Nikon D780 Review – High Quality Nighttime 4K UHD Video?

The Nikon D780 is surely one of the best all-round digital cameras to come onto the market in 2020. Its 24MP sensor and ability to shoot 4k videos uncropped are two of the headline features, but in this Nikon D780 Review, we break down the various elements of this product and give you our verdict. Read on!

Body and Controls

If the Nikon D780 looks familiar, that might be because its ergonomics are modelled on its predecessor, the D750. Benefit from a tilting, touch-sensitive screen, dedicated AF-ON button, and a battery that can be charged via USB-C.

In terms of the controls, the menus and general operation of the camera are similar to typical Nikon cameras with interchangeable lenses.

There are plenty of customisation options, including the easy access menu which can be configured according to how you are using the camera (video or stills), as can the buttons. There is also a pairable app, SnapBridge, which offers even more functionality, such as automatic image uploads.

Image Specs

As you’d expect, the Nikon D780 offers superb image quality, with an excellent dynamic range and high detail level. Default JPEG colour is recognised as best in class, benefitting from vibrant colours, and when shooting people, skin tone is reproduced faithfully.

Video Capability

For many, the biggest attraction of the Nikon D780 may be its video capabilities. It is able to offer 1080p and 4k video and produce a slow-mo effect thanks to its ability to reach 120 fps.

There is an electronic stabilisation feature that is designed for handheld shooting, and when using video capture you can also take advantage of Autofocus. You will be able to send 10-bit log footage through to an external recorder.

Nikon D780 Video Test

Here’s a short video testing out the quality of the Nikon D780. The nighttime footage (used with the high noise reduction on) is quite impressive.

READ MORE: DSLR camera guide: What to look for when buying a DSLR?

Pros and cons

Pros:

• Superb JPEG colour
• Good dynamic range and resolution
• Silent shutter mode
• User friendly with Bluetooth and wifi connectivity
• Long battery life
• Charge via USB

Cons:

• No AF touchpad
• Rolling shutter detracts from 12fps burst rate
• Aggressive JPEG noise reduction.
• Absence of built-in flash
• Lack of stabilisation in the body

Nikon D780 Review: Conclusion

If you are looking for one of the most solid all-round DSLR cameras on the market, the Nikon D780 will certainly tick your boxes.

It delivers in key areas such as detailed raw files with a superb dynamic range. You can be struck by the quality of the JPEG colour, and while noise reduction can appear aggressive, it should be noted that you are able to turn this down.

The standard of the Nikon D780’s 4k footage is another plus point, as are the accompanying tools for shooting video. And the D780 marks a significant step up from the D750 because of its video autofocus, featuring a face detection function.

Thanks for reading our Nikon D780 Review and if you have any question, be sure to leave a comment below or reach out to us on Twitter!

READ MORE:

• The top skills filmmakers need to succeed
• 3 Key tips for hiring the best film crew
• How to write a logline: The ultimate guide
• How to become a film director
• 7 screenwriting tips for beginners
• Top 5 Mirrorless cameras to buy in 2020
• 7 essential tips to improve dialogue within your script
• 9 essential film lighting techniques every filmmaker should know