020-7828 4925|Store Opening Hours|Glossary Est. 1985 - the Kind of Service of which Legends are Made
Grays of Westminster
Online Shop
New Equipment
New Equipment
New Nikon Camera Equipment
Nikon Manual Focus Lenses Pricelist
Price-Match Guarantee
Instruction Manuals
Hawkesmill Bags & Straps
Think Tank Camera Bags
Book Shop
Grays Merchandise
Ordering Information
Finance
Currency Converter
Nikon Data
Gift Certificates
Second-hand Equipment
Second-hand Equipment
Autofocus Nikkor Lenses
Nikon Digital Cameras
Nikon 35mm Film Cameras
Nikon Mirrorless
Manual Focus Nikkor Lenses
Vintage & Pre-AI Nikkor Lenses
Nikon Rangefinder Equipment
Nikon Accessories
Nikonos
Nikon Cine Cameras
Second-hand Grading
Wants List
Wanted for Cash
How to Find Us
Contact Us
About Us
News
Events
An Introduction
Grays of Westminster Film
Testimonials
In The Movies
Grays of Westminster Gazette
Tour the Shop
Awards
What the Press say
What other websites say
Blog
Store Opening Hours
Glossary
Blog

Home / Blog

 

Featured Posts

AF-S DX NIKKOR 18–300mm f/3.5–6.3G ED VR

New Nikon Firmware: Nikon D4S, D810 and D750 DSLR Cameras

Nikon's Newest Telephoto Zooms - Which one is right for you?

The Pursuit of Excellence - Michael Bond on Grays of Westminster

NIKON F PHOTOMIC FTn Camera + F-36 Motor Drive

  • The legendary award-winning Grays of Westminster is a charming period shop, specialising exclusively in Nikon. It offers what is probably the widest range of new and second-hand Nikon in the world. It is situated in a quiet location in central London and offers a fast and reliable mail-order service on any Nikon item - available to all world-wide destinations. Tax free shopping to non-European Community residents is also available.

    Grays of Westminster shop, Pimlico, London

  • How to Find Us

    Grays of Westminster
    ...Exclusively Nikon
    40 Churton Street
    Pimlico, London
    SW1V 2LP
    Tel: +44 (0)20 7828 4925
    Fax: +44 (0)20 7976 5783
    info@graysofwestminster.co.uk
    www.graysofwestminster.co.uk


    View Larger Map
  • Links

    • Nikon
    • Nikon UK
    • Nikon Owner Magazine
    • Think Tank Camera Bags
  • Nikon Owner Magazine

    Current Issue

    Nikon Owner magazine latest cover

  • Tags

    nikon grays of westminster nikkor london nikon special offer nikon special offers camera shop photography second hand nikon equipment nikon deals nikon owner magazine Nikon Owner Simon Stafford Gray Levett dslr london camera shop lenses D810 lens photography magazine Camera nikon deal cashback D750
  • Blog Archive

    • 2020 (3)
      • January (1)
      • September (1)
      • November (1)
    • 2019 (23)
      • January (3)
      • February (1)
      • March (4)
      • April (1)
      • May (1)
      • July (4)
      • August (4)
      • September (3)
      • October (2)
    • 2018 (36)
      • January (6)
      • February (4)
      • March (6)
      • April (4)
      • May (2)
      • June (3)
      • July (2)
      • September (1)
      • October (4)
      • November (1)
      • December (3)
    • 2017 (89)
      • January (8)
      • February (8)
      • March (7)
      • April (7)
      • May (9)
      • June (7)
      • July (9)
      • August (5)
      • September (8)
      • October (7)
      • November (6)
      • December (8)
    • 2016 (74)
      • January (9)
      • February (8)
      • March (6)
      • April (3)
      • May (3)
      • June (1)
      • July (8)
      • August (9)
      • September (8)
      • October (8)
      • November (6)
      • December (5)
    • 2015 (74)
      • January (5)
      • February (5)
      • March (3)
      • April (10)
      • May (4)
      • June (4)
      • July (9)
      • August (9)
      • September (4)
      • October (6)
      • November (7)
      • December (8)
    • 2014 (82)
      • January (10)
      • February (11)
      • March (5)
      • April (5)
      • May (10)
      • June (7)
      • July (6)
      • August (5)
      • September (8)
      • October (7)
      • November (4)
      • December (4)
    • 2013 (87)
      • January (4)
      • February (11)
      • March (7)
      • April (8)
      • May (7)
      • June (10)
      • July (6)
      • August (7)
      • September (5)
      • October (10)
      • November (10)
      • December (2)
    • 2012 (98)
      • January (7)
      • February (10)
      • March (2)
      • April (9)
      • May (13)
      • June (14)
      • July (5)
      • August (13)
      • September (9)
      • October (8)
      • November (4)
      • December (4)
    • 2011 (93)
      • January (8)
      • February (10)
      • March (6)
      • April (9)
      • May (9)
      • June (8)
      • July (7)
      • August (10)
      • September (7)
      • October (5)
      • November (10)
      • December (4)
    • 2010 (108)
      • January (5)
      • February (12)
      • March (7)
      • April (6)
      • May (8)
      • June (6)
      • July (8)
      • August (14)
      • September (18)
      • October (5)
      • November (7)
      • December (12)
    • 2009 (20)
      • June (1)
      • July (2)
      • October (5)
      • November (6)
      • December (6)
  • Tweets by @NikonatGrays
  • Tweets by @NikonatGrays
  • Categories

    • Awards
    • Competition
    • Events
    • Featured
    • Grays of Westminster
    • News
    • Nikkor Lenses
    • Nikon Owner Groups
    • Nikon Owner Magazine
    • Nikon Products
    • Nikon Special Offers
    • Outings
    • Photographers
    • Photographic Awards
    • Photographic Gallery
    • Photography Competition
    • Press Release
    • Review
    • second hand
    • Seminars
    • Technical Advice
    • Uncategorized
    • Workshops

Blog

Meet the exceptional D810A: Nikon’s first D-SLR for astrophotography

Posted on February 10, 2015 by Grays of Westminster

New-Nikon-D810A-DSLR

RRP: £2,999.99 Body Only

Sales start date: End of May 2015 (tbc)

London, UK, 10 February 2015  Nikon today announces the D810A, the first FX-format D-SLR engineered for astrophotography. With a host of specialised functions, this camera captures magnificent 36.3-megapixel images of the cosmos.

The phenomenal D810A is a specially modified version of Nikon’s high-resolution master, the D810. With a redesigned infrared (IR) cut filter, this specialised D-SLR is four times more sensitive to the H-alpha spectral line (a wavelength of approx. 656 nm). For the first time with a Nikon, the true colour of nebulae that emit on the hydrogen-alpha wavelength can be captured without the need to modify the camera. Working alongside the new filter, the camera’s ultra-high ISO, outstanding resolving power, and a host of specialised functions combine to ensure photographers can capture deep sky marvels in brilliant detail.

Simon Iddon Group Product Manager (D-SLR Lenses and Accessories) at Nikon UK says: “We’re excited to introduce the D810A, Nikon’s first FX-format camera that’s been specifically designed for deep sky photography. The D810A is built on the powerful, high resolution D810 – an obvious choice considering the need for fine detail and absolute precision in this field: the D810A delivers on both counts.”

High-definition astrophotography

As a modified version of the camera that boasts the most outstanding resolving power of any Nikon D-SLR, the D810A is a very special beast. Designed to deliver the ultimate in image detail, the FX-format sensor enables high-contrast 36.3-megapixel images with minimised false colour. The standard ISO range of 200­–12800 can be extended up to 51200 ISO (equivalent) and 3D noise reduction enables clean, well-defined images at high ISOs. Nikon’s fast and powerful EXPEED 4 image processor boosts the camera’s overall performance and minimises colour fringing.

New-Nikon-D810A-DSLR-front

Modified infrared (IR) cut filter

A truly exceptional camera, the D810A delivers results that are impossible to achieve with a regular D-SLR. The D810 is a popular camera with astrophotographers: it has the power to photograph the night sky, but a standard camera sensor is not the best way to capture images of nebulae that emit on the H-alpha wavelength. In order to prevent red colour cast, the optical filters in general D-SLRs restrict transmission of reddish light in the visible light range. In contrast, the characteristics of the D810A’s optical filter have been modified to increase the transmission of reddish light from the hydrogen-alpha spectral line by approximately four times (compared to the D810). As a result, photographers can now capture the beautiful, “true-red” colour of nebulae that emit along the H-alpha wavelength without modifying the camera. The benefits of the D810A’s modifications are apparent, even when photographing starfields and star landscapes.

space-images

Sample images courtesy of Nikon UK

Specialised features

Equipped with a number of specialised functions, the D810A effectively counters some of the challenges astrophotographers face. Alongside Bulb and Time settings, a new Long Exposure Manual mode allows exposures of up to 900 seconds. To minimise internal vibrations during exposure, photographers can activate the camera’s electronic front-curtain shutter and reduce the risk of micro-blur in even subtle details. When shooting in Live view, a virtual exposure preview for Bulb and Time settings aids focus and framing. And, as with the D810, the Live view image can be magnified up to 23x, allowing critical focus checks to be made with absolute precision. When shooting through the viewfinder, a new red-lit virtual horizon display lets you confirm leveling.

New-Nikon-D810A-DSLR-back

Extended shooting power

Designed to keep you shooting for long periods of time, the D810A’s energy efficient design ensures the camera will reliably capture thousands of images with long exposures. The camera’s high-capacity EN-EL15 battery can capture up to 3,860 still images1 on a single charge, and additional power sources will keep you shooting for even longer. Nikon’s optional MB-D12 Multi-Power Battery Pack works seamlessly with the camera and can capture up to 10,660 still images on a single charge.2 The sequence of battery use can be selected and set via the camera. To extend shooting time further, use the optional EH-5b AC Adapter with the EP-5B Power Connector.

NIKKOR lenses

A great advantage of the D810A is the chance to use NIKKOR lenses. Acclaimed by astrophotography enthusiasts worldwide, NIKKOR lenses will draw out the full potential of the camera’s 36.3-megapixel sensor with ease. The highest calibre optics are vital for such a high-megapixel camera: from fast wide-angles like the AF-S NIKKOR 14–24mm f/2.8G ED lens, to a high-performance telephoto like the AF-S NIKKOR 200mm f/2G ED VR II lens, FX-format lenses ensure outstanding results.

New-Nikon-D810A-DSLR-200mm-Nikkor

 

Summary of key features:
New-Nikon-D810A-DSLR-side

  • 36.3-MP FX-format sensor: delivers spectacular high-contrast images with minimised false colour.
  • Modified infrared (IR) cut filter: four times more sensitive to the H-alpha spectral line (a wavelength of approx. 656 nm) than the D810.
  • Long exposure M mode: allows exposures of up to 900 seconds.
  • Electronic front-curtain shutter: minimises internal vibrations during exposure for the sharpest possible results.
  • Spectacular ISO: the standard ISO range of 200­–12800 can be extended up to 51200 ISO (equivalent).
  • Unlimited continuous shooting: produce spectacular light-trail photography. Record as many high-quality JPEGs as your media cards and battery life allow.
  • Live view: image can be magnified up to 23x, and boasts a virtual exposure preview for Bulb and Time settings.
  • Red-lit virtual horizon: confirm leveling when shooting through the viewfinder.
  • EXPEED 4: boosts the camera’s overall performance to a whole new level.
  • Picture Control 2.0: ease postproduction with Flat setting for maximum dynamic range; fine-adjust detail with Clarity.
  • Flagship AF performance: Multi-CAM 3500FX 51-point AF system configurable in 9-point, 21-point, and 51-point coverage settings and sensitive down to -2 EV (ISO 100, 20 °C/68 °F).
  • Colour-tune monitor: anti-reflective 8.0-cm (3.2-in.), 1229k-dot RGBW LCD monitor. Push the colour balance and brightness in any direction.
  • Multi-area D-Movie: Full HD (1080p) movies in FX- and DX-format at 50p/60p. Access the full light sensitivity range while filming, and control shutter speed, aperture, and audio levels, too.
  • RAW Size S: delivers richly graded 12-bit uncompressed Nikon NEF files that enable faster image transfer and smoother postproduction.
  • Fast, durable shutter: Kevlar/carbon fibre-composite shutter unit with 52 ms shutter lag, standard life cycle rating of 200,000 releases, and a shutter speed of 1/8000 to 900 s.
  • High-capacity EN-EL15 battery: ultra-compact and lightweight lithium-ion rechargeable battery with a capacity of 1900 mAh (7.0 V). Capture up to 3,860 still images1 on a single charge.
  • Storage media: two card slots for a smooth shooting experience. One CF card slot for high-speed UDMA 7 cards, and one SD card slot for high-speed, high-capacity SDXC and UHS-I cards.
  • Durable magnesium alloy body: extensive weather and dust sealing ensure the D810A is moisture and dust resistant.
  • Wired and wireless connection: supports Ethernet and wireless LAN. To connect, use the optional UT-1 Data Transmitter together with the WT-5 Wireless Transmitter.
  • Optional accessories: extend shooting time with the MB-D12 Multi-Power Battery Pack, or the EH-5b AC Adapter with the EP-5B Power Connector.

 

FOOTNOTES:
1 Based on Nikon tests where the built-in flash was not used, and images were not played back. According to CIPA standards, approximately 1,200 images can be captured on a single charge with the built-in flash fired for half of the exposures.
2 Based on Nikon tests without using a built-in flash. Based on CIPA standards, approx. 3,270 images are captured with a built-in flash fired for half of exposures.

Facebook Comments

Posted in Featured, Nikon Products | Tagged 36.3-MP, astrophotographers, Astrophotography, cosmos, D-SLR Lenses, D810, D810A, dslr, FX-Format, hydrogen-alpha, Long Exposure, Modified infrared (IR) cut filter, new nikon equipment, nikkor, nikon, Nikon D-SLR | Leave a comment

Comments are closed.

Join our Mailing List Go

MAIN MENU

Home
Equipment
About Us
Book Shop
News
Blog
Wanted for Cash
Wants List
Events
How to Find Us
Contact Us
CONTACT US

40 Churton Street
Pimlico, London
SW1V 2LP, England

Telephone: +44 (0)20-7828 4925
E-mail: info@graysofwestminster.co.uk

Opening hours:
Mon - Fri: 10:00am - 5:30pm
Closed on Public and Bank Holidays

CORPORATE

Registered in
England & Wales.

Registered office:
40 Churton Street
Pimlico, London
SW1V 2LP, England

Company Reg. No. 5652450

VAT No. 872 2684 03

WEDNESDAY
27
JANUARY
Copyright 2021 Grays of Westminster. All Rights Reserved. Site by Amazing Internet
Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy|Cookies