Same experience with the Zf. Got it last fall, satisfying some FOMO lol... figured I'd get it out of my system and send back... well here we are 8 months later and the Zf has become my go-to daily carry. Low light files are the cleanest I've seen, rarely need to de-noise in post. Amazing.
With the IBIS, and low-light sensitivity, if you set into B&W mode, you can practically use this camera as a night vision scope. It's amazing, just the tiniest bit of ambient light, and you can see all sorts of wildlife late at night.
@@Quidisinot really. If it had real B&W sensor (without color filters), it would be multiple times more sensitive to light and resolution would quadruple. Even in bright day it would have much quicker AF and shorter shutter speed.
I've been a Fuji shooter for 4 years, and I've been eyeing this zf since the release. I think you convinced me to switch,lol. The autofocus is much better and i have a lot of old nikkor lenses and it's fits well with this camera. Thanks for sharing.
I am a person with large hands. Moving from a D3 to a Z50 w/ Z24-70 |2.8S I learned to handle my equipment differently. my left hand is now the controlling hand to support camera and lens combination. My right hand does the firing. The right hands only lightly grips the camera and stabilizes. This change seems subtle but iin fact has changed how I run my kit. No more hand fatigue. I use this technique also on my Fuji XPro 3. because of the compact size of the cameras the wight shifts to the left hand while the right stabilizes and fires the camera. Winning !
Exactly. I e been using this technique since my film camera days. Even with the Canon R5 which has a decent grip, why would anyone use it one handed is beyond me. (Well unless you’re missing a hand in which case good on you 👍)
Nice review, I agree with you as it relates to the ergonomics of the camera but it’s easily fixed with a handgrip. I prefer the Neewer handgrip over the Small Rig one. The Neewer grip feels better in the hand and matches the aesthetics of the camera with the red stripe on it. That said, I’m a long-time Fujifilm shooter and this camera in every way reminds me of the X-T line of cameras from Fujifilm only better. I have three kits consisting of the Leica M10-R, LUMIX S5II, and the Nikon Zf. I own the Fujifilm X-Pro3 as well but my love for that camera is an addiction so I don’t shoot it much anymore because if I pick it up I won’t pick up any other cameras for street, travel, and photojournalism. 😅 That said, I’m 99.9% a photographer first and I added the Zf to my kit as a photography camera. I didn’t and don’t care at all about the video features. I wish Nikon had left them out and made this camera strictly a photo centric camera. If I want video, the LUMIX S5II is the best in the game for the price point which is why it’s a part of my kit. Until the Zf, I never shot a Nikon camera especially not one of the mirrorless cameras. I’m beyond impressed with what they accomplished with this first Zf out the gate. Like you, I use vintage lenses on the Zf. My lenses of choice are the Minolta ROKKOR line of lenses, the 28mm f2.8, 45mm f2, 50mm f2, and the 50mm f1.7. The ability to use face and eye detect with manual focusing lenses is a cheat code to the highest order and no other camera manufacturer has that ability to date. Along with my Minolta lenses, I use Voigtlander M glass which I share on all of my kits. Namely, the 28mm f2 Ultron ASPH MkII, 35mm f2 APO, 50mm f2 APO, and the 90mm f2.8 APO. The only autofocus NIKKOR lenses I own is the 24-120mm f4 S, which is a fantastic lens for this camera. I use it for events all the time and even some portrait work when I’m not shooting with a manual lens. I can only see this camera getting better with firmware updates and look forward to seeing what Nikon does with the Mark II of this camera. It is my hope they make it more photo centric and less of a hybrid camera. Every camera doesn’t have to include video, Leica understands that and I’m hoping Nikon gets the memo as well. Keep shooting mate.
Nikon has already released a photo-centric camera - Nikon Df and was a complete failure. It’s good that the company’s marketers analyzed the needs of the market and the company’s management worked on the mistakes and released Nikon Z F with amazing photos and decent video capabilities.
@@apostraffstudio the Df was a flop because it was a hideous camera and too big for street and travel. Not to mention, this Zf is simply stunning to look at. Photo centric cameras are not a thing of the past. I wish the Zf didn’t have any video capabilities and had a tilting not a flip out screen. I will never use mine as a video centric or hybrid camera. That’s what my LUMIX S5II is for. What I hope to see in the Mark II of this camera is better ergonomics for holding the camera. Even the grip that Nikon created, which you have to order from Japan, is awful. Not sure what the designers were thinking about. Whereas the Newer grip matches the Zf aesthetically with the vertical red stripe on it. Hell, I’d like to see Canon release a digital rangefinder version of the Canon P with the same retro styling and make it a photo centric camera only. Imagine that.
@@apostraffstudioThe failure of the DF had nothing to do with the lack of a video feature. The problem with the DF was that it was trying to please everyone in the process pleasing no one; plus it’s unnecessarily bloated body.
I've been using the Zf professionally since Oct'23 (6 months) taking architectural and portrait photos. I have had good results with it. Great quality images, no complaints! For my work, if it had a little more resolution, it would be welcome. I also would like the camera screen to be tiltable (like on the Sony A9 - 4-Axis Tilting). I know that you can program buttons in this camera, but I would appreciate, if it had some dedicated buttons on camera body for quick adjustments, e.g.: Bracketing button, Button to change the AF type, Camera settings U1, U2. In any case, the camera is excellent and worth every penny!
There’s two key points you got wrong. 1. You are supposed to hold the camera like a SLR camera not like a DSLR or Mirrorless camera (while using without the grip). * I’m actually using the camera without the grip and once you get the hang of it’s comfortable and you can shoot a long time too. 2. I agree, a joystick would have been nice but ZF offers something different witch matches the asthmatic of the camera. While shooting, look through the View Finder (not the lcd display) and when you do toggle your thumb on the display, you’ll see that the display is now your joystick and it’s way smoother. ** please try these two points and you will see the difference yourself. By the way, here’s an spoiler, it will make the shooting process more fun.
I agree that is a workaround but I don't like that it is the solution. I personally almost never have the LCD screen flipped out and don't want my grubby nose and face running all over the LCD lol.
@@derekdaniel9839 absolutely. I love that there is the option to use the LCD as a sort of focus joystick, but the screen being out like that gives me anxiety lol. Everytime I flip it out, the way I handle the camera changes to be much more cognizant of the screen. Idk if that is good or bad though. Probably destroy the screen when it's closed against the body due to this false sense of confidence that it is completely fine as a swing it around my body lol
Regarding #2 - Where in the menu can I set up this functionality? Mine does not do this although I am also wondering does this work with every focusing mode that has a point or just single, wide s/l?
Great review -- this camera is very useful. I use it for street and travel photography and it does a phenomenal job, particularly for candid, quick, and unobtrusive street portraits. Yes, the Z9 has better autofocus for such things as fast moving animals and birds but not by a whole lot considering what a Z9 costs. It has to be said though that using a large prime lens with the Z9 is much easier to do because of the generally higher performance of the Z9 and the much more comfortable grip. The Small Rig grip for the Zf, or the Neweer one, is highly recommended. I see this camera as a tool that will open up a lot of exploration of different lenses and styles of photography. While serious wildlife photographers will likely prefer a Z8, Z9, or even the new Z6 Mk 3, for a hobbyist or occasional wildlife shooter, this camera would be enough. For street and travel, it is perfect. Even for from-the-hip, zone shooting, the autofocus of the Zf is very reliable.
Thank you. True even at a starting price the ZF is a content creator camera. If not a Z30 or ZFc do really well. I do agree Z9 is definitely better overall but it is almost $6000 after taxes. Firmware updates can definitely improve the ZF.
Nice video . for outdoor walks, street and portraits of my little daughter, what do you recommend on Nikon Z f? tamron 28-75mm f2.8 di iii vxd g2 or Nikkor z 24-120 f4 s
Great review mate. I'm no pro , as I have a Nikon 5500. For years I have wanted to spoil my self with a mad Nikon ... Love the style of the Zf , is it great for landscape and long exposer on like waters falls ?
Re the grip, I don't personally agree the camera is bad in general. I do agree it's bad with big Z lenses or larger/heavier adapted lenses (which messes with the balance and probably requires you to grip it harder due to lenses having some nose dive which torques your hand). This was also true of cameras like the F3/FM2. For those situations, absolutely put a grip on if you need to have the camera in your hands all the time. Using the 26/28/40 lenses you can just drape it around your neck and it's light enough to just carry around like that and bring up when you need it. I think the camera has been bought by a lot of professionals because of how good the value proposition is at 2K, but I don't think that was really the target market. Hopefully Nikon releases some more small lenses. FWIW I have been enjoying the 105 macro on the Zf, which is quite a large lens and I tend to carry it by the lens, not the body.
I originally had the Z6 and the Z fc before selling and moving to the zf . The only thing I didn’t like is it didn’t have a XQD slot, so now have XQD card I cannot use . My Godox flashes worked fine in ITTL and manual on my old mirrorless cameras , but now I have the zf they will not work in ITTL only manual. Some of my non Nikon branded batteries that worked fine and I had no trouble with , the camera comes up with a warning and refuses to let me use them. Just give me a yes/no option Nikon . I would have also would have liked a bbf button and an extra programmable button on the front . Apart from those little Nigel’s I love my ZF and is one of the best cameras I have had from Nikon .
Love to see Nikon finally smashing it out of the park. I've used them since 2008. I have wanted to switch soooo many times but the Z system showed promise so I stayed. With the Z8 I'm now all-in Nikon and the Zf really got the best of the Z8 and is an incredible offering. If the Z6iii is announced and is a re-skinned Zf I'll be adding one of these to the kit!
Same I've been a Nikon user since a kid. Had SLR, DSLR and now mirror less cameras. The Z8 is an amazing camera. Enjoy. Hopefully we will hear something soon about the Z6III
I don't know if someone said it already or if you still have the camera but It does have Waveforms. I m not sure under what menu but it does have the option to display it for video
@@eddiecarrascojr thats reassuring to hear cos as an amateur im attempting to take the 'one & done' approach! The zf looks like it's made to last. Thanks for your insight 👍
Subscribed! I'm just a hobby photographer who "tries" to keep a tight budget on spending. I had switched from sony to fujifilm exactly because of the film profiles and the manual controls of the x100v and x-t4. Given that I really enjoy bird photography, this camera's actually functioning auto focus really attracts me. It is one of the most beautiful cameras I've seen, and I agree with all of your points. If I were a professional photographer, this one be a must have expense :D
What's that cooling tower of a lens converter all about? Is that what those things all look like? I have vintage Nikon lenses (28 and 105) and am drawn to this camera partly because I could use them with it. But if the converter is that chunky, I'm maybe not so keen!
If you like the retro look and you are using old manual focus lenses, I’d advise using an adapter that suits the retro styling. There are some nice and affordable adapters that blend in with the retro styling. Of course Cosina Voigtlander produces nice Z mount lenses - the 40mm/1.2 is somewhat affordable and a nice standard prime. Of course there are also various Chinese manufacturers like TTArtisan who make nice full frame manual focus lenses for Z mount.
Thanks for the tip! I recently found an adaptor that matches the retro look and old retro lens as well. Voitlander lens are great but hard to get in stock in the USA.
try more modern 28mm f/2.8 AIS, I was shocked how sharp that lens is even wide open Voigtlander 58mm f/1.4 is also great especially for portraits and Tokina 100mm f/2.8 macro for, well, macro and overall other work is amazing all of these lenses are manual focus except of Tokina but that one requires focusing motor so it's manual focus anyways on modern bodies 😢
I don’t like the PASM switch; the lack of aperture rings on the lens; the goofy “1/3 step” on the shutter dial; the flip-out screen; and the lack of more customizable buttons. If they designed it more like the X-T5 (and had the lenses to boot), I’d buy one in a heartbeat.
Dont forget image quality and autofocus performance. FUJI can't beat the full frame Nikon and the lenses for FUJI are really pricey (for the smaller APS-C image circle).
The Nikon Z5 is another great camera designed for the street. . For $996 (best sale price) and with the almost for free 40mp f2 lens ($277), I am 100% impressed. Nikon is back!!!
I wish there is a cover for the sensor when it's not powered on. It gets dirty too often. Nikon should make a F to Z adapter with screw drive focusing motor and all the AF and AF-D lens owners will be very happy. Crop in 4K/60 is probably sensor px count limitation.
Great review! I disagree about the AF since this is not a camera that most people will or would use for birding, other than that, great review. I love mines too, and wow, can you imagine how good the next iteration would be? Exciting times. For now, we should enjoy the present and not worry about the future, cheers.
I just got a pentax k5, its not crazy high resolution but its still hugher than most consumer fisplays can handle. And well i use it for astronomical stuff where most things are a point source anyway, more resolution juwt makes focusing harder.
I have mine for 2 months now. I never had a camera that was this easy to shoot! Love the autofocus, love the fact I can use my old F lenses and get awesome results, love how easy it is to work with these RAW files, this sensor is awesome in low light. I have a d850 but this is the camera I take with me everywhere. I bought it because I wanted an everyday camera but I didn't check anything before, I went for the looks and got so much more than I was looking for.
This is all great but I will never ditch my D700, D3s, D4, D850 etc.. Besides its capabilities I still prefer the form factor so the size. I like it heavy😊
I do miss the heavy feel of a DSLR, that is why I use my Z9. Sadly with having video and photos as a part of a daily life the DSLRs just aren't enough for me anymore.
Managed to find one. Sadly due to the flange distance from the censor the old F lens stood farther away. This adapter matches the ZF to old F lens the best. www.amazon.com/Fotasy-Adapter-Mirrorless-Camera-NZNK/dp/B003JFRVD2/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?crid=ZLTPC0ZQ5FKU&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.p8qj6SvymyduepJYTfY7qxxtoFMLL0DtLWZejK6GP7lFk2EgHa6VJYU2c3xexQcR_SO5NlwCCIEFgfctE-KAJVacZRmJY0-rWCNW5L1sTVcv86oo5M1MBYzXuq0-S43GRUz7_N7a3EXE6_cxiMP1VU0TnVnA7ex2vpUQpOW_mZACKkk71x4H6zCj6xVxn7NNEFuNqbU-lfw_teGL5VtKsr6TZbqEYfmaIl8kl-YEbTA.656SOo_h1H8LFBH7DsOrob8CphqLkslhaxYOwu_-zCo&dib_tag=se&keywords=nikon+f+to+z+adapter&qid=1718987974&sprefix=nikon+f+to+z+a%2Caps%2C187&sr=8-2-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1
Came over to Zf from Fuji XT5. I love it. I’m totally sold on Nikon now. The camera has its quirks but overall it’s amazing and the images and video are both gorgeous. And I love the dedicated black and white mode, though Fuji has it beat with the built in film sims. Still, glad I went Nikon. The autofocus is far superior to Fuji. Worlds better.
i just want a dedicated aperture ring. otherwise its perfect. i like the shutter thunk... the round eye piece. the voightlander lenses are great with that retro metal shell. if nikon redo the 28 & 40mm pancakes proper retro too... that would be so amazing. The last thing i like about this camera is it looks like an old timer camera. taking it out - people are less intimidated and more candid. i shoot with the screen also folded in. whip out a canon R3 and f2 zoom with speedlight, people clam up. i no longer shoot for work. for me this is a personal camera. low number of shots. each one carefully setup and the joy of setting up the shot. like in the old days on my FM2 when you had 36 chances to make it count.
I have a Zf, a Z8 & a Z9. They do everything, Except, the Zf needs a Firmware upgrade for Bird Subject Detection!!! It’s a wonderful Travel Camera and has many other uses. BUT! I hate to drag around a Z8 or Z9 when traveling or to trade off the Zf for a Z6III just to have Bird Detection! Please Nikon??!!
It's a slight pity that the ‘f’ didn't stand for ‘F’ lenses. While the ‘z’ lenses are absolutely crackerjack wonderful - I wish I could use my old FM2 glass (particularly the 55mm and the 105mm flat field macros). Yes, you can get an adaptor with or without the contacts, but it adds extra length and shifts weight forward. Still, it is a gorgeous camera. I have to agree with you that the grip and the glass option could perhaps be more user-friendly in the next version. Oh! I meant to mention I think the Voigtlander glass and tiny adaptor might solve the ‘z’ lens dilemma.
Voightlander makes native Z mount (no adaptor needed) manual focus lenses with aperture rings that pair perfectly with this camera and fully support EXIF and IBIS. -PD
Tried the ZF-C didn't like it. It's feels like plastic and the grip is terrible. The ZF did fix a lot of issues. Still didn't expect them to release a camera like this.
I'm a Fuji user, I'm kinda baffled about some of the praise of this camera, specially the lens collection that goes with this camera. But I wish other brands made these retro cameras, they are perfect for street photography and to carry around everyday.
I want zf, but i need to invest money in tools for work. Ergonomic of nikon zf looks not so friendly. Big professional lens on this camera not sitting well, also with grip. I don't now... Nikon image quality is great, but i have a Fuji setup and better think is upgrade to X-H2s. More functionality, less price on market in our country. I didn't get the right choice, bouth is great...
@@eddiecarrascojr I think with the Nikon imaging cloud we also get that FUJI preset look. FUJI colors aren't presenting real colors but are pleasant to the eye.
I only don't like the analog dials wich does not work properly... You cant set iso to auto with analog dials... And its very awkward. The same with shutter speed
The reason it stands out from a crowd is that it’s HUGE. Nikon Z mount was designed for lazy lens designers. Big wide mount. Big heavy lenses. Crazy design decisions.
My local ass immediately yelled Carp when ya showed the pic of the bluffs. Rad vid nonetheless, have my eyes set on the ZF or the upcoming Lumix S9 for my end game cam.
I had a GH5 before selling it. It paired nicely with the Z9 and color matching for video was a breeze. Can't go wrong with the S9 I can't like the shape of it personally.
You need a lot more experience actually using cameras before you start reviewing them. Because it's the only way that you will learn how to hold and handle a camera properly. I'm 69 years old and I have no problem at all Holding my Zf. Because when I started shooting with Nikon cameras it was in 1973 when there were no grips at all on any SLR made. That and the Aperture ring on the lens for almost all makers meant that BOTH hands had to be used to hold and manipulate the cameras. You are experiencing pain with holding your Zf because you are holding it improperly. Put your left hand under the lens and your issue will be solved.
I don't get why every reviewer is bitching about the grip of the Zf (facepalm) Just get the f..n accessory and let the rest of us enjoy the camera as is ;P
@eddiecarrascojr . No doubt, Eddie. Some people don't like the Zf. I do. I think it looks cool. I wish it had a silver option. It's low light performance is spectacular and would be a great travel camera for me. I would need an after-market grip to enable the use of larger lenses, such as the Z S 24-120 f4. I'll keep wishing.
As I listened to you 3 minutes into your video, I glanced at your subscribers and thought I'd fine 100k+. You are a real pro - subscribed!
Thank you. Trying my best to make these videos the best they can be.
I did the same thing, phenomenal presentation and arrangement, good job!
same!
Same experience with the Zf. Got it last fall, satisfying some FOMO lol... figured I'd get it out of my system and send back... well here we are 8 months later and the Zf has become my go-to daily carry. Low light files are the cleanest I've seen, rarely need to de-noise in post. Amazing.
Own the Zf for 2 months now. The feature I love most is the ibis.
And low light capability
The ibis on this camera is really good. I don't feel like I need a gimbal.
With the IBIS, and low-light sensitivity, if you set into B&W mode, you can practically use this camera as a night vision scope.
It's amazing, just the tiniest bit of ambient light, and you can see all sorts of wildlife late at night.
SUPER! I was able to shoot at 1/10 😂
@@Quidisinot really. If it had real B&W sensor (without color filters), it would be multiple times more sensitive to light and resolution would quadruple.
Even in bright day it would have much quicker AF and shorter shutter speed.
I've been a Fuji shooter for 4 years, and I've been eyeing this zf since the release. I think you convinced me to switch,lol. The autofocus is much better and i have a lot of old nikkor lenses and it's fits well with this camera. Thanks for sharing.
I am a person with large hands. Moving from a D3 to a Z50 w/ Z24-70 |2.8S I learned to handle my equipment differently. my left hand is now the controlling hand to support camera and lens combination. My right hand does the firing. The right hands only lightly grips the camera and stabilizes. This change seems subtle but iin fact has changed how I run my kit. No more hand fatigue. I use this technique also on my Fuji XPro 3. because of the compact size of the cameras the wight shifts to the left hand while the right stabilizes and fires the camera. Winning
!
This is hiw I used to hold and use my old film camera, Pentagon ME Super
Pentax. Dang spell check!
Exactly. I e been using this technique since my film camera days. Even with the Canon R5 which has a decent grip, why would anyone use it one handed is beyond me. (Well unless you’re missing a hand in which case good on you 👍)
I am left-handed for weight support and resistance. Right-handed for writing and shooting in camera.
Nice review, I agree with you as it relates to the ergonomics of the camera but it’s easily fixed with a handgrip. I prefer the Neewer handgrip over the Small Rig one. The Neewer grip feels better in the hand and matches the aesthetics of the camera with the red stripe on it. That said, I’m a long-time Fujifilm shooter and this camera in every way reminds me of the X-T line of cameras from Fujifilm only better.
I have three kits consisting of the Leica M10-R, LUMIX S5II, and the Nikon Zf. I own the Fujifilm X-Pro3 as well but my love for that camera is an addiction so I don’t shoot it much anymore because if I pick it up I won’t pick up any other cameras for street, travel, and photojournalism. 😅 That said, I’m 99.9% a photographer first and I added the Zf to my kit as a photography camera. I didn’t and don’t care at all about the video features. I wish Nikon had left them out and made this camera strictly a photo centric camera. If I want video, the LUMIX S5II is the best in the game for the price point which is why it’s a part of my kit.
Until the Zf, I never shot a Nikon camera especially not one of the mirrorless cameras. I’m beyond impressed with what they accomplished with this first Zf out the gate. Like you, I use vintage lenses on the Zf. My lenses of choice are the Minolta ROKKOR line of lenses, the 28mm f2.8, 45mm f2, 50mm f2, and the 50mm f1.7. The ability to use face and eye detect with manual focusing lenses is a cheat code to the highest order and no other camera manufacturer has that ability to date.
Along with my Minolta lenses, I use Voigtlander M glass which I share on all of my kits. Namely, the 28mm f2 Ultron ASPH MkII, 35mm f2 APO, 50mm f2 APO, and the 90mm f2.8 APO. The only autofocus NIKKOR lenses I own is the 24-120mm f4 S, which is a fantastic lens for this camera. I use it for events all the time and even some portrait work when I’m not shooting with a manual lens.
I can only see this camera getting better with firmware updates and look forward to seeing what Nikon does with the Mark II of this camera. It is my hope they make it more photo centric and less of a hybrid camera. Every camera doesn’t have to include video, Leica understands that and I’m hoping Nikon gets the memo as well.
Keep shooting mate.
I will have to try the Neewer grip. Still learning how to hold this camera. I'd like to try the wooden custom grips as well.
Nikon has already released a photo-centric camera - Nikon Df and was a complete failure. It’s good that the company’s marketers analyzed the needs of the market and the company’s management worked on the mistakes and released Nikon Z F with amazing photos and decent video capabilities.
@@apostraffstudio the Df was a flop because it was a hideous camera and too big for street and travel. Not to mention, this Zf is simply stunning to look at. Photo centric cameras are not a thing of the past. I wish the Zf didn’t have any video capabilities and had a tilting not a flip out screen. I will never use mine as a video centric or hybrid camera. That’s what my LUMIX S5II is for.
What I hope to see in the Mark II of this camera is better ergonomics for holding the camera. Even the grip that Nikon created, which you have to order from Japan, is awful. Not sure what the designers were thinking about. Whereas the Newer grip matches the Zf aesthetically with the vertical red stripe on it. Hell, I’d like to see Canon release a digital rangefinder version of the Canon P with the same retro styling and make it a photo centric camera only. Imagine that.
@@apostraffstudioThe failure of the DF had nothing to do with the lack of a video feature. The problem with the DF was that it was trying to please everyone in the process pleasing no one; plus it’s unnecessarily bloated body.
Love my Zf and the Autofocus is incredible. I’ve used it alongside my z8 for a league football at night and it tracks incredibly well.
A ZF and a Z8 is a crazy combo. I use this ZF as my everyday camera and Z9 for professional work.
B&W is definitely the rage these days; it was a very smart move for the dedicated B&W toggle.
I love it. My go to picture mode now!
Also called The Lazy Switch.
I've been using the Zf professionally since Oct'23 (6 months) taking architectural and portrait photos. I have had good results with it. Great quality images, no complaints! For my work, if it had a little more resolution, it would be welcome. I also would like the camera screen to be tiltable (like on the Sony A9 - 4-Axis Tilting). I know that you can program buttons in this camera, but I would appreciate, if it had some dedicated buttons on camera body for quick adjustments, e.g.: Bracketing button, Button to change the AF type, Camera settings U1, U2. In any case, the camera is excellent and worth every penny!
Not a perfect camera but the first version it has so much good stuff. Maybe V2 will have an updated design and better software.
Thank you very much for your efforts and honest review. We wish you well for your channel and photography.
Thanks for watching!
There’s two key points you got wrong.
1. You are supposed to hold the camera like a SLR camera not like a DSLR or Mirrorless camera (while using without the grip).
* I’m actually using the camera without the grip and once you get the hang of it’s comfortable and you can shoot a long time too.
2. I agree, a joystick would have been nice but ZF offers something different witch matches the asthmatic of the camera. While shooting, look through the View Finder (not the lcd display) and when you do toggle your thumb on the display, you’ll see that the display is now your joystick and it’s way smoother.
** please try these two points and you will see the difference yourself. By the way, here’s an spoiler, it will make the shooting process more fun.
I agree that is a workaround but I don't like that it is the solution. I personally almost never have the LCD screen flipped out and don't want my grubby nose and face running all over the LCD lol.
@@just_A_Hack honestly speaking I 100% agree with you, I feel way better without LCD screen flipped out
@@derekdaniel9839 absolutely. I love that there is the option to use the LCD as a sort of focus joystick, but the screen being out like that gives me anxiety lol. Everytime I flip it out, the way I handle the camera changes to be much more cognizant of the screen. Idk if that is good or bad though. Probably destroy the screen when it's closed against the body due to this false sense of confidence that it is completely fine as a swing it around my body lol
Regarding #2 - Where in the menu can I set up this functionality? Mine does not do this although I am also wondering does this work with every focusing mode that has a point or just single, wide s/l?
I've tried without the grip. It probably me, I like to hold me camera too tightly. Hopefully a better design in V2 will come in the future.
Great review -- this camera is very useful. I use it for street and travel photography and it does a phenomenal job, particularly for candid, quick, and unobtrusive street portraits. Yes, the Z9 has better autofocus for such things as fast moving animals and birds but not by a whole lot considering what a Z9 costs. It has to be said though that using a large prime lens with the Z9 is much easier to do because of the generally higher performance of the Z9 and the much more comfortable grip. The Small Rig grip for the Zf, or the Neweer one, is highly recommended.
I see this camera as a tool that will open up a lot of exploration of different lenses and styles of photography. While serious wildlife photographers will likely prefer a Z8, Z9, or even the new Z6 Mk 3, for a hobbyist or occasional wildlife shooter, this camera would be enough. For street and travel, it is perfect. Even for from-the-hip, zone shooting, the autofocus of the Zf is very reliable.
Thank you. True even at a starting price the ZF is a content creator camera. If not a Z30 or ZFc do really well. I do agree Z9 is definitely better overall but it is almost $6000 after taxes. Firmware updates can definitely improve the ZF.
Nice video .
for outdoor walks, street and portraits of my little daughter, what do you recommend on Nikon Z f?
tamron 28-75mm f2.8 di iii vxd g2
or
Nikkor z 24-120 f4 s
The 24-120 f/4 is my go to. Trying to keep a simple fixed focal length just to play it lighter and easier.
Great review mate. I'm no pro , as I have a Nikon 5500. For years I have wanted to spoil my self with a mad Nikon ... Love the style of the Zf , is it great for landscape and long exposer on like waters falls ?
What adapters are you running to adapt these vintage lenses to the camera?
I also like that the Zf is not too small.
I like the size it has and the build.
Solid camera overall!
Thinking of getting it soon, and really hoping we eventually get a ZFii with a title screen instead of a flip.
Hopefully they do make a ZF II. It is a great camera on it's own.
Re the grip, I don't personally agree the camera is bad in general. I do agree it's bad with big Z lenses or larger/heavier adapted lenses (which messes with the balance and probably requires you to grip it harder due to lenses having some nose dive which torques your hand). This was also true of cameras like the F3/FM2. For those situations, absolutely put a grip on if you need to have the camera in your hands all the time. Using the 26/28/40 lenses you can just drape it around your neck and it's light enough to just carry around like that and bring up when you need it. I think the camera has been bought by a lot of professionals because of how good the value proposition is at 2K, but I don't think that was really the target market. Hopefully Nikon releases some more small lenses. FWIW I have been enjoying the 105 macro on the Zf, which is quite a large lens and I tend to carry it by the lens, not the body.
Me too. I hope nikon does design a few lens for this camera. Or maybe 3rd party lens will created.
The BW switch on the back of a camera is actually cool. I assume it's possible to adjust the built-in BW mode, right?
Great review, I just brought one! What the track that start arround 7min ?
I originally had the Z6 and the Z fc before selling and moving to the zf . The only thing I didn’t like is it didn’t have a XQD slot, so now have XQD card I cannot use . My Godox flashes worked fine in ITTL and manual on my old mirrorless cameras , but now I have the zf they will not work in ITTL only manual. Some of my non Nikon branded batteries that worked fine and I had no trouble with , the camera comes up with a warning and refuses to let me use them. Just give me a yes/no option Nikon . I would have also would have liked a bbf button and an extra programmable button on the front . Apart from those little Nigel’s I love my ZF and is one of the best cameras I have had from Nikon .
You probably just need a firmware update for your Godox lights and/or trigger - if not the new Nano transmitter definitely works with the Zf.
-PD
It's a great camera. It makes me hopeful for what the Z6III/z7III will be in the future.
I have two z9s and I’m using Zf most of my time. It’s incredible camera for video and stills
Definitely agree. Z9 is for high end pro productions. The z F is an everyday use camera.
Just turning the camera on and off is satisfying that clunk feels so premium
I'm definitely looking to get a Zf to pair with my Sony body and lenses. Great review, Eddie!
Love to see Nikon finally smashing it out of the park. I've used them since 2008. I have wanted to switch soooo many times but the Z system showed promise so I stayed. With the Z8 I'm now all-in Nikon and the Zf really got the best of the Z8 and is an incredible offering. If the Z6iii is announced and is a re-skinned Zf I'll be adding one of these to the kit!
Same I've been a Nikon user since a kid. Had SLR, DSLR and now mirror less cameras. The Z8 is an amazing camera. Enjoy. Hopefully we will hear something soon about the Z6III
Love the look of the camera and the red button you added!! ❤️
Hope to maybe get one of these bc the retro style of it is so damn nice!
7:09 im pretty sure this camera does have waveforms you need to dig deeper in the settings i think g14
I don't know if someone said it already or if you still have the camera but It does have Waveforms. I m not sure under what menu but it does have the option to display it for video
Glad to hear it’s got more than just looks,
think the fact the videos good & the flippy screen is going to open it up to a wider market.
It's definitely a fun daily driver. Worth every penny.
@@eddiecarrascojr thats reassuring to hear cos as an amateur im attempting to take the 'one & done' approach!
The zf looks like it's made to last.
Thanks for your insight 👍
Where did you get those red buttons hanging on the strap lugs. Did they come with the original package?
Those are for Peak Design straps.
I have a Z6ii, do you think it's worth upgrading to the Zf?
Subscribed!
I'm just a hobby photographer who "tries" to keep a tight budget on spending. I had switched from sony to fujifilm exactly because of the film profiles and the manual controls of the x100v and x-t4.
Given that I really enjoy bird photography, this camera's actually functioning auto focus really attracts me. It is one of the most beautiful cameras I've seen, and I agree with all of your points.
If I were a professional photographer, this one be a must have expense :D
Thanks for watching more Nikon content coming soon
What's that cooling tower of a lens converter all about? Is that what those things all look like? I have vintage Nikon lenses (28 and 105) and am drawn to this camera partly because I could use them with it. But if the converter is that chunky, I'm maybe not so keen!
If you like the retro look and you are using old manual focus lenses, I’d advise using an adapter that suits the retro styling. There are some nice and affordable adapters that blend in with the retro styling. Of course Cosina Voigtlander produces nice Z mount lenses - the 40mm/1.2 is somewhat affordable and a nice standard prime. Of course there are also various Chinese manufacturers like TTArtisan who make nice full frame manual focus lenses for Z mount.
Thanks for the tip! I recently found an adaptor that matches the retro look and old retro lens as well. Voitlander lens are great but hard to get in stock in the USA.
@eddiecarrascojr which adaptor did you get? I have the nikon ftz2 but with manual focus lenses I'd like something smaller.
how use pixel shift with moving objects? like waves in sea?
Mayle, I am wrong. I see bird detection @14:20?
That was aZ9
That was my Z9 i think i forgot to add the subtitle in that scene.
try more modern 28mm f/2.8 AIS, I was shocked how sharp that lens is even wide open
Voigtlander 58mm f/1.4 is also great especially for portraits
and Tokina 100mm f/2.8 macro for, well, macro and overall other work is amazing
all of these lenses are manual focus except of Tokina but that one requires focusing motor so it's manual focus anyways on modern bodies 😢
I’ll give them a try.
Great review, ❤
Thank you! 🤗
Eddie, thank you. Which adapter you used with this lens?
It makes me WANT to take pictures. 👍🏾
Its true. It is my daily driver now.
I don’t like the PASM switch; the lack of aperture rings on the lens; the goofy “1/3 step” on the shutter dial; the flip-out screen; and the lack of more customizable buttons. If they designed it more like the X-T5 (and had the lenses to boot), I’d buy one in a heartbeat.
Dont forget image quality and autofocus performance. FUJI can't beat the full frame Nikon and the lenses for FUJI are really pricey (for the smaller APS-C image circle).
@@jorgepinogarciadelasbayonas With the third-party lenses available, who needs Fuji lenses?
Third party Fuji lenses are not great. Well apart from the Voigtlander lenses. Which are fully manual (I love that but others might not)
The Nikon Z5 is another great camera designed for the street. . For $996 (best sale price) and with the almost for free 40mp f2 lens ($277), I am 100% impressed. Nikon is back!!!
That it is. Haven't tried that camera just yet.
I wish there is a cover for the sensor when it's not powered on. It gets dirty too often.
Nikon should make a F to Z adapter with screw drive focusing motor and all the AF and AF-D lens owners will be very happy.
Crop in 4K/60 is probably sensor px count limitation.
I do also wish a sensor shield was on the ZF. Thankfully it's a good sensor and not as sensitive as the z6.
I agree with the screw drive adapter suggestion.
True, no joystick but you can place the focus point using a finger on the rear screen whilst looking through the viewfinder.
Great vid thanks! Subbed.
Thanks for the sub! More Nikon content coming soon!
Great review! I disagree about the AF since this is not a camera that most people will or would use for birding, other than that, great review. I love mines too, and wow, can you imagine how good the next iteration would be? Exciting times. For now, we should enjoy the present and not worry about the future, cheers.
True. But it's already in the Z8/Z9. Maybe it's a simple fix in firmware update.
This is the Fujifilm retro camera killer.
For sure. Maybe we can see more body designs like the ZF in the future.
Which grip is this?
It’s the small rig at grip
I just got a pentax k5, its not crazy high resolution but its still hugher than most consumer fisplays can handle.
And well i use it for astronomical stuff where most things are a point source anyway, more resolution juwt makes focusing harder.
Pentax makes great cameras. Just not a lot of options for third party options.
@@eddiecarrascojr I blame that on everyone refusing to standardize.
This camera definitely has wave forms.It's in the settings, you have to look deeper
I have mine for 2 months now. I never had a camera that was this easy to shoot! Love the autofocus, love the fact I can use my old F lenses and get awesome results, love how easy it is to work with these RAW files, this sensor is awesome in low light. I have a d850 but this is the camera I take with me everywhere. I bought it because I wanted an everyday camera but I didn't check anything before, I went for the looks and got so much more than I was looking for.
I really enjoyed using my old lens. My Helios 85 is beautiful on here
This is all great but I will never ditch my D700, D3s, D4, D850 etc.. Besides its capabilities I still prefer the form factor so the size. I like it heavy😊
I do miss the heavy feel of a DSLR, that is why I use my Z9. Sadly with having video and photos as a part of a daily life the DSLRs just aren't enough for me anymore.
Nikon needs a smaller F t Z adaptor ( a pancake adaptor). Also it would be nice to have higher quality small primes in Z mount that fit the ZF design
Managed to find one. Sadly due to the flange distance from the censor the old F lens stood farther away. This adapter matches the ZF to old F lens the best. www.amazon.com/Fotasy-Adapter-Mirrorless-Camera-NZNK/dp/B003JFRVD2/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?crid=ZLTPC0ZQ5FKU&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.p8qj6SvymyduepJYTfY7qxxtoFMLL0DtLWZejK6GP7lFk2EgHa6VJYU2c3xexQcR_SO5NlwCCIEFgfctE-KAJVacZRmJY0-rWCNW5L1sTVcv86oo5M1MBYzXuq0-S43GRUz7_N7a3EXE6_cxiMP1VU0TnVnA7ex2vpUQpOW_mZACKkk71x4H6zCj6xVxn7NNEFuNqbU-lfw_teGL5VtKsr6TZbqEYfmaIl8kl-YEbTA.656SOo_h1H8LFBH7DsOrob8CphqLkslhaxYOwu_-zCo&dib_tag=se&keywords=nikon+f+to+z+adapter&qid=1718987974&sprefix=nikon+f+to+z+a%2Caps%2C187&sr=8-2-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1
@@eddiecarrascojr thanks for posting this does it work well? It is much thinner
It doesn't provide electric contacts, so you are losing both Autofocus and info about lens, FL, Aperture in EXIF Metadata.
Came over to Zf from Fuji XT5. I love it. I’m totally sold on Nikon now. The camera has its quirks but overall it’s amazing and the images and video are both gorgeous. And I love the dedicated black and white mode, though Fuji has it beat with the built in film sims. Still, glad I went Nikon. The autofocus is far superior to Fuji. Worlds better.
Too bad about having to use an adapter for non-Z Nikkor lenses ... and it being a non-optical viewfinder.
I have a video in the works for adapting various retro lens
i just want a dedicated aperture ring. otherwise its perfect. i like the shutter thunk... the round eye piece. the voightlander lenses are great with that retro metal shell. if nikon redo the 28 & 40mm pancakes proper retro too... that would be so amazing. The last thing i like about this camera is it looks like an old timer camera. taking it out - people are less intimidated and more candid. i shoot with the screen also folded in. whip out a canon R3 and f2 zoom with speedlight, people clam up.
i no longer shoot for work. for me this is a personal camera. low number of shots. each one carefully setup and the joy of setting up the shot. like in the old days on my FM2 when you had 36 chances to make it count.
The Nikon ZF has waveforms just like the Z8/9.
Yes I realized this was available after the update a few days before the review was posted.
I have a Zf, a Z8 & a Z9. They do everything, Except, the Zf needs a Firmware upgrade for Bird Subject Detection!!! It’s a wonderful Travel Camera and has many other uses. BUT! I hate to drag around a Z8 or Z9 when traveling or to trade off the Zf for a Z6III just to have Bird Detection! Please Nikon??!!
My guess is z6III/z7III will probably have a similar detection system to z8 but smaller bodies.
Every old Camera used gripextensions in higher usage🧐
It's a slight pity that the ‘f’ didn't stand for ‘F’ lenses. While the ‘z’ lenses are absolutely crackerjack wonderful - I wish I could use my old FM2 glass (particularly the 55mm and the 105mm flat field macros). Yes, you can get an adaptor with or without the contacts, but it adds extra length and shifts weight forward. Still, it is a gorgeous camera. I have to agree with you that the grip and the glass option could perhaps be more user-friendly in the next version. Oh! I meant to mention I think the Voigtlander glass and tiny adaptor might solve the ‘z’ lens dilemma.
Voightlander makes native Z mount (no adaptor needed) manual focus lenses with aperture rings that pair perfectly with this camera and fully support EXIF and IBIS.
-PD
I am looking to try out some Voigtlander again. I tried the Voigtlander 50mm f/1.0 and loved it. Might buy one and review it later.
@eddiecarrascojr I believe the camera has WaveForms for video
It has. The other thing is it takes a good amount of effort to turn it on. Not the easiest menu to understand
It does but I never figured it out on the ZF. Not as easy to turn it on as the Z9/Z8.
I read many reports that the top cover, levers and dials are plasticky. That's the only turn off for me.
The sails are weird mix of plastic and metal. I'd get a feel for the camera First before deciding.
Surely your thinking of the ZFC. The top / Dials of the ZF are actually brass.
Just carry the camera like an old SLR by the lens with the bottom plate resting on the ball of your hand.
This camera rocks with native Voigtländer lenses in retro style design. Perfect match!
Agreed. Once I can afford a Voigtländer lenses I will definitely make a video.
Wow what nice switch on the camera 😍😂🥰😂
errr, yeah they did expect it; they were hankering after it even before the ZF-c
Tried the ZF-C didn't like it. It's feels like plastic and the grip is terrible. The ZF did fix a lot of issues. Still didn't expect them to release a camera like this.
Overall its very appealing. But size and weight... just a little too bulky and heavy. A bit.
Between ergonomics and retro you can only pick one…
“96 Megapixels! That’s almost 100 Megapixels!” 🤣 (I mocked, but I also liked this video.)
Having looked at 96 mega pixels its so much over kill.
I'm a Fuji user, I'm kinda baffled about some of the praise of this camera, specially the lens collection that goes with this camera. But I wish other brands made these retro cameras, they are perfect for street photography and to carry around everyday.
Thanks. I do like this lens has so many lens. There are some cool third party lens that match the retro look.
I want zf, but i need to invest money in tools for work. Ergonomic of nikon zf looks not so friendly. Big professional lens on this camera not sitting well, also with grip. I don't now... Nikon image quality is great, but i have a Fuji setup and better think is upgrade to X-H2s. More functionality, less price on market in our country. I didn't get the right choice, bouth is great...
Fuji cameras are amazing. But I like the full frame feel. This is why I didn't like the ZF-c (Aps-c) camera. I am jealous of Fuji's preset colors.
@@eddiecarrascojr I think with the Nikon imaging cloud we also get that FUJI preset look. FUJI colors aren't presenting real colors but are pleasant to the eye.
Do you mean quirks? Lol great video just ordered myself a Zf
After a while it's not quirks. Congrats on the Z F.
I only don't like the analog dials wich does not work properly...
You cant set iso to auto with analog dials... And its very awkward.
The same with shutter speed
It's huge. If there were a small version, I'd buy it immediately.
The ZF c is smaller than the Z F
@@eddiecarrascojr Yeah but not the same camera at all. No full frame. ONly the name is the same. I guess the styling is similar too.
Nice video. Please stop saying "this camera"😂
I'll do my best next time! Thanks for watching.
Retro lenses look horrible with that FTZ adapter.
Any lens with the adapter looks pretty ugly. The viogtlander manual lens are a dream on this lens.
The reason it stands out from a crowd is that it’s HUGE. Nikon Z mount was designed for lazy lens designers. Big wide mount. Big heavy lenses. Crazy design decisions.
It does gather more light. Makes it easier to build lens
@@eddiecarrascojr 🤣🤣🤣
For God sake, Nikon is pronounced "Neekon"!!! Yes the Zf is awesome, they finally did it! Enfin!!!
Thanks still working on my American accent
The rest of the world calls it ‘Neekon’
all right but CANNOT accept that at this pricen range the battery life is very, very, very short
Your channel is underrated.
Thanks! Well I am just getting started. Better content to come.
My local ass immediately yelled Carp when ya showed the pic of the bluffs. Rad vid nonetheless, have my eyes set on the ZF or the upcoming Lumix S9 for my end game cam.
I had a GH5 before selling it. It paired nicely with the Z9 and color matching for video was a breeze. Can't go wrong with the S9 I can't like the shape of it personally.
1st world camera problems.😅
Haha yes. It's just a different camera meant for different things more photographers are use to.
Naekon no...Neekon yes
I think it's probably my American accent your hearing there 😉
You need a lot more experience actually using cameras before you start reviewing them. Because it's the only way that you will learn how to hold and handle a camera properly. I'm 69 years old and I have no problem at all Holding my Zf. Because when I started shooting with Nikon cameras it was in 1973 when there were no grips at all on any SLR made. That and the Aperture ring on the lens for almost all makers meant that BOTH hands had to be used to hold and manipulate the cameras. You are experiencing pain with holding your Zf because you are holding it improperly. Put your left hand under the lens and your issue will be solved.
I don't get why every reviewer is bitching about the grip of the Zf (facepalm)
Just get the f..n accessory and let the rest of us enjoy the camera as is ;P
I agree ! or they can get the Nikon Z6ii, Z8 or Z9. So many choices.
No camera is perfect, this one just hurts my hands after. Still needed to be honest about the review.
2:00 - I don't believe people are actually complimenting your camera.
The Nikon ZF does look cool
Well the comments sometimes say otherwise.
It definitely feels good to use as well.
@eddiecarrascojr . No doubt, Eddie. Some people don't like the Zf. I do. I think it looks cool. I wish it had a silver option. It's low light performance is spectacular and would be a great travel camera for me. I would need an after-market grip to enable the use of larger lenses, such as the Z S 24-120 f4. I'll keep wishing.
Who needs a b&w switch if you can do it in Lightroom? Why waste space on the body just for that?
There are many people who like to shoot JPEG without the hassle of RAW editing.
Sorry but it costs almost 3000 euros / dollars with a lens....
Ok?
With pricing of camera it's under $2000 at the moment. You can get a Sony AS1 for under $1500 used but that is a very old camera at this point.
Why do American say N-eye-con. It’s Nikon!!!
Why do you call it "zed" mount? Its "zee" mount!!!
It's two hundred years of mixed language? History books are great🙂
At this point Nikon themselves have stated that "Nye-kon", "Nic-on", and "Nee-kon" are all correct so this is really a non-issue anymore.
-PD
We need accent marks on our "America" English. Either wise we will say it how we wish.
A Sony a9 MK I is 1500$ used and is a load better camera still in 2024..
If you really want to compare apples to oranges.
Yes and no. A a9 mk I is good but it doesn't fit many people's need. This is more action users then everyday users.
Quality content, hope you get maaany more subs in the near future! 👍 And about Zf: great merge of Nikon feel & Fuji retro design.
Thanks more videos to come.
There is NO 'Y' in NIKON if you don't believe me ask NIKON its their company ! big thumbs down !
Thanks for helping. I will have to ask Nikon USA next time they have an event. :)