After shooting with the Nikon D7000 for a little over two months now (mine arrived in mid February), I'm at a point where I feel comfortable putting together a brief review for those still considering making a D700 purchase. I won't try to duplicate the level of detail that you can read in some of the excellent reviews that have already been posted (here, and on many other sites), but will try to summarize some of my experiences with the camera, as well as provide some of the most important information regarding the camera. I've been primarily shooting with the Nikon 18-200mm VR lens, but have also used the Nikon f/1.8 50mm prime, as well. So, my review here will be focused on those lenses, but it is useful to have this background as you read my comments.
Getting straight to the nitty-gritty, and leaving extended explanations and comments until afterwards, and based on my actual use of this camera:
Pros
+ Ability to shoot at extremely high ISO levels with little noise (comparatively speaking) makes this a low-light shooter's dream
+ Sophisticated 39-point focus system
+ Good overall image quality in a wide range of shooting situations
+ Good video quality that makes up for many of the deficiencies of previous Nikon models
+ Huge feature set, with large number of customizable settings surpassed only by very expensive, professional cameras
+ Excellent construction quality, with few, if any, squeaks and/or loose assembly parts
+ Large set of "mechanical" controls, including switches, knobs, and assignable buttons which allow you to shoot without being required to dig through menus
+ Optical viewfinder amongst the best you will see in the camera's price range
+ LCD display at top of camera displaying current settings
+ Built-in autofocusing mechanism allows for the widest range of compatibility with past and current Nikon lenses
+ Extremely good battery life - I'm getting 400-500 shots on a single battery (no flash)
+ Quick turn-on time; it's ready almost as soon as you flip the switch
+ Excellent rear display that provides good resolution imaging and also provides an excellent setting display (each when activated)
+ Dual-card SDXC memory slots which can be set for either simultaneous (i.e., duplicate) or consecutive (i.e., switches to card 2 when card 1 is full) writing
+ Reasonable pricing, when you consider what you get
Cons
- A bit heavy; this thing can wear you out after a few hours
- Although many report a comfortable grip, the size of the camera could have been smaller (this is personal taste, however)
- No articulated display screen (the lack of which really limits video taking, but for those of us who have for years used an articulated display for photography, it's a real shortcoming, and one that is not easy to work around - again, as it pertains to PHOTOGRAPHY, this is a very personal taste issue; for VIDEO, which this camera shoots quite well, it's a real shortcoming)
- LiveView is still too slow to be really feasible (and can in no way match Sony's SLT cameras and some of their traditional SLRs, some of which focus instantaneously in LiveView; if you are looking for LiveView, I suggest you look elsewhere)
- Power on/off flip switch feels somewhat mushy, with no clear click position for On" (and its wild just how much this can bother me over time)
- Battery charger design is too large, and does not have foldable prongs for the wall outlet (who at Nikon can overlook such simple, but important things as this?)
- No built-in GPS (can't believe its not included at this price; it's an optional component)
- Pricing is unlikely to come down in the near future
There is no reason to try and deny it: the Nikon D7000 is, in many respects, an amazing camera. As I mentioned above, one of the areas in which I have been most impressed is the camera's ability to have it set way up to 2,400 ISO and even higher and then just be used to knock off good quality photos in very low light settings at noise levels that were typically associated with cameras shooting at 400 ISO. In a pinch, you can move the ISO way up to 6,400, and although at this point noise is a real factor, you can still get some shots that would have been impossible before. But even at modestly high ISO levels in the 2000's and 3000's level, you can take shots with little noise, and this is, where in my mind, the camera really stands out from many others (the camera uses the same Sony sensor used in Sony's SLT a55 camera, which may largely account for this capability).
The camera feels tightly built and well constructed. Whether or not it is 100% magnesium construction underneath (you can read this debate in many online postings), the camera feels much more like a professional camera that a lower cost entry level model. The grip and design of the camera make holding the unit comfortable, although it is a bit on the large side (some people like the large size to help them hold the camera better). In addition, the camera is physically heavier than I would prefer, and I find myself dreading picking it up at times because I know its weight. This is, of course, multiplied when you add a lens like the Nikon VR 18-200mm that I am using, because, by that point, you have a pretty heavy set. But, as I say, this is a personal preference, and many people considering a purchase like this understand ahead of time (and accept) that this type of camera will be somewhat large and somewhat heavy.
Image quality is very good. The camera is capable of producing extremely high quality images, given the right lens selection and the right technique. I say that sentence carefully, because it is really a mistake to think that you can purchase a D7000 kit and, based on the rave reviews, just knock off one great picture after the other. Many, many reviewers (both professional and lay) have confirmed that that kit lens sold with the D7000 is not up to a camera of this quality, and simply exposes the shortcomings of the lens in shots. This means that in order to take advantage of the D7000's capabilities, you really need to put a good lens on it. My choice of the Nikon VR II 18-200mm may not be that lens for that absolute best quality, due to compromises such a zoom lens makes to get such wide range coverage. However, putting a prime on the camera can allow the camera's characteristics really shine, and even using the 18-200mm is a huge step up from the kit (and offers you wide versatility). But, in addition, the proper technique must also be used to achieve optimal results. One should use a working knowledge of photographic technique to get good images. Use a tripod - even a mini one - when you can. Always use the lens hood, especially when shooting outside. Use fast shutter speeds to keep images sharp. Increase aperture when shooting indoors to maintain sharpness. The camera tends to overexpose in bright light shooting, so reduce the exposure to -1/3 or even -2/3 for outdoor shooting. And on and on. The D7000 can put out great shots, but you can't overlook technique and expect it to rescue every shot without effort. You also need to experiment with normal/vivid settings, because these greatly affect the overall color and saturation of the images according to taste.
One thing I feel needs to be mentioned is the image softness of the D7000. Many other reviewers have mentioned this (both arguing that such softness does, and then, does not, exist) but my own experience does indeed find that the D7000 images tend to be on the soft side. But that does not mean the photos are bad, or that this an unalterable outcome. There is in-camera sharpening that can be applied. Better still, one can shoot in RAW mode, and then use software tools to post process the images (using RAW mode can also address the overexposures that sometimes occur in bright light situations). Even if shooting in standard jpg format, you can use image editing software and bring up thee sharpness quite well. But, in my own experience, the D7000 does tend to be a bit soft, and knowing this ahead of time can allow you to take steps to address this before you even shoot your first photo. Of course, if you have the budget for it, putting high quality prime lenses up front will really move image sharpness upward, but this is often a costly route for the lay photographer.
In sum, I have found the Nikon D7000 to be an impressive camera that represents a next step in the evolution of SLR technology. It would have been nicer if it had been a bit smaller and lighter, and infinitely more enjoyable if an articulated screen had been employed, but these things are often in the realm of personal taste, and thus, are not fixed determinates of how one will like the camera. The D7000 can knock out great photos in low light conditions that you have previously given up on, and its slew of features and customizability will keep you busy for months learning it all. It's a shame the price won't be coming down in the near future, but it does not seem likely at this time. Five stars.
Nikon 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G AF-S ED VR II Nikkor Telephoto Zoom Lens for Nikon DX-Format Digital SLR Cameras
Nikon 50mm f/1.8D AF Nikkor Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras
Add to your order
-
Coverage for accidental damage including drops, spills, and broken parts, as well as breakdowns (plans vary) -
24/7 support when you need it. -
Quick, easy, and frustration-free claims.
Cover this product:
3-Year Protection Plan $69.99
2-Year Protection Plan $54.99
Cover all of your eligible devices:
Complete Protect: One plan covers all eligible past and future purchases $16.99/month
Select a plan
Add to your order
- Coverage for accidental damage including drops, spills, and broken parts, as well as breakdowns (plans vary)
- 24/7 support when you need it.
- Quick, easy, and frustration-free claims.
Cover this product:
Select a plan
There is a newer model of this item:
Frequently bought together
This item: Nikon D7000 DSLR (Body Only) (OLD MODEL)
$620.62
Get it as soon as Tomorrow, Jun 21
Only 18 left in stock - order soon.
+
$496.95
Get it as soon as Tomorrow, Jun 21
In Stock
Total price: $00
To see our price, add these items to your cart.
Choose items to buy together.
You might also like
Page 1 of 1 Start over
From the manufacturer
Inspired performance in a size that keeps you shooting.
Amazing photography isn’t only about what you shoot and how you shoot it, it’s also about what you shoot it with. The high resolution, multi-featured Nikon D7000 gives you 16.2 megapixels of vividly detailed images, a more sensitive DX-format CMOS sensor that delivers high ISO with low noise, plus various automatic and customizable settings to take your pictures and videos from great to gorgeous. Shoot up to 6 fps or record every second of the action with full HD 1080p D-Movies with Nikon’s advanced autofocus system to impress and inspire.
Compare with similar items
This Item  Nikon D7000 DSLR (Body Only) (OLD MODEL) | Recommendations  |  |  |  |  | |
| Price | $620.62 | $2,999.95 | -57% $728.27 New Price: $1,696.95 | $1,696.95 | -52% $294.99 New Price: $620.62 | -7% $745.98 List: $799.95 |
| Delivery | Get it as soon as Tomorrow, Jun 21 | Get it as soon as Wednesday, Jun 25 | Get it as soon as Wednesday, Jun 25 | Get it as soon as Tomorrow, Jun 21 | Get it Jul 7 - 14 | Get it as soon as Tomorrow, Jun 21 |
| Customer Ratings | ||||||
| Sold By | Green's Camera World | Amazon.com | Xpress Products (We track Serial Numbers) | Green's Camera World | Port Hole Renewed | Electronics Basket |
| display type | LCD | LCD | Tilting LCD | LED | LCD | LCD |
| display size | 3 inches | 3.2 inches | 3.2 inches | 3.2 inches | 3 inches | 3.2 inches |
| lens type | zoom | Nikon F-mount | Wide Angle | Close-Up | zoom | Wide Angle |
| zoom type | Optical | manual | Optical Zoom | Digital Zoom, Optical Zoom | ✓ | — |
| shooting modes | Landscape, Advanced Scene Modes, Manual, High Key, Shutter-Priority Auto (S), Night Portrait, Portrait, Blossom, Candlelight, Dusk / Dawn, Party / Indoor, Night Landscape, U2 (user setting 2), Low Key, Close-up, Autumn Colors, Silhouette, Sunset, Automatic, Beach / Snow, Food, Child, Aperture Priority, Sports, Programmed Auto with flexible Program (P) | High dynamic rang | Movie mode, burst mode, manual mode | Movie mode, burst mode, manual mode | Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority, Manual, Automatic | Autumn colors, beach/snow, blossom, candlelight, child, close-up, dusk/dawn, food, landscape, night landscape and more |
| connectivity tech | USB 2.0 A/V out HDMI Mic input GPS connection | HDMI, USB | HDMI, USB | Wi-Fi | — | HDMI |
| video resolution | FHD 1080p | FHD 1080p | FHD 1080p | FHD 1080p | 1080p | FHD 1080p |
| optical zoom | — | 1 multiplier x | 0.7 multiplier x | 1 multiplier x | 2 multiplier x | — |
| real angle of view | 62.8 degrees | 0.39 degrees | 44 degrees | 43.3 degrees | 0.22 degrees | — |
| magnification | 0.95x | 0.70x | 0.70x | 0.70x | — | 0.94x |
| wireless tech | Bluetooth, NFC, Wi-Fi | — | Wi-Fi | BuiltIn | EyeFi | ✓ |
Product information
Warranty & Support
Amazon.com Return Policy:Amazon.com Voluntary 30-Day Return Guarantee: You can return many items you have purchased within 30 days following delivery of the item to you. Our Voluntary 30-Day Return Guarantee does not affect your legal right of withdrawal in any way. You can find out more about the exceptions and conditions here.
Product Warranty: For warranty information about this product, please click here [PDF ]
Feedback
Would you like to
tell us about a lower price?
Nikon D7000 DSLR (Body Only) (OLD MODEL)
Share:
Found a lower price? Let us know. Although we can't match every price reported, we'll use your feedback to ensure that our prices remain competitive.
Where did you see a lower price?
Please sign in to provide feedback.
Best DX (cropped) Camera To Date; Amazing ISO Performance
My first DSLR was a D80 I purchased four years ago. The shutter went out a few weeks back but I had been planning to upgrade to the D7000 anyway so this just hurried things up. I bought the D7000 kit with the 18-105 lens but quickly sold that on Ebay. I was shooting with a Tamron 17-50 2.8 lens on the D80. For low light, it worked pretty well but greater than half the time I needed to use my SB-600 flash to capture my young kids doing what they do (move). The only downside to the Tamron, or combination of the Tamron with the D80, was that the images tended to be soft, especially when opened up. So I also upgraded my lens to the Nikkor 16-85. While this is a variable lens that maxes out at 3.5, it is amazingly sharp combined with the D7000. And the extra reach is great for getting better shots and also providing relatively shallow depth of field that otherwise would be lost with the slower aperture. The reason I mention the lens change is that I wouldn't have gone to a variable lens had it not been for the amazing ISO performance on the D7000. I am now shooting flashless at very fast shutter speeds. I usually shoot raw and process with Lightroom and I'm seeing amazing results at 800 ISO even when fully blown up (1:1). At ISO 1600, I can see minor noise but Lightroom 3's noise reduction easily eliminates it. 3200 certainly isn't noiseless but again, Lightroom can clean it up very well in most situations. My old D80 had more noise at 400 than the D7000 has at 1600; I'd say 800 on it was equivalent to 3200 on the D7000. I could see printing 1600 shots at smaller sizes with no need for software cleanup. So while my results are preliminary (3 weeks in), I am astonished at the ISO capabilities of this camera. I no longer have d700 envy and am glad I can get great dx lenses for under $700 as opposed to $1500 for fx. Perfect for enthusiasts like me! You've seen the stat that the D7000 can shoot 6 shots per second. The 6FPS shutter is in some ways overkill. But if you shoot HDR/Bracket shots in quick succession having such a rapid shutter can allow you to do so handheld in a pinch. This is really only possible because of the high ISO capabilities enabling very fast shutter times. And for sporting events and the like, it's nice to have the ability to rapidly fire off shots. I have also noticed considerably improved metering and white balance on the D7000 compared to my old D80. Of the 350 or so shots I've taken, I am spending much less time adjusting lighting and white balance in Lightroom. As others have mentioned, the ergonomics/design of the camera are quite good and I really enjoy the many direct access shortcuts for adjusting everything from focus to flash to white balance and much more. The two custom settings are very easy to set and perfect for your two most common profiles (e.g. indoor portrait and outdoor landscape). The screen is beautiful and moving in and around even RAW files is very smooth and fast. I went with two 16GB SD class 10 Transcend cards and while I'm currently using the RAW 1 / JPEG 2 option, I plan to use the second as a backup card once I go to RAW only. I've only toyed with the video function but that was a part of my consideration since I dislike carrying two cameras, plus chargers and media, on family vacations. The tests I've done in 1080P have been very impressive, albeit large as you would expect. Auto-focusing while video recording is okay, as long as the background isn't too noisy or subjects too many. The biggest downside I have experienced is the built-in microphone picks up lots of auto focusing noise. I have not yet invested in an external mic but probably will need to. All in all I am very pleased with the D7000 and see no major shortcomings. It's not cheap, but you get a lot for your money if you are in the market for a prosumer class DSLR. For users who won't explore and use the MANY options and capabilities of this camera, I would recommend considering the 3100/5100. For D80/90 users who are ready to step up big time in terms of performance, this is the upgrade you have been waiting for. Some will hold out for a D700 successor (D800 or whatever it ends up being called). I have no doubt it will be an amazing camera but cost wise, you're going to be looking at $2500+ for the body alone and pay roughly double for coverage equivalent lenses. So figure $4K just to get started. Too rich for my non-professional needs but certainly should be considered if your work or wants dictate that level of camera. And there maybe be a D300s replacement in the works too. Still, I'd urge anyone to consider the D7000, which in my opinion is the best cropped sensor DSLR to date.
Top reviews from the United States
There was a problem filtering reviews. Please reload the page.
Top reviews from other countries
-
- BreeReviewed in Canada on March 23, 2018
Best camera body.
Style: Body OnlySet: BaseVerified Purchase -
Héctor RangelReviewed in Mexico on April 4, 2016
Buen producto, mala logistica.
Style: Body OnlySet: BaseVerified Purchase - rick koscielnyReviewed in Canada on March 3, 2017
Five Stars
Style: Body OnlySet: BaseVerified Purchase -
