Specifications

Versatile AF-area modes for varying professional needs
The D4S further empowers its flagship focusing versatility. In addition
to the four time-tested modes (single-point AF, dynamic-area AF,
auto-area AF, and 3D-tracking) a fifth AF-area mode option is now
available. The new group-area AF focuses more securely on your
desired subject by using five AF points simultaneously like a net, in
contrast to dynamic-area AF which uses one initial AF point. This can
be extremely useful when targeting unpredictable subject matter that
is hard to lock on to — all while avoiding unintentional focus on the
background. Photographers can now feel more confident, knowing
that small, distant and fast-moving objects can be captured quicker,
more successfully, and rendered sharper.
Strategic, swift AF-area mode change via focus operation
buttons on super-telephoto NIKKOR lenses
A good game plan leads you toward the shots you want. For example,
most sports shooters rely heavily on dynamic-area AF mode with
nine points, but there might be moments during a single game
or performance when a different AF-area mode would be more
appropriate. You may prefer single-point AF mode for pinpoint focus
on an athlete’s eye, but then moments later need other dynamic-
area AF modes or group-area AF mode if the same subject begins
to move unpredictably. With the D4S,
your super-telephoto NIKKOR’s focus
operation buttons work as a strategic
shortcut to one pre-registered
AF-area mode. Now you can switch
back and forth between your two most
vital modes instantly, and without ever
taking your eye away from
the subject. Simply press
to switch modes, and
then release to return
to the previous mode.
Note: Switching to the pre-
registered AF-area mode is not
possible when 3D-tracking is
selected on the camera while
using autofocus.
AF strength with diverse NIKKOR lens and teleconverter
combinations
The D4S features 51 focus points with 15 cross-type
sensors in the center area of the viewfinder, expertly
detecting contrast in both vertical and horizontal
directions for better AF performance. All 51 points
are responsive to f/5.6 and deliver a full performance
with all AF-NIKKOR lenses. In addition, the center nine
points, as well as three points to the left and right of
these nine, are compatible with apertures slower than
f/5.6 and faster than f/8. The result: stress-free focusing
when using 1.4x or 1.7x teleconverters. Moreover,
11 focus points are even compatible with f/8, thereby
giving you significant AF power when combining a 2.0x
teleconverter with super-telephoto NIKKOR lenses.
Accurate AF acquisition and powerful
tracking to push professionals further, even in
extreme situations
Expect an entirely new level of AF performance — one where you can
conquer aesthetic goals while winning your editor’s approval. After
listening to countless professionals who compete in this truly demanding
field, Nikon responded with a new and inspired AF system — the
ultimate focusing performance for professionals who face extreme
situations day in and day out. With its thoroughly recalibrated AF
algorithms, the Advanced Multi-CAM 3500FX autofocus sensor module
quickly zeros in exactly where and how you intend — no matter how
near, far, or abruptly your subject appears in the scene. Expect detection
accuracy, even for subjects in low-contrast situations. The detected
subject stays in constant focus, thanks to bolstered tracking capabilities.
Imagine a speed skater hurtling toward you: the D4S lets you track the
subject more confidently until the frame is filled with a more aesthetically
striking composition. The days of constantly shooting loose for safety
are over. This same high-level AF performance applies to a wide array of
challenging situations that today’s sports shooter must face. Moreover,
tracking performance remains powerful even when the view of your
intended subject is momentarily obstructed, such as during a football or
rugby match. With true AF versatility like this, the D4S helps you capture
more winning images in any situation.
Single-point AF mode Dynamic-area AF mode
(9 points)
Dynamic-area AF mode
(21 points)
Dynamic-area AF mode
(51 points)
3D-tracking mode Auto-area AF mode
Group-area AF mode
Expect sharp focus even in the most erratic movement, for example,
when a rhythmic gymnast suddenly and quickly bends back.
© Dave Black
Even a tiny window of time is enough for the D4S to capture a
butterfly swimmer that appears for a fraction of a second.
© Dave Black
Even in a game where the main subjects constantly change, the
D4S’s autofocus is never fooled .
© Robert Beck
The accurate autofocus of the D4S swiftly locks onto a downhill skier that flies into the frame at top
speed from an unseen position.
• Lens: AF-S NIKKOR 800mm f/5.6E FL ED VR • Image quality: 14-bit RAW (NEF) • Exposure: [M] mode, 1/2500
second, f/7.1 • White balance: Direct sunlight • Sensitivity: ISO 2000 • Picture Control: Standard
© Robert Beck
10
Compatible with f/8
Compatible with
aperture slower than
f/5.6 and faster than
f/8
Compatible with f/5.6
Perform as cross-type sensors
Perform as line sensors
Unbeatable AF accuracy and versatility
• New algorithms to further empower the accurate AF acquisition of extremely fast and erratically moving subjects, both near and far
• Tenacious AF tracking to frame fast-approaching or receding subjects up-close for a dynamic, professional composition
• Swift and strategic AF-area mode selection via focus operation buttons on super-telephoto NIKKOR lenses,
for optimized AF in any situation
11
Track your subject more confidently for a striking composition, without any cropping.
• Lens: AF-S NIKKOR 400mm f/2.8G ED VR • Image quality: 14-bit RAW (NEF) • Exposure: [M] mode, 1/1250 second, f/2.8 • White balance: Auto 1 • Sensitivity: ISO 4000 • Picture Control: Standard © Robert Beck
Single-point AF mode
Dynamic-area AF mode
(9 points)
Group-area AF mode
Focus operation buttons