If the Nikon D5200 is going to deliver, these are the areas Nikon need to work on

By Jeremy Bayston


Whilst the Nikon D5100 is a superb entry-level camera, there is always room for improvement.

I don't think there is any doubt that the file size should increase dramatically. Size seems to be everything at the moment and even though few of us could really tell the difference between a 16 MP file and, say the 22 MP file of the Canon 5D MKIII, the new Nikon D800 has blown the opposition away with its 36.3 MP sensor, and so we all expect more from the new cameras that are coming down the production line. The new Nikon D5200 should match the 24Mp chip in the D3200 at least.

And although a 4 frames per second burst speed is entirely respectable, the new D5200 will need to up the ante to around 8FPS to compete. Combine it with a faster shutter speed, say up to 1/8000, and put in a motor to support the AF-S lenses and the D5200 would be a great second body for many sports photographers.

The D5100's articulated screen makes the camera excellent for shooting at high and low angles, and this makes it very competent for shooting video. I don't expect Nikon to lose the screen on the D5200, but I think they will improve the screen resolution and perhaps give videographers some options with regards to frame rates - possibly up to 60 Frames per second.

Currently the D5100 can push ISO to 25,600, which is fine for nearly all requirements, but the new D800 has steamed ahead of the rest by being able to see in almost complete darkness. Consequently the D5200 should be able to offer ISO of 102,400 at least. It is also time to increase the number of autofocus points available from 11 to at least 39 (currently in the D7000) or even 51, the number in the D800.

One of the common complaints about the D5100 was that ISO control was buried in the menu and not easy to access. Hopefully the D5200 will have a dedicated button for it. A depth of field preview button would be welcome as well.

The built in flash is adequate for fill in and as an emergency, but it could certainly be improved. A built in wireless flash control, would improve the D5200's chances of being regarded as a good studio camera.

With the increase in file sizes, storage is always going to be at a premium. An extra memory card slot would enable more flexibility, especially with RAW files. Also the EN-EL14 rechargeable battery must be improved. It is really showing it's age and only lasts for about 300 shots, which really isn't good enough.




About the Author: