Sony a1 vs Nikon Z9 In Depth Camera Comparison
Sony a1 vs Nikon Z9 In Depth Hands On Camera Comparison talking about Picture Quality, Auto Focus, Video, Ergonomics, ISO, Dynamic Range and more. Take a look and let us know which camera you would choose and why! #SonyA1 #NikonZ9 #CameraComparison
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Jay P. Morgan has been working as a Commercial Photographer and Film Director in the Los Angeles area for more than 20 years developing an impressive list of clients from Paramount to McDonald's. Jay P.'s experience with elaborate set design and extensive lighting are key to the success of his illustrative work.
I was a Nikon shooter starting in 2001 and swapped to Sony for the A7RIV. The only Nikon options at the time for mirrorless were the Z6 and Z7. The A7RIV was a better choice at the time. So I dumped my Nikon gear and jumped in with both feet. Overall I loved the Sony but hated the ergonomics (large hands). The files were fine but I missed what came out of the Nikon cameras. In the end I went back to Nikon with the Z6II in hopes they would one day catch up with the technology (autofocus). When the Z9 came out I was extremely excited and being a NPS member I was able to get one in February. It is an incredible camera but so are the Sonys... It is a great time to be a photographer especially if you like gear!
Glad you worked out which system you prefer. And I agree, they are both great systems and the ergonomics are a personal preference!
Sigo en Reflex y quiero seguir en Nikon asi que tu comentario me ayuda!. Saludos.
One thing of note: Nikon has a whole line of F mount glass which through a FTZ adapter can be used on any Z camera and often produces BETTER results on a Z camera than on native. I achieved some beautiful results using a 28-70mm AF-S f2.8 (discontinued in 2007) on a Z5. This isn't meant to bash Sony but give potential Nikon buyers more options.
So you didn't experience loss of light or sharpness with the adapter?
@@TheSlantedLens there’s no loss of IQ.
@@TheSlantedLens not to my eye. To be fair the Z5 is not the Z9 but I was amazed and how sharp, mind this is an older mid-range zoom, the pictures were. I was at f 5.6 as well. I want to clarify that when I stated "native" I meant a Nikon camera body with a F lens mount. I hope this wasn't confusing to anyone.
@@TheSlantedLens There is no loss of light or sharpness whatsoever with the FTZ adaptor as it is a pass through adaptor with no optics of any kind. All it does is increase the flange distance to 44mm from 16mm to compensate for the removal of the mirror box. It has electronic connections so that all functions and metering/exif data are transferred - other than that it is literally a hole. It has been proven in tests time and again that an F mount lens via FTZ adaptor with a Z7 has identical IQ to the same lens on a D850. The upside is that the F mount glass actually is performing better on the Z cameras than they did natively on the DSLR's - not in IQ (which is equal) but in usability. On the Z system they now enjoy focus points across the screen, not just clumped in the middle, and they also benefit from 3 axis IBIS - so lenses that were not stabilized from the past are now stabilized. Furthermore, on the Z9 specifically, F mount lenses are actually auto focusing faster than they did on DSLR (this was not true for the Z6/7 series - although it was very close). So, the F mount lenses are in every way better on the Z system than they were native on the DSLR's. This fact goes a long way to negating the perceived advantage of Sony having "so many" lenses for the E mount. In truth, Nikon has over 100 lenses that are available and have 100% compatibility with the Z system (something like 93 F mount and 20 something native Z lenses). Nikon is scheduled to have another 10 or so Z lenses in the next year or so. Additionally, there are 200+ lenses form the past that work in some capacity with the Z system (the D series for example lenses work in all ways except they only manual focus). There are lenses for every possible shooting style, genre or need now available to the Nikon Z system. To be clear, I am not saying this to suggest that Sony isn't good. To the contrary, Sony makes incredible cameras for what they are. I am just making it clear that Nikon is now a full competitor with Sony and Canon and the lack of lenses notion is fairly outdated at this point. The simple fact is that all three systems are now incredible - each are better than the other in some respects and worse than the others in other respects, but there is no longer any clear leader. Any photographer worth anything can get the shot with any of these systems. It is a good time to be a photographer - from a gear stand point at least :)
Adapting isn't a replacement for native glass. The DSLR lenses aren't designed for modern focusing systems, their AF motors are too slow to keep up. I have a Z6 II with my adapted 105 1.4 and an a7 IV with their 135 1.8 here for testing right now and while image quality on both combos is great, the Sony kit does way, way better in real world use. Not only is the af on the body itself much better, but the Sony lens also offers much faster AF motors. It pulls from close to far nearly instantly, while my Nikon glass takes a second or so. If all you do is static portraiture, you won't mind. But for moving subjects, there's really no replacement for native mirrorless glass.
In Mark Smith's recent video, only half the respondents could correctly pick between images taken with the a1 and Z9. He even threw an image taken with the a7IV, which fooled more respondents. Not scientific (whatever you want that to mean) but proves that, brand prejudices aside, any modern camera is capable of incredible images.
Very true. Thanks for sharing that perspective.
I agree with everything you’ve said and it really is all down to what you need or like now rather than what it can’t do. I’m so glad that we have a choice because that’s good for everyone.
Excellent point. It is great to have so many options of great digital cameras!
Like you said it depends on if your invested into each brand what to pick. I have so many high end Sony lenses the A1 would be perfect addition to my camera bag. But for the time being my a7riv and A9 are getting the job done.
Those are both great cameras as well!
I'm with you. Too much invested in Sony (A1, a7r3 and a handful of GM lenses) and it is more than enough for my needs. I realize my needs and priorities are different than lots of people but much of my reason for moving to mirrorless was to reduce the overall size of my entire kit. (Along with action sports I do a lot of outdoor landscape and wildlife photography.) So I prefer not having the larger body or at least I prefer the option of having the smaller body (without the battery grip) when I don't need it. With the Z9 that unnecessary (for me) bulk would be there all the time which also has implications for my camera bags, storage and backpacks.
Very good points. The smaller size of the Sony makes a lot of sense for a lot of people!
Did you do starlight mode on Nikon for low light focus
Good questions. I did not change the mode for the low light focus. Thanks for watching!
@@TheSlantedLens think you may need to do the testing again....
I just sold Sony A1 after using it for 11 months...back to Nikon Z9. Just love the colors of my photos from my previous Nikon cameras compared with Sony. For bird photography...it seemed that my Sony A1 also struggled to have good focus in low light situation
That is interesting. Nikon does have great color. Sorry your a1 didn't work out. Hope the Z9 works better for you.
JP thank you for your time to make this video. A couple of questions, what is the maximum shutter speed of the Nikon Z9? Just curious if it can handle high speed sync up to 8000? I know the A9 and A1 can shoot at 32,000 which comes in handy for f1/2 lens being shot wide open outside during the day. Also the A1 does have both a mechanical and eletronic shutter, yes the Z9 comes only with an electronic shutter and I agree this is where mirrorless is going. If I remember right the A1 can only go to a shutter speed of 400 with the eletronic shutter so if the Z9 can hit higher speeds than that it could be used with high speed sync while using flash. Thank you
I did not test the Nikon Z9 with high speed up to 1/8000 of a second but I have no reason to believe that it won't. Most strobe platforms will not high speed sync above 1/8000th of a second.
Hello. congratulations for the video. Does the nikon z9 have ibis better than the nikon z6ii?
I haven't tested the Z6 II, but everything I am hearing says it does.
My Z9 just arrived yesterday and I got all the banks set up. Focus system is amazing, and my F lenses work seamlessly. The 105mm 1.4 prime has IS with the Z9 (yay!), and the hit rate has dramatically improved when shooting wide open. It's a whole other level when compared to the D850.
So great to hear. Glad you are happy with your purchase!
What is IS?
@@matthewu2520 Image Stabilization
Amazing Review :) Definitely subscribing.
Thanks for subscribing! Glad to have you on board!
Nice video and it’s nice to have a pretty subject, but if you do another comparison could you use two tripods and remotes so that we get the same expression and angles please? I find myself always preferring the smiling photo...
That is a good point and a better expression can give some bias.
thank you for your video, your comparison seem unbiased, both comparing pros and cons of each camera! I started with a D600 about 10 years ago as my first DSLR, now owning 50mm 1.4, 14-24 2.8, and 24-70 2.8... i love my camera as far for taking photos but d600 is not for recording, so i have been in the dilemma of switching brand, it would be a big investment if i do, but if this Z9 can fix my needs around the same budget I think I might be staying.
The Z9 is an incredible camera. If you already own the lenses that makes total sense to stay with Nikon!
Watched this video all the way through for the second time. Been a Sony shooter for about 9 years now but did pick up a Nikon Z9 and have been doing my own comparison. Thank you for yours. I was interested because I have never shot Nikon Digital (have two film bodies though) and finally wanted to give it a try (shot Canon for DSLR). I am a grip guy but I really need two cameras, one with and one without a grip so I am giving it a try to use along side my Alpha 1. From a zoom prospective from 14mm to 400mm the lenses seem very similar between Nikon Z and Sony FE GM. Its still the primes where to me Sony leads but those may actually be adaptable to the Z mount (have not tried that yet). Nikon needs a nice 200-600 IMHO. Still learning best way to set up Nikon AF for eye tracking. It requires a little more learning from me still. So we will continue to compare and see how it continues to go.
Wishing you luck in your camera journey!
Re your many comments on the Z9 images being warmer than the sony-a1. Well there are 3 reasons for this - 1- white balance not identical; 2-different impact of picture control and fine tuning of picture control (you said you used Standard on both); and finally Camera Calibration differences --- I currently use Adobe V5 - but have done everything including making my own calibration profiles for each set-up. Re high ISO shooting -- I shoot Lossless RAW and have not suffered anywhere near the graininess problems you showed. Unless the shot was exceptional I would struggle to sell an image for use on a full page to a print magazine shot at ISOs above 6400. I shoot wildlife and am staggered how good the Z9 is in low light AF. I use 22 Nikon AF-S and S-line Lenses -- from 600mm to 9mm. As Z mount lenses come out I buy them if I will use them frequently otherwise I keep the F-mount versions and use the Nikon FTZ II adapter and it is flawless. Nikon Sell a f/0.95 and f/1.2 50mm as well as the cheap f/1.8 and more f/1.2 Z-mount S-line lenses will come this year.
I couldn’t have said it any better, spot on. Should pin this comment to the top.
Lots of great points. Good to hear you experience with the Nikon!
Capture One are great for Sony RAW files !
The interesting thing about Nikon files is that even with a wrong profile and wrong WB with a minimal editing you can make the colors look good. When I'm dealing with Sony files, even after fixing the WB, and trying every profile I had, there is still something unsatisfactory about the colors.
@@USGrant21st I have no problems in Capture One !
07:30 Nikon has a built-in feature called *STARLIGHT*. When turned on, this feature enables Z9 to turn night into day. Autofocus starts to work like it does in the Sunlight.
Thanks for sharing you knowledge!
Your personal head shot in the studio looks great! It’s a very strong shot. Nice warm skin tones against the blue background. Looking stylish. You might consider raising the camera a couple of inches so as not to shoot up on you so much . Thank you.
Thanks for the tip. We will look into that!
I enjoyed this. TY
You are welcome! Thanks for watching!
to make comparison more accurate and meaningful, you should use same lens in both bodies in order to get a real sense of difference between two sensors. different lens made huge difference, so with your current settings, we can’t identify what difference comes from lens and what from sensors. this is basic common sense for any comparison.
Not so. The use of a native lens is much superior to having to use an adapter. The theory sounds good, but people complain either way.
Love the Z9, in daylight. And in lowlight A1
That is a good take on it. Thanks for sharing your opinion!
One of the main applications for these cameras is a sport. Multiple subjects move in different directions at a fast pace, sometimes towards the camera (depending on where you shoot from). Sporting events happening in the evening, with not-so-great lighting. How do these cameras perform in those conditions? High ISO at high shutter speed (over 1/2000 sec)? You should do this type of test.
Great suggestion. That would be fun to test!
@@TheSlantedLens try shooting high school soccer or football in the evening. The stadiums are usually not very bright. Or tennis doubles, in the evening.
@Text me on telegram 👉@TheSlantedLens Thank you! I hope this is not a prank though :)
Another awesome video. The model in this video looks like Scarlett Johansson...!
Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching!
I love my Sony A1 with the 35-150. I also have the 150-600 and a couple others. Sony a1 i think will be the top camera for a while still. I think it is so advanced that there's no need to upgrade. The af alone is far more superior and now with the new af and steady firmware update I'd say its extremely hard to beat. If your pictures are not turning out with either camera it's the photographers error. Even in most literature and real world reviews sony af among other things keep coming up on top. With unbiased reviewers ofcourse. I think the Sony is a little power house and if you need that extra grip you can put it on. You don't have to carry that extra weight especially when your hiking taking pics of wildlife and you have one of those huge lenses to capture your subjects. Plus with it's compact size it's more versatile so you can use it with most gimbals. If we're talking about serious videography that's huge plus. You dont have to spend more money for a larger gimbal plus all the add-ons you would use with a cage. This compact size would help keep the weight down which people dont realize how cumbersome these all that can be. So that compact body is perfect.The Sony a1 body alone is extremely versatile. And don't forget Sony makes sensors for most of these cameras including Nikon. So where would Nikon be without Sony tech. As for working in the dark i don't need gimmicks to get the job done. It's called muscle memory. It's not hard to memorize the buttons. Plus all the third-party lenses. Nikon to call this it's flagship i think is a huge error considering the z8 is rumored to come out.I just think people like to jump on the next new not necessarily the best thing. Although you can't go wrong with either in the end.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
Every time I watch your videos I’m left thinking about it for a few days 😂
I hope that is a good thing and that you are learning some good stuff!
Do love my Z9 for sure.
Great to hear. Keep on clickin!
It was weird. On the close-ups, they were both sharp. But far away, the Nikon appeared to have color artifacts, etc. I'm wondering if the software used to process or display the photos had equal support for the raw formats. Some of the +1, -1 shots also seemed to have some issues with the Nikon photo looking blurry. It would be nice to have isolated test: if comparing ISO or light compensation, get both cameras in focus, and look at strictly ISO or light compensation; then, look at focus ability in lighting situations separately. Also, the 8k video looked like it had better contrast and sharpness on the Nikon, but potentially some issue (or maybe capability) with color grading on the Sony that's not obvious in KZhead. Which also comes down to the types of RAW-format support on the editing software. Also, the Z9 isn't rated as high for ISO, but is rated lower. The high looked like it got all of the focus (where was ISO 64?). And it would have been nice to see rolling shutter comparisons for video and photo, and some action shots. One last thing, was the color profile used for the video-editing software optimized for Sony or Nikon? Typically, I have seen more magenta in the Sony comparisons Online, and truer colors with the Nikon. This looked like the Sony had reds suppressed somehow, and the Nikon looked orange. But, orange hasn't been something I noticed in other videos.
All great points. Thanks for sharing your observations!
Olympus and Panasonic released the micro 4/3 standard two years before the Sony NEX-3 was released. Perhaps the intended statement was about full-frame mirrorless cameras?
Thanks for watching and keep on clickin!
Fair amd honest opinions expressed. I find the Sony colours to be more muted than Nikon plus Nikon looks sharper.
Yes, the Nikon colors were richer on the warm end and the Sony Colors were richer in the greens.
I own both I and trying to see which system to sell. So hard I don’t need two systems. Help
That is a really tough decision. Good luck!
Loved the high ISO test. It just shows how much BS some reviewers spread when they'll have you believe you can shoot at 12800 & still crop & print large & go beserk.
I've been a Nikon shooter since my first digital camera. It was a Coolpix point and shoot. Then it was a Coolpix l810, then it was the d3200, then d7100, then the d810. And I have to say, I love the color of Nikon sensors, and I believe until now they have outperformed other cameras in almost all areas. But one of the biggest areas, ISO, Is clearly a win by Sony. If I decided to upgrade to a flagship, between the z9 and the a1 I would chose the a1. It handles low light a thousand times better. Clear and sharp images all the way up to 12800ISO. And if you're that high in ISO its because you're trying to document an important event and you don't care about quality. No actual photoshoot would require that.
Great to hear your thoughts. I love the A1 and I was super impressed with the Z9 as well. It would be hard to switch if you have a big selection of Nikon Lenses.
Both are great but Nikon in colours blown the Sony out of the park. You can see the advantages of Nikon over Sony. I much prefer Sony's outer design because it is smaller (personal preference). But with the 4:2:2 now becoming the standard, and same with 4K shooting up to soon 8K. It is just as important to keep up upgrading the technology of our equipments to meet the use-cases. Whether that'll be sony or nikon, or any other. To me, I would be pretty happy with the photos straight out of the camera on the Nikon. Little post editing. I agree, Sony has a different theme to it in some photos which makes me prefer their clear look but the colours on the Sony comparing to Nikon is so off putting, that Nikon is superior. Thank you for comparing these, it is good to get better insight and reminder that not expensive cameras are keeping up to date with the newer standards
Lots of great things to think about. Thanks for your comment!
i love sony’s color it’s very neutral. unlike nikons image quality is always on warm.. also in the dynamic range sony is way better than nikon
@@giovanniprado3887 -- you are speaking from ignorance. I've had Sony and Nikon at the same time, made huge number of comparisons. There is no doubt in my mind colors from Nikon are a lot better looking than from Sony. No amount of editing, and I tried everything, solves that issue. I wanted Sony to work very hard. I finally sold my latest Sony A7Riiia and kept Z6ii. It's not worth fighting the camera.
@@TheSlantedLens I'm curious which one had the more true to life colours as you were seeing it with your own eyes. 😁
@@USGrant21st you can't say Sony colors because Sony has different colors in every single camera xD I work in a Photo Camera Shop and see this every single day, its a shame, but I must say that the z9 has more noise then the a1
I'm keen to know how do you define durable? This is not a catch question, i really like to know why one camera is more durable than others. I don't think you can decide that by just feeling the weight. Maybe drop test the cameras (with or without lens attached) to decide.
That is based on the build, materials, weather sealing, etc.
So green out there which compliments the colors she is wearing. It's so much more drab here.
That is the beauty of Southern CA, we can shoot outside all year long without getting too cold!
This is probably the best Z9 autofocus review on the internet, especially compared to the A1. I've watched quite a few of them. One note: The Nikon's native ISO is 64 versus Sony's 100. Effectively, if you're at ISO 400 on the Sony that's ISO 200 on the Nikon. So you have to compensate for that to know what you're comparing.
Good to know. Thanks for sharing your knowledge!
I always love the colors and quality. Hope Z9 Will be the top line of the camera
The Z9 is a great camera with great color science!
The other fantastic thing on the Sony Alpha 1 is you have the option for a vertical grip so you can have the same form factor as the Nikon or a small compact camera. The Nikon is just big and heavy all the time....
I have to agree with this 10000% haha. I had and used a GFX 100 Medium format (I've owned the D800/D850 previously too). The Sony with the battery grip is still smaller than the Nikon and with the double battery slot on the vertical grip you'll get the same battery performance as the Z9. Its nice to see Nikon making a Pro mirrorless body. But for days I want something smaller and/or lighter (or if I need to mount on a gimbal or rail for video work) the "transformer" solution is nice.
Another good point El Deane! Thanks for your comments!
While it is nice to have the larger and smaller form factor, the Nikon battery system is superior if you need the power. On a remote, distant location, the ability to shoot longer is appreciated. (1) You do not have to charge or keep track of 4/2 batteries, only 2/1. (2) The built in grip is SUPERIOR to a screw on grip. Less problems! Additionally the larger size of the camera enables better heat dissipation...which enables FAR SUPERIOR card options (CF express A is x3 more expensive, 1/3 as fast and much lower capacity 4TB vs 256GB). Good point none the less about a smaller form factor, which is crucial in many situations.
I would also think that the larger battery on the nikon has more voltage to drive the autofocus faster
bigger is always better Z9 for me
Please make a detailed video where you compare 8K videos from Sony A1, Canon R5C, and Nikon z9 side by side. And while the comparison, on Nikon, use the 105mm f2.8 MC lens. Please...!
Camera reviews made to order. We will do our best.
@@TheSlantedLens Thank you, Sir
To my eye, I found the Z9 sharper when testing the auto focus. I found the red sweater washed out on the Sony.
Agreed, the Z9 did seem a tiny bit sharper when zoomed in on the images.
yes i said the same thing the sweater in the sony a1 looked kinda dead and washed when it comes to the red color.
Use Capture One for Sony RAW files, "Sony colors" are great !
Sony is very connected to Capture One and it does work great.
I have to say both out of my budget!
Yep, they are a bit pricey!
I dont care. I use both the A1 and Z9 for my Wildlife work. Both are great performers with A1 leading in terms of Autofocus performance, especially Animal Eye Autofocus.
Good to know. Thanks for sharing!
Your model is absolutely beautiful. Gorgeous eyes and smile. Just stunning all around.
She was great to work with. Thanks for watching.
Interesting video. I am looking to upgrade my 10 year old D800, in the next 6 months and I truly am not sure what to do. The Z7II is a non option as I hate the ergonomics with a passion. I could go with the D850, which a lot of my professional friends have done but I also use a lot of manual lenses and an EVF makes life so much easier. Unfortunately, this just leaves me with the Z9, which is a great price for someone who needs the specs but as a portrait photographer, never shoot more than 1 frame, every 2 or 3 seconds, which makes the Z9 complete overkill for my needs. What is worse is over the years of doing photography I now have photographers elbow, which gets worse with heavier cameras, like the Z9. So all in all it is a little frustrating. Ideally I would love for Nikon do release a Z7III which feels like a D850 but I am not sure Nikon is going to do something like that.
The D850 is a great camera for portraits and currently there are good bargains out there for DSLRs. Get the Z9 if you need the speed, the video or silent shooting
I think many of us are waiting for the Z8(50)
It will be interesting to see what Nikon releases in the next year!
I think the Z8 will just be the Z7III
Finally, Nikon has a good sensor. I have never liked the colors of the D1, D2, D3, etc... not accurate at all--way off. And now I am SOOOOOO happy they are using a Sony sensor, it's wonderful, what a perfect combination, I love it. the Z9 is awesome because of the Sony sensor. the best of both worlds.
It is a great camera! Thanks for your comment!
SHOUT out to Nikon for the loaner finally!!! (...or is it "Nikk-on"??? ...I say Nikon too) Thanks, Jay P.
Yes, Nikon was great to lend us the camera and lens!!!
I feel like when you compare the dynamic range, the lack of detail in the background is bc of the larger aperture...
That is an interesting point.
It looks like the Sony's autofocus in low light is better. I have the Z7ii and was hoping Z9 could do better. Mine really struggles in the studio where it's using the the modeling lights of my strobes to focus. I wish they would do the focus test in dimmer conditions to compare, but going off the high iso test The Nikon is struggling.
The Z9 is way better than the Z7ii.
@@OkwyUgonweze Have you used them both?
@@camcorderjocky I have both.
@@OkwyUgonweze thanks, that is reassuring. 🙂
@@camcorderjocky he didn't put it in to low light focus setting on the z9, so his test wasn't correct.
At this point, I'm sticking with my D810. If I needed a mirror less, I'd go with the Z9, just because of the lenses I have. My major gripe with Sony, is that small form factor.
That Z9 is a really nice camera. Maybe some day!
I realize it’s not the same but I’m curious how the z7ii compares to the z9.
That's a good question and another comparison to consider!
@@TheSlantedLens look forward to such a comparison on image quality. I have both with the Z9 as my workhorse and the Z7ii as my backup/travel camera. From a usability standpoint, the Z9 surpasses my old D850 w/ grip whereas the Z7ii falls short of the D850.
If you already own Nikon DSLR lenses then it does not matter which camera you chose, either way, you will need to buy an adaptor. I'd rather have the more versatile Sony which also has a MUCH larger range of native mirrorless lenses. Also look at lens technology. XD (Extreme Dynamic) Linear motors are the way of the future.
Great point. Thanks for sharing!
For sports shooting, Nikon has the 200mm f2.0, a tremendous choice, which Sony does not make. For outdoor sports under the lights, this lens is quicker and captures great detail than the 2.8 lenses of either company. Edge goes to Nikon for sports photography.
Since Nikon can shoot raw video what about an 8k60 raw video shoot out between the Z9 and R5c?
That would be awesome to look at. I have added it to our list.
@2:05 when outdoor, I think I like the Nikon color looks better. But then when it's indoor @6:11 the color seems too yellowish.
That is a good observation and may be influenced by ambient light.
I did not like the green cast on the Nikon but I think price wise it’s a better deal! but the lenses and ergonomics goes to Sony so as u said it depends on what’s your Ecco system already
Did you ever hold the Z9 in your hands? The internal grip and the whole design fits like a golden gloves in your hands, We can talk about the spec but definitely not about the ergonomics 💡
It really is a personal choice on which one works for you.
nikon will feel better in hand to most people
Everyone has opinions.. And I respect yours. I feel your not being honest on the colour comparison . The Nikon is slightly better. Anyone honest enough will notice. So just give credit where it is due. And not use terms like "natural, warm etc. " great review anyway.
Thanks for your perspective. Those comments are to give you feedback as to why I think one is better over the other. Nikon does have great color!
The 8K video on the Z9 looked better to me than the A1. Both were fantastic, but the Z9's video looked slightly more punchy, with greater contrast deatil to my eye.
Which is a bad thing. The results straight out of camera should be as flat as possible to provide the best flexibility for grading in post. If that's not what you're after, it's very easy to dial in an extra +1 to contrast and saturation in camera.
@@youknowwho9247 Well, that's where you and I differ. I was trained to make everything look great (in camera), so that the colorist has an easy job in post. Basicly, what you're advancing is you don't have a look in mind when you shoot. You approach it just like a scribe taking visual dictation, faithfully recording, but not shaping anything. OK. This is one way to approach it, but I prefer to create a look in the camera. To my way of working, this is what seperates a real DOP from a camera man.
Great points for both points of view. Everyone has their own approach.
There is literally nothing useful as far as video performance coming from that single clip. Both cameras looked bad in that situation and the Z9 certainly was not 'better' in fact more highlights being lost. I've seen people try to test $30k Red cameras on here and made them look worst than a A6400.
Jay P & Brittany, great review on 2 cameras that are among the best of the best. My hobbyist needs are below those models but I got a lot out of your comparisons that do translate to my Nikon D7500 w/Nikor Lens and new Sony a7IV w/Tamron Lens. Your color tone, "fit & carry," and ISO comparisons were interesting and helpful for my usage. I can add that I'm finding the new Sony menu system (on both the a1 and the a7IV) more understandable than the one on my D7500. Thanks for presenting this review,
Great to hear your point of view and that you are liking the Sony menus!
Not sure is it me but I noticed that the Z9 images and videos are much sharper and have higher contrast than the Alpha1.
The Z9 really does have nice images. Both cameras are fantastic!
What about mega pixels
Pretty close in Megapixels, a1 is 50 and Z9 is 45.
Mirrorless cameras was started by Nikon with the 1 series with a 1 inch sensor but Nikon screwed up by underestimating the market.
I still have a 1. I was disappointed they abandoned it. I like using it for light duty stuff like walking around where I didn’t want to carry a heavier DSLR.
The only wanted to protect their DSLR line. If they even put an apsc sensor in there, they would be No 1 manufacturer today.
quote from wiki ' The first mirrorless camera commercially marketed was the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1, released in Japan in October 2008.' I dont know about the Nikon 1 series personally, but it looks as though it wasnt until 2011 for Nikon.
@@kalisti2323 if you say so I 🏳️
Thanks for sharing your knowledge!
As a lifelong Nikon shooter… I bought into the “game changer” shooting ProRes RAW over HDMI to the Atomos Ninja (“Filmmakers Kit”) and, after fiddling around with it for a year, I realized that Apple was never going to support Nikon in FCPX so there was no workflow from shooting to color grading… Switched to Sony A1 this year (2023) and it is the No Brainer for video! Just bought an FX3 for two camera shoots and the full array of GM lenses. And you can shoot Cine to Log w/o even going to ProRes (though my rig still uses the Ninjas as my monitor… and I could shoot ProRes with a FCPX profile and LUTS that I can download to my Ninja to preview… Nikon just put product out there and said “roll your own, suckers!” NOTE: Nikon uses the Sony video chip so you can ‘fudge’ it using the Sony Profile and LUTS in FCPX but I found it kludgy and I couldn’t get consistent results shooting under studio lighting… as I can now with the Sony ecosystem… and it’s easier to find 2nd / 3rd shooters within Sony.
Great information and perspective. Thank you. It is interesting how Sony has become very strong in the market when it comes to video.
Not really a big surprise that they performed so evenly, since Z9 uses Sony designed and manufactured sensor. On ISO and dynamic range test Sony maintained consistent colors through out the test, when I think Nikon shifted a little bit. A question: How do justify saying that Z9 is more durable? Is weight and size indication of better reliability? Have you tested this out somehow? Does Nikon have higher IPX rating?
Just based on the feel of the camera. The Nikon seems more sturdy.
Great Video >> very interesting >> I just happen to be a Nikon Guy since 1972 = 50 years .. but I enjoy discussing other cameras and lenses
Good to hear. Nikon does make great cameras!
For the dynamic range at 6:21 the woman's hair gets blown out more with along with the highlights using the Nikon. The Sony has more detail in the shadowy part of her arm as well. I admit everyone's monitor is setup different but I think the Sony wins hand down although we need darker shadows to really tell which one is best.
Good points. Sony does tend to be a little darker overall.
@@TheSlantedLens At 6:21 the Sony is a tad bit brighter overall yet thee is more detail even in the Window. I admit if you shot somewhere else things could be different.
Good review but i think that small is not always best just looking at your Video at time stamp 1.47 min your hand cant even go round the grip. Top plate all the buttons must be a nightmare with gloves on . The Nikon color is far better straight of the bat at minus 2 to me. Apart from that both are good cameras I would pick the Nikon over the Sony as my hand would not fit the small frame Sony I like a camera that you can grab and feels as if you could'nt crush it solid bulit camera i have never had that with the Sony line. Auto focus on all cameras today are very good one should not complain about this compaired to early DSLR from just 8 yerars ago . Sony has had a lot more time to bring out their lens line give Nikon another 5 years till Nikon build up the lens choice to make a level playing field .As far as 8K not interested way to much PC power and storage needed and thats before you take 4K from file 4K is just fine as it is cant see any reason to keep on about its got 8K who cares, if you cant be happy with 4K get the eyes tested. or you will all fall it the trap spend more money and lets all get 8K television ????.
Great points. And true, autofocus today is amazing on all these different brands!
I doubt any subject/talent would appreciate you describing their image as showing "every eyelash, every WRINKLE", perhaps every Pore, or every Detail? Just for future reference 😏
Good point. And we all have wrinkles no matter what age.
I think comparing f 1.8 to f 1.4 Is not fair. f 1.4 would definitely have better focus, dynamic range, low light capabilities and so on. 1.4 is more expensive than 1.8 for a reason.
We try to make these comparisons as far as possible. Sometimes we are limited to the lenses the manufacturers send us.
Nikon z9 autofocus (AFC) in low light a person walking towards you does not work properly it detects the person's eye but it is not in focus this does not happen with Sony Alpha 1 or Canon R5 this problem many people have with the z9 that costs 5700 dollars, my nikon D850 does not have that problem. if that continues i will make a switch to sony, the nikon z7, and z7ii same problem.
The Z9 has been a great improvement over previous models yet Sony is still more advanced with the autofocus.
But I have many problems focusing on light events with the Nikon z9, my Nikon D850 does not have it, I see in me a possible change to Sony A1, thanks
sony alpha one... Always 😊
Thanks for sharing your choice!
Nikon has the best SOOC colours in the industry.
Thanks for sharing your opinion!
We need another comparison now that firmware 2.0 is out.
Great idea, we should do that.
Good video. Of course the flip side of your comment about the built-in portrait grip on the Z9, is that the A1 gives you the option of a lighter, smaller body when you remove it's optional grip.
Very good point. And that lighter body is really nice!
The trouble with the Z9 is it doesn't backup video
That can be a concern. Thanks for sharing!
I've had my Z9 for 3 weeks now. I've never really wanted to own a Sony mirrorless camera but was most interested in the comparisons. I had a definite favourite from these tests - The Sony a1. The difference on paper regarding resolution is not much but the Sony just seemed to show more such as the model's eyes & pores. The colour also seemed very yellow with the Z9. Where I disagree is with noise - it has never bothered me as much as does many people. What does bother me is clipped highlights that's often only on one channel that causes an unpleasant colour shift in highlights. Both these cameras are quite frankly amazing. Both seem to have ISO Invariant sensors so will probably settle on -1ev under-exposure to keep highlights without upsetting AF too much.
Great to hear your experience and decision about cameras. Thanks for sharing!
@@TheSlantedLens 👍The handling of the Z9 & its menus are both extremely good. No more contorting for portrait mode - just remember to flick the switch to off when in landscape! The Z9 needs the option to disable those functions until the camera is tilted - saves shots when you forget to turn that switch out of lock!
I'm sorry but the only thing this video proved is that you prefer the Z9 to the A1. Your model had a lovely smile for the Z9 shots and an "I smell rotten eggs" look on her face for the A1 snaps lol...clearly, she was feeling your bias. These two cameras are so close it's hardly worth mentioning. I do prefer the Z9's ergonomics though, hands down feels way better in hand.
Thanks for sharing your opinion and keep on clickin!
I like Brittany over the Nikon and Sony but Nikon is a close second!
I'm sure she will appreciate that comment!
When you an expert and say lenses is bit issue what are you implying have you forgotten 100+ that Nikon already has as well F mount third party lenses it’s a much bigger collection than Sony could ever imagine all you have to do is buy a mount adapter Sony buyers did the same thing for the longest and a lot of user still adapt Canon or Nikon lenses stop giving notion that we will be waiting for a lens if there is a special need all major focal length have already been covered as well. Other than that good review.
I see you addressed this but your answer is questionable There is is no Loss of imagine quality and some lens even perform much better example the legendary 200 F2. That early reviews when Z line came out spoke about speed/latency difference that’s not the case anymore as also don’t forget Sony native lenses are exceptionally good at autofocus but when you use third party lenses most suffer with little lagginess also keep in mind the Sony bodies are more expensive now as well it has been the case Sony native lenses are more expensive compared to Canon or Nikon.
Thanks for sharing your opinion. We will have to agree to disagree on some of these points.
Nikon color so much better. Is this not a complete game changer. The picture is the entire point
The Nikon color was great until it fell apart in the dynamic range test.
Indoor photos with the bright backgrounds, Nikon you say looks warmer. I think it looks saturated more with a green tent and light green chromatic aberrations seem visible in the edges, especially the strands of hair. I think the higher saturation in Nikon is apparent in the ISO examples with the color pallets too. I think the color is more favorable in the Sony which surprised me as I was leaning to maybe adding the Z9 to my collection but I think will stay with the Sony. Otherwise they are very close and If I didn't have all Sony glass now and was picking a camera from the beginning, I'd have a tough choice to make. I wouldn't have switched from Nikon originally if they would have been more serious with mirrorless way back when.
I think you are right in staying where you are at. I think Sony's color has improved a lot the last few years.
You can't go wrong with either camera, unless you go with the Sony.
LOL. Thanks for sharing your opinion!
Love the Z9 crazy good AF & colors but just too big/heavy. That’s not a knock on the Z9.. it’s a pro body and I’m not a pro.
It is a great camera. People just have to decide if carrying the weight is worth it.
Nikon has the biggest lens library. It can use more lenses than any other manufacturer-with adaptor. Meanwhile no one else can use Z lenses.
Thanks for sharing your comment about lenses!
A lot of you photos could be processed differently to get better results !!!...You think other people will see this also ???
Thanks for watching and keep on clickin!
4:48 / 17:00 Nikon is out of focus i this scenario . Sony is much sharper. Dinamic range is also better for Sony.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts and thanks for watching!
What lenses is the Z mount missing? This is pretty lazy, Joe.
There is just a huge selection of lenses for the Sony E mount.
@@TheSlantedLens Nikon has native Z lenses from 14 MM to 800mm. As a working wedding and portrait photographer, I cannot imagine what else I’d need.
Where did the other guy go ?
He moved and he is working making films.
@@TheSlantedLens ok good to hear. Your doin great 😁
i have only just watched this video and half way in 8:21-22 the grain defo higher with the Nikon...
Maybe so, could be that the Sony is darker thus not as apparent.
Sony's color profile on human skin has been always a tad darker...since they made a digital camera for the first time years ago. I will choose Nikon Z9 because my dad has a lot of Nikon lenses...lol
Sounds like a great plan. You are lucky! Lenses can be pricey!
Not sure what are you saying here...Sony has been in digital imaging business making broadcast equipment when Nikon was only making film SLR.
11:00 LOL Is that it for the video test? One shot in the sunlight with overexposed video? you running out of time with the model that day? You should have just used her indoors holding a color chart.
Thanks for watching and keep on clickin!
@@TheSlantedLens 😍
they look almost identical
Are you meaning the images?
I like the sony more here because i prefer cool colors. I cant stand yellow
Thanks for sharing your opinion!
One other thing I noticed with my a1: the 8K when played on a 4K is much cleaner than the comparable 4K because noise is compressed beyond perception.
That is interesting. We will have to check that out!
But can you remove the battery grip from the z9 🧐
No, that is part of the camera.
Z9 is a better camera. The better ergonomics, better 8k Quality, cheaper cards, No overheating, more rugged, $1000 cheaper, vertical screen orientation, backlit buttons, maybe better battery, maybe brighter (albeit lower res) viewfinder...!
Thanks for sharing your preference and thanks for watching!
I use the Sony A1 and the Nikon Z9 for wildlife, mainly birds. If it is getting serious, I choose the A1 any time. The A1 has a much more reliable and consistent autofocus when it comes to recognition and tracking.
Thanks for sharing your experience with the cameras!
i have the same combos like a1 85mm 1.4 and z9 85mm 1.8 and the z9 has so much more noise... im angry and sell it, I want to switch to Nikon because of the colors. and what I hate so much is that Sony have so much different colors in faces, when you only bring up the saturation, on Nikon its great, on Sony you see the different colors in the face, ugh but what's interesting, the a1 have the much better monitor display, Sony said it has 1.44mio dots but its not true, it has the 2.36mio dot display from the a7RM4-A. Sony wanted to ship the a1´s with the 1.44mio display but they don't. because of the chip problem? I don't know
The problem you are facing is that there is no perfect camera. You just have to decide what is most important to you. Good luck with your camera purchase!
SONY SONY SONY SONY 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍
Thanks for watching and sharing your preference!
They’re some bloke talking next to the good looking girl in the red top. You may have noticed this.
Hope you learned a thing or two. Keep on clickin!
Wow, you would think these sensors would perform better in hi ISO. My d4 smokes both of these.
Thanks for sharing your experience!
D4 is 16MP. Would be interesting to see comparison after A1/Z9 downsampled to match that resolution.
@Derrick Spurrier You can't even make a comment like that unless shooting in exactly the same scene/lighting. Shrink these images down to your tiny 16MP and see how you can go then. They'll smoke your D4. They are just under and just over 3x the megapixels of your camera. When shrunk 3x, the noise also shrinks 3x. These cameras focus significantly better than your D4 and shoot at multiples of your relatively slow 10fps.