The Nikon D700

Tech ARP may have started out as a PC technology website, but we enjoy digital photography as well. Of course, photography have always been an intrinsic part of our work process, but it is more than just a tool for us. It's a hobby. That's why we wrote several articles on digital photography (see insert on the right) and maintained a dedicated Digital Photography section in the Tech ARP forums.

Recently, our lichest (that's rich and 1337 in Tech ARP speak!) team member, Chai, bought himself the Nikon D700, which retails at about US$ 2,500 and that's just for the body, no lens included! Now you know why he's the lichest member in Team ARP!

As crazy as it sounds, anyone into digital photography can tell you that the Nikon D700 is actually the cheapest DSLR body from Nikon that comes with a full-frame sensor, or an FX-sized sensor in Nikon parlance. It is this large and expensive sensor that puts the Nikon D700 out of reach of all by the most avid (and rich!) photographers.

Although Nikon D700 is an excellent camera, it has its drawbacks which may deter potential buyers. First of all, there's the high cost. Since it comes with a full-frame sensor, don't expect the D700 to become truly affordable anytime soon.

In addition, some sports photographers might not appreciate the 'wider' prespective because they will need lens with a longer zoom to get the same reach as that of cameras using the smaller DX sensors, and that means investing in more expensive telephoto lenses. Of course, the converse is also true. Those who enjoy photographing sceneries and architecture will love the wider angle afforded by the full-frame sensor.

With that said, the Nikon D700 is more or less a Nikon D300 with a full-frame sensor. So, unless you need a wider angle, much better performance at insanely high ISO levels, a slightly better dynamic range, a bigger viewfinder, the Nikon D300 may be more up your alley.

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