Nikon V3 Field Test

The Nikon V3 represents the third generation of Nikon 1-series mirrorless compact system cameras, all based on the 13.2 x 8.8mm, 3:2 aspect ratio CX format, which yields a 2.7x focal length crop. The fact that CX-format CMOS sensors are smaller than their APS-C or Micro Four Thirds rivals has enabled Nikon to deliver an enticing series of beautifully-designed, compact interchangeable-lens cameras with fetchingly petite lenses.

While previous Nikon 1-series cameras such as the Nikon V2 attracted a substantial, broad-spectrum audience, really serious shooters and pros demurred, gravitating toward larger-format compact system cameras offered by Canon, Fujifilm, Olympus, Panasonic, Samsung and Sony. Now, Nikon has decided to take the bull by the horns and give serious shooters a Nikon 1-series camera truly worthy of their techno-lust and picture-taking needs. The result is the Nikon 1 V3, which I believe could well become the first Nikon 1 cult camera.

In the first part of my Field Test, I presented an overall picture of the Nikon 1 V3, the most technically advanced camera in the Nikon 1 series. It's the first model in the attractively compact system camera line that I believe is clearly targeted at serious shooters and professionals. In the second and final installment, I'll take a closer look at some of the elements that define its unique character, and which help it pair nicely with the extensive Nikon DSLR system, thereby extending its range and capabilities.

Focus on lenses

The standard short zoom in the Nikon 1 V3 kit is the Nikkor VR 10-30mm f/3.4-5.6 PD-Zoom, which has a 27-81mm equivalent focal length range. I found image quality to be excellent over its entire focal length and aperture range. It has Nikon's VR image stabilization built in, and also features a Power-Drive mechanism, which quickly and quietly controls zoom by simply turning the textured zoom ring