Bird Photography with the Nikon Z6 | Wildlife Photography Review

[@jamesleagas5857]

Hey, cool vid, love the idea of simple to locate urban wildlife, perfect for easy practise for beginners like myself. I recently bought a nikon d7100 and a sigma 150-600mm contemporary lens. What do u think of that kit for wild life? My first dslr and hopefully its good for me to begin with and get some decent shots? When time comes what would u say should be my next nikon camera? Whats a good upgrade? Whats the d500 like compared to my camera if paired with my sigma 150-600? Thanks alot, good job pal

[@TomMasonPhoto]

The camera sounds like a great starting point, I don't have any experience with the sigma, but I know the 200-500 Nikon performs great on DX bodies for wildlife so it should give you perfect range. The D500 is a great upgrade but TBH I'd invest in lenses, a 300 F4 prime or something to give you the best possible IQ. Lenses hold value where as bodies are always being updated. Thanks for watching, and more videos on route soon!

[@koolkutz7]

Hi James. I have the Nikon D7500 paired with the Sigma 150-600mm C lens & it works perfectly so far. I mainly photograph & film wildlife and have got some great results with that set-up. The D7500 has the exact same 20.9MP sensor & processor as the D500, just not as robust & only 1 card slot but the image quality is superb overall. I would consider getting a sturdy tripod like a Manfrotto 055 series and a gimbal head (like Tom uses in this video) - I use a 'Lensmaster' one that cost about £150 but it is worth it for steady shots, especially crucial for video work. Hope that helps.

[@FlyersNation98]

Ah Cobh....always a nice spot to overview Cork's bay! Enjoy your stay over there, missing Ireland very much myself!

[@TomMasonPhoto]

Cheers - it’s a great spot and has some cracking views over the bay. I’m looking forwards to a few weeks shooting before back UK side for more work and new projects!

[@TomMasonPhoto]

@@FlyersNation98 I shall be here on and off for a good few months and have been the last few years so know the place well, west cork is gorgeous and also the whole of Ireland has some wonderful locations. Ill certainly be exploring more in some future videos and shooting some landscapes etc! Cheers, Tom

[@kontrolla1]

Great video Tom and very interesting to get your take as a wildlife photographer on the Z6. Makes sense to use it for video and as a backup body. Hopefully Nikon will start making some longer primes and zooms for the Z mount once they have delivered the lenses in the current roadmap (do you think they will?). In the meantime it looks like the F to Z adapter is doing an acceptable job but I am going to stick with the D850 for now. I am using the Fuji X-H1 for video which I have only recently started to get into.

[@TomMasonPhoto]

Cheers Paul, It would be great to see some longer Z mount lenses in the next few years, I think we will see a 300-600mm range lens in the second set of announcements, possibly a long soon that would be great. I'm actually looking forward to a small 70-200 as well. The D850 will be staying my main for a fair while, I have so much great F mount glass and the D850 is just simply superb. Thanks for watching!

[@doblebo]

D500 and 200-500mm i had issues autofocus on birds on the water (would focus on water) or sometimes birds in trees (would focus on branch). Does the z6 assist with overcoming this?

[@GingerPhotographer]

Fantastic video, thank you for sharing!

[@TomMasonPhoto]

Cheers Dude!

[@doghouseriley4732]

Trialed this camera some time ago. Shockingly slow autofocus. Somehting that would be useful in a wildlife camera, you would have thought

[@YabannPenceresi]

I just discovered the channel. You're doing pretty good work. Well Done...

[@jmwlaw2000]

The key point here is that it is really only excellent if the birds aren’t moving. If they are moving, the D500 and D850 are far superior. I have a D500 and it tracks so well that it is so easy to shoot moving subjects. This also is the same issue with shooting sports action. If you have the long primes then the D850 is superior. But the primes are a fortune. I prefer the D500 and my 70-200 Fl Nikon lens and the 200-500. I am not going to spend 10k for a prime so I will use the DX sensor with extra reach. If the next generation mirrorless has the tracking of the D500, D5 or the D850, that will be something to consider. However, the lighter weight of the mirrorless means little when you place a 3 or 4 pound lens on it. It ultimately comes down to what you like to photograph. Portraits and landscapes are excellent on the Z6. Sports or wildlife shooting is another matter. I also hope the next generation mNikon mirrorless will protect the sensor when you change lenses. My friend has a Z7 and has had issues with dust on the sensor caused by changing lenses in the field.

[@TomMasonPhoto]

I certainly agree in regards to the D500 and D850 for tracking. For video, travel, landscape and a load of other types of shooting the Z6 is wonderful, however when the action kicks off, the D850 will firmly be in my hand! On the big prime like the 300 2.8 it is just simply stunning and certainly my favourite combination for longer reach work. The 200-500 as you say is an excellent all round performer. The new 70-200 FL how are you finding it, I'm tempted to upgrade from my VR II, however know it will be quite an investment and might wait it out for a new version now/ possibly one for the Z series. I know its supposed to be very good indeed so really am considering it ahead of some big trips planned for end 2019/2020! Cheers, Tom

[@KungPowEnterFist]

If you want a D500 or D850, then by all means. Its a choice now to use mirrorless, just like it is a choice to use APS-C vs FF. Are there any current mirrorless cameras that can rival a D500/D850 for sports action right now? Nope. But there will be. And when it happens all DSLR's will instantly become obsolete. I disagree with your comment about the weight. Overall weight, to me, is actually more important than balance. You dont want something horribly unbalanced, for example, with 90% at one end. But sports cameras end up being carried more than they are being aimed at a subject. Overall weight matters more, because thats what youve got to take with you on your back or shoulder. And If you can shave one pound off the setup, its one less pound acting on a sling rubbing into your neck. Dust is an issue for every interchangeable lens camera I have ever had. Every single one of them.

[@Robert-R]

@@KungPowEnterFist For me it's more about ergonomics than weight. While it's nice to have a lighter camera body, I find the smaller size more difficult to handle. I always use grips on my DSLR cameras (D7000 and D810) to get the larger form factor, which I find easier to manage.

[@KungPowEnterFist]

@@Robert-R Its fine if it works for you. Thats all that matters. Are you willing to carry it? If yes, then go for it. For me, battery grips are nothing but a burden. It makes a too heavy and too big camera even heavier and bigger. And If its too heavy and too big, its staying back at camp or in my car. It will not be slung around my shoulder and ready to shoot. So why bother bring it at all?

[@AntonAnoshyn]

Hi, cool shots,mat be you know if z6 shot raw photos with electronic shutter?

[@TomMasonPhoto]

With the silent shooting applied the Z6 still shots Raw images, in the 12FPS Mode you're are reduced to 12 bit compared to 14 bit at 5.5 Fps however, Cheers, Tom

[@tigermike111]

Just a remark: „Electronic shutter“ and „silent shooting“ are two different things. You can use (and should) EFS (electronic front curtain) with every shot until approx. 1/2000 with 14bit RAW. Only silent shooting reduces the quality to 12bit RAW.

[@robbiedeville]

I’ve decided that I’m gonna get a D500 instead of a D850. So I can really learn how to get the best out of a camera, learning to walk before I can run.

[@JakeGriffithsPhotography]

Great Choice! I've had the D500 for almost half a year now and can say its an amazing body! Great Buy!

[@robbiedeville]

Good, plus I won’t be spending as much and have more to go towards lenses and a xqd card.

[@JakeGriffithsPhotography]

@@robbiedeville atleast you can always upgrade to the d850 years down the line if you wish and still have the lenses to fit. What lens you looking at getting? Like Tom I highly recommend the Nikon 200-500

[@TomMasonPhoto]

The D500 isa great camera and for the price it’s truly a bargain - add a 300 f4 or a 200/500 and you’ll have a great kit for wildlife photography - the. Save up for a fast prime and invest in good lenses is the best way to upgrade for the future. Cheers, Tom

[@robbiedeville]

Thanks for the advice, if you got time take a look at my Instagram account robbiede-ville and give me some pointers.

[@jamescook5931]

What camera are you shooting this video on? It looks great...

[@torstenlarsson555]

Thanks Tom! Nice video, beautiful pictures! 👍 :-) Could you please make a video about how z6 works together with manual lenses (focus peaking etc.) ?

[@LegoBuildersMOC]

Is it weird to shoot into other people’s properties? I would feel weird if I did that but maybe the etiquette is different over there on that side of the pond.

[@TomMasonPhoto]

In most of the cases I was working shooting over buildings, onto roofs and making images that look to not include and obviously define properties - I always make sure not to point my lens at any windows etc and for the garden work I actually knocked on the door and spoke to the lady who was very kind and more than happy to let me photograph in her garden. She even offered me a coffee! Cheers, Tom

[@alm7539]

Tried the Z6 and z7 at nighttime during a soccer international game. Initially it focuses fast but as stated with movement it lost all tracking capability and ended up with 1photo in every 9 FPS on the Z7 or 1 photo in 12 FPS on the Z6 sharp on tracking was major disappointment . New firmware update with Eye AF announced to include the CF Express cards will it make any difference I do wonder will it sort out the focusing and tracking issues or a newer version needed.

[@nikhilchitteti4499]

Dear Tom Pls do a video on Z6 with firmware update@Wildlife

[@TomMasonPhoto]

It will be coming out next!

[@nikhilchitteti4499]

@@TomMasonPhoto Kindly also share info on How to safeguard XQD cards as they are pretty expensive D500 vs Z6 pls help with selection in ur video (2mins of short talk) if possible

[@antonoat]

Another interesting video Tom, thanks. Just a couple of questions if you have a minute. Does the 3002.8vr work ok with the lens adaptor on the Z6 &Z7? Also you've been using the Gitzo gimbal for sometime now, just wondered if it is still performing well and living up to expectations? Thanks very much if you have time to answer, cheers, tony.

[@TomMasonPhoto]

Hey Tony, the Gimbal is great - actually working on a full review this week hopefully. Really enjoying it and happy with it. A few niggles but nothing Really that would put you off purchasing. The FTZ adaptor works well with the 300 2.8, focus always seems to work well, I’ve had not problems with disconnections or anything like that and even with the 1.4 Tc it functions as I would expect. On other lenses the FTZ work well to and across the board with all my lenses I haven’t seen any real problems using the adaptor. Cheers, Tom

[@PPMOCRG]

I have a Z6 also, and no problems with the adapted lenses. They work well and the images are outstanding.

[@KungPowEnterFist]

Thanks for making these, Tom. Those are difficult conditions for shooting birds. Also, at least some of those birds are hard to shoot in any conditions.

[@TomMasonPhoto]

Cheers, I really enjoy getting out and making these videos as well as the images, always nice to work on something a little different too rather than lots of the pre made hides and such lots of people shoot from. Lots more to come in 2019!

[@garymorrison277]

Hi Tom, I just got this month's copy of N photo magazine and surprise surprise who's in it 👊.

[@TomMasonPhoto]

Cheers Gary, I haven’t seen the article yet, I’ve got to pick one up on route to the photo show tomorrow!

[@uksteve43]

Thanks for this Tom, as i live in a suburban surrounding I always want to get away to the wilds and parkland but this says I am missing what is right in front of me and gives me a chance to try different compositions. Great video

[@TomMasonPhoto]

Cheers Steve, people always think the wild is the best place however local work always enables us to make great images and access subjects consistently. Consistency is the key for wildlife photography. Certainly get out and try some new compositions, it would be great to see some on the Facebook group that Ill get round too soon! Cheers, Tom

[@FrankNeulichedl]

Great video and perspective. I use DSLRs for most of my photography and I have mirrorless "always in my bag" and I understand the value of the different systems. I love new kit, but I got to the conclusion that (obviously) most new cameras aren't there for the people who already bought into a system, but are geared towards newcomers to the photography world. That's why I think all the commenters stating "I will still use my XYZ" are correct, because the times where you needed to upgrade are over. But for that reason they are also of no interest to the camera companies (for new cameras --- lenses is bit different) and will not change their opinion. Obviously the people most interested in cameras are people who already have cameras ... :D What do you think about that conundrum ?

[@jonnomarshall]

Wheresbouts did you film this Tom?

[@TomMasonPhoto]

I’m over in Cork, Ireland. Cheers Tom

[@jonnomarshall]

@@TomMasonPhoto I thought it looked familiar. I live in crosshaven. Looks like you were across the way in Cobh or Monkstown way?

[@TomMasonPhoto]

Dude really? I'm going to be over that way in the next few weeks for a project I'm working on!

[@jonnomarshall]

@@TomMasonPhoto I look forward to watching the video of that!

[@paulcreamers9870]

I will stick to the d850 only thing about mirror less cameras is dust on the sensor when changing lenses as there is no mirror.

[@TomMasonPhoto]

I must admit it is strange seeing the sensor when you take the lenses off! I think in dusty and mucky conditions I'' certainly be keeping them on the camera and switching as little as possible! The D850 will certainly be staying my main camera for a good while, although ill be quite interested if we get a D6 with 12-14 fps, advanced video features with a nice 30mp sensor and low light performance. But that won't be something id add to the kit till late 2019/2020 if it does happen!

[@paulcreamers9870]

Yes a d6 would be awesome alright

[@Outdoor.pixels]

Great video Tom! 👍🏻

[@TomMasonPhoto]

Cheers Austin!

[@robbiedeville]

The 200-500 f/5.6 is the first lens I’m going for, as for upgrading in years to come there could be a new version of the D850 or the z8 could be out and that could be a whole new level but I’ll cross that bridge when I get too it.

[@maxieq]

Great video, as usual. I have a slight phobia about photographing people in the street, so I'm not sure how I'd feel about lugging around that lens to be honest. :)

[@TomMasonPhoto]

It can be tough shooting in urban locations - I’ve spent Im time I waders jumping in rivers in town centres - long says lugging big lenses in cities so I’ve kinda got used to it however at first it’s a little odd. People always want to look at what you’re photographing and often seem disappointed when it’s “just” some wildlife! I’ve always enjoyed a little street and travel photography as well and so getting used to shooting in public is key. It’s something that that you have to push through if you want certain images! Cheers, Tom

[@SundayRacers]

I've always felt quite self concious using a telephoto lens in an urban environment. Try using that big 300 in London and see how quick the cops turn up!

[@TomMasonPhoto]

I’ve used one a few times but often you have to try and be a little stealth! Always people want to know what you’re shooting and that can be a hassle with wildlife for sure!

[@SundayRacers]

@@TomMasonPhoto I was out with my 80-400 a couple of years ago and got stopped and questioned by the police for about 15 minutes. They were cool though. Once they realised I wasn't a terrorist, they let me go about my business

[@Adventure.Ed.EcoFit]

great video. random question but do you know how much of a following (like how much watch time or number of subscribers wildlife photographers need before having enough leverage to be able to get free deals from brands, like sending you free equipment?

[@TomMasonPhoto]

TBH no idea on the actual amount - I’ve been a pro since I was 19, semi pro whilst I was at school and so have built up clients and brand followings over many years in the field. It’s just a lot of hard graft, effort and persistence!

[@JakeGriffithsPhotography]

Great Video as always Tom, this camera looks so nice! Just out of curiosity what do you use to record your audio for videos? do you have a mic on you and record to an external device then sync it in editing or do you just use a mic connected to the camera?

[@maxieq]

Unfortunately, audio is one of Nikon's low-points. My own Nikon's preamps are quite hissy and tinny. I think I've seen videos about the Z6 where that's the case too. Personally, I use a shotgun mic connected to my Android phone with an app simply called Audio Recorder. You need a TRRM adapter for any mic, most likely, or the phone won't record audio from an external mic. I think Röde has an adapter for about €15. The audio comes out much better than it does if I use my Nikon.

[@TomMasonPhoto]

So I work with a couple of systems - often I use a Lav mic connected to a Zoom H1 in my pocket and sync in post or work with the Rode filmmaker kit in the studio type setting. When using the Zoom I also have a shotgun mic on the hotshoe giving me a second emergency track of Audio that’s helpful in certain situations and also when I want some ambient sounds to mix in. Hope that helps, cheers, Tom

[@JakeGriffithsPhotography]

@@TomMasonPhoto this is great, definitely helps! Cheers

[@ozmid40scouple]

Always look forward to your uploads but "starlings"? Introduced vermin here in Australia..... I think some of the people from other parts of the world and maybe even yourself Tom would be like a kid in a candy store here in Australia. Such a large selection of unique birds to be found everywhere...from small fairywrens to large Raptors like our largest bird of prey the might Wedge-tailed Eagle......

[@TomMasonPhoto]

Haha yes, however here starlings are pretty awesome - amazing to hear them mimicking calls and urban sounds. I’m sure in Aus there are boat loads of amazing birds - just like we have in the UK - myself I’ve been lucky to go to some amazing places birding such as the Amazon, Falklands and parts of Europe big Aus is somewhere I hope to get to one day! All the best, Tom

[@TheClosedpalm]

@@TomMasonPhoto Im an australian and I have to say starlings are one of my favorite birds to photograph. They have amazing feather detail and ive never subscribed to the opinion that because something is more common its less interesting.

[@Gazzab6]

If I wanted reliability, I would have a D500 in my bag way before a Z6 or Z7. I'm getting fed up with photographers getting a camera to try and give it a good review hoping to get a freebie. Yes Tom mentioned the Z6 negatives but all I hear from other photographers is "oh the Z6 / Z7is good at this and that, but, but, but..... If you want to shoot fast action and wildlife, for the money the D500 is king. I noticed one photographer on You Tube who bought a D4S and made out he captured all his images on his D4S but during the video, he was viewing the images he captured on the back of a D500. The reason was he couldn't get the reach with his D4S but like some photographers, they want to show off as if to say, look what I've bought, instead of being happy with a crop sensor camera that delivers the goods.

[@TomMasonPhoto]

For me the Z6 purchase was for one thing and one thing alone, video with my Nikon lenses. And so far it’s been a game changer for me on that, compared to previous cameras etc. My Go to daily camera is the D850 however and I believe for wildlife it’s better than the D500. I often don’t need reach because I love more contextual images so the higher MP and gorgeous DR are worth every penny. Also when I’m DX mode I have basically the D500 however with more options for wider images as well. For me that’s awesome. For those on a budget the D500 is a steal with great performance and AF etc but if you like more contextual images and highest image quality the D850 is king IMO!

[@Gazzab6]

Tom Mason I have to agree with that Tom if you don't need to crop that much.

[@NaturalWorldChew]

👍

[@martinpenneyMP]

I wouldn't be comfortable with someone out side of my house with a long lens taking pictures of my property.