Home > Nikon D3S FX-format Digital SLR Camera (Body Only)

Nikon D3S FX-format Digital SLR Camera (Body Only)

12.1 MP

Nikon D3S FX-format Digital SLR Camera (Body Only)

submit a review for a chance to win $1,000

Order Today!

Currently Out of StockShips when received from manufacturer

Price:	$5,196.95
Free Shipping:	$0.00

Manufacturer # 25466
Our Stock # RI541533006

No Payments for 6 Months! Click here for details

The Nikon D3S exhibits FX-format multimedia versatility engineered for demanding pro use at up to 9 fps. Both still images and smooth 24 fps HD video render edge-to-edge sharpness, rich color and broad tonal range, while barrier-breaking performance enables low-noise shooting at ISO 12,800. What was once impossible is now reality thanks to Nikon ingenuity and exclusive technologies such as EXPEED image processing, reinforced by Nikon's Scene Recognition System.

Nikon-original FX-format CMOS Sensor
Newly engineered for striking image fidelity and low-noise, optimizing pixel size and count in a 12.1-megapixel sensor to produce extraordinarily rich files.

Low Noise ISO Sensitivity from 200 to 12,800
Renowned low-noise performance at 12,800, plus expanded settings to an astounding ISO 102,400 (equivalent) and ISO 100 (equivalent).

Continuous Shooting Up to 9 FPS
Secure exacting moments in time with an expanded buffer, allowing continuous capture of up to 82 JPEG (fine) or 36 14-bit NEF (RAW) images.

HD Video Capture
Record smooth 24 fps HD video, leveraging low noise D3S image quality along with high fidelity stereo sound capability.

One-button Live View with Two Shooting Modes
Two modes for studio or remote shooting?Tripod Mode offers 27x magnification for precise focus confirmation.

3-Inch Super-density 921,000-dot VGA LCD Monitor
D3S monitors are individually calibrated during assembly to assure accuracy.

Dynamic Integrated Dust Reduction System
Ultrasonic process combats the accumulation of dust on the optical low pass filter, safeguarding image quality.

Nikon EXPEED Image Processing
Drives breathtakingly rich image fidelity, low noise and fast image processing.

Fast, Accurate 51-Point AF System
4 Dynamic modes and 15 cross-type sensors deliver AF precision and razor sharpness.

1,005-Pixel 3D Color Matrix Metering II
Nikon-pioneered RGB metering includes color information to intelligently determine more accurate exposures.

Scene Recognition System
Referencing an onboard image database, teamed with RGB metering, SRS enhances exposure and white balance evaluation and improves AF speed and accuracy.

Rugged and Precise Magnesium Alloy Construction
Effectively protected from invasive dust, moisture and electromagnetic interference with a self-diagnostic shutter mechanism tested to exceed 300,000 cycles.

Nikon Picture Control
Four preset options and 9 customizable settings provide personalized style control.

Dual CF Card Slots with Overflow, Backup and Copy Option
Virtual Horizon Graphic Indicator
Up to 4,300 Images per Battery Charge

Power. Precision. Performance. The Blueprint For Versatility

The D3S is uniquely qualified to meet the changing needs of photographers whose assignments demand 100% from them and their equipment.

Leading with uncompromising FX-format multimedia versatility and engineered for demanding professional use at up to 9 fps, the D3S' rugged magnesium alloy construction, comprehensively sealed against dust and moisture, delivers on its promises of superiority.Exacting moments in time are captured to an expanded buffer, allowing continuous capture of up to 82 JPEG (fine) or 36 14-bit NEF (RAW) images.

Nikon's newly engineered, original 12.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, teamed with exclusive technologies such as EXPEED image processing, Nikon's Scene Recognition System and a fast, accurate 51-area AF system, work together to assure that both still and smooth 24 fps HD video files exhibit incredible edge-to-edge sharpness, rich color depth and broad tonal range, while barrier-breaking performance enables low-noise ISO sensitivity to 12,800.

Expanded ISO sensitivities of 25,600, 51,200 and an astounding 102,400, shatter many long-standing rules of photography. Audio to accompany HD video is preserved with a built-in microphone, while high fidelity stereo sound is recorded through the external Mic input using an optional microphone. More proven technologies include Nikon's renowned 1,005-pixel RGB 3D Color Matrix Metering II, assuring exacting exposure evaluation and white balance detection.

Precise image review and menu access comes to life with the D3S' tempered glass-protected and individually factory-calibrated 3-inch, 921,000-dot Live View monitor.

A self-diagnostic shutter, tested to beyond 300,000 cycles, and a myriad of inherent benefits stemming from decades of Nikon design experience, round out the D3S' qualifications

Our Experts recommend these accessories:

Nikon ME-1 Stereo Microphone

Mfr # 27045
Our Stock # RI591530043

$179.95

Additional popular products:

	Black Rapid RS-5 Sling-Style Camera Strap (Black) Mfr # RS5-2BB Our Stock # 228800017	$69.99

	Black Rapid RS-7 Curved Sling-Style Camera Strap (Black) Mfr # RS7-1BB Our Stock # 228800025	$58.99 (1 Rating)

	Black Rapid RS-W1 Womens Sling-Style Camera Strap (Black) Mfr # RWS-1FB Our Stock # 228800033	$59.99 (1 Rating)

Nikon D3S Digital SLR Camera Body Specifications

Type:

Type Single-lens reflex digital camera

Lens mount: Nikon F mount (with AF coupling and AF contacts)

Picture Angle: Equivalent to angle produced by lens focal length (1.5 times when DX format is selected) Effective pixels

Effective pixels: 12.1 million

Image sensor

Image sensor: CMOS sensor, 36.0 x 23.9 mm; Nikon FX format
Total Pixels: 12.87 million
Dust-reduction System: Image Sensor Cleaning, Image Dust Off reference data (optional Capture NX 2 software required)

Storage
Image Size (pixels)

Image area FX format (36x24): (Large) 4,256 x 2,832 (Medium) 3,184 x 2,120 (Small) 2,128 x 1,416
Image area 1.2 x (30x20): (Large) 3,552 x 2,368 (Medium) 2,656 x 1,776 (Small) 1,776 x 1,184
Image area DX format (24x16): (Large) 2,784 x 1,848 (Medium) 2,080 x 1,384 (Small) 1,392 x 920
Image area 5:4 (30x24): (Large) 3,552 x 2,832 (Medium) 2,656 x 2,120 (Small) 1,776 x 1,416
File format:
1) NEF (RAW): 12- or 14-bit, lossless compressed, compressed, or uncompressed
2) TIFF (RGB)
3) JPEG: JPEG-Baseline compliant with fine (approx. 1:4), normal (approx. 1:8), or basic (approx. 1:16) compression (Size priority); Optimal quality compression available
4) NEF (RAW) + JPEG: Single photograph recorded in both NEF (RAW) and JPEG formats
Picture Control System: Four setting options: Standard, Neutral, Vivid, Monochrome; each option can be adjusted
CompactFlash: (Type I, compliant with UDMA)
Double Slot: Slot 2 can be used for overflow or backup storage or for separate storage of NEF (RAW) and JPEG images; pictures can be copied between cards
File system: Compliant with DCF 2.0, DPOF, Exif 2.21, and PictBridge

Viewfinder

Viewfinder Eye-level pentaprism single-lens reflex viewfinder
Frame Coverage FX (36x24): Approx. 100% (vertical/horizontal), 1.2x (30x20): Approx. 97% (vertical/horizontal), DX (24x16): Approx. 97% (vertical/horizontal), 5:4 (30x24): Approx. 100% (vertical) and approx. 97% (horizontal)
Magnification Approx. 0.7x (50mm f/1.4 lens at infinity; -1.0 m-1)
Eyepoint 18 mm (-1.0 m-1)
Diopter Adjustment: -3 to +1 m ^-1
Focusing Screen: Type B BriteView Clear Matte VI screen with AF area brackets
Reflex Mirror: Quick return
Depth-of-field Preview: When Pv (depth-of-field preview) button is pressed, aperture can be stopped down to value selected by user (A and M modes) or value selected by camera (P and S modes)
Lens Aperture: Instant return, electronically controlled

Lens

Compatible Lenses:
1) Type G or D AF NIKKOR ^*1: All functions supported (PC Micro-NIKKOR does not support some functions
2) DX NIKKOR: All functions supported except FX format (36x24)/1.2x (30x20)/5:4 (30x24) image size
3) Other AF NIKKOR^*2: All functions supported except 3D color matrix metering II
4) AI-P NIKKOR: All functions supported except autofocus and 3D color matrix metering II
5) Non-CPU: Can be used in exposure modes A and M; color matrix metering and aperture value display supported if user provides lens data (AI lenses only) Electronic rangefinder can be used if maximum aperture is f/5.6 or faster
^*1 IX- NIKKOR lenses cannot be used
^*2 Excluding AF- NIKKOR lenses for F3AF

Shutter

Type: Electronically controlled vertical-travel focal-plane
Speed: 1/8,000 to 30 s in steps of 1/3, 1/2 or 1 EV, bulb, X250
Flash Sync Speed: X = 1/250 s; flash synchronization at up to 1/250s

Shutter Release

Release Modes: Single frame, continuous low speed, continuous high speed, quiet shutter-release, self-timer, mirror-up
Frame Advance Rate (CIPA Guidelines):
DX (24x16): Up to approx. 9 fps (CL) or approx. 9 to 11 fps (CH)
Other image areas: Up to approx. 9 fps
Self-timer: Electronically controlled timer with duration of 2, 5, 10 or 20s

Exposure

Metering TTL full-aperture exposure metering using 1,005-pixel RGB sensor
Metering System
1) Matrix: 3D color matrix metering II (type G and D lenses); color matrix metering II (other CPU lenses); color matrix metering (non-CPU lenses if user provides lens data)
2) Center-Weighted: Weight of 75% given to 12mm circle in center of frame, diameter of circle can be changed to 8, 15 or 20 mm, or weighting can be based on average of entire frame (non-CPU lenses use 12mm circle or average of entire frame)
3) Spot: Meters 4mm circle (about 1.5% of frame)centered on selected focus point (on center focus point when non-CPU lens is used)
Metering Range 1) 0 to 20 EV (Matrix or center-weighted metering),
2) 2 to 20 EV (Spot metering) (ISO 100 equivalent, f/1.4 lens, at 20°C/68°F)
Exposure Meter Coupling: Combined CPU and AI
Exposure Modes
1) Programmed Auto (P) with flexible program,
2) Shutter-Priority Auto (S),
3) Aperture-Priority Auto (A),
4) Manual (M)
Exposure Compensation: -5 to +5 EV in increments of 1/3, 1/2 or 1 EV
Exposure Bracketing: 2 to 9 frames in steps of 1/3, 1/2, 2/3 or 1 EV
Exposure Lock: Exposure locked at detected value with AE-L/AF-L button
ISO Sensitivity: ISO 200 to 12800 in steps of 1/3, 1/2 or 1 EV; can also be set to approx. 0.3, 0.5, 0.7 or 1 EV (ISO 100 equivalent) below ISO 200 or to approx. 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, 1, 2 or 3 EV (ISO 102400 equivalent) above ISO 12800; auto ISO sensitivity control available
Active D-Lighting: Can be selected from [Auto], [Extra high], [High],[Normal], [Low] or [Off]
ADL Bracketing: 2 frames using selected value for one frame or 3 to 5 frames using preset values for all frames

Focus

Autofocus: Nikon Multi-CAM 3500FX autofocus sensor module with TTL phase detection; 51 focus points (including 15 cross-type sensors); AF fine-tuning possible
Detection Range: -1 to +19 EV (ISO 100 at 20 C/68 F)
Lens Servo:
1) Autofocus: Single-servo AF (S); Continuous-servo AF (C); predictive focus tracking automatically activated according to subject status
2) Manual focus (M) with electronic rangefinder
Focus Point: Can be selected from 51 or 11 focus points AF-area Mode 1) Single-point AF, 2) Dynamic-area AF [number of AF points: 9, 21, 51, 51 (3D-tracking)], 3) Auto-area AF Focus Lock Focus can be locked by pressing AE-L/AF-L button or by pressing shutter-release button halfway (Single-servo AF)

Flash

Flash Control:
1) TTL: i-TTL balanced fill-flash and standard i-TTL flash for digital SLR using 1,005-pixel RGB sensor are available with SB-900, 800, 600 or 400
2) Auto aperture (AA): Available with SB-900, 800 and CPU lens
3) Non-TTL auto (A): Available with SB-900, 800, 28, 27 or 22S
4) Range-priority manual (GN): Available with SB-900 and 800
Flash Modes 1) Front curtain sync, 2) Slow sync, 3) Rear-curtain sync, 4) Red-eye reduction, 5) Red-eye reduction with slow sync
Flash Bracketing: 2 to 9 frames in steps of 1/3, 1/2, 2/3 or 1 EV
Flash-ready Indicator: Lights when Speedlight such as SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, SB-400, SB-80DX, SB-28DX or SB-50DX is fully charged; blinks after flash is fired at full output
Accessory Shoe ISO 518 hot-shoe with sync and data contacts, and safety lock
Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS): Advanced Wireless Lighting supported with SB-900, SB- 800 or SU-800 as commander and SB-900, SB-800, SB-600 or SB-R200 as remotes; Auto FP High-Speed Sync and modeling illumination supported with all CLS compatible flash units except SB-400; Flash Color Information Communication and FV lock supported with all CLS-compatible flash units
Sync Terminal: ISO 519 sync terminal with locking thread

White Balance

White Balance: Auto (TTL white balance with main image sensor and 1,005-pixel RGB sensor), Incandescent, Fluorescent (7 options), Direct Sunlight, Flash, Cloudy, Shade, preset manual (up to 5 values can be stored), and color temperature setting (2,500 K to 10,000 K), all with fine tuning
White Balance Bracketing: 2 to 9 frames in steps of 1, 2 or 3

Live View

Modes: Tripod, Hand-held
Autofocus
Tripod: Contrast-detect AF anywhere in frame
Hand-held: TTL phase-detection AF with 51 focus points (including 15 cross-type sensors)
Flicker Reduction: 50 Hz and 60 Hz

Movie

Frame Size (pixels): 1,280 x 720/24 fps, 640 x 424/24 fps, 320 x 216/24 fps
File Format: AVI
Compression Format: Motion-JPEG
Audio: Microphone sensitivity can be adjusted
ISO Sensitivity: ISO 200 to 12800 (ISO 6400 to Hi 3 in high-sensitivity movie mode)

Monitor

LCD Monitor: 3-in., approx. 921k-dot (VGA), 170-degree wideviewing-angle, 100% frame coverage, low-temperature polysilicon TFT LCD with brightness adjustment

Playback

Playback Function: Full-frame and thumbnail (4, 9 or 72 images) playback with playback zoom, movie playback, slide show, histogram display, highlight display, auto image rotation, image comment (up to 36 characters), and voice memo input and playback

Interface

USB: Hi-Speed USB
Video Output: NTSC or PAL; simultaneous playback from both the video output and on the LCD monitor available
HDMI Output: Type C HDMI connector; camera monitor turns off when HDMI cable is connected
Audio Input: Stereo mini-pin jack (3.5-mm diameter)
10-pin Remote Terminal: Can be used to connect optional remote control, GPS Unit GP-1 or GPS device compliant with NMEA 0183 version 2.01 and 3.01 (requires optional GPS Cable MC-35 and cable with D-sub 9-pin connector)

Supported Languages

Supported Languages: Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), Czech, Danish, Dutch, English, Finnish, French, German, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Swedish, Turkish

Power Source

Battery: One Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL4a/EL4
AC Adapter: AC Adapter EH-6 (optional)

Tripod Socket

Tripod Socket: 1/4 in. (ISO 1222)

Dimensions/Weight

Dimensions (W x H x D): Approx. 159.5 x 157 x 87.5 mm/6.3 x 6.2 x 3.4 in.
Weight: Approx. 1,240 g/2 lb. 12 oz. without battery, memory card, body cap or accessory shoe cover

Operating Environment

Temperature 0-40 C/32-104 F
Humidity Under 85% (no condensation)

Optional Accessories

Wireless Transmitter WT-4A/B/C/D/E*, GPS Unit GP-1, Magnifying Eyepiece DK-17M, AC Adapter EH-6, Capture NX 2 Software, Camera Control Pro 2 Software, Image Authentication Software

- Nikon D3S Digital SLR Camera Body
- Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL4a
- Quick Charger MH-22
- USB Cable UC-E4
- Audio Video Cable EG-D2
- Camera Strap AN-DC5
- Body Cap BF-1B
- Accessory Shoe Cover BS-2
- Eyepiece DK-17
- Battery Chamber Cover BL-4
- USB Cable Clip
- Software Suite CD-ROM

* Supplied accessories may differ depending on country or area

Nikon D3S FX-format Digital SLR Camera (Body Only) Reviews

REVIEW SNAPSHOT®

by PowerReviews

Nikon D3S FX-format Digital SLR Camera (Body Only)

5.0

(based on 2 reviews)

REVIEWS

Reviewed by 2 customers

Sort by

Displaying reviews 1-2

7/31/2011

(1 of 2 customers found this review helpful)

5.0

Simply perfect

By plus4db

from Fort Collins, CO

About Me Pro Photographer

Pros

Clear and accurate
Consistent Output
Durable
Fast / accurate auto-focus
Great metering
Incredible color-depth
Numerous focusing options
Rugged
Smooth fast reliable
Strong Construction
THE professional camera
Very low noise
Very powerful tools
Wonderful processor

Cons

NONE

Best Uses

Photographing anything

Comments about Nikon D3S FX-format Digital SLR Camera (Body Only):

I have had this camera for a little over a week. It has already become an extension of my photographic self. It is a very powerful and highly intuitive tool. The sensor and processor are so fast and clean that they don't get noisy where most other cameras quit. It isn't just that it is fast. It generates faithful, clear, accurate, "transparent" images. I used it tonight in a theater setting. With little light and at a fairly great distance, I captured very sharp and comfortable images. For sports it is a must-have. No camera as of July 31, 2011 is faster and as noise-free. Unless you work for the CIA! If you are a professional then you need this camera. It is a little heavy, but I have had no issues with carrying it for six hours straight. Get a nice, soft, padded strap and you will be very happy.

Comment on this review

6/12/2011

(0 of 4 customers found this review helpful)

5.0

Don't let it get away

By chilegrowr

from Sacramento Valley

About Me Casual Photographer

Pros

Good Image Stabilization
Large Clear LCD
Quiet

Cons

Best Uses

Sports/Action

Comments about Nikon D3S FX-format Digital SLR Camera (Body Only):

It broke my heart when I saw my new Nikon D3S go out my drivers window as my pickup was rolling over into a ricefield ditch. I'm glad I didn't try to grab it as it was crushed under the cab. Nikon didn't charge anything to appraise it and tell me it (and my 28-300 lens) was beyond repair.

Comment on this review

Displaying reviews 1-2

No Haggling. No Hassles. 4 easy steps!

We make our best possible offer up front. This makes trading in or selling to us easy and painless. The no haggle pricing means that you always receive top dollar. We make the entire process of trading in or selling your used camera and camera gear hassle free ... from getting your Free Quote until you receive your gift certificate for store credit.

In four easy steps, described below, we will convert your camera and accessories into store credit. Let's get started!

List your gear using our FREE No-Obligation Instant Quote system
We provide you with a top dollar quote for your gear
Pack your gear and ship it to us using our pre-paid shipping label
We give you RitzCamera.com Credit!

Free Shipping... No Haggling... & Free Instant Quotes!!!

It couldn't be easier!

We offer Free No-Obligation Instant Quotes for your used equipment. Upon your approval, simply pack your equipment, ship it to us FREE, and we'll promptly issue you your online credit.

We Accept All Brands and All Types of Cameras & Accessories!

Store Locator

Shopping Cart

Order Status

Weekly Sale Ad

Rebates & Coupons

Gift Cards

Canada / International

Email Deals

Help

Digital Cameras & Camcorders

Camera Lenses & Optics

TV & Home Theatre

Computers & Netbooks

GPS

MP3 & Portable

Gaming

Digital Memory Cards & Readers

Photo Printers

Home & Office

20% Off Scrapbooking

Camera & Electronics Clearance

Nikon D3S FX-format Digital SLR Camera (Body Only)

Nikon D3S FX-format Digital SLR Camera (Body Only) Reviews

No Haggling. No Hassles. 4 easy steps!

Free Shipping... No Haggling... & Free Instant Quotes!!!

It couldn't be easier!

We Accept All Brands and All Types of Cameras & Accessories!