Ricci sanded the brass dials which looks very cool imho:
https://youtu.be/52e5euZw5oo?t=869&si=f4Qn86jo3atOU_wm
Three advantages with the Zf:
IBIS - active around selected focus point (area?) with Z-lenses.
Sensorshift/High res - reduced noise at high iso
Automatic selection and magnification of face/eyes with manual focus lenses.
pre ordered :o :o :o
Ricci sanded the brass dials which looks very cool imho:Yes I saw that ;D I almost fell off the chair - Had never thought Ricci would do such a thing :o
https://youtu.be/52e5euZw5oo?t=869&si=f4Qn86jo3atOU_wm (https://youtu.be/52e5euZw5oo?t=869&si=f4Qn86jo3atOU_wm)
How is life in Canada? Did your camera stuff arrive OK?
Given how utterly **** the Japanese economy is now, and with rampant inflation being countered with negative pay rises, your lifestyle here would have taken a nosedive had you remained.
Placed an order at my dealer as well. The Zf promises to be significantly different than what we had so far (more so than the Z8 compared to the Z9). Other than the Df it does not have an AF-ON button. I hope that the pretty much useless AF-L/AE-l button can be reprogrammed to serve in this function, otherwise I'd better cancel it.Yes the button can be programmed ;)
here, Nikon...let me help you fix that. :o :o :o
So, what is there to procrastinate about?? I just made an order for Z f at my local dealer. The price without VAT is tolerable, I suppose.
Yes the button can be programmed ;)That meets my expectations and one should expect that, but I didn't know and with other Nikon models I have also experienced some surprises in what can be programmed and what can't. Thanks for supporting my optimism ;-)
No spot metering ???The announcment I saw included Spot-Metering
After reading the specs it could be tempting to get one.IIRC it was announced that the 8 stop IBIS has been tested with the 24-120 mm Z Nikkor
I like the 8 stop IBIS function. I assume that is using a lens around 50mm without any VR in the lens itself.
Then the old Nikkors would be more fun to use for street photography. For that 24 MP is sufficient.
Then for macro work on tripod the hi-res mode could be interesting.
It would not make any sense to bring the Zf without Spot-MeteringIndeed.
“ Spot metering: Meters circle with a diameter of approx. 4 mm centered on selected focus point”Thanks for the confirmation.
https://imaging.nikon.com/imaging/lineup/mirrorless/z_f/
Seems anyone in Aus can get 10% off Nikon purchases directly from Nikon!
See the start of this:
https://youtu.be/TdNCHcwRwhU?si=K16ss3pRdUrbRzev
Prices on the Z6-2 and the Z7-2 have dropped by 20% here in Australia following the recent release of the Zf.
I wonder if this is a harbinger of an impending Z6-2 and Z7-2 release?
The Norwegian price is, as would be expected, rather stiff at NOK 31.900,- or approx. 3.200 Euro.
Prices on the Z6-2 and the Z7-2 have dropped by 20% here in Australia following the recent release of the Zf.You mean Z6 III and Z7III evidently. As said Nikon can be expected to fill the Zf demand first but they have to bring something because the II versions are even more outdated now than they were at release time. The third generation will have to undergo substantial changes in user interface compared to their precedessors. And the Z7III will have a hard time to find a place between Z8 and Zf
I wonder if this is a harbinger of an impending Z6-2 and Z7-2 release?
In the US they charge $1,999.95 only directly from the mother ship ... and the indigo blue leathering makes me salivate so much ...It appears that all the normal retailers in the USA (B&H,etc) are selling Df for US$1995 or thereabouts. The mentioned Euro price seems a bit steep...different tax setup, I know.
You mean Z6 III and Z7III evidently. As said Nikon can be expected to fill the Zf demand first but they have to bring something because the II versions are even more outdated now than they were at release time. The third generation will have to undergo substantial changes in user interface compared to their precedessors. And the Z7III will have a hard time to find a place between Z8 and Zf
that is the camera I have been waiting for. A real digital FM-2 replacement
You mean, one that can work without batteries, has no spot metering, and no aperture priority mode ?
You mean, one that can work without batteries, has no spot metering, and no aperture priority mode ?That will be a digital camera with what looks like a film advance lever, but winding lever actually powers the camera up - never any need to plug it in to recharge :o :)
That will be a digital camera with what looks like a film advance lever, but winding lever actually powers the camera up - never any need to plug it in to recharge :o :)BTW: Got a device some 17 years ago (pre Smartphone era) with a lot of adapters that was actually able to charge a Cell phone battery by a winding lever - took pretty much time even with these devices ;-)
the Zf will never be as good as a Df, as inadequate and half-assed the latter is :o :o :o the pentaprism and the aperture coupler...and all that ::)in some aspects the Zf will be far better, and it will work better together witz Z-lenses and it will be better in adapting thirt party lenses, and it has the benefits of an electronic viewfinder and video functions
no I mean the look and feel.In that sense, maybe. Otherwise I was quoting FM-2 features nobody would envy now: were are all used to using short-lived batteries; most of us use A mode, I guess, that the FM-2 hadn't, and there is no reason not to have spot metering although it has become less useful than in slides time (film slides, not powerpoint): I still remember using the 8-spot multimetering with my Canon T90 in difficult situations, trying to fit them into the +2EV/-2EV range, and it worked.
in some aspects the Zf will be far better, and it will work better together witz Z-lenses and it will be better in adapting thirt party lenses, and it has the benefits of an electronic viewfinder and video functions
but it will never have the benefits of an optical viewfinder and even if an FTZ adapter with Ai support will ever see the light the Df will have better support of AI(-S) lenses and will benefit for not having Video options distracting from photography and has a control element for direct access to the exposure metering modes
Thus i will keep my Df and all options (even though the front wheel of the Df is looking nice but a real nuissance for good camera grip
I will never part from my Df but it is in semi-retirement now. Getting old, a rubber gasket (ISO wheel) needs replacement, aperture lever actuation replaced once in 2017 probably needs replacement again, some buttons on the back feel awkward... well, I'm ageing too, am I not? and the stiff and sharp-edged front wheel always hurt my fingers - well, most of the time I use AI lenses.That exactly ist my main downside of the Df, it hurts my fingers (whether i am using it or not - just by holding and carrying it - with AI lenses i am using the aperture ring)
...and while I do not enjoy the Z6ii as a camera body, it delivers good results (precise focussing, stabiliser are important for my subjects). I nearly had a fit when it refused to actuate the flashlight, until I learnt (thanks internet) that flashlight and electronic shutter are not compatible. That saved the shooting session.I like the way My Z6 lies in my hand but i dislike some of the buttons, controls and menu flaws. Good to know that the flashlight ist only working with mechanical shutter - never used it with the Z6
Still, I look forward to a camera I can enjoy, placing hopes in the Zf, in which case I'll resell the Z6ii. Next goodie would be a FTxyz with an aperture follower: little hope. I'll survive that.An FTX with aperture follower would be great (even better if including a motor drive and other requirements for supporting screwdriver AF - evidently Nikon wants us to buy Z lenses (and we do) - nevertheless I want to have old NIkkor F lenses to work better than just any other third party lens with mechanical adaption. It would suit to the release of the retro-style Zf but so far I haven't heard anything about a gadget like that
In that sense, maybe. Otherwise I was quoting FM-2 features nobody would envy now: were are all used to using short-lived batteries; most of us use A mode, I guess, that the FM-2 hadn't, and there is no reason not to have spot metering although it has become less useful than in slides time (film slides, not powerpoint): I still remember using the 8-spot multimetering with my Canon T90 in difficult situations, trying to fit them into the +2EV/-2EV range, and it worked.The FM2 had no A function, right, so in fact the FM3a was more of an FE3 (or FH due to the hybrid shutter) and the Df/Zf have more similarities with an FA/FG and there is nothing "mechanical" in it any more.
wait, i noticed something...it does NOT come with a charger anymore, what happened? :o :o :oWell thats a new "trend" (to cut costs?) that startet with compact cameras some years ago, my coolpix P300 has got a charger included, when i bought a P330 for my wife i had to buy it separately, same with the bridge camera P950 (it is still sold but one cant even buy a charger in addition). So now this trend has reached also top-line system cameras like the Zf, no MH25a and even the EH-8P Adapter is optional. Might have something to do with EU regulations for electrical devices waste reduction as well?).
My local dealer reserved a ZF. Not sure I'll buy it though. Reading through the manual it seems that advanced wireless flash is only supported through a flash like SB-5000 or SU-800 (I have both) in the hot shoe and not through WR dongle. The ZF would be meant to replace my Z6ii.
Can anybody please try the WR dongle and confirm this?
wait, i noticed something...it does NOT come with a charger anymore, what happened? :o :o :o
I believe the EU regulation is that chargers should not come with consumer devices. I am not sure how strong the requirement but the idea is to avoid multiple chargers where fewer suffice.Would be interesting to know, whether this is just an EU phenomenon
Would be interesting to know, whether this is just an EU phenomenon
Using EN-EL15 variants on multiple bodies I find it useful to have several chargers, so I can reload several batteries in parallel
Look, we have been begging for a vintage camera with the ergonomics of a steam engine for many years - I guess we now have to deal with it ;D
Still enjoy the look and feel of the camera. Yes it feels heavy like a metal body and thats what a kind of remake of an FM2 is to be expected- besides the "classical" dials.
The FM2 isn't/wasn't that heavy, especially compared to the EL2 of the previous generation that weights nearly 800g and has much more the dimensions of the Zf.Yes correct, the FM2 hat 540g the Zf is not only heavier (710g) but - as said - also larger. (The FM2 followed the FM which was the first smaller camera in the line, which actually followed the Nikkormat FT3 (not The EL2 leading to the FE(2)- nitpicking i know. Did not do a size comparison of the Zf with these earlier models so far. Nikon said they got the design inspiration for the Zf following the FM2 (they could have mentioned the FM3a instead).
Yes correct, the FM2 hat 540g the Zf is not only heavier (710g) but - as said - also larger. (The FM2 followed the FM which was the first smaller camera in the line, which actually followed the Nikkormat FT3 (not The EL2 leading to the FE(2)- nitpicking i know. Did not do a size comparison of the Zf with these earlier models so far. Nikon said they got the design inspiration for the Zf following the FM2 (they could have mentioned the FM3a instead).
how do you guys set the manual focus subject detection :o :o :o
Yes correct, the FM2 hat 540g the Zf is not only heavier (710g) but - as said - also larger. (The FM2 followed the FM which was the first smaller camera in the line, which actually followed the Nikkormat FT3 (not The EL2 leading to the FE(2)- nitpicking i know. Did not do a size comparison of the Zf with these earlier models so far. Nikon said they got the design inspiration for the Zf following the FM2 (they could have mentioned the FM3a instead).
[edited]
Iinitially I noticed that the in-focus indicators did not appear when using an adapted manual focus lens (FTZ-II, Milvus 50/1.4) so there was no focus confirmation. Peaking does work but in my opinion in many situations it's just not precise enough (focusing on the eye). It could also be an issue related to the use of a third party lens.
I'm wondering if native MF lenses such as the Z Noct do display manual focus assist in the form of the +o- indicators and box changing color when in focus? What about third-party manual focus Z lenses?
Just pulling your leg - should get my scrubby hands on one tomorrow...
Are you asking how to activate it or which settings are preferred?
I'll answer my initial impression. You can select from the photo shooting menu the MF subject detection area (all, wide (L), wide (S), or off). Subject type is selected in a separate setting in the menu. I have set REC button to adjust AF area mode but it won't affect the MF area mode. So the photo shooting menu may be the only way to access this feature (so far). It can also be put My Menu but not i menu.
The MF subject detection box appears when turning the lens switch to M mode. Manual override in A mode won't activate the MF subject detection area selected. I will have to try this with a manual focus lens on a portrait subject. The camera will change the box color when in focus and show the smaller found subject with another box (ie. eye). There is also arrow indicators to show which way to turn the manual focus ring, but no rangefinder.
Does it rattle also with power on?no! ::)
it wont work for me when i am using an adapted manual lens :o :o :o
Daniel, talking of leg pulling, I see that you suffer from both model aeroplanism and model engineeringism. These afflictions can never be cured you know - not even by getting a new Zf! ;DHugh you're right - I like precise mechanics - also watches are interesting but I contend with window shopping
Three nice engines, BTW.
it wont work for me when i am using an adapted manual lens :o :o :o
additionally, i noticed that the sensor has a lot of play! shake the camera and you can even hear it rattle!
https://richardhaw.com/2023/10/14/review-nikon-zf/
:o :o :o
thanks for your review.
The Zf has its ups an downs - in general and compared to the Df
i agree with a lot of your statements , especially the missing charger (btw. did not know that the EN-EL15 series got a new charger for the never versions)
Personally I like the exposure compensation wheel (yes it could have solved with a button as well)
not sure about the BW mode and whether it can make sense for me - probably works only in JPEG mode
thanks for your review.
The Zf has its ups an downs - in general and compared to the Df
i agree with a lot of your statements , especially the missing charger (btw. did not know that the EN-EL15 series got a new charger for the never versions)
Personally I like the exposure compensation wheel (yes it could have solved with a button as well)
not sure about the BW mode and whether it can make sense for me - probably works only in JPEG mode
that missing charger is unacceptable :o :o :o
the new battery type will NOT work with cheap CCP chargers but works with the real MH-25A
B/W mode creates an embedded black and white JPEG which is also displayed on viewfinder and back screen. Otherwise the RAW is colour and can also be processed as such. People doing street photography like to work this way and also see the world in B/W. I see this camera as excellent street and documentary camera and also for weddings.
It looks like I'm getting about 4500 shots per battery charge. Some claim that Nikon Z cameras have issues with battery capacity ... pretty funny.So you've been quite busy this weekend? Are you sure it's not 450?
So you've been quite busy this weekend? Are you sure it's not 450?
okay, it looks like it accepts the ML-L7 :o :o :o has anyone tried it? ::)
Yes, the Zf works with that remote. There is a slight delay between button press and shutter firing that would not be present when using an electrical remote cable (with cameras that support those) but it's not too bad. Snapbridge is way worse for remote firing so the positive is that I didn't notice any spontaneous connection loss with the ML-L7 so far when testing it.
Yes, there is a carnival of light at the local amusement park in Helsinki, and there was a lot to shoot. I turned the release mode from S to CH and things got out of hand. 8)
Z 85/1.8 S, Zf
do you know which cables will work with it? :o :o :o or none at all ::)
Very nice colors Ilkka - how did you have the AF set?
Actually thinking of your many shots per battery charge - it depends more of the power-on time than number of shots. Similar behaviour was seen on DSLR but maybe not as pronounced as the DSLR standby current is far less.
I typically use the custom wide-area 1 for horizontals and custom wide-area 2 for verticals, so that the area is shaped like a horizontal bar in the viewfinder at a height where I want the faces to be in focus, typically this is around 1/3 from the top. The width of the bar is about 2/3 of the image width (centered) and the bar height is the second most thinnest option possible. The Zf has more options for the dimensions of the custom wide-areas than previous Nikons that feature this mode.
When I turn the camera to vertical I have it set so that it remembers both the position of the focus area and the area mode. So in both orientations I have the bar set so that I have some lateral freedom for composition but I restrict the height so that it doesn't find many false positives.
I use AF-C with focus+release priority and activate the AF by sitting on the AF-L/AE-L button reprogrammed for AF-ON.
I know, but nonetheless I was shooting for many hours and the weather was pretty chilly as well. My initial impression is that the Zf seems to be able to be operated for a longer time on one EN-EL15c charge than the Z8, but I'll get back to this topic when I have more experience. The lower resolution sensor and slower EVF refresh rate probably increase the amount of time (and shots) the camera can be used for on one charge. I would guess based on my experience so far that the Zf is good for about six hours of use in event photography situations while the Z8 on one battery is good for about 4 hours before the battery needs to be replaced.
Question: what do you guys stick as flash on your Z cameras? I have two SB-5000 but feel them unbalanced on say Z6ii and even more on Zf. They fit well my D850.
Is the SB-500 any good? I guess with the more sensitive sensors an SB-500 could be enough for event work.
AR-2 is a 'soft release' button -- not a cable release.
Somewhat strange, in MF mode the viewfinder focus indicator works with FTZ adapted CPU Nikkors but not with AI type non CPU Nikkors (same thing with the active AF field giving a short turn into green when correctly focussed) when switched to focus peaking this works with adapted non CPU lenses as well - can't understand this different behavior as anything else than on purpose rather than a technical necessity. This dragged my attention with the Zf but isn't just a Zf issue but also valid for other Z-bodies (like Z6, Z9).
Then we just need an external power source for the USB-C ..... Not sure the gain -- if any -- is worth it.
I'm not a great fan of USB-C ports and cables. I have an Android phone with a USB-C that only accepts charging cables when inserted one way. When a USB-C cable is plugged in if charging doesn't start then I turn the cable over and charging always starts. This holds for multiple cables, three of four, so the defect is in the phone. The phone is not a beater. Thought the phone is older it has been well cared for. The USB-C port is simply worn out.
Off the topic some: I believe the Apple Lighting Port is more robust.
I haven't yet damaged an USB-C port but that's probably because I rarely use it. Most of the USB ports on my computers are USB-A, and USB-C ports are still the exception rather than the norm. However, over time this may be changing.
I think charging batteries in large cameras via the camera is not a good idea because frequent use of the port will eventually damage it and over time the camera becomes unserviceable before the end of its otherwise useful life. I prefer taking out the battery and charging it separately because then if I drop something it'll only be the charger and battery, not the (expensive) camera.
I think the EU is simply assuming that all portable devices are short-lived and disposable and somehow the chargers have become the source of environmental damage - which is curious, as I'd think the short life of the phones and other devices would be more of a problem. With dedicated cameras, the expected lifetime of the camera is much longer than that of the USB-C connector and so while it can be convenient for some situations, the separate battery chargers should continue to be available. I hope that the chargers don't become so rare that Nikon stops manufacturing them. That would probably mean a camera's lifetime is reduced, and there may be more pollution in the end.
Be that as it may, it's going to be history.
I've found Apples lighting charging cables to be quite short-lived and I periodically have to buy new cables. Hopefully the USB-C cables for future iPhones will be more rugged.
Sorry, AR-11 it is. But soft release button it is, anyway. You know, those handy gadgets that all of a sudden disappear from your gear :)
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/explora/photography/hands-on-review/things-we-love-nikon-ar-11-soft-shutter-release
Perhaps you can treat the AR-3 with a Dremel to make the wire slimmer?Might be possible, as it was my guess that this is the problem I should order An AR-11 first to have a comparison whats needed.
Might be possible, as it was my guess that this is the problem I should order An AR-11 first to have a comparison whats needed.
And I should fnally buy a Dremel tool (after years of planning to do so) ;-)
at least i have got some K-rings so far :)Diamonds are a girl's best friend -- Dremel, K-rings, and epoxy glue, are a photographer's best friends :)
i tried pushing with a thin wire it just wont work :o :o :o
The new MH-34 charger for EN-EL15b/c batteries, with usb-c socket, is much smaller than the "original" MH-25a:Is it known what USB C profile the charger uses?
i tried pushing with a thin wire it just wont work :o :o :o
Is it known what USB C profile the charger uses?
Is it known what USB C profile the charger uses?
Interesting discussion on DPReview about how the ISO dial / auto ISO work.
https://www.dpreview.com/forums/thread/4732498
guys watch this from 40" - I thought the Zf didn't have a sensor shield... am I missing something?
https://youtu.be/EChElh59pi0?si=PDIeXSmg_j6goalM
What we apparently see are the shutter blades. Not the shield structure of Z9 (and Z8).
Are there different USB C profiles?I mistyped it ::)
Isn't the MH-34 void of the actual charger which needs to be as an additional piece? I.e. it doesn't accept mains (AC) voltage, instead it requires a USB-C PD charger?
How cleverly the number of small pieces required in practice increases when the EU is trying to decrease it.
I mistyped it ::)
There were Power Profiles (USB PD 1.0) which are now called Power Rules (USB PD 3.0) PD equals 'power delivery' Standards for USB.
Question is: does the charger need to be fed with more than 5 V or 15 W?
So nice.
trying some b&w - Zf & 35mm f/1.8Outstanding! I love the rendering tonality and the picture itself ;)
trying some b&w - Zf & 35mm f/1.8
Many thanks Erik, Bob and Paco
Halloween - Zf & 35mm f/2.2; 1/125s; ISO 64'000 Lr denoise - AF was finding eyes where I struggled to see any...
I don't intend to shoot at such high ISO regularly but it's still impressive.
I'm certain Birna - it's a joy to use :)
Nice solution Richard - can you please show us the Zf with the Nikon grip only
Dear Nikon Gear,I don't own a ZF unfortunately, my best guess would be that all new'is Leica M lenses are just fine on the Z series cameras
I have always been a fan of small, handy camera lens combinations. The fascination of being able to carry the second lens in my pocket was great. I'm often in the mountains, small and handy is a joy. My favorite combination is F3 (SW) or Df and Nikkor 50mm 1.2 and 24mm 2.0.
F Lenses with FTZ adapters appear to me on Zf? Hmmm.
Maybe Nikon has come up with an interesting alternative with Zf mirrorless. The combination with small rangefinder lenses?
@ Dr Lens Erik Lund: In former Diskussion you mentioned that M Summilux lenses have Problems with other digital bodies especially wider lenses. Last week a Leica Trader told me that this problems with the newest generation summilux with other systems are solved. Do you have the same opinion especially with Summilux M 50mm 1.4 and 21mm 1.4 (Leica) on Nikon Zf?
@ Birna The combination with Nikkor RF 50 mm 1.4 and 35 mm 1.8 also seems very interesting to me. Or are there other options? What would you say to that?
In expecting an exciting discussion.
Thank you for sharing your experience.
Cheers Michael
I'll pick up my own Zf on Monday :) perhaps I like it too??:)
I just set the camera to 'B/W' mode. Thus this is more or less straight off the camera. As I had initially set RAW mode to 'high efficiency', my Photo Ninja didn't like the NEFs at all. It will digest the usual compressed NEFs though. Anyway, this first test shot was processed in NX Studio v.1.50, which supports Zf. A clunky program and even on a fast PC with massive RAM and NVMe disks it runs quite slowly. Oh well. Software never was Nikon's forte.
Later that day I managed to connect with Snapbridge on my phone so as to allow GPS data. Not ideal, but better than nothing. I'm waiting for my Foolography Unleashed'22 to support the Zf. Support is promised and those guys tend to respond quite fast.
I'll take the opportunity to sell off my unmodified Z6 as I never really liked that camera and it has been sitting unused for a while.
The Zf has a new feature for subject recognition in manual focus mode. How does this work? And does it work with lenses with and without electronic contacts?
If you brighten the shadows will there be details or is everything buried in noise at ISO 64K??
I agree on the flare resistance of the Z 35/1.8, it is pretty good.
In that sense, maybe. Otherwise I was quoting FM-2 features nobody would envy now: were are all used to using short-lived batteries; most of us use A mode, I guess, that the FM-2 hadn't, and there is no reason not to have spot metering although it has become less useful than in slides time (film slides, not powerpoint): I still remember using the 8-spot multimetering with my Canon T90 in difficult situations, trying to fit them into the +2EV/-2EV range, and it worked.
However nothing beats using a rotating tripod collar .... in case the shown collar is 'iShoot Duomianshou ZMC 105', which in stock configuration don't allow rotation. However, 5 minutes with a Dremel solves that "problem" easily.
Our son goes to the tractor test tomorrow so we trained in the dark - with the Zf the 'night owl' @ ISO 64'000 and the Z 35mm is pretty flare resistant
Birna, dear friend, can you please post a documentation of the dremal act?
Love
Frank
FW 1.10:
https://downloadcenter.nikonimglib.com/de/download/fw/507.html
I'd better hold on to my Zf then -- lest it be grabbed by someone else !!
The Zf becoming a sales success story shouldn't come entirely as a surprise to Nikon and I would thought they had a decent stockpile of cameras already at launch time?
The new design can be freely rotated. The recorded data is the same :)
It's easier to rotate the device (inside the bracket) to fit, than to rotate one's head :)
Do note this version is using the USB-C data port to input GPS data, or control the camera, whilst power comes from the HDMI port. Remote control is via phone app, however an alternate basic release button is with the GPS receiver if you need the facility. After the initial, and dare I say complex, setup, in the app you can disperse with the phone app unless you need to run time-lapses and suchlike operations.
Tiny blobs of Sugru on certain buttons greatly improve ergonomics.
Tiny blobs of Sugru on certain buttons greatly improve ergonomics.
What do you mean?
Tiny blobs of Sugru on certain buttons greatly improve ergonomics.
Any recommendation for a deeper eyecup? I do not like having to press my eye against the shallow one just to avoid ambient light disturbing the EVF reading.
The Z f isn't that much bigger than its little sister Z fc. The comparison size-wise is skewed because the Z f sits in a modified Markins L-bracket. This is necessary for protection of the Foolography Unleashed 22'M device on the camera's left-hand side.
(https://nikongear.net/revival/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=10791.0;attach=59848;image)
A close-up of the remote control/GPS recording device is seen below. NB: I'll cut off the rubber flaps when I have ascertained everything with Unleashed is working as it should.
The 28mm lens shown here is the Z special edition version, not AI-S :o :)
THX, So I have to dig more into the Z Sprecial Editions. I only bought the Kitlens Z 2.0/40 SEThe Z 28/2.8 and 40/2 are the only which come in SE versions. It would be nice if the range was expanded to include a 20/3.5 and a 100/2.8 :)
The Z 28/2.8 and 40/2 are the only which come in SE versions. It would be nice if the range was expanded to include a 20/3.5 and a 100/2.8 :)
THX, So I have to dig more into the Z Sprecial Editions. I only bought the Kitlens Z 2.0/40 SEFrank, honestly it also peeked my eyes - it's a 28mm SE Z lens but with an old metal lens shade - so looks vintage - good trick Birna ;D
Frank: look into the Voigtländer range of lenses in native Z-mount. They are nicely buit and have full electronic communication with the camera. Plus, a true apereture ring you can set in 1/3 stop increments, and turns buttery smooth like the focusig collar.So both are genuine Z-glass, notw I get it, Thank you...
The lens on my Z fc is the APO-Lanthar 65mm f/2.
Thanks !
Must depend on how the camera is set up? These newer Z models do enjoy being feed battery juice, that is for sure. I keep a spare (or two) with me and haven't run into serious trouble -- yet. My Z5 is not much better and Z6 still has an electric appetite. By the way, Z9 behaves better despite being so much more powerful.You are right probably, as always. I need to know which stuff to switch off...
curious to see the results.Me too. Sexy combo!
I get about 2000 shots on a single charge of EN-EL15c in the Zf, taken in 3 hours of time. I don't see a significant difference between the Z6 II and Zf though I have not shot them side by side. If you get poor battery performance, are you using a different battery than the EN-EL15c? (The "c" letter is important.) EN-EL15a and b can be used but have lower capacity and the "a" type can't be charged in camera via the USB-C cable.I did not get it so far that those without any letter can't be used. I might have overlooked it but it says nothing like that in the reference manual.
EN-EL15 (without any letter) can't be used in the Zf.
All versions can be used. However, the oldest (without suffix) cannot be charged in-camera. Battery service life is shorter as well.
curious to see the results.
Nikkor-N 5cm f/1.1 + Zf, see below. This is a late '50s lens so 65+ years old -- food for thought?
(on a side note: the greyish spots seen here and there are snowflakes in the air -- not dust on the Zf sensor!!)
I did not get it so far that those without any letter can't be used. I might have overlooked it but it says nothing like that in the reference manual.
Did anybody try this so far? what happens (damage? camera just not working?)
Same here, three cameras, D850, Z7_2 and Zf in use 3 en-el15 non descript, 2 b's and 2c's. Without issues!
I've -- unwitttingly -- committed the sin of putting EN-EL15 first generation batteries in my Zf. Several times, and the camera works without hiccups. Only difference is a shorter battery life than seen with the EL-EN15c.
The Zemlin one seems to be universally admired.
https://www.zemlinphoto.com/product/nikon-z8-z9-eye-cup-eyepiece/515?cp=true&sa=false&sbp=false&q=false&category_id=109&page=2&limit=10
I just ordered one, and I found shipping to Japan to be cheaper ordering from the web site, rather than his eBay store. Depending on where you live, I'd recommend comparing shipping prices before ordering.
Super camera if you like it -- as I do. Very nearly a Df in mirrorless disguise, but with video added. I could do well without the latter feature, but realise people's requirements vary.
Thsnk you.
I love the idea of the DF and the files but never got used to the camera.Now the ZF is here and I may try again. All you guys mention as good things resonate.
+1 ... Df idea good but it just did not convince in practical use for me
Another option for an eyecup is described here. Basically you get an eyecup made for fujifilm cameras and remove the rubber part. You then take apart the DK-33 on the ZF and attach the rubber part.
This seems to be quite a widespread ‘hack’, as I first came across it in a Japanese blog post.
https://www.fredmiranda.com/forum/topic/1741021/1&year=2022#15937391
The Df front dial is what killed it for me. Such a horrible implementation.Indeed the greatest Df nuissance - it does not take too long until my fingers hurt while handling the cameras and they are rather sensible to that
For manual lenses the ZF is killa, but I guess the two new Nikon cameras on the brink of release will be equally suited to manual lenses.Unlike the Df compared to other Nikon F-mount digital cameras the suitability to manual lenses is pretty much the same for all Z-Cameras it solely depends on what the adapter is capable of (and an FTZIII is still missing). The only exception that comes to my mind immeiately is the new firmware upgraded Extended Menu for adding non CPU lens data the Z9 (and so far just the Z9) has got.
I checked my DK-33 and seems an easy hack
How about comparing it with Zemlin eyecup, I need an alternate for Z8
Thank you
"So. the ZF," he said, which brought to mind a question that has interested me since the first day the new camera was for sale: will Nikon produce a Panda version, or should I go ahead and buy the available model before they become scarce ?
I did the hack :-) I prefer it to the Zemlin as it is smaller, and it can fold back on itself to make a ‘flat ‘eyepiece, but twice the thickness of the DK33. The Zemlin one is always chonky.Thank you!
By the way, the Zemlin site now has a listing of the eyepiece for the ZF, it’s the same as the Z9 but with some caveats.
Zemlin. Hack. Original.I checked the hack but not so good for me
It happens with other Z cameras as well. Just follow the suggestion and press the shutter release and all is OK :)Many thanks Birna - glad it's not to worry about
Today I received the Zf-GR1 grip from an eBay seller in Japan. I bought the Zf with a free Smallgrip that wouldn't fit as the grip wasn't properly orthogonal. So it went straight to the bin. The Zf-GR1 fits well and its ergonomy was worth getting it from abroad.
The full frame Voigtlander Z lenses are impossible to find here, while they are freely available overseas. Mapcamera sometimes has used 40mm for sale at basically the same price as new >>> which is never in stock.
Sorry for my rant, but in Japan we are being shafted in so many ways! :-(
The Voigtländer 40/1.2 has been out of stock in EU for quite a while now... others are in short supply too.
Same here: I headed for PCH in Brussels with the 40/1.2 in mind, but opted for the available 50/1.0 instead after 1/2h testing and seeing that it was way better than what some reviewers suggested. Of course I bought the sample that I tested (the one on the shelf), rather than another boxed one. One never knows... even if Voigtländer QC standards seem comparatively high.
I was lucky to find a 1.0/50 Voigt and got it immediately, because the 1.2/40 was a wait for 6 months
Is anyone else using the ttartisan 6-bit M mount to a Nikon Z adapter? Potentially it’s a great way to use M mount lenses on a ZF, and get the joys of focus confirmation and focus point centric IBIS.
Richard
Works well on Zf but needs firmware update.
Much more tolerant than the 6-bit reader on M240/M10 - lenses that need a lot of wiggling on those cameras register straight away. Would be nice to have Summilux 28mm f1.4 recognised, but works well for all others.
I had a friend 3d print this: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3728955 and just used a sharpie to colour in blacks only. Even roughly coloured works.
Face recognition works well, I then magnify 100% (have set front Fn button on Zf for zoom) and fine focus. Very fast. Havent tried trap focus yet.
If you have any Leica or ZM lenses, it is great for the focus assist. I wish we had these for native Nikon F-mount lenses.
For your entertainment!
https://jp.mercari.com/item/m22940526121?utm_medium=share&utm_source=ios&source_location=share
Sad news that Voigtlander have just discontinued the Nikon Z 50 f2 APO and the 35 f2 APO lenses.
Why!?!! One must ask! :-(
My surprise i noticed issues with autofocus, eye detection is near perfect, yet bright lights and objects upset the system easily. In fact even in manual mode the focus is not always correct. Never had this with any other camera.Hi Fons, haven't noticed this behavior yet - is this only in face detection mode or also in say single point?
Something else i taped the a/m switch on the z lenses to prevent it from moving to the manual position which it easily does.
Oh well i live with it, and adjusted accordingly! ;)
Added: also in heavy rain and humid condition the af system needs a manual override.
May I recommend applying a thread locking compound to the soft shutter release, AR-11? I just did to my second.
My only complaint for stills is that on a few occasions when shooting landscapes that focus would randomly jump right at capture to the very front of the frame, leaving most of the scene out of focus even when shooting at smaller apertures like F5.6
Still experiencing focus issues with the Zf...
I came across similar findings in a review by Dustin Abbott.
https://dustinabbott.net/2024/07/nikkor-z-40mm-f2-review (https://dustinabbott.net/2024/07/nikkor-z-40mm-f2-review)
for instance
wait, i noticed something...it does NOT come with a charger anymore, what happened? :o :o :o
Many thanks Ilkka - much appreciated - actually this isn't a show stopper as the SU-800 would still work.
The Nikon SU-800 as I recall only offers setting power in full stops not 1/3 stops. 1/3 stops is a requirement for me.
In my opinion, an adapter that fits very well with the style of manual Nikkor lenses: Shoten N.F-N.Z.The adapter looks nice, indeed.
An inexpensive adapter if you prefer to adjust the aperture on the lens with Dandelion-chipped lenses.
Best regards
Jürgen
If I recall correctly, this is a limitation of manual mode on the SU-800 but not TTL. Other i-TTL flashes such as the SB-700, SB-900, SB-910, SB-800, and SB-5000 can also be used as commanders or masters, and they should have the ability to use 1/3 stops in manual mode.
That is as I remember.
I wanted to dump my SB-700 as it's only 10 grams lighter (as I recall) compared to the SB-800. The SB-700 is virtually the same size. I tried a Godox system but found it had anomalies that made it useless to me. When I shoot in a PR/event style I use Nikon's flash value lock. I think that is what didn't work correctly.
At this point I use an SB-700 as Master or Controller (limited to 2 groups) and SB-800s as slaves. I would dearly love something about the size of an SB-800 that could operate as a master or controller.
Nikon should release a full featured replacement for the SU-800 but the market might not support one. I guess Nikon has done its marketing research.
Best,
Dave
Thanks to you both! This seems like a very welcoming community :)
I did pick up a 105 f/2.5, the 85 f/2, and a 28mm f/2.8. I'm currently trying out the 50mm 1.8 pancake, but think I like the 1.4 a bit more.
Now, I need to stop! I had gone down a similar Nikon rabbit hole when building a kit of cheap lens for my kids to do stop-animation last Christmas. I hadn't known much about Nikon lenses, but enjoyed that process so much that the ZF began calling....
250329_NicoSkeptical (https://flic.kr/p/2qUUJa6) by Tom Quinn (https://www.flickr.com/photos/202493023@N07/), on Flickr
Thanks to you both! This seems like a very welcoming community :)
I did pick up a 105 f/2.5, the 85 f/2, and a 28mm f/2.8. I'm currently trying out the 50mm 1.8 pancake, but think I like the 1.4 a bit more.
Now, I need to stop! I had gone down a similar Nikon rabbit hole when building a kit of cheap lens for my kids to do stop-animation last Christmas. I hadn't known much about Nikon lenses, but enjoyed that process so much that the ZF began calling....
I use the front function button for toggling zoomed views. Since I have a soft-release thingy affixed to the shutter release, I can't use the d18 option. The latter would require more finger movement as well, at least for the manner in which I operate the Zf.
Good that every user can optimise the features as they see fit :)
To illustrate my point: the Voigtländer 58mm f/1.4 Nokton + FTZ handles well-nigh perfect on the Zf.
The main issue here, like all F lenses with CPU *and*an aperture ring, is that you cannot rotate the aperture ring on the lens, you have to dial in from the camera side. This is due to the lack of an aperture follower inside the FTZ, and an unwillingness from Nikon of allowing the FTZ electronics to emulate what mode of operation was possible on the better DSLRs. In the latter case, it was indeed possible to set the aperture directly on the lens given the lens had CPU and in fact, no aperture follower really was needed. I fail to understand why FTZ cannot provide the same mode.
Nikon probably could fix this simply by allowing the option to set aperture on [CPU-enabled] lens in a future firmware update.
I also would be more comfortable with more than 20 (as the number of my non-CPU lenses exceed that), with DSLR we were even limited to 9 and Nikon did not change that (not even for the D6), I mean memory space cant be the problem here. (I also did never understand why the image counter remained limited to 4 digits.
Recording the non-CPU lens names could have been better : why are there only 20 available slots? I have a dozen "fifties" !!!
I have the same experience as Birna with the FTZ adapter.
...............................................
The main issue here, like all F lenses with CPU *and*an aperture ring, is that you cannot rotate the aperture ring on the lens, you have to dial in from the camera side. This is due to the lack of an aperture follower inside the FTZ, and an unwillingness from Nikon of allowing the FTZ electronics to emulate what mode of operation was possible on the better DSLRs. In the latter case, it was indeed possible to set the aperture directly on the lens given the lens had CPU and in fact, no aperture follower really was needed. I fail to understand why FTZ cannot provide the same mode.
Nikon probably could fix this simply by allowing the option to set aperture on [CPU-enabled] lens in a future firmware update.
I sent a request to Hogan.
Even though I am out of practice focusing manually, I'm really enjoying full manual operation on the ZF. Buying a set of 5 Ai/Ai-s and Pre-Ai F mount lenses was a very affordable option for me in addition to the 40mm f/2.
Then NG members should rally to cast their votes.
Then NG members should rally to cast their votes.
Implementing the #116 feature would make Zf operate like the Df if the user so wishes.
Should be very easy to implement in firmware as the functionality is there already with Voigtländer Z and Viltrox Z lenses (for the latter if they have aperture ring). Setting the aperture directly on these lenses will override any camera dialling, unless they have an "A" setting emulating the aperture lock of F-mount Nikkors. This option is seen only on the Viltrox lenses as far as I can recall. The Voigtländer + Viltrox approach makes the choice indirect not explicit like we saw on the Df.
So would the #116 feature request, if implemented, result in the instance of a chipped non-AiS lens, in accurate exposures at the actual aperture set on the lens and notified to the Z body by the photographer via the appropriate menu screen? Is this what is envisaged?
Before we are carried away with the misconception that using non-AIs lenses is hopeless and inaccurate,................................