To weigh in here: whenever a photographer is around an event I attend, I always do hear the shutter. But I am hesitant to say I am put off by it. In that regard, the flash is sometimes much more annoying, as is the guy or girl moving around the stage. Thing is, you know a photographer costs money. So he is only out on special occasions and in that case, adds a measure of glamour to the event. The shutter sound is of no importance and if anything, the louder the sound, the more it adds to the 'pro vibe' a paid photographer exudes.
I adore my D3s, had it years, I shoot corporate work, weddings, horses & dogs. I love the weight, shutter sound, small files, easy CF cards, & the lovely, almost filmic, files it gives me. I get it serviced by my local guys, what’s not to love. I will remain ‘old skool’ for as long as possible 💪
I still use the D3s in 2023. It's heavy but the image quality is wonderful. I use it with Voigtlander F mount lenses. I adore the shutter sound unlike the clack of the D700.
Everything you say is 100% spot on. I have just won 'International News Agency Photo of the Year 2022' and guess what camera i used ? The D3s ! Love it.
Just excellent as usual. I say just, because I just come to expect this level of quality from you and you did it again! I very much like Nikon's 85mm 1.8G and this sounds like a good combination of body and lens for what I do, street photography and I do not care about a larger camera. The two together are a good price point and doable for me also. Thank you for this review!
I had never heard of this camera. I am totally new to photography. I always use my phone. But I feel like that this trend of using your phonecamera is just redicilous. I used to have proper camera in 2010 and the quality and colour was so good. I won't be using those phone camera's anymore. My cat passed away and I am so gald I took proper pictures with a good camera of him. His memories feel more alive to me. Browsing online, I saw some pictures taken with this camera on the Nikon instagram page and was blown away by the quality. I had no clue it was an old camera. Although the new cameras look better. There is something very different about the pictures that make it look so painted/unique. I was shocked how cheap it is. Defintely will be purchasing it. I am not a professional photographer btw. Thanks for the review.
2023 still going strong lucky me I got one not insult in good condition , battery last longer that Nixon d810 and canon 5D mark iii , make me safe it for important work, Perfct video thanks for sharing 🙏🏻
Hi. You sold me on this camera. I especially liked that wedding photo! I just bought one online. Now I have to figure out a lens. This is my first pro camera😃
Totally agree. I have a d500 with battery grip, and it is just different to my d3s. I recently picked up a manual focus 135mm f2 and I think it will stay permanently attached to my d3s. Bulky, yes. Heavy, yes. Sublime user experience, you bet!
Absolutely bang on mate, well explained and superbly detailed review. Like I've said before, my D3 is still in use and likely to remain so until it finally gives out. Made me smile about the loud shutter and people at weddings comment. I never was bothered by it, nor bothered now, but it has been an issue with wildlife photography, as it sounds like a rifle being cocked, and I did experience birds and foxes dashing away after a couple of frames were fired 🤣Keep up the quality show mate 👍
That paragliding shot is awesome! I just picked up an old D2x for very little $ and after a couple of weeks of frustration changing focus points in vertical mode I checked the manual and Nikon recommends changing them by pressing & holding the vertical grip’s AF-on button then rotating the vertical sub command front dial. It is a bit odd to use a different AF point selection method for portrait versus landscape shooting, but for me it ends up being much easier & faster than the thumb stretch. If I use my right middle finger to select the AF point I can still keep my index finger on the shutter. Cheers!
The thumb stretch is annoying for sure, i do wonder if you can do the same though on the D3s, i suspect you can, D2x should be great though, i know a couple of guys that have had them and loved them!
2nd D3S video I have seen today (first was Three Blind Men comparing it to a Z8 but talking a lot about Jay Meisel who used a D3S to great effect). Is it a special birthday for the D3S (15th?). I don’t know the Nikon product line, so I try to place it into the context of the Canon product line. The 5D is obviously one point of comparison but how about the 1DX line? (Built in grip and premium professional features and controls). In those days there was a 1DS for studio work and another version called the 1D (mark 1.2 or 3) for everything else.
Great video. Lovely parachute photo. Quiet / silent shutters do have uses though, for example when photographing theatre / performances / dance etc. Loud shutters are hugely distracting for the audience and performers in those situations - I know because I was sat near photographers photographing a dance (with quiet / no music) and their old Canon cameras were ruining it for me.
Shutter on my D4S went out at 120k clicks. It took a while to find someone with the parts to fix it. Lack of factory support is a real concern. I still use it on occasion, but my Z9 is obviously my main camera.
I just got a D3s, after having a D3 for over 10 years, but after I had to change the shutter, not touched it so much anymore and changed to Olympus MFT. However, the other day I wanted to maintain the last surviving battery of the D3 and fell in love again. I mean, I have still all those Nikkor lenses from all eras. But my D3 had some electric failures, shutting down in the middle of a shoot, and so I decided to get a "big brother" for it. Was very lucky to finde an excellent example for just 350 €, and never looked back. The high ISO performance gives total freedom. Feels like almost 2 stops.
I agree with all this although my preference is for my D3x as I don't shoot movies, the low light performance is OK as is the shooting speed in continuous. Gladly swap these for the extra resolution and would suggest that anyone wanting all the features of the D3s but with higher resolution go for a D4. The great news is that there are many good used D3 models on the market at great prices at present and anyone preferring the D3x will find that the huge premium needed when new has shrunk to a size that makes it a practical alternative.
I think during a ceremony and reception people will not hear the shutter. But people might hear it in a small when getting ready and sometimes that can work to your advantage if they turn their head and look into the camera you can take that photo also. I went to one church and preist said I don't want to hear any noise from your camera. I just put my camera in silent mode I have mirrorless. My Dad had a clock in the living room that would go ding ding. After a while you get so use to it we did not even hear it going off we just zoned it out.
I’ve got D3X, D700, & D3S. The others are fab too, but the D3S is my favourite. Not quite sure why - but it’s just the one I’d keep if I could only have one camera.
I realize that they say it takes around 80 megapixels or so to match 35mm film. However, as I review my 35mm prints and compare them to the Nikon 12.1 megapixel sensor they seem quite comparable. When I bought my 16.2 megapixel Nikon, that was the point where I felt it exceeded 35mm film in clarity.
This is hell of camera. I had a lot of Nikon's. I thought that is same sensor as D3/d700, but it is much different. The colors are much brighter and cleaner, more like Df, but sharper in jpeg. All in all, this camera is very very capable in all aspects, even today.
@@srr1887 They cannot be compared. If you want a real camera go for the D700. The D3 is even better but perhaps heavier for street. The color reproduction of both cameras is top notch and the Sony colors on the A6000 are a disaster especially on skins and skies.
oh you are welcome, im glad you like them Eugenia, its great to get feedback like this. But feel free to tell me when i get it wrong too, im still learning how to do a youtube video!
When I made my oversized photo books, the effective file size was about 1.2 Megabytes per page. So roughly the equivalent of 1-2 Megapixels. Per Page. My old D90 has 12 Megapixels and I never ever came to a point that it was not enough. I later bought a D750 with 24 MPs but mainly because of low light capabilities. It is much better then with the old D90. The pixel count is plenty on both cameras.
In the rapid digital age we find ourselves in, it's very unfortunate for the equipment to become obsolete at a very high pace. However, I can't help but drool over this marvel from Nikon, the legendary Nikon D3s. 14 years later and it's still a beast to be reckoned with.
I'd say the same about Canon 1DX. It's the best comfort in hands I ever had, but the shutter is so loud it scared my at first 😀 I now own 5DIII with batterry grip which is similarly convenient in ergonomics, but has true silent mode for those bothred with it.
Great review of a great camera. May I request you to say something about its counterpart Canon 1D Mark IV ? Being a hobbyist, I use it for wildlife photography frequently and couldn't be happier. Had I been a Nikon shooter; I would definitely get the D3s. There's nothing sweeter than the shutter sound of a pro DSLR, just love it.
Hi Martin. Wow and Wow again with regard to the paraglider picture. Simple as that. Hi again. I've just seen the other photo of the paraglider on your Instagram page. The client/s must of been very happy with the wonderful images you created.
Thank you for your opinion, I was considering buying this camera in 2024 and your opinion helped me a lot. You left me a doubt about the colorimetry. Is the skin tone similar to reality or is it very different and also in the level of detail, perhaps the imperfections? of the skin is it noticeable?
It's an amazing camera of the height of DSLR . I got the use the '07 D3 and loved it so I got on for the D3S and never looked back. Coming from D2H I can't recall it being louder or even my F4E of which I was still using 20 yrs ago as a kid. I think when you take the moto drive noise out of it you notice it different. The D3s does have a sort of quiet mode. it's ideal in wildlife slow frame counts. But remember, the D3S is capable of 11 Fps so its mirror return is strong. The F4E was much quieter in its soft mode.
Nice video! I’ve been eyeing the D3s for a couple of years, but they seem to be either quite scruffy or expensive. It seems to be a better camera than the contemporary Canon cameras, the 1Ds Mk III and the 1D Mark IV. And that said even when looking at those two in my cupboard. It’s a bit interesting that noise/grain are so much more pleasant in the older low resolution pro cameras. The picture you show here at 6400 looks great, and I would say it is a similar experience with many older pro cameras. Many new high resolution cameras have ISO through the roof, but the noise starts to look quite horrible even on settings like 6400, especially if noise reduction is turned down.
yeah i agree and the noise that it does have is actually nice, somehow the nikons seem to have hardly any colour noise which makes the noise much more acceptable
@@bngr_bngr The 1D Mark 4 is a APS-H, so yeah, a 1.3x crop. It’s in the middle between full frame and the typical APS-C (1.6x) crop sensor cameras. But it was still a pro camera, competing with the buyers of the Nikon D3s. I own it and the full frame 1Ds Mark III, and they are both very much pro cameras, but the 1Ds is more of a high resolution studio, portrait and landscape camera, while the 1D Mark 4 is a typical high speed sports camera, like the Nikon D3s.
Great perspective & helpfull but i have been trying to buy new nikon d3s or nikon d4... cant find any new ones ie.low shutter counts....Anyone have ANY Suggestions? One video on You tube suggested Japanese import, but doesntthat void USA warranty & repair options?
I am happy with my nikon z5 wish i could afford the lenses I want but they all cost more than my camera did and im just using the single kit lens cause im not paying that much for glass. 24mp is more than enough for any needs.
Hey Martin, Ray here. Just today, 20 Dec 2023, purchased one! Found one on eBay in immaculate condition for a fair price and it is on the post on its way to me as we speak. Can't wait! As this video was made closer to the beginning of 2023, I wonder if you ever got round getting another D3s body? In any case, thanks for your invaluable videos! Cheers, Ray.
oh i hope you like it, its soooo good, ive moved to the z9 now which will be like a mirrorless version but i was very close to getting another D3s, its still a fantastic camera one of the best ever made.
@MartinCastein I've been using the Z9 for the last year. It's Incredible! I still have my F5. I wanted to have something close to the F5 in digital. I'm hoping the D3s will do that for me. I just got it by the way. It is a flagship Nikon through and through. Amazing.
I was thinking getting this for wildlife! But the noisy shutter now, idk. What cheap Fullframe can I use you think guys ? It need to be kind of silent. But really good in lowlight !!!!
Hi Martin. Another great video. I've got the D3, D700 and 800. I shoot with the D800, which I love and I also love the D3, which is possibly the best workhorse ever. Is there much difference between the D3 and D3s?
@@dharmabob2 I got a D3 and D800 too, but added a D3s recently. It is a real difference to the D3 in ISO performance, almost 2 stops. Suddenly you can stop down your lens in the night, to get those sunstars, for example. Also the live view is more usable than with the D3. A big advantage. I got mine for 350 €, and it is in excellent condition, only used in studio. Now is the best time to get a D3s.
I think I have to get my hands on a D3s Never had anyone complain about shutter noise when taking pictures people aren't just standing around in silence at a wedding
D3s is a perfect wedding camera really, it is heavy but the ergonomics are fantastic and its the most completely in control and laid back feeling ive had from a camera at a wedding. it just breezes through it, any iso, any situation.
Had the D3 for a short time and was going to move to a D3s, but I didn't like the colors so much as I did the D3. I ended up trading up to a D4 and man what a huge difference the D4 is in low light over the D3. I agree the grip on the D3/D3s is on a different level of comfort. The D4 is also really nice, but the vertical grip is more shallow compared to the D3/D3s. The buttons on the D4 by far is better than the D3. But you can do a lot with Fn buttons and shooting modes to change things up with one hand on the D4 that it to me is better ergodically then the D3. CF card, I never remove them. I just jack in with the mini-USB connector and pull pictures over that way. I do not want to damage the CF contacts on my Pro bodies, it can be very costly to have them bent. By far the D4 colors are a tad better vs the D3. The D3 has some magic though, it handles the higher ISO noise decently, but shows its age when pushed. The D4 is a monster in low light. Some reviewers have said it's maybe a 1/3 stop better than the D3s. I will say the D3 and D4 both handle noise better than my newer DSLR's. Something about the grain pattern that allows the D3/D4 to be pushed past their ISO limits. The D3/D3s and D4 have very loud shutters, and I always worry about that as well. I do a lot of events photos and I always feel like I want to be stealthy to get the best Candid shots I can get. I will say I get more folks interested in the size of the camera and lenses then the actual shutter sounds during a quite time of an event. I think once they see you are taking photos of everyone, they mellow out and forget you or there. Same with when I use flash at an event, at first the folks notice it. But after a few dozen flash shots they forget about it and enjoy the event. I still remember back a few years watching press events and the barrage of shutter releases you hear in those situations. And those folks just go on and do their thing. Just shoot and let the folks settle into you being there and clicking away. Weight and size, I wouldn't trade it for a lighter/lesser camera. I do not plan to go mirrorless for many years. There are to many good DSLR's to own and enjoy at 1/3 of the cost of the newer Mirrorless bodies. Great review, and thank you.
Thx for the Info Martin. That looks like one super tanker of a camera (in a good way) which will go on forever. Those raw images do look very nice. I do like the look, as in, the files of the "older gear" they have a certain character to them which adds to the story being told in the photo. Give me some of that 5,6D creamy love. That sounds quite bizarre but you know what I mean 😂😂 Great as always, you Nikon fanboy!! Hahaha. 😉😉
I know a pro in my town who has been shooting with D3s since it came out and he's not intended to switch. He's got his old 24-70 and 70-200 (both 2.8) all wraped in transparent box sealing tape because they are beaten so much, LOL, but he still successfully uses it all. He drives Mercedes, but shoots with this beat up stuff, because it just works.
i love that, i sometimes wish id just done that, the amount of money i have spent just trying different cameras where I would have just been happy sticking with the d3s.....i just love the simplicity of living like that.
Martin you would fit in with me and my photographer friends perfect. Out here the D3s is legendary. In my opinion might be Nikons best. One observation that I’ve had is whenever you have the S models they add a little bit of like dirt or something to the image so the d3 is more like the D800 but the S model of the D3 and the D4 have a punch to it. I still prefer the 5d markii and iii to this camera but it’s amazing. All the AF points are sharp but centered the lowlight is good considering it’s age but not on par with more modern Nikons. Nice video. This is another camera that shoots both natural and OCF equally amazing. The natural light is very filmic and the OCF very punchy. I always thought that low megapixel cameras look more like film and this guy prob the most. Also the grain at higher Iso is more like film grain than noise. I’ve used this body quite a lot with my work along with the D750 and D500 and it’s the best colors by far.
agree with all of that, it does have to be taken into account when it was made but shooting weddings with that camera was so straight forward and dependable. agree that it has much better colours than the d750 for sure too.
I shoot sports with D3s each week along with D700. I print qiute often and lately even 90x60 cm poster. Just my own two cents : D3s produces qiute different colours ( not as good as D700 ) also has improved lcd screen ( not as blueish as D700).
I feel the same about my D700, the D3's baby brother. 12mp is a sweet spot similar to film. There's a different feeling composing a shot when you know you don't have infinite crop. It gives the frame more meaning. Less pixel peeping. More emphasis on creating images instead of data. Nice work!
My D3 can sit in the closet for months waiting for me - pick it up, the battery is still good to go and it's happy to back to work. The least fussy camera (I've shot Fuji, Nikon, Canon, Phase One) with the biggest payoff I own.
What do you think the difference is between D3 and 5D classic ? i see its priced a bit higher , given the integrated grip that is actually not a grip just a place for huge battery .
The integrated grip on the d3 is a grip as when you turn the camera to portrait orientation it has a second shutter button and controls to allow you to use the camera in portrait orientation the same as you would in landscape. That’s also different from just putting a grip on a camera because the ergonomics and balance on cameras like the d3 is far superior. However the main question. The 5d is a slow and basic portrait camera. The d3 is a sports and journalism camera. I’d buy the 5d for portraits and probably the d3 for most other things. The 5d is very old and slow so you should consider that. Look at other cameras too. It’s an unusual comparison between those two.
@@MartinCastein Yes its a grip indeed , . But that aside , i have Canon 6D as well , and i prefer almost always 5D , even when it comes to manual third party lenses , 5D can give you focus confirmation via OVF , 6D can not nor can any other Canon only 5D ,but 6D has live view so you can zoom in and focus that way , but that way is a hell of a lot slower .Far as i know things are like that . And with 5D you get bigger pixels , and i like that , it makes objects on the image look 3D , they have a pop to them . Totally different then 6D looking more like picture taken with smartphone , kind of flat , and it has yellowish tint to it , cant really put my finger on it , but definitely different If i shoot same subject with 5D and 6D , put the pictures on my Phone or side by side on my professional 4K monitor Samsung UD970 , i like what i see more on 5D . But , Nikon D3 has live view , and it has even bigger pixels , 5D 8.2nm , D3 8,4nm . So i know i will get more 3D pop with it . Most viewers of my images , use smartphones , 99% of them . So i have no need for high pixel count , i would rather enjoy big pixels . 12Mpix is more then enough , if framed correctly , and if not , you can crop it about 40% and still be satisfied . It is for that reason that i am comparing 5D and D3 , large pixels , around 12mpix . And i would like to know from first hand experience from someone who had them both , what are they like , which one hart likes most . I am a Hobby Family Photographer , sometimes event photographer , but not payed . So i dont need latest and greatest , i just want nice pictures and 12mpix is enough , i cant complain on my 5D , it has everything i need , as i said most people view my photos on Smartphones . That is why i got 6D , ability to send via wifi to smartphone , but i did not use it once . So ... Maybe better get D3 , i have a professional photographer as a friend and he is on Nikon system , he has im sure some glass to lend me till i form my own Nikon collection .
The world does not change where we NEED newer cameras the trees and grass and elephants stay the same, SURE products advance but not always is new technology NEEDED. Is it nice to get more MP and faster gear and faster autofocus sure!!! but it is not REQIRED i still shoot daily with my D3 my sony a600 and my canon r6 each give me good results but use them for different applications.. I am going to get more ball on bat shots with the r6 and its better tracking and more FPS then I would with the d3. but you slap on a 70-200 f 2.8 on the d3 and you have a walk around work horse camera with incredible images
@@MartinCastein Consider the fact that I'm an enthusiast and already earned my IT degree before I bought my first camera (Nikon F2A + motor drive) and even print color in my darkroom over 45 years ago. A computer to me is just a simple device that lets me work smarter than harder. Hence, I don't find the Z9 or any modern cameras have too many features or high-tech. OK, Z9 vs. D3. The Z9 isn't as ergonomic as the D3 for my hand, close but not perfect. Like most of the Z series, WB finally caught up that I can shoot SOOC with my Z 50 f/1.2 S indoor and don't need a flash/strobe. Intuitive AF interface arrived with the Z9 v3 and the AF is currently the best from Nikon. Dual-axis tilting rear LCD is useful in many cases. Sensor shield, relatively low pricing for a flagship camera, no mechanical shutter, etc. makes it a best buy in my book and a pleasure to shoot with.
I had heard that the D700 was the little brother to the D3s (as in it has the same sensor, but different size and ergos) can anyone confirm this? I enjoy the D700 but have never tried the D3s.
I think its technically the same sensor as a base but the performance is pretty different, the colour is a bit better on the d700 and iso performance is leaps ahead on the D3s.
Hi Martin, just enjoyed your superb and passionate review. I own a D3s and I totally agree: the ergonomy is stellar, the camera is well built and so reliable. The viewfinder is wide and I consider it an extension of my eye. Files are nice and skin tones adorable. It's a camera that is pure joy to use. Thanks for another great review. Best wishes Luca from Rome, Italy
@@MartinCastein thank you. Just bought a d700 in perfect condition with 50.000 clicks, a battery pack, 3 Nikon batteries, L bracket for easy tripod attachment, remote control and he threw in a large camera bag because I gave him the price he asked for, which was €425. So I think that was a fair price for the whole package. Really happy 😍
There is nowt wrong with older cameras, most are hardly run in when you find them on the secondhand shelf, although the beasts from Nikon and Canon may have had a hard life so shop carefully. I would guess that a huge proportion of images taken today with a camera that is not attached to a phone will only be seen on a screen, be that a computer, tablet or phone screen. Only a small % of photographers will print an image and an even smaller % will print and display that image for others to view. So you're right a 10MP camera will be just fine for 99% of our photography needs, the problem is that if we didn't upgrade to what we are told is the next best thing ultimately we won't have a camera at all as Sonnikcan would cease to exist. So I am eternally grateful to those people who buy the latest and greatest and leave a lesser camera in the shop for a canny buyer to pick up. I have just picked up a D5, 1500 shots taken, in mint++++ condition for less than the price of a new D780 by a considerable margin. The D5 is just brilliant, everything you have said about the D3s can be applied to the D5, long live the beasts. As usual a great video, thought provoking and nicely argued, the D3s is a great camera and will remain a great camera for a long time to come.
Ugh CF cards are the worst :P They're gross and icky. When I got my first DSLR everyone screamed about how evil high ISO was and you get the dreaded noise which renders all your photos useless. I was even scared to go to ISO800 because I'd pixel peek and see a few pixels of noise and throw out the photo It kind of blew my mind to find out that not only does high ISO not cause noise, but you can get noisy photos at ISO100. I don't care any more, partially thanks to you, I just take a photo now and if it's high ISO that's a problem for post if it's actually too noisy, and even then it's probably fine. That ISO6400 photo you showed looks so nice.
🤣 hahahhaa yeah i think you shouldnt care about noise its the noise reduction that can be applied by the camera that can ruin raw files. For weddings its nice if it can keep relatively low noise without having to apply noise reduction to the raw files and this camera excels at that, when it does produce noise it just looks nice. ahhh i miss this camera.
Some people are letting go of their F-mount glass awful cheap as they migrate to the new z-mount, I've picked up some really nice lenses recently that would have cost me a small fortune some years back. My motto is never buy new technology, stay one cycle or two behind!
That hasn’t been my experience with it at all, did you find people notice you more with it. I guess that might happen for street photography but even then I know enough people that used it for that have had no issues. I think it’s psychological for the photographer.
@@MartinCastein Just an example. When I used my d750 with a battery grip I had already twice a situation when people called the police because they felt uncomfortable being photographed. And I am speaking about people which had been photographed from a distance. When I use a little 4/3rds camera from Olympus that never happened. Or my phone. That is in my opinion the reason why street photographers are using little cameras. But - no offense. This is a great channel.
A D3s in 2023. Dont do it. Same for the D700. Nikon probably does not service this camera anymore. Furthermore, chances of finding onebthat is good condition is slim.
It might not need servicing with a shutter that Nikon claimed was good for a minimum of 300,000 clicks. If they don't service it, get someone else too! I think in the UK you can still pick them up with low shutter counts. You'd be surprised
@@dharmabob2 laddy, i had a d810 for 5 years. it had 170k clicks on it. i shot once or twice a week. it is easy to reach 300k if you keep a camera over 6 years. again, dont buy that outdated d3s.
@@castieldiallo2945 the 'laddy' comment is a bit condescending but thanks for the complement. I maintain that if you can find a D3/D3s with low shutter count and it turns you on, recognising that it's a tank, then go ahead and buy it
@@castieldiallo2945 I disagree totally. You can find one of these at very good pricing and enjoy it for a few years or maybe many years. You would have to spend a lot more money with newer cameras and most of them aren’t as nice.
To weigh in here: whenever a photographer is around an event I attend, I always do hear the shutter. But I am hesitant to say I am put off by it. In that regard, the flash is sometimes much more annoying, as is the guy or girl moving around the stage. Thing is, you know a photographer costs money. So he is only out on special occasions and in that case, adds a measure of glamour to the event. The shutter sound is of no importance and if anything, the louder the sound, the more it adds to the 'pro vibe' a paid photographer exudes.
I adore my D3s, had it years, I shoot corporate work, weddings, horses & dogs. I love the weight, shutter sound, small files, easy CF cards, & the lovely, almost filmic, files it gives me. I get it serviced by my local guys, what’s not to love. I will remain ‘old skool’ for as long as possible 💪
Good for you! Wonderful camera.
I still use the D3s in 2023. It's heavy but the image quality is wonderful. I use it with Voigtlander F mount lenses. I adore the shutter sound unlike the clack of the D700.
I totally agree, also the D4S, and last my D6 . Happy Shooting.
I'm still killing it with that camera. It'll never be obsolete for my use case.
Everything you say is 100% spot on. I have just won 'International News Agency Photo of the Year 2022' and guess what camera i used ? The D3s ! Love it.
Thank you and congratulations on your win!!!!
The D3/D3s feels so nice in hand! I recently got myself a low shutter count D3 and i'm loving it.
It really is!
You are a First Class Teacher ! Highly Enjoyed the Video Explanation as well as the images !
Just excellent as usual. I say just, because I just come to expect this level of quality from you and you did it again! I very much like Nikon's 85mm 1.8G and this sounds like a good combination of body and lens for what I do, street photography and I do not care about a larger camera. The two together are a good price point and doable for me also. Thank you for this review!
I'm looking into buying a D4, at the moment I'm shooting with a d810 and will never switch to mirrorless.
I had never heard of this camera. I am totally new to photography. I always use my phone. But I feel like that this trend of using your phonecamera is just redicilous. I used to have proper camera in 2010 and the quality and colour was so good. I won't be using those phone camera's anymore. My cat passed away and I am so gald I took proper pictures with a good camera of him. His memories feel more alive to me.
Browsing online, I saw some pictures taken with this camera on the Nikon instagram page and was blown away by the quality. I had no clue it was an old camera. Although the new cameras look better. There is something very different about the pictures that make it look so painted/unique. I was shocked how cheap it is. Defintely will be purchasing it. I am not a professional photographer btw. Thanks for the review.
2023 still going strong lucky me I got one not insult in good condition , battery last longer that Nixon d810 and canon 5D mark iii , make me safe it for important work, Perfct video thanks for sharing 🙏🏻
I have the D3s and D3X and they are both great just fabulous cameras
Hi. You sold me on this camera. I especially liked that wedding photo! I just bought one online. Now I have to figure out a lens. This is my first pro camera😃
Straight on video! I have this camera and won't ever get rid of it.
Totally agree. I have a d500 with battery grip, and it is just different to my d3s. I recently picked up a manual focus 135mm f2 and I think it will stay permanently attached to my d3s. Bulky, yes. Heavy, yes. Sublime user experience, you bet!
Absolutely bang on mate, well explained and superbly detailed review. Like I've said before, my D3 is still in use and likely to remain so until it finally gives out. Made me smile about the loud shutter and people at weddings comment. I never was bothered by it, nor bothered now, but it has been an issue with wildlife photography, as it sounds like a rifle being cocked, and I did experience birds and foxes dashing away after a couple of frames were fired 🤣Keep up the quality show mate 👍
ahhh yes for wildlife thats a different thing hahaha i can imagine that being a problem.
That paragliding shot is awesome! I just picked up an old D2x for very little $ and after a couple of weeks of frustration changing focus points in vertical mode I checked the manual and Nikon recommends changing them by pressing & holding the vertical grip’s AF-on button then rotating the vertical sub command front dial. It is a bit odd to use a different AF point selection method for portrait versus landscape shooting, but for me it ends up being much easier & faster than the thumb stretch. If I use my right middle finger to select the AF point I can still keep my index finger on the shutter. Cheers!
The thumb stretch is annoying for sure, i do wonder if you can do the same though on the D3s, i suspect you can, D2x should be great though, i know a couple of guys that have had them and loved them!
The video is spot on. Awesome camera for sure. Get one and have fun!
I shot weddings and sports with my D3. Although retired from it, I wouldn't hesitate to do it again today. Excellent cameras
2nd D3S video I have seen today (first was Three Blind Men comparing it to a Z8 but talking a lot about Jay Meisel who used a D3S to great effect). Is it a special birthday for the D3S (15th?). I don’t know the Nikon product line, so I try to place it into the context of the Canon product line. The 5D is obviously one point of comparison but how about the 1DX line? (Built in grip and premium professional features and controls). In those days there was a 1DS for studio work and another version called the 1D (mark 1.2 or 3) for everything else.
Great video. Lovely parachute photo. Quiet / silent shutters do have uses though, for example when photographing theatre / performances / dance etc. Loud shutters are hugely distracting for the audience and performers in those situations - I know because I was sat near photographers photographing a dance (with quiet / no music) and their old Canon cameras were ruining it for me.
Shutter on my D4S went out at 120k clicks. It took a while to find someone with the parts to fix it. Lack of factory support is a real concern. I still use it on occasion, but my Z9 is obviously my main camera.
I just got a D3s, after having a D3 for over 10 years, but after I had to change the shutter, not touched it so much anymore and changed to Olympus MFT. However, the other day I wanted to maintain the last surviving battery of the D3 and fell in love again. I mean, I have still all those Nikkor lenses from all eras. But my D3 had some electric failures, shutting down in the middle of a shoot, and so I decided to get a "big brother" for it. Was very lucky to finde an excellent example for just 350 €, and never looked back. The high ISO performance gives total freedom. Feels like almost 2 stops.
I agree with all this although my preference is for my D3x as I don't shoot movies, the low light performance is OK as is the shooting speed in continuous. Gladly swap these for the extra resolution and would suggest that anyone wanting all the features of the D3s but with higher resolution go for a D4. The great news is that there are many good used D3 models on the market at great prices at present and anyone preferring the D3x will find that the huge premium needed when new has shrunk to a size that makes it a practical alternative.
Very good analyse !
Ibstill use it in 2024 from 2010 and it is a real incredible experience everytime I use it.
D3s with 50 and 85mm : just amazing !
Love the video!! Found a D3 with 60k clicks for $350. It's been a BEAST with a 28mm for street/architecture photography
Thanks Marcel, you found an incredible deal wow!
I think during a ceremony and reception people will not hear the shutter. But people might hear it in a small when getting ready and sometimes that can work to your advantage if they turn their head and look into the camera you can take that photo also.
I went to one church and preist said I don't want to hear any noise from your camera. I just put my camera in silent mode I have mirrorless.
My Dad had a clock in the living room that would go ding ding. After a while you get so use to it we did not even hear it going off we just zoned it out.
I’ve got D3X, D700, & D3S. The others are fab too, but the D3S is my favourite. Not quite sure why - but it’s just the one I’d keep if I could only have one camera.
yeah i get that, i think its just so competent.
Nice video I still shoot with my ten years old D800 !
I have just gone back to my D3S for sports. I also regret getting rid of my Fuji X-Pro 2. Such fantastic cameras, with wonderful colours.
Hi Martin,
I have a D3x, and I really love it. I use it primarily with a 90mm Tamron macro... 🙂
Great to hear!
I realize that they say it takes around 80 megapixels or so to match 35mm film. However, as I review my 35mm prints and compare them to the Nikon 12.1 megapixel sensor they seem quite comparable. When I bought my 16.2 megapixel Nikon, that was the point where I felt it exceeded 35mm film in clarity.
watching this since i found it in my work’s storage.
This is hell of camera. I had a lot of Nikon's. I thought that is same sensor as D3/d700, but it is much different. The colors are much brighter and cleaner, more like Df, but sharper in jpeg. All in all, this camera is very very capable in all aspects, even today.
Im confused to take sony a6000 or this one. For a beginner street photo
@@srr1887 They cannot be compared. If you want a real camera go for the D700. The D3 is even better but perhaps heavier for street. The color reproduction of both cameras is top notch and the Sony colors on the A6000 are a disaster especially on skins and skies.
I am so grateful for your no-bull videos, without stupid music etc
oh you are welcome, im glad you like them Eugenia, its great to get feedback like this. But feel free to tell me when i get it wrong too, im still learning how to do a youtube video!
I feel similarly about the D700, and I don't mind putting an aftermarket grip on there, it's just so much cheaper.
Get a D700 and you won't look back 🥳
Love my d700.
When I made my oversized photo books, the effective file size was about 1.2 Megabytes per page. So roughly the equivalent of 1-2 Megapixels. Per Page. My old D90 has 12 Megapixels and I never ever came to a point that it was not enough. I later bought a D750 with 24 MPs but mainly because of low light capabilities. It is much better then with the old D90. The pixel count is plenty on both cameras.
MC my opinion on comfortable cameras favours the Nikon D4/s. To me the 4 is more natural in the hand and less of a lump.
Sou apaixonado pela D3s. As imagens são bastante agradáveis
In the rapid digital age we find ourselves in, it's very unfortunate for the equipment to become obsolete at a very high pace. However, I can't help but drool over this marvel from Nikon, the legendary Nikon D3s. 14 years later and it's still a beast to be reckoned with.
youve literally covered everything I needed to know about this camera. what an amazing review. well done!
I'd say the same about Canon 1DX. It's the best comfort in hands I ever had, but the shutter is so loud it scared my at first 😀 I now own 5DIII with batterry grip which is similarly convenient in ergonomics, but has true silent mode for those bothred with it.
I love me my Olympus E-M1X. Feels so damn solid and feels great in the hand, especially with heavier lenses. Gripped bodies are great.
And a postage stamp sensor...
Muchas gracias.
Great review of a great camera.
May I request you to say something about its counterpart Canon 1D Mark IV ? Being a hobbyist, I use it for wildlife photography frequently and couldn't be happier.
Had I been a Nikon shooter; I would definitely get the D3s.
There's nothing sweeter than the shutter sound of a pro DSLR, just love it.
I have both. The 1D MKIV is Canon's best and my favorite camera. The D3s is Nikon's best camera and my favorite Nikon. They will never make better.
@@carlgarrard9710, spot on buddy.
Hi Martin.
Wow and Wow again with regard to the paraglider picture. Simple as that.
Hi again.
I've just seen the other photo of the paraglider on your Instagram page. The client/s must of been very happy with the wonderful images you created.
Many thanks
Thank you for your opinion, I was considering buying this camera in 2024 and your opinion helped me a lot. You left me a doubt about the colorimetry. Is the skin tone similar to reality or is it very different and also in the level of detail, perhaps the imperfections? of the skin is it noticeable?
I think Panasonic were making sensors for Nikon around the D3 models… but I may be wrong
You have made me want to pull out my D3S again.
I can’t believe you put it away in the first place 🤣 tut tut
It's an amazing camera of the height of DSLR . I got the use the '07 D3 and loved it so I got on for the D3S and never looked back. Coming from D2H I can't recall it being louder or even my F4E of which I was still using 20 yrs ago as a kid. I think when you take the moto drive noise out of it you notice it different.
The D3s does have a sort of quiet mode. it's ideal in wildlife slow frame counts. But remember, the D3S is capable of 11 Fps so its mirror return is strong. The F4E was much quieter in its soft mode.
Nice video! I’ve been eyeing the D3s for a couple of years, but they seem to be either quite scruffy or expensive. It seems to be a better camera than the contemporary Canon cameras, the 1Ds Mk III and the 1D Mark IV. And that said even when looking at those two in my cupboard.
It’s a bit interesting that noise/grain are so much more pleasant in the older low resolution pro cameras. The picture you show here at 6400 looks great, and I would say it is a similar experience with many older pro cameras. Many new high resolution cameras have ISO through the roof, but the noise starts to look quite horrible even on settings like 6400, especially if noise reduction is turned down.
yeah i agree and the noise that it does have is actually nice, somehow the nikons seem to have hardly any colour noise which makes the noise much more acceptable
Those Canon’s are different from each other. One is a full frame camera. The other a crop sensor camera.
@@bngr_bngr The 1D Mark 4 is a APS-H, so yeah, a 1.3x crop. It’s in the middle between full frame and the typical APS-C (1.6x) crop sensor cameras. But it was still a pro camera, competing with the buyers of the Nikon D3s. I own it and the full frame 1Ds Mark III, and they are both very much pro cameras, but the 1Ds is more of a high resolution studio, portrait and landscape camera, while the 1D Mark 4 is a typical high speed sports camera, like the Nikon D3s.
Great perspective & helpfull but i have been trying to buy new nikon d3s or nikon d4... cant find any new ones ie.low shutter counts....Anyone have ANY Suggestions? One video on You tube suggested Japanese import, but doesntthat void USA warranty & repair options?
I am happy with my nikon z5 wish i could afford the lenses I want but they all cost more than my camera did and im just using the single kit lens cause im not paying that much for glass. 24mp is more than enough for any needs.
Yes 💯
Hey Martin, Ray here. Just today, 20 Dec 2023, purchased one! Found one on eBay in immaculate condition for a fair price and it is on the post on its way to me as we speak. Can't wait! As this video was made closer to the beginning of 2023, I wonder if you ever got round getting another D3s body? In any case, thanks for your invaluable videos! Cheers, Ray.
oh i hope you like it, its soooo good, ive moved to the z9 now which will be like a mirrorless version but i was very close to getting another D3s, its still a fantastic camera one of the best ever made.
@MartinCastein I've been using the Z9 for the last year. It's Incredible! I still have my F5. I wanted to have something close to the F5 in digital. I'm hoping the D3s will do that for me. I just got it by the way. It is a flagship Nikon through and through. Amazing.
yeah i can fully understand that, hopefully it does the trick for you
The paragliding shot looked so good. Did you use HDR for it by combining shots in post? I can’t believe it’s got such good dynamic range.
Thanks, yes its 2 shots combined, often do this for any outdoor commercial work.
@@MartinCastein super awesome
I was thinking getting this for wildlife! But the noisy shutter now, idk. What cheap Fullframe can I use you think guys ? It need to be kind of silent. But really good in lowlight !!!!
Great video👍
Thanks 👍
Hi Martin. Another great video. I've got the D3, D700 and 800. I shoot with the D800, which I love and I also love the D3, which is possibly the best workhorse ever. Is there much difference between the D3 and D3s?
D3s is much better in low light and get it if you can
@@MartinCastein I won't be getting another camera for some time😏
@@dharmabob2 I got a D3 and D800 too, but added a D3s recently. It is a real difference to the D3 in ISO performance, almost 2 stops. Suddenly you can stop down your lens in the night, to get those sunstars, for example. Also the live view is more usable than with the D3. A big advantage. I got mine for 350 €, and it is in excellent condition, only used in studio. Now is the best time to get a D3s.
I shoot M43 I have 12 megapixel cameras in I'm happy with 12. I have other cameras with 16 and 20 megapixels.
using dxo photo you can use 25600 ISO no problems...
I think I have to get my hands on a D3s
Never had anyone complain about shutter noise when taking pictures people aren't just standing around in silence at a wedding
D3s is a perfect wedding camera really, it is heavy but the ergonomics are fantastic and its the most completely in control and laid back feeling ive had from a camera at a wedding. it just breezes through it, any iso, any situation.
I love it m8
How did light your video?, what camera/lens? your video lighting is exceptionally great….!!
I think the lighting is a softbox front camera right and and a bare led bulb hair light from the back but not much power to it.camera i cant remember.
Had the D3 for a short time and was going to move to a D3s, but I didn't like the colors so much as I did the D3. I ended up trading up to a D4 and man what a huge difference the D4 is in low light over the D3.
I agree the grip on the D3/D3s is on a different level of comfort. The D4 is also really nice, but the vertical grip is more shallow compared to the D3/D3s. The buttons on the D4 by far is better than the D3. But you can do a lot with Fn buttons and shooting modes to change things up with one hand on the D4 that it to me is better ergodically then the D3.
CF card, I never remove them. I just jack in with the mini-USB connector and pull pictures over that way. I do not want to damage the CF contacts on my Pro bodies, it can be very costly to have them bent.
By far the D4 colors are a tad better vs the D3. The D3 has some magic though, it handles the higher ISO noise decently, but shows its age when pushed. The D4 is a monster in low light. Some reviewers have said it's maybe a 1/3 stop better than the D3s. I will say the D3 and D4 both handle noise better than my newer DSLR's. Something about the grain pattern that allows the D3/D4 to be pushed past their ISO limits.
The D3/D3s and D4 have very loud shutters, and I always worry about that as well. I do a lot of events photos and I always feel like I want to be stealthy to get the best Candid shots I can get. I will say I get more folks interested in the size of the camera and lenses then the actual shutter sounds during a quite time of an event. I think once they see you are taking photos of everyone, they mellow out and forget you or there. Same with when I use flash at an event, at first the folks notice it. But after a few dozen flash shots they forget about it and enjoy the event.
I still remember back a few years watching press events and the barrage of shutter releases you hear in those situations. And those folks just go on and do their thing. Just shoot and let the folks settle into you being there and clicking away.
Weight and size, I wouldn't trade it for a lighter/lesser camera. I do not plan to go mirrorless for many years. There are to many good DSLR's to own and enjoy at 1/3 of the cost of the newer Mirrorless bodies.
Great review, and thank you.
Thx for the Info Martin.
That looks like one super tanker of a camera (in a good way) which will go on forever.
Those raw images do look very nice.
I do like the look, as in, the files of the "older gear" they have a certain character to them which adds to the story being told in the photo.
Give me some of that 5,6D creamy love. That sounds quite bizarre but you know what I mean 😂😂
Great as always, you Nikon fanboy!! Hahaha.
😉😉
HAHAHAHAAH thank you Chris hahaha🤣
@@MartinCastein welcome m8 👍😂😜
D3s is a low light beast. I use mine to take night time city scapes, all hand held with non vr lenses .
It’s superb in low light
I know a pro in my town who has been shooting with D3s since it came out and he's not intended to switch. He's got his old 24-70 and 70-200 (both 2.8) all wraped in transparent box sealing tape because they are beaten so much, LOL, but he still successfully uses it all. He drives Mercedes, but shoots with this beat up stuff, because it just works.
i love that, i sometimes wish id just done that, the amount of money i have spent just trying different cameras where I would have just been happy sticking with the d3s.....i just love the simplicity of living like that.
Fotos reales o editas? Lentes costosos o economicos
Martin you would fit in with me and my photographer friends perfect. Out here the D3s is legendary. In my opinion might be Nikons best. One observation that I’ve had is whenever you have the S models they add a little bit of like dirt or something to the image so the d3 is more like the D800 but the S model of the D3 and the D4 have a punch to it. I still prefer the 5d markii and iii to this camera but it’s amazing. All the AF points are sharp but centered the lowlight is good considering it’s age but not on par with more modern Nikons. Nice video. This is another camera that shoots both natural and OCF equally amazing. The natural light is very filmic and the OCF very punchy. I always thought that low megapixel cameras look more like film and this guy prob the most. Also the grain at higher Iso is more like film grain than noise. I’ve used this body quite a lot with my work along with the D750 and D500 and it’s the best colors by far.
agree with all of that, it does have to be taken into account when it was made but shooting weddings with that camera was so straight forward and dependable. agree that it has much better colours than the d750 for sure too.
What about d3X sensor? Is that Sony sensor's?
Yeah, the shutter can not be loud enough. If someone makes complaints I just don't care😆😆😆😆
hello Martin, what lens did you use for the shot at 0:45? thanks for the video✌️
24-70 2.8
@@HikingWithMartin How the hell can that zoom be so damn good!!! Please excuse the expletives.
I shoot sports with D3s each week along with D700. I print qiute often and lately even 90x60 cm poster. Just my own two cents : D3s produces qiute different colours ( not as good as D700 ) also has improved lcd screen ( not as blueish as D700).
I feel the same about my D700, the D3's baby brother. 12mp is a sweet spot similar to film. There's a different feeling composing a shot when you know you don't have infinite crop. It gives the frame more meaning. Less pixel peeping. More emphasis on creating images instead of data. Nice work!
My D3 can sit in the closet for months waiting for me - pick it up, the battery is still good to go and it's happy to back to work. The least fussy camera (I've shot Fuji, Nikon, Canon, Phase One) with the biggest payoff I own.
What do you think the difference is between D3 and 5D classic ? i see its priced a bit higher , given the integrated grip that is actually not a grip just a place for huge battery .
The integrated grip on the d3 is a grip as when you turn the camera to portrait orientation it has a second shutter button and controls to allow you to use the camera in portrait orientation the same as you would in landscape. That’s also different from just putting a grip on a camera because the ergonomics and balance on cameras like the d3 is far superior. However the main question. The 5d is a slow and basic portrait camera. The d3 is a sports and journalism camera. I’d buy the 5d for portraits and probably the d3 for most other things. The 5d is very old and slow so you should consider that. Look at other cameras too. It’s an unusual comparison between those two.
@@MartinCastein Yes its a grip indeed , . But that aside , i have Canon 6D as well , and i prefer almost always 5D , even when it comes to manual third party lenses , 5D can give you focus confirmation via OVF , 6D can not nor can any other Canon only 5D ,but 6D has live view so you can zoom in and focus that way , but that way is a hell of a lot slower .Far as i know things are like that .
And with 5D you get bigger pixels , and i like that , it makes objects on the image look 3D , they have a pop to them . Totally different then 6D looking more like picture taken with smartphone , kind of flat , and it has yellowish tint to it , cant really put my finger on it , but definitely different
If i shoot same subject with 5D and 6D , put the pictures on my Phone or side by side on my professional 4K monitor Samsung UD970 , i like what i see more on 5D .
But , Nikon D3 has live view , and it has even bigger pixels , 5D 8.2nm , D3 8,4nm .
So i know i will get more 3D pop with it .
Most viewers of my images , use smartphones , 99% of them .
So i have no need for high pixel count , i would rather enjoy big pixels . 12Mpix is more then enough , if framed correctly , and if not , you can crop it about 40% and still be satisfied .
It is for that reason that i am comparing 5D and D3 , large pixels , around 12mpix .
And i would like to know from first hand experience from someone who had them both , what are they like , which one hart likes most . I am a Hobby Family Photographer , sometimes event photographer , but not payed . So i dont need latest and greatest , i just want nice pictures and 12mpix is enough , i cant complain on my 5D , it has everything i need , as i said most people view my photos on Smartphones . That is why i got 6D , ability to send via wifi to smartphone , but i did not use it once . So ... Maybe better get D3 , i have a professional photographer as a friend and he is on Nikon system , he has im sure some glass to lend me till i form my own Nikon collection .
@@MartinCastein here are few of my images almost all are with 5D drive.google.com/drive/folders/1hEwyFuBaY62EEva-9b_6Ep-3aK3-Lpyd?usp=sharing
Nikon D3x in low ISO and Nikon D6 the best Kameras ever no Fake
I wanna ask, for sport photography + night better 6d ii or d3s?
I dont really know, im not a sports photographer at all really, if i had to pick though just to do it id go with the d3s
I have a D3s and love it. I will keep it until it dies 😂
The world does not change where we NEED newer cameras the trees and grass and elephants stay the same, SURE products advance but not always is new technology NEEDED.
Is it nice to get more MP and faster gear and faster autofocus sure!!! but it is not REQIRED i still shoot daily with my D3 my sony a600 and my canon r6 each give me good results but use them for different applications.. I am going to get more ball on bat shots with the r6 and its better tracking and more FPS then I would with the d3. but you slap on a 70-200 f 2.8 on the d3 and you have a walk around work horse camera with incredible images
I don't have the D3s but D3 for 13+ years before I upgraded it to a Z9 last year. For more MP and f/1.2 lenses, I use the 5D Mk II.
out of interest how do you feel about the z9 vs the d3? does it feel similar or more like a computer system or something else?
@@MartinCastein Consider the fact that I'm an enthusiast and already earned my IT degree before I bought my first camera (Nikon F2A + motor drive) and even print color in my darkroom over 45 years ago. A computer to me is just a simple device that lets me work smarter than harder. Hence, I don't find the Z9 or any modern cameras have too many features or high-tech.
OK, Z9 vs. D3. The Z9 isn't as ergonomic as the D3 for my hand, close but not perfect. Like most of the Z series, WB finally caught up that I can shoot SOOC with my Z 50 f/1.2 S indoor and don't need a flash/strobe. Intuitive AF interface arrived with the Z9 v3 and the AF is currently the best from Nikon. Dual-axis tilting rear LCD is useful in many cases. Sensor shield, relatively low pricing for a flagship camera, no mechanical shutter, etc. makes it a best buy in my book and a pleasure to shoot with.
I had heard that the D700 was the little brother to the D3s (as in it has the same sensor, but different size and ergos) can anyone confirm this? I enjoy the D700 but have never tried the D3s.
I think its technically the same sensor as a base but the performance is pretty different, the colour is a bit better on the d700 and iso performance is leaps ahead on the D3s.
I think you are thinking more of the D3 rather than D3s
Hi Martin, just enjoyed your superb and passionate review. I own a D3s and I totally agree: the ergonomy is stellar, the camera is well built and so reliable. The viewfinder is wide and I consider it an extension of my eye. Files are nice and skin tones adorable. It's a camera that is pure joy to use. Thanks for another great review.
Best wishes
Luca from Rome, Italy
hi Luca! I need this camera back in my life at some point its just so so nice to use. i just miss it so badly now.
Sir, if you have choice which one you will go for Nikon d3s, Nikon d610 or Nikon d750 in 2023
What for?
@@MartinCastein photography people
D750
If you would compare the d700 with the d3s, which one do you prefer and why?
D700 better colour for sure with nicer skin tones d3s better high iso and faster camera.
@@MartinCastein thanks for the fast reply…so, you’re telling me I need to buy both cameras 🤗😂😍
@@BSHokke hahahhaha, well if thats what you want then, yes, yes i am hahaha there you go thats the excuse you wanted
I've had both and both are great, but if I had to choose one it would be the d3s. It's just a class above the d700. Good luck!
@@MartinCastein thank you. Just bought a d700 in perfect condition with 50.000 clicks, a battery pack, 3 Nikon batteries, L bracket for easy tripod attachment, remote control and he threw in a large camera bag because I gave him the price he asked for, which was €425. So I think that was a fair price for the whole package. Really happy 😍
I think the Nikon D3S uses a Panasonic sensor?
Nope. Its a Nikon sensor. Older cameras might have used a Sony sensor but I dont think any have used a Panasonic one.
Is there a difference in D3S and D3
Yes mostly low light on d3s is much much better
Martin, PLZ, it's an easy 11
🤣 true true!
High mega-pixels are only half the story. To process 50mp you'll need a computer which is capable of it.
Sports photography is best
Wait what so afternall that praise...you dont have it anymore....ok??
Z9 now
There is nowt wrong with older cameras, most are hardly run in when you find them on the secondhand shelf, although the beasts from Nikon and Canon may have had a hard life so shop carefully. I would guess that a huge proportion of images taken today with a camera that is not attached to a phone will only be seen on a screen, be that a computer, tablet or phone screen. Only a small % of photographers will print an image and an even smaller % will print and display that image for others to view. So you're right a 10MP camera will be just fine for 99% of our photography needs, the problem is that if we didn't upgrade to what we are told is the next best thing ultimately we won't have a camera at all as Sonnikcan would cease to exist. So I am eternally grateful to those people who buy the latest and greatest and leave a lesser camera in the shop for a canny buyer to pick up. I have just picked up a D5, 1500 shots taken, in mint++++ condition for less than the price of a new D780 by a considerable margin. The D5 is just brilliant, everything you have said about the D3s can be applied to the D5, long live the beasts.
As usual a great video, thought provoking and nicely argued, the D3s is a great camera and will remain a great camera for a long time to come.
Thank you Martin, well done on the D5 that sounds amazing I was looking at them the other day as well. I bet its excellent.
Ugh CF cards are the worst :P They're gross and icky.
When I got my first DSLR everyone screamed about how evil high ISO was and you get the dreaded noise which renders all your photos useless. I was even scared to go to ISO800 because I'd pixel peek and see a few pixels of noise and throw out the photo
It kind of blew my mind to find out that not only does high ISO not cause noise, but you can get noisy photos at ISO100. I don't care any more, partially thanks to you, I just take a photo now and if it's high ISO that's a problem for post if it's actually too noisy, and even then it's probably fine. That ISO6400 photo you showed looks so nice.
🤣 hahahhaa yeah i think you shouldnt care about noise its the noise reduction that can be applied by the camera that can ruin raw files. For weddings its nice if it can keep relatively low noise without having to apply noise reduction to the raw files and this camera excels at that, when it does produce noise it just looks nice. ahhh i miss this camera.
Some people are letting go of their F-mount glass awful cheap as they migrate to the new z-mount, I've picked up some really nice lenses recently that would have cost me a small fortune some years back. My motto is never buy new technology, stay one cycle or two behind!
I learn a lot from your videos. But this one I do not buy. A large camera like this d3s is intrusive and makes people uncompfortablle.
That hasn’t been my experience with it at all, did you find people notice you more with it. I guess that might happen for street photography but even then I know enough people that used it for that have had no issues. I think it’s psychological for the photographer.
@@MartinCastein Just an example. When I used my d750 with a battery grip I had already twice a situation when people called the police because they felt uncomfortable being photographed. And I am speaking about people which had been photographed from a distance. When I use a little 4/3rds camera from Olympus that never happened. Or my phone. That is in my opinion the reason why street photographers are using little cameras.
But - no offense. This is a great channel.
I still use my D3S ... yes its a capable camera. It always was.
A D3s in 2023. Dont do it. Same for the D700. Nikon probably does not service this camera anymore. Furthermore, chances of finding onebthat is good condition is slim.
It might not need servicing with a shutter that Nikon claimed was good for a minimum of 300,000 clicks. If they don't service it, get someone else too! I think in the UK you can still pick them up with low shutter counts. You'd be surprised
@@dharmabob2 laddy, i had a d810 for 5 years. it had 170k clicks on it. i shot once or twice a week. it is easy to reach 300k if you keep a camera over 6 years. again, dont buy that outdated d3s.
@@castieldiallo2945 the 'laddy' comment is a bit condescending but thanks for the complement. I maintain that if you can find a D3/D3s with low shutter count and it turns you on, recognising that it's a tank, then go ahead and buy it
@@dharmabob2 nikon officially stated that 2025 is the year they fully walk away from dslr cameras. youd be daft to buy a d3 series camera now.
@@castieldiallo2945 I disagree totally. You can find one of these at very good pricing and enjoy it for a few years or maybe many years. You would have to spend a lot more money with newer cameras and most of them aren’t as nice.