Nikon New Cameras: Nikon 1 J1 and Nikon 1 V1

Nikon introduced two new models; Nikon J1 and Nikon 1 V1 at the presentation in Berlin. With these new digital cameras, Nikon shows its interest on mirror-less system camera segment; a segment that is dominated by Panasonic and Olympus. While competition among Olympus, Panasonic, Samsung, and Sony increases, Nikon makes everything different.

Nikon has invented a new sensor format: CX. It is significantly larger than that of compact cameras - which increases the image quality. But it is much smaller than Nikon's SLR class - about half as large. This is much smaller its competitors.

Nikon 1 J1 and Nikon 1 V1: First Mirror-less Digital Cameras from Nikon

Nikon itself speaks of the optimal balance of lifestyle (there will be compact, colorful models) and image quality. Nikon also repeated the fact that the new class of device will not damage the booming segment of the SLR. These two models are positioned as an additional digital camera or camera for serious amateurs.

Nikon 1 V1 comes with 10-30 mm zoom lens. The digital camera works with value and with their relatively heavy metal housing. The less expensive Nikon 1 J1 is simpler; it has the same technical innards, but a few less features.

Nikon 1 V1

How good are Nikon 1 V1 and Nikon 1 J1?

Photographed before and after release

With this mode, Nikon wants to prevent that you miss the right snapshot mode. Practically it works when you hold the shutter button down halfway. The digital camera takes pictures already and stores them in memory. A total of 20 photos are taken, from which the internal image processing selects the five best qualities and make it available. In practice, the handling is actually very easy - you just have to to aim at the subject in time.

The moving snapshot

With this mix of video and photo Nikon has invented a new form of photography. The result is a very short video sequences in slow motion (and with music background), a still image - the actual photo as JPG - included. In practice this works well so that you keep pressing the shutter button halfway and triggers the right of the statue. The result looks professional and is reminiscent of cheesy slow-motion scenes from RTL-reality series.

Filming and photography at the same time

The digital camera has two shutters: one starts and stops recording of full HD movies. The other makes snapshots of the full image resolution of 10 megapixels. Unusual about these photos is that they are stored in 16:9 format (normal is 3-2).

Ten photos per second

The digital cameras provide for the continuous shooting mode after ten frames per second (at full resolution of ten megapixels) is actually ten times the sharpness. Test shots of fast moving objects in bright room light with good results. As would be expected under these critical circumstances, not every shot was crisp sharp, but almost every photo is good.

In the operation of both cameras soon becomes clear that Nikon-1 digital cameras are made for people who shoot primarily in automatic mode, adjust it if necessary in the details. Although both cameras also offer refinements from the SLR class, but sometimes you have to laboriously click through menus to adjust it.

Unfortunately, the Nikon 1 V1 has no built-in flash, for example, to brightening of faces (when the J1 is a built-in). It has at least one connector for an external flash that also will soon come on the market (as well as a GPS module). This connector is covered with a cap.

Nikon has equipped the V1 with a good electronic viewfinder, which lacks the ease of J1. Other differences between the two models: The V1 is a bit heavier and Available only in black and white. The J1 is available in silver, red and pink on the market. In addition to the electronic shutter, both have mechanical shutter.

Nikon 1 J1

Nikon 1 V1 and Nikon 1 J1: Conclusion

Nikon is a latecomer in the mirror-less system cameras with real innovation and an exciting concept to convince, which is located between compact and SLR cameras. This protects the sale of better quality Nikon SLR models.

Whether the image quality of Nikon cameras can compete with the direct competitor of Sony, Panasonic, Samsung and Olympus, more market tests will show. Another interesting question remains: How will Nikon’s rivals respond?

Title Post: Nikon New Cameras: Nikon 1 J1 and Nikon 1 V1
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Author: the Wicaksonos Family

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