Yesterday marked the official unveiling of the Nikon 1 V1 and J1 compact system cameras. Today we spent some quality time with these new mirrorless offerings. We've got first impressions and sample images to share.
The J1 is sleeker, more streamlined. Without the accessory port and viewfinder, the top panel is smooth and flat. Markings on both of the cameras are modernist and minimal - a mode dial on the back panel of each has just four icons. Nobody will feel overwhelmed picking up a camera with four modes.
The V1 has a weightier feel with an ever-so-slight grip built into the front of the camera. There's also a slightly larger thumb grip on the back panel of the V1 than is found on the J1. Either camera can be turned on via conventional methods or by unlocking the kit zoom lens (if one is attached) by pressing a button and twisting the lens barrel. The J1 and V1 accept SD card media.
I spoke with Senior Product Manager Lindsay Silverman about the concept. He pointed out that nowhere has Nikon advertised the 1 system as being equal to DSLRs, noting that Nikon already has a line of top-shelf DSLRs. Instead, he sees the 1 user as someone who wants to take a lot of great pictures spontaneously without the fuss of a big DSLR body and set of lenses.
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