I have a Nikon Z6, Z7, Z50, and a Sony A7RIV. Because of its small size and light weight, I find myself carrying this tiny Nikon Z50 with me much more often than any other camera. The image quality is outstanding and the tiny 16-50mm lens is sharp as a tack, with good vibration reduction (Optical VR) for sharp handheld shooting. That popup flash just adds value for a highly portable camera. I can put this Z50 and lens in a large coat pocket, my manbag, or small computer backpack. It pretty much goes with me everywhere. Nikon did a great job keeping the functionality of the Z50 high while keeping the price low. I think the Z50 will grow to be a cult classic.
Nice review! I really like the idea of the Z50. Odd that some well-known reviewers are saying it’s a huge mistake. I am a MFTs user. Sensor size matters but the overall package matters more to me. I get tired of hearing about how I cannot possibly shoot in low light or get decent bokeh. Perhaps people should just learn what they’re doing rather than criticize platforms they have no experience with. Results and user satisfaction are really the only things that matter to me. I don’t shoot with a spec sheet in my hand.
Hi greetings from London, this is at last a video about the z50 that has merit. I found the last comments from you the most interesting, I am a Nikon Ambassador in Europe and just sold my D500 because after extensive testing of the Z50 am getting the same results if not better than my D500 using various mount lenses. Your channel has gone up in my estimation with this review and this is the reason I have now subscribed to your channel. Robin Preston Nikon Ambassador. P.s I am a photographer and not a videographer so have not used the video capabilities!
Interesting. I had D7200, D500 and D850 when I bought the Z50. After using the Z50 for a while the one I let go was the D7200. I use the D500 as my primary wildlife camera and after side-by-side comparison in real-world bird photography decided that, while the Z50 is usable for wildlife and is great paired with the Sigma 100-400, it just does not perform to the level of the D500, especially the autofocus which is slower to achieve lock and tricky with moving subjects like birds in flight. It also has fewer modes than the D500, notably group area focus. Also I am not comfortable using big, heavy lenses like the 150-600 with the ultra compact Z50 and the FTZ adapter. Regarding low light/high ISO, I found the Z50 and D500 to be very similar in performance and very capable indeed. I liked my D7200 very much as an all-round camera but the Z50 is so much more compact Andrew discreet while also being a very good all round cameraa, so that is why I let the D7200 go to my daughter. I have a number of Sigma lenses from 10-20mm up to 150-600 and they all seem to work fine with the FTZ adapter and the Z50. I think the Z16-50 pancake is a great little lens.
Plus the D500 has the ability to use custom buttons with af-on with focus mode. On the D500 I use AF-on as AF-on; joystick subselector for AF-on + D25; Preview (at front) for AF-on + Group area. With these 3 presets I can react instantly for wildlife.. or the kids in the park...
I loved the z50 from the second I picked it up. And yeah it did make a huge dilemma for me. I actually sold my Sony A7 Mark 3 for it. a lot of people think I'm crazy but I'm sorry I just love the way it feels and I love how it shoots.
I just bought a Sony A7R II and bought one prime lense for it. I too thought of selling the Sony again and switching to Nikon Z50 or Z6. It's a huge dilemma indeed.
bassangler73 I’ve got a Fuji X-T2 that shoots incredible work in low light. I think you’re right about APS-C and really any camera made in the past 4 years will shoot low light without issue.
I am a contract photographer for the local newspaper and I have shot sports and news for over 15 years and I can tell you that my D500's have more than held up to the tasks and the environment of photojournalism and sports work. Over the years I have shot in some pretty bad lighting situations in old high schools, fieldhouses and poorly lit Friday night football fields and the D500 has been up to the task. I also use my D500's for wildlife and bird photography, just can't beat it. I looked at z50 and played with one for a couple of weeks, ended up getting a Z6 and I love it. I use it for product work, flatlay, landscape and some portrait work and it for that use, it is perfect. The z50 will also work well in that niche if one takes the time to learn the camera and shoot with some decent glass. Sometimes in these comments and many online forums, a lot of criticism and opinions get thrown around and when this happens, I always fall back on this: use the camera that you need to produce the results you desire. It's that plain and simple. I look at my cameras and I use the one that will produce the results I need in the most efficient manner. So, love my D500's for what they are used for, love my Z6 for what I use it for and if you have a z50 use it for what you want to use it for and don't worry about anyone else. Thanks for reading..
Respectfully, the D500 owns the Z50 in both focal acquisition, buffer, and durability. The D500 is for hardcore nature work, (birds) and sports, in the environment. The Z50 is not a camera I'm hooking up a 600mm lens with and going birding with.
My current line up is D850, D750, D7200 and the recently added Z50. I bought it for my travel camera that I could also take with me everyday and it really has exceeded my expectations. Both of the kit lens deliver good results. Yes, they are slow but with the FTZ I can grab my fast F mount glass if I need to. Also, the camera really handles well, feels good in the hand and shoots like a Nikon! So, I think my D7200 is on the chopping block!
This was absolutely one of the best thought out and presented reviews of the Z50. I've had mine for about four weeks now and feel I made the best choice for the price. I was really close to getting a Z6 or D750, but online reviews kept telling me the Z50 would not be a disappointment. The camera has everything I need and more in features and it allowed me to continue to use all the DX lenses I purchased for my D7100 over the years. My Tokina 11-16mm f/2.8 AT-X116 Pro DX II really shines with the Z50. All my Nikkor lenses work well with the FTZ adapter. I'm keeping the D7100 as something to keep in the bag with a short prime lens. My only disappointment with the Z50 is the battery. I could shoot for 8 hours and more with my D7100, but FINALLY my new Z50 battery has shipped and I'll enjoy the extra hours I need for my street photography, wildlife and landscape adventures.
Thanks for this comment. I have my trusty D7200 and 9 lenses. I bought a Lumix G85 because Nikon didn't have a mirrorless camera at the time and I wanted a video centered camera. I really like using mirrorless cameras and the reviews for the Z50 have been positive. Knowing I can use my F mount lens collection without sacrifice means a lot.
Funny I have the D7100 and the same Tokina lense. I was wondering how it would work on the Z50. I was wanting the Z50 as a video-centric camera and my eyesight limits my use of the D7100. It seems these should work well together. I am also interested in trying an older 20mm AF lens I have from the 90s with the Z50 as well. I love that lens and thought I would be moving to a Fuji system. But this Z50 seems to he the video performer I want and allow me to use my existing lenses.
thank you for your comment! I'm also considering the Z50 and would use it with the Tokina. Were you able to compare the 16-50mm kit lens to other (older) Nikkor or Sigma/Tokina standard-zoom-lenses? I'm not sure how good the quality of the 16-50 is ...
@@patrick.771 Since I do a lot of street photography my "go to" lens is a Nikkor18-140mm (DX VR) and it has worked perfectly with the Z50. I also has a 55-300mm Nikkor (DX) and the pictures are fine - I just feel the auto focus is bit a slower than it was on my D7100. I hope that answer helps. All my other Nikkor lenses are prime lenses. The Z's 16-55mm kit lens gives me sharper images than those I experienced with the old DX kit lenses in that range that I owned the past 15 years or so. Auto focusing with the Z kit lens is very fast compared to the DX kit lenses. I hope my answer was helpful.
I like both the Nikon Z50 and D500. Love the Nikon D500 used with a long 600mm lense for zooming in on birds, wildlife and action shots. I use the Z50 with the two kit lenses for convenience when outdoors with dogs and friends. It's the perfect price, weight and size for casual use and travel. It also has a selfie screen and the small size is convenient at social gatherings. The lenses for both cameras have image stabilization. They both have aps-crop DX sensors that give extra 1.5x zoom. I have a lens mount adapter so I can use D500 lens on Z50, but prefer to use the larger 600mm lense with the D500. Love my new Nikon Z50!
In conclusion, I use both cameras. The D500 has more professional features & qualities and great for wildlife & action shots. But the Z50 is convenient for casual use and travel.
Indeed, I tell my students or friends who are interested in pursuing photography and want to own higher end gear to start with entry level APSC cameras in order to hone their skills and develop their creative eye/mind (as my belief is that limited "resources/tech" tend to encourage creativity/innovation) then when they feel like this is really what they want to do AND be able to earn money, to upgrade to higher end gear. I always loved photography and was taking perfectly nice and sometimes amazing pictures with my D5500 and it wasn't until I really started getting paid to do photography that I fully upgraded. I have a D750/500 right now with the Tamron 70-200 2.8 g2 along with 3 Nikkor AF-D lens (50 1.4, 85 1.8 and 28-105 3.5) and now I want to move to the Z6 and possibly Z50 meaning I'm going to have to sell those AF-D lens with my D750.
CapturedByKen Poeple are so obsessed with a “smaller camera” hence a mirrorless camera. I’m perfectly happy with my bulky D500 for many years to come. Just like phones, people wanted smaller phones, then phones got bigger now they are “too big” and wish they were smaller again..... smh.
I have the Z6 and I have absolutely fallen in love with mirrorless! My D7100 is now collecting dust. I am seriously considering the Z50 as its replacement as I love to shoot macro and the extra reach of the crop sensor will allow me to get even closer to my subjects. I'm saving my pennies and hoping for a nice sale in a few months.
The included lenses with VR do a wonderful job without in body stabilization. I have two Z6 bodies and the images are very close coming out of the Z50. It’s a fantastic camera to travel with. I’ve been a Nikon DSLR shooter a decade and I think the Z cameras are awesome. Could care less about one card.
After SnapChick mentioned this camera, I bought this camera in the end of November, and have found out, this is my go to camera. It small, light and compact. It came with the two kit lens, and adapter. I have been shooting with it for a month and a half, and it is a great choice for a camera.
just over a month ago I purchased a D500 and was super impressed after having a D3200 for many years, but after 2wks the D500 developed a fault and the retailer offered a new replacement, I was worried that the new D500 could have the same issue as the original I decided to order a Z50 with both kit lenses and the FTZ Mount Adapter as I have invested in the F mount lenses and two Tamron lenses. After watching your review i am so pleased I chose the Z50 and I'm super excited. many thanks for the great videos.
Dumb comments abound when it comes to today's generation of so-called photographers. One of the dumbest is the complaint when a camera doesn't come with dual memory card slots and how you can't possibly shoot a wedding unless you have an extra slot for backup. Gosh, how did photographers ever survive the previous 150 years of photography? It's not like cameras had dual rolls of film in them.
I love my D7000 and one of the reasons is the dual card slot. However, I view it as a nice convenience, certainly not a must have and it will not be a factor in my next camera purchase. I'm liking what I see with this Z50
It is nice to read/view positive aspects of the Z50 camera. I have a Z7 and a D500. The 500 is spending more and more time at home. The Z50 is about 80% of what I’m looking for in a backup camera. I would like to see a body with weather sealing and construction more like the Z7/Z6. I also would prefer an ENEL15 battery to keep the kit simple. They are small things but for me they are still important. I’m very conservative with shutter speeds (to old to change) so the lack of IBIS is not a concern. Thanks for the thoughtful review.
I L-O-V-E my Z50. Add the FTZ adapter and it is an amazing unit! The two kit lenses are excellent. I only use it for stills, not video. The D500 has a purpose and I won't let it go, so does the D800, and even the old D7000 (which I still use from time to time). ALL the lenses are exchangeable, which is an incredible setup to have. No extra batteries available for the Z50 yet, but all the other cameras I have use the same battery! I am a Sony shooter as well and always thought I'd need the IBIS. Not the case with the VR in the kit lenses of the Z50. it is simply an amazing 'toy'.
Last week I ordered and received a Z50 battery from Photo Pro in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Seems like some independent dealers got small shipments of batteries when the Z50 was released.
Over the years I've never really been enamored with the DX format (maybe it's the smaller viewfinders). But I picked up the Z50 kit to supplement my Z7. I find the Z50 to be a great camera and I use it more than my Z7. The size and weight are really nice making DX enjoyable.
No dilemma. Returned my a7R4, put my a6400 in the closet. I absolutely love this camera! I’ve only owned one other camera that I loved: my Pentax 6x7! But that was 50 years ago! BTW, the 6x7 didn’t have a silent shooting mode. LOL!!!
How would the Z50 body do for you with 200-500 fitted onto it handheld for moving wildlife? Some ppl have suggested that a cross combination of mirror less and F mount lens would slower the rate of performing. My questions are- 1. Is it good to operate 200-500 with Z50 handheld, does it lack of image stabilization work as a deal breaker? 2. Does this cross combination lags the total system or would it work just as fine as any other F mount on a DX mirror body such as maybe my current D7000. Does the FTZ adapter slower down on the total system in this case? 3. Is it better to shed for D500 body or not? Please do reply. Love from India.. Really love your reviews...🙏😍
I've had the Nikon Z50 for a week now, it's cute, has a fantastic grip and image wise punches well above it's weight. Thanks for this video that sealed it for me. As a Nikon shooter felt immediately at home using it...
Great review! I am loving my Z50! While I won't be getting rid of my D850 anytime soon I find the Z50 to be a great 'all 'rounder' and just scoot out the door for walk abouts. Two things I didn't hear you mention in this video and you only briefly talked about in previous reviews... On my Z50 the focus peaking is amazing for manual focus lenses. My Nikon mount VOIGTLANDER NOKTON 58mm f1.4 SLII resides on the Z50 most of the time. The ease of shooting with manual focus lenses is awesome. The other thing I love is the eye focus tracking. Using my Nikkor 85mm f\1.8G with FTZ is working amazingly well. I find using any fast aperture lens on the Z50 makes a huge difference in focus tracking speed. My go to test for AF continuous tracking ability is getting shots of my very two hyper Australian Shepherds. Using a fast AF lens like the 85mm I have NO problems whatsoever geting a high infocus keeper rate of any moving subjects. The only quirky issue is the "in focus" indicator squares are RED instead of Green in CAF mode, takes a little getting used to... long story shorter, the Z50 is amazing for what it does. Thanks for your awesome reviews, greatly appreciate them!
The Z50 does not have enough of the amenities that I am used to having with the D500 to even begin to convince me to part ways with old faithful. In particular, it is less the camera's fault and more Nikon's with the failure to include a screw-drive AF motor in the FTZ adapter for old AF-D lenses. They also failed to add an AI indexing pin to the FTZ adapter for use with Nikon's old vintage glass which is something I love doing with my Nikon D500 and D800e. As for the Z50 itself, it lacks some of the focus tracking features of the D500, as well as a joystick or even the "touch screen joystick" that earlier entry level DSLRs like the D5500 and D5600 have as a space saving compromise. Maybe if they release a Z60 with more features from the D500 I would consider it, but at the moment it acts to much like my Z6 (which I have to throw out 60% of the shots because they are not in focus) and less like my D800e (far older camera, but I can count on it to have 90% of the pictures I take in focus). If Nikon can just nail their focus algorithm, then I can see the successors to the Z50 being fantastic cameras, but they are trailing Sony at the moment by a fair margin. As an example, I use the Nikon Z6 and Sony A7III for work and the Nikon is 100% manual focus, at all times. I cannot trust it in auto-focus for jobs I'm being payed to perform, whereas the Sony has not failed me yet in auto-focus in dark scenes, which is sad, because that used to be Nikon's strength.
I own most every Nikon except the D-6 series. When I bought the Z-50 and 2 kit lenses I didn't expect much. While it will not replace my D-500 I found it to be an excellent addition to my arsenal of Nikon cameras. By the way, the Z-6 and D-850 and D-780 are my current favorites.
I already have a D850 and a Z6. I ordered a Z50 just to try it out and with the more or less firm will to sell it. But then I had this tiny little monster in my hands and I instantly fell in love. The good thing is I can now use my old Nikon 17-55 f/2.8 working horse. And my fullframe Z-Mount Lenses also fit amazingly well to the smaller body.
Thanks for the reviews, the z50 is a wonderful camera for me. It's my staple gimbal camera for cinematography and my 2nd body to my z6 on photo shoots I use the zit lenses which are great and F mount 2.8 glass, I couldn't be happier from a camera of this size and price...And it's a z mount the possibilities are endless especially for a Nikon shooter of 35 years as myself. Nikon hit it out of the park..love it
I think this is an excellent choice. I had a look at the Z50 a year ago when it was released and I was impressed immediately . I’m wanting to replace my D7500, which is an excellent camera, but it’s heavy and big, so I tend to leave it home and use my Fujifilm XT-30. Or my Sony A7 Mark 3. However I have lots of Nikon DX lenses, which need to be used. I’m happy with the APSC. I just HAVE to keep a Nikon as they just feel great in the hand, I love Nikon and I understand the menu. ( the Sony and Fuji is ridiculous) Who really needs a clunky DSLR now? I don’t. Mirrorless is fantastic!
Great video, and it really is an awesome camera. In regards to what you asked of your viewers to comment on: The only issue with the lack of IBIS, is that while the kit lenses are stabilized, the rest of the fast Z primes are not, so while I love the camera, it's getting tougher to have to decide between a really slow kit lens vs a nice Z prime that is NOT stabilized, or cobbling together the FTZ adapter and a larger and heavier legacy F mount lens with VR. I'm really impressed with the image quality, seems slightly better than my D500, with great AF and even the eye AF and tracking is impressive, once set up correctly, and considering the size and weight, it's so much more fun to take this than the Z6, except if you need a faster lens that is also stabilized, then by the time you add the legacy lenses and adapter, it instantly becomes a a greater burden than just taking the Z6. But I'll use it with the adapter and the longer stabilized zooms in place of the D500.
Metabones have just pumped out an F to Z speedbooster for the Z50, which is seriously making me think it could be a highly flexible and useful lightweight body for anyone with an investment in F mount glass
The Nikon Z50 with the 50-250mm and 180-600mm lens are the only 2 lenses that I need. My first choice camera is the Nikon P950. I can zoom in at hundreds of yards away. I’m still keeping my Nikon Z50. ❤❤❤ Great video. ❤❤❤
I know this video is now more than a year old but I believe it has convinced me that the Z50 is the right choice. I went from film to a Fuji S5 Pro and that's the body I'm coming from (yes I've FAR FAR exceeded the recommended shutter actuation count but don't shoot pro) so there is A LOT of room for me to grow, and between my wife and I we have a baker's dozen of F mount DX lenses. 2 Days ago I was convinced that I would be going the route of the Sony a6400 but when I looked at the lens selection I changed my mind. Thanks for a really comprehensive video.
This camera will be a great camera when Nikon wakes up with pro grade lenses on DX format. As a landscaper who doesn’t want to always carry the burdensome lenses that full frame requires, having the choice Fuji guys already had for years, would be very appreciated
I was above 1200 iso all day today shooting wildlife and this little beast handled it and asked for more. My only problem with it is i cant tell how much battery power i have left lol.
I just discovered something interesting about the Nikon 10-20mm DX af-p lens from answering a question on the internet. This lens can use the Z50's video VR for still photography like it utilizes this function on DSLR cameras like the D7500.
Great post and insights. You cant expect everyone to agree but it takes experience, skill and track record of producing quality image and best-use cases to understand the difference. More power to your channel.
Just traded up to mine, from the d5500. Got it all set up for shooting in manual. Got the adapter as I kept my favorite glass from my dslr, the 35mm 1:1.8g. I also got the two lens kit. Really enjoying my new baby.
Some interesting points there.im using a d500 with 200-500,and while it's a fairly capable camera /lens combination for bifs,though focus is a tad slow,my main reason to look into the z50 with ftz adapter and 200-500 is for the silent shutter ,I have trouble with Owls and Mountain Hares really being spooked by the shutter noise on the d500,even on quiet mode ,which really isn't quiet at all,so maybe keep d500 for Bifs,and use z50 for other wildlife.
Great review! I purchased the Z50 and it's been great! I purchased it for its small size, price point, and capabilities. The small size makes it really easy to carry and not feel weighed down. I use a GoPro often for video and I've have gotten use to its small size. I've been making do with two kit lenses but going to buy a 24-70 f2.8.
I recently purchased the Z6 and Z7 and then Nikon came out with the Z50 as well and I was considering it as a run and gun vlogging camera but there was a lot of deal breakers with it, so I ended up going with the Sony RX100 Mark7 for run and gun vlogging. 1) No IBIS... for when I am out walking with my camera I 100% need IBIS for steady footage (2) flip down screen...It doesn't allow for use of mini tripod or Switchpod as they would block my view of the screen. (3) I gave up APS-C to go full frame with the Z6 and Z7 and I can't see myself going back to APS-C (4) I love the little control stick on the back of the Z6 and Z7 for moving my focus point and the Z50 doesn't have it. But overall I do love Nikon and have a nice line of F mount lenses I use with the FTZ adapter so I can't knock Nikon as the Z50 is a good entry level mirrorless,
To me the biggest issue comes down to the build quality. Is it as durable as the D500? Is it built to be in the bush and sand and near the sea? Will I bump it and see it break? That is the questions for me. I only have owned Nikon so I would love to stick with it but the Fuji film looks tempting
Always enjoy your videos, so practical and informative. Just curious, for quality and enjoyment of use, how would you compare the z50 to the fugi xt3 or xpro2? If one wanted to step up from the z50 to FF would the z5 be a good step up or would you recommend going to the z6? (Or possibly Sony a7c?) I also really love your "in the field" videos! Inspiring!
I got the Z6 ii first to replace my end of life D750. Have the D500 and just last week got the Z50 with the kit lens set and am already in love with it. I do a lot of low light event work and I was laughing when you mentioned comments about how bad it is in poor light, I have no issues at all with it getting the shots I need. But I’ve also spent the last 10 years working in the worst low light situations and have learned how to get those shots. I was working off a D7200 apsc camera for a long time and was still able to get most of my shots with it too. Definitely has a lot to do with knowing how to shoot those situations. I am on the fence about letting go of my d500 at the moment. But definitely am using the z6 ii and the z50 as my main kit cameras now. I have ftz’s for both and a mix of fmount glass and a few z mount ones now. For now, my f lenses will be my work horses but plan to slowly add a few z lenses in. My arthritic hands definitely are thanking me for upgrading finally and the continuous autofocus and better video capabilities are quickly making these pay for themselves.
Just recently bought the Z7II to add to my D850. I'm absolutely loving it and thinking about the Z50 as a backup mirrorless. I want to lighten my load when I'm working outside the studio, which is very often. Right now, I'm packing the Z7II and the D850 and their sets of lenses and accessories and it is a load. I'm thinking a Z system backup makes sense. I just haven't decided between the Z50, Zfc or a Z6II for the job.
I have the D500 and wanted to dip into the mirrorless world, so I picked up the Z50 kit with two lenses. My biggest disappointment with the Z50 is tracking in sports photography. While it has the burst mode I like, it cannot track with accuracy like the D500. I will be using the Z50 in some sports banner photo sessions in a couple of weeks - leaning on its face/eye detection. I also have the FTZ ii adapter so I can use my 50mm 1.4 art as well as my 24-70 2.8 lenses.
I see what you are saying. If only they'd kept the joystick. For my D500 and wildlife, I find the use of the 2 back button focus choices (af-on plus joystick with afon + D25 area mode) is a important advantage. Going from a single focus shot to a D25 area mode in a heartbeat. Rendering the D500 a very nimble proposition. Yes, I've gotten happily used to it.
I actually sold my d500 for the z50. The d500 was more than what I usually shoot, plus I needed something more up to date.. So decision made selling my d500 and I'm very pleased by the image quality the z50 outputs
Replace is perhaps too strong of a word IMO. The D500 has a superior layout, feel, and more reliable low light FAST focusing. The Z50 will simply go more places. I liked the Z50 so much I tried a Z7, but it had the same weight as the D500, and the lenses were too expensive. Get a Z50, build up your lenses, then get the Z6/Z7's replacement. I liked that I could shoot the Z7 in DX mode at 20mp, but the color depth was just not as good as the D500 IMO.
This is a thoughtful and well balanced review. Leigh's conclusions are similar to the ones I have after using this camera in a wide variety of situations over the last two years. It was a good purchase. The one statement I question in this review is that there is a crop when in 4k video recording (somewhere around 0:54.) I haven't noticed that. The angle of view when switching from stills to 4K UHD video seems identical to me. If there is a crop, it is very limited.
I so agree with your comment about APS-C and skills. I have gotten beautiful images from my DSLR for years, and if you have the right lens and the right skills you can make your images awesome. Equipment does not make the photographer, anymore than the basketball makes the player great. Spend time shooting, making mistakes, learning, listening, watching, and reading. Then get out and shoot, shoot, shoot.
I just bought a Zfc Black edition and I chose the 28mm 2.8 SE Prime for the aperture and to push me creativity with the one focal length. Really looking forward to shooting with it.
Not a Nikon shooter (m43) user here. I have been suprised to see the community that Nikon has especially when seeing the reviews posted on resellers websites. I only wish there was more lenses available right now. Sigma 16,30,56mm would make this camera shine. Also just a few small primes with 1.4 or 1.8 please oh please Nikon.
Im user of Z6 and Z50, I can say that the ISO performance of Z50 is slightly better than D500 in very close to some Full Frame camera. i.e. D600/D610, 6D Series, EOSR/RP.
Thank you for this review. I have a Sony A6000 and I am looking to go back to Nikon. I started with Nikon and was interested in the Z50. Iike mirroless cameras and think the new Z50 seems to be a great choice. I do hope that Nikon makes some more lenses for it but with adapters you can use other brands. Anyway thanks for the great review.
I sold my d500 and will have the z50 Tuesday. The reason I sold it was because I have a Z6 and it was just crazy going back and forth from optical and electronic viewfinders, think I just needed more compatibility and simplicity
I had a Fuji XT-1 and XH-1. Just a bit to small and quirky for me. Sold both and went back to my old Nikon DSLR's-D90/D700. I did like the mirorless concept and heard Nikon had them in the pipeline. However the Z6/Z7 where just a bit out of my range. Along comes the Z50, perfect! Just picked up the Z50 kit with both lenses and discounted adaptor. Love it! Great imaging and features from such a compact mirrorless. Awesome pictures and stability is great with the VR. Love the form factor and feature set. Easier to hold and the capability is much better than the Fuji's in my opinion. Not to mention the lens options with the adaptor. Good luck with yours!
I have both the D500 and Z50. Love them both. The D500 is a lot better at high ISO photography. The electronic monitor on the Z50 comes in handy for night and Astro photography. The Z50 is great to carry around for street photography. The DSLR is better to have for sports. When a shot comes up quickly in a sporting event, the D500 is always ready to shoot where the Z50, if the camera is in sleep mode, the delay in firing up the display can be frustrating. Keep them both, Z50 and D500. I recently got the Z7 which I’m also happy with.
I have the 50mm 1.8 S mounted on my Z50 as a backup portrait camera to my Z6 with the 85mm 1.8 S. Patiently waiting for the Z8 or what ever it is called...the one with 61MP.
I'm definitely in the camp of another brand looking at the z50. I shoot Pentax, and my preferred Pentax is my K3. Don't get me wrong, I absolutely LOVE my K3, however, it is now very old with a LOT of shutter actuations. It has held up great doing everything for me from wildlife to weddings, but now it's time for it to retire (at least semi-retire, I'll be keeping it as there really is no resale value). I've shot weddings and events with an APS-C sensor for years and have never had a complaint (from myself or a client...as you said, issues encountered mostly come from the person behind the camera, not the camera itself). After much research and watching/reading reviews as they've come out, for me it was between the Canon M6 mark ii and the z50. Video is a non-issue for me (which makes finding reviews hard as most focus on that instead of photography), and I find myself leaning to the z50. Unfortunately I live where renting to try is not a possibility, so I have to rely on trusted reviews. However, it will be months before I have enough saved to do the upgrade, so hopefully there will be more reviews coming.
I'm late to the party but thank you for this video. Due to hand injury I sold my DSLRs end of 2019 and with all the changes on the camera market I decided to take a break from photography and wait how things develop until I decide for a new system. Now is the time and hell yes, even in 2021 it still is a dilemma. In 2020 I had a little excursion to the Olympus world and MFT is much better than its reputation but with Olympus nose diving end of last year, I decided to return to Nikon. After a lot of thinking I came to this solution for my hobby, street photography purposes: Nikon Z50 with FTZ adapter, using better lenses with more light capabilities but at half the price of the new z glass. I understand Nikon's decision for the z mount but for advanced hobby photographers it's a painful money matter. Good they offer the adapter option which seems to work well. But again, I'm only shooting photos. Filming is a different matter...
I actually borrowed the Z50 for a few days and think it's a great "upgrade" from the D7000 bodies. Yes it's AF is not the same but for someone doing things other than wildlife, it's a great option and definitely a lot smaller making it great for travel. If you don't need FF, the Z50 is certainly worth looking at. I would have picked one up but I have a D7500 for wildlife, as well as some of the other FF Z bodies, so the Z50 would have been redundant and a waste of money for me, but for someone who maybe has an older DSLR or who wants to stay within the APS-C format in Nikon, the Z50 is worth looking at and is priced accordingly (yes it lacks IBIS) but most cameras I've found under $900 don't have it anyways.
There's nothing wrong with apsc cameras. Whenever someone asks me to recommend a camera, I instantly recommend a Sony a6100. Cheap, powerful, and most importantly has a good variety of affordable lenses especially those sigma contemporary trio lenses. 16mm, 30mm, and 56mm all at f1.4, sharp, compact, and relatively affordable lenses. The ability to upgrade to full frame is a bonus. Fujifilm is a bit expensive for someone starting out. I do hope those sigma lenses make it to the z mount because this camera looks and sounds incredible. I agree, it's usually the lenses that cripple the aps c cameras. Things have changed recently though.
Great review it has made me see the Z50 quite differently. I agree with pretty much everything you said in this review, you can use a crop sensor for wide and soft background shots (if you have the distance for it) and the eVR is hideous and looks unprofessional. However the low light example maybe was a little unfair. I end up shooting gigs where common settings are 1/200 f2.8 ISO 4000 to 6400 (gotta keep the shutter up) and that’s where the limitations of crop really show. I have the D500 and A7 mkiii and ISO 4000 on the A7 looks like ISO 800 ish from the D500. If the light is any worse than that at the gig the D500 is pretty unusable while the full frame keeps going. What I would call low light where crop sensors really struggle is a bit more extreme than you showed because ISO 1600 isn’t really that high these days I think personally.
Go try the Z50 with the Z 24-200mm, then you know why it will make the D500 redundant. This combo itself is perfect for travel. Very very convenient when hiking, strap it with the Peak Design Capture V3 clip to your hiking backpack makes it such a fun camera to use
This always seemed like such a cool camera to me; I own 2, APS-C Nikon DSLRs that I was looking for a mirrorless body to upgrade from. My biggest gripe with the system was that there was a lack of fast, Z-DX lenses available, and it seems that the Z-mount is no different, which is a shame. I really enjoy the smaller size of APS-C lenses, and I wish I didn't feel pressured with every lens purchase with the looming thought of Z-FX transferability/compatibility. It does not seem as though Nikon supports APS-C to any significant degree, and it really only seems to exist to funnel customers towards a future FX purchase(s), and that's a disappointment to me. I decided to leave Nikon for this reason and invest in the Fujifilm X-mount system, and I feel like I've been able to get everything that I wish the Z50 could have offered by getting an XT-3 instead. As awesome as the Z50 body is, I really don't think it'll ever become a top contender in the APS-C sphere for the lack of fast, Z-DX lenses.
Finally a very rational review. So many just want a camera do all the job. But an artist can use whatever tool available to create masterpieces. This all depends on skills. Cheers and again great review.
I am a still's shooter and that is why I purchased the Z50 with the two lens kit. My wife and are flying from Denver to Tucson in April to visit Saguaro National Park and Chiracaua National Monument. The entire kit fits in a small backpack, is easy as a carry one and very light to tote on long hikes. The photos should be easily good enough for a 16x24" print.
@@LeighAndRaymond Thanks! We saw on TH-cam a young couple (young for us, we are seniors) who are bent on seeing all of the U.S. national parks and monuments. The man is English and his significant other is Latvian. Their TH-cam channel is Adventurous Way and it is excellent. Their thorough coverage of Chircuaua National Monument is what inspired us to go there. The best part is that it is not crowded like Zion, Bryce, etc. I love your channel!
I'm Nikon Shooter (amateur) have a D3200 and a D610 both aging but like scotch how they've aged!! I'm looking to take the baby steps towards mirrorless without breaking the bank in these Covid times and your video almost seals the deal for me. Thanks, Leigh!
If you started from scratch would you consider a Z7 rather than a Z6 + Z50? The Z7 'contains' a Z50, but one which also has all the benefits of the Z7 ie IBIS, higher res EV, joy stick etc. You carry one camera instead of two. I like the idea of being able to switch from FX to DX in an instant. You give up the smaller size of the Z50 and the compact 16-50 (although you could always buy one, and other DX lenses) the slightly better low-light performance and video of the Z6. What do you think?
Thanks for the excellent, straight forward and articulate review! I currently have a D7100 and I like having the “Clean image sensor” option. How do the Z50 owners out there feel about not having that feature? My understanding is that it does not have it.
I bought my Z50 in March and am happy with it overall. One main problem I am having, though, is dirt on the sensor. The Z50 doesn't have the "Clean image sensor" option so I've had to take the risk and clean the sensor myself. I have the 2 kit lenses and always take care to turn the camera downwards when changing lenses. The sensor just seems to attract dirt constantly. I was wondering if anyone else is having that issue?
I bought one of those cleaning kits on ebay to clean my D800. Its just a microfibre looking tipped swab thats squarish. Blow away the dust with a bulb, and then gently brush the sensor, everything was totally fine. I'm not worried about not having this feature at all with my Z50.
Hello. I’m new to the channel, and wished I found it sooner. Thank you for all that you do and just in the first three videos I’ve watched so far, it’s like finding a treasure! I am a beginner and been using my old Nikon D5100 with a kit and 50mm. But it is broken beyond repair. Been saving from a tight budget, and now just have a little over a thousand saved. I love taking landscapes. Should I get the Z50 with the lenses or just the with a different lense or save some more for a Z5? Agree with you. The product reviews had shifted my attention from photography itself to the gear. I wish your channel well, and glad to be subscribed.
Very interesting. I've been actually weighing my options between a D500 and this since I do want to get into mirrorless at some point(wanting something more compact for travel) and the FTZ adapter is a huge selling point. Hoping that it will pair well with my Sigma 150-600 and the rest of the F mounts I have. I love my D700, but really want to make that jump to mirrorless for a 2nd camera.
Hi, I'm really in a great dilemma as I just started wildlife photography and I only have a Z5 with the af-s 200-500 VR lens. I want to buy a crop sensor to get the extra reach but I've got 3 options: D500, D7500 and Z50. Which one would be the best option? I really want to buy the Z50 but am worried that its af is not as good as D500 or D7500 for birds in flight.
Whilst I do not disagree that the Z50 is a way forward for mirrorless APS-C sensors and the fact that it is very portable, I cannot see myself selling my D500, the ultimate camera in my opinion for wildlife.
Thanks for that videos! I'm a d7200 user, mostly for wildlife (with sigma 150-600mm C) and hiking with a wide angle lens and I'm in the dilemma because I like so much the new Z50 and it's "portability" for large hikes but I'am worried about the focusing when shooing small moving birds. How about that? It's the AF accurate?
Hello there. I’m a portrait/wedding photographer. My main camera is a Z6ii and I have the kit Z24-70 f4 and a Z105mm 2.8 Along with a 50mm 1.8. I recently sold my D3500 and two kit lenses. Would you recommend I buy a Z50 or a well cared for Z5 as my back up/second shooter camera? Your thoughts are appreciated.
Don’t have a Z50, although I do have a Z6. It’s tempting to replace my D500 with Z50, but doubt it will do low light and action as well as the D500. Plus I have a nice selection of DX stabilized lenses without need of adapter. I use my X-T3 with several stabilized lenses for walking around and video. I am a little long-in-the-tooth and hands are not as steady these days.
I am thinking of changing over to the Z50 for the the weight . I am disabled and holding the D600 and D7200 with heavy lenses is becoming a pain for me as I also have a athritic back and shoulders. So the info from you is helping me on the way to changing to the lighter system.I will be sorry to let go of my 2 cameras at the moment.
Cheers! Yeah considering atm to trade in my D7200 with 2 lenses and make the switch to Z50 and Z lenses! Hopefully can get a good deal on the camera, otherwise will probably stick to it for longer!
Can't wait to get my Z50. Just ordered it online and its coming with the FTZ adaptor for free. Tiny little body that probably does amazing stills, 4K video, good video autofocus and such a great price point. Excited to have a 2nd video/stills camera which will compliment any shortcomings of my D850!
Hey, thanks for the detailed video. I would like to buy Z50 with two lenses for Family pictures, occassionally capturing the fun times we have outdoors also - we are not too far from beautiful beaches, and glaciers. Can you please recommend or not whether Z50 is a good choice there for that application please. Thankyou !
I think each person has to make their own choice. I'm not getting rid of my D500 for a Z7, Z6 or Z50. The D500 is legendary and it has a special place in my camera bag that none of the Z series has yet to fill for fast action, sports, none of the Z series will outpace a D500, but for other type of work, like for instant weddings and other styles of shooting along with video, yes the Z series is excellent. If you have older glass in your Nikon kit that you have no intention of getting rid of, especially from Tamron or Sigma keep your DSLR and if you feel the need to upgrade and video is a must, I don't think the Z series is a bad option. The other things said about what you can't do with an APSC camera is not true and I agree with you SnapChick it's the skill of the person using the camera. The one thing that I will say is a smaller camera like the Z50, I also own a Fuji XT3 will make you want to take it with you more and the camera in your bag is the best camera to have at that time.
Thanks for a useful overview. I currently have a D5600 and am thinking about upgrading to a Z50 or possibly a Fuji X-T30 (although that would mean having to buy new lenses). It sounds like the Z50 could be a worthy upgrade for the price? I’m mainly seeking a better focus system for stills.
Check out my next photo tour! th-cam.com/video/mcKHeJcO2Pg/w-d-xo.html
There's not supposed to be a crop in 4K. Are you sure the crop isn't coming from the electronic VR?
@@knightsabre7 Agree, I thought there was no crop for 4K, other than the usual DX1.5x crop
Someone else mentioned this. Yes, I misspoke - the crop is from eVR.
@@LeighAndRaymond no problem, still getting used to my Z50, love it so far.....
I have a Nikon Z6, Z7, Z50, and a Sony A7RIV. Because of its small size and light weight, I find myself carrying this tiny Nikon Z50 with me much more often than any other camera. The image quality is outstanding and the tiny 16-50mm lens is sharp as a tack, with good vibration reduction (Optical VR) for sharp handheld shooting. That popup flash just adds value for a highly portable camera. I can put this Z50 and lens in a large coat pocket, my manbag, or small computer backpack. It pretty much goes with me everywhere. Nikon did a great job keeping the functionality of the Z50 high while keeping the price low. I think the Z50 will grow to be a cult classic.
Darrell, what other lens do you find yourself using with the Z50 for your everywhere use? Did you buy the 50-250mm as well?
whats your reward for this unsmart marketing?
I agree and i too love having a pop up lens in a pinch.
Should go for it then.... especially for my vlogging
Nice review! I really like the idea of the Z50. Odd that some well-known reviewers are saying it’s a huge mistake. I am a MFTs user. Sensor size matters but the overall package matters more to me. I get tired of hearing about how I cannot possibly shoot in low light or get decent bokeh. Perhaps people should just learn what they’re doing rather than criticize platforms they have no experience with. Results and user satisfaction are really the only things that matter to me. I don’t shoot with a spec sheet in my hand.
Rod I'm a MFT user too did you pickup a Nikon z50?
Hi greetings from London, this is at last a video about the z50 that has merit. I found the last comments from you the most interesting, I am a Nikon Ambassador in Europe and just sold my D500 because after extensive testing of the Z50 am getting the same results if not better than my D500 using various mount lenses. Your channel has gone up in my estimation with this review and this is the reason I have now subscribed to your channel. Robin Preston Nikon Ambassador. P.s I am a photographer and not a videographer so have not used the video capabilities!
Thanks for your comments. I just found a used Z50 with lens for $463!
@@jfinneynowable are you still shooting the z50? Looks like the used prices have increased.
Got the Z50 and 2 VR lenses to be my "stealthy" street kit. It more than met my expectations! It's the most fun rig I've ever shot with.
Interesting. I had D7200, D500 and D850 when I bought the Z50. After using the Z50 for a while the one I let go was the D7200. I use the D500 as my primary wildlife camera and after side-by-side comparison in real-world bird photography decided that, while the Z50 is usable for wildlife and is great paired with the Sigma 100-400, it just does not perform to the level of the D500, especially the autofocus which is slower to achieve lock and tricky with moving subjects like birds in flight. It also has fewer modes than the D500, notably group area focus. Also I am not comfortable using big, heavy lenses like the 150-600 with the ultra compact Z50 and the FTZ adapter. Regarding low light/high ISO, I found the Z50 and D500 to be very similar in performance and very capable indeed.
I liked my D7200 very much as an all-round camera but the Z50 is so much more compact Andrew discreet while also being a very good all round cameraa, so that is why I let the D7200 go to my daughter.
I have a number of Sigma lenses from 10-20mm up to 150-600 and they all seem to work fine with the FTZ adapter and the Z50.
I think the Z16-50 pancake is a great little lens.
Agree 100 %. Z 50 is D500 wanna be. No disrespect great little camera but doesn't measure up to the level of "battle proven" D500
@@dkasvin1 I have a z50 sitting in the box still for a week now! I don't trust it.
THe low light/high iso is similar because they both use the same Sensor, but different processors.
Until you get native Z DX lenses.
Plus the D500 has the ability to use custom buttons with af-on with focus mode. On the D500 I use AF-on as AF-on; joystick subselector for AF-on + D25; Preview (at front) for AF-on + Group area. With these 3 presets I can react instantly for wildlife.. or the kids in the park...
I loved the z50 from the second I picked it up. And yeah it did make a huge dilemma for me. I actually sold my Sony A7 Mark 3 for it. a lot of people think I'm crazy but I'm sorry I just love the way it feels and I love how it shoots.
😂wow really but u should have check z6 but at at the same time can understand that feeling. When it is right for u is the best 🤣
I just bought a Sony A7R II and bought one prime lense for it. I too thought of selling the Sony again and switching to Nikon Z50 or Z6. It's a huge dilemma indeed.
Couldn't agree more with you
@Jade Ficca Are you still shooting with the z50?
Yes I am
Anyone who says you can't shoot in low light with a crop sensor has obviously never shot with a D500
bassangler73 I’ve got a Fuji X-T2 that shoots incredible work in low light. I think you’re right about APS-C and really any camera made in the past 4 years will shoot low light without issue.
@@matthewmurphy3395 exactly..I'm a wildlife shooter so I like the crop factor anyway so aps-c is the only way for me to go
Or a D7500.
@@paulmetdebbie447 true. The D7500 is an awesome camera
I am a contract photographer for the local newspaper and I have shot sports and news for over 15 years and I can tell you that my D500's have more than held up to the tasks and the environment of photojournalism and sports work. Over the years I have shot in some pretty bad lighting situations in old high schools, fieldhouses and poorly lit Friday night football fields and the D500 has been up to the task. I also use my D500's for wildlife and bird photography, just can't beat it.
I looked at z50 and played with one for a couple of weeks, ended up getting a Z6 and I love it. I use it for product work, flatlay, landscape and some portrait work and it for that use, it is perfect. The z50 will also work well in that niche if one takes the time to learn the camera and shoot with some decent glass.
Sometimes in these comments and many online forums, a lot of criticism and opinions get thrown around and when this happens, I always fall back on this: use the camera that you need to produce the results you desire. It's that plain and simple. I look at my cameras and I use the one that will produce the results I need in the most efficient manner.
So, love my D500's for what they are used for, love my Z6 for what I use it for and if you have a z50 use it for what you want to use it for and don't worry about anyone else. Thanks for reading..
Respectfully, the D500 owns the Z50 in both focal acquisition, buffer, and durability. The D500 is for hardcore nature work, (birds) and sports, in the environment. The Z50 is not a camera I'm hooking up a 600mm lens with and going birding with.
D500 is in a class of it's own.
This was my thoughts exactly.
I have both and find them to be a perfect pair. Z50 for travel/casual, D500 for sports/action
Nikon would probably need a Z10 or something thats fights the current crop body contemporaries like the Fuji X-T4 and such
@@TeamEvansHealth Z50 for travel in civilization, D500 for travel out of it).
My current line up is D850, D750, D7200 and the recently added Z50. I bought it for my travel camera that I could also take with me everyday and it really has exceeded my expectations. Both of the kit lens deliver good results. Yes, they are slow but with the FTZ I can grab my fast F mount glass if I need to. Also, the camera really handles well, feels good in the hand and shoots like a Nikon! So, I think my D7200 is on the chopping block!
This was absolutely one of the best thought out and presented reviews of the Z50. I've had mine for about four weeks now and feel I made the best choice for the price. I was really close to getting a Z6 or D750, but online reviews kept telling me the Z50 would not be a disappointment. The camera has everything I need and more in features and it allowed me to continue to use all the DX lenses I purchased for my D7100 over the years. My Tokina 11-16mm f/2.8 AT-X116 Pro DX II really shines with the Z50. All my Nikkor lenses work well with the FTZ adapter. I'm keeping the D7100 as something to keep in the bag with a short prime lens.
My only disappointment with the Z50 is the battery. I could shoot for 8 hours and more with my D7100, but FINALLY my new Z50 battery has shipped and I'll enjoy the extra hours I need for my street photography, wildlife and landscape adventures.
Thanks for this comment. I have my trusty D7200 and 9 lenses. I bought a Lumix G85 because Nikon didn't have a mirrorless camera at the time and I wanted a video centered camera. I really like using mirrorless cameras and the reviews for the Z50 have been positive. Knowing I can use my F mount lens collection without sacrifice means a lot.
Funny I have the D7100 and the same Tokina lense. I was wondering how it would work on the Z50. I was wanting the Z50 as a video-centric camera and my eyesight limits my use of the D7100. It seems these should work well together. I am also interested in trying an older 20mm AF lens I have from the 90s with the Z50 as well. I love that lens and thought I would be moving to a Fuji system. But this Z50 seems to he the video performer I want and allow me to use my existing lenses.
thank you for your comment! I'm also considering the Z50 and would use it with the Tokina. Were you able to compare the 16-50mm kit lens to other (older) Nikkor or Sigma/Tokina standard-zoom-lenses? I'm not sure how good the quality of the 16-50 is ...
@@patrick.771 Since I do a lot of street photography my "go to" lens is a Nikkor18-140mm (DX VR) and it has worked perfectly with the Z50. I also has a 55-300mm Nikkor (DX) and the pictures are fine - I just feel the auto focus is bit a slower than it was on my D7100. I hope that answer helps. All my other Nikkor lenses are prime lenses. The Z's 16-55mm kit lens gives me sharper images than those I experienced with the old DX kit lenses in that range that I owned the past 15 years or so. Auto focusing with the Z kit lens is very fast compared to the DX kit lenses. I hope my answer was helpful.
@@jonstout7635 yes, this was helpful. Thanks!
I like both the Nikon Z50 and D500. Love the Nikon D500 used with a long 600mm lense for zooming in on birds, wildlife and action shots. I use the Z50 with the two kit lenses for convenience when outdoors with dogs and friends. It's the perfect price, weight and size for casual use and travel. It also has a selfie screen and the small size is convenient at social gatherings. The lenses for both cameras have image stabilization. They both have aps-crop DX sensors that give extra 1.5x zoom. I have a lens mount adapter so I can use D500 lens on Z50, but prefer to use the larger 600mm lense with the D500. Love my new Nikon Z50!
In conclusion, I use both cameras. The D500 has more professional features & qualities and great for wildlife & action shots. But the Z50 is convenient for casual use and travel.
Whoever is saying all that stuff that you "can't" do with an APSC needs to go back to the drawing board or venture out of auto mode
Indeed, I tell my students or friends who are interested in pursuing photography and want to own higher end gear to start with entry level APSC cameras in order to hone their skills and develop their creative eye/mind (as my belief is that limited "resources/tech" tend to encourage creativity/innovation) then when they feel like this is really what they want to do AND be able to earn money, to upgrade to higher end gear. I always loved photography and was taking perfectly nice and sometimes amazing pictures with my D5500 and it wasn't until I really started getting paid to do photography that I fully upgraded. I have a D750/500 right now with the Tamron 70-200 2.8 g2 along with 3 Nikkor AF-D lens (50 1.4, 85 1.8 and 28-105 3.5) and now I want to move to the Z6 and possibly Z50 meaning I'm going to have to sell those AF-D lens with my D750.
CapturedByKen Poeple are so obsessed with a “smaller camera” hence a mirrorless camera. I’m perfectly happy with my bulky D500 for many years to come. Just like phones, people wanted smaller phones, then phones got bigger now they are “too big” and wish they were smaller again..... smh.
I have the Z6 and I have absolutely fallen in love with mirrorless! My D7100 is now collecting dust. I am seriously considering the Z50 as its replacement as I love to shoot macro and the extra reach of the crop sensor will allow me to get even closer to my subjects. I'm saving my pennies and hoping for a nice sale in a few months.
Mirrorless IS the way to go. I’m over clunky DSLRs.. I’ve actually bought some film cameras. Might as well use those - they are simple and FUN!
The included lenses with VR do a wonderful job without in body stabilization. I have two Z6 bodies and the images are very close coming out of the Z50. It’s a fantastic camera to travel with. I’ve been a Nikon DSLR shooter a decade and I think the Z cameras are awesome. Could care less about one card.
Hey thanks, what do you mean about one card please - thinking to buy Z50 and reading all reviews in here. thanks !
@@HimanshuPatel-oq7ft it only has one SD card, which isnt a big deal in my opinion
After SnapChick mentioned this camera, I bought this camera in the end of November, and have found out, this is my go to camera. It small, light and compact. It came with the two kit lens, and adapter. I have been shooting with it for a month and a half, and it is a great choice for a camera.
Thanks for sharing your experience!
The longer that I have followed you, your shows have gotten so much more technical. Bravo.
just over a month ago I purchased a D500 and was super impressed after having a D3200 for many years, but after 2wks the D500 developed a fault and the retailer offered a new replacement, I was worried that the new D500 could have the same issue as the original I decided to order a Z50 with both kit lenses and the FTZ Mount Adapter as I have invested in the F mount lenses and two Tamron lenses. After watching your review i am so pleased I chose the Z50 and I'm super excited. many thanks for the great videos.
Dumb comments abound when it comes to today's generation of so-called photographers. One of the dumbest is the complaint when a camera doesn't come with dual memory card slots and how you can't possibly shoot a wedding unless you have an extra slot for backup. Gosh, how did photographers ever survive the previous 150 years of photography? It's not like cameras had dual rolls of film in them.
Yes. And the chance that your camera gets stolen is higher than a failing SD card.
I love my D7000 and one of the reasons is the dual card slot. However, I view it as a nice convenience, certainly not a must have and it will not be a factor in my next camera purchase.
I'm liking what I see with this Z50
@@BrianJohnson-bq9tr I miss my D7000, it was a nice camera.
It is nice to read/view positive aspects of the Z50 camera. I have a Z7 and a D500. The 500 is spending more and more time at home. The Z50 is about 80% of what I’m looking for in a backup camera. I would like to see a body with weather sealing and construction more like the Z7/Z6. I also would prefer an ENEL15 battery to keep the kit simple. They are small things but for me they are still important. I’m very conservative with shutter speeds (to old to change) so the lack of IBIS is not a concern.
Thanks for the thoughtful review.
I L-O-V-E my Z50. Add the FTZ adapter and it is an amazing unit! The two kit lenses are excellent. I only use it for stills, not video.
The D500 has a purpose and I won't let it go, so does the D800, and even the old D7000 (which I still use from time to time). ALL the lenses are exchangeable, which is an incredible setup to have. No extra batteries available for the Z50 yet, but all the other cameras I have use the same battery!
I am a Sony shooter as well and always thought I'd need the IBIS. Not the case with the VR in the kit lenses of the Z50. it is simply an amazing 'toy'.
Last week I ordered and received a Z50 battery from Photo Pro in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Seems like some independent dealers got small shipments of batteries when the Z50 was released.
@@charlesb.2585 Thank you. I think you're correct. I'll try a local store and see if they have it. Thanks again.
Over the years I've never really been enamored with the DX format (maybe it's the smaller viewfinders). But I picked up the Z50 kit to supplement my Z7. I find the Z50 to be a great camera and I use it more than my Z7. The size and weight are really nice making DX enjoyable.
No dilemma. Returned my a7R4, put my a6400 in the closet. I absolutely love this camera! I’ve only owned one other camera that I loved: my Pentax 6x7! But that was 50 years ago! BTW, the 6x7 didn’t have a silent shooting mode. LOL!!!
LOL... Pentax 6x7 was clearly a statement of 'I am here!' - both the size and the noise..
How would the Z50 body do for you with 200-500 fitted onto it handheld for moving wildlife?
Some ppl have suggested that a cross combination of mirror less and F mount lens would slower the rate of performing.
My questions are-
1. Is it good to operate 200-500 with Z50 handheld, does it lack of image stabilization work as a deal breaker?
2. Does this cross combination lags the total system or would it work just as fine as any other F mount on a DX mirror body such as maybe my current D7000. Does the FTZ adapter slower down on the total system in this case?
3. Is it better to shed for D500 body or not?
Please do reply.
Love from India..
Really love your reviews...🙏😍
I've had the Nikon Z50 for a week now, it's cute, has a fantastic grip and image wise punches well above it's weight. Thanks for this video that sealed it for me. As a Nikon shooter felt immediately at home using it...
Great review! I am loving my Z50! While I won't be getting rid of my D850 anytime soon I find the Z50 to be a great 'all 'rounder' and just scoot out the door for walk abouts. Two things I didn't hear you mention in this video and you only briefly talked about in previous reviews... On my Z50 the focus peaking is amazing for manual focus lenses. My Nikon mount VOIGTLANDER NOKTON 58mm f1.4 SLII resides on the Z50 most of the time. The ease of shooting with manual focus lenses is awesome. The other thing I love is the eye focus tracking. Using my Nikkor 85mm f\1.8G with FTZ is working amazingly well. I find using any fast aperture lens on the Z50 makes a huge difference in focus tracking speed. My go to test for AF continuous tracking ability is getting shots of my very two hyper Australian Shepherds. Using a fast AF lens like the 85mm I have NO problems whatsoever geting a high infocus keeper rate of any moving subjects. The only quirky issue is the "in focus" indicator squares are RED instead of Green in CAF mode, takes a little getting used to... long story shorter, the Z50 is amazing for what it does. Thanks for your awesome reviews, greatly appreciate them!
Yes! I use focus peaking when I use manual focus lenses too. The Z series cameras do a good job with it.
The Z50 does not have enough of the amenities that I am used to having with the D500 to even begin to convince me to part ways with old faithful. In particular, it is less the camera's fault and more Nikon's with the failure to include a screw-drive AF motor in the FTZ adapter for old AF-D lenses. They also failed to add an AI indexing pin to the FTZ adapter for use with Nikon's old vintage glass which is something I love doing with my Nikon D500 and D800e.
As for the Z50 itself, it lacks some of the focus tracking features of the D500, as well as a joystick or even the "touch screen joystick" that earlier entry level DSLRs like the D5500 and D5600 have as a space saving compromise. Maybe if they release a Z60 with more features from the D500 I would consider it, but at the moment it acts to much like my Z6 (which I have to throw out 60% of the shots because they are not in focus) and less like my D800e (far older camera, but I can count on it to have 90% of the pictures I take in focus).
If Nikon can just nail their focus algorithm, then I can see the successors to the Z50 being fantastic cameras, but they are trailing Sony at the moment by a fair margin. As an example, I use the Nikon Z6 and Sony A7III for work and the Nikon is 100% manual focus, at all times. I cannot trust it in auto-focus for jobs I'm being payed to perform, whereas the Sony has not failed me yet in auto-focus in dark scenes, which is sad, because that used to be Nikon's strength.
I own most every Nikon except the D-6 series. When I bought the Z-50 and 2 kit lenses I didn't expect much. While it will not replace my D-500 I found it to be an excellent addition to my arsenal of Nikon cameras. By the way, the Z-6 and D-850 and D-780 are my current favorites.
I already have a D850 and a Z6. I ordered a Z50 just to try it out and with the more or less firm will to sell it. But then I had this tiny little monster in my hands and I instantly fell in love. The good thing is I can now use my old Nikon 17-55 f/2.8 working horse. And my fullframe Z-Mount Lenses also fit amazingly well to the smaller body.
Ha ha! You caught the z50 virus! 😉
Thanks for the reviews, the z50 is a wonderful camera for me. It's my staple gimbal camera for cinematography and my 2nd body to my z6 on photo shoots I use the zit lenses which are great and F mount 2.8 glass, I couldn't be happier from a camera of this size and price...And it's a z mount the possibilities are endless especially for a Nikon shooter of 35 years as myself. Nikon hit it out of the park..love it
I think this is an excellent choice. I had a look at the Z50 a year ago when it was released and I was impressed immediately . I’m wanting to replace my D7500, which is an excellent camera, but it’s heavy and big, so I tend to leave it home and use my Fujifilm XT-30. Or my Sony A7 Mark 3. However I have lots of Nikon DX lenses, which need to be used. I’m happy with the APSC. I just HAVE to keep a Nikon as they just feel great in the hand, I love Nikon and I understand the menu. ( the Sony and Fuji is ridiculous) Who really needs a clunky DSLR now? I don’t. Mirrorless is fantastic!
Great video, and it really is an awesome camera. In regards to what you asked of your viewers to comment on: The only issue with the lack of IBIS, is that while the kit lenses are stabilized, the rest of the fast Z primes are not, so while I love the camera, it's getting tougher to have to decide between a really slow kit lens vs a nice Z prime that is NOT stabilized, or cobbling together the FTZ adapter and a larger and heavier legacy F mount lens with VR. I'm really impressed with the image quality, seems slightly better than my D500, with great AF and even the eye AF and tracking is impressive, once set up correctly, and considering the size and weight, it's so much more fun to take this than the Z6, except if you need a faster lens that is also stabilized, then by the time you add the legacy lenses and adapter, it instantly becomes a a greater burden than just taking the Z6. But I'll use it with the adapter and the longer stabilized zooms in place of the D500.
Seem like IBIS only really matters if shooting video. Shutter speed is adequate when shoot stills. VR not really need for my still photography.
Metabones have just pumped out an F to Z speedbooster for the Z50, which is seriously making me think it could be a highly flexible and useful lightweight body for anyone with an investment in F mount glass
The Nikon Z50 with the 50-250mm and 180-600mm lens are the only 2 lenses that I need. My first choice camera is the Nikon P950. I can zoom in at hundreds of yards away. I’m still keeping my Nikon Z50. ❤❤❤ Great video. ❤❤❤
I know this video is now more than a year old but I believe it has convinced me that the Z50 is the right choice. I went from film to a Fuji S5 Pro and that's the body I'm coming from (yes I've FAR FAR exceeded the recommended shutter actuation count but don't shoot pro) so there is A LOT of room for me to grow, and between my wife and I we have a baker's dozen of F mount DX lenses. 2 Days ago I was convinced that I would be going the route of the Sony a6400 but when I looked at the lens selection I changed my mind.
Thanks for a really comprehensive video.
This camera will be a great camera when Nikon wakes up with pro grade lenses on DX format.
As a landscaper who doesn’t want to always carry the burdensome lenses that full frame requires, having the choice Fuji guys already had for years, would be very appreciated
I was above 1200 iso all day today shooting wildlife and this little beast handled it and asked for more. My only problem with it is i cant tell how much battery power i have left lol.
I just discovered something interesting about the Nikon 10-20mm DX af-p lens from answering a question on the internet. This lens can use the Z50's video VR for still photography like it utilizes this function on DSLR cameras like the D7500.
Great post and insights. You cant expect everyone to agree but it takes experience, skill and track record of producing quality image and best-use cases to understand the difference. More power to your channel.
Just traded up to mine, from the d5500. Got it all set up for shooting in manual. Got the adapter as I kept my favorite glass from my dslr, the 35mm 1:1.8g. I also got the two lens kit. Really enjoying my new baby.
Some interesting points there.im using a d500 with 200-500,and while it's a fairly capable camera /lens combination for bifs,though focus is a tad slow,my main reason to look into the z50 with ftz adapter and 200-500 is for the silent shutter ,I have trouble with Owls and Mountain Hares really being spooked by the shutter noise on the d500,even on quiet mode ,which really isn't quiet at all,so maybe keep d500 for Bifs,and use z50 for other wildlife.
Great review! I purchased the Z50 and it's been great! I purchased it for its small size, price point, and capabilities. The small size makes it really easy to carry and not feel weighed down. I use a GoPro often for video and I've have gotten use to its small size. I've been making do with two kit lenses but going to buy a 24-70 f2.8.
I recently purchased the Z6 and Z7 and then Nikon came out with the Z50 as well and I was considering it as a run and gun vlogging camera but there was a lot of deal breakers with it, so I ended up going with the Sony RX100 Mark7 for run and gun vlogging. 1) No IBIS... for when I am out walking with my camera I 100% need IBIS for steady footage (2) flip down screen...It doesn't allow for use of mini tripod or Switchpod as they would block my view of the screen. (3) I gave up APS-C to go full frame with the Z6 and Z7 and I can't see myself going back to APS-C (4) I love the little control stick on the back of the Z6 and Z7 for moving my focus point and the Z50 doesn't have it. But overall I do love Nikon and have a nice line of F mount lenses I use with the FTZ adapter so I can't knock Nikon as the Z50 is a good entry level mirrorless,
To me the biggest issue comes down to the build quality.
Is it as durable as the D500?
Is it built to be in the bush and sand and near the sea?
Will I bump it and see it break?
That is the questions for me.
I only have owned Nikon so I would love to stick with it but the Fuji film looks tempting
Wait a minute... did you just say that 4k has crop? I have z50 and i've never seen a crop until you use EIS(but that's normal for EIS).
Yes, I misspoke - the crop is when you use eVR, whether you are shooting in 4K or 1080p.
Always enjoy your videos, so practical and informative. Just curious, for quality and enjoyment of use, how would you compare the z50 to the fugi xt3 or xpro2?
If one wanted to step up from the z50 to FF would the z5 be a good step up or would you recommend going to the z6? (Or possibly Sony a7c?)
I also really love your "in the field" videos! Inspiring!
The Z50 seems to be making me want a Z7 - oddly enough.
I got the Z6 ii first to replace my end of life D750. Have the D500 and just last week got the Z50 with the kit lens set and am already in love with it. I do a lot of low light event work and I was laughing when you mentioned comments about how bad it is in poor light, I have no issues at all with it getting the shots I need. But I’ve also spent the last 10 years working in the worst low light situations and have learned how to get those shots. I was working off a D7200 apsc camera for a long time and was still able to get most of my shots with it too. Definitely has a lot to do with knowing how to shoot those situations. I am on the fence about letting go of my d500 at the moment. But definitely am using the z6 ii and the z50 as my main kit cameras now. I have ftz’s for both and a mix of fmount glass and a few z mount ones now. For now, my f lenses will be my work horses but plan to slowly add a few z lenses in. My arthritic hands definitely are thanking me for upgrading finally and the continuous autofocus and better video capabilities are quickly making these pay for themselves.
Just recently bought the Z7II to add to my D850. I'm absolutely loving it and thinking about the Z50 as a backup mirrorless. I want to lighten my load when I'm working outside the studio, which is very often. Right now, I'm packing the Z7II and the D850 and their sets of lenses and accessories and it is a load. I'm thinking a Z system backup makes sense. I just haven't decided between the Z50, Zfc or a Z6II for the job.
I have the D500 and wanted to dip into the mirrorless world, so I picked up the Z50 kit with two lenses. My biggest disappointment with the Z50 is tracking in sports photography. While it has the burst mode I like, it cannot track with accuracy like the D500. I will be using the Z50 in some sports banner photo sessions in a couple of weeks - leaning on its face/eye detection. I also have the FTZ ii adapter so I can use my 50mm 1.4 art as well as my 24-70 2.8 lenses.
I see what you are saying. If only they'd kept the joystick. For my D500 and wildlife, I find the use of the 2 back button focus choices (af-on plus joystick with afon + D25 area mode) is a important advantage. Going from a single focus shot to a D25 area mode in a heartbeat. Rendering the D500 a very nimble proposition. Yes, I've gotten happily used to it.
I actually sold my d500 for the z50. The d500 was more than what I usually shoot, plus I needed something more up to date.. So decision made selling my d500 and I'm very pleased by the image quality the z50 outputs
Angelo Midori needed something more up to date? why?
How is the autofocus of the z50 compare with the d500 for fast wildlife??
Replace is perhaps too strong of a word IMO. The D500 has a superior layout, feel, and more reliable low light FAST focusing. The Z50 will simply go more places. I liked the Z50 so much I tried a Z7, but it had the same weight as the D500, and the lenses were too expensive. Get a Z50, build up your lenses, then get the Z6/Z7's replacement. I liked that I could shoot the Z7 in DX mode at 20mp, but the color depth was just not as good as the D500 IMO.
This is a thoughtful and well balanced review. Leigh's conclusions are similar to the ones I have after using this camera in a wide variety of situations over the last two years. It was a good purchase. The one statement I question in this review is that there is a crop when in 4k video recording (somewhere around 0:54.) I haven't noticed that. The angle of view when switching from stills to 4K UHD video seems identical to me. If there is a crop, it is very limited.
was confused between Xt30, Alpha 6400, M6 MKII & the Z50.....your review cleared it all for me.....the Z50 it is!
I so agree with your comment about APS-C and skills. I have gotten beautiful images from my DSLR for years, and if you have the right lens and the right skills you can make your images awesome. Equipment does not make the photographer, anymore than the basketball makes the player great. Spend time shooting, making mistakes, learning, listening, watching, and reading. Then get out and shoot, shoot, shoot.
Had a nikon 5300 just bought the z50 and loving the compact style still learning a few things about it.
I just bought a Zfc Black edition and I chose the 28mm 2.8 SE Prime for the aperture and to push me creativity with the one focal length. Really looking forward to shooting with it.
Not a Nikon shooter (m43) user here. I have been suprised to see the community that Nikon has especially when seeing the reviews posted on resellers websites. I only wish there was more lenses available right now. Sigma 16,30,56mm would make this camera shine. Also just a few small primes with 1.4 or 1.8 please oh please Nikon.
Im user of Z6 and Z50, I can say that the ISO performance of Z50 is slightly better than D500 in very close to some Full Frame camera. i.e. D600/D610, 6D Series, EOSR/RP.
Thank you for this review. I have a Sony A6000 and I am looking to go back to Nikon. I started with Nikon and was interested in the Z50. Iike mirroless cameras and think the new Z50 seems to be a great choice. I do hope that Nikon makes some more lenses for it but with adapters you can use other brands. Anyway thanks for the great review.
I sold my d500 and will have the z50 Tuesday. The reason I sold it was because I have a Z6 and it was just crazy going back and forth from optical and electronic viewfinders, think I just needed more compatibility and simplicity
I had a Fuji XT-1 and XH-1. Just a bit to small and quirky for me. Sold both and went back to my old Nikon DSLR's-D90/D700. I did like the mirorless concept and heard Nikon had them in the pipeline. However the Z6/Z7 where just a bit out of my range. Along comes the Z50, perfect! Just picked up the Z50 kit with both lenses and discounted adaptor. Love it! Great imaging and features from such a compact mirrorless. Awesome pictures and stability is great with the VR. Love the form factor and feature set. Easier to hold and the capability is much better than the Fuji's in my opinion. Not to mention the lens options with the adaptor. Good luck with yours!
So three years later are you still liking this Z50? I am thinking about ordering one to complitment my Z9. I would like to know your feedback.
I have both the D500 and Z50. Love them both. The D500 is a lot better at high ISO photography. The electronic monitor on the Z50 comes in handy for night and Astro photography. The Z50 is great to carry around for street photography. The DSLR is better to have for sports. When a shot comes up quickly in a sporting event, the D500 is always ready to shoot where the Z50, if the camera is in sleep mode, the delay in firing up the display can be frustrating. Keep them both, Z50 and D500. I recently got the Z7 which I’m also happy with.
I have the 50mm 1.8 S mounted on my Z50 as a backup portrait camera to my Z6 with the 85mm 1.8 S. Patiently waiting for the Z8 or what ever it is called...the one with 61MP.
I'm definitely in the camp of another brand looking at the z50. I shoot Pentax, and my preferred Pentax is my K3. Don't get me wrong, I absolutely LOVE my K3, however, it is now very old with a LOT of shutter actuations. It has held up great doing everything for me from wildlife to weddings, but now it's time for it to retire (at least semi-retire, I'll be keeping it as there really is no resale value). I've shot weddings and events with an APS-C sensor for years and have never had a complaint (from myself or a client...as you said, issues encountered mostly come from the person behind the camera, not the camera itself). After much research and watching/reading reviews as they've come out, for me it was between the Canon M6 mark ii and the z50. Video is a non-issue for me (which makes finding reviews hard as most focus on that instead of photography), and I find myself leaning to the z50. Unfortunately I live where renting to try is not a possibility, so I have to rely on trusted reviews. However, it will be months before I have enough saved to do the upgrade, so hopefully there will be more reviews coming.
We'll certainly be sharing more results with this camera. :)
I am actually torn between the Canon EOS RP and the Nikon Z50 due to very similar prices. Don't know which one to pick up.
Same!! I’m leaning z50! Don’t ask me tomorrow lol
I'm late to the party but thank you for this video. Due to hand injury I sold my DSLRs end of 2019 and with all the changes on the camera market I decided to take a break from photography and wait how things develop until I decide for a new system. Now is the time and hell yes, even in 2021 it still is a dilemma. In 2020 I had a little excursion to the Olympus world and MFT is much better than its reputation but with Olympus nose diving end of last year, I decided to return to Nikon. After a lot of thinking I came to this solution for my hobby, street photography purposes: Nikon Z50 with FTZ adapter, using better lenses with more light capabilities but at half the price of the new z glass. I understand Nikon's decision for the z mount but for advanced hobby photographers it's a painful money matter. Good they offer the adapter option which seems to work well. But again, I'm only shooting photos. Filming is a different matter...
I actually borrowed the Z50 for a few days and think it's a great "upgrade" from the D7000 bodies. Yes it's AF is not the same but for someone doing things other than wildlife, it's a great option and definitely a lot smaller making it great for travel. If you don't need FF, the Z50 is certainly worth looking at. I would have picked one up but I have a D7500 for wildlife, as well as some of the other FF Z bodies, so the Z50 would have been redundant and a waste of money for me, but for someone who maybe has an older DSLR or who wants to stay within the APS-C format in Nikon, the Z50 is worth looking at and is priced accordingly (yes it lacks IBIS) but most cameras I've found under $900 don't have it anyways.
There's nothing wrong with apsc cameras. Whenever someone asks me to recommend a camera, I instantly recommend a Sony a6100. Cheap, powerful, and most importantly has a good variety of affordable lenses especially those sigma contemporary trio lenses. 16mm, 30mm, and 56mm all at f1.4, sharp, compact, and relatively affordable lenses. The ability to upgrade to full frame is a bonus.
Fujifilm is a bit expensive for someone starting out.
I do hope those sigma lenses make it to the z mount because this camera looks and sounds incredible.
I agree, it's usually the lenses that cripple the aps c cameras. Things have changed recently though.
Great review it has made me see the Z50 quite differently. I agree with pretty much everything you said in this review, you can use a crop sensor for wide and soft background shots (if you have the distance for it) and the eVR is hideous and looks unprofessional. However the low light example maybe was a little unfair. I end up shooting gigs where common settings are 1/200 f2.8 ISO 4000 to 6400 (gotta keep the shutter up) and that’s where the limitations of crop really show. I have the D500 and A7 mkiii and ISO 4000 on the A7 looks like ISO 800 ish from the D500. If the light is any worse than that at the gig the D500 is pretty unusable while the full frame keeps going. What I would call low light where crop sensors really struggle is a bit more extreme than you showed because ISO 1600 isn’t really that high these days I think personally.
Go try the Z50 with the Z 24-200mm, then you know why it will make the D500 redundant. This combo itself is perfect for travel. Very very convenient when hiking, strap it with the Peak Design Capture V3 clip to your hiking backpack makes it such a fun camera to use
This always seemed like such a cool camera to me; I own 2, APS-C Nikon DSLRs that I was looking for a mirrorless body to upgrade from. My biggest gripe with the system was that there was a lack of fast, Z-DX lenses available, and it seems that the Z-mount is no different, which is a shame. I really enjoy the smaller size of APS-C lenses, and I wish I didn't feel pressured with every lens purchase with the looming thought of Z-FX transferability/compatibility. It does not seem as though Nikon supports APS-C to any significant degree, and it really only seems to exist to funnel customers towards a future FX purchase(s), and that's a disappointment to me. I decided to leave Nikon for this reason and invest in the Fujifilm X-mount system, and I feel like I've been able to get everything that I wish the Z50 could have offered by getting an XT-3 instead. As awesome as the Z50 body is, I really don't think it'll ever become a top contender in the APS-C sphere for the lack of fast, Z-DX lenses.
Finally a very rational review. So many just want a camera do all the job. But an artist can use whatever tool available to create masterpieces. This all depends on skills. Cheers and again great review.
i dont understand why youtube only just started to recommend your channel to me, its great. def subbing now
Thanks I currently have d500. Are you saying the Z50 has comparable autofocus to the D500 for tracking birds in flight etc? Thanks Mike
All I could afford was a Z 50 in Mirrorless. Have D 40 up to the D3200,D 90 is my favorite of the mirror DSLR. Great video.
I am a still's shooter and that is why I purchased the Z50 with the two lens kit. My wife and are flying from Denver to Tucson in April to visit Saguaro National Park and Chiracaua National Monument. The entire kit fits in a small backpack, is easy as a carry one and very light to tote on long hikes. The photos should be easily good enough for a 16x24" print.
Have fun in Tucson! We were in Chiricahua last year - it's beautiful!
@@LeighAndRaymond Thanks! We saw on TH-cam a young couple (young for us, we are seniors) who are bent on seeing all of the U.S. national parks and monuments. The man is English and his significant other is Latvian. Their TH-cam channel is Adventurous Way and it is excellent. Their thorough coverage of Chircuaua National Monument is what inspired us to go there. The best part is that it is not crowded like Zion, Bryce, etc. I love your channel!
I'm Nikon Shooter (amateur) have a D3200 and a D610 both aging but like scotch how they've aged!! I'm looking to take the baby steps towards mirrorless without breaking the bank in these Covid times and your video almost seals the deal for me. Thanks, Leigh!
If you started from scratch would you consider a Z7 rather than a Z6 + Z50? The Z7 'contains' a Z50, but one which also has all the benefits of the Z7 ie IBIS, higher res EV, joy stick etc. You carry one camera instead of two. I like the idea of being able to switch from FX to DX in an instant. You give up the smaller size of the Z50 and the compact 16-50 (although you could always buy one, and other DX lenses) the slightly better low-light performance and video of the Z6. What do you think?
Thanks for the excellent, straight forward and articulate review! I currently have a D7100 and I like having the “Clean image sensor” option. How do the Z50 owners out there feel about not having that feature? My understanding is that it does not have it.
I bought my Z50 in March and am happy with it overall. One main problem I am having, though, is dirt on the sensor. The Z50 doesn't have the "Clean image sensor" option so I've had to take the risk and clean the sensor myself. I have the 2 kit lenses and always take care to turn the camera downwards when changing lenses. The sensor just seems to attract dirt constantly. I was wondering if anyone else is having that issue?
I bought one of those cleaning kits on ebay to clean my D800. Its just a microfibre looking tipped swab thats squarish. Blow away the dust with a bulb, and then gently brush the sensor, everything was totally fine. I'm not worried about not having this feature at all with my Z50.
Picked up the Z50 just before the pandemic. Such a wonderful flexible camera.
Hello. I’m new to the channel, and wished I found it sooner. Thank you for all that you do and just in the first three videos I’ve watched so far, it’s like finding a treasure! I am a beginner and been using my old Nikon D5100 with a kit and 50mm. But it is broken beyond repair. Been saving from a tight budget, and now just have a little over a thousand saved. I love taking landscapes. Should I get the Z50 with the lenses or just the with a different lense or save some more for a Z5? Agree with you. The product reviews had shifted my attention from photography itself to the gear. I wish your channel well, and glad to be subscribed.
I love the low light and high iso capabilities of my D500 thank you. I am keeping it.
Very interesting. I've been actually weighing my options between a D500 and this since I do want to get into mirrorless at some point(wanting something more compact for travel) and the FTZ adapter is a huge selling point. Hoping that it will pair well with my Sigma 150-600 and the rest of the F mounts I have. I love my D700, but really want to make that jump to mirrorless for a 2nd camera.
Yasssssss, also loving mine with the Z mount 14-30 S and F mount 70-200! Still can't wait for them to make something with dual card slots though.
Hi, I'm really in a great dilemma as I just started wildlife photography and I only have a Z5 with the af-s 200-500 VR lens. I want to buy a crop sensor to get the extra reach but I've got 3 options: D500, D7500 and Z50. Which one would be the best option? I really want to buy the Z50 but am worried that its af is not as good as D500 or D7500 for birds in flight.
Whilst I do not disagree that the Z50 is a way forward for mirrorless APS-C sensors and the fact that it is very portable, I cannot see myself selling my D500, the ultimate camera in my opinion for wildlife.
Thanks for that videos! I'm a d7200 user, mostly for wildlife (with sigma 150-600mm C) and hiking with a wide angle lens and I'm in the dilemma because I like so much the new Z50 and it's "portability" for large hikes but I'am worried about the focusing when shooing small moving birds. How about that? It's the AF accurate?
Nice review. Was on the fence. Have decided the Z50 is my new go to
Hello there. I’m a portrait/wedding photographer. My main camera is a Z6ii and I have the kit Z24-70 f4 and a Z105mm 2.8 Along with a 50mm 1.8. I recently sold my D3500 and two kit lenses. Would you recommend I buy a Z50 or a well cared for Z5 as my back up/second shooter camera? Your thoughts are appreciated.
Don’t have a Z50, although I do have a Z6. It’s tempting to replace my D500 with Z50, but doubt it will do low light and action as well as the D500. Plus I have a nice selection of DX stabilized lenses without need of adapter. I use my X-T3 with several stabilized lenses for walking around and video. I am a little long-in-the-tooth and hands are not as steady these days.
I am thinking of changing over to the Z50 for the the weight . I am disabled and holding the D600 and D7200 with heavy lenses is becoming a pain for me as I also have a athritic back and shoulders. So the info from you is helping me on the way to changing to the lighter system.I will be sorry to let go of my 2 cameras at the moment.
Cheers! Yeah considering atm to trade in my D7200 with 2 lenses and make the switch to Z50 and Z lenses! Hopefully can get a good deal on the camera, otherwise will probably stick to it for longer!
Hi would you say the z50 has better picture quality then the nikon z5 as to those cameras I’m leaning towards but just don’t know which one to pick up
Can't wait to get my Z50. Just ordered it online and its coming with the FTZ adaptor for free. Tiny little body that probably does amazing stills, 4K video, good video autofocus and such a great price point. Excited to have a 2nd video/stills camera which will compliment any shortcomings of my D850!
Hey, thanks for the detailed video. I would like to buy Z50 with two lenses for Family pictures, occassionally capturing the fun times we have outdoors also - we are not too far from beautiful beaches, and glaciers. Can you please recommend or not whether Z50 is a good choice there for that application please. Thankyou !
I think each person has to make their own choice. I'm not getting rid of my D500 for a Z7, Z6 or Z50. The D500 is legendary and it has a special place in my camera bag that none of the Z series has yet to fill for fast action, sports, none of the Z series will outpace a D500, but for other type of work, like for instant weddings and other styles of shooting along with video, yes the Z series is excellent. If you have older glass in your Nikon kit that you have no intention of getting rid of, especially from Tamron or Sigma keep your DSLR and if you feel the need to upgrade and video is a must, I don't think the Z series is a bad option. The other things said about what you can't do with an APSC camera is not true and I agree with you SnapChick it's the skill of the person using the camera. The one thing that I will say is a smaller camera like the Z50, I also own a Fuji XT3 will make you want to take it with you more and the camera in your bag is the best camera to have at that time.
Thanks for a useful overview. I currently have a D5600 and am thinking about upgrading to a Z50 or possibly a Fuji X-T30 (although that would mean having to buy new lenses). It sounds like the Z50 could be a worthy upgrade for the price? I’m mainly seeking a better focus system for stills.