On the Z9, I have the RSF function on the lens Fn+Fn2 buttons. I need it only when I have a long lens on anyway, and all my long lenses have that (old AF-S 300/2.8, Z 100-400, Z 800/6.3). That way the Fn1/2/3 buttons on the camera remain free for other stuff. My RSF also recalls "oh crap sudden action" settings: M+Auto ISO, 1/2000, wide open, matrix metering -0.3EV, Wide-L, 20 fps RAW HE*. Especially handy if I was previously doing pans with 1/30 in shutter priority or something. Holding down the lens Fn button, I can switch to sharp action settings while the same bird is still flying in front of me. I have it set to disengage when I release the button. When I'm handholding my 800PF, my fingers are near those buttons all the time. Nice feature with RSF is that you can change the stored settings directly while holding down the button. So if I have plenty of light for example, I can hold down the button, change it to 1/4000, release it, and then any subsequent press will recall 1/4000 along with the rest of the stored settings. An annoying limitation though is that there's only one set of settings you can assign to RSF. You can't recall different sets of settings with different buttons like you can on some models of other brands, at least not while staying within the same settings bank.
I shoot the D500 so I don't have as many customization options as a mirrorless shooter. My default settings include single point AF, center weighted metering, back-button focus using the AF-On button and auto ISO. To change them I use the Pv button for matrix metering and the joy stick for dynamic area 25 point. That's about it.
I have been shooting with the D500 for when the camera was launched until today. I like is so much that I purchased another brand new when I heard it was going to be out of production last year. It looks like it is. However B&H is still selling the imported version brand new. Anyways. I just wanted to tell you that in fact the D500 has four options to autofocus on the tip of your finger. 5 indirectly. First, limit the auto focus modes to AF-mode button to 2 (Auto Focus AF and 3D on custom settings) Set the AF-On button to Auto-Area AF (you can now change to 3D and back to Auto-Area AF using the AF-mode button) then set the Sub-selector center to Dynamic 72, the Pv button to Single point AF and the Fn1 Button to Group Area mode. I use these to different background when shooting BIF. The 4 buttons are right there at the tip of you finger to use right away. The autofocus works better than the Z9 until firmware version 3.0. Still par or sometimes better specially in low light compared to the Z9. I only purchased the Z9 after the firmware version 3.01. To be honest with you I like to shoot more with my D500s then with the Z9. Auto-focus is on par, sometimes better. The workflow is way better I am only shooting 10 FPS. No thousands of photos to download from the Z9 every assignment, and be surprised, the noise level ratio of the D500 from 100 ISO to 400 is better then the Z9. ISO 500 and above D500 is slightly better not much of a difference though. Dynamic range is on par from both. With the noise reduction software nowadays we can shoot with the D500 high ISO for many years to come. I am not getting rid of my D500s for nothing. In my opinion the autofocus system which is the same on the D5, D850 and looks like the D6 was improved upon is a gem Nikon perfected. I purchased a D5 and sent back. The sensors cover a smaller area of the frame. The D500 has a better coverage because is a DX. If Nikon had added more sensors on the D6 do cover the FX fully that would've been the BOMB! I would not move to mirrorless. The optical viewfinders are so much better. I could right a book about this! LOL
I use the record button same as you...did that pretty much out of the gate and it's the one I really haven't had any desire to change, unlike all the others, lol...
I shoot Sony and do something very similar. Mainly I shoot M manual with back button fopcus. I have two focus buttons on the rear set to different methods (1 spot and 1 zone). I have another button that will toggle #1 through all my focus types and another button that switch focus metho (single,continuous, manual), THEN I have three dials that change shutter speed, iso, and aperture. Love the customization of these new cameras.... so awesome. Lastly, I have a bunch of preprogrammed settings on the auto dial C1/C2/C3 but never really use them. Having the three main exposure settings to dials and two BB focus options is really all I ever need. Sounds way more complex than it is. AGAIN love that you ETTL!! We are a small club.
@@WildlifeInspired awesome. Id rather shoot too dark and at slightly lower ISO (compared to high iso) and raise in post. Id rather have the option to "add noise" rather than ALWAYS remove it. Its much harder to remove noise than add it, if you know what I mean.
I’m a bird photographer and I shoot the canon r7. I always have it on 15fps 1st curtain. My reasoning is that for situations with little movement you can always feather the shutter button (press it for a moment, let go, press it again) and I’ll do little 3-7 picture bursts. That way, if my focus is imperfect I still have a couple pics to choose from but it saves me the hassle of switching modes all the time (especially bad if a duck shows up right next to you all of the sudden) while still not cluttering up my SD card. Thank you for the great Video by the way, you had some really good and useful tips! :)
I have the D500 which I mainly use for moving subjects especially wildlife so I set my customisation to give me the best advantage to get keepers. I have the record button and main command dial set to change to the additional 1.3 crop mode. My Oh Crap button is actually one of two and are AF Area modes. I have the PV button set to Dynamic AF Area 25 Point and the Fn1 button is Group AF with the AF-On button set to Single Point AF. I find this to be a great set up especially for birds in flight because I can go from one AF Area mode to another without having to take my eye away from the viewfinder when tracking a subject. I used to have the 25 Point Dynamic Area set to the joystick button but I found it to be unreliable as sometimes it wouldn’t engage after pressing it. I have the 500mm PF lens and use the Memory Recall button a lot. Great topic Scott.
@@WildlifeInspired I found a good workaround a couple of days ago with the Focus Limiter and Memory Recall button on the 500mm PF. Usually I have the Focus Limiter on the lens set to 8m to Infinity to speed up the AF function but found it a little frustrating if I came across a subject that was less than 8m away so would have to use manual focus or switch the Focus Limiter back to Full (difficult because of the plastic window on the camo lens cover), usually by the time I'd achieve focus, the subject had gone. My workaround achieves the best of both worlds by using the Memory Recall button on the lens. To set it up, set the Focus Limiter on the lens to full then focus on a subject / object that is at the minimum focus distance and lock the distance in by pressing the Memory Recall button. Switch the Focus Limiter on the lens back to 8m to Infinity so now if you want to focus on a subject that is less than 8m, press the button on the lens near the lens hood so it immediately goes to the distance you set with the Memory Recall button, i.e., minimum focus distance. You can then focus on any subject using your focus button, (in my case Back Button AF-On) from the distance set all the way to infinity. Obviously once you pass the 8m distance, you can't focus on a close subject again until you active the distance saved from the Memory Recall function. I'm sure this will work on other lenses that have the Memory Recall function. This is my new Oh Crap button.
R5 user here I use a triple back button set up like Whistling Wings Photography has a video covering. Animal eye tracking, single point and then the last button is set up for 1/3200, F4 Auto ISO and small group AF. This idea came from a video Simon d’Entremont put out.
had similar on my d500, on the back I had single point AF via joystick, group area AF, and a custom button in the front for dynamic area AF. was great. now with olympus I'm screwed and left with a single button to trigger af.
Hi Scott, I also have a Z9 and do a lot of bird photography. I live in Washington State on the western side and we have lots of trees and thick brush. So, I have programmed one of the custom focus areas as a 1x1 box with tracking. This works really well for small birds in bushes or trees. When the Oh, s... moment comes I flip to 3D tracking using a LF button
I mainly shoot sports and portraits with my Z9. I use the red record button to switch silent. My Fn1 used to be FX/DX, but I bumped it too much. So now I have my Fn3 set for that. My Fn2 is set for playback. My Fn1 is not currently programmed. I like your idea of the “oh crap” button. I wasn’t aware that you could program multiple settings to a button on the Z9. I will definitely try it out.
Great video. I may have to try out programming a Z9 button for that function, I can see the merit. I liked the section on programming the 400mm. I have seen virtually nothing on doing that, and it has so many options. The focus-set/recall for lens "Fn" ring makes sense. I do not use Auto ISO, so I have set the lens "control" ring to adjust the ISO quickly as conditions dictate.
Do you have issues accidentally turning that lens ring and changing iso. I turned mine offf as i am afraid I will accidentally somehow change settings.
@@WildlifeInspired I was carefully watching to see if I would bump that ring while carrying the rig as I am primarily a handheld shooter. I carry with a sling, with the camera resting on my hip while walking. The balance point is such that the ring does not touch clothing....so I am happy with the setup and it gives me much faster response to changing ISO.
Great topic! I use the same kind of configuration but reverse! BIF is my main interest. So open the camera and adjust accordingly. One function button with a full list of settings for perch birds. And one last function button again for perched birds but with DMF focus when there is something in front or in the foreground that makes it hard to focus on the subject! Always at max frame rate! I works for me! 🙂
My Z6ii I use BIF settings of 1/3200 sec wide area AF. IF/When it isn't cutting it I hit Function 2 to get subject tracking box. Waiting to see the Z8 and might buy one.
Canon and Sony have the same type of ring which recalls the focus distance set via focus button on the lens. But nothing as slick as the way you can set and recall with the Z lenses by turning in the two directions as you showed. In stead of a "Holy $#It" button I use a "Calm down" button. I try to run my main settings geared towards action/BIF and then my custom back button does 1/320s, Expand Flex Spot (Sony) and Auto ISO. I tend to shoot more BIF than perched stuff so I like it this way. Also when I'm shooting BIF, I like to just be using Shutter AF. My back buttons (3 available on Sony) are set to modify that shutter button behaviour. One as a Calm down button, one as a modify current AF mode to Tracking variant and one to switch to a registered AF mode. I've shot a mix of Canon, Nikon, Sony over the past 13 years and have most recently owned the Z9, R5 and A1. IME, Sony wins customization closely followed by Canon and the Z9 in 3rd place. However, I had the Z9 when it first came out but sold it shortly after as I didn't find it customizable enough compared to Canon and Sony. I have followed all the FW updates and it now looks to be very customizable...so much so that I'm very close to buying a Z9 again as I think it will satisfy my customization needs with the later FW updates. This is motivated by my lust for the built in TC lenses. Just need to sell off one of my big Sony primes to fund the Nikon purchase. One thing I prefer on Sony and Canon is that they have 3 wheels so you can have one wheel dedicated to each of the exposure variables (and Sony even has the 4th dial for EC) and 3 back buttons right where your thumb rests. I've never liked that with Nikon I have to push down a button and then scroll to do ISO. With latest FW does the Z9 allow you to switch the ISO button to do Aperture instead? I rarely change Aperture off of wide open and if I could set the two Z9 command dials to SS and ISO and then only have to press and scroll for aperture that would be a huge improvement. I'm mostly changing ISO and SS as I shoot in full M all the time and leaving Aperture open. One final question, is with the latest FW can the Z9's DISP button customizable now? Or is it still limited to just the AF-ON button as a back button that the thumb can get to easily? Thanks in advance if you find the time to answer those two questions. Keep up the good work with the videos. I always enjoy the content.
Love the calm down button. You are the inverse of me. Lol. In style and set up and it makes sense. I'm not at home now. Let me dig into your questions and see if I can answer them when I have time with my camera in hand.
I’m a wildlife/bird photographer. I shoot with a Nikon D500 and a Nikon 200-500mm. My setting rarely changed. 1/3200, f5.6, auto ISO, -1/3 exposure compensation, I too hate blown out white feathers 😂, single point AF, Single point exposure, back button focus, 10 frames a second. And of course I only shoot RAW.
I don't have a Z9 (yet 🙂) but on my Z6II, I guess the closest thing we have to an "oh ****" button is toggling U1-2-3 modes 🤷🏻♂ On the AF side, I do have Fn2 always set to activate Subject Tracking, but I need to be in Auto Area / People / Dog-Cat AF modes (for example, it won't activate Subject Tracking if I'm in Single Point). I'd love the ability to customize Fn (or other) buttons to instantly activate any specific AF mode, regardless of the mode we're in. That said, I've gotten pretty fast at switching with Fn1 + command dial, it's just not as instant as a single-click button.
Hi Steve I shoot Canon R5 and have just started to play with customisable settings. Am shooting Dippers mornings at 1/20th second but for general bird shooting my starting point is 1/1600th. Have set this up on the camera which allows quick switch if the bird flies. Will continue to play with this and probably add high shutter speed, high FPS option
I have the OM-1 and do something similar. You can assign one of the 4 custom menu selections to be activated by a button. The custom functions will can change nearly every setting that the camera is capable of. And I’ve never seen a camera that has more, different, functions than the OM-1. Having said that, I am envious of your Z9, and glass. At least when I’m not traveling, shooting macro, kids, or looking at my bank balance.
One of the few things I miss from shooting Pentax DSLR's is the "Green Button". It's definitely the epitome of an "oh shit" button because when you're in manual mode it brought exposure back to where the camera thought it should be. Super useful on DSLR's where you didn't get exposure preview
Well, I’m kind of prehistoric. Shoring a canon 6D. Circa 2010. Fast 3.5 frames per second always. Point focus always. Custom 1 and 2 are for still and flight. Back button focus always. Can’t wait to upgrade to an r5😅
I went from Canon to Nikon (waiting for the Z8) back to Canon. Still working on my custom settings for the R7 but to answer one question, I NEVER shoot at the highest frame rate, unless it’s BIF, and I probably shoot BIF 4 times a year. On the R7 I shoot 15 fps, and if it’s a moose or elk, will definitely shoot 10 if it’s not the Rut. Rut. It’s back up to 15
Hey, Scott! Thanks for another informative video. I have actually not been aware of such a thing as an "oh crap" button. I adjust my settings for whatever I am shooting, and if something unexpected happens, I either miss it altogether or make do with the less-than-ideal settings. If I am all set up for portraits, and then action happens, I am probably just not going to shoot the action. And if I am set up for action, and a good portrait opportunity presents itself, I am pretty much just not going to be able to capture the portrait. Adapting quickly and opportunistically is not my forte, and I am totally okay with that. Honestly, when I first get a camera, I set it up to do back button focus, and then I pretty much never go into the menus ever again as long as I own the camera. Whatever the defaults are, they seem to work pretty well for what I shoot.
Another great video. I have a D500, D850, Z6I and Z FC but have been hesitant to use 3D tracking. I do school photography which includes most sports, and concerts, assemblies, graduations, etc. and do events at a local zoo. I have been hesitant to rely on 3D so usually use single point or group for most photos. There are very few 3D videos on youtube and none point out where, when and how it should be used and what to be cautious of. I would love for you to fully explain 3D focus tracking on Nikon cameras. Your videos are so good that I am confident that you will give me the confidence to add 3D to my preferred focus options. Please consider this for a future video. Thank you, Scott.
Great tip! Have to test it in the field. However, I'm surprised that you do not use live-histogram. For me it was one of the features that I was waiting for to use in mirrorless camera:)
I also use the 'movie record' button which brings up the choose image area (FX/DX). The button toggle the choose image area on and off, but to actually make the change from FX to DX (or vice versa) I have to use the Main command dial.
Good idea. The toggle to DX almost got me in trouble last week and I was in DX but didn't realize it. Fortunately I would have cropped down anyway. God these high mp cameras allow for a lot of cropping !
I use the record button for af area m9de/settings. My oh s*%@ button is my focus memory recall. Unfortunately I mainly use the 500pf so its on the lens only instead of with Z lenses it can be in camera with an assigned function button. I also use the settings recall but I just have a higher fps and a C1 focus area
On my EOS R7: Dual back button fokus (af-on and the starbutton to the right) with subject trackin on the left and ordinary af-c on the right. Below the star button is a button programed to select/choose from the af-point setups i have choosed - I have the single point, the very small box, the cross and the whole sensor to toogle beetween on this button. The subject tracking works in the whole sensor area even if i have only the small mid- point choosed, this is outstanding and the way it should be on every camera -not only R7 and R3. The lower crap-button is programmed to magnifie 3-10 times which i can change on the thumb wheel when i press that button. On my Z6II and my om-1 i cant´t set up dual back button focus- which is crap!
Custom 1 fv custom 2 fv to fast and slow action on the dial quick to change from one to other and also click and in vid and has settings close to what you need that can easily be tweaked without drastic settings change.
I have a Minolta 7000i, and when I really get confused, it has that big ol "P" button that puts it back a original. Otherwise, I do not have a panic mode setup on my digi cams. Cheers!
With my Sony a7iii and 200-600mm lens, I have the buttons on the lens (listed in menu as focus hold button) programmed as my "oh $hit" button. I usually shoot portraits as well, so my oh $hit button is set for action
You ask what frame rate we shoot at? I shoot at a lower frame rate to save space on the memory card. I can’t afford the large faster cards and have to save room to finish the days shoot.
Hey Scott! I was on your website yesterday and i saw that you were based near Allentown. I live around that area and i was wondering what parks or wildlife preserves are good for photography around that area
honestly I dont share any locations that I personally photograph at but encourage you to explore both local parks and some of the natural areas in the valley Birds to the north and south of us vary greatly, so explore a lot and use Ebird to find out specific species.
Sony a1: movie record button set for autofocus and action (1/3200, wide open, auto ISO). In case I am shooting a perched bird or wading bird for example, at a low shutter speed and all the sudden it decides to take off. I just switch my thumb from the regular back button focus button to the left and hit the movie record button.
Great video bud! I'm a Canon shooter (R5) and am still piddlin with settings, but I am an action shooter for the most part. Love BIF (Birds in flight) and even dragonflies in flight especially now with the R5 (tho swingin that ver 1 500mm around is challengin even with the focus trackin). I used to shoot with a 7DMKII and the Sigma 150-600 Sport and talk about a bugger tryin to catch them lil guys flyin lol, but it sure does help hone in the skills with BIF's. I'm not a youtube dude. I do have a FB mostly for the elderly and handicapped folks (I'm a gimp myself lol) that can't get out and experience nature anymore. I'm just an amateur doin my best (I have abused my ol brain a bit too much in the past lol), but have had 2 published in the Nat Geo your shot community (2016) and a few other accolades along with a Texas Parks Wildlife Magazine contest win and runner up to go with a news story back in 2018. th-cam.com/video/URGCVEgiCFE/w-d-xo.html Lovin all the info/knowledge you share with others man, #BeBlessed #NoBadDays
I am 5 minutes into your video and I too accidentally shoot in the Dx mode thinking I am in Fx. I wish Nikon would allow that flashing Dx mode on the EVF to be in a more noticeable color of my choice. I use function 3 for the Fx/Dx toggle now. I was using function 1 and I kept touching F1 by mistake.
I thought the lens control ring would be great and tried to use it for exposure compensation. But I found it was unintentionally moving while carrying just by brushing against clothing or anything. Had to disable it.
I use fn-3 for my Oh Crap button. Only in reverse. I alway set up for birds in flight and hit the OC button for mammals. My record button is set to change AF Modes.
I use a Fuji X-H2S and have a custom button programmed to recall custom setting 1. By default I use custom setting 2 when shooting birds but when one of them flies one click takes me to Custom setting 1.
That is fantastic function :) I currently own the Tamron 100-400 F mount lens with a FTZ adapter on Nikon Z50. Considering buying some serious camera and trying to find anybody that has this lens and a Z8 or Z9 and share some opinions. Do you maybe? :)
I dont. sorry! One thing with high pixel sensors, they need high quality glass. Its a whole topic of its own, but they need lenses that can resolve at a higher level to get the most impact and image quality.
@@WildlifeInspired Yeah, everything is a long story :) Actually I should get a similar picture quality as on a Z50, as the single pixel size is more or less the same. However I'll be able to start at 100mm, not 150mm. I'm quite good with that image quality, but I really need a body that is more ergonomic and fast focusing. I tried to romance with Sony, but I keep being drawn back to Nikon :) For now they are only company that makes proper two-way tilt screen instead of the flip out crap screen for vloggers. It is important for me, especially when shooting handheld from a ground level. I find that with flip out screens I block the visibility of the screen with my arm holding the lens.
It amaizes me that your 400mm f/2.8 has a weight of 104 oz and my 400mm f/4.5 has a weight of 40 oz. but your lens has 6 more elements and a built in TC. Well, your lens has a lot more than that. Trick with current cameras is remembering all of the settings and where they'r located. Especially with more than one model camera.
I dont have an oshit button because Nikon has decided z7ii users dont get this sort of customization. The custom controls settings on z7ii gives almost no options. I get not having stuff like 3d tracking because that is a hardware limitations but intentionally hamstringing a camera this expensive sucks :(
@@WildlifeInspired Oh it has them, you just have barely any options to customize them. You can't do anything like you show in this video. I have one set to zoom in, and the other for white balance. Doing things like jumping into another shooting or AF mode def isn't an option. It basically only lets you do extremely basic functions.
I'll have to figure out how set that Oh crap button up. That's actually a great idea. Hahaha I see you picked up the 400 !! Last time I watched you had the 800 comparing it to your buddies in Costa Rica. Still waiting for mine Its a beautiful lens.
I have a D850. I cannot, for my life, figure out how to assign multiple functions to a single button. I can set single functions to a single, button, but I can't set up a true "Oh Shite" button. What am I missing?
On the Z9, I have the RSF function on the lens Fn+Fn2 buttons. I need it only when I have a long lens on anyway, and all my long lenses have that (old AF-S 300/2.8, Z 100-400, Z 800/6.3). That way the Fn1/2/3 buttons on the camera remain free for other stuff. My RSF also recalls "oh crap sudden action" settings: M+Auto ISO, 1/2000, wide open, matrix metering -0.3EV, Wide-L, 20 fps RAW HE*. Especially handy if I was previously doing pans with 1/30 in shutter priority or something. Holding down the lens Fn button, I can switch to sharp action settings while the same bird is still flying in front of me. I have it set to disengage when I release the button. When I'm handholding my 800PF, my fingers are near those buttons all the time.
Nice feature with RSF is that you can change the stored settings directly while holding down the button. So if I have plenty of light for example, I can hold down the button, change it to 1/4000, release it, and then any subsequent press will recall 1/4000 along with the rest of the stored settings. An annoying limitation though is that there's only one set of settings you can assign to RSF. You can't recall different sets of settings with different buttons like you can on some models of other brands, at least not while staying within the same settings bank.
I shoot the D500 so I don't have as many customization options as a mirrorless shooter. My default settings include single point AF, center weighted metering, back-button focus using the AF-On button and auto ISO. To change them I use the Pv button for matrix metering and the joy stick for dynamic area 25 point. That's about it.
I have been shooting with the D500 for when the camera was launched until today. I like is so much that I purchased another brand new when I heard it was going to be out of production last year. It looks like it is. However B&H is still selling the imported version brand new. Anyways. I just wanted to tell you that in fact the D500 has four options to autofocus on the tip of your finger. 5 indirectly. First, limit the auto focus modes to AF-mode button to 2 (Auto Focus AF and 3D on custom settings) Set the AF-On button to Auto-Area AF (you can now change to 3D and back to Auto-Area AF using the AF-mode button) then set the Sub-selector center to Dynamic 72, the Pv button to Single point AF and the Fn1 Button to Group Area mode. I use these to different background when shooting BIF. The 4 buttons are right there at the tip of you finger to use right away. The autofocus works better than the Z9 until firmware version 3.0. Still par or sometimes better specially in low light compared to the Z9. I only purchased the Z9 after the firmware version 3.01. To be honest with you I like to shoot more with my D500s then with the Z9. Auto-focus is on par, sometimes better. The workflow is way better I am only shooting 10 FPS. No thousands of photos to download from the Z9 every assignment, and be surprised, the noise level ratio of the D500 from 100 ISO to 400 is better then the Z9. ISO 500 and above D500 is slightly better not much of a difference though. Dynamic range is on par from both. With the noise reduction software nowadays we can shoot with the D500 high ISO for many years to come. I am not getting rid of my D500s for nothing. In my opinion the autofocus system which is the same on the D5, D850 and looks like the D6 was improved upon is a gem Nikon perfected. I purchased a D5 and sent back. The sensors cover a smaller area of the frame. The D500 has a better coverage because is a DX. If Nikon had added more sensors on the D6 do cover the FX fully that would've been the BOMB! I would not move to mirrorless. The optical viewfinders are so much better. I could right a book about this! LOL
I use the record button same as you...did that pretty much out of the gate and it's the one I really haven't had any desire to change, unlike all the others, lol...
I shoot Sony and do something very similar. Mainly I shoot M manual with back button fopcus. I have two focus buttons on the rear set to different methods (1 spot and 1 zone). I have another button that will toggle #1 through all my focus types and another button that switch focus metho (single,continuous, manual), THEN I have three dials that change shutter speed, iso, and aperture. Love the customization of these new cameras.... so awesome. Lastly, I have a bunch of preprogrammed settings on the auto dial C1/C2/C3 but never really use them. Having the three main exposure settings to dials and two BB focus options is really all I ever need. Sounds way more complex than it is. AGAIN love that you ETTL!! We are a small club.
I have a video coming out on using ISO invariant bodies to your advantage.....
@@WildlifeInspired awesome. Id rather shoot too dark and at slightly lower ISO (compared to high iso) and raise in post. Id rather have the option to "add noise" rather than ALWAYS remove it. Its much harder to remove noise than add it, if you know what I mean.
I’m a bird photographer and I shoot the canon r7. I always have it on 15fps 1st curtain. My reasoning is that for situations with little movement you can always feather the shutter button (press it for a moment, let go, press it again) and I’ll do little 3-7 picture bursts. That way, if my focus is imperfect I still have a couple pics to choose from but it saves me the hassle of switching modes all the time (especially bad if a duck shows up right next to you all of the sudden) while still not cluttering up my SD card.
Thank you for the great Video by the way, you had some really good and useful tips! :)
Thanks Marc!
I have the D500 which I mainly use for moving subjects especially wildlife so I set my customisation to give me the best advantage to get keepers. I have the record button and main command dial set to change to the additional 1.3 crop mode. My Oh Crap button is actually one of two and are AF Area modes. I have the PV button set to Dynamic AF Area 25 Point and the Fn1 button is Group AF with the AF-On button set to Single Point AF. I find this to be a great set up especially for birds in flight because I can go from one AF Area mode to another without having to take my eye away from the viewfinder when tracking a subject. I used to have the 25 Point Dynamic Area set to the joystick button but I found it to be unreliable as sometimes it wouldn’t engage after pressing it.
I have the 500mm PF lens and use the Memory Recall button a lot. Great topic Scott.
My D500 is set very similarly! single point with Fn1 to group. Its a really great body and tracks very well!
@@WildlifeInspired I found a good workaround a couple of days ago with the Focus Limiter and Memory Recall button on the 500mm PF. Usually I have the Focus Limiter on the lens set to 8m to Infinity to speed up the AF function but found it a little frustrating if I came across a subject that was less than 8m away so would have to use manual focus or switch the Focus Limiter back to Full (difficult because of the plastic window on the camo lens cover), usually by the time I'd achieve focus, the subject had gone. My workaround achieves the best of both worlds by using the Memory Recall button on the lens. To set it up, set the Focus Limiter on the lens to full then focus on a subject / object that is at the minimum focus distance and lock the distance in by pressing the Memory Recall button. Switch the Focus Limiter on the lens back to 8m to Infinity so now if you want to focus on a subject that is less than 8m, press the button on the lens near the lens hood so it immediately goes to the distance you set with the Memory Recall button, i.e., minimum focus distance. You can then focus on any subject using your focus button, (in my case Back Button AF-On) from the distance set all the way to infinity. Obviously once you pass the 8m distance, you can't focus on a close subject again until you active the distance saved from the Memory Recall function. I'm sure this will work on other lenses that have the Memory Recall function. This is my new Oh Crap button.
R5 user here I use a triple back button set up like Whistling Wings Photography has a video covering. Animal eye tracking, single point and then the last button is set up for 1/3200, F4 Auto ISO and small group AF. This idea came from a video Simon d’Entremont put out.
had similar on my d500, on the back I had single point AF via joystick, group area AF, and a custom button in the front for dynamic area AF. was great. now with olympus I'm screwed and left with a single button to trigger af.
Hi Scott, I also have a Z9 and do a lot of bird photography. I live in Washington State on the western side and we have lots of trees and thick brush. So, I have programmed one of the custom focus areas as a 1x1 box with tracking. This works really well for small birds in bushes or trees. When the Oh, s... moment comes I flip to 3D tracking using a LF button
Thanks for sharing
I mainly shoot sports and portraits with my Z9. I use the red record button to switch silent. My Fn1 used to be FX/DX, but I bumped it too much. So now I have my Fn3 set for that. My Fn2 is set for playback. My Fn1 is not currently programmed. I like your idea of the “oh crap” button. I wasn’t aware that you could program multiple settings to a button on the Z9. I will definitely try it out.
Great video. I may have to try out programming a Z9 button for that function, I can see the merit. I liked the section on programming the 400mm. I have seen virtually nothing on doing that, and it has so many options. The focus-set/recall for lens "Fn" ring makes sense. I do not use Auto ISO, so I have set the lens "control" ring to adjust the ISO quickly as conditions dictate.
Do you have issues accidentally turning that lens ring and changing iso. I turned mine offf as i am afraid I will accidentally somehow change settings.
@@WildlifeInspired I was carefully watching to see if I would bump that ring while carrying the rig as I am primarily a handheld shooter. I carry with a sling, with the camera resting on my hip while walking. The balance point is such that the ring does not touch clothing....so I am happy with the setup and it gives me much faster response to changing ISO.
Great topic! I use the same kind of configuration but reverse! BIF is my main interest. So open the camera and adjust accordingly. One function button with a full list of settings for perch birds. And one last function button again for perched birds but with DMF focus when there is something in front or in the foreground that makes it hard to focus on the subject! Always at max frame rate! I works for me! 🙂
Someone called your set up a "calm down" button. I like that !
The is great, I was not aware of this option!
My Z6ii I use BIF settings of 1/3200 sec wide area AF. IF/When it isn't cutting it I hit Function 2 to get subject tracking box. Waiting to see the Z8 and might buy one.
Canon and Sony have the same type of ring which recalls the focus distance set via focus button on the lens. But nothing as slick as the way you can set and recall with the Z lenses by turning in the two directions as you showed.
In stead of a "Holy $#It" button I use a "Calm down" button. I try to run my main settings geared towards action/BIF and then my custom back button does 1/320s, Expand Flex Spot (Sony) and Auto ISO. I tend to shoot more BIF than perched stuff so I like it this way. Also when I'm shooting BIF, I like to just be using Shutter AF. My back buttons (3 available on Sony) are set to modify that shutter button behaviour. One as a Calm down button, one as a modify current AF mode to Tracking variant and one to switch to a registered AF mode.
I've shot a mix of Canon, Nikon, Sony over the past 13 years and have most recently owned the Z9, R5 and A1. IME, Sony wins customization closely followed by Canon and the Z9 in 3rd place. However, I had the Z9 when it first came out but sold it shortly after as I didn't find it customizable enough compared to Canon and Sony. I have followed all the FW updates and it now looks to be very customizable...so much so that I'm very close to buying a Z9 again as I think it will satisfy my customization needs with the later FW updates. This is motivated by my lust for the built in TC lenses. Just need to sell off one of my big Sony primes to fund the Nikon purchase.
One thing I prefer on Sony and Canon is that they have 3 wheels so you can have one wheel dedicated to each of the exposure variables (and Sony even has the 4th dial for EC) and 3 back buttons right where your thumb rests. I've never liked that with Nikon I have to push down a button and then scroll to do ISO. With latest FW does the Z9 allow you to switch the ISO button to do Aperture instead? I rarely change Aperture off of wide open and if I could set the two Z9 command dials to SS and ISO and then only have to press and scroll for aperture that would be a huge improvement. I'm mostly changing ISO and SS as I shoot in full M all the time and leaving Aperture open. One final question, is with the latest FW can the Z9's DISP button customizable now? Or is it still limited to just the AF-ON button as a back button that the thumb can get to easily?
Thanks in advance if you find the time to answer those two questions. Keep up the good work with the videos. I always enjoy the content.
Love the calm down button. You are the inverse of me. Lol. In style and set up and it makes sense. I'm not at home now. Let me dig into your questions and see if I can answer them when I have time with my camera in hand.
D500, 500 PF, wildlife shooter.
Manual mode with auto ISO.
Back button focus with single point AF on.
Pv button group focus AF on.
Matrix metering.
I’m a wildlife/bird photographer. I shoot with a Nikon D500 and a Nikon 200-500mm. My setting rarely changed. 1/3200, f5.6, auto ISO, -1/3 exposure compensation, I too hate blown out white feathers 😂, single point AF, Single point exposure, back button focus, 10 frames a second. And of course I only shoot RAW.
I don't have a Z9 (yet 🙂) but on my Z6II, I guess the closest thing we have to an "oh ****" button is toggling U1-2-3 modes 🤷🏻♂ On the AF side, I do have Fn2 always set to activate Subject Tracking, but I need to be in Auto Area / People / Dog-Cat AF modes (for example, it won't activate Subject Tracking if I'm in Single Point). I'd love the ability to customize Fn (or other) buttons to instantly activate any specific AF mode, regardless of the mode we're in. That said, I've gotten pretty fast at switching with Fn1 + command dial, it's just not as instant as a single-click button.
Excellent advice
Glad you think so!
Hi Steve
I shoot Canon R5 and have just started to play with customisable settings. Am shooting Dippers mornings at 1/20th second but for general bird shooting my starting point is 1/1600th. Have set this up on the camera which allows quick switch if the bird flies. Will continue to play with this and probably add high shutter speed, high FPS option
I have the OM-1 and do something similar. You can assign one of the 4 custom menu selections to be activated by a button. The custom functions will can change nearly every setting that the camera is capable of. And I’ve never seen a camera that has more, different, functions than the OM-1.
Having said that, I am envious of your Z9, and glass. At least when I’m not traveling, shooting macro, kids, or looking at my bank balance.
One of the few things I miss from shooting Pentax DSLR's is the "Green Button". It's definitely the epitome of an "oh shit" button because when you're in manual mode it brought exposure back to where the camera thought it should be. Super useful on DSLR's where you didn't get exposure preview
Well, I’m kind of prehistoric. Shoring a canon 6D. Circa 2010. Fast 3.5 frames per second always. Point focus always. Custom 1 and 2 are for still and flight. Back button focus always. Can’t wait to upgrade to an r5😅
I went from Canon to Nikon (waiting for the Z8) back to Canon. Still working on my custom settings for the R7 but to answer one question, I NEVER shoot at the highest frame rate, unless it’s BIF, and I probably shoot BIF 4 times a year. On the R7 I shoot 15 fps, and if it’s a moose or elk, will definitely shoot 10 if it’s not the Rut. Rut. It’s back up to 15
The problem with customizing buttons on my camera is then trying to remember what I customzed it for(I’m 73🤪)
lol it happens!
I use the video record button to switch to 16x9 stills - if I need some stills to accompany video on TH-cam
Thanks!
You're the best!
Hey, Scott! Thanks for another informative video. I have actually not been aware of such a thing as an "oh crap" button.
I adjust my settings for whatever I am shooting, and if something unexpected happens, I either miss it altogether or make do with the less-than-ideal settings. If I am all set up for portraits, and then action happens, I am probably just not going to shoot the action. And if I am set up for action, and a good portrait opportunity presents itself, I am pretty much just not going to be able to capture the portrait. Adapting quickly and opportunistically is not my forte, and I am totally okay with that.
Honestly, when I first get a camera, I set it up to do back button focus, and then I pretty much never go into the menus ever again as long as I own the camera. Whatever the defaults are, they seem to work pretty well for what I shoot.
Another great video. I have a D500, D850, Z6I and Z FC but have been hesitant to use 3D tracking. I do school photography which includes most sports, and concerts, assemblies, graduations, etc. and do events at a local zoo. I have been hesitant to rely on 3D so usually use single point or group for most photos. There are very few 3D videos on youtube and none point out where, when and how it should be used and what to be cautious of. I would love for you to fully explain 3D focus tracking on Nikon cameras. Your videos are so good that I am confident that you will give me the confidence to add 3D to my preferred focus options. Please consider this for a future video. Thank you, Scott.
IM on it!!!! give me a few weeks, I have a few vids queued up but this will be a good topic
Great tip! Have to test it in the field. However, I'm surprised that you do not use live-histogram. For me it was one of the features that I was waiting for to use in mirrorless camera:)
I also use the 'movie record' button which brings up the choose image area (FX/DX). The button toggle the choose image area on and off, but to actually make the change from FX to DX (or vice versa) I have to use the Main command dial.
I also use the Video Record button for Viewfinder 100% zoom on my Z9 and Z7.
Good idea. The toggle to DX almost got me in trouble last week and I was in DX but didn't realize it. Fortunately I would have cropped down anyway. God these high mp cameras allow for a lot of cropping !
I use the record button for af area m9de/settings.
My oh s*%@ button is my focus memory recall. Unfortunately I mainly use the 500pf so its on the lens only instead of with Z lenses it can be in camera with an assigned function button.
I also use the settings recall but I just have a higher fps and a C1 focus area
On my EOS R7: Dual back button fokus (af-on and the starbutton to the right) with subject trackin on the left and ordinary af-c on the right. Below the star button is a button programed to select/choose from the af-point setups i have choosed - I have the single point, the very small box, the cross and the whole sensor to toogle beetween on this button. The subject tracking works in the whole sensor area even if i have only the small mid- point choosed, this is outstanding and the way it should be on every camera -not only R7 and R3.
The lower crap-button is programmed to magnifie 3-10 times which i can change on the thumb wheel when i press that button.
On my Z6II and my om-1 i cant´t set up dual back button focus- which is crap!
Hearing a lot of love for multiple back button focus options
Custom 1 fv custom 2 fv to fast and slow action on the dial quick to change from one to other and also click and in vid and has settings close to what you need that can easily be tweaked without drastic settings change.
I have a Minolta 7000i, and when I really get confused, it has that big ol "P" button that puts it back a original. Otherwise, I do not have a panic mode setup on my digi cams. Cheers!
With my Sony a7iii and 200-600mm lens, I have the buttons on the lens (listed in menu as focus hold button) programmed as my "oh $hit" button. I usually shoot portraits as well, so my oh $hit button is set for action
Nice Krista!
You ask what frame rate we shoot at? I shoot at a lower frame rate to save space on the memory card. I can’t afford the large faster cards and have to save room to finish the days shoot.
Hey Scott! I was on your website yesterday and i saw that you were based near Allentown. I live around that area and i was wondering what parks or wildlife preserves are good for photography around that area
honestly I dont share any locations that I personally photograph at but encourage you to explore both local parks and some of the natural areas in the valley Birds to the north and south of us vary greatly, so explore a lot and use Ebird to find out specific species.
Sony a1: movie record button set for autofocus and action (1/3200, wide open, auto ISO). In case I am shooting a perched bird or wading bird for example, at a low shutter speed and all the sudden it decides to take off. I just switch my thumb from the regular back button focus button to the left and hit the movie record button.
interesting to see the options that Sony and Canon offer on back of cam buttons
@@WildlifeInspired All these pro cameras are insane. Keep up the great content! Glad to see your subs are really growing.
Great video bud! I'm a Canon shooter (R5) and am still piddlin with settings, but I am an action shooter for the most part. Love BIF (Birds in flight) and even dragonflies in flight especially now with the R5 (tho swingin that ver 1 500mm around is challengin even with the focus trackin). I used to shoot with a 7DMKII and the Sigma 150-600 Sport and talk about a bugger tryin to catch them lil guys flyin lol, but it sure does help hone in the skills with BIF's. I'm not a youtube dude. I do have a FB mostly for the elderly and handicapped folks (I'm a gimp myself lol) that can't get out and experience nature anymore. I'm just an amateur doin my best (I have abused my ol brain a bit too much in the past lol), but have had 2 published in the Nat Geo your shot community (2016) and a few other accolades along with a Texas Parks Wildlife Magazine contest win and runner up to go with a news story back in 2018. th-cam.com/video/URGCVEgiCFE/w-d-xo.html Lovin all the info/knowledge you share with others man, #BeBlessed #NoBadDays
Thanks! Im sure the brain works okay on most days
I am 5 minutes into your video and I too accidentally shoot in the Dx mode thinking I am in Fx. I wish Nikon would allow that flashing Dx mode on the EVF to be in a more noticeable color of my choice. I use function 3 for the Fx/Dx toggle now. I was using function 1 and I kept touching F1 by mistake.
I use the movie button to dial through my focus mode selections.
I do like your special button setup. Thanks!
I do use this option.
I wish Nikon gave us the option to reset to my original settings IF I make any changes during the recall.
You can save your settings and reload them on the z9 if you have.
@@craigmontour9906 That’s too much work to be practical. I mean just a setting like shutter speed and/or aperture
I thought the lens control ring would be great and tried to use it for exposure compensation. But I found it was unintentionally moving while carrying just by brushing against clothing or anything. Had to disable it.
Exactly my fear. I turned off the options for that dial all together.
I use fn-3 for my Oh Crap button. Only in reverse. I alway set up for birds in flight and hit the OC button for mammals. My record button is set to change AF Modes.
Makes sense. People shooting action may need a "calm down" button as another viewer commented. Lol
I use a Fuji X-H2S and have a custom button programmed to recall custom setting 1. By default I use custom setting 2 when shooting birds but when one of them flies one click takes me to Custom setting 1.
That is fantastic function :) I currently own the Tamron 100-400 F mount lens with a FTZ adapter on Nikon Z50. Considering buying some serious camera and trying to find anybody that has this lens and a Z8 or Z9 and share some opinions. Do you maybe? :)
I dont. sorry! One thing with high pixel sensors, they need high quality glass. Its a whole topic of its own, but they need lenses that can resolve at a higher level to get the most impact and image quality.
@@WildlifeInspired Yeah, everything is a long story :) Actually I should get a similar picture quality as on a Z50, as the single pixel size is more or less the same. However I'll be able to start at 100mm, not 150mm. I'm quite good with that image quality, but I really need a body that is more ergonomic and fast focusing. I tried to romance with Sony, but I keep being drawn back to Nikon :) For now they are only company that makes proper two-way tilt screen instead of the flip out crap screen for vloggers. It is important for me, especially when shooting handheld from a ground level. I find that with flip out screens I block the visibility of the screen with my arm holding the lens.
Damn it my sony 600 doesn’t have options like this
It amaizes me that your 400mm f/2.8 has a weight of 104 oz and my 400mm f/4.5 has a weight of 40 oz. but your lens has 6 more elements and a built in TC. Well, your lens has a lot more than that. Trick with current cameras is remembering all of the settings and where they'r located. Especially with more than one model camera.
I don't have one!! Now I'll think if i need one!!.
We all need one. Lol
@@WildlifeInspired 😀👍🏼We have a built-in #@÷ button!!.
I dont have an oshit button because Nikon has decided z7ii users dont get this sort of customization.
The custom controls settings on z7ii gives almost no options. I get not having stuff like 3d tracking because that is a hardware limitations but intentionally hamstringing a camera this expensive sucks :(
I think my Z6 2 had a couple function buttons I am sure there is at least one on the front by the lens ?
@@WildlifeInspired Oh it has them, you just have barely any options to customize them. You can't do anything like you show in this video. I have one set to zoom in, and the other for white balance. Doing things like jumping into another shooting or AF mode def isn't an option. It basically only lets you do extremely basic functions.
I'll have to figure out how set that Oh crap button up. That's actually a great idea. Hahaha I see you picked up the 400 !! Last time I watched you had the 800 comparing it to your buddies in Costa Rica. Still waiting for mine Its a beautiful lens.
I have a D850. I cannot, for my life, figure out how to assign multiple functions to a single button. I can set single functions to a single, button, but I can't set up a true "Oh Shite" button. What am I missing?