Samsung NX1 studio test
The newly released Samsung NX1 (click link for all my posts on this camera) is turning out to be a very controversial mirror-less camera. As I’ve already stated, ISO performance is excellent, but the autofocusing performance needs an update. I think they should be able to get it to work better in low-light, and get better performance out of their other lenses besides the 16-50mm f2-2.8. If you already own this camera, make sure to go to the support website and get the latest lens firmware.
I recently got the 85mm f/1.4 and did some quick studio dual strobe flash tests yesterday. Since you’re working at low ISO, you get the best performance from that back-illuminated APS-C sensor. And I must say the amount of detail with this combo is staggering. This detail makes you wonder what all the full-frame fuss is about if they can get performance like this out of an APS-C sensor. I like the look of the images better too when I compare it to the Sony A7r (and while we’re at it, if you want to talk about bad AF, try that one). Cut Samsung some slack, they are onto a good thing here.
Now I’m in a bit of a pickle… The RAW images from the Samsung NX1 were so detailed, showing every wrinkle and blemish that I promised the model I wouldn’t post them in full resolution. So in order to update my ongoing Samsung NX1 experience story, you’ll have to be satisfied with these low-resolution examples. Like they say in Brazil “Mas Que Nada.” I think even here it’s clear that the NX1 is good at capturing the light. There was also a lot of shadow recovery possible.
I think this would be an ideal camera for product photography and studio portraiture. Samsung just needs to tweak that AF for an ounce of better performance with all their fast glass, and I think they will be on to an all-round winner. Let’s hope they’ll put their vast resources to proper use. As it stands, unless you like to take risks, I would wait a while before buying and see what improvements the next firmware brings.
6 Responses
Would you recommend the Samsung 85mm for the NX1 Wim?
Hi Eric, it’s a fantastic lens, but AF is just a bit slower than the Samsung 16-50 f/2-2.5 right now. lets hope the can fix this in the next firmware update.
can I ask…I am trying to us the on camera flash to trigger my strobe unit. It triggers but it is way under exposed ans shouldn’t be for the settings. Is there a setting that I need to override so it doesn’t correct the exposure?
The scene is a dark curtain and window light right above…the flash and my strobe with umbrella are being triggered…but way under exposed.
Thanks!!!
Hi Mary, sounds like your shutter speed is too fast. For studio photography, set your camera to Manual mode, ISO 100 and do a couple of test shots to get the correct shutter speed.
Hello Wim,
thanks for the great article. I have a certain question regarding to using the NX1 at the studio. Using the camera in manual mode and fixing the settings, say, at ISO 100, F/8, 1/125 – the viewfinder (also the LCD screen) are looking extremely dark/dim. It lightens up very slightly when autofocusing the scene.
Is there a way to keep the M (manual) mode at those settings, but with a normal lcd/viewfinder brightness?
Thank you if you find a moment to reply!
Hi Hannu, see if this works:
go to MENU, CAMERA ICON, then to FRAMING MODE.
Turn on FRAMING MODE.