Tested – The Nikon D780
Meanwhile for high end shooting and additional video workflow support the D780 can capture 10-bit video with N-Log or HDR (HLD High Log Gamma) video support out via the HDMI connection. Other high end video features include focus peaking, highlight display (stripes) and time code support. Also on the video front, though slightly at a tangent, it’s also now possible to create 4K timelapse movies in-camera using a batch of still images, which is a useful feature.
The camera in use
In the hands the D780 doesn’t look or feel significantly different to the model it’s replacing, which is actually a good thing from the point of view of continuity. It means that if you’re trading up there won’t be a significant learning curve since the smooth contouring and the deep handgrip and the general button and control layout are all pretty much in the same place, apart from the addition of a dedicated ISO button directly behind the shutter release, much in the style of the D850. There’s also a slight change on the backplate, with the Live View (still/video) toggle moved up to the rear of the viewfinder and the AE-L/AF-L button shifting downwards near the top corner of the rear LCD.
However, things that have traditionally been appreciated, such as the excellent weather sealing and build quality, comprising a magnesium alloy chassis, metal lens mount and a carbon fibre-reinforced front panel, are all still there and no compromises have been made. So it’s essentially the same but different to the D750, but with Nikon hoping that the improvements will encourage existing users to trade up and new users to come on board.
