Sports photographers covering indoor arenas and photojournalists working in unpredictable lighting conditions rely on the Nikon D4S to maintain consistent image quality when ambient light fades and action intensifies. The 16-megapixel FX-format sensor captures images at 4928 × 3280 pixels, balancing resolution with the pixel-level efficiency needed for clean files at elevated ISO settings. Native sensitivity spans ISO 100 through 25600, providing headroom to shoot handheld in gymnasiums, concert halls, and dimly lit event spaces without sacrificing shutter speed or depth of field control.
The magnesium alloy chassis measures 160 × 157 × 91 mm and weighs 1350 g, dimensions that distribute mass for stable handling with professional telephoto lenses while maintaining all-day shooting comfort. Dual card slots accept both CompactFlash and XQD media, allowing photographers to configure backup recording, overflow capture, or format-specific workflows tailored to transmission deadlines and archival requirements. The EN-EL18a battery powers extended shooting sessions, critical when covering tournaments, conferences, or breaking news events that demand uninterrupted operation.
Continuous shooting at 11 fps ensures photographers capture peak action across sequential frames, whether tracking athletes through the decisive moment of competition or documenting the unfolding narrative of news events. The mechanical shutter is rated to 400,000 actuations and delivers flash sync at 1/250 second, supporting both natural light reportage and controlled lighting setups. Shutter speeds range from 30 seconds through 1/8000 second, accommodating long exposures for low-light ambiance and fast speeds to freeze motion under bright conditions.
The optical viewfinder provides 100% frame coverage at 0.7× magnification with 18 mm eye point, enabling precise composition and focus confirmation even when wearing eyeglasses. The 3.2-inch rear screen displays 640 × 480 RGB pixels for image review and menu navigation in the field. Full compatibility with Nikon F-mount lenses spans E-type electronic aperture control, AF autofocus lenses, and classic AI manual-focus optics, preserving decades of glass investment while supporting modern workflow demands across wedding coverage, editorial assignments, and commercial documentation.
Metrics
| Release Year | 2014 |
|---|---|
| ISO | 100 - 25600 · 50 - 409600 ISO |
| FPS | 11 · 78/200 fps |
| Weight | 1,350 g |
Descriptors
| Sensor | 16MP · FX · 4928 × 3280 MP |
|---|---|
| Shutter | 30 - 1/8000 · 1/250 · 400K |
| Finder | 100% · 0.7× · 18 mm |
| Screen | 3.2" · 640 x 480 · RGB |
| Storage | CF, XQD |
| Features | E, AF, AI |
| Size | 160 × 157 × 91 mm |
| Battery | EN-EL18a · 3020 / 5960 |
Frequently asked questions
Who is the Nikon D4S designed for?
The D4S is built for professional sports photographers, photojournalists, and event shooters who require reliable 11 fps continuous shooting, robust low-light performance to ISO 25600, and dual-slot CF/XQD recording for deadline-driven workflows and demanding field assignments.
How much does the Nikon D4S weigh and what are its dimensions?
The D4S weighs 1350 g and measures 160 × 157 × 91 mm. The magnesium alloy body provides professional-grade durability and ergonomic balance when paired with telephoto lenses for sports and wildlife coverage.
What storage media and battery does the D4S use?
The D4S features dual card slots supporting both CompactFlash and XQD formats for flexible backup and overflow recording. It is powered by the EN-EL18a rechargeable battery, designed for extended shooting sessions during tournaments and multi-day assignments.
What sensor and ISO range does the Nikon D4S offer?
The D4S employs a 16-megapixel FX-format sensor capturing images at 4928 × 3280 pixels. Native ISO sensitivity ranges from 100 to 25600, enabling clean files in low-light environments such as indoor sports venues and evening events without compromising shutter speed.
What continuous shooting speed does the D4S provide?
The D4S captures images at 11 fps in continuous shooting mode, allowing photographers to track fast-moving subjects and capture decisive moments across sequential frames during sports competition, breaking news, and action-driven assignments.
What viewfinder specifications does the Nikon D4S have?
The D4S features an optical viewfinder with 100% frame coverage, 0.7× magnification, and 18 mm eye point. This configuration supports accurate composition and focus confirmation, even when wearing eyeglasses during extended field use.
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