Nikon Z8 Real World pREVIEW: I WAS SO WRONG!!!
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- Опубликовано: 2 авг 2024
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This is a hands-on preview not full review just yet of the Nikon Z8. It's basically a Z9 wrapped in a smaller body. I got my hands on one for two days to take it out into the real world and I was WRONG. I was wrong that it would not be a Z9 clone, but it is. How does the z8 compare to the z9, Sony a7R V and Canon EOS R5? Let's find out.
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Table of Contents:
00:00 - Introduction
00:48 - Z8 Photoshoots Recap
02:44 - Z8 Top Level Specs
03:56 - Differences Between Z9
05:23 - Pricing Comparison
06:13 - Fropack Preset Plug
07:23 - Battery Life
07:58 - Card Slot Comparison
08:36 - Overheating Issue
09:12 - EVF Autofocus Montage
13:15 - Autofocus Shortcomings
14:36 - Cons of Z8
16:30 - Autofocus Issues
17:40 - Pros of Z8
18:00 - Video Features & Sample Footage
18:44 - Squarespace Plug
19:18 - Final Thoughts
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Jared, EVERYTHING you mention about the focus in sports is correct. 3D focus is pot luck, and you need to review the focus action in the rain depending on the lighting, focus in bright light with white objects while panning, Overcast days seem better. It's not back focus. it just jumps focus to the back depending on light conditions and subject matter in the back. Also often skips a beat at 20fps, grabbing the back on the 3rd-4th shot then back in focus.... If subject falls you loose focus to the back if using 3D/people same in Dynamic-AF. Not sticky. Focus tracking with lock on is misleading and does not appear to work as described..
facts right here.
@@froknowsphoto Are there limitations with regard to High Speed Sync with E-shutter? Also is bokeh quality affected by E-shutter?
Well, one problem is using 3d tracking from the start isn’t the best practice to use. And he’s doing it for almost all of this video. I’m not saying it would make for a night and day difference, but might make for a significant enough of one to mention it.
@Nemat Eynullayev 2280mAh*
have you ever used a Z9 ? Looks like its a no ;-)
Nikon seems to go all in, no selective crippling, like Sony and Canon do. $4000 for a 45 MP stacked sensor full-frame camera, with 8k60p RAW video, with great ergonomics. That isn't bad at all, especially compared to the competition.
Yet you can buy a Sony a7iv with the same IQ for $2500.. do you really need 20fps? Mechanical shutter all the way. 😊
@@lewcehjitl3282can it do 8K60?
@@VIDEOVISTAVIEW2020 no one needs 8k60fps. Our computers can’t even handle those file sizes.
@@lewcehjitl3282 i think, you are the only one who does not need it. Just because you dont need it means no body needs it? You seem to imply that the whole world is revolving around your requirements
@@lewcehjitl3282 don’t need 8k60, but definitely do need 4k120. And that’s what this gives you. I’d actually prefer 4k240!
Fantastic preview/review Jared. As usual, always concise, methodical and no sugar coating!
Just what i was waiting for. But why do i even care. It's not like i would be able to afford one 💀😂😂
Yeah that part.
Same bro ☠️☠️☠️☠️☠️
Same 😅
Aim for the z9 and get a z8 with some good glass 👍🫨
Same here
Since your first video about its 61mpx I thought it would be a stacked sensor with a smaller forma factor than the one of the Z9 and it actually was like that. Looks good and works well. Really a nice cameras
I hope Nikon keeps up the improvement, I may shoot canon on digital but I love my Nikon film bodies and just have a soft spot for them and would love to see them make something that just blows canon and Sony out of the water. While this isn't quite it they certainly offer a compelling value and I'm excited to see what they do next and if they can revive the Z6 and Z7 line of cameras. Canon's R8 needs some competition too!
My progression: z7 -> r5->z9. I got the r5 for better AF, but (for me) I just didn’t think the canon colors and glass had the same punch when the light got crappy. The rf 24-70L was particularly underwhelming, especially when compared side by side with the way cheaper f4 Nikkor version (I took my z7 + r5 in the field together most of the time)
I just got the z9 a couple months ago and I don’t regret it at all after seeing the new z8 specs.
I *loved* my r5 but my z9 is quickly becoming just as beloved, and I spend way less time in post getting the colors that I want. Both cameras have annoying AF quirks, but my overall keeper rate might be a bit higher on the z9 for my uses (wildlife, portraits, street, landscape).
On both cameras I used a mix of pro level native and adapted glass and in my experience, the Nikon AF works better with old glass than the canon did.
It’s also a *huge* benefit to have beautiful nikkor 1.8s to choose from. If I wanted a top quality 35 on canon I had to adapt a tamron sp 1.4 that weighed a ton. With Nikon, I can just use a z 1.8 and I’m gtg.
At any rate, I would happily recommend both platforms… I don’t think the AF thing will really matter to anybody that isn’t shooting something like sports.
Thanks for the great content bro!
Do you have a blog or Instagram. Would love to follow you?
As a Nikon user, I really appreciate someone like Jared who has the platform and voice to let Nikon know their focus game is lacking. Giving it to them straight, unlike most reviews out there, whom just mindlessly repeat the specs and sugar coat the problem.
I can't believe Nikon didn't correct all their AF issues. Just can't believe it.
I know. I have a nikon z6ii and i do concert photography and I've missed so many great shots cause the auto focus is horrible.
It's because other reviewers keep sugar coating the issue & fanboys keep saying there's no problem.
I’m so grateful also for Jared’s opinion. I have the Z9 and I’m so frustrated that I laid out so much money when it first came out to have a autofocus system that is just not up to par
@@WebJuice_Sydney I appreciate reviewers who give you the low down, not some brand marketing BS that they spew because they're scared they won't get given test units or free stuff anymore
Most likely going to get one of these. My biggest beef with the Z II's is that while they have improved AF tracking over the gen 1 bodies, it was still rather frustrating, like the AF point sometimes drifting off a subject's eye when they're not really moving. Plus the blackout-free shooting will be nice too, as I 've missed more shots with the Z bodies than I did with DSLRs (AF was more accurate, but I would miss shots because I couldn't always see if the camera was still focused on the subject -- a bird or animal -- or not due to the slideshow effect). I will say that I will probably miss the real "authentic" click of a mechanical shutter though but it's a small price to pay for what I'd be getting in the Z8 in terms of features and performance I guess.
What'd you end up getting?
Most full, fair, candid review of all these new release reviews. Well done.
I'm just glad that it's finally announced. I got tired of all of the speculation videos.
Been waiting for so long! It’s perfect! Thank you Nikon!
16:43 - THANK YOU for being so honest in your videos. Spending so much money on a camera means - if you can, nowadays - to know everything before making the step. And this real world reviews is what people need.
I really hope Nikon fixes the focus issues, as I face a lot of the focus issues during video shoots (although not as much for stills). But one thing about the Z8 for Z9 owners is that it will make a perfect complement for the Z9 for multi-cam video shoots.
Solved in FW 2.0! Superb AF now
Back in the film days, Nikon released the F100 which was basically a slimmed down F5, so the precedent is certainly there from Nikon. I loved, and still love my F100...
Yes, and the D3/D700 pair is a similar approach.
+1 on love for the F100
Thanks for honest review! Will wait for next year z7/6 update!
I love how all the videos come out at the exact same time .
That’s because that’s what they agree to!
@@hautehussey yeah I know ! Nonetheless it still makes me laugh when suddenly all tgevphotography youtubers I follow drop all their videos within the 5 minutes like « Yup that’s the NDA’s deadline ! » x)
RUclips has a functioning global clock and scheduling system. ⏲⏰🕰
Was hoping for a side-by-side view with the grip as compared to the Z9 - thank you sir! 👏🏻 The Z8 is BIG with the MB-N12 grip, and why is this grip not as wide as the body? Looks funny.
Some decisions: If I get the Z8, I don't think I want the grip. And I really wanted a card door lock button. That plus the price coming in at $4000 - I think I've decided on the Z9 for my first Expeed7 body.
Good video. I'm glad the Z8 finally came out, now I'm hoping for a substantial price drop on the Z7II. I was going to upgrade my Z7 but decided to wait to see what the Z8 was all about. I checked B&H, and the price of the 7ii has already dropped 400 dollars. This may sound weird, but I'm still shooting weddings and events with a pair of D750s, I'll also use the Z7 for portraits, with no complaints. I shoot landscapes, sports, wildlife and videos just for fun, so all those "advanced" features aren't game changers for me. I've said it before, scheduled "upgrades" by camera manufacturers are designed to keep the cash flowing. Don't worry, in 2 years the Z8ii will come out with amazing features we must have. The bulk of my casual shooting, especially for street photography, is with a small frame Lumix GX85 and a 35-100 2.8, or my smartphone. No, I'm not nuts, I can doctor those photos to look great with post processing software. Like the ones you're pushing...lol
It's great that you're still using the D750 for weddings. In the past decade, human beings are still the same. They walk down the aisle at the same speed. They dance to the same music at the reception. 💪
@@UnconventionalReasoning for real? I thought modern wedding are held at extra high speed with people moving in an unpredictable trajectory in an almost black dark room, while continue to blink eyes and turn their face around... 😮😮😮
@@hoangvu620 That's what Sony wants you to believe.
brilliant honest review best ive seen
Even though I’m not a Nikon shooter, I still enjoy your real world reviews. Great job.
Agreed with this! I shoot an R6 MK I and watching these cross-brand reviews helps me understand my own equipments strengths and weaknesses better.
DJ, = The Rock?
Hello Jared, I use an alpha 9 to shoot almost exclusively basketball. Several time I used the alpha one. and in the regard of autofocus I think both camera are very similar. I always stick to AFC flexible spot M (as Sony recommends) and never" wide". I cannot understand how the autofocus can decide ( for any camera Canon Sony or Nikon) that player one is more important than player two or three. And that if player two catchs the ball and runs to the basket that player one is no more the one to stick on...
As a former A1 owner, the Z8 has slight AF edge over the A1 with latest FW 2.0 update. That's saying something!!
I am super excited for this camera. The next step Nikon needs to take is to implement the AF into their prosumer and consumer bodies. Z6iii and Z7iii need to come soon, and have very reliable AF.
Yes, the Z6III needs to get the Expeed7 processor. I agree with Jared, the Z7 series may have ended.
Yeah i have the nikon z6ii and the AF sucks
@@kais295 Yes, just give up on photography, there's no point!
r8 focus better than an z9😂
@@kevc.2958 True, and the only thing that matters is AF. Everything else is completely irrelevant, just don't bother doing photography...
The best Review so far 👍🙏🏾 Very instructive.
Great video Jared! I ordered the Z8 right after the release and is already on back order at BH.
What is essentially a diet Z9 in this price point is an excellent camera. Been using a Z9 for over a year and it looks like it, and it's a top grade camera.
The Z8 and Z9 look like epic video cameras except for ONE really annoying missing feature that both Canon and Sony have in all their cameras at this level (and below) now: Dual redundant video recording. This is SUPER important for professionals and as a professional photographer who sometimes shoots video, this is a HUGE sticking point for me, not even considering the focus issues that were mentioned. Canon seem to have fixed both the overheating and added dual redundancy now, so they're looking very strong. 8k60 is nice, but not as much of a deal breaker as tje redundancy issue. And R5s are looking cheap now, especially if you buy used. Hopefully Nikon can add this in firmware and get themselves back in the game for pro video people.
I have shot video for 10+ years and have NEVER needed to save on two cards simultaneously. Why is that important to you?
@@KobusGevelspar Because memory cards can get corrupted sometimes, and there are a lot of professional shoots I do where it would be really hard or impossible to arrange a re-shoot. The chances of it happening are small, but it's just a peace of mind thing having that redundancy there.
Good to see what the evf viewfinder looks like in a variety of lighting condition. As your seeing a corrected version of the light and not the actual light I don't know how you're supposed to make decisions. Hopefully Nikon has a sneaky last dslr in production soon.
Thanks! I have been waiting to swap my 850 and I might do it now.
Well done Nikon! - That's one hell of a camera at that price point.
Definitely going to get one. The Z9 was just too big. Nikon has a winner with the z8 but if they got autofocus on par with Canon and Sony they would not only do well but destroy the rest of the market. Love the features for price. The best hybrid camera out there. Can't wait to see my landscapes and sports pictures edited with Skittles. Loved my D850 and enjoyed both my Z7 and Z7II but its time to move up. Let's go!
put the battery grip on the Z8 and it is bigger than the Z9 LOL stupid design
Giddy up!
@@silbay put a grip on the R6 . I dare you. It’s bigger than the R3. Stop bashing
@@silbay Sounds like a sony fanboy lol
@@IPGAuto I agree with him. I have Z6II.
You are doing great job Jared, I admire you.
Yup, that jumping to the back when the box is in the correct spot happens to me as well. Z9 + 70-200mm
As a Z9 shooter I'm not 'upset' that I spent more when I could have the Z8 now for so much less, because I've had the Z9 in my hand for over a year and have got a load of amazing shots that I wouldn't have got on my Z7..! If I'd bought the Z9 more recently though I might have been a little annoyed!
I'm still going for Z9 though, love full body cameras for the weight and handling.
@@makatron I guess you like the back and wrist pain that comes with that also.
If someone bought a Z9 in 2023, they did it with full knowledge that a Z8 seemed likely. And that 'mini-Z9' was one of the possibilities, along with 'higher-res'. They can only be annoyed with themselves.
@@gunselect2116 I've shot weddings with full body cameras since the D3s all the way to the D5. Back pain? Maybe workout and I promise you those back pains will disappear.
@Photo Bunny which camera bag are you running? I might run out of space once the Z8 comes.
The Z7III can be the big 60mp camera body. I pretty much expected the Z8 to be baby Z9, totally made sense to me and was an easy development while being something a lot of people wanted.
Yep. The z7iii will be the landscape and whatnot camera.
The difference between 45 and 60 mp is insignificant. It's less than taking a 20x30" print and making it 24x36".
@@UnconventionalReasoning
9504 x 6336 vs 8256 x 5504
Probably right.
@@hautehussey From 20 x 30" to 23 x 34.5" I'll send you a spreadsheet if you want... Because that's how tiny the difference is that some are whining about.
Just the vid i needed.. Brilliant comparisons. My step from nikon to sony 7 series is a bit further now.. 👍👍
Thanks Jared for another great video! Have you considered comparing a comparably priced video camera to a Z9 or other flagship mirrorless cameras from a video standpoint? For me, especially sports/action video, a shoulder mounted video camera yields me better results. Until Nikon gets their AI under control I'll stick with my D6's.
I`m super happy that Nikon finally came up with a new camera (I`ve had all the Z´s besides from the Z9) and thrilled for the Nikon shooters. I love a lot about Nikon, and in particular their ergonomics and files. But I jump ship to Sony these days cause I didn`t feel Nikon would totally catch up and I don`t like their slow innovation. I don`t need the best, but buying camera gear is expensive and you want to be around the ball park with the best at least (auto focus as one feature. Even though it is good it should be closer to the innovation from Sony/Canon). On top of that I think 1.4 lenses is a sweet spot combining price, weight and quality, making me switch to Sony and at the same time avoiding Canon who also goes directly to 1.2 on their native RF glass.
I am disappointed that the Z8 don`t appear to have the same auto focus as the A7IV at least, cause it is important to feel they are closing the gap quicker than where they have been. I do love using Nikon though and there are several thiings that are way better in their cameras compared to my new Sonys, but the total package considering speed of future improvements made me move.
But Go Nikon! And congrats to all those who hung in their waiting 😊
🍷🍷🍷
I’ll go further and say that I’m disappointed that there don’t seem to be any new tech at all. Just a smaller body with smaller battery and different cards. Also too bad that they remove the dial on top left. I used to use it on D810.
@@RUclipsr-ku4nk Yeah I can agree with you on that. It is a Z9 in a smaller body (Matt Granger said it well, «is it enough after 19 months?») which is good at that price, but then again no to little innovation for 19 months. I would call myself a «Nikon-preferred» user because of their usability as I feel that the Z system are 2nd to none in that area. Their Z lenses are dead sharp and absolutely fantastic, even the non S lenses. If I were shooting landscapes only I wouldn`t have swiched, but I use the auto focus a lot in portraiture and other situations and I want to invest in a system/brand that provides me with new functionality and innovation in a pace somewhat close to the others. But a big reason for choosing Sony though was their 1.4 lense lineup and 3rd party lense compatibility, cause on ergonomics and usability Nikon destroys Sony in my opinion. I got better eco system and functionality with Sony and lost on the ergonomics and usability.
Canon too expensive, Sony too bad on usability (also with the new menu system which has improved), Nikon too bad on innovation …. no brand is perfect
The main reasons to still get a Z9:
* Battery life
* Integrated grip
* Longer video recording without overheating issues
* Dual CFexpress card slots
Looks like an amazing machine for sure!
It’s great but also little frustrating they are not able to update the lower cost bodies faster, just with new processor and AF system at least, especially as Canon seems to have released an entire lineup in APS-C and FF bodies at various prices with their AF over last 2 years.
Z8 looks like a home run. That vertical grip looks like an afterthought though lol
Home run if it had a decent AF. Z8 AF performance is slow, confused and blurry.
@@vivalasvegas702 Yes, why even bother trying to take pictures? The camera is so much more important than the photographer, if it isn't perfect, just hang it up.
@@vivalasvegas702 How do you know?
@@kevinmac9442 Yeah it's funny to me how many of the vertical grips look so odd or like they don't quite fit nicely.
I watched this video when it first came out and I’m watching it again after my Z8 arrived. Thanks
that's a pretty wild camera for the price. I'm still waiting on a D500 Z equivalent tough. I love the apsc-format and don't want to pay the price of a FF used in crop mode
Sony Exec - "Oh shit quick release a firmware update for the A1!! but don't change anything for god sakes!"
It’s a hardware issue for Nikon. Nikon only has 500 AF pts at 90% coverage. Canons have over 5000 AF pts at 100% coverage. This deficit can’t be overcome by firmware updates.
Thanks Jared. Despite the AF limitations, do you think this body + Nikon's 400mm 4.5 prime is the best sports combo from any manufacturer under $7k? Love the look of the blown background + tack sharp pics!
It's built like a tank, so amazin... time to pre-order guys❤🎉
In my opinion there is too much time between the release of the z9 and z8 for so little technical change.
agree
Consider the fact that it is 1.5k cheaper. There is nothing much they can do to squeeze from that price point otherwise, they will risk canibalizing potential sales from the Z9.
@@VIDEOVISTAVIEW2020 it still makes no sense to not implement technologies in more recent models. only to make the top models supposedly equal or better. Nikon either doesn't want or can't do that at the moment. 🤷🏻
Look, Jared, the point is, they made the Z9 (one of the most capable cameras of all time) 1500 $ cheaper!!! There isn't much to improve on that. That is 27 % cheaper! That really cuts into the profit margin, so it is an amazing feat to offer a camera like that for this price.
He made that same point.... so what is yours?
@@parttimephotographer3384, easy, easy boy
@@parttimephotographer3384 how about the thousands of other specs that are just as important that never get discussed like weather sealing and build quality. I have heard horror stories of Sony cameras in inclimate weather…
@@john32712 - I had my A1s out in thunderstorms, getting drenched, with both Sony and Sigma lenses, eand have zero issues. Never had issues with my Z7IIs before I switched either where weathersealing is concerned. Meanwhile, a friend killed his R6 when he got rained on for three minutes. Must just be a YMMV thing here.
@@john32712 In this video he calls out his Z9 review when it comes to a lot of this information. The weather sealing on the Z9 and 8 are the same, and awesome... Guess I just don't understand what you are calling out. This was a very positive look at the Z8 which is a Mini-Me of the Z9
I’m coming from a Z6ii, so this is stellar for me. Just pre-ordered my Z8.
I'm really happy for Nikon shooters; but from what I've learned in this video, I'll keep my newly acquired (used) D850!
It's there to 'backup' my EXCELLENT Olympus OM-1's!
When I listened to all your complaints, I said to myself: "But my OM-1(s) already have that --- with WAY more lenses to choose from!".
Thanks for showing the real world samples! I think it'll be a nice update from my Z6. I'm excited for the Z8. I lighter body would be nice for those hikes.
Let us know on the IQ! The original Z6 has better IQ than this new z8
The Z8 is 300g heavier than the Z6, I.e. 45% heavier. The z8 is a hundred grams shy of the weight of D850. It is not a light camera, except in comparison to heavy cameras. I’m sure it is great to use and makes great pictures, though.
Man, when nikon made the D700 it was just a mini D3, with a few less features, like not quite as fast and whatnot, and people loved it.
Now the Z8 is quite literally just a Z9 without a grip, and so many people are already hating on it.
Maybe if they make a Z7iii it'll be like the A7r5, slower with super high resolution
People are hating on the Z8 because they think 60mp is a significant improvement over 45mp. It's making a 20x30" print into a 24x36" print. Which client will care?
@Unconventional Reasoning okay but for real though.
At 300 dpi it's something like 31 inches vs 29.
I saw someone calling it a low resolution video camera, not suited for landscape. Like excuse me?
45mp vs 60mp sounds like a lot, but it's like comparing a 15mp camera to a 20mp camera.
If one is good enough, the other one probably is too.
In my experience, you don't really notice huge MP differences until its more than 50% of an increase, and really more when it's closer to double the increase.
@@JuanSanchez-zz3me i guess they don't know nothing about Topac.. i can upscale my 12mpx image to 60... and 1080 60p to 4k 24k
@@JuanSanchez-zz3me nikon z6 II user from a Nikon d810 and my enlarged prints actually look better on the z6II which has less MP's. Camera IQ has a lot to do with is as well, to expand on your point.
Glad I invested 2 Nikon Z9 cameras as the Z8 is pretty much the same thing. If the Z8 had a 61 mp sensor and a HSL control feature in the camera's picture control settings I may have considered buying one.
Nikon wants to sell a lot of these and most photographers only need up to 45MP at most which adds to its capture rate, as 60MP is usually overkill. Why not give the pros what they really want. Most pros don't need 60MP (except for maybe landscapers). As a successor to D850 this is a fully loaded camera. It is actually better because the video specs were not great in live AF in the D850. The z8 has faster read out speed over the Sony. Sony does have its great live AF, but Nikon Z8 and Z9 have improved greatly in AF.
I shoot the Z7ii and Z9 and my keeper rate is above 98.5%. This includes actions, still life and everything in the middle. I am not a genius... wait maybe I am, I can't be the only one with this much AF success with the Z7ii and the Z9. Enough said.
You are.
@@froknowsphoto LOL. Thanks.
I'd love to know your secret because in studio my Z7ii is like 50% at best and I constantly have the issue Jared shows where it tells me its in focus when it isn't. Do you usually shoot with a fairly deep depth of field which means even if the camera misses a bit the shot is still usable?
I've tried single point, eye autofocus, AF-S, AF-C, and it consistently struggles. I'd estimate my miss rate when shooting wide open on 1.4 glass is around 50% and I am not recomposing at all.
@@ryancooper3629 I think it's believable to get 98.5% hit rate with AF-C but no tracking
Great vid!! Thank you!! Question: if you shoot 4k 120fps - is the footage impeccable or does it feel "downgraded" compared it's 4k 60fps quality? Thank you!
Thanks Jared for the video! Been watching your video years back once I got my D7000. Looking to finally getting a FX and need your opinion. The Z 7ii is at a nice price point now… but I got tempted by the Z 8.. should I still get the Z 7ii or just pay the extra to get Z 8?
Hoping to take travel and street photography and shoot some birds overseas. Thank you!
The guys at DP Review, (now Peta Pixel channel) Jordan said that when shooting video, it's one of the first times he hasn't used manual focus at all, and relied totally on the auto focus on the Z8, because he trusted it so much. He said it's one of the first cameras he's ever been able to use solely on auto focus for shooting their shows. ruclips.net/video/XZPvt9aFEx4/видео.html
anyone else notice the Nikon old Z7 is more expensive than the Z7ii on the website
Fantastic video you are right on point. As a D850 owner my biggest concern IS autofocus as it is terrible when trying to shoot 4K video on the D850. Otherwise I love the D850. So my question is: is the autofocus a problem just on video or both still images AND video on the Z8? On my D850 it is basically useless for 4K video but does not seem to be a problem with still photography. Thank you.
D850 is not at all meant for video. Z8 in contrast is ideal for it. Especially with Z lenses.
That shot of the percussion player peeking over an instrument is brilliant.
I like the improvement. I just want them to start tackling their entry level market at a fast pace. They are still behind. It has been 3 years since they released the Z6 and Z7 (II) and they don't have anything to compete with Canon or Sony's $2000 price range. The Z8 is amazing... But if I were a consumer that looked at online reviews between Canon, Sony and Nikon with a $3000 budget... Why would I buy an outdated camera, processor, etc... in a Z6II over a A7 IV or a Canon R6?
That's the issue, looking at online reviews only. The biggest benefit a consumer gets with the Z6II compared to the A7IV is the need for less post processing. Does the consumer need the difference in AF? Posting their pics on IG will look great from any of the cameras.
@@UnconventionalReasoning True but when you have a job to do at an event or with a client and you notice how inconsistent the focusing system is and you have to dumb down your super smart camera you just spent $2500 on... Makes you wonder why you would spend that kind of money and not go with Canon or Sony. I tried Nikon Z6II AF... It didn't compare to my Canon or Sony experience and was just flat out frustrating. I gave it two weeks, I used it daily and I went to something I enjoyed the experience of more.
Maybe I'm a jerk for using my two week return policies to give multiple things a try so I can be more informed. I ended up on Canon.
@@GamingMailbox Enjoy your Canon. Don't know why you're whining on a video about Nikon, then... To gloat about how amazing you are?
@@UnconventionalReasoning Lmao no. We just talked about how I wish that Nikon could do more and catch up with its competition.
@@GamingMailbox Maybe there is more than one way to measure the quality of a product? It's more than a single-track race? But you switched to Canon, so why do you care?
Well done Jared and your timing is impeccable. Kudos to Steven. I have a Z9 and D850 but the Z8 looks to be a good choice for b roll and use the D850 for alternate shooting type (macro or IR). Thanks for the stream. Jim
Also shoot with Z9 and D850 the Z8 is going to be a great addition. Have been thinking second Z9 but the z8 offers options where a smaller body works best while retaining the majority of the Z9 features. The 850 will probably have some uses.
@@brianglock3099 I was thinking about converting the D850 to IR as a third camera option.
@@realnikonlover6207
Nice idea
Thank You very much Jared for this detailed Review, you´re truly hands down the best and my favorite Reviewer♥🙏🏼
What drives me crazy about the Z8 is: why is the Z8 shooting 4K 120fps and not 240fps at 1080p?!? 240fps at 1080p would be perfection
Kudos Jared. Love that you reviewed w/ sports! What do Jared and readers suggest is single the best ‘prosumer’ zoom lens to pair with the z8 for field sports such as soccer or lacrosse?
That's easy: the Nikon Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S.
@@UnconventionalReasoning Thank you... I forgot Nikon also makes the 400 4.5 prime. Not cheap but images look amazing.
@@steven871 I use primes for sports photography, specifically for indoor volleyball. The faster aperture helps if the lighting is a bit dark and the players are in a more predictable space so I can position myself for the best framing. For soccer or lacrosse, a zoom makes more sense, as with the hockey I've photographed.
Is still pretty a pretty sick camera tho
The body has incorporated a magnesium plate that the mount is attached to, this is much better than the plastic face the mount is screwed onto with the other brands. Or the prosumer cameras like the D850 and D500, Sony and Canon.
Which parts are mag alloy though it's not clear on the information, front/top/back panels?
considering modern engineered plastics are lighter and stronger than most metals short of titanium your observation is that of a uneducated noob from 20 years ago. Thanks for playing
I agree with the wide angle lens focusing on the background... I have the Z9 with the 14-30 f4 Z... This happens many times... That the box is on the eye and the focus is on the background...
The bigger battery of the Z9 has more power... So I was wondering, even though the focusing system is the same... Will the Z9 be ever SOOOO slightly faster in acquiring focus as its able to give more juice to the lens motors??? Have you experienced this???
It's interesting though because if you look at the image, it's still sharp in front of the subject (which you'd expect a large area of focus at that focal length). It's also at ISO 8000. Not defending the AF on this camera (and nobody should until they try it themselves).....I'm just not convinced by that particular example. The action sequences part of the video was really helpful though.
What kind of files does it shoot Jarret?! 😂 you’re too funny man!
This makes me hopeful for the rumored Z6 III
The Z6III will actually be the most important Nikon camera body of 2023, if it happens. Simply upgrading to the Expeed7 processor will be sufficient.
@Unconventional Reasoning I agree. I'm shooting on a Z5 now and TBH I'd love to move up to a more capable Z6 III if it had the Z8/Z9 processor and focusing features
@@fifty_10 If Nikon does not do that in 2023, it would be there biggest mistake.
Well . . . if not for the autofocus . . . . Now we know why Canon dropped the prices of the R5 and R3 (at least temporarily). The new R5 price is probably where it should be now if Canon wants to remain competitive. A stacked sensor is worth $500 if you're shooting fast-moving stuff like sports and wildlife. But the R3 . . . if not for the autofocus, the price of the R3 (at normal retail) is probably $1500 too high. Great camera. Amazing autofocus. Big battery drives big lenses amazingly quickly . . . but 24MP??? Really??? With the Z8 and Z9, Nikon wins the spec sheet wars. Canon cannot compete on specs. C'mon, Canon!
If Nikon had got the autofocus right, I would have made the switch. The spec sheet battle goes to Nikon for at least the next year. But Canon's autofocus (and my collection of Canon glass) keeps me in Canon, for now.
24 megapixels is actually pretty nice if you don’t need to crop to the point of oblivion
The R5 is £300 more expensive in the UK. Crazy.
Canon is the future! 24MP it’s ok! U can do anything u want! Btw the first dslr has 4MP. R3 is the best value for money camera and spec! I think more MP it’s triviality. More MP more noise when u have high iso.
Yeah, but the R3 with 24mp is the best low light camera out there now. It’s unreal how clean it is at high ISO…
With $5500 24mp is absolutely ridiculous. 24mp is definitely not enough.
Nikon allows you to adjust how sensitive the autofocus is to foreground objects interfering with a base runner or bird in flight. Custom settings menu, a3. Blocked shot autofocus response, scale of 1-5, 3 is default.
Would be interesting to see what sports shooters are using these days. I would gander that the AF on Nikon is still keeping some shooters away from Nikon, which is a shame since Nikon currently has the best big pro tele lens lineup.
Youre allways wrong jared
N u r right!!! Then make ur own channel
Lol. But those skittle packs! 😅
It's obvious that Nikon is aiming the Z9 at those pro sports, wildlife photographers that need a super durable camera (not to say the Z8 is not durable). Those pros will go with the Z9. But Nikon is seeking market share and this camera will do it. For those of us who do mostly landscape and a little sports will go for the Z8. You failed to give Nikon credit for not dumbing down a flagship in its less expensive camera (unlike Canon).
17:57
I'm still thinking I'll get the Z9. I want both cards to be identical. I want a battery grip. The grip on the Z9 looks nicer than the Z8 with an added grip. The EN-EL18 is a better battery than the EN-EL15, but I have a bunch of 15s, and the grip can take 2. Still think the Z9 is the way to go. It's really close though.
You are spot on about the focus. I shoot Sony, Canon, and Nikon for work. The key is that it is a struggle compared to the other 3 in dynamic situations. Most of the time, it's perfectly serviceable, and even when it is a struggle, it performs well, it just fights you a bit. I still prefer shooting the Z9 to the available bodies from Canon and Sony even if the autofocus fights me a little more. Anything less than a Z8 or Z9 doesn't keep up at all with focus, and it feels to me like Nikon can get there with firmware (which they have been great about). The keyword though is struggle. It's important to emphasize that it is capable for action work, it just makes you work a little harder than you should have to for the results.
Great about firmware? What happened to all the promised firmware updates for the Z6ii?
@@DEGAtv what promises were made? There was an update last month wasn't there?
@@Synmomusic we were promised consistent firmware updates for three years, and in the past 2 years have gotten just 1 or 2.
@@DEGAtvSony camera get even less updates
Nikon whimped out on video functionality. Digital hotshoe or *something* more than an extra USB-C port.
As of right now, in NZ the R3 is around $8800. The Z8 is around $8000. With the new firmware update the R3 can shoot up to a phenomenal 195FPS burst rate. With the eye tracking focus, and just better focus all around, if I were in the market for a camera of this caliber it's a no-brainer; I'd buy an R3 every time.
I am particularly excited with the Nikon come back… Z9 compressed into a smaller affordable body is great… But it is equally exciting to watch Nikon finally catch up on the marketing front… counter for launch date, product already distributed to influencers in the community, simultaneous release of influencer videos globally with the product release… If Nikon keeps this up, they will grab significant market share from Canon and Sony… and with a Zf from Fuji 😂
I own D3/D4/D5 and dual D750. Z8 was on my short list but no pixelshift high res means I’m moving to a7r5.
AF performance is not the best but at least it has a stack sensor. Well done, Nikon.
It's a pity it has the same AF as the Z9 🤔.
@@chimpy9823 What did you expect? It has the same processor as the Z9. An Expeed8 might be in the Z9II in 2024-5.
@@UnconventionalReasoning true words mate, I would be miffed if spent money on a Z9 and could pick up a mini version for approx £1300 cheaper. 🙀
@@chimpy9823 People knew the Z8 was very likely since last summer, before the Z9 was available 'on the shelf'. There were clearly two paths Nikon could take: 'mini-Z9' or 'high-res Z7'. More than 15 months later, something almost as good came out for 30% less. Okay. If someone had the need and resources for a Z9, they got use out of it for a year before the cheaper option showed up. This is the reality of technology, cheaper things come out a year or two later. If someone is miffed, they need to grow up.
Thanks for the honest review Jared! I’m sticking with Canon and my R5
I never use the 3d tracking as I prefer dynamic or wide small and as a consequence I've not had so many of these issues even with the Z7
Fro have you tried the cf1 and cf2 focus modes on the z9 or 8? Ajust it to a size where the player files.the ficus square and see what you think.
A true successor to the D850
Hell no, the battery life on this seems like 3x worse thqn d850.... god, Nikon is getting worse and worse.
@@dicekolev5360 it's Mirrorless camera with more computing power than the D850. Surely it need more power. All things that can be fixed though
@@dicekolev5360lol what a shit argument. Mirrorless always consumed more battery than DSLRs. Also you can charge this thing on the fly, you can also swap batteries without stopping shooting. Dont know in what world you live in. The camera is literally being praised as a beast and yet you people always complain
@@dicekolev5360 CIPA is irrelevant and misleading
Nope, horrible battery life and lacks that left dial function.
Why were you using 3D tracking?! In this review you are using a Nikon Z9 with auto eye detect, Why wouldn't you not use that for the real world review instead of using 3D Tracking for everything??? Jarad we need to chat man. Last night I shot Game 5 of the NBA Playoffs, And I have never shot any NBA games, and I'm having a VERY VERY hard time finding ANY out of focus images out of over 1500 images. You need to use the proper focus for the situation, Thats why there are so many options to choose from, I have over 300,000 clicks in just over one year, I know what this camera can do and can't do. The focus locks on and sticks like glue. Period
I've been shooting wildlife (and fast moving pets) for the whole year, it's extremely rare for me to get an out of focus shot that wasn't my fault.
Out of 20k+ images there might have been one or two.
So what’s is the best focus setting. I have a Nikon z8 and pulling my hair out as i feel it’s missing a lot of shots lol. I even thinking of selling it and going to canon R6ii. I look for to your reply. I’m currently shooting with the Tamron 35-150 lens.
Hi Jarod! I'm sure you get this often, but I'm going to ask anyway. I've been shooting with Nikon for a long time, mostly in aperture mode, and have delved into the digital format! But want to get into the mirrorless format. If you had to choose a camera in the $2500 -3000 dollar price range, be it nikon, canon, or Sony; what would you suggest? Thank you in advance.
I'm of course not Jarod 😅 But if you are free to choose any camera brand and you don't have too many nikon lenses, I would go with the Sony A7 IV in that price tag. It's a great camera with superior autofocus and a big amount of lenses from Sony, Tamron and Sigma.
Me for myself sold my Nikon D800 and all Lenses and bought the Sony A7R V with the Tamron 35-150mm F2-2.8 some Months ago and its awesome....I don't miss my old Nikon in any way.
Been sitting on my Z6 upgrading glass a little bit at a time to Z glass, waiting for the Z8. It is time. 😎
Jared is obsessed with autofocus and I dont see any nikon photographer complaining about it.
I do. I speak to them.
so far this video has been THEE best real-world preview of the z8. you covered everything and im just gonna go fukin buy it !!! ( i have the D500 )
My perfect camera is the sensor of the z8/9 the focusing of the R3 and Sony's lens mount to allow me to use their lenses and the third party ones. Not too much to ask :) An A9iii could be close to perfect if they ever come out with one.
Pick up a Megadap ETZ adaptor and you can then use all your Sony and third party E mount glass on Nikon Z cameras. That's what I did!
I have heard that E to Z mount adapters work great, i wouldn't shoot fast action with an E-mount lens mounted on a Z body though, but for landscape and portraits, adapting E glass to Z bodies may be great. Personnally i stuck to nikon because i know that their AF will improve with further generations of cameras and firmwares, and because of the Z mount, the Z lenses are purely amazing (their 1.8 lineup is exquisite, and copies of the 800 PF can be found for 6000€), nikon has already oppened its mount to third party manufacturers (with limitations currently, but that won't be a problem in a few years) and they have the shortest flange distance of the market, which means any lens ever made can be adapted on it (The E to Z adapter is an example, but more and more AF adapters for Z mount are coming).
This thing is only a couple firmware updates away of exceeding the autofocus of the r3
Might need to cop this for video 💪
Great pricing at $4k for a stacked sensor and 8k video. Sony A1 is $6500 (crazy). Please Nikon continue to work on the autofocus. I loved my D850 and still have my A7Riii.
Yeah I know AF still sucks, it’s better than Z7ii though 😂😂😂
Looking Z9 firmware upgrades in the past 15 months suggests that Nikon is continuing to work on the AF.
@@vivalasvegas702 I’ve heard so many conflicting reports. Some saying it’s excellent but most agreeing the A7RV and Canon R5 are still better. I think the R5ii could be interesting. I so wish I didn’t have so many E mount lenses as Sony pricing for bodies is high and firmware support is nearly zero
@@UnconventionalReasoning agree! They have been great. I wish I didn’t have so much in Sony right now as I couldn’t wait for a true D850 successor… but this is super tempting. Great job Nikon
@@RichardoBrit People bought into the myth that the Z7II was not a viable D850 successor. Again, everyone thinks *only* of AF when devaluing the Nikon cameras.
Yep, you can not update the hardware. But talking about firmware can't update in Autofocus performance... I have something to say with my Z7 men. Don't be shady.
For indoor situations: you are using an F2.8 lens on R8 and comparing the F1.2 lens on Z8, even the nob knows what it should look like on autofocus.
For outdoor shooting scenes, you are using 1/5000, higher than 1/3200 would cause an issue, you definitely know that so you only use 1/3200 on R8, but 1/5000 on Z8
For the low light situation, when using ISO 6400 for more lights, why use 1/400 for shutter speed?
Tons of details seems incorrect to me, great call out for autofocus issues, but don't be shady.
it's not shady when it's a fact. The Z7 could only improve so far because of the hardware. The z8 get's basically 3.0 of the z9 which in itself wasn't great.
@@froknowsphoto THanks for taking time on my comments, I saw other videos mention HLG Video, will you get any change to test it?
the latest update V2.0 appears to prove you wrong on this point as the AI recognition has been improved @@froknowsphoto
Excellent analysis as always.
Currently sitting on the fence whether or not to go mirrorless. Currently shoot with a D810 and a D3X using top shelf VR F zoom glass. Subject matter are things that fly (A10 Warthogs, F-22 Raptors, F-35 and birds with feathers, landscapes and portraits). I really like the glass that I own and do not want to sell everything to wholesale transition to "mirrorless". Is there an image quality trade off using F series lenses on Z series cameras as opposed to z series lenses? Thank you for your informed commentary on Nikon mirrorless vs the D series cameras.
You already have the great glass; just buy the FTZ adapter and you're good to go.
Your names for the presets are absolutely hilarious 🤣
For me, the magic of the D850 was the incredible image quality.. Now 6 years later they have a worse sensor in terms of colour and dynamic range. By the way, I do have the Z9 and D850 and the Z9 image isn't on the same level as my D850.
I agree with you .
I guess Z7 mk3 will have slower autofocus but better sensor. Z8 is basically a small Z9.
So if I send you two RAW files stripped of meta data you will tell me which photo is which?
Where the hell did u see worse colour and worse dynamic range?
@@ThatNorma theZ9 has worse color and dynamic range compared to the D850.