The Camera Fujifilm Won't Make | Nikon ZF Review

[@benjhaisch]

Turns out people don’t think this thing feels “plasticky” upon further thought, here is why. -If you picked up an old F2 and then picked up the ZF, you’d probably feel the same as well. -the brass dials are a great touch, but then the difference between them and the lightweight body stands out. -battery door as people have mentioned -the rear screen feels solid but maybe my annoyance of flip screens weighs into that part too. That said, all cameras now feel plasticky for the most part because they generally are. Just my own thoughts, I’d still rather have a lighter camera than a heavier one. Reasons I went with the aluminum Leica M11 over the brass version too.

[@MarcAdesso]

FWIW, I agree with you- throwing brass top dials on a plastic-covered magnesium alloy body frame comes nowhere close to the solidity of a Leica camera, or even some Fuji cameras. I suspect the folks making these comments have not held, for example, a Leica SL3. Also agree that the S9 should have included an EVF etc. to compete more directly with this camera.

[@JBurtonTenor]

Are you sure that isn’t about the Zfc? I heard that a lot. But the Zf is fairly Tankish. Very solid.

[@benjhaisch]

It’s all relative, sure, but “tankish” isn’t something I’d use to describe it, no.

[@bngr_bngr]

@@benjhaisch A Nikon F2 with a motor drive plus battery holder is a tank.

[@JBurtonTenor]

@@benjhaisch relative. Sure. To me it’s tankish compared to my Z6ii and Fujis. Just lots of metal on it and it’s heavy.

[@ImVengeance127]

I ended up selling my X-T5 for this camera and have absolutely no regrets. I love this thing. It’s built like a tank, the sensor has great dynamic range, and I know a lot of people dislike the flip out screen but I actually enjoy it because I keep it hidden almost 100% of the time. My biggest complaint is like you said Nikon glass is pretty large. That being said I directly compared the newer Fuji lenses like the 18 1.4 with the size of the Nikon 50mm 1.8 and they are almost the same size. So unless you are shooting the smaller f2 primes on Fuji then the difference isn’t super noticeable. Overall I recommend everyone go try this in store because it really is a special camera.

[@KibbitUpIt]

I started adapting the E mount Sigma contemporary I-Series lenses. Feels almost like native. Plenty of affordable used Sony E lenses on eBay for me to choose from.

[@dcusmano]

I am in the same boat. I haven’t been able to hold this camera in my hand. No one has it around me. I want to sell or trade my XT5 for it. Glad to hear you have no regrets!

[@nicolasb.3809]

I have mounted Zeiss Batis lens on it with Megadap adapter and omg, this is marvelous beyond any dreams I have always had !

[@babyboy1971]

Pro portrait photographer here. Studio and natural light. Fuji since 2018. I have the XT5 and a X100V, the 33 and the 56. I trained on film, in the 80’s, my first camera was a Nikon FE. I’m thinking of going with this Nikon. Do you recommend? And What lenses do you recommend? I have to have a 50 and an 85 for my workflow and I’d love a 35 or 28. Thanks for Any advice!

[@SamuelStreetlife]

I love my ZF! Pro tip for ergonomics: Get a wooden thumb rest (Ali express or iwoodstore) and stick it onto the leather on the back and then ergonomics are actually great (with smaller lenses). I also have the techart adapter but it is so heavy and some lenses don't perform the best at infinity focus (which you have to use with the techart adapter) so I use a voigtländer close focus M mount adapter and with that the distance scales on Leica lenses are actually accurate. The ZF plus small M lenses are awesome. And Nikon's 28mm and 40mm "pancake" lenses are great options for a small autofocus street photography set up. And I DO love the flip out screen actually. It makes me want to use the viewfinder more and it makes the ZF feel more analog. A tilt screen would have made the ZF feel fragile on the back and I would have to constantly worry that I hit the screen with something. But if you use the screen a lot then tilt screen is convenient. And yes, some parts feel very plasticky. But I guess they needed to save weight somewhere... and agree that the menu system is horrible.

[@alexmilesg3]

And it is crazy that Nikon would not put a small thumb rest, as it world have not changed the look of the camera at all.

[@Funktrainer]

Nikon needed to save production costs and raise revenue. There are no more "MADE IN JAPAN" quality Nikon products out there. Nikon sold their soul.

[@kneadedmassage9751]

I tried the SmallRig holder... good for longer lenses. What I've found most comfortable is a $19 fake leather bottom/ style cover. I'm sure a nice goat skin one would be even nicer, but for $19, it was well worth trying

[@mithrastemplar]

not one mention of the manual focus assist. this review felt like a drive-by review of a camera

[@venom2k2]

Good God, I want this Feature so much for any future Fuji camera!

[@benjhaisch]

Fair, I think the more interesting thing is the techart adapter for MF lenses :)

[@MatthewSeratti]

@@benjhaisch The Techart adapter is fantastic. Really opens up the lens options if you want/need autofocus.

[@Jkvillaluz]

@@benjhaisch What's also interesting is the 6-bit coded TTArtisans Leica M to Nikon adapter. If you run any M mount, or lens that has been adapted to M mount, the focus confirmation feature works! I'm currently running Leica and Minolta MD lenses via the 6bit M mount, and I can do manual focus without peaking or zooming in. Instead when the focus registers the AF/MF box turns green.

[@mithrastemplar]

@@benjhaisch but one of the criticisms you had was how the screen detracted from the photography experience. By the same token, one of the praises should be just how great it is to use manual focus lenses on this camera. Without the need for adapters offering autofocus. With Voigtlander increasing its offerings in the Z mount, (the 75mm f/1.5 is now available as well, a lens you’ve praised in the past) this legitimately has a claim to being the best manual focus experience, and for some that trumps everything else

[@strippedlist]

Feels plasticky??? The ZF????

[@benjhaisch]

¯\_(ツ)_/¯

[@CianMcsweeney]

definitely a lot of plastic in the zf, if they didn't it would be like carrying a ton of bricks

[@ImVengeance127]

I have to also strongly disagree. The whole camera is magnesium alloy and the top dials are brass, the only plastic is part of the bottom plate and of course the display casing. This thing is built like a tank.

[@aashm1179]

It's the battery door that turns me off. It's too floppy, if that makes sense. Makes an otherwise beautifully built camera feel cheaper than it should.

[@erichung9043]

Yep, the battery door is a turnoff, but the overall body is metal. Even the dials are made out of brass. I have been using it for quite some time. I actually appreciate the fully articulate LCD screen over the flip up screen from my Sony. Also manual focus is the best with this camera. You program the video record button to instantly zoom in with eye detect turned on.

[@ethannarrow5209]

Almost every camera reviewer, not just you, complains about the ergonomics of this camera. I just don't understand this. It's a vintage style camera, it feels very similar to my Nikon F3 which I love... if you don't like the ergonomics then why would you want a vintage slr style camera? That's the style.

[@benjhaisch]

I don’t think it’s a complaint, it’s just stating a fact that they chose form over function, which I agree is the point of the camera to some degree :) my Leica M11 is one of the worst cameras I own in terms of ergonomics, but I still love it :)

[@sergtimosh]

It'll literally lose it look with grip, thank god Nikon made it without standout grip. It looks and feels just right

[@jamesbarron5590]

Nice! Ordering 1 Nikon Zf in blue 1 Voigtlander 75mm f/1.5 1 pair of JNCO jeans

[@lewcehjitl3282]

Grow a pair buy a canon R5.

[@jamesbarron5590]

@@lewcehjitl3282 I already did. That’s why I need the JNCO jeans.

[@jango71]

You want it to be ergonomic or reminisce of the cameras of old? Pick one only.

[@jtes1442]

It's definitely not plasticky. I have to agree that the screen is more video-oriented. I wish it had a screen like the XT5 I traded in for the ZF.

[@TheWutang1995]

How are you liking the zf compared to the xt5? Considering trading mine in for one

[@fernandacostamendes2514]

Hi, do you think the nikon is better? I am going to buy a new camera and thinking about the nikon zf or a Fuji XT5.

[@jtes1442]

@@TheWutang1995 The ZF has better low-light AF and IQ; however, I hate the flip-out screen, as it's cumbersome for travel run and gun photos. I'm a Nikon guy and have been for a while. However, I find the XT5 easier to use and more suited for travel photography.

[@jtes1442]

@@fernandacostamendes2514 The ZF has better low light and AF tracking, but I prefer the LCD and the functionality (button and screen layout) of the XT5 more. The ZF is a beautiful camera but it is heavy and needs more custom buttons.

[@NiSE_Rafter]

I can't wait for more manufacturers to try something like the GH7 display that both tilts and flips to cover all circumstances. It is a bit bulky but I don't see why it couldn't get more compact over time with more R&D

[@intrinsicimagery]

I bought the Zf to be my EDC camera, and is the backup to my Z8 and Z9 for weddings.

[@ArminHirmer]

Got directly got the ETZ adapter and I can use all my small Sony lenses WITH aperture ring :) I like it

[@LimitEdit]

Does the focus work well for? I am intrested with f1.4 stuff maybe you got some experience there?

[@ArminHirmer]

@@LimitEdit 1.4 I only have manual glass, which is till fine to focus as you can punch in to the eyes. For the rest I tested 40/2.5 and 65/2 and they work great

[@chronocross85]

@@LimitEdit I'm using the megadap ETZ adapter for my ZF and I can confirm that autofocus with Sony lenses work really well. It almost feels like native at times.

[@Kevon420]

the Sony 24/1.4 GM on the Zf sounds awesome. If that lens works without any major issues I would rock that on the Zf all the time.

[@chronocross85]

@@Kevon420 I can confirm it works really well on the ZF. I borrowed my friends Sony 24 1.4 GM lens during a wedding and it worked flawlessly. Also tried the Sony 85 1.8 too which worked great as well. Right now I am rocking the Sigma 65mm F2(Sony mount) with the ZF

[@JoshuAhillyarD89]

Great review! I do disagree with the opinion that 24mp makes this not professional. I still think it's the sweet spot considering how so many people are using pro mist filters and negative clarity to soften the image.

[@benjhaisch]

ah sorry, did I say it wasn't professional?

[@JoshuAhillyarD89]

Implicitly at around the 2:20ish mark. It was a good and honest review. I'm a fuji shooter, but this is grabbing my attention. I wish the lenses had aperture rings though.

[@JoshuAhillyarD89]

Unless I misunderstood.

[@benjhaisch]

Ah ok, yeah, I just meant more that 24mp is most ideal for everyday stuff, but delivering anything over 20mp at this point in time is still enough IMO.

[@JoshuAhillyarD89]

@@benjhaisch Oh, ok. Gotcha. I'm in agreement with you. Actually, I've even used my 16mp fuji on a portrait session and it was hard to distinguish from my 26mp fuji.

[@JBurtonTenor]

I’m confused at the “hard to tell if it’s in focus” part. Why? The manual focus? Did you use peaking? “Ok” to zoom for focus confirmation?

[@benjhaisch]

The EVF just isn’t very sharp, I’ve just gotta trust that the camera is smarter than me.

[@JBurtonTenor]

@@benjhaisch wow. It seems good to me. Maybe I’ve been missing out on the awesome EVFs out there!

[@airdailyx]

I have the A7RV and have zero complaints with the Zf evf. And I use this camera 100% manual focusing vintage glass.

[@benjhaisch]

Maybe I’ve got a wrong mode or something, but I set the EVF to the highest quality ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

[@SrinidhiAithal]

Agree with your consensus regarding the screen. For a photo focused camera, they dropped the ball on having a tilt screen (or having the ability to tilt) and a high resolution screen. It’s a weird dichotomy between photo and video features, and Nikon not being able to decide what to opt for.

[@alexmilesg3]

Agreed

[@artsilva]

another thing as I'm watching this; I wish these camera reviews would show out of camera color, the native color and b&w settings rather than the reviewers "edit presets" on top of every image sample of the camera they're reviewing. I understand people want to sell their presets but please include the native camera samples as well. We click in to view the Camera results, not the reviewers editing style.... other than that this is a well rounded and concise review of the camera but please include what we will get out of camera as well

[@benjhaisch]

Haha thanks, yeah I get comments asking me to do things a different way no matter how I do them. Sometimes I’ll do SOOC then transition to the preset, but people complain about that too. Can’t win em all ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

[@artsilva]

@@benjhaisch That's cool and great that you apply your presets for those interested. All I'm saying is as someone who dives deep and researches cameras I am interested in because there is not a camera store for over a hundred miles from where I live, I have to rely on what you guys put out. Not seeing the camera handles color and temperature tone is a huge hole in the review... but I hear ya.

[@jackleung6964]

Sold my Sony A7R3 and switched over to Nikon when the ZF was announcing , no regret at all. I use Nikon’s film cameras and switching to the ZF wasn’t something that i need to get use to. The compact 28mm and 40mm made me not use my GM lenses anymore.

[@ataleoftwomusic]

While the floppy screen was a mistake (and the lack of new compact lenses isn’t ideal), I still think this camera smokes the XT5. It feels substantially better (build quality) and 24mp is plenty. This will perform so much better in low light. If you really want that film look, I would invest a little more money and get dehancer for your editing software. I do get a little frustrated by reviews of this camera, as I find there is a heavier emphasis on nitpicking issues, while Fuji gets hyped like crazy. You can’t go wrong with this camera.

[@edshotsdotcodotuk]

I feel the screen design is more like a way to force the use of the EVF over it being a vlog screen. There's probably a disconnect internally with the camera design department and the marketing department as to why it was made like that.

[@MadefromJava]

It’s funny, part of the reason I bought the Zf was because I was told my x100vi order would be back ordered. Ended up returning it because of the weight and ergonomics.

[@panino.c]

IMO, the Zf is the most important digital camera released in the mirroless age. The overall feel, combined with it's ability, in all it's full frame goodness is everything ❤️

[@IntrovertAmateur]

Great video and amazing pics as always :)! I have my Zf since release and got it mainly for photography, but also use it as my main camera for talking head for my small channel 😇 One of the small feature I really love is the dedicated b/w switch. I use it more then I expected and love the results of the SOOC results.

[@steveoreohk]

IMHO the Nikon ZF will be another legend digital cam to keep forever, just like Olympus Pen-F: 1. retro design + simplicity 2. color science 3. old lens adaptation 4. focusing system 5. nearly no lag 6. it's by far the best body (in terms of functionality) and probably the 2nd best looking (matching) for m mount lens, I have my summicron 35 & dual range plugged on it and it looks gorgeous. Needless to say they can even be AF with techart. 7... 8... 9... it's probably the most playful camera among all mirrorless camera... I do hope it can be lighter and smaller but nothing is perfect...

[@Democratiser]

In the same way the Nikon F2 was a system camera with interchangeable components (viewfinder etc), modern cameras should reintroduce interchangeable SCREENS so we can fit the floppy video screen when doing video and the tilt up for photography and avoid the bulk of the lumix and Sony multi directional screens. Any reason why this can’t be done?!

[@MandrakeCigars]

The peaking capability of the ZF is awesome. No need for the techart adapter. The 26mm, 28mm and 40mm are definitely small enough for AF when needed. Manual focus the Leica lenses as they were intended.

[@MichaelSeneschal]

I rented the Nikon Z f and was excited to try it. After two weeks of use, I found some issues. The dials would change settings every time I took the camera out of my Peak Design bag, and the ergonomics were challenging, especially with larger lenses like my Plena. Also, going back to a camera with a shutter felt like a downgrade after using the silent shutter on my Z8. I hope the upcoming Z 6iii has the same shutterless setup as the Z 8 and Z 9.

[@Tony16610]

Thanks Benj! Been waiting for this video since you teased it awhile back. I'm not in the Nikon ecosystem but have really been toying with the idea of picking this one up alongside a 40/28mm combo for travel and daily life- since my main camera will be an A7RV. I was going to get the X100VI since I've owned every X100 since the OG, but in New Zealand where I live, the wait time is something like 4-5 months and retail price is already in the same league as a body only ZF. Nikon really did right with this camera, and you gotta give them major props for it! P.S. Also really liking the Cascade 03 samples. I bought 01 and loved it- I remember reading your blog years ago and seeing your images of Turkey and loving the post-processing out of those.

[@bytomw]

Honestly super helpful Benj. cant wait for the techart video! I have used the camera in person and totally get the build quality thing. The dials feel amazing. The body is still partially plastic. Not sure why so many seem upset with the review.

[@christopherbgriffith]

Agree that the #1 issue with the Zf is the screen style. Fuji solved this problem with their tilt screen a long time ago. I'm hoping maybe a Mark II will correct this if Nikon hears it enough. Otherwise, I love this camera.

[@deathspawn54]

I absolutely love when photographers say they dont like a flippy screen, its absolutely the weirdest thing to me, it is sooo much better to use for photography then a tilt screen

[@benjhaisch]

¯\_(ツ)_/¯

[@ravishankarsharma5328]

Hello Benj, I was surprised seeing the pop up disclaimer which prompts some guilt you may on your comments about the ZF while no offense meant. I follow manybof your videos. I have owned, used and still hold many legacy Nikon Bodies despite its lack of use in this forced digital era. Having said this, I am rather shocked wity your comment on the ZF being plasticy. In which angle you feel so? It is hard not to correct you even if it is your opinion. I was given the Zfc for a trial and the momment I held the ZF later, I just felt I am back to my FA and Fm3A. It is a beautifully crafted Camera in this era of real plasticy Digital counterparts barring Fuji which I adore but this is a different level in its look and feel adding its great performance. I own the DF and though like it, the Body proportions are odd in several fronts, the height vs width and an overly sized Prism with an ubrupt handgrip curve and so on. This ZF is just perfect and not just my opinion but please scroll other responses to your comment in this forum. Lastly, good plastics are not bad if implented correctly but I will search where it is felt in this great Camera.

[@benjhaisch]

See my pinned comment on the subject :) The pop up community guidelines thing is because of the amount of direct personal attack comments I’ve had lately that have nothing to do with opinions on gear.

[@weiyang6417]

The S9 did peak my internet because of how light it was compared to the ZF. It is only my small gripe about the ZF. How cool would it be if Nikon released a titanium version of this camera in the future!

[@Reno_T]

Cool to hear your thoughts on this camera. Regarding the screen, I had the same opinion as you for a long time, the tilting screen is the ONLY solution for photography (maybe because I have been using a Fuji X-T2 since 2016). For product shots at work I like a tilting screen, but for some top-down shots an articulating screen is handy. But for my everyday and travel photography I now shoot a lot more from below (and sometimes from above) and a fully articulating screen just works better for that. A tilting screen is only usable in landscape mode, as soon as you switch to portrait it doesn't really help. So for me it really depends on the type of photography I do. I have been using the Fuji X100VI since it came out and I have to say I am definitely thinking about switching to the Nikon Zf instead… All this to say that I agree with you, having a hybrid screen like in the A7RV is the way to go 😂

[@protestagain]

I would like to have a Nikon Zf and especially with the TechArt adapter, but just the camera costs $2820 at today's exchange rate here in Norway. A Fuji GFX 100S is now $4,150 in a summer promotion, plus a $471 discount on select lenses.

[@ptrbask640]

make a trip do Sweden or Denmark and you get it cheaper

[@enshongmiranda]

The screen is my biggest gripe on this camera. Even a 3-way tilt would have been good. But still, I love the camera. Really fun to shoot with vintage lenses adapted to the TTArtisan 6-bit M-Z adapter. Trap focus is so good!

[@Original_Old_Farmer]

I hate to disagree. I shoot stills and the stuff I shoot, I need the fully articulating screen. It is not unusual for me to have the camera up in the air shooting down at an angle and firing with a remote. I can not see if the screen is on the back of the camera that I have the shot lined up. I am looking for a new camera, but I am not going to spend an extra $1,000 to get a screen to plug into the camera because the camera was not designed to but used by ALL photographers. You will not have any problems with such a screen and you don't have to use it with the screen fully extended. In fact, in most cases you can turn the screen so that it's not visible, protecting it in situations where it could be damaged. The first thing I look for is a fully articulating screen, if it doesn't have one, it is disqualified. I move on to another camera. I buy things to make my life better and/or easier. I don't buy equipment that fights with me. That means the Z8 and the Z9 are disqualified from even looking at them. Camera manufacterers, keep alienating your customers and maybe Kmart can buy you out. We all know, they understood their customers.

[@benjhaisch]

Then give us the 4-axis one :)

[@Original_Old_Farmer]

@@benjhaisch 👍

[@bennyb865]

So not plasticky but not as great as a Leica M or Q3 camera in terms of materials and build. Nikon missed a trick here because they could have tried to put out a "vintage line" or some compact lenses because lets be real the mirrorless lenses and especially Nikon's latest are HUGE (which is just what I hear you say in the review). This camera feels confused, they went for retro but their lenses defeat the purpose of this camera. The screen should be a solid screen not a flip screen and before people jump in and say they need it. Let's not forget not so long ago we had DSLRs with fixed screens and everyone used them.

[@loganwebb5449]

Totally off topic, but what soft shutter release are you rocking on that that x100vi?

[@kneadedmassage9751]

The point of the flippy screen is noted. As you said, it's a photographers camera.... so use the view finder... It gives you a better sense of the final image as your eyes and mind are bounded (one of the reasons why large format uses the cloth hood (I had a pop-open hood on my Speed Graphic that I never used).

[@benjhaisch]

It’s only for the low angle stuff and the “shoot from the hip” style photos where having a waist level finder would be useful.

[@kneadedmassage9751]

@@benjhaisch It's great for those of us over 45, as the font is big enough to see the menu options with out our glasses. Which is, probably, the target audience.

[@tigerareyouthere]

Loved this review! Exactly what I was looking for as a film shooter (with a little Fuji and a big Hassy on the side). Your photo samples convinced me, the colors are so stunning. Very filmic imo. I’m getting one!

[@dougkoontz1752]

It looks like the Zf has front and rear command control dials on the front and rear of the body. Is that correct and can you control shutter on one and appeature on those two dials? I never really want to go back to the top side dials.

[@Being_Joe]

If they made a digital S2 that be dope.

[@samuelsmith6804]

Ive not had that experience with the EVF. Its better than the EVF in my Sony. Do you have energy saver on or the diopter set wrong?

[@benjhaisch]

No, I think it may have been in the JPEG settings? It’s definitely larger though.

[@richalexander1138]

Wow the sample photos looks like 35mm! It's funny but fuji sims are so overdone that you can tell it's a sim; these shots look more true to analog. Great review!

[@JJCYouKnowMe]

Thanks for the video! I'm curious - the zF's viewfinder on paper seems to be much better than something you'd find on the Sony a7CR, but do you actually feel like it's easier to confirm a sharp focus on the Sony?

[@stefanusadrian8398]

Do you prefer sony or zf skintones? With that size and weight, does zf suitable for traveling? Almost 1kg with grip for body only

[@benjhaisch]

Nikon and Sony have been my least favorite historically, but I didn’t have any issues getting good tones from it. All brands just have different starting points

[@What_Other_Hobbies]

I have been using Nikon Zf since release, and it's been great. It's a good substitute to my D850 as a lighter travel camera. With 24-120/4 S, it's a pretty compact yet capable package. Some Z mount primes would be great, but I do not want to invest too deep into it at the moment. The cons, at least to me, I do with the dials were locked like on Fuji. It happens to me all the time that I take the camera out of my bag, and it's on +2 EV and I do not notice that until a few shots later.

[@63MacGuy]

Pros are using this camera everyday to make a living

[@POVwithRC]

@@63MacGuy A few, I'm sure.

[@noenken]

I had this camera for a brief moment and comes very close to what I would want from a retro style mirrorless. Unfortunately the "flaws" were too much for me to keep it. And all of it are design choices. - No grip and no thumbrest on the back means that you can't just have the camera hang on to your fingers, you have to constantly put pressure on it to not let it slip. The slippery texture of the pleather wrap also does not help much. So my preferred way of handling a camera (mainly having it in my right hand only until shooting) is compromised already. - But then there is also the cheap, non-textured, plasticky feel that reminds me more of toys than of cameras. Seriously, tap the display hinge with your fingernail and tell me that doesn't feel like fisher price. It's terrible! - And last but not least: The fact they went with a video screen on a camera like this is comical. What were they thinking? On a technical level this camera doesn't make a single mistake. (Well, storage but anyway...) But the chassis they put it in makes no sense to me. At all. A real shame.

[@craigcarlson4022]

Appreciate your honesty. Have been using Nikons for a good bit. Have found there is a logic to their menu organization, but agree there are long lists on each tab.

[@artsilva]

I 100% agree about the choice of articulating screen for its intended [photography] use. I would have rather nikon use the 3 way tilt screen of the Z8/Z9 and of my X-T2 and X-H1. Nikon can sometimes be a little tone deaf on their target use, something a 100 year old company should be better at.

[@DanielShapiroPhoto]

Hey man. My ZF just arrived today. I'm having a similar EVF experience. Wondering if you have an astigmatism in your right eye as well, and if that may be the issue.

[@DanielShapiroPhoto]

I called Nikon and explained everything. The rep was really nice. They took my info and will escalate the issue. I'll let you know what they say.

[@katyc24]

I have astigmatism but don’t have issues with this EVF. There was another KZbinr that mentioned problem with the evf but turned out to be jpg settings that he changed which affected what he saw in the evf. The other thing could be the diopter ?

[@mbvburn]

I have the same issue with EVF. Did Nikon come back to you?

[@benjhaisch]

The JPEG profile definitely makes a difference, but I’m still trying to work out the best thing to do

[@mbvburn]

@@benjhaisch cheers Ben, I will give that a try.

[@mlwadester87]

Ya, coming from the Fuji cameras I would agree the Zf is a bit of a plastic feel. I moved to one in place of my X100vi and have loved the move. Think the Zf autofocus is significantly better and love the files, by comparison.

[@RobertJinks]

Love my ZF! Definitely agree about the pocket-ability, it's not that type of camera. Along that line, what camera do you recommend for pocket-ability? I'm looking for something for easygoing, everyday carry, especially when I have my kids around. I can't handle a camera like the ZF when I have to be quick with the kids.

[@esppics21]

I use the megadap adapter with a Samyang 35mm 2.8 and it's amazingly well. I can adapt all my Sony glass to it. I'm just waiting for Sigma to make some small F2 lenses like their 35mm F2 or 24mm F2 to use on this camera. This camera is dying for small compact lenses. I agree with the rear screen and it would be nice to have joystick.

[@RamonLinares]

I was about to buy it the other day as a ‘everyday camera’ but I decided to go with the Z5 instead after testing both in the shop. I find it too heavy for me and it lacks a comfortable grip. It looks amazing, though.

[@ImVengeance127]

I think it just carries the weight differently. It’s only 35g heavier than the Z5 but the Z5 does feel a lot lighter for some reason.

[@catrule9]

Wild! Are you from the west coast? I saw Coastal Renaissance and recognized the ferry (I live in vic). Glad to have you out here checking out the beautiful PNW.

[@benjhaisch]

Yep! I live in Tacoma, WA, but my brother and his family live in Ucluelet, so we’re up there quite a bit!

[@poniatowski3547]

Not a plasticky camera. I have no issues with the evf - I wonder if you messed up setting your diopter? Why would you want to use the tachart adapter for AF with M mount glass. This camera has 100% zoom in, focus assist & peaking & confirmation. with these aides MF is fast and accurate. That techart adapter sounds good but in reality no thanks - You cant hold/support the lens because if you do you'll impede and then break the adapter has it tries to move the lens in and out, thus you have to use a sub optimal hold on the camera. Since when is 24MP not professional? By that metric the SL2S isn't one either.

[@benjhaisch]

-Diopter is set correctly. -I’ve got an entire video on it. -24mp is great and professional, I’m more saying that it’s most ideal for personal use (in comparison to the X100VI new 40mp sensor). Never said it wasn’t pro.

[@westdk6705]

Thanks for review Benj - Top quality as always 🙋🇩🇰

[@jklphoto]

Ya lost me at 12:40 Benj. Comparing it to the Lumix S5ii makes sense. Not the S9. They are both FF, similar price and offer a pentaprism-style EVF and IBIS.

[@Hippoeater]

Great video! Do you happen to know where you got that soft release shutter button from? Thanks!

[@gaprofitt]

Do I get this and the 26mm and 40 or the X100vi?

[@photomorti]

Nikon allmost sold me on this camera but i didnt find the EVF good enough and the horrible side flippy screen turned me off. Hopefully we see a nikon ZF 2 in the future with better specs on these things.

[@KillerTacos54]

Wow I was not expecting this video, but I can’t complain! Fantastic Benj, as always

[@wilsonsantos384]

I believe this camera is not plastic, the ZFc yes. I heard is metal construction

[@Kevon420]

If Nikon release a handful of high quality compact f2 or f1.7 primes for Z mount with this camera in mind, it will be basically perfect...maybe with a software update to fix how Auto ISO works too.

[@babyboy1971]

I’m seriously thinking of ditching my X100V and XT5 and replacing them with the Nikon ZF.

[@ataleoftwomusic]

I was between an XT5 and a ZF. I went with the ZF and haven’t regretted it one bit.

[@thisistomorrow3293]

Wait what? You´ve been raving about the Sony A7Cr and the Panasonic S9 (which doesn´t even have a viewfinder) and you say that the viewfinder and EVF experience on the Nikon isn´t great? Sony 2360k dots vs Nikon 3690k dots ? What are you talking about? Come on man...

[@benjhaisch]

The A7CR EVF is abysmal lol

[@thisistomorrow3293]

@@benjhaisch I know, that´s why I´m surprised you didn´t mention that in your `The Most Versatile Camera Money Can Buy ` video.

[@benjhaisch]

@thisistomorrow3293 everything has trade offs, EVF is an experience thing. Doesn’t make it less versatile ;)

[@thisistomorrow3293]

@@benjhaisch But the Sony is $1000 more than the Nikon which has better EVF and more affordable lenses... And it´s only $500 more than the Panasonic Lumix S9 without EFV and no mechanical shutter ?

[@benjhaisch]

@@thisistomorrow3293 the real comparison at that point would be the A7CII. Really similar in specs. But hey, love all of the options.

[@Cleverconveyence]

I wish it wasnt so easy to lose the soft shutter releaae buttons. Feel like they dont screw in quite enough

[@Jparkss]

I have the zfc and I love it, I first started in the Nikon d200 and went to Fuji x100s and I’m not really feeling Fuji that much as I thought I was. My main issue with Fuji is the obsession with trying to make a great film simulation look rather then just going out and shooting. With my d200 I would just go out and shoot and maybe edit a photo when I’m done but with the x100s I’m constantly trying to get the best color look out of the camera. The zfc for me is compact and the image quality is amazing. I thought a single built in lens was for me but the interchangeable lenses are more of my feel now. Nothing wrong with Fuji it’s just a little too much with the film simulations that got me off guard.

[@frankphotography8470]

Yay, been checking your channel for this one weekly 😂

[@jandekker6008]

Voigtlander makes tasty Z mount lenses that aren't huge. Also, you're the first of the many reviewers I've seen describe this body as plasticky. I've used an FM2 (which I thought was a bit too lightweight) and Nikkormat EL (reassuringly brassy and heavy) in past lives. Is this somewhere between the two?

[@benjhaisch]

I think it’s the difference between holding my F2 and this and then the hinge on the screen feeling chunky but not exactly in a good way.

[@benjhaisch]

And yes! I’d love to try the 40/1.2 on here and even the 50/1.0

[@hatonafox5170]

“This is the camera that people for years have been asking Fujifilm to make.” Huh?! In what way? The XT series is that classic film camera style with the same exposure triangle dials as this camera. If you mean a full-frame sensor…nah no one is asking for that. There would be zero lenses to use with a Fuji full frame plus the GFX series is beloved for those who want more resolution.

[@donganhnguyen6160]

How did you know "NO ONE IS ASKING FOR THAT" ? LOL Trying to be smart???

[@ptrbask640]

I like that wide photo at 7:55

[@JoseTheRover]

This is a camera that I’ve thought about for a while.

[@nicolasb.3809]

Are you really comparing the X100V and the Zf ? There is nothing to compare except that you can just take picture with both of them… Besides that I don’t see any reasoning but mainly comments and quite awkward ones (zf feel plasticky, focusing « issue », sharpening « issue »…) I must say that I was expecting more relevance.

[@benjhaisch]

The amount of people who are considering both is significant. Yes they’re different cameras, but they’re very much marketed at the same people.

[@felm.974]

Why do KZbinrs and photographers love using the word "plasticky" instead of saying something more positive sounding like "high quality" plastic? The camera isn't entirely made of plastic, and if it was, you all would complain that it is heavy, more than it already is lol... which I'm ok with. I think it is a great camera, full with great features, if we focus on all the few negatives, that's all we would see, SMH.

[@benjhaisch]

Maybe because we handle most of the cameras on the market and part of the value of having a channel is hearing the opinions ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ parts of it feel chunky and parts of it feel a little cheap. I’ve seen multiple others say the same thing. What’s funny is that I felt like I was really positive about this camera and even told people they should buy it. But if I’m not pointing out the things that I see as negative, it’s not a review at all, it’s just a puff piece.

[@abdullahbangura8494]

You can’t edit RAW format on apple one year after release 😒

[@tombube49]

I dont know why the z-mount lenses like 35 1.8 are so long. A 50 1.8 like the canon one would be great

[@andyphotoandfilm]

great review. now nikon has to implement LUTS and there's your vintage looking full frame with filmlike ooc jpgs. though the b+w colours are really great. and its about time nikon makes a AF adapter for their old lenses, i've still got a 35 and 50 i never sold when switching from nikon d7000 to sony.

[@vaughntoller6979]

So beautiful...the precious...we wants it!

[@kristoffergo6294]

Damn man! I usually love your reviews but this one feels rushed and not even well researched. The screen is amazing since you can hide the screen and have the leather outward like the "film" cameras. And you have alot of points that are a bit so so..

[@fireinthechoir]

Came here to say the same thing. It honestly felt like he barely knew anything about the camera. Lots of "I'm not sure" and "I feel like." He didn't even mention any of the standout features, like the focus-point priority IBIS, or how the active focus point will still show if your image is in focus even in MF mode. Definitely felt rushed.

[@benjhaisch]

@realityhack. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ I’ve been using the camera daily for almost two months. This isn’t a feature overview video, it’s meant to be talking on my experience using the camera. Plenty of other videos with that stuff though if that’s your thing.

[@kristoffergo6973]

It's ok man. I know you love Leicas. I get that. We are all biased in some form or another. But Nikon finally made a retro styled camera that is a full frame with the price point that is reasonable and everyone can buy it. I am only clapping for Nikon for doing it. No one else will do it besides Leica. What's your other options? None..

[@benjhaisch]

What’s funny is I though I mostly spent the entire video praising the camera. I’m trying to figure out what camera I want to sell to buy one for myself.

[@fireinthechoir]

​@@benjhaischfair enough. It just felt like you barely talked about how you actually *felt* when shooting with it. You show a bunch of sample photos and then jump directly into talking about the menu system and dials.

[@rickyleung2576]

Honesty don't understand why this brick has to weight 700g. It's very awkward to hold, it's huge, and defeats the point of an EDC camera

[@ironmonkey1512]

It's bigger than a aps-c camera? Why is this surprising?

[@walterlyle6323]

Been waiting for this one

[@Michael-ms1ct]

same here!

[@krolldavid]

I agree with you. I just looked at it in the shop and it didn’t look as beautifully made as older cameras to me. To Fujifilm’s credit, their cameras look well made and detailed to me, like the xt3 etc., basically not plasticky.

[@JadeWisdom]

You said "26 2.8", corrected yourself on screen to "28 2.8". Do you not realize there actually is a 26mm 2.8, that actually features a metal lens mount, and is smaller than both the 28 and 40? This felt like an extremely undereducated review lmao.

[@benjhaisch]

I’m aware, but that’s not the lens I was specifically referring two as the ones sort of made to pair with this camera specifically (even having vintage styling for the ZF). But sure, please insult my intelligence:)

[@thomaschamberlin2485]

That flippy screen is the number one worst user experience for that camera. In a retro film camera! Also, not making the shutter button accept a remote shutter release cable. They even threaded it! Instead you are forced to use bluetooth for remote shutter release. In a a retro camera! Two huge misses. It certainly was not designed by a boomer who actually ever used a film camera. I might get a Z6iii just because of that damned flippy screen, I can't stand it.

[@selishots]

I really want to check this camera out!

[@cjbtlr]

Fujifilm wont make this camera because they already have the GFX. They have no interest in full frame.

[@mathieumorel448]

It could be a great camera, but Nikon just don't have any lenses to match it... They need lenses like fuji did, with all the controls and a manual/auto switch or clutch... Otherwise, why would you get this camera?

[@CAS_Photography]

I don’t get what’s going on with the fools in Fuji .. let’s announce a new camera hype it up … and only release 300 and have them back ordered for 3 years… what????? This is why I don’t bother with Fuji anymore I mean WTF are they doing????

[@DirkMenker]

I’m also looking forward to this...

[@joeschmoe1301]

Nikon has always been famous for Crappie menus. Canons are famous for great menus. Kinda like the PC and Mac difference.

[@ThoughtFission]

JUst too big for me. Love the camera, but wouldn't pick it up on the way out the door. Keep wishing someone else would make another (non rangefinder) M11 that the rest of us can afford.

[@simpics-simonschneider]

I agree - the screen sucks. z8/9 solution is great but with this they are ruining the experience

[@Eliehbk]

Benj - you ROCK!

[@migueltrujillo5932]

Plasticly as when it overheats smell like an old plastic radio from the 50s with the bulbs red hot inside?

[@RobberZhi]

Hadn’t considered the Jnco angle.

[@davidfromborneo259]

I am waiting for XE 5 next year

[@laika25]

Why wouldn't it? (live up...)

[@b.2221]

Think you put your foot 🦶 in it, this camera is anything but plasticky. Other than that not a bad review.

[@CianMcsweeney]

compared to his film Nikons and his digital leica M's the zf definitely could be called plasticky

[@benjhaisch]

Majority of cameras are these days, not necessarily a bad thing.

[@b.2221]

@@benjhaisch Point taken Sir.

[@Holl.Mvrk.]

@@benjhaischI totally back you up on this statement. This camera I have been told by so many feels like a tank. When I finally got my hands on it, the first thought was plastic, but the dials feel good. Sorry Nikon lovers. The XT5 feels way more tank like in the hand imo. But nothing feels as good as my Q2 😝😝😝😂