What is the difference between Nikon SLR "image quality"? How should I choose?

Different grades of Nikon SLR cameras have different options for "image quality". Choose more high-end models.

I. The image quality options of Nikon entry models and their meanings are as follows:

1, NEF (raw data). This storage format is called raw information lossless recording format. The original image information from the sensor is recorded. There is almost no loss of image information recorded in this storage format, but it takes up a relatively large storage space. Image files in this storage format can be greatly processed by special post-processing software (such as ViewNX2, NX2 or Shadow Catcher provided by the original factory). Edit into high-quality pictures with accurate white balance, rich layers and gorgeous colors. This storage format is not an ordinary picture format, and the picture browser attached to the computer operating system is often unrecognizable, and the picture processing is time-consuming and laborious, which affects the promotion and use.

2.JPEG is fine. A picture file with good image quality recorded in general photo format (JPG format) has a compression ratio of about 1: 4. Files of this quality will take up a lot of storage space.

3.JPEG is the standard format. A general quality file in a general photo format recorded with a compression ratio of about 1: 8. Files of this quality take up less space and the image details are obviously lost.

4.JPEG is basic. The compression ratio of low-quality files recorded in general photo format is about 1: 16. Files of this quality occupy the least space, and the loss of image details is very obvious.

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

5. NEF+JPEG fine

6.NEF+JPEG is generally

7.NEF+JPEG is basic.

Second, the quality selection of Nikon's high-end SLR camera also includes (omitting the same part as the entry machine):

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

2. The byte length options in 2.NEF format are 12bit and 14bit. Low-end models record with 12bit by default. Files recorded with 14bit occupy more storage space, and the recorded color data increases obviously.

Third, the selection principle of image quality. In view of the extremely low price of memory cards and the storage capacity of more than 32G at present, it is very common for photographers to choose the best storage format to store picture files, leaving room for post-processing of pictures in the future. Senior photographers generally use NEF format, so they don't have to consider the setting of white balance when shooting, and they can adjust the calibration greatly later. After being greatly compressed, the loss of image details of JPG format pictures is irreversible. If you want to choose JPG format for storage, you should try to choose high-quality storage.