Nikon D800

Manufacturer: Nikon
Type: camera (DSLR, FX-format full-frame)
Year introduced: 2012
Successor: Nikon D810 (2014)
Price at launch: $2,999.99 (body); D800E: $3,300

Overview

The Nikon D800 was a 36.3-megapixel FX-format full-frame DSLR announced on February 7, 2012 that represented a watershed moment for underwater photography resolution. Its pixel count was more than double that of the flagship Nikon D4, 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 simultaneously: 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]). Nikon’s own technical guide warned that the high megapixel count could cause challenges for some users, noting that “bokeh and blur are made that much more obvious” at 36 megapixels (^[3]).

The D800 was significantly less expensive than the D4 ($2,999.99 vs. $5,999.99), making high-resolution full-frame photography accessible to a broader range of underwater photographers (^[4]).

Key Specifications

• Sensor: 36.3MP FX-format CMOS (7360 x 4912 pixels) (^[5])
• Processor: EXPEED 3 (^[6])
• DX crop mode: 15.3MP images, enabling continued use of DX lenses like the Tokina 10-17mm fisheye (^[7])
• Autofocus: Advanced Multi-CAM3500FX, 51-point with 15 cross-type sensors, rated to -2EV (shared with D4); 11 points functional at f/8 for teleconverter use (^[8])
• Metering: 91,000-pixel RGB sensor with Advanced Scene Recognition System, including face detection (^[9])
• ISO: 100-6400 native (expandable to 50-25,600) (^[10])
• Frame rate: 4 fps in FX mode, 5 fps in DX mode (6 fps in DX with MB-D12 battery grip and EN-EL18) (^[11])
• Video: 1080p at 30/25/24 fps; 720p at up to 60 fps; uncompressed HDMI output; FX and DX movie crop modes (^[12])
• Flash sync: 1/250s (1/320s in FP mode; 1/400s in 1.2x crop; 1/500s in DX mode with electronic flash) (^[13])
• Pop-up flash: Yes, critical for fiber optic strobe triggering underwater (^[14])
• Shutter: Rated for 200,000 cycles; max 1/8000s (^[15])
• LCD: 3.2-inch, 921,000-dot with anti-fog layer (^[16])
• Dual virtual horizon (LCD and viewfinder) (^[17])
• Storage: Dual card slots (CompactFlash + SD) (^[18])
• USB: SuperSpeed USB 3.0 (^[19])
• Body: Magnesium alloy, weather-sealed, approximately 10% lighter than D700 (^[20])
• In-camera time-lapse processing capability (^[21])
• RAW file size: 38-47 MB typical (lossless compressed 14-bit); up to 74.4 MB (uncompressed 14-bit) (^[22])

D800 vs D800E

The D800E disabled the anti-aliasing effect of the optical low-pass filter, allowing light to strike photodiodes more directly for higher resolution. Nikon intended it for landscape and artistic photography where maximum sharpness was paramount (^[23]). In the underwater community, there was debate about whether moire would be a problem, particularly with fish exhibiting line and stripe patterns. Dr. Luiz Rocha noted he was leaning toward the standard D800 because “most of my photography is of fish, and there are a lot of them with lines/stripes” (^[24]). A dedicated forum thread debated the D800E’s moire risk underwater (^[25]).

Underwater Photography Impact

Resolution Debate

The D800’s announcement sparked significant debate about whether 36 megapixels would be beneficial or problematic underwater. The concern centered on optical degradation inherent in shooting through dome ports and water, which could potentially waste the camera’s resolution advantage. DPReview’s review cautioned that “if you’re truly after 36MP performance, be prepared to do some work. Flawless technique, fast shutter speeds and top-shelf equipment (particularly lenses and a tripod) along with a low ISO are requirements not options” (^[26]).

Adam Hanlon’s Wetpixel review found the camera capable of outstanding results underwater, with its dynamic range proving especially impressive for recovering shadow detail in backlit wide-angle scenes (^[27]). The review noted the tonal range was “amazing” and that “recovery of detail in any shadows seems amazing” (^[28]).

DxOMark Performance

The D800 received the highest overall sensor score of any camera tested by DxO Labs at the time, even surpassing more expensive medium format offerings. This generated considerable discussion on Wetpixel, with Drew Wong noting the dynamic range appeared “amazing” while community members debated whether per-pixel or normalized performance mattered more for underwater use (^[29]).

Shooting Strategy: Crop vs DX Mode

A key strategy emerged with the D800 that Hanlon called “shooting to crop” — using the full FX frame and cropping in post-processing rather than switching to DX mode. The review concluded that DX mode offered “no advantage over shooting FX images and just cropping the image later” for stills, since you retained the full-frame viewfinder benefit. However, DX mode proved valuable for macro video shooters, providing a useful telephoto crop effect while maintaining video resolution (^[30]).

Action Photography Capability

Despite Nikon marketing positioning the D800 as a studio camera and the D4 as an “action” camera, Hanlon tested the D800 in dynamic conditions photographing grey seals at the Farne Islands and found the autofocus “worked flawlessly in a very dynamic environment.” He concluded it was “somewhat unfair to pigeonhole it solely as a studio camera,” noting that the 4 fps frame rate was sufficient for the vast majority of underwater situations and he “did not miss any shots due to capture speed or the buffer filling” (^[31]).

Comparison with D600

Alex Mustard conducted a comparative field review in Norwegian waters (Gulen Dive Centre), testing both cameras in Nauticam housings on alternate dives. He noted the D800 outperformed the D600 in most specifications, including a 1/3-stop faster maximum flash sync speed (1/320s vs 1/250s FX). He framed the D600 as the “second highest resolution SLR from the major players” at 24MP, while noting its price advantage: “you can buy three D600s for the same price as two D800s” (^[32]).

Comparison with Canon 5D Mark III

The D800 launched in the same period as Canon’s 5D Mark III, creating an intense rivalry in the underwater community. Forum discussions highlighted the tradeoffs: the D800 offered higher resolution and superior dynamic range, while the 5D Mark III provided a higher 6 fps frame rate and faster autofocus response. Mustard and other community members noted both were excellent systems, with the choice often depending on whether resolution or speed was more important to the individual shooter (^[33]).

File Size and Workflow Challenges

The D800’s 36MP files presented workflow challenges for underwater photographers. RAW files averaged 38-47 MB (lossless compressed), with some users reporting they became “much more selective about what I download in the first place” — previewing and deleting frames before downloading rather than ingesting everything. Community members discussed needing larger storage solutions, with one thread specifically addressing being “overwhelmed” by D800 RAW files on external hard drives (^[34], ^[35]).

Lens Compatibility and Discussion

The D800’s extreme resolution raised questions about lens quality. Community debate on whether the popular Tokina 10-17mm fisheye was sufficient at 36MP was vigorous, with some arguing it was “awful” while others defended it, noting “24x36 inch prints on my wall taken with the Tokina that show excellent detail.” The general consensus was that premium lenses like the Sigma 15mm fisheye, Nikon 14-24mm, and Canon 8-15mm would better exploit the sensor’s resolution (^[36]). The Tokina could be used in DX crop mode, yielding 15.3MP images — still higher resolution than many contemporary cameras. Community member Andrej proposed using converted Nikonos RS lenses on the D800, reporting he had built adapters to make them waterproof with housed cameras (^[37]).

Early Adopter: Alex Mustard

Mustard had access to a pre-production D800 before launch, shooting a time-lapse video in the Cayman Islands in January 2012 using the camera’s in-camera time-lapse processing feature. The video was published on the day of the D800’s announcement (^[38]).

Housing Availability

The D800 generated a “housing race” among manufacturers, with an unusually competitive push to be first to market. A comprehensive housing update article tracked the status of eight different manufacturers’ offerings (^[39]). Forum user “divegypsy” compiled prices in June 2012: Seacam $5,714, Subal $3,899, Nauticam $3,600, Sea & Sea $3,199.95, Aquatica $3,199, Ikelite $1,599.95 (^[40]).

Nauticam NA-D800

First to market. Nauticam delivered a production housing within five weeks of the camera’s physical release — an achievement Hanlon called “amazing” (^[41]). Announced April 24, 2012, shipping began May 11, 2012, at a retail price of $3,600 (^[42]). Features included a patented Multi Controller Pad enabling direct access to all 51 focus points, a double paddle lever assembly for record/AF-ON and playback/ISO, two fiber optic ports as standard, HDMI bulkhead port, the patented locking port release system, and interchangeable viewfinders (standard, 180-degree enlarging, and 45-degree angled). Depth rated to 100m. Weight: 2.81 kg. Supported both D800 and D800E. Compatible with all existing Nauticam DSLR ports and adapters for Aquatica, Ikelite, Inon, Nexus, Sea & Sea, Seacam, Subal, and Zillion ports (^[43]). This housing was used for the Wetpixel review, with the camera tested using a Sigma 15mm lens and Zen Underwater 230mm dome port (^[44]). A later revision (NA-D800 II) was also produced. When the D810 was announced in 2014, users tested it in Nauticam D800 housings and found it fit “just,” with most controls working but some (record, live view, live view selector, AF/AE lock) requiring modification (^[45]).

Ikelite

Second to market, released essentially simultaneously with the Nauticam on April 25, 2012, at $1,600 — the most affordable D800 housing by a wide margin (^[46]). Traditional polycarbonate construction with Ikelite’s standard control arm design. Hard-wired for Nikon iTTL controlled flash exposure. Glass optical viewfinder. Ports available for most popular lenses with zoom gears included (^[47]).

Sea & Sea MDX-D800

Announced July 7, 2012, available later that month (^[48]). Machined aluminum alloy construction. Enhanced ergonomics providing access to both command dials with both hands on grips. Two fiber optic cable sockets for strobe triggering. Pop-up flash controllable from housing. Optional Nikonos bulkhead and HDMI output ports. Compatible with VF180 and VF45 1.2x viewfinders. Depth rated to 100m/330ft. Weight: approximately 2,800g. All camera functions accessible except the Fn button (^[49]). Users tested D810 compatibility in the MDX-D800 and found it worked for still photography with most controls functional, though live view and video recording required modification (^[50]).

Aquatica AD800

Announced July 20, 2012, priced at $3,359 (^[51]). Distinguished as the first D800 housing to offer access to both the Fn and DOF preview buttons via a unique toggle lever, enabling a wide range of programmable custom functions. Featured thumb-actuated ISO lever, internal flash up/down capability, and three access holes for external accessories. Available in three strobe connector variants: dual Nikonos, Ikelite, or Nikonos + fiber optic hybrid. Depth rated to 90m/300ft standard, upgradeable to 130m/425ft. Aircraft-grade aluminum construction with military specification anodizing and baked powder coating. Molded grips. Replaceable bulkheads without specialized tools (^[52]).

Seacam

Seacam’s D800 housing was shown in images posted by Stephen Frink on the Wetpixel forum. Priced at $5,714, it was the most expensive D800 housing option. Community discussion noted Seacam’s quality of finish was exceptional, with Mustard observing “you rarely meet a Seacam user who is unhappy with their housing choice.” The price premium was attributed partly to individual focus and zoom controls — features valued by some photographers (^[53], ^[54]).

Subal ND800

Subal showed images of the housing in development via Reef Photo. Priced at $3,899. Users reported zoom gear compatibility issues when transitioning from older Subal housings (D200, D2X, D3X, D700), with Subal providing redesigned gears, some distributed at Photokina (^[55], ^[56]).

Hugyfot

Hugyfot announced support for the D800 with a priority on the D800 version over the D4. The company showed 3D renderings at the London Dive Show in early 2012 and had housings ready by approximately June 2012. Users reported community discussion around dome port compatibility, particularly with the Sigma 15mm fisheye, noting vignetting issues with certain adapter/port combinations (^[57], ^[58]).

Isotta

Italian manufacturer Isotta produced a D800 housing that Mustard described as “packed with controls” with “very nicely weighted” ergonomics, noting it was “very well suited to those with smaller hands.” Isotta had a strong following in southern Europe (Italy, Spain, France) (^[59]).

Nexus

A Nexus D800E housing was also available, appearing in for-sale listings in the forum community (^[60]).

Reviews & Discussion

• ^[61] — Announcement coverage by Dr. Luiz Rocha detailing specifications, pricing, and the D800/D800E distinction. Article (editorial source).
• ^[62] — Pre-production time-lapse video shot in Cayman Islands, demonstrating in-camera time-lapse processing. Article (editorial source).
• ^[63] — DPReview article with professional photographers’ reactions, including Dan Chung noting the D800’s video features could make him switch from Canon. Article (editorial source).
• ^[64] — Nikon’s official PDF guide covering high ISO shooting, optical performance tips, and resolution-related challenges. Article (editorial source).
• ^[65] — DPReview’s 29-page review awarding the D800 their “Gold Award,” comparing it to preceding Nikons and the Canon 5D Mark III. Article (editorial source).
• ^[66] — Announcement of the review process, with early underwater images posted to the forum. Article (editorial source).
• ^[67] — Adam Hanlon’s comprehensive multi-part underwater review covering body/controls, resolution/ISO/tonal range, image size and “shooting to crop,” autofocus/teleconverters/built-in processing, and conclusion. Tested in Nauticam NA-D800 with Sigma 15mm and Zen Underwater 230mm dome port. DxO Labs sensor rating noted as top marks. 47 reader comments. Article (editorial source).
• ^[68] — Hanlon’s field test with grey seals at the Farne Islands, challenging the “studio camera” marketing with dynamic wildlife shooting. Article (editorial source).
• ^[69] — Alex Mustard’s comparative underwater review conducted at Gulen Dive Centre, Norway, during the 4th Annual Nudibranch Safari. Article (editorial source).
• ^[70] — Comprehensive tracker of housing availability from eight manufacturers (Nauticam, Ikelite, Sea & Sea, Aquatica, Seacam, Subal, Hugyfot), with images and specifications. Article (editorial source).

Community Discussion

• Nikon announces the D800 (143 replies) — Immediate community reaction to the announcement, debating 36MP benefits and problems underwater, lens quality requirements, and predictions about the housing race (^[71]).
• Wetpixel D800 review (223 replies) — Extended discussion following Hanlon’s multi-part review, with user experiences, D700/D4 comparisons, real-world image quality reports, and debate about DX mode versus FX cropping strategies (^[72]).
• Nikon D4 Underwater Testing (76 replies) — Comparative discussion including D800 vs D4 purchasing decisions and housing compatibility updates (^[73]).
• Seacam D800 Housing (73 replies) — Dedicated thread on pricing ($5,714), comparisons with other housings, and community debate about the value proposition of premium housings. Included a compiled price list for all D800 housings (^[74]).
• D800 tops rankings at DXOMark (14 replies) — Discussion of the D800’s top-ranking DxO sensor score and its implications for underwater use (^[75]).
• Subal ND800 (50 replies) — User experiences with Subal’s housing including zoom gear compatibility issues (^[76]).
• Hugyfot D800 Housing and Sigma 15mm (19 replies) — Dome port compatibility and vignetting issues (^[77]).
• Isotta D800 housing (16 replies) — Alex Mustard’s hands-on impressions from meeting Mr. Egidio Isotta (^[78]).
• Nikon D800 vs Canon 5D Mk3 (11 replies) — Direct comparison debate between the two rival full-frame cameras (^[79]).
• D800E: Will moire be a problem underwater? (forum thread, topic 45595) — Dedicated discussion on the D800E variant’s suitability for underwater subjects (^[80]).
• D800 UW pictures (forum thread, topic 46126) — Community image sharing thread (^[81]).
• D800 macro from Tulamben (forum thread, topic 47363) — Macro photography samples from Bali (^[82]).
• D800 WA from Tulamben (forum thread, topic 47531) — Wide-angle photography samples from Bali (^[83]).
• Nikon D810 in D800 housings: Compatibility check (38 replies) — Community effort to test D810 backward compatibility in D800 housings from Nauticam, Sea & Sea, and others (^[84]).

Firmware Updates

Nikon released firmware update B v.1.01 on May 29, 2012, fixing a camera hang issue when capturing stills while in playback mode, a network issue when using a wireless transmitter, and a dark shadow that could appear at the bottom edge of images when Active D-Lighting was enabled with the 5:4 image area setting. The same firmware update was released simultaneously for the D800E and D4 (^[85]).

Timeline

• 2012-02-07: Nikon announces the D800 and D800E at the CP+ Camera & Photo Imaging Show, Yokohama. Same-day, Alex Mustard publishes a D800 time-lapse video shot in Cayman Islands with a pre-production unit (^[86], ^[87]).
• 2012-02-19: Nikon releases a technical guide PDF for the D800/D800E (^[88]).
• 2012-02-23: DPReview publishes professional photographers’ views on the D4 and D800 (^[89]).
• 2012-03: D800 begins shipping to stores (^[90]).
• 2012-04: D800E begins shipping (^[91]).
• 2012-04-20: D800 tops DxOMark sensor rankings, surpassing D4 and medium format cameras (^[92]).
• 2012-04-24: Nauticam unveils the NA-D800 housing ($3,600), first to market (^[93]).
• 2012-04-25: Ikelite releases polycarbonate housing ($1,600), second to market (^[94]).
• 2012-05-08: DPReview publishes 29-page review, awards D800 their Gold Award (^[95]).
• 2012-05-11: First Nauticam NA-D800 housings ship (^[96]).
• 2012-05-13: Wetpixel begins underwater review of D800 in Nauticam housing (^[97]).
• 2012-05-29: Nikon releases firmware B v.1.01 for D800 and D800E (^[98]).
• 2012-06: Hugyfot D800 housing available (^[99]).
• 2012-07-07: Sea & Sea announces MDX-D800 housing (^[100]).
• 2012-07-20: Aquatica announces AD800 housing ($3,359) (^[101]).
• 2012-08-14: Comprehensive housing update article tracks eight manufacturers’ D800 offerings, with Seacam, Subal, and Hugyfot housing images (^[102]).
• 2012-08-29: Wetpixel publishes complete D800 underwater review (^[103]).
• 2012-10-23: Hanlon publishes mini review testing D800 as an action camera at the Farne Islands (^[104]).
• 2013-03-21: Mustard publishes comparative D600 vs D800 underwater review from Norway (^[105]).
• 2014-06-26: Nikon announces the D810 successor with EXPEED 4 processor, improved ISO (64-12,800 native), faster frame rate (5 fps FX), and no OLPF. Priced at $3,299.95 (^[106]).
• 2014-07: Community tests D810 backward compatibility in D800 housings from Nauticam and Sea & Sea, finding partial compatibility with most still photography controls working (^[107]).

References