What are the differences in "image quality" between Nikon SLRs? How to choose?

Different grades of Nikon SLR cameras have different "image quality" options. High-end models have more choices.

1. The image quality options of Nikon’s entry-level models and their meanings are explained as follows:

1. NEF (RAW). This storage format is called the original information lossless recording format. What is recorded is the raw, unprocessed image information from the sensor. There is almost no loss of image information recorded in this storage format, but it takes up relatively large storage space. Picture files in this storage format can be extensively processed through specific post-processing software (such as ViewNX2, NX2 or Light and Shadow Catcher provided by the original manufacturer). Edit into high-quality pictures with accurate white balance, rich layers, and beautiful colors. This storage format is not a universal image format, and the image browser that comes with the computer operating system often cannot recognize it, and image processing is time-consuming and laborious, which affects its promotion and use.

2. JPEG fine (FINE). Picture files of fine image quality recorded in the common photo format (JPG format) with a compression ratio of approximately 1:4. Files of this quality take up a lot of storage space.

3. JPEG Normal (NORM). Average-quality files in a common photo format recorded at a compression ratio of approximately 1:8. Files of this quality take up less space and have a noticeable loss of image detail.

4. JPEG basic (BASIC). A lower quality file in the common photo format recorded with a compression ratio of approximately 1:16. Files of this quality take up minimal space and the loss of image detail is extremely noticeable.

In addition, there are dual records of NEF and JPEG files:

5. NEF+JPEG fine

6. NEF+JPEG normal

7. NEF+JPEG basic.

2. The image quality options for Nikon's high-end SLR cameras also include (the same parts as the entry-level cameras are omitted):

1. TIFF (RGB) format. This is a high-quality image recording format that records uncompressed TIFF (RGB) images with 8-bit length per channel (24-bit color). This format is also a universal image format and can be widely used. This format takes up a lot of storage space.

2. NEF format byte length options are divided into 12bit and 14bit. Mid- to low-end models record in 12-bit by default. Files recorded in 14-bit take up more storage space and record significantly more color data.

3. Selection principles of image quality. In view of the extremely low price of memory cards at present, it is very common for storage capacities to exceed 32G. Therefore, photographers should try to choose the best quality storage format to store picture files in order to leave room for future post-processing of pictures. Senior photographers generally use the NEF format. There is no need to consider the white balance setting when shooting, and it can be significantly adjusted and calibrated later. The loss of image details in heavily compressed JPG format pictures is irrecoverable. If you want to choose JPG format storage, you should try to choose fine quality storage.