I don't think that anyone needs to justify any brand that they use, period. That will be the brand that offers what they want. All the main companies offer brilliant systems, each offer certain features missing in others. I shoot a Nikon Z8 and Z6ii mainly because I've been shooting Nikon for decades, know the system and have some legacy lenses that work fantastically on the Z system still. It's a brilliant system with really fine files but also missing some features of other brands, especially with the Z6ii's auto focus system, but we have a wonderful choice of lenses on the Z mount plus thousands of F mount ones that are fun to use. Choose what you want, who cares. It's the images that count.
exactly, Use the system you are most comfortable with. Their specs are all close enough not to be able to say one is clearly better. I stay with canon just because it's what I strated with so now I can zoom around that body without thinking. camera's are only the tool , photographers are the talent.
Exactly i shoot canon and i jsut cant stand nikon folks comming over telling me i chose the wrong camera system…strangely i dont get thtat from fuji or sony folks but anyway. There is no best. Just the best for YOU
As pro for 35yrs using Nikon, Bronica (Should have use Hasselblad), and 4X5 Sinar (the Rolls Royce) I had the opposite to what one person experienced here. I had Canon people say I'd made the wrong choice. These were always keen amateurs. Myself and my many professional colleagues never disputed the camera choice. We knew it was the person behind the camera that made the difference.
I don't think there's a need to justify, but it can be interesting to hear people explain why they chose a system, especially when they are starting from almost zero. I thought it was really telling that mostly it came down to ergonomics and buttons than any stats it has, and to a lesser degree lenses.
Feedback: there are those of us that are primarily listening to these videos while we do other things (cleaning, crafting, yes even driving). When the auto drops entirely mute and you introduce the questions as a title card (ex @2:44) it means we have to find the remote or unlock the phone, then rewind the video just to see what the question was. I do really like having the title cards, but could you please read the questions in your voice along with the screen cards? Thanks!
Agree! Not a big fan of the title cards. I always appreciated the candid ‘chat’ at the computer type of videos. The title cards always seem to be a weird deviation and weird moment of silence from that candid, friendly chat and makes the video seem more unnecessarily structured. Just my opinion.
I really think Z8 will become very important in Nikons history, it is such a beautifull piece of gear...you can also say the same for 24-120 f4 S lens, it produces such good images. Great from Nikon
I've watched about a thousand reviews of the Z8 and no one mentioned backlit buttons! No one! So +1 point now to purchase this camera in addition to a tiny Z6
The R5 has a sensor curtain to avoid dust on the sensor while changing lenses. The disadvantage is that the curtain is not a shield and actually more sensitive for mechanical damage than the sensor. I do like the Z8 and would buy it today but after 40 Canon years and 8 lenses including the 1.2-2.8 lenses changing system is very expensive.
If you mostly have EF lenses, you can get a megadap adaptor and you can use your EF lenses on the Z8 like if they were native lenses. I habe a R5, and unlike you, I want to have them both, since I only have EF lenses and 1 RF lens 😅
So does my R6II. The idea that this is the deciding factor is just.. weird. And to answer Mark's question about "why don't all cameras have this?" It's because most other MILCs still have a mechanical shutter, and can use THAT as their sensor cover. The Z8/9 just added a new mechanical gadget to make up for the fact that they don't have a shutter to do the job naturally.
The prodigal son returns! Welcome back to the Nikon Family! I really don’t know about the other brands but Nikon is very good at supplying updates to their cameras in the form of firmwares. I have the z9 and love it. I have smaller hands and at first I thought maybe it is too big. I have become so accustomed to using it I don’t notice it anymore. One difference between the z9 and z8 is an extra function button. The battery is more robust too. I do shoot some fast action genres and with the Delkin Black Diamond CF Express card it seems like the high frame rate is endless. I have not hit a buffer limit yet. Again happy shooting with the Z8!
Just bought this last week. It’s a full circle in my case. Nikon - Canon - Fuji - Lumix - Sigma FP - Nikon 😅. It’s an amazing piece of machinery. I’m not a photographer but the photos out of Z8 are astonishingly beautiful 😍. Sharp and the colours are so great (Rich Tone Portrait profile).
I've had my z8 since Christmas and I love it. I so haven't used it for landscape yet. It's great for action and wildlife. It's such a versatile camera. Another good reason for buying a z8 is because Nikon is giving great support with firmware updates.
Any modern camera is better than what I shot magazine covers with 35 years ago! I’ve used an R5 and R6 for the last few years, and various Nikons and Mamiya cameras before that. Now I’m enjoying the Hasselblad X2D. They’re all amazing. I’d argue it’s not even about the photos. It’s about enjoying the outdoors with creativity and intention.
This is one of those feel-good, but incorrect statements. Brand absolutely matters. Some of them don't matter much between them but a Phase One is absolutely not comparable to an Olympus.
@@zakiradi450I shoot Z9 and godox strobes. No issues other than the fairly slow sync speed of 1/160th. Officially it's 1/200 but now and again you get a black band at 1/200
Another great video Mark. The Nikon Z 100-400 and 24-120 are the only two lenses I own. You didn't mention it but are probably aware of how close you can focus with these lenses. I believe it's like .38x for both or there abouts. That was a game-changer for me!
Welcome to the Z8 club! Enjoy your new camera and lenses. It is the best do all camera on the photo market at this time. Maybe the Canon R5II will leap frog past it? There are no bad cameras in this age of technology. Most of us stay with the brand we started with after investing in lenses.
Welcome to the happy Nikon Z8 owners club and I'm sure there are happy owners of other brand and model cameras and lenses too ,no problem, I love mine too which I have owned for about a year, if you want to use the full potential of it you need to use the CFe type B memory card but for landscape that is not needed. That 24-120 f4S lens is great too and my favorite for landscape and generally outdoors , it also is a very good macro lens if you want to use for that because it focuses about 5 or 6 inches from the lens at 120 mm , I am looking forward to seeing more of your experiences with these.
it amazes me people still argue about camera brands. At this point it’s simply personal preference. There’s so little difference now and no one will get better photos by choosing one camera brand over another.
I have been asked “what camera brand should I buy?” My answer is “none of the manufacturers make a bad camera, they all make different cameras!” “Some may make a camera that fits your hands better, some may have menus that you prefer, some may have menus you don’t get on with, try some and see which you prefer!”
I think the reason people argue is because they have a lot of money wrapped up in a particular brand and want to think they made the right decision. So when their brand is knocked they have to go to defence.
@@MarkDenneyPhoto It doesn’t seem like that long ago that I refused to transition to digital cameras because you could always tell a digital photo from a “real” one, and they just didn’t look nearly as good. Now even the phone you carry around in your pocket takes incredible photos.
I just switched to the Z8 from Fujifilm and I’m totally loving it!! I would be really interested in your landscape settings on the Z8, if at all possible.
Great choice Mark, I am sure you will enjoy this system. I have the same setup and I only have good words about it. Nikon really nailed it with this camera and the lenses are awesome too!!!
Thanks for another thoughtful video. I don’t think you can go wrong with any of the top tier cameras these days. I use the Sony A7RV, and I love it for landscape. These are my thoughts: 1) Sony A7RV has a shutter-closed-when-camera-is-turned-off mode that helps prevent dust from getting on the sensor. I don’t know if it is different from the “sensor shield.” I suspect Nikon’s is a bit more sturdy, since the shield/shutter is only used for long exposure noise reduction. Nikon does not use a shutter under normal shooting situations. 2) I clearly experience a difference between my 50 megapixel A1 and my 60 megapixel A7RV images when cropping. The A1 is more versatile, but the A7RV is always my go to for landscape. I doubt I would experience a difference between 45 and 50 megapixel. I’m sure that’s a personal preference - I am very nit-picky. 3) I suspect the Z8 is better for low light at 100%, and may have a bit more dynamic range because of the larger photosite area, but I don’t find the A7RV to be lacking, even for night photography. 4) I really like the Nikon lens lineup. The zoom ranges are well suited for landscape - I am sometimes envious of the 24-120 lens. Canon also has a good lineup also with the 14-35, 24-105, and 100-500. That said, I do like my Sony 20-70 and 70-200 MACRO, a super lightweight pair, (or 20-70 and 100-400 pairing) very much! I rarely need wider than 20mm. I do wish Sony had a 14-24 or a 14-35, with front filters, instead of a 16-35. I feel the 12-24 GM is too big, with a bulbous front element, and the 12-24 f/4 just does not have the IQ. I sometimes just throw in a 14mm with my 20-70 and 70-20/100-400 pair. 5) I also wish Sony had a top screen, and more programmable buttons. 6) Finally, I am 6’-5” with XXLarge hands and I’ve never found the size of Sony cameras to be an issue.
20-70 + 70-200 really is a great pair, especially coupled with 1,4x teleconverter, which improves the macro capabilities on the tele lens from 1:2 to 1:1,4 and inches closer to 100-400 range capabilities. Now I'm thinking about about 35 mm f/1,4 GM for night/street work...
I love the Sony 20-70/4 and the 70-200/4 macro. I wish Nikon had both of these lenses but what’s really great is that I can uses these lenses on my Nikon with the Megadap adapter.
In addition to all the positive reasons you mentioned for owning a Z8 or Z9, I really like the way I can be in bird tracking mode, then, at the touch of one button, I can switch to small, single-point focus. Touch another button and I'm now in crop sensor mode. In video mode, even with a prime lens, I can zoom in by 200% without any visible loss of resolution. Maybe other cameras can do all this, but I like the Nikon set up.
I'm 6'4" with gorilla hands and started my career shooting Nikon film cameras and then their digitals from d70 to D2X to d800...LOVE NIKON, but now I shoot Sony a7RV with battery grip and added thumb grip and it feels great in the hand
I bought a used Z7 a couple years ago, specifically so that i could use the 24-120, and I have no regrets. That lense is amazing. I have no plans to replace my Z7 anytime soon, but the sensor shield and backlit buttons on the Z8 are tempting quality of life features. Maybe in a couple years when used prices come down...
What you find out..... is exactly why I have the Z 8. I do landscape, wildlife, sport and car racing, airshows, some macro and I can do everything perfect with the Z 8. I bought it as a kit with the 24-120 f 4 and the FTZ adapter from B&H in May 2023. Almost never have to deal with sensor dust. The 300 mm f 2,8 VR F mount works great with all 3 Nikon TC on this lens, Also the 70-200mm 2,8 FL. Set up and custom setting took a while to set up to my best use. Had the D3, D3x, D810, D 500 in combination with the D850 before. I use about 80% the 24-120 on the camera with stunning result. The only what I miss ... not autofocus with my D lenses. 24 mm tilt and shift and the 200mm f 4 macro.
Went from Nikon (D800) To mirrorless by switching to a Fuji X-T2 to get a smaller setup. I liked shooting the Fuji, but the focus performance was not good enough, and I missed fullframe. Went to the Sony A7III which I now use. I really like Sony. But there are times, where I wish I did go for the Nikon Z system instead. Feels like meeting an old friend. (I shot Nikon for 10-ish years)
This camera looks great but, I don't shoot anything that moves much-if at all. You can get a Z7II now for under 2k (body only). That would save me a lot of $$$$. I don't need the benefits of a stacked sensor.
There's something irresistibly satisfying about cradling the Z8 with the 24-120 or 14-24, or really any lens you choose. It's the perfect mix of size, heft, and balance-a marvel of technology that just clicks with me. Aesthetic appeal? Check. Feels like a dream? Absolutely.
I started with my dad’s Kodak 35mm film camera that he got back in 1964. I used in the 70s during high school, and then in college my mom got me my own film camera - the Canon Rebel. I used it for the next 20 years until I couldn’t get film really anymore. Flash forward to 2019 or so when I decided to get a camera again. I got a DSLR, naturally a Canon Rebel T7. Very happy with it - except for the fact it doesn’t take an external mic. I works for me and my needs. Cost effective, great color and lens options, not too heavy. If $ was no object would I have a different camera for every task? Nah, I travel light.
Welcome to my neck of the woods. I have been taking pictures since 1986 and have been married to Nikon since and to my wife since 1984, hahaha. No disrespect to any of the other brands, they make awesome products as well. I am not a professional but have 2 x Z9s (while heavy) and love them. Best wishes and keep up the good work.
The sensor shield is great just make sure the rear element of the lens your putting on is dust free & if you want to be really careful about dust check the rear lens cap before you put it on when you take the lens off, takes seconds to do but can make a difference.
Yeah, I have around 40, including the F mount lenses. Sometimes I have been thinking about getting a Canon camera and a long tele, just for bird photography - still using Nikon for anything else. But now with the Z8 and the 180-600, I don't need that anymore.
Canon all the way for me. Cheap EF L lenses on the used market. Low cost R7 for birds and wildlife. Speedbooster makes my EF 500 L F4 a 550mm F2.8 equivalent. Canon has no issues with dust on the sensor. AF and ergonomics just works . When I win the lottery I will look at RF glass and a R5 ii. But I will use this R7 on birds for a long time. Just love it.
Once again, great video Mark in describing reasons and answering questions. Ive seen some comments about it doesnt matter which gear you use as long as you get good results, and i totally disagree. You brought it out, but it really is almost a oart of your body in the sense that the camera has to "fit" perfectly, and have a menu system that allows you to make quick decision and changes. It also has to make you "enjoy" the photography journey, which you also stated. So, i would definitely say that the brand matters. Are they all fantastic camera's? Yes, but one is "family"..😊. Nikon is family for me. Thanks for the video Mark!
I've been using nikkor 24-120 lenses for years so buying into the z system i purchased the z 24-120 lens and it is superb. I have looked at Canon and Sony too but the Nikon system seems a more natural fit and easy to evolve to newer cameras from any older Nikon digital camera.
nice choice 🙂 I shoot both Nikon and Fuji and love both. My Fuji system is bang up to date (X-H2) while on Nikon I love shooting a vintage D700 and 105 macro. 12MP is enough and the look of the images the older equipment affords is just gorgeous. Only issue is remembering which way to screw the lenses on and off!!
If you are a wildlife or bird photographer you definitely need to use CF Express cards to utilize the speed of the Z8/Z9 cameras. And you will never hit the end of the buffer. And transfering files to ssd drives is a lot faster. The latter point is probably the only advantage for landscape only photogs.
(Anthony) Welcome to Nikon. Again, I'm glad I had an opportunity to meet you at Out of Grand Teton. (green camera wrap all the way). The one thing to mention about the 100-400mm lens is the tripod mounting bracket (foot). The lens foot groove tends to be slightly different than what will fit most arca-swiss compatible ballhead mounts. You may want (or need) to switch to a different lens foot. RRS (LCF-21) and Kirk (LP-70) both make a lens foot specifically for the Nikon Z 100-400mm lens that is spot-on and fits arca-swiss plates perfectly. The grooves are a perfect match. Just thought I would pass it on. Thank you for the video. The shutter guard is a brilliant idea. I agree, all mirrorless cameras should have it as a standard feature.
It´s always a matter of your own needs and feelings. I totally understand Mark when it comes to big hands and beefier bodies. Sony is really small compared to Nikon and Canon and you have to like that. Choose Nikon over Canon makes also sense for me when you used Nikon in the past already and have experience with the system. I never get used to twist the Lenses in the opposite direction to unmount them compared to Canon for example. The Z8 has also a never sensor compared to the Canon R5 and I have to admit that even for me as a Canon Shooter, Nikon has some really really nice glass in their portfolio. Everything else is simply private taste also when it comes to buttons and functions. Pretty much every Camera nowadays offers to program custom function etc. and when you mostly work on a tripod it simply doesn´t matter because you have the time ;-) One of the only things I'm a bit jealous of are the illuminated button on the Z8 besides the nice lenses ...
First of all, I agree every single point as the presenter says other than one small variant, talk about it later. Second, let me share my experience with both Sony A1 and Nikon Z9 which I own and use both of them. Let me start with the summary first: In Nikon’s camp, you have 100% full control of your equipment, especially Z9 and Z8. (I admit that I don’t know other models because I don’t have them.) In Sony’s camp, you don’t have full control of your equipment and Sony has the 100% total control of your equipment. Let me explain. I am an outdoor photographer which means anything outdoor is fair game to me including landscape, wildlife, flowers, and/or mushrooms (macro). Anything outdoor. I bought my Sony A1 in Dec, 2021 and I was happy, very happy as the matter of fact because the mirrorless inherited advantages over DSLR. In May, 2023 I rented Sony A7rV for 6 weeks because I was considering to have a second body to reduce the amount of lens exchange. Only by then I realized that on A7rV there is no time limit on electronic shutter. On A1, there is a time limitation of 5 seconds with electronic shutter but not mechanical shutter. I also found out that highest frames per second on A7rV is 5 with electronic shutter but 7 fps with mechanical shutter. Electronic shutter is controlled by software or firmware and there is absolutely no reason to put the time and FPS limitations on electronic shutters if mechanical shutter could achieve them. Sony artificially put these limitations on them to force its users to use mechanical shutter. Because of the above reasons, I bought the Nikon Z9 in Aug, 2023 and immediately recognize the advantage of it. I shoot landscape so I sometimes need focus shifting, focus stacking, to ensure the entire image will be in focus and Z9 has it but not A1. This feature was offered on the later A7rV but not on A1 which is a $6,500 flagship camera. I shoot birds so I sometimes needs pre-release, pre-capture, to help me to catch the moment which was available on Z9 but not A1. This feature was offered on the later A9III but not on A1 which is a $6,500 flagship camera. Moreover, the later A9III doesn’t have focus shifting, focus stacking, either. One could argue that A7 series are for landscape which is why it doesn’t have pre-release, pre-capture, and A9 series are for action which is why it doesn’t have focus shifting, focus stacking, but then A1 doesn’t have neither of them, the flagship camera. There are more examples like these and these differences made me realize that I don’t have the full control of my Sony equipment but Sony has the 100% total control of them. Spending all the money to buy all the A1, A7rV and A9III in order to have all these essential features is trivial in comparison with carrying all these camera bodies to be out there and do my photo creation. The biggest difference between Z9 and Z8 to me is actually not the battery pack but the build-in GPS. As an outdoor photographer, location mark on pictures is extremely important to me because I often change locations several times in a day. Yes, I could use mobile phone’s geo-location function. However, the connection is not always reliable. Second, I use my phone’s map to guide me to drive around outdoors and not always remember to take the phone with me when I was in a hurry grabbing my camera and lens to jump off my car to shoot. This is also the biggest problem I could complain with Z8. Z8 has smaller foot-print and lighter body which is an excellent and versatile “outdoor” camera but it doesn’t have a build-in GPS. Z9 is heavy, bulky but has a build-in GPS. I truly hope in the next iteration of Z8 Nikon would implement a build-in GPS. So, let me repeat my summary here between Sony and Nikon equipment: In Nikon’s camp, you have 100% full control of your equipment, especially Z9 and Z8 and this essential point doesn’t apply to Sone equipment.
For me I want to change my Nikon D780 but I'm waiting to see what Nikon will offer with the upcoming Z7 Mark III and I will make my decision by comparing the Z8 and Z7 III. I'm a Landscape photographer
I switched to a Canon R5 a few years ago after nearly 3 decades w/ Nikon. The reason I didn't go with a Sony A1 is that the R5 was the only camera that supported all the video modes/codecs as the A1 but for $2,500 less (and I find Sony ergonomics suboptimal). Still love Nikon, but always felt I was paying a little more, sometimes missed focus on fast-moving subjects and their declining market share. For landscapes, studio, and 90% of all other uses, you'll be fine. It's still a great brand.
Just switched to fujifilm medium format system from Sony full frame. Still trying to work out my workflow but I cannot be more excited by the photos I’d already taken. Photographers change and grow, it’s only natural that our gears change, too.
Hi Mark. I appreciated your video. I currently use a Sony A7RV, (which does have a sensor shield BTW), and A7RII. But I also have (2) Nikon D7100's. One is for birding and the other is for some types of macro work in my studio. I have to agree I've always loved shooting Nikon camera's including the D7100. It just works better for me ergonomically and fits my hands more comfortably. Persoanlly if I wasn't so vested in the Sony system I'd be very interested in owning the Z8 as well. However, I or should I say (we), can get great images out of all these camera's. So you might as well use the one that makes you happy! To anwer your quick question I'm a landscape, tabletop and macro photographer mostly. Occasionally I'll shoot birds but not often.
Nikon fits like a glove. AND you can press all the buttons WEARING a glove! Muscle£memory with Nikon is easy. Ever since moving from Nikon to Fuji 13 years ago I’ve had regrets…. But I love Fuji JPEGs and have learned how to adjust highlights and shadows in-camera that I never shoot RAW. FUJIFILM are quirky cameras and my most used lens is the Fuji 70-300mm which is compact and gives 100-400mm equivalent. Love your tutorials and frank reviews.
I will say what I always tell people….a camera is a tool. Brand doesn’t matter. If it gets the job done, then GREAT! Every brand has pros and cons. If there are more pros, then that’s what will determine your choices. The sensor shield is a great reason, along with the lower base iso are great reasons for the Nikon. The back lit buttons are something I also miss with my D500 that is also worth it. If I had to pick another brand outside of my XT5, then the Z8 would probably be my choice. Not a fan of the telephoto options for Canon at the moment, so that’s a big NO for now. Also, my question is, if you move over to Nikon, are you going to change your second video camera as well? If so, which one? The Z6iii might be a good thought with its size and weight.
A tip for you with big hands; Smallrig's L-bracket gives just a little extra room for the hand, and it's lighter than the RRS, I think. And instead of the Arca Swiss rails you put on your telephoto lenses, make e.g. Kirk Photo a lens foot with built-in Arca Swiss, and it's again a lighter solution. By now you are probably used to using that index finger to change the aperture, so I think it is convenient to use the lens' control ring for exposure compensation. But perhaps you have already considered those solutions.
Afaik the reason more cameras don't have a sensor shield is because they need space for a mechanical shutter mechanism, whereas the Z8 and Z9 don't, so they can put a sturdy shield in there instead.
there's absolutely no reason NOT to put a sensor shield even with a mechanical shutter. this whole idea that we should sacrifice quality for space to make cameras smaller for ppl that cannot handle real bodies is ridiculous. don't buy a pro camera and expect it to be tiny. simple as that. we have a lot of naggers these days always complaining about something. this whole size and weight thing is getting out of hand. Nikon decided they didn't care about that with the Z9 and the Z8 which i'm really happy about. the fact that they have substantial bodies that weigh more is going to be a selling point for many professional users. it can't be that hard to integrate a shield with a mechanical shutter. it's 2024.
@@Rammykazemi Agreed. The R7 weighs less than 500g and still has a sensor shield. I think the shield is sold as part of a "pro" package, since the camera also comes with dual card slots, IBIS, a heftier battery, a 32 MP sensor, etc and is generally regarded as the flagship of Canon's APSC line . Since I am reluctant to clean the sensor myself, the shield also saves me money , since I haven't paid for a professional cleaning in the 2y I've owned it: :)
@@wellingtoncrescent2480 i don't need to be cleaning sensors when shit is hitting the fan in the field and light is happening lol this feature must have been there for a very long time. i don't mind cleaning sensors but the mirrorless cameras are HORRIBLE when it comes to dust if they don't have a shield. that sensor is RIGHT THERE u can touch it. definitely not acceptable in my opinion
@@wellingtoncrescent2480 Just so you know, that is NOT a sensor shield in the R7. It's your actual shutter mechanism. It will be a very expensive fix if you should ever even slightly bend one of those blades. Your sensor is actually more durable than your shutter mech, it's at least covered with glass
Thank you for your content. I am thinking about switching from A6500 to a FF and miss my old Nikon (7100) a lot especially the two rings placement for aperture and speed. Another point for Nikon. Thanks again.
Go with the zf or z6 III. Dont buy the Z6 II. It is good but you get more for you money with zf and Z6 III. Furthermore they get firmware Updates after the launch of Z6 III and Zf and maybe Z7 III soon i dont think the old one get firmware updates anymore.
@@rickmower1136 I also have the Zf I love it too but I considering to switch to the new Z6 III cause of the better videospecs. Or maybe 3 Nikon Bodies 😀
Hi mark, glad to hear your enjoying your setup! You said that you moved from Fuji because you were missing a long telephoto for the GFX. Why didn’t you just stay with the long telephoto on the xt5 instead of switching to FF Nikon? Curious to know as I’m currently debating myself between moving to Fuji or Sony systems. (From canon dslr) As always, love your content mate!
The one thing, above all, that keeps me with the Fuji system ( and Fuji has limitations for sure ) is the colour rendition. Fuji, for me, has always been the leader in colour reproduction. Their films were , for me, always way above the other brands, especially diapositives, even though they favoured the blue spectrum they always seemed truer to actual life. Nikon are a great system but I changed to Fuji 2 years ago and have not regretted it. Best wishes Mark from an avid fan.
Good overview, Mark. Enjoy your new body. I do own the Z9, it is great, a wonderful hybrid body. I might still get a z8 as well, but at the moment, having so much fun with the Zf as a travel-body, especially when paired with the Voigtländer MZ z-mount lenses. Let’s see if I do grab a Z8 as well for those high-res landscape shots during travels.
I have the 2nd generation 24-120 f/4G lens for Nikon's DSLR. Love that versatile lens. Used it for cityscapes and street photography, paired w/ my Nikon D800, for over a year. Only problem w/ that setup, its too heavy and bulky for street. Progressively over the years got a compact setup w/ the Z6II and 28mm Voigtlander. Now my gen 2 24-120mm lives on my Nikon F100 for anytime I want to shoot cityscape-architecture on film. Still as sharp when I got it. 🤩
I'm an amateur photographer and shoot landscapes and wildlife. On the wildlife side, the CF Express card write speed and amazing autofocus sold me on the Z8.
The sensor shield makes sense for the Z8 because it has no mechanical shutter. However, for cameras with a mechanical shutter, using the shutter curtain as a sensor shield is a poor execution of the idea. The sensor is more durable and easy to clean compared to a damage shutter curtain
I think you've made a very wise choice Mark, I've been with Nion for 35+ years so I'm bound to say that but honestly these is nothing this came can't do the Z lenses are as good as it gets! Re size of cameras, do you remember when they started making mobile phones smaller and smaller then it dawned on them that the reduced size had an impact on functionality and practicality then they started making them bigger again, it's the same with cameras too small and they become unstable and they are tricky to hold still, the Z8 is perfect in my opinion!
It's a great camera. All high end cameras perform at a high level today, regardless of manufacturer. At the end of the day, all that matters is the light passing through the lens and hitting the sensor. Everything else are tools and features that get you to that point. Enjoy your Z 8, and yes the 24-120 is a great lens, always on my rig.
I upgraded to a z8 after using a D810 for 8 years - the camera is an absolute beast. Put the 24-120 f4 S lens and you have a workhorse of a set up for 80% of your photographic needs.
I tried Sony and cannon and they just didn’t feel as good to me as Nikon in the hands. Cannon has this plastic feel to it even though is not and Sony ergonomic just feel off too. Nikon on the other hand feel like they built like tank, the grip are deep and grippy
I would assume those screaming in comments about how this brand/model is superior to any other brand/model are amateurs and semi-pros who need to justify to themselves the insane amount of money they have spent on gear. Or people who get paid to advertise it.
There is now a lot of discussion online about the lower dynamic range and higher noise of stacked sensors. Did you manage to compare these parameters with GFX? I'm looking to buy a Z8, but I'm worried about the possible low-light performance because I do a lot of astrophotography.
I shoot a Sony A7RV and have all Sony Lens's. If I had to start over, I would choose the Nikon Z8 because of the great still and video combo. I carry an A7IV body for video and being old enough for Medicare that extra weight is getting Old also.
Primarily landscapes. Thanks for your inputs. A long time Nikon hobbyist from FM2 days, yet to go mirrorless, was torn between the three. Your articulation makes easy for my choice to stay with Nikon!
100% agree about sensor shield. Cannot understand why any mirrorless camera would be without it, or why by default when camera is turned off, a mechanical shutter (if available) comes down 🤷♂️🤷♂️
The shutter shield is even better than people realise, as you can put your camera down in the sun and not worry about your sensor getting fried by the focussed light. Even the cameras that close the shutter blades can't do that as shutter blades burn really easily. I love that whenever I turn the camera off (which is also the easiest on nikon) I know the sensor is safe. As far as I know the boot up is also the fastest, you can bring the camera to your face as you flick the power with your shitter finger and be firing off a burst straight away as it gets to your eye.
This is a complete non issue. I have been shooting Sony for 2 years, never ever have I had a problem with the shutter blades. It's one of those problems that 0.00001% of people have because they do something insanely stupid. But hey, those people are on the internet, so it becomes a thing.
This is very true. Closing the shutter is not the same as a sensor shield, as a shutter is much more fragile and prone to damage when its exposed. It's likely other camera manufacturers don't make a sensor shield, primarily due to the fact that you can't easily fit one. Hopefully they will start designing cameras with sensor shields like the Nikon soon though, as it's extremely handy, event just for the fact of keeping dust off your sensor. Generally people are very conscious of their exposed sensor and shutter, but it's still more common than some probably realise for people to accidentally damage either or both the sensor and shutter, since they are both so fragile.
My hands and the Sony mirrorless cameras had irreconcilable differences too. Why I switched to Nikon. [I blame my hands more than the Sony camera.] I bought the Z9 when it first came out. I hated it. Even moreso than the Sony cameras I used to own. As soon as the Z8 came out, I sold the Z9, used it to help pay for the Z8, and have been a happy camper ever since.
@@jackbrumby1892 Jack: It was a combination of both the size and weight. [Not enough room in my camera bag - had to start leaving stuff behind. Needed a beefier tripod. Etc.] If the Z8 had come out before the Z9, I would have stopped at the Z8 too. Cheers - Franz
How about the battery life? Especially for wild life and nature photography you may need more battery life, only downside for Z8 is the battery life, what is your opinion? How many batteries do you carry for a day shoot?
I think that battery life with the Z8 is pretty good, for a day's shooting I usually take 4 batteries and mostly use 2 to 3, leaving the camera on most of the time when I shoot wildlife. Shooting at high frame rates (20 fps RAW) left me 80 % after 1,500 clicks. I sold my GFX50R and 32-64 mm and 100-200 mm because I had to reduce weight because of back problems and are happy with the 24-120 mm and the 100-400 mm. In case I need more reach I take the converters as well. Another thing: I learnt a couple of years ago that Patone produce the batteries for all the big camera brands, so I never buy original batteries any more and save almost half the money (or get more batteries for the same money).
@@joerghuettenhoff5391 Thank you for your feedback and related Patone batteries, I never heard about it, I will certainly consider this batteries. Now I am a step closer to Z8 ;)
Just as a counterpoint, a noted side effect of an electronic-only sensor on the Z8 is that the dynamic range is slightly compromised, which is a tradeoff for the benefits. I've seen some tests claim they're "basically equal" but I don't think I've ever seen a test have the Z8 come out on top. DR is just not a selling feature of an electronic-only shutter. It probably doesn't matter, but it's not a selling feature.
I own the Canon R5 and the sensor has a cover that closes over it when you turn it off. Can't imagine going back to a camera that doesn't do that. As a matter of fact, all of Canon's mirrorless cameras from 2020 on have a sensor shield.
@@Henry_Churches I think it just works different on Nikon. On Canon you have to switch of the camera to use the protection. On Nikon I guess it will automatically closed when you change the lenses without turn off the camera. Not that I ever was in a rush to change lenses on my R5 that fast, but hey. ;-)
@@christianwenglorz7349 I hear your point. Sounds like that would save me exactly 2 whole seconds because I wouldn’t have to turn the camera off. Big whoop.
Yes, totally agree that all cameras should have a sensor shield, Fuji GFX with their huge sensor should have one as are the Sonys. I am using GFX100S and Sony A7R4, their lack of sensor shield means I always have to put one sensor swab in my bag to clean the sensor, the sensor dust can be quite annoy when you see them after you took the photos. Regarding Z8 I agree it is the best hybrid and high resolution ( Above 45mp) camera.
🔥QUICK QUESTION: What type of photographer are you? Landscape, Wildlife, Sports, Portrait, etc
I just take photographs...
Landscape & Widlife :) this video couldnt have come at a better time
I’m a wildlife and nature photographer .
Are you going to get a Nikon Z6iii for filming your videos now ?
And congrats on the switch back to Nikon .
Wildlife videographer here -- Nikon all the way! 😃
Landscape and a bit of airshows
I don't think that anyone needs to justify any brand that they use, period. That will be the brand that offers what they want. All the main companies offer brilliant systems, each offer certain features missing in others. I shoot a Nikon Z8 and Z6ii mainly because I've been shooting Nikon for decades, know the system and have some legacy lenses that work fantastically on the Z system still. It's a brilliant system with really fine files but also missing some features of other brands, especially with the Z6ii's auto focus system, but we have a wonderful choice of lenses on the Z mount plus thousands of F mount ones that are fun to use. Choose what you want, who cares. It's the images that count.
exactly, Use the system you are most comfortable with. Their specs are all close enough not to be able to say one is clearly better. I stay with canon just because it's what I strated with so now I can zoom around that body without thinking. camera's are only the tool , photographers are the talent.
Exactly i shoot canon and i jsut cant stand nikon folks comming over telling me i chose the wrong camera system…strangely i dont get thtat from fuji or sony folks but anyway. There is no best. Just the best for YOU
As pro for 35yrs using Nikon, Bronica (Should have use Hasselblad), and 4X5 Sinar (the Rolls Royce) I had the opposite to what one person experienced here. I had Canon people say I'd made the wrong choice. These were always keen amateurs. Myself and my many professional colleagues never disputed the camera choice. We knew it was the person behind the camera that made the difference.
How is color science straight out of camera
I don't think there's a need to justify, but it can be interesting to hear people explain why they chose a system, especially when they are starting from almost zero. I thought it was really telling that mostly it came down to ergonomics and buttons than any stats it has, and to a lesser degree lenses.
Feedback: there are those of us that are primarily listening to these videos while we do other things (cleaning, crafting, yes even driving). When the auto drops entirely mute and you introduce the questions as a title card (ex @2:44) it means we have to find the remote or unlock the phone, then rewind the video just to see what the question was. I do really like having the title cards, but could you please read the questions in your voice along with the screen cards? Thanks!
Agree! Not a big fan of the title cards. I always appreciated the candid ‘chat’ at the computer type of videos. The title cards always seem to be a weird deviation and weird moment of silence from that candid, friendly chat and makes the video seem more unnecessarily structured. Just my opinion.
Agree i dont want to read
Never thought of this as I tend to be the exact opposite - watching with no sound and just subtitles
I really think Z8 will become very important in Nikons history, it is such a beautifull piece of gear...you can also say the same for 24-120 f4 S lens, it produces such good images.
Great from Nikon
I've watched about a thousand reviews of the Z8 and no one mentioned backlit buttons! No one! So +1 point now to purchase this camera in addition to a tiny Z6
The R5 has a sensor curtain to avoid dust on the sensor while changing lenses. The disadvantage is that the curtain is not a shield and actually more sensitive for mechanical damage than the sensor. I do like the Z8 and would buy it today but after 40 Canon years and 8 lenses including the 1.2-2.8 lenses changing system is very expensive.
If you mostly have EF lenses, you can get a megadap adaptor and you can use your EF lenses on the Z8 like if they were native lenses. I habe a R5, and unlike you, I want to have them both, since I only have EF lenses and 1 RF lens 😅
Never touched my canon sensors so the r5 s way is perfect
So does my R6II. The idea that this is the deciding factor is just.. weird.
And to answer Mark's question about "why don't all cameras have this?" It's because most other MILCs still have a mechanical shutter, and can use THAT as their sensor cover. The Z8/9 just added a new mechanical gadget to make up for the fact that they don't have a shutter to do the job naturally.
@@hugomouteira7015 5. of them are RF lenses including the 50 and 85 1.2. I am very happy with my R5.
@@Axonteer I clean my sensor regularly because it seems to collect more dust than my DSLR’s before.
The prodigal son returns! Welcome back to the Nikon Family! I really don’t know about the other brands but Nikon is very good at supplying updates to their cameras in the form of firmwares. I have the z9 and love it. I have smaller hands and at first I thought maybe it is too big. I have become so accustomed to using it I don’t notice it anymore. One difference between the z9 and z8 is an extra function button. The battery is more robust too. I do shoot some fast action genres and with the Delkin Black Diamond CF Express card it seems like the high frame rate is endless. I have not hit a buffer limit yet. Again happy shooting with the Z8!
Just bought this last week. It’s a full circle in my case. Nikon - Canon - Fuji - Lumix - Sigma FP - Nikon 😅. It’s an amazing piece of machinery. I’m not a photographer but the photos out of Z8 are astonishingly beautiful 😍. Sharp and the colours are so great (Rich Tone Portrait profile).
I have never leave Nikon, but tried Canon and other manufacturers. The ergonomics of Nikon is the unbeatable one!
I bought the 24-120 S last year to take on my backpacking trips. It’s amazing and has slowly replaced my 24-70 2.8 S. Welcome back to Nikon 😀
that 24-120 is the lens that lives on my z8 most of the time.
I've had my z8 since Christmas and I love it. I so haven't used it for landscape yet. It's great for action and wildlife. It's such a versatile camera. Another good reason for buying a z8 is because Nikon is giving great support with firmware updates.
Any modern camera is better than what I shot magazine covers with 35 years ago! I’ve used an R5 and R6 for the last few years, and various Nikons and Mamiya cameras before that. Now I’m enjoying the Hasselblad X2D. They’re all amazing. I’d argue it’s not even about the photos. It’s about enjoying the outdoors with creativity and intention.
As long as you can get good results, brands don't matter at all.
HUSH!!! If it’s not a 200MP Medium format crop full pano special, then I don’t want it. :)
Brand matters because of what it can offer
This is one of those feel-good, but incorrect statements.
Brand absolutely matters. Some of them don't matter much between them but a Phase One is absolutely not comparable to an Olympus.
@@MichaelFrederickPhoto tbf you can see the detail in a Phase One image. It's my fave image to work on :)
@@ed61730 My comment was in jest, I have missed an opportunity to attend two Phase One events at my local camera shop, would LOVE to demo it!
That’s why I love Nikon, for those small details and the colors right out of the camera are great
For me camera ergonomics and aesthetics definitely play a role in enjoying photography
How it feels in your hand and the experience using it is very important for me as well.
A very important point and those Nikons are bricks that are totally uncomfortable and unwieldily to use for me.
Just want to say, I appreciate that you spent the time to get the video frame composition and the computer screen parallel with each other!
I love my Z8
Any issues working with godox lights due to absence of mechanical shutter?
@@zakiradi450I shoot Z9 and godox strobes. No issues other than the fairly slow sync speed of 1/160th. Officially it's 1/200 but now and again you get a black band at 1/200
@@chrisogrady28 thanks Chris. No high speed synch then?
Me too Camera of the Year too
@@zakiradi450 None at all
Another great video Mark. The Nikon Z 100-400 and 24-120 are the only two lenses I own. You didn't mention it but are probably aware of how close you can focus with these lenses. I believe it's like .38x for both or there abouts. That was a game-changer for me!
All reasons you stated make a lot of sense. What I like about Nikon is the color rendition ❤
Welcome to the Z8 club! Enjoy your new camera and lenses.
It is the best do all camera on the photo market at this time. Maybe the Canon R5II will leap frog past it? There are no bad cameras in this age of technology. Most of us stay with the brand we started with after investing in lenses.
Welcome to the happy Nikon Z8 owners club and I'm sure there are happy owners of other brand and model cameras and lenses too ,no problem,
I love mine too which I have owned for about a year, if you want to use the full potential of it you need to use the CFe type B memory card but for landscape that is not needed.
That 24-120 f4S lens is great too and my favorite for landscape and generally outdoors , it also is a very good macro lens if you want to use for that because it focuses about 5 or 6 inches from the lens at 120 mm , I am looking forward to seeing more of your experiences with these.
it amazes me people still argue about camera brands. At this point it’s simply personal preference. There’s so little difference now and no one will get better photos by choosing one camera brand over another.
I have been asked “what camera brand should I buy?”
My answer is “none of the manufacturers make a bad camera, they all make different cameras!” “Some may make a camera that fits your hands better, some may have menus that you prefer, some may have menus you don’t get on with, try some and see which you prefer!”
@@grahamstretch6863 This is the perfect answer to that question
I think the reason people argue is because they have a lot of money wrapped up in a particular brand and want to think they made the right decision. So when their brand is knocked they have to go to defence.
I agree! All cameras today are incredible!
@@MarkDenneyPhoto It doesn’t seem like that long ago that I refused to transition to digital cameras because you could always tell a digital photo from a “real” one, and they just didn’t look nearly as good. Now even the phone you carry around in your pocket takes incredible photos.
I just switched to the Z8 from Fujifilm and I’m totally loving it!! I would be really interested in your landscape settings on the Z8, if at all possible.
Great choice Mark, I am sure you will enjoy this system. I have the same setup and I only have good words about it. Nikon really nailed it with this camera and the lenses are awesome too!!!
Thanks for another thoughtful video. I don’t think you can go wrong with any of the top tier cameras these days. I use the Sony A7RV, and I love it for landscape. These are my thoughts: 1) Sony A7RV has a shutter-closed-when-camera-is-turned-off mode that helps prevent dust from getting on the sensor. I don’t know if it is different from the “sensor shield.” I suspect Nikon’s is a bit more sturdy, since the shield/shutter is only used for long exposure noise reduction. Nikon does not use a shutter under normal shooting situations. 2) I clearly experience a difference between my 50 megapixel A1 and my 60 megapixel A7RV images when cropping. The A1 is more versatile, but the A7RV is always my go to for landscape. I doubt I would experience a difference between 45 and 50 megapixel. I’m sure that’s a personal preference - I am very nit-picky. 3) I suspect the Z8 is better for low light at 100%, and may have a bit more dynamic range because of the larger photosite area, but I don’t find the A7RV to be lacking, even for night photography. 4) I really like the Nikon lens lineup. The zoom ranges are well suited for landscape - I am sometimes envious of the 24-120 lens. Canon also has a good lineup also with the 14-35, 24-105, and 100-500. That said, I do like my Sony 20-70 and 70-200 MACRO, a super lightweight pair, (or 20-70 and 100-400 pairing) very much! I rarely need wider than 20mm. I do wish Sony had a 14-24 or a 14-35, with front filters, instead of a 16-35. I feel the 12-24 GM is too big, with a bulbous front element, and the 12-24 f/4 just does not have the IQ. I sometimes just throw in a 14mm with my 20-70 and 70-20/100-400 pair. 5) I also wish Sony had a top screen, and more programmable buttons. 6) Finally, I am 6’-5” with XXLarge hands and I’ve never found the size of Sony cameras to be an issue.
20-70 + 70-200 really is a great pair, especially coupled with 1,4x teleconverter, which improves the macro capabilities on the tele lens from 1:2 to 1:1,4 and inches closer to 100-400 range capabilities. Now I'm thinking about about 35 mm f/1,4 GM for night/street work...
I love the Sony 20-70/4 and the 70-200/4 macro. I wish Nikon had both of these lenses but what’s really great is that I can uses these lenses on my Nikon with the Megadap adapter.
In addition to all the positive reasons you mentioned for owning a Z8 or Z9, I really like the way I can be in bird tracking mode, then, at the touch of one button, I can switch to small, single-point focus. Touch another button and I'm now in crop sensor mode. In video mode, even with a prime lens, I can zoom in by 200% without any visible loss of resolution. Maybe other cameras can do all this, but I like the Nikon set up.
I'm 6'4" with gorilla hands and started my career shooting Nikon film cameras and then their digitals from d70 to D2X to d800...LOVE NIKON, but now I shoot Sony a7RV with battery grip and added thumb grip and it feels great in the hand
I bought a used Z7 a couple years ago, specifically so that i could use the 24-120, and I have no regrets. That lense is amazing. I have no plans to replace my Z7 anytime soon, but the sensor shield and backlit buttons on the Z8 are tempting quality of life features. Maybe in a couple years when used prices come down...
What you find out..... is exactly why I have the Z 8. I do landscape, wildlife, sport and car racing, airshows, some macro and I can do everything perfect with the Z 8. I bought it as a kit with the 24-120 f 4 and the FTZ adapter from B&H in May 2023. Almost never have to deal with sensor dust. The 300 mm f 2,8 VR F mount works great with all 3 Nikon TC on this lens, Also the 70-200mm 2,8 FL. Set up and custom setting took a while to set up to my best use. Had the D3, D3x, D810, D 500 in combination with the D850 before. I use about 80% the 24-120 on the camera with stunning result. The only what I miss ... not autofocus with my D lenses. 24 mm tilt and shift and the 200mm f 4 macro.
Went from Nikon (D800) To mirrorless by switching to a Fuji X-T2 to get a smaller setup. I liked shooting the Fuji, but the focus performance was not good enough, and I missed fullframe. Went to the Sony A7III which I now use. I really like Sony. But there are times, where I wish I did go for the Nikon Z system instead. Feels like meeting an old friend. (I shot Nikon for 10-ish years)
You can adapt your Sony lenses on the Nikon Z bodies with full autofocusing and lens correction via the Megadap. Just saying...
This camera looks great but, I don't shoot anything that moves much-if at all. You can get a Z7II now for under 2k (body only). That would save me a lot of $$$$. I don't need the benefits of a stacked sensor.
There's something irresistibly satisfying about cradling the Z8 with the 24-120 or 14-24, or really any lens you choose. It's the perfect mix of size, heft, and balance-a marvel of technology that just clicks with me. Aesthetic appeal? Check. Feels like a dream? Absolutely.
My experience as well
@@Mr09260 Your brain must be very small...smdh.
Nothing beats the 24-200.. I sold the 24-120 for that lens
I started with my dad’s Kodak 35mm film camera that he got back in 1964. I used in the 70s during high school, and then in college my mom got me my own film camera - the Canon Rebel. I used it for the next 20 years until I couldn’t get film really anymore. Flash forward to 2019 or so when I decided to get a camera again. I got a DSLR, naturally a Canon Rebel T7. Very happy with it - except for the fact it doesn’t take an external mic. I works for me and my needs. Cost effective, great color and lens options, not too heavy. If $ was no object would I have a different camera for every task? Nah, I travel light.
Same reason I purchased Nikon Z. Just felt better in the hand and their lens priority.
Welcome to my neck of the woods. I have been taking pictures since 1986 and have been married to Nikon since and to my wife since 1984, hahaha. No disrespect to any of the other brands, they make awesome products as well. I am not a professional but have 2 x Z9s (while heavy) and love them. Best wishes and keep up the good work.
24-120mm I have it!! Totally love it! It lives on my camera!! Thanks for great and honest review.
Nice buy, I'm still with the D850 which I will keep when I move to mirrorless. Hoping for the Z8 or Z9 when I can.
The sensor shield is great just make sure the rear element of the lens your putting on is dust free & if you want to be really careful about dust check the rear lens cap
before you put it on when you take the lens off, takes seconds to do but can make a difference.
24-120 is a beast :D
It's such an amazing feature. I don't want to go back. Haven't had a dust or oil spot in 2 years.
I bought it because it’s Nikon and I own 20 Nikon lenses.
Yeah, I have around 40, including the F mount lenses.
Sometimes I have been thinking about getting a Canon camera and a long tele, just for bird photography - still using Nikon for anything else.
But now with the Z8 and the 180-600, I don't need that anymore.
That is a great reason for you. Enjoy!
Canon all the way for me. Cheap EF L lenses on the used market. Low cost R7 for birds and wildlife. Speedbooster makes my EF 500 L F4 a 550mm F2.8 equivalent. Canon has no issues with dust on the sensor. AF and ergonomics just works . When I win the lottery I will look at RF glass and a R5 ii. But I will use this R7 on birds for a long time. Just love it.
Once again, great video Mark in describing reasons and answering questions. Ive seen some comments about it doesnt matter which gear you use as long as you get good results, and i totally disagree. You brought it out, but it really is almost a oart of your body in the sense that the camera has to "fit" perfectly, and have a menu system that allows you to make quick decision and changes. It also has to make you "enjoy" the photography journey, which you also stated. So, i would definitely say that the brand matters. Are they all fantastic camera's? Yes, but one is "family"..😊. Nikon is family for me. Thanks for the video Mark!
Decided on Z8 now. I was gong to go Fuji100S II but prices have increased and no longer affordable.
I want z8 but i don’t need it. I have zf why my brain can’t be happy with what i have ☺️
I've been using nikkor 24-120 lenses for years so buying into the z system i purchased the z 24-120 lens and it is superb. I have looked at Canon and Sony too but the Nikon system seems a more natural fit and easy to evolve to newer cameras from any older Nikon digital camera.
It's what you do with a camera rather than what the camera is that makes the difference.
Really enjoyed this video, Mark. The Nikon Z8 is beautiful. Thanks for sharing your experience and thoughts.
Thanks for watching!
nice choice 🙂
I shoot both Nikon and Fuji and love both. My Fuji system is bang up to date (X-H2) while on Nikon I love shooting a vintage D700 and 105 macro. 12MP is enough and the look of the images the older equipment affords is just gorgeous. Only issue is remembering which way to screw the lenses on and off!!
Hahhah! I totally understand - I’m so used to the way they screw on with Fuji😁
The Nikon Z8 and Z6iii are a great match for the field. I highly recommend trying the 180-600 or 800 PF.
If you are a wildlife or bird photographer you definitely need to use CF Express cards to utilize the speed of the Z8/Z9 cameras. And you will never hit the end of the buffer. And transfering files to ssd drives is a lot faster. The latter point is probably the only advantage for landscape only photogs.
(Anthony)
Welcome to Nikon. Again, I'm glad I had an opportunity to meet you at Out of Grand Teton. (green camera wrap all the way). The one thing to mention about the 100-400mm lens is the tripod mounting bracket (foot). The lens foot groove tends to be slightly different than what will fit most arca-swiss compatible ballhead mounts. You may want (or need) to switch to a different lens foot. RRS (LCF-21) and Kirk (LP-70) both make a lens foot specifically for the Nikon Z 100-400mm lens that is spot-on and fits arca-swiss plates perfectly. The grooves are a perfect match. Just thought I would pass it on. Thank you for the video. The shutter guard is a brilliant idea. I agree, all mirrorless cameras should have it as a standard feature.
I have the Z8 and Zf and can't see myself wanting another camera for a very very long time!
It´s always a matter of your own needs and feelings. I totally understand Mark when it comes to big hands and beefier bodies. Sony is really small compared to Nikon and Canon and you have to like that. Choose Nikon over Canon makes also sense for me when you used Nikon in the past already and have experience with the system. I never get used to twist the Lenses in the opposite direction to unmount them compared to Canon for example. The Z8 has also a never sensor compared to the Canon R5 and I have to admit that even for me as a Canon Shooter, Nikon has some really really nice glass in their portfolio. Everything else is simply private taste also when it comes to buttons and functions. Pretty much every Camera nowadays offers to program custom function etc. and when you mostly work on a tripod it simply doesn´t matter because you have the time ;-)
One of the only things I'm a bit jealous of are the illuminated button on the Z8 besides the nice lenses ...
First of all, I agree every single point as the presenter says other than one small variant, talk about it later.
Second, let me share my experience with both Sony A1 and Nikon Z9 which I own and use both of them.
Let me start with the summary first: In Nikon’s camp, you have 100% full control of your equipment, especially Z9 and Z8. (I admit that I don’t know other models because I don’t have them.) In Sony’s camp, you don’t have full control of your equipment and Sony has the 100% total control of your equipment. Let me explain.
I am an outdoor photographer which means anything outdoor is fair game to me including landscape, wildlife, flowers, and/or mushrooms (macro). Anything outdoor. I bought my Sony A1 in Dec, 2021 and I was happy, very happy as the matter of fact because the mirrorless inherited advantages over DSLR. In May, 2023 I rented Sony A7rV for 6 weeks because I was considering to have a second body to reduce the amount of lens exchange. Only by then I realized that on A7rV there is no time limit on electronic shutter. On A1, there is a time limitation of 5 seconds with electronic shutter but not mechanical shutter. I also found out that highest frames per second on A7rV is 5 with electronic shutter but 7 fps with mechanical shutter. Electronic shutter is controlled by software or firmware and there is absolutely no reason to put the time and FPS limitations on electronic shutters if mechanical shutter could achieve them. Sony artificially put these limitations on them to force its users to use mechanical shutter.
Because of the above reasons, I bought the Nikon Z9 in Aug, 2023 and immediately recognize the advantage of it. I shoot landscape so I sometimes need focus shifting, focus stacking, to ensure the entire image will be in focus and Z9 has it but not A1. This feature was offered on the later A7rV but not on A1 which is a $6,500 flagship camera. I shoot birds so I sometimes needs pre-release, pre-capture, to help me to catch the moment which was available on Z9 but not A1. This feature was offered on the later A9III but not on A1 which is a $6,500 flagship camera. Moreover, the later A9III doesn’t have focus shifting, focus stacking, either. One could argue that A7 series are for landscape which is why it doesn’t have pre-release, pre-capture, and A9 series are for action which is why it doesn’t have focus shifting, focus stacking, but then A1 doesn’t have neither of them, the flagship camera.
There are more examples like these and these differences made me realize that I don’t have the full control of my Sony equipment but Sony has the 100% total control of them. Spending all the money to buy all the A1, A7rV and A9III in order to have all these essential features is trivial in comparison with carrying all these camera bodies to be out there and do my photo creation.
The biggest difference between Z9 and Z8 to me is actually not the battery pack but the build-in GPS. As an outdoor photographer, location mark on pictures is extremely important to me because I often change locations several times in a day. Yes, I could use mobile phone’s geo-location function. However, the connection is not always reliable. Second, I use my phone’s map to guide me to drive around outdoors and not always remember to take the phone with me when I was in a hurry grabbing my camera and lens to jump off my car to shoot. This is also the biggest problem I could complain with Z8. Z8 has smaller foot-print and lighter body which is an excellent and versatile “outdoor” camera but it doesn’t have a build-in GPS. Z9 is heavy, bulky but has a build-in GPS. I truly hope in the next iteration of Z8 Nikon would implement a build-in GPS.
So, let me repeat my summary here between Sony and Nikon equipment:
In Nikon’s camp, you have 100% full control of your equipment, especially Z9 and Z8 and this essential point doesn’t apply to Sone equipment.
For me I want to change my Nikon D780 but I'm waiting to see what Nikon will offer with the upcoming Z7 Mark III and I will make my decision by comparing the Z8 and Z7 III. I'm a Landscape photographer
I switched to a Canon R5 a few years ago after nearly 3 decades w/ Nikon. The reason I didn't go with a Sony A1 is that the R5 was the only camera that supported all the video modes/codecs as the A1 but for $2,500 less (and I find Sony ergonomics suboptimal). Still love Nikon, but always felt I was paying a little more, sometimes missed focus on fast-moving subjects and their declining market share. For landscapes, studio, and 90% of all other uses, you'll be fine. It's still a great brand.
Just switched to fujifilm medium format system from Sony full frame. Still trying to work out my workflow but I cannot be more excited by the photos I’d already taken. Photographers change and grow, it’s only natural that our gears change, too.
Hi Mark. I appreciated your video. I currently use a Sony A7RV, (which does have a sensor shield BTW), and A7RII. But I also have (2) Nikon D7100's. One is for birding and the other is for some types of macro work in my studio. I have to agree I've always loved shooting Nikon camera's including the D7100. It just works better for me ergonomically and fits my hands more comfortably. Persoanlly if I wasn't so vested in the Sony system I'd be very interested in owning the Z8 as well. However, I or should I say (we), can get great images out of all these camera's. So you might as well use the one that makes you happy! To anwer your quick question I'm a landscape, tabletop and macro photographer mostly. Occasionally I'll shoot birds but not often.
Nikon fits like a glove. AND you can press all the buttons WEARING a glove! Muscle£memory with Nikon is easy. Ever since moving from Nikon to Fuji 13 years ago I’ve had regrets…. But I love Fuji JPEGs and have learned how to adjust highlights and shadows in-camera that I never shoot RAW. FUJIFILM are quirky cameras and my most used lens is the Fuji 70-300mm which is compact and gives 100-400mm equivalent. Love your tutorials and frank reviews.
I will say what I always tell people….a camera is a tool. Brand doesn’t matter. If it gets the job done, then GREAT! Every brand has pros and cons. If there are more pros, then that’s what will determine your choices. The sensor shield is a great reason, along with the lower base iso are great reasons for the Nikon. The back lit buttons are something I also miss with my D500 that is also worth it. If I had to pick another brand outside of my XT5, then the Z8 would probably be my choice. Not a fan of the telephoto options for Canon at the moment, so that’s a big NO for now.
Also, my question is, if you move over to Nikon, are you going to change your second video camera as well? If so, which one? The Z6iii might be a good thought with its size and weight.
I like your choice, I am in love with my Z8
You really seem enthusiastic about the cam, glad you're enjoying it.
A tip for you with big hands; Smallrig's L-bracket gives just a little extra room for the hand, and it's lighter than the RRS, I think.
And instead of the Arca Swiss rails you put on your telephoto lenses, make e.g. Kirk Photo a lens foot with built-in Arca Swiss, and it's again a lighter solution.
By now you are probably used to using that index finger to change the aperture, so I think it is convenient to use the lens' control ring for exposure compensation.
But perhaps you have already considered those solutions.
Afaik the reason more cameras don't have a sensor shield is because they need space for a mechanical shutter mechanism, whereas the Z8 and Z9 don't, so they can put a sturdy shield in there instead.
My Canon R7 has a sensor shield, but it still depends on the mechanical shutter.
there's absolutely no reason NOT to put a sensor shield even with a mechanical shutter. this whole idea that we should sacrifice quality for space to make cameras smaller for ppl that cannot handle real bodies is ridiculous. don't buy a pro camera and expect it to be tiny. simple as that. we have a lot of naggers these days always complaining about something. this whole size and weight thing is getting out of hand. Nikon decided they didn't care about that with the Z9 and the Z8 which i'm really happy about. the fact that they have substantial bodies that weigh more is going to be a selling point for many professional users. it can't be that hard to integrate a shield with a mechanical shutter. it's 2024.
@@Rammykazemi Agreed. The R7 weighs less than 500g and still has a sensor shield. I think the shield is sold as part of a "pro" package, since the camera also comes with dual card slots, IBIS, a heftier battery, a 32 MP sensor, etc and is generally regarded as the flagship of Canon's APSC line . Since I am reluctant to clean the sensor myself, the shield also saves me money , since I haven't paid for a professional cleaning in the 2y I've owned it: :)
@@wellingtoncrescent2480 i don't need to be cleaning sensors when shit is hitting the fan in the field and light is happening lol this feature must have been there for a very long time. i don't mind cleaning sensors but the mirrorless cameras are HORRIBLE when it comes to dust if they don't have a shield. that sensor is RIGHT THERE u can touch it. definitely not acceptable in my opinion
@@wellingtoncrescent2480 Just so you know, that is NOT a sensor shield in the R7. It's your actual shutter mechanism. It will be a very expensive fix if you should ever even slightly bend one of those blades. Your sensor is actually more durable than your shutter mech, it's at least covered with glass
Sony has anti-dust function that you enable in the menu to prevent dust to reach the sensor when changing lenses
Thank you for your content. I am thinking about switching from A6500 to a FF and miss my old Nikon (7100) a lot especially the two rings placement for aperture and speed. Another point for Nikon. Thanks again.
Nikon ZF or Z6 ii will be my next Nikon body. Currently shooting a Z5.
Go with the zf or z6 III. Dont buy the Z6 II. It is good but you get more for you money with zf and Z6 III. Furthermore they get firmware Updates after the launch of Z6 III and Zf and maybe Z7 III soon i dont think the old one get firmware updates anymore.
I went from z5 to zf and absolutely love it.
@@rickmower1136 I also have the Zf I love it too but I considering to switch to the new Z6 III cause of the better videospecs.
Or maybe 3 Nikon Bodies 😀
Hi mark, glad to hear your enjoying your setup!
You said that you moved from Fuji because you were missing a long telephoto for the GFX. Why didn’t you just stay with the long telephoto on the xt5 instead of switching to FF Nikon?
Curious to know as I’m currently debating myself between moving to Fuji or Sony systems. (From canon dslr)
As always, love your content mate!
Mark, I've been using the Z8 siince May 23. I never(!!) had to clean my sensor. Thats a point!
The one thing, above all, that keeps me with the Fuji system ( and Fuji has limitations for sure ) is the colour rendition. Fuji, for me, has always been the leader in colour reproduction. Their films were , for me, always way above the other brands, especially diapositives, even though they favoured the blue spectrum they always seemed truer to actual life. Nikon are a great system but I changed to Fuji 2 years ago and have not regretted it. Best wishes Mark from an avid fan.
Good overview, Mark. Enjoy your new body. I do own the Z9, it is great, a wonderful hybrid body. I might still get a z8 as well, but at the moment, having so much fun with the Zf as a travel-body, especially when paired with the Voigtländer MZ z-mount lenses. Let’s see if I do grab a Z8 as well for those high-res landscape shots during travels.
I have the 2nd generation 24-120 f/4G lens for Nikon's DSLR. Love that versatile lens. Used it for cityscapes and street photography, paired w/ my Nikon D800, for over a year. Only problem w/ that setup, its too heavy and bulky for street. Progressively over the years got a compact setup w/ the Z6II and 28mm Voigtlander. Now my gen 2 24-120mm lives on my Nikon F100 for anytime I want to shoot cityscape-architecture on film. Still as sharp when I got it. 🤩
I love my Z8. I shoot macro and wildlife. Why don’t you use CF cards? Which one speed?
I really wish they’d put the sensor shield on my Z6III, but it probably would have pushed the price point much higher. Welcome back to Nikon! 📸😎
I'm an amateur photographer and shoot landscapes and wildlife. On the wildlife side, the CF Express card write speed and amazing autofocus sold me on the Z8.
The sensor shield makes sense for the Z8 because it has no mechanical shutter. However, for cameras with a mechanical shutter, using the shutter curtain as a sensor shield is a poor execution of the idea. The sensor is more durable and easy to clean compared to a damage shutter curtain
Thorough, fair, and objective comparisons.
Mark, you did your research incorrectly, Canon started the sensor shield, most Canon R series have sensor shield.😊
It’s not the same thing.
I think you've made a very wise choice Mark, I've been with Nion for 35+ years so I'm bound to say that but honestly these is nothing this came can't do the Z lenses are as good as it gets! Re size of cameras, do you remember when they started making mobile phones smaller and smaller then it dawned on them that the reduced size had an impact on functionality and practicality then they started making them bigger again, it's the same with cameras too small and they become unstable and they are tricky to hold still, the Z8 is perfect in my opinion!
It's a great camera. All high end cameras perform at a high level today, regardless of manufacturer. At the end of the day, all that matters is the light passing through the lens and hitting the sensor. Everything else are tools and features that get you to that point. Enjoy your Z 8, and yes the 24-120 is a great lens, always on my rig.
I upgraded to a z8 after using a D810 for 8 years - the camera is an absolute beast. Put the 24-120 f4 S lens and you have a workhorse of a set up for 80% of your photographic needs.
I tried Sony and cannon and they just didn’t feel as good to me as Nikon in the hands. Cannon has this plastic feel to it even though is not and Sony ergonomic just feel off too. Nikon on the other hand feel like they built like tank, the grip are deep and grippy
The right camera is the one that inspires you to take photos.
Bingo!
I would assume those screaming in comments about how this brand/model is superior to any other brand/model are amateurs and semi-pros who need to justify to themselves the insane amount of money they have spent on gear. Or people who get paid to advertise it.
I just switched to the Z5 (yes know not the same as Z8 😂) and I love it.
Have both. The DR of the GFX100s is only better up to about to 200ISO. And I rarely shoot that close to base ISO.
There is now a lot of discussion online about the lower dynamic range and higher noise of stacked sensors. Did you manage to compare these parameters with GFX? I'm looking to buy a Z8, but I'm worried about the possible low-light performance because I do a lot of astrophotography.
I made the decision last month that my next camera will be the Z8 for all the reasons that you stated plus a few more.
I shoot a Sony A7RV and have all Sony Lens's. If I had to start over, I would choose the Nikon Z8 because of the great still and video combo. I carry an A7IV body for video and being old enough for Medicare that extra weight is getting Old also.
Absolutely, that’s why I bought a D850 over a Z7 after it came out. I didn’t want to clean the sensor when changing lenses.
Primarily landscapes. Thanks for your inputs. A long time Nikon hobbyist from FM2 days, yet to go mirrorless, was torn between the three. Your articulation makes easy for my choice to stay with Nikon!
Ergonomics is a huge point. I will never buy canon for that simple reason, they just don’t feel comfortable to use to ME.
100% agree about sensor shield. Cannot understand why any mirrorless camera would be without it, or why by default when camera is turned off, a mechanical shutter (if available) comes down 🤷♂️🤷♂️
Love my Z8! Great move, Mark! 🎉
The shutter shield is even better than people realise, as you can put your camera down in the sun and not worry about your sensor getting fried by the focussed light. Even the cameras that close the shutter blades can't do that as shutter blades burn really easily. I love that whenever I turn the camera off (which is also the easiest on nikon) I know the sensor is safe. As far as I know the boot up is also the fastest, you can bring the camera to your face as you flick the power with your shitter finger and be firing off a burst straight away as it gets to your eye.
My Sony has this….
This is a complete non issue. I have been shooting Sony for 2 years, never ever have I had a problem with the shutter blades. It's one of those problems that 0.00001% of people have because they do something insanely stupid. But hey, those people are on the internet, so it becomes a thing.
I wish Sony would do this on the A7iii plus it would protect it from dust
This is very true. Closing the shutter is not the same as a sensor shield, as a shutter is much more fragile and prone to damage when its exposed. It's likely other camera manufacturers don't make a sensor shield, primarily due to the fact that you can't easily fit one. Hopefully they will start designing cameras with sensor shields like the Nikon soon though, as it's extremely handy, event just for the fact of keeping dust off your sensor. Generally people are very conscious of their exposed sensor and shutter, but it's still more common than some probably realise for people to accidentally damage either or both the sensor and shutter, since they are both so fragile.
@@inquisitvem6723 look for this in the settings. I suspect your A3 has it.
My hands and the Sony mirrorless cameras had irreconcilable differences too. Why I switched to Nikon. [I blame my hands more than the Sony camera.]
I bought the Z9 when it first came out. I hated it. Even moreso than the Sony cameras I used to own. As soon as the Z8 came out, I sold the Z9, used it to help pay for the Z8, and have been a happy camper ever since.
I have a Z9. May I ask why you traded it for a Z8? The weight? Because it was the latest thing? Just curious.
@@jackbrumby1892 Jack: It was a combination of both the size and weight. [Not enough room in my camera bag - had to start leaving stuff behind. Needed a beefier tripod. Etc.] If the Z8 had come out before the Z9, I would have stopped at the Z8 too. Cheers - Franz
How about the battery life? Especially for wild life and nature photography you may need more battery life, only downside for Z8 is the battery life, what is your opinion? How many batteries do you carry for a day shoot?
I think that battery life with the Z8 is pretty good, for a day's shooting I usually take 4 batteries and mostly use 2 to 3, leaving the camera on most of the time when I shoot wildlife. Shooting at high frame rates (20 fps RAW) left me 80 % after 1,500 clicks.
I sold my GFX50R and 32-64 mm and 100-200 mm because I had to reduce weight because of back problems and are happy with the 24-120 mm and the 100-400 mm. In case I need more reach I take the converters as well.
Another thing: I learnt a couple of years ago that Patone produce the batteries for all the big camera brands, so I never buy original batteries any more and save almost half the money (or get more batteries for the same money).
@@joerghuettenhoff5391 Thank you for your feedback and related Patone batteries, I never heard about it, I will certainly consider this batteries. Now I am a step closer to Z8 ;)
Just as a counterpoint, a noted side effect of an electronic-only sensor on the Z8 is that the dynamic range is slightly compromised, which is a tradeoff for the benefits. I've seen some tests claim they're "basically equal" but I don't think I've ever seen a test have the Z8 come out on top. DR is just not a selling feature of an electronic-only shutter. It probably doesn't matter, but it's not a selling feature.
I own the Canon R5 and the sensor has a cover that closes over it when you turn it off. Can't imagine going back to a camera that doesn't do that. As a matter of fact, all of Canon's mirrorless cameras from 2020 on have a sensor shield.
Agree. As a Canon shooter, it’s weird to see this pointed out as a major feature. Canon mirrorless cameras have had this for years.
@@Henry_Churches I think it just works different on Nikon. On Canon you have to switch of the camera to use the protection. On Nikon I guess it will automatically closed when you change the lenses without turn off the camera. Not that I ever was in a rush to change lenses on my R5 that fast, but hey. ;-)
@@christianwenglorz7349 I hear your point. Sounds like that would save me exactly 2 whole seconds because I wouldn’t have to turn the camera off. Big whoop.
@@christianwenglorz7349 No, it closes automatically when you take off lenses as long as you don't have release shutter without lens activated.
Yes, totally agree that all cameras should have a sensor shield, Fuji GFX with their huge sensor should have one as are the Sonys. I am using GFX100S and Sony A7R4, their lack of sensor shield means I always have to put one sensor swab in my bag to clean the sensor, the sensor dust can be quite annoy when you see them after you took the photos. Regarding Z8 I agree it is the best hybrid and high resolution ( Above 45mp) camera.