Hi Ricci, I recently sold my D5 and upgraded to a Z9. I also have a D850. I was considering waiting to see what the Z8 was like, but I think I've made the right choice with he Z9. The vertical grip and battery life make all the difference for me.
They would have to pry my D5 out of my cold dead hands 😀 I do like the Z8 though. Too much overlap with my D5? Would you consider it complimentary? Looking for a smaller capable Nikon body without ditching my beloved D5.
@@JoeGiz64 If you like the vertical grip of the D5, then the Z9 is the better choice. It does everything the D5 can do, but better. It can also use the same batteries (and cards if you have the XQD version). I used my D850 for landscape, I now have a choice of the D850 or the Z9, not too much difference in weight either. However, the Z8 would compliment the D5 better than the Z7ii or Z6ii as it utilizes the 4 shooting banks and custom settings banks that you will be familiar with. I liked my D5, it was a great camera, but I pleased I upgraded to the Z9.
GREAT video, it shows the differences between Z8 and Z9. But in a way that's a strange comparison as well given the fact that the differences are so small. I would be interested in a video comparing Z6ii/Z7ii with the Z8. Especially because the Z7ii is the high resolution one and the Z6ii is supposed to be more alllround and better video.
Nice introduction to the Z8 Ricci: thank you! Which (orange) L-bracket are you using? I liked the three-legged thing bracket for the z6/7 but it looks like they don't (yet) have one for the Z8. Appreciate your advice.
Thanks for talking about the buttons and ports. Those details are vital. With my z7, I can barely plug a remote in when I’m vertical on a tripod. The placement of this 10-pin adapter will really help that. I’m looking forward to the bright viewfinder.
Great report - My Z8 is on order. The big question is whether to sell my Z6 or Z7ii - particularly because the Z8 is almost always going to be the primary camera.
Great video Ricci - very informative. The Z8 gives you everything you want in a camera, but also at a more attractive cost for those who can't budget for the Z9. I love the way the camera design and locations of buttons etc. are mirrored (no pun intended, well maybe) in most cases as there's nothing worse than trying to locate a button when you change camera - hope Nikon has enough stock for the forthcoming demand :)
Thank you Ricci on your review of the Z8. It took me a year to buy the refurnished Z8 from Nikon and it looks brand new. I love using this camera more than my Z7II as it functions closer to my D5. I found the EN-EL15 from my D800 days will not even power up a Z8 but the battery works just fine in Z7II with a battery that shows 0 for age. I haven't found the menu selection that allows swapping the two command dials. I like my f stop on the rear. Have you found how to do this?
Don't know why - but disappointed the autofocus didn't at least get released with an update for the release considering its behind the competition (z9)
Honestly this is the most important body in terms of mirrorless development in my opinion, because you got lots of native glass to go with it. This is what I've been waiting for, and development of new tech does take time. Just look at electric cars. They've been around for a long time, and yet there is still so much junk to be found. This camera is so well rounded so it is good that it took a bit longer to release, because hopefully that time will deliver the goods in the finalized product.
Hi Ricci -- please do us a favour - would you please run some tests on the Z8 with the latest and fastest 4TB CF Express 2.0 Type B cards and smaller if you wish to provide definitive measurements for 8.3k 60p HQ N-RAW N-LOG, 20 fps lossless raw and others formats AND then put a top rated V90 UHS-II SD card in the body - but do not write to it; then do the highest res tests you can do just writing to the Sd card, and finally how about some tests when writing to both cards -- either Backup or Raw to CFE and JPG to SD etc.... lets have some actual measurements in controlled environments -- not on some hot balcony in China with a slow card that overheats or using very very old slow cards. THEN folk can decide what they should use -- if not an $1,800 4TB top Angelbird card then pick something else with better performance but smaller capacity -- like a Delkin Black, Prograde Cobalt OR the 2TB Sabrent Rocket XXiT-2TB which only has capacity for 46 mins at the above video specs.
Another great video Ricci! Considering the two USB-C ports, I wonder if in the future it's possible to have external recording to an SSD? A firmware update could give us that option or there's a hardware limitation? It's an amazing camera, but still nothing new or "extra" in this 2 years since Z9's launch. They have all the hardware there, but still so many software and UI options missing for video. It would be awesome to see some different video resolutions/ratios, open gate, zebras+peaking at the same time, B-Raw... Btw, is it possible to change function of the top left buttons?
Is it safe to assume that the "new Z8 features" will eventually get added to the Z9? The HEIF files, "skin softening", Airplane detection AF, etc? I'm under the assumption that Z8 features will "trickle UP" to the Z9, but that it won't necessarily go the other way (Z9 --> Z8. The Z9 being "flagship").
Do you have any experience with processing of NRAW video? I have tried shooting NRAW 12-bit video and taking it to a finished HDR video, and I found the process somewhat confusing and the result disappointing--mostly due to my unfamiliarity.
Hi there Ricci, thanks for the great overview. I've got a question that I can't find an answer for anywhere. I've got the Z8 and did my first studio shoot with it yesterday and I can't find away for the camera to use one USB-C cable for data transfer and Power Delivery. On the Z7II I could connect the camera to Capture One and that one connection powered the device and allowed data. Is there some way to make the one of the USB ports on the Z8 do this? Now I have to run two cables to the laptop to cover both power and data. Seems like a very strange step back. Thanks!
Hey Ricci, I am a long time viewer of your channel and most of my purchases are based on your reviews. I have Z7ii and have preordered Z8 as soon as I saw your take on it. However, I am a bit concerned about the user settings on my Z7ii. I have started loving the User 1,3 and 3 settings on it as that gives me freedom in choosing the correct settings for the scene I am shooting. Do we have a way to get these settings on Z8 as well. This may be a kind of dealbreaker for me. Please help me in deciding. Thank you for sharing your experience.
Ricci its disappointing that after so long they couldn't improve the C-AF on the Z8 and a have a Firmware upgrade for the Z9 as well. That would have been applauded by the media, If you watch Fro he's still saying that nothing has changed with the AF. The AF is good but not on par with the a1.R5 or the R3 and I have both of those cameras as well. Is the camera built better hell yeah! Are the images as good hell yeah and better than the competition. Is the glass good yes it is. iI's great glass. Is it to heavy hell yeah. I know you know what that feels like when you hang your 85 1.2 on it!! But the technology that everyone looks to compare Z9 to Sony and Canon is the damn auto focus! They needed to catch up with them but to not make any progress is a serious lost opportunity,
Thanks a million for the review... Really nice one... The Z9 battery has more voltage... Will that play into the Z9 being every so slightly faster for focusing (more voltage = running the motors on lenses, specially the longer teles faster)???
The camera body likely has voltage regulators providing different voltages to different parts of the electronics, all derived from either the battery or power cable. If the battery has a slightly different voltage the regulator will take that into account by design.
@@greghuber9256 Thank you very much for your response…My question is a little different… With the Canon R5 it has a smaller battery (less voltage)… the R3 has a bigger battery more voltage… Canon officially say that the R3 focuses faster as it’s battery provides more voltage to the lens motors… Obviously both R5 and R3 have voltage regulators…
@@mzeeshanch hence you question. Thanks. Sounds like a design choice on the cannon. I have no idea on the design details of the Z8, but they are marketing it with the same specs.
I have heard that the Z 35mm lens is not the best when it comes to video af, has anyone had that experience too? Would be a shame because the 35 would be my first choice in primes...
This camera is fab except no skill required. Over my 50 years with cameras taking pics that are sharp and pleasing to the eye and comparing other people's pic to see their skill level to create a Good all round images is being lost. That doesn't mean I don't want this fab camera 🤣.
I mean if people are dumb and don't use the best equipment that's on them, why would you complain bc some people are smart enough to use the new equipment correctly
Nice review Ricci. Glad I skipped the Z7 II. @Ricci any chance you can use a higher aperture in future filming at your presentation table, so that the camera you are holding is in focus too, please? Thanks 👍🏻
Some people love it some people hate it I try to fill in b roll on anything a im talking about specifically so the cameras on the table don’t need to be in focus but I get some people just want to see more camera
@@shaunpatterson7879 because it’s a brand new product that no-one has seen before. Why would you want the product out of focus? Look at 2:18 for example.
@@RicciTalks yes looks great when the subject is at 1.2 etc, but when it’s a brand new product like this that no-one has seen before, I don’t quite see the point of putting it out of focus like at 2:18 etc. Bear in mind the timing of the video release - yours is the first people watch and their first sight of the camera. Any videos posted after release day can afford to be a bit more artistic, when viewers know exactly what the camera looks like and likely have handled it. If the title were different and said ‘my views on the Z8’ then it would justify the 1.2 on you with the camera out of focus. I would reserve 1.2 just for cutaway shots, and keep the main camera at a higher aperture. Great review as always, thanks 👍🏻
Great to see you guys settling into your new home - and a great first review of the Nikon Z8, which might be the first mirrorless camera to tempt me away from the Nikon D850!
I'm wondering if there is a software astro tracker there, and how can your photo of the milky way and a tree be ISO 64 and 20 seconds? Still interesting Iso noise at 6000, how is it compared to D850 and Z7ii, Z6ii?
Hello Ricci, thanks for the great video. As an owner of two Z9’s, I love the ability to copy settings between the two Z9’s. Have you tried copying your Z9 settings to the Z8? Do you think this would work?
Hi Ricci, it was good to meet you at a couple of Nikon Schools recently. I certainly learned a lot more about my Z6 and I was pleased with the results from the Z 2x converter that you recommended for my 70-200, but the day at the Hawk Conservancy confirmed my fears about the suitability of the Z6 for shooting fast-moving objects. I have pre-ordered a Z8, I think it will be my ideal all-round camera, and I appreciate the way in this video that even as a Nikon employee you are still able to talk about features you consider to be weaknesses.
I have Z7ii and Z6ii both struggle focusing on fast moving subjects - the Z8 / Z9 tracking system will pretty much guarantee you will get your shots and give you much more diversity in what you are shooting - enjoy
@@fotohowtouk Yes, that’s pretty much what I’m expecting/hoping for. I don’t specialise in one genre of photography, and while no camera is a true all-rounder the Z8 looks as close as I’ll ever get.
Many channels are going to have reviews but as always for the straight story, I always search for your uploads. Again you proved the important points with clarity and knowledge....Now all I need is someone who wants to bankroll my future Z8.... I have been so happy with my Z6 orginal version that gets used for commercial work almost every day, that my D850 and D800 sit idle 95% of the time. Maybe it is my cooperative subjects but AF has never been a problem for me but I am not tracking Swifts in a 120mph dive. People, and events. with some architecture. Most of my work is actors and more video than I like. So my savings set aside has about 1/2 the amound needed. A lot of demand is going to cause the crazy wait times that the D800 had when it was released. The big mail-order stores had 7-9 month waits to fill the orders. By luck I was in the US for 1 week during which time that model was released and somehow, I ended up getting one before I left. The D850 was much easier to get off shelves.
Terrific review. I might be the very first person to get my pre-order for the Z8 registered at the Camera Store here in Calgary. It’s replacing - actually not exactly because I never sell my old cameras - my D850 and Z6ii. I’m not sure if you mentioned it but just to clarify, will it take the FTZ1 adapter? I’m assuming so because it doesn’t have the integrated vertical grip. Not a big deal but nice if I can save the money using the original adapter - and keep using my beloved 500mm 5.6 pf for birds and wildlife.
26:05 the squirrel “looking at its reflection”! Wow. Just wow. I hope you’re going to make and sell prints of these. Absolutely epic shots in here; what an amazing couple of months you must have had!
@@UnconventionalReasoning That I agree as well. My only hiccup to the Z7II is its small form factor. For someone with big fingers, the tiny gap between the grip to that F1 button is small, hence why I'll wait when the Z8 becomes available here in Malaysia, then I'll get it. Don't get me wrong. The Z7II is a fabulous body. Only in form factor, for me at least, the Z8 will fit my fingers nicely. What I do regret though was selling my entire D850 plus a few F lenses. I should have kept that for back up
@@hishamosman4341 Yes, each photographer has to have the camera size fit their fingers. It's annoying when photographers talk about size requirements as a general need, I appreciate you saying what *you* need. The Z8 does have a little more room. I should have tried holding it and the Z7II with the same lenses. But you'll be happier with it.
According to B&H Specs... the D850 weighs 915oz vs 910 for the Z8.... size wise they are a wash in the specs with the Z8 being slightly larger, though the depth and height numbers are probably misleading because of the grip and EVF bump being about the same as D850 while the actual body of the Z8 is slightly lower and thinner.
I’m really interested what will be the next move from Nikon for semiprofessionals hobbyist etc Z9 an z8 are lovely cameras but honestly how many photographers can afford these cameras and where is the lovely picture from the Z6?combined with the autofocus of the new chip?
Congratulations, Nikon, on the Z8 release! And thank you, Ricci, for the always-concise first-look and great, specific information. You are my favorite source of Nikon camera and lens information, because of your straightforward method of discussing the various features. Take care!
So I have to ask - the Milky Way shot, it said 64 iso at 20 seconds and f2.8 - was that meant to be iso 6400? Amazing to me that at iso 64 you got that much MW detail - guess I need to try moving down my ISO - I generally don’t shoot below iso1600 for MW shots. Thanks for another great review!! You have great detail and extremely useful information - keep up the good work!!
Hi! Finally Nikon made a prime camera, that is small & pack with a lot of punch like the Nikon Z9. It will very good for travelling, thinking to add Z8 in my arsenal n the future. Thanks for the video review. Keep up the good work.
It is a Z9 with less battery juice and no grip. If Z 8 was available when I bought the Z9, I would have thought which one to choose. The 1 CF+1 SD might also be a problem for the speed of writing to cards with redundancy…
Your unique (on RUclips?) comments on the importance of viewfinder brightness at the 10 minute mark earned you one tiny sub (with notification 🔔) from me. As someone born with less than amazing eyesight, the EVF on my Z6II has been a revelation. The concept of being able to photograph indoor at night in comfort ... 🥰 Electronic image intensifier or bust. I'm never going back to SLRs. I have no idea why nobody else has mentioned this ... 'tiny' detail before in the plethora of mirrorless camera reviews found here on YT. Maybe they don't actually use the cameras they review in real world situations? Nah, surely that cannot be the reason. 🤔
Just pre-ordered. Can you do another video about what memory card is best to use like you did when the Z6 came out. Cheers. Think it was called something black?
If landscape does not benefit from all its features, there is no need to upgrade from the D850....except the excellent s lenses. But for those who have moving subjects and/or video needs, it will be a big hit.
what an amazing camera for the money! however...WHY ON EARTH have they brought that horrible card door over from the original z6/7s!!! It is such a bad design. Wont stop me from getting the camera but that door is one of the most complained about design issues of the Z cameras.
At last it's here and your video was my go to watch as I pre-ordered one. A quick question... which L-bracket are you using? I assume it's a generic one?
This is probably the best review of this camera i have seen and i have seen a few. I am rhe weirdo that still shoots with a d750 and that has postponed upgrading for years now. You are also the first i see tested the camera doing some milkyway shoots. I do a lot of astrophotography, how was the noise on your milkyway shoot? As a subjestion It will be very useful if you could share links to the raw files of some of the pictures you took so others can check them our in detail, specually the ones taken at low light to see how the camera performs. Thanks for the review.
Does it offer in-camera Focus stacking (not bracketing)? I'm tempted to go for the Lumix S5 IIX mainly because of this feature and also for being a Leica L-mount body. I'd love to use Leica glasses on the Nikon but I'm not sure if it can be done whilst yielding the same overall quality.
Thanks for the video and providing a comparative analysis. I am planning to add a new body to my Z7II and several Z lenses and this video made very clear to me add Z8 as it does meet my requirements. 👍🏻
Ricci, very good thanks. However, as a current Z7ii user I was hoping there would be near equal discussion as to the changes from the Z6/7 features as there was for the Z9 (I am watching this with the Z7ii in hand so I can follow along with the differences instead). I would imagine that the majority of Z8 buyers would be either new to Nikon, or primarily the Z6/Z7 users and not people who just bought the Z9. If I was landscape only there are some nice things about the Z8 but probably not enough to upgrade, but since I do other types of photography where AF, portrait, and wildlife are also important, this checks all the boxes so I pre-ordered it. Looking forward to more videos on the Z8 when it comes out as to how best to program it.
Hi Ricci, great review & I have a Z8 shipping to me in the next couple days..Is the single MilkyWay image you show of ISO 64 a miss print? I have been shooting with a Z6 w/20 mm f1.8 lens & shoot at ISO 4000-5000..Thanks you for your reviews..Ken in AZ🌵
I think your honest explanation of the af button might mean I get another z9 and not the z8. You’re absolutely right, it’s so important that that feels right. I’m going to check how my z7 af button sits /works before I commit though. Ps thank you.
@@RicciTalks Thank you, I need something better than the z7 for events so I’ve decided to pre-order one. I might try putting self adhesive dots on the button as a DIY hack- I’ll let you know how I get on. 👍. Thanks as always, Simon.
D850 User here - been looking forward to this for a long time 👴👴!! 3.69mp EVF in a $4k camera is a big letdown - WTF!! My Panasonic G9 from 2018 has 3.69mp EVF!! 🤷♂️ oh well..
![Yailin La Mas Viral, @kreizyk.official - Dale 2 (Remix) [Video Oficial]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/JaYHBzgqz94/mqdefault.jpg)
Hi Ricci, I recently sold my D5 and upgraded to a Z9. I also have a D850. I was considering waiting to see what the Z8 was like, but I think I've made the right choice with he Z9. The vertical grip and battery life make all the difference for me.
They would have to pry my D5 out of my cold dead hands 😀 I do like the Z8 though. Too much overlap with my D5? Would you consider it complimentary? Looking for a smaller capable Nikon body without ditching my beloved D5.
@@JoeGiz64 If you like the vertical grip of the D5, then the Z9 is the better choice. It does everything the D5 can do, but better. It can also use the same batteries (and cards if you have the XQD version). I used my D850 for landscape, I now have a choice of the D850 or the Z9, not too much difference in weight either. However, the Z8 would compliment the D5 better than the Z7ii or Z6ii as it utilizes the 4 shooting banks and custom settings banks that you will be familiar with. I liked my D5, it was a great camera, but I pleased I upgraded to the Z9.
Nikon nailed it with the new Z8.... Seriously no compromises....❤❤❤
That sequence with the squirrel was WILD. I had to pause on each frame. Excellent pairing you and that Z8.
The first and only review that anyone looking at the Z 8 will ever need.
Far too kind ❤️
Jasin's comment is exactly how I feel.
Amazing fast-action-small-subject shots! Very impressive indeed!
GREAT video, it shows the differences between Z8 and Z9. But in a way that's a strange comparison as well given the fact that the differences are so small. I would be interested in a video comparing Z6ii/Z7ii with the Z8. Especially because the Z7ii is the high resolution one and the Z6ii is supposed to be more alllround and better video.
Nice introduction to the Z8 Ricci: thank you! Which (orange) L-bracket are you using? I liked the three-legged thing bracket for the z6/7 but it looks like they don't (yet) have one for the Z8. Appreciate your advice.
Very impressive what you are showing here ! Still shooting DSLR D800 for over ten yrs now !
Wow thank you Ricci, fabulous photographs and review of course. Once again I must look at my penny supply!!! Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for talking about the buttons and ports. Those details are vital. With my z7, I can barely plug a remote in when I’m vertical on a tripod. The placement of this 10-pin adapter will really help that. I’m looking forward to the bright viewfinder.
Great report - My Z8 is on order. The big question is whether to sell my Z6 or Z7ii - particularly because the Z8 is almost always going to be the primary camera.
Great video Ricci - very informative. The Z8 gives you everything you want in a camera, but also at a more attractive cost for those who can't budget for the Z9. I love the way the camera design and locations of buttons etc. are mirrored (no pun intended, well maybe) in most cases as there's nothing worse than trying to locate a button when you change camera - hope Nikon has enough stock for the forthcoming demand :)
Wex photography in the UK have received more orders than their total allocation 😱
@@Chris-13 oh dear hopefully they will get new stock soon
fabulous review and the images were amazing!!!
Thank you !
Those squirrel and bird shots are absolutely gorgeous
Thank you Ricci on your review of the Z8. It took me a year to buy the refurnished Z8 from Nikon and it looks brand new. I love using this camera more than my Z7II as it functions closer to my D5. I found the EN-EL15 from my D800 days will not even power up a Z8 but the battery works just fine in Z7II with a battery that shows 0 for age. I haven't found the menu selection that allows swapping the two command dials. I like my f stop on the rear. Have you found how to do this?
Don't know why - but disappointed the autofocus didn't at least get released with an update for the release considering its behind the competition (z9)
Honestly this is the most important body in terms of mirrorless development in my opinion, because you got lots of native glass to go with it. This is what I've been waiting for, and development of new tech does take time. Just look at electric cars. They've been around for a long time, and yet there is still so much junk to be found.
This camera is so well rounded so it is good that it took a bit longer to release, because hopefully that time will deliver the goods in the finalized product.
Epic shots with the squirrel and the birds ❤❤❤
Stunning images wow! Well done.
Wonderful photos!! Mind blowing.
Well done as always sir!
Hi Ricci -- please do us a favour - would you please run some tests on the Z8 with the latest and fastest 4TB CF Express 2.0 Type B cards and smaller if you wish to provide definitive measurements for 8.3k 60p HQ N-RAW N-LOG, 20 fps lossless raw and others formats AND then put a top rated V90 UHS-II SD card in the body - but do not write to it; then do the highest res tests you can do just writing to the Sd card, and finally how about some tests when writing to both cards -- either Backup or Raw to CFE and JPG to SD etc.... lets have some actual measurements in controlled environments -- not on some hot balcony in China with a slow card that overheats or using very very old slow cards. THEN folk can decide what they should use -- if not an $1,800 4TB top Angelbird card then pick something else with better performance but smaller capacity -- like a Delkin Black, Prograde Cobalt OR the 2TB Sabrent Rocket XXiT-2TB which only has capacity for 46 mins at the above video specs.
Another great video Ricci!
Considering the two USB-C ports, I wonder if in the future it's possible to have external recording to an SSD? A firmware update could give us that option or there's a hardware limitation?
It's an amazing camera, but still nothing new or "extra" in this 2 years since Z9's launch. They have all the hardware there, but still so many software and UI options missing for video. It would be awesome to see some different video resolutions/ratios, open gate, zebras+peaking at the same time, B-Raw...
Btw, is it possible to change function of the top left buttons?
What arca plate? Does the Z7II plate fit? Thanks, great vid as usual.
Ricci is the boss.
Ur the best ❤️
Excelent review 👏🏻
What was your ISO in The milky way image ?
Do you go shoot with Nigel? Some shots look amazingly similar.
You had it for few months? Wow
Is it safe to assume that the "new Z8 features" will eventually get added to the Z9? The HEIF files, "skin softening", Airplane detection AF, etc?
I'm under the assumption that Z8 features will "trickle UP" to the Z9, but that it won't necessarily go the other way (Z9 --> Z8. The Z9 being "flagship").
Do you have any experience with processing of NRAW video? I have tried shooting NRAW 12-bit video and taking it to a finished HDR video, and I found the process somewhat confusing and the result disappointing--mostly due to my unfamiliarity.
Hi there Ricci, thanks for the great overview. I've got a question that I can't find an answer for anywhere. I've got the Z8 and did my first studio shoot with it yesterday and I can't find away for the camera to use one USB-C cable for data transfer and Power Delivery. On the Z7II I could connect the camera to Capture One and that one connection powered the device and allowed data. Is there some way to make the one of the USB ports on the Z8 do this? Now I have to run two cables to the laptop to cover both power and data. Seems like a very strange step back. Thanks!
Hi, does the setting “Exposure Delay” under d4 is gone on the Nikon Z8?
I can’t find it !
can you tell us what brand L bracket that is ? thank you
Hey Ricci, I am a long time viewer of your channel and most of my purchases are based on your reviews. I have Z7ii and have preordered Z8 as soon as I saw your take on it.
However, I am a bit concerned about the user settings on my Z7ii. I have started loving the User 1,3 and 3 settings on it as that gives me freedom in choosing the correct settings for the scene I am shooting. Do we have a way to get these settings on Z8 as well. This may be a kind of dealbreaker for me. Please help me in deciding. Thank you for sharing your experience.
Ricci its disappointing that after so long they couldn't improve the C-AF on the Z8 and a have a Firmware upgrade for the Z9 as well. That would have been applauded by the media, If you watch Fro he's still saying that nothing has changed with the AF. The AF is good but not on par with the a1.R5 or the R3 and I have both of those cameras as well. Is the camera built better hell yeah! Are the images as good hell yeah and better than the competition. Is the glass good yes it is. iI's great glass. Is it to heavy hell yeah. I know you know what that feels like when you hang your 85 1.2 on it!! But the technology that everyone looks to compare Z9 to Sony and Canon is the damn auto focus! They needed to catch up with them but to not make any progress is a serious lost opportunity,
Thanks a million for the review... Really nice one...
The Z9 battery has more voltage... Will that play into the Z9 being every so slightly faster for focusing (more voltage = running the motors on lenses, specially the longer teles faster)???
The camera body likely has voltage regulators providing different voltages to different parts of the electronics, all derived from either the battery or power cable. If the battery has a slightly different voltage the regulator will take that into account by design.
@@greghuber9256 Thank you very much for your response…My question is a little different… With the Canon R5 it has a smaller battery (less voltage)… the R3 has a bigger battery more voltage… Canon officially say that the R3 focuses faster as it’s battery provides more voltage to the lens motors… Obviously both R5 and R3 have voltage regulators…
@@mzeeshanch hence you question. Thanks. Sounds like a design choice on the cannon. I have no idea on the design details of the Z8, but they are marketing it with the same specs.
@@greghuber9256 Basically I was asking to see that if there isn't a variation... Then I would want to sell my Z9 and shift to the Z8...
Calm down. Its a preproduction model. Too many people stating the obvious. The Z8 is for people that had second thoughts about a Z9. Ya dig?
Does eye auto focus and all the other focus modes like animal and airplane work in video mode?
I have heard that the Z 35mm lens is not the best when it comes to video af, has anyone had that experience too? Would be a shame because the 35 would be my first choice in primes...
Why have you already z8?
Battery life seems kind of weak for sports though.
Nikon D700 is back
Jesus, were you filming this with a 1.2? The DOF is so shallow.
its making my eyes hurt , talking about the cameras we can't actually see
It’s f1.2 yes
Some people love it some people hate it
@@RicciTalks we want to see the camera
I love f1.2.....sweet DOF
Thankyou for the review
There is no one that does such a through review
This camera is fab except no skill required. Over my 50 years with cameras taking pics that are sharp and pleasing to the eye and comparing other people's pic to see their skill level to create a Good all round images is being lost. That doesn't mean I don't want this fab camera 🤣.
I mean if people are dumb and don't use the best equipment that's on them, why would you complain bc some people are smart enough to use the new equipment correctly
as a D850 pro user- this is exactly what i need. this is a 100% take my money moment when it's upgrade time.
This is the perfect Nikon Z camera for me. I gonna buy it soon. :)
Finally a Z8 video with some actual information in it. Thanks Ricci.
I try
This was about the 10th Z8 review video I watched, but the first to answer all my questions. Thanks.
Great to hear I do try to answer the stuff I want to know my self
Nice review Ricci. Glad I skipped the Z7 II. @Ricci any chance you can use a higher aperture in future filming at your presentation table, so that the camera you are holding is in focus too, please? Thanks 👍🏻
Why.. the shallow dof looks great
Some people love it some people hate it
I try to fill in b roll on anything a im talking about specifically so the cameras on the table don’t need to be in focus but I get some people just want to see more camera
@@shaunpatterson7879 because it’s a brand new product that no-one has seen before. Why would you want the product out of focus? Look at 2:18 for example.
@@RicciTalks yes looks great when the subject is at 1.2 etc, but when it’s a brand new product like this that no-one has seen before, I don’t quite see the point of putting it out of focus like at 2:18 etc. Bear in mind the timing of the video release - yours is the first people watch and their first sight of the camera. Any videos posted after release day can afford to be a bit more artistic, when viewers know exactly what the camera looks like and likely have handled it. If the title were different and said ‘my views on the Z8’ then it would justify the 1.2 on you with the camera out of focus. I would reserve 1.2 just for cutaway shots, and keep the main camera at a higher aperture. Great review as always, thanks 👍🏻
Plenty of still pics all over the net if you want to see the camera 🤔
My eyes are hurting 😵💫 But at least your beard is sharp 😅
It's as sharp as my Z9 with 3D.
LOVE the new video features of the Z8 but 4000.00?? Yikes!!
Great to see you guys settling into your new home - and a great first review of the Nikon Z8, which might be the first mirrorless camera to tempt me away from the Nikon D850!
I'm wondering if there is a software astro tracker there, and how can your photo of the milky way and a tree be ISO 64 and 20 seconds? Still interesting Iso noise at 6000, how is it compared to D850 and Z7ii, Z6ii?
Hello Ricci, thanks for the great video. As an owner of two Z9’s, I love the ability to copy settings between the two Z9’s. Have you tried copying your Z9 settings to the Z8? Do you think this would work?
Sadly not
@@RicciTalks Thanks so much for responding to my question.
Hi Ricci, it was good to meet you at a couple of Nikon Schools recently. I certainly learned a lot more about my Z6 and I was pleased with the results from the Z 2x converter that you recommended for my 70-200, but the day at the Hawk Conservancy confirmed my fears about the suitability of the Z6 for shooting fast-moving objects. I have pre-ordered a Z8, I think it will be my ideal all-round camera, and I appreciate the way in this video that even as a Nikon employee you are still able to talk about features you consider to be weaknesses.
he is not a Nikon employee!
Ricci is in this new Nikon UK school channel. So I think he got hired by Nikon to produce youtube content.
@@gosman949 Nikon School UK for whom Ricci works comes under Nikon Europe BV according to their website.
I have Z7ii and Z6ii both struggle focusing on fast moving subjects - the Z8 / Z9 tracking system will pretty much guarantee you will get your shots and give you much more diversity in what you are shooting - enjoy
@@fotohowtouk Yes, that’s pretty much what I’m expecting/hoping for. I don’t specialise in one genre of photography, and while no camera is a true all-rounder the Z8 looks as close as I’ll ever get.
Türkçe altyazı neden yok ?
Many channels are going to have reviews but as always for the straight story, I always search for your uploads. Again you proved the important points with clarity and knowledge....Now all I need is someone who wants to bankroll my future Z8....
I have been so happy with my Z6 orginal version that gets used for commercial work almost every day, that my D850 and D800 sit idle 95% of the time. Maybe it is my cooperative subjects but AF has never been a problem for me but I am not tracking Swifts in a 120mph dive. People, and events. with some architecture. Most of my work is actors and more video than I like. So my savings set aside has about 1/2 the amound needed. A lot of demand is going to cause the crazy wait times that the D800 had when it was released. The big mail-order stores had 7-9 month waits to fill the orders. By luck I was in the US for 1 week during which time that model was released and somehow, I ended up getting one before I left. The D850 was much easier to get off shelves.
Terrific review. I might be the very first person to get my pre-order for the Z8 registered at the Camera Store here in Calgary. It’s replacing - actually not exactly because I never sell my old cameras - my D850 and Z6ii.
I’m not sure if you mentioned it but just to clarify, will it take the FTZ1 adapter? I’m assuming so because it doesn’t have the integrated vertical grip. Not a big deal but nice if I can save the money using the original adapter - and keep using my beloved 500mm 5.6 pf for birds and wildlife.
26:05 the squirrel “looking at its reflection”! Wow. Just wow. I hope you’re going to make and sell prints of these. Absolutely epic shots in here; what an amazing couple of months you must have had!
Thanks for this, Ricci. I really love the still pictures you show - they’re great.
Can you record to SSD via USB c???
my Z9 GPS still dont work showing future 2044 year :D and NX MobileAir app for Z9 still are not available in my country
You mentioned card overheating warning with certain cards. What card works best to avoid that? Thanks for another great video.
7:43
This Z8 does justice as it is a mirrorless version of the D850 but it has a superb video features
The Z7II is a pretty good mirrorless version of the D850 for most photographers.
@@UnconventionalReasoning That I agree as well. My only hiccup to the Z7II is its small form factor. For someone with big fingers, the tiny gap between the grip to that F1 button is small, hence why I'll wait when the Z8 becomes available here in Malaysia, then I'll get it. Don't get me wrong. The Z7II is a fabulous body. Only in form factor, for me at least, the Z8 will fit my fingers nicely. What I do regret though was selling my entire D850 plus a few F lenses. I should have kept that for back up
@@hishamosman4341 Yes, each photographer has to have the camera size fit their fingers. It's annoying when photographers talk about size requirements as a general need, I appreciate you saying what *you* need. The Z8 does have a little more room. I should have tried holding it and the Z7II with the same lenses. But you'll be happier with it.
According to B&H Specs... the D850 weighs 915oz vs 910 for the Z8.... size wise they are a wash in the specs with the Z8 being slightly larger, though the depth and height numbers are probably misleading because of the grip and EVF bump being about the same as D850 while the actual body of the Z8 is slightly lower and thinner.
Ordered
I’m really interested what will be the next move from Nikon for semiprofessionals hobbyist etc
Z9 an z8 are lovely cameras but honestly how many photographers can afford these cameras and where is the lovely picture from the Z6?combined with the autofocus of the new chip?
Who knows
@@RicciTalks you do know 😁
Thanks for this info Ricci. Which L bracket are you using in the Z8? ( same 3LT as the Z9??)
Congratulations, Nikon, on the Z8 release! And thank you, Ricci, for the always-concise first-look and great, specific information. You are my favorite source of Nikon camera and lens information, because of your straightforward method of discussing the various features. Take care!
Thanks for watching as always Mike !
So I have to ask - the Milky Way shot, it said 64 iso at 20 seconds and f2.8 - was that meant to be iso 6400? Amazing to me that at iso 64 you got that much MW detail - guess I need to try moving down my ISO - I generally don’t shoot below iso1600 for MW shots. Thanks for another great review!! You have great detail and extremely useful information - keep up the good work!!
You are correct about that’s an error
My iso was 1600
Great mini review. Loved the squirrel images, especially the reflection ones.
Hi! Finally Nikon made a prime camera, that is small & pack with a lot of punch like the Nikon Z9. It will very good for travelling, thinking to add Z8 in my arsenal n the future. Thanks for the video review. Keep up the good work.
It is a Z9 with less battery juice and no grip. If Z 8 was available when I bought the Z9, I would have thought which one to choose. The 1 CF+1 SD might also be a problem for the speed of writing to cards with redundancy…
My Z9 and Z7ii just enough for me...as hobbyist photographer. Z8 may be a good option for those upgrading from D850
Your unique (on RUclips?) comments on the importance of viewfinder brightness at the 10 minute mark earned you one tiny sub (with notification 🔔) from me. As someone born with less than amazing eyesight, the EVF on my Z6II has been a revelation. The concept of being able to photograph indoor at night in comfort ... 🥰 Electronic image intensifier or bust. I'm never going back to SLRs.
I have no idea why nobody else has mentioned this ... 'tiny' detail before in the plethora of mirrorless camera reviews found here on YT. Maybe they don't actually use the cameras they review in real world situations? Nah, surely that cannot be the reason. 🤔
The most important part for me Iv been meaning to do a video on it specifically because I agree not many talk about it
Nice, great video, but what does this mean for the z9, does it make it redundant?
The Z9 is a more ruggedly built camera, in that it has a full magnesium chassis. The Z8 uses a magnesium chassis with a carbon-fibre front.
are the buttons backlit? can you record to an SSD through the new USB hub?
I know that when products are built smaller in chipsets or added memory it does make the newer version faster. Example Apple M1/M2 over Intel Macs. 😊
Just pre-ordered. Can you do another video about what memory card is best to use like you did when the Z6 came out. Cheers. Think it was called something black?
Half done already
Delkin black. That was it.
I was expecting the Sony 61MP sensor to be honest. I thought there be a greater difference to the Z9 and the Z7 II. But good review as always, thanks!
Going from 45 to 60mp is like going from a 20 x 30" print to a 23 x 34.5" print.
Nikon do not use Sony sensors
@@RicciTalkstheir sensors are made by Sony, that’s probably what he meant.
Maybe there will be a Z7III with a higher resolution sensor, more optimized for landscape, studio etc.
@@RicciTalks Hi, spoke to Neil Freeman yesterday and I am now fully informed!
Unfortunately, not much new there for Z7 landscape photographers. More weight and expense. Wait for the Z7iii?
If landscape does not benefit from all its features, there is no need to upgrade from the D850....except the excellent s lenses. But for those who have moving subjects and/or video needs, it will be a big hit.
There has been speculation that the Z8 may cause there to be no z7iii.
@@TonyTownsend I hope that's not the case. I would value more MPs and upgraded autofocus, without all the video stuff!
what an amazing camera for the money! however...WHY ON EARTH have they brought that horrible card door over from the original z6/7s!!! It is such a bad design. Wont stop me from getting the camera but that door is one of the most complained about design issues of the Z cameras.
At last it's here and your video was my go to watch as I pre-ordered one. A quick question... which L-bracket are you using? I assume it's a generic one?
Universal made by 3 legged thing
@@RicciTalks Thanks Ricci...I appreciate you taking the time to respond....I bet you have a few comments to read through on this video! 🙂
I really want to pre order one, but I’m skeptical on the autofocus consistency
Bingo.
This is probably the best review of this camera i have seen and i have seen a few. I am rhe weirdo that still shoots with a d750 and that has postponed upgrading for years now. You are also the first i see tested the camera doing some milkyway shoots. I do a lot of astrophotography, how was the noise on your milkyway shoot? As a subjestion It will be very useful if you could share links to the raw files of some of the pictures you took so others can check them our in detail, specually the ones taken at low light to see how the camera performs. Thanks for the review.
Does it offer in-camera Focus stacking (not bracketing)? I'm tempted to go for the Lumix S5 IIX mainly because of this feature and also for being a Leica L-mount body. I'd love to use Leica glasses on the Nikon but I'm not sure if it can be done whilst yielding the same overall quality.
Great video and very informative and honest review will order asap thank you 😊
Regarding mixed cards can you write RAW to CF Express and HEIF to SD to keep speeds up? Using SD more as a worst case scenario
Yes, you can
Thanks for the video and providing a comparative analysis. I am planning to add a new body to my Z7II and several Z lenses and this video made very clear to me add Z8 as it does meet my requirements. 👍🏻
Ricci, very good thanks. However, as a current Z7ii user I was hoping there would be near equal discussion as to the changes from the Z6/7 features as there was for the Z9 (I am watching this with the Z7ii in hand so I can follow along with the differences instead). I would imagine that the majority of Z8 buyers would be either new to Nikon, or primarily the Z6/Z7 users and not people who just bought the Z9. If I was landscape only there are some nice things about the Z8 but probably not enough to upgrade, but since I do other types of photography where AF, portrait, and wildlife are also important, this checks all the boxes so I pre-ordered it. Looking forward to more videos on the Z8 when it comes out as to how best to program it.
Hi Ricci, great review & I have a Z8 shipping to me in the next couple days..Is the single MilkyWay image you show of ISO 64 a miss print? I have been shooting with a Z6 w/20 mm f1.8 lens & shoot at ISO 4000-5000..Thanks you for your reviews..Ken in AZ🌵
Thank you, Ricci. You’ve done an awesome job as usual.
I think your honest explanation of the af button might mean I get another z9 and not the z8. You’re absolutely right, it’s so important that that feels right. I’m going to check how my z7 af button sits /works before I commit though.
Ps thank you.
Certainly try and handle a Z8 if you to can to see if it bothers you but it’s been really bugging me sadly
@@RicciTalks Thank you, I need something better than the z7 for events so I’ve decided to pre-order one. I might try putting self adhesive dots on the button as a DIY hack- I’ll let you know how I get on. 👍. Thanks as always, Simon.
Great overview. One question - can I transfer the menu settings from a Z9 directly to the Z8?
Nope.
I've never thought of keeping both eyes open while looking at the viewfinder to help track better...brilliant
Been doing it for years
D850 User here - been looking forward to this for a long time 👴👴!! 3.69mp EVF in a $4k camera is a big letdown - WTF!! My Panasonic G9 from 2018 has 3.69mp EVF!! 🤷♂️ oh well..
People: The Z9 is so bulky and huge.. I hope it is smaller
Nikon: Presenting.. The Nikon Z8 😁
thanks for the video! just a question. recording internally in H265 10 bits, is 422 or 420?thanks
The 8 would be a good choice for many photographers.
you're in focus but the Z8 isn't