Indeed David, Nikon is certainly giving us great quality, at a reasonable price from my perspective. I continue to enjoy the Z mount very much. Will you go for the 20mm? Cheers Matt
Matt Irwin Photography Yes, I will. As soon as I receive my $1200 USD government stimulus check I will stimulate.the Nikon economy with it! I see having it for a couple of reasons. First it has just enough more of a wide angle view for landscapes and second I believe it to be an ideal indoor lens. Could have really used it at the Louvre. It will be my sixth z lens and that will be enough until they make the 200-600.
I am looking back at pictues taken with an 85 1.8 D and the g2 24-70 2.8, at the time I was super happy with these lenses but after the Z lenses there is no going back.
Thanks Matt, I just purchased this as a stocking stuffer for the wifey, and her Z 6 II as she is a big lover of getting snow covered landscapes with wild life, wild horses, Bison and Elk.
I own the 35, 50 and 85 Zs which are, of course, stellar. Also the 14-30 which I am very satisfied with. I'm not into stars or milky way stuff, so I'm thinking of passing on the 20 because of cost, and because the zoom covers 20mm, Would be nice if you get around to comparing IQ for the 20 vs the 14-30 at 20. I'm not expecting the zoom to be as good, but am wondering about the difference.
Second lens I ever purchased was the 20mm f1.8G (first was the 35mm f1.8) and I quickly fell in love with its sharpness, the new 20mm S looks extra crispy. I want (don't "need") a Z body, and the Z6 keeps getting more attractive (with firmware updates happening more then ever from Nikon), but I'll wait another couple years, as I'm still enjoying/love my D850. Thanks Matt, stay safe!
I'm particularly optimistic given Nikon's advertising of the firmware updates. Seems like a real commitment to a good strategy. Digital is getting good enough that keeping a body more than 2-3 years seems a no brainer...image-quality-wise. If they can add performance features up to the limits of the processors I'm thinking we'll have more $$ for glass. Kind of like the film days which seemed a viable business model at the time. I won't miss throw-away culture in this space.
The lens maybe a stellar lens, but it is the photographer that makes it stellar! It takes an artistic eye to compose the mood you want in your pictures. In your quick post processing you highlighted certain elements of your subject enhancing the moodiness that you like in your pictures. You must be a great photographer because you make people feel comfortable and welcoming. I can see why you are so, because having a five year old daughter must be lots of fun. You also must be a great Dad and Husband. Take care stay healthy!
Thanks Jesse, wonderful words. Really meant even more to me today, as my uncle passed last night. Old age, not the virus, but still hard to loose a family member at any time. So thank you for brining joy and brightness to the darker day. :) Warm Regards Matt
Thanks Matt. Looks like another awesome prime ! It's on my wish list, but it would be great to know how it compares with the 14-30 at 20mm. I find I rarely go below f/4 for landscapes, which is my main use case. It would of course be useful for Astro with the f/1.8 or for architecture if it has less distortion, but I don't do a lot of these. Do you have a sense of how it compares ?
@@MattIrwinPhotography I'll be putting it on my Z7. It will complement my 24 - 70 f4, 50 1.8 and 85 1.8 S series lenses. I really like 20mm for landscape work. I understand the great Galen Rowell used a 20 as his go to focal length.
Your vids on the Z6 convinced me to get one, and so I did. I've been thinking about the 20/1.8S to replace my 24/1.4 and again, this video convinced me to get it after the COVID-19 crisis. I still can't believe you've only got 8k subs, you deserve way, way more! Keep 'em coming Matt and stay safe!
Thanks so much Bart, very kind words. Glad to hear you went for the Z6 and are happy. This 20mm I have to say is a great lens, and for me I feel it made creating great results a pleasure, and happened with ease. Love to hear what you think of it, when you get it. As for the subs, all good things take time, thanks so much for the encouragement. Cheers Matt
@@MattIrwinPhotographyMatt, I have been loyal with my nikon d800 for quite sometime now. The dynamic range and tonality out of that camera is astonishing, while I still believe since the technology has not revolutionalized; but I'm very much tempted with the video capabilities of z system; may be a z 6 or z7 for 2020 but I hardly do any videos and am limited to portrait and landscapes. But the lure of sharp lenses from z mount is kicking my GAS and your videos are adding fuel to it. I appreciate your honest videos and the production quality. Cheers
Thanks for the great and graphic review. I got mine three weeks ago and I couldn’t test it as much as I would love because the situation, but I’m in love with this lens. The few pictures I’ve taken are just amazing. I made the decision of buying it after checking my exif data of the last year and realizing that I was shooting wide angle around 18 to 24 mm. I sold for nothing my tokina opera 16-28 (what a hell) and I am so glad I did it. Now I have the sweet spot focal length with better optics. Totally recommended.
Here is where we are going to have that cider after the end of the world! The Bath! Love that place! Such an awesome view! Looks like that 20 mm is a perfect vloging lens for the FF Z's. How heavy is it? Great shot BTW! That B&W of the bath is stunning! Such an opportunity to shoot it with nobody around! Thanks for the nice work!
Just a note... You say sometimes the picture we're looking at is untouched, but a photo is never untouched. There is always a profile applied to it. Either in-camera or on the post-processing software. The pictures one is looking at in ie. Lightroom or Capture One have at least the default settings applied to them - including some amount of sharpening.
Hi Tony, indeed what you say is correct. What i mean when I say untouched, untouched in the context that if you use Capture One, a Nikon Z7 with this lens, and you shoot RAW with a flat profile. This is what you will get straight out of camera. It is to show that any one will be off to a great start. What camera are you creating with in 2020? Cheers Matt
@@MattIrwinPhotography Yes, that is what you mean :) Also it doesn't matter what profile you choose in-camera (when shooting RAW). Profile is only applied in post-processing software. I shoot with Z6 and I'm very happy with it. I used to shoot D810 (Still have it). I may add the next generation mirrorless high-pixel model. I'm still getting used to it. I haven't set the buttons, menus and Custom functions to what I think would be ideal for me.
Thanks Matt. Been on my mind to get one of these for some time. Your latest video re the Viltrox 13mm f4 crop-frame lens made me look back to see reviews for the full frame equivalent and this getting my enthusiasm juices flowing once again!!!
Really enjoyed this video. It scored points on my quest for the next Z glass over the 14-30. I really enjoyed the shots of the pier and dock as well as that one shot of the street light up through the opening in the clouds.
Whoa! Another sharp Z lens! Thank you for your review. Makes it hard to decide between the 24 and the new 20. I usually use my 14mm Rokinon for Milky Way images. But like to a fast wide angle at 20 or 24. I’m thinking about the 20mm to photograph the Northern Lights. Perhaps we’ll see some astrophotography in a future show. Thanks again for the review.
Howdy Jess, as I have a Z 24 with my 24-70 F4, and I have f mount 24-70 VR and the 24mm 1.4 F and the 14-24 2.8 F mount lens, the 20mm was the clear choice for me. I am noticing the extra width, and I really like how it is controlling distortion at the edges. It is looking optically like a very very good lens. I would go the 20mm, you can always crop in to make it a 24mm. But you can make the 24mm a 20mm : ) Cheers Matt
Third maybe fourth review I’ve watched on this lens and it’s very well liked . One was by an astro guy and it has some coma in the extreme corners but mild . Very sharp lens not as sharp as the 50 f/1.8 but it’s a 20 and harder to get as sharp because of physics. Thanks for the review Matt
Cheers Troy, indeed that seems to be the case when wide open, the mild coma at the very corners, but I saw another astro review, once stopped down a little coma was greatly diminished. At the price point I think it is very impressive. Hope you are keeping safe. Cheers Matt
I am Drooling!!! ..Matt a bit off the subject. Been doing Wild Life all my life but as retirement looms I am starting experimenting with Genres that will keep me busy nearer home as my trips to say Kruger National Park in S Africa where I live will be less frequent. I havent seen one manuufacturer ..Nikon, Canon, Sony, Fuji bringing out a 1.4x convertor . A 70-200 will be far more useful for poraiture and with a 1.4 x Convertor a 70-200 using DX on the Z7 will give me 420 mm f4 (Well into the Wildlife zone) Your thoughts Matt
A really good review of the 20mm f1.8S lens Matt. I've been using this lens for my nightscape images on the Z6 for a few weeks now .. it's awesome indeed for that. Love your emphasis on these amazing Z lenses. Take care. Richard
Cheers Richard, lovely to hear from you. I just watched your 20mm nightscape video, fabulous images. Outstanding results. Yeah I think the Z primes are amazing value. They cost a little more than the F mount 1.8s but they are so much better. And you and I go to a lot of effort to make our images. And every gain we can get is worth it. :) And this glass will be with us for 10 or 20 years, still performing. Long game. Talk soon. Matt
I am have only just bought the Z6 and 24-70 f4. I do seem to like what the Z system is about, definitely what it will become later on with the next generation of camera. I just hope top of the line lenses are better in build quality than the 24-70 kit lens. Performance wise very decent, but the cheapest plastic thing I have ever known, don't even mention the lens hood. If the build quality is decent, I may consider more z series lenses, that would be my first choice, otherwise I will hold out for some third party or F lenses.
Check out the 24-70 S f2.8 tear down video (I think borrow lenses did it). The plastic on the outside is practical but Nikon is bringing their A-game on quality of construction...kit lens notwithstanding.
Totally Andrew, yeah my fav too. And I actually really like it for my piece to camera, I was very close, and distortion is controlled so well. Cheers Matt
Matt Irwin Photography yep. It looked great from edge to edge. The fine detail in the jetty shots showed through very well too. Another lens for the wish list.
Thanks Matt, the lens looks fantastic and can't wait to have it in my bag. Shame though that we have to wait for weeks or perhaps months to have it delivered!! Can't wait to test it myself in the field.
Yeah Thanos, I think you will be very pleased when it arrives. And at this stage it seems so hard to guess what will happen with these camera companies ... Stay Safe. Cheers Matt
Just received mine. Did a neighborhood walk and the pics are amazing. I can't wait to do some Astrophotography with it and some long exposures. Great video!
Matt, would this be a good “walking around” lens for travel? Or is this a more “specialized” style lens? Looks like it would get phenomenal landscapes and architecture with 20mm. And the fact that it is a 1.8 makes me think that in darker situations you can still do handheld photography
Thanks so much Matt. Another great evaluation and some beautiful photos. I actually own the lens already. It seems like every 1.8 Lens is really outstanding. The only lens I elected not to purchase was the 24mm f/1.8S because I thought it might be too much together with the 35 mm f/1.8. Unfortunately, I haven’t had the opportunity to try the new 20mm f/1.8 because we are really on lockdown in the New York Metropolitan Area.
G'day Guy, I am the same as you. The 24 is the only I don't have. I'm sorry to hear things are so tough in NYC. We see it here on the news. Best of luck and stay safe. Matt
Nice video Matt. I only have the great 24-70 f4 and some f mount glass for my Z6. I Will have some primes in the future and the 20 might be one of them but I get the 50 and 85 first.
Hello! I've started watching your videos and couldn't help to notice your software. What are your thoughts compared to adobe Lightroom? It would be awesome to get your input and comparison
@@MattIrwinPhotography I have the 14-30 & 24-70 & the amazing 50mm. I really like all of them but I would like to have at least one wide prime as with prime lenses I feel like my creativity kicks in on a different level. At the moment it seems to be a coin toss between the 20 & 24mm...which one you prefer?
@@MattIrwinPhotography yes, my mom & I closed on a condominium so we had stocked up back in February [the lenders here like to perform a credit check the morning of closing, our numbers went up]. We only just needed to do delivery this week. The upside: by now, everyone has their procedures established.
Thanks a lot for your interesting, high quality content. I will maybe pick up that lens for landscape photography in the Swiss Alps. Stay stafe, Victor
The dust is most likely on the back of the lens. That back of the lens is closer to the sensor so it will show up, I've had that problem. As for the sensor, geeezzz, I hate dust. I wish so that they would have the the camera sensor shutter close when changing lens.
@@tallaganda83 there is some logic there. Cleaning the sensor is a lot less risky than getting near the most delicate part of your camera...the shutter.
Great Matt I appreciate your channel. I have been looking forward to this lens for Milky Way photography. The angle of view and the large aperture should be great for this. I have a Z6 and only have the 24 to 70 f/4 native lens so far.
also waiting for 70 to 200mm z monster review, the 20mm looks great but for my purposes in the wedding cinema industry I think the 35mm z will be the next lens for wide angle shots in company with my fabulous 50mm and 85mm z babies, Is the 35mm equally a sharp high performance lens as your 20mm?? all the best Matt..thanks for getting out and doing these reviews these days
Thanks so much Jospeh, the 20mm vs the 35mm Z's I will have to have a closer look. People have told me the 35mm is not as good, but I have not seen the difference. I shall make a video about it. Cheers Matt
@@MattIrwinPhotography And thanks for the 20mm review. When this COVID separation is over we could compare the 14-30 and 20 together if you want. But who knows when that will be possible? Cheers Matt.
Nice video, Matt. I am considering to add this lens to the 24-35-50-85 Z/S primes I have. The 20/1.8G was a step ahead over the 20/2.8D and this one is a leap forward again. The 1.8 is excellent. Les diameter, less curvature toward the corners, less chromatic aberration. With an SLR, 1.4 gave a slightly brighter viewfinder, now we have an eVF. 1.7 to 1.4 is only half an F-stop - almost irrelevant. And heavier and bigger. When Nikon would add 1.2 and take the Noct as guiding principle, lenses might be 1 kilogram each (~2.2 lbs) The shots looked nice. It would be nice to have a couple contrasty backlit sunrise and sunset shots. That could reveal potential optical issues. And some shot that could have chromatic aberration.
Yeah interesting Mark, I that is fair enough. I have never owned a 20mm prime before, but i really enjoyed it for this video, and I think the images created have show me it is worthy for my needs :) Cheers matt
Another wonderful review sir! This lens seems like a winner. I have the G version and would love to see a comparison between the two. Hope that is coming soon! I am beginning to use my z6 35/50mm S line often these days and recently bought the 24-70 2.8 S. All three are awesome lenses. Thank you for sharing and stay well and safe sir!
Thanks so much Radhakrishnan, I really enjoyed capturing with this lens. I think it is a worthy edition to the fold. I will need to borrow the 20mm G from somebody. (SHOUT OUT) :) Well those three lenses you have there are spectacular. Tell me how do you find the 24-70 2.8? Stay safe, stay well. Cheers Matt
My dilemma: 20mm 1.8 OR 14-30mm 4? 🤯 Leaning toward the 20 primarily for astrophotography goals. It's a good problem to have - choosing between 2 amazing lenses (can't go wrong with either really)
Hi Matt complicated question but I'm stuck choosing between this 20mm 1.8 vs the 14-30 f4... I've not owned a wide angle before and not sure what I'd shoot with it but do like city architecture and country side walks.. I would on occasion when up in Scotland or such dark place maybe try shoot milky-way 🌌 but have seen my 24-70 f4 do a reasonable job from others. I also own the z50mm 1.8 s... When I left my Dslr behind i said no FTZ as I wanted to go native and try get best lenses I can afford... I would consider the 24-200f4-f6.3 but feel its a compromise after 70mm and own the 70-300 vr version.
What do you like more? The 24 or 20? I get the difference between both but I don't get it why Nikon is realising both lenses... I mean they have some lenses which more people are waiting for... like the 14-24 2.8/70-200 2.8. Not complaining bout nikon - i love the z system, just bought the 85mm :) but don't get it why they are realising so many wide lenses ;)
Not too interested in the 20mm, very keen on the macro's in the road map and the 200-600mm. So I'm trying to save my shekels for those. :) I do have the 14-30mm f/4 - so that focal length is covered. If you have that one it may make an interesting comparison. I have the f mount 14-24mm which was a popular lens for me - which is what motivated me to get the 14-30mm, and I just don't use it that much. Hopefully with the up coming monsoon season I can get some good stormy sky shots.
Hi Ronald, I did not go for the 14-30 as I have the 14-24. Perhaps I can compare those two? What do you think? Cheers Matt PS what part of the world are you in for the monsoon period?
Are you feeling OK? You sound a bit breathless. I am still thinking about going medium format but you are making me think that Mirrorless might be a goer. Keep well. Keep up the good work.
Hi Tony, thanks for asking. I am feeling fine. The desk mic I record into, pics up breathing far to well. :) But thanks so much for asking. Cheers Matt
This system is starting to cost me more than I planned to spend Nikon keeps releasing stellar lenses. I like your channel and your content I switched to capture one and it takes some getting used to after leaving Lightroom so I very much appreciate you showing a bit of your process with it. You have a subscriber in me great work! This has been an excellent departure Lightroom preset pushing hyperbolic content you get from most youtubers nowadays. When you’re just to see how a lens performs to make a purchasing decision..
Sadly I don’t have the 14-30mm. But if I can borrow one I would love to check it out. I’ll see what I can do. I can test it up against the 14-24 f mount. Would that be worthwhile? Cheers Matt
there is already a 24mm 1.8 S line lens, instead of 20mm i wish they could have made a 14mm 1.8..... it seems like for now 20mm will be the only wide open prime lens for z mount..
Awy, I think more primes will come. Nikon look like they are releasing what the think will sell the most. And I think one of the ff primes you will see is a 12 or 14mm. Obviously things are slowing down at the moment. What is your goto camera? Cheers Matt
@@MattIrwinPhotography my go to camera is z6.. it is truly an amazing tool... 12 or 14 prime would be great... but the one i am most eagerly waiting for is 200-600... yes things are slowing down, hope everything will be alright soon.. be safe and thanks for the reply. have a safe day
My thinking is Avner, and I think i am seeing it with the 20mm, that at this focal length Nikon have been able to maintain the quality of the lens, distortion, sharpness etc. And when you get to 14mm, I think it is much more optically difficult to control. And of course this is a 20mm 1.8, vs my 14-24 which is a 2.8, and in the case of my opening address to camera, I really appreciate the shorter depth of field for making the background look spectacular. So I think optically it has the potential to be better than a 14, and wider than the 24. I opted not to buy the 24 1.8. Does that make sense? Cheers Matt :)
Hi Bart, indeed. This actually has been my job for 30 years. And we are still allowed to travel for our jobs. Yet I still feel a bit unsure ... I am very careful at keeping my distance from other people always 2-3 meters away minimum, if not 10. Hope you are staying safe there, and best of luck. Cheers Matt
Nice first review Matt. I am a landscape photographer and often travel with just a 20mm Milvus and 100 Makro Planar. I am waiting to see what Nikon produces after the Z7, hopefully a camera with 2 cards and a 2 way tilting screen :) The 20 S lens will be top of the list for me in the future. Geoff www.geoffmurray.com
@@MattIrwinPhotography Thanks Matt, you will find the best images under "Recent Images". I am based in southern Tassie, a good place to be under the current circumstances, living on 10 acres of bushland. You are welcome to call in for a good coffee anytime you are down here :) Love your videos, they are super genuine. Geoff
@@RedpaX have a look on my sliders sir :) You can see I have turned the vignetting on. I have not turned it on here, looks great ruclips.net/video/TR7kcZcamcA/видео.html
With each new z lens I become happier that when I jumped back into photography I chose the z system. Blows my mind how good it all is.
Indeed David, Nikon is certainly giving us great quality, at a reasonable price from my perspective. I continue to enjoy the Z mount very much. Will you go for the 20mm? Cheers Matt
Matt Irwin Photography Yes, I will. As soon as I receive my $1200 USD government stimulus check I will stimulate.the Nikon economy with it! I see having it for a couple of reasons. First it has just enough more of a wide angle view for landscapes and second I believe it to be an ideal indoor lens. Could have really used it at the Louvre. It will be my sixth z lens and that will be enough until they make the 200-600.
I am looking back at pictues taken with an 85 1.8 D and the g2 24-70 2.8, at the time I was super happy with these lenses but after the Z lenses there is no going back.
@@1dbjack Awesome David. Sounds like you have many of the primes :) Cheers Matt
Matt Irwin Photography yes I am said my empty wallet!
Thanks Matt, I just purchased this as a stocking stuffer for the wifey, and her Z 6 II as she is a big lover of getting snow covered landscapes with wild life, wild horses, Bison and Elk.
I own the 35, 50 and 85 Zs which are, of course, stellar. Also the 14-30 which I am very satisfied with. I'm not into stars or milky way stuff, so I'm thinking of passing on the 20 because of cost, and because the zoom covers 20mm, Would be nice if you get around to comparing IQ for the 20 vs the 14-30 at 20. I'm not expecting the zoom to be as good, but am wondering about the difference.
Second lens I ever purchased was the 20mm f1.8G (first was the 35mm f1.8) and I quickly fell in love with its sharpness, the new 20mm S looks extra crispy. I want (don't "need") a Z body, and the Z6 keeps getting more attractive (with firmware updates happening more then ever from Nikon), but I'll wait another couple years, as I'm still enjoying/love my D850.
Thanks Matt, stay safe!
I'm particularly optimistic given Nikon's advertising of the firmware updates. Seems like a real commitment to a good strategy. Digital is getting good enough that keeping a body more than 2-3 years seems a no brainer...image-quality-wise. If they can add performance features up to the limits of the processors I'm thinking we'll have more $$ for glass. Kind of like the film days which seemed a viable business model at the time. I won't miss throw-away culture in this space.
The lens maybe a stellar lens, but it is the photographer that makes it stellar! It takes an artistic eye to compose the mood you want in your pictures. In your quick post processing you highlighted certain elements of your subject enhancing the moodiness that you like in your pictures. You must be a great photographer because you make people feel comfortable and welcoming. I can see why you are so, because having a five year old daughter must be lots of fun. You also must be a great Dad and Husband. Take care stay healthy!
Thanks Jesse, wonderful words. Really meant even more to me today, as my uncle passed last night. Old age, not the virus, but still hard to loose a family member at any time. So thank you for brining joy and brightness to the darker day. :) Warm Regards Matt
Thanks Matt. Looks like another awesome prime ! It's on my wish list, but it would be great to know how it compares with the 14-30 at 20mm. I find I rarely go below f/4 for landscapes, which is my main use case. It would of course be useful for Astro with the f/1.8 or for architecture if it has less distortion, but I don't do a lot of these. Do you have a sense of how it compares ?
This is the lens I have been waiting for. I love 20mm as a focal length for landscape. Will be trading in my 20 f1.8 G as soon as I can!
You will be very pleased Roy, what body will you be putting it on? Cheers Matt
@@MattIrwinPhotography I'll be putting it on my Z7. It will complement my 24 - 70 f4, 50 1.8 and 85 1.8 S series lenses. I really like 20mm for landscape work. I understand the great Galen Rowell used a 20 as his go to focal length.
Your vids on the Z6 convinced me to get one, and so I did. I've been thinking about the 20/1.8S to replace my 24/1.4 and again, this video convinced me to get it after the COVID-19 crisis.
I still can't believe you've only got 8k subs, you deserve way, way more! Keep 'em coming Matt and stay safe!
Thanks so much Bart, very kind words. Glad to hear you went for the Z6 and are happy. This 20mm I have to say is a great lens, and for me I feel it made creating great results a pleasure, and happened with ease. Love to hear what you think of it, when you get it. As for the subs, all good things take time, thanks so much for the encouragement. Cheers Matt
I'm now actually thinking of getting this over the 14-24. Pics looks spectacular.
Well done Matt. Have started to follow your works(youtube) for 4-5 months now. I like you approach. Love from across the ditch. Cheers
Thanks so much Manesh, great to have you onboard. What is your goto camera in 2020? Cheers Matt
@@MattIrwinPhotographyMatt, I have been loyal with my nikon d800 for quite sometime now. The dynamic range and tonality out of that camera is astonishing, while I still believe since the technology has not revolutionalized; but I'm very much tempted with the video capabilities of z system; may be a z 6 or z7 for 2020 but I hardly do any videos and am limited to portrait and landscapes. But the lure of sharp lenses from z mount is kicking my GAS and your videos are adding fuel to it. I appreciate your honest videos and the production quality. Cheers
Thanks for this review. This lens has caught my attention a couple of months back and I'm sold. This is definitely my next purchase.
Thanks for the great and graphic review. I got mine three weeks ago and I couldn’t test it as much as I would love because the situation, but I’m in love with this lens. The few pictures I’ve taken are just amazing. I made the decision of buying it after checking my exif data of the last year and realizing that I was shooting wide angle around 18 to 24 mm. I sold for nothing my tokina opera 16-28 (what a hell) and I am so glad I did it. Now I have the sweet spot focal length with better optics. Totally recommended.
Loved video and images. Mine is on order, just waiting for delivery. Will be using for landscape and Astro. And a Happy Birthday to your daughter...
Thanks Carl, we had a lovely online birthday. Hope you are keeping safe, and let me know what you think of the lens when it arrives. Cheers Matt
Wow, seems sharper than the real world 🤤 Thanks for going out and sharing this with us! And happy daughter's birthday )
Here is where we are going to have that cider after the end of the world! The Bath! Love that place! Such an awesome view! Looks like that 20 mm is a perfect vloging lens for the FF Z's. How heavy is it? Great shot BTW! That B&W of the bath is stunning! Such an opportunity to shoot it with nobody around! Thanks for the nice work!
Just a note... You say sometimes the picture we're looking at is untouched, but a photo is never untouched. There is always a profile applied to it. Either in-camera or on the post-processing software. The pictures one is looking at in ie. Lightroom or Capture One have at least the default settings applied to them - including some amount of sharpening.
Hi Tony, indeed what you say is correct. What i mean when I say untouched, untouched in the context that if you use Capture One, a Nikon Z7 with this lens, and you shoot RAW with a flat profile. This is what you will get straight out of camera. It is to show that any one will be off to a great start. What camera are you creating with in 2020? Cheers Matt
@@MattIrwinPhotography Yes, that is what you mean :) Also it doesn't matter what profile you choose in-camera (when shooting RAW). Profile is only applied in post-processing software.
I shoot with Z6 and I'm very happy with it. I used to shoot D810 (Still have it). I may add the next generation mirrorless high-pixel model.
I'm still getting used to it. I haven't set the buttons, menus and Custom functions to what I think would be ideal for me.
Thanks Matt. Been on my mind to get one of these for some time. Your latest video re the Viltrox 13mm f4 crop-frame lens made me look back to see reviews for the full frame equivalent and this getting my enthusiasm juices flowing once again!!!
My dream lens! Ahh... Looks promising. 👌
Yes looks very promising Vin. Stay safe. 😀
Really enjoyed this video. It scored points on my quest for the next Z glass over the 14-30. I really enjoyed the shots of the pier and dock as well as that one shot of the street light up through the opening in the clouds.
Thanks so much Daniel, yeah it is a lovely lens. And I really enjoyed those captures. It certainly will be a great addition to your kit. Cheers Matt
Whoa! Another sharp Z lens! Thank you for your review. Makes it hard to decide between the 24 and the new 20. I usually use my 14mm Rokinon for Milky Way images. But like to a fast wide angle at 20 or 24. I’m thinking about the 20mm to photograph the Northern Lights. Perhaps we’ll see some astrophotography in a future show. Thanks again for the review.
Howdy Jess, as I have a Z 24 with my 24-70 F4, and I have f mount 24-70 VR and the 24mm 1.4 F and the 14-24 2.8 F mount lens, the 20mm was the clear choice for me. I am noticing the extra width, and I really like how it is controlling distortion at the edges. It is looking optically like a very very good lens. I would go the 20mm, you can always crop in to make it a 24mm. But you can make the 24mm a 20mm : ) Cheers Matt
Third maybe fourth review I’ve watched on this lens and it’s very well liked . One was by an astro guy and it has some coma in the extreme corners but mild . Very sharp lens not as sharp as the 50 f/1.8 but it’s a 20 and harder to get as sharp because of physics. Thanks for the review Matt
Cheers Troy, indeed that seems to be the case when wide open, the mild coma at the very corners, but I saw another astro review, once stopped down a little coma was greatly diminished. At the price point I think it is very impressive. Hope you are keeping safe. Cheers Matt
Would love a review of the new Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR Lens, nobody is talking about it!
Is it in stock yet? I have not looked in the last few weeks? Cheers Matt
I am Drooling!!! ..Matt a bit off the subject. Been doing Wild Life all my life but as retirement looms I am starting experimenting with Genres that will keep me busy nearer home as my trips to say Kruger National Park in S Africa where I live will be less frequent. I havent seen one manuufacturer ..Nikon, Canon, Sony, Fuji bringing out a 1.4x convertor . A 70-200 will be far more useful for poraiture and with a 1.4 x Convertor a 70-200 using DX on the Z7 will give me 420 mm f4 (Well into the Wildlife zone) Your thoughts Matt
i just ordered this lens , cant wait to get it outside and test it on my z5, hopefully the 25 mp on the z5 will keep up with this lens
cant wait to pick mine up for Astro
Awesome Paul, I would love to hear how you go. Cheers Matt
A really good review of the 20mm f1.8S lens Matt. I've been using this lens for my nightscape images on the Z6 for a few weeks now .. it's awesome indeed for that. Love your emphasis on these amazing Z lenses. Take care. Richard
Cheers Richard, lovely to hear from you. I just watched your 20mm nightscape video, fabulous images. Outstanding results. Yeah I think the Z primes are amazing value. They cost a little more than the F mount 1.8s but they are so much better. And you and I go to a lot of effort to make our images. And every gain we can get is worth it. :) And this glass will be with us for 10 or 20 years, still performing. Long game. Talk soon. Matt
@@MattIrwinPhotography Yes I totally agree Matt, they are awesome as are the Z cameras. Keep up the great work my friend.
I am have only just bought the Z6 and 24-70 f4. I do seem to like what the Z system is about, definitely what it will become later on with the next generation of camera. I just hope top of the line lenses are better in build quality than the 24-70 kit lens. Performance wise very decent, but the cheapest plastic thing I have ever known, don't even mention the lens hood.
If the build quality is decent, I may consider more z series lenses, that would be my first choice, otherwise I will hold out for some third party or F lenses.
Check out the 24-70 S f2.8 tear down video (I think borrow lenses did it). The plastic on the outside is practical but Nikon is bringing their A-game on quality of construction...kit lens notwithstanding.
Looks very sharp Matt. The baths building shot is a beaut!
Totally Andrew, yeah my fav too. And I actually really like it for my piece to camera, I was very close, and distortion is controlled so well. Cheers Matt
Matt Irwin Photography yep. It looked great from edge to edge. The fine detail in the jetty shots showed through very well too. Another lens for the wish list.
Thanks Matt, the lens looks fantastic and can't wait to have it in my bag. Shame though that we have to wait for weeks or perhaps months to have it delivered!! Can't wait to test it myself in the field.
Yeah Thanos, I think you will be very pleased when it arrives. And at this stage it seems so hard to guess what will happen with these camera companies ... Stay Safe. Cheers Matt
I am thinking this might be my next lens for sure. Another great video!
Thanks Steve, I like it a lot, I think the 20, 50 and 85 are such classic and great lenses to have for the Z system. Truly wonderful. Cheers Matt
Just received mine. Did a neighborhood walk and the pics are amazing. I can't wait to do some Astrophotography with it and some long exposures. Great video!
Matt, would this be a good “walking around” lens for travel? Or is this a more “specialized” style lens? Looks like it would get phenomenal landscapes and architecture with 20mm. And the fact that it is a 1.8 makes me think that in darker situations you can still do handheld photography
I appreciate your input and taking the time to respond.
Pleasure Jess my favourite 2 things creating images and videos. Stay safe. Cheers Matt
Nice video, pictures etc. Good to see that you can move about.
Yes Bernard, we still can, but it is has become very limited. This video was shot just 5 minutes from my office. So very close. Cheers Matt
Thanks so much Matt. Another great evaluation and some beautiful photos. I actually own the lens already. It seems like every 1.8 Lens is really outstanding. The only lens I elected not to purchase was the 24mm f/1.8S because I thought it might be too much together with the 35 mm f/1.8. Unfortunately, I haven’t had the opportunity to try the new 20mm f/1.8 because we are really on lockdown in the New York Metropolitan Area.
G'day Guy, I am the same as you. The 24 is the only I don't have. I'm sorry to hear things are so tough in NYC. We see it here on the news. Best of luck and stay safe. Matt
Matt Irwin Photography I’m patiently waiting for the 70-200mm f/2.8S which I preordered back in January when it was announced.
Nice video Matt. I only have the great 24-70 f4 and some f mount glass for my Z6. I Will have some primes in the future and the 20 might be one of them but I get the 50 and 85 first.
Indeed Pär, the first 3 of the current primes I would buy, would be the 20, 50 and 85. These are fantastic pieces of glass. : ) Cheers Matt
Hello! I've started watching your videos and couldn't help to notice your software. What are your thoughts compared to adobe Lightroom? It would be awesome to get your input and comparison
All S lenses are very good. Could you compare it with some f mount glasses at 20 mm(like 12-24, 16-35 ) or the s lens 14-30?
Hi Sorin. I have the 14-24 already. So that will come first. And I will see if I can find a 14-30 post C19 to borrow and test. Cheers Matt
I've been waiting for this :)
It's a great lens Sebulban. You won't be disappointed. Cheers Matt
@@MattIrwinPhotography I have the 14-30 & 24-70 & the amazing 50mm. I really like all of them but I would like to have at least one wide prime as with prime lenses I feel like my creativity kicks in on a different level. At the moment it seems to be a coin toss between the 20 & 24mm...which one you prefer?
Great review! Great images! 👏 Thanks. And happy 5th to your daughter 🎂 Cheers!
Thanks so much Muvee, we had a lovely online birthday. It was great. 👍
Matt Irwin Photography 😎
Love the sound quality at start off video 👍
Glad you like it Jonathan. : )
I'll buy it when the stores open. It'll join my 50 and 85 f/1.8 and 14-30 Z lenses.
Matt. How are the original first generation Z cameras working out with 1.2 and 1.4 portrait lenses and with latest firmware updates?
Great images & Happy Birthday to your daughter
Thanks so much Charles, I hope you are keeping safe :) Cheers Matt
@@MattIrwinPhotography yes, my mom & I closed on a condominium so we had stocked up back in February [the lenders here like to perform a credit check the morning of closing, our numbers went up]. We only just needed to do delivery this week. The upside: by now, everyone has their procedures established.
Thanks a lot for your interesting, high quality content. I will maybe pick up that lens for landscape photography in the Swiss Alps. Stay stafe, Victor
The dust is most likely on the back of the lens. That back of the lens is closer to the sensor so it will show up, I've had that problem. As for the sensor, geeezzz, I hate dust. I wish so that they would have the the camera sensor shutter close when changing lens.
Thanks Paul, I will have a look. Cheers Matt
The Eos R has that function, it’s such a no brainer I don’t know why everyone isn’t doing it.
@@tallaganda83 there is some logic there. Cleaning the sensor is a lot less risky than getting near the most delicate part of your camera...the shutter.
Great Matt I appreciate your channel. I have been looking forward to this lens for Milky Way photography. The angle of view and the large aperture should be great for this. I have a Z6 and only have the 24 to 70 f/4 native lens so far.
Howdy Mike, I it will be perfect for that work. What part of the world are you in? Cheers Matt
I am in Utah, USA.
I Have to own this lens 👍😊 looks great. Thanks for the rewiew.
also waiting for 70 to 200mm z monster review, the 20mm looks great but for my purposes in the wedding cinema industry I think the 35mm z will be the next lens for wide angle shots in company with my fabulous 50mm and 85mm z babies, Is the 35mm equally a sharp high performance lens as your 20mm??
all the best Matt..thanks for getting out and doing these reviews these days
Thanks so much Jospeh, the 20mm vs the 35mm Z's I will have to have a closer look. People have told me the 35mm is not as good, but I have not seen the difference. I shall make a video about it. Cheers Matt
@@MattIrwinPhotography fantastic 👏 your the man..Matt..need something to do while I quarantine in new york
What a cool dude with the mo and beard in Brighton England!
lol thanks Geoff , ah back in my younger days.
@@MattIrwinPhotography And thanks for the 20mm review. When this COVID separation is over we could compare the 14-30 and 20 together if you want. But who knows when that will be possible? Cheers Matt.
@@gbye007 Geoff that would be amazing to do a comparison. : ) Stay safe.
Nice video, Matt. I am considering to add this lens to the 24-35-50-85 Z/S primes I have. The 20/1.8G was a step ahead over the 20/2.8D and this one is a leap forward again.
The 1.8 is excellent. Les diameter, less curvature toward the corners, less chromatic aberration.
With an SLR, 1.4 gave a slightly brighter viewfinder, now we have an eVF. 1.7 to 1.4 is only half an F-stop - almost irrelevant. And heavier and bigger.
When Nikon would add 1.2 and take the Noct as guiding principle, lenses might be 1 kilogram each (~2.2 lbs)
The shots looked nice. It would be nice to have a couple contrasty backlit sunrise and sunset shots. That could reveal potential optical issues. And some shot that could have chromatic aberration.
I've got a 20mm Sigma F1.8 for my D750. I find it to be a bit in no-mans land as a focal distance. For Interior I use my 15mm Sigma.
Yeah interesting Mark, I that is fair enough. I have never owned a 20mm prime before, but i really enjoyed it for this video, and I think the images created have show me it is worthy for my needs :) Cheers matt
Another wonderful review sir! This lens seems like a winner. I have the G version and would love to see a comparison between the two. Hope that is coming soon! I am beginning to use my z6 35/50mm S line often these days and recently bought the 24-70 2.8 S. All three are awesome lenses. Thank you for sharing and stay well and safe sir!
Thanks so much Radhakrishnan, I really enjoyed capturing with this lens. I think it is a worthy edition to the fold. I will need to borrow the 20mm G from somebody. (SHOUT OUT) :) Well those three lenses you have there are spectacular. Tell me how do you find the 24-70 2.8? Stay safe, stay well. Cheers Matt
hesitating between this and the f4 14-30 ...thanks for demonstrating the 20
great shots!
My dilemma: 20mm 1.8 OR 14-30mm 4? 🤯 Leaning toward the 20 primarily for astrophotography goals.
It's a good problem to have - choosing between 2 amazing lenses (can't go wrong with either really)
Hi Matt complicated question but I'm stuck choosing between this 20mm 1.8 vs the 14-30 f4... I've not owned a wide angle before and not sure what I'd shoot with it but do like city architecture and country side walks.. I would on occasion when up in Scotland or such dark place maybe try shoot milky-way 🌌 but have seen my 24-70 f4 do a reasonable job from others. I also own the z50mm 1.8 s... When I left my Dslr behind i said no FTZ as I wanted to go native and try get best lenses I can afford... I would consider the 24-200f4-f6.3 but feel its a compromise after 70mm and own the 70-300 vr version.
Happy birthday to your daughter!
Thanks so much Hartmut. 🥳
You have just convinced me to buy this one.
Great review!
I’m confident you will enjoy it very much. Which body will you use it on?
Hi Matt. This or the z 24mm for astro? Is there a big difference aside from the focal length?
Fine review 👍 In the future i prefer a 1.4 because of the size and weight
Thanks Jess, indeed they have a lot to offer. All modern glass is fantastic. Stay safe sir. Cheers Matt
How do you think the 20mm looks?
What do you like more? The 24 or 20?
I get the difference between both but I don't get it why Nikon is realising both lenses... I mean they have some lenses which more people are waiting for... like the 14-24 2.8/70-200 2.8.
Not complaining bout nikon - i love the z system, just bought the 85mm :) but don't get it why they are realising so many wide lenses ;)
Good info and thanks for sharing
Pleasure, do you think you will get one? :)
@@MattIrwinPhotography definitely for Astro :) and thanks again.
6:15- 6:40 I thought for a while it was in Dubai, specifically the yellowish row of buildings at 6:25.
It does impress.
Not too interested in the 20mm, very keen on the macro's in the road map and the 200-600mm. So I'm trying to save my shekels for those. :) I do have the 14-30mm f/4 - so that focal length is covered. If you have that one it may make an interesting comparison. I have the f mount 14-24mm which was a popular lens for me - which is what motivated me to get the 14-30mm, and I just don't use it that much. Hopefully with the up coming monsoon season I can get some good stormy sky shots.
Hi Ronald, I did not go for the 14-30 as I have the 14-24. Perhaps I can compare those two? What do you think? Cheers Matt PS what part of the world are you in for the monsoon period?
@@MattIrwinPhotography Arizona, USA, I should do a quick and dirty comparison since I have both and time on my hands.
awesome lens!
The best!
We had no restrictions on going out.
One quick question for you. Does your 20mm make any noticeable AF motor noise at all?
It kinda does when other things are quiet. It's not too noticable.
great video!
Glad you enjoyed it
Are you feeling OK? You sound a bit breathless. I am still thinking about going medium format but you are making me think that Mirrorless might be a goer. Keep well. Keep up the good work.
Hi Tony, thanks for asking. I am feeling fine. The desk mic I record into, pics up breathing far to well. :) But thanks so much for asking. Cheers Matt
What size Pano could you print with this at 45 mp?
F%cking excellent video
This system is starting to cost me more than I planned to spend Nikon keeps releasing stellar lenses. I like your channel and your content I switched to capture one and it takes some getting used to after leaving Lightroom so I very much appreciate you showing a bit of your process with it. You have a subscriber in me great work! This has been an excellent departure Lightroom preset pushing hyperbolic content you get from most youtubers nowadays. When you’re just to see how a lens performs to make a purchasing decision..
How is the lens in comparison to Z 14-30mm F4? Especially at 20mm
Sadly I don’t have the 14-30mm. But if I can borrow one I would love to check it out. I’ll see what I can do. I can test it up against the 14-24 f mount. Would that be worthwhile? Cheers Matt
@@MattIrwinPhotography 14-30 z mount F4 would be best but i guess you could compare it to F mount lenses to.
Thanks for your answer and your videos.
Yeah I agree it is best. Hard to move around at the moment. I have the 14-24. So easier to achieve now. 😀 stay safe.
I’m very interested in the 20 mm . I have the 35 mm want the 20 for long exposure. Helpful video.
Wish Nikon gave me a 28mm F1.8S and a 105mm F2S...
Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR Lens?
Is it out? I'll check. Cheers Matt :)
I had a look around looks like it is not here in Australia yet. I’ll keep my eyes peeled for it. 😀
@@MattIrwinPhotography OK, thanks Matt.
there is already a 24mm 1.8 S line lens, instead of 20mm i wish they could have made a 14mm 1.8..... it seems like for now 20mm will be the only wide open prime lens for z mount..
Awy, I think more primes will come. Nikon look like they are releasing what the think will sell the most. And I think one of the ff primes you will see is a 12 or 14mm. Obviously things are slowing down at the moment. What is your goto camera? Cheers Matt
@@MattIrwinPhotography my go to camera is z6.. it is truly an amazing tool... 12 or 14 prime would be great... but the one i am most eagerly waiting for is 200-600... yes things are slowing down, hope everything will be alright soon.. be safe and thanks for the reply. have a safe day
@@Avinash-wg7xl Best of luck and stay safe. : )
i don't see a reason for 20 F1.8, 14 or 24 are ultra wide and wide what purpose need to 20 ???
My thinking is Avner, and I think i am seeing it with the 20mm, that at this focal length Nikon have been able to maintain the quality of the lens, distortion, sharpness etc. And when you get to 14mm, I think it is much more optically difficult to control. And of course this is a 20mm 1.8, vs my 14-24 which is a 2.8, and in the case of my opening address to camera, I really appreciate the shorter depth of field for making the background look spectacular. So I think optically it has the potential to be better than a 14, and wider than the 24. I opted not to buy the 24 1.8. Does that make sense? Cheers Matt :)
@@MattIrwinPhotography thanks
Great video this time but 7 times interrupted by advertising
Hopeful I won't have to sell my right arm or a kidney for it. LOL
You’re lucky you can still go out to photograph, in Belgium this is seen as non essential , with huge fines when you don’t respect the rules in place.
Hi Bart, indeed. This actually has been my job for 30 years. And we are still allowed to travel for our jobs. Yet I still feel a bit unsure ... I am very careful at keeping my distance from other people always 2-3 meters away minimum, if not 10. Hope you are staying safe there, and best of luck. Cheers Matt
If they would only make a battery grip for the z50 😭😭😭😭😭
Maybe a third party might do that Hero. Time will tell. Cheers Matt
Nice first review Matt. I am a landscape photographer and often travel with just a 20mm Milvus and 100 Makro Planar. I am waiting to see what Nikon produces after the Z7, hopefully a camera with 2 cards and a 2 way tilting screen :) The 20 S lens will be top of the list for me in the future. Geoff www.geoffmurray.com
Thanks Geoff, great website, I can see you have been to Woods Points, a bit like going to Twin Peaks. Great spot. Where are you based? Cheers Matt
@@MattIrwinPhotography Thanks Matt, you will find the best images under "Recent Images". I am based in southern Tassie, a good place to be under the current circumstances, living on 10 acres of bushland. You are welcome to call in for a good coffee anytime you are down here :) Love your videos, they are super genuine. Geoff
very big vignetting :(
Howdy RedpaX, did we watch the same video? I don't see that at all, except where I added it in post ... show me what you mean :) Cheers Matt
@@MattIrwinPhotography 5:18 or No?
@@RedpaX have a look on my sliders sir :) You can see I have turned the vignetting on. I have not turned it on here, looks great ruclips.net/video/TR7kcZcamcA/видео.html