Nikon Zf - True LOVE from a Sony Fanboy. Yes, you CAN use Sony e-mount lenses on Zf!!!
2024 ж. 19 Қаң.
12 228 Рет қаралды
The Nikon Zf is a terrific camera that Sony should be concerned about. It features the manual shooting experience that so many full frame photographers are looking for at a reasonable price. What I did not realize until recently is that ALL of my Sony e-mount lenses can be used on any Nikon Z body with a $250 adapter! (link below) I do hope Sony offers a similar camera in the near future, but am more than happy with the Nikon Zf thus far!
Megadap ETZ21 Pro Adapter: www.amazon.com/Megadap-Autofo...
Neewer Grip: www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0C...
Yep, that's me. My first favourite camera was my Nikon F3HP, which I lugged everywhere from high school to college to many travels. Eventually, I sadly eventually downgraded to an iPhone for personal photos. Busy life got in the way, and I sold all my Nikon to help support our new family as we took maternity leave and raised two terrific kids. So recently, I saw this Zf and longed for the good old days. Now my new Nikon Zf has the Nikkor Z Series 14-30mm f4, 24-120mm f4, 40mm f2, and my favourite the 105mm f2.8 MC. By god, Nikon still makes excellent glass even 30+ years later. Those controls take me back to my teenage years. Can't wait to pick up where I left off :)
Sounds like you've come full circle! I am enjoying the Nikon lens lineup as well, but honestly can't see much of difference between the lens brands at this point. They are all soooo good. Glad you are enjoying the Zf - it's such a fun camera!
You can mount every lens brand to nikon z mount with the right adapter. Nikon has the shortest distance from the sensor to the glass. Keep on shooting 😊😊😊
Like a lot of people, I didn't pay much attention to Nikon over the past several years because their releases were lackluster compared to the competition. But with the Z9, Z8, and now Zf, they have my attention!! I am LOVING the results I'm getting out the camera so far. Being able to adapt pretty much any lens is a huge bonus.
@@RandumbTech I'm also a Fuji (XT4) user, but never quite warmed to the retro controls, and not too convinced about the XH2 or XH2S - so eagerly awaiting what might come in a Nikon Z6III. Here in NZ, Fuji's prices have been steadily creeping up as well, and sometimes make Nikon glass look downright affordable in comparison.
I'm also from the film world. The Nikon FM was my first Nikon camera. I bought the Zf recently and the auto-ISO problem has been painful! I love your solution! Thank you!
Glad I could help! Once you get used to the Auto ISO implementation, it's super easy to use. I wish I could set my other cameras up the same way 😆
@@RandumbTech I agree that your method seems to be the near perfect solution to the auto iso issue with the camera. I just bought this week and was trying to figure out how to set it up. I haven’t seen anyone else mention this method. Now I just need to figure out the best solution for video shutter vs photo shutter when switching quickly between them. Great video!!
you can quickly activate the auto iso. I have it on the video button. Press and hold while turning the wheel to activate auto-iso
Thank you for this informative review. I'm thrilled to learn about the adaptability of this camera. By the way, the red strip on the after market grip is reminiscent of the red stripe on Nikon's vintage F3 film camera.
The red stripe is homage to the F3 for sure. It looks great and like I mentioned in the video, I prefer the less sticky surface of the grip compared to the smallrig one. I shot briefly with a Nikon N65 more than 20 years ago until one of my co-workers stole it from my desk. 😆
Nice video. And I love the ZF! Features, image/video output, build, and weight! Please do more videos, esp with that Nikon Z to Sony E adapter.
Thx! It's such a great camera - I definitely plan on doing some more videos that feature the adapter. Primarily because those e-mount lenses are the bulk of what I currently own.
@@RandumbTech - sweet. I look forward to more videos sir! Subscribed.
Was just about to do the same and make a similar video, so this is super helpful! Fantastic video!!
Glad it was helpful!
Got one yesterday , I love it
Awesome!! It's such a fun experience to shoot with and the results are quite good.
I also found the Fringer adapter works nicely with Canon EF lenses and they behave just like native Z lenses. The Megadap is good but not quite as fast and reliable as native Z lenses. Still, I am able to use all my Sony lenses on the Zf including third party ones from Tamron and Samyang.
I don't own any Canon lenses, but good to know that there is an option for those lenses as well. The Z-mount truly is the universal mount. I am surprised Nikon doesn't promote that more.
@@RandumbTech Nikon probably still want their users to buy Z glasses, which I did. I eventually gave in and bought the Z 24-200mm VR and 26mm pancake besides the 40mm kit lens I already had. They don't overlap with my Sony gears. Though I have had my Sony gears for quite some time, I resisted to upgrade to their latest bodies and GM glasses as I am not a full time professional. The biggest selling point of the Z mount is its better performance with the smaller M mount glasses for Leica rangefinders, I guess, due to the wider mount diameter. With Sony, their relatively thick filter stack in front of the sensor just doesn't work well for the corner performance with most M mount wide angle lenses.
Agreed on the Fuji build quality. I put my xt1 next to the xt5 and it’s like the xt1 is the military version. It’s just this solid metal body and the knobs have no wobble or clicky feel.
Right?!! I could immediately tell when I received my X-T3 years ago that something was a little "off". The X-T4 wasn''t any better. The X100V is still Made in Japan and feels like a proper Fuji (hence the reason why everybody loves it). Fuji has invested too much into their Chinese factory at this point so it's unlikely we'll ever see another X-T camera Made in Japan.
nice review! I would love to hear about how the manual lenses work on the zf... especially if they have accurate distance + infinity and the size of any adapters
Thx! I've been goofing around with a few manual lenses this past week and the peaking looks spot on. I plan on doing a video in the near future about the great set of tools that the Zf provides for manual focus lenses.
Thanks for your review. I've been tempted to get the Zf for the same reasons. I've been a Canon shooter for years, but picked up a X-Pro2 a few years back and instantly fell in love with the Fuji system because of the manual dials and aperture rings. It makes photography fun and more challenging. Put I keep getting that FF itch. - So I checked out a few potential cameras at a London shop, recently. Fuji X-T5 sure felt plastic, not nearly as well built as my X-Pro2. The Q2 was good, but I also think the 28mm (or more like 26mm field of view is not for me) I also tried the A74 which was actually quite nice. But the best built was definitely the Zf. The only gripe I have with it is that non of the native Z lenses have an aperture ring. And to me that is a deal breaker. So I'm looking at picking up the Zf and a Voigtlander 40mm 1.2 or perhaps a Sony 40mm f2.5 with the megadap adapter.
With the Zf you have lots of lens options! I am currently using an adapted old Minolta MD 50/1.7 and LOVING the results. These old manual lenses have so much character and are dirt cheap to buy. For stills, there is a big difference (in my experience) between APS-C and FF.
Had the zf for two weeks trial, yes it is built incredibly well and is a great looking camera BUT to use professionally it is a pain in the ass. Lenses are a huge issue with NO aperture ring, Nikon dropped a bomb there and yes can adapt older lenses but not many of us who shoot professionally have the time to faff about! It is also awful to use at speed ergonomically, iso implemtation is a bit stupid and being honest only doctors dentists and hobby horses use the top dials, the rest of us switch the the wheels. That’s fine if stick it in auto iso which in itself has draw backs but if do then makes life easier just using the exp comp and aperture on the wheels. If use back button focus the button is way to far left and for left eye shoots like myself WTAF. The evf is really nice for its Rez but the eye piece is typical Nikon, let’s in lots of extraneous light as has limited shroud but the evf does hold together well on image review and manual focus unlike the Fuji’s. If you don’t use a grip it is slippery as an jellied eall , the small rig grip is ok but not deep enough and the lack of thumb stock makes all the weight in the wrong place, Nikon grip which is ONLY available in Japan and is like the holy unicorn has a thumb stock built in but good luck ever getting one of them. Image quality is ok, colours ok but when shooting alongside my xh2s or xt5 I definitely preferred the files from my xh2s, oddly it had on par if not better DR and files were crisper, even seemed to resolve more detail which may have been the supplied 40mm Nikon se lens but honestly it did not impress or wow me looking at the files, the also did not have an organic feel to them, was just digital unlike I get from all of my Fuji’s. On the whole was nice to look at and fiddle with but it is just a toy, not lens support to follow means it will remain just a toy. I have 30 years skin in the game, shot with all the brands in either full frame or MF and sold my Sony gear last year A9ll and A7r4 to get the Fuji’s xh2s, xh2 and an xt5 and although it is not perfect is more than capable and paired with the latest glass it hands down is a better system than what Nikon is brining with the ZF. So it is built a little better but you pay for that in weight, it has NO decent glass to match its design ethos and probably never will unless adapt old manual focus lenses. On a side note the Leica q2 produces stunning images and even though it’s focal length is fixed it has that much quality in that optic using it in one of its crop modes to alter the focal length is a No brainier, the q2 mono WOW but again has its drawbacks with design. Peace out and these are just my thoughts and not those of a fan boy or KZheadr but someone who uses a camera daily 🎉🎉🎉 ps Sony was great but was just dead in the hand, a brick, a computer with buttons on 😂 but a very reliable computer 💻 I will give it that. Peace out ✌️
Great video. I’m with you. Tried to love Fuji and legit returned it all for Sony glass. Picked the Nikon up and love it. Still learning it but love it. Going to adapt my Sony glass too.
Thanks! I am currently working on a video that demonstrates all of my Sony lenses on the Nikon Zf so stay tuned for that one...
Nice video RT! As a Nikon Z8 landscape product and wildlife shooter, I'm considering the Zf as a lighter "travel" kit, with the Nikkor Z 40 f/2 for example. I've also heard great things about the Voigtlander manual focus lenses for the Z mount. Enjoy your new Zf!
I’m absolutely LOVING the Nikon experience thus far. If I wasn’t so heavily invested in Sony I would definitely snag the Z8.
The ZF is the breakthrough camera of 2023...Name a brand that offers this spec and features for $2000.... Love love my ZF...you don't need to spend a ton on native Z glasses...SIGMA ART 1.4 lenses offers way better bang for buck than those 1.8 Z lenses
It really is a breakthrough camera for the money. Build quality is excellent and the manual dials are so satisfying. I have the Sigma ART 24 1.4 in addition to the 85 and it also works exceptionally well on the Zf body. The ART lenses are a bit big for the Zf body, but it's nice to know I can use them if I'm looking for ultimate image quality.
Ahh nah. The Nikkor Z range of lenses are razor sharp. They should come with a warning.
@@HoLeeChit11sure they are sharp, I actually own two ( 50mm 1.8 S and 35mm 1.8 S) BUT remember , there's nothing like having a full stop advantage at your disposal, especially indoors where 1.8 isn't enough to freeze action sometimes. it's really a shame that Nikon doesn't allow native 1.4 lenses into the Z system which is a stupid, selfish decision IMO. Well there are native 1.4s out there like the shitty Viltrox, but I don't think they are worth it. Id rather carry these brick SIGMAs all day and be happy with the image quality
Isn't the the ART 1.4 for Apsc?
@@mlai2546 Yeah Sigma has native Z lenses, but not the ones that we actually want lol....pure greed? Probably....they still refuse to "port" and license the 1.4 ART line because it will surely give them some serious competition.
Great! Yes, the Z8 is an amazing camera, especially with the latest firmware updates!
Looking forward to a video on using e mount lenses on nikon!!!
It's taking me a lot longer than I thought it would, but it's coming...
love my blue Zf 😍
I do like the different colors! I wish they sold them in stores. Perhaps they will in the near future.
Love you Nikon Zf
She's a beauty - spent some time with her yesterday 💖
Thank your for the review. Would love to see a review or a least a nice test of the Megadap Adapter with some fast Sony lenses :)
Coming soon! Lots of Zf videos in the pipeline.
Looking forward @@RandumbTech
8:35 unfortunately true. Had the X-T2 and when I felt the dials of the X-T3 I was in shock. Thin.. tinny.. lock button like a pop cap toy. Your comments are very similar to my experiences that I recently made a video on… less succinct unfortunately. My biggest takeaway from comparing the X-T5 & Zf was how ‘balanced’ the overall meeting/exposure of a scene the Zf is compared to the X-T5. It’s significant. Thank you for your video.
You are one of the VERY FEW reviewers who actually understand the benefits of Nikon's Auto ISO implementation. Having that ISO "starting point" is genius as you can tell the camera, hey I am perfectly fine with ISO 200 or 400 in exchange for a faster shutter speed, but obviously feel free to go lower if you have to.
Exactly!! It was a little weird at first, but now I'm loving it. It's not really a big deal for my Sony's because there is no marked ISO dial, but it would be nice if they allowed users to configure it the same way in the menu.
The SmallRig loosened after walking around with it on the 2nd time out using. I caught camera by the strap before it hit the ground.
Funny you should mention that - I thought the Neewer felt more securely fastened which is why I returned the Smallrig. 🧐
I am a long time Nikon user including a couple of decades of professional use. For fun I joined the mirrorless world in 2009 with m43 and I loved the advantages of these kind of cameras. I wanted a FF camera and reluctantly 😃 Bought into Sony A7rII/A7rIII and briefly A7rIV , great image quality plenty of features but I did not enjoy the ergonomics etc. So I was a happy camper when Nikon joined the game . The FE to Z adapter was a great way to allow for the use of my Sony lenses , I have gradually replaced them all with Z glass except the 24mm GM. These days I don't need blistering AF performance though my Z9 offers that. I consider all FE mount lenses as a potential Great review and the more I see of the ZF I think I will pick one up and maybe a couple of manual focus for some old school fun. Thank you for a fun and informative video
Since you previously shot film, you will LOVE the Zf! I almost forgot how much more enjoyable it is when I determine what the best aperture and shutter speed is for a given situation. Now I get my camera set up before I even get it up to my eye - no screens to look at, just a top plate. I'll probably continue to live in a Nikon/Sony/Leica/Ricoh/Minolta world for the foreseeable future - apparently I have issues with commitment. 🤣
Thanks for the video. Good info about Auto ISO. It does have zebras, though. Check custom setting G6 to turn it on.
Unfortunately, the zebras are only available in video mode. It would be so easy for Nikon to turn it on for both. Hopefully they will future firmware.
Nice videos, I'm looking to purchase one but not interested in Nikon lenses as they're usually too big and doesn't have aperture ring so instead I'm thinking of buying E-mount lenses instead. Would you do more videos about the E lenses on the ZF? how they performs, how's the AF speed compare to Nikon native lens, how well the aperture and focus ring works, etc. That would be appreciated.
I plan on doing a lot more content around the e-mount lenses on z-mount cameras. I just discovered it myself and clearly others were not aware of it either. It's a great camera to use, even with adapted lenses!
Sony shooter here, looking at the ZF as my everyday camera. I love my A7RIV, but the Nikon ZF would fit nicely as my non work camera, smaller sensor size and file sizes with a gorgeous design.
It's a great compliment to the A7RV, but only if you enjoy the manual controls. Trying to learn a whole new menu system has been a challenge for me. That's why I reserve the Zf for photography only and shoot in MANUAL mode 100% of the time (including manual focus too!)
@@RandumbTech I actually do love manual controls. Use to have an old Fuji Xt-20 and X100T, those were fun and inspiring to use. I find that it slows down the process of photography, and allows more thought and consideration during the process.
Nikon really did a great job with the Zf. There's a YT guy who did an extensive review with adapters on Zf and also using an AF adapter on manual focus lens too.
Thx for the tip - I'll have to check out those other adapters!
Why have I never heard of this...? Sony E on Nikon Z? This is amazing! Cool camera, too
I literally yelled at my local camera store guy because he didn't tell me sooner! 🤣 Like you, I'm fairly plugged into the camera world and had absolutely no idea it was possible. That AF works nearly as good as a native Nikon lens. The Zf is such a great camera for stills. I don't plan on using it at all for video, despite being quite capable.
I’d love to know if or how well the AF works in video
The Zf AF works very well in video and photo modes, I feel it’s a bit snappier than the Z8. I’ve tried it with the 40mm f2, 24-70 f4 S and 17-28 f2.8 for video, with the setting for AF set to it’s max setting and the results have been really great. Also had an opportunity to use the 135 f1.8 S Plena and it’s so nice together.
@@waynerm002 Are those adapted Sony lenses?
@@PhillipRPeck Hi Phillip, they are not, all those are Nikon lens. I tend to use the Sony 16-35 f4 on my Z8 as it has the power zoom function and it has worked well. I had a hiccup with it but, then figured out that Megadap put out a firmware update to resolve the issue. The other 2 lens are APSC (11mm 1.8 and 15mm 1.4) which I use occasionally, I use them more on the FX30. I also had the Sony 24-105 f4 OSS which was a really nice lens on the A7RV (traded for the Z8) and also worked nicely on the Z8 but I traded it for the Nikon 24-120 f4 S for the extra reach and that is a really great performing lens! It's on my Z8 most of the time.
I assigned myself an oato iso to the record button. I switch the iso on the iso wheel to "C" and press the record button to control the iso, switch the auto iso on and off and change the iso using the knobs under my fingers.
I did a separate video about Nikon Zf auto ISO and have it set up the same way. It's easy to get used to.
Best hot take re the auto-iso implementation I've heard (I've watched about 10 reviews of the Zf), still going to wait to see what's up w/the Z6iii, but the auto-iso thing was a deal breaker for me before, now maybe not.
Thx! I just posted another video on my channel that covers Auto ISO in more detail. It is by far the best way to set up Auto ISO - I wish other brands allowed you to do it. If you enjoy a tactile shooting experience and want to shoot manual, there is nothing out there that comes even close to the Zf at it's price point. I am still LOVING it!
The only thing about using Sony lenses on a larger aperture Z mount body is how noticeable Sony compromises on quality to make their lenses smaller and more compact vs Nikon who base their lens quality on optical perfection vs software correction.
Absolute eye opener! Some are way worse than others. I haven't tried all of my Sony lenses yet, but so far the 20-70 was really bad @ 20 (as you can see toward the end of video). For stills, it's easy enough to correct in post. But for video, you should probably use native Nikon lenses with lens corrections turned on.
Nikon is doing it too. Take a look at the 14-30 F4 kzhead.info/sun/nJmmZbKnjmVjnK8/bejne.html And so does Canon, there are several examples.
Thanks for your thoughts on the ZF! I don't own it (yet), but I use Nikon Z5 and "old" Fuji cameras (xt,1 xe2s). Your refreshing explanation of the auto iso use for the ZF was totally surprising for me! That means, you could just leave it on auto iso and the number you adjust with the dial is automatically the maximum iso? So if you dial 100 iso, it would be fixed iso?! Did I get this right? If yes, it would be a very clever solution, with just a different way of thinking! Greetings from Germany!
That's correct about Auto ISO. When you set it in camera to maximum 200, whatever you turn it up to on the the ISO dial will then effectively become the highest ISO. It works really well - thx for sharing your thoughts!
Thank you!@@RandumbTech
Hey, I've not used the ZF but if it has an exposure tool called zebras you can use them in a very similar way to flashing highlights.
It does have zebras, but unfortunately they are not available in photo mode, only video. Hopefully, Nikon can simply turn that feature on via a firmware update.
Thank you. This is awesome news. I think the Sony 40 2.5 would be fun.. and look great on the Zf. Loving my Zf. Regarding your comments on Auto ISO setup.. that setup works but you can’t use base ISO of 100. It’s weird we can’t choose 100 as the min. Is it just me? I love the idea of using the dial as the max ISO.
I've considered the Sony 40/2.5 but for some reason it just doesn't speak to me. The kit 40mm lens that came with my Zf is more than enough for my use. You can use 100 in Auto ISO if you set your maximum ISO in the settings to 200 and then 100 on the dial. In the event that there is ample light to get proper exposure, it will choose 100. The settings are for a maximum ISO, not minimum. Hope that helps clarify.
@@RandumbTech I love the Z 40 f2. So I took a look at Lens Tip for both images and it looks like the Z is sharper and more consistent at the edges. Win for Nikon.
Have you tried to Zfc? How does that feel? I'm currently using an X-T30, which doesn't feel cheap in my opinion, maybe the X-T5 is. (I have an old X-E1 and that does feel cheap) I'm thinking of getting either this or the Zfc mainly because my whole game is adapting vintage lenses and unfortunately Techart doesn't make an autofocus adapter for Fuji.
I don't have any experience with the Zfc, but most reviewers are not real keen on it. The Zf is a much more robust camera. The Z mount is absolutely incredible - you can adapt just about any lens to it. I love having the ability to use my e-mount lenses on it with aperture rings. I believe you can do the same with your Fuji lenses, but it will be in the DX format which defeats the purpose of going FF. Lots of great choices out there!
It may have already been mentioned here in the comments, but you can activate the auto iso quickly. I have it on the video button. Press and hold while turning the wheel to activate auto-iso
A couple of people did mention it. I find it difficult to press the button and turn the command dial at the same time. But if that works for you, go for it! It’s nice that Nikon gives us options.
Also.. if you haven’t .. give the Dream profile a chance. It’s fun. You can even adjust the intensity of the profiles with a slider in LR.
Hmm, will have to give that profile a try. Thx for the suggestion!
Whenever I'm trying to keep from blowing out highlights on my Z7 I use the highlight weighted metering mode. Once in Lightroom I can boost the shadows. Perhaps not as effective as blinkies, but it works. Not a solution for JPG shooters though.
I love highlight metering, but on the Nikon it's almost too aggressive. Leica gets it perfect just about every time. I am now using a custom picture profile that shows clipping in real time as solid black and that is working well enough. It's not an elegant solution, but it gets the job done.
Hi, just on the highlight warnings, I dont own the ZF but i own other nikon dslr's, i am sure it would be on the ZF but the metering mode dial has an extra option. the spot metering with a star with it takes highlights into consideration, again i haven't used this much but have seen other YT photogs say they love this feature. I could be totally wrong but have a look n play, cheers terry
just a follow up, the spot metering with a star is called "highlight weighted metering" cheers again
Thx for the tip! I've tried highlight metering in the past and it often underexposed by at least a stop more than I wanted. I don't actually mind blowing out the highlights in certain situations, I just want to know that I'm doing it - if that makes sense.
Couldn’t agree with you more about the comments about Fuji build quality. I still have my XT2 and it’s built like a tank. Fuji needs to step their game up
Yeah, it's just sad. I loved shooting Fuji, but their build quality started to deteriorate as soon as they moved production to China. Plus they had an opportunity with the X-H2s to launch a new AF system and they failed miserably.
Did you see the rumor today that production of the X100VI is being moved to China as well? Fuji is slowly, systematically, losing everything that made them who they were. Quite sad.
@@RandumbTech yes I did! I’m also disappointed in the direction Fuji has chosen. early adopters of Fuji X cameras loved them because they were beautifully engineered / built cameras. “A poor man’s Leica”. A quote I so often heard from the original Fuji ambassadors. Obviously I don’t run a camera company, so I don’t quite understand the logistics/economics behind their decisions. But I get the feeling they caved and are catering to the tech / content creators of the internet. They’ve become like every other tech company that just sells garbage with minor updates. Even so they lag behind other companies with their technology and now build quality! Needless to say, I’m sad to say that I don’t think I’ll be buying any new Fuji body for a while. A reminder that we shouldn’t be loyal to a brand!
@@Ponskippa I could not have said it any better!
For shoot-time highlight warning on nikons there are specific color profiles that turn pure white in pure black and effectively lets you see what highlights you are burning. Obviously this is only useful if you shoot RAW (because you don't care about the color profile applied to the JPEG preview) and effectively locks you on a specific color profile, but it works.
Thx for the tip! A couple of other folks pointed that out as well in the comments. I downloaded it this past weekend and will be posting a quick video about it soon. It works really well! Stay tuned...
There is no grip because it is styled on the Nikon F2. And like the Nikon F2, you have the option of tightening the grip. In my opinion this is an advantage because it looks exactly like the F2 on which it is based.
That's fair. I prefer a bigger grip so I don't see myself removing the one I bought very often.
does the 60hz evf bother you? I want this camera but I am so used to high refresh rates
According to Samuel Streetlife the Zf EVF feels much better than it’s specs would indicate. He says it feels smoother to him thsn some EVFs with higher refresh rates. I think he mentioned it in this video: kzhead.info/sun/abiBc9iffZybooE/bejne.htmlsi=PpdMi7yFM7lRpjX3
@@torb-no Thanks stranger, I'll have to try it out in person when I get the chance.
The EVF is more than sufficient for my needs. It's not as sharp or bright as the one on my A7RV, but it's certainly good enough and way better than the A7CR which is the other camera that I was considering.
Same impressions after using Sony and trying Nikon now. :) Just get a proper lens, matching modern with vintage like Zeiss Batis.
You definitely need the right lens. The more I used the Sony lenses, the less I liked them on the Zf because Sony uses a LOT of in-camera corrections. Since that's not available on the Nikon body, you get some wonky results with certain lenses.
@RandumbTech yep, Zeiss Batis primes simply have good optical design. They have good coatings too. Giving true colors and contrast, such a breeze to shoot on a Nikon now. All JPEGs turned out perfect out of the camera and with so little effort a few shoots in a row now. Same with Leica M lenses, it's a breeze to shoot even with manual focus on Nikon. And most Sony's lenses are not designed for that. Except some very early models again made together with Zeiss like the 35mm 2.8 and 55 1.8.
Agree on poor Fuji build quality. I used to own an Xpro2 which was good, but not fantastic. The dials on my Nikon Df were much higher quality with a better feel ( but the Df felt plasticky in other ways). Newer Fujis feel like toys to me. The Zf feels amazing. I don’t understand how more reviewers aren’t picking up on this.
I think more reviewers are starting to jump on the Zf train. 🚂 When I first left Fuji I was pretty upset because they had YEARS to scrap their old AF system and build something new that actually worked reliably. I've since moved on - and looking back at some of my prior images taken with Fuji cameras, they don't stack up well to my Sony/Nikon/Ricoh/Leica gear. If the upcoming X100VI is being built in China, it will be a sad day indeed...
Hi, thank you for the video. Is there any drop in image quality with the adaptor or focus speed? Cheers
The image quality is only as good as the lens on the front without the baked in lens profile corrections. I have been surprised by how optically bad some of the Sony lenses are without those automatic corrections. Similarly, I have been extremely impressed with the Sigma lenses that absolutely sing on the Zf. Focus speed is also highly dependent on the lens. For the newer Sony lenses with linear motors, they are just as fast, if not faster, than the native Nikon lenses. I plan on doing a video that covers my findings in more detail. Stay tuned...
On a Z6 pressing iso button and using front dial turns auto iso on an off - doesn't this work on ZF? As for hightlight warning - there is a custom image profile with pure white set to 0 which makes highlights visible in realtime.
You can set it up that way to toggle Auto ISO on/off, but I find it very awkward and difficult to press that button and spin command wheel at the same time. That's a great tip regarding the custom profile - is there a YT video you can point me to that shows how to do it? Thx!
@@RandumbTech you can change that "hold button and spin command wheel" behaviour on most Nikons (not too sure how well this translates to ISO etc on the Zf) - it's in the "Custom Settings" menu, item "f7: Release button to use dial".
@@nightowlnzabThat is how I use it on my Z8, press to activate, switch to the setting you want then press again (or press shutter) to go back.
Had no idea you can adapt Sony glass. I have a Fuji X-T5 as a secondary camera but mainly use Sony. Love the X-T5 design but always wish it were full frame.
I had no idea either! I'm surprised more people aren't mentioning this in their videos. There are a TON of Sony FF shooters out there that would love a camera like this with manual controls. Being able to easily adapt e-mount lenses is a HUGE plus for the Zf!
@@RandumbTech There's actually AF adapter for Fuji X to Nikon Z mount as well so you could use Fujifilm lenses on Nikon (with vignetting ofc) or you could use DX mode.
Let me say that you're not the only one who knows about Magadap E mount to Z mount adapter? I'm a Sony user and I used my Magadap adapters on Sony lenses to mount on my Z9, Z8 & Zf cameras without any problems.
At the time I didn't realize it was option - which is surprising because I'm fairly plugged into the camera world. I wonder why Nikon is not promoting the fact that the Z mount is essentially universal. Better later than never I suppose! 🤣
Tried the adapter recently and it might be fine for photos but for AF-c specifically in video it isn't really usable. (That is my experience on the Z6, it might be better on the Zf but it will not perform like a native lens.) I actually sold the Zf again because I disliked the ergonomics that much, even with a grip. Because I am one of those people that wants to have the camera in hand at all times. 😁
Yeah, the Zf isn't for everyone. If I want something in my hand, I prefer camera with a bigger grip like my A7RV. I shoot the Zf for stills only and in AF-S so I don't experience the same issues as others using AF-C. Heck, half the time I'm using manual focus which is so much fun on this camera. As I mentioned in the video, the Zf is so much more fun to use, but if I need something done quickly and accurately, I'd almost certainly grab my Sony instead.
One feature that has not garnered much attention is the eye detect autofocus that works in manual focus mode.
It's a cool feature, but I don't find myself using it much. It's not AF, it's more like focus confirmation. The focus peaking is quite good on the Nikon, especially when punched in to 100%.
It’s actually called manual focus subject detection, you still need to dial in the focus but, the camera identifies the subject (face, eye, car, plane, animal) providing additional focus confirmation in that area.
@@RandumbTech The main benefit of it is that when you zoom in (most users map the OK button to zoom) it goes directly to the subject regardless of where they are in the composition. This allows you to do critical focusing on the eyes. Much better results than relying on focus peaking.
Just could not help myself, bought one.
It's soooo fun to shoot with. Welcome to the Zf club!
@@RandumbTech Thanks, I have been shooting with Nikon since 1969. My Digital cameras are D850, Z6. Chaned most lenses to the Z lenses. Still have some olf F mount lenses. work perfectly on the Z bodies. Bought the Z6 not long after they were released. Film cameras, 35mm slr Nikon Fe, 120 / 6x6 hae a Hasselblad.
Link for the grip you got for it? 🤩
I just added it to the video description. Thx for checking out the video!
I recently picked up the zf even though i alredy have the a7cii
I have both as well and use them very differently. I use the Zf for exclusively stills (though I will be publishing a video soon about adapting Sony lenses for video use). The A7Cii is the perfect travel hybrid camera for both stills and video, especially with the tiny 24/50 Sony primes.
I own the a7cii and just bought a zf this afternoon 🤣
Are there really no zebras on Zf? How about other Z cameras? Since my discovery of the feature on Sony I use it all the time, best way to meter landscape imo.
Unfortunately it's only available in video mode. Someone left a comment about a picture profile you can enable that effectively does the same thing, but I haven't had time to explore that option yet. The histogram is quite large so it's not too hard to get proper exposure.
Soon you'll be able to adapt Fuji X lenses on the Z with the Boroyoza adapter
Oooohhh! That's great for Fuji shooters. This probably wouldn't be the best camera for APS-C lenses though given the lower resolution in DX mode. Hopefully Nikon will release a higher MP version of the Zf in near future.
This camera is very appealing. I am brand agnostic as well except for the fact that I have Z lenses. Haha that pretty much locks me into Z cameras. Waiting on the Z6iii before making a decision on this camera. About the adapters...the Z mount can accept all full frame and APSc mount lenses as far as I know because the flange distance is the shortest of all mounts. Thus anything can adapt to the Z but the Z lenses cannot adapt to anything in those categories.
It is a very appealing camera indeed. The Z mount is fantastic!
Try and look into monster adapter
I'll def check it out - thx for suggestion!
What’s the brand of the red shutter button
Not sure what brand it is. It's an old one that I used with my Fuji X100F. Sry, wish I could be more helpful.
Do you find yourself picking this up over your Leica Q2?
I'm using both regularly, and often together. I've got the Nikkor Z 50 MC 2.8 on the Zf which pairs nicely with the Q2. If I'm going somewhere quick, I'll still grab the Q2 If I know I'll have time to switch between two bodies, I'll bring both. The Leica image quality is on another level compared to anything else I own. For stills, the Q2 and Zf are a match made in heaven (and my budget)
Auto iso only works when set to 200? What happen when in auto iso hour go down to 100?
No - if you program in max iso 200 in the settings, but then change your dial to 6400, it will then default to 6400 as the highest ISO. If you turn it to 100 on the dial and you have enough light based on your shutter speed and aperture to get proper exposure, it will use 100. I plan on making a follow-up video on this topic since there seems to be a lot of confusion surrounding it.
Have you seen the peak design nikon z strap
I'm not a huge fan of advertising on my camera straps, but I do like the peak design system. For this camera I'm using a simple rope strap and it's working really well.
I really like the look of Nikon Zf, but it is a bit too pricey. Ideally, I would want to have a camera with more than 24 megapixels. I am sure it takes amazing photos though.
It is a great looking camera for sure. A 30-35MP sensor would indeed be a better fit for this camera. As would a 3-way tilting screen rather than flippy one. I actually ended up selling my Zf, not because it was a bad camera, but because I really didn't need it. Despite all of the manual controls, I found myself leaving it behind often because of its size and weight.
Also love my Nikon Zf and use the Megadap ETZ21. Also great features not found on my Sony cameras have are focus bracketing and automatic subject detection (human, animal, car, ...). Also manual focusing is so easy with that camera because it supports the so called "focus confirmation" feature. The focus point will turn green if you focus correctly. And the camera even can automatically select the eye in manual focus mode (I can recomment the Voigtlander 50mm f1.2 Nokton - nice vintage rendering). It's an incredible camera. My only issue with the camera is the sensitivity of the shutter release. Sometimes I take two pictures when I want to take only one.
I've done double shutter too. Installing a soft release button helps a lot with that. I am looking at the Voigtlander APO-LANTHAR 50mm F2.0 - any experience with that lens?
@@RandumbTech The Voigtlander Apo Lanthar 50mm f2 is an extremely sharp lens with clean, technical rendering - great for landscape and architecture. The Voigtlander 50mm f1.2 Nokton has a "romantic vintage look" that is great for people photography and portrait. You can find great reviews (can't post the link here because KZhead does not accept it) by searching in Google for "Reeve Apo Lanthat 50mm f2 review". That web site also has a great review of the Nokton 50mm f1.2. Somehow the search of the web site doesn't work correctly and doesn't find the Nokon 50mm f1.2 article, but if you click around you can find it through 50mm lenses for Sony articles.
A point of clarification: You will not be able to adapt all lenses to other cameras. The Z mount is special in this respect. Due to its 16mm flange distance- the shortest in the market- all other lenses can theoretically be adapted to it. The same is not true in reverse. The Sony E mount has an 18mm flange - this is why the adaptor you have is so thin - it is 2mm to make up correct distance from the rear element to the sensor. However, you could never adapt a Nikon Z lens to a Sony because the 18mm flange of the mount is too long to support the proper function of the Z mount lenses. All of this is true for Canon RF - which has the longest flange of 20mm. The Z mount with its 16mm flange and 55mm throat diameter is the best in the business - if you don't know why look up angle of incidence with respect to optics design. These dimensions allow for the most sophisticated optical designs and best cross the frame image quality. Additionally, as an added perk, it allows the theoretical adaptation of lenses from all other competing mounts. Currently available adaptors include: Sony E to Z, Canon EF to Z, Fuji X to Z, and Leica M to Z - I'm sure it will not be long before there is a Canon RF to Z as well. Welome to Nikon :) -PD
Wow - thank you for providing all the technical detail! I am still learning about all this stuff - and there is a LOT to learn!
The only deal breaker for me is the flip-out screen, which I wish to be a 2-way articulating screen. Therefore I ended up getting the a7R5.
It depends on how you plan to use the Zf. Personally, I shoot through the EVF with the screen completely closed 90% of the time and use the manual controls for everything. It keeps me "in the moment". I also have the A7RV and love the 4-axis screen, but that is a much more expensive camera so I wouldn't expect Nikon to put it in a $2k camera like the Zf.
@@RandumbTech Either the a7r5 screen or the one on Fuji XT3. The price difference is less that $1k these days.
The Sony a7r5 is so awesome! Check out the sigma 10-18 f2.8 for aps-c such a great camera 😊
@@lewcehjitl3282 Already got that lens. Not a popular recommendation but I'm glad someone appreciates it.
The lens design for mirrorless relies a lot on computer distortion corrections. It is not specific to Sony. It is way to achieve quality and compactness especially for UWA , WA and Standard zooms . Optical correction costs money , weight, space with no real advantage on the final result.
I'm not 100% convinced that compromised designs with corrections applied are as good as other lenses that are optically better. There has to be some degradation somewhere, right? All of my GM lenses are optically very good so I'm not overly concerned.
Nice video! Beautiful camera! In my opinion, the Z6 - Z9 are horrendously ugly. I hope Nikon transitions all their cameras to the more elegant, traditional design like the Zf.
I completely agree about camera styling - which is why I hadn't considered Nikon in the past. Now that I know that the mount is so flexible, they are quite a bit more attractive 😁
@@RandumbTech Yeah, I would love jump on board with the Zf, except that I'm a high-res freak. My current camera is a Nikon D800, 36.5 mega pixels. I've been looking at the D850 for quite a while, with even higher resolution. When it came out, it was considered by many to be the best camera in the world, for the price. But the newer cameras just offer so many expanded features. If Nikon comes out with something like the Zf with 2x resolution, I'll probably have to go for it. Really enjoyed your video and your enthusiasm for the Zf. Keep up the good work!
Lol😂 the xt5 fells like a disposable camera
Not disposable, but definitely not the same build quality as the Zf.
... Sheesh🤔😡,.. "like it's got a nice red stripe".... Yada yada..... And you call this a review!?!?!?... Talk about saccharin!... My god!...
Gotta have that red stripe! 🤣 This isn’t really a review, more of a first impressions.
No. The auto iso implementation sucks. Yes I understand how it works but it still sucks. Especially the auto ISO display flashing. You can see the value change so why the annoying flashing 😡
I agree the flashing is annoying, but I've learned to look past it. Overall, I still think it's a great Auto ISO imlementation.