I don’t usually comment on videos but I had to here: thank you so much for this video. I’m a pro photographer as well and the funny thing is that I too used to shoot Nikon since way back and have been shooting professionally with the Leica M system for the past 10 years (and loving it). I was recently looking for a second camera to do the part of my work for which the Leica M is not ideal. I went to B&H in New York for an entire afternoon and pretty much tried every mirrorless from every brand. The Zf immediately stood out as the camera I was looking for. I now use the Zf for some commercial assignments as well as on workshops when I teach travel photography. Since I don’t do any studio work, I went with the 28-75mm f/2.8 zoom, which is perfect weight/size wise and delivers the image quality I need. I completely agree with your assessment of TH-camrs / wannabe photographers who nitpick and pixel peep constantly without ever actually using the equipment for any real work. What gives them away every time though is when they start sharing their images 😂😂😂. I wish there were more real photographers like yourself providing their opinion on photo gear.
I shot professionally with my Nikon FE2 back in the 90s when I was just starting off. And it took me years to make consistent money where I could constitute buying a new AF camera and lenses. When the time came I upgraded to the Nikon N90s and it was amazing. I then added an F100 and that was even better. These days I am shooting most of my jobs with a Nikon D3, which is only 12 mp. It’s not an issue since I am not printing anything larger than poster size. Before the D3, I was shooting with a D7000 and D200 as a second body. I’ve shot over 350 weddings, hundreds of corporate headshots, editorial assignments, interiors, and sports with these bodies. To put that in perspective, the D3 came out in 2008 and I bought mine used in 2017. I also bought a Nikon Z50 for video work and use that as a second body for photo jobs as well. You don’t need the latest gear and over 16 mp to be a pro.
Great, I needed an opinion from a real professional. It is precisely TH-camrs who sometimes make you doubt a lot. I want this camera, but searching the internet I only found: “it’s not ergonomic,” “it’s only for trips,” “you can’t work professionally.” And I was getting so discouraged that I saw a Sony A7iv as the best option. I recently visited a local store, I held it, I shot a couple of photos. And woooow it feels incredible. The grip is definitely mandatory, but I think I found my ideal camera, and it will be my next update of a Nikon D7500. Great video, right opinion. ❤
I feel the same as you do. I have the Nikon Z8 as well, but honestly, I use it on rare occasion because the Zf is plenty of camera for what I do. I've been in the Nikon ecosystem for decades, shot every camera they've made, and when I got the Zf in my hands and it had the simple top dials, it's very straightforward and a great all-around camera. I do a ton of printing and I will maintain that 24 MP is about the best size for printing and digital work. My second favorite camera is the D4S. Only 16 MP but the AF was superb and the color science was terrific. And the prints it produced, big prints, looked phenomenal. In the race to higher megapixels, most of that is just keeping up with the joneses. The handling of the Zf is perfect for me and my only street camera. I don't shoot Nikon lenses with it though. With the great tools in the Zf to shoot manual lenses, I shoot the Voigtlander 50 f/1 and the Voigtlander 35 f/2 APO. Solid all metal lenses that are tack sharp and render beautifully. Great video, subbed!
Thank you, Thank you, Thank you. Finally, someone knows that you have to learn every camera you use. Most of our time is spent in getting a good product to our client not in checking eyelashes. Never had a bride say " my eyelashes aren't sharp" detail in her dress and shooting well in difficult environments are way more important. Blessings to you, David
Sooo good 😁👍 Especially the distinction between youtubers and photographers, batteries, lens looks and problems getting used to a new camera. Also pro photog here. I'm a Nikon shooter normally. But give me an hour with a different brand and you get same results. Last year a client had a network set up for instant upload to a web shop that worked only with Canon. So I shot with Canon DSLRs instead of my Nikon DSLMs. Sometimes I wonder how the rest of the world took great pictures 10 years ago.
Well, I’ve been shooting professionally for 40 years and I can tell you emphatically that according to TH-camr, we didn’t take a single good picture because it was impossible with our gear. Until they came onto the scene, of course.
Love your video and agree with your comments. After watching so many youtubers I often wondered how past photogrphers took photos with all the previous old crappy flawed cameras😅
100% These days I'm a 'TH-camr', but I spent about 16 years as a working photographer. When you look at it as a tool, it is an incredibly capable one. I bought it despite the aesthetics, I would rather have had modern ergonomics but the internals for the price are very good and with several bags full of Nikon Lenses this was the best option. But I do laugh when people say autofocus is too slow on this or that, particularly as I started shooting weddings on a Minolta 7000i just using the 1 focus point in the middle. I think you can make just about any modern camera from the last 10 years or so work professionally and still be good enough today.
Such valid points - thank you. And yes, I shot professional work with a Pentax K1000 and film/manual focus paid my bills for many years / 15 + to be exact
I appreciate your thoughts. Thanks for sharing them. I am considering this camera with a couple of Voigtlander lanthar lenses. I am also intrigued by having black and white on a switch under my finger. B&W helps me find the composition, without being distracted by color. This would be really coinvent
This was refreshing. I’m no pro (or youtuber), and never will be, but this thing is a remarkable piece of work. Not perfect, of course, but nothing else is, either. I’ve found this is a joy to use. And learn - still plenty for me to learn.
I just picked up an ZF. I almost canceled the order because (a TH-cam) photographer said it basically wasn't usable. EVERY point he made, i disproved in less than a minute after i turned it on. Customized everything to my liking. I've shot professionally with nikons for years, going back to film, then d810, then Z series. Commercial, wedding, studio, location work... you name it. I haven't shot it yet (because it literally arrived tonight, and I'm In the middle of editing a wedding). But i think im gonna love this camera. I have a fuji xh2, went from z6ii to this, and I have more video centric cameras for my video work that often have different requirements.
as a nikon pro, i sincerely appreciate your thoughts on this. years ago when I sold Nikon and before Nikon was even really in the mirrorless game, this was the exact camera i spec'ed to my Nikon rep when he asked for my dream camera. when the Zf dropped I was so excited for the people who would actually be using it. youtubers are always going to complain and nitpick but it's cus they have too much time on their hands. when you're actually in the thick of things, doing the work you'll never notice what they point out cus you're too busy just working.
:) thank you so much for your feedback . 100% agree with you. I got a ZF 2 months ago and I enjoy it a lot. I'm an old amattor. I have these plastic lenses too and they are good. I used as well my 45 years old Rolleinar/Zeiss planar F1.8 50 mm ( that you can buy for 50 $ ) and believe me : it is fantastic.
First thank you for the continued updates on the Zf. I recently bought one and I'm really loving it the more I get to know it. Here's my 2 part serious question. I'd spent years in professional studios as a still art director in pre/post digital days, even the middle where Leaf digital camera backs were used. Why are so many TH-camrs saying that they wouldn't use the Zf for professional use? It's a full frame 24mp sensor, so size shouldn't matter unless you are cropping considerably (and the majority of the professionals that I know and work with don't crop all that much, they shoot to the frame). Why do TH-cam professional photographers usually profess they only shoot in Manual? Is it a badge of honor or something? I shoot in A priority a lot because to me, Aperture is most important on a lot of my shots. Why wouldn't you use the tools to get a better shot? There are many times that the camera better understands its capabilities than the mind. A good shot is a good shot.
Me personally, I use manual because I want complete control of the scene 100% of the time when shooting for a client or for my own projects. When I am out just having fun I shoot in all sorts of auto modes (the one that best fits my situation).
@@kaskoPhoto Thanks for the response! Completely understandable, especially when you want consistency in studio lighting situations. I just wonder why someone would say they only shoot in Manual (not referring to you) and would also say that they wouldn't use a Zf for professional applications.
Thank you much for this great no bs and easy to understand review. I am just an enthusiast and Nikon was my first love. Quick question, my kids will now be into team sports, (football and basketball) . Would you recommend the Zf for sports.? Thank you sir!. or anyone reading this comment.
So let’s cover the bazooka first… I would def make an exception to my large lens bitching for the 135! 😂 that is really a special lens and I will be trying one soon.
Let me put 24MP this way. Most people watch 4K TV's. That's an 8MP image. 600ppi on a 8x12 print is 12MP. You are doing a LOT of photography in and under those specs. If you need more, you probably already know you need more.
Thank you. I’ve been photographing for 39 years. I’m 53, got a Nikon FE for my 13th bday and never looked back. Currently shooting Fuji but about to switch back to Nikon and Zf is gonna be the one for me. Going to get a few simple primes. The 40mm is a very cool focal length. I used to have the Leica minulux and that was a 40. I can’t wait to get this camera. Probably gonna do a 40, 85, 28. Eventually a 50mm. Back to my roots. Thank you for this video. PS: I tried this camera at the store and the grip is a must. Do you find the small rig grip works ok? Do you recommend any small and affordable lenses? I mainly shoot portraits and headshots. Thank you for any advice.
Tell us how you really feel :)....Thanks as always for sharing your input. Great set up. Love mine...adapting all my small Sony glass, with the Megadap...so good!
Great commentary: I too am a working professional photographer, been making my living with cameras since 1988 (with a break for a few years in the late 90s). I started with film (and Nikons) in the late 80s, and shot 35mm on Canon AE-1s, FMs, FM-2s, FE-2s. F3s, F4s and F5s plus medium format on 'blads and Rolleis, as well as 4x5 and 8x10 sheet film. Went to digital with the D90 and then full frame with the D600, D750s, D780, D810 and now the Zf. For a significant part of my commercial work, I still use the D750s (especially studio work), and I use the D780 for a few specialized uses and a backup. But more and more of my work is being done with the Zf. Especially when I am traveling, the Zf and 3 lenses (14-30, 24-120, 100-400) covers almost anything I need to do. I can carry my PC lens and the FTZ if it is a architectural shoot. I still have an FM-2 and an F4S and still shoot film with them. The complaints on TH-cam about the Zf that I have seen are kind of bizarre to me given that I shot thousands of frames for clients with the FM body type with no "ergonomic grip" and thousands for clients with the F4S (for those who complain about the weight of the Zf, pick up an F4S). The Zf is an amazing camera from a technical standpoint, capable of far more than many of the cameras that I used to produce images for clients on over the years. I love the way the controls work because I can see and adjust the three parts of the exposure triangle so easily - and the RAW files that come out of the Zf are just superb.
Thank you so much for your input - it’s greatly appreciated. Love that this community shares so much on here. It is a great source for everyone on this channel
I think the custom buttons are more for the hybrid shooters. I have a Panasonic GH5 and I use all of the custom buttons for video features, Zebras, focus peaking, etc
I traded in my first mirrorless camera, the Nikon z5, for the Zf last week. Used it for a portrait shoot and some general photography, and I agree with you: a great camera. The autofocus is even better than hoped. My lenses are similar to yours, but I also have used my Voigtlander 50mm 1.2 via the m to z adapter, and then the Zf really shines. No regrets so far about this camera.
I did the same thing, Z5 to Zf and I am so happy I did. My only wish is that it had at least one more custom button and custom modes (Fine if it was via a menu option and not on the dial).
@@kaskoPhoto to me perfect: various degrees of soft but sharp blurriness from 1.2-1.6, and starting from f2 sharp as can be, but most of all: it renders so beautifully - faces really get nice dimensionality. Colors are to my taste (not too vibrant, but a distinctive look). The size is not too large, and focus is smooth. Love it.
I just came across your video and appreciated your opinions. I am an amateur photographer who learned how to shoot on an old Canon A1. I have been using Nikon for about the last 16 or so years now. I bought a ZF about 6 months ago and love it. Once you spend enough time with it and get used to it, you realize just how easy it is to get great results with.
I consider myself a professional photographer myself. I am for all intensive purposes a canon shooter. It was the first camera system I started with (10D, 20D, 7D, and up) I have tried out other systems over the years. Always fell back into canon's. As we all do I wanted to improve my photography skills. I also wanted something SUPER lightweight, and when I am doing personal shooting, didn't want to have to carry around a brick with me (R3, R6II, R5's Paired with 24-105 2.8, 70-200's etc) If i wanted to go hiking or street photography, I wanted the camera to be an extension of my eye. I also decided to not want a zoom lense, and go with the 40mm kit lense. Your points are well taken, and I agree with them. If I had listened to many TH-camrs about this camera, I probably would not have bought it. I am glad I did, its forcing me to work outside my comfort zone, and get more in touch with photography. It's a great camera, and nikon has come a long way with their menu system. It's not as good as Canon's IMO, but its close and makes sense . I like the retro styling of the ZF and it makes me wish canon would do something similar. It was enough that I purchased the camera from B&H (Used with the 40mm f2 lense for $1700 and change) I am paying way closer attention to settings now than ever before and the prime 40mm is forcing me look for better compositions in my images and not rely on zoom.
I agree with you on the Canon - my all time favorite “modern” camera to this day is the R5. And I would probably still be shooting it today if it wasn’t for their big heavy RF lenses
You mention the M11 and shooting at 36mp with it. In your experience, is shooting at 36mp (or 18mp) with this camera exactly the same as shooting with a 36mp (or 18mp) camera in terms of both shooting experience and image outcome? For example, does shooting at 36mp reduce blurring from camera shake (everything else being equal), thereby allowing you to shoot more freely (e.g. w/o tripod, etc.)? And does it reduce noise and colour shifts to 36mp levels (vs 60mp levels)? Etc.? I am seriously considering the M11 but am concerned about pixel counts above 24mp or certainly above 36mp (the later of which I have in the form of the Nikon D810 and which introduces such problems compared to my 24mp bodies). Thank you for this informative video. Appreciate your distinction between pro photogs and TH-camrs.
I shoot at 36 megapixel for hard drive space only. You have the same issue with camera shake and there is no real difference with noise dropping down to 36 megapixel
many people don't know it yet, but ZF has a big problem with image lag (EVF and LCD) at 1/200s or longer, with AFC - single point turned on. when you hold the shutter button halfway, the image starts to shake a lot. There are a lot of people talking about this problem on the forums.
@@bsc001I have the same problem. The camera is not suitable for taking photos at exposure times of 1/200 and longer in AFC modes with single-point (dynamic) fields; when working at events and weddings where lamps are also used, the image is constantly shaken. I don't have this problem with the much cheaper Z5 and the first Z6 I have been exchanging e-mails with Nikon for two weeks, the service was not aware of this problem. They wrote to me that software 1.20 will fix this problem. I loaded software 1.20 and unfortunately it didn't help. I have been waiting for several months for them to repair the camera with software, but I am increasingly afraid that it is a technological fault and the camera is broken. I have 5 friends from ZF and they are all upset because the same thing happens to them. I don't understand why no one says this in the reviews, it was based on these reviews that I bought the camera, today knowing this problem, I wouldn't buy the ZF.
@@bsc001 I reported it a long time ago, all my friends with Nikon ZF also report it and so far nothing. It turns out that the problem is global. I was going to buy another ZF, but I'll refrain for now I don't know if it's just a short😢 inconvenience, I've had the Nikon ZF since its launch and it's been a few months now😢
How do you feel about EVFs? Before the Z9 and Z8 came out, every year or two I would go to camera stores and play with the latest digital cameras but was never happy with the EVFs - actually, I hated them compared to OVFs. I stopped checking them out, and I have not seen the Z9 and Z8 but have heard that their EVFs are the closest thing you'll get to an OVF. So I'm still with Nikon SLRs and DSLRs (and Leica rangefinders). Anyways, just wondered what your take is on EVFs vs OVFs.
I hate them in general but like the feature they offer. On the Sony A7RV I don’t even think about it for the first time. It doesn’t bother me compared to others before it.
Very good review, thank you. The army of reviews on this camera did help me make the decision to buy the camera, thank you you tube. I am older than dirt and have a hard time squinting at a flippy screen and diving into menus every time I want to change something is a drag. I really like having the controls on the top plate. When things are going to be happening fast I do have a couple of auto focus lenses but for the most part I shoot with a trinity of Voigtlander Ultrons because I like small and light. I shoot with auto iso turned on and when I need a different exposure the compensation dial is right there on top and muscle memory takes over.. I might be old but I still like night clubs and women and this camera fills the bill for video and stills in dark smokey places. The people who complain about things on this camera where never engineers and are just looking for something to bitch about so they can have some content for their video. Thanks again for the posit ivity. The menu system on this camera is deep and complete, you have to spend some time with it to get it all in your head, a one day review has to be b.s.
One thing I've been trying to know is how the autofocus performs in low light (as in street portraits just after sunset using street lamps for light, for example). Any opinions on it are apreciated. Thanks for the video. I was waiting for the Z6 iii but turns out the Zf is very likely my next camera.
Thank you for sharing your wisdom. Interesting......................I am not sure that real professional photographers talking sensibly about cameras that they use to earn a living will ever catch on, on You Tube, mind! My best wishes to you from West Wales.
What’s your feeling about the 28 mm 2.8 plastic lens ?? The only thing I don’t like about the full frame system is the lack of portable small lenses I also don’t feel like carrying heavy long lenses
Very enjoyable video, I am an amateur, and am gettig my Zf in a few days. I got a Z7ii but wanted a good low-light performer, and better autofocus for the kids, they are fast movers! After watching a few "youtubers" I almost got discouraged about this camera, people critisizing the layout, the grip, bla bla bla, I was now looking at the Z6iii, which I am sure is great, but this morning I just could not shake that feeling that this camera is something special, it has soul, and those reviews are made by people that rarely take time to learn how to use a tool, they just compare, live with a camera for 3 days, produce a review, and go on to the next. I think some cameras are instant classics, and the Zf sure feels like it. I am in love before meeting it lol, but hey, thank you for the review, and I am sure I will enjoy it for years to come.
Great video and totally agree with your comments. A camera is a tool for the job and some tools are not perfect but do the job as designed for. I have my FE and FM since new 1981-82 plus other nikon cameras along the way incl D700, I am used to handling these no frills cameras and the Zf is built on the same foundation aesthetically with very powerful features. I don't have one yet but will be buying one soon with probably a small range zoom. I don't do professional work anymore, just hobby. Cheers
The f1.8 Z-primes are fantastic. The may look a bit plasticy, but the IQ is great. I’m not a typical ‘zoom-guy’, but the 24-120 Z is simply the best in class imo. At 20% of the price it is 95% of the 24-90 SL. I’ve used the Z-system, before moving to the SL2 and now SL3. Mostly for studio work, so I didn’t mind the size of the APO-SLs. From all the mirrorless systems, the Z is right up there with the SL and to me far more appealing than Canon or Sony. Just personal preference.
Im thinking in buying another Zf, still building portfolio and investing slowly into photography. For events I need a second body (just in case), and think rocking 2 Zf's is more than enough both in quality and style. Love mine, but still think the yellow/green cast on people skin in portraits is still something I need to learn to go around. Maybe adjusting hue and WB colours.
Maybe do a factory reset just in case. I’m not seeing this in skin tones. But I think two of these bodies would be great for your use. And yes, a backup is imperative for paid jobs.
@@kaskoPhoto that is actually a great idea. Let me try resetting it. From what I have been reading it seems Nikon pulls yellow and green overall while canon does reds and orange, but again it may be the environment where I have been shooting
Try and use the TECHART TZM-02 New Version Auto Focus Adapter Compatible for Leica M Lens to NIK0N Z Mount and you will be able to use all of your M mount lines on it with auto focus! I am currently saving up for it right now. What I am using today on my Zf is the AkIROOD LM-Z-S adapter. With this adapter I can mount all of my voigtlander lenses. And I love it! This particular adapter allows me to focus extremely close as well. Thus making my wedding kit extremely lightweight. Hope this helps.
Really appreciate your being tactful and honest at the same time. Enjoying your videos, always. Photography is a hobby for me, been with Nikon for about 12 years, but got my hands on a tiny m4/3 Olympus and it revived my interest and passion and actually taught me a few things about my larger Nikon bodies and lenses, which I rarely take out these days, but Im so much more aware of what Im doing when I do, all because of a lightweight compact camera and lenses which are always in my car these days.
I seriously am dying to try one of the Olympus OM 1s or OM System now. I don’t mind the M4/3 format at all - I think the lenses that they have are spectacular in both quality and size.
@@kaskoPhoto You can pick up an E-M5II for relatively peanuts these days, and it's an excellent, well built introduction to the format. I've still got my original E-M5 and it's perfect for shooting bicycles for sale in my shop, and for eBay auction item photos. Just enough depth of field to be useful, but not flat like a phone. Also a little bit smaller JPEGs which works out great for the internet. It's WR is also excellent (ask me how I know, living in the PNW) and it's survived a few good size crashes off my bike. Solid gear.
Hi John, Thanks for a great video. I'm a professional photographer in the Netherlands and I used Nikon since day 1. When mirrorless cameras came out, I switched to Fujifilm, which is a great system, great (metal) lenses with aperture rings, nice and old school. Only downside was bad autofocus. Then the Zf came out; I doubted for a while but bought it after all, reading and hearing that the autofocus is very very good. Well... it is, but... When I shoot in the studio, the viewfinder is in "ease of view" mode of course, otherwise the viewfinder is dark. Full manual mode with aperture and shutter speed and iso set. Flash through a generic trigger, nothing dedicated. At that point, the autofocus is having a very hard time focussing! It seems like at aperture F8 or F5.6 the aperture really closes which makes it harder for the camera to get enough light to focus! Even my Fujifilm X-T2 focusses better during such set-up in the studio. What am I doing wrong? I can't always use open aperture.... but when I stop down, the autofocus lacks.. It must be a setting I'm sure! Do you know it? (or anyone reading this) Thanks in advance! Wim
This is interesting. I’m looking to upgrade from the xt2 as well and your comment has me worried. I primarily shoot school band photos at a fast pace, so focus is very important to get through 300 kids extremely fast. The xt2 has been a pain in getting in focus shots over the years. Did you ever figure out the issue with your camera?
I have the Z-mount 28mm, 50mm, and 85mm. When I ordered the 28mm, I actually looked into switching it to a metal lens mount, and found that the one for the 50mm f1,8 will fit. However, after using the 28mm for a while, I figured that I would probably never wear out that plastic lens mount. Also, I have used Leica M lenses through a Z2M adapter, and they work quite well, especially the 90mm f2,8 Elmarit.
I do love the adapted M glass on the ZF but I really wanted to try the Voigtlander Z glass - as they say it is optimized for the sensor. I’ll be trying the 50mm f/1 and the 40mm f/1.2 this week.
I still currently use the D810 for work but taking it out for my own photography of family is not always practical. I was thinking about one of these just for my own personal photography and I am finding it hard to get a brand new laowa 100mm macro of the f mount. I can get one easily on the z and I can still grab an adapter to use my old lenses.
I call it 'hyper consumerism'.... Oscar Wilde is credited with the quote “The cynic knows the price of everything and the value of nothing.” It's a fantastic camera and there is nothing like it.
I think there's hardly any need to use more than 24Mp unsless you need to crop a lot. Also for professional work. I know fashion photographer that does almost everything on a Z6II.
I was out the other day with the ZF and small rig grip. My lens was the 135mm Plena. I found co-incidentally during the time that I was holding this combo with the old 2 or 3 fingers only around the grip. It was very easy to carry. The Plena is not a huge superzoom but they are hard to handle on any camera body. If the smallrig grip was just a little deeper it would be perfect.
Great video. I'm a hobbyist who mostly does landscape and nightscape photography so most of the complaints about this camera were simply redundant. The real drawback of this camera is the lack of a remote shutter connection port, which I was quite bummed about but learned to accept.
I can understand that completely. This is more of a question, cause I honestly don’t know. Does the camera offer any kind of Bluetooth remote firing? or is it cumbersome option of opening the app on the phone? And I do honestly think that would be more cumbersome than just a remote cord from the old days.
@@kaskoPhoto Yes, there is a Bluetooth remote by Nikon and other third parties, but the problem is that it only provides a shutter release button, and doesn’t offer the same level of customisation like a Hahnel remote does, for example.
If aesthetic isn't a priority for you, will you get the Z6III which has better grip and EVF and just stick a small lens on it? If I want to get the Nikon 28-400mm, is it one of those big lenses you mentioned? Do you use the dedicated shutter and ISO dials, or just end up just use the front and rear dials more which means the Z6III will make more sense? Also what camera and lenses you carry or you just use phone while travel and everyday hangout and situations? I shoot for fun, art, contest and gig if possible tho I haven't done yet, my plan is to get that lens with Zf ith the 28-400mm and a Sony Xperia 1 VI phone (26,24,48,85-170, 2X macro) to be always with me waterproof and macro camera, down the line I might get the 14-30 and Voigtländer 50mm F1 if I want to maximize what I can get from wider shots and also when I need boleh which is rare time but that manual lens and aesthetic of the lens is nice!
No. Honestly I think it’s going to be an amazing camera for so many people and such a good choice for hybrid work… but I am leaning more towards small, more mobile systems now. I would have been really excited for some of the cameras today when I was shooting pro sports. I use the Leica M11 and the Fuji cameras most for travel fun. And I use the Leica Fuji for my pro jobs as well. When I need the zooms and reach - OM-1
i really like my Zf but as compared to my D850 the lack of accessible functions slows me down which is why I wanted the Zf. These two cameras compliment each other very well for this reason. I like the Zf for studio work and walk around/travel. For fast action, BIF and sports I absolutely pick up my D850. Slowly but surely my Zf is replacing my F2, F3 and F5 and it's saving me money in the long run. I picked up the Voigtlander 40mm 1.2Z and it's awesome on the Zf!
@@kaskoPhoto Which adapter are you using? Been using the ttartisan `6 bit`, to at least get a little exif data. Been pretty decent so far. As for native z, thinking of trying that voigtlander 75 1.5 that is coming out next week. Don't have it on m, and the size might be a really good match for the zf.
I am a pro photographer as well, and I have a Hsssy x2D and a Leica M10. I am considering switching the M10 with the Nikon Zf. I love to shoot with the 50mm and I never liked shooting it on the M. The SL I loved, but it is big and bulky. Looking for a travel camera for personal work mainly with a 50mm on it. Leica files are so beautiful and I am scared to lose that quality/feel. How does the Nikon files "feel" compared to the Leica? I know Sony a7cii would be a good choice for what I want, but Sony files are not so... Fuji is only aps-c. So, Nikon Zf or Leica M?
Size and weight is the big thing for me as a non professional. I had the Lumix S5 and as amazing as it is, it’s still too big for my use cases. How does the ZF feel compared to a Leica M as I have an M8/M9M so very accustomed to those (and yes - the 24MP is way more than enough for me when I’m regularly making “keepers” from 10MP and 18MP)
I can't afford a Leica so I got a Zf instead. Everything manual, spot metering. I can't put it down. So much fun. I agree that this camera will be a huge success and the foundation for a great new line for Nikon. Do you think they will bring out a rangefinder style one day?
Well said, many of these influencers are just making comments to boost views, they are not necessarily subject matter experts in photography. I have 3 Leica Ms and I have the ZF as well, at times you just want a good autofocus in a small package.
John - do you still use your 6ii? Because of the crappy flip around screen on the ZF, I never considered it. I know Nikon have a new 6iii coming soon, and whispers have it that it still has that crappy screen. With the Z 8 and 9 being far too huge and expensive, I have resigned myself to the fact that I will be using my two 6ii's for a long time. I shot a huge professional event recently, (National Dragon Boat races here in Perth, Australia). There were over a thousand people there and there were moving boats, lots of images of people etc moving, I took over 2K images for the day and there would have only been around ten where I missed focus. The company I contracted to for the day were delighted with the images and are still raving about them. It is a shame that many people have written off the 6ii as too old, or the focus too terrible - but as you say, if you know your camera very well and get used to it, you can really make it work. The 6ii is now on run out discounted prices and I think is very good value. What is your take on all of this John?
We are so spoiled with photography these days. We have lots of choices and cameras have been good since 2010 ish (at least for photography, can't speak for video).
The Nikon Z f is just great. I know it’s subjective, but I just “feel” this camera. Just a couple of seconds and I forget I have a camera in my hands. If you do BIF or have another need for telephoto lenses, then this is not the body for you. Otherwise it’s just like every other pro body. Funny thing, I also use it when I can’t use the M11 / MP, mostly when I need AF. I also don’t get the internet drama about the Z f 😉
I like mine. The only gripe I have using it to take several thousand exposures in just a few months is the auto iso interaction with the dial. I just want the dial to override it. I know I know, but probably my most used lens after the 28 is the 105 VR macro and while I love it, I find auto-iso really useful for out in the world handheld macro. Re lenses I have the 28, 40, 50/1.8 and 105. All are great in their own way I feel. But I do want an improved 28mm that isn't plastic. A 28/2.0 in a reasonable size that checks all those S boxes would have me throwing down my credit card in seconds.
Have you thought about trying Sony lenses on it? I use only Sony lenses on mine for professional work and they work as good as native (aside from if there's more than one button on the lens, all the buttons do the same thing). I'm using the 24 2.8 G, the 40 2.5 G, and the Sigma 90 2.8 DCDN and they look great, have aperture rings (!), and are sharp, gorgeous and Capture One corrects them just fine.
When learning to speak a new language-in my case Nikon vs Fuji X-you're bound to have a few problems. I don't think a lot of the TH-camrs get that. Meanwhile, I was always happy with the image quality of my X-Trans III cameras (yeah-bring it, haters) but 2018 mid-pack autofocus was becoming increasingly difficult to work with/around. Yet I wanted to stick with dials, was lukewarm on 40mp, and I didn't see the 5th gen Fuji AF as being full frame territory money level of upgrade. Sony has always left me cold, and Canon-lovely though it is-is expensive unless you adapt, and kinda not my speed for controls. Enter the Zf. I came up shooting film, so like my X-H1 before it, the Zf felt natural. I don't even need a grip, although I did buy a leather half case which bulked it up a bit, because DUH you hold a long lens with your left hand. The dials turn backwards from my old system, but that's easy to get used to-and wow does the autofocus understand its assignment. 3D tracking works a treat, and people detect seems to make it even better. I'm now shooting 200 fewer images of a concert on a given night, because I know they're in focus and usually I don't have to try very hard to achieve that. The term 'game changer' is overused, but it really applies in this case. I'm keeping an X-H1 for the 50-140mm f2.8 long end (vs $2500 to replace it in Z glass).. and that shutter pop. The Zf makes my job easier.
I usually shoot with the back screen on my z6ii because the viewfinder doesn't show shadows correctly, they seem brighter than they should. And about custom buttons, I use a lot of functions like the subject tracking box, changing the AF mode with a button press and dial turn, switching from mechanical shutter to electronic shutter, and I actually ran out of function buttons and would like to use the depth of field preview as a function button because it actually lets you preview the active d lighting which is useful if you shoot jpegs because for some reason the camera doesn't show the effects of active d lighting in live view unless you use the depth of field preview, I love function buttons because they make things more convenient and I don't have to go in menus as much.
Love my ZF, I use it with my S 1.8 primes and zooms when I want autofocus or I put my Voigtlanders on and manual focus is a breeze. I will say that the handling is better on my Z8 but when I'm using either I don't really pay any attention to what I'm using.
I can’t seem to decide on the ZF Or the on sale Z7II. I do mostly family photography and couples. Maybe a 2nd shooter wedding. I enjoy the higher resolution too from the Z7II. What do you think? Should I buy the ZF instead?
The Z7 II is an absolutely amazing camera. And I’m perfectly good with the focus speed on that body. And if you are shooting it for a long wedding, it is very comfortable to hold. You will not be sorry with the Z7 II
The Fuji is super fun to use. But the hype is bad now. I don’t trust AF in my X3. I shot a wedding once and it failed miserably. Or I failed or both! 🤔
I've been a Nikon photographer for 40 years and own both, the Z 7II for a year and a half, the Z f for 2 months. Emotionally, the Z f is my absolute favorite. It's as solidly built as the cameras were back then and it's just fun to use and experiment with, especially with my beautiful old Nikkors from the eighties and the new, small Voigtländer lenses for the M mount. I also prefer the Z f when photographing people, because of the much better eye autofocus, then with the great Z lenses. I use the Z 7II for architecture, landscape and travel, because of the higher resolution and the ability to remove falling lines with less loss. It is lighter and smaller, feels better in the hand than the Z f with grip. But to be honest, I've already thought about selling the Z 7II and perhaps buying one or two other lens treasures. - That's the beauty of being an amateur photographer, you don't have to act logically. 😉
I agree with this. Been using the Zf alongside my M cameras and my older Nikon film bodies. It is the camera I most go for when I have the choice. If this is the modern Df, then I hope Nikon does an update more frequently, LOL The autofocus is literally MORE than is necessary. I long for a line of small Z lenses with apertures. I was considering the Voigtlander APO 50 for Z mount, as I prefer the smallest possible M lenses for my M camera. I’d be interested if you get your hands on a tester of that lens to see how it performs natively on the Z rather than adapted from M to Z. Thanks for the straight talk!
So Glad to come across this video!!!! I'm sure most consumers like me would like to hear a true honest opinion & assessment from the specialist / pro / the guy in the field doing the work instead of pretentious TH-camr so called Photographer wannabe who nitpicked, biased & pixel peeper. I'm one of the viewers who in the midst of buying this 𝑵𝒊𝒌𝒐𝒏 𝒁𝒇 and need the neutral opinion of this model. Fully agreed when you said "𝐢𝐟 𝐢𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐚 𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭 𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐠𝐞 , 𝐢𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐚 𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭 𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐠𝐞" without a doubt , "learning how to use your camera" and I do love when you said "𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒊𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒄𝒂𝒏'𝒕 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒌 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒄𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒆 𝒂 𝒃𝒆𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒊𝒇𝒖𝒍 𝒊𝒎𝒂𝒈𝒆𝒔 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒊𝒕 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒏 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒄𝒆𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝒒𝒖𝒊𝒓𝒌𝒔 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒚𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒎, 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒇𝒊𝒏𝒅 𝒂𝒏𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒋𝒐𝒃" 🤣. Thank you for your Video!
It's an awesome camera in daylight. But in low light, it lags, when focusing. I encounterd this problem at my first event with it, at the venue. It is very annoying if you use it as the main camera. More exactly, in af-c, with any settings and energy saving off, original battery. For z9 you have the d22 setting, for zf you don't. I updated to 1.2 and the problem continues.
I love my D850, it is more camera than I will EVER need. That being said, I have bad G.A.S. so I also have M cameras, TLR's A Hassy as well as Fuji and the Z5. To quote Hugh "hold that thought" I really like the ZF and the way it handles manual focus lenses.... So I may get one....
Most youtubers only do reviews. It's really rare to see them talk about art. After a while any reviewer become a nitpicker. Especially when most cameras got killer specs but they still need to create content.
I think it’s an upgrade but I think you need to try before you buy. There are some differences you may not like. I shot Sony for many years and it has a feel that is much different. And you really have to love using your camera. Maybe rent one or go to a store and get it in hand.
Had a Zf and sold it. Still have the 28mm and 40mm, need to unload those too. I never got along with it not having an aperture dial. Not all the cameras fault, but the systems fault I guess, and didn't want to put on an adapter to make it work. But it can take nice images.
When people talk about retro they sometimes conflate the styling aspect of it and the user interface aspect of it. The frustration at least some of us have with the Zf is *not* that the lenses dom't have retro styling, but they lack aperture control on the lens. I have no nostalgia for that era, I simply find the PASM-less UI to be more understandable and efficient. When Sony, Panasonic and Sigma have lenses with aperture rings on them it's clear it's not about retro. (If anything I personally think the Nikon SE lenes look much worse than they non SE counter parts). Why do I like this user interface? Many reasons, but among them is that I can my pointing finger for the trigger, my thumb for the compensation wheel and my left hand for aperture. That said, allowing you to customize the lens ring for aperture does bring you pretty close to my ideal setup. I'm not a pro so my main barrier is price (not that it's expensive for what it is). If I was a pro the Zf would be top of my list of cameras to consider. To me it seems like the clear winner as the best autofocusing full frame camera. Thanks for sharing your thoughts, always interesting to hear from a true photo pro. You also explain things really well!
I'm a pro photographer, I have 4 Nikon Z5 (I had also a Z6II but I sold it when the last firmware update of the Z5 came out). The only thing it lacks is a very reliable AF. But I still could'nt do without a very good grip (like a Z5 with the Smallrig grip) to hold something like the 24-120 f4 Z. Super happy with the 24-120, 50 1.8 Z and the 26 mm 2.8 pancake as a base kit.
@@kaskoPhoto at first I bought the 28 mm 2.8 Z, but I found that little 26mm was way better optically. The AF is louder and a bit slower but for photos it's fine
My dream is the Leica but even though I can buy one I just can't justify the cost. I am not a wealthy but have saved and for a while been looking to find a fair priced (by fair, I mean reasonable) used one and still cannot justify the cost (I can buy two cameras, and a lens for the cost of a used body). Nikon was something I used in highschool and owned fuji but now been looking at the zf and think there is a lot of value. I will forever want a Leica but in the end I have to remind myself that it is a tool and you can create amazing things with any of the brands.
I understand that TH-camrs like to recommend cameras and scoff at amateurs and semi-professionals who don't possess the latest gear, but however good the Zf is it requires a set of new lenses that I couldn't afford and don't need. My D800 still takes great photos using all my F lenses and I have other camera systems that work fine despite not having the latest gizmos, just manual controls that let me decide how I want an image to look. And yes, some are still film cameras.
Get a FTZ II adapter, and run most of your f-GLWS on the Zf. That’s what I do, it works wonderfully well. Ok, old AF-D’s are MF only on the Zf, but still a wonderful experience.
The thing that blows me away about My Zf is the low light sensitivity. Far better than any other camera I have ever used. ISO 32,000 is very useable, 64,000 is not (huge difference). If I could change it I would have a tilt screen and not a flippy screen. Number one irritation by far. And I would like to have the dirlled and tapped shutter button actually work with a retro cable release. In what world do you need bluetooth to operate a retro camera? I am waiting to see if the Z6iii is bigger, has a flippy screen, requires bluetooth for remote shutter release. I suspect I will keep the Zf. The Z6ii might be 33 MP and lose the low light sensitivity that makes the Zf special.
I agree with your take on this camera but I love the tilting screen because I take pictures close to the ground and nealing is better than liying on the ground. I don't care if my lens doesn't match the camera it's all about the pic's.😀
The Zf has a lot more to offer than “retro” styling - I dislike that description. I’ve got a very similar setup for the system 28/40SE, 35/50/85 f/1.8 and 24-70/4 for GP zoom - last but not least a CV 40/1.4 ❤ Now I only want a CV 28mm pancake and short tele. I enjoy using the Zf, it makes me smile every time I use it (doesn’t mean I have no negative comments). Note I am an enthusiast, not a pro.
The camera has an undervalued aspect. Durability. It passes the clunk against the table by accident test. This is not negligeable for everday carry around and being tough in the field. Most cameras are plastic and fragile electronics today. It's a problem. The only real issue I see with the ZF is related to video work. Rolling shutter is bad, like 10 years behind bad. Which is a shame.
LOL you have to hold it out to shoot. Seriously though. I will love the next gen. I don't need anything more than exactly how this is except a better evf say 5.x or more and 120 refresh!! I am use to looking through M rangefinders and kinda hard to break that 34 year habit but like you would like to have an auto option or a FF sensor in my Xpros. HA! love the old school grumpy vibe on the cool kids.
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I don’t usually comment on videos but I had to here: thank you so much for this video. I’m a pro photographer as well and the funny thing is that I too used to shoot Nikon since way back and have been shooting professionally with the Leica M system for the past 10 years (and loving it). I was recently looking for a second camera to do the part of my work for which the Leica M is not ideal. I went to B&H in New York for an entire afternoon and pretty much tried every mirrorless from every brand. The Zf immediately stood out as the camera I was looking for. I now use the Zf for some commercial assignments as well as on workshops when I teach travel photography. Since I don’t do any studio work, I went with the 28-75mm f/2.8 zoom, which is perfect weight/size wise and delivers the image quality I need. I completely agree with your assessment of TH-camrs / wannabe photographers who nitpick and pixel peep constantly without ever actually using the equipment for any real work. What gives them away every time though is when they start sharing their images 😂😂😂. I wish there were more real photographers like yourself providing their opinion on photo gear.
I fully agree with you and couldn‘t say it better 😊
I agree. Real working pros trump other’s blathering.
Yes ! They give themselves away as soon as they display their pictures - and are completely oblivious to it. Very sad, really.
I shot professionally with my Nikon FE2 back in the 90s when I was just starting off. And it took me years to make consistent money where I could constitute buying a new AF camera and lenses. When the time came I upgraded to the Nikon N90s and it was amazing. I then added an F100 and that was even better. These days I am shooting most of my jobs with a Nikon D3, which is only 12 mp. It’s not an issue since I am not printing anything larger than poster size. Before the D3, I was shooting with a D7000 and D200 as a second body. I’ve shot over 350 weddings, hundreds of corporate headshots, editorial assignments, interiors, and sports with these bodies. To put that in perspective, the D3 came out in 2008 and I bought mine used in 2017. I also bought a Nikon Z50 for video work and use that as a second body for photo jobs as well. You don’t need the latest gear and over 16 mp to be a pro.
Great, I needed an opinion from a real professional. It is precisely TH-camrs who sometimes make you doubt a lot. I want this camera, but searching the internet I only found: “it’s not ergonomic,” “it’s only for trips,” “you can’t work professionally.” And I was getting so discouraged that I saw a Sony A7iv as the best option.
I recently visited a local store, I held it, I shot a couple of photos. And woooow it feels incredible. The grip is definitely mandatory, but I think I found my ideal camera, and it will be my next update of a Nikon D7500.
Great video, right opinion. ❤
I’m glad you tried it. It is definitely an amazing camera and the right tool for so many jobs. I think you will love it. But the grip does matter.
I feel the same as you do. I have the Nikon Z8 as well, but honestly, I use it on rare occasion because the Zf is plenty of camera for what I do. I've been in the Nikon ecosystem for decades, shot every camera they've made, and when I got the Zf in my hands and it had the simple top dials, it's very straightforward and a great all-around camera. I do a ton of printing and I will maintain that 24 MP is about the best size for printing and digital work. My second favorite camera is the D4S. Only 16 MP but the AF was superb and the color science was terrific. And the prints it produced, big prints, looked phenomenal. In the race to higher megapixels, most of that is just keeping up with the joneses. The handling of the Zf is perfect for me and my only street camera. I don't shoot Nikon lenses with it though. With the great tools in the Zf to shoot manual lenses, I shoot the Voigtlander 50 f/1 and the Voigtlander 35 f/2 APO. Solid all metal lenses that are tack sharp and render beautifully. Great video, subbed!
Thank you, Thank you, Thank you. Finally, someone knows that you have to learn every camera you use. Most of our time is spent in getting a good product to our client not in checking eyelashes. Never had a bride say " my eyelashes aren't sharp" detail in her dress and shooting well in difficult environments are way more important. Blessings to you,
David
Sooo good 😁👍
Especially the distinction between youtubers and photographers, batteries, lens looks and problems getting used to a new camera.
Also pro photog here.
I'm a Nikon shooter normally. But give me an hour with a different brand and you get same results.
Last year a client had a network set up for instant upload to a web shop that worked only with Canon. So I shot with Canon DSLRs instead of my Nikon DSLMs.
Sometimes I wonder how the rest of the world took great pictures 10 years ago.
Well, I’ve been shooting professionally for 40 years and I can tell you emphatically that according to TH-camr, we didn’t take a single good picture because it was impossible with our gear. Until they came onto the scene, of course.
Some took great photos 100 or 150 years ago.
@@rolleicanon come on Ken, you’re not that old! 😂
@@kaskoPhoto Oh Yes I am.
@@kaskoPhoto But thank you anyway. Good to hear.
Love your video and agree with your comments. After watching so many youtubers I often wondered how past photogrphers took photos with all the previous old crappy flawed cameras😅
100% These days I'm a 'TH-camr', but I spent about 16 years as a working photographer. When you look at it as a tool, it is an incredibly capable one. I bought it despite the aesthetics, I would rather have had modern ergonomics but the internals for the price are very good and with several bags full of Nikon Lenses this was the best option. But I do laugh when people say autofocus is too slow on this or that, particularly as I started shooting weddings on a Minolta 7000i just using the 1 focus point in the middle. I think you can make just about any modern camera from the last 10 years or so work professionally and still be good enough today.
Such valid points - thank you. And yes, I shot professional work with a Pentax K1000 and film/manual focus paid my bills for many years / 15 + to be exact
I appreciate your thoughts. Thanks for sharing them. I am considering this camera with a couple of Voigtlander lanthar lenses. I am also intrigued by having black and white on a switch under my finger. B&W helps me find the composition, without being distracted by color. This would be really coinvent
That really is an amazing feature we never knew we needed
This was refreshing. I’m no pro (or youtuber), and never will be, but this thing is a remarkable piece of work. Not perfect, of course, but nothing else is, either. I’ve found this is a joy to use. And learn - still plenty for me to learn.
I just picked up an ZF. I almost canceled the order because (a TH-cam) photographer said it basically wasn't usable. EVERY point he made, i disproved in less than a minute after i turned it on. Customized everything to my liking.
I've shot professionally with nikons for years, going back to film, then d810, then Z series. Commercial, wedding, studio, location work... you name it.
I haven't shot it yet (because it literally arrived tonight, and I'm In the middle of editing a wedding). But i think im gonna love this camera. I have a fuji xh2, went from z6ii to this, and I have more video centric cameras for my video work that often have different requirements.
I think you will love it in use. And the files are excellent
Great video. What a breath of fresh air and real talk. The Zf and 40mm are so tempting…
Borrow or rent one to give it a try. As good as it is, some just aren’t sold on it after use.
That 40mm is such a steal. I use it on the Z5, and it is tac sharp.
Z9 pays my bills ZF keeps me happy
Well said - that’s a happy place on both counts
as a nikon pro, i sincerely appreciate your thoughts on this. years ago when I sold Nikon and before Nikon was even really in the mirrorless game, this was the exact camera i spec'ed to my Nikon rep when he asked for my dream camera. when the Zf dropped I was so excited for the people who would actually be using it. youtubers are always going to complain and nitpick but it's cus they have too much time on their hands. when you're actually in the thick of things, doing the work you'll never notice what they point out cus you're too busy just working.
:) thank you so much for your feedback . 100% agree with you. I got a ZF 2 months ago and I enjoy it a lot. I'm an old amattor. I have these plastic lenses too and they are good. I used as well my 45 years old Rolleinar/Zeiss planar F1.8 50 mm ( that you can buy for 50 $ ) and believe me : it is fantastic.
First thank you for the continued updates on the Zf. I recently bought one and I'm really loving it the more I get to know it.
Here's my 2 part serious question.
I'd spent years in professional studios as a still art director in pre/post digital days, even the middle where Leaf digital camera backs were used. Why are so many TH-camrs saying that they wouldn't use the Zf for professional use? It's a full frame 24mp sensor, so size shouldn't matter unless you are cropping considerably (and the majority of the professionals that I know and work with don't crop all that much, they shoot to the frame).
Why do TH-cam professional photographers usually profess they only shoot in Manual? Is it a badge of honor or something? I shoot in A priority a lot because to me, Aperture is most important on a lot of my shots. Why wouldn't you use the tools to get a better shot? There are many times that the camera better understands its capabilities than the mind. A good shot is a good shot.
Me personally, I use manual because I want complete control of the scene 100% of the time when shooting for a client or for my own projects. When I am out just having fun I shoot in all sorts of auto modes (the one that best fits my situation).
@@kaskoPhoto Thanks for the response! Completely understandable, especially when you want consistency in studio lighting situations. I just wonder why someone would say they only shoot in Manual (not referring to you) and would also say that they wouldn't use a Zf for professional applications.
Truth. There is no substitute. Excellent.
Nice video. I am also an M and Nikon shooter. Really wish Nikon would make a retro SP body.
Thank you much for this great no bs and easy to understand review. I am just an enthusiast and Nikon was my first love. Quick question, my kids will now be into team sports, (football and basketball) . Would you recommend the Zf for sports.? Thank you sir!. or anyone reading this comment.
`if you can't make beautiful images with this, find another job`
So let’s cover the bazooka first… I would def make an exception to my large lens bitching for the 135! 😂 that is really a special lens and I will be trying one soon.
I have rearranged multiple bags to carry that tank around. Hope you like it.
@@kaskoPhoto Ever managed to get your hands on the Plena 135, John?
Let me put 24MP this way. Most people watch 4K TV's. That's an 8MP image. 600ppi on a 8x12 print is 12MP.
You are doing a LOT of photography in and under those specs. If you need more, you probably already know you need more.
Thank you -
Outstanding professional review
Thank you. I’ve been photographing for 39 years. I’m 53, got a Nikon FE for my 13th bday and never looked back. Currently shooting Fuji but about to switch back to Nikon and Zf is gonna be the one for me. Going to get a few simple primes. The 40mm is a very cool focal length. I used to have the Leica minulux and that was a 40. I can’t wait to get this camera. Probably gonna do a 40, 85, 28. Eventually a 50mm. Back to my roots. Thank you for this video.
PS: I tried this camera at the store and the grip is a must. Do you find the small rig grip works ok? Do you recommend any small and affordable lenses? I mainly shoot portraits and headshots. Thank you for any advice.
There is a great sale on the camera going on now on the Nikon site, which includes the grip for free. I do love that grip.
Tell us how you really feel :)....Thanks as always for sharing your input. Great set up. Love mine...adapting all my small Sony glass, with the Megadap...so good!
Great commentary:
I too am a working professional photographer, been making my living with cameras since 1988 (with a break for a few years in the late 90s). I started with film (and Nikons) in the late 80s, and shot 35mm on Canon AE-1s, FMs, FM-2s, FE-2s. F3s, F4s and F5s plus medium format on 'blads and Rolleis, as well as 4x5 and 8x10 sheet film. Went to digital with the D90 and then full frame with the D600, D750s, D780, D810 and now the Zf.
For a significant part of my commercial work, I still use the D750s (especially studio work), and I use the D780 for a few specialized uses and a backup. But more and more of my work is being done with the Zf. Especially when I am traveling, the Zf and 3 lenses (14-30, 24-120, 100-400) covers almost anything I need to do. I can carry my PC lens and the FTZ if it is a architectural shoot.
I still have an FM-2 and an F4S and still shoot film with them. The complaints on TH-cam about the Zf that I have seen are kind of bizarre to me given that I shot thousands of frames for clients with the FM body type with no "ergonomic grip" and thousands for clients with the F4S (for those who complain about the weight of the Zf, pick up an F4S). The Zf is an amazing camera from a technical standpoint, capable of far more than many of the cameras that I used to produce images for clients on over the years. I love the way the controls work because I can see and adjust the three parts of the exposure triangle so easily - and the RAW files that come out of the Zf are just superb.
Thank you so much for your input - it’s greatly appreciated. Love that this community shares so much on here. It is a great source for everyone on this channel
I think the custom buttons are more for the hybrid shooters. I have a Panasonic GH5 and I use all of the custom buttons for video features, Zebras, focus peaking, etc
I traded in my first mirrorless camera, the Nikon z5, for the Zf last week. Used it for a portrait shoot and some general photography, and I agree with you: a great camera. The autofocus is even better than hoped. My lenses are similar to yours, but I also have used my Voigtlander 50mm 1.2 via the m to z adapter, and then the Zf really shines. No regrets so far about this camera.
How is the 50 1.2 in general? I really want to try it.
I did the same thing, Z5 to Zf and I am so happy I did. My only wish is that it had at least one more custom button and custom modes (Fine if it was via a menu option and not on the dial).
@@kaskoPhoto to me perfect: various degrees of soft but sharp blurriness from 1.2-1.6, and starting from f2 sharp as can be, but most of all: it renders so beautifully - faces really get nice dimensionality. Colors are to my taste (not too vibrant, but a distinctive look). The size is not too large, and focus is smooth. Love it.
@@rickmower1136 my dslr is a nikon df, so maybe I am more used to the dial buttons, but also I am still learning the zf. Congrats with your zf!
How is battery life?
For me, the look of the Zf is perfect. I have no reservations.
It is a damn good looking camera.
@@kaskoPhoto I harmonise its appearance with my other cameras from the 80`.
I just came across your video and appreciated your opinions. I am an amateur photographer who learned how to shoot on an old Canon A1. I have been using Nikon for about the last 16 or so years now. I bought a ZF about 6 months ago and love it. Once you spend enough time with it and get used to it, you realize just how easy it is to get great results with.
I consider myself a professional photographer myself. I am for all intensive purposes a canon shooter. It was the first camera system I started with (10D, 20D, 7D, and up) I have tried out other systems over the years. Always fell back into canon's. As we all do I wanted to improve my photography skills. I also wanted something SUPER lightweight, and when I am doing personal shooting, didn't want to have to carry around a brick with me (R3, R6II, R5's Paired with 24-105 2.8, 70-200's etc) If i wanted to go hiking or street photography, I wanted the camera to be an extension of my eye. I also decided to not want a zoom lense, and go with the 40mm kit lense. Your points are well taken, and I agree with them. If I had listened to many TH-camrs about this camera, I probably would not have bought it. I am glad I did, its forcing me to work outside my comfort zone, and get more in touch with photography. It's a great camera, and nikon has come a long way with their menu system. It's not as good as Canon's IMO, but its close and makes sense . I like the retro styling of the ZF and it makes me wish canon would do something similar. It was enough that I purchased the camera from B&H (Used with the 40mm f2 lense for $1700 and change) I am paying way closer attention to settings now than ever before and the prime 40mm is forcing me look for better compositions in my images and not rely on zoom.
I agree with you on the Canon - my all time favorite “modern” camera to this day is the R5. And I would probably still be shooting it today if it wasn’t for their big heavy RF lenses
You mention the M11 and shooting at 36mp with it. In your experience, is shooting at 36mp (or 18mp) with this camera exactly the same as shooting with a 36mp (or 18mp) camera in terms of both shooting experience and image outcome? For example, does shooting at 36mp reduce blurring from camera shake (everything else being equal), thereby allowing you to shoot more freely (e.g. w/o tripod, etc.)? And does it reduce noise and colour shifts to 36mp levels (vs 60mp levels)? Etc.? I am seriously considering the M11 but am concerned about pixel counts above 24mp or certainly above 36mp (the later of which I have in the form of the Nikon D810 and which introduces such problems compared to my 24mp bodies). Thank you for this informative video. Appreciate your distinction between pro photogs and TH-camrs.
I shoot at 36 megapixel for hard drive space only. You have the same issue with camera shake and there is no real difference with noise dropping down to 36 megapixel
many people don't know it yet, but ZF has a big problem with image lag (EVF and LCD) at 1/200s or longer, with AFC - single point turned on.
when you hold the shutter button halfway, the image starts to shake a lot. There are a lot of people talking about this problem on the forums.
th-cam.com/users/shorts5L_bjT1JdEI?si=Rrz--ppkxZthII5Q
th-cam.com/video/2h4pHEURqNw/w-d-xo.htmlsi=Z9jck0O4nyReuw74
Good then that Nikon is very proactive in rolling out firmware for their cameras. Just a short-term inconvenience.
@@bsc001I have the same problem. The camera is not suitable for taking photos at exposure times of 1/200 and longer in AFC modes with single-point (dynamic) fields; when working at events and weddings where lamps are also used, the image is constantly shaken. I don't have this problem with the much cheaper Z5 and the first Z6 I have been exchanging e-mails with Nikon for two weeks, the service was not aware of this problem. They wrote to me that software 1.20 will fix this problem. I loaded software 1.20 and unfortunately it didn't help. I have been waiting for several months for them to repair the camera with software, but I am increasingly afraid that it is a technological fault and the camera is broken. I have 5 friends from ZF and they are all upset because the same thing happens to them. I don't understand why no one says this in the reviews, it was based on these reviews that I bought the camera, today knowing this problem, I wouldn't buy the ZF.
@@bsc001 I reported it a long time ago, all my friends with Nikon ZF also report it and so far nothing. It turns out that the problem is global. I was going to buy another ZF, but I'll refrain for now
I don't know if it's just a short😢 inconvenience, I've had the Nikon ZF since its launch and it's been a few months now😢
How do you feel about EVFs? Before the Z9 and Z8 came out, every year or two I would go to camera stores and play with the latest digital cameras but was never happy with the EVFs - actually, I hated them compared to OVFs. I stopped checking them out, and I have not seen the Z9 and Z8 but have heard that their EVFs are the closest thing you'll get to an OVF. So I'm still with Nikon SLRs and DSLRs (and Leica rangefinders). Anyways, just wondered what your take is on EVFs vs OVFs.
I hate them in general but like the feature they offer. On the Sony A7RV I don’t even think about it for the first time. It doesn’t bother me compared to others before it.
Very good review, thank you. The army of reviews on this camera did help me make the decision to buy the camera, thank you you tube. I am older than dirt and have a hard time squinting at a flippy screen and diving into menus every time I want to change something is a drag. I really like having the controls on the top plate. When things are going to be happening fast I do have a couple of auto focus lenses but for the most part I shoot with a trinity of Voigtlander Ultrons because I like small and light. I shoot with auto iso turned on and when I need a different exposure the compensation dial is right there on top and muscle memory takes over.. I might be old but I still like night clubs and women and this camera fills the bill for video and stills in dark smokey places. The people who complain about things on this camera where never engineers and are just looking for something to bitch about so they can have some content for their video. Thanks again for the posit ivity. The menu system on this camera is deep and complete, you have to spend some time with it to get it all in your head, a one day review has to be b.s.
One thing I've been trying to know is how the autofocus performs in low light (as in street portraits just after sunset using street lamps for light, for example). Any opinions on it are apreciated.
Thanks for the video. I was waiting for the Z6 iii but turns out the Zf is very likely my next camera.
Thank you for sharing your wisdom. Interesting......................I am not sure that real professional photographers talking sensibly about cameras that they use to earn a living will ever catch on, on You Tube, mind! My best wishes to you from West Wales.
The Zf is too expensive for me currently. I still really like my D3s & D3x - they were pretty cheap, but despite that, they are great. 😀
Shot all my pro sports on the D3s and they are amazing
What’s your feeling about the 28 mm 2.8 plastic lens ?? The only thing I don’t like about the full frame system is the lack of portable small lenses I also don’t feel like carrying heavy long lenses
You’ll be happy with both the 28 and the 40. 100% plastic but they deliver.
Love this video! Finally, some common sense! Well done.
Thank you
Very enjoyable video, I am an amateur, and am gettig my Zf in a few days. I got a Z7ii but wanted a good low-light performer, and better autofocus for the kids, they are fast movers! After watching a few "youtubers" I almost got discouraged about this camera, people critisizing the layout, the grip, bla bla bla, I was now looking at the Z6iii, which I am sure is great, but this morning I just could not shake that feeling that this camera is something special, it has soul, and those reviews are made by people that rarely take time to learn how to use a tool, they just compare, live with a camera for 3 days, produce a review, and go on to the next. I think some cameras are instant classics, and the Zf sure feels like it. I am in love before meeting it lol, but hey, thank you for the review, and I am sure I will enjoy it for years to come.
FYI there is a converter so you can use your Leica lenses with and without auto focus on the market . The Nikon ZF looks amazing.
Great video and totally agree with your comments. A camera is a tool for the job and some tools are not perfect but do the job as designed for.
I have my FE and FM since new 1981-82 plus other nikon cameras along the way incl D700, I am used to handling these no frills cameras and the Zf is built on the same foundation aesthetically with very powerful features.
I don't have one yet but will be buying one soon with probably a small range zoom. I don't do professional work anymore, just hobby.
Cheers
Thank you for a pragmatic review from a pro photographer. 👏
The f1.8 Z-primes are fantastic. The may look a bit plasticy, but the IQ is great. I’m not a typical ‘zoom-guy’, but the 24-120 Z is simply the best in class imo. At 20% of the price it is 95% of the 24-90 SL. I’ve used the Z-system, before moving to the SL2 and now SL3. Mostly for studio work, so I didn’t mind the size of the APO-SLs. From all the mirrorless systems, the Z is right up there with the SL and to me far more appealing than Canon or Sony. Just personal preference.
Im thinking in buying another Zf, still building portfolio and investing slowly into photography. For events I need a second body (just in case), and think rocking 2 Zf's is more than enough both in quality and style. Love mine, but still think the yellow/green cast on people skin in portraits is still something I need to learn to go around. Maybe adjusting hue and WB colours.
Maybe do a factory reset just in case. I’m not seeing this in skin tones. But I think two of these bodies would be great for your use. And yes, a backup is imperative for paid jobs.
@@kaskoPhoto that is actually a great idea. Let me try resetting it. From what I have been reading it seems Nikon pulls yellow and green overall while canon does reds and orange, but again it may be the environment where I have been shooting
Have you tried any old AI-S lenses on the ZF? I have an old 105 f2.5 that I use on my z6ii. IBIS and focus peeking give new life to old classics...
I have not. I am using my M glass on it all the time though.
Try and use the TECHART TZM-02 New Version Auto Focus Adapter Compatible for Leica M Lens to NIK0N Z Mount and you will be able to use all of your M mount lines on it with auto focus! I am currently saving up for it right now. What I am using today on my Zf is the AkIROOD LM-Z-S adapter. With this adapter I can mount all of my voigtlander lenses. And I love it! This particular adapter allows me to focus extremely close as well. Thus making my wedding kit extremely lightweight. Hope this helps.
Well the techart is ok… not that it doesn’t work, but I can manually focus faster. So I have a shinny new one for sale 😂
Really appreciate your being tactful and honest at the same time. Enjoying your videos, always. Photography is a hobby for me, been with Nikon for about 12 years, but got my hands on a tiny m4/3 Olympus and it revived my interest and passion and actually taught me a few things about my larger Nikon bodies and lenses, which I rarely take out these days, but Im so much more aware of what Im doing when I do, all because of a lightweight compact camera and lenses which are always in my car these days.
I seriously am dying to try one of the Olympus OM 1s or OM System now. I don’t mind the M4/3 format at all - I think the lenses that they have are spectacular in both quality and size.
@@kaskoPhoto You can pick up an E-M5II for relatively peanuts these days, and it's an excellent, well built introduction to the format. I've still got my original E-M5 and it's perfect for shooting bicycles for sale in my shop, and for eBay auction item photos. Just enough depth of field to be useful, but not flat like a phone. Also a little bit smaller JPEGs which works out great for the internet. It's WR is also excellent (ask me how I know, living in the PNW) and it's survived a few good size crashes off my bike. Solid gear.
Hi John, Thanks for a great video. I'm a professional photographer in the Netherlands and I used Nikon since day 1. When mirrorless cameras came out, I switched to Fujifilm, which is a great system, great (metal) lenses with aperture rings, nice and old school. Only downside was bad autofocus.
Then the Zf came out; I doubted for a while but bought it after all, reading and hearing that the autofocus is very very good. Well... it is, but...
When I shoot in the studio, the viewfinder is in "ease of view" mode of course, otherwise the viewfinder is dark. Full manual mode with aperture and shutter speed and iso set. Flash through a generic trigger, nothing dedicated. At that point, the autofocus is having a very hard time focussing! It seems like at aperture F8 or F5.6 the aperture really closes which makes it harder for the camera to get enough light to focus! Even my Fujifilm X-T2 focusses better during such set-up in the studio. What am I doing wrong? I can't always use open aperture.... but when I stop down, the autofocus lacks.. It must be a setting I'm sure! Do you know it? (or anyone reading this)
Thanks in advance! Wim
This is interesting. I’m looking to upgrade from the xt2 as well and your comment has me worried. I primarily shoot school band photos at a fast pace, so focus is very important to get through 300 kids extremely fast. The xt2 has been a pain in getting in focus shots over the years. Did you ever figure out the issue with your camera?
I have the Z-mount 28mm, 50mm, and 85mm. When I ordered the 28mm, I actually looked into switching it to a metal lens mount, and found that the one for the 50mm f1,8 will fit. However, after using the 28mm for a while, I figured that I would probably never wear out that plastic lens mount. Also, I have used Leica M lenses through a Z2M adapter, and they work quite well, especially the 90mm f2,8 Elmarit.
I do love the adapted M glass on the ZF but I really wanted to try the Voigtlander Z glass - as they say it is optimized for the sensor. I’ll be trying the 50mm f/1 and the 40mm f/1.2 this week.
Still using my Z7. The Zf is an attractive camera. Have not seen many comparisons of the two sensors.
I still currently use the D810 for work but taking it out for my own photography of family is not always practical. I was thinking about one of these just for my own personal photography and I am finding it hard to get a brand new laowa 100mm macro of the f mount. I can get one easily on the z and I can still grab an adapter to use my old lenses.
I call it 'hyper consumerism'.... Oscar Wilde is credited with the quote “The cynic knows the price of everything and the value of nothing.” It's a fantastic camera and there is nothing like it.
I think there's hardly any need to use more than 24Mp unsless you need to crop a lot. Also for professional work. I know fashion photographer that does almost everything on a Z6II.
I was out the other day with the ZF and small rig grip. My lens was the 135mm Plena. I found co-incidentally during the time that I was holding this combo with the old 2 or 3 fingers only around the grip. It was very easy to carry. The Plena is not a huge superzoom but they are hard to handle on any camera body. If the smallrig grip was just a little deeper it would be perfect.
Great video. I'm a hobbyist who mostly does landscape and nightscape photography so most of the complaints about this camera were simply redundant.
The real drawback of this camera is the lack of a remote shutter connection port, which I was quite bummed about but learned to accept.
I can understand that completely. This is more of a question, cause I honestly don’t know. Does the camera offer any kind of Bluetooth remote firing? or is it cumbersome option of opening the app on the phone? And I do honestly think that would be more cumbersome than just a remote cord from the old days.
@@kaskoPhoto Yes, there is a Bluetooth remote by Nikon and other third parties, but the problem is that it only provides a shutter release button, and doesn’t offer the same level of customisation like a Hahnel remote does, for example.
@@quincylee2276 thank you for the info. That is one of those hurdles that makes it tough
@@kaskoPhoto cheers, it’s still an excellent camera for everything else though, as you would know. Thanks for the chat!
If aesthetic isn't a priority for you, will you get the Z6III which has better grip and EVF and just stick a small lens on it? If I want to get the Nikon 28-400mm, is it one of those big lenses you mentioned? Do you use the dedicated shutter and ISO dials, or just end up just use the front and rear dials more which means the Z6III will make more sense? Also what camera and lenses you carry or you just use phone while travel and everyday hangout and situations?
I shoot for fun, art, contest and gig if possible tho I haven't done yet, my plan is to get that lens with Zf ith the 28-400mm and a Sony Xperia 1 VI phone (26,24,48,85-170, 2X macro) to be always with me waterproof and macro camera, down the line I might get the 14-30 and Voigtländer 50mm F1 if I want to maximize what I can get from wider shots and also when I need boleh which is rare time but that manual lens and aesthetic of the lens is nice!
No. Honestly I think it’s going to be an amazing camera for so many people and such a good choice for hybrid work… but I am leaning more towards small, more mobile systems now. I would have been really excited for some of the cameras today when I was shooting pro sports. I use the Leica M11 and the Fuji cameras most for travel fun. And I use the Leica Fuji for my pro jobs as well. When I need the zooms and reach - OM-1
i really like my Zf but as compared to my D850 the lack of accessible functions slows me down which is why I wanted the Zf. These two cameras compliment each other very well for this reason. I like the Zf for studio work and walk around/travel. For fast action, BIF and sports I absolutely pick up my D850. Slowly but surely my Zf is replacing my F2, F3 and F5 and it's saving me money in the long run. I picked up the Voigtlander 40mm 1.2Z and it's awesome on the Zf!
I do want to try at least one Native Z mount Voigtlander lens. But really do love the adapted M lenses on it.
@@kaskoPhoto Which adapter are you using? Been using the ttartisan `6 bit`, to at least get a little exif data. Been pretty decent so far.
As for native z, thinking of trying that voigtlander 75 1.5 that is coming out next week. Don't have it on m, and the size might be a really good match for the zf.
I am using the Urth dumb adapter and that TechArt autofocus (for fun)
Great video and nice with some refreshing thoughts.
I am a pro photographer as well, and I have a Hsssy x2D and a Leica M10. I am considering switching the M10 with the Nikon Zf. I love to shoot with the 50mm and I never liked shooting it on the M. The SL I loved, but it is big and bulky. Looking for a travel camera for personal work mainly with a 50mm on it. Leica files are so beautiful and I am scared to lose that quality/feel. How does the Nikon files "feel" compared to the Leica? I know Sony a7cii would be a good choice for what I want, but Sony files are not so... Fuji is only aps-c. So, Nikon Zf or Leica M?
For natural lite I love the Nikon files - flash, not so much. But the ZF is an amazing camera.
Should I go with the Nikon 40 f2 or the voigt 40 1.2?
I love the 40 1.2. But the lightweight and autofocus on the 40 f/2 works well
Is there a general purpose zoom (28-75) for this camera that has an aperture ring on the lense?
It’s great to hear voice of reason from an actual pro.
Size and weight is the big thing for me as a non professional. I had the Lumix S5 and as amazing as it is, it’s still too big for my use cases. How does the ZF feel compared to a Leica M as I have an M8/M9M so very accustomed to those (and yes - the 24MP is way more than enough for me when I’m regularly making “keepers” from 10MP and 18MP)
I can't afford a Leica so I got a Zf instead. Everything manual, spot metering. I can't put it down. So much fun. I agree that this camera will be a huge success and the foundation for a great new line for Nikon. Do you think they will bring out a rangefinder style one day?
I don’t think that will happen as much as I would like it to. But then they have surprised us before.
Well said, many of these influencers are just making comments to boost views, they are not necessarily subject matter experts in photography. I have 3 Leica Ms and I have the ZF as well, at times you just want a good autofocus in a small package.
So many M users are using the ZF. It really does have a nice following across all brands.
I just did a commercial job for Gibson guitars and used my Fujifilm GFX100/2 with a GF110T/S came out amazing. For other work I use my Nikon Zf ❤
If you don’t mind commenting on the plastic lenses, what is the quality of the glass, did they compromise there also? Thank you👍
Honestly they aren’t bad at all. I mean it’s not the quality of the S line but without major pixel peeping you probably can’t tell a difference
John - do you still use your 6ii? Because of the crappy flip around screen on the ZF, I never considered it. I know Nikon have a new 6iii coming soon, and whispers have it that it still has that crappy screen. With the Z 8 and 9 being far too huge and expensive, I have resigned myself to the fact that I will be using my two 6ii's for a long time. I shot a huge professional event recently, (National Dragon Boat races here in Perth, Australia). There were over a thousand people there and there were moving boats, lots of images of people etc moving, I took over 2K images for the day and there would have only been around ten where I missed focus. The company I contracted to for the day were delighted with the images and are still raving about them. It is a shame that many people have written off the 6ii as too old, or the focus too terrible - but as you say, if you know your camera very well and get used to it, you can really make it work. The 6ii is now on run out discounted prices and I think is very good value. What is your take on all of this John?
We are so spoiled with photography these days. We have lots of choices and cameras have been good since 2010 ish (at least for photography, can't speak for video).
The Nikon Z f is just great. I know it’s subjective, but I just “feel” this camera. Just a couple of seconds and I forget I have a camera in my hands. If you do BIF or have another need for telephoto lenses, then this is not the body for you. Otherwise it’s just like every other pro body.
Funny thing, I also use it when I can’t use the M11 / MP, mostly when I need AF.
I also don’t get the internet drama about the Z f 😉
It’s a great companion to the M11 system
I like mine. The only gripe I have using it to take several thousand exposures in just a few months is the auto iso interaction with the dial. I just want the dial to override it. I know I know, but probably my most used lens after the 28 is the 105 VR macro and while I love it, I find auto-iso really useful for out in the world handheld macro. Re lenses I have the 28, 40, 50/1.8 and 105. All are great in their own way I feel. But I do want an improved 28mm that isn't plastic. A 28/2.0 in a reasonable size that checks all those S boxes would have me throwing down my credit card in seconds.
Have you thought about trying Sony lenses on it? I use only Sony lenses on mine for professional work and they work as good as native (aside from if there's more than one button on the lens, all the buttons do the same thing). I'm using the 24 2.8 G, the 40 2.5 G, and the Sigma 90 2.8 DCDN and they look great, have aperture rings (!), and are sharp, gorgeous and Capture One corrects them just fine.
When learning to speak a new language-in my case Nikon vs Fuji X-you're bound to have a few problems. I don't think a lot of the TH-camrs get that. Meanwhile, I was always happy with the image quality of my X-Trans III cameras (yeah-bring it, haters) but 2018 mid-pack autofocus was becoming increasingly difficult to work with/around. Yet I wanted to stick with dials, was lukewarm on 40mp, and I didn't see the 5th gen Fuji AF as being full frame territory money level of upgrade. Sony has always left me cold, and Canon-lovely though it is-is expensive unless you adapt, and kinda not my speed for controls.
Enter the Zf. I came up shooting film, so like my X-H1 before it, the Zf felt natural. I don't even need a grip, although I did buy a leather half case which bulked it up a bit, because DUH you hold a long lens with your left hand. The dials turn backwards from my old system, but that's easy to get used to-and wow does the autofocus understand its assignment. 3D tracking works a treat, and people detect seems to make it even better. I'm now shooting 200 fewer images of a concert on a given night, because I know they're in focus and usually I don't have to try very hard to achieve that. The term 'game changer' is overused, but it really applies in this case. I'm keeping an X-H1 for the 50-140mm f2.8 long end (vs $2500 to replace it in Z glass).. and that shutter pop.
The Zf makes my job easier.
The Tamron 70-180 would solve your long glass at a very reasonable price
Enjoyed the video. Refreshing to hear what you said as an (amateur) Zf user.
Great video. Saw you for the first time today. Great!
Thank you for watching and the comment. Much appreciated.
I usually shoot with the back screen on my z6ii because the viewfinder doesn't show shadows correctly, they seem brighter than they should. And about custom buttons, I use a lot of functions like the subject tracking box, changing the AF mode with a button press and dial turn, switching from mechanical shutter to electronic shutter, and I actually ran out of function buttons and would like to use the depth of field preview as a function button because it actually lets you preview the active d lighting which is useful if you shoot jpegs because for some reason the camera doesn't show the effects of active d lighting in live view unless you use the depth of field preview, I love function buttons because they make things more convenient and I don't have to go in menus as much.
Thanks for your input. I will actually try that with active D since I never have.
Love my ZF, I use it with my S 1.8 primes and zooms when I want autofocus or I put my Voigtlanders on and manual focus is a breeze. I will say that the handling is better on my Z8 but when I'm using either I don't really pay any attention to what I'm using.
Great video, just subbed. I am also really enjoying ZF, I like the 26, with metal mount. Also looking at that new 16 from Viltrox
I just saw that 26! That looks very interesting to me
I can’t seem to decide on the ZF Or the on sale Z7II. I do mostly family photography and couples. Maybe a 2nd shooter wedding. I enjoy the higher resolution too from the Z7II. What do you think? Should I buy the ZF instead?
The Z7 II is an absolutely amazing camera. And I’m perfectly good with the focus speed on that body. And if you are shooting it for a long wedding, it is very comfortable to hold. You will not be sorry with the Z7 II
@@kaskoPhoto Thank you. I value your opinion greatly. Im thinking the same. I luv my XT3....But the AF is just ok.
The Fuji is super fun to use. But the hype is bad now. I don’t trust AF in my X3. I shot a wedding once and it failed miserably. Or I failed or both! 🤔
I've been a Nikon photographer for 40 years and own both, the Z 7II for a year and a half, the Z f for 2 months. Emotionally, the Z f is my absolute favorite. It's as solidly built as the cameras were back then and it's just fun to use and experiment with, especially with my beautiful old Nikkors from the eighties and the new, small Voigtländer lenses for the M mount. I also prefer the Z f when photographing people, because of the much better eye autofocus, then with the great Z lenses. I use the Z 7II for architecture, landscape and travel, because of the higher resolution and the ability to remove falling lines with less loss. It is lighter and smaller, feels better in the hand than the Z f with grip. But to be honest, I've already thought about selling the Z 7II and perhaps buying one or two other lens treasures. - That's the beauty of being an amateur photographer, you don't have to act logically. 😉
@@alebo62 well if you haven’t tried it yet, may I suggest the Nikon 105 f/2.5 ai - such a beautiful rendering lens.
may I ask which grip you have on your zf?
Thanks for a great and honest review.
Brilliant review thank you.
I agree with this. Been using the Zf alongside my M cameras and my older Nikon film bodies. It is the camera I most go for when I have the choice. If this is the modern Df, then I hope Nikon does an update more frequently, LOL The autofocus is literally MORE than is necessary. I long for a line of small Z lenses with apertures. I was considering the Voigtlander APO 50 for Z mount, as I prefer the smallest possible M lenses for my M camera. I’d be interested if you get your hands on a tester of that lens to see how it performs natively on the Z rather than adapted from M to Z. Thanks for the straight talk!
I would love a line of new Z lenses with apertures
Awesome, thank you for this video.
So Glad to come across this video!!!! I'm sure most consumers like me would like to hear a true honest opinion & assessment from the specialist / pro / the guy in the field doing the work instead of pretentious TH-camr so called Photographer wannabe who nitpicked, biased & pixel peeper. I'm one of the viewers who in the midst of buying this 𝑵𝒊𝒌𝒐𝒏 𝒁𝒇 and need the neutral opinion of this model.
Fully agreed when you said "𝐢𝐟 𝐢𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐚 𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭 𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐠𝐞 , 𝐢𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐚 𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭 𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐠𝐞" without a doubt , "learning how to use your camera" and I do love when you said "𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒊𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒄𝒂𝒏'𝒕 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒌 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒄𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒆 𝒂 𝒃𝒆𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒊𝒇𝒖𝒍 𝒊𝒎𝒂𝒈𝒆𝒔 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒊𝒕 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒏 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒄𝒆𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝒒𝒖𝒊𝒓𝒌𝒔 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒚𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒎, 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒇𝒊𝒏𝒅 𝒂𝒏𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒋𝒐𝒃" 🤣. Thank you for your Video!
It's an awesome camera in daylight. But in low light, it lags, when focusing. I encounterd this problem at my first event with it, at the venue. It is very annoying if you use it as the main camera. More exactly, in af-c, with any settings and energy saving off, original battery. For z9 you have the d22 setting, for zf you don't. I updated to 1.2 and the problem continues.
I don’t think anyone has expectations of this keeping up with the Z9 or the Z8 for that matter- definitely two separate leagues of cameras.
@@kaskoPhoto Not keeping up, but not to lag. Two different things. I said that Z8/Z9 have an option to get rid of this problem.
I love my D850, it is more camera than I will EVER need. That being said, I have bad G.A.S. so I also have M cameras, TLR's A Hassy as well as Fuji and the Z5. To quote Hugh "hold that thought" I really like the ZF and the way it handles manual focus lenses.... So I may get one....
Have the same issue with lag in VF/screen while taking longer exposures! Nothing like that happened with Z6, other than that camera is great
Most youtubers only do reviews. It's really rare to see them talk about art.
After a while any reviewer become a nitpicker. Especially when most cameras got killer specs but they still need to create content.
Fair point
How would you think about switching from a7iii to ZF?
I think it’s an upgrade but I think you need to try before you buy. There are some differences you may not like. I shot Sony for many years and it has a feel that is much different. And you really have to love using your camera. Maybe rent one or go to a store and get it in hand.
Had a Zf and sold it. Still have the 28mm and 40mm, need to unload those too. I never got along with it not having an aperture dial. Not all the cameras fault, but the systems fault I guess, and didn't want to put on an adapter to make it work. But it can take nice images.
Voigtländer has native z-mount MF lenses with an aperture ring.
When people talk about retro they sometimes conflate the styling aspect of it and the user interface aspect of it. The frustration at least some of us have with the Zf is *not* that the lenses dom't have retro styling, but they lack aperture control on the lens. I have no nostalgia for that era, I simply find the PASM-less UI to be more understandable and efficient. When Sony, Panasonic and Sigma have lenses with aperture rings on them it's clear it's not about retro. (If anything I personally think the Nikon SE lenes look much worse than they non SE counter parts).
Why do I like this user interface? Many reasons, but among them is that I can my pointing finger for the trigger, my thumb for the compensation wheel and my left hand for aperture. That said, allowing you to customize the lens ring for aperture does bring you pretty close to my ideal setup.
I'm not a pro so my main barrier is price (not that it's expensive for what it is). If I was a pro the Zf would be top of my list of cameras to consider. To me it seems like the clear winner as the best autofocusing full frame camera.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, always interesting to hear from a true photo pro. You also explain things really well!
Thank you, and thank you for your perspective as well.
I'm a pro photographer, I have 4 Nikon Z5 (I had also a Z6II but I sold it when the last firmware update of the Z5 came out). The only thing it lacks is a very reliable AF. But I still could'nt do without a very good grip (like a Z5 with the Smallrig grip) to hold something like the 24-120 f4 Z. Super happy with the 24-120, 50 1.8 Z and the 26 mm 2.8 pancake as a base kit.
I will definitely be trying that 26 mm soon
@@kaskoPhoto at first I bought the 28 mm 2.8 Z, but I found that little 26mm was way better optically. The AF is louder and a bit slower but for photos it's fine
@@bobjohnson9354 thank you. I’ll be trying it for sure.
My dream is the Leica but even though I can buy one I just can't justify the cost. I am not a wealthy but have saved and for a while been looking to find a fair priced (by fair, I mean reasonable) used one and still cannot justify the cost (I can buy two cameras, and a lens for the cost of a used body). Nikon was something I used in highschool and owned fuji but now been looking at the zf and think there is a lot of value. I will forever want a Leica but in the end I have to remind myself that it is a tool and you can create amazing things with any of the brands.
I understand that TH-camrs like to recommend cameras and scoff at amateurs and semi-professionals who don't possess the latest gear, but however good the Zf is it requires a set of new lenses that I couldn't afford and don't need. My D800 still takes great photos using all my F lenses and I have other camera systems that work fine despite not having the latest gizmos, just manual controls that let me decide how I want an image to look. And yes, some are still film cameras.
Get a FTZ II adapter, and run most of your f-GLWS on the Zf. That’s what I do, it works wonderfully well. Ok, old AF-D’s are MF only on the Zf, but still a wonderful experience.
The thing that blows me away about My Zf is the low light sensitivity. Far better than any other camera I have ever used. ISO 32,000 is very useable, 64,000 is not (huge difference). If I could change it I would have a tilt screen and not a flippy screen. Number one irritation by far. And I would like to have the dirlled and tapped shutter button actually work with a retro cable release. In what world do you need bluetooth to operate a retro camera? I am waiting to see if the Z6iii is bigger, has a flippy screen, requires bluetooth for remote shutter release. I suspect I will
keep the Zf. The Z6ii might be 33 MP and lose the low light sensitivity that makes the Zf special.
Try the Fuji XT-5…
I agree with your take on this camera but I love the tilting screen because I take pictures close to the ground and nealing is better than liying on the ground. I don't care if my lens doesn't match the camera it's all about the pic's.😀
The Zf has a lot more to offer than “retro” styling - I dislike that description.
I’ve got a very similar setup for the system 28/40SE, 35/50/85 f/1.8 and 24-70/4 for GP zoom - last but not least a CV 40/1.4 ❤
Now I only want a CV 28mm pancake and short tele.
I enjoy using the Zf, it makes me smile every time I use it (doesn’t mean I have no negative comments).
Note I am an enthusiast, not a pro.
The camera has an undervalued aspect. Durability. It passes the clunk against the table by accident test. This is not negligeable for everday carry around and being tough in the field. Most cameras are plastic and fragile electronics today. It's a problem. The only real issue I see with the ZF is related to video work. Rolling shutter is bad, like 10 years behind bad. Which is a shame.
LOL you have to hold it out to shoot. Seriously though. I will love the next gen. I don't need anything more than exactly how this is except a better evf say 5.x or more and 120 refresh!! I am use to looking through M rangefinders and kinda hard to break that 34 year habit but like you would like to have an auto option or a FF sensor in my Xpros. HA! love the old school grumpy vibe on the cool kids.