I know most people want the camera to select the subject so AF or eye focus is critical but for us who do commercial, theater, and portraiture, I never hear of anyone missing focus on the Z6 with 3+ firmware. My second camera is a D850 and 3d is a D800 and shoot primarily with the Z6 because of the EVF, handling and S lenses result in fewer shots needing to be taken. My large bag is 53 pounds so I really need a good reason to take that bag and I can't take it on flights. Lately, during the pandemic, the mix of work has shifted to actors for casting directors who want videos of sample scenes dialog videos, and stills. The last one was a master class by a well-known director with 93 short 3-4 minute videos, 3 for each member. The first couple with interaction dialog then critiques and redoing it with the director's suggestions and the final one after further critique. The actors at times were rather animated so I was a little concerned that focus tracking might slip off but was very impressed how the lowly Z6 nailed it on all 93 videos. There were also 650 stills slip 75% Z6 and most of the rest with the D850. The images straight out of the camera needed almost no post-processing while the DSLR files often needed touchup in exposure and white balance. I have another one with a different director for a 2-day shoot in 3 days. Of the features of the Z6 2 that interests me, the main one is charging while shooting so time-lapse becomes more feasible. For most photographers, adding S lenses is more of an upgrade over F mount lenses is a more important upgrade than the camera body. For action panning the Ver 2 has a deeper buffer and shorter blackout period so a sports or wildlife shooter should consider the update.. Or sell the kids and get the Z9
I'm about to buy a Z6II to compliment my d780 I have always used Nikon and I don't think i'm missing out too much by not owning a Canon or Sony. I am happy and still able to capture great photos. Great hands on video from someone who actually uses it professionally than someone who just reviews because they want to make a video for the sake it it. Thanks man
Couple of tips from what I've seen online: 1) Always keep the firmware updated. It feels like Nikon is updating firmware once a quarter but it's almost like getting a new camera each time. 2) Make sure you get the FTZ adapter along with the Z6 II so you can use your legacy Nikon F mount glass. 3) The camera is compatible with the older EN-EL15b batteries but your battery life will be a little shorter and you won't have access to use the camera with a USB-C power source--you'll only be able to charge over USB-C.
Thanks for your video and opinion. Not often I see many Canadians to contribute like you Darrin. This video was the last nail to my decision to go for Z6II plus 3 Z lenses. Target day (thanks to my final budget) is February 2022. Thanks again.
I also have both cameras - definitely think the Z6II is a more polished product. AF is now very good and super close to Sony/Canon - There is no doubt that the Z9 will be as good (or better) than the Sony and Canon's. Once that tech trickles down to the next gen of cameras (Z8 or Z7III) - I will then get the higher res camera, but for now the Z6II is really great and can do 95% of anything that just about any photographer could want - with the possible one exception of super fast AF tracking (which it is competent at if you know how to use it - just not quite Sony and Canon level) and rolling shutter - something that will be handled Z9 and after with the new stacked sensor that is being introduced. Ultimately, I would say that if you are a portrait and/or event photographer then the Z6II is better for you than the Z6. If you just shoot static subjects like landscape and real estate the Z6 is fine for you.
Couldn't agree more on all points. The Z9 will be the answer to any of the remaining problems (which are few). I do think the biggest frustration is video tracking (like camera and subject moving) but if you stop down a bit to open the focal field and choose the right AF mode, it holds on. Thanks for watching, Baron!
@@DarrinRigo Hi Darrin - I'd love for you to elaborate a bit more on your comment regarding "if you stop down a bit to open the focal field and choose the right AF mode". If you could illustrate a situation that you are referring to and how you compensate, I'd be interested in hearing about that. Thanks and keep making videos on the Z system - I think it has a brighter future than many think. -B
@@baronsilverton6504 Ah sorry - I worded that terribly. What I mean is that if I'm shooting video where I'm uncertain about the AF performance, I won't shoot wide open at 1.8 - rather, I'll shoot at like 3.5+ to give a deeper depth of field and help the AF out a scooch. And I totally agree man. Each firmware update impresses the heck out of me.
As most of my jobs are hybrid the second slot is almost useless because I can't backup my video. Even if Nikon allowed a 1080p backup that would have been fine with me. Plus the mixed media is a bit annoying.
Totally. If they could update video redundancy on the second card in a firmware update, I would be really happy. It gives me such heartburn driving home from a big shoot day with 3 full cards without backups.
My biggest complaint and reason I wont upgrade yet is the lack of vari-angle lcd like fuji and panasonic have or a full articulation screen. Shooting in portrait position is a pain without it. I would like to see the ibis and video specs improved too. Its an upgrade but minimal at that. I would say its a much better deal for someone who does not already own a Z camera. The last reason an upgrade is not worth it is the poor resale value that the original Z6 has. You will spending another $1000 to upgrade. I dont see that as being worth it. If you were ok using the original Z6 you probable dont need the mark II. I am waiting for a more substantial upgrade. Thank for sharing your thoughts.
I just bought my z6 II a couple of months ago. My d750 took a wave at the beach and died when water found its way in at the top. Here's a few more reasons for you. The first generation is more like a test bed. The z6 II is what should have come out in the first place. What this means is, the z6 will be limited to what gets updated based on the processor and memory capacity in the camera. I think Nikon has a lot of plans for the z6 II to make it better that we don't even know about yet. It will receive a lot more updates that the z6 won't get. You have the extended shutter time on the z6 II. I think up to 15 min? I don't think I would need a 15 min shutter speed but there may be times I need 4 min. Did you mention the connectors for the battery grip? That's a big deal for some portrait photographers. I think there was something else but I can't remember now.
Great points, Carl. Like I said at the end there - I think you could definitely make a top 10 list and beyond but I tried to pick the 5 that were most important to me and the work I do. The battery grip is a huge + for sure. I totally agree - I think the Z6II/Z7II have the guts to really carry the Z line in to the future while the Z6 Gen 1 is going to be really limited by its single processor and slower internals.
@@DarrinRigo I don't even have a need for a d500 but if they come out with one that's like a baby z9....I may have to get one. Nikon is still one of the top 3 sellers. When they get everything sorted out they will still be big competitors.
Hey, just bought a z6i and had a A6400 before. Regarding the af there is not such a big difference between this two anymore. But it is just my feeling and not measured in a test of course. But the af was a think what I was worried about. One card slot is for the most enough, but sure as a professional I also would chose redundancy. Regarding the battery, I can take about 500 photos with one battery, what is more than enough for me. Buffer is also fine for me and I never take more than 10 pics in burst. But thanks for your content
Don't laugh. I'm still in the dark ages using my nikon d7000 and I'm considering the upgrade. I'm one of those guys that will run a good car to the ground. One of my biggest pains as a self photographer for creative expression is getting good focus while in manual mode. With all this new auto focusing, how much of a benefit it would be to someone like me in terms of not having to worry about focusing anymore "in" manual mode, timed with multi-shot?
Respect. The D7000 was my main piece for many moons. I can only speak from personal experience in that regard but man - you will definitely be changed by the AF systems in the mirrorless system versus the DSLRs - especially if you're still only doing manual focus. It's soooo nice to just be able to turn the camera on yourself, set an interval timer and know it'll hit your eyes every time.
I suffer from the context of growing up with film cameras, manual focus and metering, so my first reaction is to laugh at this. I do respect your breakdown of this. Keep up the good work!
That's a nice rundown and great video. I think the focus system is the most important development and I'm not even an eye autofocus guy. It's just a fundamental development that''s key to photography. I usually skip an iteration so I'll probably wait for the Z6III. By that time maybe Tamron and Sigma will have native Z glass for less. Keep it pushin' Darrin.
Thanks so much man. I think this one is worth skipping if you already have a Z6 and don't NEED the features in this video. And man - I cannot wait for some native Z mount third parties. I think I saw Ricci do a video on a third party 85mm 1.8 but that has been it!
I'm not a pro but if there is no time pressure then I'll skip the series II models all together and buy the upcoming Z9 instead. Since it will be a new camera, one can repeat almost everything, say about the Series II vs. the original with one exception--ergonomic. Ok, probably the battery life too, since it will most likely be using the common 18650 cells. In my case, I'm hoping that the Z9 will be just joyful to handle as my D3 back then and I'm sure it will have the kitchen sink as well. Of course, some will be asking for the baby Z9 or Z8 instead of dual card slots, better AF or whatever. On the other hand, Nikon may fail us with a D6 like launch. As far as lenses concern, I'm content with four decades of F mount lenses and two decades of EF L lenses, knowing that it often takes decade(s) instead of years for new lenses or a refresh. That was one reason why I also shot with Canon DSLR to let me use its 85 f/1.2 L II, instead of waiting for Nikon.
Great vid! It sounds like the Z6 could be a better camera (price point) for someone who shoots mostly stills and landscape. Thanks for taking the time to put this together. (I'm a D500 user who until recently was 100% birds/wildlife)
Thanks buddy! Agreed with all of that - the lens lineup is coming slowly but surely I hope! I'm always curious when people say they're hoping for more glass though - what specifically are you looking for? More 1.2s? Or I'm guessing if you're a wildlife guy, like a 300mm+?
@@smkunder1 If you moved from Nikon F to Nikon Z, using the FTZ adapter and the Nikon F lens should provide some amazing results until native glass comes into play.
Hey! Great video. I use my Z6 in addition to my D4 for sports. One thing that I don't like about the Z6 is when shooting Continues High Extended, it seems that it lags when looking through the viewfinder. So for instance when I'm shooting football and trying to track a subject, if they change directions quickly I don't see that until the next frame or two. Do you know if the image processors help to fix this? When tracking with a DSLR or even a high-end mirrorless like the Sony a1 theres no lag whatsoever.
Question is, is the battery life different if you use a c on the z6? You can use the newer battery in the z6 too. I have one of each (el15b and el15c). You cant charge them in the Camera. But i ponder, if the z6 is not a bit battery friendlyer than the 2, when you use the c version (as the processor is the same, only the count of processors is different). Personally as i dont earn money with photography, will stay with the z6.
Great video! I just upgraded from z6 to z6ii. Do you have a video with recommended settings? Custom i menu and button setup. Most youtubers focus on wildlife but I’d love a setup video for studio portrait and wedding shooters. Thanks!
Working on that for next week I think! A lot of it comes down to preferences but I think mapping the front function buttons to help cycle through the different AF modes is really helpful. I recommend shooting all video on the Neutral colour profile (-2 sharpening if you really want a neutral image that's easy to grade). I'll touch on that more! Check back next week, I hope! :)
The feature I wanted (needed) was the vertical grip. I photographed a dance performance with the Z7, and when it made sense to do portrait mode for about 30 minutes, my right arm up in the air was exhausting. Being able to hold the camera in the same way for both landscape and portrait mode is so much better for me ergonomically, so I pre-ordered the Z7II the day it was announced. With 7 Nikon bodies over a dozen years, it was only the second pre-order.
Just make sure you have enough EN-EL15 series batteries to power the grip. The cool part about it is that the batteries are hot swappable, so you can just keep going without having to turn the camera off.
@@RemyOrtiz yes, being hot swappable is great for some uses, especially long video or time lapses. It can be used with only one battery, though, so if the Z7II and grip are available, and extra EN-EN15c batteries are out of stock, a person could still use the grip until they were able to get more EN-EL15c batteries. Buying older EN-EL15 batteries has the downside that they cannot be charged in the camera, I think.
@@UnconventionalReasoning EN-EL15b batteries CAN be charged but the camera cannot use the USB-C power, say from a power bank or wall outlet. Once you plug in that USB-C, it's break time.
@@RemyOrtiz yes, thanks for explaining the subtlety. The person getting their first Nikon should probably only get the EN-EL15c, keeping track of which can do what is a pain!
@@UnconventionalReasoning If you don't have ANY legacy Nikon pieces or you're jumping from a different battery standard, just get all EN-EL15c's and be happy.
thank you for this! i am currently trying in the process of trying to decide. I’ve been shooting Nikon for about ten years. first with a D90, then briefly with a D7000 that was my dads as my D90 unexpectedly broke and the cost of repair was going to be waaaaay over the value of the camera, and now I have a D7200. with all the hype around mirrorless, i wanted to give it a go! after a lot of researching i thought the fujifilm x-t4 would be fun to try and a good way to step out of my comfort zone. i have not been super impressed with it so now i’m looking into the Nikon Z6 or Z6ii so thank you for this video!
Sorry to hear your experience with the x-t4 wasn't great! And honestly, coming from the D7200 era myself into the Z world - you won't be disappointed with either the Z6 or Z6II. Both are going to feel like super tools relative to those old DSLRs. Excited for ya!
@@DarrinRigo oh don't get me wrong, I think the X-T4 is a capable camera that produces quality videos! (still not too sold on its stills) I just don't think it's the camera for me. Personally, coming from using Nikon for a decade-ish, the X-T4's ergonomics and menu set-up just felt too different. To the point that I began to feel defeated in trying to understand the menus and get used to the feel of it all. That's mostly why I wish to switch back to Nikon, not because I think it's a bad camera, it's just not for me. Another thing I found very odd-feeling to me was the EVF of the X-T4. Coming from a DSLR's optical viewfinder, I was so used to and comfortable with just being able to "see" what's out there in real time. Would you say the Z6II's EVF is more "natural" feeling/comparable to a DSLR's optical viewfinder? Maybe I'm just old school or something, but I just could not get used to the X-T4's EVF! Would I have similar issues with a mirrorless Nikon? Lastly (and sorry for this winded reply), do you have any opinions on the Nikon D780 in comparison to the Z6II? I've just been doing extensive research/comparisons between cameras these past few day, and from what I can tell, the D780 is basically the Z6II but with a mirror. If you do think I would have similar viewfinder discomfort with the Z6II as I experienced with the X-T4, would it be smarter to go with the D780? Would you pick one over the other for specs other than those related to size/weight/portability? Because it seems to me those, the size/weight/portability, are the only major differences between the two. And of course the mirror ahaha Anyway, sorry again for this really long reply
Great video. Does snap bridge live remote shooting work better with Z6 II? I have the OG Z6 and I find the live view on the app to be very laggy compared to Sony and Canon. Thanks.
Thanks for your presentation! I am on the verge of deciding between the Nikon Z6 or Z6ii and have been researching to help my decision. I mainly use a camera for landscapes and family photos and video. I have never had an SD card fail me at all so dual is not a big deal I guess. I probably won't be doing much high-speed shooting except my Grandkids playing sports. Please advise me, though the Z6ii is newer and that is attractive. Given my budget if I chose the Z6 I could also get the adaptor. Maybe I am answering my own question here but still please advise.
I am in the same boat as you, I will be purchasing one soon but cannot make my mind up. I could get a Z6 and a prime for the same price as a Z6ii. I believe the Z6ii is slightly better in lower light, plus due to the processor it could potentially get better firmware updates in the future. For longevity I am thinking the Z6ii, decisions decisions….
I just upgraded myself from the Z6 to the Z6 II. and after a couple of 100 shots(perhaps 1000 now) it's clear that if you buy new don't buy the Z6. However if you get a secondhand Z6 which are available over here thats a really good deal, and the Z6 II is almost 1000 euro's more.
10000% agree that, for the price of a new Z6 - you might as well just fork over the extra bit of $ and hop into the Z6II. If you're cool going used, you can grab a Z6 at an insane deal for the package it offers.
Nice video 👌🏻 I have the Z6 and might wait till the Z9. Through there is a hardly used Z6 for sale for $1500 AUD. That’s so cheap! I would love to know how does the IBIS compare when shooting video? I find it quite jumpy and odd looking on the Z6. Had to actually turn it off an use a mono pod instead.
Ive always thought that its distracting - I watched it next to a R6 ibis on a slanted lens review - you could see the canon was better for stationery shots - (im a Nikon user)
@@markshirley01 z6II SO FAR has been amazing with the updated firmware. Good auto focus with eye detection and superb colour both stills and videos i am loving it thus far. Go get some reviews in youtube too but personally i love it. It was worth investing it
It’s funny.. only thing that perked my ears up was the easier firmware upgrade on the Z6II. Was there any advantage in video between the two? The only advantage i know is 60fps but it’s windowed…and can both Z6 and Z6II get the probes RAW / BM BRAW output? I’m getting close to move back into full frame.. currently have a D300s. But looking forward to using my vintage lenses in full frame with a mirrorless focusing system. I even thought of a used Z7…. But I like the idea of shooting 4K video with the same camera/lens/crop/gamma as the camera I’m taking pics of…. If I’m more serious about my video work I would proabalby take out my Blackmagic and shoot BRAW.. what are your thoughts?
Hi Darrin ,I have not seen the You Tube video yet ,so I do not know how they are saying it ,but according to Nikon's official 100th anniversary book ,the company was originally called Nippon Kogaku ,which means in English -Japanese optical because they made Lenses,Microscopes,Telescopes and such for the Japanese market ,when they decided to build a camera they wanted to sell it worldwide so they wanted a western sounding name ,so they took the NI of the first word and the KO of the second word ,and apparently the letter N is a lucky letter in Japan.And that is how the name came to be.Now I am sure that you know the word Nippon is pronounced as NIPPON and not NYPPON so how can the name be pronounced NYKON.Cheers Peter
Have you tried the focus stacking on the Z6ii. Does the camera automatically adjust the lens (for different focus points on the subject) for taking a closeup on a Ring for example of small object. I do product photos sometimes rings and focus stack would be useful. How does it work on this camera? How would it know the start and stop position for the focus stack if automatic, or do you set it up for that.
I do; that’s all I use for weddings; I have two of them and rent a third body; I would preface this saying I don’t do video per se but i have gotten great videos with this camera (outside of weddings). So I primarily use the z5 for stills and it is awesome.
How's the AF in photo and video with adapted lens? I have the sigma 35 and 50 art F mount. One big reason for me to buy a Z camera is I already have few Nikon lens. I do like the A7siii but that's another price bracket
I'd say there's a noticeable difference in AF for sure between the generations. I still use my Z6 as a backup body to this day and notice the Z6II tracks way easier and grabs/holds with way more consistency. The Z6 is okay and the Z6II is really good.
I don't care about cards lots, I'm concerned about the ZMount. It's close, so there will never be a solid 3rd party lens. Same problem I had with Canon years ago. Reason why I leaning towards Sony and Fuji. But I agree tech and price are tempting.
only thing Ive noticed with canon is they've started to add affordable f1.8 lenses - the 35 the 50 and a 24 is on the way with promises over whole lens line up flushed out with them.
Hi Darrin ,With all respect I am English and round here we pronounce things correctly ,such as Nikon and not Nykon and the zed mount and zed cameras. I hope you don't mind me pointing this out to you.
Hey Peter. Language is a pretty subjective thing - Nikon's own channel pronounces it Ny-Kon (ruclips.net/video/uGD71qXMrP0/видео.html) and the zee zed thing is a regional language expression. No right or wrong here. Thanks for stopping by!
Never once lost a card during a shoot. Not once....and I'll stack my workload over the past 10 years against any pro out there. This benefit is nice to have I guess but really in my case just hype.
This is not even a contest except for the price of course. The Z6ii is an improvement of the Z6, if the price is the same, no one will think twice for the Z6ii🤣its no brainer🤣🤣🤣
100% agree - it is a funny decision. You can grab a Z6 used for about half the price of the Z6II new so it does get into how much those minor upgrades are worth. To me, I think they are but there are a lot of folks out there who might not need all those things!
I will soon start working with my camera. I've had the original Z6 for about a year now. Why will I be upgrading to the Z6II? Dual processors, better power management, better auto focus, dual cards and because it can receive updates thru my cell phone. I'm not telling anyone to upgrade to the new Z6II. Just wanted to share my reasons for doing it. Take care.....
Imagine there was time when people shot with film cameras that had no redundancy. Worse, the odds of film going wrong are so much higher than the a card going wrong. And yet nobody freaked out.
It's a fair but point however I guess I think that's a piece of why people hire digital photographers over film though right? Like if I hire a film guy, I'm accepting the risk for the film aesthetic. If I hire a digital, my expectation would be a bit higher?
90 photographs medium format. No blinks no bad exposure week in week out. 60 to 74 weddings a year. Not sure you youngsters would cope. 38 years. Don’t you have confidence in your ability anymore. Not aimed at you per say. But come on 90 shots in 6 seconds. Of one image. What a lot of wasted time just viewing to find one image of one moment in a long day. Time is money.
1:58 Reason #1- Dual Card Slots
3:12 Reason #2- Auto Focus Upgrade
5:10 Reason #3- Image Processing Speed (Buffer)
6:32 Reason #4- Improved Battery
7:35 Reason #5- SnapBridge Improvements
I know most people want the camera to select the subject so AF or eye focus is critical but for us who do commercial, theater, and portraiture, I never hear of anyone missing focus on the Z6 with 3+ firmware. My second camera is a D850 and 3d is a D800 and shoot primarily with the Z6 because of the EVF, handling and S lenses result in fewer shots needing to be taken. My large bag is 53 pounds so I really need a good reason to take that bag and I can't take it on flights. Lately, during the pandemic, the mix of work has shifted to actors for casting directors who want videos of sample scenes dialog videos, and stills. The last one was a master class by a well-known director with 93 short 3-4 minute videos, 3 for each member. The first couple with interaction dialog then critiques and redoing it with the director's suggestions and the final one after further critique. The actors at times were rather animated so I was a little concerned that focus tracking might slip off but was very impressed how the lowly Z6 nailed it on all 93 videos. There were also 650 stills slip 75% Z6 and most of the rest with the D850. The images straight out of the camera needed almost no post-processing while the DSLR files often needed touchup in exposure and white balance. I have another one with a different director for a 2-day shoot in 3 days.
Of the features of the Z6 2 that interests me, the main one is charging while shooting so time-lapse becomes more feasible.
For most photographers, adding S lenses is more of an upgrade over F mount lenses is a more important upgrade than the camera body. For action panning the Ver 2 has a deeper buffer and shorter blackout period so a sports or wildlife shooter should consider the update.. Or sell the kids and get the Z9
I'm about to buy a Z6II to compliment my d780 I have always used Nikon and I don't think i'm missing out too much by not owning a Canon or Sony. I am happy and still able to capture great photos. Great hands on video from someone who actually uses it professionally than someone who just reviews because they want to make a video for the sake it it. Thanks man
Couple of tips from what I've seen online:
1) Always keep the firmware updated. It feels like Nikon is updating firmware once a quarter but it's almost like getting a new camera each time.
2) Make sure you get the FTZ adapter along with the Z6 II so you can use your legacy Nikon F mount glass.
3) The camera is compatible with the older EN-EL15b batteries but your battery life will be a little shorter and you won't have access to use the camera with a USB-C power source--you'll only be able to charge over USB-C.
@@RemyOrtiz Thanks mate it will be a learning curve but worth it.
How do you like your D780 compared to the Z cameras? I have a D750 and a Z5 but feel really tempted to get one for all of my Ai-S and D lenses.
@@Willymaze I prefer mirrorless as I'm shooting events and weddings and it suits better. Plus it's quiet which helps
@@JamesStonley Thanks. I feel that Nikon already caught up with Sony and Canon while offering that unique ergonomics and image/file quality.
This guy deserves much more subs, views and likes… and he will get em.. nice vid. planning to get the z6i. because the ii is too expensive
Thanks buddy!
Thanks for your video and opinion. Not often I see many Canadians to contribute like you Darrin. This video was the last nail to my decision to go for Z6II plus 3 Z lenses. Target day (thanks to my final budget) is February 2022. Thanks again.
Already have and love my Z6, thinking about the Z6 II but will probably wait for Z8/9. Hopefully it will have 10 bit internal video.
Me too but it’s going to be $$$$$$
Just get an Atomis and do 10 bit external recorder.
I also have both cameras - definitely think the Z6II is a more polished product. AF is now very good and super close to Sony/Canon - There is no doubt that the Z9 will be as good (or better) than the Sony and Canon's. Once that tech trickles down to the next gen of cameras (Z8 or Z7III) - I will then get the higher res camera, but for now the Z6II is really great and can do 95% of anything that just about any photographer could want - with the possible one exception of super fast AF tracking (which it is competent at if you know how to use it - just not quite Sony and Canon level) and rolling shutter - something that will be handled Z9 and after with the new stacked sensor that is being introduced.
Ultimately, I would say that if you are a portrait and/or event photographer then the Z6II is better for you than the Z6. If you just shoot static subjects like landscape and real estate the Z6 is fine for you.
Couldn't agree more on all points. The Z9 will be the answer to any of the remaining problems (which are few). I do think the biggest frustration is video tracking (like camera and subject moving) but if you stop down a bit to open the focal field and choose the right AF mode, it holds on.
Thanks for watching, Baron!
@@DarrinRigo Hi Darrin - I'd love for you to elaborate a bit more on your comment regarding "if you stop down a bit to open the focal field and choose the right AF mode". If you could illustrate a situation that you are referring to and how you compensate, I'd be interested in hearing about that.
Thanks and keep making videos on the Z system - I think it has a brighter future than many think.
-B
@@baronsilverton6504 Ah sorry - I worded that terribly. What I mean is that if I'm shooting video where I'm uncertain about the AF performance, I won't shoot wide open at 1.8 - rather, I'll shoot at like 3.5+ to give a deeper depth of field and help the AF out a scooch.
And I totally agree man. Each firmware update impresses the heck out of me.
@@DarrinRigo Thanks :)
excellent summary of the 2 cameras, just purchased a z6ii from a z6, this helped me a ton.
keep 'em coming and thank you
As most of my jobs are hybrid the second slot is almost useless because I can't backup my video. Even if Nikon allowed a 1080p backup that would have been fine with me. Plus the mixed media is a bit annoying.
Totally. If they could update video redundancy on the second card in a firmware update, I would be really happy. It gives me such heartburn driving home from a big shoot day with 3 full cards without backups.
pro tip: you can watch series at flixzone. I've been using them for watching all kinds of movies lately.
@Kason Thaddeus Definitely, I have been using Flixzone for months myself :D
Loved your review and the honest delivery of your thoughts.
My biggest complaint and reason I wont upgrade yet is the lack of vari-angle lcd like fuji and panasonic have or a full articulation screen. Shooting in portrait position is a pain without it. I would like to see the ibis and video specs improved too. Its an upgrade but minimal at that. I would say its a much better deal for someone who does not already own a Z camera. The last reason an upgrade is not worth it is the poor resale value that the original Z6 has. You will spending another $1000 to upgrade. I dont see that as being worth it. If you were ok using the original Z6 you probable dont need the mark II. I am waiting for a more substantial upgrade. Thank for sharing your thoughts.
I just bought my z6 II a couple of months ago. My d750 took a wave at the beach and died when water found its way in at the top. Here's a few more reasons for you. The first generation is more like a test bed. The z6 II is what should have come out in the first place. What this means is, the z6 will be limited to what gets updated based on the processor and memory capacity in the camera. I think Nikon has a lot of plans for the z6 II to make it better that we don't even know about yet. It will receive a lot more updates that the z6 won't get. You have the extended shutter time on the z6 II. I think up to 15 min? I don't think I would need a 15 min shutter speed but there may be times I need 4 min. Did you mention the connectors for the battery grip? That's a big deal for some portrait photographers. I think there was something else but I can't remember now.
Great points, Carl. Like I said at the end there - I think you could definitely make a top 10 list and beyond but I tried to pick the 5 that were most important to me and the work I do. The battery grip is a huge + for sure.
I totally agree - I think the Z6II/Z7II have the guts to really carry the Z line in to the future while the Z6 Gen 1 is going to be really limited by its single processor and slower internals.
@@DarrinRigo I don't even have a need for a d500 but if they come out with one that's like a baby z9....I may have to get one. Nikon is still one of the top 3 sellers. When they get everything sorted out they will still be big competitors.
Excellent comment and very valid points, Carl! 👍👍👍✌🏻
Hey, just bought a z6i and had a A6400 before. Regarding the af there is not such a big difference between this two anymore. But it is just my feeling and not measured in a test of course. But the af was a think what I was worried about. One card slot is for the most enough, but sure as a professional I also would chose redundancy. Regarding the battery, I can take about 500 photos with one battery, what is more than enough for me. Buffer is also fine for me and I never take more than 10 pics in burst. But thanks for your content
Don't laugh. I'm still in the dark ages using my nikon d7000 and I'm considering the upgrade. I'm one of those guys that will run a good car to the ground.
One of my biggest pains as a self photographer for creative expression is getting good focus while in manual mode. With all this new auto focusing, how much of a benefit it would be to someone like me in terms of not having to worry about focusing anymore "in" manual mode, timed with multi-shot?
Respect. The D7000 was my main piece for many moons.
I can only speak from personal experience in that regard but man - you will definitely be changed by the AF systems in the mirrorless system versus the DSLRs - especially if you're still only doing manual focus. It's soooo nice to just be able to turn the camera on yourself, set an interval timer and know it'll hit your eyes every time.
@@DarrinRigo awesome ... this is good to hear. Thank you and great video.
Ou my man, respect. Im using d7000 curremtly too, and i am buying z6ii in a couple of months
@@hypeRR1337 . Me too
Also, many lenses have been updated for linear focus. And the new video grip - MC--N10.
I suffer from the context of growing up with film cameras, manual focus and metering, so my first reaction is to laugh at this. I do respect your breakdown of this. Keep up the good work!
That's a nice rundown and great video. I think the focus system is the most important development and I'm not even an eye autofocus guy. It's just a fundamental development that''s key to photography. I usually skip an iteration so I'll probably wait for the Z6III. By that time maybe Tamron and Sigma will have native Z glass for less. Keep it pushin' Darrin.
Thanks so much man. I think this one is worth skipping if you already have a Z6 and don't NEED the features in this video. And man - I cannot wait for some native Z mount third parties. I think I saw Ricci do a video on a third party 85mm 1.8 but that has been it!
I'm not a pro but if there is no time pressure then I'll skip the series II models all together and buy the upcoming Z9 instead. Since it will be a new camera, one can repeat almost everything, say about the Series II vs. the original with one exception--ergonomic. Ok, probably the battery life too, since it will most likely be using the common 18650 cells.
In my case, I'm hoping that the Z9 will be just joyful to handle as my D3 back then and I'm sure it will have the kitchen sink as well. Of course, some will be asking for the baby Z9 or Z8 instead of dual card slots, better AF or whatever. On the other hand, Nikon may fail us with a D6 like launch.
As far as lenses concern, I'm content with four decades of F mount lenses and two decades of EF L lenses, knowing that it often takes decade(s) instead of years for new lenses or a refresh. That was one reason why I also shot with Canon DSLR to let me use its 85 f/1.2 L II, instead of waiting for Nikon.
Great vid! It sounds like the Z6 could be a better camera (price point) for someone who shoots mostly stills and landscape. Thanks for taking the time to put this together. (I'm a D500 user who until recently was 100% birds/wildlife)
Thanks for stopping by and for the thoughts. The D500 is still a powerful beast by today's standards for sure!
Nice job, love my Z6ll, but it’s not a wildlife speed demon, looking forward to some focus tracking updates, and more native glass
Thanks buddy! Agreed with all of that - the lens lineup is coming slowly but surely I hope! I'm always curious when people say they're hoping for more glass though - what specifically are you looking for? More 1.2s? Or I'm guessing if you're a wildlife guy, like a 300mm+?
Yes, long glass is on my want list especially the 200-600.
@@smkunder1 If you moved from Nikon F to Nikon Z, using the FTZ adapter and the Nikon F lens should provide some amazing results until native glass comes into play.
Great video and to-the-point content. Thanks for taking the time to make it for us.
Cheers buddy!
Hey! Great video. I use my Z6 in addition to my D4 for sports. One thing that I don't like about the Z6 is when shooting Continues High Extended, it seems that it lags when looking through the viewfinder. So for instance when I'm shooting football and trying to track a subject, if they change directions quickly I don't see that until the next frame or two. Do you know if the image processors help to fix this? When tracking with a DSLR or even a high-end mirrorless like the Sony a1 theres no lag whatsoever.
Question is, is the battery life different if you use a c on the z6? You can use the newer battery in the z6 too. I have one of each (el15b and el15c). You cant charge them in the Camera. But i ponder, if the z6 is not a bit battery friendlyer than the 2, when you use the c version (as the processor is the same, only the count of processors is different).
Personally as i dont earn money with photography, will stay with the z6.
Great video! I just upgraded from z6 to z6ii. Do you have a video with recommended settings? Custom i menu and button setup. Most youtubers focus on wildlife but I’d love a setup video for studio portrait and wedding shooters. Thanks!
Working on that for next week I think! A lot of it comes down to preferences but I think mapping the front function buttons to help cycle through the different AF modes is really helpful. I recommend shooting all video on the Neutral colour profile (-2 sharpening if you really want a neutral image that's easy to grade). I'll touch on that more! Check back next week, I hope! :)
@@DarrinRigo looking forward to it!
I think I can help you on that ...
The feature I wanted (needed) was the vertical grip. I photographed a dance performance with the Z7, and when it made sense to do portrait mode for about 30 minutes, my right arm up in the air was exhausting. Being able to hold the camera in the same way for both landscape and portrait mode is so much better for me ergonomically, so I pre-ordered the Z7II the day it was announced. With 7 Nikon bodies over a dozen years, it was only the second pre-order.
Just make sure you have enough EN-EL15 series batteries to power the grip. The cool part about it is that the batteries are hot swappable, so you can just keep going without having to turn the camera off.
@@RemyOrtiz yes, being hot swappable is great for some uses, especially long video or time lapses. It can be used with only one battery, though, so if the Z7II and grip are available, and extra EN-EN15c batteries are out of stock, a person could still use the grip until they were able to get more EN-EL15c batteries. Buying older EN-EL15 batteries has the downside that they cannot be charged in the camera, I think.
@@UnconventionalReasoning EN-EL15b batteries CAN be charged but the camera cannot use the USB-C power, say from a power bank or wall outlet. Once you plug in that USB-C, it's break time.
@@RemyOrtiz yes, thanks for explaining the subtlety. The person getting their first Nikon should probably only get the EN-EL15c, keeping track of which can do what is a pain!
@@UnconventionalReasoning If you don't have ANY legacy Nikon pieces or you're jumping from a different battery standard, just get all EN-EL15c's and be happy.
thank you for this! i am currently trying in the process of trying to decide. I’ve been shooting Nikon for about ten years. first with a D90, then briefly with a D7000 that was my dads as my D90 unexpectedly broke and the cost of repair was going to be waaaaay over the value of the camera, and now I have a D7200. with all the hype around mirrorless, i wanted to give it a go! after a lot of researching i thought the fujifilm x-t4 would be fun to try and a good way to step out of my comfort zone. i have not been super impressed with it so now i’m looking into the Nikon Z6 or Z6ii so thank you for this video!
Sorry to hear your experience with the x-t4 wasn't great!
And honestly, coming from the D7200 era myself into the Z world - you won't be disappointed with either the Z6 or Z6II. Both are going to feel like super tools relative to those old DSLRs. Excited for ya!
@@DarrinRigo oh don't get me wrong, I think the X-T4 is a capable camera that produces quality videos! (still not too sold on its stills) I just don't think it's the camera for me. Personally, coming from using Nikon for a decade-ish, the X-T4's ergonomics and menu set-up just felt too different. To the point that I began to feel defeated in trying to understand the menus and get used to the feel of it all. That's mostly why I wish to switch back to Nikon, not because I think it's a bad camera, it's just not for me.
Another thing I found very odd-feeling to me was the EVF of the X-T4. Coming from a DSLR's optical viewfinder, I was so used to and comfortable with just being able to "see" what's out there in real time. Would you say the Z6II's EVF is more "natural" feeling/comparable to a DSLR's optical viewfinder? Maybe I'm just old school or something, but I just could not get used to the X-T4's EVF! Would I have similar issues with a mirrorless Nikon?
Lastly (and sorry for this winded reply), do you have any opinions on the Nikon D780 in comparison to the Z6II? I've just been doing extensive research/comparisons between cameras these past few day, and from what I can tell, the D780 is basically the Z6II but with a mirror. If you do think I would have similar viewfinder discomfort with the Z6II as I experienced with the X-T4, would it be smarter to go with the D780? Would you pick one over the other for specs other than those related to size/weight/portability? Because it seems to me those, the size/weight/portability, are the only major differences between the two. And of course the mirror ahaha
Anyway, sorry again for this really long reply
The R6 has just actually made the second slot useful for a hybrid shooter by adding video backup hopefully nikon can do this with the second slot.
Re the Autofocus have you recently updated the firmware on the Z6 to 3.4 and check against the z6ii
What editing software do you use for your pictures?
Great video. Does snap bridge live remote shooting work better with Z6 II? I have the OG Z6 and I find the live view on the app to be very laggy compared to Sony and Canon. Thanks.
Thanks for your presentation! I am on the verge of deciding between the Nikon Z6 or Z6ii and have been researching to help my decision. I mainly use a camera for landscapes and family photos and video. I have never had an SD card fail me at all so dual is not a big deal I guess. I probably won't be doing much high-speed shooting except my Grandkids playing sports. Please advise me, though the Z6ii is newer and that is attractive. Given my budget if I chose the Z6 I could also get the adaptor. Maybe I am answering my own question here but still please advise.
I am in the same boat as you, I will be purchasing one soon but cannot make my mind up. I could get a Z6 and a prime for the same price as a Z6ii.
I believe the Z6ii is slightly better in lower light, plus due to the processor it could potentially get better firmware updates in the future. For longevity I am thinking the Z6ii, decisions decisions….
I just upgraded myself from the Z6 to the Z6 II. and after a couple of 100 shots(perhaps 1000 now) it's clear that if you buy new don't buy the Z6. However if you get a secondhand Z6 which are available over here thats a really good deal, and the Z6 II is almost 1000 euro's more.
10000% agree that, for the price of a new Z6 - you might as well just fork over the extra bit of $ and hop into the Z6II. If you're cool going used, you can grab a Z6 at an insane deal for the package it offers.
You said this is your backup camera - what is your main camera? And why? Thank you :)
Very useful video. Thanks
Not sure what he’s talking about upgrading the firmware, it’s very simple on either camera using the memory card.
Nice video 👌🏻 I have the Z6 and might wait till the Z9. Through there is a hardly used Z6 for sale for $1500 AUD. That’s so cheap! I would love to know how does the IBIS compare when shooting video? I find it quite jumpy and odd looking on the Z6. Had to actually turn it off an use a mono pod instead.
Ive always thought that its distracting - I watched it next to a R6 ibis on a slanted lens review - you could see the canon was better for stationery shots - (im a Nikon user)
I LOVE YOUR VIDEOS.
I upgraded my camera from d750 to z6II please make more video about the z6II.
How did you find it - Im D750 but yet to be convinced by the Z6 or Z6II - I'm looking at the R6 at the moment.
@@markshirley01 z6II SO FAR has been amazing with the updated firmware. Good auto focus with eye detection and superb colour both stills and videos i am loving it thus far. Go get some reviews in youtube too but personally i love it. It was worth investing it
@@Keyiputlang1 there is a rumour (nikon rumours) that the Z6II will be getting a version of real time tracking in September.
It’s funny.. only thing that perked my ears up was the easier firmware upgrade on the Z6II. Was there any advantage in video between the two? The only advantage i know is 60fps but it’s windowed…and can both Z6 and Z6II get the probes RAW / BM BRAW output? I’m getting close to move back into full frame.. currently have a D300s. But looking forward to using my vintage lenses in full frame with a mirrorless focusing system. I even thought of a used Z7…. But I like the idea of shooting 4K video with the same camera/lens/crop/gamma as the camera I’m taking pics of…. If I’m more serious about my video work I would proabalby take out my Blackmagic and shoot BRAW.. what are your thoughts?
Hi Darrin ,I have not seen the You Tube video yet ,so I do not know how they are saying it ,but according to Nikon's official 100th anniversary book ,the company was originally called Nippon Kogaku ,which means in English -Japanese optical because they made Lenses,Microscopes,Telescopes and such for the Japanese market ,when they decided to build a camera they wanted to sell it worldwide so they wanted a western sounding name ,so they took the NI of the first word and the KO of the second word ,and apparently the letter N is a lucky letter in Japan.And that is how the name came to be.Now I am sure that you know the word Nippon is pronounced as NIPPON and not NYPPON so how can the name be pronounced NYKON.Cheers Peter
Would you still say its better asutofocus after the Z6 I firmware update 3.40
I like your work just joined the team
your broll is fantastic in color
Excellent summary 👍
Great video! Ur killin it man
Thanks bruh!
question. i have done several z6i timelapse videos. its turned on under photo. you mentioned it as if only the z6ii has it. am confused
Have you tried the focus stacking on the Z6ii. Does the camera automatically adjust the lens (for different focus points on the subject) for taking a closeup on a Ring for example of small object. I do product photos sometimes rings and focus stack would be useful. How does it work on this camera? How would it know the start and stop position for the focus stack if automatic, or do you set it up for that.
Thank you 🙂
can we use MB-N11 battery grip in NIKON Z6, which is made for NIKON Z6II / Z7II
Sorry, do Nikon z6 have a time-lapse option?
Thanks for a honest video!:)
Thanks for the video. Do you recomended Z5 for Weddings?
I do; that’s all I use for weddings; I have two of them and rent a third body; I would preface this saying I don’t do video per se but i have gotten great videos with this camera (outside of weddings). So I primarily use the z5 for stills and it is awesome.
@@ReganRoss thanks
hai,dont know if you already tried,but can you take photo(not video) while charging the camera with powerbank ?
Great content!
How's the AF in photo and video with adapted lens? I have the sigma 35 and 50 art F mount. One big reason for me to buy a Z camera is I already have few Nikon lens. I do like the A7siii but that's another price bracket
Quick question. Did you notice a considerable difference in eye AF. How about AF in general. Is it noticeably good in version 2?
Thanks!
I'd say there's a noticeable difference in AF for sure between the generations. I still use my Z6 as a backup body to this day and notice the Z6II tracks way easier and grabs/holds with way more consistency. The Z6 is okay and the Z6II is really good.
has there been any updates on the autofocus for the 6 ii since this video?
Thanks for the video
One big z6 plus, buy a used one and get potentially 2 other z lenses like the 50 and 85 1.8 for the price of a zii
Useful information
Thanks! :)
I don't care about cards lots, I'm concerned about the ZMount. It's close, so there will never be a solid 3rd party lens. Same problem I had with Canon years ago. Reason why I leaning towards Sony and Fuji. But I agree tech and price are tempting.
only thing Ive noticed with canon is they've started to add affordable f1.8 lenses - the 35 the 50 and a 24 is on the way with promises over whole lens line up flushed out with them.
Time to delete this comment
Hi Darrin ,With all respect I am English and round here we pronounce things correctly ,such as Nikon and not Nykon and the zed mount and zed cameras. I hope you don't mind me pointing this out to you.
Hey Peter. Language is a pretty subjective thing - Nikon's own channel pronounces it Ny-Kon (ruclips.net/video/uGD71qXMrP0/видео.html) and the zee zed thing is a regional language expression. No right or wrong here. Thanks for stopping by!
just curious. Why do you need 4k-60 for real estate ?? 4k yes, but 60fps for a house that does not move ???
The higher fps rate really helps create a smoother image, it's like another tool for stabilization.
Plus should he be slowing down the footage it would be infinitely better
I thought the Z6 had 2 memory slots.
Never once lost a card during a shoot. Not once....and I'll stack my workload over the past 10 years against any pro out there. This benefit is nice to have I guess but really in my case just hype.
That depends, on the photography style. Otherwise the Z6 is fine.
Totally agree!
Wedding photos.
Why do you call the z range the zee line and the cameras the zed 6 1 and the zed 6 2.
I'm a Canadian who watches a lot of American TV and my brain switches back and forth, and I stopped caring years ago.
#NIKONGANG you just gained a subscriber!
Gang gang.
@@DarrinRigo me too...keep em coming
This is not even a contest except for the price of course. The Z6ii is an improvement of the Z6, if the price is the same, no one will think twice for the Z6ii🤣its no brainer🤣🤣🤣
100% agree - it is a funny decision. You can grab a Z6 used for about half the price of the Z6II new so it does get into how much those minor upgrades are worth. To me, I think they are but there are a lot of folks out there who might not need all those things!
as a still shooter i don't see the advantage of a Z6II
I will soon start working with my camera.
I've had the original Z6 for about a year now.
Why will I be upgrading to the Z6II? Dual processors, better power management, better auto focus, dual cards and because it can receive updates thru my cell phone.
I'm not telling anyone to upgrade to the new Z6II. Just wanted to share my reasons for doing it.
Take care.....
Same here, go NIKON!
Imagine there was time when people shot with film cameras that had no redundancy. Worse, the odds of film going wrong are so much higher than the a card going wrong. And yet nobody freaked out.
It's a fair but point however I guess I think that's a piece of why people hire digital photographers over film though right? Like if I hire a film guy, I'm accepting the risk for the film aesthetic. If I hire a digital, my expectation would be a bit higher?
90 photographs medium format. No blinks no bad exposure week in week out. 60 to 74 weddings a year. Not sure you youngsters would cope. 38 years. Don’t you have confidence in your ability anymore. Not aimed at you per say. But come on 90 shots in 6 seconds. Of one image. What a lot of wasted time just viewing to find one image of one moment in a long day. Time is money.
The Z6II is a Z6 with training wheels.
🤘😀📷
I saved a lot of money by not buying any of this junk.
Possibly - mixed reviews on the Z cameras - I've yet to be convinced they are any better for what I do.