Nikon D4, 85mm prime expected to show January 5
updated 02:05 pm EST, Tue January 3, 2012
Nikon D4 gets unveil date at last
A slew of invitations worldwide have given away Nikon's plans to unveil what will likely be the D4. Sometimes teasing it as "the image you are waiting for," the launches and demos are all pegged for January 6, with Nikon Rumors understanding that the US gets a midnight press release January 5. Along with the full-frame pro DSLR, an 85mm f1.8 AF-S prime lens is expected to show.
A well-known shoot for a Nikon commercial in Chicago is believed to have centered on the D4.
Most rumors surrounding the camera have it upgrading the resolution modestly, to 16.2 megapixels, but marking a big leap forward in image quality. The sensitivity range at its extreme could double to ISO 204,800 when chosen by hand, a new version of the 51-point autofocusing system, and a wider exposure range. The camera could be the first anywhere to take XQD cards and, thanks in part to the extra storage speed, might shoot stills at 11 frames per second.
Any launch is expected to see a relatively quick real-world availability and could have the D4 on shelves within 30 days. Pricing hasn't been mentioned, although it's possible it may replace the D3s at $5,200. Numerous rumors have had the equally full-frame but differently focused D800 appearing soon afterwards.
The D4 if arriving as predicted would be the first update to Nikon's core pro camera since the D3s in 2009 and its first major revision since the D3 showed in 2007.
Grizzled Veteran
Joined: Oct 1999
16.2? Is it a clue?
Since Nikon don't make their own sensors, the 16.2 MP density suggests that they might be using the new Sony Exmor-R (not the vanilla Exmor) and delivering exceptional dynamic range rather than simply pursuing the pointless cramming of extra pixels.