I’ve seen the rumors about a possible D700s. Now that the D300s is shipping it is on to the next rumor right? But I just can’t seem to see how that would mesh with Nikon’s corporate strategy. Corporate logic doesn’t always match user logic. Nikon folk want a full frame DSLR with HD Video like Canon users have with the 5D mark II. Naturally a D700s is a very desirable outcome if the APS-C sensor of the D300s does not entice you.
If I were on the board at Nikon I sure as hell wouldn’t recommend a D700s unless we first introduced a full frame DSLR with HD video on the flagship model (D3). If nothing else, simultaneously release a D3s/D700s, but not a D700s before a D3s. Maybe they do just release a D700s and leave HD Video for the next generation D4.
If the technology exists to incorporate video with the full frame sensor, then why not the flagship model first (D3s), then down the line (D700s). Pure speculation, but it would mesh with all their past release history dealing with D* vs D*** bodies (D1-D100; D2-D200; D3-D300). The D700 breaks the mold of course because full frame allowed there to be a new line created with the D300 APS-C sensor a jump from the D200 and D700 Full Frame in a smaller body creating a totally new class.
If the sales of the D700 have been better for Nikon than the D3 (from an ROI standpoint), then I would completely agree with the logic of a D700s making more sense than a D3s. I don’t have those stats so I’m just talking out loud. Personally, I’d prefer to see a D700s because I already have a D3 and the next DSLR I purchase will have HD video.
That said, my gut tells me that RED might be the route I go given their announcements about a potential fall release. And from a quality perspective, I have a hard time believing that Canon, Nikon or any other player will be able to compete with the video quality of what can be accomplished with a scarlet shooting raw (video).
By the end of 2009 these answers will be in place for me and I’ll have made a purchase decision as well. I’m just sitting here and watching the products rolled out in real time as we all are.
As far as I am concerned, they are all just tools with company logos. I’d like to see users get more excited about tools and their features, instead of acting like gang members and defending brands.
I do think the 700s would be more desirable to most because of the price difference. However it could boost the sales of the D3 if it came out with video first. I am curious to see the convergence of both of these mediums will play out and how people will become specialized in both of these mediums or if it will lessen the craft of film making or picture making to whomever has the lowest price vs. the better quality.
Matt, first of all… gorgeous work on your site! Whew. Glad I don’t have to compete against you in weddings, etc.
The D3s came first of course, but the D700s has got to be the hottest nikon topic on google and forums. A D700s will better fit the needs of many when you consider the smaller form factor of the camera and the price.
D700s would be 90% of a D3s for 75% the price. Ratios aside, its just cheaper than a D3s and these days every penny counts.