Scott Kelby on Nikon D7100 with new 80-400mm VR Lens

Scott Kelby provides an in-depth view of the Nikon D7100 in action as a sports camera. He shot an NHL hockey game and player portraits using the new D7100 and the new 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR lens.

Kelby is impresssed by the D7100, stating the “low noise is amazing for a $1200 body.” Shooting at ISO 2500 he saw no noise when viewed full screen. Minor noise was only visible zoomed-in at 100%. At ISO 6400 noise was starting to be visible, but still acceptable. His conclusion: “This is the noise champion in the $1200 range by a long shot.”

The body, similar to the previous D7000 it replaces, is well-made and handles well. It provides all the needed functions at-hand for his shooting style. The D7100 acts a replacement for his D300s. The 51-point autofocus is an improvement over the previous 31-point system. He says the D7100 is the “best DX camera Nikon has made.”

Regarding the 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR: “This lens is crazy sharp.” Although it is heavy, it still feels good in hand. The new lens auto focus system is fast with great response. For $2600 the lens seems overpriced to some, but gives good results at 400mm and still a fraction of the cost of better 300mm and 400mm alternatives.