Nikon D6 Review
The flagship Nikon camera, the D6 was created to be on the top of the Nikon line-up. Expertly crafted for professional photographers, it was targeted at anybody looking to up their game. Having specs similar to the Nikon D5, the D6 is a clear upgrade on those features. While they may not seem a lot, but once you see the whole camera and understand its tech, you will see that Nikon has managed to create a sturdy camera. However, for the price and features available, the D6 seems an average choice considering the competition.
DSLRs are losing the battle in cameras currently. Mirror less technology is miles ahead of them. You can achieve faster frame rates and stunning auto focus in smaller and cheaper versions. For photographers who have existing DSLR lenses or are more comfortable with them, the D6 will be an expensive upgrade. That said, this is a good alternative for specific types of photography and photographers.
The Nikon D6 was announced back in September 2019. Pandemic related delays followed and it was finally released on May 21, 2020. Nikon has created the D6 for professional photographers or enthusiasts. But the price tag says otherwise. The body only costs about $6,496 which is quite high for a DSLR that lacks certain features and specs. It is highly unlikely that an enthusiast or amateur will consider the D6 as their first purchase. Photographers have to keep in mind the additional costs of lens, camera boxes, and other equipment. So the D6 starts off on the wrong foot with its price.
Coming to the design, the D6 is not small by means. It is big, bulky, and a beast in terms of size and design. That’s not necessarily bad but it depends on your usage and requirements. Photographers who shoot everyday or travel often will prefer a comfortably sized camera. Carrying a bulky DSLR through the day is no easy feat. There are advantages to its size too. With the size, comes the advantage of easy design and accessible features. Having so much body has meant that the D6 has a vast array of buttons to give you easy access to controls. You have also got a second set of basic controls on the vertical grip, making it super easy to shoot portrait format images too. This is not a camera that you will be able to use with just one hand. The aperture, shutter speed buttons are found on the right-hand side, which is comfortable for most. These will also be the most commonly used controls. You can make quick changes with your right thumb and forefinger, while the other buttons are generally used for more in-depth changes or for image review.
With the excess buttons, you get the option of screens too. There is the main screen (touch-sensitive), a top-plate LCD screen and a secondary small LCD screen just underneath the main screen. These secondary screens are useful for displaying key settings information. With those screens, photographers can also understand the setup quickly and make any necessary alterations.
The D6 is built very similarly to the D5. The shape, the built, and the handling is very reminiscent of the D5 and makes it easy for photographers to adjust. Professional photographers or enthusiasts will find it easy to switch between these two to get the perfect shot.
The D6 is built around the same sensor as the D5. This means that you get a full-frame 20.8MP sensor. Professional photographers will find this resolution just perfect. It is high enough to enable a reasonable degree of cropping while keeping the file sizes average. And it has the added benefit of performing well in low light. Sports photographers will find it exceptionally useful and handy. The processor has been upgraded so you will find improved speed and performance. The focusing speed and frame rates have also seen an upgrade. For wildlife, sports, and action photographers, this feature is of remarkable use.
The D6 offers 14 frames per second shooting. It has a 105 point, all cross-type focusing system. There’s Eye AF in 3D tracking and Auto Area AF modes. AF can clearly be the strongest selling point of the D6. There’s an unbelievable amount of customization available in the main menu for those wanting a very specific type of setup.
So who should buy the D6? If you already have Nikon DSLR lenses as we mentioned. For photographers who have DSLRs or DSLR lenses and are not keen on changing to Mirrorless. Buying a D6 will definitely be cheaper than making the switch. The poor Live view focusing is the downfall of the D6 and the size. But if you are experienced with the bulk and can handle a traditional DSLR, then go for it. For photographers who currently use a D5, this is definitely the next ideal upgrade and choice. Photographers on a budget or videographers should steer clear of the D6. If you are willing to switch to Mirrorless, then go for the Sony A9 II which is the latest in technology.