Nikon Z6II? Is it good enough for Bird Photography?
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- Опубликовано: 11 июл 2024
- I have been doing bird photography for years with high end DSLRs. I just sold my Nikon D850 and bought the Nikon Z6II. Is it good enough for Bird Photography?
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I want to thank everyone for the kind comments and early support here on this channel. This video marks roughly 3 months on RUclips and the feedback has been so exciting. You guys are great and it is greatly appreciated.
Great informative video Josh, especially for all those who are new.
Tried to photograph small birds with the Z6II last week and it was a struggle. Big birds work like a charm, as long as they are close enough, but from a distance you can simply forget it. Nikon seems to be a vloggers brand atm and not for professional photographers.
Tried all sort of settings but there are none that match Canons settings to flying objects, especially those that come towards you, and if you shoot during a rainy day you will struggle with sharpness issues as well with the Z6II. My fox picture on instagram (2nd acc) proves it, even if the animal was standing just 30 feet away.
Overall, I think Nikon has to work more to make their cameras comparable with the R5/R6 from Canon and A9/A9II/A1 from Sony.
I'm looking to go Sony + 200-600mm as I'm hearing great things from that camp and with a fully articulated screen it checks off a lot of boxes for me in the vlogging category as well.
@@EmberSkyMedia Hard to argue with that logic. so many good choices out there.
@@EmberSkyMedia You're doing the right choise there, mate!
Which Sony have you been looking at, if I may ask?
@@saarikkophoto Right now I'm debating A7C now or wait and see what new A74 brings (also talks of a a6000's series camera that might fit the bill). The A7R4 is amazing with the 200-600mm but a bit on the pricy side for me right now. I would NOT suggest any older Sony that does not have the new FZ1000 battery as that was a game changer in battery life for Sony mirrorless cameras.
I've been waiting for this video. Thx!
Thanks for watching.
Was waiting for this video !
i hope it was helpful.
I've made the switch because of the same reason as you! For videos 😊 loving it so much!
I love it too. At first I was a little unsure but now I'm all in. so versatile.
Happy to have found and subscribed to your channel!
Welcome aboard! I appreciate it.
Thank you for the candid report. I am a bird photographer and have a Nikon D500 and I am wanting to switch to mirror less.
The Nikon Z6II was on top of my list but I do want good birds in flight shots. Looks like I need to do more research. Greatly appreciated.
Perhaps take a look at the Sony A7iv. Awesome autofocus. I know its a big deal to jump brands
Great video Josh !! great content , love the honest facts. good going . I am still in Dslr game , but like you said still waiting for something bigger from Nikon to make the switch, not worth changing all the glass if I move to another ecosystem , i think I like what I have
Yes indeed. and, Like I said, I would have stuck with my gear if I'd not migrated over to video.
Thank you for an honest review . I shoot a Z 6 , have not tried shooting birds in flight yet . Thanks for mentioning that technique is key , great reminder .
It’s a lifelong pursuit. Thanks for watching. 🙂
Video is almost a year old, but it was good to review it. In a few days, a new firmware release will hopefully improve my Z6ii once again. I have discovered the Riverwood Conservancy west of Toronto in Mississauga and need the stimulation and exercise. Got really lazy during the pandemic and need a drastic change. Little things like better focus will get me outside a lot more. New fluid head too. Your videos have been a real treat and inspiration for me. Many thanks.
thank you Edward. I am excited to see the update.
Nice in-depth review. Thank you
👍🏻
Thanks for your honesty. I made the switch also. Bought two Z 50 for video and EDC. A Z 6II for portrait and event work. I have much work to do figuring out which focus mode and features work best for me. Your video is interesting to me because I have to contend with portrait subject that want to move around for a more active look in their images. I’m going to try setting up for a wide area grab to see what happens. Thanks for sharing.
thanks for watching James.
Another great video !!! I switched from Nikon to Sony about 4 years ago before it was really popular to shoot Sony for wildlife. Matter fact I got laughed at by a lot of the Nikon and Canon shooters I knew and they called me crazy for switching lol ....Sony only had the 100-400 at the time for wildlife. My reason for switching was kind of similar to you, I started to get into Video, the D500 and the D850 were not cutting it for video for me and Nikon didn't have a mirrorless at the time. I have to say I am happy with my decision 4 years later . But I will always have a soft spot for Nikon they were my first love in photography . Keep up the great work I don't shoot Nikon anymore but enjoy watching your videos 👍
I get it brother. don't tell my nikon friends, but if I had the money, I would have bought a full sony kit.
Your comments mirror the results I had when trying to use the Nikon Z 6ll for birding.
G'day Josh - Thanks so much for the frank and open discussion on your experience with the Z6ii. I've slowly moved up through the DX line-up as my photography has improved and I've wanted more from my cameras. I started with the D5300, then D7500 and finally to the Z50. Front and back focus issues with the D7500 (along with a desire to make it easier to produce short videos) prompted my move to the Z50. I usually have it paired with a Tamron 150-600. The speed (or lack thereof) of the autofocus is quite frustrating. BIF moving across the frame are generally ok, however once the subject is moving toward or away from me (at any speed), the Z50 just can not keep up. I experimented by photographing a moving dog with the kit lens (sans FTZ adapter) and it still struggled with maintaining focus. Stationary subjects are ok, however "stationary" is not what most wildlife generally prefers to do.
The comment you make regarding regarding the price point of these cameras is one that is so often overlooked. I regularly read comments like "Just get an R6!", which is in a different market to the Z6ii. By the time you add a couple of the amateur canon lenses and spare batteries etc, you are still looking at over $6,000 - an incredible amount of money to pay, particularly when one is not only an amateur but also has invested in glass for a different system. I have been waiting to move up to full frame mirrorless, however given the challenges Nikon has in managing the mirrorless autofocus, I believe it is better to wait and see what happens in a few years.
I am very cautious before making any upgrades or considerations. I am confident that the Z6II is a great camera and will suit most needs. remember, small bird in flight photography is the ultimate test on any autofocus system and no company has it truly perfected. I guess my point is, with good technique and proper settings, the AF system on the nikon mirrorless systems is totally fine. Perhaps not that of the $6500 sony but still adequate.
Brother, I got your back just keep practicing looking forward to your new endeavors. Moreover, you got me sold on getting the Z6 II
Nice, good to hear.
Great video Josh! I am on about the same Nikon Journey as you.I have 600f4 and D850 that i love and understand exactly what you are saying about the video.I have z 7 for video at this time but i am going to do the z6 2 as well. All these cameras are just so good now and i want own them all as well lol.I just have feeling that Nikon wants to make a showing with the Z9 i cant wait it will be here soon !!!
I'm sure we will all be blown away by the Z9. that is of course if Sony doesn't release 3 more cameras between now and then that raise the bar again. silliness.
Thank you
Thanks for sharing your experience with great comments...I still have my D500 & haven't made decision to upgrade to mirrorless yet so I was interested in your comments...I am only a hobbyist so not in a hurry to make any change to my gear.... thanks again for video... cheers 😀
Hey, honestly the swap has gone amazing for me. I mostly do landscape and portrait shots but I dabble from time to time in wildlife and so far going from the Canon 6D Mark II to the Nikon Z7II has been an unbelievable improvement. My only complaint is the lack of lenses in the Z mount and the cost of the Z mount primes plus the massive file size but thats a given. The autofocus on the Z7II is fantastic for most of the wildlife shots I have tried like black bears and deer.
That is a great example of where they are strong. I agree that the sensor on the Z7II is fantastic but it would struggle with the small erratic stuff too. Indeed a great camera.
The z primes are cheaper than canon rf primes
Thanks for sharing your journey on the transition to mirrorless. I can’t add anything on the birding side of things since I haven’t gone down that rabbit hole, yet. But I also have done the transition from DSLR to mirrorless with Nikon cameras. A year ago, I bought a Z6 to replace my D810 primarily for night photography and video. There are a bunch of examples of time lapse videos on my RUclips channel. Also, recently I added a Z7ii for landscape and macro plus changed out 3 lenses to the new S-line format (f/4.0). The Z6 is far better than the D810 for the formats mentioned above and is much easier to use. And the Z7ii is a huge upgrade on photo quality and ease of use. I wasn’t all that happy about the number of $ required to switch over but I figured it was better to take the financial hit then spend years moaning about the quality out of the DSLR camera. Good luck with your new camera.
So true about procrastinating the switch. You almost just have to bite the bullet and move on. I'll check out those videos.
Great video! I’m using the 200-500f5.6 and that one is a slow moving lens😊. But I also own the Z70-200 f/2.8 and with that lens the Z6II transforms into a much more capable camera and almost is on par with my d500 and in some scenarios even better AF. A couple of weeks ago I shot dippers flying in front of me and they fly low and fast over the water I got some pretty nice photos. And hopefully the camera evolves more with further firmware updates.
Well that is encouraging. I am anxiously anticipating new native glass for the Z line.
Johan: I am doing mostly Sports photography and I am debating selling my D500 and just using my Nikon 6 II, but the key much like bird photography is better glass and the firmware update did help and the better glass is a must but also much more expensive. Debating getting the Z70-200 f/2.8 and selling the D500 and all of it's lenses, because the current Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 for a everyday lens is amazing... I should also point out I did try the new Nikon f/c and was shocked at the autofocusing on it.
You are awsome!
Man, your channel is blowing up, so many comments lately.
Thanks for your honest review.
Goodness. So hard to keep up. You’ll always be an OG! 🤙🏻
Absolutely agree with all you said. I still have my D500 and the Z6ii but hardly picking up the D500. I take a lot of birds in flight and have found the large area at to be really good, including in busy backgrounds. The tracking isn’t quite as good as the D500 where the bird is small or some distance away but have found the auto area auto focus to work well, even with swallows against a busy background. Z6ii is brilliant for landscape.
Yeah, that needs to be said. the Z6II is awesome for landscape. I was out getting some landscapes last night and the images rivaled the D850.
Josh, I enjoyed your video and I can relate with you on the cost vs performance. I shoot mainly birds/wildlife, and some landscape. I am not a videographer. When I do shoot video I shamelessly use my IPhone 12 with a gimbal, and it works for me. I started with Nikon out of the gate with the D70 original and used it for about 9 years capturing family vacations. I sold it and bought a D5300 which i still use and get some good pictures with it. It was my travel camera. Now its my wife’s camera. I bought a D500 and matched it soon afterward with a Sigma 60-600 lens. The D500 is my main wildlife/landscape camera. I like the speed of the stutter and focus, and it works well with the Sigma lens. I bought the Z6 when I retires a couple years ago and wanted to go mirrorless. Sorry I did so far. The Z6II came out shortly later and now I am stuck either selling my Z6 I bought a year and a half ago for half what I paid or selling something else to buy the Z6II. The battery life issues with viewfinder and slow focus of the Z6 using my sigma lens makes the Z6 a no bueno for bird photography for me. I will probably still be using the D500 for years to come, I can’t find a reason to sell it. I like what I have heard in the Z9 but my financial advisor (my wife) is probably not going to approve that purchase at this time. So I’ll wait a while. By then they’ll have the Nikon Z16 out. Bottom line as you point out is composure, and technique most cameras made today will take great photos. I get some great shots still with my D5300 I can put on my wall…Anyway I enjoy videos and advise videos. IF you go Cannon or Sony though you will be dead to me, nothing personal just can’t afford to make the switch…
Well I’ll tell you a secret. I see zero performance advantages from the Z6ii to the z6. At least not for my style of photography.
A good honest review that should ensure all Nikon owners to follow this channel. To many are sweetening the capabilities of cameras and lenses (regardless of brands) making the users questioning their own capabilities to the point where the hair turns grey. Nikon have a lot going on and probably have one of the best bodies around and more important the best raw files out there. When they get the autofokus sorted on par with the competition, there nothing holding back for going all Nikon. The lenses for the Z line, all though kinda ordinary looking, delivers high quality results paired with any Nikon Z body. One can hope that the R&D working on the Z9 comes up with a competitive AF system that also can trickle down to the lower end models. I'm not a Nikon shooter but the camera world needs Nikon as a contender to the two brands ahead now. Go Nikon!
I appreciate you saying that. People need to understand that the cameras are excellent. the autofocus is not horrible. It is fine, just not really on par with the more expensive cameras. I'm sure there will be continuous improvements.
Thanks man been waiting for this. Personally a Z5 shooter.
thanks for watching.
Great informative video, think I’ll keep hold of my d500 for bird photography for a while longer
That is a good call. especially if you don't do a lot of video. I am seriously considering getting a D500 again.
This was a great video and I loved reading the comments. I am not a wildlife photographer, but portrait/studio photographer. I would like to do more photojournalism and switching from single point focus to auto focus is a challenge. I have a D4 D850 and D800. Bot a z6 and now z6ii. I'm struggling setting up function buttons for fastest use and customization of features. Reading the comments below helps me see that some of it is not user error but most seem to agree firmware upgrades are needed. I LOVE the color/ergonomics of Nikon and don't want to switch brands. The responsiveness of the D4 makes it hard to switch to z6ii but I really do love the color and z glass. I did a test shooting both 105 macro and 70-200 mm of flowers. I did notice the 70-200 was so much faster and more responsive and the bokeh had a dreamier quality and the sharpness edged out the macro - it just didn't shoot close enough. Nice to know it wasn't me, that the ftz seems to lag in responsiveness. Really enjoyed your videos and if you would make a video on how to set up best setting for auto focus and custom buttoms I'd be grateful. Keep up the great videos!
You are too kind Karen. I had another 7 minutes in this video that I cut out last night. It highlighted AF modes, controls, and menu set-up. dang it. I should have left it in. The button customization is much better on the D850 IMO. the only good point is that the info button menu appears in the view finder and you can access the typical stuff and change it on the fly without taking your eye off the EVF. Just a matter of practice, I program the two front buttons to spot metering controls and AF area control. those are the two adjustments i am making most often in the field. definitely improves my workflow. Thanks for watching.
I am in agreement with you as to your observations. I bought my z6 II in Oct 2020 and made the switch to the Canon R5. I was waiting for the firmware upgrades on the z6II. I was hoping the April release would up the ante a bit when it comes to autofocus for birds. It did not. Had the r5 for 2 weeks and loving it.
That R5 is freaking awesome.
Solid & fair real-world review! I think some (not most) of this is a learning curve / muscle memory (took me a few weeks after I moved from DSLR), and some of it is realizing what the Z6II is - it's a superb enthusiast & pro-level all-arounder. When you get into the small / fast / erratic BIF niche - it's not matching the D500 or D850.
One thing to note is that some F lenses take a bigger AF speed hit than others on the FTZ. The 600 f/4 is measurably slower - the 200-500 performs almost identically between F and Z bodies. I have a 70-300 AF-P (latest version) that is amazingly fast on my Z6II. Steve Perry ran some interesting tests on this a little while back.
For action I'm generally in Wide Area Small, or Dynamic. If you have a clean background, even Auto Area does well. I do not use Subject / Eye Tracking for fast movement (it's amazing for just about everything else). Curious where you ended up setting your AF sensitivity (mine is currently at 3... is that optimal?)
I have always bumped the AF sensitivity to 4. 3 is good but I want it to be a little stickier. I just release the button when I want it to let go and acquire a new target. Thanks as always Craig.
Love your truth in advertising, I have the D500 and D850 and love both of them, the video aspect of the “z” line is tempting but I have no clue as to editing ect. Struggled deciding weather to get the D850 or go mirror less, chickened out and went with my comfort zone, D850. Looking forward to your adventure with the Z6ii. I hope to also learn from your experience. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks Craig, I still have no idea what I'm doing when it comes to video editing. Lightroom nearly everyday for 8 year now trying to learn adobe premier pro....so intimidating. learning as I go.
I have the z5 and I only use the 9 point focus option. With that it works great but you have to ensure the mid point is right on top of what you want in focus.
I am commentin' to boost the yootoob algorithm. Another great video.
LOL. I love it.
My transition to mirrorless is similar to yours. I have the 850, sold my D810 and replaced it with the Z6 (first version) for its video and high ISO capabilities. I felt it would compliment the D850 and it certainly has. For BIF I almost always grab the 850. But I have gotten a number of awesome in flights with the Z6. I mostly us Matrix tracking mode for BiF but have used Wide mode with success too. I recently purchased the Z7II and have been blown away by the detail and image quality along with the AF. The first thing I did when my Z7II arrived was download both Z cameras with the latest firmware (1.20 for the Z7II) update. The Z7II’s AF is so much quicker than the Z6. Still not to the level of the R5 and A1. I’m waiting for another firmware update or the Z9/Z8. Make sure your camera has the latest firmware!
thanks Randy. Yes, i downloaded the newest firmware day one. The z6II autofocus is much better than the z6. I'm not saying it is horrible. I'll definitely get some keepers with it. It just isn't as snappy as the D850. I think it has more to do with that FTZ adapter and older Fmount lenses than it does with the firmware at this point.
Love mine and the vertical grip!! Best Image rendering out there.. Big reason i chose Nikon. Build and design as well.. Sk˜
Totally agree with image quality. superb.
Thanks for the video, I’m right in the process from d850 to Z. I had to sell my Sigma 150 -600 to buy the Z 7 II and did keep my D850. Now on a 70-200 2.8 having the same experience to shoot birds in flight with the Z AF,
New s line 70-200 or old mount?
Great video, debating selling the D500 my work horse for sports photography, but I have had some auto focusing issue, mostly user error on settings, been using the Nikon Z6 II with similar issues but once I switched to better glass and faster lens that seems to have greatly helped. The Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8 is great everyday shooting lens and much faster and capable for capturing moving targets faster, hard call to sell off but with the newer better glass coming out from Nikon (finally) it might be the better choice for photography and the 6 II for video is off the charts great as you stated in your video.
Additionally, Nikon will be updating firmware which should help. It's tough to let go of the old DSLR's
Great explanation of the focus issue. I found the dynamic af to work better on the Z6II when there is a busy background. I keep hearing of rumors of a 2.0 firmware release that's supposed to get us bird tracking. Keeping my fingers crossed.
I think we are getting close. I hope they drop that firmware update soon.
As i told you in a previous post, I own a z6ii . Still struggle with it but must say that te autofocus when it requires focus, its just dead on , thats what I love . The evf is great but sucks when you have the sun from behind (you’ll know when it happens) I like the 14fps mode , love the ergonomics, that’s just some things i love and obviously the video mode and eye autofocus is nice .
The thing that frustrated me the most is the fact that it just sometimes don’t require focus on a small bird in a bush , you can see the bird moving in the bokeh , the branch in front of the bird is perfect in focus while the bird stays out of focus, would love the canon algorithm for this focus system (should be possible with the dual processors) just maybe we will be surprised in some next firmware update , that’s where my hopes at and would love to have a 200-600 z lens
Until then it’s just a good overall camera, not the best but just a very solid overall camera with outstanding iso performance
By the way , Steve perry goes in dept on focus on the z cameras, really useful
Love your channel keep up the good work
thank you Kev. I really appreciate it. I'm sure things will get better or I'll just get used to it.
Loving my new Nikon Z6II mainly a studio and Portrait photographer.
It it perfect for that.
Great video, I kept D500 for BIF, but everything else and I mean everything else the Z6ll is fabulous. I am still thinking with dual processor, their will be some firmware updates.
I hope you're right.
I went to the same process… from d850 to Z6… but keeping the 2 cameras… there is an learning curve… more than people think… I sold those 2 cameras and bought the Z7ii… with a learning curve also! I grab more and more on focus pictures… because… when the Z grap a focus, it is really good! It is also lens sensitive… my 500 pf works really good… my 300 pf was so-so… I sold it. I also learn to ease more the m/a focus… with the hi light contrast, it works easier than expected!
Indeed.
Good review 😊
Thank you 😁
I’m learning landscape photography with a D5200. I love the camera and the DX lenses. Sony system will probably be the future upgrade for me as considering buying used gears.
That is a great camera to learn on.
The recent firmware updates has improved the AF in the Z6II significantly. I can shoot live dance in dark theaters with only a very few missed shots. I haven't tried this for bird photography, but this is completely different scenario.
Yep. that is the first thing I did when I got it. It's definitely better than the Z6
Hi, I have been using Z6 for almost a year. I struggled with focus as well. It doesn't have the animal eye detect autofocus for animals and birds other than cats & dogs. I would recommend that you check focus speed settings in the camera. You will get far more better results. Nikon Z6II is far more better than Z6. I have observed that with busy backgrounds, dynamic AF works best. With clear background Wide angle and Large angle AF works very well. Honestly I am very happy with my Z6. Over the last one year I have got some amazing images. I am looking forward to buying Z6II and Z7II. However I am just waiting for Nikon to launch few more lenses and the new camera. Basis the pricing I would go ahead with the purchase.
What worked for me apart from the camera was understanding the behavior of the birds. I knew that at some point it would move towards the direction and i was ready with my camera. However, I have used R5, R6 & A9II (Borrowed) and the experience was out of the world. I am Nikon fanboy and I love the colors and picture quality offered by Nikon. The camera would grow on you soon and you would love it
Great insite. thank you,
I went from D5600 to the Z6ii so it’s a massive improvement to me. I agree it’s hard for BIF but I’ve been trying with the tracking mode which I think I am getting the hang of (slowly).. hopefully future firmware will get the Zs up to near the Cannons soon. I couldn’t justify the expense of changing brands, and really I’m very happy with the Z6ii, just envious of that BIF focus...
Keep trying Tod just remember for BIF you are the tracking system. Wide area small and the subject filling half the box or more and you are in with a shout.
Just evaluate how much you really do BIF shots. the Z6II is great in every other way.
It's an absolute joy having people like you on RUclips talking about cameras. Such a good feeling compared to click-bating swindlers like Sony Northrup and The Shouting Hairball.
you are too kind Martin.
I had a feeling you'd like that large box mode! Good stuff! 👍 now you gotta start planning for that Z 600 f4! 🤣
Oh yeah! That is exactly what I'm planning for. May have to sell one of my cars and ride a bike. but I'm sure it will be worth it.
@@BayouJosh same here! 🤣
@@BayouJosh And probably a kidney? I'm afraid to know what they're going to charge for that lens. 🤑
This is one man's experience, and opinion with my Z6. I too, bought it to get into video. I too am just a regular guy photographer. I don't do enough birding, but I love to photograph birds. I also love to shoot sport, and fast action. Small, darting birds, fit into this category. The Z6 is a fantastic camera. It does nearly everything I need it to do. It does very well as a video camera for my needs. My issue with the original Z6 is that it doesn't track very fast action well. I used it this past winter to photograph migrating bald eagles. For most action, it tracked. When the eagles were diving for fish, for example, the camera simply couldn't keep up. I have a 300mm f2.8 VRII that I use alot. I also use it with a teleconverter. But just the 300 with the FTZ, and the Z6 struggles staying locked on to fact action. I have the same issues when my 70-200 f2.8 is attached. I enjoy shooting dogs, not exactly small song birds, and fast action with quick dogs, also, a challenge with the Z6. All is not doom and gloom, for slower wildlife/animal action, the Z6 works great and the output is gorgeous. For contrast, I have used the D850 for birds in flight, staying on topic, and it tracks better than the Z6, in my experience. You can shoot birds/action/sports with the Z cameras. I have some terrific keepers, but technique and knowledge of your subject in front of the lens is critical. That said, I rented a D850 recently to shoot a premier motorsports race in Texas, simply because I was going to be working too hard, and I couldn't stomach misses that weren't of my doing. I think Nikon is on the right path. The Z9 is going to show us what the future of the trickle down technology will be going forward. I'm going to keep my Z6. I love the ergos and the advantages mirrorless brings to the table. I'm waiting for a Z7 III that I'm hoping with have the autofocus skills of a R5...
Great breakdown for sure. I’m hoping you’re right about the trickle down tech. I really don’t see myself ever getting a z9.
@@BayouJosh the autofocus system of the D500 was trickle down. The D780 has some of the Z technology in it. I think the Z9 will be a home run for Nikon. I think the average photographer will benefit from the technology going forward. I don’t need the camera to do everything for me. Would do I want from the Z cameras is for the autofocus to acquire faster and stay locked on to a fast moving subject when I hit AF ON, the way their DSLRs can do it. Keep up the good work!
Picked up a Z5 over the weekend, and a struggled with focus on Barn Swallows. Pulled out my D500, and immediately got them in focus, but forgot to increase the shutter speed. Used my 200-500mm lens on both.
Yeah, the D500 has an incredible AF system.
Just heading out for a wildlife trip in Scotland... renting Nikon Z6ii to check it out, with Nikon 500pf to accompany my own D500 with 300pf and 1.4 teleconverter. I will be using wide area af small or large for BIF, as I see how I get on with mirrorless! The AF in Sony and Canon is very enticing but I like Nikon glass and ergonomics. However, if I am not impressed with the Z6ii overall and AF, then my patience with Nikon will probably run out end of 2021. I hope Z9 and possible major firmware update close the gap very significantly or Z9 overtakes!
Like you said in an earlier video a great optical viewfinder is a lovely experience and I will be interested to see how I like the Z electronic version, which I know has been well received even if its resolution is now surpassed by Sony and Canon. I like your video technically and your straight honest and engaged presentation. Go well Josh, Bruce.
Thank you my friend. Just temper your expectations. the Z6II is a wonderful camera until you start photographing fast twitching small birds. good luck on your trip in Scotland.
Oh I am struggling to choose my first FF mirrorless! R6, Z6II, A7III? My head is gonna blow! 😅 I want quick transition between photo and video, but also be able to get birds in flight. I just cannot make up my mind! Nice video👍
Super tough decision 😁
I think your Eat Sleep Ski needs an update to either Eat Sleep Bird or Eat Sleep Photograph. Another fun video. I enjoyed your tip / how you set up video when arriving on scene. I switched to Sony back in 2016, although I did own a D850-sold it for an A1.
I think your experience is pretty typical of a learning curve. You’ll get the hang of the settings you need and enjoy, plus as you said it currently meets your needs-all that matters!
indeed. thank you
I said the same thing about the Eat Sleep Ski thing. LoL I might replace it with one of Josh’s photos. 😊
Dynamic works for me.
it was hit or miss for me. I felt like it was a little better in the large AF tracking box.
I had the exact same impression with the z6ii. Got it when it first came out- never used a z6 but the way Nikon marketed the dual processor I was all about it... and then when I actually got the camera as far as still photography it was like someone poured cold water on a hot flame.... video however was simply amazing. If I was a videographer I would have kept it for sure and I may add back in the future if Nikon doesn’t release the Z9 one of these days- I’m wanting to do video... I just couldn’t justify the expense for my work at the time I got it due to the still photography AF. To the z6ii’s defense I’m coming from a d5, d850, and d500. Hard to compare any still photography to those AF systems. That being said- I have used a R5 several times and it blows my mind how snappy and accurate the AF system is for stills. I have so much invested in Nikon I’m really hoping they can pull it off With the z9. Anyhow- nice to know I’m not alone out here in the gear experience world. Always enjoy the vids. Cheers!
it seems to be a theme for D850 and High end DSLR users. Good not great is really all I can say. I did get some pretty good images but it certainly left me wanting.
Hi Josh, great video, honest review!
I am still patiently waiting for Z8/Z9 and using D5 / D500. That said, video isn't good, so picked up a Sony ZV-1 for easy video. It's the right place for now and will be a nice second camera to whatever Nikon I eventually get. Of course, the ZV-1 can't really do wildlife video with a short fixed lens! Your decision to go for the Z6 II gives you much more balance with good video and good enough photography. Regardless, I do see a Z8 / Z9 in your future :)
I'm Patiently waiting too James. Just not really that Patiently, needed to get going on this RUclips stuff. been putting off for too long and the video is so good on these Z6's
Thanks for the honest "review", I'll wait for the Z6III before selling my Pentax.
Not a bad decision
Sticking with my D500 with a z50 as a backup and for video. Probably going to stick with that until, hopefully, a Z70 baby z9 comes along next year. Saving for a 500mm pf!
Great combo.
Hi Josh. I own a D850 and Z7ii. My experience is like yours. Video on the D850 is a struggle and a pleasure on Z7ii. However for birds i continue to use D850. Focus just cannt keep up and it takes time to switch between single point and large area on the Z7ii but its a button on the D850. Im waiting for the right upgrade to fully transition. Keep up the great videos.
Thank you sir. I do wish we could assign that second back button to the larger AF mode like I could on the D850. It really is a pain to switch.
Great Test, very usefull. I‘m still using the great D500 and 200-500/5.6. Perhaps i would purchase the Z6 II, but probably not for wildlife Shootings, missing the Crop factor. Beside i am using Olympus 300/4.0 + TC 1.4. Great Image Quality for stills, easy to Carry.
The Olympus is a great option.
Thanks for this honest feedback on z6ii. I use D750 with 200-500mm for birds. I am not a pro.. just a hobbyist.. I am still learning.. I use group focus area, stickiness to 2, light meter Matrix. but I find AF response too slow with 200-500. Getting small BIF has been nightmare. more that 80% of shots go blur. I am sure my techniques must be wrong as I hear tons of good reviews about d750.
Thought z6ii will be better. But Thanks for the revelation about z6ii
I was just about to make the jump.. but I now will hold it for a while.
Do you suggest I go with D500 instead for better AF
Great feedbacks on the Z6. Now l know it may not be me if l struggle to get the speedy lil birds in focus. Nikon is fairly new in the serious mirrorless business so l’d expect the next models to be even better and of course, they will ufortunately be much more expensive. Thanks for the great and upfront review
You can certainly count on it being more expensive.
Sony A1 bird shooter here so not sure how this showed up in my recommends but solid video
2 important things you do mot mention with reference to AF, is the firmware version you are using (I belive 1,5 is te latest) and the FTZ adapter for F lenses. According to Steve Perry, the adapter are slowing down the AF speed in some cases (Prime lenses)
I use a D7500. I just traded my 6 years old sigma 150-600C for a used but in absolutely fantastic condition 200-500. And I am still in awe! 200-500 is silent. It is slower than 150-600 but wat more accurate and hunts a lot less. I am happy with my combo.
Since Mirrorless is the future, I really want nikon to release a mirrorless version of the D500, something like what they did with D500 & D5. An APS-C version of Z8 or Z9 will be fantastic! I don't really want to let my 200-500 go. It is an amazing lens.
I was considering my D850 for. Z6 ,thanks for saving me the disappointment I can’t afford that lesson
Love my D850 for bird’s in flight. Ps I don’t do the video
I am also joining the Nikon Z6II club soon 🤟🏻
C'mon. Glad to have you.
I’ve also struggled with my z6ii for small birds in flight but have had better results using dynamic area focus points but ultimately do wish I could afford a z9 for the bird eye tracking mode!
I have been shooting small birds in flight with Nikon with the likes of the D4, D500, D850, z7 and z7ll for well over 20 years. My experience has been exactly as you have described with the Zs. However, I knew what to expect with the z7 and z7ll before I bought them as there limitations for fast action has been well documented. The camera is unmatched for most other photo demands. I purchased a used A9 and 200-600mm lens for fast action and have been smiling ever sense. I am happy to be a two system photographer. Don't hold your breath waiting for the z9 with fast action expectations. Better chance in looking for some hot dice at your local table. Note that Steve Perry and many other fast action you-tubers have also given up on the Zs for fast action.
I can't afford to give up.
@@BayouJosh Perhaps you can't afford not too.... At least ask to borrow your friend's R5 more often.
I have been using the Nikon Z7II since the middle of December. I have had more successes then failures with the system. What I've learned through it all is that it requires an adjustment in technique. Whereas with my D500 I can shoot mostly in 3D focus mode with the Z7II I have to become much more considerate of several of it's focus modes.
That makes perfect sense. I never shot in 3d mode so I'm basically just shooting like I did but on a new system.
I have a D500 and I'm thinking about adding the Z6 II to my camera bag. I'll keep the D500 for birds and airshows though. I was surprised when you said you got rid of your D850, but I understand the financial aspects.
That's my setup as well. D500 and Z6ii. I love both cameras. I agree that Z6ii with 2x processors has more potential. Nikon needs to hire Cannon firmware writers.
I bought my z6 II back in February of this year after my d750 got hit by a wave at the beach and killed it. I considered the do though. After seeing how Nikon designs the z lenses I'm glad I made the switch to mirrorless. I'm not a wildlife photographer so I have very little experience with birds. But 8 did want to try it out. I'm waiting on the 200-600 lens to come out. I thought about getting the older 200-500 but I want to go all native on my glass from here on out.
Enjoy all your current videos. This one was particularly interesting. I’m still using a D3s body but spent the money to get the latest 600mm f4 fFL ED lens a few years back. I also have an old 400 mm f2.8. The last one before VR was introduced. Occasionally I can get birds in flight and the glass quality is superb on both but I do wonder whether the old 400mm will function on a z6 ll. I hear various stories. Do you have any ideas on the subject. Or will I have to sell the much loved but very heavy 400. It would probably pay for the z6ll if I did
My 600 is the same version as your 400. It works great.
Just added a Z6II as a companion to my D500. The D500 with the 200-500 f5.6 purchased for BIF + other wildlife. Will use the Z6II for everything else + wildlife requiring a silent shutter such as ducks on a pond, close in. Stayed with Nikon bc of all the Nikon glass I own plus my familiarity with years of shooting with Nikon. Just now tooling up with these two cameras as I stepped away from photography for about 10 years and now back in, so I don't have a lot of field experience with my decisions yet. Have been concentrating on gear (Robus 5570 Tripod, f-stop 70L camera bag, BH-55 ball, Induro GHB2 gimbal). I felt it was important to break into the mirrorless scene now as it appears to be the future for photography at the present time. Was considering the D850 as a companion to the D500, but opted to go mirrorless with the Z6II. I think too many people jump ship with brands bc they are impatient. The big three right now for mirrorless, Nikon, Sony, and Cannon, are in the hunt with Nikon trying to play catch up (Which they have done with the Z9). Next it will be Cannon jumping to the forefront, then Sony, then Nikon etc. etc. etc. If you are comfortable with a brand stick with them............ they will eventually respond to the competition. Those big 3, Nikon, Sony, and Cannon all make superior products! Stick with your brand.
So many tools out there to make our hobby easier and comfortable. The mirrorless cameras are great but have their trade offs. Be sure to use those video features. They are fantastic!
Glenn, A year or so later how do you feel about your combo of Z6II and D500 for wildlife? I was going to go Z8 (pre-orders started yesterday) but it is a ton of $. Much like yourself, I am now thinking of keeping the D500 for BIF etc and getting a Z6ii for video, silent shutter and low light. Instead of the 200-500 I use a Sigma 150-600mm.
Well, I was hoping that you were going to tell us all the little tricks you figured out!! Maybe they'll come in the upcoming weeks as you try more things? I also have the Z50, as I was hoping that it would be the new version of the D500. Not quite yet. When I am using the Z 70-200 f/2.8, with and without the Z TC-14 or Z TC-20, acquiring focus is snappy. When using lenses and the FTZ, things do slow down and more hunting. Really waiting for the Z 100-400mm, or the Z 400mm and Z 600mm primes and any new firmware updates that come out with those lenses.
You and me both Andrew! There really are no tips and tricks. Just technique and patience. The auto focus modes are pretty straightforward and unfortunately, the FTZ slows things down a bit. Specifically on those big lenses. I really don’t experience it much with my macro lens.
@@BayouJosh Check this video out! ruclips.net/video/YqKaUjjaA70/видео.html Steve Perry showed this and I had not seen this information! May be useful for you considering lenses and FTZ adapter.
I'm on a bridge camera so I can't comment from personal experience but I watch a lot of morten hilmer on youtube and his main camera is also the Z6II. He doesn't do as much bird in flight as you do but someone of that caliber choosing to use the Z6II for photos says a lot to me.
Indeed. Huge Morton Hilmer fan too.
First, let me start by saying thank you for your channel. It is helping me to get back into photography after a couple of years of throwing my camera in the corner. Now I am ready to shoot again with a new found creative passion. This is what happens when your focus is NOT steered in the right way.
Just a couple of questions;
1. Have you tried the Z7 II?
2. Do you have any regrets for selling your D850?
I ask because I am looking to upgrade…
David, that is so kind of you to say that. The D850 and the Z7II have the same sensor. I regret that i could not keep the D850 and buy the Z6II. I'm not rolling in the dough and needed to compromise. The image quality is fantastic on the Z6II as all full frame 20-24MP nikons have been. The only downside is the Autofocus is just a little slow with my big Fmount glass.
No I didn’t make a switch and I’m glad I can still continue to enjoy all my DSLRs. Mirrorless system is just too small to work with. I love my D850/ D4s/ D5. Mirrorless will never give me the same feel.
I get it Rob. It was a tough decision for me.
Great video!
I do 100% agree with you when it comes to its capabilities and limits.
Z7ii is much more expensive, but performance wise.. I don't see much difference at all. As there are more focus points on the Z7 series body, it can focus more accurately when the subject is small.. but I think that is really about it LOL
I really hope to see some major firmware update in the future as Nikon promised (1.xx to 2.xx), we can cross our fingers :)
Thanks again!
I agree 100%. Nikon Z7 was intriguing but budget constraints played a big part of my selection. I’m certain that I’ll consider that camera in the future.
@@BayouJosh Let's hope that Nikon makes an awesome Z9 as they advertised!
During my recent search of used 500f4 and 600f4, I decided to go for the 500pf route. (and found bunch of used 500f4 600f4 after I bought mine -_-.. of course)
It works quite well with my Z62 and Z72, and I've been using Z72 more just because of the crop factor and smaller Single point size which drove me really nuts when I was using the Z62.. XD
I will wait to see what the z9 does before I pull the trigger. The d850 for me is excellent and I love how it feels in the hand unlike Sony and Canon as I have big mitts for hands. Thank you for this review Josh and I look forward to more. I am curious as to how the 500mm pf will do on the z6ii since that lens is newer than your 600mm? I own the 500mm pf and I really enjoy shooting that lens a lot
I am curious as well. I may have to rent one and see for myself.
I likewise have a d850 and it is excellent for photos but terrible for videos. Besides the poor AF, it is barebones as a video device and if I had known what I now know, I would have bought a different camera.
That being said, we all learn and I will keep it for now because I can't get decent money for it.
I also got a Lumix g9 and that is a far better video camera, and far cheaper than the d850.
Hey Josh, I’m not a Nikon guy but do you have to use an adapter to get your Nikon DSLR lenses to work with the new Nikon mirror less mount? I know when I switched to Sony the adapters were a must because of lack of lenses but the focus performance usually took a big hit. Not sure if Nikon suffers from that but it might be part of your slower focus issues? Been enjoying your video channel, keep it up!
Thank you Paul. Yes. the Nikon F mount glass needs to be adapted to the Mirrorless. I can't wait to see how native wildlife lenses perform with the z. I struggle a bit right now. I was cursing it this evening. I have awesome prime glass that focuses on fast moving stuff about 15% of the time. Takes a lot of work.
BiF is something I'm also struggeling with my Z6 II. My D500 is much more responsive in aquiring focus and tracking the subject. Problem with the Z6 II is that in auto area AF where it's easy for the photographer to track a subject the camera has problems to find the subject other than the Sony A, A9 II or the Canon R5/R6. I'm still hoping that with a firmware version 2.0 we will see something close to the Sony's or Canon's algorithm in the Nikon's auto area AF. The processing power should be high enough. Until then I'll try and learn to achieve the best results I can. As I do not have to earn money with my photography it's not a big deal to me.
I’m with you my friend. No pressure to make a living off of this. I hope the firmware updates help improve the performance.
I made the switch where I sold my D850 and got the Z7ii. I also sold all my F lenses beside the 300PF, 180-400 and 600FL. The Z lenses are fantastic. The 14-24, 24-70 and 70-200 outperforms the F lenses by far. Even with TC the 70-200 is brilliant. I have high hopes for the upcoming 400/f2.8 and 600/f4. Imaging if the 400/f2.8 performs perfect with both the 1,4 and 2,0 converter!. The files from the Z7ii is excellent, perfect colours and easy to post process. So far so good but then we have the AF and the lagg in the viewfinder. Shooting the Z7ii in full burst (10 FPS) isn’t a nice experience. It is impossible to track wildlife because of the lagg. And the AF is a struggle, the singelpoint AF (in AF-C mode) doesn’t work as good as in the DSLR. So for wildlife the Z7ii is not the right tool so I am happy that I kept my D5. But I have signed up for the Z9 and Nikon have to get that one right!
that is encouraging to hear how great they are with the native lenses.
How do you rate the autofocus between Nikon 6ii and 7ii? Probably both are same. I use D500 andD850. I will always pick D500 for bird photography or any wildlife photography. The shutter response time is much better then many newer model. As a matter of fact, Z50, a cheaper version with the same processor deliveries excellent image even of humming bird. I trust my D500 more than any newer model. If you are not megapixel obsessed photographer, you may sometime try older Nikon D700, a great FX camera.
I tried Nikon z6ii but finally decided to move to Sony system. Bought A9 and 200-600 mm and right away getting much better photos. Mainly using for bird photography specially Osprey and Kingfisher. I will now try video too. I was not heavy invested in Nikon long lenses. I still love my Nikon D750 and some prime lenses. I am planning to very soon sale my rest of the Nikon gears to buy A7R4 with 70-200mm lense
Good choice! I wish I could say something contrary. however, what you're saying is so true. It used to be we all had to work at getting great images, now just us nikon users are struggling with this AF that was considered state of the art 4 years ago. Crazy how the world changes in 4 years.
Great video. BIF is really THE ONLY major differentiation with most modern cameras IMO. Dynamic Range, Noise, blah blah, all cameras can take great photos, but the ability to snap and follow small to medium sized birds is a tough ask (with good keeper percentage that is). I got an R6 as I couldn't responsibly afford the R5 and I/we got lucky that we have pretty darn close to the tracking AF system of the R5 in the much cheaper body, my guess is that Nikon will steadily improve its AF algorithms and the Z6's will benefit in the near future. The video of the Z6 is great and noticeably better than the 850 on screen.
Bonus pro tip: Not sure if you misspoke but your "Barn Swallow" photos were actually Cliff Swallows! Add it to your list!
Thanks for the ID. I'm a bird guy. You'd think I would be a little better at that. 😆 I think I'll be taking more video than stills in the future. I just need to spend more time with it.
Great honest review... I switched from the D810 to the Z6. The image quality is great but the autofocus system is faulty, at least compared to what Sony and Canon offer. They have made a noticeable improvement for autofocus in video though. Nevertheless in professional situations the autofocus had made my life miserable. It’s complicated...
Yeah. I've had a complicated relationship with this camera. It has been flawless for video but it has certainly left me wanting for photo.
Thank you for this review I have been looking at switching my A7riv back to Nikon Z7ii because I love Nikon. But currently I don’t think I can give up that autofocus.
Glad it was helpful! That sony AF is Awesome. no doubt.
@@BayouJosh keep up the great content
Just bought the D850 to round out my cameras as I already have a D750 and D500. Was looking at the Z7II but your exact problem of birds in flight stopped me at this point. Love the D850 and all it does along with the 500mm PF.
Yeah, that D850 is awesome if not for the video.
I have the D5 and I have never missed my target for action Fotos. Why should we have absolutely to change, with a camera which have a bad AF for BIf.?
1.the argument of the bad AF in video for DSLR is not relevant for me. Have we all suddenly forgotten, that the professional video cameras worked before and still now with MANUAL FOCUS. of course it's harder to focus, but the films of those who use the MANUAL FOCUS are not too bad. Don't you think so????
2. We work almost all day on computer screens, on phone screens, on tablet screens, on television screens 😱😱😱😱 When we took a Foto, it was the only moment in the day, with the DSLR, that we see the birds in flight, in the real life, not on a screen, like with the mirrorless. My God is it absolutely necessary to see all the world, all the life on a "fuck.." screen???? Because the entire world decides for more money, to switch on mirrorless?????
Should I throw away my new mountain bike, because it works only with the " manual" strength of my feet? Because I would declare :this bike has no electric motor assistance (like the AF assistance in the vidéo of mirrorless). No doubt it is harder to use a manual focus, but you have much more flexibility for artistic effects 😊😊!
I don't know if one day, I will switch for mirrorless. Why have I to do this??
I think that the D850. D5, AND D500 were and still are under the best cameras in the world. Those who want to make videos with them, can learn To use manual focus. Thanks for having read me 😊bye.and first of all, thanks Josh for this absolute honest review in which you don't try to hide the défauts of the z6ll. I think that the person who wants to keep his Dslr has very good arguments 😊👍
@@tomfranz25 your argument holds true for manual focus lenses also for stills... basically we dont need AF at all based on ur logic
Thanks for the video...I am thinking of getting a Nikon Z...
Good choice! it does make beautiful images.
I switched from a d5600 to a z6ii. I don't have a lens good enough for birds in flight, main lens currently is a 35-150 2.8-4. i wasn't sure which platform I'd be going with so i decided to pick a camera body before i started getting lenses. Ultimately, went with the z6ii and love it. It has nikon quirks that I've grown acustomed to, but, very happy with it. Now for the long journey of lens acquisition
That is a fun journey though! Congrats on the purchase.
@@BayouJosh I'm in love with it. I went woth nikon initially so i could use my late grandfather's lenses, which i used when he taught me photography. Though, th e first thing i inherited from him was his sony a100, which he bought new. Not a bad camera still, actually. I've gotten some great shots with it.it certainly feels old though at this point.
I enjoyed your video
I've never owned a DSLR. I started with Sony's A7III which remains my main camera.
Pre Covid, I did anime conventions, comic-cons, primarily cosplayers. I also did macros with toys.
Post Covid, I've delved into streaming, flower photos, and occasionally pets.
Overall having started with mirrorless that's all I am experienced with in the field. However, being in a store where I can play with Canons, Nikons, Sony, Panasonic, and Fujifilm cameras allows me to get an idea of how a DSLR performs. I will admit the D850 takes a fantastic photo, and its focusing within its zones is not bad at all. The 5DmkIV is also very good.
I respect DSLRs fully. However with Mirrorless dominating the markets now, I know that the DSLR's days are numbered, just like how SLR's were when digital became prominent. If I were given the opportunity with a DSLR, I'd love to give it a try it out but since I'm invested in mirrorless, I will not be buying a DSLR.
Smart . no sense in looking back.
Good video explains the current range, lucky to own the best at the moment the Sony A1 ! I am sure Cannon and Nikon will be releasing as good if not better soon. I used to get unusual comments for my mirrorless over DSLR advantages, but strangely not any more ! It must be a fad !
That A1 is on another planet right now. But it also costs more than 3x the Z6 and more than double the Z7. It better be on another planet for that cost.
@@BayouJosh At the moment it is on another planet
D500 and D850 are doing a great job. Z6 for filming is great, but is second choise for action photografy. Z6 is first choise for everything else. No need for anything else. 40 years with Nikon and still loving every day the use of the brand, camera's and its lenses.
They do make great products.
Many thanks Bayou Josh for this review. I heard new firmware (this one of about 2 month ago) greatly improved the autofocus. What about it?
It’s better. It’s just not up to R5 or Sony levels. Good not great.
thanks for making this video about your experience.
I'm considering getting a z6ii and this makes me wonder.
That R5 would also get me access to the 28-70 F2 :-) but the budget is another story of course...
The budget is always the biggest consideration for me.
@@BayouJosh Somehow it also gives satisfaction to make well considered decisions regarding gear instead of buying at a whim.
I really like using the mirrorless system most of the time, but I always end up falling back to the optical viewfinder of the D500 or D850 for anything that moves. It's just the way my brain has been wired for shooting stills I guess.
You're brain just knows what works best. ;-)
Yeah I don't shoot a lot of BIF but this last weekend I was passing through a national wildlife refuge and spotted some sandhill crane from the road and decided to stop for a while. the Cranes were no problem but there were some mallards coming in hot and I struggled to keep them in focus. No doubt it is my lack of skill in this area that was the biggest issue but I did notice that one area where the camera struggled was when the duck was coming right at the camera. Even if I had the box smack dab on the duck it had a hard time not wanting to grab the background instead of the bird. With that said I think that was a problem with the DSLR Autofocus as well so I'm not sure if it can be blamed on the Z6ii or not.
You are not to blame. I struggled with the same thing. My success rate was less than 50% with birds coming right at me. but to be fair, most cameras, even the best ones, struggle with that.