Nikon D810

Manufacturer: Nikon
Type: camera
Sensor: FX (full-frame)
Resolution: 36.3MP (7360 x 4912)
Year introduced: 2014
Price at launch: $3,299.95 USD
Predecessor: Nikon D800 / D800E
Successor: Nikon D850
Key feature: Refined successor to the D800/D800E merging both models into one body, with improved AF from the D4S, base ISO 64, no optical low-pass filter, and EXPEED 4 processing

Overview

The Nikon D810, announced on June 26, 2014, merged and refined the D800 and D800E into a single camera body. It retained the 36.3-megapixel resolution that had established the D800 as a benchmark for underwater photographers, while adding several meaningful improvements: the optical low-pass filter was removed entirely (following the D800E approach), the AF system was upgraded to the D4S’s Multi-Cam 3500-FX module with group AF mode and 15 cross-type sensors, and the EXPEED 4 processor brought a new base ISO of 64, better noise reduction, a wider ISO range (64-12,800, expandable 32-51,200), and an overall 30% increase in performance. The camera shot at 5 fps at full resolution in FX mode (^[1]).

Adam Hanlon reviewed the D810 for Wetpixel after taking it to Mexico in late July 2014 to photograph whale sharks with the 2014 Wetpixel Whale Sharks expedition. Thanks to Ryan Cannon of Reef Photo and Video and Alex Tattersall of Underwater Visions/Nauticam, he obtained one of the first cameras available. He noted that the D800/E “set a new standard in camera performance for Nikon users” and the D810 offered “enhanced AF performance and a lesser but still noticeable improvement in image quality at high ISOs” (^[2]).

The D810 attracted housing support from every major manufacturer within months of its announcement, reflecting its importance as the reference full-frame Nikon for serious underwater photographers. It remained in production until succeeded by the Nikon D850 in September 2017. Nikon’s own announcement of the D850 described the D810 as having been “highly praised by its users for offering extremely sharp and clear rendering, with rich tone characteristics” (^[3]).

Technical Details

Sensor and Image Processing

The D810 featured a newly designed 36.3-megapixel FX-format CMOS sensor without an optical low-pass filter (OLPF). The removal of the OLPF, pioneered with the D800E, maximized the resolving potential of every pixel, resulting in outstanding sharpness. The EXPEED 4 image processing engine suppressed false color and moire while providing enhanced noise reduction (^[4]).

The base ISO of 64 was a significant improvement for underwater photographers, as it allowed better control of bright ambient light scenes and provided maximum dynamic range. The native ISO range extended from 64 to 12,800, expandable from Lo-1 (ISO 32) to Hi-2 (ISO 51,200) (^[5]).

New Picture Control options included a “Flat” profile for maximum dynamic range in post-processing (valuable for both stills and video), and a “Clarity” adjustment for mid-tone detail enhancement. Picture Control parameters could be adjusted in 0.25-step increments, and a new highlight-weighted metering mode helped prevent blown highlights (^[6]).

Autofocus

The AF system used the Multi-Cam 3500-FX module from the flagship D4S, with 51 AF points, 15 cross-type sensors, and 11 sensors functional at f/8 for use with teleconverters. The system included a new Group AF mode for enhanced accuracy when tracking subjects. The detection range extended from -2 to +19 EV (ISO 100), meaning it could focus at 0.52 lux — as Hanlon noted in his review, “a full moon on a clear night provides between 0.27-1.0 lux” (^[7]).

However, by the standards set by the later D5/D500/D850 generation, the D810’s autofocus was considered merely competent. When a forum user asked about upgrading from D810 to D850 in 2019, Adam Hanlon responded: “The most important difference between the two is the autofocus on the D850. It is an order of magnitude better than that of the D810. Given how important AF is to us underwater photographers, this makes the decision between these two easy!” (^[8]).

Video Capabilities

The D810 offered Full HD 1080p capture at 24/25/30/50/60fps and 720p at 25/30/50/60fps, with zebra stripes for blown highlight detection, a Flat Picture Control for maximum dynamic range, and both FX and DX crop modes during recording. It could output uncompressed video via HDMI to an external recorder while simultaneously recording internally. However, it was limited to 10 continuous minutes at 1080 50/60p, compared to 20 minutes at other settings (^[9]).

Controls and Body

The D810’s controls were largely familiar to Nikon SLR users, but several key changes affected housing compatibility. An “i” button was added above the Live View selector. The metering mode control was moved from the top right rear onto the release mode dial, with the bracket button moving to the old flash EV position and the flash EV button moving further down the front left of the camera. Most significantly, the grip was “noticeably deeper and slightly higher than that of the D800,” which precluded the majority of existing D800 housings from being compatible (^[10]).

Other refinements included an improved 3.2-inch LCD monitor (1,229K dots) with RGBW panel for brighter reproduction and customizable color, a gel resin layer between cover glass and screen to combat fogging from temperature changes, an automatic brightness sensor, and a split-screen display zoom option in Live View. The magnesium alloy body included a redesigned mirror sequencer/balancer for reduced vibration, an electronic front curtain shutter option, and a shutter tested to 200,000 cycles. The body was fully sealed and gasketed (^[11], ^[12]).

The camera used the EN-EL15 battery and had dual card slots (one CF, one SD) (^[13]).

D800 Housing Compatibility

The question of whether the D810 would fit in existing D800 housings was one of the most discussed topics in the Wetpixel community. A 38-reply forum thread documented community members testing their housings one by one, producing a detailed compatibility picture (^[14]).

• Sea & Sea MDX-D800: AlexDawson reported the camera worked for basic photography, with aperture, shutter, ISO, AF-on, menu, white balance, and other controls functioning. Live View, video recording, on/off switch, and internal flash did not work (^[15]).
• Nauticam NA-D800 II: Adam Hanlon used the D810 in this housing during the 2014 Wetpixel Whale Sharks trip, reporting the camera fit “just” but contacted the top of the housing when removing it. The front command dial required modification (reversing the gear) to function. Live View, video record, and AF/AE lock did not work (^[16]).
• Subal D800/E housing: A user reported the backplate would not close properly due to the redesigned AE button, and the on/off and front control dial did not function (^[17]).
• Aquatica AD800: Ed Wolfstein found the camera would physically fit but the saddle was impeded by the new grip shape, preventing the back from closing without modification. The front command dial mechanism would need relocation. Aquatica determined a “retro kit” would not be practical (^[18]).

The general conclusion was that while some manufacturers’ housings could accommodate the D810 with partial functionality, none provided full compatibility, and most serious D810 underwater shooters would need a purpose-built housing.

Housing Availability

The D810 attracted rapid housing support from all major manufacturers, with Nauticam and Ikelite announcing within days of each other:

• Nauticam NA-D810 — Announced August 8, 2014, shipping August 29 at $3,700 USD. Nauticam claimed it was “the first underwater housing for Nikon D810 to be shown publicly,” delivered less than 6 weeks from the camera’s initial ship date. The housing featured the patent-pending Multi Controller Pad (virtually recreating the Nikon multi-selector for multidirectional use including diagonal movement), vacuum monitoring and leak detection circuit, patented port locking system, and Nauticam’s patented two-stage shutter release. Specifications: 2.9 kg, 350 x 298 x 134 mm, 100m depth rating. Compatible with Nauticam’s 180-degree and 45-degree enlarging viewfinders, and the Super Macro Converter for 2.3:1 reproduction with the Nikon 105mm f/2.8G VR (^[19]).
• Ikelite — Announced August 9, 2014, shipping the same month. Featured built-in TTL flash exposure control (proprietary circuitry providing electrical TTL triggering rather than fiber optic), polycarbonate construction for visual confirmation of watertight seal, included zoom/focus gears and aluminum tray. Ikelite emphasized that their TTL approach eliminated shutter lag from pop-up flash recycling, avoided signal interference issues of optical slave systems, and reduced camera battery drain (^[20]).
• Seacam — Announced September 2014, shipping immediately. Priced the same as their D800 version (^[21]).
• Subal — Announced September 2014, with housing scheduled for October (^[22]).
• Nexus — Taking pre-orders as of September 2014 (^[23]).
• Aquatica AD810 — Previewed October 2014, priced at $3,529 USD. Featured access to Fn and Preview buttons, thumb-activated ISO lever, internal flash enable/disable, and multiple bulkhead options (Nikonos 5-pin, Ikelite 5-pin, fiber optic, or hybrid). Standard 90m depth rating, upgradeable to 130m/425ft. Compatible with Aquatica’s port system and Aqua View Finder magnifying viewfinders (^[24]).
• Sea & Sea MDX-D810 — Announced January 2015, shipping at $3,499.95 USD. Featured the Internal Optical YS Converter (converting camera TTL signals to light signals for fiber optic triggering, eliminating bulkhead leak points while maintaining TTL capability), movable focus/zoom gear for large-diameter lenses, built-in leak sensor, 100m depth rating. Compatible with new Fiber Optic Cable II (613 individual fiber cores) and YS-D1, YS-01, and YS-03 strobes (^[25]).
• Nimar PRO NID810 — Announced February 2018 as part of Nimar’s PRO Camera Housing line. Aluminum and resin construction, priced at EUR 1,750, with multiple port options and optional compatibility with other manufacturers’ port systems (^[26]).
• Easydive LeoR — Universal housing announced 2021, compatible with D810 among many other cameras via USB/WiFi/IR/Bluetooth control. Priced at EUR 3,490 (^[27]).

TTL and Strobe Triggering

The D810 was supported by multiple TTL solutions:

• Ikelite built-in TTL — Proprietary circuitry in Ikelite housings provided direct electrical TTL triggering with DS series strobes, without needing the camera’s pop-up flash (^[28]).
• Sea & Sea Internal Optical YS Converter — Converted camera TTL signals to fiber optic signals within the MDX-D810 housing (^[29]).
• UW Technics TTL Converter — Released in early 2016, this was the first product to incorporate both optical TTL and wire TTL in one device. Compatible with the D810 and Inon Z-240, Sea & Sea YS-D1/D2, Ikelite DS-160/161, and Sea & Sea YS-250 strobes (^[30]).
• Nauticam/UW Technics NN-2/IS — Available from May 2016 at $430, this user-installable upgrade brought TTL and manual control via fiber optic cables to Nauticam housings. It eliminated the pop-up flash recycle time limitation, enabling continuous shooting in TTL mode (^[31]).
• Ikelite DS Link TTL Converter — Announced August 2018 with Nikonos or Ikelite connector options, for use with DS series strobes in third-party housings. Supported TTL/manual switching, EV compensation, and rear curtain sync, priced at $375-$395 (^[32]).

Reviews & Discussion

• ^[33] — Adam Hanlon’s hands-on review from the 2014 Wetpixel Whale Sharks expedition in Mexico. Detailed the camera’s improvements over the D800 including the D4S AF module with Group AF mode and -2 EV detection range, ISO 64 base, improved 1,229K-dot RGBW LCD with anti-fogging gel resin, and the grip difference preventing D800 housing compatibility. Noted the camera uses the EN-EL15 battery and has dual CF/SD card slots.
• ^[34] — Early announcement that Wetpixel would test the D810 during the Whale Sharks expedition, with thanks to Ryan Cannon of Reef Photo and Terry Schuller of ULCS.
• ^[35] — Nikon issued a service advisory shortly after launch for certain serial numbers experiencing “bright spots” during long exposures and at the 1.2x image area setting. Free repair was offered.
• ^[36] — Review of AF calibration software relevant to the D810, which like other high-resolution cameras demanded precise AF fine-tuning for optimal results.
• ^[37] — Alex Mustard’s comprehensive review comparing the D750 against the D810. Noted that DxO tests showed the D750 “just beats the new D810 for dynamic range and noise at the pixel level” and that Nikon claimed the D750’s AF “doesn’t just match the D810, but improves on it.”
• ^[38] — Adam Hanlon’s extensive review where he shot the D500 alongside “a D810 in a Seacam housing, allowing some comparisons between the FX and DX formats” during the Wetpixel Raja Ampat Expedition and Lembeh Macro workshop.
• ^[39] — Comprehensive lens testing behind dome ports, directly applicable to D810 users dealing with the full-frame wide-angle corner sharpness challenge.
• ^[40] — Jack Connick’s D850 review that described the upgrade path “for those D800 and D810 underwater photographers who fell in love with shooting full-frame images.” He noted that the D850’s ultra-high resolution made it “less forgiving of lens quality and focus than other models” and that lenses needed close AF calibration, an issue also relevant to the 36.3MP D810.

Notable Underwater Photography

The D810 was widely used by professional and competition-level underwater photographers:

• Alex Suh shot the widely shared image “Face to Face” of a giant Pacific manta ray at Roca Partida, Mexico, using a D810 in a Seacam housing with Nikkor 16-35mm at 35mm and two Seacam 150D strobes (^[41]).
• Elio Nicosia captured an extraordinary image of a male cardinalfish releasing eggs during a night dive near Siracusa, Sicily, using a D810 in an Isotecnic housing with Nikkor 60mm macro and two Seacam Seaflash 150 strobes (^[42]).
• Adam Hanlon used the D810 as his primary camera system during the D500 field review in 2016, shooting it in a Seacam housing alongside the D500 in Nauticam during trips to Raja Ampat and Lembeh (^[43]).
• The D810 was also used for off-camera flash photography, including with the ^[44], paired with the Nikon 16-35mm f/4 and Seacam Superdome.

D810 vs. Alternatives

The D810’s place in the Nikon lineup was a frequent topic of community discussion:

D810 vs. D750

A 19-reply forum thread debated this choice. The D750 offered a lower price ($2,299.95 vs. $3,299.95), 6.5 fps vs. 5 fps, superior high-ISO performance at the pixel level, and potentially better AF in low light (-3 EV detection). The D810 offered 36.3MP vs. 24.3MP for superior cropping ability and large prints. For macro shooters, the D810’s resolution advantage was compelling; for all-around shooters on a budget, the D750 was attractive (^[45]).

D810 vs. D500

By late 2016-2017, many forum members debated whether to invest in the D810 or the newer Nikon D500. Matt Sullivan reported preferring the D500 “in 95% of situations” for underwater shooting. Adam Hanlon himself recommended the D500 to some upgraders, noting its superior AF (inherited from the D5), considerably lower cost, and ability to avoid the optical challenges of full-frame cameras with dome ports (^[46], ^[47]).

D810 vs. D850

When the D850 arrived in late 2017, the upgrade question centered on AF quality. Adam Hanlon stated the D850’s autofocus was “an order of magnitude better” than the D810’s. Community member davehicks, who upgraded from a D800 to D850 (skipping the D810), noted the cost was significant — “$7,500” for D850 body plus Nauticam housing — and suggested D810 owners “stay put” unless hitting specific limitations. The D810’s buffer was noted as a limitation for fast action sequences (^[48]).

D810 vs. Sony A7R II

In 2015, a detailed forum comparison examined moving from D810 to Sony A7R II, highlighting the emerging mirrorless competition. The D810’s advantages included proven housing options, extensive Nikon lens ecosystem, and reliable PDAF through the viewfinder. The Sony offered EVF with exposure preview, focus peaking, and smaller body size (^[49]).

Firmware Updates and Service Advisories

• 2014-08: Nikon issued a service advisory for certain D810 serial numbers experiencing bright spots during long exposures, offering free repair (^[50]).
• 2015-04: Nikon announced firmware updates for D4S, D810, and D750 adding support for timecode imprinting and recording control via HDMI, improving workflow with Atomos Shogun or Ninja-2 external recorders. Released summer 2015 (^[51]).
• 2017-07: Nikon recalled certain EN-EL15 batteries (used by the D810 among other models) with specific serial numbers due to potential issues (^[52]).
• 2018-02: Nikon released firmware C1.13 for the D810, fixing AF-P lens support and bugs for multiple exposure and microphone sensitivity (^[53]).

Community Discussion

• Nikon D810 in D800 housings: Compatibility check (38 replies) — The definitive community thread documenting compatibility testing across Sea & Sea, Nauticam, Subal, and Aquatica D800 housings. Established that the D810’s deeper grip and relocated controls prevented full compatibility with any D800 housing (^[54]).
• Here we go - Nikon D810 leaked (12 replies) — Pre-announcement speculation thread started by Adam Hanlon based on a leaked hands-on review, noting the potentially problematic grip change and control relocations (^[55]).
• D750 or D810 for underwater photography? (19 replies) — Buyer’s guide discussion comparing resolution and cropping advantages against low-light and AF capabilities (^[56]).
• Best housing and setup for Nikon D810 (13 replies) — Community recommendations on housing and lens selection, with extensive discussion of wide-angle dome port requirements for full-frame cameras (^[57]).
• Back to full frame — A7RII vs. D810 (12 replies) — Detailed comparison of the D810 ecosystem against the emerging Sony mirrorless platform (^[58]).
• D810 vs D850 (16 replies) — Upgrade decision thread with Adam Hanlon’s emphatic recommendation of the D850’s superior autofocus (^[59]).
• D810 vs D7200 (15 replies) — Full-frame vs. crop-sensor debate, often redirected toward the D500 as the superior DX choice (^[60]).
• Nikon D850 in D810 or D800 housings: Compatibility check (7 replies) — Community members tested D850 compatibility in D810 housings; the consensus was the changed body shape again precluded compatibility (^[61]).
• Wetpixel Whale Sharks 2014 (24 replies) — Trip report from the expedition where Hanlon tested the D810 underwater for the first time (forum thread, topic 53745).

Timeline

• 2014-06-25: Pre-announcement leak reported by Adam Hanlon on Wetpixel forum, noting potential D800 housing incompatibility concerns (^[62])
• 2014-06-26: Nikon officially announces the D810 at $3,299.95, available late July (^[63])
• 2014-07-16: First D800 housing compatibility reports begin appearing in Wetpixel forum (^[64])
• 2014-07-21: Adam Hanlon announces D810 underwater testing during Wetpixel Whale Sharks expedition (^[65])
• 2014-07-28: Hanlon reports first results shooting D810 in modified Nauticam NA-D800 II housing at Isla Mujeres (^[66])
• 2014-08-08: Nauticam announces NA-D810 at $3,700, claiming first public D810 housing, shipping August 29 (^[67])
• 2014-08-09: Ikelite announces D810 housing with built-in TTL (^[68])
• 2014-08-22: Nikon issues service advisory for bright spots in long exposures on certain serial numbers (^[69])
• 2014-09-09: Wetpixel publishes D810 review from whale shark expedition (^[70])
• 2014-09-14: Nikon announces D750 as mid-range alternative, claiming it “surpasses the D810 in image quality at high sensitivities” (^[71])
• 2014-09-15: Subal, Seacam, and Nexus announce D810 housings (^[72])
• 2014-10-01: Aquatica previews AD810 housing at $3,529 (^[73])
• 2014-11: D810 housings shown at DEMA 2014 (^[74])
• 2015-01: Sea & Sea announces MDX-D810 housing at $3,499.95 with Internal Optical YS Converter (^[75])
• 2015-04: Nikon announces firmware update for D810 adding HDMI timecode and recording control (^[76])
• 2016-02: UW Technics releases TTL converter compatible with D810 (^[77])
• 2016-05: Nauticam USA offers UW Technics NN-2/IS TTL converter for D810 housings at $430 (^[78])
• 2017-07-25: Nikon announces D850 development, describing D810 as predecessor “highly praised by its users” (^[79])
• 2017-08-23: Nikon officially releases D850 specifications; community immediately tests D810 housing compatibility (^[80], ^[81])
• 2017-07: Nikon recalls certain EN-EL15 batteries used by D810 (^[82])
• 2018-02: Nikon releases firmware C1.13 for D810 with AF-P lens support (^[83])
• 2018-02: Nimar announces PRO aluminum housing for D810 at EUR 1,750 (^[84])
• 2018-08: Ikelite announces DS Link TTL converter with Nikonos connector, compatible with D810 in third-party housings (^[85])
• 2022-03: Sea & Sea announces vacuum leak detection system compatible with MDX-D810 (^[86])

References