We had been waiting for a while to get
our hands on the Nikon D800, arguably the best DSLR at moment due it its unparalleled 36.3 megapixel FX-format CMOS sensor.
When we finally got a review unit, it was the D800E, which is a higher end variation with a different optical design to ensure that light is received by the image sensor at a single point and give a higher resolution.
In fact, after a few hours with the camera we do not think this is an option for amateurs, certainly not beginners.
A medium level of expertise with DSLRs, that too of the Nikon kind, would be essential to understand and master this camera. But once you work your way around the exhaustive menu, you will get the hang of it, though gradually.
The D800E is a bit larger than other DSLR and can be quite intimidating for amateurs. The mode dial is on the left with buttons on top for white balance, ISO, quality and exposure bracketing.
The Live mode dials are on the left of the 3.2-inch LCD monitor, while the trigger is merged into the on/off toggle towards the front.
Since this is also a full-fledged HD video camera there are HDMI, mic, headphone and USB ports towards the left. The command buttons can in fact be customized according to your preference.
We tested the camera with a 24-85mm Nikkor VR lens. The camera has 51-AF points, but as you shoot you see just the ones that are coming into play. You also have a live mode to compose pictures.
But we thought it was better to use this option for shooting HD video, another killer feature of this camera. Considering the fact that lots of people are now using DSLR for video shooting, this camera can produce broadcast quality footage and thus present a cheaper option for fimlmakers.
But what is the real advantage of having a camera with a giant 36.3 sensor?
Read the full review in the next issue of Gadgets & Gizmos 
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