Nikon D800

Manufacturer: Nikon Type: camera Year introduced: 2012

Overview

The Nikon D800 was a 36.3-megapixel FX-format full-frame DSLR announced in February 2012 that represented a landmark in underwater photography resolution. Its pixel count was more than double that of the D4 flagship, delivering resolution that Nikon claimed was “equal to that achieved with medium-format digital cameras” (^[1]). At the time of announcement, it had the highest effective pixel count of any 35mm-format DSLR in production.

Nikon released two variants: the standard D800 and the D800E, which eliminated the optical low-pass filter for even greater sharpness at the expense of potential moire artifacts. The D800E was priced at $3,300 versus $2,999.99 for the standard D800 (^[2]).

Key specifications included the EXPEED 3 processor, a 51-point AF system (shared with the D4, with 15 cross-type sensors rated to -2EV), a 91,000-pixel RGB metering sensor, 1080p video at 30/25/24fps with uncompressed HDMI output, ISO 100-6400 (expandable to 50-25,600), and a DX crop mode that yielded 15.3MP images — enabling continued use of beloved DX lenses like the Tokina 10-17mm fisheye (^[3]). The camera also featured a pop-up flash for fiber optic strobe triggering.

There was considerable debate about whether the D800’s massive resolution would be beneficial or problematic underwater, given the optical degradation inherent in shooting through dome ports and water. Adam Hanlon’s Wetpixel review found the camera capable of outstanding results. Nauticam was first to ship a production housing (the NA-D800), delivering it within five weeks of the camera’s physical release — an achievement Hanlon called “amazing” (^[4]). The D800 was significantly less expensive than the D4 ($2,999.99 vs. $5,999.99).

Reviews & Discussion

• ^[5] — Announcement coverage by Dr. Luiz Rocha detailing the camera’s specifications, including the 36.3MP sensor, video capabilities, and the differences between D800 and D800E. Article (editorial source).
• ^[6] — Adam Hanlon’s comprehensive multi-part underwater review covering the camera body, resolution, ISO, tonal range, image size, “shooting to crop” strategy, autofocus, teleconverter use, and built-in processing. Tested in the Nauticam NA-D800 housing with a Sigma 15mm lens and Zen Underwater 230mm dome port. The review was supported by Ryan Canon of Reef Photo, Nauticam (Edward Lai, Alex Tattersall), and noted the DxO Labs sensor rating as top marks. Article (editorial source).

Community Discussion

• Wetpixel D800 review (223 replies) — Extended community discussion following Hanlon’s multi-part review, with user experiences, comparisons to D700 and D4, and real-world image quality reports. (forum thread, topic 46334)
• Nikon announces the D800 (143 replies) — Immediate community reaction to the D800 announcement, debating whether 36MP was beneficial or problematic for underwater use and predicting the housing race. (forum thread, topic 45024)
• Nikon D4 Underwater Testing (76 replies) — Comparative discussion including D800 vs D4 purchasing decisions, with housing compatibility updates for both cameras. (forum thread, topic 45907)
• Seacam D800 Housing (73 replies) — Dedicated thread on Seacam’s D800 housing pricing, availability, and user impressions. (forum thread, topic 46683)

References

• ^[7]
• ^[8]