
Nikon V1





CX format with a new Nikon 1 lens mount. The Nikon 1 V1 is a completely new compact system camera from Nikon and is set to compete against the compact mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras from other camera manufacturers. While the FX (full frame) format is targeted to its top of the line DSLRs, the DX (APS-C) format to enthusiast DSLRs, Nikon is introducing a brand new CX format using a 1.0-in. CMOS image sensor and a new Nikon 1 lens mount with smaller and lighter lenses for its Nikon 1 System. The Nikon 1 System is targeted to the point-and-shoot crowd who wants a better camera with interchangeable lenses.
The Nikon 1 V1 (or simply Nikon V1) features 10.1MP (on a 1.0-in. 13.2 x 8.8mm CMOS sensor). This image sensor is bigger than the 1/1.7-in. sensor used in most top of the line point-and-shoot cameras but smaller than the Four Thirds sensor and APS-C sensor found in other compact mirrorless cameras. The Nikon 1 System targets mostly those coming from the point-and-shoot world wanting a better camera with more flexibility.
The Nikon 1 V1 also features a new and revolutionary hybrid AF system with both Phase-detection and Contrast-detect AF sensors embedded right in the image sensor itself. Being embedded right in the sensor allows the Nikon 1 V1 to have lightning fast phase detection AF without needing a mirror to reflect light to its phase detection sensor(s). The 73 point AF array allows Continuous Shooting of 5fps in autofocus or 60fps using electronic shutter.
The LCD is 3.0-in. with a high 921k-dot resolution. For those who prefer it, there is also a 1,440,000 -dot (SVGA) electronic viewfinder (EVF). An eye sensor automatically toggles the display between EVF and LCD as you bring the camera to your eye or away from it.
The Nikon 1 V1 accepts interchangeable lenses on its new Nikon 1 lens mount. Currently, there are 4 lenses: 1 NIKKOR VR 10-33mm f/3.5-5.6 kit lens, 1 NIKKOR 10mm f/2.8 Pancake lens, 1 NIKKOR VR 30-110mm f/3.8-5.6 Zoom lens and 1 NIKKOR VR 10-100mm f/4.5-5.6 10x power zoom lens. An optional FT1 F-mount adaptor allows the use of legacy 35mm NIKKOR lenses.
Movie is recorded in Full HD (1080p) and you can take a still photo at any time during movie recording. Movie frame rates are 30/60/400/1200fps. Motion Snapshot is a novel feature and captures a still image together with an accompanying 2 sec. video. Smart Photo Selector takes a number of shots in quick succession and selects the one with optimal exposure, subjects in frame, clarity and focus, even eyes open.
The Nikon 1 V1 has a proprietary accessory shoe that accepts a number of optional accessories: GP-N100 GPS module, ME-1 Microphone (with the AS-N1000 adapter) or SB-N5 Speedlight. You cannot use existing Nikon speedlights.
Want something better than point-and-shoot with more accessories and interchangeable lenses but don’t want the size, weight and complexity of a DSLR? The Nikon 1 V1 may be just the right camera for you.
Read our Nikon 1 V1 Review…
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