What I enjoy about Matt is there is no argument about his argument. Common sense photographer. Let’s face it, when did you last see the fro, a granger, or the knobrots surrounded by their imagery.
My carry everywhere favourite set up is the Z6 with 50/1.8S attached. For the price I doubt there is any better mirrorless combination available. It feels, looks and performs to perfection
Justin, I just checked DXOmark, knowing the Z 50 1.8S was up there and rated; alongside the 4x the price RF 50 1.2L USM offering. How satisfied you must be knowing for the price of RF lens you can purchase a complete second copy of your favourite set up. For what its worth, RF scored 38 which is a near Excellent score according to DXO; while the Z scored 44 at a quarter of the price. What was it that Matt was just saying on this video?
Totally agree with you Matt. I have a Z6 that I purchased 4 months ago and I finally bought my first 50mm 1.8 S 2 days ago. Amazingly sharp!!! The transition will be slow from F-mount to Z bc of cost of course. I'm just an amateur that loves taking pics as a hobby so I making very little money if any. So with that said this video was spot on. Thanks!
I am excited to see the future quality of the Z glass as they release. I have the 50mm 1.8 F Mount I can use on my Z50 but I hear that the 50mm 1.8S Z Mount is something special and different on a whole new level. I cant wait to try it one day as well as the huge increase that the 1.2S lenses will be. One day, but in the meantime, I am having a blast and perfecting my craft daily. The Nikon Z50 is absolutely a wonderful creature and has blown my expectations out of the water even. Loving it everyday even more. Thank you for another great video my brother. Looks like it is beautiful in your area as well as mine. This summer will be fantastic, I have a good feeling, especially with things starting to turn around in the world scene again. I hope you are well. See you soon!
As a Z7 shooter, I love your rationales and lens unrolling thought process. The 1.8 primes (have the 85) and the 2.8 zooms (have the 24-70) are just barely in my price range, still saving up for the 70-200. I wouldn't want or need anything more expensive at this time, really impressed with the way Nikon has handled this line.
While it's great for reviewers to bash this or that when they get lenses for free or rental for a month. It's great to hear a working professional discussing real world budget. If I buy "x" I'm not buying "y".... because $$$$.
Sean Barrett Photography yes, very easy when money appears to be no object to say the $10,000 plus exotics are the way to go. I live in the land of mortgages and bills so everything I buy has to be saved for
I agree Sean, the expenses incurred to send the fro and knobrots (+many others) to Hawaii for the R/RF launch, secured the narrative for this new system. Nikon launched first and took all heat (unfairly in most circumstances) that was not even mentioned about the R/RF, but at least Nikon put it out there with the upgrade potential. Has any R/RF owner out there received a free firmware upgrade that provides seamless transition to CF Express yet, or are they still crippled with a single slot 2000’s era unreliable memory card technology, a less than perfect recycled sensor and glass that cost half years mortgage payments. I don’t have an axe to grind; I don’t own any R/RF products; and can say what I like because I wasn’t jetted half-way around the world (payment) to receive the desired narrative.
@@MattIrwinPhotography I have Nikon D500. I like it but that is becoming a bit too heavy to carry around. I'm 65 and want something lighter. In my younger days I carried a Pentax 67 around. That thing is a tank! I had more endurance thirty years ago.
Good for you - got a Z6 on order and it will be here next week! Can't wait... Oh, reading the refernce manual - it's 500+ pages - this camera practically makes toast...
Z6 is my go to camera. I did a portrait shoot of my family this weekend using my D850; had to spend 30 minutes remembering how to use it! I’m blaming Lockdown.
Well said mate, I’ve been saying that to all the Canon and Sony die hard fans from the moment Nikon released the f1.8s. To me it was obvious why Nikon took those steps, to some people I guess it wasn’t so obvious 😂... I think Nikon did a brilliant job doing it this way as it helped me transition f to z easily 👍
I had quite an argument about that with my brother who is a die hard Sony shooter when I bought into the Z system. He was very convinced that his Sony an especially his Zeiss Batis lenses were way superior to the 1.8s and the 24-70f4. Well I let him have a go with my Z6 and had a really hard time of getting my camera back 😂
I would get along very well indeed, with an EOS R and an adaptor. Canon has several options, all make EF lenses better on RF bodies. Maybe I'd buy an RF 24-105, maybe not. Probably, I'd get the RF 35mm. On paper, the Nikon Nikon system would suit me better, but I have a lot of lenses for Canon,
OneEyedPhotographer Great opportunity to ditch your crippled system and be very much welcomed to the Nikon Z world. Your only issue will be kicking yourself for not doing so a long while ago.
Matt Irwin Photography Well Right now using an older Nikon DX40 and a Canon Vixia legacy Video Camera, however I think I am ready to go to the Nikon Z50 with a couple kit lenses and see if I can get down to one Camera for both recording of Mass and my photos. I am looking to get back to photography so I figured it was a good place to start. I am “rediscovering” how much I truly enjoy it.
Matt Irwin Photography sure am. switched to the Nikon Z6 from the Sony A6400. The affordability of the Z glass was a big factor when comparing against Canon, which as you mentioned was a no brainer considering Nikon’s 1.8 primes are a perfect segue into the Z system without breaking the bank.
Finally got my Z7 haven't received the 50 1.8 yet but have the native 24-70 f4 and I have to say its surprisingly heavy and well built and the camera itself is a ripper took it out in the rain this morning didn't miss a beat. Definitely happy with my decision to stay loyal. One thing I love about Nikon is that it really is a photographers system, everything is built in. Time-lapse, focus stacking, all the bracketing modes, T mode you name it, it has it built in.
Nice vid Matt. Once again, the biggest and best thing Nikon did when they created Z was also creating the mount that allows all of this optical magic to occur. For the great majority of us, just owning several primes is a luxury, and as you point out, starting at 1.8 just widens the purchasing base. Oh - I got a response from Nikon regarding image circle, but it was clearly a mis-informed (or intentionally obtuse) answer. I am still trying. This could be checked manually if you want to do so. Rig the lens off-camera on a bench. Place a piece of translucent paper (so measurement can be made on the backside of the paper) behind the lens at the same distance behind the lens the camera sensor normally would be. Maybe use a piece of vellum mounted to a photo mat to give it some rigidity. Now shine a light in front of the lens if it is not already facing a light source. You should now have an image circle projected on the piece of paper, and the diameter can be measured directly on the backside without bumping the lens.
Excellent and on point. There is something to be said for having top tech in your line of equipment (f/1.2, f/0.95, etc). There is also something to be said for getting the job done within budget. I agree and think this is brilliant on Nikon's part. I only own a couple of Z-mount lenses and am in no rush to replace my f-mount lenses, although I've not done any comparison test. LOL, maybe I'm afraid to. I enjoyed your video. Thanks so much for the commentary.
I bought my Z7 this year at January the 7th with the 24-70 kit lens. Then I started to watch your videos. Today I also own the 35 mm, the 50 mm and the wonderful 85 mm of the f1.8 Z primes. 😜 I‘m totally happy with these three! I never would have thought that I will built up my Z system so fast.
Thanks for these videos. I'm a pro having used Canon for 15yrs, I decided to slide over to Nikon to get a 45+mp mirrorless camera, future proof files sizes for work, simply because I couldn't afford to change all of my lenses and two bodies to the more expensive R5 and it's limited and very expensive lenses. I've already got two of the trinity lenses and some lovely, affordable primes.
Another great video Matt. As I’ve said in previous comments, I love the Z6 and it’s lenses. As a first venture into video, I think Nikon have nailed it. I use mine (20mm, 50mm, 85mm, 24-70mm f/2.8) on a DJI Ronin S gimbal and any bigger would compromise the balance significantly. Keep up the great content!
Hello Matt. I have used nikon equipment since 1995. I currently have nikon d750 and several f system lenses (50mm 1.8g, 16-35mm f4 vr, 70-200mm 2.8 vr II). Thanks.
Very well said and understandable! Although would love to see f1.4 versions of all lens versions as well! Realistically, F mount f1.4 lenses have pitiful contrast and sharpness when open!
Makes perfect sense, Matt! I plan to transition from my already good Fujifilm X-System up to the Nikon Z7, as I can't wait to see how much more image sharpness and detail I will get in 24" x 26" prints from that larger/higher res sensor plus the stellar Nikkor S lenses such as the 14-30 f/4! As for folks talking about 1.2 lenses over 1.8, for my style og photography (landscape and product), that difference is totally meaningless, as I rarely shoot wide open. My only slight concern about NIkon going the "affordable" route with these Nikkor S lenses, is not optical quality, but Build quality (plastic instead of metal, etc.). I do however, love the fact that they have o-rings for some weather-sealing! Thanks as always, Matt, for your very informative videos!
I've got no primes yet. I hope to have a 50 1.8 in the next 3 or 4 months. If they were 1.2 I'd be looking at getting it in the next year or two. 1.8 is the way to go.
I am sticking with my D850 and I love my Sigma Art lenses 14-85-& 105 is the sharpest Lens I have ever owned ...i also have the Nikon 200-500mm, 24 1/4 & 55 Zeiss otus that I bought before the sigma 50 art came out just sold my 200mm f/2 lens got the same amount I paid for it 11 years ago
@@grosema That is a good combination but for those who shoot in darker scenes, the EVF is a major improvement and the Z version is the best on the market. I have two ART primes that were favorite lenses on my D850 and D800. They are very sharp in the center, the 50 1.4 ART is about as sharp in the center as the 1.8 S but clearly, the S lenses remain great all the way to the corners which none of the F mount primes by Nikon or Sigma can hope to match. For color, the utter absence of CA, focusing speed, weight, size, and cost, the S lenses of the same FL outshine them. In fact the 24-70 2.8 S compares very favorable to the best primes, beats the F mounts in most cases, and best of all, is just as sharp wide open as stopped down. We all were so used to needing to stop down for critical shots for best color and resolving power and to get away from color fringing. But no more, the S lenses at 1.8 are as sharp as F mount at f/4 or 5.6 in the center but in the corners there is no way to make the F lenses high performance in the corners. Combining the great EVF with the S lenses is an irresistible combination that has my beloved D850 and large investment in top F mount lenses, sit on the shelf.
@@MattIrwinPhotography I think over time I will move over to the Z line I always like to sell the camera I have in order to Purchase the new one,( i dont make any Money from my Photo's) I know i won't have any trouble selling the 850 but the lenses are a tough sell and I am going to have to take a Huge loss on the Zeiss otus last I looked it cost 6400,00 with tax over here in Canada I will be Lucky to get 3000 for it..... it makes me sick with all the Money I will loose selling my Lenses ..... have a Look around on my website at pbase.com /grosema ..... just remove the space between com -> /
@@grosema I was sceptical to the electronic viewfinder and wanted to continue with a optical viewfinder all day long until I got a great deal to buy a Nikon Z6 camera. Since then I just could not continue with those thoughts. The electronic viewfinder is so damn good. Going back to optical it feels so dark and I cant see nothing. Now I always see the final picture I will make before pressing the shutter button. Sadly it also means I do not need as much edit on my computer because I love editing my pictures.
Another great review Matt and your right there are so many people saying the z lenses are horrible cheep build quality and it's obvious they don't use the system and like putting down what they don't have. Well said cheers.🙂
Hi Matt; another thought provoking video. I was interested to hear your view on the RF 70-200mm lens, particularly about its stubby / extending profile. What’s missing from the arguments for this lens IMO is professional level weather/environment sealing. The laws of physics still apply so I feel sure what ever methods are deployed towards environment sealing, there remains a damn great gap around the lens barrel which will fail at some stage, and the more its used, the quicker it will fail. I too am waiting for Z-mount 70-200 f/2.8 lens to come into stock at my supplier here in the UK; and am so pleased NIkon designed this lens without crippling its longevity of use.
I shoot Sony but I’m strongly thinking of getting a Nikon for Street as I use Sony for my pro work and I just want to have fun. Which lens would you recommend for street to go with the Z6. I want small and stealth! Great channel!
Love your thought processes Matt. I can't wait for the f1.2s to arrive as it may mean some f1.8s become available on the 2nd hand market. Also waiting patiently 🙏🤞for Sigma or Tamron to enter the Z market. In the mean time, I'm still picking up some very affordable quality F glass to use with my FTZ adapter 😎
I see no use for anything faster than 1.8 anyway..you said it right, money is definitely an issue...it kills me to listen to people who have the f1.2's and talk about how great they are stopped down to f2.8...lol
Remember how compact & light lenses from the manual focussing film era were? I like my Nikon F mount 85mm f1.8, I really like my old old Minolta 35mmf1.8 on my Sony A7s.I understand 1.2,1.4 creates effects but how often are they used & usually there has been a payoff optically, financially & space in your bag. The issues of weight & compactness is one of the reasons for mirrorless systems & I question if one would like to carry around a large 85mm f1.2 auto focus lens for any length of time from any brand.Travelling light seems to get forgotten.
You are so right, and fortunately Nikon provided a great travel lens from the get-go, the 24-70 f/4. I’ve taken my Z6, 24-70 f/4 and FtZ adaptor twice now to Florida for a bit of wildlife shooting. By buddy has longer reach glass (300mm) that I mount on the FtZ, but when you can walk up to a Sandhill Crane on a golf course and capture a picture with Z6/24-70 @f/4, it makes it worthwhile.
Hmm, well I have not fully. I still run 2 x D850 with about 12 F native lenses. As a commercial photographer I can justify running the two systems. But anytime I can use the Z system I do. And as a hybrid it is far better. Great idea for a video : ) I like the Z system for so many reasons, size, weight, optics, focus, ergo's, constant live view (EVF), in the fast paced, run and gun world we live in, it just really meets my needs. And there is more ... I'll make a vid about it :) Cheers Matt this could be worth a watch ... ruclips.net/video/kIgNHHvF2ak/видео.html D850 vs Z7 about 9 months old now.
@@MattIrwinPhotography Thanks Matt, I've seen the vid you listed above, actually seen pretty much all of your vids. Still thinking about jumping from my DSLR (D810) to the Z8/9, obviously will be better placed to make that decision when they're released.
Thank you Matt, unfortunately I only have the 24-70 f4 native for my Z6 and I miss the autofocus for my D lenses but as time goes by I might get some S primes. Congrats to your well deserved succses with your channel //Pär.
Affordability is a good thought for consumers these days, especially right now. I've been debating a switch to Sony for the last few months, but the lens options I'd want cost an arm and a leg compared to what I can get the Nikon equivalents for.
Your the best Aussie in England. Well on my iPad anyway , great vid Matt, I switched from Canon (17 yrs ) to the Z7 system and I love it , my camera bag is so much lighter now, and like you say bang for buck , BARGAIN. See Ya Canon 👋👋 PS , I’m 66 so light is good 😂
@@MattIrwinPhotography Not yet. I'm using an old Fujifilm S5 Pro and wondering whether or not to upgrade to the Z6 or the Fujifilm XT4. The Z6 has a nicer body/grip but the fujifilm system is pretty good and the lens selection/prices are pretty good too.
Fully agree Nikon has produced what you need and not what you think you need.Why overpay, why have the extra weight, why 1.2 or 1.4? Why not get exactly what is required. You can adjust the ISO for the stop difference big deal 800 or 1600. and you had better make sure what you want is in focus. It does not need to be built like a tank and if you take care of your equipment. Nikon's only real failure is one card slot and no vertical battery grip. Correct that and we are back in business. You need to focus on what Nikon has that no other company does PF lenses, 300F4 ,500F5.6 and soon to be 600 5.6. Have the first two once you have used them it will change the way you shoot wildlife and some landscapes. AND DO NOT FORGET IF NIKON CAN PLACE A 1.7 MED FORMAT SENSOR IN THE Z LINE CAMERA 100MP WE ARE MORE THAN IN BUSINESS.
Hi Avner, that is a difficult question. If you are starting off and are on a budget, I would suggest a 24-70. Both the f2.8 and f4 are great native Z lenses. If you have more budget, and want to carry more lenses around. The 20mm, 50mm and 85mm would be a great set to get you started. What is your budget? Cheers matt PS the soon to arrive 24-200 if you don't mind the F stops, is also a great all round lens.
@@MattIrwinPhotography Dear Matt, i'm not pro and not making money and not planing to make money from photography, i'm a CIO in Shipping company in few month retiring and year ago decided to re new my teenager hobby taking photos, and found a new and adventure word. i have Samyang 14 (not bad..), Z 24-70 F/4, Z 50 F/1.8 and LOAWA 100 for Macro (and portrait). waiting to 24-200 or 70-200 the caring weight is more important for taking decisions (i am not young and strong as used to be). hope i cleared my status. help please ..
Hi.. I have a nikon D4s ,D700 and D800 should I sell them all and buy a Z6? I could probably get z6 with a f4 zoom and adapter if I sell these... is it worth it or not??
When I was deciding between the Canon r6 and the Nikon z6ii, the Nikon lens pallet appealed to me better. The cost of the 1.8 from Nikon were much more sympathetic to a non-professional, non-dentist/stockbroker/international arms dealer than Canon's currently available 1.2 options. Size and weight of the respective offerings were less an issue as there is no point complaining about the weight of a lens I will never buy because I can't justify its price for a hobby. Add to that my hope that Nikon will eventually make z-mount versions of the PF lenses whereas Canon seems to have chosen the f11 option to offer long reach in smaller, more affordable packages, and in the end I ended up in the Nikon camp. To each his or her own, but if Nikon upgrades their AF tracking in a future firmware upgrade to the same degree they have the eye-AF, the decision to go Nikon will be erase the last little bit of buyers remorse I occasionally still have when I miss a BIF and wonder if the Canon would have helped me nail it.
Am interested in seeing a 70-200 comparison when the Z starts shipping. I have the 70-200E on a D850 and for the life of me, when it comes to photographer experience/output, cannot see how this combination can be improved, it is that good, whether for fitness shoots or event/stage shoots. I'm really looking forward to the Z release, and I have total faith Nikon will have made improvements, but perceptively? For clients?
For sure Rob, the MTF's say the Z is even better, but does it matter. Maybe not ... there other things like minimum focus, but as I have said I also may take a while to upgrade from the FL ED ... just because it works so well ... Cheers matt
Hi Matt, thanks for bringing a real-world perspective rather than a RUclips influencer view. I'm an amateur who shoots with a D750, and while it's not the heaviest camera I face the issue of osteoarthritis beginning in two fingers of my right hand. That's made me think of going over to the Z system with some primes rather than zooms. At present, I've saved enough to buy a Z6 and the 20, 50, and 85 1.8 primes. Does that sound like a decent start to you? I'm a bit of a 'Jack of all trades, master of none' (or, more charitably, an all-rounder) when it comes to my photographic interests, so however much I might like a Z7 for the potential to crop if necessary I think I need the low light performance of the Z6.
I would have jumped into the Nikon Z system but I had a bad experience buying into the Sony A7 system when it first came out. When the Z system is more mature and they bring out the Z8 or whatever - then I'll start buying into it.
For a new line, I doubt any camera line was released more mature in development than the Z bodies and lenses. They are ready for prime time and most of us who have the evolved mature D850, shoot the Z6/7 a lot more. The come out of the gate and immediately take over duties from a long evolving D8x0 series is a testament how seriously Nikon engineers took the assignment. If/when the Z8 comes out, I really do not know of what it could add to make a much more expensive camera replace the Z6/7. When the D800 came out, it was a major update over a D700/D3s and improved yet again with a D810 and finally the D850 was where the Z7 started life. The whole Z ecosystem was very carefully and wisely planned. I have been shooting the Z6 19 months and still can't think of what it needs to have to make any difference in my use and results. There are a few lenses I would like to see like a compact light tilt-shift, and maybe a 70-200 f/4 S and 105 or 135 1.8 that is as good as the 85 1.8.
@@stanspb763 I guess i'm finding it hard to move on from my D850/D500 cameras. I'll probably look back and see the D850 the way I see the D3 and D4 now- Too lumpy to carry around. If Nikon brings out a new tilt/shift lens then it would be nice since Nikon uses flt by wire now on its lenses to have AF etc. That would make us product photogs very happy. The new Z lenses are great but I'm greedy - I want the 70-200mm Z lens to be f2.8. I refuse to call the new Z lenses S mount - Nikon already has an S mount - The old rangfinder cameras had it...
@@MattIrwinPhotography Hey, Matt I'm new in the Z System. My first lens is the 14-30 mm s for landscapes. This is in comparison to the 16-35 mm F mount lens brilliant in sharpness from edge to edge. For my landcape images is this now my frist choice. For my event and wedding jobs i will invest in the 24-70 f 2.8 and the 70-200 f 2.8 Z lenses and some primes like you. Look at my last landscape image at 500px with the 14-30 mm s i love this lens. Michael.Bottari 500px.
I very much agree with your sentiments. Had Nikon followed Canon and started with 1.2 lenses, I wouldn't have gone to the Z7 when I did. At the moment, I see no real reason to go with 1.2 lenses, I just don't shoot wide open very often.
hi Matt i also have all these lenses and i am absolutely amazed at how good they are. I also use the 20 and 24 1.8 on my wife's z50. this is genius. these lenses are affordable and you don't need more. my opinion. Greeting from Berlin ffk_berlin Frank - but the old 50mm 1.2 fx is my dream for this 👍🙂
A couple of things. First, the budget, for $5,000 give or take a few pennies I have a Z6, 24,35,50,85 which cover 80-85% of my photography needs. Soon I will add the 70-200 and bring that to $7,500 and cover 90-95% of my needs, I can rent the rest as necessary. That is great coverage for the money. I am not a big fan of 'subject isolation' when I am shooting most of the time so the need for 1.4, 1.2, or even 0.95 is largely eliminated. I rarely use f1.8. I bet if people went and looked at their history they'd see that they rarely use those f stops either. Bokeh is pleasing in the z mount glass and that is good enough for me. And frankly as you've said the f1.8 glass is amazingly good, way better than the f mount. Second, I dare anyone to put their $2295 camera up against the z6/50mm on photo quality and video excellence. You can't even buy the body from competitors to match it for anything close to it. And if you recall until the z6 Nikon was not a cheap date. And post Version 3.0 on the firmware... I can still hear the 'Nikon is dying' crowd as their voices disappear into the wilderness. When the Nikon Z8/Z9 ships those voices will be an afterthought.
My issue was less so the fact the primes are 1.8 (which are excellent) but more so the perceived fixation on 1.8 primes (with 5 now) at the detriment of delaying 2.8 zooms, 1.2 primes, or other novel lenses (the Noct is a unicorn). Some people want to spend big money regardless of diminishing returns and they’re looking at Canon’s 1.2’s, 2.0 zoom, 2.8 trinity and realizing Nikon only has one 2.8 zoom at the moment. For example, maybe prioritize releasing the 50 1.2 over the 50 1.8 if you plan on releasing the 24-70 as the first 2.8 trinity.
Hi Michael, I actually don't get your logic. This is more about bragging rights than practicality. Keep in mind those most likely to buy into the Z system are people who already own Nikon gear. And they probably already own a great deal of Nikon F glass. Most people are not going to worry about a 50mm 1.2 as their first purchase, if they already have a 50 1.4. I am one of those people, also with a 24 1.4 and 85 1.4. There is simply no rush. Basically certain quarters of the photography community simply want to complain about Nikon. Those of us who are using these systems, we are happy. Honestly Canon R has no IBIS and nothing over 30MP and crippled video, that is a joke coupled with their stellar glass. It is all noise. The R5 arrives and addresses all this sometime this year. And also this year, more and more Nikon glass ... Move on Michael, Canon have there own set of shortcomings right now ...
Couldn't have put it better myself. Exactly why I'm happy with my Z-mount lenses (which I reviewed in January). They are reasonably affordable and spectacular performers in the f/1.8 category. I own the 50mm and 85mm. I plan to buy the 20mm soon. I agree, the old F-mount 1.4s can't hold a candle to these Z-mounts, though perhaps they did give a slight edge shooting by candlelight 😀. I wonder how many people who go on about f/1.2s and how f/1.8s aren't "professional" lenses actually need that wide an aperture and have actually worked as professionals ... or are they just techno-dweebs?
Totally agreeing with you Matt. I am or was canon shooter for ten years. I can’t do transactions from EF to R mount simply because of the price. I think meany canon people are in same boat😡.
I love the Z1.8s . For a while I have been looking at the Panasonic S1& S1R , but they don’t have any 1.8 glass and that has kept me from seriously considering that system .
People just expect the same offerings of the G lenses. There usually was more value in their 1.4g lenses over the 1.8g's. They were built better, were better optically. But these Z lenses are razor sharp corner to corner, absent of any kind of fringing, weather sealed. Nikon can't put out a 1.4 that costs $1200 when literally the only thing you get is 1/2 a stop faster.
Hi Matt. For most of the users like myself, 1.8 is fast enough and mostly affordable and that is the whole point of these kenses. Sooner or later Sigma will go Z mount and well have access to third party lenses. For now they are saying that user base of Z cameras is not large enough for them to develop lenses, but I think they were still unable to crack the code of the Z mount.
My sense is the Z user bases is in the 10’s of 1000’s. Globally. But if I was Sigma I would be waiting to see if Nikon open the mount. And for C19 to abate. It is a difficult time to start a new lens line. And due to the mount being the widest and shallowest, perhaps that makes some potential lens designs more exotic...
@@MattIrwinPhotography Honesty don't think Nikon will open Z mount any time soon. But you are right, current situation with c19 and size of the mount are also challenging. Well nevertheless f-mount art series works perfectly with adapter, so we can wait a bit longer for native z versions. Cheers Matt!!!
No need to open the spec, Nikon never published it for F mount either. 7 brands that I can think of have Z mount lenses right now, manual focus, and all very reasonable like a 50 0.95 MF for $699 or some ultrawide angle for $350. The Z cameras are selling better than you might think. Sales numbers are seldom discussed, everyone "knows" Sony is #1....except they are not. Canon has twice the sales of Sony and in January 2020, Nikon returned to second place after introducing the Z50 which is a major seller for them. Sony sales have been flat and slightly declining back into 3rd place starting at the beginning of 2020. RUclips is NOT the entire world. In fact, among those who depend on their cameras for their art and income, Nikon and Canon are FAR ahead of Sony. Look at major sporting events or news photojournalists, or fine art galleries. The annual photo awards are dominated by Nikon and Canon less and Sony almost not represented at all. RUclips gurus are not the world of photography but newcomers are convinced that Sony owns photography because of eye focus, the only feature they hand their hat on. First off, few pros would want to give up control of focal plane selection to a camera which has no idea of the intent of the image is. That is a feature hyped on RUclips to the exclusion of everything else that is much more important to people who depend on their gear for their art and income. There are much more important traits but are never mentioned by the influencers because they are not advantages of Sony, and because they probably don't understand what priorities ought to be. No one I challenge for any trait better covered by Sony than Nikon or Canon and no one can think of anything, other than Sony is #1...except they aren't. I live in a tourist destination city that gets 9-12 million visitors from May to October all but this year and most bring a camera. Being in the tourism field myself and in the morning greet thousands of visitors arriving by cruise ship. I see more Nikon cameras than any other interchangeable lens cameras, and last summer saw a lot of people with Z mount, far more common than Sony a7 series. I conduct photo workshops and walking tours for those interested(our main business is 2-3 day intense cultural and history tours) early in the morning and see Dx Nikons the most but next is D850 then Z6 more than a7 or EOS R. Sony might be selling more but where are they. I have dozens of pro and active amateur friends here who have significant investment in cameras/lenses and D750, D8x0, and Canon 5Dx are the most common bodies and only two have Sony a7x series and at least 10 have Z6 or 7. Canon is popular here, and the wedding pros primarily use the 5D2 and 3 with the D750 and D8x0 being almost as popular and in the mirrorless, Z cameras are better represented than Sony but if you watch RUclips it would give the impression that only Sony sells. The lower end cameras sell but a7 are not moving off the shelves. Only in the last year, Fuji became visible with those disembarking from ships. The main reason Canon is so popular here is that they are a lot cheaper than Nikon costing the same here as in the US, the pricing of Nikon is more distorted in some markets. For example, my Z6 cost $3000 when it can be found in the US for $1800. RUclips is not the real world particularly outside the US. Sony has a much more aggressive marking plan, spend far more on promotion than the other brands, and part of that us direct payments to influences. When channels which blasted the Z cameras before they even saw one, it was obvious it was very important to kill interest in it by the same influencers who earn millions of dollars by pushing sales. Notice the most influential channels are not by photographers but youtube personalities, some have over a million subs. When they all blasted the Z cameras the same day with the same complaints, over distorted reasons, months before the first camera was in the hands of users, it was not by accident. They had a strong profit motive to shut down sales before the Z cameras sparked an interest. For example, the single card slot was drummed up by all as the epic failure and yet not one of them mentioned slots are not created equal, XQD was far more reliable than SD but never mentioned there was a distinct advantage as the pro solution by 1 single XQD over 2, 3 or even 5 SD cards. That they all picked that as the target using the identical language, is no accident. It cost Nikon a lot in lost sales. Sales grew however slowly, among people who actually take photos as a serious hobby or professionally, the word has gotten out but still stunted by the RUclips gurus. Maybe Nikon is foolish for not lavishing millions on key influencers, but as with everything, they are not slick in the promotion and they stick to what they know, optics and cameras, and leave the hype to the entertainment-based companies.
Except for the 20, I already have the Z 35, 50 and 85 1.8s. This lenses makes you addicted to shoot with them. My most liked portrait on IG is kinda snapshot with the 50
That is such a good point Roland, there is a pleasure with how easy they are. I totally agree, it is a hard feeling to describe, I need to try and make a video about it .... Cheers Matt
Apparently, one of those companies who pull things apart and dissect them had concerns over the Canon RF 70-200mm lens until they pulled it apart. Then they said, we have no concerns with the weather-sealing of this lens, it's construction is a work of art! It's meant to have extra weather-sealing internally to make this external zoom design truly weather-sealed. I can honestly say I've never had an issue with an externally zooming lens in my life. I am like you and couldn't really care less if a lens is 1.8 or 1.2. For some, it does matter. Those people are not criticising the image quality of the Nikon lenses, it's superb, they're criticising the lack of options for those who actually do want those options. All this blah blah blah about the large diameter lens mount and then they don't even offer what this lens mount was meant to be so good at. That is where the criticism is aimed. Your point about the price of lenses and moving across gradually and affordably is brilliant and very logical. You're a professional, the 1.2 fanboys are often posers.
No bias, as a photographer of any creed, I would say the same about any lenses which extends. There is risk. I made the same point about a new Z Nikon lens in the last 6 or so months. I don't like or think lenses that extend are a good idea. Period. They are more at risk for toughness and sealing. I am happy to read the report about sealing being hardened due to the inherent risk of this style of design. I wonder if this lens is rained on, then closed and dropped in a bag for a few days ... what happens ...? Love to see that. Of even more concern to me of all these types of lenses is impact strength. EG - Camera over each shoulder, rushing around an event, wedding, concert, commercial shoot, Canon 70-200 is in extended mode, swap bodies to the 20mm for a quick wide ... spin around and whack the extended lens on something hard ... this seems like the prime time for highly calibrated glass to be under pressure. So I would love to have a link, and read, hear or watch, how this lens has been hardened for impacts during extension. Because an 'on the run' working photog, sometimes bangs up their gear. My 70-200 has taken a few hits, totally fine ... send me a link about this, and I am happy to release a video extolling Canon's excellence in mitigating impact damage. As I see this as an advancement in lens tech worthy of a shout. Just like my shoutout about the R5 (8K). I have had two extruding zooms damaged this way. I did not say this video was a complaint about lack of options. This video is saying Nikon created the line up for user financial transition reasons. To make it cheaper for people to buy the lenses. To be blunt, Canon to begin with ,only supplied glass for the more wealthy photographers, that limits options for the less wealthy. Both decided to limit at different ends of the spectrum. I hope you can see that. For example 'OMG I want a native 50mm prime for my Canon R but they only have a 1.2 and I can't afford it' ... that is limiting. My conjecture, that those who complain there is no Z 1.2 glass, are largely (mostly, like 90%) NOT Nikon users. But others looking for a crack in Nikon's armour they can wedge. BLAH BLAH BLAH, Coolox, the 1.8's are that good because of the mount. The mount is showing what it can do, but everybody thinks the only way to show what can do is a 1.2. Nope it is also shown in the 24-70 F4 etc. You are simply falling into the same trap everybody else is. 'No 50mm 1.2, well Nikon are giving us squat.' The Nikon NOCT, showed what it can do, but Nikon 'failed' there too ... seriously world ...? I am a working photog, All I wanted to know is can I trust the Z system, and for a small investment I have a range of glass, showing me I can completely trust the system ... I have 100% faith in this mount and glass, and it can only get better if we start at the 'low bar' of 1.8 ...
I recall NASA didn’t foresee any problems with their environmental sealing either; even down to the hours before the Challenger launched. You cant ignore the physics!
You are right on. Those f/1,4 and f/1,2 lenses, no matter who makes them, are undisputed fine optics. But I think their value is being overestimated largely because of nostalgia and, let's admit it, some backward thinking. In a world of optical viewfinders, they were very useful for getting critical manual focus and they transmitted more light, hence the were considered for «pros». Of course if you wanted edge sharpness they needed to be stopped down when you took the shot. All this is pointless when you have the optical performance of current S series primes, which I am comfortable shooting wide open when I need to. For the oft time when I really want wafer-thin DOF I'll just switch to a longer focal length for now. For my photography, I use both the 50 and the 85 S series, and I'm happy to cover the rest wirh zooms. I am, however, waiting on Nikon to make a 105 or 135 S Series prime. And then a 180. That would get my attention.
Waiting is the operative word. Their lens rollout is embarrassing. You are right on about f1.4 and optical finders. Let’s face it. The mystique about the 50mm f1.4 was born in the days of Tri X. I shoot harness racing at night at 6400iso, a speed considered science fiction in the days of the Nikon F. If Nikon had released the Z series with a native trinity of lenses and dual SD slots they might be alive in 5 years.
One needs only to look an any half decent shot from the 50 1.8 and I think it becomes evident. Jaw dropping quality in a reasonably light, compact package that only costs $600. For me, stuff like Canon’s 50 1.2 and 28-70 f2 are amazing, but so expensive that I would never actually buy them. Nikon may be putting out Z lenses at a somewhat slower pace, but they’re almost all lenses I’d actually buy (besides the Noct of course, but I might even rent that).
Yeah totally true, but as a lens gets heavier and longer, it is even more prone to knocks ... when you are on the move with two camera bodies over your shoulders, you just don't want to think about a lens sticking out 10-12 cm's. The 24-70's are more like 2-4cm's. The lens is simply more at risk of impact, dust and moisture ... I would be nervous. Cheers Matt
Love your vid's , Matt! I too am making that journey over to mirrorless. I have two Z6's and 4 of the lenses - soon to be 5 as soon as the 70-200 lands. So, do you think they will ever introduce a 15,16, or 17mm prime?
The "affordable" 1.8 lenses would be a reason for me to buy the Z6. Shame that they aren't a bit more compact. Do you believe that we will see more Z DX lenses in the near future? Roadmap doesn't look that promising ...
Have you used the 35 1.8 on the Z50? Thinking of getting that one to replace my old Sigma 1.4 from 2008 (honestly my favorite lens I've used personally). That thing might as well have been glued to my D90. Always good to see you Matt.
Yep sure have used it on the Z50 a lot. Of course it becomes a 50mm 35mm eqv. so I end up with a 50mm on the Z50 and I can use my 50mm on the Z6. Do 50mm for video shots. Cheers Sir : )
I’ve used the DX 35mm 1.8G on the Z50, it works totally fine. I don’t use it in favor of the Z 16-50DX because the focusing motor is much quieter for video, and the FTZ adapter is a bit wonky on the little Z50.
The Canon rf 70-200 is a superb lens and, for me , as a working wedding photographer, they got the design right. It’s amazing the first time you put it in your bag and it takes up the same space as a 24-70 you appreciate the design. As for the telescoping design, I think lens rentals put that old adage to bed when they took the lens apart and saw the superb build quality. I current;y run both canon rf and Nikon systems and the rf 70-200 is every bit as well made as my Nikon 70-200 f2.8 FL. Canon will be releasing new 1.8’s and Nikon will no doubt release f1.2’s, they have just gone about it in different ways. People can try and justify Nikon’s reasoning all they want but the proof that Canon got their strategy right will be when Nikon release their flagship primes and all these f1.8’s get dumped, and the photographers then change their stories and start justifying these new f1.2 lenses.
Matt Irwin is not a wedding photographer, he works in the dirt and mud, in snow storm and rain, in sand storms and ocean storms, in jungles and mountains.
Hi Matt, thanks for another great video! I'm using the 24, 50 and 85 primes and they perform so much better than my F-mount versions... I have a question, I know it's a bit out of topic, but I have a wide angle DX f-mount lens (12 to 24 mm zoom) that I can mount with the FTZ adapter on my Z6 and I would like to use it in FX size (I can do it on my D850, I don't mind the dark circle I get, on the contrary, I think it gives a nice effect) , but can't find a way on my Z6 to get this, it automatically changes my setting to DX. Any idea how I could get the same result as on my D850 ? Many thanks !!!
I am a Canon shooter , I am an enthusiast not a pro . There is absolutely no way I could conceivably switch to Canon mirrorless , baring a major lottery win .
Yeah Simon, it certainly makes it harder. I was interested in picking up a Canon R body here on sale, but then there are the lenses ... They will get their 1.8's out over the next few years I suppose, and then Nikon and Canon will have similar lineups as they do in the DSLR space. Cheers Matt
I have the same Z lenses as you and agree there great. But rather than F1.8 and also F1.2. I would rather they had only specialized in F1.4 alone. And there would have been less delays and waiting as well as not needing to double up on focal lengths. The other consideration is the F1.2 glass like the 50mm and 85mm S lenses coming soon from Nikon, will be heavy as hell and miserable to carry around all day, If affordability was a concern Nikon users could still use the F mount glass as a cheaper option. And then what I have to sell the F1.8S to afford the F1.2? and loose the lighter weight advantage. Is the difference from F1.4 so much with a F1.2 I doubt it. In reality the 85mm F1.2 will have a look almost identical to the currant F105mm F1.4E lens due to it`s longer focal length, So really I not sure I see the point. And as for edge to edge sharpness that`s not really a thing for Portrait lenses anyway as you are blurring out the surrounding background on purpose anyway.
Sure Mark, but as I said, the main reason was cost. And Nikon would have charged more for 1.4 lenses. Further my conjecture is 1.2's are now easier to create on the newer mirrorless mounts, thus I don't think we will see native 1.4's. So instead of 1.8 and 1.4 being the option with say 'F' mount. The new paradigm is 1.8 and 1.2 which is a better separation of classes. Indeed for portraiture edge sharpness may not be a thing for some, personally I use these lenses wide open for all sorts, including land scapes. Cheers Matt
@@MattIrwinPhotography Possibly Sigma and or Tamron will release a line on F1.4 for Z mount shortly if so cost / / versatility / quality, might be a better option for Z mount.
@@MarkHummerNikonZ9 It will be interesting to see how long it takes third party manufacturers to bring out Z Mount lenses. Sigma, Tamron etc have to reverse engineer the lenses unless Nikon shares technical data with them. It might take longer than you think. Tamron is busy producing E Mount lenses for Sony, their biggest shareholder. Sigma meanwhile is trying to flesh out the lens range of the L Mount Alliance.
When I was replacing my Nikon 850 I was tempted to go 'Sony' but the guys in the camera store in Derby (who I know & trusted) convinced me about the Z system. They all had Zs themselves! I have never regretted getting into the Zs they are fantastic. I love the system, it truly is wonderful. I always loved Nikon SLRs, this Z system is just an amazing leap forward. The cameras are great and the lens line up is excellent. Primes are wonderful and the 24-85 f2.8 zoom is stunning for weekends away if you have to travel light. I'm with you 100% of the way. Great channel! You talk real-world common sense.
Great points Matt! Is the canon RF 50 1.2 better than the Nikon z 50 1.8 sure, but is it $1700 better....? Btw don’t take this the wrong way but you remind me of Mr Bean 😀. -cheers keep up the great work
Lenin - your question is answered on DXOMark, if your interested. If not, then spoiler alert, their answer is a clear NO; the 50 1.8 S out performs across the board and is quarter the price.
Seems to be a issue for 85mm lenses across the board anyway. Focusing closer than 0.8 ft is probably going to be reserved for macro lenses at telephoto lengths.
6:15 this is a mistake, you definitely can and should compare to some of the sony lenses. The Sony 24mm F1,4 is smaller and lighter than the Nikon 24 S. The aperture is also larger than Nikon S, and the optics are most definitely superior to the Nikon S. So while the 50mm S and 85mm S are both 100% homeruns, the same can't be said about the 24mm. Even the 20mm S is struggling against its smaller counterpart from E-mount.
Good argument except that no one is running towards Nikon Z toy cameras (and it ain't because of no Corona). I used to be a Nikon guy but I will not tolerate the non competitive Z toy camera offerings. I like your break down of why they are deciding to go with the 1.8s.
Hi Steve ... not sure what you are shooting now, but the Z's are not toys, and I have spoken to thousands of people on this channel who have Z's or are thinking of purchasing. : ) Cheers Matt
@@MattIrwinPhotography Oh, I'd say the 50 and 28-70 f/2.8 are quite nice. The 35 and 20 are also pretty nice but have their flaws. The 24 and wide f/4 zoom are a "snooze" to me and don't live up to the potential of the mount. I'd also say that 24-70 f/4 is a nice lens ONLY with in-camera corrections, which to me is more of a triumph of software than it is a marvel of optical engineering. I haven't used the 85 but have heard it described as optically excellent without being special. Anyway, 5/8 is great IMO, certainly more successful than Sony's early lenses, but they aren't all on the next level, especially absent corrective software.
The more I watch you the more I like your thought process and logical explanations. And always good to see you
I appreciate that Blythe. : ) Cheers Matt
What I enjoy about Matt is there is no argument about his argument. Common sense photographer. Let’s face it, when did you last see the fro, a granger, or the knobrots surrounded by their imagery.
My carry everywhere favourite set up is the Z6 with 50/1.8S attached. For the price I doubt there is any better mirrorless combination available. It feels, looks and performs to perfection
Justin, I agree that lens is a phenomenon. And for the price. It is a great combo. Cheers Matt
Justin, I just checked DXOmark, knowing the Z 50 1.8S was up there and rated; alongside the 4x the price RF 50 1.2L USM offering. How satisfied you must be knowing for the price of RF lens you can purchase a complete second copy of your favourite set up. For what its worth, RF scored 38 which is a near Excellent score according to DXO; while the Z scored 44 at a quarter of the price.
What was it that Matt was just saying on this video?
Great to see someone talking a bit of sense.
Do you have any Z prime action yet John? And thank you. Cheers Matt
Well said John
@@MattIrwinPhotography Not yet. More than happy, at present, with my D500 and D610.
Sony A7III to Nikon Z6, and very happy. I love it!
What are you liking most Vaentí about the shift? Cheers Matt
@@MattIrwinPhotography Nikon colors are spectacular!
Totally agree with you Matt. I have a Z6 that I purchased 4 months ago and I finally bought my first 50mm 1.8 S 2 days ago. Amazingly sharp!!! The transition will be slow from F-mount to Z bc of cost of course. I'm just an amateur that loves taking pics as a hobby so I making very little money if any. So with that said this video was spot on. Thanks!
I am excited to see the future quality of the Z glass as they release. I have the 50mm 1.8 F Mount I can use on my Z50 but I hear that the 50mm 1.8S Z Mount is something special and different on a whole new level. I cant wait to try it one day as well as the huge increase that the 1.2S lenses will be. One day, but in the meantime, I am having a blast and perfecting my craft daily. The Nikon Z50 is absolutely a wonderful creature and has blown my expectations out of the water even. Loving it everyday even more. Thank you for another great video my brother. Looks like it is beautiful in your area as well as mine. This summer will be fantastic, I have a good feeling, especially with things starting to turn around in the world scene again. I hope you are well. See you soon!
As a Z7 shooter, I love your rationales and lens unrolling thought process. The 1.8 primes (have the 85) and the 2.8 zooms (have the 24-70) are just barely in my price range, still saving up for the 70-200. I wouldn't want or need anything more expensive at this time, really impressed with the way Nikon has handled this line.
Yeah, certainly makes sense to me, mortals can afford some fine glass ... that has to be good ... : )
Again, always great to hear your insights! Thank you!
While it's great for reviewers to bash this or that when they get lenses for free or rental for a month. It's great to hear a working professional discussing real world budget. If I buy "x" I'm not buying "y".... because $$$$.
Sean Barrett Photography yes, very easy when money appears to be no object to say the $10,000 plus exotics are the way to go. I live in the land of mortgages and bills so everything I buy has to be saved for
Totally gents, every purchase has to be thought about and justified ... Cheers Matt
I agree Sean, the expenses incurred to send the fro and knobrots (+many others) to Hawaii for the R/RF launch, secured the narrative for this new system. Nikon launched first and took all heat (unfairly in most circumstances) that was not even mentioned about the R/RF, but at least Nikon put it out there with the upgrade potential. Has any R/RF owner out there received a free firmware upgrade that provides seamless transition to CF Express yet, or are they still crippled with a single slot 2000’s era unreliable memory card technology, a less than perfect recycled sensor and glass that cost half years mortgage payments. I don’t have an axe to grind; I don’t own any R/RF products; and can say what I like because I wasn’t jetted half-way around the world (payment) to receive the desired narrative.
I may get a Z6 in the future.
What camera are you currently creating with Robert? Cheers Matt
@@MattIrwinPhotography I have Nikon D500. I like it but that is becoming a bit too heavy to carry around. I'm 65 and want something lighter. In my younger days I carried a Pentax 67 around. That thing is a tank! I had more endurance thirty years ago.
@@robertvarner9519 Not lighter with my Z7 with the Nikon 200-500 5.6, 71 :)
Good for you - got a Z6 on order and it will be here next week! Can't wait... Oh, reading the refernce manual - it's 500+ pages - this camera practically makes toast...
Z6 is my go to camera. I did a portrait shoot of my family this weekend using my D850; had to spend 30 minutes remembering how to use it! I’m blaming Lockdown.
Well said mate, I’ve been saying that to all the Canon and Sony die hard fans from the moment Nikon released the f1.8s. To me it was obvious why Nikon took those steps, to some people I guess it wasn’t so obvious 😂... I think Nikon did a brilliant job doing it this way as it helped me transition f to z easily 👍
Exactly Zak. Did not need to sell a kidney! :)
Probably will sell a kidney after the 1.2s are out 🤣
I had quite an argument about that with my brother who is a die hard Sony shooter when I bought into the Z system. He was very convinced that his Sony an especially his Zeiss Batis lenses were way superior to the 1.8s and the 24-70f4. Well I let him have a go with my Z6 and had a really hard time of getting my camera back 😂
I would get along very well indeed, with an EOS R and an adaptor. Canon has several options, all make EF lenses better on RF bodies.
Maybe I'd buy an RF 24-105, maybe not. Probably, I'd get the RF 35mm.
On paper, the Nikon Nikon system would suit me better, but I have a lot of lenses for Canon,
OneEyedPhotographer Great opportunity to ditch your crippled system and be very much welcomed to the Nikon Z world. Your only issue will be kicking yourself for not doing so a long while ago.
Great video 🎉
Really Enjoy Your Videos and the Knowledge You Are Sharing, Thank You!
I appreciate that RJ. What system are you currently creating with? Cheers Matt
Matt Irwin Photography Well Right now using an older Nikon DX40 and a Canon Vixia legacy Video Camera, however I think I am ready to go to the Nikon Z50 with a couple kit lenses and see if I can get down to one Camera for both recording of Mass and my photos. I am looking to get back to photography so I figured it was a good place to start. I am “rediscovering” how much I truly enjoy it.
I'm so happy the 1.8s are so good. As a photographer on a budget, I'm really glad Nikon made this decision.
Yeah if you ever go down this path, a few Z 1.8 primes will show you how good they are ...
Spot on. My thoughts exactly. I was extremely impressed by Nikons strategy to release 1.8s first.
Cheers GF, are you working with a Z at the moment? Cheers Matt
Matt Irwin Photography sure am. switched to the Nikon Z6 from the Sony A6400. The affordability of the Z glass was a big factor when comparing against Canon, which as you mentioned was a no brainer considering Nikon’s 1.8 primes are a perfect segue into the Z system without breaking the bank.
Awesome video mate, content was spot-on. You spoke my mind succinctly.
Finally got my Z7 haven't received the 50 1.8 yet but have the native 24-70 f4 and I have to say its surprisingly heavy and well built and the camera itself is a ripper took it out in the rain this morning didn't miss a beat. Definitely happy with my decision to stay loyal. One thing I love about Nikon is that it really is a photographers system, everything is built in. Time-lapse, focus stacking, all the bracketing modes, T mode you name it, it has it built in.
I couldnt justify the purchase of a new set of primes for z mount. Been falling in love with vintage manual focus primes. Beautiful blooms on those.
Nice vid Matt. Once again, the biggest and best thing Nikon did when they created Z was also creating the mount that allows all of this optical magic to occur. For the great majority of us, just owning several primes is a luxury, and as you point out, starting at 1.8 just widens the purchasing base. Oh - I got a response from Nikon regarding image circle, but it was clearly a mis-informed (or intentionally obtuse) answer. I am still trying. This could be checked manually if you want to do so. Rig the lens off-camera on a bench. Place a piece of translucent paper (so measurement can be made on the backside of the paper) behind the lens at the same distance behind the lens the camera sensor normally would be. Maybe use a piece of vellum mounted to a photo mat to give it some rigidity. Now shine a light in front of the lens if it is not already facing a light source. You should now have an image circle projected on the piece of paper, and the diameter can be measured directly on the backside without bumping the lens.
Excellent and on point. There is something to be said for having top tech in your line of equipment (f/1.2, f/0.95, etc). There is also something to be said for getting the job done within budget. I agree and think this is brilliant on Nikon's part. I only own a couple of Z-mount lenses and am in no rush to replace my f-mount lenses, although I've not done any comparison test. LOL, maybe I'm afraid to. I enjoyed your video. Thanks so much for the commentary.
No rush Clifford, if you having fun, and creating that is all that matters : ). Cheers Matt
Hey Clifford, check out Ricci Talks (RUclips) for your Z to F mount lens comparisons then your fears will evaporate.
I bought my Z7 this year at January the 7th with the 24-70 kit lens. Then I started to watch your videos. Today I also own the 35 mm, the 50 mm and the wonderful 85 mm of the f1.8 Z primes. 😜 I‘m totally happy with these three! I never would have thought that I will built up my Z system so fast.
Thanks for these videos. I'm a pro having used Canon for 15yrs, I decided to slide over to Nikon to get a 45+mp mirrorless camera, future proof files sizes for work, simply because I couldn't afford to change all of my lenses and two bodies to the more expensive R5 and it's limited and very expensive lenses. I've already got two of the trinity lenses and some lovely, affordable primes.
Another great video Matt. As I’ve said in previous comments, I love the Z6 and it’s lenses. As a first venture into video, I think Nikon have nailed it. I use mine (20mm, 50mm, 85mm, 24-70mm f/2.8) on a DJI Ronin S gimbal and any bigger would compromise the balance significantly. Keep up the great content!
Clear as a blue sky to me as well!
Very good Matt. Thanks...
Cheers Jose. Do you have any z glass ? Matt
Hello Matt. I have used nikon equipment since 1995.
I currently have nikon d750 and several f system lenses (50mm 1.8g, 16-35mm f4 vr, 70-200mm 2.8 vr II). Thanks.
Very well said and understandable! Although would love to see f1.4 versions of all lens versions as well! Realistically, F mount f1.4 lenses have pitiful contrast and sharpness when open!
Jeremy Parr that was great imfo Its wonderful to see Nikon has come up with top prime lenses good on them
Yeah the are better than most of my F primes ... and I very happy to use them professionally. Cheers Matt
Another great video, as usual
Glad you enjoyed it Ronald. Cheers Matt
Makes perfect sense, Matt! I plan to transition from my already good Fujifilm X-System up to the Nikon Z7, as I can't wait to see how much more image sharpness and detail I will get in 24" x 26" prints from that larger/higher res sensor plus the stellar Nikkor S lenses such as the 14-30 f/4! As for folks talking about 1.2 lenses over 1.8, for my style og photography (landscape and product), that difference is totally meaningless, as I rarely shoot wide open. My only slight concern about NIkon going the "affordable" route with these Nikkor S lenses, is not optical quality, but Build quality (plastic instead of metal, etc.). I do however, love the fact that they have o-rings for some weather-sealing! Thanks as always, Matt, for your very informative videos!
Steve TQP you’re going the wrong way trust me
Brilliant video thanks 👍🏻
I've got no primes yet. I hope to have a 50 1.8 in the next 3 or 4 months. If they were 1.2 I'd be looking at getting it in the next year or two. 1.8 is the way to go.
They really are that good : ) ... the 1.8's Cheers Matt
the 50mm 1.2 is on their roadmap for the end of this year or next.
www.nikonusa.com/en/nikon-products/camera-lenses/mirrorless-lenses/overview.page
Not sure if that applies to your region, but in Europe the 50mm 1.8 is currently on discount for around 400€.
I am sticking with my D850 and I love my Sigma Art lenses 14-85-& 105 is the sharpest Lens I have ever owned ...i also have the Nikon 200-500mm, 24 1/4 & 55 Zeiss otus that I bought before the sigma 50 art came out just sold my 200mm f/2 lens got the same amount I paid for it 11 years ago
Perfect George, Sigma and Zeiss make world renowned lenses. And if you ever do go Z they will work flawlessly via the FTZ. Cheers Matt
@@MattIrwinPhotography i hope they make a D860 I dont want a electronic viewFinder
@@grosema That is a good combination but for those who shoot in darker scenes, the EVF is a major improvement and the Z version is the best on the market. I have two ART primes that were favorite lenses on my D850 and D800. They are very sharp in the center, the 50 1.4 ART is about as sharp in the center as the 1.8 S but clearly, the S lenses remain great all the way to the corners which none of the F mount primes by Nikon or Sigma can hope to match. For color, the utter absence of CA, focusing speed, weight, size, and cost, the S lenses of the same FL outshine them. In fact the 24-70 2.8 S compares very favorable to the best primes, beats the F mounts in most cases, and best of all, is just as sharp wide open as stopped down. We all were so used to needing to stop down for critical shots for best color and resolving power and to get away from color fringing. But no more, the S lenses at 1.8 are as sharp as F mount at f/4 or 5.6 in the center but in the corners there is no way to make the F lenses high performance in the corners. Combining the great EVF with the S lenses is an irresistible combination that has my beloved D850 and large investment in top F mount lenses, sit on the shelf.
@@MattIrwinPhotography I think over time I will move over to the Z line I always like to sell the camera I have in order to Purchase the new one,( i dont make any Money from my Photo's) I know i won't have any trouble selling the 850 but the lenses are a tough sell and I am going to have to take a Huge loss on the Zeiss otus last I looked it cost 6400,00 with tax over here in Canada I will be Lucky to get 3000 for it..... it makes me sick with all the Money I will loose selling my Lenses ..... have a Look around on my website at pbase.com /grosema ..... just remove the space between com -> /
@@grosema I was sceptical to the electronic viewfinder and wanted to continue with a optical viewfinder all day long until I got a great deal to buy a Nikon Z6 camera. Since then I just could not continue with those thoughts. The electronic viewfinder is so damn good. Going back to optical it feels so dark and I cant see nothing. Now I always see the final picture I will make before pressing the shutter button. Sadly it also means I do not need as much edit on my computer because I love editing my pictures.
Another great review Matt and your right there are so many people saying the z lenses are horrible cheep build quality and it's obvious they don't use the system and like putting down what they don't have.
Well said cheers.🙂
When I first used the 50mm my brain almost popped, it was so good it did not make sense ....
Hi Matt; another thought provoking video. I was interested to hear your view on the RF 70-200mm lens, particularly about its stubby / extending profile. What’s missing from the arguments for this lens IMO is professional level weather/environment sealing. The laws of physics still apply so I feel sure what ever methods are deployed towards environment sealing, there remains a damn great gap around the lens barrel which will fail at some stage, and the more its used, the quicker it will fail. I too am waiting for Z-mount 70-200 f/2.8 lens to come into stock at my supplier here in the UK; and am so pleased NIkon designed this lens without crippling its longevity of use.
I shoot Sony but I’m strongly thinking of getting a Nikon for Street as I use Sony for my pro work and I just want to have fun. Which lens would you recommend for street to go with the Z6. I want small and stealth! Great channel!
Love your thought processes Matt. I can't wait for the f1.2s to arrive as it may mean some f1.8s become available on the 2nd hand market. Also waiting patiently 🙏🤞for Sigma or Tamron to enter the Z market. In the mean time, I'm still picking up some very affordable quality F glass to use with my FTZ adapter 😎
It is soooo good to hear a realistic man!!
I see no use for anything faster than 1.8 anyway..you said it right, money is definitely an issue...it kills me to listen to people who have the f1.2's and talk about how great they are stopped down to f2.8...lol
That is a good point, and I confidently use these lenses at 1.8, fearlessly ...
Totally agree, we do not even have to stop down for a good useable image with the z-mount lenses!!
For sure Thanos, for an awesome useable image in most cases :) Cheers Matt
Remember how compact & light lenses from the manual focussing film era were? I like my Nikon F mount 85mm f1.8, I really like my old old Minolta 35mmf1.8 on my Sony A7s.I understand 1.2,1.4 creates effects but how often are they used & usually there has been a payoff optically, financially & space in your bag. The issues of weight & compactness is one of the reasons for mirrorless systems & I question if one would like to carry around a large 85mm f1.2 auto focus lens for any length of time from any brand.Travelling light seems to get forgotten.
Yep great points sir. : )
You are so right, and fortunately Nikon provided a great travel lens from the get-go, the 24-70 f/4. I’ve taken my Z6, 24-70 f/4 and FtZ adaptor twice now to Florida for a bit of wildlife shooting. By buddy has longer reach glass (300mm) that I mount on the FtZ, but when you can walk up to a Sandhill Crane on a golf course and capture a picture with Z6/24-70 @f/4, it makes it worthwhile.
Matt, I'm interested to know when it was you decided to transition across to mirrorless from DSLR and what was your primary reason?
Hmm, well I have not fully. I still run 2 x D850 with about 12 F native lenses. As a commercial photographer I can justify running the two systems. But anytime I can use the Z system I do. And as a hybrid it is far better. Great idea for a video : )
I like the Z system for so many reasons, size, weight, optics, focus, ergo's, constant live view (EVF), in the fast paced, run and gun world we live in, it just really meets my needs. And there is more ... I'll make a vid about it :) Cheers Matt this could be worth a watch ... ruclips.net/video/kIgNHHvF2ak/видео.html D850 vs Z7 about 9 months old now.
@@MattIrwinPhotography Thanks Matt, I've seen the vid you listed above, actually seen pretty much all of your vids. Still thinking about jumping from my DSLR (D810) to the Z8/9, obviously will be better placed to make that decision when they're released.
@@grantking4681 At this stage I would totally wait for the next announcements, I think it will be worth it. : ) Cheers Matt
Thank you Matt, unfortunately I only have the 24-70 f4 native for my Z6 and I miss the autofocus for my D lenses but as time goes by I might get some S primes.
Congrats to your well deserved succses with your channel
//Pär.
Affordability is a good thought for consumers these days, especially right now. I've been debating a switch to Sony for the last few months, but the lens options I'd want cost an arm and a leg compared to what I can get the Nikon equivalents for.
Your the best Aussie in England. Well on my iPad anyway , great vid Matt, I switched from Canon (17 yrs ) to the Z7 system and I love it , my camera bag is so much lighter now, and like you say bang for buck , BARGAIN. See Ya Canon 👋👋 PS , I’m 66 so light is good 😂
This was an interesting one.
Are you on Z mount yet afromalone? Cheers Matt
@@MattIrwinPhotography Not yet. I'm using an old Fujifilm S5 Pro and wondering whether or not to upgrade to the Z6 or the Fujifilm XT4. The Z6 has a nicer body/grip but the fujifilm system is pretty good and the lens selection/prices are pretty good too.
Fully agree Nikon has produced what you need and not what you think you need.Why overpay, why have the extra weight, why 1.2 or 1.4? Why not get exactly what is required. You can adjust the ISO for the stop difference big deal 800 or 1600. and you had better make sure what you want is in focus. It does not need to be built like a tank and if you take care of your equipment. Nikon's only real failure is one card slot and no vertical battery grip. Correct that and we are back in business. You need to focus on what Nikon has that no other company does PF lenses, 300F4 ,500F5.6 and soon to be 600 5.6. Have the first two once you have used them it will change the way you shoot wildlife and some landscapes. AND DO NOT FORGET IF NIKON CAN PLACE A 1.7 MED FORMAT SENSOR IN THE Z LINE CAMERA 100MP WE ARE MORE THAN IN BUSINESS.
Excellent take on the Canon 70-200 2.8 lens. Did not even know that. Having no IF makes it look very cheap.
in your point of view what is the best lens for street photographic (Z6 ) Z lenses ??
Hi Avner, that is a difficult question. If you are starting off and are on a budget, I would suggest a 24-70. Both the f2.8 and f4 are great native Z lenses. If you have more budget, and want to carry more lenses around. The 20mm, 50mm and 85mm would be a great set to get you started. What is your budget? Cheers matt PS the soon to arrive 24-200 if you don't mind the F stops, is also a great all round lens.
@@MattIrwinPhotography Dear Matt, i'm not pro and not making money and not planing to make money from photography, i'm a CIO in Shipping company in few month retiring and year ago decided to re new my teenager hobby taking photos, and found a new and adventure word. i have Samyang 14 (not bad..), Z 24-70 F/4, Z 50 F/1.8 and LOAWA 100 for Macro (and portrait). waiting to 24-200 or 70-200 the caring weight is more important for taking decisions (i am not young and strong as used to be). hope i cleared my status. help please ..
Hi.. I have a nikon D4s ,D700 and D800 should I sell them all and buy a Z6? I could probably get z6 with a f4 zoom and adapter if I sell these... is it worth it or not??
Nikon is smart because they has made the right choice between size and high quality .....
Cheers Jess
I think so Jess, I would love to know how many of these primes they have shipped. Cheers matt
When I was deciding between the Canon r6 and the Nikon z6ii, the Nikon lens pallet appealed to me better. The cost of the 1.8 from Nikon were much more sympathetic to a non-professional, non-dentist/stockbroker/international arms dealer than Canon's currently available 1.2 options. Size and weight of the respective offerings were less an issue as there is no point complaining about the weight of a lens I will never buy because I can't justify its price for a hobby. Add to that my hope that Nikon will eventually make z-mount versions of the PF lenses whereas Canon seems to have chosen the f11 option to offer long reach in smaller, more affordable packages, and in the end I ended up in the Nikon camp. To each his or her own, but if Nikon upgrades their AF tracking in a future firmware upgrade to the same degree they have the eye-AF, the decision to go Nikon will be erase the last little bit of buyers remorse I occasionally still have when I miss a BIF and wonder if the Canon would have helped me nail it.
Am interested in seeing a 70-200 comparison when the Z starts shipping. I have the 70-200E on a D850 and for the life of me, when it comes to photographer experience/output, cannot see how this combination can be improved, it is that good, whether for fitness shoots or event/stage shoots. I'm really looking forward to the Z release, and I have total faith Nikon will have made improvements, but perceptively? For clients?
For sure Rob, the MTF's say the Z is even better, but does it matter. Maybe not ... there other things like minimum focus, but as I have said I also may take a while to upgrade from the FL ED ... just because it works so well ... Cheers matt
Hey Matt !! Where did you buy this jacket ? I love it.
I have the Nikon Z50 and the NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.8 S Lens, love the combination.
Hi Matt, thanks for bringing a real-world perspective rather than a RUclips influencer view. I'm an amateur who shoots with a D750, and while it's not the heaviest camera I face the issue of osteoarthritis beginning in two fingers of my right hand. That's made me think of going over to the Z system with some primes rather than zooms. At present, I've saved enough to buy a Z6 and the 20, 50, and 85 1.8 primes. Does that sound like a decent start to you? I'm a bit of a 'Jack of all trades, master of none' (or, more charitably, an all-rounder) when it comes to my photographic interests, so however much I might like a Z7 for the potential to crop if necessary I think I need the low light performance of the Z6.
I would have jumped into the Nikon Z system but I had a bad experience buying into the Sony A7 system when it first came out.
When the Z system is more mature and they bring out the Z8 or whatever - then I'll start buying into it.
For a new line, I doubt any camera line was released more mature in development than the Z bodies and lenses. They are ready for prime time and most of us who have the evolved mature D850, shoot the Z6/7 a lot more. The come out of the gate and immediately take over duties from a long evolving D8x0 series is a testament how seriously Nikon engineers took the assignment. If/when the Z8 comes out, I really do not know of what it could add to make a much more expensive camera replace the Z6/7. When the D800 came out, it was a major update over a D700/D3s and improved yet again with a D810 and finally the D850 was where the Z7 started life. The whole Z ecosystem was very carefully and wisely planned. I have been shooting the Z6 19 months and still can't think of what it needs to have to make any difference in my use and results. There are a few lenses I would like to see like a compact light tilt-shift, and maybe a 70-200 f/4 S and 105 or 135 1.8 that is as good as the 85 1.8.
@@stanspb763 I guess i'm finding it hard to move on from my D850/D500 cameras.
I'll probably look back and see the D850 the way I see the D3 and D4 now- Too lumpy to carry around.
If Nikon brings out a new tilt/shift lens then it would be nice since Nikon uses flt by wire now on its lenses to have AF etc. That would make us product photogs very happy.
The new Z lenses are great but I'm greedy - I want the 70-200mm Z lens to be f2.8.
I refuse to call the new Z lenses S mount - Nikon already has an S mount - The old rangfinder cameras had it...
Roy, I’m sorry for the time your are wasting while waiting...
awesome 👏🏻
True words!
Cheers Don.
Nice to see you too Matt, especially making sense of the clutter the way you do. Keep up the great work. Also did you get the job for Monday?
Yes, i think the same. But they will be come out with the 1.2. The Z System is brilliant.
G'day Michael. What is your goto lens at the moment? Cheers Matt
@@MattIrwinPhotography Hey, Matt I'm new in the Z System. My first lens is the 14-30 mm s for landscapes. This is in comparison to the 16-35 mm F mount lens brilliant in sharpness from edge to edge.
For my landcape images is this now my frist choice. For my event and wedding jobs i will invest in the 24-70 f 2.8 and the 70-200 f 2.8 Z lenses and some primes like you.
Look at my last landscape image at 500px with the 14-30 mm s i love this lens. Michael.Bottari 500px.
I very much agree with your sentiments. Had Nikon followed Canon and started with 1.2 lenses, I wouldn't have gone to the Z7 when I did. At the moment, I see no real reason to go with 1.2 lenses, I just don't shoot wide open very often.
hi Matt i also have all these lenses and i am absolutely amazed at how good they are. I also use the 20 and 24 1.8 on my wife's z50. this is genius. these lenses are affordable and you don't need more. my opinion. Greeting from Berlin ffk_berlin Frank - but the old 50mm 1.2 fx is my dream for this 👍🙂
Great to hear, and the F 50mm 1.2 is lovely, you should see if you can find one ... : )
A couple of things. First, the budget, for $5,000 give or take a few pennies I have a Z6, 24,35,50,85 which cover 80-85% of my photography needs. Soon I will add the 70-200 and bring that to $7,500 and cover 90-95% of my needs, I can rent the rest as necessary. That is great coverage for the money. I am not a big fan of 'subject isolation' when I am shooting most of the time so the need for 1.4, 1.2, or even 0.95 is largely eliminated. I rarely use f1.8. I bet if people went and looked at their history they'd see that they rarely use those f stops either. Bokeh is pleasing in the z mount glass and that is good enough for me. And frankly as you've said the f1.8 glass is amazingly good, way better than the f mount. Second, I dare anyone to put their $2295 camera up against the z6/50mm on photo quality and video excellence. You can't even buy the body from competitors to match it for anything close to it. And if you recall until the z6 Nikon was not a cheap date. And post Version 3.0 on the firmware... I can still hear the 'Nikon is dying' crowd as their voices disappear into the wilderness. When the Nikon Z8/Z9 ships those voices will be an afterthought.
That‘s why i have got. the 1.8 primes, and the 4.0 Zooms. On top it is the weight. For me Nikon does a Great Job.👍
Totally agree Juergen, it is a great way to start a new mount and get everybody involved. Cheers Matt
My issue was less so the fact the primes are 1.8 (which are excellent) but more so the perceived fixation on 1.8 primes (with 5 now) at the detriment of delaying 2.8 zooms, 1.2 primes, or other novel lenses (the Noct is a unicorn). Some people want to spend big money regardless of diminishing returns and they’re looking at Canon’s 1.2’s, 2.0 zoom, 2.8 trinity and realizing Nikon only has one 2.8 zoom at the moment.
For example, maybe prioritize releasing the 50 1.2 over the 50 1.8 if you plan on releasing the 24-70 as the first 2.8 trinity.
Hi Michael, I actually don't get your logic. This is more about bragging rights than practicality. Keep in mind those most likely to buy into the Z system are people who already own Nikon gear. And they probably already own a great deal of Nikon F glass. Most people are not going to worry about a 50mm 1.2 as their first purchase, if they already have a 50 1.4. I am one of those people, also with a 24 1.4 and 85 1.4. There is simply no rush.
Basically certain quarters of the photography community simply want to complain about Nikon. Those of us who are using these systems, we are happy. Honestly Canon R has no IBIS and nothing over 30MP and crippled video, that is a joke coupled with their stellar glass. It is all noise. The R5 arrives and addresses all this sometime this year. And also this year, more and more Nikon glass ...
Move on Michael, Canon have there own set of shortcomings right now ...
Couldn't have put it better myself. Exactly why I'm happy with my Z-mount lenses (which I reviewed in January). They are reasonably affordable and spectacular performers in the f/1.8 category. I own the 50mm and 85mm. I plan to buy the 20mm soon. I agree, the old F-mount 1.4s can't hold a candle to these Z-mounts, though perhaps they did give a slight edge shooting by candlelight 😀. I wonder how many people who go on about f/1.2s and how f/1.8s aren't "professional" lenses actually need that wide an aperture and have actually worked as professionals ... or are they just techno-dweebs?
Totally agreeing with you Matt. I am or was canon shooter for ten years. I can’t do transactions from EF to R mount simply because of the price. I think meany canon people are in same boat😡.
I love the Z1.8s . For a while I have been looking at the Panasonic S1& S1R , but they don’t have any 1.8 glass and that has kept me from seriously considering that system .
Intersting J, what do they have? Cheers Matt
@@MattIrwinPhotography Well they are part of the L mount alliance so they have access to Leica , Sigma , and of course their Panasonic lenses .
@@MattIrwinPhotography Well they are part of the L mount alliance so they have access to Leica , Sigma , and of course their Panasonic lenses .
People just expect the same offerings of the G lenses. There usually was more value in their 1.4g lenses over the 1.8g's. They were built better, were better optically. But these Z lenses are razor sharp corner to corner, absent of any kind of fringing, weather sealed. Nikon can't put out a 1.4 that costs $1200 when literally the only thing you get is 1/2 a stop faster.
Hi Matt. For most of the users like myself, 1.8 is fast enough and mostly affordable and that is the whole point of these kenses. Sooner or later Sigma will go Z mount and well have access to third party lenses. For now they are saying that user base of Z cameras is not large enough for them to develop lenses, but I think they were still unable to crack the code of the Z mount.
My sense is the Z user bases is in the 10’s of 1000’s. Globally. But if I was Sigma I would be waiting to see if Nikon open the mount. And for C19 to abate. It is a difficult time to start a new lens line. And due to the mount being the widest and shallowest, perhaps that makes some potential lens designs more exotic...
@@MattIrwinPhotography Honesty don't think Nikon will open Z mount any time soon. But you are right, current situation with c19 and size of the mount are also challenging. Well nevertheless f-mount art series works perfectly with adapter, so we can wait a bit longer for native z versions. Cheers Matt!!!
No need to open the spec, Nikon never published it for F mount either. 7 brands that I can think of have Z mount lenses right now, manual focus, and all very reasonable like a 50 0.95 MF for $699 or some ultrawide angle for $350. The Z cameras are selling better than you might think.
Sales numbers are seldom discussed, everyone "knows" Sony is #1....except they are not. Canon has twice the sales of Sony and in January 2020, Nikon returned to second place after introducing the Z50 which is a major seller for them. Sony sales have been flat and slightly declining back into 3rd place starting at the beginning of 2020. RUclips is NOT the entire world. In fact, among those who depend on their cameras for their art and income, Nikon and Canon are FAR ahead of Sony. Look at major sporting events or news photojournalists, or fine art galleries. The annual photo awards are dominated by Nikon and Canon less and Sony almost not represented at all. RUclips gurus are not the world of photography but newcomers are convinced that Sony owns photography because of eye focus, the only feature they hand their hat on. First off, few pros would want to give up control of focal plane selection to a camera which has no idea of the intent of the image is. That is a feature hyped on RUclips to the exclusion of everything else that is much more important to people who depend on their gear for their art and income. There are much more important traits but are never mentioned by the influencers because they are not advantages of Sony, and because they probably don't understand what priorities ought to be. No one I challenge for any trait better covered by Sony than Nikon or Canon and no one can think of anything, other than Sony is #1...except they aren't.
I live in a tourist destination city that gets 9-12 million visitors from May to October all but this year and most bring a camera. Being in the tourism field myself and in the morning greet thousands of visitors arriving by cruise ship. I see more Nikon cameras than any other interchangeable lens cameras, and last summer saw a lot of people with Z mount, far more common than Sony a7 series. I conduct photo workshops and walking tours for those interested(our main business is 2-3 day intense cultural and history tours) early in the morning and see Dx Nikons the most but next is D850 then Z6 more than a7 or EOS R. Sony might be selling more but where are they. I have dozens of pro and active amateur friends here who have significant investment in cameras/lenses and D750, D8x0, and Canon 5Dx are the most common bodies and only two have Sony a7x series and at least 10 have Z6 or 7. Canon is popular here, and the wedding pros primarily use the 5D2 and 3 with the D750 and D8x0 being almost as popular and in the mirrorless, Z cameras are better represented than Sony but if you watch RUclips it would give the impression that only Sony sells. The lower end cameras sell but a7 are not moving off the shelves. Only in the last year, Fuji became visible with those disembarking from ships. The main reason Canon is so popular here is that they are a lot cheaper than Nikon costing the same here as in the US, the pricing of Nikon is more distorted in some markets. For example, my Z6 cost $3000 when it can be found in the US for $1800.
RUclips is not the real world particularly outside the US. Sony has a much more aggressive marking plan, spend far more on promotion than the other brands, and part of that us direct payments to influences. When channels which blasted the Z cameras before they even saw one, it was obvious it was very important to kill interest in it by the same influencers who earn millions of dollars by pushing sales. Notice the most influential channels are not by photographers but youtube personalities, some have over a million subs. When they all blasted the Z cameras the same day with the same complaints, over distorted reasons, months before the first camera was in the hands of users, it was not by accident. They had a strong profit motive to shut down sales before the Z cameras sparked an interest. For example, the single card slot was drummed up by all as the epic failure and yet not one of them mentioned slots are not created equal, XQD was far more reliable than SD but never mentioned there was a distinct advantage as the pro solution by 1 single XQD over 2, 3 or even 5 SD cards. That they all picked that as the target using the identical language, is no accident. It cost Nikon a lot in lost sales.
Sales grew however slowly, among people who actually take photos as a serious hobby or professionally, the word has gotten out but still stunted by the RUclips gurus. Maybe Nikon is foolish for not lavishing millions on key influencers, but as with everything, they are not slick in the promotion and they stick to what they know, optics and cameras, and leave the hype to the entertainment-based companies.
@@stanspb763 wow, thats was a long one. Thanks!!!!!!!!!
Except for the 20, I already have the Z 35, 50 and 85 1.8s. This lenses makes you addicted to shoot with them. My most liked portrait on IG is kinda snapshot with the 50
That is such a good point Roland, there is a pleasure with how easy they are. I totally agree, it is a hard feeling to describe, I need to try and make a video about it .... Cheers Matt
@@MattIrwinPhotography honestly .. I was doing f1.8 for a bit but f2.2 just feels so sweet on the image.
@@dalearseneault2714 well that is the thing, does not matter if you go 1.8 or 2.2 we are all happy : ) Cheers Matt
Apparently, one of those companies who pull things apart and dissect them had concerns over the Canon RF 70-200mm lens until they pulled it apart. Then they said, we have no concerns with the weather-sealing of this lens, it's construction is a work of art! It's meant to have extra weather-sealing internally to make this external zoom design truly weather-sealed. I can honestly say I've never had an issue with an externally zooming lens in my life.
I am like you and couldn't really care less if a lens is 1.8 or 1.2. For some, it does matter. Those people are not criticising the image quality of the Nikon lenses, it's superb, they're criticising the lack of options for those who actually do want those options. All this blah blah blah about the large diameter lens mount and then they don't even offer what this lens mount was meant to be so good at. That is where the criticism is aimed.
Your point about the price of lenses and moving across gradually and affordably is brilliant and very logical. You're a professional, the 1.2 fanboys are often posers.
No bias, as a photographer of any creed, I would say the same about any lenses which extends. There is risk. I made the same point about a new Z Nikon lens in the last 6 or so months. I don't like or think lenses that extend are a good idea. Period. They are more at risk for toughness and sealing. I am happy to read the report about sealing being hardened due to the inherent risk of this style of design. I wonder if this lens is rained on, then closed and dropped in a bag for a few days ... what happens ...? Love to see that. Of even more concern to me of all these types of lenses is impact strength. EG - Camera over each shoulder, rushing around an event, wedding, concert, commercial shoot, Canon 70-200 is in extended mode, swap bodies to the 20mm for a quick wide ... spin around and whack the extended lens on something hard ... this seems like the prime time for highly calibrated glass to be under pressure. So I would love to have a link, and read, hear or watch, how this lens has been hardened for impacts during extension. Because an 'on the run' working photog, sometimes bangs up their gear. My 70-200 has taken a few hits, totally fine ... send me a link about this, and I am happy to release a video extolling Canon's excellence in mitigating impact damage. As I see this as an advancement in lens tech worthy of a shout. Just like my shoutout about the R5 (8K). I have had two extruding zooms damaged this way.
I did not say this video was a complaint about lack of options. This video is saying Nikon created the line up for user financial transition reasons. To make it cheaper for people to buy the lenses. To be blunt, Canon to begin with ,only supplied glass for the more wealthy photographers, that limits options for the less wealthy. Both decided to limit at different ends of the spectrum. I hope you can see that. For example 'OMG I want a native 50mm prime for my Canon R but they only have a 1.2 and I can't afford it' ... that is limiting.
My conjecture, that those who complain there is no Z 1.2 glass, are largely (mostly, like 90%) NOT Nikon users. But others looking for a crack in Nikon's armour they can wedge.
BLAH BLAH BLAH, Coolox, the 1.8's are that good because of the mount. The mount is showing what it can do, but everybody thinks the only way to show what can do is a 1.2. Nope it is also shown in the 24-70 F4 etc. You are simply falling into the same trap everybody else is. 'No 50mm 1.2, well Nikon are giving us squat.' The Nikon NOCT, showed what it can do, but Nikon 'failed' there too ... seriously world ...?
I am a working photog, All I wanted to know is can I trust the Z system, and for a small investment I have a range of glass, showing me I can completely trust the system ... I have 100% faith in this mount and glass, and it can only get better if we start at the 'low bar' of 1.8 ...
I recall NASA didn’t foresee any problems with their environmental sealing either; even down to the hours before the Challenger launched. You cant ignore the physics!
You are right on. Those f/1,4 and f/1,2 lenses, no matter who makes them, are undisputed fine optics. But I think their value is being overestimated largely because of nostalgia and, let's admit it, some backward thinking. In a world of optical viewfinders, they were very useful for getting critical manual focus and they transmitted more light, hence the were considered for «pros». Of course if you wanted edge sharpness they needed to be stopped down when you took the shot. All this is pointless when you have the optical performance of current S series primes, which I am comfortable shooting wide open when I need to. For the oft time when I really want wafer-thin DOF I'll just switch to a longer focal length for now. For my photography, I use both the 50 and the 85 S series, and I'm happy to cover the rest wirh zooms. I am, however, waiting on Nikon to make a 105 or 135 S Series prime. And then a 180. That would get my attention.
Great call Charles. And I agree on 135 and 180. They would be fun. Cheers Matt.
Waiting is the operative word. Their lens rollout is embarrassing. You are right on about f1.4 and optical finders. Let’s face it. The mystique about the 50mm f1.4 was born in the days of Tri X. I shoot harness racing at night at 6400iso, a speed considered science fiction in the days of the Nikon F. If Nikon had released the Z series with a native trinity of lenses and dual SD slots they might be alive in 5 years.
One needs only to look an any half decent shot from the 50 1.8 and I think it becomes evident. Jaw dropping quality in a reasonably light, compact package that only costs $600. For me, stuff like Canon’s 50 1.2 and 28-70 f2 are amazing, but so expensive that I would never actually buy them. Nikon may be putting out Z lenses at a somewhat slower pace, but they’re almost all lenses I’d actually buy (besides the Noct of course, but I might even rent that).
A lot of youtubers are criticizing the new 70-200 from Canon for extension when zooming in. Absolutely all 24-70 from any lens producers do the same.
Yeah totally true, but as a lens gets heavier and longer, it is even more prone to knocks ... when you are on the move with two camera bodies over your shoulders, you just don't want to think about a lens sticking out 10-12 cm's. The 24-70's are more like 2-4cm's. The lens is simply more at risk of impact, dust and moisture ... I would be nervous. Cheers Matt
Nice video. It is the print or image that matters at the end of the day! Not the system you use!
Love your vid's , Matt! I too am making that journey over to mirrorless. I have two Z6's and 4 of the lenses - soon to be 5 as soon as the 70-200 lands. So, do you think they will ever introduce a 15,16, or 17mm prime?
The "affordable" 1.8 lenses would be a reason for me to buy the Z6. Shame that they aren't a bit more compact.
Do you believe that we will see more Z DX lenses in the near future? Roadmap doesn't look that promising ...
Have you used the 35 1.8 on the Z50? Thinking of getting that one to replace my old Sigma 1.4 from 2008 (honestly my favorite lens I've used personally). That thing might as well have been glued to my D90. Always good to see you Matt.
Yep sure have used it on the Z50 a lot. Of course it becomes a 50mm 35mm eqv. so I end up with a 50mm on the Z50 and I can use my 50mm on the Z6. Do 50mm for video shots. Cheers Sir : )
I’ve used the DX 35mm 1.8G on the Z50, it works totally fine. I don’t use it in favor of the Z 16-50DX because the focusing motor is much quieter for video, and the FTZ adapter is a bit wonky on the little Z50.
The Canon rf 70-200 is a superb lens and, for me , as a working wedding photographer, they got the design right. It’s amazing the first time you put it in your bag and it takes up the same space as a 24-70 you appreciate the design. As for the telescoping design, I think lens rentals put that old adage to bed when they took the lens apart and saw the superb build quality. I current;y run both canon rf and Nikon systems and the rf 70-200 is every bit as well made as my Nikon 70-200 f2.8 FL. Canon will be releasing new 1.8’s and Nikon will no doubt release f1.2’s, they have just gone about it in different ways.
People can try and justify Nikon’s reasoning all they want but the proof that Canon got their strategy right will be when Nikon release their flagship primes and all these f1.8’s get dumped, and the photographers then change their stories and start justifying these new f1.2 lenses.
Matt Irwin is not a wedding photographer, he works in the dirt and mud, in snow storm and rain, in sand storms and ocean storms, in jungles and mountains.
But, they crippled the camera!
Hi Matt, thanks for another great video! I'm using the 24, 50 and 85 primes and they perform so much better than my F-mount versions... I have a question, I know it's a bit out of topic, but I have a wide angle DX f-mount lens (12 to 24 mm zoom) that I can mount with the FTZ adapter on my Z6 and I would like to use it in FX size (I can do it on my D850, I don't mind the dark circle I get, on the contrary, I think it gives a nice effect) , but can't find a way on my Z6 to get this, it automatically changes my setting to DX. Any idea how I could get the same result as on my D850 ? Many thanks !!!
Interesting
Cheers.
I am a Canon shooter , I am an enthusiast not a pro . There is absolutely no way I could conceivably switch to Canon mirrorless , baring a major lottery win .
I wish Canon would put out some affordable R lenses. Their current range gives me no desire to try out the system.
Yeah Simon, it certainly makes it harder. I was interested in picking up a Canon R body here on sale, but then there are the lenses ... They will get their 1.8's out over the next few years I suppose, and then Nikon and Canon will have similar lineups as they do in the DSLR space. Cheers Matt
Excellent video, mate. (I'm American. Is it OK if I say 'mate'?)
For sure. 😀🚀
That's a good point about Canon's 70-200
I worry about any brand or lens that is made this way, I just think they are always a little compromised ... : )
Matt Irwin reminds me of a younger, Australian, photographer version of Mister Rogers with a Nikon agenda.
Cheers Khody. : )
@@MattIrwinPhotography love your videos Matt. Keep doing what you are doing.
I have the same Z lenses as you and agree there great. But rather than F1.8 and also F1.2. I would rather they had only specialized in F1.4 alone. And there would have been less delays and waiting as well as not needing to double up on focal lengths. The other consideration is the F1.2 glass like the 50mm and 85mm S lenses coming soon from Nikon, will be heavy as hell and miserable to carry around all day, If affordability was a concern Nikon users could still use the F mount glass as a cheaper option. And then what I have to sell the F1.8S to afford the F1.2? and loose the lighter weight advantage. Is the difference from F1.4 so much with a F1.2 I doubt it. In reality the 85mm F1.2 will have a look almost identical to the currant F105mm F1.4E lens due to it`s longer focal length, So really I not sure I see the point. And as for edge to edge sharpness that`s not really a thing for Portrait lenses anyway as you are blurring out the surrounding background on purpose anyway.
Sure Mark, but as I said, the main reason was cost. And Nikon would have charged more for 1.4 lenses. Further my conjecture is 1.2's are now easier to create on the newer mirrorless mounts, thus I don't think we will see native 1.4's. So instead of 1.8 and 1.4 being the option with say 'F' mount. The new paradigm is 1.8 and 1.2 which is a better separation of classes. Indeed for portraiture edge sharpness may not be a thing for some, personally I use these lenses wide open for all sorts, including land scapes. Cheers Matt
@@MattIrwinPhotography Possibly Sigma and or Tamron will release a line on F1.4 for Z mount shortly if so cost / / versatility / quality, might be a better option for Z mount.
@@MarkHummerNikonZ9 It will be interesting to see how long it takes third party manufacturers to bring out Z Mount lenses. Sigma, Tamron etc have to reverse engineer the lenses unless Nikon shares technical data with them.
It might take longer than you think. Tamron is busy producing E Mount lenses for Sony, their biggest shareholder. Sigma meanwhile is trying to flesh out the lens range of the L Mount Alliance.
When I was replacing my Nikon 850 I was tempted to go 'Sony' but the guys in the camera store in Derby (who I know & trusted) convinced me about the Z system. They all had Zs themselves! I have never regretted getting into the Zs they are fantastic. I love the system, it truly is wonderful. I always loved Nikon SLRs, this Z system is just an amazing leap forward. The cameras are great and the lens line up is excellent. Primes are wonderful and the 24-85 f2.8 zoom is stunning for weekends away if you have to travel light. I'm with you 100% of the way. Great channel! You talk real-world common sense.
Great points Matt! Is the canon RF 50 1.2 better than the Nikon z 50 1.8 sure, but is it $1700 better....? Btw don’t take this the wrong way but you remind me of Mr Bean 😀. -cheers keep up the great work
Lenin - your question is answered on DXOMark, if your interested. If not, then spoiler alert, their answer is a clear NO; the 50 1.8 S out performs across the board and is quarter the price.
Just have the 85mm f/1.8 - only complaint; wish it focused closer. Only.
What would be a good MFD Ronald ? Cheers Matt :)
Seems to be a issue for 85mm lenses across the board anyway. Focusing closer than 0.8 ft is probably going to be reserved for macro lenses at telephoto lengths.
6:15 this is a mistake, you definitely can and should compare to some of the sony lenses.
The Sony 24mm F1,4 is smaller and lighter than the Nikon 24 S. The aperture is also larger than Nikon S, and the optics are most definitely superior to the Nikon S.
So while the 50mm S and 85mm S are both 100% homeruns, the same can't be said about the 24mm.
Even the 20mm S is struggling against its smaller counterpart from E-mount.
Got a YT Canon ad running just after this 😂
Go to love their algorithms. Cheers Matt
Agree with the canon 70-200
For high price gear designed for pros and everybody else ... it makes no sense ...
Good argument except that no one is running towards Nikon Z toy cameras (and it ain't because of no Corona). I used to be a Nikon guy but I will not tolerate the non competitive Z toy camera offerings. I like your break down of why they are deciding to go with the 1.8s.
Hi Steve ... not sure what you are shooting now, but the Z's are not toys, and I have spoken to thousands of people on this channel who have Z's or are thinking of purchasing. : ) Cheers Matt
Hey Matt, how often did you find yourself saying : Gee I really wish I had a 1.2 right now?
Yep. Actually have not. But if I am keen I have F mount 1.4’s and I have used an old F mount 1.2.
G'day cuzz
35 S is amazing
I love all the 1.8 primes so far. No disappointments : ) Cheers Matt
The old rule is it not the camera it is the person behind the camera so that guy with a 1.2 does he know how to use it.
A few of the S lenses are really nice, some are a total snooze.
Break it down for me Matt, which are the 'nice' and which are the 'snooze' Cheers Matt : )
@@MattIrwinPhotography Oh, I'd say the 50 and 28-70 f/2.8 are quite nice. The 35 and 20 are also pretty nice but have their flaws. The 24 and wide f/4 zoom are a "snooze" to me and don't live up to the potential of the mount. I'd also say that 24-70 f/4 is a nice lens ONLY with in-camera corrections, which to me is more of a triumph of software than it is a marvel of optical engineering. I haven't used the 85 but have heard it described as optically excellent without being special. Anyway, 5/8 is great IMO, certainly more successful than Sony's early lenses, but they aren't all on the next level, especially absent corrective software.
@@matthewwells1606 The 85 is up there with the 50mm I reckon. I have all but the 24 1.8. Cheers Matt