses) but I'm amazed by its design functionality and image quality! A discovery really! Thank you!
Love the video as usual! I'm currently shooting Fuji, but if I ever switched back to a DSLR, it would most definitely be the DF. It looks like a very fun camera to use with fantastic image quality! Your videos are always refreshing. It's nice to appreciate cameras that aren't brand new. So many cameras from years ago get forgotten because it's been replaced a time or two, but all of those cameras are still relevant to a lot of people!
Im glad you like the videos. I feel the exact same way. People dismiss cameras and stuff in general way to fast. I still have an HD TV. Looks great. But say that on a TV forum and all he.. breaks loose :)
I bought this camera when it first came out and it has been my go to digital camera ever since (I also have a d800E which I use much less frequently). After it came out I saw a lot of negative reviews online and on RUclips. Most of the vitriol seemed to stem from the perception that Nikon was making a "retro" camera to appeal to some sort of hipster demographic rather than any concrete issues related to the camera's performance (hell, it even has had the sensor from the D4). What many of the naysayers failed to realize, but you have caught on to, is that it is aimed at a different subcategory of shooters. I bought my first Nikon in 1968 and the controls on the Df are close to that of Nikon film cameras of which many photographers are still familiar. For someone with 50 years of shooting experience with Nikons, everything is where it should be and the camera is effortless to use. Obviously it is not for everyone, especially those who want to shoot video.
Same here, I find I'm taking my Df to shoots that will be used in print more, mostly because it's fast and I get a much better vibe using it over my D800E etc so I enjoy shooting more and then take better and more varied shots.
Awesome camera and non-photographers love it, used to get so many comments about it. The other great thing with the dF is the battery, it lasts forever.
I have a Df in use for concert and event photography because it's the smallest full frame DSLR and I can use nearly all of my old Ai lenses. I'm very pleased with. My only objection is that the shutter broke last year in a Patti Smith concert after short time of use and I had no camera in reserve. I had never such a mechanical shutter breakdown before on my often and hard used FA, FM2, F3, F501, F90X or F4. And the repair was expensive with 400Euro. So was that only bad luck?
I've had my Df since it was released. I never let any of the negativity surrounding it steer me away from it. I use it on portrait sessions all the time with the 58mm G. It is the perfect camera for me for the portrait work I do for friends and family. I just got a 2nd like new copy because I always told myself if a like new or new one came around I would get it. Dont need all the modern bells and whistle's to make the camera do all the work. I love the old school feel, dials and operation of this camera since film is soo expensive. As long as it works I will use it for work, play and everything else!
I agree so much. The DF is my dream camera! It’s crazy how people are stupid quick to judge. Compared to Leica, the price on this is totally justified. I mean it’s go one of the finest sensor ever made, it’s light-weight, full-frame, and have crazy good physical controls. And colors. It’s like Fuji, Leica and Nikon came together to make the perfect camera. Discreet and ideal for street-photography, wedding, photojournalism, and no one knows it’s not a film camera so no one will want to steal it. Heck, even I shoot quite some video and I don’t care for the video feature. I’d rather have this and a video camera.
The fanboy rage breaks were just long enough for me to stop laughing and compose myself for the next bit of info. What a great review. You focus on what a photographer can do with this rather than what a 'reviewer' can nitpick over it. Instead of seeing the duplication of menu and dial controls as a problem you found a great use for it. You point out rightly that the AF is plenty good enough for the kind of shooting the df is made for. This is a camera for someone who enjoys film-era Nikon lenses and cameras and shooting with primes.
It’s 2022, my Df sits proudly in between a Z6ii and a A7 iv. A7R4 is not happy got pushed to the corner. Q2 and 907x wonder they also have classic look, everlasting build quality and beautiful color science and why I still keep Df? The two old Lunar are just there as decoration. I like it so much, almost bought a ZFc to keep it company. There is something the color from this camera that beats the new cameras, I don’t need two cards, the D4 processor is fantastic, the build quality is outstanding and mostly of all it takes great pictures.
4:30 Regarding auto ISO and using the ISO control dial...are you saying you can set the MAX ISO to 100 (for example) in the auto ISO menu, min shutter speed to 1/30th and THEN use the ISO dial on the top to sort of override the ISO 100 max limit in the auto ISO menu? If so, that's great! So if I set max auto ISO to 100, min shutter speed to 1/30th and THEN set my ISO dial to 800, are you saying the camera will still try to keep my ISO at 100 (the menu setting) but if the shutter speed falls below 1/30th (what I set in the menu), it will then use the ISO dial as the new upper limit, going up to and stopping at ISO 800 if that's where i have the dial set to? I should have my used Df pretty soon so I'll try that. I had the Df new in the past but bought another one (I sold the original I had).
I had the DF over a year now (upgrade from Nikon FE and D50) and I was using like I'm using D50, never knew about the ISO trick you showed in the menu and it is simply a game changer.
Hello Mattias. First of all I thank you for this one again. The Df is such a pleasure to use. But there is something I don’t understand at 4:30 If I’m set to Auto ISO and that I put in the menu my base ISO at 100 and Max ISO to 200 and SS to 1/50 for instance, when I turn the ISO Dial to 1600 it will effectively take a picture at 1600 ISO, increasing the shutter speed higher than 1/50 and work as if I’m in manual ISO mode. How do you do to make it work like you describe please ?
Searching for Nikon Df videos to learn about the camera and I come across this. 🤠 You made my day with the Fanboy Rage breaks!🤣. The awesome images you have captured have an emotion about them that is hard to describe. I own a Z7 ii. I am looking at this as a companion camera to the Z and my Nikon F100. I appreciate you sharing this video.
This was my first DSLR from Nikon and I still have it. What is extremely great is that it supports zillions of older Nikon lenses including pre-AI. It's still today a great camera for 98% of all the situations except for fast action. Although I now have a D780 and a D850, I'm thinking of buying another Df before somebody else does it.
come to think of it, the DF is pretty much the only camera that can take the entire F-mount range* from Pre-Ai to the AF-P and Electronic Aperture without modification, that alone worths every "short-coming" *excluding the intrusive fisheyes from the early days requiring mirror lockup
Man, I was just looking at one that had a low shutter count, for under $1k. I had one, but had the mirror locked up and damage sensor which cost me $1,500 to repair. Once I did, I just sold it, and bought an XT2 FujiFilm which I’ve been happy with. I do miss this Nikon a ton tho, and the IQ on the pictures is awesome. Great job on the video, and keep up the excellent work!
Mattias Burling hi Matthias, I am looking at one now for $1500 with the 50MM kit lens it came with, about 1,500 clicks supposedly. Only problem is my wife only lets me have one camera (I know, sucks to be me). I’m an old schools retro feel camera guy, and thus I shoot with the XT2 for that matter. I’ve collected a few primes from the Fuji line up, but coming from the DF I always felt missing that FX look... I love the images that the Fuji gives me, but do you think if I were to go back to the DF , that I would be making a mistake? I mean the Fuji is a camera that was released in 2016 while the DF was released in early 2013... curious what your thoughts would be on this.
![Noob To Max With DRAGON REWORK In Blox Fruits [FULL MOVIE]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/LnBMOinoOvA/mqdefault.jpg)
Find a used Nikon DF at MPB and support the the channel by using the links below:
MPB US, prf.hn/l/55Mbp8x
MPB UK, prf.hn/l/8jyv0Ap
MPB EU, prf.hn/l/G9yZkMp
True story, Nikon photographer for 40 years. Journalism, sports, studio work I did it all. I had come to dislike the sterile look of DSLRs and wanted something I was familiar with in my film days. Here it gets crazy. A buddy and I drove to a casino, I put a few dollars in a slot machine and won 3,000 dollars. I immediately drove to the camera store and bought this camera. I've loved it ever since. Thanks casino!
😂😂😂😂🎉🎉🎉 Great feel good story
Thank you Mattias, we couldn't fault a thing :)
Glad to hear, now make version 2 ;)
Proud owner of df here , the only complaint is not putting a d5 sensor on it
Yes please make a second version :)
i have to agree make a second version
@@odyseuszkoskiniotis6266 because all the companies have a similar product, fuji has the X pro 3.( despite the fact DF is full frame and its better in low light). A small-medium size full frame with a fantastic sensor for mainly photography. The DF is great the way it is it just needs an updated sensor (D5 or D850) with 20-25 megapixels.
Wife: "Why did you just buy such an expensive camera"?
Me: "Mattias Burling said it's awesome"
Wife: "And if Mattias Burling said jumping off a cliff was awesome would you do that too" ?
Me: "I'd probably have 5 good reasons"
Lol!
Haha!
Comment of the year
My adivce: Stay single !
The fanboy rage breaks were genius and hilarious. Your enthusiasm for what you do continues to shine through your photos and videos.
It seems a lot of commenters still miss one huge point of this camera. It is a DSLR with physical controls. Or to be more precise, the only DSLR with physical controls (at least to my knowledge).
It is about Operational Speed. Not missing the action while fiddling with menus and trying to see tiny displays. Having to use one, two or even three different buttons to change a simple part of the exposure triangle. Its why many choose Fuji or Leica. And if shooters like us also fancy a small full frame DSLR.. then this is it.
The DF is a unique camera. There are no alternatives to it. Its the DF or nothing.
And IMO it has NOTHING to do with looks. I actually don't find it very good looking compared to many cameras.
With that said I feel the $1-1200 price tag is what it is. Since there is nothing to compare to within the context of the genre.. why go on about it. I think its affordable if not down right cheap.
I personally think that Kai at DigitalRev played a major part in discrediting this camera in his video. In that video I think he was foolish. Photographers from old school film and manual control including focus, understand and appreciate physical control. New the price is €2.549 in Germany... that is not cheap when there is a wife to persuade :) A.,
Hey Mattias, you have used a Nikon d750 before, how do you find the colors from the D750 compare to the DF? Over here in the USA, the DF is more like $1800
@@michaelc4917 Used they are $1000-$1200 all day long. I got mine Df kit for $1300 with only 6000 clicks on it. Great value!
@@AlexJacksonSmith Kai is a terrible photographer and his humour is a bit like a sub par Jeremy Clarkson's. As such I don't take his opinion very seriously.
@ None of that makes any sense...
You could make a 5 reasons to buy a TOASTER and I would still watch it.
Yes, but would you buy the optional warranty for the toaster? Or...would you risk it?
@@lionelmandrakegrp.cpt.6396 if it's optional, throw it in there i say ;)
Hmmm... I don't think TheNickle got the joke on that one... "For the Toooaster??? Noooo... I think I'll absorb the risk on this one. Cause that's how I Liiiiiiiive... on the eeeeegde!! Hahahahahaha!! John Pinette!! RIP
@@dobrofool i definitely didn't haha
But does it have IBIS????
I have a Df. It takes beautiful images. As you say the High ISO performance and dynamic range of the camera are really good. Plus the battery lasts ages on a single charge.
Trevor Pay yeah the battery is surprisingly long lasting for being so small.
I have two Df bodies, it’s my favorite camera EVER. It’s such a delight to use, I often go out and shoot just because I want to feel it in my hand. I have three Ai-S lenses, 28mm f/2.8 (CRC), 50mm f/1.2 and 105mm f.1.8 and I feel like this is the way it was designed to be used. It’s awesome with manual lenses. If the new mirrorless bodies are like the Df, I’m already sold. Heard they’re working on a 55mm f/0.95!
Michael Neebul how does the manual focus work on the DF? Curious, I am interested in getting one, but being used to the Fuji X system and it’s focus peaking has spoiled me some, can you speak on the focus assistance that it has (the DF). Have you used any of the X system cameras and how does it compare (considering the old school camera look)
Manual focus on Df is perfect with focus indicator light, I prefer using Df with Milvus lenses to Nikon AF lens. Comparing with Fuji X cameras, IMHO, Df is much easier to handle, for Fuji X, even XT2, is little bit too small to grab.
Michael Neebul - "I have two Df bodies, it’s my..." - Thanks you answered my main question. Oh for good AIS lens support. Now that is really important. There is something really special with those old lenses. Nice that someone else feels the same. I wanted the Df but the price, the price.... perhaps later. A.,
I have now retired from my photographic career, I take photos for free and for me. I began my career with Nikon and Canon SLR cameras, shooting mostly wildlife, scenic and travel across Oceania, Asia and North America. I still have over $85k of Canon gear, which I have used since I went digital and I shall continue to use it. I chose to switch brands for this body alone because of what it is specifically and I am happy that I have done so.
Its intent is to re-create, as much as possible, the experience that photographers had when using a film camera. But it recognizes that digital photography has other elements that film did not have and it has tried to deal with those without losing the analogue interface. The experience of using film required a discipline of approach that one does not have to have today and what some regard as shortcomings, I see as a recreation of those conditions, and I'm fine with it.
This camera is all about taking time to enjoy the process of taking a photo, as well as the final outcome. In a similar situation my daughter's boyfriend asked about my record turntable and asked why I would still have one of those when an MP3 player was much more efficient. My response was that playing a record became an occasion in its own right and that was a big part of the enjoyment for me - in exactly the same way as taking a photo with the Df does.
Let me address some of the criticisms I have seen hurled at this:
1. It's a STILL photographers' camera - that deserves no apology, there are many DSLRs out there that do video just fine.
2. It doesn't have a built-in flash. Neither did the film cameras, but it has a perfectly serviceable flash hot shoe with all the capabilities of any Nikon camera built-in.
3. The unit does not have enough focusing points. It has a lot more that film cameras did and it works fine.
4. There is only one card slot. Film cameras could only hold one film at a time. In the days of film I could carry only a limited amount of film and that had a finite life in the very hot conditions. When I took a photo I would not know if it came out for maybe a month before it was developed. The temptation was to take several bracketing shots, but then there was the limited film capacity to consider. It generated a discipline of being sparing and very careful with my settings and composition. I still do that today with digital and shoot a lot less than my digital native contemporaries.
5. The controls have lock on them - yep and so did most of the film cameras, it's about learning to get used to them, once you do it's automatic.
I love the brilliant performance of the sensor. According to DXO, it has been tweaked for low-light work, and I can shoot hand-held in available light in very dim conditions. Sure, I have other cameras, including high-end MILC R5 and R6 units, but for sheer enjoyment of the activity, I go back to the Df.
Thanks for reminding me why I got my Df. Sometimes I forget these premises. Im an enthusiast started in the digital photographic era. And sometimes I feel Im gettin behind for not having a more specs and features gear for say family, travel and leisure photography. A Df, exactly what a pro like you might pick for such occasions, not tasks.
This video was published 4 years ago, and here I am still in awe of what this camera can do. I recently picked up a nikon d1x, d80, and a d700 and it's amazing what you can do with these old beauties. The d1x I really just purchased to place on my camera shelf, but it works and produces usable files. The D80 is also going on the camera shelf, due to it being my first DSLR many years ago. I sold it when I got my D7100 but I felt bad about it for years so it's finally mine again. The D700 is old but it still produces excellent files. I think the next camera on my list is this DF. Sadly they're still over 1k (US). My current camera is a Z6ii which is a fantastic piece of equipment, but it makes things feel a little too easy. Sometimes it's nice to pull out the old boys because they make you work for it a bit more.
I bought a Df (instead of a D700) based on this review and I have no regrets at all. I use it with the 50/1.2 that’s usually on my F3 and it is a delight. Beautiful colors, manual operation, RAW files that are good enough (when I want better resolution I use medium or large format film). Thanks for being a voice of reason about this weird but great camera.
I own a D700 and thinking of getting a Df because of its smaller size
No video,.....AWESOME!
spl4028 exactly 😂
If I have the money for this, I would grab one in a heartbeat. I don't need video at all.
that is the most photographed dog in youtube
5 Minutos De Fotografia with good reason. Very photogenic dog.
The horse too lol
Absolutely love my DF. Actually sold my d800e because I use the DF for everything.
ME TOO
@@andrewbutton5580 Same here - love the DF
Steve Beck until the only S.D. card fails 😅
@@nicolas.leger3 lol how old is this. Well, been using the same as cards now for 7 years and no issues. So not really an issue. The memory card thing is really not as big a issue people ocd about
@@pathfindercod4638 It's not bad until it is. Just because you've been lucky doesn't mean everyone else will be. Personal use? Not a big deal. Paid work? Not backed up? Lunacy.
I am delighted to say I’m a Df owner. My best camera ever and the files are sharp and beautiful. I bought it this April (2021) with only 824 frames used from a reliable source. I’m using three D lenses, 28mm, 35mm and 50mm which suits me fine. With the a battery which lasts 1400 what else do I want. There is no video (good), small file size (good) and has an amazing history behind it. It’s a super camera I only dreamed about. I’m one happy man.
Mattias, nooooo! Keep everyone away until I can afford this thing! lol!
Same tactic here, i got a OM D5 mk1 full bundle by 200 bucks... I was saving for that DF... Videos? I can always install Filmic Pro on my iPhone 4s
About the same here, i bought a used 6D yesterday, as the price on the market went low as ever will get
I learned the basics of photography on a Nikon FM I purchased in 1977. I'm an old school geek to be sure. My first digital photography camera was a Nikon DF. I purchased in '14. The first day I used it, it felt like I'd been using it for years. I've never had even one minor problem with my DF. This camera is simply a joy to use. I've made a lot of money in my live as a videographer. If I want to shoot video I use a video camera. If I want to take incredible photographs, I use my DF.
I spent a lot of time thinking about full frame DSLRs, and decided on the Df. First, no video. Second, manual controls. I get tired of trying to remember which wheel and which button - so this was the perfect answer. And, I bought mine new. I use it a lot when I'm not shooting film. I can use my Nikon glass, too, which is an added attraction. Finally, the images are great and the size of the files is perfect.
What I really like from all of your reviews are you did not only speak about the camera's specs but also shows STUNNING images that can be produced by the camera in your review. That sets you apart from so many youtube camera reviewer that are just talking and talking and talking about the spec of the camera and only show few great images (or no image at all).
And to be honest, after watching some of your review, I almost always check the local online shop to see if I can get a good deal on the camera that I've just see in your video.
Oh, one more thing: I like your accent :D
Good job :D
mata4r43un I'm very glad you like my way of doing the videos :)
Just picked up the Df a few weeks back (40K shutter count in silver) and it’s a joy to use! It really is one of Nikon’s best kept secrets. Would highly recommend the DK-17m eye piece if you want more precise focus with manual lenses.
I've had my D810 for 4 years and never taken a video
Me too have d750.
I have mine almost 2 years now and I still like it. I like it even more every time I shoot with is.
The low light performance is stunning, the colours are vivid and the pictures look very quiet.
Yes, you need to get used to the camera. It is not like going from D7200 to D750. Also using old lenses is a joy. Images look stunning.
Last but not least, everyone who sees me walking with the camera thinks it is not a digital so it is less intimidating.
Using old lens on it give better quality images than when they were used on the old film cameras.
I absolutely love my DF. It's a joy to shoot with.
Can i use a wireless flash with this camera?
@@hellogamiesai6135 Sorry for the late reply. I use the Pocket Wizard X to trigger flashes.
5 Reasons to subscribe to Mattias Burling
1. His choice of cameras to review - always pique one’s interest.
2. He videography and description - easy to follow and no nonsense.
3. His photography - beautiful!
4. His voice - just like listening to a buddy you haven’t seen in a while.
5. His dog.
rikkiejames Thank you, very kind of you :)
Nikon Df absolutely rocks, and so does your channel. Thanks Mattias!
I must have watched this video at least 6 times since 2018, now, finally, I'm getting my DF this weekend !! woohoo !!!
you'd find yourself coming back and watch it again as well. :P
When I was looking at a Df, the salesperson suggested that I buy a used one just in case I didn't like it. I discovered that I would have gladly payed for a new one. This is the one DSLR that I've tried that actually WANTS you to use it in full manual.
Its the same story all over. Everyone has opinions but the users are just joyful :)
It’s sad that so many people who would otherwise love this camera were turned off by the early reviews. I’ve never met anyone who bought one and didn’t love it. I loved mine so much I bought a 2nd one last year.
Df is rad! It’s so fun to make photos with this camera. I’m currently 1700 km’s into a 2500 km hike, and have not regretted lugging my Df and two primes along with me.
So Mattias, here it is, January 2020. And, guess what? I bought a Dƒ when it first came out and loved shooting with it, for all the reasons you state in this 2018 video, However, I found myself using it less and less (in favor of a newer camera), so I converted it to a 590 nm IR camera., which has served me quite well. But, I've missed that original Dƒ and it's beautiful files, so yesterday I bought a used, in excellent condition Dƒ and I'm really looking forward to using it. That "newer" camera and others since then have their place, for sure, but the Dƒ is truly special!
Great review!! LOL on the rage breaks. I have shot with my Df since 2013 and I still have not desired any other camera. The pictures pop better in color and clarity than even my newer higher pixel count camera I gave to my daughter. Being able to see all your main settings at a quick glace is a huge plus for me. I shoot all sorts of gigs from weddings, rock bands, landscapes, wildlife, products, billboards and it delivers!
It’s my favourite ever Nikon DSLR. The results are astonishing in my experience and I consider it the Nikon Leica. The only downside is that it does not have the split rangefinder like the Leica M’s. However I’ve found the dot focusing method when using manual lens more than sufficient. My latest purchase is a Voitlander 28mm manual lens as this is the way I want to go. The video is a fair and honest review of the Nikon Love Child camera and still very valid in 2021.
Thank you for your review of the is camera. I have considered the DF camera for quite some time. I don't have to tell you about the controversy that surrounds it. Fortunately, I have been viewing your videos for more that a year now. I own the Fuji X-T2 and agree with you opinion about that cameras abilities. Long story short, I purchased a Nikon DF ,in pristine condition with a very low shutter count and I'm thoroughly pleased with it. It is everything that you said it would be and the quality of the images coming from it are "WOW" inducing. I have longed for a full frame DSLR in a small form. This is not much larger than the X-T2. Again,thank you and keep doing what you are doing,providing expert opinion on equipment that you have used.
Great content. Your photos almost always have an element of calm to them, really nice.
Paul I'm glad you enjoy them!
Incredible camera. Unfortunately I sold mine to dip my toes in the Fujifilm waters. Big mistake. The Df is of a much higher quality. It is indeed completely misunderstood. It was never meant to be purely a retro camera. It’s a fusion between the Nikon F, the Nikon F4 and the Nikon D4. As such it is the rosetta stone of Nikon cameras. You can use all lenses with unmatched possibilities for control. Mattias touches on the ISO dial and how the mode dial makes the shutter dial into a sort of fast recall function. (That’s the same on the F4 btw, tons of reviewers never understood this).
The Df is tons of fun because you can do so many lens and control combinations. From pre-AI Nikkors to the latest G Nikkors combined with the multiple exposure controls mean you can use it in a myriad ways.
The Nikon Df was Tetsuo Goto’s swansong. Goto was responsible for the F3, F4, F5, D3, D700. His department was known as “Goto’s laboratory” inside Nikon. The Df was meant as a camera that brought joy and pride of ownership and he encouraged user customisation. Check out Gray’s homage to the Df where they post pictures of Goto’s own customised and insanely cool Df.
I will buy it again someday. Thanks for the video!
I have to Df's: one is a silver with black unit that I got used with a shutter count of 1200, and other is the super rare (Japan market only) black with gold special edition (10,000 count) both were immaculate and they come with all the packing etc. I love using these cameras, and often get asked about them when I am out shooting.
I wish it had been more successful … at the time I really had a feeling about it but was discouraged by incompetent reviews ….)
Can you elaborate on the difference between this and the IQ of the Fuji cameras?
As usual a great video.
Love the fanboy rage section.
We need more choice of simplified high end DSLRs. Too many features on most of them these days and that distracts from taking photos. I rarely use video and never use any of the effects available on my DSLR Nikon. Having grown up with SLRs I still prefer that layout. Manual focus on DSLRs is also rubbish. What happened to split screen focus.
I use the grid in the veiw finder on my DF and have no problems focusing at all, there is a focus aid in the view finder you can use instead if you struggle focusing by just plain sight.....Ive always had a grid style focus screen in all my nikon film cameras, because when you use a telephoto lens the split screen focus turns black and doesnt work and the grid lines are great for when you want to ensure your image is level in the view finder.
Mattias, I am finally getting around to reviewing the Df. You and I tend to agree on the cameras we like and when we review them. The bad press on this camera is mass social hysteria, it is absolutely fantastic. The press totally got this wrong because they decided what the Nikon Df should have been vs. reviewing it objectively to what it actually is. This is a camera designed for deliberate, slower photography, it shouldn't be compared to any other DSLR since there is nothing like it. I'll be helping to balance out the opinion on the Df when I publish my review soon, and like you, I absolutely love it. Cheers to your objectivity and photographic first style of reviews.
Yup, they totally missed the point of it.
Honestly speaking, its not about the camera, its all about your skill in photography.
Fantastic pictures and great to see a review once more. Particularly the fanboy breaks. Your comments are very humble. Owning D series and Df both have their particular things. But having said that I shoot Df with such more pleasure.
80% with manual old vintage lenses dating back to early 1960, which deliver such a nice rendering and sweet image quality. The tactile feedback of these lenses is like the Df. The metering tab on the Df allows these lenses to be used using my own developed conversion method which is unlike other conversion not visible once mounted on the Df and provide full metering possibilities.
Compliments for the way of presenting this.
almost fell of my chair with the " Fanboy Rage Breaks ", Seriously hilarious but you forgot one, " Its NOT Mirrorless! " I'm sure that sent a few over the edge LOL.
@Beemrdon
And heavy.
My DF hasn’t skipped a beat since release and I’ve taken it around the world. Replaced the leather on it but it keeps shooting. LOVE IT
Nikon Df was my go to for 2 years. Attach the light weight 70-300 and you have a lightweight sharp system for landscapes. Attach a 12-24 and the viewfinder will blow your mind. Nice review. Thanks for giving the Df it’s props.
Loved it so much I picked one up with the nifty fifty kit lens. Excellent bit of kit even today.
Great video! I bought the DF when it first came out and regret selling it. All of your comments are right on point.
I recently got my almost new low click count (
Congrats!
IMO the Df was Nikons pivotal camera. It set the stage for the next wave that is rumored to come up. Matthias is so right. The colors, I swear the colors out of the Df are just rich and there’s such a creaminess to the images, much better than the legendary d700/d3 IQ. The dynamic rage is just fantastic and coupled with old school Nikon lenses the Df is just stupid fun. Stick a sharp modern lens on it with lots of micro contrast, shoot B&W and I promise you it will be hard to find something similar. I’ve paired it with an Otus and i just laugh at all the naysayers of this camera. Good job MB. Gave you the thumbs up on this one!
I love how you typed Dynamic Rage, fits in with the theme of the video so much hahaha.
The colour from the Df is in the ballpark of my Hassy with Phase P65 back. I also have a D800, but I just enjoy shooting with the Df much more.
The dynamic rage alone makes me want to buy the camera. Can never get enough dynamic rage! ;)
@@ThePlodger Hi ! May I ask , is Df's color also better than, say Canon 5D, Oly E1 and Sigma Quattro series ? What camera you would recommend for B&W and color work ? Thanks in advance!
I love that this camera has an aperture ring, a shutter speed dial and an ISO dial that is intuitive to use and easy to identify at a glance. I don’t know why every camera doesn’t have this anymore. If I am given a modern Canon, Nikon, Sony, etc, (anything that isn’t Fujifilm or an old film camera) I have to google how to change the exposure settings because it’s not intuitive. I shouldn’t have to google how to change the aperture, shutter speed, or iso, or spend more than 5 minutes figuring it out. Wish all camera companies could start using those controls again.
it would be really cool to see you review the new Fuji XT100 and compare it against the A6000/A7/XT20.
Obed Chattergoon I agree. And Nikon did really good imo to offer both. I can use it like a regular dslr if I want to (I don't, but some do).
While I love the dials on the DF and XT2 (and my old film cameras) I don’t have much issue on my Sony, I have 3 dials, front dial for aperture, rear dial for shutter speed, thumb wheel for ISO, easy peasy or I just set auto iso and life’s even easier, yes it’s not labaled on the dial itself but it’s in my EVF and display so it’s still super convenient
I just figured out that each speed setting on the speed dial allows you to command dial +/- 1/3 and 2/3 stop.
For example, if you set the speed dial on 1/60, using the command dial you can get 1/40, 1/50, 1/60, 1/80, and 1/100. So it gives some room to play the exposure, yet limit the room about right within the lens focal length.
I love this! Genius!
I do feel that this camera is joyful to use. It all boils down what works for you and what camera that sparks joy. I always enjoy the vintage look with the dials. I'd see myself using it 😊 and you are killing it with your shots and your dog is very lovely ❤
I know a photographer with a birth defect on one of his hands. He shot film cameras all the way until this camera came out because he could operate dials on film cameras with his disfigured hand, but not buttons on modern digital cameras. He was so happy when this camera came out and he could shoot digital with all of his Nikon film lenses. It made me think about how these modern digital devices can be ableist in a sense.
I switched to the X100 system a year ago now, and have never looked back. Film controls are a better user experience than spending time in menu screens.
Just picked up a used one a few months ago for less than half of retail. I love shooting with the Df. I don't care what anybody thinks of this camera; it is my favorite and I take it with me everywhere. The sensor is magical, the camera is relatively lightweight, 16 megapixels is perfect, and I can shoot all my old Nikon primes.
Just remember to switch the camera off. Leaving it on will drain the battery slowly over the course a few days, which was really surprising.
Hi Matthias, I bought it today. Under 25k shots. Your positive review convinced me... I had a D4 which I loved... Sold it 1 year ago because of the weight... I missed the image quality... But hated the weight. And people on the street considered me a pro... I have small mirrorless and this one. I'm ready to go again... 10x
Love your videos. I shoot both fuji and Nikon and this camera has been on my used acquisition list for a bit. I will not waffle about purchasing one after hearing your review. Thank you for such thoughtful reviews.
Will
The wait is over. I had been waiting for this for ever
I have one, bought it in 2013 when it first appeared, and absolutely love it. I gotten used to actually think before I just mindlessly press the button, I had to go back to reading and understand what my dad used to do in the 60 and 70ies (he was a professional photographer, a noted portrait specialist in his day), I believe I am a better, more educated, ammateur photgrapher because of it. I use it with a number of lenses. The portraits I take with the prime 135/f2 are just amazing, but even the "lazy" 28-300 "everything-to-everybody" lens, which I take to places like treks in Nepal (where I really cannot be bothered to take more than one lens) - even that is good enough, because of the excellent processor together with the the ISO power this camera delivers. To note, I also owned a couple of Leica M Monochroms (both the 240 and the 246) - so I own up to being... ammm,.....idiosyncratic, to say the least. Love them both.
Love this video, watched it a couple of times already! Keep em coming, your channel is one of my favorites on youtube!
Wish Canon would do a retro looking DSLR, Looking for a used DF. Question: Does this camera accept ALL Nikon lenses, old manual style glass and new lenses?
Yea all of them from pre ai to afs g lens
Literal time machine
Just wish it came with split screen VF for those manual focus lenses
I love this Nikon Df, a pure photographer camera with retro style and demands you to handle it like one. I call it the Miata of camera world, unique, classic and functional.
I really like the DF, all the controls, looks like a real camera. The best feature is no video! Nikon should update it with the new sensor from the D6, at 24mp; but keep the video away from this camera. Unfortunately, even in 2018, the DF is still out of my price range. Nikon could make a similar camera, with crop sensor ( like the upcoming D7600), without video and built quality of the DF. We need to have more choices when buying new cameras.
man you can buy a used one in a good quality second hand stores in a fantastic condition. But make sure it is a good quality specialized second hand store. I got mine from wix.com based in UK. On line store and they have walk in stores around the country....
Having owned the Nikon Df in silver, then later on in black. This is the camera I still think about today, even currently owning the X1D. Just very easy simple to use, and looks gorgeous, a lot of people when I last had it, never knew that Nikon made this type of camera haha.
The dials felt great, seems like modern digital bodies are still playing catch up with older film bodies. Maybe to offset the cost of electronics? We've kind of regressed in terms of build unless you go with Leica. I hope they attempt this style some more.
Agreed. And I love being able to choose to use the controls or set it to regular DSLR style if I feel like it or pass it on to a friend or less experienced shooter.
I wish it came with a CF card slot instead but I'll let it slide since I absolutely loved the F-F3 film cameras.
I’m watching this video after purchasing a Nikon DF. Great video as always!
The Df is a fabulous camera for all the reasons you mentioned. I've been using mine since launch and have never had reason to doubt the quality of the camera with it's milled metal mechanical dials or the superb images produced. Remember, this camera predated the current retro rage and does it better than any of them.
I Think I've watched this video 5 times. You are only one of two people that have reviewed that have a positive about it.
Thanks, Mattias, for this video! I like this camera very much! Because of all the dials on the top, which are so easy and straightforward for old school photographers. This is how all the digital cameras should be. And of course its high ISO capability and its beauty (reminds me of the classical Nikon FE or FM).
I use it mostly with a 60mm 2.8 micro-nikkor.. it's a light, versatile lens for general walking around stuff. The colours are stunningly deep and rich.
Regarding the low light ability, I took a casual portrait one day which got quite a lot of positive feedback. While looking at it some time later, I was a little taken aback to see the auto-chosen iso was 20319. Such a quiet little tool, you forget where its sensor and processor came from.
It is some camera.
I had never heard of this camera because I began photography with Canon 13 years ago then switched to Fuji (but kept my Canon cameras and lenses) but I'm amazed by its design functionality and image quality! A discovery really! Thank you!
Love the video as usual! I'm currently shooting Fuji, but if I ever switched back to a DSLR, it would most definitely be the DF. It looks like a very fun camera to use with fantastic image quality! Your videos are always refreshing. It's nice to appreciate cameras that aren't brand new. So many cameras from years ago get forgotten because it's been replaced a time or two, but all of those cameras are still relevant to a lot of people!
Im glad you like the videos. I feel the exact same way. People dismiss cameras and stuff in general way to fast. I still have an HD TV. Looks great. But say that on a TV forum and all he.. breaks loose :)
I bought this camera when it first came out and it has been my go to digital camera ever since (I also have a d800E which I use much less frequently). After it came out I saw a lot of negative reviews online and on RUclips. Most of the vitriol seemed to stem from the perception that Nikon was making a "retro" camera to appeal to some sort of hipster demographic rather than any concrete issues related to the camera's performance (hell, it even has had the sensor from the D4). What many of the naysayers failed to realize, but you have caught on to, is that it is aimed at a different subcategory of shooters. I bought my first Nikon in 1968 and the controls on the Df are close to that of Nikon film cameras of which many photographers are still familiar. For someone with 50 years of shooting experience with Nikons, everything is where it should be and the camera is effortless to use. Obviously it is not for everyone, especially those who want to shoot video.
Same here, I find I'm taking my Df to shoots that will be used in print more, mostly because it's fast and I get a much better vibe using it over my D800E etc so I enjoy shooting more and then take better and more varied shots.
It’s got awesome phots too. The colour is crazy.
Was looking to buy a used D750 until that Auto-ISO dial feature you just showed. That is an AWESOME feature.
Geoffrey Bassett It really is.
Awesome camera and non-photographers love it, used to get so many comments about it. The other great thing with the dF is the battery, it lasts forever.
That's true, the battery you can forget about, just lasts. And tiny.
I have a Df in use for concert and event photography because it's the smallest full frame DSLR and I can use nearly all of my old Ai lenses. I'm very pleased with.
My only objection is that the shutter broke last year in a Patti Smith concert after short time of use and I had no camera in reserve. I had never such a mechanical shutter breakdown before on my often and hard used FA, FM2, F3, F501, F90X or F4. And the repair was expensive with 400Euro.
So was that only bad luck?
I've had my Df since it was released. I never let any of the negativity surrounding it steer me away from it. I use it on portrait sessions all the time with the 58mm G. It is the perfect camera for me for the portrait work I do for friends and family. I just got a 2nd like new copy because I always told myself if a like new or new one came around I would get it. Dont need all the modern bells and whistle's to make the camera do all the work. I love the old school feel, dials and operation of this camera since film is soo expensive. As long as it works I will use it for work, play and everything else!
So it's a digital camera but basically fully manual like a film camera.
As a film shooter I am going to love this.
Three years later, this video answers some questions about the control system of the rumored Z fc
I agree so much. The DF is my dream camera!
It’s crazy how people are stupid quick to judge. Compared to Leica, the price on this is totally justified. I mean it’s go one of the finest sensor ever made, it’s light-weight, full-frame, and have crazy good physical controls.
And colors. It’s like Fuji, Leica and Nikon came together to make the perfect camera. Discreet and ideal for street-photography, wedding, photojournalism, and no one knows it’s not a film camera so no one will want to steal it.
Heck, even I shoot quite some video and I don’t care for the video feature. I’d rather have this and a video camera.
Dont forget alot of people unless they are a pro havent got a clue how to use a full manual camera, so using the DF becomes pointless to them.
The fanboy rage breaks were just long enough for me to stop laughing and compose myself for the next bit of info. What a great review. You focus on what a photographer can do with this rather than what a 'reviewer' can nitpick over it. Instead of seeing the duplication of menu and dial controls as a problem you found a great use for it. You point out rightly that the AF is plenty good enough for the kind of shooting the df is made for. This is a camera for someone who enjoys film-era Nikon lenses and cameras and shooting with primes.
zer0L0 Im really glad you enjoyed it :)
It’s 2022, my Df sits proudly in between a Z6ii and a A7 iv. A7R4 is not happy got pushed to the corner. Q2 and 907x wonder they also have classic look, everlasting build quality and beautiful color science and why I still keep Df? The two old Lunar are just there as decoration. I like it so much, almost bought a ZFc to keep it company. There is something the color from this camera that beats the new cameras, I don’t need two cards, the D4 processor is fantastic, the build quality is outstanding and mostly of all it takes great pictures.
4:30 Regarding auto ISO and using the ISO control dial...are you saying you can set the MAX ISO to 100 (for example) in the auto ISO menu, min shutter speed to 1/30th and THEN use the ISO dial on the top to sort of override the ISO 100 max limit in the auto ISO menu? If so, that's great! So if I set max auto ISO to 100, min shutter speed to 1/30th and THEN set my ISO dial to 800, are you saying the camera will still try to keep my ISO at 100 (the menu setting) but if the shutter speed falls below 1/30th (what I set in the menu), it will then use the ISO dial as the new upper limit, going up to and stopping at ISO 800 if that's where i have the dial set to? I should have my used Df pretty soon so I'll try that. I had the Df new in the past but bought another one (I sold the original I had).
U can use non AI Nikkor lenses on the Df, without damaging the camera. Very few other Nikons can do that. (mainly the pro models).
How about a review of the new Nikon ZF ?
I had the DF over a year now (upgrade from Nikon FE and D50) and I was using like I'm using D50, never knew about the ISO trick you showed in the menu and it is simply a game changer.
your voice is like i am putting jam and butter on my toast
If you use a camera like you use words you must take some nice pictures
is it a good thing or a bad thing?
Hello Mattias.
First of all I thank you for this one again. The Df is such a pleasure to use.
But there is something I don’t understand at 4:30
If I’m set to Auto ISO and that I put in the menu my base ISO at 100 and Max ISO to 200 and SS to 1/50 for instance, when I turn the ISO Dial to 1600 it will effectively take a picture at 1600 ISO, increasing the shutter speed higher than 1/50 and work as if I’m in manual ISO mode.
How do you do to make it work like you describe please ?
I absolutely love the design of this camera!
thanks for nikon df haters, so i can get the df with affordable price :P
Great stuff. Funny, informative and well-paced.
Searching for Nikon Df videos to learn about the camera and I come across this. 🤠 You made my day with the Fanboy Rage breaks!🤣.
The awesome images you have captured have an emotion about them that is hard to describe. I own a Z7 ii. I am looking at this as a companion camera to the Z and my Nikon F100. I appreciate you sharing this video.
I know, 4 years late, but kind of lens was used fora horse picture at 3:36?
Love the angry breaks on the video 🤣. Great video by the way 👍👌
I love the fact that it does not look like a black brick, its got the style and soul of a film camera
This was my first DSLR from Nikon and I still have it.
What is extremely great is that it supports zillions of older Nikon lenses including pre-AI.
It's still today a great camera for 98% of all the situations except for fast action.
Although I now have a D780 and a D850, I'm thinking of buying another Df before somebody else does it.
come to think of it, the DF is pretty much the only camera that can take the entire F-mount range* from Pre-Ai to the AF-P and Electronic Aperture without modification, that alone worths every "short-coming"
*excluding the intrusive fisheyes from the early days requiring mirror lockup
Man, I was just looking at one that had a low shutter count, for under $1k. I had one, but had the mirror locked up and damage sensor which cost me $1,500 to repair. Once I did, I just sold it, and bought an XT2 FujiFilm which I’ve been happy with. I do miss this Nikon a ton tho, and the IQ on the pictures is awesome. Great job on the video, and keep up the excellent work!
Munoz Family of 5 wow, $1k, would have jumped on it :)
Mattias Burling hi Matthias, I am looking at one now for $1500 with the 50MM kit lens it came with, about 1,500 clicks supposedly. Only problem is my wife only lets me have one camera (I know, sucks to be me). I’m an old schools retro feel camera guy, and thus I shoot with the XT2 for that matter. I’ve collected a few primes from the Fuji line up, but coming from the DF I always felt missing that FX look... I love the images that the Fuji gives me, but do you think if I were to go back to the DF , that I would be making a mistake? I mean the Fuji is a camera that was released in 2016 while the DF was released in early 2013... curious what your thoughts would be on this.
Got one in 2014 and love this little gem, great for street shooting and a lot of fun to use, just like my old FM’s
Thanks for setting the record straight.
Thanks a lot Mattias! I've been waiting for the price to drop on these cameras and your video probably just made the price shoot up! #TheMattiasAffect
TheMetroPhotographer sorry about that :)
Love the Fanboy Rage Breaks! Keep those in future videos. So appropriate!