Record Smasher: Nikon D4
Young cineastes may not remember that Nikon was the first camera maker to offer video capture with a DSLR—the D90, way back in the antediluvian age (OK, 2008). How far Nikon has come since then! A 16.2-megapixel, professional-caliber, full-frame imaging machine, the D4 boasts video capabilities that have put its maker back on the map. It is one of the first DSLRs to output an uncompressed feed, allowing videographers to stream gorgeous live footage directly to an HDTV or, more important, an external recorder.
Traditional still photographers have plenty to love, too: Burst shooting up to 11 frames per second, stellar image quality and sensitivity all the way out to ISO 204,800 will have you shooting in near-dark (albeit with enough noise to make you wonder if you should), a weather-sealed camera body and rugged build. The D4 also sports a few innovative features, including an Ethernet port that allows the camera to be tethered easily to a computer or other electronic accessories. And it is the first camera to adopt the fledgling XQD memory card format (see page 50). All together, this Nikon makes one serious and versatile tool for serious and versatile photographers. $6,000 (body only) nikonusa.com
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