Read real customer reviews of the Nikon 1 V1 here.
Evolving it has. In fact, International Data Corporation (IDC), an independent market analyst firm, projects that interchangeable lens systems cameras will double their growth during 2012, because of their smaller size, many DSLR features and more affordable pricing. Nikon, and presumably Canon, know the score. Nikon just happened to be the first to enter the fray with its 1 Series. No doubt, Canon is sharpening its technological weapons for an offensive move into the ILS revolution soon.
Nikon has already proven (and Canon is sure to follow suit) that it joined the ILS revolution on its own terms, according to its tradition for top-end cameras and lenses. Nikon wasn’t marching its ILS technology onto the field until the technology was equal to the company’s reputation for excellence.
The company has done exactly that with the Nikon 1 V1. This is the ILS model designed for those same serious amateurs, semi-pros and full-time professional digital photographers. It’s a great alternative choice for the serious amateur ready to upgrade from an older, entry-level DSLR with dated features, but who is unable to handle the price tag of the next-level DSLR. For semi-pros and full-time professionals, the Nikon 1 V1 digital camera is an outstanding second camera, or a private-use camera for family and vacations, so the heavy DSLR and its array of lenses can be left at home.
Nikon has certainly given the V1 an appealing, contemporary design, with a DSLR look and feel. It compares favorably in size and weight to the new Sony NEX-F3 ILS camera: 4.4 x 3 x 1.7” (113 x 76 x 43.5mm) and 10.4 oz. (294g) (body only) and 4.6 x 2.6 x 1.7” (117.3 x 67 x 41mm) and 9.0 oz. (255g), respectively.
For many serious photographers, the Nikon V1’s 3.0-inch, 921,000-dot TFT-LCD screen with brightness adjustment and a color LCD, 1.44m-dot electronic viewfinder are its most distinguishing features. Better yet, the camera has an eye sensor, automatically switching to the viewfinder as your eye approaches it.
Nikon has combined its EXPEED 3, dual-image processors with a 10.1-megapixel CMOS sensor to capture sharp, color-rich photos and 1080p Full-HD video, which can be recorded at a 30, 60, 400 or 1,200 fps rate. An interesting feature of the video system is Motion Snapshot mode, which records a short video segment with each still image taken to create a different kind of visual presentation.
One of the Nikon V1’s capabilities that elevates it above most other ILS cameras is its hybrid auto-focus system. With a 73-point AF array, the V1 is capable of a rather incredible 10 fps in auto-focus and 60 fps in manual mode. The auto-focus system shows its stuff when you use the Smart Photo feature. It’s useful when you find it difficult to frame a face or body pose because you’re subject is moving. Smart Photo instructs the camera to take four different photos, and then automatically selects the best, although you’re able to view all four images.
As an interchangeable lens system, the Nikon V1 comes with a choice of four lenses to interchange: 1 NIKKOR VR 10–30mm f/3.5–5.6 (27–81mm, 35mm format); 1 NIKKOR VR 30–110mm f/3.8–5.6 (81–297mm); 1 NIKKOR 10mm f/2.8 (27mm); and 1 NIKKOR VR 10–100mm f/4.5–5.6 PD-Zoom (27–270mm).
It’s too early in the ILS revolution to declare a leader, but Nikon has boldly unfurled its flag at a strategic point in time with its V1 digital camera. Some may complain the V1 is a bit pricey, but it is a Nikon, which guarantees its excellent value for the dollars you’ll spend.
Order the Nikon 1 V1 ILS Digital Camera with the 10–30mm f/3.5–5.6 from B&H Photo Video for $896.95.
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