NikonGear'23
Gear Talk => Camera Talk => Topic started by: Snoogly on September 20, 2023, 06:43:48
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I can't see any mention of IBIS. Did I miss something?
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I think I saw it. I'll add some links from Nikon soon.
Dave
https://www.nikonusa.com/en/nikon-products/product/mirrorless-cameras/z-f.html?ET_CID=4907080&ET_RID=903971505
I haven't read the above page(s).
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/explora/videos/photography/nikon-shows-off-retro-styled-zf-full-frame-mirrorless-camera?sc_src=email_46440&sc_lid=4450329&sc_uid=aYniQpjMQu&sc_llid=967427&sc_customer=C14990287D9DAAB267CBD76581255835B348B9F39278F0F775C9EF1C4610291A&encEmail=C14990287D9DAAB267CBD76581255835B348B9F39278F0F775C9EF1C4610291A
Here is another link with info. It's at B&H Photo, NY. I'm a satisfied customer of B&H over a few decades.
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https://www.dpreview.com/reviews/nikon-zf-full-frame-mirrorless-camera-review (https://www.dpreview.com/reviews/nikon-zf-full-frame-mirrorless-camera-review)
"In-body image stabilization rated up to 8EV"
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Details here
https://imaging.nikon.com/imaging/lineup/mirrorless/z_f/
and IBIS/VR in-camera is present
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Get the Zf in your favorite color ;D
Sure looks like a winner for the general users especially the vlogger and blogger and the vintage group 8)
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I probably belong to the latter :) :)
So far, Z f is a beefed-up Z fc with better build, bigger sensor, and lower resolution. I.e., it follows the Df formula with updated insights into the necessity of better construction.
I might get myself one of these ...
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https://photographylife.com/11-things-to-know-about-the-nikon-zf (https://photographylife.com/11-things-to-know-about-the-nikon-zf)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kbsGWZy_8L0 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kbsGWZy_8L0)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=raN7tirVmfA (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=raN7tirVmfA)
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Price in Japan still a mystery, and can’t be pre-ordered yet….
But when related to the $ price it’s going to be very expensive for us poor yen earning locals :-(
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The Norwegian price is, as would be expected, rather stiff at NOK 31.900,- or approx. 3.200 Euro.
Still far below the Z8, though :)
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same old sensor, no sensor shield, no improved viewfinder. Good looks (though I prefer silver) is not enough to justify an upgrade. But then again, for the price I hadn't expected much. For someone wanting to get into Nikon mirrorless for the first time, on the other hand, it looks much more promising as it costs barely if any more than the existing Z6 and the AF should be better though we'll need to wait and see how much better. For me it will be much more interesting to wait for the Z6iii. I suppose for pretty, I still have the Df.
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Nikon.nl has the price set to €2449 for the body incl tax and shipping.
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In Denmark the price is DKK 19590 or €2585
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OK, a tour to the Continent is called for....
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Ricci sanded the brass dials which looks very cool imho:
https://youtu.be/52e5euZw5oo?t=869&si=f4Qn86jo3atOU_wm
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What a character - at least he has verified that the dials are brass! ;D LOL
Actually not such a bad link from Ricci.
They are on initial offer here in Australia for $A3,4989 (body only) and $3,989 with the 40mm f/2.0 Z lens. Also included are a colour change offer after sale and a Small Rig hand grip. The hand grip is from Nikon Australia - interesting that a hand grip add on features so early in the model life of the camera. There was quite a bit of comment about the Df grip when that camera was first introduced. Good that it has a regular EN-EL15c battery. Prices include 10% GST/VAT and the Aussie dollar is around US 65c at the moment.
Ricci sanded the brass dials which looks very cool imho:
https://youtu.be/52e5euZw5oo?t=869&si=f4Qn86jo3atOU_wm
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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.
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It’s really grating that Japan seems to be the only place where the price has not been published. Though as it’s priced in $, I suppose they are waiting for the most unfavorable $/¥ exchange rate :-(
Product reservation at shops starts at 10am tomorrow. I wonder if the price will be revealed then!
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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.
Not to mention superior subject recognition and tracking.
The Zf body is not my cup of tea but the technology is impressive and suggests what to expect when the Z6 and Z7 are updated.
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pre ordered :o :o :o
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pre ordered :o :o :o
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.
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Ricci sanded the brass dials which looks very cool imho:
https://youtu.be/52e5euZw5oo?t=869&si=f4Qn86jo3atOU_wm (https://youtu.be/52e5euZw5oo?t=869&si=f4Qn86jo3atOU_wm)
Yes I saw that ;D I almost fell off the chair - Had never thought Ricci would do such a thing :o
Agree, it has definitely a more retro look with brass dials, real Leica M companion 8)
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I'm a big fan of Sensorshift/High res; at least the way Pentax does it by combining all of the images "in camera".
I understand the Zf produces individual images which one must combine yourself "in post". That's tech going backwards, and it's a deal breaker for me.
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Has anybody tried the sensor shift function in general to get hi-res images?
How fast is it?
Any image examples?
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Has anyone seen anything about enabling auto ISO? I have never used a ZFC, but I seem to remember that you had to use the menu system to toggle it on and off.
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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.
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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.
i was suicide for the hobby :o :o :o
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here, Nikon...let me help you fix that. :o :o :o
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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.
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this one is better :o :o :o
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Almost a bargain in Japan. Works out at $1828
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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 ;)
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here, Nikon...let me help you fix that. :o :o :o
It's a really good retro looking camera IMHO - THX for the large image! Enjoy 8)
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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.
I'm pretty sure you will enjoy the Zf, it seems to tick most of your demands for functionality! Very worthy companion and I'm looking forward to your findings ;D
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I do really like the Z fc, so pretty sure the same holds for the bigger sibling as well :) plus, I can finally sell off the Z6 which I have just lukewarm feelings about. My Z7 cameras are permanently tied up for macro work in the studio so they don't count in this regard. They work very well for their designated purpose and will never see daylight again.
In the final reckoning, getting Z f might save me the expense of adding the Z8 .... My Z9 is there anyway if I wish to use a dreadnought class of camera.
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I just pre-ordered mine...
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The more the merrier :)
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Really gorgeous and sweet spot for me with 24mpx, 14fps, 10bit nlog internal video without the 30min limit.
I wonder about shutter lag. I haven't found information on any of the previews or release notes.
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A new classic is born.. :)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6AgLBxyN9Yc (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6AgLBxyN9Yc)
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"Inspired by the Nikon FM2 camera", as Nikon states on the European websites. Maybe that is the reason it doesn't come with a battery charger... ;D
On a more serious note, they must have meant FE2. The front of the Zf EVF "prism" housing has the FE/FE2 shape. This in contrast to the Zfc, which has the FM/FM2 shape.
This year exactly 40 years ago, I bought a black FE2 at the moment it became available. Not sure this year about the Zf yet.
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I don't mind if the Z f's prism is shaped differently, as long as I can avoid too much modification of my bespoke focusing adapter for the Rodenstock/Oude Delft lenses :) With the Z fc this would be necessary so being lazy by nature, I use the Z 30 instead. Or the heavy Z9.
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And can AutoISO also be controlled as easily? That it will require going into MENU is my fear. I never did get this work around in the fc.
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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 ;-)
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After reading the specs it could be tempting to get one.
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.
I wonder if using ISO below 100 in the extended mode if this setting gives less noise than the native ISO 100?
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No spot metering ???
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No spot metering ???
The announcment I saw included Spot-Metering
I have seen a comparison table on Nikonrumors where this was missing but I guess that is wrong. There would be indeed something important missing.
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After reading the specs it could be tempting to get one.
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.
IIRC it was announced that the 8 stop IBIS has been tested with the 24-120 mm Z Nikkor
I consider the importance of IS overemphasized generally
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I saw it on NikonRumors indeed. It also do not mention spot metering on the Z5 but lists it for the Z6II.
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It would not make any sense to bring the Zf without Spot-Metering
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The Zf has a surprisingly rich feature set.
Unfortunately due to loss of dexterity it is not for me. Still using the Df occasionally.
I now expect Nikon to further segment the market with a new model btw the Zf and the Z8 ("Z7 III").
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It would not make any sense to bring the Zf without Spot-Metering
Indeed.
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“ Spot metering: Meters circle with a diameter of approx. 4 mm centered on selected focus point”
https://imaging.nikon.com/imaging/lineup/mirrorless/z_f/
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who wants to buy my Z6 :o :o :o
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“ Spot metering: Meters circle with a diameter of approx. 4 mm centered on selected focus point”
https://imaging.nikon.com/imaging/lineup/mirrorless/z_f/
Thanks for the confirmation.
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Bravo Richard, your modified Nikon Zf (or maybe is it a future Z-F3 ?) is really an achievement !
Perhaps you should also modify the front left button to give it the shape of F3's mirror-up (and mechanical shutter speed) button ?
Nice that Nikon decided to create a big brother for Zfc ! A successor of the (now getting old) Df !
Enjoy !
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Seems anyone in Aus can get 10% off Nikon purchases directly from Nikon!
See the start of this:
https://youtu.be/TdNCHcwRwhU?si=K16ss3pRdUrbRzev
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Is it an all metal body?
Also the hinged cover to the battery etc.?
Very few parts on my FM2/FE2 are plastic.
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Zf body and main dials are made out of metal.
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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 Z6-3 and Z7-3 release?
EDIT: to change the Z6-2 and Z7-2 references in the line above to Z6-3 and Z7-3 (in red glow).
Seems anyone in Aus can get 10% off Nikon purchases directly from Nikon!
See the start of this:
https://youtu.be/TdNCHcwRwhU?si=K16ss3pRdUrbRzev
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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?
Or the prices are adjusted to reflect their current appeal in the Z lineup. I think people will choose the Zf over Z6 II due to the Expeed 7 providing features and focusing advantages to the Zf, while the Z8 is close enough to the Z7 II (while having many advantages) to be appealing to the same customers.
I would like to see the Z6 III as soon as possible, but it seems the Zf is likely to be allowed to have its time in the limelight and not have to compete with the Z6 III yet.
For me the lack of electrical cable release and lack of support for the WR-R10 makes me hesitate on the Zf despite it otherwise meeting my needs.
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The Norwegian price is, as would be expected, rather stiff at NOK 31.900,- or approx. 3.200 Euro.
In the US they charge $1,999.95 only directly from the mother ship ... and the indigo blue leathering makes me salivate so much ...
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While updates/upgrades in appearance, ergonomics, auto-focus, and the latest whiz-bang tech features are nice - what I'm most interested in is the sensor.
I understand the sensor in the new ZF has similar resolution to the sensors in the Z6/Z6II. Are there any significant improvements in the ZF sensor over the already excellent Z6/Z6ii sensors?
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I saw in one video (I forgot which) that although the sensor is the same, expeed7 somehow gets more out of it in terms of image quality. Sorry, I can’t be less vague than that!
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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?
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
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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.
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There is 25% VAT in my country. Fortunately, this is deductible in my case.
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Thanks Wolfgang - now corrected in the original post.
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
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Just saw Ricci confirming that ISO can be controlled using a button and dials like other Nikon cameras > assign a button then front and back dials for auto on/off and iso setting. Wasn’t possible on the ZFC, but the ZF uses the expeed 7 menu system - making such control possible. I don’t really understand that, as it seems weird that the ZFC is somehow hobbled by the expeed 6 menu system. But, I suppose Ricci knows best! ???
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Just found out the new Foolography 'Unleashed' device for GPS and external control of the Z fc camera also will work with Zf (and Z30). Better and better. The Foolography unit should arrive next week so hopefully the Zf follows suit in not too distant future.
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that is the camera I have been waiting for. A real digital FM-2 replacement
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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 ?
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You mean, one that can work without batteries, has no spot metering, and no aperture priority mode ?
no I mean the look and feel.
No A-mode? sure? I do not believe that.
Digital without batteries is not possible.
No Spot Metering? 1) the ZF has spot metering (see above), the FM-2 had no spot metering. The OM-3 had Spot metering.
https://www.nikon.de/de_DE/product/cameras/z-f-VOA120AE
A is there
Spotmetering is there
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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 :)
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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 ;-)
(included a lamp which was more useful)
The Zf has the look and feel of an FM2 (FM3a, FE2, FA,...) but isn't that small and compact (the Df also wasn't) digital era asks its price
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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 ::)
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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
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
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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.
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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.
...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.
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.
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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
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Link to downloadable raw files, shot with Zf and Plena 135/1.8... (found on Nikonrumors).
https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1-49QU9PpMhZ2bbbLeP3CKfhMyY9fSysZ
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Nice lens!
Most images has a "High-Key" effect to them?
Probably by purpose?
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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.
Nikon kept its users without spot-metering for a long time- until the F4 came out and never implemented something T90s multispot-metering, i am not sure about its usefulness beyond analysing the subject with normal spot-metering
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Regarding the usefulness of multi-spot metering, see my post on the top of the page. Admittedly, shooting pipe organs on slides is daft but that's what I had in mind in the late eighties.
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A new feature I haven not seen mentioned here is:
Nikon’s first camera with face detection and magnification in manual focus
Nikon Zf can detect faces in manual focus just as easily as in autofocus. You can then magnify the face and eye directly to achieve critical focus.
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I have Zf waiting for me at my local dealer. What arguments should I implement in my brain to make the change from my Z6?
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Still non announcement here (I ordered from Nikon France, directly). I can wait :)
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putain! my Zf is now ready for pickup! :o :o :o
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tabarnak! my Zf is expected to be delivered tomorrow! asti d'criss!
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In Japan won’t ship until 27th :(
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I have received my Zf sample today, Can’t say too much right now but it is looking good and feels good in the hand. Did not try the small-rig grip that was provided with it until now. The Zf is larger than the FM2 but I did not realize so far that it is actually more compact than the Df. There is no external battery charger in the box and it comes with just a USB cable but no grid adapter (Both not a problem for me but buyers that are not ready for charging EN-EL15 batteries should know)
My first thing to setup after Date Time and Time-zone was to reprogram the AF-Lock button on the back to AF-ON and disactivate the AF-function of the shutter release. The number of programmable function buttons is reduced in comparison to other bodies BUT one can program it to directly activate a specific metering mode (like Spot) directly- an option used to beavailable in earlier camera models but both D6 and Z9 are lacking. Annoyingly one can setup the ISO setting steps using full stops but this appears not to be possible for exposure value setting (just like it is in the Z6). No “recall shooting options” and no “custom setting banks” are available.
BTW the reference guide is downloadable since yesterday
https://downloadcenter.nikonimglib.com/en/products/624/Z_f.html
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after some time with it, Df is still king :o :o :o
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wait, i noticed something...it does NOT come with a charger anymore, what happened? :o :o :o
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OK, there it is: on time, green, and working. That is a good start.
Only one minor rant: there is only one function button on the front, and it is ill-placed for me (I hit it too often by accident).
But the on/off and exp compensation buttons are to my liking. ISO left, speed right, and aperture on the ring are fine. Also, the readily accessible B&W mode is great.
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I got the Zf today.
I was pretty shocked that the threaded shutter release can't be used with a cable release. It's just meant to screw on a soft release cover thingie. And probably for cosmetic reasons as well.
Although WR-R10 or MC-DC2 are not supported, there is the possibility of synchronized release of multiple cameras via a network connection. I will try to set this up.
As substitute for cable release, one can in theory use a mobile phone but making the connection work took me 10 minutes and when I was trying to use it, the wifi connection was lost before I could get my first remote triggered shot. Not great, Nikon! I will next try to get an ML-L7 bluetooth release to see if there is any way of reliably remote triggering the camera.
Other than that, the camera is fine. AF has more configurable custom area options than the Z8 or D6. In-camera VR feels super smooth.
The turning dials are super nice in terms of feeling. Smallrig's grip was provided free of charge with the camera.
I will get some shooting experience with it and then provide more comments. I am just a bit miffed that the threaded shutter button is not what I thought it would be.
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wait, i noticed something...it does NOT come with a charger anymore, what happened? :o :o :o
Well 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?).
Regarding the shutter release of the Zf it is designed for the AR-3 release cable that was provided for FM27FE2 family (like the Df), may we like it or not, it has some inner consistency.
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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?
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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?
There is no port on the Zf that could take the WR-R10 or its variants. So Nikon radio flash is not available.
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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.
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Many thanks Ilkka - much appreciated - actually this isn't a show stopper as the SU-800 would still work.
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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
Using EN-EL15 variants on multiple bodies I find it useful to have several chargers, so I can reload several batteries in parallel
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The Zf is not supplied with a battery charger in the US or Canada either. The Fujifilm X-T5 comes with a cable and an adapter but no battery charger.
It is a sign of the times.
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Here in Australia, they are NOT being supplied with a charger.
Soon they won't even supply a bloody battery! >:(
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
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I bought an ML-L7 bluetooth remote and it does appear to work with the Zf, and seems to function reliably. However, there is a slight delay that does not exist (or is much shorter) in electrical triggering (e.g. using MC-30A on a Z8 or other compatible camera).
I noticed somewhat anomalous behavior in the ML-L7 with the Zf set to B or T mode, in both cases the function is the same and it takes one press of the remote to start the exposure and another press to end it. This is okay for me, but it isn't in the spirit of how B used to work. I don't see how B or T would be used without remote activation (either cabled, not supported by the Zf, or bluetooth) without causing blur. If you press and hold the shutter button on the camera in B mode, there will likely be significant blur. If you use the remote, it acts like T whether it is in T or B mode. If you press shutter button in the camera in T mode, there might be slight blur and when turning the knob out of T position to stop the exposure, there is likely to be additional blur, unless the exposure is very long. So there is no practical use for separate T and B settings on this camera IMO. You could just have T on the camera and all the useful application cases would be covered. If there had been a mechanical or electrical cable release option, then one could press and hold it to achieve useful function in B mode, and on camera the T mode would be useful for shots of several minutes (presumably then the slight blur would not matter).
I will now stop complaining about this issue for the time being and start collecting some experiences using the camera for taking pictures. ;-)
By the way the camera is quite heavy and I find it balances perfectly with my f/1.8 Z lenses. I find there to be reason to purchase separate compact or pancake primes just to make the camera feel comfortable with.
I can say that I love the fact that one can more precisely define the custom wide-area modes in finer steps than in previous cameras. And the VR in camera seems the nicest I've used.
Since I've seen some reports that one can get the Zf to display a temperature indicator in still photography, I will try to see where the limits are with the production camera. I will also try to see how the DJI RS 3 Mini operates with the Zf, and how the video quality compares to the Z8.
The Smallrig grip that came with the camera fits nicely but I find it makes the accessibility of the sub-command dial not as good as it is without the grip. It can still be used but the access to it from normal shooting position is a bit tricky. I think this will probably mean I won't be using that grip and I'll just use my usual L-brackets. Access to the battery and memory cards in not hindered by the grip, which is nice.
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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
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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
I really like the handling of the Zf actually, but the smallrig grip could use a bit of refinement. :)
The sounds and feel of a steam engine are a wonder. ;)
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Just pulling your leg - should get my scrubby hands on one tomorrow...
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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. On the downside there is limited function buttons (so more use of the menus) and limited connectivity (attributes which won't change with coming firmware update) . Due to its higher "complementarity" (less pixes on the sensor but pixel-shift) I found it more useful to add to the Z9 than a Z8. (I see still uses for the Df by the way).
As there is always something to critisize: I just found out that the menu for the Non-CPU lenses is built the way we became used to throughout the years- unfortunately it is not on the level of Z9s 4.01 Firmware update. but here we can hopefully look forward to future updates.
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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.
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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).
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how do you guys set the manual focus subject detection :o :o :o
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I also ordered the Nikon grip, but have to wait until the 27th for it to ship :-(
The latter part of this video shows the grip in use.
https://youtu.be/eQofjHMaAPI?si=rEF0kZNzsPfme274
It’s EXPENSIVE!, but maybe a better match than the Smallrig one.
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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).
The Zf seems to have taken inspiration from several models so Nikon probably mention FM2 because that model somehow is the most often mentioned in customer requests. But the small grip seems to be inspired by the F3, the PASM switch by the FA and maybe also the F4, there was no clearly similar exposure compensation dial on any of the old Nikons but maybe the F4 again. There is no one camera of the past which is clearly the one source of the "traditional" parts of the camera or even the design of the exterior. The FM2 has no automatic exposure, no PASM, no exposure compensation, and no grip, the camera is flat around the part where the right hand grips it so even purely from the shape point of view it is not a match. The viewfinder ocular area is similar to other Z FX cameras and not a manual focus SLR.
The FM2's mythical status I could never understand. I couldn't use it because of the viewfinder design there was no way I could see the outer areas of the image with glasses on. With the Zf there is no such problem. Again, not so much similarity to the FM2 (fortunately). F3 HP was a revelation with its viewfinder. Zf weight is similar to that as well.
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how do you guys set the manual focus subject detection :o :o :o
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.
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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 the EL2 is predecessor of FE/FE2. I mentioned it because I have one still around and can compare it to my FM2. Must replace the battery soon, that is located in the bottom of the mirror housing :-[
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A moment with a coffee before the fun starts…
scrubby hands are happy but still scrubby :)
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[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?
However, when I turned subject detection off, it started showing a regular focus box and then the color did change when the subject was in focus, and this also translated to the subject detection once I turned it back on. I'm wondering if there is some kind of a glitch in the implementation. It could also be that I was not able to set the focus so precisely that it would change the color of the box.
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I absolutely love the ability to guide the focus point with part of the touch screen - have set it to use the left thumb on the left half screen area
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[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.
Havent tried non Z lenses so far
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?
I can confirm that with the Z Noct, yes it does
and...
So far I do not see too much use for subject detection in MF
BTW two subject detections categories were added with the latest Z9 update, birds and airplanes. Zf subject detection (as of firmware 1.0) contains airplanes but not the special bird category
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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! ;D
Three nice engines, BTW.
Just pulling your leg - should get my scrubby hands on one tomorrow...
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Do the indicators appear when using a lens without a chip?
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Interesting also to hear about the hires modes how it works and if tripod mount is needed.
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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.
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!
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Does it rattle also with power on?
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Does it rattle also with power on?
no! ::)
i just checked and sony does the same :o :o :o
might just be normal
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it wont work for me when i am using an adapted manual lens :o :o :o
Rats!
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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! ;D
Three nice engines, BTW.
Hugh you're right - I like precise mechanics - also watches are interesting but I contend with window shopping
.. the most constant hobby has been photography
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okay, i got the manual focus subject detection to work!!! you are right, i do have to dig into the menu, the i button does not work! ive added them into my shortcut :o :o :o
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The Zf forces us to use the two menus more than ever as there is a very reduced set of controls (the Df had way more including AF lever and mode butten, a lever for the exposure measuring method, flash control, bracketing, and last but not least a switch between single and continuous shoooting - not to forget the usual custom settings bank and custom shooting banks- four each. (The Zf dials are better though than those of the Df expecially when it comes to the infamous front wheel). I will be forced to use the info menu which i am usually ignoring more or less. Whats getting on my nerves in general with these two menus is the inconsistency what Nikon enables to be present in each of them and even more when some of the settings are available in the info-menu only and not in general (where i could place it in "my menu"). Both of the cameras enable dialling the aperture only in 1/3 stops not in full stops (the Z6 has a similar problem but adding at leat 1/2 stop opion) less of the problem with the Df as it lets you dial aperture with aperture ring (not possible with CPU-lenses on the Zf).
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So my first day with the Zf comes to an end but I just can't put it back to the cupboard. It certainly has a charm that my Z6ii doesn't have...
I used to shoot Fuji in parallel to Nikon but gave up on them. The Zf is a lovely camera. I believe this will be a top street and reporting camera with all the technology supporting this genre.
Superb low light AF and VR are stunning.
One improvement I can suggest is that the built-in grip (not small rig) extends too far up and makes turning the front wheel a bit hard. Just blending it in a bit lower would help.
Comparing to my D850 and Z6ii the D850 has the best (rubberized) command wheels, then the Z6ii and last the Zf. I guess ergonomy took a backseat in order to achieve a given design.
Actually I was thinking if a metal touch surface which is replacing both command wheels could be a future development.
That should work on all cameras and would better blend into the body and not let any sand or moisture in.
But I also know that one can adapt to these small hurdles over time.
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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!
The Zf has a new implementation of in-camera VR which doesn't have the lock feature which previous Nikon implementations had. So the motors are the only thing keeping the sensor still. When the camera is off, the sensor can move about. I believe the reason they did this was because of the small size of the camera.
I like the sensor lock actually as it gives me confidence the sensor is exactly centered to the same place every time (I hope) and won't move by external forces applied to the camera.
Some videographers say that in cameras that have non-locking IBIS the sensor can move a little when the camera is moved during takes and they claim the sensor's residual responses to camera movement affects the image somehow in a way that they don't like. However, I am not sure if this is a real or imagined effect.
Anyway the Zf is as it is, no VR lock in the body.
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I also noticed the sensor rattling when turning the camera. As I use to cycle with cameras in my backpack I hope this won't shorten the Zf life. ::)
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https://richardhaw.com/2023/10/14/review-nikon-zf/
:o :o :o
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This is brilliant Richard and your passion can really be felt - many thanks. Working in the aerospace industry I share some of your operational concerns and we engineers tend to get wound up ;D
All in all I find it a joy to use and hope the camera is equally long lasting as the other Nikon Z & F cameras.
This summer I bought a second hand Z5 to go camping as I didn't want to bring an expensive camera. And guess what, this is the first camera which I dropped to the floor with a Voigtländer M mount lens adapted. It fell on the metal lens hood which got seriously bent. Neither lens nor camera show any signs of the impact and all works properly. I would have really not expected such robustness and I always take really good care of my cameras.
Looking over the fence on how others do retro helps to see why this is so challenging - see the additional A position on the ISO dial and also grip shape.
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that A implementation is both a blessing and a curse :o :o :o
still, i am hopeful for a real Df2 ::) with mirror, pentaprism and all 8)
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watch the face detection in action on my review guys :o :o :o
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My Zf was delivered on Thursday - even included an embargo note to state that it was not for sale until after 12th Oct.
I've taken several pictures and set tone colour to HLG. BUT - no way of downloading the necessary CODEC01 as you need to give serial number of camera and they only allow Z8 and Z9...
Have to be patient and have reset tone colour away from HDR in the meantime
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Just looking a bit more at the top dial I'm almost tempted to replace the ISO dial with aperture (no markings possible though - so a free turning dial) and move it more inboard like the speed dial and have an illuminated OLED display (Fstop & ISO) left of it. Get rid of PASM and have a A on shutter and aperture dials. ISO control with a dedicated button like the other Zs.
any takers?
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I run into some glitches. I had tested the Zf with FTZ and manual lens previously and today I mounted the Z 85/1.8 and initially it was in M mode although the lens was set to A. I got autofocus to work by switching the lens to M and back to A. A few moments later the camera claimed that it can't use this memory card. Insert another memory card. I pulled the card out and reinserted it. Works perfectly. I never liked SD cards and this card had been used only a little before. I just don't seem to get along with them.
I will remount the MF lens and go back to the AF lens to see if the problem is systematic. I will get some new memory cards just in case.
I was shooting on the streets of Helsinki this morning, took some shots of maple leaves then photos of architecture, people walking on the street and for this I felt the ability to go in full stop shutter speeds was great. I would set 1/125s for the static subjects, 1/500s for walking people and somehow it just felt more natural to set it on the top panel than going through 1/3 stops with the main command dial. And love it that I can change the settings without having the camera on or to my eye. Alas, for aperture this is not possible.
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I tried to reproduce the glitch. I mounted the Milvus and camera display stated MF. Focus box color changed according to expectations. I put back the 85 Z on the camera and it was immediately in AF-C and focused automatically. So it could be a one-off glitch or maybe something I did. I remember that when I connected the Z8 to my DJI gimbal via USB cable, if I touched the MF ring the camera would stay indefinitely in MF mode until I turned it off and back on. But when the cable was not connected, the camera could be restored to AF-F by pressing AF-ON, which did not work correctly when the cable was connected. Anyway, I guess modern electronic devices are so complicated that these things happen.
I set Fn to My Menu and the top item to Auto ISO ON/OFF, this way it is just two button presses to toggle Auto ISO.
I swapped the roles of the DISP and playback buttons because that way the playback button is closer to the location where it is on the Z8.
I bought a microsd card. It is ridiculously small. Insertion is possible by removing the battery first. I doubt I will ever remove it from the camera, the chances that it would survive (not get lost) and find itself back into the camera is less than 1. I will use it when I need to store files on two cards for redundancy. If I ever need to actually use the images stored on the microsd card, I will probably use the USB to download those files, but I hope it is never needed.
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I'm very impressed with the autofocus of the Zf; it seems the decisive component to make AF work really well in a mirrorless camera is the processor (and code) rather than the much-touted stacked sensor.
A stacked sensor is great for video, fast EVF, and silent photography, but to make a mirrorless camera which has consumer-friendly pricing and can handle most things that photographers are likely throw at it, it doesn't seem necessary. I am very glad about that since for a lot of people paying 4700 € for a single camera body just to get acceptable AF is unrealistic. By contrast the 2499€ or so for a Zf includes a lot of features and flexibility and a plain version without the mixed controls would likely be several hundred euros cheaper. And that puts it into realistic reach of a lot more people.
Bird in flight and such extreme applications may still be a different story, but I'm mostly interested in seeing consistent results in basic situations such as people approaching towards the camera and capturing single shots consistently in focus. That seems to be within easy reach of the Zf user while it was not so in my experience with the Z6 II.
Although the camera isn't ideally shaped to be used with big lenses I will try to get some idea of whether it would handle indoor sports properly or not; the main reason for trying this out is not just curiosity but because I'm a lot happier shooting a lot of pics at 24 MP than 45MP, and when the shooting happens at high ISO the results are likely to be a bit better as well. However, a camera without vertical grip isn't going to work well for me for sports photography, and I'm just doing this to see if it can be done and how the results are. A Z6 III is likely to accept an add-on vertical grip like the Z6 II does.
I'm still shocked with having to use SD and Micro-SD cards in a camera that I really otherwise like very much. I just don't get along with SD at all, yet I run into it in a lot of devices. It's a bit like a paper ship ... it's going to float a while but ...
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I've been using my Zf for a couple of days now, mostly with MF lenses : Summicron-R 50/2 and Voigtlaender 180/4, two of my favourites.
I am pleased.
Focussing aids are excellent. The Voigt was not that easy to focus on the Df (dark image) but on the Zf (and Z6ii too by the way), no problem: EVFs are fine for ageing eyeballs. Magnifier was assigned to the front Fn button, the position of which I slowly get accustomed to. Above all, the face detection system and the possibility to zoom instantly to the detected eye works great, even on statues or pictures of humans : very fast detection, and apparently very few "false positives".
IQ seems better than the (to me, good but not overwhelming) Z6ii, and subjectively closer to the Df. Noise behaviour seems better than both. The high-ISO in-camera JPEGs are considerably better (no salt & pepper, quite apparent on the Z6 ; no mush either). The processor, rather than the sensor, seems to be the cause.
Other than Ilkka, I never had bad experiences with SD cards, be it for photo apps or (in the shape of micro SD) as secondary drives - the M$ Surface laptop has a slot for such cards, and I used 64GB or 128GB storage not just for backups, but mainly to host big files (e.g. movies and copies of photos). I'd by Sandisk out of superstition maybe, because they never failed me in the past, so I bet they won't in the future. I definitely had trouble twice with CF cards though, last with the D700. Anecdotal evidence does not replace statistics, but never fails to impress.
You may by now have guessed the colour of my Zf...
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I mostly used Sandisk SD cards too; three out of six Extreme Pros have stopped working (they only suffered a few years of occasional use). Also I had one Lexar SD card which had data corruption. I have one Progear Digital and one Lexar UHS-II card which are functioning but the Progear gave the error message today in the Zf. Altogether about 50% SD card failure rate for me. CF cards, XQD cards, and CFexpress type B cards have so far never given any errors in my use. So let's see how it goes with the Zf; now it has a new Extreme PRO Micro-SD inside for backup purposes, if I never take the second card out of the camera, it is perhaps less likely to suffer from comtamination or problems with static electricity. Anyway, it is good to hear that others have had better luck with SD.
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I am also impressed by the Zfs Autofocus and the feel of highbuild quality it gives and how the on/of button and wheels give a better feeling compared to the DF. Like with the Z9 I still consider motif detection too unreliable to just go with it. Have used it today with the 500 PF (while adapting the small-rig grip) and it handles ok (but misses a vertical grip of course- so it cant replace dedicated cameras but if its your only body with you it works.
what i like is that it holds the EN-EL15 battery instead of the EN-El14 but with this compactness it requires compromises and i consider the SD card a compromise. I had no SD failure so far but A CF card failure with the D800E, the Df had one single SD and nobody cared, whereas there was nearly a storm when Z6/7 came with just one XQD/CF-Express slot (which i would prefer here as well) which lead to a thicker second generation. Here we have got two slots, i never had used Micro SD but bought one dedicated for backup purposes only and it will hopefully never leave the camera.
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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
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there are more bugs. i have just updated the site :o :o :o
the viewport sometimes does not show the correct results
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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
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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
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.
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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
You can stlil purchase the Nikon charger for EN-EL15c.
Personally I don't like USB-C charging of cameras because I don't like to connect the camera with a cable. One can trip on the cable and the camera can come crashing on the floor. For mobile phones and similar devices USB-C is fine. I'm not exactly sure if the EU is literally banning the inclusion of chargers with portable electronic products or they are just requiring that USB-C can be used to charge it with a standard charger, and additional separate battery chargers can still exist even if the manufacturers seem to be opting to not include them now. DJI didn't include a charger with my RS 3 Mini, and the Zf didn't come with one. I hope it doesn't get so bad that USB-C is the only way to charge batteries for future cameras. I read that an USB-C connector can be inserted up to 10000 times. That doesn't really tell me that it can be inserted at least 10000 times which would be my preference. I suspect pulling hard on a cable sidewise would lead to some damage over time. And these events can and do sometimes happen. I am using the USB-C to charge the DJI gimbal (but I don't use it often) and the Z8 with MB-N12 because it can charge two batteries so it's very convenient to use. But normally outside of this double battery grip context, I take all batteries out of the camera and charge using a dedicated charger.
If you have a list of bugs for the Zf which appear to be at least semi-reproducible, please do send them to Nikon as feedback, as this can help solve the issues over time.
The Zf user interface is surprisingly complex, as there are so many options on how things can be set up. I like it that they're not only being traditionalists in designing the Zf but also they are innovating and testing new ways of using a camera in this model.
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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.
I really like using the B&W mode switch as it can make composing B&W images easier, when you can see the approximate image in the viewfinder and back LCD. Previously it was behind a menu dive and there were fewer options to how to configure the B&W treatment in the camera. I am testing and using deep tone monochrome now. ;-) I like things punchy. Being able to go to colour with a flick of a switch makes it so easy. And the NEF file is fully colour as before.
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In the neighborhood these chicken were immediately detected by the AF which surprised me as their shape is certainly not common. In general the AF is a huge improvement over the Z6ii:
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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.
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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?
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... or did he use a MF lens ?
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Flower shaken by the wind. Zf, 50/1.8S. AF-C mode with subject tracking. Speed set at 1/500s. The AF performed a good job. Nice blur, too.
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So you've been quite busy this weekend? Are you sure it's not 450?
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
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okay, it looks like it accepts the ML-L7 :o :o :o has anyone tried it? ::)
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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.
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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.
do you know which cables will work with it? :o :o :o or none at all ::)
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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
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.
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do you know which cables will work with it? :o :o :o or none at all ::)
No Nikon-made cable releases will fit as there is neither the MC-DC2 style connector nor the 10-pin connector. A device connected to the USB-C can probably control the camera (I haven't tried it with Camera Control Pro 2) and thus a remote trigger could be made based on USB-C, but I imagine it would be expensive compared to the cable releases that we are used to.
What bothers me about the ML-L7 is that it can only trigger single exposures, not bursts. For certain kinds of astro applications, I would prefer to trigger the camera continuously, for example, to capture asteroid trails. What ML-L7 can do is turn on and off video recording, and access menus via the function buttons and arrow keys. It can also use the power zoom but there is so far no power zoom feature on any Nikon FX Z lenses.
I find the very bright self-timer light obnoxious and will try to express my wish to Nikon (in my long list of feedback) that it can either be turned off or exposure delay mode be added in a firmware update. For now I will use ML-L7 for tripod-based shots when needed. I would like to see Nikon standardize on these ports and accessories (and memory cards) but things are as they stand.
The camera's autofocus and VR capabilities are wonderful. The buffer is also very large in HE* raw mode, well technically the actual memory buffer may or may not be large but the 24 MP HE* packed files are so small that in practice a ridiculous number of shots can be fit into the buffer before the camera is slowing down even with dual-card writing in use.
The LCD screen is annoying because if I am having the camera strapped around my neck, to go for a low angle shot, the strap tends to land on the screen and the EVF sensor also has a tendency to switch from the LCD to the EVF if I am holding the camera close to my chest (for better support when hand-holding), so I have to take the strap off my neck, place it so that it goes under the screen and then use the camera from the low angle. Also to go from angled to the basic orientation where the LCD is behind the camera and open to viewing, a complicated twisting operation is required. For vertical shots depending if I'm going for a high or low angle shot, I need to turn the camera in a different orientation (grip up or down). All these things make the camera harder to use than with the two-axis tilting mechanism of the Z8 or Z9.
No problems using the camera with gloves on. I haven't tried the glove mode of the touch screen yet, but it has worked well in previous cameras that have had it. I just don't need to use the back LCD touch capabilities all that often and probably my current gloves are not an ideal fit (too much air space) for touch screen use. I should try to find more suitable gloves for camera use as the winter comes.
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Very nice colors Ilkka - how did you have the AF set?
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.
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 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.
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yeah the self timers green light is super annoying :o :o :o
i tried it with a traditional cable release and it wont work like what you found out!
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The new MH-34 charger for EN-EL15b/c batteries, with usb-c socket, is much smaller than the "original" MH-25a:
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Then we just need an external power source for the USB-C ..... Not sure the gain -- if any -- is worth it.
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I am very happy with the Satechi USB charger I have.
They exists in many different configurations / different USB connector types. E.g. this one is 4 x USB-C
https://www.av-cables.dk/230v-usb-lader/satechi-230v-gan-oplader-4x-usb-c-pd-165w-space-grey.html (https://www.av-cables.dk/230v-usb-lader/satechi-230v-gan-oplader-4x-usb-c-pd-165w-space-grey.html)
They look and feel like high quality and they are not the cheapest.
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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.
Many thanks for your explanations Ilkka. I'll learn the various different AF modes.
Something that struck me was that on the Zf to come out of subject tracking you need to press ok which is intuitive. The Z6ii works with loupe-
I can understand the change but having these two cameras I hope I'll remember when switching.
Zf(f) : Ze femme fatale ;D
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.
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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.
For on-camera flash I often use the SB-700. It can act as (optical CLS) commander, master, or remote but has some limitations on how the flashes can set up compared to the SB-5000. All flashes are in TTL or Manual mode if they're being commanded by the SB-700. This might seem a logical way of using the flashes but it can be problematic to have multiple TTL groups as the flash system can be hard to control that way. Usually my remotes are in manual mode and the on-camera flash in TTL. This can make it easier to keep some sanity in the lighting setup sometimes. ;-)
Anyway, if the SB-5000 feels too large then the SB-700 can be considered. I think for sure on the Z8 with vertical grip both are OK to use, but any Z camera without vertical grip can feel unbalanced with a big flash head on the hot shoe, especially for verticals.
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AR-2 release cable, apparently.
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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).
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AR-2 is a 'soft release' button -- not a cable release.
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AR-2 is a 'soft release' button -- not a cable release.
Ah!
AR-ii vs AR-11 :-(
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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).
Yes Wolfgang I have discovered this with my Z6ii and adapting manual lenses like an AIs 24mm Nikkor or Leica M mount lens.
I can't think of why this couldn't be changed in software.
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eh? AR-2 is a cable release :o :o :o
ive fixed a "bug". if you are in starlight view, you wont get the picture profile preview on your screen. stupid UX ::)
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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
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Then we just need an external power source for the USB-C ..... Not sure the gain -- if any -- is worth it.
Yes and No...
If one has a car with a USB-C charging port and you are charging on the go it's a gain. If one is charging on your desk it means more wires on the desk from a computer's USB ports or a power block in a power strip. I hope Nikon continues to sell the mains powered chargers.
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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.
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If one is looking for a small, portable charger I've had success with a Anker 120W USB-C Charger model 737 GaNPrime. It will charge a 16" MacBook Pro 2021 and my Android phone at the same time. It has two USB-C ports and one USB-A port. It could charge a tablet (all at the same time) if I owned a tablet. I don't work for Anker. I'm a satisfied customer of several if their products.
Dave
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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.
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.
Off the topic some: I believe the Apple Lighting Port is more robust.
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.
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Agree - separate chargers are still very desirable for your stated reasons.
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.
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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
I had read That as AR-II in the chart - as latin number. So a soft shutter release like the AR-1 for Leica-Glocke which was present in the Nikon F and F2 bodies and Nikkormat cameras such as my FTN (and i remember that I liked this part very mucH9, the AR2 then was the mechanical cable release and the AR3 the one ot use for FM2, FE2, FA etc.
The AR-3 works with the Df but (just tested) it does NOT fit to the Zf (well you can screw it in but it does NOT release because the wire is too thick), had similar experience with another old cable release of this sort. seeing the retro design of the shutter button and the screw in mount there i was quite sure that it is made following the same classic standards - just to find out now that it is NOT. I see no reasonable justification for that - despite just the wish to sell new gadgets and there ist not even a new type of mechanical cable release available.
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Perhaps you can treat the AR-3 with a Dremel to make the wire slimmer?
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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.
And I should fnally buy a Dremel tool (after years of planning to do so) ;-)
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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) ;-)
Diamonds are a girl's best friend -- Dremel, K-rings, and epoxy glue, are a photographer's best friends :)
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Diamonds are a girl's best friend -- Dremel, K-rings, and epoxy glue, are a photographer's best friends :)
at least i have got some K-rings so far :)
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i tried pushing with a thin wire it just wont work :o :o :o
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can anybody make it work with lightroom classic??? :o :o :o
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i tried pushing with a thin wire it just wont work :o :o :o
I suspect there might not be any hole through.
Lightroom Classic (the latest version) works OK with the Zf NEFs.
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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?
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i tried pushing with a thin wire it just wont work :o :o :o
So there appears to be no chance for easy adaptation. The Zf is a great camera but we certainly have some unnecessary flaws (like this and the new charger policy)
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Is it known what USB C profile the charger uses?
Are there different USB C profiles?
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.
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Interesting to read Tom Hogan's take on the Zf. Much of it positive, and at least some of it constructive.
https://www.zsystemuser.com/nikon-z-system-news-and/
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Is it known what USB C profile the charger uses?
The very brief instructions mention that it works (next to Nikon EH-7P and EH-8P AC adapters) with AC adapters that support Power Delivery.
Mine is connected to an USB port on the back of one of my Apple Studio displays, works without a problem.
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Interesting discussion on DPReview about how the ISO dial / auto ISO work.
https://www.dpreview.com/forums/thread/4732498
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Interesting discussion on DPReview about how the ISO dial / auto ISO work.
https://www.dpreview.com/forums/thread/4732498
A lot of people make erroneous claims there ... reading the manual (reference guide) would help rather than publicly present incorrect assumptions about how it works.
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footsteps ... enjoying the slow-paced capture of nature with the Zf
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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
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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
Strange that this is only seen here.
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What we apparently see are the shutter blades. Not the shield structure of Z9 (and Z8).
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What we apparently see are the shutter blades. Not the shield structure of Z9 (and Z8).
Many thanks for the clarification Birna
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I missed the Z9-like shield. But as we have (consequent for a camera like the Zf) a mechanical shutter still present, it probably would have been too much to have both. In default state the shutter is not visible, just the sensor
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Are there different USB C profiles?
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?
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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?
Nikon's EH-7P is said to supply 5 V and 3 A, max power 15 W. I would assume the AC adapter that Nikon sells is as capable as the camera can take advantage of. The PD charger I bought has a max power of 70 W or so, and it comes with two USB outputs, one USB-C and one USB-A. I guess the good thing is that I can use it to charge two devices at the same time, even if it is otherwise a bit overkill for my purposes. ;-)
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today our guinea pigs were the guinea pigs for the Zf's AF - I like the results - Z 35mm @ f1.8
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trying some b&w - Zf & 35mm f/1.8
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So nice.
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So nice.
Many thanks Birna
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trying some b&w - Zf & 35mm f/1.8
Outstanding! I love the rendering tonality and the picture itself ;)
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A pity there is so long wait for the Zf back home :)
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Daniel,
What a human photo. A youngster learning a new skill; she's looking at the result, perhaps she sees that too much makeup doesn't give the effect she desires?
And yes, excellent mid tones, entirely appropriate for this image.
Bob
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trying some b&w - Zf & 35mm f/1.8
An instant classic. Lovely image. You are making a compelling case fo the zf :)
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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.
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Doing homework can be cool ... at times :)
Zf & 35mm f/1.8; 1/250s; ISO 2'800
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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.
It is impressive indeed, both the result and the af. Thanks for sharing it.
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Getting a grip on the ZF …
The Nikon ZF-GR1 is nice, and provides an almost adequate depth of grip. But in conjunction with the SpiderPro hand strap v2 they are an ideal combination. Comfortable, secure, and easy access to the top controls.
The v1 spiderpro grip was not ideal with the ZF ‘top’ shutter button, and neither is the Peak Design.
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Nice solution Richard - can you please show us the Zf with the Nikon grip only
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local Saturday morning market - ZF & 35mm
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I'll pick up my own Zf on Monday :) perhaps I like it too??
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I'm certain Birna - it's a joy to use :)
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I'm certain Birna - it's a joy to use :)
That is what my initial thoughts about the Zf were. I do like the Z9, but sometimes it is simply too heavy since my HRT (hormone replacement treatment) has made me less strong (physically).
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Nice solution Richard - can you please show us the Zf with the Nikon grip only
Sorry for the delay - I’ll do that later today.
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The Nikon grip. I have no complaints, other than wishing the grip was twice as deep! The thumb grip nodule on the back is subtle, but helpful.
(The small bracket on the camera is for the SpiderPro hand grip.)
The top of the grip does not interfere with the use of the front dial - something I saw complained about with the Smallrig grip.
My fingers naturally fall far away from the front function button - something I saw complained about when using the ZF with no grip.
There are MANY online services in Japan now which enable overseas buyers to purchase ‘Japan only’ products. It might be worth looking into them. Not sure if Nikon Japan ‘delivers’ to the Japan based agents for these companies, but the grip is available from multiple shops here. There are even ‘used’ ones on Mercari Japan - for which there are many solutions for overseas buyers.
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Many thanks Richard,
It seems better shaped than the Small Rig one and it also optically better matches the leatherette.
I hope this grip isn't only available in Japan. Maybe B&H Photo will take it on stock.
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Dear Nikon Gear,
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
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Another alternative is Voigtländer lenses for Z. Even though most are manual focus, they have the electronics to integrate perfectly with their Z host(s). Vilrox is another option, although most offerings are DX, but they do AF.
I certainly will experiment with lenses for the Zf.
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I’m keen to learn about how Dandelion chipped lenses do, particularly non ai-s.
My earlier attempts to chip lenses failed dismally, as they fell off or got crushed :-( But I’d be willing to try again if the gains are worth it.
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For your entertainment!
https://jp.mercari.com/item/m22940526121?utm_medium=share&utm_source=ios&source_location=share
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I have just a few Dandelion-chipped lenses, mostly because I preferred my own CPU approach, and also due to the fragile nature of the Dandelions.
Non-AI and AI lenses will potentially be troublesome given their non-linear aperture mechanism. However, the severity of this varies between lenses, and using M mode instead of A (or S(/P) can help as well.
I plan on using my 24/2 and 105/2.5 Nikkors with the Zf of course, if handling on this body is acceptable. Both are CPU-enabled and works flawlessly with my Df.
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Dear Nikon Gear,
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 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
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I'll pick up my own Zf on Monday :) perhaps I like it too??
:)
Happy Monday Birna!
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More like a bleak and wet-wet Monday :(
(https://nikongear.net/revival/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=10791.0;attach=59752;image)
Anyway, the camera does work. I might like it.
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a very interesting perspective - deep blacks - and the reflections on the opposite side... like it
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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.
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Congratulations on the new camera B! As always, looking forward to your images and findings ;D
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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.
I've found that while HE* saves space, the files take a lot more time to open on my computer (using Lightroom Classic) when I have a lot of files in the catalog, it starts to be a bottleneck. This is on the Z8. I have not tried HE as it is reported to be more lossy. I decided to go with lossless compressed for most projects, and will only switch to HE* if it looks like I might run out of card space at some point during the day.
On the Zf, I find HE* to open in OK time, and the advantage is that there is almost unlimited buffer even when writing to both cards when using that format. Well it's not technically unlimited but anyway allows a ridiculous number of shots to be taken in a short time.
I guess HE and HE* require more camera-specific algorithmic support from the raw conversion software than the lossless compressed format? Lightroom Classic seems to support what I've presented to it. But when the Z8 was new, if I used HE* it would not open lens profiles correctly automatically. When I switched to lossless compressed on the camera, the lens profiles were automatically applied. However, that has been fixed since then by Adobe, and now both formats have automatic profile support.
I am glad that you got the Zf; I've found this camera so much fun to use.
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I'm beginning to warm to the camera. It has the 'personality' I missed so much with the Z6/7 models. OK, for the Z7 I dedicated my Z7 bodies to studio macro work and for this purpose they do as they are told, thus no complaints there. I have some Z5 and Z6 modified for 'full spectrum' which opened a pandora's box of issues and I won't go into these here. The Z9 is a tough picture-making machine that can take most of what is thrown at it, and my only issue is its weight since my physical strength has declined after years on hormone treatment. However I'm still amazed of what the Z9 can deliver thus it'll stay. My only non-modified Z6 will go as soon as I can set it up for sale. The Z30 is a cute camera for unpretentious shooting and can mount my X-ray lenses as well. Ruth borrows it from time to time with the kit zoom lens 16-50. My black Z fc is of course as cute as it gets, at least before the Zf arrived, and I like it still very much.
Anyway, I have a suspicion the Zf will be my standard working companion hereafter, of course not for the dreary scientific stuff, but when I wish to enjoy shooting.
(https://nikongear.net/revival/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=10791.0;attach=59758;image)
Working with my manual Laowa wide-angle lenses is a breeze and focusing couldn't be easier. The image is with the 9mm f/5.6 Laowa of an immense 135 degrees field of view. Just set the camera to silent mode and the lens to 1m and fire away.
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Congratulations with the Zf :)
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look forward to more stories on the Zf. I'm certainly going to wait and see what the Z6iii brings to the table but it's true that the Z6 has no particular "soul" and as a lover of the Df, I can't rule out getting the Zf at some point, despite some reservations (and it doesn't have a CF card slot...)
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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
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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.
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Like the smaller brother Z fc, the Zf allows using tripod attachments on the 105mm f/2.8 MC Nikkor Z and the lens can be rotated in any direction. This is not possible with the grip-enlarged Z5/6/7 or the Z9, the latter due to its battery pack. Not tried with the Z50, which probably won't allow free rotation, or the Z8 the latter I haven't tested in this regard.
It feels like a return to normalcy for me. Close-ups and 'macro' require tripod support for best results, and hanging the lens out from a camera mounted on a tripod is obviously not optimal. Not at all. A possible exception is with the Z9 as the lens is not heavy compared to the hefty camera body, so in this case the setup isn't that bad.
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. I replaced the large plastic lens hood with a no-name metal hood to make less interference near 1:1.
The 105 MC on the Z f, taken with the APO-Lanthar 66/2 and the Z fc.
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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?
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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?
Haven't explored this -- yet. Will try.
However the feature feels a little backwards for me as I don't need the camera AI to understand what the subject is :( and whether or not it should be in focus.
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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.
Birna, I pushed the shadows to the max and picture starts to fall apart and shows a circular banding pattern.
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OK, so there is a pushability limit imposed here. Good to know.
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The Zf is so nice with wide lenses and b/w mode. The Laowa 9mm f/5.6 has an almost impossibly wide view of 135 degrees and makes bizarre renditions of nearly eveything. Despire its short focal length and huge field of view, getting really excellent sharpness depends on precise focusing, which is breeze with the Zf.
Teslas have become the most sold car brand in my country. And concomitantly, climbing to the top position of the customers' complaint list.
I sing the body car electric (Tesla version)
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I think the Zf is pretty good in low light conditions. Zf, Z 85mm f/1.8 S, 1/500s, f/1.8, ISO 9000.
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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.
I got the best slide exposures with my F4 in spot metering a spot that seemed to be the perfect spot to meter, kind of grey equivalent of the effect I wanted to achieve: 18% grey equivalent for spot on metering, a light part for low key or a dark part for a high key or two spots to decide for tiny over and underexposures.
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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.
Birna, dear friend, can you please post a documentation of the dremal act?
Love
Frank
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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
I love the dark parts!
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Birna, dear friend, can you please post a documentation of the dremal act?
Love
Frank
Hm. I vaguely remember that has already been shown here on NG? Basically, all there is to the modification is to cut a groove on the inside of the tripod collar to allow it to rotate freely.
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FW 1.10:
https://downloadcenter.nikonimglib.com/de/download/fw/507.html
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FW 1.10:
https://downloadcenter.nikonimglib.com/de/download/fw/507.html
yeah, the first Firmware upgrade
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With ZF deliveries in limbo, maybe until May, ‘used’ ones are already fetching a tidy premium above new price.
Mercari Japan is stating to fill up with listings, mostly with the lens, but a few body only.
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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?
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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?
I bought my kit with 2.0/40mm today for 2559€ ... Is that expensive or cheap?
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Congratulations Frank - that's a good price incl. the lens.
Without lens US: 2k; EU 2.5k
The Zf is readily available in Switzerland - most stores and online shops have it in stock.
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Then you should buy some and sell them to Japan for good profit :)
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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.
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Nikon is making gorgeous cameras. Birna, it looks like the foolography is "upsidedown" from the position I´m used to, does it change anything?
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The new design can be freely rotated. The recorded data is the same :)
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The new design can be freely rotated. The recorded data is the same :)
Ok, thanks!
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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.
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If anyone is looking for the Nikon grip, here is one on Japan Mercari. Plenty of companies/web sites that can help you buy from Japan Mercari …
https://jp.mercari.com/item/m77220455450?source_location=share&utm_source=ios&utm_medium=share
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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.
Which GPS device can act as remote trigger? Can you use it also in CH mode to get multiple exposures or, is it similar to ML-L7 which is limited to single release? Thanks.
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When the guys at Foolography get their act together, the new device should be able to control the camera remotely, setting up time lapses, etc. etc. Their new design using the USB port not the 10-pin port necessitated a lot of restructuring and reprogramming on their part and not everything is working at present. However they are making fast progress, apparently.
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Tiny blobs of Sugru on certain buttons greatly improve ergonomics.
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Tiny blobs of Sugru on certain buttons greatly improve ergonomics.
Tiny blobs of Sugru on certain buttons greatly improve ergonomics.
What do you mean?
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Tiny blobs of Sugru on certain buttons greatly improve ergonomics.
What do you mean?
Sugru on buttons gives them more heft. No more pressing the wrong button, or wasting time feeling for it.
https://youtu.be/MjL1unlJcAQ?si=xKH-UJPHEIqMKs63
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Tiny blobs of Sugru on certain buttons greatly improve ergonomics.
It looks like you weren't satisfied with the ergonomics in a few areas Snoogly.
The shutter release too?
Anything else?
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I'm not a Zf customer, but I'd try to add Sugru to the OK button, since on recent cameras (Z6ii, etc) that button has been shrunken, and I have to push with my fingernail....which I don't like.
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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.
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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 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.
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Thanks !
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Compared to eBay, shipping cost was much lower when ordering directly from their web site.
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Thom Hogan has released the Zf eBook:
https://www.zsystemuser.com/nikon-z-system-news-and/the-zf-book-is-here.html
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Please, Birna!
How can you attach the 2.8/28mm Ai I guess without a long adapter that compensates for the register distance 37.5 mm to 16.5 mm IIRC???
I looks as if the F-Lens is directly attached to the Z-Mount with a Z-to-F-ring or am I wrong???
Same for the APO Lanthar or Did you attach a Canon version with a short register length?
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.
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The 28mm lens shown here is the Z special edition version, not AI-S :o :)
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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 SE
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THX, So I have to dig more into the Z Sprecial Editions. I only bought the Kitlens Z 2.0/40 SE
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 :)
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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 :)
A 1.8/85mm in Retrodesign for the Zf would be nice too, yet I am in a strange mood currently ready to throw out my whole lineup and go the one camera one lens way the rest of my life and that could possibly be the Voigtlanger 1.0/50 on my Zf ...
... do not panic, I guess I will not really do it...
PS: Because, what is really sexy about this camera is that I put on the 1:3.5 f=55mm Micro-Nikkor Nippon Koaku from, I guess the 1950ies (Serial: No. 189797) I found somewhere dirt cheap and get stunning results out of cam and it feels like in the old film days...
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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.
The lens on my Z fc is the APO-Lanthar 65mm f/2.
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THX, So I have to dig more into the Z Sprecial Editions. I only bought the Kitlens Z 2.0/40 SE
Frank, 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
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My eye is on the Voigt 40mm f/1.2 when i have the sufficient penger!
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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.
The lens on my Z fc is the APO-Lanthar 65mm f/2.
So both are genuine Z-glass, notw I get it, Thank you...
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Thanks !
Mine arrived yesterday. I got two, as postage was the same and I figured it’s good to have a spare.
Amazing service. Despatched on the day of my order, very fast delivery, and two packs of candy as a bonus :-)
The eyepiece is great, but does overlap the LCD screen, and is a bit of a faff when you reverse the LCD. Though I have the LCD permanently closed, so it’s not an issue for me.
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Compared to my Z6 the Zf eats battery like a group of Chimpanze eat bananas.
I guess I do get 5 to 10 times more shots from the Z6 with physically the exact same battery.
What is your experience concerning that?
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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.
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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...
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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.
EN-EL15 (without any letter) can't be used in the Zf.
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The "shooting pattern" largely defines how many shots per battery charge. I only shoot a few at the time and sessions can be extended over days. so for me anything above 200 captures per battery is good. Many times even far less, as there are other gadgets that "steal" power.
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I guess the problem was, that the factory setting was "airplane mode" = off
while my Z6 is always set to "airplane mode" = on
could that be?
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Airplane mode is recommended to be ON when maximum battery life is the goal.
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Airplane mode = ON defers the use of any external apps like remote control, GPS, etc.
A pity as the Zf lacks a true threaded receptacle for a cable release. Plus there is no 10-pin port or the equivalent (as with the Z5/6/7; Z8 and Z9 have the 10-pin port), thus using the USB port/Bluetooth/built-in wifi are the only options available.
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(https://scontent.fymq3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/414725449_10159506587486911_2379906171552144141_n.jpg?stp=cp6_dst-jpg&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c42490&_nc_ohc=cHTNhtLN0Z0AX-PdGjV&_nc_ht=scontent.fymq3-1.fna&oh=00_AfDdPyLeDG3W8zjTmIB_HqDq4wMgAz0k1oI8D7RdXZ8RFA&oe=658F93BF)
:o :o :o
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curious to see the results.
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curious to see the results.
Me too. Sexy combo!
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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.
EN-EL15 (without any letter) can't be used in the Zf.
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?)
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All versions can be used. However, the oldest (without suffix) cannot be charged in-camera. Battery service life is shorter as well.
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As to the venerable 5cm f/1.1 Nikkor-N, it does a good job once you realise it isn't the choice for faithful colour rendition. Lots of chromatic issues. However it'll do fine for b/w. And the combination of the 5cm f/1.1 and the Zf is visually adorable.
So far I've mainly used my 5cm f/1.1 for IR with the Z cameras.
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All versions can be used. However, the oldest (without suffix) cannot be charged in-camera. Battery service life is shorter as well.
From the ones without suffix there were the older Li-ion01 and the newer Li-ion20 types. With the D500 coming Nikon offered a free exchange which I used for three of this batteries. In total i have got a lot of camera bodies all using the EN-EL15 type and a lot of batteries from suffixless to c - and I am using all of them (weaker or stronger) in a kind of rotational cycle (The new Zf has not seen the very oldst batteries so far). I dont want to permanently consider which letter i have got, and by doing all the loads with the charger and never in camera while taking 2 spare batteries with me (it used to be one in former days) i managed to get away with that approach in all situations without running into troubles.
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In those days I availed myself of the exchange offer by Nikon so got about 10 of the Li-Ion01 replaced by the Li-Ion20 version. These old batteries function in all cameras with the EN-El15 form factor. Just remember to use a recent version of the charger as well (MH-25a).
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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!!)
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With the Z bodies having been out a few years, is there a "Moving from F to Z mount" guide anywhere?
Since this topic is wider than just the Zf, I started a new thread for you to reply to here
https://nikongear.net/revival/index.php?topic=10842.msg196259#msg196259
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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!!)
The first lens I tried was a very ild Nippon Koakgu 3.5/55 on the ZF. A micro nikoor and it really blew me away given how cheap it is nowadays
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(https://richardhaw.files.wordpress.com/2024/01/haw_0168.jpg?w=2500&h=)
at f/1.1 :o :o :o
dream lens is shi1t compared to this, the Zunow is not so bad either, but the Nikkor is better, of course!!! ::)
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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?)
The Zf manual says the following "Power Sources EN‑EL15c Rechargeable Li-ion Battery: EN‑EL15c batteries can be used with Nikon Z f digital cameras. EN‑EL15b and EN‑EL15a batteries can also be used. Note, however, that fewer pictures can be taken on a single charge than with the EN‑EL15c (0 Battery Endurance). "
It does not list EN-EL15 (without the small letter) as being compatible. The same text is present on the Z8 manual and on that camera some people have reported that it doesn't work correctly on EN-EL15 batteries, with results such as does not allow the camera to be turned on, into a few pics can be taken, depending on the battery sample.
However, I have not seen actual user reports of the EN-EL15 (no letter) on the Zf itself. I assumed that since it has the same text as the Z8 manual, and uses the same Expeed 7 processor, the compatibility behaviour would be similar. Since Frank was suggesting the battery performance on the Zf was poor, it brought to my mind those reports on the EN-EL15 not working on the Z8 and lack of compatible accessory status in the manual as a possible explanation. Certainly my own experience with the Zf has been that it has very good battery performance using the a/b/c types and not that different from the Z6 II. However, I have only used the officially compatible batteries on the Zf.
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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.
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Same here, three cameras, D850, Z7_2 and Zf in use 3 en-el15 non descript, 2 b's and 2c's. Without issues!
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I wonder how folks here have been mapping the buttons when using MF lenses.
After some experimentation for manual focus I settled on:
Function: Preview
AEL/AFL: 200% zoom
Shutter: half press exposure lock (mainly for when using AF)
Playback: My Menu
Display: Playback (and remapped in playback mode to return to shooting)
Movie: Auto ISO, etc
ISO dial: on C
Playback switched to Display button as it’s a more intuitive location.
Above settings saved to a micro SD card, and slightly different settings for AF saved to another card. It’s a faff, but I load settings from the cards when I switch from manual to AF, and back. Micro SD cards as they are cheap as chips, but housed in full size SD adapters for ease of saving/loading settings.
Tiny blobs of sugru on AEL/AFL, Playback, i, and Display buttons. Makes a huge difference, as thumbs don’t need to hunt for buttons.
LCD screen reversed.
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Same here, three cameras, D850, Z7_2 and Zf in use 3 en-el15 non descript, 2 b's and 2c's. Without issues!
Of those cameras, the EN-EL15 is listed as compatible with the D850 and Z7 II, but not on the Z8 or Zf as per the respective manuals of the cameras.
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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.
Not a "sin", but it may or may not work correctly.
I am guessing that the Expeed 7's power consumption may exceed the capabilities of the EN-EL15 in some situations and this lead Nikon to remove it from the supported batteries list. There was some discussion of this when the Z8 was announced that they had to do some tricks to make the Z9 internals work on the smaller battery and the exclusion of some earlier models of the battery probably was a result of this testing. However, the Zf probably consumes less power than the Z8 as it doesn't support as high resolution and high fps rate modes in video or stills.
But, if it works for you, by all means use it. I use my EN-EL15's in my D850's and the newer a/b/c models in the mirrorless cameras that are more power hungry.
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Other than a malfunction, I don't imagine putting the wrong battery in a camera would do any actual/permanent damage to it.
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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.
Do note this eye cup does NOT fit properly on the Zf. It will not lock into position and there is a real danger of losing it quickly under field conditions. The Zemlin works perfectly on the Z9, though, where it locks securely.
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I hadn’t noticed that the eye cup won’t lock into place!
I just reached out to the Zemlin man and asked if he can recommend a DIY modification to enable it to lock.
Looking at the Zemlin and Nikon there are no obvious differences that might prevent the lock pin from engaging.
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The Zemlin locks firmly on the Z9, but only sits tight on the Zf. Perhaps the locking pin hole needs to be relocated?
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Zemlin man says:
"The fit on the ZF should not be an issue. I have a Zf body and the eyepiece fits fine. I suspect there's a minor 3D printing flaw in the first layer around the small hole for the lock pin. Take something like a paper clip and just run it around in the little hole on the back of the eyepiece to make sure it's clear for the lock pin. Any issue should be isolated to the first layer of the print, so very thin and easy to push out.
Let me know if that doesn't work for you."
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Success. I went at the tiny hole with a narrow file, and now the eyepiece locks into place. There is no ‘click’, but the button is raised and the eyepiece can’t be turned.
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Same experience here. The reassuring 'click' is missing, but apparently the eye cup now is locked in place.
Zemlin should adjust his 3-D printing scheme, customers will have eye cups falling off and got lost due to this inaccuracy. Most people don't read NG -- unfortunately.
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I told him he ought to add an advisory note about it on the web site and on eBay. But it must be said that he sells them as being for the Z8 and Z9, not the ZF.
Though he does have a ZF himself, and needed to do the same ‘hack’ ;)
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Either there should be a dedicated Zf version, or a warning that the fit of the eye cup can be less than optimal on the Zf. I surmise the hole for the locking pin could wear quickly if the cup is moved around between camera models. The factory designs use a metal plate to secure the locking pin and the fit of a Nikon Z9 cup to the Zf is bad. Clearly they weren't made to be interchangeable.
All that being said, the Zf looks gorgeous with the deep eye cup. Perfect for users wearing glasses. Thus I'm glad I followed your tip and purchased a sample of the Zemlin myself.
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Same here. I am quite satisfied with this eyecup, given that I rarely manipulate the back screen.
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Due to the special-fitted L-bracket to my Zf, there are limited movements of the rear screen any way.
Most if not all standard brackets for the Zf adds a protrusion to the front which destroys the handling of the camera for my hands, plus there is no support for portrait mode set up of the camera. I modified an exisiting Markins L-bracket for Z6/7 to fit the Zf snugly. Works very well.
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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
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It has been already 4 months since the introduction of the ZF and I can see that those of you who got it are using it regularly even thou you have more options. Can I assume that it is that fun/good, or it is just an impression of new toy?
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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.
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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.
The Milage varies. I love the Zf and I hate the Df ...
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And I looove the Df and the Zf just as much, but for different reasons. The Df was my daily companion 2014-2022. Now it needs an overhaul (problems with sealing rings and buttons).
Not sure the Zf career will last as long; we'll see.
Biggest loss: OVF
Biggest win: focussing aids, and IBIS.
Note that I use manual focus lenses most of the time, old and new.
Image quality is very good in both cases.
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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.
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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
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+1 ... Df idea good but it just did not convince in practical use for me
The Df front dial is what killed it for me. Such a horrible implementation.
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.
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The front dial of the Df was indeed horrible. Which was an incitament for me to CPU-modify all my manual F-mount lenses :) Thus I could use the aperture ring instead of the dial.
A pity indeed the FTZ-adapters don't have an aperture follower that transmits the information to the camera, thus I have to use the camera dial -- or set aperture on the lens and ignore any warning of wrong exposure. EXIF lacks the aperture value for these lenses anyway.
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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
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
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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.
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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
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.
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.
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Zemlin. Hack. Original.
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Just a heads up that after a long wait the Nikon Dandelion chips are available on eBay again :-)
With the resurgence of interest in adapting vintage F mount lenses the ZF has encouraged, I expect them to sell out quickly!
All it takes is one popular YouTube influencer to show them in use to really boost demand. (Luckily I was able to reserve 8 chips way back when the package was delayed at the Poland/Ukraine border.)
Yes, they are fragile and easy to damage even during installation, but they make the old timers a joy to use on the ZF ;-)
Oh, a reminder that they can’t be programmes on a Z camera. As most of the lenses I want to chip are pre-Ai I bought a used Nikon D60. You can mount pre-Ai lenses on it, making it a perfect machine for chip programming. It’s cheap as chips to buy used ;-)
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"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 ?
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Based on history a panda version is likely to appear. My FM2 is panda and I used to have several Fuji's in panda version. But I quite like the actual black version of the Zf.
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"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 ?
You could always skin it ;)
https://alphagvrd.com/products/nikon-zf-camera-protection-skin?aff=20
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...like a cat ;D
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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.
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.
Thank you!
I already ordered the hack :)
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(https://richardhaw.files.wordpress.com/2024/02/img_6020.jpg)
mini-me :o :o :o
the smaller camera hits the G-spot (goldilocks-spot) better for me ::)
I just wish the Z fc has an FX sensor...
damn, i still cannot shut up about that damn grip...
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(https://scontent.fymq3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/426613228_10159557944326911_4278773377672781560_n.jpg?stp=cp6_dst-jpg&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c42490&_nc_ohc=ezlpXFJtlFIAX_TyF1Y&_nc_ht=scontent.fymq3-1.fna&oh=00_AfAncSd5t-ELs_e9wN3d2dFsYhkOo1HoIG6-b3oa-R3pGw&oe=65C9B9A8)
:o :o :o
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Wow, 85/1.5 in L39 mount?! And that in metric scale on the focus ring! I've rarely seen any samples of any S- or L39- mount Nikkors with the metric scale here in Japan...
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85/1.5 @ 1.5 :o :o :o
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Zemlin. Hack. Original.
I checked the hack but not so good for me
Wearing glasses I Still have the sun getting in to my eye and at the same time I can’t see the whole evf :(
What about Zemlin can you help me on this?
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Digression
A hat with a flexible front brim makes a superb sun flag for squinting into viewfinders.
End Digression ..Please Carry on the discussion
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I haven’t needed to clean sensor yet, but this made for interesting reading.
https://www.dpreview.com/forums/thread/4751357
Nikon Australia said:
“Thank you for contacting our support team. You are most correct that the IBIS would be required to be active as to allowing the sensor to be locked in position during the clean.”
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Yesterday I switched the Zf on and before I could take a first photo the back screen became unresponsive and an error was displayed like "shutter closed - press shutter release button ..."
It came back on without having to pull the battery but leaves a bad taste of having bought a lemon.
has anyone here had this issue - there seem to be similar issues with the sensor shield mechanism of Z8 / Z9?
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It happens with other Z cameras as well. Just follow the suggestion and press the shutter release and all is OK :)
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I bought my first Nikon (a D50), choosing the brand because of (amongst other things) the good availability of good quality second hand lenses.
I'm still using an F mount Nikon.
But was very pleased to see a local camera shop selling both second hand Z lenses and FTZII adapters. It may be time for a change soon. :)
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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
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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.
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I needed an L-bracket as there is the Foolography 'Unleashed' device to protect. It sits too exposed and vulnerable on the USB port for my liking. An existing bracket for my Z7 and a few minutes with a Dremel solved that problem.
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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.
It is indeed a nice thing. Here in Japan I was lucky to be able to order it at the same time I ordered the zF, basically on the day they were announced, I got mine, but since then the Japan market has been starved of ZF, and even the GR1 has been hard to find. Nikon sent everything overseas to earn proper money, totally abandoning the domestic poverty market using yen. The ZF is still on back order here, and new/used ones sell at a huge premium.
It’s the same for all Japanese products - the focus is on export. The domestic market is ignored, and we pay a fortune as prices are calculated in $. Doesn’t matter that Nikon, etc, are Japanese companies, prices are based on $ :-(
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! :-(
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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.
Problem is that it often (seemingly all the time in Japan) comes with old firmware, and will not work on a ZF. A firmware update fixes the problem, but a PC is needed - Mac NG.
But once updated it works well.
Even better is to add 6-bit squiggles to your M mount lens if it doesn’t already have them. Easy to DIY, and there are plenty of YouTube guides online.
Richard Wong seems to have the ‘best’ online review of the adapter, so it’s worth seeking it out. Also worth reading the comments to learn about any issues others have had.
But all in all it is a nice and relatively cheap way to turn M mount lenses into manual focus gods on a ZF ;-)
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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.
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The Voigtländer 40/1.2 has been out of stock in EU for quite a while now... others are in short supply too.
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
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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
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.
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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.
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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.
I bought a similar gizmo for coding which is made of cardboard - but it is rugged enough to do the job.
Handily a simple M39 to M mount adapter ring can also be coded, so now my old 39mm Nikon rangefinder lenses can achieve focus confirmation :)
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Just a heads-up that the Neewer Sony E to Nikon z adapter, in conjunction with an E to F adapter, enables the focus confirmation square with unchipped manual lenses. It’s crazy, but it works … I know because I bought one.
However, … The camera cannot ‘see’ beyond the Neewer adapter, which always reports itself as being a 50mm lens. Also, IBIS is disabled.
The result is focus confirmation with any manual lens, at the expense of no IBIS and wrong exif information.
I contacted Newer support, and got a rather unclear response… When connected to a computer with the provided USB cable a text file can be found, which contains the reference to 50mm. They mentioned this file, but did not explain if it can be self-changed, or how to do it. Even if possible, it would mean connecting the adapater to a computer every time you use a different focal length manual lens.
A couple of other people on forums and YouTube comments are also in contact with Neewer, trying to figure out if the issues can be resolved.
It really does give focus confirmation, however unlikely it sounds, but I cannot live with the caveats, and don’t want to fart around trying to fix it - so I will be sending it back today.