Own three Df's. One still unboxed. Come originally from Nikon FE back in the 80ies. Also used other Nikon DSLR (D80, D700, D750, D800). But the image quality of the Df and its relative low weight together with light AI-S lenses is still convincing me to use DF for the next years (hopefully decades). Greetings from Germany.
lucky you, my DF have almost 500k shutercount. well used with a nice patina. How aver i would't mind having an unboxed :D I Thkink the DF is the camera i will never sell.
I have almost 5 decades of shooting professionaly and the df is among the best cameras, if not the best I ever owned. The files and the ergonomic layout it is simply stunning. The colors, dynamic range is absolutly top notch. The camera has an ”it” factor that is hard to explain. Nice vid and Happy shooting. You got great talent! Cheers from Malmoe!
Thanks for your comment! Cool with a fellow Swede who like the DF. I live in Helsingborg. At the moment I sold the DF but getting it back eventually. Just before I Sold it I used it for a job,. where the art director wanted warm tones and alot of sun. I use it every once in awhile when I wanted something that has that special vibe together with the D-series lenses it has alot of potential to create great images.
I own both the Df and the Zf. Even after 10 years my Df still amazes me and people I show the images made with it. The Zf is impressive in its own way, but I need to learn a different approach. Maybe the Zf is as much the fusion from DSLR to Mirrorless as the Df is from SLR to DSLR. Time will tell.
Since I love the colors on the Df I try to create a recipe for Picture Control. But so far low light look similar without tweaking. Nice to see that I am not the only one who likes the "analogue" look of the images coming out of the Df. Technically Sony and Canon make great pictures, but to me it always seems to Digital/Digitized. Leica and Fuji also give that "analogue" output as when I was shooting film.
I also have both, DF & ZF and one thing that it bug me about the DF is that for some reason Nikon limit max. speed at 4000. Using fast lenses (1.4) it max-out pretty easily!
Such an intelligent and heartfelt analysis of this wonderful camera, that really got to the meaning of our hobby/profession - so often overlooked by the modern spec obsession for sharpness above all else. The Df was an absolute labour of love, utterly uncommercial and ahead of its time. No mere 'retro' but a camera that connected the modern with the glass of the past and produce sublime, soulful imagery. A camera like this will never be made again by the big 3 and the Zf, while an excellent retro tool is absolutely not the same thing.
Kim, I'm 100% percent with you. On every point. But more importantly, this is the first video I've seen from you and man... your portraits are stunning! As a portrait photographer myself i can instantly tell that you LOVE people. I bet you are a great guy as well. Two people in every portrait, right? 😊 Very, very enjoyable. Thanks Kim!
I’ve both the Df and Zf too and still enjoy the pleasure of using the Df especially now that my eyesight has been medically corrected. Love your video❤
Sold my Fuji GFX 100s equipment, after exploring around more I went back to Nikon and finally settled on the Nikon DF with my old ai and pre ai and Zeiss lenses. There is something special about the rendering that makes me smile each time I look at the files they keep me interested and engaged, they remind me of color slide film.
Great review of the Nikon Df! I was honestly even more captivated by the photos you shot with the camera, it almost made me forget about the camera review haha. The timing of your shots, the way the subjects react both candid and semi-staged is quite spectacular. Having a camera you love to use of course plays a crucial role in the art of getting in that creative zone.
Physical buttons on the DF are great. I'm just learning and wanted a straight camera for photo (no video) and a good FF sensor. Perfect tool, IMHO. The simple interaction of the dials combined with the flexibity of the tech is just perfect. I'm enjoying some cheap AF-S, fast D gen and can't wait to manualy focus non /AI-S lenses. Glad I picked up mine cheap at the time!
Hello,i have found one in a very good price but its missing this tiny plastic flash sync cap. Do you think it loses the weather sealing without this?And i cant find it anywhere to buy it.
I think it's fine. you can serach for "pc sync port cover" And you will find plenty of them. buy some extra becuse they have nasty habbit of coming lose
I had my Df since 2013 up grading from my D200, most my F-mounted lenses are manual focus pre-AI; AI; Ais lenses from my film Nikon SLRs. I only have a few D type AF lenses. they all work well on my Df for years. Now I have myself a Zf, it is a perfect match with my Df by using all my lenses to do what I want in my life of photography, Df was the camera I had been dreaming for years, and now with the addition of the Zf, I will enjoy my loving hobby for the rest of my life!
The best manual focus camera experiences are Nikon DSLR / AIS lenses and Leica M. And yes, by the time you put an adapter in between the Nikon Zf and an AIS lens there isnt much left in the way of size reduction. Nikon Df is comparable in size to the Canon 6D and those two are probably the smallest FF DSLRs ever made.
you are right about the size i started to work on a list aboyt the smalles DSLR's DF is smaller than the 6D Speaking of 6D i managed to swap the focusing screen in mine: ruclips.net/video/__tGJTwJob8/видео.html I put a split image focusing screen from a Nikon EM. Works great with adapted pentax k and m42 lenses :D But the focus indicator nikon cameras are really good, slighly bether then a split image screen, i would say :D
Great review! I love my Df that I bought 6 months ago and I use it in parallel with my FM2. They are very similar cameras in the way they work. I use the Df almost exclusively in manual mode, either with Ai-S or AF lenses with aperture rings, and I exercise my Sunny 16 skills with it to understand light better, in order to apply that knowledge on the FM2. Both are limited to 1/4000 and I don't need more than that. Not long most cameras were limited to 1/1000 - now that was a limitation! Having the hability to shoot at 1/4000 is one of the things I love the most in the FM2, that's quite rare even today (check those Leicas for example limited at 1/2000). The Df has indeed a special sensor with awesome sharpness even with those older lenses, and a gentle gradation of highlight tones that you describe in this review. The dynamic range is insane, it seems to be at least on par with modern 24 MP cameras which is great for all scenarios. Oh, and did I say that these older lenses are quite cheap? Check out those magical D lenses like the 180 2.8, there are several gems out there for a fraction of the price of a Z lens. Even those G lenses are so good too, I got a 28 1.8 G that I love, it's my vacation lens, very light, compact and versatile, and wicked sharp on the Df. @Kim_Alexander have you tried to swap focusing screens? That's the only thing I miss having in the Df, a proper manual focusing screen like the FM2.
Nice presentation. I have a DF that I got factory refurbished by Nikon 2 years ago. It's like brand new. I think it is underrated, as Nikon is not huge on marketing and it was superseded with the z mount lens shortly after release. None of that matters. It's a true classic camera. It's a Nikon "F"! that's digital. Having a Nikon F is like having a Fender Stratocaster a true workhorse classic.
Kim, Nikon USA has equipment listed on their web site. Some is new, some reconditioned. I bought the reconditioned version and it was and still is in mint condition. It had no clicks on the shutter when I got it. I notice that Fujifilm also sells refurbished cameras and lenses on their USA web site. (They list x100V's but don't actually have any.). It's a good way to purchase good equipment.@@Kim_Alexander
I have both the Df and Zf. I use the Df 90% of the time. The Zf is magnificent but the Df has a certain something, in that it's like the cameras I started my photography odessey with some 50 plus years ago.
@@Kim_Alexander Great question. Let me put together some tests using setups that bring them as close together as possible so it's the sensor/processors that are being compared.
@@gordonbrown5901 personally I think the Df is one of the best cameras regarding colors it handles mixed lighting conditions exceptionally well, renders skin tone even and nicely looking and so on. While many newer cameras are to accurate and in certain situation adding nounces of magenta in the skin, and colors in other situations witch might be there but don't gives a flattering image. people often talks about leica colors, fuji colors and so on the Df are there with the big guys! My biggest consern with the ZF is that it don't have that mojo
Agree. My Df is the only camera I ever want to shoot with. The sensor is just so special, and the body is optimized for taking nearly every F-mount lens ever made. Newer cameras do not offer me what I value in the Df.
I ’m Japanese I also like Df Nikon is pronounced .ニコン. For some reason, people in English speaking countries pronounce it as Naikon（ナイコン）, but it's different.
In Sweden we say n-i-k-ho-n. Seams if I understood you correct it's simply pronounced as it spells . So Swedish is more similar to how it suppose to sound?
I played with a Zf at Grays of Westminster for half an hour and loved it, but, with a lens on it's no smaller than a DSLR, and, I'm not willing to spend thousands on Z lenses. I know about the FTZ but my AF-D lenses won't work. So I'm sticking with F mount. I have a D780 for important work and I just ordered a DF from Japan for pleasure. I can't wait for it to arrive.
I think the big issue for many is that the Nikon Df is intended not to just look like a retro camera but to actually be shot like one. Most retro cameras like the Fujis or the recent ZF's are setup so you can actually have your core controls operated by your right hand around the grip, the Ex Comp dial is above it and the ISO dial can be transferred to a regular command dial. The Df on the other hand is genuinely meant to be shot like an FE or F3 camera, like those cameras it has its ISO and Ex Comp dials on the top left. Rather than always having your left hand under the lens the intension is you mostly have it on the left side of the camera. Maybe not ideal for shooting with large tele/zoom lenses but then again I don't think that was the intension, its a camera made to be shot mostly with small/smallish prime lenses in the wide to short tele range, Personally I shoot mine with Voigtlander pancake lenses which as the video mentions exploit the potential for SLR lenses to be significantly smaller than mirrorless.
perhaps that's the case..Personally that have never been an issue for me, I shot it in auto iso where the iso dial then acts as a cap for the highers auto iso. This is an awesome way of using the iso dial while. using auto iso I wish fuji had done this. . The ev comp dial on the left is indeed a interesting choose. But something you get used to. Personally at least if one is using raw in don't think that ev comp is requerd in the heat of a one time moment where you need to be quick. if a situation is seen the photographer have to analyse it before pressing the trigger and use the ev comp before. Like in the film days some bright situation could tick the metering. There is also no way of getting feedback from the ev due to the the optical viewfinder. This is things that adds up to the experience of using making it one of my favorite cameras.
@@Kim_Alexander Good point about using the dial for auto ISO in manual mode, gives you quite a well handling ISO priority mode. I wasnt being critical of the Df by mentioning that but rather highlighting that its more of a genuine "retro camera" than a lot of stuff which styles itself as such. I find it does make a genuinely different shooting experience than using my D850.
It isn't an "issue" to most owners. You can mostly opt to shoot it as an ordinary type DSLR with locked AF-D and AF-S lenses. Or, one can relax, compose at leisure, work out a situation for a portrait and adjust everything manually...
I tend to think a big issue is that a lot of camera reviewers by their very nature are videographers so a camera that deliberately drops video didnt go down that well. It was also of course an era with a lot of hype of when/if Nikon would go mirrorless but with that element removed I think the camera can stand on its own more.
Great video, I quite like the Df for its physical layout and interface (especially after I installed a split prism focusing screen), and the AF is exactly as you described it: good but struggles a bit in low light. The Df isn't my first choice for color but i will say that it does the film look nicely when the colors are a cool color balance because the colors this sensor likes seem to be blue and green, with red taking a bit of a backseat. Unlike how Olympus files add a pleasant orange with a warmer color balance, the Df files push out and unsightly yellow. For me skin looks best from the NEFs when there's enough blue in the scene, resulting in a less stylized image that is still pretty in a subdued way that isn't clinically neutral, especially when underexposing in-camera and raising it in post. Film does possess this quality, though usually with the kind of color I like from Olympus files. I think Sigma nails these two qualities of good color (cool or warm) and conveying that subtle prettiness of film with their Foveon sensor, but the handling is definitely slower than the Df's handling. Though, I find that it makes for a more meditative photo walk and is very film-like in that regard, too! But yeah, Df is a great camera for street, landscape, and decent for events (it would help if it had an adjustable screen for my workflow). Keeping the 50mm f/1.8D on there helps for one-handing the camera and getting beautiful, characterful images in any lighting situation.
Cool! Where did you get the focusing screen? A while ago, I hacked the EOS 6D with a focusing screen from an old Nikon EM. But it's just not the same as the old analog cameras; perhaps those older cameras had better magnification and, of course, they were built to be manually focused. Colors are highly subjective and depend a lot on the raw developer as well. Personally, I use Capture One; back in the days, it was better than the offerings from Adobe. This was before Lightroom was released. Since then, I've just stuck with it. I never managed to get the right feeling from Olympus or any Micro 4/3 camera that I tried, but then again, I haven't tried that many either. Which camera system or camera, in your opinion, is the king of color?
@@Kim_Alexander okay uh, I can't seem to share the link without the comment getting deleted immediately. I'll just say that yes, colors are subjective. I meant to speak for myself, and yes they're raw developer dependent. I use Lightroom. Sigma Foveon colors are the best to me but if I want a camera that handles quicker then Olympus colors are the best for me. I really like what I see from the E-M1x but the E-M1ii comes close in this regard.
@@Kim_Alexander the URL for the website is basically just focusingscreen and you add the com after it. it's where I got my Df focusing screen among many others. Not sure if they have any more in stock.
I just wish it had a split image focus screen or the D4 autofocus mechanism. The "rangefinder" dots in the bottom left corners of DSLRs viewfinders are awful to use. With one eye in a viewfinder you cant compose your image and use the focus assist at the same time. Focus peaking really solved the issue for mirrorless cameras, but DSLRs needed a better solution for manual focus. The DK-17M viewfinder piece helps a little bit, but nikon doesn't make them any more and at 100 dollars for a used one that's 3x the retail price. Can't argue with the image quality. D4 as good as it gets
It's a great camera, one that I often think of getting, but there are 2 things that I'm a fan of which the Df doesn't quite deliver: high resolution and a metal chassis. The current Zf is also marred with a mid resolution sensor. 24 MP has been around since 2011. My 2013 A7r has higher resolution than that.
I understand your points about the resolution and the chassis material of the Nikon DF. While the resolution of the DF is indeed lower than some newer models, the file size of 4928x3280 (16.1 megapixels) for the DF is not significantly smaller than the typical 24-megapixel resolution of 6000x4000. This difference might not be substantial unless you frequently crop your images, where higher resolution can be beneficial. What sets the Nikon DF apart, in my opinion, is its unique balance of a large sensor with a relatively low pixel density. This design choice contributes to the camera's particular strengths, especially in terms of image quality and low-light performance. Regarding color output, the Nikon DF really stands out. While the original Sony A7 series cameras, including your 2013 A7R, do produce nice colors, the DF is in a different league. It's known for its exceptional color reproduction, which many photographers appreciate. The DF easy stand ground agains Leica when it come to colors..
@Kim_Alexander Point taken. I'm actually much more of a Nikon fan than a Sony one, but i do own both systems. I think the best thing about the Df is the compatibility with all Nikon F mount lenses. It's like the Rosetta stone of Nikon cameras. Damn...I think I might've talked my self into getting one.
@@robiulahmed I understand your preference for Nikon, and it's interesting to hear you're also a fan of Sony cameras. Regarding the Nikon DF, one of its standout features is indeed its sensor. This high-end sensor, shared only with the Nikon D4, is highly regarded for its performance. While the D4 is quite large, the DF stands out as one of the smallest full-frame DSLRs ever made. As a long-term user of Sony cameras, particularly the A7 IV and A7S III, I've found them to be excellent tools for my commercial work. However, they do feel somewhat unexciting in hand compared to other cameras. The classic controls of the Nikon DF are something I really appreciate. For me, they make operating the camera more intuitive and efficient. I'm also a big fan of Fuji, especially for street photography and some commercial work where i want a certain character. Sometime i even use the DF for fashion work. When it comes to Nikon's F mount lenses, I'm particularly fond of the early AF and AF-D lenses, which lack a built-in focus motor. These lenses pair well aesthetically with the DF. Unfortunately, they can't autofocus with an FTZ adapter on mirrorless cameras, and the look of the adapter is not very appealing. I'm intrigued by the prospect of acquiring a ZF in the future. My main concern is whether it will live up to the legacy of the DF, particularly in terms of its unique color rendition. The Sony vs. Nikon debate is a tricky one. I initially chose Sony for its autofocus and their newer lenses with aperture rings. However, I feel Nikon might produce nicer colors. Sony cameras have never been particularly renowned for their color output. One of the coolest aspects of the DF is its ability to hold its value. It's probably the kind of camera that you could even profit from if you find a good deal and decide to sell it later.
@Kim_Alexander I only bought into the Sony system because 10 years ago, they were the only mirrorless system in town. I agree with you, they do feel more like work cameras than personal use cameras. I think I'm in the minority when I say I actually really like Sony picture quality, though, that's a subjective thing. I'm a big fan of those ai and pre-ai nikkor lenses, especially the ones with the metal knurling. You just don't get that build quality these days. I use classic lenses on my F2, which in my opinion, is the greatest camera ever built. I think an F2 and Df combo would be a damn good setup.
@@robiulahmed I like the colors out of the original A7; I bet the A7R is the same. However, the A7II & A7III and the other cameras during that time period were horrible, especially in mixed lighting conditions. Skin tones most often required more work than other cameras. Sony fixed these issues with the A7IV, and I generally liked the files. The latitude of adjustments is great, however, I had issues with the A7IV freezing and kind of overheating during intense shooting days, like a full day of portraits when people are basically standing in a line. The F2 is awesome. I wanted that or a Leica M6 when I was in photo school but had to settle for a Chinon CM-5, spending my money on buying film and on a trip to Madeira & Berlin, making tons of images I Still have that camera, even sneaked it into my latest freview of the Sirui 23mm f:1.2 17 sec in ruclips.net/video/SoHjOjb60g0/видео.htmlsi=pXcmSIc2vbzJQ59x&t=17
I switched from a d750 to a Fuji X-T1 but have been thinking these last few months about going back to Nikon with the DF, but I struggle with it. It cost as much as a newer Fuji, tho.
That's a hard one, both the XT-1 and the DF are great cameras. Choosing between one or the another is not a straight forward move. Since both of them are cameras one buy simply because they want one. Picking up the DF is worth it! I think with some small amount of luck you can find one at a good price, and if who take care of it you probably not losing any money on it since i think they keep their value, or even increase in value. The situation is nut quite like that for the Fuji X-T series even if i managed to break even on many fuji cameras and even profiting but that was before the crazy inflation in price. Now days you need some luck to find cheep cameras from someone who don't know the true value of it.
@@Kim_Alexander Thx. After having a D600 and D750 I think I will add another D600/610 as a backup. In Canada the DF is about $1500-2000 and a D600/610 is $300-500.
Very fine video and its vivid photos! I've no experience with the Df because of its high price still. So I'm a D300 user, but with Nikkor AI or AIS MF lenses only which totally please me. All your arguments are convincing, maybe above all a special colour rendition by the Df. I'll try this in future... @philosimot.
I honestly don't know, what I like with the Zf is the flip out lcd since you can flip it around and not have it vissable.. Though you can just out some leather sticker over the lcd on the Df.. I did that with my xe2 The brass wheels on the Zf looks nice to makes. me. wanna scrape of some of that paint..
@@wullieg7269 to be fair it has never been the camera that force vido to be a thing. Personally I think it's great when a camera ha a great film spec it means that I and many others have to spend less on gear.
Own three Df's. One still unboxed. Come originally from Nikon FE back in the 80ies. Also used other Nikon DSLR (D80, D700, D750, D800). But the image quality of the Df and its relative low weight together with light AI-S lenses is still convincing me to use DF for the next years (hopefully decades). Greetings from Germany.
lucky you, my DF have almost 500k shutercount.
well used with a nice patina. How aver i would't mind having an unboxed :D
I Thkink the DF is the camera i will never sell.
Still my dream camera Nikon dF
I have almost 5 decades of shooting professionaly and the df is among the best cameras, if not the best I ever owned. The files and the ergonomic layout it is simply stunning. The colors, dynamic range is absolutly top notch. The camera has an ”it” factor that is hard to explain. Nice vid and Happy shooting. You got great talent! Cheers from Malmoe!
Thanks for your comment! Cool with a fellow Swede who like the DF. I live in Helsingborg.
At the moment I sold the DF but getting it back eventually. Just before I Sold it I used it for a job,. where the art director wanted warm tones and alot of sun. I use it every once in awhile when I wanted something that has that special vibe together with the D-series lenses it has alot of potential to create great images.
I own both the Df and the Zf. Even after 10 years my Df still amazes me and people I show the images made with it. The Zf is impressive in its own way, but I need to learn a different approach. Maybe the Zf is as much the fusion from DSLR to Mirrorless as the Df is from SLR to DSLR. Time will tell.
i held the ZF awhile ago it feels good in the hands.
Way better than my Fuji.
If we only talking about colors witch one do you lean towards most?
Since I love the colors on the Df I try to create a recipe for Picture Control.
But so far low light look similar without tweaking. Nice to see that I am not the only one who likes the "analogue" look of the images coming out of the Df.
Technically Sony and Canon make great pictures, but to me it always seems to Digital/Digitized.
Leica and Fuji also give that "analogue" output as when I was shooting film.
I also have both, DF & ZF and one thing that it bug me about the DF is that for some reason Nikon limit max. speed at 4000. Using fast lenses (1.4) it max-out pretty easily!
@@JuanjoChe72 Would a ND filter ruin the vibe too much?
Such an intelligent and heartfelt analysis of this wonderful camera, that really got to the meaning of our hobby/profession - so often overlooked by the modern spec obsession for sharpness above all else. The Df was an absolute labour of love, utterly uncommercial and ahead of its time. No mere 'retro' but a camera that connected the modern with the glass of the past and produce sublime, soulful imagery. A camera like this will never be made again by the big 3 and the Zf, while an excellent retro tool is absolutely not the same thing.
Kim, I'm 100% percent with you. On every point. But more importantly, this is the first video I've seen from you and man... your portraits are stunning! As a portrait photographer myself i can instantly tell that you LOVE people. I bet you are a great guy as well. Two people in every portrait, right? 😊 Very, very enjoyable. Thanks Kim!
I’ve both the Df and Zf too and still enjoy the pleasure of using the Df especially now that my eyesight has been medically corrected. Love your video❤
Sold my Fuji GFX 100s equipment, after exploring around more I went back to Nikon and finally settled on the Nikon DF with my old ai and pre ai and Zeiss lenses. There is something special about the rendering that makes me smile each time I look at the files they keep me interested and engaged, they remind me of color slide film.
Great review of the Nikon Df! I was honestly even more captivated by the photos you shot with the camera, it almost made me forget about the camera review haha. The timing of your shots, the way the subjects react both candid and semi-staged is quite spectacular. Having a camera you love to use of course plays a crucial role in the art of getting in that creative zone.
Thanks for you comment :D
The colors are nice
wonderful review, thank you!
Physical buttons on the DF are great. I'm just learning and wanted a straight camera for photo (no video) and a good FF sensor. Perfect tool, IMHO. The simple interaction of the dials combined with the flexibity of the tech is just perfect. I'm enjoying some cheap AF-S, fast D gen and can't wait to manualy focus non /AI-S lenses. Glad I picked up mine cheap at the time!
Wonderful video and stunning photos...
Thanks for your kind words, and comment!
Hello,i have found one in a very good price but its missing this tiny plastic flash sync cap. Do you think it loses the weather sealing without this?And i cant find it anywhere to buy it.
I think it's fine.
you can serach for "pc sync port cover" And you will find plenty of them.
buy some extra becuse they have nasty habbit of coming lose
I had my Df since 2013 up grading from my D200, most my F-mounted lenses are manual focus pre-AI; AI; Ais lenses from my film Nikon SLRs. I only have a few D type AF lenses. they all work well on my Df for years. Now I have myself a Zf, it is a perfect match with my Df by using all my lenses to do what I want in my life of photography, Df was the camera I had been dreaming for years, and now with the addition of the Zf, I will enjoy my loving hobby for the rest of my life!
great video, appreciated the size comparison with the fuji. made a very good point in doing so
@@knab2831 thanks for watching and commenting
I love my Df and Zf.
The best manual focus camera experiences are Nikon DSLR / AIS lenses and Leica M.
And yes, by the time you put an adapter in between the Nikon Zf and an AIS lens there isnt much left in the way of size reduction.
Nikon Df is comparable in size to the Canon 6D and those two are probably the smallest FF DSLRs ever made.
you are right about the size i started to work on a list aboyt the smalles DSLR's DF is smaller than the 6D
Speaking of 6D i managed to swap the focusing screen in mine: ruclips.net/video/__tGJTwJob8/видео.html
I put a split image focusing screen from a Nikon EM. Works great with adapted pentax k and m42 lenses :D
But the focus indicator nikon cameras are really good, slighly bether then a split image screen, i would say :D
I agree with you completely 👍
Great review! I love my Df that I bought 6 months ago and I use it in parallel with my FM2. They are very similar cameras in the way they work. I use the Df almost exclusively in manual mode, either with Ai-S or AF lenses with aperture rings, and I exercise my Sunny 16 skills with it to understand light better, in order to apply that knowledge on the FM2. Both are limited to 1/4000 and I don't need more than that. Not long most cameras were limited to 1/1000 - now that was a limitation! Having the hability to shoot at 1/4000 is one of the things I love the most in the FM2, that's quite rare even today (check those Leicas for example limited at 1/2000).
The Df has indeed a special sensor with awesome sharpness even with those older lenses, and a gentle gradation of highlight tones that you describe in this review. The dynamic range is insane, it seems to be at least on par with modern 24 MP cameras which is great for all scenarios.
Oh, and did I say that these older lenses are quite cheap? Check out those magical D lenses like the 180 2.8, there are several gems out there for a fraction of the price of a Z lens. Even those G lenses are so good too, I got a 28 1.8 G that I love, it's my vacation lens, very light, compact and versatile, and wicked sharp on the Df.
@Kim_Alexander have you tried to swap focusing screens? That's the only thing I miss having in the Df, a proper manual focusing screen like the FM2.
can you get stick on bunny ears to put on modern lenses to make retro look everytime?
@@wullieg7269 bunny ears? 🐰
Fantastiska bilder 👌
Tack!
Nice presentation. I have a DF that I got factory refurbished by Nikon 2 years ago. It's like brand new. I think it is underrated, as Nikon is not huge on marketing and it was superseded with the z mount lens shortly after release. None of that matters. It's a true classic camera. It's a Nikon "F"! that's digital. Having a Nikon F is like having a Fender Stratocaster a true workhorse classic.
cool how much did you had to pay to get it refurbished?
Kim, Nikon USA has equipment listed on their web site. Some is new, some reconditioned. I bought the reconditioned version and it was and still is in mint condition. It had no clicks on the shutter when I got it. I notice that Fujifilm also sells refurbished cameras and lenses on their USA web site. (They list x100V's but don't actually have any.). It's a good way to purchase good equipment.@@Kim_Alexander
I have both the Df and Zf. I use the Df 90% of the time. The Zf is magnificent but the Df has a certain something, in that it's like the cameras I started my photography odessey with some 50 plus years ago.
cool I hope to compare them both one day. How does the ZF hold up with colors compared to the Df?
@@Kim_Alexander Great question. Let me put together some tests using setups that bring them as close together as possible so it's the sensor/processors that are being compared.
@@gordonbrown5901 personally I think the Df is one of the best cameras regarding colors it handles mixed lighting conditions exceptionally well, renders skin tone even and nicely looking and so on.
While many newer cameras are to accurate and in certain situation adding nounces of magenta in the skin, and colors in other situations witch might be there but don't gives a flattering image.
people often talks about leica colors, fuji colors and so on the Df are there with the big guys!
My biggest consern with the ZF is that it don't have that mojo
@@Kim_Alexander colours are wonderfull!
@Samuriele thanks,
this is a camera. I miss owning, and defently going to pick up again in the future
Agree. My Df is the only camera I ever want to shoot with. The sensor is just so special, and the body is optimized for taking nearly every F-mount lens ever made. Newer cameras do not offer me what I value in the Df.
I ’m Japanese
I also like Df
Nikon is pronounced .ニコン.
For some reason, people in English speaking countries pronounce it as Naikon（ナイコン）, but it's different.
In Sweden we say n-i-k-ho-n.
Seams if I understood you correct it's simply pronounced as it spells .
So Swedish is more similar to how it suppose to sound?
I believe that us Brits and Aussies too say it properly. Naikon is a North American thing.
Only in the American English speaking countries. In England we say "Ni-Kon", short i...
Does this camera allow to shoot in b&w?? to shoot in square format????
it allows b&w but not any other format than 2x3 as the sensor
I played with a Zf at Grays of Westminster for half an hour and loved it, but, with a lens on it's no smaller than a DSLR, and, I'm not willing to spend thousands on Z lenses. I know about the FTZ but my AF-D lenses won't work. So I'm sticking with F mount. I have a D780 for important work and I just ordered a DF from Japan for pleasure. I can't wait for it to arrive.
I think the big issue for many is that the Nikon Df is intended not to just look like a retro camera but to actually be shot like one.
Most retro cameras like the Fujis or the recent ZF's are setup so you can actually have your core controls operated by your right hand around the grip, the Ex Comp dial is above it and the ISO dial can be transferred to a regular command dial.
The Df on the other hand is genuinely meant to be shot like an FE or F3 camera, like those cameras it has its ISO and Ex Comp dials on the top left. Rather than always having your left hand under the lens the intension is you mostly have it on the left side of the camera. Maybe not ideal for shooting with large tele/zoom lenses but then again I don't think that was the intension, its a camera made to be shot mostly with small/smallish prime lenses in the wide to short tele range,
Personally I shoot mine with Voigtlander pancake lenses which as the video mentions exploit the potential for SLR lenses to be significantly smaller than mirrorless.
perhaps that's the case..Personally that have never been an issue for me, I shot it in auto iso where the iso dial then acts as a cap for the highers auto iso. This is an awesome way of using the iso dial while. using auto iso I wish fuji had done this. .
The ev comp dial on the left is indeed a interesting choose. But something you get used to.
Personally at least if one is using raw in don't think that ev comp is requerd in the heat of a one time moment where you need to be quick.
if a situation is seen the photographer have to analyse it before pressing the trigger and use the ev comp before. Like in the film days some bright situation could tick the metering. There is also no way of getting feedback from the ev due to the the optical viewfinder.
This is things that adds up to the experience of using making it one of my favorite cameras.
@@Kim_Alexander Good point about using the dial for auto ISO in manual mode, gives you quite a well handling ISO priority mode.
I wasnt being critical of the Df by mentioning that but rather highlighting that its more of a genuine "retro camera" than a lot of stuff which styles itself as such.
I find it does make a genuinely different shooting experience than using my D850.
It isn't an "issue" to most owners. You can mostly opt to shoot it as an ordinary type DSLR with locked AF-D and AF-S lenses. Or, one can relax, compose at leisure, work out a situation for a portrait and adjust everything manually...
I tend to think a big issue is that a lot of camera reviewers by their very nature are videographers so a camera that deliberately drops video didnt go down that well.
It was also of course an era with a lot of hype of when/if Nikon would go mirrorless but with that element removed I think the camera can stand on its own more.
Great video, I quite like the Df for its physical layout and interface (especially after I installed a split prism focusing screen), and the AF is exactly as you described it: good but struggles a bit in low light. The Df isn't my first choice for color but i will say that it does the film look nicely when the colors are a cool color balance because the colors this sensor likes seem to be blue and green, with red taking a bit of a backseat.
Unlike how Olympus files add a pleasant orange with a warmer color balance, the Df files push out and unsightly yellow. For me skin looks best from the NEFs when there's enough blue in the scene, resulting in a less stylized image that is still pretty in a subdued way that isn't clinically neutral, especially when underexposing in-camera and raising it in post. Film does possess this quality, though usually with the kind of color I like from Olympus files. I think Sigma nails these two qualities of good color (cool or warm) and conveying that subtle prettiness of film with their Foveon sensor, but the handling is definitely slower than the Df's handling. Though, I find that it makes for a more meditative photo walk and is very film-like in that regard, too!
But yeah, Df is a great camera for street, landscape, and decent for events (it would help if it had an adjustable screen for my workflow). Keeping the 50mm f/1.8D on there helps for one-handing the camera and getting beautiful, characterful images in any lighting situation.
Cool! Where did you get the focusing screen?
A while ago, I hacked the EOS 6D with a focusing screen from an old Nikon EM. But it's just not the same as the old analog cameras; perhaps those older cameras had better magnification and, of course, they were built to be manually focused.
Colors are highly subjective and depend a lot on the raw developer as well. Personally, I use Capture One; back in the days, it was better than the offerings from Adobe. This was before Lightroom was released. Since then, I've just stuck with it.
I never managed to get the right feeling from Olympus or any Micro 4/3 camera that I tried, but then again, I haven't tried that many either.
Which camera system or camera, in your opinion, is the king of color?
@@Kim_Alexander okay uh, I can't seem to share the link without the comment getting deleted immediately. I'll just say that yes, colors are subjective. I meant to speak for myself, and yes they're raw developer dependent. I use Lightroom. Sigma Foveon colors are the best to me but if I want a camera that handles quicker then Olympus colors are the best for me. I really like what I see from the E-M1x but the E-M1ii comes close in this regard.
@@Kim_Alexander the URL for the website is basically just focusingscreen and you add the com after it. it's where I got my Df focusing screen among many others. Not sure if they have any more in stock.
At times I thought you were describing the Leica M-D (typ 262), which takes the idea behind the Df to the limit for those who can go all the way.
I truly want that leica but it's quite expensive, bur one day I will have one :)
I just wish it had a split image focus screen or the D4 autofocus mechanism. The "rangefinder" dots in the bottom left corners of DSLRs viewfinders are awful to use. With one eye in a viewfinder you cant compose your image and use the focus assist at the same time. Focus peaking really solved the issue for mirrorless cameras, but DSLRs needed a better solution for manual focus. The DK-17M viewfinder piece helps a little bit, but nikon doesn't make them any more and at 100 dollars for a used one that's 3x the retail price. Can't argue with the image quality. D4 as good as it gets
the lack of split image focus screens in DSLR have always been an issue for manual focus. It is how ever possible to buy after maket options. :)
Great review, are you editing files in Lightroom with the Nikon camera profiles?
Thanks!
Im always editing in Capture one :)
It's a great camera, one that I often think of getting, but there are 2 things that I'm a fan of which the Df doesn't quite deliver: high resolution and a metal chassis.
The current Zf is also marred with a mid resolution sensor. 24 MP has been around since 2011. My 2013 A7r has higher resolution than that.
I understand your points about the resolution and the chassis material of the Nikon DF. While the resolution of the DF is indeed lower than some newer models, the file size of 4928x3280 (16.1 megapixels) for the DF is not significantly smaller than the typical 24-megapixel resolution of 6000x4000. This difference might not be substantial unless you frequently crop your images, where higher resolution can be beneficial.
What sets the Nikon DF apart, in my opinion, is its unique balance of a large sensor with a relatively low pixel density. This design choice contributes to the camera's particular strengths, especially in terms of image quality and low-light performance.
Regarding color output, the Nikon DF really stands out. While the original Sony A7 series cameras, including your 2013 A7R, do produce nice colors, the DF is in a different league. It's known for its exceptional color reproduction, which many photographers appreciate.
The DF easy stand ground agains Leica when it come to colors..
@Kim_Alexander Point taken. I'm actually much more of a Nikon fan than a Sony one, but i do own both systems.
I think the best thing about the Df is the compatibility with all Nikon F mount lenses. It's like the Rosetta stone of Nikon cameras.
Damn...I think I might've talked my self into getting one.
@@robiulahmed
I understand your preference for Nikon, and it's interesting to hear you're also a fan of Sony cameras. Regarding the Nikon DF, one of its standout features is indeed its sensor. This high-end sensor, shared only with the Nikon D4, is highly regarded for its performance. While the D4 is quite large, the DF stands out as one of the smallest full-frame DSLRs ever made.
As a long-term user of Sony cameras, particularly the A7 IV and A7S III, I've found them to be excellent tools for my commercial work. However, they do feel somewhat unexciting in hand compared to other cameras.
The classic controls of the Nikon DF are something I really appreciate. For me, they make operating the camera more intuitive and efficient. I'm also a big fan of Fuji, especially for street photography and some commercial work where i want a certain character.
Sometime i even use the DF for fashion work.
When it comes to Nikon's F mount lenses, I'm particularly fond of the early AF and AF-D lenses, which lack a built-in focus motor. These lenses pair well aesthetically with the DF. Unfortunately, they can't autofocus with an FTZ adapter on mirrorless cameras, and the look of the adapter is not very appealing.
I'm intrigued by the prospect of acquiring a ZF in the future. My main concern is whether it will live up to the legacy of the DF, particularly in terms of its unique color rendition.
The Sony vs. Nikon debate is a tricky one. I initially chose Sony for its autofocus and their newer lenses with aperture rings. However, I feel Nikon might produce nicer colors. Sony cameras have never been particularly renowned for their color output.
One of the coolest aspects of the DF is its ability to hold its value. It's probably the kind of camera that you could even profit from if you find a good deal and decide to sell it later.
@Kim_Alexander I only bought into the Sony system because 10 years ago, they were the only mirrorless system in town. I agree with you, they do feel more like work cameras than personal use cameras. I think I'm in the minority when I say I actually really like Sony picture quality, though, that's a subjective thing.
I'm a big fan of those ai and pre-ai nikkor lenses, especially the ones with the metal knurling. You just don't get that build quality these days. I use classic lenses on my F2, which in my opinion, is the greatest camera ever built. I think an F2 and Df combo would be a damn good setup.
@@robiulahmed I like the colors out of the original A7; I bet the A7R is the same. However, the A7II & A7III and the other cameras during that time period were horrible, especially in mixed lighting conditions. Skin tones most often required more work than other cameras.
Sony fixed these issues with the A7IV, and I generally liked the files. The latitude of adjustments is great, however, I had issues with the A7IV freezing and kind of overheating during intense shooting days, like a full day of portraits when people are basically standing in a line.
The F2 is awesome. I wanted that or a Leica M6 when I was in photo school but had to settle for a Chinon CM-5, spending my money on buying film and on a trip to Madeira & Berlin, making tons of images
I Still have that camera, even sneaked it into my latest freview of the Sirui 23mm f:1.2 17 sec in ruclips.net/video/SoHjOjb60g0/видео.htmlsi=pXcmSIc2vbzJQ59x&t=17
I switched from a d750 to a Fuji X-T1 but have been thinking these last few months about going back to Nikon with the DF, but I struggle with it. It cost as much as a newer Fuji, tho.
That's a hard one, both the XT-1 and the DF are great cameras. Choosing between one or the another is not a straight forward move. Since both of them are cameras one buy simply because they want one.
Picking up the DF is worth it! I think with some small amount of luck you can find one at a good price, and if who take care of it you probably not losing any money on it since i think they keep their value, or even increase in value.
The situation is nut quite like that for the Fuji X-T series even if i managed to break even on many fuji cameras and even profiting but that was before the crazy inflation in price. Now days you need some luck to find cheep cameras from someone who don't know the true value of it.
@@Kim_Alexander Thx. After having a D600 and D750 I think I will add another D600/610 as a backup. In Canada the DF is about $1500-2000 and a D600/610 is $300-500.
@@laxcdn I got my DF for 800
Awhile ago I saw one for 750 and one for 1300 in Sweden
Very fine video and its vivid photos! I've no experience with the Df because of its high price still. So I'm a D300 user, but with Nikkor AI or AIS MF lenses only which totally please me. All your arguments are convincing, maybe above all a special colour rendition by the Df. I'll try this in future... @philosimot.
why, WHY Nikon limit the max speed at 4000.! my only complain about the DF.
@@JuanjoChe72 1/8000 would indeed be nice.
I find the DF more attractive looking than the ZF. It's always been one of my favorite design cameras ever
I honestly don't know, what I like with the Zf is the flip out lcd since you can flip it around and not have it vissable..
Though you can just out some leather sticker over the lcd on the Df.. I did that with my xe2
The brass wheels on the Zf looks nice to makes. me. wanna scrape of some of that paint..
Not many review for DF. Many just camera salesman.
thanks for your comment, I hope my review provided you with some valuable insights.
Do yourself a favor and explore the Nikon D3X (not D3S). The image quality will knock you off your feet, floor you.
I bet they are nice I use to work with the D2 cameras back in the days, They area huge though.. 🤣
a camera that doesnt force video on a photographer........imagine it takes NAI....wish.
@@wullieg7269 to be fair it has never been the camera that force vido to be a thing. Personally I think it's great when a camera ha a great film spec it means that I and many others have to spend less on gear.
X pro1 x ever
I think I would prefer the Df over the xpro1 🕺👌
@@Kim_Alexander yes but not x ever 😀
@@PeterPrism If 'x pro1 ever' is a cheat code, looks like the Df is the secret level where all the good gear's hidden! 😂😉😂
It is 2023, sir.
thanks for letting me now, it's soon 2024 😘