Nikon is always late to the party, but when they show up they really bring it. As a commercial photographer I was... happy with the Z6II and Z7II combo, but I'm absolutely *in love* with the Z8 and Z9 combo.
I know this is not about my camera. Seams too a smart channel I need help with XAVCS. I purchased a 2 inch book for My new to me sony a77ll. videos settings are in mp4 AVCHD wich I understand a bit. but what is XAVCS? XAVCS is not in my 2 Inch camera book so I think the book was made before the sony a77ii received it's version 2 upgrade.
The recent Nikon financials showed the Z9 launch was the most successful flagship camera launch since the D3. Both significant technologic advances for their time. Mirrorless now accounts for 80% of Nikon camera sales.
@@3BMEP i have been testing the z8 since Friday. The moment I picked it up, I knew it felt familiar. More like a cross between a D850 and D5. Handling was similar. The only things I didnt like about the camera are the seemingly small d - pad and shutter sound. I feel it is ideal for those that owned a D800 series who were waiting for something more substantial than a Z7ii.
My Z8is coming in the mail on Monday. 1 year later, this video is one of the best on the Z8 and the Z system and its relevance in today’s photographic environment. 👍🏾
“If you need it”…that stings a little but oh so true…and honestly, I don’t. I do, however, simply want one and it may yet be my first foray into a mirrorless body and it really would give me something I don’t currently have. Being predominantly a wildlife shooter still with DSLRs (D850 & D6 still performing admirably), this “ungripped Z9” makes a compelling pitch to me but, as you say, access to the Z lenses is the real bonus. I admire your work and have long respected your attitude. Thank you.
Appreciate your thoughts (hold that one). Picked mine up yesterday and I ❤it! agree with and will also make the points you made about realistic uses for video codecs and settings -- who is gonna run the Z8 for extended times at 8K 60p RAW? The Z8 will be my second angle to the Z9 ... and, yes, sometimes at 8k, not because I expect anyone to watch it on an 8K screen, but for all the options that gives me editing on an 4K timeline.
Seriously I could listen to you, just read the phone book (well back when there was such a thing) you do it so well. Enjoyed this video and your prior detailing how you do this so well. Thanks for sharing Hugh, and enjoy the holiday weekend.
When my colleagues recovered from the shock that I as a long term Canon dslr shooter (1983) with lots of EF L glass had suddenly bought my first Nikon (Z9) of my career plus a lot of Zs glass, they frantically wanted to know why. My simple answer was "it’s the lenses stupid!😎". My future Z8 purchase will be based on practically everything you mentioned plus it will become my main gimbal camera as well as a perfect complementary backup to my Z9. 👍🏾🙏🏾
Small and lighter - hold that thought. You always keep us enthralled by your suspense and for good reason. Your story telling deserves a standing ovation. Thanks mate. ❤
Great video, thank you! I’m still a dslr shooter (D810). I’ve been thinking seriously about getting into the mirrorless realm to take advantage of several features I don’t have. I was Looking at the z7ii but looking was all I have done. I was just waiting for maybe the next upgrade z7iii perhaps. On Thursday the Nikon people had a Z8 event in Portland Oregon. I now realize that this is what I was waiting for. I think I’m going to make a clean break, selling all my equipment and go all in on the Z line. I’m ready to embrace the hybrid world Ha!
Glad you enjoyed - and thanks for doing such a thorough analysis. I just hope people enjoy this system now and create great work. Technically there is really not too much in the way. Nikon has it’s quirks and goes about developing their products in their steady way. I like it and look forward to continuing my 40 year marriage into their family.
You've got my sub. I could listen to your voice for hours. Wouldn't mind listening to an eBook with your voice. Information is brilliant, with no bulshit. Love it
It's funny you mention the D3! Cause as much as Nikon would make us think that the Z8 is the replacement to the D850 (and I mean if we're strictrly talking about pricing, size and weight it kinda is), I don't think that the comparison stands. The D850 was a litteral beast. So much so that getting a D850 with a power grip was generally a way better idea than getting a Nikon D5. Both had the same autofocus, but considerably different usecases and the D5's sensor was not a very versatile sensor, being targeted almost exclusively at profesionnal sports shooters and journalists that would have a very quick turnaround of unedited pictures to newspaper redactions, putting the high ISO performance way beyond the dynamic range in the priority list. Even if we look a bit further into Nikon's camera history, neither the D800 and D810 (and their variants) would fit the comparison, as they were both very different from the Nikon D4 that was the company's flagship at the time. No really, if we look into what's the Z8's philosophy, it's a successor to the Nikon D700. Back in 2007, Nikon introduced their very first full frame DSLR camera in the form of the flagship D3 (that at the time would replace both the 2003 aging D2H, and the higher megapixel but long in the tooth 2005 D2X, having the same shooting speed as the H, but the same resolution as the X). That camera was truly ground breaking, putting Nikon back alongside Canon that has been dominant since the EOS 1DS mk III and EOS 1D mk III were released earlier this same year. It had better dynamic range than the Canons, similar framerates and superior autofocus (so much so that this system would be used in Nikon DSLRs until the very end of the DSLRs, still finding its place in the company's last DSLR in the form of the Nikon D780. It's also still very potent today). Less than a year later, Nikon put to the market the Nikon D700, a camera that was much smaller but still using a bigger and more rugged body than Nikon's other DSLR cameras like the D80. It had the same sensor, the same autofocus system and burst rates coming just 1 fps short of the D3 (with the battery grip), all the while being $2000 cheaper than its bigger brother. The compromises were minimal (we're talking about no contrast AF in live view and only 1 CF card port instead of 2. That's it.). Ring a bell yet? With that strategy of putting essentially their well acclaimed flagship product at a cheaper price, Nikon achieved 2 things: First, they put a profesionnal camera at reach to a LOT more people. People, that would not need the few features than the D3 offered on top of the D700 anyway. Second, it made the whole Nikon DSLR system a LOT more attractive for profesionnal shooters, by the simple fact that a pro would not have to buy a second D3 at the steep pricepoint of $5000 when the D700 could do 99% of the same things, with the same image output, the same autofocus performance with a substantial discount. Thing that Canon couldn't even touch with their own cameras, the D700's competitor (EOS 5D mk II) being very far off the performance of the 1D series, especially for autofocus and burst rates. Those two things combined helped Nikon stay on the map for 15 years, even though they were not doing so good prior to these 2007 and 2008 launches. And it allowed Nikon to not do that strategy again "wasting" expensive components meant for flagship products into lower end models. That was a risky strategy, but it paid off handsomely. No other camera would be like the D700 again after Nikon pulled that off. (Closest would be the Df which would be the only other camera to use the sensor out of the Nikon D4, but it was more a niche product, paired with a sub-standard autofocus system straight out of the Nikon D610) That's why I think the Z8 is the true successor to the D700 (and its legacy as well). There's one camera I haven't mentionned though, that played a role just as important as the D700 in Nikon's 2007/2008 success : the D300. It had a 12MP APS-C sensor, but with the same autofocus and burst speeds as the D3 it was released alongside with. At first, THIS was the perfect backup that Nikon made for the D3, and the D700 is nothing other than a D3 sensor in a D300 body (making the switch from the D300 to the D700 much easier, having the same body shape, weight, size, batteries and accesories). Unlike the D700, the D300 had a true modern successor in the form of the D500 (which took the same formula : D5's autofocus, D5's framerates but APS-C sensor) So now I'm left wondering : Nikon, where is the Z90?
I picked up a D700 about 5 years ago to learn digital photography and moved to D850/D500 and now Z9 (sports/action/wildlife/video make up much of what I have ended up shooting). Just curious, with what you said above, all else being equal, what drove 90 percent of the sports shooters to Canon's ecosystem back in the day?
@@dance2jam easy answer: the cost of switching systems. As much as we'd like to tell ourselves that there was fair and square competition in the early 2000s for sports photographers : there wasn't. Canon EOS 1D wiped the floor with the Nikon D1H when it came to framerate, resolution, autofocus. It even had a larger sensor resulting in less noise. Nikon wasn't even able to match the 1D 2 years later with the D2H which, if it had similar burst speeds and resolution, still had an inferior sensor for both dynamic range and noise levels, leaving Nikon in search of a new strategy. And that camera, well the EOS 1D mk II would murder it too about a year later. To cut things short : from 2001 to 2006 (roughly), if you had a need for a flagship sports camera, Canon was better. It wasn't even a competition. Not only had they the better cameras, but also the most modern technology in their lenses when Nikon still have mechanically controlled aperture and screwdrive autofocus systems. So when the D3 came and basically smoked the Canon cameras of the time, it was too little too late to convince anyone selling all their gear to go Nikon. And besides, the compromises you had to make by staying with Canon were very few and not major (as Canon released new models that caught up) The reliable AF and better dynamic range of the D3 (and later D700) proved to be the thing that lead many event and wedding photographers to either buy Nikon or switch to Nikon as the lenses needed were smaller and less expensive. Can't say the same about the super telephotos needed for sports and wildlife that people already bought for Canon EF and were reluctant to sell (and honestly that was understandable)
@@matthieuzglurg6015 Thank you Matthieu for the look back in time. Makes perfect sense. Nikon, despite it's long history, is a relatively small company compared to Canon and Sony, but it is nice that they continue to help drive the market of innovation. I purchased a used D700 approx. 3 weeks before my pre-ordered D850 arrived, so never got shoot with it a lot. I initially thought I would learn about digital photography with the D700, while waiting on the D850. When I saw the button placement and set up were completely different, I put it down because I didn't want the confusion (that already comes with owning your "first" camera twice. I always loved the look out of the D700. Now, for the first time in a long time, I picked up the D700 again, yesterday, and shot with it using the 200mm f/2. I have to say, I once again fell in love with the images produced by that sensor, and actually read the manual to remind myself it even had "3D" tracking ;-). I've learned a great deal in the last 4 years, and the Z9 taught me a ton about Nikon engineers. Reading the D700 manual now is much easier - although Nikon can still be cryptic on the exact use case in many instances. Again, thanks for the history lesson. Really appreciate it.
Always so wonderful to have your perspective, Mr B. Looking forward to your smaller and lighter thoughts forthcoming. Was out shooting with my Z 6ii today with the 35mm 1.8, and looking longingly at my wife’s X-series Fuji. So compact and lovely.
@@Man_Cave I have been using an XT5 and honestly, I'm preferring the smaller Fuji camera that my Nikon D8 50 the XT5 is a crop sensor camera yeah but my goodness it packs a punch for a crop sensor camera and I love the Fuji colour I don't think I will be going back to Nikon to be honest I'm not paying $5000 for one lens which is what some of the Nikon Z lenses cost in Australia and then some of the Z bodies retail for $7000. It is ridiculous. I can pick up secondhand Fuji gear for seven or 800 bucks and make it work.
The biggest let down regarding the Z8 is the fact that the body is predominantly made of plastic; considering that the D850 is considered the best Nikon DSLR and weighs 1Kg, had the Z8 been made entirely of Magnesium Alloy it would have weighed the same as the D850 and no one would have complained.
Hi -- first time I have watched your content (well it is a big planet) -- thanks for the "sensible" observations - I'm now a subscriber - even though I shoot wildlife and action and so have 2 Z9 and now a Z8 in my hands as well and possibly one more on the way; and all the new Z long glass and zooms I am going to need for the next decade or so. One note -- The single video recording limit in a Z8 is 125 mins in the production version. One simply starts recording again to continue -- why not take a break change cards and off you go, when shooting in reasonable formats/codex/fps. At one point I thought I was looking at Jon Stewart.
You know, Hugh, without sounding like a Fanboy (no cooling needed internally), appreciate the time, effort, and thought that goes into your videos. There were several points about the Z8 that were incorrect, but I'll let that go (ex: it is not similar in weather sealing compared to the Z9). Couple of quick points: I love your coverage of other systems and comparisons. Since I do not own all the other brands (I have been shooting the Z9 for sports/action/wildlife since launch), it's nice to hear your perspective when it comes to the overall ecosystems. I do shoot with a number of friends - who shoot Sony (A1, A7R5) and Canon (R3/R5/6) and a few DSLR bodies of all types (D500, D850, 1DXMarkIII, 5DMarkIV). All of my glass is f-mount - and is in excellent shape - but the new telephoto and telephoto zooms (100-400, 400 f4.5, 400 f/2.8 TC, 600 f/4 TC, 800 f/6.3) and 24-120s make it very tempting at times to sell a kidney. The Z9 was my first interchangeable lens mirrorless camera - and I knew what I wanted, so I waited until the Z9 was released. I am pleased to say, other than weight, I personally feel, more than anything else, it has made photography more enjoyable and allowed me to unlock creative potential. There's less concern about getting exposure or DOF correct, getting the focus point over the eye - not to mention having to "focus and recompose" if that was your thing. I can set this tool up the way I use it. The worry of tracking, buffering, or overheating - or running out of battery simply have vanished. Last, but not least, the ability to shoot silently, have high frame rates, no banding or rolling shutter, with high resolution has really made my job much easier. I will point out, for all the great stuff, it would be nice if Nikon added Zebras to stills shooting, and battery percentage in addition to "bars". Shooting with back up video to a second slot would be sweet, but so would a global shutter. We can continue to enjoy the innervations making their way to market - and hope it's a win/win for everyone involved.
Being approximately the same age as you, I got the "stupid" reference. It's a bit depressing to realize that for many viewers this a bit on ancient history while for me it's a memory from my late thirties. 😮
I do landscape and street photography, mostly. I would be happy with a Z 6/7 body that includes the shutter cover and tilting screen of the Z 8. In fact, if they made one with zero video features for less money, I would be ecstatic. I always end up taking video with my phone in the spur of the moment, anyway. It's so much more intuitive.
Great vid….As much as I drool over this Z8 (and I do!), I think I am team Claudia….my Z7ii is more than enough for me. I just came back from my vacation. I popped off the grip, and that smaller Z7ii/24-120f4 S package was all I needed for 95% of my captures. I got great shots, even in bad weather. As I push into the senior ranks soon, travelling light is very important!
Would just like to point out that 8K is a real bonus for some applications. I don't ever deliver in 8K but 4K delivery is now a requirement in my sector so having that extra crop room from 8K footage is a blessing (just like it was when 4K arrived during 1080p delivery days). The oversampling is also a perceptible IQ enhancement and my 5K iMac Pro can resolve that extra resolution over 4K files. And that is why I got my eyes set on a Z9 rather than a Z8. If I was only shooting 4K my current setup would suffice. The whole point of upgrading here is to reek benefits from this new tech, but I guess if you are mainly a stills shooter with light video demands then yeah a Z8 will be way enough. Battery life is actually my main concern with Z8, overheating being second. The price difference if you're a smart shopper (ie buy second hand) isn't big and a Z9 brings some serious advantages over a Z8 IF you use the camera to its top full specs!
Tired of waiting for what seemed to be a mythical Z8 I got the Z9. It really is too big for 80% of my needs but the huge battery has reluctantly won me over. Like you and your wife, for casual shooting (i.e. non-work shooting) I prefer the Z6ii - love the smaller format. While I "want" more resolution, I find in that case I don't "need" more. I fear I'll order the Z8 anyway (or maybe I should wait for the Z7/Z6iii's to come out). Nice to finally have some decent choices in the Nikon system.
It's always a pleasure to listen to you, Hugh, and watch your videos for the artwork. As to the Z 8, there's one thing that may not directly be a use case you frequent, in that it can AF down to LV -7 [1] while my Z 7ii halts at LV -4. What I would like to know, is not if this is true - because it is. But rather, at what EV level these cameras start having difficulties with eye/face detection. My experience and perception are that between my LV -4 and that LV of confusion may lie some 8 LV and mathematically that is a big number in integer lumens (256 times more light). And it can be more than 8 LV. So, while the AF spec is not a lie, in the sense that the camera can focus right using single point and recompose. It would be very interesting to learn from you and Claudia how these two compare. And, maybe it turns out that I'm less clever in reading Nikon's Reference Guide, combining menu items in different places that all contribute to how AF works. [1] LV = Light Value =by definition= Exposure Value (EV) at ISO 100
What a great question - especially because I recently did a quick off the cuff test with the best autofocusing camera we own (the a7R V). I was surprised that it lost eye AF under the same challenging circumstances as the Leica Q3. But that would be CLAUDIA’s Q3; she now uses this exclusively (her Z7 II going to KEH), so I can’t give you an evidence-based answer.
@@3BMEP - there's a very high fraction of AI in the explanation. And PDAF v contrast AF integration in that AI. And part of the problem "we" don't see is that the camera "sees" raw - monochrome data elements, not RGB and that's 100% colour noise and luminance noise.
Maybe you could say Nikon pulled a D700 on the other brands (if you remember the landscape back in 2008 when the D700 was released...basically, a flagship D3 in a smaller body and lower price). They seem intent on getting more business by, well...doing another D700 (and I'm glad they did).
This review is the best, especially because I maxed out my CC on the z8 and a couple of lenses. I find that its focus stacking feature works great. I did find out that the OM 1 mark ii has an integrated and graduated ND. that can be manipulated on the viewfinder. I would be looking for that feature on Nikon's next-gen cameras. Fingers crossed.
I ran out and bought a Z7 as soon as it was available and have since purchased a half dozen Z lenses. I'm almost fully retired and still use a pair of D750 cameras to shoot weddings because I don't feel the need to fix what isn't broke. I use the Z7 for portraits and landscapes and I can't imagine how the photo quality could get any better. I don't shoot much video, while sports and wildlife are for my own pleasure. I use Olympus and Lumix mft for that, their long lenses are so much easier to lug around. Perhaps I'll wait for the Z8II or III (ha!) I just can't bring myself to upgrade again and again. BTW, watching these videos I've come to the conclusion that there should be more emphasis on the art of photography than gear.
For what it’s worth, I am glad I have the ability to purchase the Z8 & Z9 with the various Z mount lenses. I feel that those two Z mount cameras are a good complement to my D850/D500/D6.
I'm going to guess if you own a D6, D850, and D500, you shoot sports, action/wildlife. The only thing you'll miss out of the Z8/Z9 is the low light performance of the D6. I've been shooting the Z9 for over a year - and do not need a Z8. That said, they are beasts and although my friends who shot the D850 told me they would never put it down or stop shooting with it, both have only used it once or twice over the last year after I talked them into the Z9. All of those cameras of yours are terrific, but the advantages of this current and the prior Z9 offering are just overwhelming for most use cases if you are in need of those features.
Whoo hooo!! 100k subscribers! Well done, Hugh! :) And thank you for providing us with such insightful, original, and eloquent content! Long may it continue.
If I were being paid for my photography or videography, the Z system is 100% what I would adopt at this point. The X-T5's improved AF, improved resolution, and overall compact system size is keeping me in that ecosystem for now, but I kinda feel like the guy in that meme continually glancing over my shoulder at Nikon... I'd keep my X100V, though - that's never going away. :)
Listen, I'm a Nikon guy, and in the beginning was looking over my shoulder at other brands including Fujifilm. I'm going to say this - 1. If the system you are in now works for you, 2. Stimulates you to go out in shoot - whether it's the light, smaller body, file size, film simulations, etc. Stay where you are. That said, if you are looking back over your shoulder a lot, find a friend that shoots with one of the Z cameras - and if sports/action/wildlife are high on your priority list - a Z8/Z9. You can always rent one or go to the local camera store to check it out - availability is improving, but I have finally programmed the buttons/AF Area modes, etc. the way I want them because it has taken this long, with firmware updates, to figure out the most efficient way to use the tool. Point is, you can't get that experience with just short use (i.e. turning a new computer on like a Mac if you worked on PCs, and expecting to see all the advantages in an hour or a day). I know you know this. Just sayin, the Z9 is the best camera for what I do that I've ever used - and it's not even close, but it's not for everyone, and the Z8, while is going to be fantastic, also is best used by those that need it's features.
@@dance2jam Well said, I appreciate your thoughts. I actually think I'd probably lean toward the Z7 II (or III, if they continue to improve it) for the type of work I primarily shoot. I've found Fuji's AF fine for wildlife in Kenya and Costa Rica, but I have struggled with sports. Now that my son is aging out of youth soccer, that's not even much of a consideration for me at this point. My favorite past time is travel, where the Fujis' small size and increased depth-of-field due to sensor crop have served me well.
@@christopherbgriffith Well said and stated. Makes sense to me. As I am sure you are aware, some of the biggest advantages (and there are many) of the Z9, and newer, smaller Z9 *Z8" - are high resolution, fast readout without banding/rolling shutter, silent shooting, frame rate, blackout free actual live feed EVF, deep buffer, programmability, and video AF/codecs. Two last things: Pre-capture is something I use on occasion, and it works marvelously when you need it. As someone else mentioned, if you shoot with the newer Nikon telephoto glass (i.e. 600mm f/4 TC) - the VR for stills and video is amazing. That lens is still a bit rich for me unless I sell off some other gear. Time will tell. Sounds like you're in good shape. Good luck with your son and your shooting.
Thanks, Hugh. So many great choices. I reserve my Z9 for big glass/wildlife. Like Claudia, I am happy with the Z6/7 form factor for other uses and hope the Nikon will soon upgrade this in a major manner. Then again the Q3 beckons.
Excellent! As a Z9 shooter I’ve been holing on to the D850 as a second body for the times of need. Now I have a perfect camera that will inspire me to upgrade the D850. Well not upgrade, it is after all an incredible camera, but perhaps modernize or some such thing.
Savage, I am shooting with the Z8 this week after loving my D850. Using my gold band Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8 with FTZ adapter. I do not shoot fast action or video. Mostly street, landscape, nature, etc. Question to you please as you have full knowledge to answer: So far, I cannot see quality difference on my big calibrated monitor between images captured D850 and Z8 under identical conditions/subject. Handheld and tripod. Struggling to justify $4000 investment for this reason. Would you say you noticed quality difference between or D850 and Z9 images? Would S series, Z lenses make a big difference?
@@christinabrittain324 if the D850 fulfills your needs stick with it. It is a great camera. Needing two bodies at times I will invest in Z8. Z lenses on 9 are excellent. I don’t like carrying more lenses and adapters than necessary and my goal is to have all Z lenses. I love the D 850. But the shooting experience and focus tracking on the Z 9 are great , the speed is great. The image quality is great and switching between systems on one shoot is a really a pain as they are different experiences. It’s really about the need. I feel the need. I wanted to stick With D850 but need the features of the z8 and z9 for Shooting sports, motor sports wild life etc. while not changing systems
As usual. Brilliant counterpoint w/minimum gushing, fluff. Maximum thought provoking content, backed up with the plain truth and no fanboy blather. Refreshing. Yet again. Kudos
Well well , I shoot with Z9 , Z6, Z7 and D3S (I Love it) every model have his charm. this Z8 is a nice tool as a lighter Z9 ! Talking about the old D3S have very nice colors , and 12 mpx is enough for many jobs too , just being careful while framing !!
I had many full frame Nikon cameras in the past and when the Z line came out I decided to purchase the z6 first generation and i love it. But two months I dropped this camera on one of my trips in Greece and so i decided to look about buying the Z6ii or Z7ii, but after long hours of reading reviews about the z8. I decided this is what I want. I ordered the nikon Z 180-600 lens and the Z8 this week. I cant wait to try them since i love st photography and wild life :). Also will try it with my nikon 500 f4 VRll, nikon z 24-70 f2.8 and other good lenses
I have been shooting with the Z9 and the D850 as a second body. I started upgrading my F mount glass with the newer, smaller, sharper Z mount glass, so I came to the point the D850 only had 1 lens I could use with it so it was time to upgrade my D850 to the Z system. I bought the Z8. The next trip I used it instead of my Z9 I instantly regretted buying it. I would love to go back, and instead get another Z9. For the small price difference I would have saved buying a whole set of fast and very expensive SD cards to match all of my existing CF Express cards to use as a backup card slot. For every 512GB CFx card I needed to buy a fast 512GB SD card. Major expense. I would have saved buying multiple Z8 batteries and a multiple battery charger, and I would not have had to take so much gear with me when I go shoot for the day. I am used to just grabbing the Z9. Now I need include a pocket full of spare batteries, 2 different kinds of cards, and an external GPS unit which reduces an already poor battery life. And I have no vertical shooting controls. There was no real cost saving. There is a vertical grip for the Z8 but it is a massive unit that makes the Z8 larger than the Z9 which people seem to think is already big. And it is yet more money you need to spend to get what is included in the smaller Z9. The smaller size of the Z8 (without the grip) I thought I could get used to but it is nowhere near as comfortable to hold and shoot all day, especially when there are no vertical controls. Maybe I have large hands. Yes the Z8 is a great camera but there are reasons it is cheaper. The battery life, GPS and additional cost for the same features are the downsides. The Z9 I can grab and use all day, even for weddings with the GPS turned on. I am trying to get used to charging and carrying spare batteries again (there is a slight weight saving for the body, but when you look at all the extra gear you need to carry I would say the Z9 is a net weight saving over the equally outfitted Z8). I am trying to get used to shooting vertically with the old style hand over the top of the camera. My D850 I always used with the vertical grip. This made it easier to hold and gave me the vertical controls and the long battery life. The Z9 is considerably smaller than the D850+grip. I think the Z8 is a huge improvement over the D850, and it is a definite upgrade. But if you are expecting it to be a Z9 … it is not. Another huge savings on the Z9 over the Z8. Time. Time to charge extra batteries, time to miss shots because you need to change batteries, time to fiddle with alternative ways to connect a GPS using Bluetooth, and even time to add locations in PP. I won’t mention the overheating as the Z9 is clearly a better video performer so it would be used before ever trying the Z8. If you are not wanting all the added features of the Z9 you may be very happy with the Z8. If you have only used lower models, you may not have enjoyed all the added Z9 features to even miss them. The Z8 results are quite amazing. If you want a long battery life, built in GPS, and vertical controls, the Z9 is the most inexpensive solution. I am blessed that I have both the Z9 and Z8 but the Z8 will only be used as a second body. I will never use it as a primary body again. One trip confirmed that. The one sure benefit of buying the Z8 … it made me appreciate the features of the Z9 that I took for granted. Choose what is best for you and enjoy it. They are both great cameras, but I will always grab the Z9 first.
I would get the Z8 if it wasn’t for the price. I’m still using the original Z6 professionally and I get by just fine. I have done basically everything on 24mpx sensor and “shitty” AF. I know all its shortcomings and how to counter them. I really hope Z6iii comes out next year. That will be an amazing upgrade.
I'm temped by the Z8, but I'm paid for architectural and product photography - (all static subjects that rely almost solely on manual focus in my workflow). I still shoot with a Z6 & Z7 (Generation 1) and the combination of the sensor quality and RAW file quality in conjunction with the superb S line lenses still tick all the boxes for virtually all of my needs. If I shot portraits or wildlife, a Z8 would be a no-brainer.
While I waited years for Nikon to get into the mirrorless game. I dabbled with Sony and then Canon with the R5/6. Then getting into the Z6/7-Z6ii/z7ii, I knew I wanted to stick with Nikon over the faster R5/6 so I sold them and had Sony A1 and now A7RV. Just sold the A1 and have had the Z9 for over a year now I suppose. What the system now offers is the best overall camera used. From image quality, to ergonomics, etc. with the Z8, it’s everything I’ve ever wanted from a Nikon mirrorless since the days of the dslr.
@@kevc.2958 canon R5?, honestly about the same. Canons dual pixel AF is very good for not having a stacked sensor and this goes about the same with the Sony 7rv. I noticed when I had the Z6ii/7ii, with the 50 1.2 shooting salsa, I could put the af box over someone and it would take a minute but usually wouldn’t jump off to someone else. While the z9 is faster, I was using the 17-28 2.8 and it would find other people from time to time but I need to use the Sony 50 1.2 adapted more to try that. When I get the Z8, I’ll probably use it more and I think as long as you limit the people in the frame, the AF usually sticks to the intended target fairly well. The R5, in the early stages froze a lot shooting photos but after about 4 firmware updates, that improved and I noticed the rolling shutter not as bad as the Sony. The Z9 being ES only is more adapted for all scenarios. If I had the choice today, it would be the Z8 over anything if it’s like the Z9. But I just shoot photos with it.
Cool video, thanks. Got mine yesterday. After having Nikon digital cams for 20 yrs, the complexity of the Z8 was quite unexpected. And for me, the manual leaves a lot of blanks - e.g. what IS the difference between Prioritize viewfinder (1) and (2) (OK, finally found the answer online in the Z9 firmware release notes :-( ). While the Z7ii never was a replacement for my D850, the Z8 definitely is, and I moved to fully mirrorless with it. Amazing cam, but now have to see how I best make use of it - I feel a bit pleasantly overwhelmed, like when I got my 1st D2X (and moving up from a D70). Having no paper reference guide anymore is a downside.
I suggest you to get the already released Thom Hogan’s Complete Guide to the Nikon Z8. You will get everything deeply explained and more. I purchased his guides for almost all the Nikon cameras I’ve got in the time
@@FrancescoBorsotti 😁 I bought it the day he released it (even before I got my Z8). Subjectively its also not as helpful as the 1st of his guides I got (then for the D2X). To me it has a lot of (for me unnecessary) ballast. But I‘m still going through both his and the Z8 reference guides. Its a lot to process …
Love your vids. the only thing I differ about with you here, in a friendly way, is you kind of skirt over the countless superb third=party E-mount lenses from Sigma, Tamron, Samyang/Rokinon, Zeiss, Tokina, Viltrox, Meike, etc., as good as some of the best Sony GM lenses, making the mirrorless E-mount lens lineup far bigger and more comprehensive than the Z-mount, by far. The E-mount is the most widely produced and used mirrorless lens mount system in the world with 200 lenses and growing. I have 13 excellent quality mirrorless E-mount lenses covering 10mm to 600mm from Sony, Sigma, Tamron for my Sony A7RIV, A1, A7SIII. I am happy that Nikon has teamed up with Tamron for some new Nikon-badged Z-mount lens and some Tamron-badged Z-mount lenses. As you know, Sony owns part of Tamron so Sony wins every time one of those z-mount lenses is sold . I was a user of pro Nikon and Canon gear for over 40 years (both brands at the same time) before I moved to Sony in 2017. I applaud Nikon's latest fullframe mirrorless efforts, but I really have no reasons to switch back to Nikon from my Sony gear for both my professional and personal use, none. Cheers and best to you Hugh. Keep up your good work. I am one of your biggest fans.
I have a Z8 coming to test out against my current A7RV. I'm so curious to see what it might bring to the table I don't currently have. If it were to equal or beat out my A7RV for general IQ the Sony would be sent packing. But that's going to take a LOT to accomplish. The focus speed and accuracy on the Sony is astoundingly good thus far. We shall see.
Thanks for your content, Hugh! I have watched many a colleague leave the Nikon universe over the past few years in frustration; waiting for Sony/Canon level AF, etc in the mirrorless realm. All I can say is that I’m glad I held out and experienced the evolution of the Z system, which continues to expand and delight! I will be getting a Z8 at some point, as I’ve still got a lot of gas in my Z7 II and Z5’s tanks. Aside from the technological advances the Z8/Z9 bring, you know Nikon has a great thing going when you look at images from any of these bodies, using even ‘just’ the Z 50 mm 1.8s…and you find yourself smiling with delight at the results. Beyond the spec sheets and FPS statistics, that’s the essence of finding a tool that works with you to tell the story, capture a moment and express yourself. Utter delight indeed! Love your channel!
I stretched my budget to own a Z7II for two years. It depreciated $1,000. I sold it November, and felt lucky to get the price I did. What is more SILLY is that Nikon doesn't make A SINGLE FX body with a fully articulating screen for video. 33mp Expeed7 IBIS would be ideal for my needs, and FX or DX doesn't matter to me. I kind of prefer DX, and the potential smaller size is just a bonus. I'm rolling an A7C with f2.8 Tamron zooms, a few primes, and the SIgma 100-400. I have a few z-lenses with no body, waiting on the next body...and waiting...and waiting. They still haven't made firmware 2.x for the II's or updated the Z50's firmware (to match Dfc/Z30) either. Love the content, thank you, happy shooting!
@@skyrunr of course z8 can be used for street photography but I don’t think that is even a genre Nikon aimed to be attractive in with this camera. It’s certainly not in their marketing materials.
The issue over the second card slot has always puzzled me. I typically use the second card for overflow and rarely for backup. Was wondering what your primary use for the second card slot is?
If you have a Z7 or Z7 II are doing landscape photography or something not too difficult in terms of autofocus and you just do regular video, they are largely sufficient If you have prime autofocus for sport, animal, then z8 If you want prime video, then z8 If you want more portable setup because you are hiking a lot, z7 or z7ii If you are short on money, the d850 can now be found at around 1200.. it's still an amazing camera and the sensor resolution / DR is the same If you feel for landscape or astrophotography that you need a little more resolution, then maybe A7RIV/V So indeed, depends of what you want / need The Z8 is extremely versatile and indeed on par with Sony camera in terms of autofocus The only one thing I am missing with Nikon is a F to Z adapter with a drop-in filter. It would open up so many possibilities..
But if you need the autofocus capability of the Z8 for fast action sports and/ or wildlife, you're gonna want a vertical grip. So adding the accessory verticle grip to the Z8 makes the Z8 even bigger and bulkier than the Z9. If your autofocus needs are such, it seems you'd be better off going straight to a Z9, not to mention the better battery, extra function button, plus a few other goodies.
I have switched almost completley from f-mount to z-mount based on the Z9. I gave Sony a shot and I just didn't like the way the camera felt in my hand. I also did have a 120-300mm, 400mm, and 600mm f-mount lens to consider. Ultimately I have been veryhappy with the Z9, ordered a Z8 on day 1 and the only f-mount lenses I still have are those large telephoto lenses. The z8 got here today and it feels great, looking forward for having it as my second boday at the lacross tournamets tomorrow.
Subscribed. Hugh your review goes above and beyond most, especially when you bring into account other competitors options. I love the D850 I have but its video autofocus is dismal in 4K🙄. Combine that with the 8K TV I own and interest in more video shooting and the Z 8 is VERY appealing. Thanks for a very insightful review.
Hi, I am wondering if the resolution on the Z9 viewfinder with 9.4m dot be better to see or 3.7 m on the Z8? Which preview is more accurate and matches the final image process by the same sensor of 45.7mp? thank you
I was dead set in buying the A7R V, seemed to fit the bill for my use case (no video, portraits, landscape, street and general photography). But your video is making me seriously consider rhe Z8 ❤
I might want a Z8 but.... do I really need it, probably not. I'm well happy with my Z6ii ( with a smalrig L bracket to bulk it up a bit ), D850, D700 and a host of mostly Nikon and Minolta film SLR's not forgetting all the medium format cameras from the 50,s and 60,s all make perfect art for printing.
How about coming from a D90? I squeezed just about everything I could get out of it. Now the question is do I move to a FF for street, portrait, landscape, and architecture photography, or do I continue with an ASP-C format? It’s tempting to make the leap at this point given where camera technology is at this point. This camera seems like a lot of camera for the price to last me another 15 years or more if photo software keeps progressing.
Much like you often speak about your history with Leica, to me the equivalent is having grown up around my dad's F-body Nikon SLR's in the 80's. I will have a hard time not jumping into Z mount the moment they release an S-line 135/1.8, if such a thing is even possible. (edit: I might have checked their website prior to posting this)
thanks! A very informative ane "entertaining" review. As a landscape photographer, music photographer, the Z systema and in particular the Z8 is attractive. I lug my D800 and big heavy 2.8 glass and sometimes I long for the light weight of my old film FM2. All of that said, it is a big financial jump to go Z8 and the new Z lens system, replacing a 16-28 2.8, 24-70 2.8, 70-200 2.8, macro 50. I would be investing 10 grand out of pocket. I don't do video so that is not a selling point for me. Can you tell me if I were to keep the lens and use the adapter for F to Z, how well will the auto focus be?
For me, if somebody would ask me what camera to buy. I will always recommend the Z6 second hand. Or perhaps the Z6II if available. However now owning the Z8, this is a really good camera. But the Z6 is lighter and more easy to carry around. However the Nikon Z lenses are really great, especially the "cheap" lenses.
Excellent review (as always). Thinking of a Z8 but no rush so might wait to see what a Z7iii brings - I only want the Expeed7, AF capability and shutterless elements from the Z8, so put those in a Z7iii and I am sold.
Excellent presentation! Being a NIKON fan basically my entire existence on this sphere called earth, at least as an adult (oh wait!) which by observation I would guess very similar. Typically it comes to: "Want vs Need", that is the question: answer in part may be; Can you/I afford it? Really enjoyed your knowledge and passion, sometimes I get a bit too much passion.
Any recommendations for the best value lens for z8 either Nikon or 3rd party? These are the lenses I'm thinking of...NIKKOR Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR $1,299.95, NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.8 S $529.95, NIKKOR Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S $849.95 (in that order).
I'm sure the Z8 is very nice but my A7iv cost a good bit less and I love my Sony 35mm and 50mm and 135mm gm lenses that Focus quickly and silently with beautiful image quality. Even my small and light Sony 85mm 1.8 focuses quickly and silently with beautiful images. I hear from Bird & Wildlife shooters that it takes more work to get the Z9 and probably the z8 to focus with flying birds and to get birds eyes compared to the Sony's and Canons. I also have the R7 and R8 with Canon Wildlife lenses and they work beautifully and a very affordable. I guess it's good that we've got a lot of different systems to choose from and they all have their strengths!
I appreciate Your thoughtful appraisal of the Z8 (this is why I continue to watch) I have been a Nikon guy since 1968 ... Interesting that Nikon is not the first to the (at that time) BEST in so many ways... It has been hard to hear all of the negative vibe coming at Nikon BUT,, I am glad that I have stayed with Nikon :) :) :)
Hugh, afew questions. Have you heard about do not drop this camera because of the materials used to build it. And what is going on about quality control?. If you can answer these questions I am seriously thinking about purchasing the Z8. Thanks in advance.
The biggest flaw and disappointment with the Z8 is that for the most part it is made of plastic; only the front is made of metal, therefore the Z8 is about as durable as a fart
I switched from Sony A9 and A7Riiito Panasonic Lumic L-Mount alliance on day one of their S1R and S1 release! I was switching for those Pro-S Leica-certified lenses!! What a BIG mistake!! I'll never buy a camera on day one again!! The AF was awful!! 5+ years later, still no upgrades to S1 and S1R and they stopped producing Pro-S Glass! I was holding out hoping they would so I wouldn't lose money on trading in the lenses I have. S5ii didn't produce the photo quality my S1R does. Now the Nikon Z8 has been out, and Firmware 2.0 is out and it along with many of the Z Lenses are on sale! I'm trying to sell my Lumix gear at a major loss. Been looking at all the reviews. This one pretty much has me choosing the Z8 over the A7rV. What do you think Hugh? Hold on to Lumix or get the Z8 while on sale?
I’m still shooting with a D810 but also have a Z50. I want to get a full frame mirrorless to replace my D810 in the next couple years. Getting older and with rheumatoid arthritis I really prefer something smaller so will probably opt for the Z7iii when it comes out over the z8. I really like the feel of the Z7ii when I’ve looked at it at Best Buy. I don’t even want to pick up a Z8 for fear I might like it,
Hi, I’m shooting with Fujifilm gfx100s but it’s not good for all types of photography which I like (Portrait, Landscape, Still-life). It’s heavy and bulky with gf lenses to carry around, and slow for sports and wildlife if sometimes I like to experience it! But it seems Z8 is all in one camera. The only matter important to me is if I switch to Z8, with 14bit and 45mp, could I achieve the same high images quality (detailing, colour rendering, and deep dynamic range) by gfx100s with 16bit and 102mp? Thank you.
In other words, all of its differences are similar. Wow, Hugh. I have always had trouble (since 35mm days) keeping level when hand-holding. The digital level in current viewfinders isn't precise enough for me to avoid Dutch angles. If you're doing it in-camera, how? Just experience? Are the architectural shots done with a tripod? The street photos are obviously hand-held, and they're all dead level. How?
It's priced at $7k here in Australia, and you can grab the Z9 for $8k (down from $9k at release). I think the idea behind the Z8 is solid, but their pricing strategy is a tad befuddling. No doubt within 6 months the price will settle closer to the $6k AUD mark which I personally thought should of been the starting point.
Great video. I love the Z8, I only have two issues with it, one is a really big one for me. When connecting HDMI monitors to the camera, and after one presses record to stop recording, there is a black out for about five seconds before the signal returns. It’s even longer at about 10 seconds when attaching a wireless transmitter. This makes monitoring with the camera on a professional set a little frustrating to use. The second thing is the ability to import custom LUTs into the camera. Hopefully Nikon will address these two issues in firmware. Especially the HDMI bug
I would love to jump into the Nikon Z system with a Z7 II but am (stupidly I know) worried about buyer's remorse when the inevitable Z7 III arrives with the Z8/Z9 autofocus system. It feels like it's too late in the day to be buying a new Z7 II. Thoughts?
Seems like you want to wait. Not stupid; just "is." If you wait for the 'III, you'll probably be able to get an even lower price on the 'II. Unless you NEED one of these cameras immediately, waiting sounds good to me!
No Z8 for me but the Z9, just as a D3 instead of the D700 back then. The ergonomic is the deal breaker and the Z9 reduced introductory price is hard to resist. Although a reverse desire for a baby Z9 will have me to deal with different memory card formats, either monitoring the remaining battery power or use of an alternate source, possible different L-bracket for it with & w/o grip, may not balance well with some of my lenses in handling, etc. Horse for courses and the devil is in the details. 🙂
Great video as always. But honestly, as a photographer, I will still rather shoot with my Fuji X-T1 & X-T2….even my X-H1 when I need to shoot some video.
I was waiting for the Z6iii to come out but you are definitely making me think about the Z8. I'm upgrading from a D7100 so I'll need new lenses either way. It's quite an upgrade I'm looking at.
@@3BMEP understand but if the shot you go for has a lower percentage of getting ‘the shot’ is that not a concern? - best channel on photography and rational thought!
Canon R5 is still very competitive despite being 3 years older. Let’s see how the Z8 stacks against the upcoming R5 mk2 which should be the benchmark. It doesn’t hit the current R5 completely out of the water. It feels like Nikon is still minimum 2 years behind Canon. No quantum leap at all.
You’re joking correct? I’m a Canon user and I think the Z8 with the stacked sensor is a superior camera with excellent Z lenses and many 3rd party lenses on the way. The R5 MK2’s sensor readout speeds are still slower than the Z8. Canon has updated the R5 to appease existing Canon users and possible DSLR converts, but nothing to attract Sony, Nikon, Fuji, etc users
Hi Hugh its always a pleasure listening to you. I’ve been a photo enthusiast since the 1950’s. I want to get a digital camera I love the idea of the Nikon I shoot portraits and scenery only. What do you suggest? Thank you
Is it a 90 min limit or is the 90 min timeframe what Nikon says it can reach without overheating? Doesn’t it still have the same recording limit of Z9 not including thermal shutdowns?
@@lilnape2604 I suspect it cannot record indefinitely. As I said in the video, the only full frame cameras I’m willing to bet on for long form recording have active cooling, and the Z9 is not actively cooled.
@Three Blind Men and An Elephant Productions it's definitely Schaefer, one of my favorite jingles 😁. If you're curious, search for "Schaefer Beer Commercial" from the late 60's, or my all time favorite version is the "MOOG Schaefer Beer Commercial" starring Edd Kalehoff. It's so over the top yet so wholesome at the same time hahaha. And of course, thank you for your insight on the new Nikon Z8, I can't wait to try it! ✌
![Blox Fruits Dragon Rework Update [Full Stream]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/EqDAp8udhm0/mqdefault.jpg)
Nikon is always late to the party, but when they show up they really bring it. As a commercial photographer I was... happy with the Z6II and Z7II combo, but I'm absolutely *in love* with the Z8 and Z9 combo.
The party doesn't start until Nikon gets there.
Yeah, I’ve used the z8 at a wedding this weekend and loved it! Can’t wait to dial in my setting a bit more.
yep just like Toyota and Apple. Not the first, but always the best when they finally come out with the technology.!
My parents were photographers in the 70s and I was raised on Nikon.
Generational brand loyalty
I know this is not about my camera. Seams too a smart channel I need help with XAVCS. I purchased a 2 inch book for My new to me sony a77ll. videos settings are in mp4 AVCHD wich I understand a bit. but what
is XAVCS? XAVCS is not in my 2 Inch camera book so I think the book was made before the sony a77ii received it's version 2 upgrade.
The recent Nikon financials showed the Z9 launch was the most successful flagship camera launch since the D3. Both significant technologic advances for their time. Mirrorless now accounts for 80% of Nikon camera sales.
I am delighted for Nikon. 😊🖖🏻
80 percent by volume, by revenue, by profit, in the US or Worldwide?). Just curious.
@@3BMEP i have been testing the z8 since Friday. The moment I picked it up, I knew it felt familiar. More like a cross between a D850 and D5. Handling was similar. The only things I didnt like about the camera are the seemingly small d - pad and shutter sound. I feel it is ideal for those that owned a D800 series who were waiting for something more substantial than a Z7ii.
Good news, I’ll keep using my trusted D5 for now. A go anywhere, do anything DSLR…and it just works!
That’s an interesting and original reply !!!
My Z8is coming in the mail on Monday. 1 year later, this video is one of the best on the Z8 and the Z system and its relevance in today’s photographic environment. 👍🏾
Enjoy!
“If you need it”…that stings a little but oh so true…and honestly, I don’t. I do, however, simply want one and it may yet be my first foray into a mirrorless body and it really would give me something I don’t currently have. Being predominantly a wildlife shooter still with DSLRs (D850 & D6 still performing admirably), this “ungripped Z9” makes a compelling pitch to me but, as you say, access to the Z lenses is the real bonus. I admire your work and have long respected your attitude. Thank you.
Thank you, Marcus! 😊🖖🏻
Appreciate your thoughts (hold that one). Picked mine up yesterday and I ❤it! agree with and will also make the points you made about realistic uses for video codecs and settings -- who is gonna run the Z8 for extended times at 8K 60p RAW? The Z8 will be my second angle to the Z9 ... and, yes, sometimes at 8k, not because I expect anyone to watch it on an 8K screen, but for all the options that gives me editing on an 4K timeline.
Seriously I could listen to you, just read the phone book (well back when there was such a thing) you do it so well. Enjoyed this video and your prior detailing how you do this so well. Thanks for sharing Hugh, and enjoy the holiday weekend.
I once said something similar 😆
Thank you, Robert! 😊🖖🏻
When my colleagues recovered from the shock that I as a long term Canon dslr shooter (1983) with lots of EF L glass had suddenly bought my first Nikon (Z9) of my career plus a lot of Zs glass, they frantically wanted to know why. My simple answer was "it’s the lenses stupid!😎". My future Z8 purchase will be based on practically everything you mentioned plus it will become my main gimbal camera as well as a perfect complementary backup to my Z9. 👍🏾🙏🏾
@@sols9449 just no
@@sols9449 Nope
Congratulations
how do u feel about the color science of z9 compare to your old canons?
@@kevc.2958 No complaints, I like what I see!😎
Small and lighter - hold that thought. You always keep us enthralled by your suspense and for good reason. Your story telling deserves a standing ovation. Thanks mate. ❤
😉🖖🏻
Smaller and lighter is a key consideration. Your thoughts would be greatly appreciated. Sony is going smaller and lighter, but at what trade offs.
Q3- maybe
Great video, thank you!
I’m still a dslr shooter (D810). I’ve been thinking seriously about getting into the mirrorless realm to take advantage of several features I don’t have. I was Looking at the z7ii but looking was all I have done. I was just waiting for maybe the next upgrade z7iii perhaps. On Thursday the Nikon people had a Z8 event in Portland Oregon. I now realize that this is what I was waiting for. I think I’m going to make a clean break, selling all my equipment and go all in on the Z line. I’m ready to embrace the hybrid world Ha!
I think you just may find the switch revelatory. 😊🖖🏻
Glad you enjoyed - and thanks for doing such a thorough analysis. I just hope people enjoy this system now and create great work. Technically there is really not too much in the way. Nikon has it’s quirks and goes about developing their products in their steady way. I like it and look forward to continuing my 40 year marriage into their family.
You were so right about the 24-120, Dean!
@@3BMEP it’s a Doozie!
You've got my sub. I could listen to your voice for hours. Wouldn't mind listening to an eBook with your voice. Information is brilliant, with no bulshit. Love it
Welcome to the channel! 🖖🏻
It's funny you mention the D3! Cause as much as Nikon would make us think that the Z8 is the replacement to the D850 (and I mean if we're strictrly talking about pricing, size and weight it kinda is), I don't think that the comparison stands. The D850 was a litteral beast. So much so that getting a D850 with a power grip was generally a way better idea than getting a Nikon D5. Both had the same autofocus, but considerably different usecases and the D5's sensor was not a very versatile sensor, being targeted almost exclusively at profesionnal sports shooters and journalists that would have a very quick turnaround of unedited pictures to newspaper redactions, putting the high ISO performance way beyond the dynamic range in the priority list.
Even if we look a bit further into Nikon's camera history, neither the D800 and D810 (and their variants) would fit the comparison, as they were both very different from the Nikon D4 that was the company's flagship at the time.
No really, if we look into what's the Z8's philosophy, it's a successor to the Nikon D700.
Back in 2007, Nikon introduced their very first full frame DSLR camera in the form of the flagship D3 (that at the time would replace both the 2003 aging D2H, and the higher megapixel but long in the tooth 2005 D2X, having the same shooting speed as the H, but the same resolution as the X). That camera was truly ground breaking, putting Nikon back alongside Canon that has been dominant since the EOS 1DS mk III and EOS 1D mk III were released earlier this same year.
It had better dynamic range than the Canons, similar framerates and superior autofocus (so much so that this system would be used in Nikon DSLRs until the very end of the DSLRs, still finding its place in the company's last DSLR in the form of the Nikon D780. It's also still very potent today).
Less than a year later, Nikon put to the market the Nikon D700, a camera that was much smaller but still using a bigger and more rugged body than Nikon's other DSLR cameras like the D80. It had the same sensor, the same autofocus system and burst rates coming just 1 fps short of the D3 (with the battery grip), all the while being $2000 cheaper than its bigger brother. The compromises were minimal (we're talking about no contrast AF in live view and only 1 CF card port instead of 2. That's it.). Ring a bell yet?
With that strategy of putting essentially their well acclaimed flagship product at a cheaper price, Nikon achieved 2 things:
First, they put a profesionnal camera at reach to a LOT more people. People, that would not need the few features than the D3 offered on top of the D700 anyway.
Second, it made the whole Nikon DSLR system a LOT more attractive for profesionnal shooters, by the simple fact that a pro would not have to buy a second D3 at the steep pricepoint of $5000 when the D700 could do 99% of the same things, with the same image output, the same autofocus performance with a substantial discount. Thing that Canon couldn't even touch with their own cameras, the D700's competitor (EOS 5D mk II) being very far off the performance of the 1D series, especially for autofocus and burst rates.
Those two things combined helped Nikon stay on the map for 15 years, even though they were not doing so good prior to these 2007 and 2008 launches. And it allowed Nikon to not do that strategy again "wasting" expensive components meant for flagship products into lower end models. That was a risky strategy, but it paid off handsomely. No other camera would be like the D700 again after Nikon pulled that off. (Closest would be the Df which would be the only other camera to use the sensor out of the Nikon D4, but it was more a niche product, paired with a sub-standard autofocus system straight out of the Nikon D610)
That's why I think the Z8 is the true successor to the D700 (and its legacy as well).
There's one camera I haven't mentionned though, that played a role just as important as the D700 in Nikon's 2007/2008 success : the D300. It had a 12MP APS-C sensor, but with the same autofocus and burst speeds as the D3 it was released alongside with. At first, THIS was the perfect backup that Nikon made for the D3, and the D700 is nothing other than a D3 sensor in a D300 body (making the switch from the D300 to the D700 much easier, having the same body shape, weight, size, batteries and accesories).
Unlike the D700, the D300 had a true modern successor in the form of the D500 (which took the same formula : D5's autofocus, D5's framerates but APS-C sensor)
So now I'm left wondering : Nikon, where is the Z90?
I picked up a D700 about 5 years ago to learn digital photography and moved to D850/D500 and now Z9 (sports/action/wildlife/video make up much of what I have ended up shooting). Just curious, with what you said above, all else being equal, what drove 90 percent of the sports shooters to Canon's ecosystem back in the day?
@@dance2jam easy answer: the cost of switching systems.
As much as we'd like to tell ourselves that there was fair and square competition in the early 2000s for sports photographers : there wasn't. Canon EOS 1D wiped the floor with the Nikon D1H when it came to framerate, resolution, autofocus. It even had a larger sensor resulting in less noise. Nikon wasn't even able to match the 1D 2 years later with the D2H which, if it had similar burst speeds and resolution, still had an inferior sensor for both dynamic range and noise levels, leaving Nikon in search of a new strategy. And that camera, well the EOS 1D mk II would murder it too about a year later.
To cut things short : from 2001 to 2006 (roughly), if you had a need for a flagship sports camera, Canon was better. It wasn't even a competition. Not only had they the better cameras, but also the most modern technology in their lenses when Nikon still have mechanically controlled aperture and screwdrive autofocus systems.
So when the D3 came and basically smoked the Canon cameras of the time, it was too little too late to convince anyone selling all their gear to go Nikon. And besides, the compromises you had to make by staying with Canon were very few and not major (as Canon released new models that caught up)
The reliable AF and better dynamic range of the D3 (and later D700) proved to be the thing that lead many event and wedding photographers to either buy Nikon or switch to Nikon as the lenses needed were smaller and less expensive. Can't say the same about the super telephotos needed for sports and wildlife that people already bought for Canon EF and were reluctant to sell (and honestly that was understandable)
@@matthieuzglurg6015 Thank you Matthieu for the look back in time. Makes perfect sense. Nikon, despite it's long history, is a relatively small company compared to Canon and Sony, but it is nice that they continue to help drive the market of innovation. I purchased a used D700 approx. 3 weeks before my pre-ordered D850 arrived, so never got shoot with it a lot. I initially thought I would learn about digital photography with the D700, while waiting on the D850. When I saw the button placement and set up were completely different, I put it down because I didn't want the confusion (that already comes with owning your "first" camera twice. I always loved the look out of the D700. Now, for the first time in a long time, I picked up the D700 again, yesterday, and shot with it using the 200mm f/2. I have to say, I once again fell in love with the images produced by that sensor, and actually read the manual to remind myself it even had "3D" tracking ;-). I've learned a great deal in the last 4 years, and the Z9 taught me a ton about Nikon engineers. Reading the D700 manual now is much easier - although Nikon can still be cryptic on the exact use case in many instances. Again, thanks for the history lesson. Really appreciate it.
Always so wonderful to have your perspective, Mr B. Looking forward to your smaller and lighter thoughts forthcoming. Was out shooting with my Z 6ii today with the 35mm 1.8, and looking longingly at my wife’s X-series Fuji. So compact and lovely.
See Q3 video. 😊
A competitively priced Nikon to get others to dive into the universe - good marketing move
You don't live in Australia mate ..it's 7k here ...even with dollar exchange its ridiculous expensive camera
I think the prices are outrageously high.
@@Man_Cave I have been using an XT5 and honestly, I'm preferring the smaller Fuji camera that my Nikon D8 50 the XT5 is a crop sensor camera yeah but my goodness it packs a punch for a crop sensor camera and I love the Fuji colour I don't think I will be going back to Nikon to be honest I'm not paying $5000 for one lens which is what some of the Nikon Z lenses cost in Australia and then some of the Z bodies retail for $7000. It is ridiculous. I can pick up secondhand Fuji gear for seven or 800 bucks and make it work.
@@nevvanclarke9225 Perhaps you hadn't noticed but the XTF is around 2 grand. Still way over priced.
The biggest let down regarding the Z8 is the fact that the body is predominantly made of plastic; considering that the D850 is considered the best Nikon DSLR and weighs 1Kg, had the Z8 been made entirely of Magnesium Alloy it would have weighed the same as the D850 and no one would have complained.
Hi -- first time I have watched your content (well it is a big planet) -- thanks for the "sensible" observations - I'm now a subscriber - even though I shoot wildlife and action and so have 2 Z9 and now a Z8 in my hands as well and possibly one more on the way; and all the new Z long glass and zooms I am going to need for the next decade or so.
One note -- The single video recording limit in a Z8 is 125 mins in the production version. One simply starts recording again to continue -- why not take a break change cards and off you go, when shooting in reasonable formats/codex/fps. At one point I thought I was looking at Jon Stewart.
Welcome - and thanks for the update on recording limit!
You know, Hugh, without sounding like a Fanboy (no cooling needed internally), appreciate the time, effort, and thought that goes into your videos. There were several points about the Z8 that were incorrect, but I'll let that go (ex: it is not similar in weather sealing compared to the Z9). Couple of quick points: I love your coverage of other systems and comparisons. Since I do not own all the other brands (I have been shooting the Z9 for sports/action/wildlife since launch), it's nice to hear your perspective when it comes to the overall ecosystems. I do shoot with a number of friends - who shoot Sony (A1, A7R5) and Canon (R3/R5/6) and a few DSLR bodies of all types (D500, D850, 1DXMarkIII, 5DMarkIV). All of my glass is f-mount - and is in excellent shape - but the new telephoto and telephoto zooms (100-400, 400 f4.5, 400 f/2.8 TC, 600 f/4 TC, 800 f/6.3) and 24-120s make it very tempting at times to sell a kidney. The Z9 was my first interchangeable lens mirrorless camera - and I knew what I wanted, so I waited until the Z9 was released. I am pleased to say, other than weight, I personally feel, more than anything else, it has made photography more enjoyable and allowed me to unlock creative potential. There's less concern about getting exposure or DOF correct, getting the focus point over the eye - not to mention having to "focus and recompose" if that was your thing. I can set this tool up the way I use it. The worry of tracking, buffering, or overheating - or running out of battery simply have vanished. Last, but not least, the ability to shoot silently, have high frame rates, no banding or rolling shutter, with high resolution has really made my job much easier. I will point out, for all the great stuff, it would be nice if Nikon added Zebras to stills shooting, and battery percentage in addition to "bars". Shooting with back up video to a second slot would be sweet, but so would a global shutter. We can continue to enjoy the innervations making their way to market - and hope it's a win/win for everyone involved.
There is a thing that people don't mention and I feel it's great in Nikon Z cameras and lenses: stabilization. Even with very long telephoto.
@@amermeleitor Now this is very true, especially with the 600mm f/4 TC.
Thanks for your thoughtful comments! I’ll have to look into the sealing issue more closely!
Being approximately the same age as you, I got the "stupid" reference. It's a bit depressing to realize that for many viewers this a bit on ancient history while for me it's a memory from my late thirties. 😮
Yeah. I got that reference instantly too 🙂
There is a thing that people don't mention and I feel it's great in Nikon Z cameras and lenses: stabilization. Even with very long telephoto.
That's why I never used my dji Rsc2 and it stays in the closet for more than 2 years. Obviously i must sell it asap, hahah
I do landscape and street photography, mostly. I would be happy with a Z 6/7 body that includes the shutter cover and tilting screen of the Z 8. In fact, if they made one with zero video features for less money, I would be ecstatic. I always end up taking video with my phone in the spur of the moment, anyway. It's so much more intuitive.
Great vid….As much as I drool over this Z8 (and I do!), I think I am team Claudia….my Z7ii is more than enough for me. I just came back from my vacation. I popped off the grip, and that smaller Z7ii/24-120f4 S package was all I needed for 95% of my captures. I got great shots, even in bad weather. As I push into the senior ranks soon, travelling light is very important!
We BOTH hear you, David. 🖖🏻🖖🏻
Which makes one think, if several grand did come my way, that Leica Q3, might be more fun than an upgrade to a Z8!
@@davidroberts6766 😎👊🏻🖖🏻
Would just like to point out that 8K is a real bonus for some applications. I don't ever deliver in 8K but 4K delivery is now a requirement in my sector so having that extra crop room from 8K footage is a blessing (just like it was when 4K arrived during 1080p delivery days). The oversampling is also a perceptible IQ enhancement and my 5K iMac Pro can resolve that extra resolution over 4K files. And that is why I got my eyes set on a Z9 rather than a Z8. If I was only shooting 4K my current setup would suffice. The whole point of upgrading here is to reek benefits from this new tech, but I guess if you are mainly a stills shooter with light video demands then yeah a Z8 will be way enough. Battery life is actually my main concern with Z8, overheating being second. The price difference if you're a smart shopper (ie buy second hand) isn't big and a Z9 brings some serious advantages over a Z8 IF you use the camera to its top full specs!
Tired of waiting for what seemed to be a mythical Z8 I got the Z9. It really is too big for 80% of my needs but the huge battery has reluctantly won me over. Like you and your wife, for casual shooting (i.e. non-work shooting) I prefer the Z6ii - love the smaller format. While I "want" more resolution, I find in that case I don't "need" more. I fear I'll order the Z8 anyway (or maybe I should wait for the Z7/Z6iii's to come out). Nice to finally have some decent choices in the Nikon system.
I tired of waited for the mythical Z8 so I bought a A7R4. No regrets a year later. Done with sleepy old Nikon.
Thank you very much for your balanced review, Hugh!
Thank YOU, Tom!
It's always a pleasure to listen to you, Hugh, and watch your videos for the artwork. As to the Z 8, there's one thing that may not directly be a use case you frequent, in that it can AF down to LV -7 [1] while my Z 7ii halts at LV -4.
What I would like to know, is not if this is true - because it is. But rather, at what EV level these cameras start having difficulties with eye/face detection. My experience and perception are that between my LV -4 and that LV of confusion may lie some 8 LV and mathematically that is a big number in integer lumens (256 times more light). And it can be more than 8 LV.
So, while the AF spec is not a lie, in the sense that the camera can focus right using single point and recompose.
It would be very interesting to learn from you and Claudia how these two compare. And, maybe it turns out that I'm less clever in reading Nikon's Reference Guide, combining menu items in different places that all contribute to how AF works.
[1] LV = Light Value =by definition= Exposure Value (EV) at ISO 100
What a great question - especially because I recently did a quick off the cuff test with the best autofocusing camera we own (the a7R V). I was surprised that it lost eye AF under the same challenging circumstances as the Leica Q3. But that would be CLAUDIA’s Q3; she now uses this exclusively (her Z7 II going to KEH), so I can’t give you an evidence-based answer.
@@3BMEP - there's a very high fraction of AI in the explanation. And PDAF v contrast AF integration in that AI. And part of the problem "we" don't see is that the camera "sees" raw - monochrome data elements, not RGB and that's 100% colour noise and luminance noise.
Maybe you could say Nikon pulled a D700 on the other brands (if you remember the landscape back in 2008 when the D700 was released...basically, a flagship D3 in a smaller body and lower price). They seem intent on getting more business by, well...doing another D700 (and I'm glad they did).
I still have one. Nice item. But 12MP was a joke back then. Magic pixels of the orient they called it.
This review is the best, especially because I maxed out my CC on the z8 and a couple of lenses. I find that its focus stacking feature works great. I did find out that the OM 1 mark ii has an integrated and graduated ND. that can be manipulated on the viewfinder. I would be looking for that feature on Nikon's next-gen cameras. Fingers crossed.
Some people will complain at the sun rising in the morning…. I love your show Hugh. LL&P 🖖
Nice to see you here again! 😊🖖🏻
@@3BMEP … Pon Far n Stuff…. Ya know how it is.
I ran out and bought a Z7 as soon as it was available and have since purchased a half dozen Z lenses. I'm almost fully retired and still use a pair of D750 cameras to shoot weddings because I don't feel the need to fix what isn't broke. I use the Z7 for portraits and landscapes and I can't imagine how the photo quality could get any better. I don't shoot much video, while sports and wildlife are for my own pleasure. I use Olympus and Lumix mft for that, their long lenses are so much easier to lug around. Perhaps I'll wait for the Z8II or III (ha!) I just can't bring myself to upgrade again and again. BTW, watching these videos I've come to the conclusion that there should be more emphasis on the art of photography than gear.
For what it’s worth, I am glad I have the ability to purchase the Z8 & Z9 with the various Z mount lenses. I feel that those two Z mount cameras are a good complement to my D850/D500/D6.
I'm going to guess if you own a D6, D850, and D500, you shoot sports, action/wildlife. The only thing you'll miss out of the Z8/Z9 is the low light performance of the D6. I've been shooting the Z9 for over a year - and do not need a Z8. That said, they are beasts and although my friends who shot the D850 told me they would never put it down or stop shooting with it, both have only used it once or twice over the last year after I talked them into the Z9. All of those cameras of yours are terrific, but the advantages of this current and the prior Z9 offering are just overwhelming for most use cases if you are in need of those features.
You have all those nice cameras in your many cameras bags❤😊❤
Honest question, why do you need 5 bodies?
@@sinetwo You dont
@@JoeGiz64 this guy has 10 hands and 10 eyes
Your delivery of amazing content is second to none. Thank you!
😊🙏🏻🖖🏻
Whoo hooo!! 100k subscribers! Well done, Hugh! :) And thank you for providing us with such insightful, original, and eloquent content! Long may it continue.
Thanks, Martin!
If I were being paid for my photography or videography, the Z system is 100% what I would adopt at this point. The X-T5's improved AF, improved resolution, and overall compact system size is keeping me in that ecosystem for now, but I kinda feel like the guy in that meme continually glancing over my shoulder at Nikon... I'd keep my X100V, though - that's never going away. :)
Listen, I'm a Nikon guy, and in the beginning was looking over my shoulder at other brands including Fujifilm. I'm going to say this - 1. If the system you are in now works for you, 2. Stimulates you to go out in shoot - whether it's the light, smaller body, file size, film simulations, etc. Stay where you are. That said, if you are looking back over your shoulder a lot, find a friend that shoots with one of the Z cameras - and if sports/action/wildlife are high on your priority list - a Z8/Z9. You can always rent one or go to the local camera store to check it out - availability is improving, but I have finally programmed the buttons/AF Area modes, etc. the way I want them because it has taken this long, with firmware updates, to figure out the most efficient way to use the tool. Point is, you can't get that experience with just short use (i.e. turning a new computer on like a Mac if you worked on PCs, and expecting to see all the advantages in an hour or a day). I know you know this. Just sayin, the Z9 is the best camera for what I do that I've ever used - and it's not even close, but it's not for everyone, and the Z8, while is going to be fantastic, also is best used by those that need it's features.
@@dance2jam Well said, I appreciate your thoughts. I actually think I'd probably lean toward the Z7 II (or III, if they continue to improve it) for the type of work I primarily shoot. I've found Fuji's AF fine for wildlife in Kenya and Costa Rica, but I have struggled with sports. Now that my son is aging out of youth soccer, that's not even much of a consideration for me at this point. My favorite past time is travel, where the Fujis' small size and increased depth-of-field due to sensor crop have served me well.
@@christopherbgriffith Well said and stated. Makes sense to me. As I am sure you are aware, some of the biggest advantages (and there are many) of the Z9, and newer, smaller Z9 *Z8" - are high resolution, fast readout without banding/rolling shutter, silent shooting, frame rate, blackout free actual live feed EVF, deep buffer, programmability, and video AF/codecs. Two last things: Pre-capture is something I use on occasion, and it works marvelously when you need it. As someone else mentioned, if you shoot with the newer Nikon telephoto glass (i.e. 600mm f/4 TC) - the VR for stills and video is amazing. That lens is still a bit rich for me unless I sell off some other gear. Time will tell. Sounds like you're in good shape. Good luck with your son and your shooting.
Thanks, Hugh. So many great choices. I reserve my Z9 for big glass/wildlife. Like Claudia, I am happy with the Z6/7 form factor for other uses and hope the Nikon will soon upgrade this in a major manner. Then again the Q3 beckons.
Thank YOU for weighing in, Peter!
Excellent! As a Z9 shooter I’ve been holing on to the D850 as a second body for the times of need. Now I have a perfect camera that will inspire me to upgrade the D850. Well not upgrade, it is after all an incredible camera, but perhaps modernize or some such thing.
Savage, I am shooting with the Z8 this week after loving my D850. Using my gold band Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8 with FTZ adapter. I do not shoot fast action or video. Mostly street, landscape, nature, etc. Question to you please as you have full knowledge to answer: So far, I cannot see quality difference on my big calibrated monitor between images captured D850 and Z8 under identical conditions/subject. Handheld and tripod. Struggling to justify $4000 investment for this reason. Would you say you noticed quality difference between or D850 and Z9 images? Would S series, Z lenses make a big difference?
@@christinabrittain324 if the D850 fulfills your needs stick with it. It is a great camera. Needing two bodies at times I will invest in Z8. Z lenses on 9 are excellent. I don’t like carrying more lenses and adapters than necessary and my goal is to have all Z lenses. I love the D 850. But the shooting experience and focus tracking on the Z 9 are great , the speed is great. The image quality is great and switching between systems on one shoot is a really a pain as they are different experiences. It’s really about the need. I feel the need. I wanted to stick With D850 but need the features of the z8 and z9 for Shooting sports, motor sports wild life etc. while not changing systems
As usual. Brilliant counterpoint w/minimum gushing, fluff. Maximum thought provoking content, backed up with the plain truth and no fanboy blather. Refreshing. Yet again.
Kudos
Thank you, JR. 🖖🏻
Well well , I shoot with Z9 , Z6, Z7 and D3S (I Love it) every model have his charm. this Z8 is a nice tool as a lighter Z9 ! Talking about the old D3S have very nice colors , and 12 mpx is enough for many jobs too , just being careful while framing !!
Been waitng for Hugh's video on the Z8 ... thanks
My pleasure. Thank YOU!
I had many full frame Nikon cameras in the past and when the Z line came out I decided to purchase the z6 first generation and i love it. But two months I dropped this camera on one of my trips in Greece and so i decided to look about buying the Z6ii or Z7ii, but after long hours of reading reviews about the z8. I decided this is what I want. I ordered the nikon Z 180-600 lens and the Z8 this week. I cant wait to try them since i love st photography and wild life :). Also will try it with my nikon 500 f4 VRll, nikon z 24-70 f2.8 and other good lenses
I have been shooting with the Z9 and the D850 as a second body. I started upgrading my F mount glass with the newer, smaller, sharper Z mount glass, so I came to the point the D850 only had 1 lens I could use with it so it was time to upgrade my D850 to the Z system. I bought the Z8. The next trip I used it instead of my Z9 I instantly regretted buying it. I would love to go back, and instead get another Z9. For the small price difference I would have saved buying a whole set of fast and very expensive SD cards to match all of my existing CF Express cards to use as a backup card slot. For every 512GB CFx card I needed to buy a fast 512GB SD card. Major expense. I would have saved buying multiple Z8 batteries and a multiple battery charger, and I would not have had to take so much gear with me when I go shoot for the day. I am used to just grabbing the Z9. Now I need include a pocket full of spare batteries, 2 different kinds of cards, and an external GPS unit which reduces an already poor battery life. And I have no vertical shooting controls. There was no real cost saving. There is a vertical grip for the Z8 but it is a massive unit that makes the Z8 larger than the Z9 which people seem to think is already big. And it is yet more money you need to spend to get what is included in the smaller Z9. The smaller size of the Z8 (without the grip) I thought I could get used to but it is nowhere near as comfortable to hold and shoot all day, especially when there are no vertical controls. Maybe I have large hands. Yes the Z8 is a great camera but there are reasons it is cheaper. The battery life, GPS and additional cost for the same features are the downsides. The Z9 I can grab and use all day, even for weddings with the GPS turned on. I am trying to get used to charging and carrying spare batteries again (there is a slight weight saving for the body, but when you look at all the extra gear you need to carry I would say the Z9 is a net weight saving over the equally outfitted Z8). I am trying to get used to shooting vertically with the old style hand over the top of the camera. My D850 I always used with the vertical grip. This made it easier to hold and gave me the vertical controls and the long battery life. The Z9 is considerably smaller than the D850+grip. I think the Z8 is a huge improvement over the D850, and it is a definite upgrade. But if you are expecting it to be a Z9 … it is not. Another huge savings on the Z9 over the Z8. Time. Time to charge extra batteries, time to miss shots because you need to change batteries, time to fiddle with alternative ways to connect a GPS using Bluetooth, and even time to add locations in PP. I won’t mention the overheating as the Z9 is clearly a better video performer so it would be used before ever trying the Z8. If you are not wanting all the added features of the Z9 you may be very happy with the Z8. If you have only used lower models, you may not have enjoyed all the added Z9 features to even miss them. The Z8 results are quite amazing. If you want a long battery life, built in GPS, and vertical controls, the Z9 is the most inexpensive solution. I am blessed that I have both the Z9 and Z8 but the Z8 will only be used as a second body. I will never use it as a primary body again. One trip confirmed that. The one sure benefit of buying the Z8 … it made me appreciate the features of the Z9 that I took for granted. Choose what is best for you and enjoy it. They are both great cameras, but I will always grab the Z9 first.
Fantastic images, and brilliant perspective on the camera - as always.
Thank you, Geoffrey!
I would get the Z8 if it wasn’t for the price. I’m still using the original Z6 professionally and I get by just fine. I have done basically everything on 24mpx sensor and “shitty” AF. I know all its shortcomings and how to counter them. I really hope Z6iii comes out next year. That will be an amazing upgrade.
I'm temped by the Z8, but I'm paid for architectural and product photography - (all static subjects that rely almost solely on manual focus in my workflow). I still shoot with a Z6 & Z7 (Generation 1) and the combination of the sensor quality and RAW file quality in conjunction with the superb S line lenses still tick all the boxes for virtually all of my needs. If I shot portraits or wildlife, a Z8 would be a no-brainer.
prior to Z8 ... Nikon AF in the Z50 and 6ii was a disappointment for me. The Z lenses otoh are remarkable ...
While I waited years for Nikon to get into the mirrorless game. I dabbled with Sony and then Canon with the R5/6. Then getting into the Z6/7-Z6ii/z7ii, I knew I wanted to stick with Nikon over the faster R5/6 so I sold them and had Sony A1 and now A7RV. Just sold the A1 and have had the Z9 for over a year now I suppose. What the system now offers is the best overall camera used. From image quality, to ergonomics, etc. with the Z8, it’s everything I’ve ever wanted from a Nikon mirrorless since the days of the dslr.
how does the eye focus and tracking of z9 compare to r5?
@@kevc.2958 canon R5?, honestly about the same. Canons dual pixel AF is very good for not having a stacked sensor and this goes about the same with the Sony 7rv.
I noticed when I had the Z6ii/7ii, with the 50 1.2 shooting salsa, I could put the af box over someone and it would take a minute but usually wouldn’t jump off to someone else. While the z9 is faster, I was using the 17-28 2.8 and it would find other people from time to time but I need to use the Sony 50 1.2 adapted more to try that. When I get the Z8, I’ll probably use it more and I think as long as you limit the people in the frame, the AF usually sticks to the intended target fairly well.
The R5, in the early stages froze a lot shooting photos but after about 4 firmware updates, that improved and I noticed the rolling shutter not as bad as the Sony. The Z9 being ES only is more adapted for all scenarios.
If I had the choice today, it would be the Z8 over anything if it’s like the Z9. But I just shoot photos with it.
Cool video, thanks. Got mine yesterday. After having Nikon digital cams for 20 yrs, the complexity of the Z8 was quite unexpected. And for me, the manual leaves a lot of blanks - e.g. what IS the difference between Prioritize viewfinder (1) and (2) (OK, finally found the answer online in the Z9 firmware release notes :-( ). While the Z7ii never was a replacement for my D850, the Z8 definitely is, and I moved to fully mirrorless with it. Amazing cam, but now have to see how I best make use of it - I feel a bit pleasantly overwhelmed, like when I got my 1st D2X (and moving up from a D70). Having no paper reference guide anymore is a downside.
Nikon has the full reference guide on their website… I suggest you download it, because the z8 offers a lot of customizability.
Modern camera reference guides are universally AWFUL. 😊🖖🏻
I suggest you to get the already released Thom Hogan’s Complete Guide to the Nikon Z8. You will get everything deeply explained and more. I purchased his guides for almost all the Nikon cameras I’ve got in the time
@@FrancescoBorsotti 😁 I bought it the day he released it (even before I got my Z8). Subjectively its also not as helpful as the 1st of his guides I got (then for the D2X). To me it has a lot of (for me unnecessary) ballast. But I‘m still going through both his and the Z8 reference guides. Its a lot to process …
Love your vids. the only thing I differ about with you here, in a friendly way, is you kind of skirt over the countless superb third=party E-mount lenses from Sigma, Tamron, Samyang/Rokinon, Zeiss, Tokina, Viltrox, Meike, etc., as good as some of the best Sony GM lenses, making the mirrorless E-mount lens lineup far bigger and more comprehensive than the Z-mount, by far. The E-mount is the most widely produced and used mirrorless lens mount system in the world with 200 lenses and growing. I have 13 excellent quality mirrorless E-mount lenses covering 10mm to 600mm from Sony, Sigma, Tamron for my Sony A7RIV, A1, A7SIII. I am happy that Nikon has teamed up with Tamron for some new Nikon-badged Z-mount lens and some Tamron-badged Z-mount lenses. As you know, Sony owns part of Tamron so Sony wins every time one of those z-mount lenses is sold . I was a user of pro Nikon and Canon gear for over 40 years (both brands at the same time) before I moved to Sony in 2017. I applaud Nikon's latest fullframe mirrorless efforts, but I really have no reasons to switch back to Nikon from my Sony gear for both my professional and personal use, none. Cheers and best to you Hugh. Keep up your good work. I am one of your biggest fans.
Fair points all, Gerald! Thanks for articulating them more specifically here!
I have a Z8 coming to test out against my current A7RV. I'm so curious to see what it might bring to the table I don't currently have. If it were to equal or beat out my A7RV for general IQ the Sony would be sent packing. But that's going to take a LOT to accomplish. The focus speed and accuracy on the Sony is astoundingly good thus far. We shall see.
Please keep me posted?
Looking forward to reading about this.
? Какие дела?
Thanks for your content, Hugh! I have watched many a colleague leave the Nikon universe over the past few years in frustration; waiting for Sony/Canon level AF, etc in the mirrorless realm. All I can say is that I’m glad I held out and experienced the evolution of the Z system, which continues to expand and delight! I will be getting a Z8 at some point, as I’ve still got a lot of gas in my Z7 II and Z5’s tanks. Aside from the technological advances the Z8/Z9 bring, you know Nikon has a great thing going when you look at images from any of these bodies, using even ‘just’ the Z 50 mm 1.8s…and you find yourself smiling with delight at the results. Beyond the spec sheets and FPS statistics, that’s the essence of finding a tool that works with you to tell the story, capture a moment and express yourself. Utter delight indeed! Love your channel!
Thanks, Steve. We agree on the 50/1.8, but I’ll go one step further: it is PHENOMENAL! 😊🖖🏻
I stretched my budget to own a Z7II for two years. It depreciated $1,000. I sold it November, and felt lucky to get the price I did. What is more SILLY is that Nikon doesn't make A SINGLE FX body with a fully articulating screen for video. 33mp Expeed7 IBIS would be ideal for my needs, and FX or DX doesn't matter to me. I kind of prefer DX, and the potential smaller size is just a bonus. I'm rolling an A7C with f2.8 Tamron zooms, a few primes, and the SIgma 100-400. I have a few z-lenses with no body, waiting on the next body...and waiting...and waiting. They still haven't made firmware 2.x for the II's or updated the Z50's firmware (to match Dfc/Z30) either.
Love the content, thank you, happy shooting!
The Z8 for street photography draws too much attention. :\ My D500 did, as it was too.
@@skyrunr of course z8 can be used for street photography but I don’t think that is even a genre Nikon aimed to be attractive in with this camera. It’s certainly not in their marketing materials.
Claudia has no such problem, be she’s pretty stealthy. 😊
The issue over the second card slot has always puzzled me. I typically use the second card for overflow and rarely for backup. Was wondering what your primary use for the second card slot is?
Yep: overflow.😊
If you have a Z7 or Z7 II are doing landscape photography or something not too difficult in terms of autofocus and you just do regular video, they are largely sufficient
If you have prime autofocus for sport, animal, then z8
If you want prime video, then z8
If you want more portable setup because you are hiking a lot, z7 or z7ii
If you are short on money, the d850 can now be found at around 1200.. it's still an amazing camera and the sensor resolution / DR is the same
If you feel for landscape or astrophotography that you need a little more resolution, then maybe A7RIV/V
So indeed, depends of what you want / need
The Z8 is extremely versatile and indeed on par with Sony camera in terms of autofocus
The only one thing I am missing with Nikon is a F to Z adapter with a drop-in filter. It would open up so many possibilities..
But if you need the autofocus capability of the Z8 for fast action sports and/ or wildlife, you're gonna want a vertical grip. So adding the accessory verticle grip to the Z8 makes the Z8 even bigger and bulkier than the Z9. If your autofocus needs are such, it seems you'd be better off going straight to a Z9, not to mention the better battery, extra function button, plus a few other goodies.
I have switched almost completley from f-mount to z-mount based on the Z9. I gave Sony a shot and I just didn't like the way the camera felt in my hand. I also did have a 120-300mm, 400mm, and 600mm f-mount lens to consider. Ultimately I have been veryhappy with the Z9, ordered a Z8 on day 1 and the only f-mount lenses I still have are those large telephoto lenses. The z8 got here today and it feels great, looking forward for having it as my second boday at the lacross tournamets tomorrow.
Enjoy!
Great review, Hugh. Hope Nikon starts putting shutter angle into their cameras.
I second that! 👍🏾
Subscribed. Hugh your review goes above and beyond most, especially when you bring into account other competitors options. I love the D850 I have but its video autofocus is dismal in 4K🙄. Combine that with the 8K TV I own and interest in more video shooting and the Z 8 is VERY appealing. Thanks for a very insightful review.
My pleasure Thomas - welcome!
Wow. When you panned the photos I understood. Bought my daughter the Z7 II. I’m buying the Z8 and we can share lenses.
Hi, I am wondering if the resolution on the Z9 viewfinder with 9.4m dot be better to see or 3.7 m on the Z8? Which preview is more accurate and matches the final image process by the same sensor of 45.7mp? thank you
Z8 and Z9 have exact same EVF specs…..
@@Old_Man_Bridge 0.4 on z9 and 3.7 on z8!
@@mrz1342 nope. Once again, Z9 and Z8 both have 3.7m viewfinder. Google is your friend. 👍🏼
I was dead set in buying the A7R V, seemed to fit the bill for my use case (no video, portraits, landscape, street and general photography). But your video is making me seriously consider rhe Z8 ❤
Happy to be of service. 😊🖖🏻
@@3BMEPthank *you* :) Flying to NY for a workshop with you guys is surely on my dream list 😉
I might want a Z8 but.... do I really need it, probably not. I'm well happy with my Z6ii ( with a smalrig L bracket to bulk it up a bit ), D850, D700 and a host of mostly Nikon and Minolta film SLR's not forgetting all the medium format cameras from the 50,s and 60,s all make perfect art for printing.
Hi Hugh! How would you compare the color science of the Z8 vis-a-vis the S5 II?
It is, for me, as simple as this: both are great.
How about coming from a D90? I squeezed just about everything I could get out of it. Now the question is do
I move to a FF for street, portrait, landscape, and architecture photography, or do I continue with an ASP-C format?
It’s tempting to make the leap at this point given where camera technology is at this point. This camera seems like a lot of camera for the price to last me another 15 years or more if photo software keeps progressing.
Your channel is outstanding, super professional. Congrats on hitting 100K subs! :)
😊🙏🏻
Much like you often speak about your history with Leica, to me the equivalent is having grown up around my dad's F-body Nikon SLR's in the 80's. I will have a hard time not jumping into Z mount the moment they release an S-line 135/1.8, if such a thing is even possible. (edit: I might have checked their website prior to posting this)
They've answered your wish. The 135/1.8 has just been released, and from the initial reaction, it's remarkable.
Plena
I have a d850 and then went to Olympus. Thinking about getting the z8, but so far I don't see anything the Olympus doesn't do. What am I missing?
What are you using for your RUclips videos? The colors and sharpness look amazing.
Our daily driver is our Panasonic S5 II; I don’t recall if I used the Z8 here. You should be able to see exactly what we use in the show notes!
thanks! A very informative ane "entertaining" review. As a landscape photographer, music photographer, the Z systema and in particular the Z8 is attractive. I lug my D800 and big heavy 2.8 glass and sometimes I long for the light weight of my old film FM2. All of that said, it is a big financial jump to go Z8 and the new Z lens system, replacing a 16-28 2.8, 24-70 2.8, 70-200 2.8, macro 50. I would be investing 10 grand out of pocket. I don't do video so that is not a selling point for me. Can you tell me if I were to keep the lens and use the adapter for F to Z, how well will the auto focus be?
For me, if somebody would ask me what camera to buy. I will always recommend the Z6 second hand. Or perhaps the Z6II if available. However now owning the Z8, this is a really good camera. But the Z6 is lighter and more easy to carry around. However the Nikon Z lenses are really great, especially the "cheap" lenses.
Funny coincidence. I've tested my new Z8, which I got today, around those same areas, FiDi and near Brooklyn Bridge/City Hall.
Excellent review (as always). Thinking of a Z8 but no rush so might wait to see what a Z7iii brings - I only want the Expeed7, AF capability and shutterless elements from the Z8, so put those in a Z7iii and I am sold.
The Z8 is a special camera and the whole Z system is above any other camera system in play right now.
Not sure if you used the Z8 to shoot this video, but this looks super super great.
Agreed: it DOES look great, and yes, it was shot on the Z8 (as noted in the video) with the Z 24-120/4.
Excellent presentation! Being a NIKON fan basically my entire existence on this sphere called earth, at least as an adult (oh wait!) which by observation I would guess very similar. Typically it comes to: "Want vs Need", that is the question: answer in part may be; Can you/I afford it? Really enjoyed your knowledge and passion, sometimes I get a bit too much passion.
Any recommendations for the best value lens for z8 either Nikon or 3rd party? These are the lenses I'm thinking of...NIKKOR Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR $1,299.95, NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.8 S $529.95, NIKKOR Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S $849.95 (in that order).
just got my Z8 - I agree with your assessment - its the mirrorless D850
I'm sure the Z8 is very nice but my A7iv cost a good bit less and I love my Sony 35mm and 50mm and 135mm gm lenses that Focus quickly and silently with beautiful image quality. Even my small and light Sony 85mm 1.8 focuses quickly and silently with beautiful images.
I hear from Bird & Wildlife shooters that it takes more work to get the Z9 and probably the z8 to focus with flying birds and to get birds eyes compared to the Sony's and Canons. I also have the R7 and R8 with Canon Wildlife lenses and they work beautifully and a very affordable. I guess it's good that we've got a lot of different systems to choose from and they all have their strengths!
I appreciate Your thoughtful appraisal of the Z8 (this is why I continue to watch) I have been a Nikon guy since 1968 ... Interesting that Nikon is not the first to the (at that time) BEST in so many ways... It has been hard to hear all of the negative vibe coming at Nikon BUT,, I am glad that I have stayed with Nikon :) :) :)
Happy for you, John! 😊👊🏻
Hugh, afew questions. Have you heard about do not drop this camera because of the materials used to build it. And what is going on about quality control?. If you can answer these questions I am seriously thinking about purchasing the Z8. Thanks in advance.
I haven’t, sorry!
The biggest flaw and disappointment with the Z8 is that for the most part it is made of plastic; only the front is made of metal, therefore the Z8 is about as durable as a fart
I switched from Sony A9 and A7Riiito Panasonic Lumic L-Mount alliance on day one of their S1R and S1 release! I was switching for those Pro-S Leica-certified lenses!! What a BIG mistake!! I'll never buy a camera on day one again!! The AF was awful!! 5+ years later, still no upgrades to S1 and S1R and they stopped producing Pro-S Glass! I was holding out hoping they would so I wouldn't lose money on trading in the lenses I have. S5ii didn't produce the photo quality my S1R does. Now the Nikon Z8 has been out, and Firmware 2.0 is out and it along with many of the Z Lenses are on sale! I'm trying to sell my Lumix gear at a major loss. Been looking at all the reviews. This one pretty much has me choosing the Z8 over the A7rV. What do you think Hugh? Hold on to Lumix or get the Z8 while on sale?
I’m still shooting with a D810 but also have a Z50. I want to get a full frame mirrorless to replace my D810 in the next couple years. Getting older and with rheumatoid arthritis I really prefer something smaller so will probably opt for the Z7iii when it comes out over the z8. I really like the feel of the Z7ii when I’ve looked at it at Best Buy. I don’t even want to pick up a Z8 for fear I might like it,
Hi, I’m shooting with Fujifilm gfx100s but it’s not good for all types of photography which I like (Portrait, Landscape, Still-life). It’s heavy and bulky with gf lenses to carry around, and slow for sports and wildlife if sometimes I like to experience it! But it seems Z8 is all in one camera. The only matter important to me is if I switch to Z8, with 14bit and 45mp, could I achieve the same high images quality (detailing, colour rendering, and deep dynamic range) by gfx100s with 16bit and 102mp? Thank you.
In other words, all of its differences are similar.
Wow, Hugh. I have always had trouble (since 35mm days) keeping level when hand-holding. The digital level in current viewfinders isn't precise enough for me to avoid Dutch angles. If you're doing it in-camera, how? Just experience? Are the architectural shots done with a tripod? The street photos are obviously hand-held, and they're all dead level. How?
Combination of shooting for the edit and then editing! 😊🖖🏻
Thanks for your perspective on the Z8. Mine showed up at the front door as I watched your video!
Enjoy, Larry!
It's priced at $7k here in Australia, and you can grab the Z9 for $8k (down from $9k at release). I think the idea behind the Z8 is solid, but their pricing strategy is a tad befuddling. No doubt within 6 months the price will settle closer to the $6k AUD mark which I personally thought should of been the starting point.
7700 for the Z9 ar Ted's so $700 over the Z8 or about $400 US.
I know they are different in size, cost, etc? But how do you feel this compares to the Panasonic G9 !! ?
Great video. I love the Z8, I only have two issues with it, one is a really big one for me. When connecting HDMI monitors to the camera, and after one presses record to stop recording, there is a black out for about five seconds before the signal returns. It’s even longer at about 10 seconds when attaching a wireless transmitter. This makes monitoring with the camera on a professional set a little frustrating to use. The second thing is the ability to import custom LUTs into the camera. Hopefully Nikon will address these two issues in firmware. Especially the HDMI bug
I would love to jump into the Nikon Z system with a Z7 II but am (stupidly I know) worried about buyer's remorse when the inevitable Z7 III arrives with the Z8/Z9 autofocus system. It feels like it's too late in the day to be buying a new Z7 II. Thoughts?
Seems like you want to wait. Not stupid; just "is." If you wait for the 'III, you'll probably be able to get an even lower price on the 'II. Unless you NEED one of these cameras immediately, waiting sounds good to me!
No Z8 for me but the Z9, just as a D3 instead of the D700 back then. The ergonomic is the deal breaker and the Z9 reduced introductory price is hard to resist.
Although a reverse desire for a baby Z9 will have me to deal with different memory card formats, either monitoring the remaining battery power or use of an alternate source, possible different L-bracket for it with & w/o grip, may not balance well with some of my lenses in handling, etc. Horse for courses and the devil is in the details. 🙂
Thanks for the great review!
My pleasure!😊
@@3BMEP I'm taking delivery of my new Z8 today. I figured an upgrade is OK, since I've been with my one and only full frame, a D750, since 2015! LOL
Great video as always. But honestly, as a photographer, I will still rather shoot with my Fuji X-T1 & X-T2….even my X-H1 when I need to shoot some video.
If you’re happy with what you’ve got, I’m happy for you! 😊🖖🏻
I was waiting for the Z6iii to come out but you are definitely making me think about the Z8. I'm upgrading from a D7100 so I'll need new lenses either way. It's quite an upgrade I'm looking at.
My good man - a question if you allow, if the Sony a7r5 is a 9/10 in terms of autofocus and getting the shots you need, where does Z8 sit? - 6/10?
Haven’t had sufficient time (nor inclination, candidly) to do that kind of deep dive. I prefer to shoot for the shot! 😉🖖🏻
@@3BMEP understand but if the shot you go for has a lower percentage of getting ‘the shot’ is that not a concern? - best channel on photography and rational thought!
@@BS1071M of course! But my instinct is that the difference for what we do is somewhere between insignificant and nonexistent. 😊🖖🏻
@@3BMEP Mr.Spock would be proud! Hmmm Sony? Nikon? - first world problems..
Would this out perform a Canon R5?
In many/most ways, yes.
Even a fart would outperform the R5
@@HELL-BENT74 😂😂😂😂
Great video Hugh, the info we need . Thanks
😊🙏🏻🖖🏻
Canon R5 is still very competitive despite being 3 years older. Let’s see how the Z8 stacks against the upcoming R5 mk2 which should be the benchmark. It doesn’t hit the current R5 completely out of the water. It feels like Nikon is still minimum 2 years behind Canon. No quantum leap at all.
You’re joking correct? I’m a Canon user and I think the Z8 with the stacked sensor is a superior camera with excellent Z lenses and many 3rd party lenses on the way. The R5 MK2’s sensor readout speeds are still slower than the Z8. Canon has updated the R5 to appease existing Canon users and possible DSLR converts, but nothing to attract Sony, Nikon, Fuji, etc users
Any recording limits overheating issues?
Yes, if you intend to do much long form video. I discuss this in the video. 😊🖖🏻
Great video! Well worded narrative. Also I find your face very aesthetically pleasing to look at 😜
Hi Hugh its always a pleasure listening to you. I’ve been a photo enthusiast since the 1950’s. I want to get a digital camera I love the idea of the Nikon I shoot portraits and scenery only. What do you suggest? Thank you
Thank you for the video, the information and the feedback 👍🏼
😊🖖🏻
Is it a 90 min limit or is the 90 min timeframe what Nikon says it can reach without overheating? Doesn’t it still have the same recording limit of Z9 not including thermal shutdowns?
Hard stop.
@@3BMEP Interesting. I wonder whats the rationale behind that decision. Z9’s limit makes no sense, that thing can record forever without overheating.
@@lilnape2604 I suspect it cannot record indefinitely. As I said in the video, the only full frame cameras I’m willing to bet on for long form recording have active cooling, and the Z9 is not actively cooled.
"The one Nikon full frame mirrorless camera to have when you're having only one" - was that a nod to the old Schaefer Beer jingle? 😀
I don’t remember which beer manufacturer, but yes.
@Three Blind Men and An Elephant Productions it's definitely Schaefer, one of my favorite jingles 😁. If you're curious, search for "Schaefer Beer Commercial" from the late 60's, or my all time favorite version is the "MOOG Schaefer Beer Commercial" starring Edd Kalehoff. It's so over the top yet so wholesome at the same time hahaha. And of course, thank you for your insight on the new Nikon Z8, I can't wait to try it! ✌