@@Almost_Blue_ I do the same exact thing if I’m not shooting at a weird angle where I need the screen, big fan of that! Keeps me locked into the process.
It's the really the one thing I do appreciate with a flippy screen. And if I'm being fair, the flippy screen is on-axis for verticals, which is handy for portraits. But I still prefer the Z8/9 multi-axis tilt, for photos.
I went from Fuji to the zf. Both x100 and XT series cameras, the zf, for me, was a great choice. I love to shoot with it. I never really enjoyed shooting with the XT, but loved the x100 series. The zf makes me want to shoot more than the x100 series because portraits look much better and just every day snap shots look amazing. I thought I would miss the film sims, but I actually don’t. The zf colors are beautiful and I shoot in b&w so much more than I thought I would. Focusing, image, and FF sensor just give me something Fuji never got right.
@@BUCKSHOTSTV I agree wholeheartedly, I was a big film sim shooter myself and find myself not missing that at all on the ZF. The JPEGs are more natural looking on Nikon, and you can make a RAW file look however you like. As you say, the auto focus system on the Nikon is so much more complete that it makes it the easy choice for the better all-around package.
There are things about the Zf that I don’t like. I also want to pick it up and use it every single day. And if I’m honest, none of the things I don’t like about it have interfered with operating the camera. If you own one, take the time to settle into configuring and understanding how to make it work for you. The Zf is my favorite digital camera in a long series of them that started with a D100 back in 2003.
I’m in the same exact boat…the little annoyances don’t overshadow all the nice parts and certainly don’t ruin the camera. I’m always wishing X or Y was a little more thought through and then I shrug and grab it to go shoot 😁
I hope Nikon leans into this style of building bodies that really scream, “this is not a disposable toy camera!” An even quirkier choice I would welcome is zero video features and a dedicated B&W sensor. You want retro? We’ll give you a truly retro photography tool that shoots B&W like film could never approach.
BTW the flippy screen perfectly encapsulates why no camera is ever perfect. When flipped around, it’s perfect for the design. Protects the screen and emphasizes the retro look. But when I went to shoot low, I’d much rather have a tilt screen. All choices in design involve compromises. You want a perfect 50mm lens? Try spending over $2000 to own a bazooka that intimidates anyone you point it at. I simultaneously love and hate my 50mm f/1.2. But unlike the Zf, it’s not a piece of equipment I constantly want to pick up.
Shotting Nikon since 1978 (FM) and the ZF is the FM (wolf in sheep’s clothing!) a pure joy to shoot with but packed with technology found on much higher priced cameras! I use pro glass and this body shooting in manual mode is my ultimate pleasure taking me back to the time of the FM!
@@ClyntGarnham very true, and if you love the FM aesthetic and in hand feel, this camera is like it came out of a Time Machine! Thanks for stopping by Clynt!
I got the Nikon Zfc a few months ago and I am glad I did over the Nikon zf. Smaller body and smaller lenses, taking pictures in public areas does not scream “photographer!”. I am waiting for a z5ii or the z6ii to drop price to $1,299 to go full frame.
I wish Nikon had more APS-C lens options for the Zfc class of cameras. Keep on eye on the next black friday/refurb sale, you should be able to snag a Z6ii for about that. It's down to $1391 right now and they usually give you 10% off during refurb sales.
I was dismissive of the camera at first, even after holding it in my hands at the store. I ended up giving it another try and fell in love with it. I’m also shooting it with Voigtlander lenses and get what you mean when you say it unlocks some magic. It’s a camera that I consistently want to use, and although without some smaller gripes regarding buttons and dials it never fails to deliver.
What Nikon should have done with the Zf. First they should have handed the person designing the controls a FM3A and a F2 Photomic. On those cameras where did you find the film speed setting (ISO)? On the shutter dial. That is a scheme that would easily fit the Zf and would allow the left dial to be re-purposed with more useful functions. Such as the Mode selection and underneath you could have the selection for the Single and Continuous Release options. Now, moving to the front on the film cameras where the self timer lever was placed you could have a similar shaped 3 position lever to control Focus mode. Front Command dial - lose it. Aperture can be controlled with the rear command dial because the shutter speed is only set by the Shutter Speed Dial unless it has been set to A. On the I Menu there will be some dedicated buttons that work with the Command Dial and these buttons will be to the left on the I Menu for an easy reach for the left thumb. One is The AF Area mode setting, hold down the button and roll thru the settings with the Command Dial. Another is the Auto ISO maximum, hold the button down and the max is set. The toggle switch for the Auto ISO will also reside in the I menu. The lock on the left dial can get ditched. It's a PITA on my Z7 II to have to hold that stupid button down while fighting the heavy resistance on the detents for that dial. Rest assured that dial won't get bumped by accident.
I was on the fence between the Zf and the Z6iii for my second body, and I went for a slightly used(14000 shutter count) Zf. I had listened to all the reviews, and what I would say is: do not listen to the negatives, they are really minor, this camera is a great camera, it is my favorite unless I need 45MP, which is not that often. It brought back the joy of photography, it is really hard to describe, but it just makes you think a bit more and then rewards you, and the controls, once you set it up the way you like it, are just perfect, they are just different from other bodies. I am an amateur, so pros with specific needs might not like it, I actually got mine from a pro. Anyways, if you want to fall in love with a camera as you did with your first one, this is the one to get.
@@brunopaquin5637 i’m not sure I would say don’t listen to the negatives, but definitely take them with a grain of salt, because as you say this is a very different camera than your average. You will not shoot this camera like you shoot a regular PASM mirrorless. Glad you’re enjoying it.
I love that I can use it Film style with the analog dials and my Vintage Nikon glass with the FTZ adapter. Then I can put the Z lenses on like the 180-600mm Z, and shoot DSLR style. My favorite part of the camera is when using Vintage lens on it and get the square box over the eye for focus.
Prior to the announcement of the the ZF, I was interested in the Z6II. When Nikon announced the ZF in Sept. 2023, I was attracted by the design, the autofocus system, the vari-angle screen, and the price. After a year of using it, I'm very glad I bought it. It performs very well, the JPEGs put of this camera are fantastic, the video recording is more than enough for me. I would've like the joystick to move the focal point around, but Nikon made it up by moving the focal point using the screen. I added a grip to my ZF, and I use large lenses with this camera and works well for me. A couple of example lenses are the 105mm f1.4 F mount lens with the F To Z adapter II and the Tamron 35-150mm f2-2.8 for photos and video.
@scotttuckerphotography I have two grips, one from Small Rig and the other from Neewer. Both work great, but I love the aesthetics of the Neewer grip. It has the Nikon red line like my F100 film camera. I added the red soft button for the shutter button and I love the way it looks.
@@izziereal2010 Nice! I've tried both as well and went the other way towards the SmallRig...the Neewer was better looking but too slippery for my tastes.
@scotttuckerphotography You are right, the Neewer was slippery when new. After some time of use, it is not slippery anymore and I get a good grip with it Between the two, the Small Rig will still have the better grip, but the gap between the two are closer.
Exactly what you said. This camera makes me want to take it along anywhere I go. Even to my office, it stays with me. Paired it with a 40mm Voigt, Z-mount. I've never had this feeling before, even with the Df, my default travel camera.
You can set auto iso on one of the buttons. Hold it and turn the dial to turn on and off. I live in Florida and use the voigtlander 40mm 1.2 for landscape quite often and never had glare issue.
I’ve used up all my custom buttons for more important stuff, plus the way I shoot AutoISO combined with the EC dial works faster IMO. I have a suspicion the glare issue is more face shaped related. Deeper eyes and brows probably don’t experience it.
Great video, Scott. I am not a Nikon user. I use a Canon R5. However, I have great respect for the Nikon system. I like Nikon colors. Unfortunately, Canon does not have a body like the ZF in the classic design. And I would really like to see Canon come up with something like this. Ideally in a slightly smaller size, like the R8. Something that you can really take with you every day, anywhere. Of course, taking into account all the comments noted in this video)) Good luck in developing the channel on RUclips. P.S. Gorgeous pictures on the site.
I appreciate the nice comments. If Canon released a digital Canonete, I might spend a little money 😅 the trend to big and heavy over time really misses the everyday photography use case. The crazy thing is, even the ZF is big, nearly the size of the GFX 100S, which I think is more a testament to Fuji doing wonders with that camera. I’d still love an EDC camera the size of my film Nikon, though.
Operationally, Nikon is benchmarking neither Fujifilm nor its own manual SLRs. Instead, its control paradigm derives from its first true AF pro SLR, the F4, which combined dials for shutter speed, ISO and exposure compensation (as well as an aperture ring on the lens) with a P(H)PASM switch.
Interesting, that's not a take I've heard before but can totally see it looking at the F4. Would the F4 prevent you from releasing the shutter if you were, say, in A mode with your shutter dial on a specific speed?
Great review Scott. The Zf is on my radar, so this was helpful. Regarding Auto ISO, one tip I have read was to set your max ISO at 200. With that, you can then use the ISO dial to control the max ISO range, so if you move the dial to 1600, then your auto ISO range is now your min setting (ie100) to 1600. Seems like a nice workaround to avoid turning Auto ISO on and off, plus you get to use the dial. I guess the only drawback would be if you wanted a fixed ISO that would never change.
@@craig_cunha glad you liked the review Craig, thank you for the feedback! I found a significant bug with that methodology if shooting shutter priority mode, just so you know. For whatever reason it will hard set the iso to the dial value instead of having that be the ceiling.
@@craig_cunha Wanted to let you know I misspoke (been a while since I looked at this). The bug is in Aperture Priority, here's a demo of it. ruclips.net/video/QLnhF2EcPR8/видео.html
@@scotttuckerphotography thanks very much for the follow up testing on this and even more so, the video showing how it works. Much appreciated. Definitely a bug and disappointing. Hopefully that is fixed with a future firmware update (or at least one option to let the user select how it would work). At least it works in manual, which with Auto ISO, is still very easy to work with. Thanks again Scott. I’m going to check out your written article now. 🙂
Zf is a great general camera but for specific applications like sports and wildlife there are much better options….but for an all rounder it does the job.
I have a Df and am thinking about trading it in for a Zf, or a Z6II… or maybe a Z6III… but I think you’re absolutely right about the UI issue on any Retro styled Nikon camera
@@andykphoto I would definitely give the ZF and Z6iii the first looks if in budget, they have brought a ton of capabilities to the table that the Z6ii can’t match.
I’ve owned most XT and two different GFX models…. I love Fuji. But, I feel like the ZF, is a more solid camera for my needs. The files are large enough, handle editing very well, and the camera is fun to use.
Being fun to use is the most important quality for a camera like this in my opinion. I shoot GFX as well and have shot many other Fuji X cameras in the past. I think the image quality of the ZF easily surpasses the 24/26mp era X cams and is still a bit better than even the new 40mp sensors.
I have both the Zf and x100v. I enjoy them both for their unique qualities, but the Zf is my favorite. I've been shooting with Nikon since I bought the FE in 1980 and still have it. Greatly appreciate your review. I agree with you about manual focus lenses.
@@dennisjones5579 the one feature I loved on the X100 was the integrated ND, but the 1/8000th shutter on the ZF enables even more midday bokeh! I’m a more recent convert to Nikon and loving it. Glad you liked the video, thanks for stopping by!
Good points. I shoot aperture priority and auto iso 99% of the time so ISO dials has never left the "C" setting soi have not had any issue with iso dial.
Funny enough about three months ago I came to similar conclusions about the Zf’s grandfather, the Df. Controls seemed ill thought out compared to Fuji. Manual dials and menus conflicted. Had to go way back for Nikkor lenses seemed built for this model. The solution for me? Manual Voigtlander F series (28/40/58). I have several CVs, including the two APO-Lanthars you mentioned for another system, but of course I can’t adapt to F. Anyway, like you, I have 47 & 50MP cameras, but this even lower 16MP, does just fine. Hell, so does the 5D Classic’s 12MP.
@@ricblessing3400 have owned those 3 CV lenses (just rebought the 40 Ultron but the older, smaller version), I can imagine they are fantastic on the Df. I wish they could have made a Df II with all the modern niceties as one last F camera that honored the Nikon legacy. The OG 5D was one of my favorite cameras, simply beautiful files every time.
I have enjoyed the ZF since I have had it. I also am a Fuji user (...mostly, sold it all but X-E4 and small f2s). You have a fair review. I also do kinds miss the A on the dials. I have gotten used to the controls. I have the movie record button configured for the ISO control, so when I am in A or S (or whatever on PASM) and have ISO set to C I can easily press that, and flip the front control and it lets me turn off auto so then the ISO dial fully works, or if filp back control it just adjusts the ISO limiting. I tend to shoot manual mode, but it is cool that ISO setting allows me to work in partial manual as well. I would love to pick up the 40mm Voightlander but it is sold out most places. For now I am using the 40mm f2 SE Nikon lens, as I really like that focal length. Overall, a pretty good lens for what it is. I look forward to what firmware updates may be coming soon to add some of the features some of the other EXPEED 7 cameras have and hopefully some quirks you touched on about ZF
@@Honkus hopefully this video didn’t come across as a Fuji bashing session…it’s only that Fuji offers the closest analog to the ZF currently. There’s a lot to like about Fuji, but comparing file to file, the Nikon packs a real punch if you can put up with some of the strange design choices. I always enjoy hearing about how folks are working around the quirks of the ZF, as you’ve described with the ISO controls.
oh not at all Fuji Bashing. I sold off most of my Fuji gear earlier this year as I haven’t liked the direction the company had taken over the past few years. I kept the X-E4 and the small f2 lenses as they embody what I liked about Fuji. Small body and simple layout and not high rez. I had an X-T5 and several of the newer lenses and i never felt comfortable. I have a Z7Ii with the 24-120f4 and really liked the results. I bout ZF and 40f2 and have really live the experience and results of the 26mpix sensor.
The 40mm Voigt is really great. Had it for 2 days just, but I felt the exact same thing as Scott described in the video. There is something about the images (seeing them on the camera screen) that just makes you go: Wow! Got mine from Grays of Westminster in London (couldn't find it anywhere in France). You can order it though from resellers.
I've owned the Z8 for almost a year and I love the camera! Best camera i have ever tried, but I have been on a lookout for an everyday camera, that is not that big and bulky. So I might buy the ZF with the 40mm lens. Just one question, is the 40mm weather sealed?
@@ramelsen they say it’s “dust and drip resistant”, not “weather sealed”. It doesn’t have a metal mount, just plastic. I wouldn’t personally take it out in as rainy conditions as I would my S glass but fog or mist wouldn’t scare me.
The lens has to have contacts for focus confirmation. You can get subject detection with any lens. The vast majority of film era Nikkor lenses don’t have contacts.
Great review, thank you for sharing. I agree with your frustrations regarding the ISO dial. For me, I have been using the ISO dial basically as a shutter speed dial while in Aperture priority mode....I have it set to 100 most of the time, but when I need to increase my shutter speed substantially in the moment for some reason I just give it a twist. I don't really care what the ISO dial lands on most of the time, the camera seems to handle high ISO noise really well, and if its a problem then Lightroom AI denoise has actually been pretty helpful. I have no idea how to use video functions as I have only ever had cameras that do well with photos, but I would be interested to learn more.
Great feedback on your experiences. I shoot Aperture priority a lot like you, but I will simply have AutoISO turned on with a ceiling of 6400, and I'll use the EC dial vs the ISO dial to make adjustments. Interesting take on how to use the ISO dial in a unique way!
I am a very long-term Nikon user. I had an original Nikon FE2 back in a day, but I’d be just as happy to have the same spec in a modern design. The ZF is currently too expensive for me, but I will have one when used price get lower. I completely agree about the shutter speed dial. I just don’t see the point of having a one stop only speeds on a physical dial when you have two control wheels with third stops.
Ironically, I think it’s the folks who have experience with Nikon film cameras who have the biggest issues with the ZF dials 😅 in case you didn’t make it far enough into my rambling, which would be completely understandable, refurbs are selling for $1200 now, worth signing up for Nikon‘s emails to know when those sales happen.
@@scotttuckerphotography Of course I made it to the end LOL. 😊 Here in the U.K. we don't have any deals like that. I just logged on to MPB and they have used Zf bodies for from £1660 to £1800 U.K ($2135+) . My brother & I have between us a D3S, a D3X each , a D810 & a D610 body. I bought a used Z5 body last week for £640 UK ($820 I think) and it's sensor output is nicer than I expected, but (as with the Z6, its auto focus is not super reliable.) I now get a Voigtlander lens for the Z5 and wait for an affordable Zf body. I think you're right about manual focus being great on Z bodies with the right lenses. I currently have an F mount 35mm f2 AF-D & 24mm f2.8 AF-D which both manual focus well with the confirmation box on the FTZ converter. I'm thinking of buying used copies of the Voigtlander f1.2 for Z mount and the 58mm f1.4 for F mount. PS. I have a beautiful factory Ai Converted P-C Auto Nikkor 105mm f2.5 that I love. It's great, but how I wish it could also give me a focus confirmation square in the viewfinder. I have envision a future of mainly manual focus for myself.
@@Cotictimmy Ah, the ol UK pricing! It'll come down soon enough, though. Regarding focus confirmation, I've heard that you can put an unchipped F lens on a 6bit F to Leica M adapter...and then put that on a chipped M to Z adapter...and get focus confirmation with any old "dumb" F lens. I didn't mention that in the video because it feels SO kludgy to me, but hey, it's an option and people are doing it.
@@Cotictimmy I bought mine about a week ago. Was considering the MPB route when I noticed John Lewis (of all places) were selling them cheaper at £1600, so I got mine from there.
I suppose it just depends on how much you have shot of each system, I’ve always preferred the Fuji method personally but that’s because I think about the exposure triangle in terms of physical controls mentally.
(Walk around in the city personal use) - I can get good control of Zf ...almost...as I get no use of EC adjustment unless I am in P or Auto. And depending on various ISO settings, I may not be locked into what I've set for ISO. I have to change the number and shut camera off and turn it to take effect. Note, I do mean being all on manual and a set iso - and the EC dial does nothing! PS. Wish lens is non-existing Voigtlander 20-40 f/2.
I own the Fujifilm H2, Sony A7IV and ZF. Out of the 3 the ZF gets the most use. Love files out of this camera. Viewfinder way better than the Sony and files are way better than the H2.
@@esppics21 I swear I haven’t hear a good word one about the A7IV. I can see how this cam fills that niche for you well of the 3. A ZFii with the Z6iii evf and redone back button layout would be fantastic.
I think the Z8 muddied the waters for a Z90, since running the Z8 in DX mode is SO close to what a Z90 would or could be. I’ve seen quite a few people give up waiting and just go for the Z8 and they seem to be happy, largely.
Thanks for posting Scott, it compliments your written review nicely. I too had doubts about the camera when I first got it. I thought I 'd made a mistake and gone for style over substance (certainly in ergos) having been used to the D850, Z6, Z8 ....but there is something about it that pulls you in. ps... love the mike stand 👍
@@ianmcpartland9306 appreciate the feedback Ian, and glad to hear you are enjoying your ZF as well. If they make a second version that has the updated button layout, that will be an instant swap for me. It would significantly alleviate some of the ergo complaints for me. If they put an integrated thumb catch even better ☺️
@scotttuckerphotography Yep, back button layout like Z8 etc, subtle thumb rest and 'slightly' deeper front grip and an extra fn2 button on front. None of these would detract from the aesthetic but would improve ergos. Whilst I prefer a tilt screen generally, I think the leatherette back is a win in this camera. This helps with the 'old school ' look which I do feel makes people around you less bothered, as with retro style cameras in general. This was one the reasons I got the ZF. Have the x100v but just don't gel with it so it's going to go now I've got the ZF
Great point about the leatherette. I failed to mention in the video, but I really enjoy shooting stills with the LCD closed as the back of the screen looks and feels so nice.
I bought the Zf last fall, figured I'd sell it once the Z6III released. Fast-forward a year later and the Zf rarely leaves my side. It's the body I grab, even over my Z8 on most days. My only real criticisms - there's no IBIS lock, which is a little bananas to me (I don't like hearing rattles when the camera is off). Also, we need a firmware update for the ISO dial. It NEEDS to override Auto-ISO. Currently, if Auto-ISO is on, the ISO dial is completely non-functional. If you switch to a manual ISO using the dial BEFORE turning off Auto-ISO, guess what - you need to turn the dial back to "C" (because Auto-ISO can't be changed when dial is off of "C") / disable Auto-ISO / THEN you can use the dial to select a manual ISO. And the dial also does not function as an "ISO ceiling" for Auto-ISO, as some suggest (I've tried multiple times, unless I missed a setting somewhere). Sorry for the rant 🙂
This is exactly the kind of feedback I wanted in the comments! It's helpful for potential buyers to know about some of the struggles this particular model presents, and I totally agree about the ISO dial. The IBIS not locking also bothers me, but it's nowhere as clunky as my X100VI was LOL You can definitely use the dial as a "ceiling" but it's actually buggy outside of manual mode. Here's a video I made showing it working in M and not working in A mode. ruclips.net/video/QLnhF2EcPR8/видео.html
@@scotttuckerphotography Dude you're a genius. And/or, I'm an idiot 😆 I had this backwards. Example, I had my Auto-ISO max sensitivity in the menus set to 25,600. If I turn the ISO dial from C to 800 - Auto-ISO will still jump to 25,600. I was assuming the ISO wouldn't go over 800 - so I can't LOWER the ceiling. But I can RAISE the ceiling using the dial if my max ISO sensitivity is set lower. Example, 6400 max sensitivity can be raised to 25,600 using the dial while in Auto-ISO. 🤯 Mystery solved! That aside, I'd still prefer a full override (or the option to do so via a preference setting). Thanks for your time & help! this is a little more useful now 🙂👏🏻
The way I use the ZF is either M or A mode, with auto ISO always on, but upper limit is set in the menu to 100 ISO. This is my default daylight starting point. The ISO top dial is also set to 100. (Not on C!) When lighting changes I just turn the top dial to whatever the new ISO upper limit I want it to be. It’s quick to do and no menu diving required :) The top shutter dial I always keep on auto mode (the green 1/3 step) because the 1/3 stop increments are more nuanced than if using top dial. I just use back command dial for shutter speed adjustment when in Manual mode. In my photography style i never let the camera determine the aperture, therefore Manual instead of shutter priority. That way, I choose the bokeh style by selecting the aperture, then set the shutter speed needed for the shot, and let ISO do its thing to give proper exposure., since I have turned the top dial to expand the upper limit. I find the shooting quite quick and easy, but also very satisfying to have vital settings at the camera’s top. I should add that I too love the screen design as I mostly keep it turned in, so it’s protected when I wear the camera across body on a strap. I use EVF for most shooting. There’s too much sun in Colorado for effective use of any screens during the day. I’ll just end with I got the ZF for the design, but absolutely love the color rendering and of course the sensor is absolute beast in night shots. Haven’t needed a tripod yet.
@@Twocentangie I'm going to do a video on Auto ISO soon as it seems quite decisive, but your method is ultimately very similar to mine...I just don't futz with ever changing the upper limit.
@ yes, and by a lot! Serious comment: the Zf is such a capable camera for its price point. The only other cameras I used before were D7000 and D810. The D810 is no doubt such a great camera and always gives me fantastic and usable results. The Zf, however, makes me want to take photos of anything, and I started to appreciate little things way way more since I own the Zf. Even my photography style has changed a bit because of the Zf! Nikon clearly put some magic into this camera!
@@Ginkgo_biloba Agree on all points! Not to shill myself too hard here, but I have a video on noticing you might like because I've found the same exact thing! Thanks for your comments and stopping by =) ruclips.net/video/vtzvAuUWxFc/видео.html
@@ronaldsand3000 definitely agree, it’s a shame the bottom of the camera basically feels like low quality plastic compared to the rest of the body. Once you put a grip on and get metal down there it’s much improved.
Excellent review and insights, both here and in your blog post. Thanks a lot for sharing your experiences and thoughts. I'm planning to buy the Zf soon so this is all very helpful. I'm intrigued you did not love the Fuji X100VI , and have chosen to not use the top retro dials on the Zf in favor of the front and rear command dials. Given its better ergos, I wonder why you would not prefer the Z6III, with a very similar sensor and the same manual focus aids (and more fn. buttons) ? Perhaps in a future video, I'd also love to hear you expound a bit on exactly what draws you into the Zf, despite its flaws, that make it more satisfying and inspiring to use as an EDC vs. the X100V or Z6III? The top retro dials, as nice as they look, do not really work for you it seems. I am pretty sure I would like using these retro retro dials and the sometimes conflicting PASM switch, and seeing all the exposure settings laid out visually for me on each shot (instead of a tiny top LCD panel) in a more deliberate, tactile shooting mode. Of course the experience is even more "classic" and pleasing with the Voigt's lovely clicky aperture rings and silky smooth MF ring. Also, have you thought of trying the updated Neewer V. 2 grip for the Zf with an integrated thumb rest? I suspect it would still be too slippery and and small/shallow for me compared with the Smallrig.
There's not a ton to say about the X100...both the V and VI suffer from a quite bad focusing system when paired with that particular 23/2...the motors are loud, focus isn't surefooted, and AF-S is the only mode I trust on either. The VI took a step backwards in build quality...it gets hotter just shooting stills than my ZF gets shooting 4K video. It has an IBIS unit that clanks around while the camera is off...just a camera that put me off in so many ways even vs the V. However, the X100 dials make more sense to me, and were more fun to use because I didn't have to balance them against a PASM switch. I'm so fast with command dials on my other Z cam that using it on the ZF feels more natural to me. The Z6iii would be a better fit for me ultimately (feature wise and ergonomically at least), however it comes at a $1000 upcharge right now and I don't feel the gains are worth that yet. I may yet pick one up when they go on deeper refurb pricing. All that said, the Z6iii lacks what the ZF has that makes you want to pick it up...it just looks like any other camera, silly to say as that is. I've indeed tried the Neewer V2 and found it both too small and too slippery. The SmallRig feels much more assured in hand.
Why everyone compairing this camera to Fujifilm? Its like Z6III old brother with absolutely horrible handling. It has literally NOTHING to do with Fujifilm.
Before the ZF came out, I wished they would make a Df II with ZF type build quality. FM size is dead and gone with Z mount sadly. My FM3a is the perfect size.
I still have the original FM that i bought new in 1978 and love the size of that camera. I also never had a problem with holding it the way everybody is complaining about grips or lack of with some cameras today. It worked great when i bought it and it works great now.
@@scotttuckerphotography I own several FM3A and FE bodies in addition to the FM. Never understood the value proposition for Z mount. Bigger, heavier bodies and lenses and also more expensive. No IQ benefit that any client is willing to pay extra $$$ for. Certainly no IQ benefit for posting on social media. Very mysterious indeed.
Never get an advice from someone that holds microphone with a spatula LOL! Can I get a like?
You get a like AND a pin!
@ Thank you! 😃 Great video, thinking about getting Zf.
@@zavtravels4546 I'd say you won't regret it, but what do I know, I'm the guy with the micula!
I love the Nikon Zf screen because I hide the screen all the time and shoot it like a film camera without reviewing the photos on the back. Love it.
@@Almost_Blue_ I do the same exact thing if I’m not shooting at a weird angle where I need the screen, big fan of that! Keeps me locked into the process.
It's the really the one thing I do appreciate with a flippy screen. And if I'm being fair, the flippy screen is on-axis for verticals, which is handy for portraits. But I still prefer the Z8/9 multi-axis tilt, for photos.
@@csc-photo 10/10 comment, no notes
When I first got it I didn’t think I’d be doing this but the more time I spend with the camera the more I do it.
I went from Fuji to the zf. Both x100 and XT series cameras, the zf, for me, was a great choice. I love to shoot with it. I never really enjoyed shooting with the XT, but loved the x100 series. The zf makes me want to shoot more than the x100 series because portraits look much better and just every day snap shots look amazing. I thought I would miss the film sims, but I actually don’t. The zf colors are beautiful and I shoot in b&w so much more than I thought I would. Focusing, image, and FF sensor just give me something Fuji never got right.
@@BUCKSHOTSTV I agree wholeheartedly, I was a big film sim shooter myself and find myself not missing that at all on the ZF. The JPEGs are more natural looking on Nikon, and you can make a RAW file look however you like.
As you say, the auto focus system on the Nikon is so much more complete that it makes it the easy choice for the better all-around package.
Nikon color looks more natural, fuji sim sometimes just to much even in provia,
There are things about the Zf that I don’t like. I also want to pick it up and use it every single day. And if I’m honest, none of the things I don’t like about it have interfered with operating the camera. If you own one, take the time to settle into configuring and understanding how to make it work for you. The Zf is my favorite digital camera in a long series of them that started with a D100 back in 2003.
I’m in the same exact boat…the little annoyances don’t overshadow all the nice parts and certainly don’t ruin the camera. I’m always wishing X or Y was a little more thought through and then I shrug and grab it to go shoot 😁
I hope Nikon leans into this style of building bodies that really scream, “this is not a disposable toy camera!” An even quirkier choice I would welcome is zero video features and a dedicated B&W sensor. You want retro? We’ll give you a truly retro photography tool that shoots B&W like film could never approach.
BTW the flippy screen perfectly encapsulates why no camera is ever perfect. When flipped around, it’s perfect for the design. Protects the screen and emphasizes the retro look. But when I went to shoot low, I’d much rather have a tilt screen. All choices in design involve compromises. You want a perfect 50mm lens? Try spending over $2000 to own a bazooka that intimidates anyone you point it at. I simultaneously love and hate my 50mm f/1.2. But unlike the Zf, it’s not a piece of equipment I constantly want to pick up.
Shotting Nikon since 1978 (FM) and the ZF is the FM (wolf in sheep’s clothing!) a pure joy to shoot with but packed with technology found on much higher priced cameras! I use pro glass and this body shooting in manual mode is my ultimate pleasure taking me back to the time of the FM!
@@ClyntGarnham very true, and if you love the FM aesthetic and in hand feel, this camera is like it came out of a Time Machine! Thanks for stopping by Clynt!
I got the Nikon Zfc a few months ago and I am glad I did over the Nikon zf. Smaller body and smaller lenses, taking pictures in public areas does not scream “photographer!”. I am waiting for a z5ii or the z6ii to drop price to $1,299 to go full frame.
I wish Nikon had more APS-C lens options for the Zfc class of cameras. Keep on eye on the next black friday/refurb sale, you should be able to snag a Z6ii for about that. It's down to $1391 right now and they usually give you 10% off during refurb sales.
I was dismissive of the camera at first, even after holding it in my hands at the store. I ended up giving it another try and fell in love with it. I’m also shooting it with Voigtlander lenses and get what you mean when you say it unlocks some magic.
It’s a camera that I consistently want to use, and although without some smaller gripes regarding buttons and dials it never fails to deliver.
Glad to hear others are finding the same spark of joy, especially paired with the Voigts. Which lenses are you using?
What Nikon should have done with the Zf. First they should have handed the person designing the controls a FM3A and a F2 Photomic. On those cameras where did you find the film speed setting (ISO)? On the shutter dial. That is a scheme that would easily fit the Zf and would allow the left dial to be re-purposed with more useful functions. Such as the Mode selection and underneath you could have the selection for the Single and Continuous Release options. Now, moving to the front on the film cameras where the self timer lever was placed you could have a similar shaped 3 position lever to control Focus mode. Front Command dial - lose it. Aperture can be controlled with the rear command dial because the shutter speed is only set by the Shutter Speed Dial unless it has been set to A. On the I Menu there will be some dedicated buttons that work with the Command Dial and these buttons will be to the left on the I Menu for an easy reach for the left thumb. One is The AF Area mode setting, hold down the button and roll thru the settings with the Command Dial. Another is the Auto ISO maximum, hold the button down and the max is set. The toggle switch for the Auto ISO will also reside in the I menu. The lock on the left dial can get ditched. It's a PITA on my Z7 II to have to hold that stupid button down while fighting the heavy resistance on the detents for that dial. Rest assured that dial won't get bumped by accident.
That would have been a very interesting camera indeed!
I was on the fence between the Zf and the Z6iii for my second body, and I went for a slightly used(14000 shutter count) Zf. I had listened to all the reviews, and what I would say is: do not listen to the negatives, they are really minor, this camera is a great camera, it is my favorite unless I need 45MP, which is not that often. It brought back the joy of photography, it is really hard to describe, but it just makes you think a bit more and then rewards you, and the controls, once you set it up the way you like it, are just perfect, they are just different from other bodies. I am an amateur, so pros with specific needs might not like it, I actually got mine from a pro. Anyways, if you want to fall in love with a camera as you did with your first one, this is the one to get.
@@brunopaquin5637 i’m not sure I would say don’t listen to the negatives, but definitely take them with a grain of salt, because as you say this is a very different camera than your average. You will not shoot this camera like you shoot a regular PASM mirrorless. Glad you’re enjoying it.
@@scotttuckerphotography Agreed, and thank you for the video !
I love that I can use it Film style with the analog dials and my Vintage Nikon glass with the FTZ adapter. Then I can put the Z lenses on like the 180-600mm Z, and shoot DSLR style. My favorite part of the camera is when using Vintage lens on it and get the square box over the eye for focus.
Yes, it’s great how it can pull double duty like that pretty seamlessly. Wild man putting that honking tele on it! 🤣
Prior to the announcement of the the ZF, I was interested in the Z6II. When Nikon announced the ZF in Sept. 2023, I was attracted by the design, the autofocus system, the vari-angle screen, and the price. After a year of using it, I'm very glad I bought it. It performs very well, the JPEGs put of this camera are fantastic, the video recording is more than enough for me. I would've like the joystick to move the focal point around, but Nikon made it up by moving the focal point using the screen. I added a grip to my ZF, and I use large lenses with this camera and works well for me. A couple of example lenses are the 105mm f1.4 F mount lens with the F To Z adapter II and the Tamron 35-150mm f2-2.8 for photos and video.
Those are some big boy lenses on this guy! What grip did you end up sticking with?
@scotttuckerphotography I have two grips, one from Small Rig and the other from Neewer. Both work great, but I love the aesthetics of the Neewer grip. It has the Nikon red line like my F100 film camera. I added the red soft button for the shutter button and I love the way it looks.
@@izziereal2010 Nice! I've tried both as well and went the other way towards the SmallRig...the Neewer was better looking but too slippery for my tastes.
@scotttuckerphotography You are right, the Neewer was slippery when new. After some time of use, it is not slippery anymore and I get a good grip with it Between the two, the Small Rig will still have the better grip, but the gap between the two are closer.
@@izziereal2010 Thanks for chiming in on the Neewer, I hadn't heard that and I'm sure some folks will be interested in finding that out.
Exactly what you said. This camera makes me want to take it along anywhere I go. Even to my office, it stays with me. Paired it with a 40mm Voigt, Z-mount. I've never had this feeling before, even with the Df, my default travel camera.
Glad to hear you feel the same way. You’ve got a pretty hard to find lens too!
You can set auto iso on one of the buttons. Hold it and turn the dial to turn on and off.
I live in Florida and use the voigtlander 40mm 1.2 for landscape quite often and never had glare issue.
I’ve used up all my custom buttons for more important stuff, plus the way I shoot AutoISO combined with the EC dial works faster IMO.
I have a suspicion the glare issue is more face shaped related. Deeper eyes and brows probably don’t experience it.
Great video, Scott. I am not a Nikon user. I use a Canon R5. However, I have great respect for the Nikon system. I like Nikon colors. Unfortunately, Canon does not have a body like the ZF in the classic design. And I would really like to see Canon come up with something like this. Ideally in a slightly smaller size, like the R8. Something that you can really take with you every day, anywhere. Of course, taking into account all the comments noted in this video))
Good luck in developing the channel on RUclips.
P.S. Gorgeous pictures on the site.
I appreciate the nice comments. If Canon released a digital Canonete, I might spend a little money 😅 the trend to big and heavy over time really misses the everyday photography use case. The crazy thing is, even the ZF is big, nearly the size of the GFX 100S, which I think is more a testament to Fuji doing wonders with that camera. I’d still love an EDC camera the size of my film Nikon, though.
@@scotttuckerphotography Yes, I absolutely agree with you.
Such sizes for every day are too much.
Operationally, Nikon is benchmarking neither Fujifilm nor its own manual SLRs. Instead, its control paradigm derives from its first true AF pro SLR, the F4, which combined dials for shutter speed, ISO and exposure compensation (as well as an aperture ring on the lens) with a P(H)PASM switch.
Interesting, that's not a take I've heard before but can totally see it looking at the F4. Would the F4 prevent you from releasing the shutter if you were, say, in A mode with your shutter dial on a specific speed?
@ No. But it would select the shutter speed based on its program rather than use the one indicated on the shutter speed dial.
Great review Scott. The Zf is on my radar, so this was helpful.
Regarding Auto ISO, one tip I have read was to set your max ISO at 200. With that, you can then use the ISO dial to control the max ISO range, so if you move the dial to 1600, then your auto ISO range is now your min setting (ie100) to 1600. Seems like a nice workaround to avoid turning Auto ISO on and off, plus you get to use the dial. I guess the only drawback would be if you wanted a fixed ISO that would never change.
@@craig_cunha glad you liked the review Craig, thank you for the feedback! I found a significant bug with that methodology if shooting shutter priority mode, just so you know. For whatever reason it will hard set the iso to the dial value instead of having that be the ceiling.
@ thanks for that Scott. Good to know!
@@craig_cunha Wanted to let you know I misspoke (been a while since I looked at this). The bug is in Aperture Priority, here's a demo of it. ruclips.net/video/QLnhF2EcPR8/видео.html
@@scotttuckerphotography thanks very much for the follow up testing on this and even more so, the video showing how it works. Much appreciated.
Definitely a bug and disappointing. Hopefully that is fixed with a future firmware update (or at least one option to let the user select how it would work). At least it works in manual, which with Auto ISO, is still very easy to work with.
Thanks again Scott. I’m going to check out your written article now. 🙂
Zf is a great general camera but for specific applications like sports and wildlife there are much better options….but for an all rounder it does the job.
@@williamchan8866 for sure, for its price the ZF delivers a crazy amount of value in my opinion.
I have a Df and am thinking about trading it in for a Zf, or a Z6II… or maybe a Z6III… but I think you’re absolutely right about the UI issue on any Retro styled Nikon camera
@@andykphoto I would definitely give the ZF and Z6iii the first looks if in budget, they have brought a ton of capabilities to the table that the Z6ii can’t match.
I’ve owned most XT and two different GFX models…. I love Fuji. But, I feel like the ZF, is a more solid camera for my needs. The files are large enough, handle editing very well, and the camera is fun to use.
Being fun to use is the most important quality for a camera like this in my opinion. I shoot GFX as well and have shot many other Fuji X cameras in the past. I think the image quality of the ZF easily surpasses the 24/26mp era X cams and is still a bit better than even the new 40mp sensors.
I have both the Zf and x100v. I enjoy them both for their unique qualities, but the Zf is my favorite. I've been shooting with Nikon since I bought the FE in 1980 and still have it. Greatly appreciate your review. I agree with you about manual focus lenses.
@@dennisjones5579 the one feature I loved on the X100 was the integrated ND, but the 1/8000th shutter on the ZF enables even more midday bokeh! I’m a more recent convert to Nikon and loving it. Glad you liked the video, thanks for stopping by!
Good points. I shoot aperture priority and auto iso 99% of the time so ISO dials has never left the "C" setting soi have not had any issue with iso dial.
@@LonChera-1 can’t have an issue if you pretend it doesn’t exist, that’s what I say! 😝
Funny enough about three months ago I came to similar conclusions about the Zf’s grandfather, the Df. Controls seemed ill thought out compared to Fuji. Manual dials and menus conflicted. Had to go way back for Nikkor lenses seemed built for this model. The solution for me? Manual Voigtlander F series (28/40/58). I have several CVs, including the two APO-Lanthars you mentioned for another system, but of course I can’t adapt to F. Anyway, like you, I have 47 & 50MP cameras, but this even lower 16MP, does just fine. Hell, so does the 5D Classic’s 12MP.
@@ricblessing3400 have owned those 3 CV lenses (just rebought the 40 Ultron but the older, smaller version), I can imagine they are fantastic on the Df. I wish they could have made a Df II with all the modern niceties as one last F camera that honored the Nikon legacy.
The OG 5D was one of my favorite cameras, simply beautiful files every time.
I have enjoyed the ZF since I have had it. I also am a Fuji user (...mostly, sold it all but X-E4 and small f2s). You have a fair review. I also do kinds miss the A on the dials. I have gotten used to the controls. I have the movie record button configured for the ISO control, so when I am in A or S (or whatever on PASM) and have ISO set to C I can easily press that, and flip the front control and it lets me turn off auto so then the ISO dial fully works, or if filp back control it just adjusts the ISO limiting. I tend to shoot manual mode, but it is cool that ISO setting allows me to work in partial manual as well.
I would love to pick up the 40mm Voightlander but it is sold out most places. For now I am using the 40mm f2 SE Nikon lens, as I really like that focal length. Overall, a pretty good lens for what it is.
I look forward to what firmware updates may be coming soon to add some of the features some of the other EXPEED 7 cameras have and hopefully some quirks you touched on about ZF
@@Honkus hopefully this video didn’t come across as a Fuji bashing session…it’s only that Fuji offers the closest analog to the ZF currently. There’s a lot to like about Fuji, but comparing file to file, the Nikon packs a real punch if you can put up with some of the strange design choices.
I always enjoy hearing about how folks are working around the quirks of the ZF, as you’ve described with the ISO controls.
oh not at all Fuji Bashing. I sold off most of my Fuji gear earlier this year as I haven’t liked the direction the company had taken over the past few years. I kept the X-E4 and the small f2 lenses as they embody what I liked about Fuji. Small body and simple layout and not high rez. I had an X-T5 and several of the newer lenses and i never felt comfortable. I have a Z7Ii with the 24-120f4 and really liked the results. I bout ZF and 40f2 and have really live the experience and results of the 26mpix sensor.
The 40mm Voigt is really great. Had it for 2 days just, but I felt the exact same thing as Scott described in the video. There is something about the images (seeing them on the camera screen) that just makes you go: Wow! Got mine from Grays of Westminster in London (couldn't find it anywhere in France). You can order it though from resellers.
I've owned the Z8 for almost a year and I love the camera! Best camera i have ever tried, but I have been on a lookout for an everyday camera, that is not that big and bulky.
So I might buy the ZF with the 40mm lens.
Just one question, is the 40mm weather sealed?
@@ramelsen they say it’s “dust and drip resistant”, not “weather sealed”. It doesn’t have a metal mount, just plastic. I wouldn’t personally take it out in as rainy conditions as I would my S glass but fog or mist wouldn’t scare me.
@scotttuckerphotography thnx for the answer.
Might have a look at the camera.
You can definitely get focus confirmation on old glass it has focus confirmation even on old manual lenses even detects eyes
The lens has to have contacts for focus confirmation. You can get subject detection with any lens. The vast majority of film era Nikkor lenses don’t have contacts.
Been a NIKON Guy since 1968!! Thanks for an Honest appraisal of the ZF........ I have a Z8 n Z6III :) :) Subscribed... :) :) :)
@@johnyoung1606 thanks for the sub! Liking the Z6iii?
@@scotttuckerphotography what question about the Z6III :) :) :)
You can set custom buttons to handle the switch from auto to manual ISO.
True, but this is a camera with a very few custom buttons. If it’s important to your workflow, I’d definitely do that.
@@scotttuckerphotography agreed, not optimal. But, the option is there if anyone wants it. :)
Great review, thank you for sharing. I agree with your frustrations regarding the ISO dial. For me, I have been using the ISO dial basically as a shutter speed dial while in Aperture priority mode....I have it set to 100 most of the time, but when I need to increase my shutter speed substantially in the moment for some reason I just give it a twist. I don't really care what the ISO dial lands on most of the time, the camera seems to handle high ISO noise really well, and if its a problem then Lightroom AI denoise has actually been pretty helpful. I have no idea how to use video functions as I have only ever had cameras that do well with photos, but I would be interested to learn more.
Great feedback on your experiences. I shoot Aperture priority a lot like you, but I will simply have AutoISO turned on with a ceiling of 6400, and I'll use the EC dial vs the ISO dial to make adjustments. Interesting take on how to use the ISO dial in a unique way!
The influencer shift from X100 to Zf over the past couple of months is hilarious.
@@nickthaskater well it’s a better camera in a whole lot of ways and a lot of people are figuring that out. Plus, you can, you know, BUY one 😉
@@scotttuckerphotography funny you mention the availability as the Zf is now backordered in many places, such as Nikon Canada's website.
@@nickthaskater it’s in stock at Henry’s…more than you can say for the Fuji!
I am a very long-term Nikon user. I had an original Nikon FE2 back in a day, but I’d be just as happy to have the same spec in a modern design. The ZF is currently too expensive for me, but I will have one when used price get lower. I completely agree about the shutter speed dial. I just don’t see the point of having a one stop only speeds on a physical dial when you have two control wheels with third stops.
Ironically, I think it’s the folks who have experience with Nikon film cameras who have the biggest issues with the ZF dials 😅 in case you didn’t make it far enough into my rambling, which would be completely understandable, refurbs are selling for $1200 now, worth signing up for Nikon‘s emails to know when those sales happen.
@@scotttuckerphotography Of course I made it to the end LOL. 😊 Here in the U.K. we don't have any deals like that. I just logged on to MPB and they have used Zf bodies for from £1660 to £1800 U.K ($2135+) . My brother & I have between us a D3S, a D3X each , a D810 & a D610 body. I bought a used Z5 body last week for £640 UK ($820 I think) and it's sensor output is nicer than I expected, but (as with the Z6, its auto focus is not super reliable.) I now get a Voigtlander lens for the Z5 and wait for an affordable Zf body. I think you're right about manual focus being great on Z bodies with the right lenses. I currently have an F mount 35mm f2 AF-D & 24mm f2.8 AF-D which both manual focus well with the confirmation box on the FTZ converter. I'm thinking of buying used copies of the Voigtlander f1.2 for Z mount and the 58mm f1.4 for F mount. PS. I have a beautiful factory Ai Converted P-C Auto Nikkor 105mm f2.5 that I love. It's great, but how I wish it could also give me a focus confirmation square in the viewfinder. I have envision a future of mainly manual focus for myself.
@@Cotictimmy Ah, the ol UK pricing! It'll come down soon enough, though. Regarding focus confirmation, I've heard that you can put an unchipped F lens on a 6bit F to Leica M adapter...and then put that on a chipped M to Z adapter...and get focus confirmation with any old "dumb" F lens. I didn't mention that in the video because it feels SO kludgy to me, but hey, it's an option and people are doing it.
@@Cotictimmy I bought mine about a week ago. Was considering the MPB route when I noticed John Lewis (of all places) were selling them cheaper at £1600, so I got mine from there.
Always happy to recognise the same tech I use ...like that spoon ❤...oh I have the Zf and love it ...waiting for Voigtlander 40mm
Mad respect to the spoons out here on the mean streets of RUclips 🙌🏻 it’s crazy how out of stock that Voigt 40 has remained!
Selecting the M-A-S-P trbo on the Nikon Zf is much simpler and quicker than using the dial on the Fuji.
I suppose it just depends on how much you have shot of each system, I’ve always preferred the Fuji method personally but that’s because I think about the exposure triangle in terms of physical controls mentally.
Why is it quicker?
And how is it simpler?
It's not hard on a Fuji either... or "slow"
(Walk around in the city personal use) -
I can get good control of Zf ...almost...as I get no use of EC adjustment unless I am in P or Auto. And depending on various ISO settings, I may not be locked into what I've set for ISO. I have to change the number and shut camera off and turn it to take effect. Note, I do mean being all on manual and a set iso - and the EC dial does nothing!
PS. Wish lens is non-existing Voigtlander 20-40 f/2.
I think a bunch of us would be very happy if a CV zoom like that ever came to market!
I own the Fujifilm H2, Sony A7IV and ZF. Out of the 3 the ZF gets the most use. Love files out of this camera. Viewfinder way better than the Sony and files are way better than the H2.
@@esppics21 I swear I haven’t hear a good word one about the A7IV. I can see how this cam fills that niche for you well of the 3. A ZFii with the Z6iii evf and redone back button layout would be fantastic.
@@scotttuckerphotography The AF on Sony is amazing. But the the viewfinder and back screen are mediocre. Not fun or enjoyable to use.
I have both Z8 & Zf. Only had the Zf since April. Still waiting patiently for a Pro body APS-C to replace the D500. Come on Nikon, give us a Z90
I think the Z8 muddied the waters for a Z90, since running the Z8 in DX mode is SO close to what a Z90 would or could be. I’ve seen quite a few people give up waiting and just go for the Z8 and they seem to be happy, largely.
Great video, I love the old Nikon 105 P 2.5 on the ZF, it’s awesome. Hard lens to beat.
Had that lens for a bit, it was very nice! Wish I could have gotten focus confirmation with it, would have likely kept it.
Thanks for posting Scott, it compliments your written review nicely. I too had doubts about the camera when I first got it. I thought I 'd made a mistake and gone for style over substance (certainly in ergos) having been used to the D850, Z6, Z8 ....but there is something about it that pulls you in.
ps... love the mike stand 👍
@@ianmcpartland9306 appreciate the feedback Ian, and glad to hear you are enjoying your ZF as well. If they make a second version that has the updated button layout, that will be an instant swap for me. It would significantly alleviate some of the ergo complaints for me. If they put an integrated thumb catch even better ☺️
@scotttuckerphotography Yep, back button layout like Z8 etc, subtle thumb rest and 'slightly' deeper front grip and an extra fn2 button on front. None of these would detract from the aesthetic but would improve ergos. Whilst I prefer a tilt screen generally, I think the leatherette back is a win in this camera. This helps with the 'old school ' look which I do feel makes people around you less bothered, as with retro style cameras in general. This was one the reasons I got the ZF. Have the x100v but just don't gel with it so it's going to go now I've got the ZF
Great point about the leatherette. I failed to mention in the video, but I really enjoy shooting stills with the LCD closed as the back of the screen looks and feels so nice.
I bought the Zf last fall, figured I'd sell it once the Z6III released. Fast-forward a year later and the Zf rarely leaves my side. It's the body I grab, even over my Z8 on most days.
My only real criticisms - there's no IBIS lock, which is a little bananas to me (I don't like hearing rattles when the camera is off).
Also, we need a firmware update for the ISO dial. It NEEDS to override Auto-ISO. Currently, if Auto-ISO is on, the ISO dial is completely non-functional. If you switch to a manual ISO using the dial BEFORE turning off Auto-ISO, guess what - you need to turn the dial back to "C" (because Auto-ISO can't be changed when dial is off of "C") / disable Auto-ISO / THEN you can use the dial to select a manual ISO. And the dial also does not function as an "ISO ceiling" for Auto-ISO, as some suggest (I've tried multiple times, unless I missed a setting somewhere).
Sorry for the rant 🙂
This is exactly the kind of feedback I wanted in the comments! It's helpful for potential buyers to know about some of the struggles this particular model presents, and I totally agree about the ISO dial.
The IBIS not locking also bothers me, but it's nowhere as clunky as my X100VI was LOL
You can definitely use the dial as a "ceiling" but it's actually buggy outside of manual mode. Here's a video I made showing it working in M and not working in A mode. ruclips.net/video/QLnhF2EcPR8/видео.html
@@scotttuckerphotography Dude you're a genius. And/or, I'm an idiot 😆 I had this backwards. Example, I had my Auto-ISO max sensitivity in the menus set to 25,600. If I turn the ISO dial from C to 800 - Auto-ISO will still jump to 25,600. I was assuming the ISO wouldn't go over 800 - so I can't LOWER the ceiling.
But I can RAISE the ceiling using the dial if my max ISO sensitivity is set lower. Example, 6400 max sensitivity can be raised to 25,600 using the dial while in Auto-ISO. 🤯
Mystery solved! That aside, I'd still prefer a full override (or the option to do so via a preference setting). Thanks for your time & help! this is a little more useful now 🙂👏🏻
The way I use the ZF is either M or A mode, with auto ISO always on, but upper limit is set in the menu to 100 ISO. This is my default daylight starting point. The ISO top dial is also set to 100. (Not on C!) When lighting changes I just turn the top dial to whatever the new ISO upper limit I want it to be. It’s quick to do and no menu diving required :)
The top shutter dial I always keep on auto mode (the green 1/3 step) because the 1/3 stop increments are more nuanced than if using top dial. I just use back command dial for shutter speed adjustment when in Manual mode. In my photography style i never let the camera determine the aperture, therefore Manual instead of shutter priority. That way, I choose the bokeh style by selecting the aperture, then set the shutter speed needed for the shot, and let ISO do its thing to give proper exposure., since I have turned the top dial to expand the upper limit.
I find the shooting quite quick and easy, but also very satisfying to have vital settings at the camera’s top. I should add that I too love the screen design as I mostly keep it turned in, so it’s protected when I wear the camera across body on a strap. I use EVF for most shooting. There’s too much sun in Colorado for effective use of any screens during the day.
I’ll just end with I got the ZF for the design, but absolutely love the color rendering and of course the sensor is absolute beast in night shots. Haven’t needed a tripod yet.
@@Twocentangie I'm going to do a video on Auto ISO soon as it seems quite decisive, but your method is ultimately very similar to mine...I just don't futz with ever changing the upper limit.
Love your microphone as much as I love the Zf
Hopefully that means you love the ZF LOL
@ yes, and by a lot!
Serious comment: the Zf is such a capable camera for its price point. The only other cameras I used before were D7000 and D810. The D810 is no doubt such a great camera and always gives me fantastic and usable results. The Zf, however, makes me want to take photos of anything, and I started to appreciate little things way way more since I own the Zf. Even my photography style has changed a bit because of the Zf! Nikon clearly put some magic into this camera!
@@Ginkgo_biloba Agree on all points! Not to shill myself too hard here, but I have a video on noticing you might like because I've found the same exact thing! Thanks for your comments and stopping by =) ruclips.net/video/vtzvAuUWxFc/видео.html
Love my Zf, love your spoon.
ALL HAIL THE SPOON
I think its more like a spatula... I love it too, but I want it for cooking not as a audio tool. 😄
@ that’s true…it’s GREAT for scrambled eggs!
Only minor disappointment is the very flimsy battery access door which feels like it could be easily damaged
@@ronaldsand3000 definitely agree, it’s a shame the bottom of the camera basically feels like low quality plastic compared to the rest of the body. Once you put a grip on and get metal down there it’s much improved.
I have Zf and I love it.
What lens do you use the most on the ZF?
I love it but at the same time hate it because of the flip flap screen! Hey Nikon I want Zfii with a screen like Z8 😂😂😡😡
Someone should do a Zf vs Df comparison.
@@eggums77 that would be fun. I wish Nikon would release a final F cam in the form of a Dfii, how cool would that be
Excellent review and insights, both here and in your blog post. Thanks a lot for sharing your experiences and thoughts. I'm planning to buy the Zf soon so this is all very helpful. I'm intrigued you did not love the Fuji X100VI , and have chosen to not use the top retro dials on the Zf in favor of the front and rear command dials. Given its better ergos, I wonder why you would not prefer the Z6III, with a very similar sensor and the same manual focus aids (and more fn. buttons) ? Perhaps in a future video, I'd also love to hear you expound a bit on exactly what draws you into the Zf, despite its flaws, that make it more satisfying and inspiring to use as an EDC vs. the X100V or Z6III? The top retro dials, as nice as they look, do not really work for you it seems. I am pretty sure I would like using these retro retro dials and the sometimes conflicting PASM switch, and seeing all the exposure settings laid out visually for me on each shot (instead of a tiny top LCD panel) in a more deliberate, tactile shooting mode. Of course the experience is even more "classic" and pleasing with the Voigt's lovely clicky aperture rings and silky smooth MF ring. Also, have you thought of trying the updated Neewer V. 2 grip for the Zf with an integrated thumb rest? I suspect it would still be too slippery and and small/shallow for me compared with the Smallrig.
There's not a ton to say about the X100...both the V and VI suffer from a quite bad focusing system when paired with that particular 23/2...the motors are loud, focus isn't surefooted, and AF-S is the only mode I trust on either. The VI took a step backwards in build quality...it gets hotter just shooting stills than my ZF gets shooting 4K video. It has an IBIS unit that clanks around while the camera is off...just a camera that put me off in so many ways even vs the V.
However, the X100 dials make more sense to me, and were more fun to use because I didn't have to balance them against a PASM switch. I'm so fast with command dials on my other Z cam that using it on the ZF feels more natural to me.
The Z6iii would be a better fit for me ultimately (feature wise and ergonomically at least), however it comes at a $1000 upcharge right now and I don't feel the gains are worth that yet. I may yet pick one up when they go on deeper refurb pricing. All that said, the Z6iii lacks what the ZF has that makes you want to pick it up...it just looks like any other camera, silly to say as that is.
I've indeed tried the Neewer V2 and found it both too small and too slippery. The SmallRig feels much more assured in hand.
Why everyone compairing this camera to Fujifilm? Its like Z6III old brother with absolutely horrible handling. It has literally NOTHING to do with Fujifilm.
For me, it’s because the ZF is the only non-Fuji camera attempting to pull off the classic film camera control scheme via dials.
Too big. Too heavy. Stupid flippy screen. Nikon F fanboy. Hate Z mount. Just give us a photo-only FM please Nikon.
Before the ZF came out, I wished they would make a Df II with ZF type build quality. FM size is dead and gone with Z mount sadly. My FM3a is the perfect size.
I still have the original FM that i bought new in 1978 and love the size of that camera. I also never had a problem with holding it the way everybody is complaining about grips or lack of with some cameras today. It worked great when i bought it and it works great now.
@ the FM is a lot smaller and lighter than the ZF, so the “brick” ergos don’t matter as much.
@@scotttuckerphotography The FM ergonomics far exceed those of the ZF.
@@scotttuckerphotography I own several FM3A and FE bodies in addition to the FM. Never understood the value proposition for Z mount. Bigger, heavier bodies and lenses and also more expensive. No IQ benefit that any client is willing to pay extra $$$ for. Certainly no IQ benefit for posting on social media. Very mysterious indeed.
Never get an advice from someone using Auto ISO.
Have a like for your stupid comment LOLOL
@@scotttuckerphotography thank you so much 😂👍
The Zf is a fun camera with great dynamic range ... 🦘
@@roybixby6135 no arguments here!!