Very nice video indeed. I am in a similar position, I was a Nikon user for a long time, both film and digital, with an F401, F801, D90 and D7100. Then I found Fuji and now own an X-Pro2, X-T2, X-T3, X-T4, X-T5 and X-H2. I have also pre-ordered an X100VI. Then a few months ago I saw the Nikon Zf announced and pre-ordered two of them. Since the Zf arrived it has become my Go-to camera and I love it. It is so nice to hold and use, and produces such great images that I really have re-discovered my love of photography, especially here in London where I do a lot of street stuff. The main thing for me is that it is so easy to use that I can now concentrate 100% on the shot and not on the settings. I am not going to get rid of any of my Fuji gear but for the moment it is all taking a back seat.
Good choice. I would like to advise you to check the Z lenses as well. For example the 50 and 85 f 1.2 and the 70-200 f 2.8. It is from another world....greetings from an zf user from the Netherlands
@@alessandro911 The 85 and 50 1.2s are incredible (I worked at a camera shop, so I tried a bunch of stuff out back when there was no Zf or even Z8!). These two lenses: amazing. The 70-200 is one I haven't used yet. I'm going to be renting it though for an event I have upcoming, so I can't wait to try it out!
So why isn't this more of a "thing" for Nikon? I was sharing some photos with a friend and he pointed to several and said "WOW, those colors." And we kept going through more and he just kept picking the Nikon colors as being amazing!
@@JerredZyep, don’t know why but Sony supply the sensors to Nikon and yet, Sony,s colours are probably the worst (in my opinion) out of all the brands. Nikon obviously do a bit of jiggery pokery with their algorithms to produce these beautiful colours, but I must say I also like Fuji’s, Canon’s and Panasonic’s colours as well.
The Z8 got me. I hated saying goodbye to Fuji but the AF pushed me away. I was heavily invested too. My Z8 is phenomenal at shooting sports, and I have a Zf on the way to replace my Zfc for street stuff. Subject detection in manual focus is brilliant and I just needed the FF capability. Can’t wait to bring it up to Iowa in November!
Awesome man! I didn't even go over subject detection in manual focus! I kind of forgot about that (bad youtuber) - but it's AWESOME. I didn't know how helpful it would be until I used it, and I smiled really big!
The Z8 was the one I wanted to buy, but I ran out of patience and bought the Z9 a fair while before the Z8 was released / announced. I now barely use any other camera.
My advice: hold the camera by the lens with the bottom plate resting in the ball of your hand. I do with my film cameras and even with digital cameras if lenses aren't too big (strangely lenses get bigger, but cameras smaller)
I went through many junk reviews but stopped at your Take. I Like it. Your images demonstrate the Zf colors which are fantastic. Your composition is excellent. The colors are rich but still natural. I particularly like the blueish and grey scale rendering. It would be even better when paired with all the classic F lenses.
I have been shooting Nikon since the film days. Tried fuji 3 yrs ago then sold it just didn’t work for me. Have a zf and z9 all I will ever need I hope. Thanx for the review.
Traded my XH2 for the Z8 for lens selection mostly. That 70-200mm F2.8 VR S is butter baby. That Viltrox 16mm 1.8 lens and the Tamron 28-75 F2.8 G2 lens are awesome, too. I originally wanted the XH2S and settled for the XH2. With the Nikon Z8, I have both in 1 camera with better lenses and low light performance. You are one of my favorite youtube reviewers, and I am glad you are with me on the Nikon journey. I'm looking at the 180 600mm to shoot wildlife. Fuji color science and cameras are great, but my Z8 is superior in most every way. Once you get use to how to setup the autofocus, it's seamless. You can assign your shooting styles to banks that have them stored as presets, which you can assign to function buttons for on the fly settings changes to wildlife, people, landscapes, or birds. Fuji is sharp but the Z8 is sharper, and when I shoot the same picture with the Z8, when I zoom in on the picture to crop a scene, it's sharper still than Fuji. I'm not taking anything away from Fuji, but the Z8 is an XH2 and XH2S in 1 without the open Gate, sadly.
This is a great perspective! First, thanks for your comment - I'm truly thankful you like what I do! And honestly the Z8 is a wild machine. It can do so much effortlessly... once I got it I saw a marked and total improvement in what I was using my X-system for. It was like night and day!!! And yes, the 180-600 is AMAZING for wildlife! Combining it with the Z8/9 is amazing - I feel like I'm cheating for only $1700 and getting stuff I could never get previously with Fuji. At least more consistently! (also, if you look into the 180-600, I think it performs better than many other lenses with the 1.4TC - barely slows down autofocus and the image quality hit is very minor! Let's rock this thing together man!
@JerredZ I always came back for all of your reviews. Now, I feel that I can learn a bit more since I consider myself an amateur. That 70-200mm F2.8 VR S is a beast. It's fast and sharp to boot. When I shoot, it doesn't reach like my Tamron 150-500 fujifilm X mount lens, but when I crop in, it's sharper. I need the 180 600mm because although that 150-500 was awesome for wildlife and landscapes, I always felt that I needed a little more reach. Thanks for your resolve with what you are doing. Sub for life!
The ZF has continued to astonish me for what it is its great. I even went to laguna seca recently and got some fantastic photos on the track with it. The tracking and auto focus is incredible as its got the better processor with the smaller MP sensor making it incredibly quick. Taking it with me to car week in Monterey as my main camera this year.
I was a Fuji user with the X-Pro3 and X-H2s. Their main draw for me was the film recipes. I love getting an amazing look straight out of the camera, no editing required. But the Zf is just a better camera over all, I’m happy I made the switch, though I wish Nikon would upgrade their own “recipe” system
They are going to do this soon with something soon. Look up what the Z6iii is doing - it will be much more in line with Fujifilm if/when they update the Zf to do it!
Had been with Fuji around 8 yrs, loved them but disappointed with focusing for wildlife. Also had Nikons and never disappointed, happy with Zf it is heavier yes, but love the shots I get. Love your photos, great character 👏
Thank you #1: Very practical video with real-life info. Fuji shooter here (xt20 and xt5) tempeted to go Zf because of old lenses and yeah... a 35mm aps-c is not a a 50mm! Thank you #2: Those images, man... Congrats!
Seriously awesome photos, Jarred. I'm about to go on a trip later this month and I am STRONGLY considering renting a Nikon Xf....the more and more I begin to think about it, the more I'm considering just buying it as a retro lens camera. How absolutely wild that you made this video that directly correlates to my frustrations with Fujifilm. What keeps bringing me back down to reality is the weight of the Xf and the compact, quality lenses I have for the Fujifilm. Maybe I'll try to find a used one so I can easily flip it without losing money.
Great video and excellent photos! Just bought the Zf yesterday to upgrade from Nikon D500. Have always shot with Nikon and excited to use the Zf. As an aside, I have the x100v, which I like, but don't love as much as Nikon.
I get it! The Zf is fantastic in this ability, as you know. The Zf is NOT a perfect solution... but it's the right one for me right now!!! Trust me... I miss Fujifilm in some respects. I mean... the lenses are awesome, and they are relatively affordable compared to Nikon and the other big camera makers... smaller on whole and lighter in general. There are advantages and disadvantages to everything in photography, which is why it's such a wonderful but agonizing art form!
I picked up the Zf last fall, admittedly it was a FOMO purchase during holiday promos. Figured I'd unbox it, admire it for a day, and return it in favor of the Z6III, as a secondary body to my Z8. Fast-forward 8 months later, the Zf rarely leaves my side. It's an ideal companion to the Z8, because they're both so different (I do iunderstand why some people see this is a negative though - muscle memory etc). Hard to explain but the tactile experience of the Zf's dials, the simplicity of minimal buttons, how everything feels and sounds - it's just FUN and relaxing to use. In addition to amazing colors and lower light / lower noise results of the 24mp full frame sensor. Wish list items - I'd love to see Exposure Delay and Cycle AF modes come to the Zf. And this one might be reaching, but a retro-style vertical / battery grip (perhaps inspired by F3's motor drive) would be a welcome addition!
Love the images. Always jealous of the subjects you have by you, especially the old cars and buildings. This is a camera that has popped up on my radar, the Z6III too.
I am seriously considering selling my Fujifilm X-T4 and going all in on Nikon with the Zf. You're pushing me harder with this video. The problem I have is having so many nice lenses for my Fuji that I don't want to leave behind :(
Regarding picture controls, starting with Z6III and soon coming to Zf is new Flexible Color Picture Control where you have proper color mixer and grading wheels. It’s already available to play with in NX studio but you can’t transfer it yet to Zf. It’s much more powerful than fuji sims and recipes
You can assign any black-and-white profile to the B&W switch. also, nikon is bringing recipes to the system, which will come in an update. If I understand correctly, you will input the recipes via an app on your phone and then transfer it to the camera.
Are you sure? I even asked the Nikon rep at a local event, and he just said it would use whatever of the 3 main "BW" profiles that you last used. Maybe I need to look into it more. Thanks! (I am new to Nikon, so this is one of those learning curve things)
@@airdailyx Can you apply it to the BW switch though? I only show three options for the BW switch,, none of the other creative profiles work on the switch… at least from what I can see.
@@JerredZyou can create a profile using the picture control you like with no changes, and put it as a custom profile. The switch will select the last used profile that was used for color and black and white. I have the Tmax100 profile from NikonPC and it goes to it. Just make a profile that turns on your favorite in camera Picture Control at 100 percent and save to a slot between c1-c9.
Great video! I love that you are able to use those old lenses and it makes sense to use them with the full frame system to get the best out of them. Great photos as always! Nikon colors are terrific. I think I'm drawn to Fuji because their colors are not quite as contrasty and saturated or something. Hard to say what' the draw is but definitely just a matter of personal preference, not one being better than the other.
hey Jarred . Answered my indecisions of which way to go! Primarily a Nikon user since early days of film cam. and Fuji film , im currently with Z8 , I also own an X100v and love the camera and Fuji features being retro function dials and dial in recipes ! Have been on the fence about buying XT 4 or 5 but after some thought, im so heavily into Nikon lenses now it only makes sense to have Xf . Great vid ! Thanks
Love the video with great info. Love that grip just like the F3! Your photos are great as well. I’m still shooting with the DF but will add the ZF to my work flow.
definitely tempted to get one as I have been wanting a new Nikon mirrorless to go with my Fujifilm setup (or maybe end up replacing). The ZF is appealing but deterred by the fact that I have heard it is quite heavy and really needs and after market grip. the speed of processing and focus system is appealing for the price though.
I'm considering selling my X-T5 and accompanying lenses for a Zf and 40mm f2 SE kit. I like where Nikon is going, and feel like I want to explore them. How are the ergonomics with that grip for day to day shooting?
For me the grip is (luckily) almost perfect. The ONLY thing that I don't like is that it comes loose sometimes, but it's rare and it can be tightened up in a second or two. I also realize that ergonomics so subjective. I think it feels great, and I can take it around for long periods of time with this grip. But a friend of mine hated this grip and went with another one, so who knows! Let me know if you have questions, my man. I bought and sold TWO x-t5's, so I know the pain!
So correct about Fujifilm. I hung in there with them for a decade, buying each iteration and hoping that it would finally deliver in the AFC department. I missed so many shots over the years and their dynamic range for high ISO was woeful - anything over ISO 1,600 turned to custard (if you tried to pull up the shadows). For a pro shooting gigs and events, it was such a pain for so long. I swapped over two years ago to two Z6ii's and have never looked back. I love Nikon so much and their images are just gorgeous from the sensor and I have 6 of their wonderful Z lenses. I am so filthy at myself for scabbing it with Fuji for so long. wasting all the money on countless bodies and new lenses. I could have saved myself so much agony.
OMG... love the charcoal look so much! I don't own the ZF (yet)... can you share how you got that look? Is it a profile you can tweak in camera but not readily available as a profile to pick? Or did you tweak that in post?
A very excited volunteer. Good look into the ZF. I particularly like the ability to just use the PC software to make profiles then export. I'm big on Fuji film sims but I'd consider giving it up to just custom tailor something I can export to the camera for consistent results
I really didn't like my used Z6 much so I've gone back to my Nikon DSLRs for now. The Zf seems like it will be way better, but it will be another year or two until there are used copies that I can afford. The Z6III and Z8 appeal too, but they are going to be more expensive and the Zf will be enough for me. I shot with an FE & FE2 back in the film days so the design is no problem for me.
Made the same switch a few weeks ago. There’s a lot I like about the X-T5 but the focusing is definitely not one of them. The Zf is far more consistent and predictable with focus and I’m really happy with the iso performance as well. I’d definitely like a few more customizable buttons and slightly better ergonomics but all in all I don’t regret the switch at all.
thanks for the brilliant video! now I finally assured and know which present I want for Christmas :) I was a Canon user (5d mark III) then left for Fuji system, now Xt3 and x100v, but since I saw the announcement of the Nikon Zf, I started to think if this is really what I wanted from the Fuji system or it's just my GAS and I'm thinking about new camera only. Looks like many Fuji users have same thoughts and you showed very clear, that actually it's the same for everyone. Thank you for your video, very nice story and photos!
You're one of the very few people who use the zf the way I do. Full manual with non-CPU lenses. The one thing I'm hoping for is the ability to have focus confirmation with non-CPU lenses. It looks like it'd only need a firmware update for that. Have you heard anything about it?
@@JerredZ Yes, true. Some have found ways to work around that with adaptors that fool the camera by sending it focal length data, but then you get problems with ibis as long as the camera doesn't get the correct data. But it looks like the lack of focus confirmation isn't a technical limitation, rather something that could be fixed with a firmware update.
Honestly Nikon's Rich Tone Portrait profile looks closer to film than most of what Fuji has. Fuji's film sims seem to be gunning for the lomo crowd. This is from someone who shoots mostly with a Nikon F6 and Fuji X100V.
Nikon took a while to get into mirrorless and then some more time to get the AF to be really good, but now their cameras are amazing. I'm sure Fujifilm will fix up their AF eventually (and Panasonic as well hopefully). Glad you're enjoying it and getting some great shots with those nice old lenses!
Exactly! They didn't care much about ergos back in the film days. Not everything retro is good. But having dials so you can change settings was good from my POV of course. Much prefer that to scroll wheels and LCD screens. I like the old Nikon lenses with aperture settings on the lens barrel. It would be nice to have this on Nikon AF lenses but we don't. Fuji absolutely got it right here again only IMHO of course. The dials on the X100F I used to have were perfect. I agree I think only Fuji can do film sims properly. I love my ZF but I don't do wildlife or sports so don't need fast AF or FPS
As a canon shooter, love this video. Was thinking of getting a fuji for street and candids of my family, but hoping canon would come out with a retro like camera. Zf looks so sexy
Good video, concise and interestng. I have been a long time user of the x-pro2 and more recently the XT5, buying a ZF a month or so ago for fun ( when you have been a photographer since 1970 then new gear provides an every now and then interest boost) The Fuji XT5 has much better than the X-pro2 but the X-Pro2 has a similar feeling to the ZF in that it just reliably does what you want it to without the complication and sometimes flakynes of the XT5. I like it very much but you are wrong in a couple of things you say, when I take a photo at iso 3200 with the XT5 and the Zf there is more noise in the shadows in the ZF photos easily seen even on the back screen. Weight..the only S lens I have with the Zf is the 24-70 4.0 and when weighed against the 16-55 2.8 on the XT5 body the Zf is 1.281kg and the Fuji is 1.370 kg I know some people are going to say it's a 2.8 lens but the light transmission converted to FF is about the same from my understanding. Interesting is when our dog got tangled up with the lead and I dropped the ZF about two thirds of a meter onto the wooden floor, the little swinging catch that holds the battery inside the compartment bent and swings loose just with the weight of the battery, no other damage so it's not quite built as well as it seems, luckily closing the battery compartment door keeps it tight enough to work. gotta say that I do love the sound the shutter makes and the looks are similarly attractive as the Nikon Fm2T I still use.
Regarding Fuji, did you ever try a speed booster lens adapter? It would fix FoV and gain a stop of light to make the old lens light gathering equivalent. Otherwise, largely agreed. I was never unhappy with my Fuji image quality, Except for the autofocus, which was mostly why I bought the Zf. It's just a lot easier to shoot concerts in terms of getting shots in focus. Full stop. I come home with several hundred fewer shots to edit, and several hundred more in focus :-0 I exaggerate, but not my that much. Fuji's retro dials controls are better sorted than Nikon. And.. that X-H1 shutter pop tho. My Zf falls short in this area. I still shoot both systems tho.
I have not tried a speed booster yet... still something I'll look at in the future. And I get it with the number of images... with Nikon I shoot almost 50% less (maybe that's an exaggeration, but not by much) because I'm confident I'll get near-perfect focus most of the time. At least with Nikon when the autofocus fails, it's either my fault or I know what happened (challenging conditions)... but with Fuji, the camera sometimes acts like it's full of voodoo!
Been Fuji since 2018. AF never been a strong point. I want them to do better. For real. I love Fuji! But make a huge part of my living with Fuji cameras. I’m a headshot photographer in Los Angeles and shoot weekly paid gigs. If they can’t fix this by next year, I may jump ship. Man. Sucks. I love my XT5. Luckily I never use it for video. But I’m 53 and learned on Nikon, had an old FE when I was just a teenager. So this ZF is VERY familiar, and VERY tempting. Man! Lots to consider.
@@JerredZI’m going to sell my XT5 and lenses, keep my beloved X100V and get the ZF and a couple of lenses. Probably the 85 and 40 to start. I tried it out the other day. The only complaint is that it felt bit heavy and the grip is awful. Do you recommend any aftermarket grip? I’ve heard the small rig is ok. I’m excited to go Nikon again. My roots are there. Great videos.
x-t3 owner here, cannot agree more with on autofocus, I missed so many good shots because of it 😭 looking currently on two models - Nikon ZF or Lumix S5 IIx, ZF because my main set of lens is for Nikon F and as I've heard even totally manual old lenses with FTZ adapter works with focusing assist tools on ZF like highlighting the eyes of people and whatnot, also autofocus up to -8 ev as advertised and I like to take pics in total darkness lol; but I'm a 50/50 photo-video shooter so Lumix S5 IIx seems to me pretty attractive choice as well, but Idk when I'll be able to afford switching the systems if at all ;c
I’ve been thinking about returning my Zf to grab the Fuji XT5 because of size. But it seems a lot of videos I’ve seen the last 4 days have one thing in common “Fuji AF needs work” I love the Zf and Xt5 model since I shoot manual so I enjoy having to use the dials.
Hey - if you're going to be shooting manual, the Fuji is great!!!! I don't want to say that Fuji sucks - it doesn't! They have amazing cameras, and people are continuing to enjoy and love them. I'm just currently seeing that Fuji doesn't fit for what I need, and that's okay too!
@@JerredZ I heard the Fuji firmware update from yesterday improved the AF. But time and multiple users will tell if that is true or still missing 4 out of 10 shots.
The ZF looks amazing! I would very much like to go for it, but I miss the custom modes U1-3. Is there a workaround? How fast can you switch between custom settings with the ZF?
@@peterparanoid9635 No, and it’s probably one of the negatives for the camera. I wouldn’t use them on the Zf since I’m mostly shooting with classic lenses, but I think it would have been great for Nikon to allow them to be assigned to one of the buttons.
Beautiful photos. They really have a great feel to it. I am considering switching my Leica M10 for a EVF mirrorless. I mainly shoot with a prime 50mm and I am getting tired of the rangefinder. I am very undecided between the Fuji X-H2 and the Nikon Zf. Nikons were my first cameras, so I am attached to them, but the main thing is the full frame vs APS-C. I never liked the cropped sensors (I also shoot medium format digital). My only concerns are - the EVF on the nikon, as I read around that it is not great, while the Fuji X-H2 is top level. - weight and size, but when it does not look that big in photos/videos.
It's NOT that big or heavy... just bigger and heavier than a Fuji counterpart. For me it's not a big deal at all, and the heftiness kind of inspires confidence? It's never as heavy as something like GFX (which I also use), so for me it's kind of light! ... Just heavier than Fuji users are used to. Also, the EVF isn't "bad." It's really weird... the XH2 has an obviously higher resolution one... but I enjoy the Zf one just as much, or a little more. The color and experience of shooting with the EVF is nicer than the specs!
I don't need another fucking camera, Jerred. Haha, this is great though. You're killing it - the difference between I think someone like myself and you is that you can grab any camera and make stuff look awesome. Your abandoned and "country-ish" landscapes are just so good. The shot at 1:01 is incredible
Oh man. Thanks for making my day Dylan! And seriously - I know the feeling. I don't need anymore fucking cameras either! LOL! I also don't want to be just another guy promoting GAS on RUclips. it's one of the reasons I haven't been posting much lately - I've been thoughtful about things. My needs have changed completely since I started doing photography full time, and my view of what I need out of a camera is different. Maybe THAT should be a video too! THANK YOU!!!!
Im not sure how you guys get noticeable noise in the middle of the day, maybe its just how small your optics are? Or naybe the iso is being cranked up? I dont know, i use pretty large apertures like 128mm at f/5.5 and 114mm at f/4.3 so im not exactly lacking light.
I love the A7Rv! It's such a powerhouse in a relatively small package. The Zf is a totally different experience though - which can be good. As you can see I like different systems... I think it makes my brain work harder, and all that - which is good!
@@JerredZ Kinda what i am thinking,. Although i would lose the 60mp sensor, I think the 24 would make me think more about my compositions and using my feet more. I am looking at it as a street travel. I was going to get the fuji, but i am right off them now.
At 10:13 there is a boy about to skip a rock; is that a Nikon color profile? Or did you color-grade it? If a profile-which one? Thank you for this review I am still an xt-2 user who also loves vintage lenses and havee been toying with a jump to the Zf …you’ve made a good case 👍
You are a really good photographer. The photo gallery was beautiful. Of course, as a Fuji user, your discussion on the Zf vs the Fuji messed my head up. We'll see what happens. If I buy a Zf, I 'll tell my wife it's all your fault. Lol.
@@JerredZ It's coming Sunday You definitely played a role in this. Ordered two lens (26mm and 50 1.8) to start, grip, SD cards. Holding back from purchasing filters, step up rings, leica m lens and adapter, etc till I see how this camera works for me. Still, very excited on this new journey.
I'd just love a "plain metal" look version of the Nikon Zf instead of the pure black. So a bit more like the Zfc, which isn't feeling as good and only has an APS-C sensor. By the way: Love the shots in the end of the video. Really great ones along them and I also love the colors!
Thanks so much! The Zfc is a camera I wanted to love, but I'd never hold one again unless someone payed me... and even then they'd have to pay me a lot. I just really disliked the user experience! (But it's awesome for those who love it!).
That is a beautiful looking camera body, paired with that vintage glass! If you were going to jump into a system fresh with no existing lenses, would you go Fuji or Nikon at this point? As a mostly Olympus shooter for nature/macro, I have been debating a new system - was considering Fuji, had not heard much about recent Nikon or the Zf until now, intriguing and more to consider...
Hey man! Right now at this moment I'd go full Nikon, Canon or Sony. I'm not sure if it matters, but for me, the 180-600 on the Z8 is a stunning combination, and there are a few other Nikon lenses I'm going to get in the future that are unique (600 and 800 pf lenses).... and that 135 plena looks amazing too. Honestly, I don't think you can go wrong with whatever system you choose...
I can deal with the ergo, but that weight is my only gripe, especially when I love shooting it with manual lenses. Still my dream camera until Nikon releases a RF version. I do miss my Xpro3, but I know nothing Fuji could release that would make me want to go back.
Z8 is overall a much better camera that can do a lot more. If you can afford it, and you don’t need/want something retro, the Z8 is incredible. I use it all the time and would choose the Z8 over the Zf if I had to only keep one.
Great photos you got! Not all is bad at Fuji! Have an X-T5 and had others before, even Nikon D750. I almost bought a ZF but after getting one at my hands I got confused. Why so big and heavy? Honestly... You have the Z6 from same manufacturer. And the controls on the ZF are really bad. You have 7 custom updatable banks on the X-T5 with very easy access. If you don't use M on the ZF, the controls do not make any sense. Why PSAM that removes the priority of the external dials? Flip out screen also difficult to understand on a mostly photo centric camera with great aids for manual lenses. Great looking and very well built. But it is like Nikon didn't want to get it right on their first iteration.
Some very nice photos here. Takes me back to my midwest roots. Still wavering on the ZF… The grip is just so….horrible. Am considering the Z6ii or iii just for a better grip and button placement.
Yes, holding this thing without a grip isn't great!! But the Neewer plate helps - and I've heard others like other grips too. The Z6ii and iii are pretty great too! The Z6 ii just doesn't have great autofocus either...
Okay, hear me out... How sick would it be to have film sims on Nikon based off of Kodak film stocks? If they obtained the rights to do so, that would be awesome and really pull people from Fuji.
Agreed. I have the xt4 and tried xt5, while its usable the ZF blows it out of the water. I also don't think fuji color science is good. Fuji is like a fun camera. If its just me on a business trip and im walking around taking throwaway shots. Yeah leica m10 or fuji. But on vacation and now for kid sports and event, the nikon zf has everything covered. My biggest pet peeven is the AF-D lenses that have aperture and good manual focus cannot be used autofocus on the zf.
They speak to me from the soul. I stayed with the Fujifilm X system for over 7 years. But the autofocus has hardly improved during this time. Eye autofocus was so unreliable that it could only be used for portraits. I didn't get the X-T5 anymore, but I tested it extensively against the Zf's autofocus for a day. And then it became the Zf. The Nikon is the better camera in all aspects. The only thing I missed at the beginning were the film simulations and recipes. But now Nikon also comes with the ability to create film simulations and offers even more options than Fujifilm. Nikon is just so much further along while the Fujifilm cameras and firmware feel as old as their retro design.
Great video - great photos. With my Fuji gear packed away, waiting for an eventual firmware fix for the AF problems, every video talking about switches from Fuji to Nikon is more intriguing. Nikon has similar color science, better (working) AF and it's full frame. Fuji seems to have lost the plot.
Oh man, thanks! I almost didn't either, but after the first week it was my favorite. I still do a couple tweaks to boost contrast a bit...but I dig it so much!
As I've been contemplating what camera I might want to buy for after my X-T3, this one keeps coming up. The first reason is the same as you....the vintage lens issue. The second is a way to move up to FF. One of my concerns is not having the Fuji film simulations. I love to set the camera to Acros to shoot so I see BNW in the EVF. BUT, the bigger issue for me would be editing software. I WAS using Capture One Express until the jerks deprecated it. Now, I'm relegated to the Fuji raw converter. But, If I go to Nikon that means I need to buy software. Not sure I want to do that. Thanks for the good overview. Love the images too! Take care....
Yeah, I get it! Nikon does have a free RAW converter - if you're used to the Fuji one, you'd probably do fine with that. I tested it a few weeks ago and it was fine - just kind of a touch slow like Fuji's!
@@JerredZ I know. As long as you are starting changing brands, you have that issue that you need to pay a universal RAW converter. I am using Lightroom. I have RAW files from Panasonic, Sony, Ricoh and mainly Nikon (I currently own 2 Nikons and 2 Ricohs)..
Portrait, try THE 105mm f/2.5. It was with a F2, it is now with my D850 (bought new 15 days ago, probably one of the last manufactured, 2 years warranty)( I don't regret at all the A7C and A6600 resold for this new purchase).
The problem is for the non professional yet advanced photographer it’s just too heavy for a travel camera. The whole best camera is the one with you is why I couldn’t go for it.
I bought the Zf just for video - the only thing I did was add tabs made from electrical tape on my SD cards so I could swap cards easily - they are hard to reach with the grip - especially with gorilla fingers - I love the heavier weight - my other cameras are D850's and Blads with phase one backs so I guess to me its on the light side 😂
"excited volunteer" 😂😂😂 Really like your photography style. And looking forward for more Zf + various retro lenses combinations. (Wildlife would be nice too) Allow me to support (albeit with a very humble gesture😅) a new fellow nikon user by subscribing to this promising and positive channel. Best of luck!
My man! Thanks so much for your comment! I'll be doing more Nikon stuff in the future when I get more time! This fall I should be done traveling and all of that for the year, so I should be able to get back on a schedule. Thank you!
I shoot Fuji X-T5 for family/travel and a Nikon Z8 for birds. It’s no contest, the Nikon AF is better, but the Fuji kit has a charm and is way more fun to use than the Nikon ever will be. Add to that, the Nikon FF gear is monstrously huge, I can’t fathom why anyone thinks it’s fun or necessary to carry that chunker around for casual shooting and travel.
Thanks my man! And again, my use case is in older, lighter manual lenses, so they are pretty small and light. Old manual lenses with Nikon (or other full frame cameras) just work like they are supposed to... so for me, manual lenses on Nikon is far more enjoyable. And Nikon does have a few like the 40/28/26 that are smaller and lighter - add in the adapter for Sony, and there's a ton more options there too. AND - it's not all huge. The 100-400 is about the same with Nikon and Fuji, and the 24-120 f/4 is small, light, and pretty incredible. Nikon prices are kind of nuts on their lenses though... that 100-400 is quite a bit more $$ than Fuji... all good though!
Thank you for your review and thoughts. Beautiful images. Really impressive. Yes, the autofocus is a thing with Fuji, but you can still get great results. The weight and size to image quality ratio still makes me lean towards the X mount. CF Express B (I have the xh2 and XH2s) are much better than SD and CF Express A like Sony uses and that comes in a compact system (the Z8 is quite big). The lens lineup is good and affordable, not like Canon. So I think Fuji still has some valid reasons, but …the autofocus…..😁 Enjoy your camera, sounds like a lot of fun.
ABSOLUTELY! You rock - and you CAN get great results with it. I know pros using Fuji who get incredible images day in and day out... BUT it works for them and how they work. It used to work for me, but now my needs have changed... and that's OK! There's still a place in my heart for Fuji X - and for many photographers it's a fantastic system.
Great video. Annoyed by Fujifilms AF and slow motion development for lenses too, I bought a Z8, selecting the lens first (105/1.4, adapted and 70-200/2.8), coming from a XH2 and XH2s. Sold the XH2 and some lenses immediately. Fujifilm doesn't care. Their CEO looks only on things damaging the reputation of the brand. Nobody is buying a Fujifilm expecting standard or even state of the art AF and tracking performance. So being years behind doesn't harm the brand. And: Investing 80% on the last 20% AF performance is then a waste of money and only stresses their crippled development ressources. As they don't care if customers are waiting months after ordering a new camera.
It's frustrating. I really, honestly thought 2023 would be the year Fujifilm caught up. They made is seem like they were so confident... but it was more about putting "specs" on the box than actually making it happen. So then through 2023 we were waiting for "fixes" and then here we are halfway through this year and... it's still problematic! I'm NOT saying Fuji can't do really great things. Fantastic artists and photographers of all kinds do incredible work with them, including autofocusing in difficult situations... but I have talked to some of these photographers after they switch from Fuji, and they'll tell you they SHOULD have switched many years ago! It's really about "fighting" to make the autofocus work when, with other brands, it's about working WITH the autofocus!
Or you could just get a Nikon film SLR for a hundred bucks or so and use your vintage lenses with that. You would also have many many hundreds of dollars left over for film, processing, etc. Plus, that way you get the no excuses absolute total and authentic vintage retro film look and feel with all your vintage lenses.
@@JerredZ Um, sort of the main point of Fujifilm cameras is that the experience is like shooting with film. Especially street photography. Retro cameras with dials that easily control the exposure triangle. That whole experience is slower and more cerebral. And also emphasizing getting a good image shooting JPEG right there in the camera. A lot like the film experience. Meaning you don't really have to futz around with post-processing a RAW image later like the Canon, Nikon Sony crowd seem to just love doing. Film images were never good at a pixel-peeping level anyway because it's basically pretty low-tech technology, especially compared to digital. Auto-focus never got very far with film cameras anyway. Heck, with street photography and a film camera you can just shoot f/8 and zone focus. Which is what many do with Fujifilm cameras. You could make a pretty good argument that perhaps you're a Nikon, Canon, Sony shooter in the first place with your nature, wildlife, action and landscape photography preference. That's why having choices is a good thing.
@@POVwithRC There's plenty of room for both film and digital in the world. And both cats and dogs. Besides, photography is a very very broad hobby as well as profession. There is no single aspect to it. Not at all.
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Very nice video indeed. I am in a similar position, I was a Nikon user for a long time, both film and digital, with an F401, F801, D90 and D7100. Then I found Fuji and now own an X-Pro2, X-T2, X-T3, X-T4, X-T5 and X-H2. I have also pre-ordered an X100VI. Then a few months ago I saw the Nikon Zf announced and pre-ordered two of them. Since the Zf arrived it has become my Go-to camera and I love it. It is so nice to hold and use, and produces such great images that I really have re-discovered my love of photography, especially here in London where I do a lot of street stuff. The main thing for me is that it is so easy to use that I can now concentrate 100% on the shot and not on the settings. I am not going to get rid of any of my Fuji gear but for the moment it is all taking a back seat.
Absolutely! I love Fuji cameras... but the Zf just allows me to create so effortlessly! Thanks for the comment!
I suggest you sell your Fuji stuff now before it becomes worthless.
I'm finally convinced after watching this. From D750 to zf. Thanks.
Wow - I'm honored, and hope you're loving it!
Good choice. I would like to advise you to check the Z lenses as well. For example the 50 and 85 f 1.2 and the 70-200 f 2.8. It is from another world....greetings from an zf user from the Netherlands
@@alessandro911 The 85 and 50 1.2s are incredible (I worked at a camera shop, so I tried a bunch of stuff out back when there was no Zf or even Z8!). These two lenses: amazing. The 70-200 is one I haven't used yet. I'm going to be renting it though for an event I have upcoming, so I can't wait to try it out!
Forget any spec any performance figures, when Nikon’s colour science gets you, there’s no going back.
So why isn't this more of a "thing" for Nikon? I was sharing some photos with a friend and he pointed to several and said "WOW, those colors." And we kept going through more and he just kept picking the Nikon colors as being amazing!
@@JerredZyep, don’t know why but Sony supply the sensors to Nikon and yet, Sony,s colours are probably the worst (in my opinion) out of all the brands. Nikon obviously do a bit of jiggery pokery with their algorithms to produce these beautiful colours, but I must say I also like Fuji’s, Canon’s and Panasonic’s colours as well.
yet its generally recognised that Canon has the best colours
@@gordonyoung1970 yes canon also has beautiful colours
brooooo
>>>>>>>>>>>
The Z8 got me. I hated saying goodbye to Fuji but the AF pushed me away. I was heavily invested too. My Z8 is phenomenal at shooting sports, and I have a Zf on the way to replace my Zfc for street stuff. Subject detection in manual focus is brilliant and I just needed the FF capability. Can’t wait to bring it up to Iowa in November!
I think you need a middle child in your life. That’s the Nikon z6iii. 😂
@@bespokecustomstudio1565 that may happen lol.
Awesome man! I didn't even go over subject detection in manual focus! I kind of forgot about that (bad youtuber) - but it's AWESOME. I didn't know how helpful it would be until I used it, and I smiled really big!
@@bespokecustomstudio1565 update: that did happen 🤣
The Z8 was the one I wanted to buy, but I ran out of patience and bought the Z9 a fair while before the Z8 was released / announced. I now barely use any other camera.
Camera differences do not matter that much these days, as long as the fotographer is as gifted as you. Awesome!
My advice: hold the camera by the lens with the bottom plate resting in the ball of your hand. I do with my film cameras and even with digital cameras if lenses aren't too big (strangely lenses get bigger, but cameras smaller)
Left fuji for ZF. havent looked back. Kickass camera
I went through many junk reviews but stopped at your Take. I Like it. Your images demonstrate the Zf colors which are fantastic. Your composition is excellent. The colors are rich but still natural. I particularly like the blueish and grey scale rendering. It would be even better when paired with all the classic F lenses.
What a wonderful comment - thank you! I'm glad I could help a bit, and appreciate you!
I have been shooting Nikon since the film days. Tried fuji 3 yrs ago then sold it just didn’t work for me. Have a zf and z9 all I will ever need I hope. Thanx for the review.
Awesome pictures - well done and thanks for the comprehensive comparison w/ Fuji X-System.
Traded my XH2 for the Z8 for lens selection mostly. That 70-200mm F2.8 VR S is butter baby. That Viltrox 16mm 1.8 lens and the Tamron 28-75 F2.8 G2 lens are awesome, too.
I originally wanted the XH2S and settled for the XH2. With the Nikon Z8, I have both in 1 camera with better lenses and low light performance.
You are one of my favorite youtube reviewers, and I am glad you are with me on the Nikon journey.
I'm looking at the 180 600mm to shoot wildlife.
Fuji color science and cameras are great, but my Z8 is superior in most every way. Once you get use to how to setup the autofocus, it's seamless.
You can assign your shooting styles to banks that have them stored as presets, which you can assign to function buttons for on the fly settings changes to wildlife, people, landscapes, or birds.
Fuji is sharp but the Z8 is sharper, and when I shoot the same picture with the Z8, when I zoom in on the picture to crop a scene, it's sharper still than Fuji.
I'm not taking anything away from Fuji, but the Z8 is an XH2 and XH2S in 1 without the open Gate, sadly.
This is a great perspective! First, thanks for your comment - I'm truly thankful you like what I do! And honestly the Z8 is a wild machine. It can do so much effortlessly... once I got it I saw a marked and total improvement in what I was using my X-system for. It was like night and day!!! And yes, the 180-600 is AMAZING for wildlife! Combining it with the Z8/9 is amazing - I feel like I'm cheating for only $1700 and getting stuff I could never get previously with Fuji. At least more consistently! (also, if you look into the 180-600, I think it performs better than many other lenses with the 1.4TC - barely slows down autofocus and the image quality hit is very minor! Let's rock this thing together man!
@JerredZ I always came back for all of your reviews. Now, I feel that I can learn a bit more since I consider myself an amateur. That 70-200mm F2.8 VR S is a beast. It's fast and sharp to boot. When I shoot, it doesn't reach like my Tamron 150-500 fujifilm X mount lens, but when I crop in, it's sharper. I need the 180 600mm because although that 150-500 was awesome for wildlife and landscapes, I always felt that I needed a little more reach.
Thanks for your resolve with what you are doing. Sub for life!
The ZF has continued to astonish me for what it is its great. I even went to laguna seca recently and got some fantastic photos on the track with it. The tracking and auto focus is incredible as its got the better processor with the smaller MP sensor making it incredibly quick. Taking it with me to car week in Monterey as my main camera this year.
I was a Fuji user with the X-Pro3 and X-H2s. Their main draw for me was the film recipes. I love getting an amazing look straight out of the camera, no editing required. But the Zf is just a better camera over all, I’m happy I made the switch, though I wish Nikon would upgrade their own “recipe” system
They are going to do this soon with something soon. Look up what the Z6iii is doing - it will be much more in line with Fujifilm if/when they update the Zf to do it!
@@JerredZ they better bring it to the Zf too, haha
Had been with Fuji around 8 yrs, loved them but disappointed with focusing for wildlife. Also had Nikons and never disappointed, happy with Zf it is heavier yes, but love the shots I get. Love your photos, great character 👏
Thank you #1: Very practical video with real-life info. Fuji shooter here (xt20 and xt5) tempeted to go Zf because of old lenses and yeah... a 35mm aps-c is not a a 50mm! Thank you #2: Those images, man... Congrats!
Seriously awesome photos, Jarred. I'm about to go on a trip later this month and I am STRONGLY considering renting a Nikon Xf....the more and more I begin to think about it, the more I'm considering just buying it as a retro lens camera. How absolutely wild that you made this video that directly correlates to my frustrations with Fujifilm. What keeps bringing me back down to reality is the weight of the Xf and the compact, quality lenses I have for the Fujifilm. Maybe I'll try to find a used one so I can easily flip it without losing money.
Great video and excellent photos! Just bought the Zf yesterday to upgrade from Nikon D500. Have always shot with Nikon and excited to use the Zf. As an aside, I have the x100v, which I like, but don't love as much as Nikon.
I get it! The Zf is fantastic in this ability, as you know. The Zf is NOT a perfect solution... but it's the right one for me right now!!! Trust me... I miss Fujifilm in some respects. I mean... the lenses are awesome, and they are relatively affordable compared to Nikon and the other big camera makers... smaller on whole and lighter in general. There are advantages and disadvantages to everything in photography, which is why it's such a wonderful but agonizing art form!
I picked up the Zf last fall, admittedly it was a FOMO purchase during holiday promos. Figured I'd unbox it, admire it for a day, and return it in favor of the Z6III, as a secondary body to my Z8. Fast-forward 8 months later, the Zf rarely leaves my side. It's an ideal companion to the Z8, because they're both so different (I do iunderstand why some people see this is a negative though - muscle memory etc). Hard to explain but the tactile experience of the Zf's dials, the simplicity of minimal buttons, how everything feels and sounds - it's just FUN and relaxing to use. In addition to amazing colors and lower light / lower noise results of the 24mp full frame sensor.
Wish list items - I'd love to see Exposure Delay and Cycle AF modes come to the Zf. And this one might be reaching, but a retro-style vertical / battery grip (perhaps inspired by F3's motor drive) would be a welcome addition!
Love the images. Always jealous of the subjects you have by you, especially the old cars and buildings.
This is a camera that has popped up on my radar, the Z6III too.
Thanks my man! Always appreciate you, you know that! And yeah, Nikon is on a little bit of a comeback lately, eh?
I am seriously considering selling my Fujifilm X-T4 and going all in on Nikon with the Zf. You're pushing me harder with this video. The problem I have is having so many nice lenses for my Fuji that I don't want to leave behind :(
Totally get it! I struggle because Nikon glass is so expensive - sometimes rightfully so, but I totally get it!
Regarding picture controls, starting with Z6III and soon coming to Zf is new Flexible Color Picture Control where you have proper color mixer and grading wheels. It’s already available to play with in NX studio but you can’t transfer it yet to Zf. It’s much more powerful than fuji sims and recipes
Can't wait to use it!
You can assign any black-and-white profile to the B&W switch.
also, nikon is bringing recipes to the system, which will come in an update. If I understand correctly, you will input the recipes via an app on your phone and then transfer it to the camera.
Are you sure? I even asked the Nikon rep at a local event, and he just said it would use whatever of the 3 main "BW" profiles that you last used. Maybe I need to look into it more. Thanks! (I am new to Nikon, so this is one of those learning curve things)
@@JerredZ in B&W mode you can select any B&W profile
@@airdailyx Can you apply it to the BW switch though? I only show three options for the BW switch,, none of the other creative profiles work on the switch… at least from what I can see.
@@JerredZyou can create a profile using the picture control you like with no changes, and put it as a custom profile. The switch will select the last used profile that was used for color and black and white. I have the Tmax100 profile from NikonPC and it goes to it. Just make a profile that turns on your favorite in camera Picture Control at 100 percent and save to a slot between c1-c9.
Great video! I love that you are able to use those old lenses and it makes sense to use them with the full frame system to get the best out of them. Great photos as always! Nikon colors are terrific. I think I'm drawn to Fuji because their colors are not quite as contrasty and saturated or something. Hard to say what' the draw is but definitely just a matter of personal preference, not one being better than the other.
hey Jarred . Answered my indecisions of which way to go! Primarily a Nikon user since early days of film cam. and Fuji film , im currently with Z8 , I also own an X100v and love the camera and Fuji features being retro function dials and dial in recipes ! Have been on the fence about buying XT 4 or 5 but after some thought, im so heavily into Nikon lenses now it only makes sense to have Xf . Great vid ! Thanks
Love the video with great info.
Love that grip just like the F3! Your photos are great as well. I’m still shooting with the DF but will add the ZF to my work flow.
definitely tempted to get one as I have been wanting a new Nikon mirrorless to go with my Fujifilm setup (or maybe end up replacing). The ZF is appealing but deterred by the fact that I have heard it is quite heavy and really needs and after market grip. the speed of processing and focus system is appealing for the price though.
I'm considering selling my X-T5 and accompanying lenses for a Zf and 40mm f2 SE kit. I like where Nikon is going, and feel like I want to explore them. How are the ergonomics with that grip for day to day shooting?
For me the grip is (luckily) almost perfect. The ONLY thing that I don't like is that it comes loose sometimes, but it's rare and it can be tightened up in a second or two. I also realize that ergonomics so subjective. I think it feels great, and I can take it around for long periods of time with this grip. But a friend of mine hated this grip and went with another one, so who knows! Let me know if you have questions, my man. I bought and sold TWO x-t5's, so I know the pain!
I own the 40mm F2 and I absolutely love it! It's an amazing lens!
@@peterparanoid9635 Yeah, I’m digging it! For how small, light and cheap it is, it’s definitely a good one!
So correct about Fujifilm. I hung in there with them for a decade, buying each iteration and hoping that it would finally deliver in the AFC department. I missed so many shots over the years and their dynamic range for high ISO was woeful - anything over ISO 1,600 turned to custard (if you tried to pull up the shadows). For a pro shooting gigs and events, it was such a pain for so long. I swapped over two years ago to two Z6ii's and have never looked back. I love Nikon so much and their images are just gorgeous from the sensor and I have 6 of their wonderful Z lenses. I am so filthy at myself for scabbing it with Fuji for so long. wasting all the money on countless bodies and new lenses. I could have saved myself so much agony.
Lovely pictures and a spot on review. Greetings from Wales, Jeff
OMG... love the charcoal look so much! I don't own the ZF (yet)... can you share how you got that look? Is it a profile you can tweak in camera but not readily available as a profile to pick? Or did you tweak that in post?
apart from that... fantastic photos all of them, just stunning!
Thanks! These are mostly in-camera "charcoal" profiles, but I normally do quick contrast adjustments in post - really really quick!
And thank you so much for saying these are fantastic - I love them too. :)
Loved the video, loved the photos. Greetings from Bulgaria.
Thank you, and greetings from Omaha, Nebraska in the USA!
A very excited volunteer.
Good look into the ZF. I particularly like the ability to just use the PC software to make profiles then export. I'm big on Fuji film sims but I'd consider giving it up to just custom tailor something I can export to the camera for consistent results
LOL! I'll tell him you appreciated his effort!
I’m looking forward to your review of the Z8!
Nikon has a 35 focal length one like the 40 f2 in the grapevine. I haven’t played with one my self but would be eager to see
I really didn't like my used Z6 much so I've gone back to my Nikon DSLRs for now. The Zf seems like it will be way better, but it will be another year or two until there are used copies that I can afford. The Z6III and Z8 appeal too, but they are going to be more expensive and the Zf will be enough for me. I shot with an FE & FE2 back in the film days so the design is no problem for me.
Made the same switch a few weeks ago. There’s a lot I like about the X-T5 but the focusing is definitely not one of them. The Zf is far more consistent and predictable with focus and I’m really happy with the iso performance as well.
I’d definitely like a few more customizable buttons and slightly better ergonomics but all in all I don’t regret the switch at all.
thanks for the brilliant video! now I finally assured and know which present I want for Christmas :) I was a Canon user (5d mark III) then left for Fuji system, now Xt3 and x100v, but since I saw the announcement of the Nikon Zf, I started to think if this is really what I wanted from the Fuji system or it's just my GAS and I'm thinking about new camera only. Looks like many Fuji users have same thoughts and you showed very clear, that actually it's the same for everyone. Thank you for your video, very nice story and photos!
Thank you so much for the positive comments - and good luck in whatever you decide!
You're one of the very few people who use the zf the way I do. Full manual with non-CPU lenses.
The one thing I'm hoping for is the ability to have focus confirmation with non-CPU lenses. It looks like it'd only need a firmware update for that. Have you heard anything about it?
I don't think it's possible for the focus confirmation to happen without an electronic connection - at least from what I've heard?
@@JerredZ Yes, true. Some have found ways to work around that with adaptors that fool the camera by sending it focal length data, but then you get problems with ibis as long as the camera doesn't get the correct data. But it looks like the lack of focus confirmation isn't a technical limitation, rather something that could be fixed with a firmware update.
Came here to hear about ZF, but mostly enjoyed the photos. WOW.
Thank you very much, sir!
Honestly Nikon's Rich Tone Portrait profile looks closer to film than most of what Fuji has. Fuji's film sims seem to be gunning for the lomo crowd. This is from someone who shoots mostly with a Nikon F6 and Fuji X100V.
I do like that profile!
None of the Fuji film simulations really matched the respective film. Especially not Velvia, Provia and Acros.
Excited volunteer 😂😂😂😂. Dude, really great comparison. Sweet setup with that 50!
Oh man, stick around to the end for dessert. Nice work Z!
Thanks as always, Dan. That 50 is so beautiful... I'm sometimes stunned by the photos that come from it!
@@JerredZ oh, and I’m glad you kept the GFX!
Wow thanks for sharing your experience. I love Nikon too..
Nikon has really nice colours, they just used to have so much noise it was hard to justify using them.
Nikon took a while to get into mirrorless and then some more time to get the AF to be really good, but now their cameras are amazing. I'm sure Fujifilm will fix up their AF eventually (and Panasonic as well hopefully). Glad you're enjoying it and getting some great shots with those nice old lenses!
Fantastic photos and great review ✌🏼
Thanks my man!
Exactly! They didn't care much about ergos back in the film days. Not everything retro is good. But having dials so you can change settings was good from my POV of course. Much prefer that to scroll wheels and LCD screens. I like the old Nikon lenses with aperture settings on the lens barrel. It would be nice to have this on Nikon AF lenses but we don't. Fuji absolutely got it right here again only IMHO of course. The dials on the X100F I used to have were perfect. I agree I think only Fuji can do film sims properly. I love my ZF but I don't do wildlife or sports so don't need fast AF or FPS
Great introduction of the Nikon Zf, fantastic photos!
Great video,Love the film camera looks, love using vintage lenses , look forward to your next video
No distance scale and DOF indicator in camera was a deal breaker for me. 😢
Really enjoyed the zf tho and image quality was miles better
As a canon shooter, love this video. Was thinking of getting a fuji for street and candids of my family, but hoping canon would come out with a retro like camera. Zf looks so sexy
Thanks! I used Canon for many years. I almos went back to them for the 28-70 f/2. A bag of full frame primes in one lens... fantastic.
Good video, concise and interestng. I have been a long time user of the x-pro2 and more recently the XT5, buying a ZF a month or so ago for fun ( when you have been a photographer since 1970 then new gear provides an every now and then interest boost)
The Fuji XT5 has much better than the X-pro2 but the X-Pro2 has a similar feeling to the ZF in that it just reliably does what you want it to without the complication and sometimes flakynes of the XT5. I like it very much but you are wrong in a couple of things you say, when I take a photo at iso 3200 with the XT5 and the Zf there is more noise in the shadows in the ZF photos easily seen even on the back screen. Weight..the only S lens I have with the Zf is the 24-70 4.0 and when weighed against the 16-55 2.8 on the XT5 body the Zf is 1.281kg and the Fuji is 1.370 kg I know some people are going to say it's a 2.8 lens but the light transmission converted to FF is about the same from my understanding.
Interesting is when our dog got tangled up with the lead and I dropped the ZF about two thirds of a meter onto the wooden floor, the little swinging catch that holds the battery inside the compartment bent and swings loose just with the weight of the battery, no other damage so it's not quite built as well as it seems, luckily closing the battery compartment door keeps it tight enough to work. gotta say that I do love the sound the shutter makes and the looks are similarly attractive as the Nikon Fm2T I still use.
Regarding Fuji, did you ever try a speed booster lens adapter? It would fix FoV and gain a stop of light to make the old lens light gathering equivalent. Otherwise, largely agreed. I was never unhappy with my Fuji image quality, Except for the autofocus, which was mostly why I bought the Zf. It's just a lot easier to shoot concerts in terms of getting shots in focus. Full stop. I come home with several hundred fewer shots to edit, and several hundred more in focus :-0 I exaggerate, but not my that much.
Fuji's retro dials controls are better sorted than Nikon. And.. that X-H1 shutter pop tho. My Zf falls short in this area. I still shoot both systems tho.
I have not tried a speed booster yet... still something I'll look at in the future. And I get it with the number of images... with Nikon I shoot almost 50% less (maybe that's an exaggeration, but not by much) because I'm confident I'll get near-perfect focus most of the time. At least with Nikon when the autofocus fails, it's either my fault or I know what happened (challenging conditions)... but with Fuji, the camera sometimes acts like it's full of voodoo!
Been Fuji since 2018. AF never been a strong point. I want them
to do better. For real. I love Fuji!
But make a huge part of my living with Fuji cameras. I’m a headshot photographer in Los Angeles and shoot weekly paid gigs. If they can’t fix this by next year, I may jump ship. Man. Sucks. I love my XT5. Luckily I never use it for video.
But I’m 53 and learned on Nikon, had an old FE when I was just a teenager. So this ZF is VERY familiar, and VERY tempting. Man! Lots to consider.
Totally! And I love Fuji too (I still shoot GFX daily) - so I REALLY hope they get the updates photographers deserve!
@@JerredZI’m going to sell my XT5 and lenses, keep my beloved X100V and get the ZF and a couple of lenses. Probably the 85 and 40 to start. I tried it out the other day. The only complaint is that it felt bit heavy and the grip is awful. Do you recommend any aftermarket grip? I’ve heard the small rig is ok. I’m excited to go Nikon again. My roots are there. Great videos.
x-t3 owner here, cannot agree more with on autofocus, I missed so many good shots because of it 😭
looking currently on two models - Nikon ZF or Lumix S5 IIx, ZF because my main set of lens is for Nikon F and as I've heard even totally manual old lenses with FTZ adapter works with focusing assist tools on ZF like highlighting the eyes of people and whatnot, also autofocus up to -8 ev as advertised and I like to take pics in total darkness lol; but I'm a 50/50 photo-video shooter so Lumix S5 IIx seems to me pretty attractive choice as well, but Idk when I'll be able to afford switching the systems if at all ;c
I’ve been thinking about returning my Zf to grab the Fuji XT5 because of size. But it seems a lot of videos I’ve seen the last 4 days have one thing in common “Fuji AF needs work”
I love the Zf and Xt5 model since I shoot manual so I enjoy having to use the dials.
Hey - if you're going to be shooting manual, the Fuji is great!!!! I don't want to say that Fuji sucks - it doesn't! They have amazing cameras, and people are continuing to enjoy and love them. I'm just currently seeing that Fuji doesn't fit for what I need, and that's okay too!
@@JerredZ I heard the Fuji firmware update from yesterday improved the AF. But time and multiple users will tell if that is true or still missing 4 out of 10 shots.
The ZF looks amazing! I would very much like to go for it, but I miss the custom modes U1-3. Is there a workaround? How fast can you switch between custom settings with the ZF?
@@peterparanoid9635 No, and it’s probably one of the negatives for the camera. I wouldn’t use them on the Zf since I’m mostly shooting with classic lenses, but I think it would have been great for Nikon to allow them to be assigned to one of the buttons.
Welcome to the Nikon world! Just got my Nikon Z6III (coming from the Z6II)...have fun!
The Z6iii looks amazing! I played with it for a few minutes this weekend and it rocks.
@@JerredZ it does indeed! 📸😎
Beautiful photos. They really have a great feel to it.
I am considering switching my Leica M10 for a EVF mirrorless. I mainly shoot with a prime 50mm and I am getting tired of the rangefinder. I am very undecided between the Fuji X-H2 and the Nikon Zf. Nikons were my first cameras, so I am attached to them, but the main thing is the full frame vs APS-C. I never liked the cropped sensors (I also shoot medium format digital). My only concerns are
- the EVF on the nikon, as I read around that it is not great, while the Fuji X-H2 is top level.
- weight and size, but when it does not look that big in photos/videos.
It's NOT that big or heavy... just bigger and heavier than a Fuji counterpart. For me it's not a big deal at all, and the heftiness kind of inspires confidence? It's never as heavy as something like GFX (which I also use), so for me it's kind of light! ... Just heavier than Fuji users are used to. Also, the EVF isn't "bad." It's really weird... the XH2 has an obviously higher resolution one... but I enjoy the Zf one just as much, or a little more. The color and experience of shooting with the EVF is nicer than the specs!
I don't need another fucking camera, Jerred. Haha, this is great though. You're killing it - the difference between I think someone like myself and you is that you can grab any camera and make stuff look awesome. Your abandoned and "country-ish" landscapes are just so good.
The shot at 1:01 is incredible
Oh man. Thanks for making my day Dylan! And seriously - I know the feeling. I don't need anymore fucking cameras either! LOL! I also don't want to be just another guy promoting GAS on RUclips. it's one of the reasons I haven't been posting much lately - I've been thoughtful about things. My needs have changed completely since I started doing photography full time, and my view of what I need out of a camera is different. Maybe THAT should be a video too! THANK YOU!!!!
Im not sure how you guys get noticeable noise in the middle of the day, maybe its just how small your optics are? Or naybe the iso is being cranked up? I dont know, i use pretty large apertures like 128mm at f/5.5 and 114mm at f/4.3 so im not exactly lacking light.
Great review Jerred, I have a sonay a7rv and want a fun daily shoot and street cam. I am seriously thinking on this one.
I love the A7Rv! It's such a powerhouse in a relatively small package. The Zf is a totally different experience though - which can be good. As you can see I like different systems... I think it makes my brain work harder, and all that - which is good!
@@JerredZ Kinda what i am thinking,. Although i would lose the 60mp sensor, I think the 24 would make me think more about my compositions and using my feet more. I am looking at it as a street travel. I was going to get the fuji, but i am right off them now.
At 10:13 there is a boy about to skip a rock; is that a Nikon color profile? Or did you color-grade it? If a profile-which one?
Thank you for this review
I am still an xt-2 user who also loves vintage lenses and havee been toying with a jump to the Zf …you’ve made a good case 👍
That’s just a RAW file processed in Lightroom. Profile is neutral with one of my presets (I don’t remember which one!).
Welcome to the dark side.
Came here to say that!
@@intrinsicimageryme too, 😬
Fuji is the abyss then. Video tracking AF worse than 2014 a6000, x-t1 is released at same year.
I love fujifilm medium format and Nikon will always be the best 35mm cameras.
Beautiful pictures in the end.
Thank you very much!
You are a really good photographer. The photo gallery was beautiful. Of course, as a Fuji user, your discussion on the Zf vs the Fuji messed my head up. We'll see what happens. If I buy a Zf, I 'll tell my wife it's all your fault. Lol.
Hey, tell her I MADE YOU! :). Ha! I'm honored by your compliments, friend. Appreciated.
@@JerredZ It's coming Sunday You definitely played a role in this. Ordered two lens (26mm and 50 1.8) to start, grip, SD cards. Holding back from purchasing filters, step up rings, leica m lens and adapter, etc till I see how this camera works for me. Still, very excited on this new journey.
I'd just love a "plain metal" look version of the Nikon Zf instead of the pure black. So a bit more like the Zfc, which isn't feeling as good and only has an APS-C sensor.
By the way: Love the shots in the end of the video. Really great ones along them and I also love the colors!
Thanks so much! The Zfc is a camera I wanted to love, but I'd never hold one again unless someone payed me... and even then they'd have to pay me a lot. I just really disliked the user experience! (But it's awesome for those who love it!).
That is a beautiful looking camera body, paired with that vintage glass! If you were going to jump into a system fresh with no existing lenses, would you go Fuji or Nikon at this point? As a mostly Olympus shooter for nature/macro, I have been debating a new system - was considering Fuji, had not heard much about recent Nikon or the Zf until now, intriguing and more to consider...
Hey man! Right now at this moment I'd go full Nikon, Canon or Sony. I'm not sure if it matters, but for me, the 180-600 on the Z8 is a stunning combination, and there are a few other Nikon lenses I'm going to get in the future that are unique (600 and 800 pf lenses).... and that 135 plena looks amazing too. Honestly, I don't think you can go wrong with whatever system you choose...
@JerredZ was looking at the z8 today after I checked out the zf and that does look like an incredible combo!
I programmed the ring on my newer lenses to be aperture so that at least I’m reaching for the same spot on my retro ones.
Nice video. I look forward to a vid about all your new nikon gear.
Thanks man, and we'll see!
I can deal with the ergo, but that weight is my only gripe, especially when I love shooting it with manual lenses. Still my dream camera until Nikon releases a RF version. I do miss my Xpro3, but I know nothing Fuji could release that would make me want to go back.
I have a D810 and I was looking at this camera for my photography. And I’m looking at the z8 as well. I’m so stuck between the both.
Z8 is overall a much better camera that can do a lot more. If you can afford it, and you don’t need/want something retro, the Z8 is incredible. I use it all the time and would choose the Z8 over the Zf if I had to only keep one.
The ZF is such a fun camera!
It totally is. BTW - great channel, Andrei. Love your work.
Great photos you got! Not all is bad at Fuji! Have an X-T5 and had others before, even Nikon D750. I almost bought a ZF but after getting one at my hands I got confused. Why so big and heavy? Honestly... You have the Z6 from same manufacturer. And the controls on the ZF are really bad. You have 7 custom updatable banks on the X-T5 with very easy access. If you don't use M on the ZF, the controls do not make any sense. Why PSAM that removes the priority of the external dials? Flip out screen also difficult to understand on a mostly photo centric camera with great aids for manual lenses. Great looking and very well built. But it is like Nikon didn't want to get it right on their first iteration.
Great video, would love to see you showcase different vintage lenses
Thanks my man. I might do that! It's funny, but I haven't even considered that. The vintage lens stuff would be fun to do videos about!
Question… I’m looking at the Zf. I am curious, could my raft of Takumar lenses be used on it?
Not sure, Monty - I bet some forums have your answer though!
Outstanding photos! Kept wondering how they would appear on a black background.
Thanks so much! That's interesting - I should try that next time with the black background!
Nice shots! 👍🏾
Some very nice photos here. Takes me back to my midwest roots. Still wavering on the ZF… The grip is just so….horrible. Am considering the Z6ii or iii just for a better grip and button placement.
Yes, holding this thing without a grip isn't great!! But the Neewer plate helps - and I've heard others like other grips too. The Z6ii and iii are pretty great too! The Z6 ii just doesn't have great autofocus either...
Amazing photos brother ✊🏼
Thanks my man!!! 🤜
Also have some Duh on the BW. It would be better to do it in post where you can control RGB highligths in bw.
True! I just like "seeing" it in the viewfinder and can edit later!
Okay, hear me out... How sick would it be to have film sims on Nikon based off of Kodak film stocks? If they obtained the rights to do so, that would be awesome and really pull people from Fuji.
Agreed. I have the xt4 and tried xt5, while its usable the ZF blows it out of the water. I also don't think fuji color science is good. Fuji is like a fun camera. If its just me on a business trip and im walking around taking throwaway shots. Yeah leica m10 or fuji. But on vacation and now for kid sports and event, the nikon zf has everything covered.
My biggest pet peeven is the AF-D lenses that have aperture and good manual focus cannot be used autofocus on the zf.
Nice to hear some good comments on Nikon from a Fuji guy
I've seen a few of us migrate over to Nikon and love it, so I know there are others!
They speak to me from the soul. I stayed with the Fujifilm X system for over 7 years. But the autofocus has hardly improved during this time. Eye autofocus was so unreliable that it could only be used for portraits. I didn't get the X-T5 anymore, but I tested it extensively against the Zf's autofocus for a day. And then it became the Zf. The Nikon is the better camera in all aspects. The only thing I missed at the beginning were the film simulations and recipes. But now Nikon also comes with the ability to create film simulations and offers even more options than Fujifilm. Nikon is just so much further along while the Fujifilm cameras and firmware feel as old as their retro design.
Great video - great photos. With my Fuji gear packed away, waiting for an eventual firmware fix for the AF problems, every video talking about switches from Fuji to Nikon is more intriguing. Nikon has similar color science, better (working) AF and it's full frame. Fuji seems to have lost the plot.
Mark, I think they are swimming in so much X100 money they don't care! :). Thanks for the compliments, friend.
Nice images! Never thought to use charcoal but you inspired me
Oh man, thanks! I almost didn't either, but after the first week it was my favorite. I still do a couple tweaks to boost contrast a bit...but I dig it so much!
As I've been contemplating what camera I might want to buy for after my X-T3, this one keeps coming up. The first reason is the same as you....the vintage lens issue. The second is a way to move up to FF. One of my concerns is not having the Fuji film simulations. I love to set the camera to Acros to shoot so I see BNW in the EVF. BUT, the bigger issue for me would be editing software. I WAS using Capture One Express until the jerks deprecated it. Now, I'm relegated to the Fuji raw converter. But, If I go to Nikon that means I need to buy software. Not sure I want to do that. Thanks for the good overview. Love the images too! Take care....
Nikon has a free software as well Nikon NX Studio.
Yeah, I get it! Nikon does have a free RAW converter - if you're used to the Fuji one, you'd probably do fine with that. I tested it a few weeks ago and it was fine - just kind of a touch slow like Fuji's!
@@JerredZ I know. As long as you are starting changing brands, you have that issue that you need to pay a universal RAW converter. I am using Lightroom. I have RAW files from Panasonic, Sony, Ricoh and mainly Nikon (I currently own 2 Nikons and 2 Ricohs)..
Portrait, try THE 105mm f/2.5. It was with a F2, it is now with my D850 (bought new 15 days ago, probably one of the last manufactured, 2 years warranty)( I don't regret at all the A7C and A6600 resold for this new purchase).
The problem is for the non professional yet advanced photographer it’s just too heavy for a travel camera. The whole best camera is the one with you is why I couldn’t go for it.
@@gaprofitt Understood! Totally get it… I’ve been lugging around GFX for years… so the Nikon is like a feather compared!
Some very nice photos there at the end.
Thank you!
Incredible photos
Thank you!
I bought the Zf just for video - the only thing I did was add tabs made from electrical tape on my SD cards so I could swap cards easily - they are hard to reach with the grip - especially with gorilla fingers - I love the heavier weight - my other cameras are D850's and Blads with phase one backs so I guess to me its on the light side 😂
Any guesses on when Nikon is likely to release a Zf mark Ii? Just wondering if I should wait at all? (Sorry if this is a repeat.) Thx
No clue man! I wish I knew!
I used to have XT5 but I have switched to Nikon ZF.
"excited volunteer" 😂😂😂 Really like your photography style. And looking forward for more Zf + various retro lenses combinations. (Wildlife would be nice too) Allow me to support (albeit with a very humble gesture😅) a new fellow nikon user by subscribing to this promising and positive channel. Best of luck!
My man! Thanks so much for your comment! I'll be doing more Nikon stuff in the future when I get more time! This fall I should be done traveling and all of that for the year, so I should be able to get back on a schedule. Thank you!
I shoot Fuji X-T5 for family/travel and a Nikon Z8 for birds. It’s no contest, the Nikon AF is better, but the Fuji kit has a charm and is way more fun to use than the Nikon ever will be. Add to that, the Nikon FF gear is monstrously huge, I can’t fathom why anyone thinks it’s fun or necessary to carry that chunker around for casual shooting and travel.
Thanks my man! And again, my use case is in older, lighter manual lenses, so they are pretty small and light. Old manual lenses with Nikon (or other full frame cameras) just work like they are supposed to... so for me, manual lenses on Nikon is far more enjoyable. And Nikon does have a few like the 40/28/26 that are smaller and lighter - add in the adapter for Sony, and there's a ton more options there too. AND - it's not all huge. The 100-400 is about the same with Nikon and Fuji, and the 24-120 f/4 is small, light, and pretty incredible. Nikon prices are kind of nuts on their lenses though... that 100-400 is quite a bit more $$ than Fuji... all good though!
Thank you for your review and thoughts. Beautiful images. Really impressive.
Yes, the autofocus is a thing with Fuji, but you can still get great results. The weight and size to image quality ratio still makes me lean towards the X mount. CF Express B (I have the xh2 and XH2s) are much better than SD and CF Express A like Sony uses and that comes in a compact system (the Z8 is quite big). The lens lineup is good and affordable, not like Canon.
So I think Fuji still has some valid reasons, but …the autofocus…..😁
Enjoy your camera, sounds like a lot of fun.
ABSOLUTELY! You rock - and you CAN get great results with it. I know pros using Fuji who get incredible images day in and day out... BUT it works for them and how they work. It used to work for me, but now my needs have changed... and that's OK! There's still a place in my heart for Fuji X - and for many photographers it's a fantastic system.
Can you imagine if Nikon makes a ZS? The modern iteration of the S3? I would sell my Fuji kit so fast. The ZF is already catching my eye
The only way I'd sell my ZF is if Nikon released a ZS😂
Great video.
Annoyed by Fujifilms AF and slow motion development for lenses too, I bought a Z8, selecting the lens first (105/1.4, adapted and 70-200/2.8), coming from a XH2 and XH2s. Sold the XH2 and some lenses immediately.
Fujifilm doesn't care. Their CEO looks only on things damaging the reputation of the brand. Nobody is buying a Fujifilm expecting standard or even state of the art AF and tracking performance. So being years behind doesn't harm the brand. And: Investing 80% on the last 20% AF performance is then a waste of money and only stresses their crippled development ressources. As they don't care if customers are waiting months after ordering a new camera.
It's frustrating. I really, honestly thought 2023 would be the year Fujifilm caught up. They made is seem like they were so confident... but it was more about putting "specs" on the box than actually making it happen. So then through 2023 we were waiting for "fixes" and then here we are halfway through this year and... it's still problematic! I'm NOT saying Fuji can't do really great things. Fantastic artists and photographers of all kinds do incredible work with them, including autofocusing in difficult situations... but I have talked to some of these photographers after they switch from Fuji, and they'll tell you they SHOULD have switched many years ago! It's really about "fighting" to make the autofocus work when, with other brands, it's about working WITH the autofocus!
Or you could just get a Nikon film SLR for a hundred bucks or so and use your vintage lenses with that. You would also have many many hundreds of dollars left over for film, processing, etc.
Plus, that way you get the no excuses absolute total and authentic vintage retro film look and feel with all your vintage lenses.
Man, I just don't like film! I learned in the darkroom and with film cameras, but I have no desire to go back to either one!
Leave film in the past.
@@JerredZ
Um, sort of the main point of Fujifilm cameras is that the experience is like shooting with film. Especially street photography. Retro cameras with dials that easily control the exposure triangle. That whole experience is slower and more cerebral.
And also emphasizing getting a good image shooting JPEG right there in the camera. A lot like the film experience. Meaning you don't really have to futz around with post-processing a RAW image later like the Canon, Nikon Sony crowd seem to just love doing.
Film images were never good at a pixel-peeping level anyway because it's basically pretty low-tech technology, especially compared to digital. Auto-focus never got very far with film cameras anyway. Heck, with street photography and a film camera you can just shoot f/8 and zone focus. Which is what many do with Fujifilm cameras.
You could make a pretty good argument that perhaps you're a Nikon, Canon, Sony shooter in the first place with your nature, wildlife, action and landscape photography preference.
That's why having choices is a good thing.
@@POVwithRC
There's plenty of room for both film and digital in the world.
And both cats and dogs.
Besides, photography is a very very broad hobby as well as profession. There is no single aspect to it. Not at all.
I love the simplicity of your photography.
Thanks! I try to find the beautiful in the everyday, so I appreciate this!