Do you think that your phone is enough to capture beautiful images? Is there no need to buy a dedicated camera? For most people, their phone is better than a dedicated camera because of it’ easier and faster to use. They can also upload the images to their social media accounts right away. If your phone is not good enough for the images you want, you should consider buying a dedicated camera. You should also consider this option if photography is a hobby of yours.
If you’ve finally decided to buy a camera, you should choose one that has interchangeable lenses. This way, you can try out various kinds of photography. It is also a good idea to read reviews just to know what you can expect from the product that you’re interested in. Just don’t be too focused on these reviews because everything today is pretty much the same. You just need to find a good deal.
The Nikon D2X replaced the D1X model that the company released in mid-2001. The latest addition to Nikon’s camera lines is solid evidence that the company still has so much to offer when it comes to DSLR cameras. The D2X has a lot of significant improvements over the D1X, but the features that will catch the attention of most photographers are the shooting speed and resolution of this camera.
The Nikon D2X is capable of capturing five 12.2 megapixel fps in full-resolution mode. It is also equipped with a Speed Crop mode that reduces the resolution to 6.8 MP but increases the frame rate to 8 fps. The camera also features a Nikon F lens mount. Three hundred four native lenses are available for the mount. Since Nikon F mount has backward compatibility, you can utilize even those F mount lenses released in the 1960s. You may also like Nikon D7200 vs. Canon 80d.
Although the D2X lacks an image stabilization system that is sensor-based, you don’t need to worry because one hundred one of the lenses is equipped with optical image stabilization. Moreover, there are seventy-five lenses that have weather sealing that is compatible with the D2X’s weather-sealed body.
The camera measures 158 mm x 150 mm x 86 mm and weighs 1200 g. The average weight of DSLR cameras is 769 g. This means that the D2X is extremely heavy for its class. However, the camera’s high speed and high resolution make it an almost universal SLR that can meet the needs of sports and studio photographers.
Who Would Buy Nikon D2X?
The Nikon D2X is an ideal option for those who are looking for a camera that’s perfect for sports and outdoor photography. It has environmental sealings, a maximum shutter speed of 1/8000s, fast continuous shooting of 8.0 fps, good ergonomics, and handling as well as the optical built-in viewfinder.
Since outdoors sports games are usually conducted in all-weather, your camera should be able to withstand different conditions like snow and rain. The shutter speed of the D2X can freeze almost any sports activity. It also has a lot of external control, which makes using the camera easy.
The optical built-in viewfinder allows the user to stabilize the camera. This feature also reduces camera shake and comes in handy when the LCD screen is hard to read under very bright sunlight. Overall, the D2X is perfect for those who need a camera that can be used in extreme conditions. Also, read Nikon P900 vs P1000.
Key Features of Nikon D2X
The Nikon D2X offers consistent color and high levels of speed, resolution, and handling. It can perform properly even under harsh conditions. Here are the key features of the D2X.
Accurate White Balance
The camera features three sensors to achieve optimized Auto-tone Control and Auto White Balance. The D2X also offers manual balance control choices, including white balance present and Kelvin color temperature direct setting.
Image Processing Engine
The D2X’s engine delivers smooth gradations with seamless and consistent transitions with excellent pure color rendition thanks to the optimized distribution of digital and analog white balance gain. The camera has two Adobe RGB color modes that increase professional color space choices. The new engine delivers stunning skin tone reproduction.
Improved Matrix Metering System
The D2X is equipped with a better Matrix Metering system that determines the size and position of highlight or shadow areas. It also allows the user to achieve the best exposure for each shot.
12.4 Million Pixels
The camera is equipped with a CMOS sensor (DX Format) that is capable of capturing 12.4 million pixels per image and providing the sharp detail and high resolution required for high-quality photos. It’s compatible with the entire lineup of Nikkor lenses and DX lenses thanks to the DX-format of its sensor.
Accurate AF system
The camera has a precise Multi-CAM2000 AF system that has 9 cross point sensors. These sensors are arranged based on the rule of thirds with 2 more at both sides of the frame. If you are using the Group Dynamic AF mode, you can expect more dynamic AF options as well.
Location Data
If you want to change the camera’s World Time settings or record data on altitude, latitude, and longitude, you only need to connect the D2X to an NMEA 0183-compliant GPS unit using the GPS cable (optional).
2.5” LCD
The D2X has a large 2.5″ LCD, which makes it easy to access the piece of information you need. It has an all-digital interface that displays preview images as well as the menus for Custom and Shooting Settings. You can also access on-demand information such as RGB Histogram displays, a chronological list of Recent Settings and a better histogram.
Nikon Capture 4
You can use the Nikon Capture 4 to edit NEF files to achieve the best picture quality. The optional software also allows you to shoot and control remotely with a Nikon DSLR camera. The new tools offered by the software improve creative control and productivity.
Creative Lighting System
The D2X is also equipped with Nikon’s Advanced Wireless Lighting system and i-TTL flash control. These features are supported by the camera’s SB-600 and SB-800 Speedlights. The camera also works with other Nikon Speedlights with -TTL flash control and with the SB-80DX.
Fast Continuous Shooting
The camera is capable of continuous shooting at 12.4 MP resolution of 5 frames per second for fifteen consecutive NEF images. If you need faster frame rates, you can use the 6.8 MP High-Speed Cropped mode as it allows 8 frames per second for twenty-six consecutive NEF images.
Wireless Transmitter WT-2
The Wireless Transmitter WT-2 offers IEEE 802.11b/g support for better security options, faster transfer speeds and improved support for a network protocol. You can also enjoy wireless Capture Control from a PC that uses Nikon Capture 4.
PictureProject
PictureProject makes it easy to control image editing, sharing, and management. The versatile software offers a drag & drop organization, CD/DVD burning, Import Assistant and design layout templates. If you need to archive or distribute the images, these features will let you do the job easily and quickly.
Multiple Exposure Function
The D2X comes with a Multiple Exposure function that creates one from up to ten exposures. There is also the Image Overlay function that combines NEF files stored on your CF memory card. You just need to choose the images you want in order to make a new image file in the camera.
Rear and Top Control Panels
The camera features 2 control panels with a green backlight. The rear control panel contains the digital aspects like image quality and size, sensitivity and white balance, while the top panel focuses on photographic settings such as aperture, focus, shutter speed and bracketing. You can also choose what kind of information will be shown on the viewfinder display and rear control panel through the CSM d5. Both panels are shown below together with a diagram of all data displayed.
Viewfinder
The camera’s clear and bright viewfinder doesn’t have any distortion. The actual focusing screen area will be a bit smaller due to the DX crop, but the camera still provides good magnification that fills your eye view. The internal viewfinder curtain prevents light from entering the camera’s imaging chamber. If you want to detach the eyepiece, you have to close the shutter curtain. This prevents the eyepiece from coming off accidentally.
The AF areas are indicated on the focus screen. The center nine of the AF areas are sensitive to horizontal and vertical detail. The frame that crosses the outer AF areas shows the view area captured in the camera’s special crop mode (high speed).
Compact Flash Compartment
The camera has a Compact Flash compartment that you can open by lifting a spring-loaded flap then pressing a release button. Inside this compartment is a bug eject button that you can use to remove the card. The camera supports FAT32 and Compact Flash Type II and I. You only need to pick up the camera to close the door. A rubber grommet seals the rubber grommet when it’s closed.
Lithium-ion Battery
The Nikon D2X has a compact lithium-ion battery that can deliver 2000 shots/charge. With the rechargeable battery, you can enjoy using the camera for hours. The battery has a memory chip that tracks battery charges, performance and usage. It is convenient to carry multiple batteries thanks to the new shape of the battery compartment door. The door clips onto the body of the battery, so it’s easier to store more batteries.
With the MH-21 Quick Charger’s docking style design, you can just slip the battery on it and allow it to charge. A full charge will take around one and a half hours. Four LED lights show either the calibration progress or battery charge. A full calibration takes 6 hours. The top control panel shows a battery life indicator. You will see information about the battery on the camera menu, which shows the battery meter, charging life, calibration and picture meter.
The connectors of the camera are placed on the left side of its body. The remote terminals and Flash PC Sync are placed on the front and secured by screw on caps. The USB 2.0, A/V out and DC-IN connectors are located on the left side and protected by solid rubber doors. You can connect NMEA0183-compliant GPS units to the remote terminal with an adapter cord (MC-35 GPS).
Record Review, Playback and Playback Zoom
The D2X can show a preview of the photo taken right after the shutter release. The record review mode contains all of the playback mode’s functionality, so you can press enter to zoom in or delete to remove the image. You can enter the Playback Mode by pressing the Playback button. If you want to change the display mode, you just need to click the multi-selector right or left. Pressing the multi selector down or up will let you browse through photos.
If you want to enable or disable a certain display mode, just go to the playback menu. You can magnify an image by pressing enter. Use the thumbnail button, direction controller and main command dial to move around the image you have magnified. The camera offers two thumbnail view levels. Holding the thumbnail button then turning the main command dial will let you access these levels. Two clicks right are required for a 9-image view and one-click for a 4-image view. The multi-selector allows you to navigate the image one at a time.
The Recent Settings Menu lets you recall any recent settings changes you made without having to go through the entire menu system. The camera also has help pages that you can access through the menu system. This feature is indicated by a question mark icon. When you work in the CSM or Shooting menus, you’re changing the menu bank’s settings. The CSM and Shooting Menus have four banks each. You can give a more meaningful label to each bank. The bank letter that you are currently using is shown on the camera’s rear control panel, making it easy to switch between a kind of situation or shot.
Other Features and Specifications of Nikon D2X
- 5″ LCD Screen
- ISO 100 – 800 ( can expand to 3200)
- 12 megapixel – APS-C CMOS Sensor
- 8 fps continuous shooting
- Optical viewfinder
- Microdrive and CompactFlash Card – storage media
- No Video Mode
- Weather sealed body
- Comes with camera strap, A/V cable, type-B focusing screen, quick charger, rechargeable battery and body cap
Pros and Cons of Nikon D2X
Learning the pros and cons of a product makes it easier to determine whether you should go through with the purchase or not. Cameras, just like any other product, have their share of advantages and disadvantages. The Nikon D2X is not an exception.
Pros of Nikon D2X
- You can focus on the composition
The camera has large buttons and controls that are placed for intuitive control. This allows you to focus on the subject. It doesn’t matter what the camera orientation is. The operation remains easy and quick with almost the same access to the main controls. - Durable
The D2X has a sturdy magnesium alloy body that can endure harsh conditions. It also has improved sealing that protects the camera from dust and water. - Compatible with AF Nikkor lenses
One of the best things about the D2X is that it is compatible with DX Nikkor, AF and AF-S lens. The lenses are available in a wide range of focal lengths such as 10.5mm f2.8 fisheye and 600mm telephoto. - Immediate power-up
The hardly noticeable 37ms shutter lag and immediate power-up of the camera is a great achievement at the resolution level it offers. - Fast and smooth handling of data
The camera can write and read data faster than the previous models as it can access CompactFlash cards. Workflow efficiency is maximized due to the simultaneous recording of JPEG and NEF files. - Improved Auto Focus Performance
The D2X has 11 AF points and 9 of them are cross-type. This may seem a bit sparse when compared to such cameras because even base model cameras are equipped with 11 AF points. However, the D2X covers a broader frame than the 39 AF points on the D600. It focuses properly even in low light. The camera has a three-dot focus confirmation. It has one round dot to confirm that you have found focus and two arrows that show which way you should focus. - Well Placed Controls
If you have used a professional camera before, you will notice the differences between the consumer camera and the D2X. The camera from Nikon has a large chassis and everything feels right when you hold it. The D2X won’t get in the way of capturing your desired images.
The Command Dials are easy to access. The Mode and the Exposure Compensation buttons are perfectly placed as well, residing next to the shutter release, which is bounded by the on and off switch. You only need to shift your finger a bit to press the Mode Button.
The camera uses a rotary switch to let you choose the metering method. You can also change from Matrix to Center-Weighted or Spot metering without diving into the menus. This is perfect if you are shooting and you can’t get the right exposure. In general, the controls are simple and well-placed. The D2X doesn’t have a lot of auto functions. You have to decide what it should do and if you do it, you will definitely achieve stunning photos. - Sturdy Body and Design
The camera is made from a robust magnesium shell and it feels really solid. If you hold the camera, you will realize that it’s ready for any kind of environment. The D2X has several rubber gaskets between compartment doors, body portions, and controls. The camera’s grip is excellent as it has good ergonomics and soft rubber. It has clear labeling and big buttons, so it really works well for those who want a camera with a user-friendly control layout.
Cons of Nikon D2X
- Lacks Built-in Flash and Image Stabilization
The camera doesn’t have a built-in flash. Since it doesn’t have image stabilization, you have to depend on lenses that are equipped with optical IS to maximize the sharpness of your sports photography photos. - Heavy
Due to its pro build quality, the camera is really heavy. If you are looking for a lighter camera, you won’t have much luck with the D2X.
Conclusion
The Nikon D2X is perfect for those who want to capture beautiful photographs at the base as well as low ISO. The camera has excellent frame coverage, responsive autofocus and pro build quality. It is also equipped with a voice memo, exceptional fill performance as well as metering with flash and excellent frame rate both at full resolution and reduced 7MP resolution. For some people, using the D2X involves some learning curve. Once you get used to it, you will definitely be rewarded with stunning and colourful photos.
