Is the Nikon D700 Still Suitable for Professional Photography in 2019?
The Nikon D700, first released in 2008, has held its ground as a reliable and capable camera among many professional photographers. Despite being considered outdated by modern standards, it continues to find its place in both professional and enthusiast photography circles. Here, we delve into the suitability of the Nikon D700 for professional use in 2019, considering various factors such as sensor performance, actuation capacity, and the evolving needs of the photography market.
The D700 in Professional Workflows
Many professional photographers, particularly in niche markets, still rely on the D700 for a variety of tasks. Sales figures continue to fulfill the demand for this model, especially among those seeking a durable and cost-effective option for professional work.
According to various professionals, the D700 remains a viable choice for certain types of photography, such as weddings. Despite its age, it excels in low-light conditions and produces high-quality images that meet the demands of many clients and publications.
For example, in the context of weddings, the D700’s ISO capabilities and image quality are often sufficient, and it can be a cost-effective backup or secondary camera. Some professionals even use it as their primary workhorse, praising its reliability and performance.
Backup and Secondary Camera Usage
Many professionals keep the D700 in their toolkit as a reliable backup. Users like Tim mentioned, “I currently use a D610 and would not hesitate to purchase a D700 as a back-up or second camera if I can buy it at a good price.” The D700’s versatility and strong sensor make it an excellent choice for such secondary usage.
Sports Photography and Lower-Resolution Needs
In highly specialized fields like sports photography, where the requirements are more relaxed, the D700 can still hold its own. As Mark explained, 'I was shooting an NCAA football game recently and one of the shooters was using a much older Nikon D2h. The requirements for sports imagery is much lower so a 4MP sensor is just fine. Most images are used for websites and magazines.' This emphasizes that the D700's 12MP sensor is often more than sufficient for the projects that demand lower resolution.
Factor: Sensor Actuation and Reliability
The Nikon D700 is known for its robust build quality and reliable performance. The camera is designed to withstand a considerable amount of use, with some units capable of 150,000 actuations before needing sensor renewal. This longevity makes it a solid investment for professionals who value durability and performance over the latest technology.
A notable feature of the D700 is its build quality, often compared favorably to its newer counterparts. Users appreciate its solid construction and dependability, especially for regular use on the go.
Conclusion: Beyond Camera Specifications
The suitability of the Nikon D700 for professional photography in 2019 ultimately comes down to more than just the camera's specifications. As Sarah noted, 'Professional photography is more about the skills and experience of the photographer, not the camera they use.' While the D700 offers excellent performance and reliability, the true value lies in the hands of the photographer and their ability to use the camera effectively to deliver high-quality images.
Key Takeaways
The Nikon D700 remains a solid choice for professional photography in 2019, particularly for low-resolution needs and as a reliable backup. Its robust build quality and 150,000 actuation limit make it a durable and cost-effective option for many professionals. The D700's performance is more about the skill of the photographer than the camera itself.Final Thoughts
For those looking to invest in a dependable and capable camera that still delivers excellent results, the Nikon D700 is worth considering. Its longevity and fine performance mean it can continue to be a valuable asset for many years to come.