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Nikon D5 FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Welcome to the FAQ section for the Nikon D5. Here, you'll find answers to the most common questions about this camera, covering a wide range of topics such as its technical specifications, unique features, and how it compares to other models. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or a beginner, this guide is designed to help you get the most out of your Nikon D5. Browse through the questions below to find the information you're looking for.

Is the Nikon D5 also known by other names?

No, Nikon D5 is the only known name for this camera.

Who is the manufacturer of the Nikon D5?

The Nikon D5 is manufactured by Nikon.

What are the SKU numbers for the Nikon D5?

No SKU numbers are available for the Nikon D5 on Cameraby.

What is the release year of the Nikon D5?

The Nikon D5 was released in 2016.

What is the exact release date of the Nikon D5?

The Nikon D5 was officially released on 2016-01-05.

What is the MSRP of the Nikon D5?

The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the Nikon D5 was 6,499.00 USD. The MSRP is the price that the manufacturer recommends the product be sold for in retail stores. It's important to note that the MSRP was set at the time of the camera's release, and actual market prices may vary based on factors such as demand, availability, and retailer pricing strategies over time.

What type of camera is the Nikon D5?

The Nikon D5 is a DSLR (Digital Single-Lens Reflex) camera. DSLRs are known for their optical viewfinders, which provide a real-time view through the lens, and their robust build quality. They typically offer excellent battery life and a wide range of lens options. However, DSLRs are generally bulkier and heavier than other types of cameras, and their mirror mechanism can lead to slower continuous shooting speeds compared to mirrorless models.

What is the sensor size of the Nikon D5?

The Nikon D5 has a Full Frame sensor, approximately 36 x 23.9 mm, also known as 'FX'.

What is the sensor type of the Nikon D5?

The Nikon D5 uses a CMOS sensor.

What is the resolution of the Nikon D5?

The resolution of the Nikon D5 is 5588 x 3712 pixels.

How many megapixels does the Nikon D5 have?

The Nikon D5 has a resolution of 21 MP, which equals 20,742,656 total pixels.

What image processor does the Nikon D5 use?

The Nikon D5 is equipped with the EXPEED 5 image processor.

What is the ISO range of the Nikon D5?

The ISO range of the Nikon D5 is 100-102400.

What are the white balance presets available in the Nikon D5?

The Nikon D5 comes with the following white balance presets: 12.

Does the Nikon D5 support custom white balance?

Yes, the Nikon D5 supports custom white balance. Custom white balance allows you to manually adjust the color balance of your images to match the lighting conditions of your environment. This is particularly useful in challenging lighting situations where the camera's automatic white balance might struggle, such as under mixed lighting or when the scene has a dominant color cast. By setting a custom white balance, you can ensure that your photos have accurate and consistent colors, reducing the need for extensive color correction during post-processing.

Does the Nikon D5 have image stabilization?

No, the Nikon D5 does not have image stabilization. Without this feature, you may need to take additional precautions to avoid camera shake, such as using a tripod or increasing the shutter speed. While many lenses and camera bodies without built-in stabilization can still produce sharp images, photographers might find it more challenging to capture clear shots in low-light conditions or when using longer focal lengths.

What is the CIPA rating for image stabilization on the Nikon D5?

The Nikon D5 does not have image stabilization, so a CIPA rating is not applicable.

What uncompressed formats are supported by the Nikon D5?

The Nikon D5 supports the following uncompressed formats: RAW.

Does the Nikon D5 have an autofocus motor?

Yes, the Nikon D5 is equipped with an autofocus motor. An autofocus motor allows the camera to automatically focus on subjects quickly and accurately, which is especially useful for capturing fast-moving subjects or achieving sharp focus in challenging conditions. With an in-camera autofocus motor, you can use lenses that do not have their own built-in motor, providing greater flexibility in lens choice. This is particularly beneficial for photographers who want to use older or third-party lenses that rely on the camera's motor for focusing.

What autofocus modes are available on the Nikon D5?

The Nikon D5 supports the following autofocus modes: Contrast Detect (sensor), Phase Detect, Multi Area, Center, Selective Single Point, Tracking, Single, Continuous, Touch, Face Detection, LiveView.

How many autofocus points does the Nikon D5 have?

The Nikon D5 has 153 autofocus points.

What lens mounts are compatible with the Nikon D5?

The Nikon D5 is compatible with the following lens mounts: Nikon F.

What is the focal length multiplier of the Nikon D5?

The Nikon D5 has a Full Frame sensor with no focal length multiplier. For example, a 24 mm lens remains 24 mm, and a 50 mm lens remains 50 mm.

Does the Nikon D5 have an articulated LCD?

The Nikon D5 has an articulated LCD with Fixed. An articulated LCD provides greater flexibility in composing shots, allowing you to tilt or rotate the screen to achieve the best viewing angle, whether you're shooting from above, below, or even around corners. This feature is particularly useful for vlogging, selfies, or capturing creative angles. There are different types of articulated screens, such as tilting, fully articulating (flip-out), or vari-angle screens. This flexibility can significantly enhance your shooting experience, especially in challenging or dynamic environments.

What is the screen size of the Nikon D5?

The screen size of the Nikon D5 is 3.2” inches.

How many screen dots does the Nikon D5 have?

The Nikon D5 has a screen with 2,359,000 dots.

Does the Nikon D5 have a touchscreen?

Yes, the Nikon D5 is equipped with a touchscreen. A touchscreen on a camera offers a more intuitive and interactive way to control the camera's functions. It allows you to navigate menus, adjust settings, and even focus and capture images with just a tap on the screen. This can significantly speed up your workflow, especially in situations where quick adjustments are needed. Touchscreens are particularly useful for selecting focus points, reviewing images, and zooming in during playback. However, some photographers prefer physical controls for their tactile feedback, especially in extreme conditions where gloves might be worn, or in situations where the screen might get smudged or wet.

What type of screen does the Nikon D5 have?

The Nikon D5 has a TFT LCD screen.

Does the Nikon D5 support Live View?

Yes, the Nikon D5 supports Live View. Live View allows you to compose your shots using the camera's LCD screen instead of the traditional optical viewfinder. This feature is particularly useful in situations where it might be difficult to use the viewfinder, such as when shooting at awkward angles or in video mode. Live View typically provides a real-time preview of your exposure, white balance, and depth of field, which can help you make precise adjustments before capturing the shot. Additionally, it often enables features like focus peaking and face detection, which can enhance your shooting experience. However, using Live View may consume more battery power and, in some cases, may slow down autofocus performance compared to using the viewfinder.

What type of viewfinder does the Nikon D5 have?

The Nikon D5 is equipped with a Optical (pentaprism) viewfinder.

What is the viewfinder coverage of the Nikon D5?

The Nikon D5 has a viewfinder with 100% coverage.

What is the viewfinder magnification of the Nikon D5?

The Nikon D5 has a viewfinder with 0.72× magnification.

What is the viewfinder resolution of the Nikon D5?

The viewfinder resolution information for the Nikon D5 is not available.

What is the frames per second (fps) rate of the Nikon D5?

The Nikon D5 can shoot at 14 frames per second.

What is the minimum shutter speed of the Nikon D5?

The minimum shutter speed of the Nikon D5 is 30 seconds.

What is the maximum shutter speed of the Nikon D5?

The maximum shutter speed of the Nikon D5 is 1/8000 seconds.

Does the Nikon D5 have a built-in flash?

No, the Nikon D5 does not have a built-in flash. Without a built-in flash, you may need to rely on natural light, ambient lighting, or external flash units to illuminate your subject. While this requires additional equipment, it also offers greater control over lighting, allowing you to create more professional and dynamic lighting setups. External flashes typically offer more power, adjustable angles, and can be used off-camera for more creative lighting effects. Photographers who work in controlled environments or who prioritize image quality often prefer this approach to lighting.

What is the range of the built-in flash on the Nikon D5?

The built-in flash range for the Nikon D5 is not available.

Does the Nikon D5 support an external flash?

Yes, the Nikon D5 supports an external flash. Supporting an external flash allows you to achieve greater flexibility and control over your lighting, which is crucial for professional and creative photography. External flashes, often mounted on the camera's hot shoe or used off-camera, offer more power than built-in flashes and can be adjusted to modify the direction and intensity of light. This capability enables techniques like bounce flash, where light is reflected off surfaces to create softer and more natural lighting, reducing harsh shadows and producing more flattering results. Additionally, many external flashes support advanced features like high-speed sync, which allows for faster shutter speeds, and wireless triggering, which is ideal for complex lighting setups.

Does the Nikon D5 have a self-timer?

Yes, the Nikon D5 is equipped with a self-timer. A self-timer is a convenient feature that allows you to set a delay between pressing the shutter button and when the photo is taken, typically ranging from 2 to 10 seconds. This feature is particularly useful for group photos, where the photographer wants to be included in the shot, or for reducing camera shake in long-exposure shots by allowing the camera to stabilize before the shutter is released. Additionally, a self-timer can be used creatively in various scenarios, such as setting up shots that require the photographer to move into position after triggering the camera. It is a simple but valuable tool that enhances flexibility and creativity in photography.

Does the Nikon D5 support time-lapse photography?

Yes, the Nikon D5 supports time-lapse photography. Time-lapse photography is a creative technique that involves capturing a series of photos at set intervals over a period of time, which are then compiled into a video that shows the scene unfolding at a much faster rate. This feature is particularly useful for capturing events that occur slowly, such as a sunset, the movement of clouds, or the bustling activity of a city. Cameras that support time-lapse photography typically offer settings that allow you to control the interval between shots, the total duration of the shooting period, and the final playback speed of the video. This can greatly simplify the process of creating time-lapse videos without the need for external software or additional equipment. It’s a powerful tool for photographers and videographers looking to add dynamic visual content to their work.

What metering modes are available on the Nikon D5?

The Nikon D5 supports the following metering modes: Multi, Center Weighted, Highlight Weighted, Spot.

What is the exposure compensation range of the Nikon D5?

The Nikon D5 has an exposure compensation range of +/- 5 (at 1/3 EV, 2/3 EV, 1 EV steps).

Does the Nikon D5 support video recording?

Yes, the Nikon D5 supports video recording. Video recording capability adds significant versatility to a camera, allowing you to capture not only still images but also high-quality video. Depending on the camera model, video features may include options like 4K resolution, slow-motion recording, and various frame rates, which are ideal for both casual videographers and professionals. Many cameras also offer additional video-centric features such as manual exposure control, external microphone input for better audio quality, and autofocus tracking during video. This makes the camera suitable for a wide range of applications, from vlogging and documentary filmmaking to capturing family moments and events. Video recording support turns your camera into a powerful multimedia tool, enabling you to create dynamic content with ease.

What video formats are supported by the Nikon D5?

The Nikon D5 supports the following video formats: MPEG4, H.264.

What video resolutions are supported by the Nikon D5?

The Nikon D5 can record video in the following resolutions: 1280 x 720, 1920 x 1080, 3840 x 2160.

Does the Nikon D5 have a built-in microphone?

Yes, the Nikon D5 has a built-in microphone. A built-in microphone allows you to capture audio directly while recording video, making it convenient for on-the-go videography, vlogging, or casual video shoots. While built-in microphones are useful for capturing basic audio, they typically have limitations in sound quality, such as picking up ambient noise or not providing the best clarity and richness. For general use and casual projects, a built-in microphone can be sufficient. However, for higher-quality audio, such as in professional video production, an external microphone may still be preferred to ensure clearer and more focused sound recording.

Does the Nikon D5 have built-in speakers?

Yes, the Nikon D5 has built-in speakers. Built-in speakers allow you to listen to audio directly from the camera during playback of videos or when reviewing footage. This feature is convenient for quickly checking the audio quality and ensuring that sound was recorded correctly while you're still on location. Although the built-in speakers provide basic audio feedback, they typically lack the depth and clarity of external speakers or headphones. They are primarily designed for casual or preliminary reviews rather than detailed sound monitoring. For more accurate audio assessment, using headphones or external speakers is recommended.

What memory card types are supported by the Nikon D5?

The Nikon D5 supports the following memory card types: Compact Flash, XQD.

Does the Nikon D5 have an HDMI output?

Yes, the Nikon D5 has an HDMI output. An HDMI output allows you to connect the camera directly to external displays, such as a monitor, TV, or projector, for viewing your photos and videos on a larger screen. This feature is especially useful for photographers and videographers who want to review their work in greater detail or present it to others without transferring files to another device. Additionally, HDMI outputs are often used in professional setups for live streaming, external video recording, or monitoring during shoots. With an HDMI connection, you can achieve high-quality, real-time video output, which is essential for precise framing, focus, and exposure control in critical situations.

Does the Nikon D5 have a microphone port?

Yes, the Nikon D5 has a microphone port. A microphone port allows you to connect an external microphone to the camera, significantly improving the audio quality of your recordings compared to the built-in microphone. This is particularly important for videographers, vloggers, and content creators who require clear and professional-sounding audio. External microphones can reduce ambient noise, focus on specific sound sources, and offer greater flexibility in positioning to capture the best sound. Having a microphone port is essential for anyone serious about video production, as it allows for a more polished and immersive viewing experience.

Does the Nikon D5 have a headphone port?

Yes, the Nikon D5 has a headphone port. A headphone port allows you to monitor audio in real-time while recording video, which is essential for ensuring that the sound quality is clear and free from issues such as distortion, background noise, or low volume. This feature is particularly valuable for videographers, filmmakers, and content creators who need to ensure that the audio being captured is of high quality and consistent with the needs of their project. By using headphones, you can catch and correct audio issues on the spot, saving time in post-production and helping to avoid the disappointment of poor sound quality in the final product.

Does the Nikon D5 have wireless connectivity?

Yes, the Nikon D5 has wireless connectivity. Wireless connectivity allows you to transfer photos and videos directly from your camera to other devices, such as smartphones, tablets, or computers, without the need for cables. This feature is particularly useful for quickly sharing your images on social media, backing up your work on the go, or remotely controlling the camera using a compatible app. Some cameras also support features like wireless tethering, which enables you to view and edit images in real-time on a larger screen while shooting. Additionally, wireless connectivity can include features like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or NFC, each offering different advantages for seamless and efficient workflows.

What is the wireless SKU for the Nikon D5?

The wireless SKU for the Nikon D5 is WT-5A and WT-6A.

Does the Nikon D5 support remote control?

Yes, the Nikon D5 supports remote control. Remote control functionality allows you to operate the camera from a distance, which is particularly useful for situations like self-portraits, group photos, long-exposure shots, or wildlife photography where you need to avoid disturbing the scene. Depending on the camera, remote control can be achieved through various methods, such as dedicated remote triggers, smartphone apps, or even via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity. This feature enhances convenience and flexibility, enabling you to adjust settings, trigger the shutter, and review images without physically touching the camera, which helps to reduce camera shake and ensures sharper images.

What is the remote control SKU for the Nikon D5?

The remote control SKU for the Nikon D5 is not available.

Does the Nikon D5 have GPS?

Yes, the Nikon D5 has GPS. GPS functionality allows your camera to automatically tag the location of each photo you take with geographic coordinates, which is especially useful for travel photographers, journalists, and anyone who wants to keep a detailed record of where their photos were captured. This feature makes it easy to organize and search your photos by location in software like Lightroom or other photo management tools. GPS can also be beneficial for documenting trips, creating geo-tagged photo albums, and sharing location-specific content on social media. Additionally, GPS data can be used in post-processing to map your photos or integrate them with other geo-referenced media.

What is the GPS SKU for the Nikon D5?

The GPS SKU for the Nikon D5 is GP-1A.

Is the Nikon D5 environmentally sealed?

Yes, the Nikon D5 is environmentally sealed. Environmental sealing is a critical feature for photographers who frequently shoot in challenging conditions, such as in rain, snow, dust, or high humidity. This sealing helps protect the camera's internal components from moisture, dust, and other environmental hazards, reducing the risk of damage and ensuring reliable performance even in harsh conditions. Environmentally sealed cameras are ideal for outdoor photography, including landscape, wildlife, and adventure photography, where the camera may be exposed to the elements. While no camera is completely waterproof without additional housing, environmental sealing provides peace of mind and durability, allowing you to focus on capturing great images without worrying about the weather.

What type of battery does the Nikon D5 use?

The Nikon D5 uses a Battery Pack battery.

What are the battery details for the Nikon D5?

The Nikon D5 battery details: EN-EL18a lithium-ion battery & charger.

What is the battery SKU for the Nikon D5?

The battery SKU for the Nikon D5 is EN-EL18a.

What is the battery life of the Nikon D5?

The Nikon D5 can take approximately 3780 shots according to CIPA standards. CIPA (Camera & Imaging Products Association) is an industry standard that provides a consistent way to measure and compare battery life across different camera models. These tests simulate real-world usage by including a mix of shooting, reviewing images, and using the camera's built-in flash. This is considered excellent battery life, making it ideal for extended shooting sessions without needing to recharge frequently.

What are the dimensions of the Nikon D5?

The Nikon D5 has the following dimensions: width 160 mm, height 159 mm, depth 92 mm.

What is the weight of the Nikon D5?

The Nikon D5 weighs 1415 grams including the battery.

Written by Henrik Törner

Camera Expert and Founder of Cameraby