Canon EOS 7D Mark II vs Nikon D750 Nikon AF S DX Nikkor 35mm F 1 8G: Who Will Come Out on Top?

Choosing the right camera can be a daunting task, especially when you’re faced with a plethora of options and conflicting opinions. Today, we’re diving deep into a popular camera showdown: the Canon EOS 7D Mark II versus the Nikon D750, paired with the versatile Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 35mm f/1.8G lens. This comparison aims to guide you towards the camera that best suits your photographic needs and preferences.

The Contenders: Canon EOS 7D Mark II and Nikon D750

The Canon EOS 7D Mark II and the Nikon D750 are both highly regarded cameras in their respective categories. The 7D Mark II is a professional-grade DSLR known for its exceptional speed and autofocus performance, making it a favorite among wildlife and sports photographers. The Nikon D750, on the other hand, stands out as a versatile full-frame camera, offering stunning image quality and low light capabilities, making it a popular choice for landscape, portrait, and wedding photography.

The Lens: Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 35mm f/1.8G

The Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 35mm f/1.8G is a popular choice for photographers seeking a fast, affordable, and versatile prime lens. Its wide aperture allows for shallow depth of field and excellent low light performance, making it ideal for portraits, street photography, and even everyday shooting. While designed for Nikon’s DX (crop sensor) cameras, it can also be used on FX (full-frame) cameras, offering a 52.5mm equivalent field of view.

Autofocus Performance: Speed and Accuracy

The Canon EOS 7D Mark II boasts a renowned autofocus system, featuring 65 cross-type points that cover a large portion of the sensor. This translates to exceptional tracking accuracy, particularly in fast-paced situations like sports and wildlife photography. The Nikon D750, while not as fast as the 7D Mark II, still offers reliable autofocus performance with 51 autofocus points, including 15 cross-type points. This system is well-suited for a wide range of shooting conditions, from portraits to landscapes.

Image Quality: Resolution, Dynamic Range, and Low Light Performance

The Canon EOS 7D Mark II features a 20.2MP APS-C sensor, delivering excellent image quality and detail. Its dynamic range is impressive, allowing for recovery of detail in both highlights and shadows. The Nikon D750, with its 24.3MP full-frame sensor, offers higher resolution and even better dynamic range. It also excels in low light conditions, capturing images with less noise at higher ISO sensitivities.

Video Capabilities: 4K vs. 1080p

The Canon EOS 7D Mark II offers 1080p video recording at up to 60fps, while the Nikon D750 steps up with 4K video recording at 30fps. While the 7D Mark II lacks 4K, its 1080p footage is known for its exceptional quality and smooth frame rates, making it a solid choice for videographers. However, the D750’s 4K capability gives it an edge in terms of resolution and modern video standards.

Ergonomics and Design: Comfort and Control

Both cameras are well-designed and ergonomically comfortable to hold. The 7D Mark II features a deep grip and a well-placed button layout, making it easy to navigate and control. The D750 boasts a similar level of comfort, with a larger body and a more prominent grip. It also offers a tilting touchscreen display, providing greater flexibility for framing and reviewing images.

Battery Life and Portability: Endurance and Travel

The Canon EOS 7D Mark II offers a decent battery life, typically lasting for around 600 shots on a single charge. The Nikon D750, however, boasts a much longer battery life, capable of capturing over 1200 images on a single charge, making it ideal for extended shooting sessions. In terms of portability, the 7D Mark II is slightly smaller and lighter than the D750, making it a more convenient option for travel.

The Verdict: Choosing the Right Camera for You

Ultimately, the decision between the Canon EOS 7D Mark II and the Nikon D750 comes down to your specific photographic needs and priorities.
Choose the Canon EOS 7D Mark II if:

• You prioritize speed and autofocus performance for wildlife and sports photography.
• You need a camera that can capture high-quality 1080p video.
• You prefer a smaller and lighter body for portability.

Choose the Nikon D750 if:

• You value image quality, dynamic range, and low light performance.
• You need a camera that can record 4K video.
• You require a camera with longer battery life and a larger sensor.

The Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 35mm f/1.8G is a great lens for both cameras, offering versatility and excellent image quality. It complements the 7D Mark II‘s APS-C sensor, providing a 52.5mm equivalent field of view, while on the D750, it offers a classic 35mm perspective.

Beyond the Specs: A Deeper Look

While the technical specifications are important, it’s also crucial to consider your personal preferences and shooting style. The 7D Mark II is a more specialized camera, designed for action and speed, while the D750 is a more versatile tool for a wider range of subjects.

The Future of Photography: Mirrorless vs. DSLR

Both the Canon EOS 7D Mark II and the Nikon D750 are DSLRs, but the world of photography is rapidly shifting towards mirrorless cameras. Mirrorless cameras offer several advantages, including smaller size, faster autofocus, and the ability to record video at higher resolutions. While DSLRs still hold their own in certain areas, like battery life and viewfinder clarity, the future of photography is likely to be dominated by mirrorless technology.

Photography Beyond the Gear: The Art of Seeing

Ultimately, the best camera is the one that you use most often. Regardless of your choice, remember that the most important ingredient in photography is your vision. The camera is just a tool, and it’s your creativity and perspective that will truly make your images stand out.

Common Questions and Answers

Q: Can I use the Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 35mm f/1.8G lens on both the Canon EOS 7D Mark II and the Nikon D750?
A: No, this lens is designed for Nikon’s DX (crop sensor) cameras and is not compatible with Canon cameras.
Q: Which camera is better for beginners?
A: Both the Canon EOS 7D Mark II and the Nikon D750 are advanced cameras and may be overwhelming for beginners. If you’re new to photography, consider starting with a more entry-level DSLR or a mirrorless camera.
Q: Is the Nikon D750 still a good camera in 2023?
A: While newer cameras have emerged, the Nikon D750 remains a highly capable and versatile camera. Its image quality, low light performance, and full-frame sensor make it a great choice for photographers of all levels.
Q: What are the main differences between the Canon EOS 7D Mark II and the Nikon D750?
A: The Canon EOS 7D Mark II is an APS-C camera designed for speed and autofocus, while the Nikon D750 is a full-frame camera that excels in image quality, dynamic range, and low light performance.
Q: Which camera is better for wildlife photography?
A: The Canon EOS 7D Mark II is generally considered a better choice for wildlife photography due to its faster autofocus and higher frame rate. However, the Nikon D750’s full-frame sensor can provide better image quality and low light performance, making it a viable option for wildlife photographers who prioritize these features.