As the owner of both the Z9 and Z8 (with battery grip), I consider this a very informative and balanced review of the Z8. Nice job, and beautiful captures!
Thanks Fabian, I recently switched from my Nikon DSLR 7500 to the Z8. I am planning a Safari in the future but right now I am shooting lots of wildlife in my backyard here in Australia. Looking forward to your Z8 setup guide on tracking smaller subjects. Great Review.
Great job, Fabian. As a Nikon Z9 and Z8 shooter you’ve really learned how they work really well. Great job in doing your homework. The images you got with the Z8 and 600 tc are really exceptional. Keep up the excellent work.
Totally agree about adding a focus limiter in firmware. Panasonic has that and makes a huge difference and prevents the camera from focusing on the background and getting stuck there. Thanks for the review!
I find the easiest way to shift between whatever area mode I’m using and 3D tracking is to program 3D + AF to the lens function button. I start with BBF and one of the small, wide or custom area modes and once locked shift to 3D + AF on the lens. I also have one of the front Fn buttons programmed to custom area single point in the event the subject is in a busy surrounding. The AF won’t be improved until Nikon adopts a new sensor architecture from the Z8/Z9. The other brands have sensors with multiple times the AF points compared to the Nikon Zs. The sensor Z8/Z9 has only about 500 points; it needs double that number for the AI to hunt and retain subjects properly. Reviewers seem puzzled why the Z8/Z9 still lags its peers but that’s the difference; the AI subject detection algorithms require the entire sensor to be densely painted by AF points. But it’s still a great camera.
From the looks of your pictures, you have done a great job on learning how to use this camera.. This camera can sometimes be tough for newbie trying to use the autofocus.. Once you do learn it, it's fantastic, more so than other cameras for me that I've used. Such as Canon , Sony, fuji and a few and lower end Nikon others. Love the 3D tracking. And Love the hand off of the red focus box to the eye focus tracking, works great. Don't get me wrong, Canon , Sony, has great focus too. It's just that I like the way Z8 & Z9 work. 3D tracking and the Hand off of eye focus.
Excellent camera for sure, the question is (for me) if need to upgrade from a D850 to a Z8. Technology is different for sure with a lot of avantages but what about the image quality ?
Unfortunately, I could not do a side by side comparison. But I think the main reasons for an upgrade would indeed be AF and speed, not necessarily image quality
Quick tip: When using manual mode, set the ISO to auto! If you control the speed and the aperture, iso is already given for the correct exposure, thus you don't need to set it. In situations when the camera can miss the exposure, I use the expo compensation button to correct it. It is quick enough.
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Great video thanks. You mentioned that you would have preferred a 3rd wheel so you could adjust the aperture, shutter speed, and ISO directly. But wouldn't you agree that the function ring (most Nikon Z S lenses have such a function ring) can be set to be used as a 3rd wheel? For instance one could use the front wheel for aperture, the back wheel for speed, and the function ring for ISO. I upgraded from a Z6II to the Z8 and I was flabbergasted by the difference; especially the autofocus system. Took me a while to figure it out but found a combination of settings that suits me well. I've watched some of your videos, liked them a lot, and subscribed to your channel.
Thanks! I tried that, but there is two things I don’t like about it: 1. Not all lenses have it (180-600), 2. I don’t like the „continous“ implementation of the ring on Nikon lenses (on Canon there are noticeable „steps“ when you turn the ring)
Hi Fabian, really interesting comments regarding your experience with the Z8 autofocus. Do you know if Nikon have now resolved the issue with a firmware update since your initial review? Thank you 🙏🏻
Very nice "review" of the features that are important for you and your experience compared to other cameras. Excellent overview (with images) and I must say, that puts your video above many others (and you actually knew your way around the camera). I felt your overview was very fair and balanced. I could get into my main issues with the Z8/Z9 AF issues, but my experience was overall similar to yours. In general, with Firmware 5.0 around Christmas - (fingers crossed) I'd like to see several developments. Simplification of the AF-Area modes - letting the camera get faster and stickier without having to do mental gymnastics as to which mode is best for that setting, zebras in stills, and...well, let's leave it there. First time to your channel, and you did a great job. Thanks for the post.
@@FabianFoppNaturephotography You're very welcome and it was well deserved. I only wish I had a camera when I was your age, but your wisdom and knowledge base are far beyond those with even more experience. Keep persuing your passion, and above all, stay focused! ;--)
thank u for the informative and experience oriented videos! I do charging by powerbank wired my sony a7rV even sitting in the hide or walking in the wild. it does not decrease my mobility. Actually if the body is on it will not charge but saves the battery, but it definitely charges quickly if it is off. thanks to the highly capable usb-c ports on the body and the powerbank as well. this is a much more affordable and highly efficient solution than to buy 2-3 spare batteries, especially original ones, with regards of the high price. think so?
If you are in a hide, yes. But I walk around with the camera all the time and basically never use it on a tripod. Therefore a powerbank doesn’treally work
no problem by walking at all. pbank goes to your pocket and it is not a big deal to handle the wire. of course this solution is not for people with bigger budget who don’t mind to buy several spare batteries. I had 2x10K mAh pbank so it was my money saving solution. have great lights. thanks for your answers
I sometimes hold the camera with one hand over the water, I need to move quickly, lay to the ground, get up, etc. let’s not even talk about heavy rain or snow - the usb-port is not waterproof. Honestly, If I spent 15k on a lens/camera, I can afford 200$ more on batteries
Hi Fabian, great video! About to switch entirely to mirrorless and looking forward to the Z8 + 800mm combo to take some bird photographs here in Fiji! Quick side note: if you are putting links on your description, add the in front of them and then they're clickable in your video description :)
I’m convinced Nikon signed an agreement with Sony to limit fps to 20fps raw for use of the stacked sensor. Canon R8 40fps is at half the resolution. So really can’t say well this one does 40fps. Looking forward to your 180-600 review
@@FabianFoppNaturephotography yeah it’s just my opinion. A1 is the only 45+ mp stacked sensor with 30fps. I think Sony wanted to keep it that way and also reason why the R3 is 30fps but at 24mp. It’s pretty obvious Sony manufactured that sensor as well. Even though Sony Semi is separate from their camera division they still keep the best tech exclusive for a set period of time.
No, the R3 Sensor is not from Sony but from Canon. They kept the R3 at 24MP because that’s apparantly what most sport photographers prefer and I guess also to keep room for the R1
@livejames9374 Sony A1's 30fps is not Raw Lossless. A1's compressed file doesn't retain dynamic range as well as Nikon's high efficiency. As a result the file size is quite small and hence they can do 30fps. It's like saying Nikon can shoot 30fps jpg.
Just a small point @20 frames a second you can shoot 20,000 frames in 16mins this stat is not,in my opinion, a good stat to quote, length of time using would be better.
I am a hobbyist into bird photography & wildlife photography with occasional interest in landscape photography. Please review 180-600 as 600 prime beyond my reach as a pure hobbyist only. Or 800 prime a better option? By the thanks for this nice review.
Nice review with some good observations. Re: Auto Area AF for birds, I’ve heard most people say to start with a large custom box (or a shallow / wide box) and then handoff to 3D. I’ll try Auto Area now too. New sub 🙂👍🏻
I need that feature a lot for shooting videos, and I know many other people that do so as well. And it’s not that there is a downside od having an additional feature.
@To put in other words. I’m trying to say that not everyone is a youtuber and will need that feature. The flip out screen will be more of a hindrance as it increases the size of the camera when using it in tight spaces
As someone who shots Sony A7iv,A7RVv ,nikon Z9 ,Z7ii and D850 ;this is the best camera I have ever shot . Just absolutely brilliant.
Happy to hear that you like the camera
Why do you think this is better than a Z9?
@@mlai2546I have both. Z9 is my everyday studio camera. Stills and video. The Z8 is the EDC.
@@mlai2546 better dynamic range,better noise control ,more manageable .
Better than z9?
As the owner of both the Z9 and Z8 (with battery grip), I consider this a very informative and balanced review of the Z8. Nice job, and beautiful captures!
Thanks 😊
Thanks Fabian, I recently switched from my Nikon DSLR 7500 to the Z8. I am planning a Safari in the future but right now I am shooting lots of wildlife in my backyard here in Australia. Looking forward to your Z8 setup guide on tracking smaller subjects. Great Review.
Thanks! I’m working on it 😊 Have fun with the camera
Great job, Fabian. As a Nikon Z9 and Z8 shooter you’ve really learned how they work really well. Great job in doing your homework. The images you got with the Z8 and 600 tc are really exceptional. Keep up the excellent work.
Thanks a lot 😊
Totally agree about adding a focus limiter in firmware. Panasonic has that and makes a huge difference and prevents the camera from focusing on the background and getting stuck there. Thanks for the review!
Thanks 😊
I find the easiest way to shift between whatever area mode I’m using and 3D tracking is to program 3D + AF to the lens function button. I start with BBF and one of the small, wide or custom area modes and once locked shift to 3D + AF on the lens. I also have one of the front Fn buttons programmed to custom area single point in the event the subject is in a busy surrounding.
The AF won’t be improved until Nikon adopts a new sensor architecture from the Z8/Z9. The other brands have sensors with multiple times the AF points compared to the Nikon Zs. The sensor Z8/Z9 has only about 500 points; it needs double that number for the AI to hunt and retain subjects properly. Reviewers seem puzzled why the Z8/Z9 still lags its peers but that’s the difference; the AI subject detection algorithms require the entire sensor to be densely painted by AF points.
But it’s still a great camera.
Thanks for you comment. That sounds reasonable. Unfortunately, this would also mean it can’t be fixed via firmware updates in the feature
Regarding AF points: Do you have any insights from the Nikon development team, or where does the evidence for this information come from?
Thank you Fabian I am looking to upgrade my Z7 and this has pushed me to really go for Z8
Have fun with the camera!
From the looks of your pictures, you have done a great job on learning how to use this camera.. This camera can sometimes be tough for newbie trying to use the autofocus.. Once you do learn it, it's fantastic, more so than other cameras for me that I've used. Such as Canon , Sony, fuji and a few and lower end Nikon others. Love the 3D tracking. And Love the hand off of the red focus box to the eye focus tracking, works great. Don't get me wrong, Canon , Sony, has great focus too. It's just that I like the way Z8 & Z9 work. 3D tracking and the Hand off of eye focus.
Thanks for sharing your experiences!
The backlit flamingo at 1/10000, great shot.
Thanks ☺️
Excellent camera for sure, the question is (for me) if need to upgrade from a D850 to a Z8. Technology is different for sure with a lot of avantages but what about the image quality ?
Unfortunately, I could not do a side by side comparison. But I think the main reasons for an upgrade would indeed be AF and speed, not necessarily image quality
Quick tip: When using manual mode, set the ISO to auto! If you control the speed and the aperture, iso is already given for the correct exposure, thus you don't need to set it. In situations when the camera can miss the exposure, I use the expo compensation button to correct it. It is quick enough.
Unfortunately, that’s not really an option in many cases (e.g. when the background changes)
Support my channel by using the affiliate links below:
Nikon Z8: adorama.rfvk.net/k04Vyz
Nikon Z8 additional battery: adorama.rfvk.net/6edKVK
DXO PureRaw 3 (free trial): tidd.ly/3ZWqi95
Great video thanks. You mentioned that you would have preferred a 3rd wheel so you could adjust the aperture, shutter speed, and ISO directly. But wouldn't you agree that the function ring (most Nikon Z S lenses have such a function ring) can be set to be used as a 3rd wheel? For instance one could use the front wheel for aperture, the back wheel for speed, and the function ring for ISO.
I upgraded from a Z6II to the Z8 and I was flabbergasted by the difference; especially the autofocus system. Took me a while to figure it out but found a combination of settings that suits me well.
I've watched some of your videos, liked them a lot, and subscribed to your channel.
Thanks! I tried that, but there is two things I don’t like about it: 1. Not all lenses have it (180-600), 2. I don’t like the „continous“ implementation of the ring on Nikon lenses (on Canon there are noticeable „steps“ when you turn the ring)
@@FabianFoppNaturephotography Never said it was a perfect solution haha
Excellent as always
Thanks
Excellent review! This definitely helped make the final decision
Glad to hear 😊
Hi Fabian, really interesting comments regarding your experience with the Z8 autofocus. Do you know if Nikon have now resolved the issue with a firmware update since your initial review? Thank you 🙏🏻
Yes, they released an update around 1 year ago
@ Great, thank you so much 🙏🏻
Very nice "review" of the features that are important for you and your experience compared to other cameras. Excellent overview (with images) and I must say, that puts your video above many others (and you actually knew your way around the camera). I felt your overview was very fair and balanced. I could get into my main issues with the Z8/Z9 AF issues, but my experience was overall similar to yours. In general, with Firmware 5.0 around Christmas - (fingers crossed) I'd like to see several developments. Simplification of the AF-Area modes - letting the camera get faster and stickier without having to do mental gymnastics as to which mode is best for that setting, zebras in stills, and...well, let's leave it there. First time to your channel, and you did a great job. Thanks for the post.
Thanks for your kind words 😊
@@FabianFoppNaturephotography You're very welcome and it was well deserved. I only wish I had a camera when I was your age, but your wisdom and knowledge base are far beyond those with even more experience. Keep persuing your passion, and above all, stay focused! ;--)
Great video Fabian. Thanks very helpful.
You‘re welcome!
Nice review thank you 👌😉
Which lens 500mm or 600mm is better for the Z8, for videographers?
Amazing video!
Thanks! There is currently no 500mm lens for the Z mount. And I love the Z mount lenses for video because of their amazing stabilization
Hello Fabian! could u pls tell me that the Z8 can be charged from a powerbank trough the usb-c port? during switched on
It can be charged over a powerbank, but I actually never tried this while it was on
Do you happen to recall which firmware version on the Z8 for this review?
It was before bird AF was added
thank u for the informative and experience oriented videos! I do charging by powerbank wired my sony a7rV even sitting in the hide or walking in the wild. it does not decrease my mobility. Actually if the body is on it will not charge but saves the battery, but it definitely charges quickly if it is off. thanks to the highly capable usb-c ports on the body and the powerbank as well. this is a much more affordable and highly efficient solution than to buy 2-3 spare batteries, especially original ones, with regards of the high price. think so?
If you are in a hide, yes. But I walk around with the camera all the time and basically never use it on a tripod. Therefore a powerbank doesn’treally work
What is the lifespan of an electronic shutter
It has no moving parts, so basically unlimited
Thanks for the video.
You‘re welcome 😊
no problem by walking at all. pbank goes to your pocket and it is not a big deal to handle the wire. of course this solution is not for people with bigger budget who don’t mind to buy several spare batteries. I had 2x10K mAh pbank so it was my money saving solution. have great lights. thanks for your answers
I sometimes hold the camera with one hand over the water, I need to move quickly, lay to the ground, get up, etc. let’s not even talk about heavy rain or snow - the usb-port is not waterproof. Honestly, If I spent 15k on a lens/camera, I can afford 200$ more on batteries
Hi Fabian, great video! About to switch entirely to mirrorless and looking forward to the Z8 + 800mm combo to take some bird photographs here in Fiji! Quick side note: if you are putting links on your description, add the in front of them and then they're clickable in your video description :)
Thanks! Should be fixed now 😊
I’m convinced Nikon signed an agreement with Sony to limit fps to 20fps raw for use of the stacked sensor. Canon R8 40fps is at half the resolution. So really can’t say well this one does 40fps. Looking forward to your 180-600 review
I would find it weird, if Nikon would really sign such an agreement. But who knows
@@FabianFoppNaturephotography yeah it’s just my opinion. A1 is the only 45+ mp stacked sensor with 30fps. I think Sony wanted to keep it that way and also reason why the R3 is 30fps but at 24mp. It’s pretty obvious Sony manufactured that sensor as well. Even though Sony Semi is separate from their camera division they still keep the best tech exclusive for a set period of time.
No, the R3 Sensor is not from Sony but from Canon. They kept the R3 at 24MP because that’s apparantly what most sport photographers prefer and I guess also to keep room for the R1
@livejames9374 Sony A1's 30fps is not Raw Lossless. A1's compressed file doesn't retain dynamic range as well as Nikon's high efficiency. As a result the file size is quite small and hence they can do 30fps. It's like saying Nikon can shoot 30fps jpg.
Yes. Still, I think many Nikon shooters would be very happy if the z8/Z9 would do 30fps in high efficiency star mode
Just a small point @20 frames a second you can shoot 20,000 frames in 16mins this stat is not,in my opinion, a good stat to quote, length of time using would be better.
But 16 min is not really realistic for wildlife. 10-30 seconds seems much more realistic to me
correction - EVF has 3.7 million dots NOT pixels. Sorry Fabian!
Yes, you are right, they technically call it dots and not pixels. However, the comparison with a Canon R5 etc still holds true
@@FabianFoppNaturephotography yes, true (comparison). It's just 5 million dots is not 5 million pixels, it's much lower resolution (pixels).
I am a hobbyist into bird photography & wildlife photography with occasional interest in landscape photography.
Please review 180-600 as 600 prime beyond my reach as a pure hobbyist only. Or 800 prime a better option?
By the thanks for this nice review.
Thanks! I will definitely do my best to get to try this lens 😊
The Z8 autofocus is great for birds, but Z9 is even better if you would use current firmware (2024-Jan-24) that has AI af for birds specifically.
I did a review about the Z9 firmware 4.1
Z8 has the same firmware now.
Yeah, that third wheel is why I still am a bit annoyed by the Canon R7.
I wish they had taken the controls of the R5
I use Sony A7 Rv.
Seems to be a nice camera as well
Nice review with some good observations. Re: Auto Area AF for birds, I’ve heard most people say to start with a large custom box (or a shallow / wide box) and then handoff to 3D. I’ll try Auto Area now too.
New sub 🙂👍🏻
Thanks 😊
How is it not being able to tilt forward a downside? No one in this universe will buy this camera to vlog.
I need that feature a lot for shooting videos, and I know many other people that do so as well. And it’s not that there is a downside od having an additional feature.
@To put in other words. I’m trying to say that not everyone is a youtuber and will need that feature. The flip out screen will be more of a hindrance as it increases the size of the camera when using it in tight spaces
No, if it‘s designed like the sony a9 iii it doesn‘t use more space. Personally, I think out of all displays that exist, the sony is the most flexible
@ Will have to give it a look! Not familiar with sony systems. Cheers
no interest in birds 😂
Then don’t watch the video 😉