Turned out to a ramble despite best intentions, but what questions do you still have about this camera? Or better yet, what answers do you have? I am new to Nikon and did my best to assimilate the 879 page manual but I welcome corrections, contributions and conversation. Just keep it friendly in the comments below ❤🔥 And if you want to see all the specifics on lenses I shot with this, you can find the details on my Instagram feed: instagram.com/onemonthtwocameras/
I cannot agree more on everything and in particular the grain/noise of higher ISO's. It really looks very nice and the most important thing ... the details/colors don't fall apart. It's a huge improvement for me. You can also get a ton of different Picture Control Profiles ... unfortunately I'm not allowed to write it down ... 🤔 But there is a place where you can find a large collection of Profiles.
My question is if this is better than the z 7ii. Because everybody is comparing it with the 6ii but how about the 7ii? Does the zf surpasses it for real?
@mipmipmipmipmip My experience is that high ISO is improved on the Zf. I don't use any noise reduction and details stay well preserved. The grain looks really nice too. But most importantly ... you don't get the color shift I had on my Sony A7iii at higher ISO's. I think it is worth it to test it out, if it would be any improvement for you. Regarding the Sensor it is not that clear how much of a Z6 sensor still is in the Zf. They haven't been clear on that ... yet ... despite that it is not the same as in the Z6. The Xpeed 7 Processor and its image processing capabilities is definitely a huge step up ... I see that in comparison to my Z7.
@@macpaperts Damn it ... somehow my first answer got lost :( So a shorter answer this time. Z7/Z7ii excel in regard to ergonomics, handling and resolution. The Zf is far superior in regard to Autofocus, IBIS, low light and video capabilities and overall satisfaction. My Zf is complementing my Z7, which I keep. If productivity is your main concern, wait for the Z6iii because of ergonomics and handling. If you are searching for a fun and beautiful looking camera including Nikons latest Tech, the Zf will deliver and serve you well. But she demands compromises.
@@solusquinto sad the long answer got lost. Thank you for sharing your opinions. I’m about to jump into mirrorless and knowing the experiences of others is really helpful.
Very nice review - talking about your real life opinions and experience, and not trying to “out-tech” other reviewers. I love my Zf and have some different opinions on some aspects of- but really like your objective take. Great job - and engagingly, and naturally presented.
In essence, most cameras are quite similar. The subtle variations in color and dynamic range are typically only noticeable to photographers. These variations become even less significant once a photographer modifies the raw file with a filter, changing its color. Given this, the most important factors FOR ME to consider when buying a new camera are its ergonomics, user interface, and overall user experience. The Nikon Zf, with its intriguing features, seems very compelling
This is definitely the most thorough, balanced and insightful review of the Nikon Zf that I’ve seen anywhere on the internet. It’s refreshing to see a review from someone that can actually take nice photos. I sold an X100V to fund this purchase and after owning the Zf for nearly six weeks, I pretty much agree with most of your points. Despite its quirks such as the annoying auto ISO implementation, which you mentioned, I’m enjoying using the Zf immensely. I wish that Nikon offered the same level of colour profile customisation that Fujifilm offers, including the ability to add grain to JPEGs, but hopefully Nikon will add LUT integration in a future firmware update.
Re-watching this, I noticed the point about the lack of quick access to Subject Detection options. Agreed. Wish it were mappable directly to a physical button. I have two pretty good workarounds for this, no need for cumbersome menu-dives in either approach. First, you can access subject detection in the Info screen by assigning "AF Area Mode / Subject Detection" to one of the twelve info screen buttons. Additionally, if the button is pre-highlighted when you click the "i" button, then it's just a press of the i-button and a wheel turn. This is what I opt to do and it's fast. Another way is, you can actually map subject detection directly to a physical button by first saving "AF subject detection options" (from the Photo Shooting Menu) to the TOP line in your MY MENU (using the "Add items" option). Then, you can map Fn1 or another button to instantly recall your top-level My Menu item, by assigning "Access top item in MY MENU" to that button. Hope that all makes sense 🙂
You can assign Auto ISO to the front Fn button. Press it with your finger while you have the camera to your eye and rotate the Aperture control ring. Easy-peasy, it takes 1 second to change while you are still composing your shot, no more frustration.
Only a couple of hours with the camera wasn’t enough for me to really make up my mind on it, so this was really helpful and insightful. Also, super good to meet you in Atlanta!
They say never meet your heroes but I'm glad I did :) Eager to hear what you think of it if you ever pick one up for more than a couple hours. I'm such a simpleton so it's taking me a minute to deal with an everything but the kitchen sink camera but I do really love it.
Just stumbled across this while browsing RUclips, appreciate the review! I got the ZF coming from the Fuji XT5 and must say love the tactile feel and weight of it all
@@christophergibbons8748 it took a while to get used to, but now I can't put it down. My xt5 is being sold today and I loved that camera, but now it feels toyish and the images seem like AI.
This is a great real world/ real person review that has actually covered something I have not heard before. I just put one on order last week...looking forward to something a bit more tactile and analog than my DSLR
25:02 The ISO dial should be set up exactly as you described it in the video. Use the C for Auto ISO, then switch to manual mode when using the dial to select the ISO desired. Thank you for taking the time to make this detailed review. I have the ZF and I enjoy it alot. There's room for improvement, some via firmware update, and I hope Nikon listens and adds some of the options you and others have mentioned.
Actually, in PSA mode, “C” is the control position, which allows you to select ISO via the screen or set it to Auto ISO in the menu, which you can then turn on and off via either or a programmed button. It seems some people want it to operate like Fuji but, once you know how to use it, you get used to it. It’s like cars, some have the steering wheel phone/volume controls on the left and some have it on the right. Once you own the car you get used to it. Can be a bit of a pain if you have both type though.
@izziereal2010 Amen! Adding to my earlier comment: This is an ideal example of responsiveness to user input via firmware inputs, no physical change required. Nikon has set somewhat of a precedent on Z bodies with firmware updates. I hope they continue for both Nikon users and Nikon corporate. _It's a cost effective way to keep a product fresh_ (hint, hint).
I mapped auto-ISO to the video button. Then the subcommand dial flicks it on and off. Agree with the non-cable release thread. What a missed opportunity to go even more retro! As a Nikon shooter I just don't understand how Fuji people say changing (and remembering) three different dial settings to get into auto modes is more "intuitive" than changing one switch. It defies logic, but every Fuji shooter says it is intuitive. Then they buy an XS-20 with PASM.
Totally agree all cameras are unique and you have to use them to work around their own limitations and thats all part of the fun. I look forward to getting a Voigtlander paired with the Zf for that true vintage vibe and hats off to Nikon for making a camera like this.
Thank you ever so much for such a tremendously insightful and informative review, drawing from real world experience (rather than just the ubiquitous "reading of the spec sheet" one sees seemingly everywhere when researching new releases!). Thank you very much, you’ve got a new subscriber from across the pond eagerly awaiting more fabulous and contextually relatable content from you!
You are easily one of the very few people on YT that i was extremely looking forward to seeing their review on the this camera. You and like Samuel Streetlife maybe? And you def didnt dissapoint. Was also happy to hear your feelings about the black and white mode 😊
I can't tell you what a relief that is. I found this a hard camera to review because it feels so multifaceted and I was a bit unsure how to cram all my thoughts in here (I ended upheaving to cut a lot). Thanks for watching!
@@OneMonthTwoCameras hahaha that's whats up! I'm def in need of a full frame 10bit camera. And it's getting down to this and like the zve1 or a7siii. But im thinking (and due to my current budget) that the lumix S5 might be the sleeper. Plus I LOVE the black and white mode/customization on the panasonics. Their grain is something special, that at first, I thought was a silly gimmick. But after I looked back at some of the photos I took with with it years ago, I actually LOVE the grain you can add. It's random too
24:55 auto ISO can be enabled by pressing the iso button and turning the front dial. Since Zf is not a normal body, I assigned iso to the video record button! Now I can easily access iso settings like I do with my Z6iii
I pre-ordered mine as soon as I touched the mockup at Yodabashi in Osaka. A month later it arrived and I was floored by how responsive it was with AF under low light conditions. I 've got the Smallrig grip which helped a lot in holding the camera. The 40mm SE kit lens is perfect and the photos taken with the "pro-standard" color profile remind me of Kodachrome. My only complain is the flimsy battery door. Otherwise, what a fun camera to shoot with.
Oh that is so funny! I have the exact same gripe with the battery door and was so annoyed when I was editing to realized I'd forgotten to mention it so thank you for calling that out!
At least they have great weather sealing on. I’m not certain if this is also the same on the Zf but, I assume it is, the fact that you can’t connect the camera to your computer to offload files. I have a Sony FX30 (had the A7R V as well) and I just connect the camera to my laptop and am able to access and offload files. I don’t like to carry around a card reader, granted the Z8 has CF Express type B (I use a 1TB version and no SD card for better speeds) and I need one for that however, the Zf uses SD and micro SD, can you plug in and access the files or do you have to used a card reader?
I agree with basically everything, ergonomics should be better (retrostyle or not), some UI decisions are ... extra, still the least compromised retro Nikon so far. The sensor shield can only exist in cameras without a mechanical shutter like the Z8 or Z9. There's just not enough space for both. One recommendation: Get the 40mm f2, the retro styled one. It is so perfect on the Zf!
@@eightfoldstories-weddingfi8022 and @TCinSoCal Those cameras do not have a sensor shield, they just close the shutter and call it a sensor shield. Sure it works against dust on the sensor but now the most vulnerable mechanical part of the camera is exposed: the shutter curtain.
Thank you so much for such a generous comment and yes I agree with everything you say. It’s hard to find that perfect balance of having great modern features while also being simple and pleasurable to shoot. I’m very happy the ZF exists and think they will just continue to improve it.
The reason to your focus point shifting when you sit with the camera in hand is probably that you have the Custom Settings Menu a5 "Store Focus Points by orientation" set to something other than Off. BTW, you can remap the OK button to zoom into 200% with just one push off the button.
Super helpful on the store focus point note! I will take a look at that. As for the OK button, I did try that for zoom but still found I needed the recenter autofocus function so kept that but still trying all ways to find what works best for me.
As much as I love using the ZF the issues that you mention if I had to choose the Fujifilm XT5 or the ZF, it's the Fujifilm XT5 because of the way they implement the card slots, the tilt down screen better button layout and lens selection that fits the XT5 so well, the Fujifilm bodies just fits better in hand and for some one that uses the camera for photography the ability to use an L-bracket on the Fujifilm with out interfering with the screen, and I like using a wired remote when using a tripod ,so for me I have been using the Zf with manual focus Voightlander glass.
Very interesting and down to earth video, thanks! My take about the differences between Fujifilm's "analog" implementation and Nikon's (as seen on Df, Zfc and Zf) is that they only become an issue when you work with both systems at the same time. I lived that way for a few years, when I combined a D850+Df based DSLR system with a Fujifilm mirrorless system, and I did utter quite a few swear words when trying to use the Df in an "analogue" way. It is definitely true that Fujifilm's implementation is more immediately intuitive. But, as I let go of my last Fujifilm body last year to immerse completely into the Nikon mirrorless universe (Z7+Zfc), my muscle memory quickly adapted. I very recently traded my Z7 for the Zf, and live very happily with 3 "analog" Nikon bodies that all operate the same way. So, confusion is gone, it all works smoothly. I still use a DSLR (Df) for my legacy SLR lenses, but the Zf has become my,main workhorse (for NikonZ lenses, a Voigtlander Z-mount lens and adapted m-mount). The Zfc (+24mm dx) will still be used for ultra light/compact city trip/hiking occasions and for backup. All set up the same way.
I use auto iso and the knob to set my lowest limit. Not the highest. I keep pingponging between this camera and the X-T30ii. The fuji wins in size (so cute!), ease of use and the sooc jpg recipes. But.. eventhough the Zf is larger/heavier i feel it is a significant step up. Love the review, tx!
Oh I like that! I'll have to give that method a try. I really hope Nikon gets with the picture game and opens up more capabilities for jpeg settings to really give Fuji some competition.
I think that the next advance in usability will be an interface for users to curate and prioritize the features a camera offers when in use. Not a stripped-down automatic Green Square mode, but streamlined use-cases that we can tailor to our own preferences and then switch between as necessary. The Nikon allowing you to hide AF options is a good example of this. And I don't understand why camera manufacturers still place silly restrictions on customizing controls. If there's a function or a selection or a toggle, I want to be able to map a button or dial to control it. If there's an assigned function that isn't applicable based on the shooting mode or other current settings, I want the camera to offer an opportunity to define an alternate assignment for those cases. All control points should be definable. Yes, I know that flexibility could be confusing, but I'm really the only person who needs to understand how my camera is configured.
Thank you for taking the time to post your experiences with this camera; my first camera was the Nikon FE2, which I still own, so the retro styling certainly rings a bell with me. As far as emulating a colour profile, my dream would be to find something resembling the Agfa chrome (35mm - pushed 2 stops) that gave a stunning French-Impressionist painting look...maybe a tweak post-production can be done, if not in camera. Thanks again for your honest review - cheers!
So excited to have found your channel and I think I'm your mini-me! Love my old Fuji cameras probably the most and partial to old Nikon DSLRs. Just last night I used my Fuji XE-2 and that little thing is by far the camera I will be cremated with. RE: the Zf, agree with all the points, especially on the waist level preference! I just end up leaving the screen closed. Great video! I live in ATL and may remember seeing you on that film group meet up!
I wish I had the bravery to take my camera to the beach but I just have visions of getting chased away with pitchforks 😅 - Also, I adore Nikon's recent black and white profile. I had a Zfc for a while and it made me shoot in monochrome way more than I used to. Such a rich straight out of camera look! Edit: Lovely to see Caleb's face pop up a couple of times :)
Wow. Great review. The Rich Tone profile photos in this review is great. Was watching Omar's YT video and his B&W photos were really good. I think these 2 profiles will be my favorites.
100% agree with the video workflow point. Honestly, that feature alone makes the Nikon bodies one of the best hybrid solutions on the market. I love not having to reset anything when I'm working in any fast paced environment
I've been shooting with a Z5 since it came out. The firmware updates for it have improved it to the point that I'm satisfied with its performance. I'm seriously considering the Zf. I'm not sure its advantages over the Z5 are worth the investment. Focus is fine with the Z5. I hit well over 80% in autofocus, and it uses the same tools for manual focus as the Zf. Thank you so much for this video. You've answered a LOT of the questions I have.
That picture at 14:02 is amazing. I don't know how intentional it's theme and framing was but regardless of the intention, the outcome and editing is great. I'm first clearly drawn to the couple in the middle, the man linked but somewhat occluded. After that I'm then noticing the slightly shaded/vignetted male on the right who demands my attention by not quite being balanced with the framing, being closer to the pair than usually ideal and I as an observer instantly have a gut reaction that drives my brain to a certain theme, of a man eyeing another's wife, not even noticing him in the bigger picture (hence his occlusion) but THEN I suddenly notice the dog dragging its leash that is only now noticeable because of the strong vignette as well as the also imbalanced, slightly off-framed nature, scolding my idea of the previous interpretation, showing me that the second male is more of a concerned lovable dog owner than a lovestricken or lusting man who doesn't care about her "appendage". It left me with quite the smirk. I would probably only have changed some technical executions with the vignette and focus and might have grapped a 21:9 aspect ratio for this specific case but honestly that's neither here nor there. It's just one of the most fun photos I have seen in a while. There are other great photos in this video of course but they weren't quite as interesting in a storytelling way. That one was definitely my favorite.
Maybe i misunderstood your issue but ive mapped the auto iso on and off to the rear Exposure Lock button and front dial. So a quick hold and turn switches it off and on. The issue that still remains however is that if I turn auto iso off i seem to be unable to simply assign the rear dial to change iso range...it still requires me to press the exposure lock button at the same time...impossible to do with only right hand! Without pressing the exposure lock button first the rear dial simply defaults to aperture. Why Nikon? Ive already moved my aperture control to the lens' control ring. Now i have it duplicated. They really need to add more choice to customisation in future firmware. Is anyone able to figure out how I can assign iso to rear dial in manual mode?
I also had a Df and experienced the same kind of manual focusing challenges you did. The Zf is just so much better. As for ISO, I’m one of the M/Auto-ISO guys. The Zf is perfect for that. I just dial down the max iso in the menu all the way - then the ISO dial always controls MAXIMUM ISO (which, really, is all you care about).
Really enjoyed your review! It was also nice to hear someone else mention how utterly INCREDIBLY magnificent the Fujifilm X-T1 is haha. I've owned many many cameras over the years, all the way up to a GFX 100S medium format camera. However, not one camera makes me love it more than the X-T1. It's just the most satisfying camera I've ever owned, and I'll never ever ever sell it. ❤
Great review…….huge amount of ground covered as usual in a really engaging way…..strikes me yet again how well Fuji implemented their model……..one thing I really struggle with is the look & feel of this when using traditional Nikon glass…….the price we pay for progress I guess……would really like to see a stripped back version with a more flexible rear screen and unlocked lut capability……..
What a great review you have done here !!! Great job. It’s outstanding how much of littles flaws this camera seems to have I was about to get mine but after your review and knowing how much I am attached to these little details that end making me crazy that I decided to not go for this release I will keep my Df and go for the Lumix S5 II X for a small 24Mp hybrid camera
The DF is still such an amazing camera and honestly is better in some areas and that is why I haven't given mine up either. And if you have the S5II, that camera is such a beast. I used it briefly and was incredibly impressed.
@@OneMonthTwoCameras thanks for taking the time to reply. I tried it this week but I prefer to wait a little bit. I have too many gear already. But sure it’s a beast. Paired with SL glasses the result is outstanding of precision and clarity See you in a next video 😊
The Nikon ZF is a beautiful camera. It is not a question of nostalgia, but an "ancient" way of conceiving photography in shooting the pose and at the same time very modern due to digital technology and everything that this entails. The fact that I took countless photographs with a Nikon FM2n, which I still own, makes me really appreciate that this manufacturer is offering the ZF for sale. I would say that it is an excellent idea, even if for a small market and also "smart". Only Fuji has followed this path, with excellent success, also given the quality of the lenses, but perhaps Canon could also create a camera with a "vintage" appearance albeit very modern. One last thing, the importer of the ZFs in Europe has them on sale for 2500 Euros (around 2500 USD). I know that in the USA the camera is sold for around 2000 USD. It's true, there are different taxes and customs duties, but 500 USD (or euros) more seems too much to me. As always, a welcome and valuable review and..... forgive the bad English
Subscribed. I really appreciate your focus on practical/ergonomic aspects. I like to walk 10 miles with a camera in my hand, so these things are important. As a Fuji X-T5 user, I'm always envious of full frame low-light performance. So it's good when fair reviews help prevent me leaping irrationally to something that might be even a bit more chunky/clunky. Anyway, my X-T5 just gives me a heavier learning curve for getting decent photos at night, which I can twist into a positive XD
Thanks for the detailed UI issues. I think I made the right call getting a 6D Mark ii for cheap recently. Every button combo and custom mapping works exactly as I expect it to. Even the auto ISO settings and override make sense. All these mirrorless options have moved away from the nice UI and convenient top LCD screen just for the sake of making something different.
Great review!! Btw 27:57 can it really shoot 4:2:2 10bit internally? Not 4:2:0 10 bit ? I’m sorry for asking this but some people said can do 4:2:2, some people said 4:2:0 (only can do 4:2:2 via HDMI output) I’ve searched thousands pages on google but couldn’t find right information.. Hope you can check that for me 😢 Thank you!
I unfortunately am now as confused as you are but it definitely has h265 10 bit recording and as I understand it, has matching video specs to the z9 which does have 4:2:2 internal
I do not own the Zf, but the Z9 and also found I wanted a quick way to turn on/off the subject detection. So here is my "work around". On the Z9 you can map "Recall Shooting Functions" to the DISP button (which I did) and I have subject detection on/off mapped there. That allows the exact issue you mention to be overcome. Many times when shooting wildlife, if the camera won't focus where I want it to, I turn that off and use the custom Wide Area 1x1 box (now without subject detection - to act as single point. I realize with the Zf, the numbers of buttons for programming and real estate aren't as large, so I don't know if this work around is available for you.
@@OneMonthTwoCameras Thank you for your truly insightful reviews (which I enjoy - because they are very well thought out from your perspective. Personally, I always feel I can learn something that might apply to what I do from someone else's viewpoint. If you have any difficulty with the setup I mentioned, just tag me. Hope it works for you. I use the 1x1 custom WA instead of single point because you have the option of subject detection on/off with it making it a bit more versatile for me.
Oh my gosh if you don't like the grip you've got to get the viltrox 20, several nikon pancake lenses (24, 26, 28, 40) that are super light with aperture maxs 2-2.8. Try it without grip and these little cheap lenses are sharp af. I use a monster voigtlander 50 f/1 manual expensive beast with grip and it is now my go to and my pro work is my Z9. I am happy as shit but I used the Leica Q3 43 for a month in Ireland and I cry myself to sleep every night because I couldn't afford to keep it. Great review, love your videos and your work. Your reviews are right on the money and you have such a beautiful eye. Thanks and subbed.
Nice but long review , thx! My red blower is good for front lens elements but I have a yellow one for blowing my sensor which has a built in filter. I’m worried you are adding dust with your red one?
Thanks for this review and all your hard work, Seems like this is another swiss cheese camera: half cheese half holes. FYI: I appreciate, as much as one can, the ads attached to this video; they are not the usual B&H/gov't spending card/snake oil health remedies. Happy new year, cheers!
Great video, thanks, I really enjoyed it. I'm a Nikon fan and I preorderd the Zf, and love it - I also have a Zfc. But, three minor points to clarify. First, I can't see why everybody thinks the aesthetic is based on the FM2, when it is clearly based on the 1977 FM body. The only change between the FM and FM2 external body was the upgrade from 1000th of a second to 4000th of a second on the shutter speed dial and the slight modification to the shutter release button. Despite what Nikon might say, the Nikon Zf is clearly based on the original 1977 Nikon FM. Second, you can map the lens focus ring to set aperture, you do this from the menu. This is ok if, like me, you don't normally manual focus, but not perfect, but it does give you an "aperture ring". I too wish Nikon would release some new lenses with proper aperture rings. Third point: the manual cable release button within the shutter release button does actually work if you have the correct mechanical cable - it is not simply aesthetic.
Thanks for watching and that's a helpful clarification! Odd indeed that Nikon would site the FM2 on its own product page if it's not in fact the design inspiration (www.nikon.com/company/news/2023/0920_mirrorless_01.html). Do you happen to know the mechanical cable release that would work with this camera? Plenty of people have asked and none of mine have worked. I poked around the web and many others said theirs didn't either so it would be wonderful to be able to direct people to the proper cable.
You can assign a button to change the ISO. By pressing the button and pressing the knobs you will be able to quickly change the iso and switch to auto iso. Unfortunately, you have assigned other functions to the buttons.
Love your reviews. They are just so fun and calming to watch. I don't think you ramble, you're very conversational. This is a silly question, but I love the look of your camera strap. Do you mind sharing what it is? Thank you!
Thank you as always Kary! So funny you say that about the strap; I've gotten a lot of questions about it and is an old 70s strap that I found randomly on a thrift hunt that is complete with elastic loops for film canisters. And I just found another on eBay! Grab it while you can! www.ebay.com/itm/403520323573
Regarding moving from wide or small auto detect area to single point, press i-menu and move with D-pad to AF icon, then use back wheel to scroll left to single point. Next time you press i-menu it remembers where you were so for me it's button press and two scrolls left or right to switch between single point and auto detect area. Yes customising a button to switch between two of you choosing would be better but for me it's ok workaround
When you compare Zf with A6600 about featured, would you say Z50 has it.... you can go for any of the full frame Sonys and they also do separate settings for video and photo.
Have you sorted out how to stop the focus boxes jumping around, and the recentering of the focus point, its driving me round the bend. Good video, thanks.
Thank you for the video. I just bought one last Friday. I love it but have a hate love relationship with the ISO implementation also. Other than that it's a lovely camera. Video didn't even feel like 38min long. I can't really sit down and watch videos this long. But yours just flew by great info all the way through.
Thank you for such a detailed and thorough review. Im in two minds a lot of positives and negatives in your video. Im sort of ok with my Fuji for now the XT4 & XH2s are giving me enough quality for the weddings and events I capture. TBH its the fuji glass thats has the secret sauce especially the newer 18mm f1.4, 33mm f1.4 & 56 f1.2 mk2 lenses which are just stunning in every aspect including AF. But sometimes i miss the full frame high iso and clean images you can achieve and the fact you can get lazy with Full frame in being able to put on a 24-70 f2.8 and still get achieve nice shallow depth which is a lot harder with the Fuji 16-55 f2.8.
Well I was just about to place an order for one of these as I'm keen to return to Nikon after not liking the way Sony do things. But I've just realised there's no AF-ON button? I've been shooting with autofocus disengaged from my shutter button since my D200 in 2006 and I'm not going back to having my shutter button do AF. But I see this review is nearly a year old, so perhaps there's a Zf II in the works...
Thanks for your reviews on Olympus... I have 5 (oldest is C-2000z, circa 2000) 2.11MP wow). I've got 1 4/3 , 3 m4/3. Favorite is the E-M5 ii. I have a slew of adapted lenses. I have my hands full
I loved this long, in-depth review. You covered so much ground with a delightfully engaging, smart authority. Subscribed! I'm wondering how you are adapting to the awkward swing- out LCD screen in your street and landscape stills shooting--this is my biggest concern as a travel, landscape photog. And I'm curious what tripod will you plan to use in Yosemite for a fairly compact travel kit, or will you try to hand-hold entirely, even in low light, relying on the excellent IBIS and low-noise at high ISO?
Thank you so much for the kind words! As for the LCD, I'm trying just not to use it much which, for street, I am very used to doing. For landscape, I admittedly don't shoot a lot of it so haven't exercised it enough in that arena to know what works best yet. For Yosemite, I'm just going very light weight and bringing my travel tripod with the 24-70 kit zoom (I'll be bringing another camera I'm going to be reviewing shortly for the longer end of things). That tripod is the Sirui Traveler X Tripod that I covered a bit in this video and which has become my go to all year because it is so light and portable. I'm also a huge fan of a video head for stills photography as it's just so much more versatile. ruclips.net/video/6CBocN2Fl1w/видео.html
@OneMonthTwoCameras-Thanks so much for your reply, Ali. I've been addicted to your videos since finding your YT channel a week ago. You have such a genuine, fun, whimsical, but super articulate, informative, no- BS style I find captivating and super entertaining. Yeah, that articulating screen is my biggest worry about the ZF since I only shoot stills, and it's a shame not to have the on-axis tilting screen (ideally like the Z8, or Fuji X-T5). Thanks loads for the Sirui tripod mention and your accessories video link. I hope you will give us an update on your experience with the ZF when you've had a few months with it. I will be waiting for the Z6III to compare, but I love the looks and tactile vibe of the Zf--so similar to the FM2 & F3 I used for years starting out. Can't wait to see your post on the Yosemite trip--have a ball!- Robert
appreciate your review. I have to ask, in some of the video footage from the camera, I saw what looked like an interview involving one of my favorite camera people in gxace. Do you know him or was that something you were working on. Thanks and have a great day
I do know @gxace! Lovely human and that was a clip from a recent video he was in with the Mamiyamigos. Check it out: ruclips.net/video/gu3t_XzwwoY/видео.html
@@OneMonthTwoCamerasI was watching your review again and may have a workaround for your auto iso. The dial still has to be on c, but I programmed my record button in photo mode to control iso so.if you hold it hen you can use the back dial to change your iso and the front dial will go from regular to auto. You still have to set your maximum inside the menu, but it lets it work more like the z6 if you go that route
This camera looks great. Though as you said as an XT2 user for long time there are too many irritants in this camera especially as I am only interested in stills. Lack of focus joystick, lens without aperture controls, no tilt screen, confusion mode buttons all add up to a lot.
I know this was a while back but I'm glad I found it! (I have commented on your videos before... I'm the one from Atlanta who was on that photowalk but didn't actually meet you!) You and I have so much in common with regards to which cameras we lean towards and I have total confidence that most things you don't like, I won't like! It's just nice to hear more detail around the beautiful points of this camera and the challenges as well, which I completely and totally agree with 100% on every single one. How did it perform for you in Yosemite? Lastly, I do shoot some wildlife (birds, mostly) and have considered picking up a long lens and giving it a go. Many would call me crazy since it's not your typical birding set up but honestly, I think it can do quite well. I did pick up the grip by the way and it's so much better. BTW, Sigma I think is blocked by the Tamron/Nikon relationship so not expecting lenses, sadly. Oh, and the flip out screen - bleh. As a street photographer, I REALLY prefer the tilt screen. My solution has been to completely close the screen and treat it like a film camera. Not as flexible. Lastly, totally agree that we need more custom buttons! Thanks for all your awesome videos! p.s. I haven't heard you mention anything in your archives about the Panasonic GX9. I absolutely love it! Touch to focus is insanely precise and the colors are amazing! Would love to know what you think.
Yes, it is annoying, this wandering point happens because the function is activated and it should show up at the place where the object was detected. You can turn it off in the Menu.
your user grips and Menu Logic is Brilliant they should hire you to do Firmware updates, layout and functions of the UI and programming. Great Content! - Thank you!
Loved the review. I was going to pick one of these up but decided on the z7ii for now which has been great for landscape. I do think I’ll grab a z6ii when it comes out. If it has a different sensor than the zf with more megapixels then no way I’ll just get a zf. I really want less megapixels for street and everyday photography. I hope you enjoy your trip to Yosemite. I went last July and took my d700. What an amazing place. Also I love that you use Snapseed, I do sometimes as well. It’s a cool app. Thanks for the great videos 😊
Thank you for the review ! Having currently the X-T2, I plan to upgrade one day to X-T5 (or X-T6) for the better AF, better face and animals detection and IBIS. I thought about that ZF but it seems to have too much drawbacks from a fuji user pov considering the price.
I went from the xt2 to the zf for my high volume photo biz. The zf is night and day difference from the xt2. Not sure about the xt5, but seeing people still complaining about the focus issues, I’m glad I went with the zf and 50mm 1.8. From the very first image the focus nailed the eye and came out sharp. Then picture after picture were the same result. Wife, kids, dogs, all in focus and sharp. My xt2 and 56 @f2 only gave me 1 in focus on the eyes image out of a series of 100+ images I shot a few weeks ago. It was so bad in focus that I was reduced to shooting at 7.1 to make sure I was not missing focus for 2 sessions of 250+ people this past month. I thought, maybe user error, but after 10+ years of testing changes and trying to find a resolution, I decided to switch. So glad I did.
The DF inherited the problematic AF from the D610, I sold mine for the very same reason and switched to a D4s paired with an old SIgman 50mm F/1.4 ex (not the art version) and the colors this combo produces are amazing! Focusing even in very low light, is accurate. And If you want colors with a 3d pop attach the nikon 17-55mm DX to the D4s and you'll be happy, but a very, very heavy combo, not ideal for traveling or discrete street photography. Having watched your channel, I think you will fall inlove with the D4s raw files, they are easy to customize to your specific taste, I'd say they are the most flexible nikon files to work with and the dynamic range is still the best IMHO of nikon pro cameras.
Excellent review, thanks for that. I am even more tempted by this camera now. I mostly look for a camera that will get out of my way and just take the shot I'm seeing with minimal fuss possible. Although the ZF seems fussy in the way it operates it does look to me that once set up you could trust it just to get the shot. One thing I would like to know though is how is the start up time? One thing I love about DSLRs is the instant start up time. It's not talked about that much.
The start up time is super fast. Definitely not an area of concern. If you have the chance to get your hands on one it’s definitely worth testing out to see if it will work for you. I am the same where it works because once set up, I do t want to go in and change much of anything. Shoot and enjoy :)
I’m sure it is a great camera. The one feature I need is the opportunity to go out and make pictures. That’s not the camera companies fault. Showing what it is like to actually use the camera is more helpful than most reviews I see.
Hi Ali, I didn't know that you have a Nikon Df... It is my favourite camera ever. I use it with a Voigtländer 40mm f2 Ultron SL II and it is a very cool "film like" combo. Looking forward to see your video about the Nikon Df!!
That is awesome! I really like the DF. Ergonomically it beats the ZF and the files are amazing. Two wonderful cameras that make no sense to own together and yet here I am, unwilling to part with either :P
It's an old 70s camera strap that I quite like. They used to make such nice simple sturdy straps. You can still find some on ebay: www.ebay.com/itm/124958410581
Turned out to a ramble despite best intentions, but what questions do you still have about this camera? Or better yet, what answers do you have? I am new to Nikon and did my best to assimilate the 879 page manual but I welcome corrections, contributions and conversation. Just keep it friendly in the comments below ❤🔥 And if you want to see all the specifics on lenses I shot with this, you can find the details on my Instagram feed: instagram.com/onemonthtwocameras/
I cannot agree more on everything and in particular the grain/noise of higher ISO's. It really looks very nice and the most important thing ... the details/colors don't fall apart. It's a huge improvement for me.
You can also get a ton of different Picture Control Profiles ... unfortunately I'm not allowed to write it down ... 🤔 But there is a place where you can find a large collection of Profiles.
My question is if this is better than the z 7ii. Because everybody is comparing it with the 6ii but how about the 7ii? Does the zf surpasses it for real?
@mipmipmipmipmip My experience is that high ISO is improved on the Zf. I don't use any noise reduction and details stay well preserved. The grain looks really nice too. But most importantly ... you don't get the color shift I had on my Sony A7iii at higher ISO's. I think it is worth it to test it out, if it would be any improvement for you. Regarding the Sensor it is not that clear how much of a Z6 sensor still is in the Zf. They haven't been clear on that ... yet ... despite that it is not the same as in the Z6. The Xpeed 7 Processor and its image processing capabilities is definitely a huge step up ... I see that in comparison to my Z7.
@@macpaperts Damn it ... somehow my first answer got lost :( So a shorter answer this time. Z7/Z7ii excel in regard to ergonomics, handling and resolution. The Zf is far superior in regard to Autofocus, IBIS, low light and video capabilities and overall satisfaction. My Zf is complementing my Z7, which I keep. If productivity is your main concern, wait for the Z6iii because of ergonomics and handling. If you are searching for a fun and beautiful looking camera including Nikons latest Tech, the Zf will deliver and serve you well. But she demands compromises.
@@solusquinto sad the long answer got lost. Thank you for sharing your opinions. I’m about to jump into mirrorless and knowing the experiences of others is really helpful.
Been enjoying the Zf! Loved hearing your thoughts!
I just saw your review pop up and am so excited to watch it!
Very nice review - talking about your real life opinions and experience, and not trying to “out-tech” other reviewers. I love my Zf and have some different opinions on some aspects of- but really like your objective take. Great job - and engagingly, and naturally presented.
In essence, most cameras are quite similar. The subtle variations in color and dynamic range are typically only noticeable to photographers. These variations become even less significant once a photographer modifies the raw file with a filter, changing its color.
Given this, the most important factors FOR ME to consider when buying a new camera are its ergonomics, user interface, and overall user experience. The Nikon Zf, with its intriguing features, seems very compelling
I ABSOLUTELY agree. If you’re not a professional, the most fun camera always wins.
This is definitely the most thorough, balanced and insightful review of the Nikon Zf that I’ve seen anywhere on the internet. It’s refreshing to see a review from someone that can actually take nice photos. I sold an X100V to fund this purchase and after owning the Zf for nearly six weeks, I pretty much agree with most of your points. Despite its quirks such as the annoying auto ISO implementation, which you mentioned, I’m enjoying using the Zf immensely. I wish that Nikon offered the same level of colour profile customisation that Fujifilm offers, including the ability to add grain to JPEGs, but hopefully Nikon will add LUT integration in a future firmware update.
Re-watching this, I noticed the point about the lack of quick access to Subject Detection options. Agreed. Wish it were mappable directly to a physical button. I have two pretty good workarounds for this, no need for cumbersome menu-dives in either approach.
First, you can access subject detection in the Info screen by assigning "AF Area Mode / Subject Detection" to one of the twelve info screen buttons. Additionally, if the button is pre-highlighted when you click the "i" button, then it's just a press of the i-button and a wheel turn. This is what I opt to do and it's fast.
Another way is, you can actually map subject detection directly to a physical button by first saving "AF subject detection options" (from the Photo Shooting Menu) to the TOP line in your MY MENU (using the "Add items" option). Then, you can map Fn1 or another button to instantly recall your top-level My Menu item, by assigning "Access top item in MY MENU" to that button.
Hope that all makes sense 🙂
You can assign Auto ISO to the front Fn button. Press it with your finger while you have the camera to your eye and rotate the Aperture control ring. Easy-peasy, it takes 1 second to change while you are still composing your shot, no more frustration.
Yay thank you!! Going to try this!
Only a couple of hours with the camera wasn’t enough for me to really make up my mind on it, so this was really helpful and insightful. Also, super good to meet you in Atlanta!
They say never meet your heroes but I'm glad I did :) Eager to hear what you think of it if you ever pick one up for more than a couple hours. I'm such a simpleton so it's taking me a minute to deal with an everything but the kitchen sink camera but I do really love it.
Just stumbled across this while browsing RUclips, appreciate the review! I got the ZF coming from the Fuji XT5 and must say love the tactile feel and weight of it all
I'm so glad when YT sends nice new people over to say hi. Thanks for watching and enjoy your ZF!
I'm thinking of making the same switch. You still have no regrets? In which ways do you think it's better or worse?
I'm thinking to move from the Fuji system to the ZF, what are some of the things you like or dislike?
Would love to hear all your thoughts also, thinking is switching from the XT5
@@christophergibbons8748 it took a while to get used to, but now I can't put it down. My xt5 is being sold today and I loved that camera, but now it feels toyish and the images seem like AI.
This is a great real world/ real person review that has actually covered something I have not heard before. I just put one on order last week...looking forward to something a bit more tactile and analog than my DSLR
Glad it was helpful!
25:02 The ISO dial should be set up exactly as you described it in the video. Use the C for Auto ISO, then switch to manual mode when using the dial to select the ISO desired. Thank you for taking the time to make this detailed review. I have the ZF and I enjoy it alot. There's room for improvement, some via firmware update, and I hope Nikon listens and adds some of the options you and others have mentioned.
Thank you for watching!
Actually, in PSA mode, “C” is the control position, which allows you to select ISO via the screen or set it to Auto ISO in the menu, which you can then turn on and off via either or a programmed button. It seems some people want it to operate like Fuji but, once you know how to use it, you get used to it. It’s like cars, some have the steering wheel phone/volume controls on the left and some have it on the right. Once you own the car you get used to it. Can be a bit of a pain if you have both type though.
@izziereal2010 Amen! Adding to my earlier comment: This is an ideal example of responsiveness to user input via firmware inputs, no physical change required. Nikon has set somewhat of a precedent on Z bodies with firmware updates. I hope they continue for both Nikon users and Nikon corporate. _It's a cost effective way to keep a product fresh_ (hint, hint).
I mapped auto-ISO to the video button. Then the subcommand dial flicks it on and off. Agree with the non-cable release thread. What a missed opportunity to go even more retro! As a Nikon shooter I just don't understand how Fuji people say changing (and remembering) three different dial settings to get into auto modes is more "intuitive" than changing one switch. It defies logic, but every Fuji shooter says it is intuitive. Then they buy an XS-20 with PASM.
I love the idea of having the ZF on sticks in Yosemite with a cable release like I’m Ansel Adam’s. Alas, a phone trigger it will be 😂
Totally agree all cameras are unique and you have to use them to work around their own limitations and thats all part of the fun. I look forward to getting a Voigtlander paired with the Zf for that true vintage vibe and hats off to Nikon for making a camera like this.
Thank you ever so much for such a tremendously insightful and informative review, drawing from real world experience (rather than just the ubiquitous "reading of the spec sheet" one sees seemingly everywhere when researching new releases!).
Thank you very much, you’ve got a new subscriber from across the pond eagerly awaiting more fabulous and contextually relatable content from you!
Glad it was helpful!
My first Nikons were an FE and an FE2, so I MUST have this camera! :)
Loved the video! Thanks for sharing!
Best review I have seen of this camera. Watched so many just about to buy one
You are easily one of the very few people on YT that i was extremely looking forward to seeing their review on the this camera. You and like Samuel Streetlife maybe? And you def didnt dissapoint. Was also happy to hear your feelings about the black and white mode 😊
I can't tell you what a relief that is. I found this a hard camera to review because it feels so multifaceted and I was a bit unsure how to cram all my thoughts in here (I ended upheaving to cut a lot). Thanks for watching!
@@OneMonthTwoCameras hahaha that's whats up! I'm def in need of a full frame 10bit camera. And it's getting down to this and like the zve1 or a7siii. But im thinking (and due to my current budget) that the lumix S5 might be the sleeper. Plus I LOVE the black and white mode/customization on the panasonics. Their grain is something special, that at first, I thought was a silly gimmick. But after I looked back at some of the photos I took with with it years ago, I actually LOVE the grain you can add. It's random too
24:55 auto ISO can be enabled by pressing the iso button and turning the front dial.
Since Zf is not a normal body, I assigned iso to the video record button!
Now I can easily access iso settings like I do with my Z6iii
I pre-ordered mine as soon as I touched the mockup at Yodabashi in Osaka. A month later it arrived and I was floored by how responsive it was with AF under low light conditions. I 've got the Smallrig grip which helped a lot in holding the camera. The 40mm SE kit lens is perfect and the photos taken with the "pro-standard" color profile remind me of Kodachrome. My only complain is the flimsy battery door. Otherwise, what a fun camera to shoot with.
Oh that is so funny! I have the exact same gripe with the battery door and was so annoyed when I was editing to realized I'd forgotten to mention it so thank you for calling that out!
At least they have great weather sealing on. I’m not certain if this is also the same on the Zf but, I assume it is, the fact that you can’t connect the camera to your computer to offload files. I have a Sony FX30 (had the A7R V as well) and I just connect the camera to my laptop and am able to access and offload files. I don’t like to carry around a card reader, granted the Z8 has CF Express type B (I use a 1TB version and no SD card for better speeds) and I need one for that however, the Zf uses SD and micro SD, can you plug in and access the files or do you have to used a card reader?
@@waynerm002 I'm happy to report you can upload from the camera to the desk or laptop with a USB-C cord connection no problem.
@@OneMonthTwoCameras Great! Maybe it’s just a CF Express thing.
Hey Eric, pro standard colour profile? Which one do you mean? Thanks.
I agree with basically everything, ergonomics should be better (retrostyle or not), some UI decisions are ... extra, still the least compromised retro Nikon so far.
The sensor shield can only exist in cameras without a mechanical shutter like the Z8 or Z9. There's just not enough space for both.
One recommendation: Get the 40mm f2, the retro styled one. It is so perfect on the Zf!
Ah that makes so much sense about the sensor shield, thanks for highlighting that. And yes I reeeeeally want that 40mm now :)
@@OneMonthTwoCamerasA7IV has a sensor shield.
So does the canon r6ii
@@eightfoldstories-weddingfi8022 and @TCinSoCal Those cameras do not have a sensor shield, they just close the shutter and call it a sensor shield. Sure it works against dust on the sensor but now the most vulnerable mechanical part of the camera is exposed: the shutter curtain.
So does the A7RV and the A9II. Technically it is not a shield but the actual mechanical shutter coming down on all current Sony bodies.
Love my D780. Gives me the best of both DSLR and mirrorless all in one camera body. But the Zf is just drop dead gorgeous.
First time coming across your channel, so happy to have found you-wonderful review!
First of all, I love your look and your hair, very beautiful
Thank you so much for such a generous comment and yes I agree with everything you say. It’s hard to find that perfect balance of having great modern features while also being simple and pleasurable to shoot. I’m very happy the ZF exists and think they will just continue to improve it.
The reason to your focus point shifting when you sit with the camera in hand is probably that you have the Custom Settings Menu a5 "Store Focus Points by orientation" set to something other than Off.
BTW, you can remap the OK button to zoom into 200% with just one push off the button.
Super helpful on the store focus point note! I will take a look at that. As for the OK button, I did try that for zoom but still found I needed the recenter autofocus function so kept that but still trying all ways to find what works best for me.
As much as I love using the ZF the issues that you mention if I had to choose the Fujifilm XT5 or the ZF, it's the Fujifilm XT5 because of the way they implement the card slots, the tilt down screen better button layout and lens selection that fits the XT5 so well, the Fujifilm bodies just fits better in hand and for some one that uses the camera for photography the ability to use an L-bracket on the Fujifilm with out interfering with the screen, and I like using a wired remote when using a tripod ,so for me I have been using the Zf with manual focus Voightlander glass.
This is my favorite photo channel here on RUclips! ty!! :)
Wow, thank you!!! 💕
Very interesting and down to earth video, thanks! My take about the differences between Fujifilm's "analog" implementation and Nikon's (as seen on Df, Zfc and Zf) is that they only become an issue when you work with both systems at the same time. I lived that way for a few years, when I combined a D850+Df based DSLR system with a Fujifilm mirrorless system, and I did utter quite a few swear words when trying to use the Df in an "analogue" way. It is definitely true that Fujifilm's implementation is more immediately intuitive.
But, as I let go of my last Fujifilm body last year to immerse completely into the Nikon mirrorless universe (Z7+Zfc), my muscle memory quickly adapted. I very recently traded my Z7 for the Zf, and live very happily with 3 "analog" Nikon bodies that all operate the same way. So, confusion is gone, it all works smoothly. I still use a DSLR (Df) for my legacy SLR lenses, but the Zf has become my,main workhorse (for NikonZ lenses, a Voigtlander Z-mount lens and adapted m-mount). The Zfc (+24mm dx) will still be used for ultra light/compact city trip/hiking occasions and for backup. All set up the same way.
I use auto iso and the knob to set my lowest limit. Not the highest. I keep pingponging between this camera and the X-T30ii. The fuji wins in size (so cute!), ease of use and the sooc jpg recipes. But.. eventhough the Zf is larger/heavier i feel it is a significant step up. Love the review, tx!
Oh I like that! I'll have to give that method a try. I really hope Nikon gets with the picture game and opens up more capabilities for jpeg settings to really give Fuji some competition.
I think that the next advance in usability will be an interface for users to curate and prioritize the features a camera offers when in use. Not a stripped-down automatic Green Square mode, but streamlined use-cases that we can tailor to our own preferences and then switch between as necessary. The Nikon allowing you to hide AF options is a good example of this.
And I don't understand why camera manufacturers still place silly restrictions on customizing controls. If there's a function or a selection or a toggle, I want to be able to map a button or dial to control it. If there's an assigned function that isn't applicable based on the shooting mode or other current settings, I want the camera to offer an opportunity to define an alternate assignment for those cases. All control points should be definable. Yes, I know that flexibility could be confusing, but I'm really the only person who needs to understand how my camera is configured.
Yes to absolutely everything you said
@bcostin As an old Nikon shooter (since 1965) and with a 2d career in IT / human interface design allow me to upvote your post 100X.
Thank you for taking the time to post your experiences with this camera; my first camera was the Nikon FE2, which I still own, so the retro styling certainly rings a bell with me. As far as emulating a colour profile, my dream would be to find something resembling the Agfa chrome (35mm - pushed 2 stops) that gave a stunning French-Impressionist painting look...maybe a tweak post-production can be done, if not in camera. Thanks again for your honest review - cheers!
how this camera compares to Lumix S5ii/x? especially how ibis compares?
So excited to have found your channel and I think I'm your mini-me! Love my old Fuji cameras probably the most and partial to old Nikon DSLRs. Just last night I used my Fuji XE-2 and that little thing is by far the camera I will be cremated with. RE: the Zf, agree with all the points, especially on the waist level preference! I just end up leaving the screen closed. Great video! I live in ATL and may remember seeing you on that film group meet up!
Oh wow!! Say hi next time for sure!
I wish I had the bravery to take my camera to the beach but I just have visions of getting chased away with pitchforks 😅 - Also, I adore Nikon's recent black and white profile. I had a Zfc for a while and it made me shoot in monochrome way more than I used to. Such a rich straight out of camera look!
Edit: Lovely to see Caleb's face pop up a couple of times :)
LOL
Wow. Great review. The Rich Tone profile photos in this review is great. Was watching Omar's YT video and his B&W photos were really good. I think these 2 profiles will be my favorites.
Thank you and yes, those two settings are my fav for sure! Rich Tone Portrait and Standard Monochrome all day.
100% agree with the video workflow point. Honestly, that feature alone makes the Nikon bodies one of the best hybrid solutions on the market. I love not having to reset anything when I'm working in any fast paced environment
Thank you for the "limit AF modes". I have the zfc and didn't know about that function!
It's such a game changer!
Just bought this camera and I'm reaaally excited. Really hope the auto ISO thing can be resolved through a firmware update.
I've been shooting with a Z5 since it came out. The firmware updates for it have improved it to the point that I'm satisfied with its performance. I'm seriously considering the Zf. I'm not sure its advantages over the Z5 are worth the investment. Focus is fine with the Z5. I hit well over 80% in autofocus, and it uses the same tools for manual focus as the Zf. Thank you so much for this video. You've answered a LOT of the questions I have.
The Z5 has subject detection autofocus? I thought that was new and only on the Zf.
I'm so glad you enjoyed it!
i ised z5 one year an buy zf, zf focus its super fast z5 - very slow after all updates.
love my blue Zf - such a piece of art
Ooo I regret not holding out for a color. I was impatient :)
@@OneMonthTwoCameras haha understandably 🙂
That picture at 14:02 is amazing. I don't know how intentional it's theme and framing was but regardless of the intention, the outcome and editing is great.
I'm first clearly drawn to the couple in the middle, the man linked but somewhat occluded. After that I'm then noticing the slightly shaded/vignetted male on the right who demands my attention by not quite being balanced with the framing, being closer to the pair than usually ideal and I as an observer instantly have a gut reaction that drives my brain to a certain theme, of a man eyeing another's wife, not even noticing him in the bigger picture (hence his occlusion) but THEN I suddenly notice the dog dragging its leash that is only now noticeable because of the strong vignette as well as the also imbalanced, slightly off-framed nature, scolding my idea of the previous interpretation, showing me that the second male is more of a concerned lovable dog owner than a lovestricken or lusting man who doesn't care about her "appendage".
It left me with quite the smirk. I would probably only have changed some technical executions with the vignette and focus and might have grapped a 21:9 aspect ratio for this specific case but honestly that's neither here nor there. It's just one of the most fun photos I have seen in a while. There are other great photos in this video of course but they weren't quite as interesting in a storytelling way.
That one was definitely my favorite.
Another great review!
TY!!
Maybe i misunderstood your issue but ive mapped the auto iso on and off to the rear Exposure Lock button and front dial. So a quick hold and turn switches it off and on. The issue that still remains however is that if I turn auto iso off i seem to be unable to simply assign the rear dial to change iso range...it still requires me to press the exposure lock button at the same time...impossible to do with only right hand! Without pressing the exposure lock button first the rear dial simply defaults to aperture. Why Nikon? Ive already moved my aperture control to the lens' control ring. Now i have it duplicated. They really need to add more choice to customisation in future firmware.
Is anyone able to figure out how I can assign iso to rear dial in manual mode?
I also had a Df and experienced the same kind of manual focusing challenges you did. The Zf is just so much better.
As for ISO, I’m one of the M/Auto-ISO guys. The Zf is perfect for that. I just dial down the max iso in the menu all the way - then the ISO dial always controls MAXIMUM ISO (which, really, is all you care about).
Thanks for sharing!
Hello and thanks for this great review! Where did you get your camera strap connectors?
Really enjoyed your review! It was also nice to hear someone else mention how utterly INCREDIBLY magnificent the Fujifilm X-T1 is haha. I've owned many many cameras over the years, all the way up to a GFX 100S medium format camera. However, not one camera makes me love it more than the X-T1. It's just the most satisfying camera I've ever owned, and I'll never ever ever sell it. ❤
You and me both! Thanks for watching :)
Great review…….huge amount of ground covered as usual in a really engaging way…..strikes me yet again how well Fuji implemented their model……..one thing I really struggle with is the look & feel of this when using traditional Nikon glass…….the price we pay for progress I guess……would really like to see a stripped back version with a more flexible rear screen and unlocked lut capability……..
Ooo I would love that as well 😍
What a great review you have done here !!! Great job. It’s outstanding how much of littles flaws this camera seems to have
I was about to get mine but after your review and knowing how much I am attached to these little details that end making me crazy that I decided to not go for this release
I will keep my Df and go for the Lumix S5 II X for a small 24Mp hybrid camera
Hi Didier! Great to see your name here. I’m looking forward to seeing more of your videos. Your D3s series are awesome! Please don’t stop!
@@romansivers thanks a lot
I know I have to keep on but my daily activity makes me always busy
But I don’t give up! Stay tuned !
The DF is still such an amazing camera and honestly is better in some areas and that is why I haven't given mine up either. And if you have the S5II, that camera is such a beast. I used it briefly and was incredibly impressed.
@@OneMonthTwoCameras thanks for taking the time to reply. I tried it this week but I prefer to wait a little bit. I have too many gear already. But sure it’s a beast. Paired with SL glasses the result is outstanding of precision and clarity
See you in a next video 😊
The Nikon ZF is a beautiful camera.
It is not a question of nostalgia, but an "ancient" way of conceiving photography in shooting the pose and at the same time very modern due to digital technology and everything that this entails.
The fact that I took countless photographs with a Nikon FM2n, which I still own, makes me really appreciate that this manufacturer is offering the ZF for sale. I would say that it is an excellent idea, even if for a small market and also "smart".
Only Fuji has followed this path, with excellent success, also given the quality of the lenses, but perhaps Canon could also create a camera with a "vintage" appearance albeit very modern.
One last thing, the importer of the ZFs in Europe has them on sale for 2500 Euros (around 2500 USD).
I know that in the USA the camera is sold for around 2000 USD.
It's true, there are different taxes and customs duties, but 500 USD (or euros) more seems too much to me.
As always, a welcome and valuable review and.....
forgive the bad English
Subscribed. I really appreciate your focus on practical/ergonomic aspects. I like to walk 10 miles with a camera in my hand, so these things are important.
As a Fuji X-T5 user, I'm always envious of full frame low-light performance. So it's good when fair reviews help prevent me leaping irrationally to something that might be even a bit more chunky/clunky. Anyway, my X-T5 just gives me a heavier learning curve for getting decent photos at night, which I can twist into a positive XD
I wish you had more RUclips visibility… your channel is non compromising and as artsy as it’s technical… Beautiful!
Oh my that is very kind of you
Thanks for the detailed UI issues. I think I made the right call getting a 6D Mark ii for cheap recently. Every button combo and custom mapping works exactly as I expect it to. Even the auto ISO settings and override make sense. All these mirrorless options have moved away from the nice UI and convenient top LCD screen just for the sake of making something different.
Great review!!
Btw 27:57 can it really shoot 4:2:2 10bit internally? Not 4:2:0 10 bit ?
I’m sorry for asking this but some people said can do 4:2:2,
some people said 4:2:0 (only can do 4:2:2 via HDMI output)
I’ve searched thousands pages on google but couldn’t find right information..
Hope you can check that for me 😢
Thank you!
I unfortunately am now as confused as you are but it definitely has h265 10 bit recording and as I understand it, has matching video specs to the z9 which does have 4:2:2 internal
@@OneMonthTwoCameras Fuji X-S20 does have 10 bit 4:2:2 internal (with DCI & UHD 60p plus 6.2K/30P 4:2:2 10-bit internal)
@@Sky-ne5gn yes it does. I think the question was in regard to the ZF?
What camera strap and connection are you using on the ZF in this video?
Very nice review, thank you!
Glad you enjoyed it!
which strap is that? i love the way it looks! and it looks comfortable too
You can change and disable and enable object tracking in the i-menu
I do not own the Zf, but the Z9 and also found I wanted a quick way to turn on/off the subject detection. So here is my "work around". On the Z9 you can map "Recall Shooting Functions" to the DISP button (which I did) and I have subject detection on/off mapped there. That allows the exact issue you mention to be overcome. Many times when shooting wildlife, if the camera won't focus where I want it to, I turn that off and use the custom Wide Area 1x1 box (now without subject detection - to act as single point. I realize with the Zf, the numbers of buttons for programming and real estate aren't as large, so I don't know if this work around is available for you.
You are a hero, thank you for sharing. I’ll give this a try.
@@OneMonthTwoCameras Thank you for your truly insightful reviews (which I enjoy - because they are very well thought out from your perspective. Personally, I always feel I can learn something that might apply to what I do from someone else's viewpoint. If you have any difficulty with the setup I mentioned, just tag me. Hope it works for you. I use the 1x1 custom WA instead of single point because you have the option of subject detection on/off with it making it a bit more versatile for me.
Great review, love all of your videos.
Thanks so much!
Oh my gosh if you don't like the grip you've got to get the viltrox 20, several nikon pancake lenses (24, 26, 28, 40) that are super light with aperture maxs 2-2.8. Try it without grip and these little cheap lenses are sharp af. I use a monster voigtlander 50 f/1 manual expensive beast with grip and it is now my go to and my pro work is my Z9. I am happy as shit but I used the Leica Q3 43 for a month in Ireland and I cry myself to sleep every night because I couldn't afford to keep it. Great review, love your videos and your work. Your reviews are right on the money and you have such a beautiful eye. Thanks and subbed.
Nice but long review , thx! My red blower is good for front lens elements but I have a yellow one for blowing my sensor which has a built in filter. I’m worried you are adding dust with your red one?
If anyone is wondering who the guy is at 25:00, its Ralph Mayhew, from Australia. Awesome nikon youtuber
That is an awesome shout out! I linked his video as well. He saved my butt :P
Thanks for this review and all your hard work, Seems like this is another swiss cheese camera: half cheese half holes. FYI: I appreciate, as much as one can, the ads attached to this video; they are not the usual B&H/gov't spending card/snake oil health remedies. Happy new year, cheers!
How would you compare the colors (raws) to canons? I’m still waiting for your color profile and lens reviews 😅
Fantastic review, thank you very much!
Is that King Jives? got mine for $1700 usd TAX includedx+40mm f2. I´ll be using it this weekend hope it as good as the reviews. Awesome video!
Great video, thanks, I really enjoyed it. I'm a Nikon fan and I preorderd the Zf, and love it - I also have a Zfc. But, three minor points to clarify. First, I can't see why everybody thinks the aesthetic is based on the FM2, when it is clearly based on the 1977 FM body. The only change between the FM and FM2 external body was the upgrade from 1000th of a second to 4000th of a second on the shutter speed dial and the slight modification to the shutter release button. Despite what Nikon might say, the Nikon Zf is clearly based on the original 1977 Nikon FM. Second, you can map the lens focus ring to set aperture, you do this from the menu. This is ok if, like me, you don't normally manual focus, but not perfect, but it does give you an "aperture ring". I too wish Nikon would release some new lenses with proper aperture rings. Third point: the manual cable release button within the shutter release button does actually work if you have the correct mechanical cable - it is not simply aesthetic.
Thanks for watching and that's a helpful clarification! Odd indeed that Nikon would site the FM2 on its own product page if it's not in fact the design inspiration (www.nikon.com/company/news/2023/0920_mirrorless_01.html). Do you happen to know the mechanical cable release that would work with this camera? Plenty of people have asked and none of mine have worked. I poked around the web and many others said theirs didn't either so it would be wonderful to be able to direct people to the proper cable.
What an awesome review. Thank you.
You can assign a button to change the ISO. By pressing the button and pressing the knobs you will be able to quickly change the iso and switch to auto iso. Unfortunately, you have assigned other functions to the buttons.
Love your reviews. They are just so fun and calming to watch. I don't think you ramble, you're very conversational. This is a silly question, but I love the look of your camera strap. Do you mind sharing what it is? Thank you!
Thank you as always Kary! So funny you say that about the strap; I've gotten a lot of questions about it and is an old 70s strap that I found randomly on a thrift hunt that is complete with elastic loops for film canisters. And I just found another on eBay! Grab it while you can! www.ebay.com/itm/403520323573
That’s why I was wondering, it looked so cool and retro, but I love the black. Thanks for the link!!
Planning on picking one up. Been wanting for something like this. It reminds me of my F3T. Thank you for your review.
Enjoy!!
Totally agree that the auto/manual iso control is bummer.
Regarding moving from wide or small auto detect area to single point, press i-menu and move with D-pad to AF icon, then use back wheel to scroll left to single point. Next time you press i-menu it remembers where you were so for me it's button press and two scrolls left or right to switch between single point and auto detect area. Yes customising a button to switch between two of you choosing would be better but for me it's ok workaround
Whoa 🤯! This is awesome. Thanks so much for sharing; I’ll check that out
When you compare Zf with A6600 about featured, would you say Z50 has it.... you can go for any of the full frame Sonys and they also do separate settings for video and photo.
U think it could take over my A7s for low light photography?
Have you sorted out how to stop the focus boxes jumping around, and the recentering of the focus point, its driving me round the bend. Good video, thanks.
Thank you for the video. I just bought one last Friday. I love it but have a hate love relationship with the ISO implementation also. Other than that it's a lovely camera. Video didn't even feel like 38min long. I can't really sit down and watch videos this long. But yours just flew by great info all the way through.
I'm so so glad you enjoyed it!
Thank you for such a detailed and thorough review. Im in two minds a lot of positives and negatives in your video. Im sort of ok with my Fuji for now the XT4 & XH2s are giving me enough quality for the weddings and events I capture. TBH its the fuji glass thats has the secret sauce especially the newer 18mm f1.4, 33mm f1.4 & 56 f1.2 mk2 lenses which are just stunning in every aspect including AF. But sometimes i miss the full frame high iso and clean images you can achieve and the fact you can get lazy with Full frame in being able to put on a 24-70 f2.8 and still get achieve nice shallow depth which is a lot harder with the Fuji 16-55 f2.8.
Well I was just about to place an order for one of these as I'm keen to return to Nikon after not liking the way Sony do things. But I've just realised there's no AF-ON button? I've been shooting with autofocus disengaged from my shutter button since my D200 in 2006 and I'm not going back to having my shutter button do AF. But I see this review is nearly a year old, so perhaps there's a Zf II in the works...
Thanks for your reviews on Olympus... I have 5 (oldest is C-2000z, circa 2000) 2.11MP wow). I've got 1 4/3 , 3 m4/3. Favorite is the E-M5 ii. I have a slew of adapted lenses. I have my hands full
I loved this long, in-depth review. You covered so much ground with a delightfully engaging, smart authority. Subscribed! I'm wondering how you are adapting to the awkward swing- out LCD screen in your street and landscape stills shooting--this is my biggest concern as a travel, landscape photog. And I'm curious what tripod will you plan to use in Yosemite for a fairly compact travel kit, or will you try to hand-hold entirely, even in low light, relying on the excellent IBIS and low-noise at high ISO?
Thank you so much for the kind words! As for the LCD, I'm trying just not to use it much which, for street, I am very used to doing. For landscape, I admittedly don't shoot a lot of it so haven't exercised it enough in that arena to know what works best yet. For Yosemite, I'm just going very light weight and bringing my travel tripod with the 24-70 kit zoom (I'll be bringing another camera I'm going to be reviewing shortly for the longer end of things). That tripod is the Sirui Traveler X Tripod that I covered a bit in this video and which has become my go to all year because it is so light and portable. I'm also a huge fan of a video head for stills photography as it's just so much more versatile. ruclips.net/video/6CBocN2Fl1w/видео.html
@OneMonthTwoCameras-Thanks so much for your reply, Ali. I've been addicted to your videos since finding your YT channel a week ago. You have such a genuine, fun, whimsical, but super articulate, informative, no- BS style I find captivating and super entertaining. Yeah, that articulating screen is my biggest worry about the ZF since I only shoot stills, and it's a shame not to have the on-axis tilting screen (ideally like the Z8, or Fuji X-T5). Thanks loads for the Sirui tripod mention and your accessories video link. I hope you will give us an update on your experience with the ZF when you've had a few months with it. I will be waiting for the Z6III to compare, but I love the looks and tactile vibe of the Zf--so similar to the FM2 & F3 I used for years starting out. Can't wait to see your post on the Yosemite trip--have a ball!- Robert
appreciate your review. I have to ask, in some of the video footage from the camera, I saw what looked like an interview involving one of my favorite camera people in gxace. Do you know him or was that something you were working on. Thanks and have a great day
I do know @gxace! Lovely human and that was a clip from a recent video he was in with the Mamiyamigos. Check it out: ruclips.net/video/gu3t_XzwwoY/видео.html
Thank you for that! I'll definitely check that out. Will definitely be giving you a subscribe.
@@just_A_Hack 💕
@@OneMonthTwoCamerasI was watching your review again and may have a workaround for your auto iso. The dial still has to be on c, but I programmed my record button in photo mode to control iso so.if you hold it hen you can use the back dial to change your iso and the front dial will go from regular to auto. You still have to set your maximum inside the menu, but it lets it work more like the z6 if you go that route
This camera looks great. Though as you said as an XT2 user for long time there are too many irritants in this camera especially as I am only interested in stills. Lack of focus joystick, lens without aperture controls, no tilt screen, confusion mode buttons all add up to a lot.
It does and for a camera you already have, know and love, if it ain't broke don't fix it :)
I know this was a while back but I'm glad I found it! (I have commented on your videos before... I'm the one from Atlanta who was on that photowalk but didn't actually meet you!) You and I have so much in common with regards to which cameras we lean towards and I have total confidence that most things you don't like, I won't like! It's just nice to hear more detail around the beautiful points of this camera and the challenges as well, which I completely and totally agree with 100% on every single one. How did it perform for you in Yosemite? Lastly, I do shoot some wildlife (birds, mostly) and have considered picking up a long lens and giving it a go. Many would call me crazy since it's not your typical birding set up but honestly, I think it can do quite well. I did pick up the grip by the way and it's so much better. BTW, Sigma I think is blocked by the Tamron/Nikon relationship so not expecting lenses, sadly. Oh, and the flip out screen - bleh. As a street photographer, I REALLY prefer the tilt screen. My solution has been to completely close the screen and treat it like a film camera. Not as flexible. Lastly, totally agree that we need more custom buttons! Thanks for all your awesome videos! p.s. I haven't heard you mention anything in your archives about the Panasonic GX9. I absolutely love it! Touch to focus is insanely precise and the colors are amazing! Would love to know what you think.
Yes, it is annoying, this wandering point happens because the function is activated and it should show up at the place where the object was detected. You can turn it off in the Menu.
your user grips and Menu Logic is Brilliant they should hire you to do Firmware updates, layout and functions of the UI and programming. Great Content! - Thank you!
ahahahaha video stuff ... love that!! ALSO that video clip of Lauren and I 🥰 ALSO ALSO ALSO you are the best .... just saying
Thank you for being the star of this video!! :P
Loved the review. I was going to pick one of these up but decided on the z7ii for now which has been great for landscape. I do think I’ll grab a z6ii when it comes out. If it has a different sensor than the zf with more megapixels then no way I’ll just get a zf. I really want less megapixels for street and everyday photography. I hope you enjoy your trip to Yosemite. I went last July and took my d700. What an amazing place. Also I love that you use Snapseed, I do sometimes as well. It’s a cool app. Thanks for the great videos 😊
Thank you for the review !
Having currently the X-T2, I plan to upgrade one day to X-T5 (or X-T6) for the better AF, better face and animals detection and IBIS. I thought about that ZF but it seems to have too much drawbacks from a fuji user pov considering the price.
I went from the xt2 to the zf for my high volume photo biz. The zf is night and day difference from the xt2. Not sure about the xt5, but seeing people still complaining about the focus issues, I’m glad I went with the zf and 50mm 1.8. From the very first image the focus nailed the eye and came out sharp. Then picture after picture were the same result. Wife, kids, dogs, all in focus and sharp. My xt2 and 56 @f2 only gave me 1 in focus on the eyes image out of a series of 100+ images I shot a few weeks ago. It was so bad in focus that I was reduced to shooting at 7.1 to make sure I was not missing focus for 2 sessions of 250+ people this past month. I thought, maybe user error, but after 10+ years of testing changes and trying to find a resolution, I decided to switch. So glad I did.
how do you load a film in this camera ?
Your review is very indepth. Thanks and I subscribed
Thanks for watching!
The DF inherited the problematic AF from the D610, I sold mine for the very same reason and switched to a D4s paired with an old SIgman 50mm F/1.4 ex (not the art version) and the colors this combo produces are amazing! Focusing even in very low light, is accurate. And If you want colors with a 3d pop attach the nikon 17-55mm DX to the D4s and you'll be happy, but a very, very heavy combo, not ideal for traveling or discrete street photography. Having watched your channel, I think you will fall inlove with the D4s raw files, they are easy to customize to your specific taste, I'd say they are the most flexible nikon files to work with and the dynamic range is still the best IMHO of nikon pro cameras.
I was thinking of a Df for about half the price of Zf, still haven’t adjusted to EVF’s..
Excellent review, thanks for that. I am even more tempted by this camera now. I mostly look for a camera that will get out of my way and just take the shot I'm seeing with minimal fuss possible. Although the ZF seems fussy in the way it operates it does look to me that once set up you could trust it just to get the shot. One thing I would like to know though is how is the start up time? One thing I love about DSLRs is the instant start up time. It's not talked about that much.
The start up time is super fast. Definitely not an area of concern. If you have the chance to get your hands on one it’s definitely worth testing out to see if it will work for you. I am the same where it works because once set up, I do t want to go in and change much of anything. Shoot and enjoy :)
I’m sure it is a great camera. The one feature I need is the opportunity to go out and make pictures. That’s not the camera companies fault. Showing what it is like to actually use the camera is more helpful than most reviews I see.
I think a lot of GAS is the masked desire for time to actually shoot
Hi Ali, I didn't know that you have a Nikon Df... It is my favourite camera ever. I use it with a Voigtländer 40mm f2 Ultron SL II and it is a very cool "film like" combo. Looking forward to see your video about the Nikon Df!!
That is awesome! I really like the DF. Ergonomically it beats the ZF and the files are amazing. Two wonderful cameras that make no sense to own together and yet here I am, unwilling to part with either :P
What's the strap that you're using? Looking good...
It's an old 70s camera strap that I quite like. They used to make such nice simple sturdy straps. You can still find some on ebay: www.ebay.com/itm/124958410581
Please a DF comparison!?
Everyone says the same thing about that B&W switch 😎 Ordering this Zf today 🤗
Enjoy!!!
Hello what zoom lense would you recommend for this lense? I was thinking of getting the Tamron 35-150 but I think it might be too heavy for it
I’m quite happy with the kit 24-70 f4
This was the kind of descriptive review I was looking for. Neat camera, might pick one up as a spare body maybe
So glad it was helpful ≽^•⩊•^≼