It's Time to UPDATE the Nikon Z9

[@mattgranger]

What features do you want to see in a Z9 Replacement?? All my links - linktr.ee/mattgranger

[@iconicon3108]

I thoughtfully disagree about releasing a Z9ii and I've been saying this even on other YT camera channels.. The Z5ii and Z7iii aren't out yet and then Nikon should jump the gun and release a Z9ii that doesn't make sense .. I doubt a lot of people use this camera to the fullest potential or maybe do you? Releasing one would be overkill at the moment considering the R1 and All aren't better in regard to video. So, if your objective, this not the time to be talking about a Z9ii. Great analysis anyway.

[@AlmousaMohammed]

Nikon deserves recognition for their relentless effort to improve their cameras without burdening existing owners. Instead of packaging updates into a new body and selling it as a separate product, they focus on enhancing what we already have, making our cameras better and more capable. Well done, Nikon!

[@inspiredartphotos]

I agree totally!

[@borisgalos6967]

Note the Z 9 shipped only three years ago. The first batch was released on December 23rd, 2021.

[@davidmurphy7847]

Just got back from the arctic circle shooting polar bears with the Z9. Flawless performance with thousands of frames. Battery lasted all day in cold weather. Would not shoot with any other brand.

[@dafyddthomas7299]

agree; Z8 is handy also; my only bug bear with that ; was the Luggs issue and the Battery grip not having option to use the extremely handy and handy D4-D6, Z9 battery

[@michealhall4512]

I've been shooting with two Z9 bodies since their release in December of 2021 (three years ago, not four). I've owned and shot extensively with the D1x, D3s, D4s and D5, so I've got some history with the Nikon flagship line. The Z9s are truly excellent cameras - I haven't used any other camera since I purchased them. I even use as hiking and walking around cameras in spite of their weight. Nikon has improved them in just about every way possible via firmware, which is awesome. It really has been like getting new cameras with these major firmware updates. In terms of improvements for a new model, I'd be happy to see pre-capture RAW, but it only matters to me if I can dial the number of frames captured way down. I don't need even 1/4 second of pre-capture. Even 5 frames are way too many for me. Being able to dial it down to only 1 or 2 frames of pre-capture would be great. I'd also really like to see pre-capture enabled via a button toggle (like you can cycle through AF modes). I don't need pre-capture when photographing a huddle or on court portraits and the extra frames just add download, processing and culling time to my workflow. I need to be able to keep that to a minimum. I'd like to see a re-design of the body - the vertical grip in particular. On the Dx series bodies, reaching the FN buttons without having to do any hand gymnastics while the camera was in vertical orientation was quite comfortable and easy. On the Z9, I can't reach a single FN button without having to shift my hand and that compromises my grip. Ideally, I'd like to see Nikon take a page out of Canon's design book and implement dedicated vertical FN buttons so that I can get the full benefit of all three buttons. 95% of my work is shot vertical orientation. I lose out on a whole lot of the customization options at the moment. Some simple changes in the grip would handle that. I'd like to see a multi-pressure shutter button. One that allows for half press for metering/focus, and then two additional pressures for shooting - with the ability to assign particular frame rates to the additional pressures. I regularly shoot at 20FPS RAW though I don't really need the full 20FPS. I could happily shoot at 12-14 FPS normally for action, but I don't want to lose access to the full frame rate at certain moments without any other dedicated button press. Just "push harder" on the shutter button to get full frame rate. This is especially true if Nikon steps up the frame rate to something like 30+ FPS in the next iteration of the body. I'd appreciate improvements in Nikons AF algorithms - particularly when shooting faces through obstacles. I'm a volleyball photographer and while I can get excellent results through the net, it takes a very specific technique and it's not 100% successful. Sometimes it's only 50-ish percent, sometimes it's 80%, it depends on the lighting on the court. I've found that highly specular overhead light that casts sharp details on the face really makes a huge difference in the number of in focus frames. Too often, focus grabs the net, even with human subject detection turned on and a custom AF Group limited to one square placed over the subject's face. Canon's R1 has intrigued me with its dedicated AI training for volleyball, but not enough to tempt me into buying back into the system (from the 1D - 1DmkIII I shot Canon - it's was the incredible D3s high ISO performance and the multiple failures in Canon's 1D line that brought me back to Nikon). Extra points if Nikon puts in the effort to train the cameras on specific sports! I've got no complaints with the Z9s stacked sensor, but a global shutter interests me for its flash syncing benefits. I shoot outdoor with flash fairly often and would love to be able to sync at basically any speed. Right now, being limited to 1/200 and having to resort to ND filters is far from ideal. However, if the global shutter brings with it major compromises in DR and noise, that makes it less interesting to me. On the customization front, just let us assign anything we want to basically any button. And I'd really like to see an external configuration (web based for cross platform simplicity?) utility that allows us to customize the camera and generate settings files (extra points if they can be shared and synced like Picture Styles via Nikon's online services). And allow me to tie custom settings and custom shooting banks together so that they are changed at the same time. The ability to cycle through AF area modes on button push is really useful and I would like to see that for Drive modes and Metering modes as well. I know Nikon's design philosophy for flagship cameras has long been button push + dial turn to change a setting, but being able to cycle through settings quickly via the button push is just so darned useful. A higher resolution EVF would be welcome. When shooting, I don't mind the current resolution at all, but when reviewing images, it's lower resolution is notable. I'd love to see higher quality JPGs in 120FPS JPG shooting. I use that for particular coverage types and even generate slow motion video from them. But there is notable aliasing and detail loss - I typically only deliver in HD as the down sampling hides the imperfections. Oh, and one bug I'd like see fixed - the Z9 will not automatically adjust the shooting ISO when changing focal lengths using a variable aperture zoom and shooting 120 FPS. For example, shooting the Tamron 35-150 f/2-2.8 in manual exposure at 20FPS RAW, the camera will adjust the ISO upward as you zoom in and the aperture narrows - but not when shooting 120 FPS. However, when using auto-ISO at 120FPS, the camera will adjust the ISO as you change focal length - so it's certainly possible. Before someone says, "Just use auto-ISO", I don't like auto-ISO as the exposure drifts too much/unnecessarily based on uniform colors and background brightness leading to exposure inconsistencies. Manual exposure is ideal for me. My solution is to shoot the Tamron like it's a 2.8 lens, which isn't horrible, but I'd rather have access to my full aperture range. All in all, the Z9 is still an incredible camera. I'm very interested to see what the next generation of hardware allows Nikon to create.

[@Spiros_Pandis]

The MAIN feature I’m hoping for on the Z8 & Z9 is pre-capture RAW. They’re phenomenal cameras already and easily as powerful, if not more powerful, than some of other brand cameras with pre capture RAW

[@livejames9374]

Precapture raw is not coming.

[@AnahatNaad]

@@livejames9374source?

[@Photofreak962]

That is one item I don't understand why it doesn't shoot pre-capture raw. If I had to guess, most people that use this camera shoot RAW. The camera should have had that feature coming out of the gate.

[@livejames9374]

@ because they need a reason for people to buy the upcoming Z9ii

[@QUINPANO]

Its crazy you can buy them mint used for around 3500 or even refurbished straight from Nikon for 4k. Insane Value!

[@TillmanTech]

Wasn’t the Z9 released on Christmas Eve of 2021, not 2020? Thus, it’s three years old, correct?

[@mattgranger]

You're right!

[@daustonian9331]

@@mattgranger But we still want a Z9II I'm with you all the way :)

[@beentheredonethat6219]

Still loving my Z9 I spend 5 months a year at Yellowstone/grand Tetons it is able to keep up with grizzlies, wolves, eagles, etc!

[@RockmanLabs]

I'd love to see some security features added to a any new camera, of course, that includes the Z9ii

[@KissingTrails1]

I use the Z8 and I think both, the Z9 and Z8 are up to date with the best cameras in 2024. PreCapute in RAW would be nice, but thats the only thing I wish for a update.

[@theonlyredspecial]

It’s not the same camera they released I agree. It’s been a phenomenal 4 years of really thorough updates. I use it all the time and have earned a lot of money using it. Never had a problem with it. Reliable. Great lenses in all areas. Best long focal range lens on the market (400mm f2.8) etc. superb video if you need it. 48mp sensor. Fast. Great autofocus. Never overheats. Superb battery life. Don’t think you can get a better all round camera. I do use Hasselblad as well but for different things.

[@dance2jam]

Matt, I'm sure someone pointed this out below. The Z9 was released Christmas 2021 (i.e. 3 years ago), not 2020. I received mine in January 2022. Where are the Zebras in stills?

[@jackbrumby1892]

I only want the ONE Z9 update a lot of people want - pre-capture in RAW. I'll even accept 20fps for this. Will I really have to buy the new version just for that?

[@glennn.3464]

My wish list for any new higher-end Nikon bodies such as the Z9 & Z8: 1. Higher resolution EVF with wider color gamut to better reproduce very saturated colors. At least what’s been done in the Z6 III. 2. A full flippy-screen with horizontal and vertical tilt similar to the one found in the Sony A7RV only with improved ruggedness. 3. Either a larger top info screen or a couple of extra customizable buttons to use that space better. 4. Pre-capture in RAW! Should have that now with a firmware update even if it’s done using High Efficiency* 5. More RAW fps to keep up with higher-end competitor’s models along with better buffer to take advantage of the higher fps. 6. Support for the new CFexpress Type B 4.0 card standard. This might be necessary actually to accomplish the last wish. 7. An actual Bracket Burst mode that includes a shutter delay initiated by a shutter press or rear monitor screen touch so you don’t have to hold down the shutter button causing shake. I know there’s a workaround using Options in the Interval Timer Shooting menu but it’s not the same. 8. The option to save your customized Shooting Banks so that the saved states can be recalled after temporary changes are made. Why is this still not an option when it’s been a request for YEARS?!!! 9. A reworked/re-thought shutter button with better tactile (firmer?) feel with more distinct points of half press and full press. 10. Next generation of Nikon’s subject tracking and AF, of course. 11. More AF points covering at least 95 percent of the frame. 12. Possibly Open Gate with higher video frame rates, at least in HD and 4K. Don’t know if we really need 8K 120. 13. Simplified and better organized updated menu system. A way to actually search for a particular setting wouldn’t hurt. 14. Better battery life at least for the Z8 level bodies using the EN-EL15 type battery. 15. A 50-ish megapixel global shutter would be incredible especially if it came with no compromises and maybe even significantly higher dynamic range than anything before it. If we can’t have that just yet, I would still like a small bump to a 50-ish MP stacked sensor with faster readout than the current sensor with better noise performance and better dynamic range. I would actually prefer that to a compromised global shutter sensor. 16. And here’s an easy one. Please, please, please Nikon give us a lightly spring-loaded battery door! Now is this too much to ask really?

[@mattgranger]

15 is beyond current technology

[@DBest1966]

No flippy screen, the Z9 and Z8 tilt screens are perfect as is.

[@ThatNorma]

Lol some of these requests make absolutely no sense. Why do you need a better buffer when the z8 and z9 already shoot with an infinite buffer as long as the card space allows when both Sony and Canon have much more limited buffers? A 50mpx global shutter when its currently not possible to do so.... Asking for faster readout when z8 and z9 readouts are already both canon and sony options. make it make sense dude

[@davidpearson3304]

Other than internet bragging rights, what exactly would going from 45ish to 50ish megapixels give you in the real world.

[@deanjelcic9299]

😂😂😂

[@fsanchex]

I'm very happy about the new updates on the Z9. I just hope that Nikon doesn't forget about the updates to the Z6III because it needs several things like bird detection and more.

[@grantking4681]

Ahhhh, we'd also like an update or two for our Z8's.

[@takaharu]

A search feature in the menus. For that one menu item that you use once in a blue moon

[@inspiredartphotos]

I love Nikon’s approach of updating firmware and not replacing Camera’s. My Z9 is a beast. None of items mentioned for your wants means anything to me. My Z9 was a hefty investment and that fact that it has been updated by firmware has cemented brand loyalty. Canon has made some very capable cameras but never developed them properly. I am thinking of the Canon 5D mkII. Magic lantern software made the camera much more capable. Canon disabled users from installing that software in a later firmware update. For years Canon crippled their cameras to force users to buy a new camera. Anybody remember the term “Canon Cripple Hammer”? I am really tempted to buy a Nikon Z MKIII. Nice video.

[@ralfpassing]

I have two Z9 and very happy with them. The updates are all what I need.

[@MontessaKingScorpian]

It sure is a brilliant camera. The only other feature than pre-capture raw I'd ask for is in camera processing of a stack of stepped focus images.

[@Carloscarmo]

When will we have the same update for Nikon Z8?

[@brianglock3099]

Love my Z9, and Z8, both perform very well. When I use my D850 it’s nice to have it out again, still provides excellent images, but miss not having the 9 or 8. Only minor complaint on the Z9 is the cover for the Kensington lock cover will not close, the rubber appears to have expanded.

[@smallbatchsessions6892]

Love my Nikon Z9 ! Best camera I’ve ever owned. I also own the Nikon d500,810 and 850. I have two Sony a7siii’s . I use them all still but not so much the d500 and 810.

[@throttleblip6544]

Great video. Being a bird and wildlife shooter with a Z8, my wish list for firmware/update is: 30fps RAW, pre capture RAW with at least 10fps and maybe slight improvement to AF.

[@bigbrownmab189]

I have a z8 and love it as I spent 5 yrs on the z7 and have zero complaints with all it can do. Yes improved AF, and faster frame rates in full raw would be pretty cool for sure; but for now I am good to go!!

[@tectorama]

I use the Z8 which is pretty close to the Z9. I don't shoot video, so it does everything I need. The autofocus could maybe improved a little, but I'm more than happy with my Nikon.

[@AK-ContentCreatIon]

I'm hopping to use and master all of my D850 features.... Like riding an F1 car for me..... Thanks for the content. All the best!

[@jdstrobist]

Merry Christmas Matt 🎄😎✌️

[@dunnymonster]

As a Z9 owner I'm looking forward to a Z9II. Regards release date I dont want Nikon to rush its release just because the Sony A1mkII and Canon R1 are here. In fact I'd argue that part of the problem folk have with both these recent releases is that they are not monumental upgrades for existing A1mk1 and R3 owners. I'd rather wait another 12 months for Nkon to bring a seriously WOW Z9II. So what does it need to achieve this? We need the best of everything, the pinicle of Nikons tech to put it head and shoulders above any of Canon or Sonys offerings. By doing so they can claim more market share and put them in an equal position within the top 3. Heres my wish list ... 1) Global 45MP sensor 2) CF Express 4.0 type B dual card capability 3) The same EVF in the current Z6III 4) Full RAW pre capture 5) Sony style Flip up/down vari angle screen 6) Expeed 8 processor 7) Improved AF These are my main " wants " based on my use case. If Nikon can deliver this package then Sony and Canon will be two to three years away from bringing anything that can compete given their next iteration of their flagships is likely not going to be replaced any time soon. Make it happen Nikon!!

[@SensationalInsights]

Yes better than releasing an incremental update like Canon and Sony

[@tonyh4266]

Hi, I have had and used the Z9 for 3 years or more, I was reluctant to change from my D4 and D850s. I love it, and it has been backed with a Z8 since ver. 2.0. My only gripe is that the D8 has been given supremacy in some firmware to the Z9, like “pixel shift”. etc. My only missing feature is Raw missing at high speed and capture. I keep my equipment a long time, they are my tools, gimmicks , competing features do not interest me, Nikon has been my workhorse for over 50 years, I have tried others! I hope Nikon up the firmware to my optimum level, but either way I will continue with the Z9. I can achieve all that my skills permit in both still and video with this remarkable camera. Love your channel. TonyH

[@scb2scb2]

As a new sony a1ii owner i agree the biggest missing feature is pre-cap raw. The only reason why i am now happy i have it and its implementation is well done is because its by design the same format as the rest of the images so when in raw. We where also upset with no gen4 cards but looked deeper into and there is not enough cpu power to transfer anyway and personally i would not br shocked if its the same for a z9ii unless (no idea) they also update many parts of the camera like the cpu's. We ( sony users ) clearly got a facelift update for the a1ii i am happy with all the new things but i can see how nikon could do the same or make a jump again.

[@kuau714]

your missing 2 more wish list items. 30 fps RAW and a higher res EVF 9mp seems to be in both the R1 and A1/A1ll and lastly they need to bring out a Z mount 100-300/2.8

[@wilteduk007]

Pre capture RAW, 30fps RAW, and faster flash sync is pretty much all the features I can think I'd like in the Z9II. I'd like it greatly reduced in weight and possibly a little in size.

[@AMGOSUK]

it maybe time to update the Z9 -by 2026, but I simply do not know what more Nikon can do to it via firmware and what needs hardware changes.

Thanks for this update video including the mentioning of few missing features to date, Matt! I was very much into Pentax gear some years ago, switched over to OM (MFT). Main focus is wild life, but I'm also into landscapes and stills. Still I'm looking for a successor of the beloved K-1 of which I kept the Mark II... kind of hopeless... The weight of the Z9 (1340gr.) is simply too much for me. I'd like to see a lighter version like Canons R3/R1 bodies. The Z8 is not quite my taste also missing built in GPS and utilizing the smaller batteries. The price tag yet is very attractive. If they launch a Mark 2 version soon keeping also the 45 MP resolution by just remaing significantly under Canons price level, I'll pull the trigger...

[@charlestemkin270]

To your upgrade wish list I would add (1) an increase in the maximum frames per second in RAW to 30-40 FPS and (2) an additional dial that could be user-programmable, so that it could set ISO or exposure comp, etc.

[@ConfusedAstroStation-mb2ch]

Have Z9, one of the camera i bought and pre-ordered when first announced as I knew in blew the specs out of the water...the other one was Z6III 😊 Love Z9 and Nikon!

[@gewglesux]

Never had any of the "Ssss's had all the rest... Love my D3/5 the most. I still have my 850... i haven't made the leap to the Z9.. started shooting Leica M/Q... Still a Nikon shooter at heart.. Thanks Matt

[@entphotoentphoto-pn5me]

I beg Nikon to add 5x4 crop ratio onto z9🙌

[@JohnSansomPhoto]

This! A 5x4 Image Area - is available in the Z7II so it was disappointing to no longer be present for Z9. As a workaround, you can enable grid/border in the viewfinder to help with composing the shot at least, ready for crop in post.

[@CelsoMollo]

I shoot with the z8. I agree with the high iso cleanliness a better auto focus in some situations but not crucial for me and I am aways asking for improve of dynamic range.

[@Comalv]

Great video (and watch) as usual, Matt! I've shot more meaningful shots with the Z9 in the past 2 years than in the previous 10 or so years with the D800 and D850, and I'm not even a professional photographer. The Z9 inspired and motivated me to get my gear out, experiment and just have the peace of mind that the body would do what I tell it to do. Not particularly looking for a replacement, of course if they keep improving all those things I would probably get a new iteration at some point (like with the D850). Happy Holidays!

[@RobertFalconer1967]

Nikon has *generally* been on a four year cycle of updating digital flagships. The D3s and D4s were mid-cycle refreshes, something that can now largely be accomplished via firmware updates. I would imagine we'll see a Z9II announcement later next year sometime.

[@boostedmaniac]

Still love my Z9 and even though there’s talk of a replacement coming, I still feel like the Z9 is phenomenal and new.

[@WAPhoto]

The A1 II and the R1 each have caveats that aren’t mentioned by a lot of other reviewers. It’s interesting to look at the manuals for each and see the clarifications Sony and Canon add that tempers the marketing hype.

[@bmozumder]

I'm hoping for full frame 240fps N-Raw, and higher dynamic range. Obviously will need the new CFExpress format to be able to handle the recording bandwidth. Also, more USB connections, like 10 of them, for all the accessories we connect to it now.

[@Renirode]

I´m very happy with my Z9 ... best purchase ever :-) Only one thing I want to have via firmware upgrade --> 1080p/240fps - that would be awesome!

[@rodneyturnerphoto]

CFX 4.0 is on my list, but I want to see better thermals so we can take advantage of the speeds and new tech. Possibly jumping to USB4 v2 and Bluetooth 6 would be nice.

[@NikonDave]

I would buy one with the Z6iii viewfinder upgrade even if that were the only upgrade. Only thing it is missing compared to newer camera's that I would potentially use is the Pre-Capture Raw...otherwise...I am set between the Zf, Z8 and Z9 for every need I have. I don't need faster frame rates and ISO performance compared to last generation DSLR's is amazing (even though it could be improved). Still some gaps in the lens line up at the wide end I'd like to see filled. So glad I stayed the course with Nikon...I feel rewarded for my loyalty.

[@Bmack13]

Im a professional sports photographer and have 3 z9s love them my only complaint with nikon is how slow they are with releasing lenses i would love a new 300 2.8 or a 100-300 2.8

[@officialbrandoncoleman]

Good Work Nikon!!!!!

[@mlai2546]

Z9ii wish list: 1. Faster readout speed by dont go global shutter as it reduces dynamic range 2. Improve dynamic range by one or two stops 3. Stickier AF box. The EVF AF box doesn't move as fast as competitors. Makes it feel like the AF is slightly behind the point where it needs to focus. 3. Raw Pre Capture 4. Record to dual cards 5. Lighter and smaller by 20%

[@duncangroenewald]

It is already stacked ?!? You want to unstack it 🤣🤣

[@mlai2546]

@@duncangroenewald lol, I meant to say global shutter

[@richcower]

I'd like to get C2PA. I've seen reports it's possible, but I'm doubting it will show up in the Z9.

[@isoawe1888]

Thanks Matt. Another KZbin channel talked about Z9ii, and suggested the possibility of a hybrid shutter. So you can choose between global and rolling depending on your shootjng needs. Honestly, this is the only thing that would make be buy the next generation

[@dafyddthomas7299]

Fair video MAtt; think it will be like the Canon R5 MK 2 - an evolution over the excellent mk1 (tech flowing down to Z8 MK 2) and hope Nikon does a Z7 MK 2 - Z9 derived tech but in an higher resolution MP, e.g., 60 MP+. My Guestimate on Z9 MK 2; Improved Fully Stack 45 MP Sensor (Maybe Global Shutter), RAW Precapture; 40 FPS, Video Duplicate recording / backup, Improved AF, Expeed 8, Video:> 8K 120 FPS RAW, 6K 120 FPS RAW, 4K 240 FPS, 1080P 240 FPS - 580 FPS but higher price Point tying up with Canon R1, R3, Sony A9 price points, e..g, £6500 / $7000, etc.

[@Talyessin63]

A Sony shooter, but still watched to see where your thinking's at.

[@thomaschamberlin2485]

Pre-capture in RAW definitely. Better high ISO and better EVF would be nice. I am still not sure that would be worth upgrading for. My biggest fear is that they will ruin it with a flippy screen. Or a global shutter with base ISO of 250. Or 60 megapixels.

[@rrr46060]

i just upgraded one of my cards to cf express b 4.0, it does work in the z9 just a fyi

[@mattgranger]

It works; but you’re not getting the top speed from the card

[@hikertrashfilms]

@@mattgranger but when you plug it into a PC you get more than double the read & write speed

[@rrr46060]

@@mattgranger i see, thanks

[@scuba-people]

i'm curious to see whats going to happen, i ll either got with the new komodo z mount or the z9 red kissed ..i'm on the z8 and for uw for video the battery is a limitation but just like you said that how i use it. i think for photo i would love to see higher flash sync speed... Lower native iso and 6 k super 35 option for video would make things interesting and yes autocapture in raw. i would love to see improved dynamic range and wb balancing improved, beyond 10 m it doesn't work on nikon z8 or 9 sony can go up to 30m and still wb balance ( this kinda feels like a dear santa letter hehe). the raw is nice but man it makes huge files i would love for nikon to improve the quality of the file in prores hq 422 and h265 or add prores 422 lq

[@klabton]

For me it’s the best camera I’ve ever had. I can’t imagine what the successor should have to convince me to buy it. I don’t need global shutter. I don’t need faster fps. Z9 is just great for me. :)

[@speedbumpmedia9584]

Nikon has been killing it with new and updated models. I have some of my own wish lists of updates but at this point I can see them waiting to make big ones on the Z9II version. When that is, is a big guess but in a way I wouldn’t be surprised if it rolls out later in 2025. I think it’s more likely that Nikon will stay the course and go with a Z5II update and possibly the long awaited D500 replacement in a Z80 or Z90.

[@carrubep]

I suspect the Z9 is hardware limited for precapture RAW (or at least limited enough to be useful)... FWIW, I think the Z9 first shipped on 23 Dec 2021 (for those that pre-ordered and NPS members), so we are about a week short of the 3 year mark. I love the Z9 though I do wish the grip shape were more like the D5/6. Agreed on individual port covers - that has always annoyed me. I'd love a Z9ii with a global shutter, or possibly even a Z9x model, specifically for sports/action shooters, with global shutter, faster speed, and ~25MP. For AF, I'd love a dedicated "sports" AF mode, that automatically gives stickier AF without having to change menu options or use banks. Speaking of banks, Nikon - please, please, please, switch the silly bank settings in the Z8/9 to something more like the U1, U2, etc style banks other other bodies. Something I can save/load directly from the body. Even if it's button accessible (vs "dial style" like on my Z6iii), having something that I know will 100% load with the settings I have previously set and saved would be game changing for me.

[@VABrowneMDPhD]

The current Nikon Z9 is an excellent camera! As a wildlife and nature photographer, in addition to the things you have already mentioned, including the generation 4 CFExpress type B, I would also like to see an improved brighter EVF with much higher resolution (like Canon R1 and Sony A9 II), faster and more accurate auto focus with more AF points and cross-type AF points to improve AF accuracy and speed, and especially the ability to better distinguish a bird or animal from the background. Nikon needs to improve Vibration Reduction that allows for smoother panning without the current jerkiness seen in the Normal mode. I would also like to see a burst mode with a higher frame rate around 40 frames per second, pre-capture in RAW, cleaner high ISO images, and refinements to the design and ergonomics of the grip to better fit a wide range of hand sizes. The ergonomics on the Canon R1 are superb for someone with my larger sized hands. Finally, refinements to the tactile feedback and haptics of the buttons would also be great!

[@duncanwallace7760]

Z9 is a wonderful thing. Re-capture raw and it would be perfect. Hoping for a firmware update to do that as I'd rather buy more lenses at this stage than a new camera body, and probably couldn't justify it just for pre capture raw.

[@LightTheShadows]

Expeed 7 was such a big leap in performance over the Expeed 6. I would guess that a substantial upgrade for the Z9 requires a substantial power boost for the Expeed system and I think it’s quite hard to realise. I have never seen a comparison between the different SoCs of the main manufacturer and I wonder who has the most powerful processing power at the moment. With computer systems you have various sites that compare Intel vs. AMD processors but no one can actually say what the performance of the camera processors are. I think I read somewhere that Expeed 6 still used a 20+ nm pattern and that Expeed 7 is now down to 7nm - but I am not sure about that. I assume that Nikon wants to develop a SoC that is able to cope with the challenges of a global shutter sensor to avoid the disadvantages that the current sensor of the Sony a9iii brings with it - mainly noise and maybe base ISO.

[@sebastiandammark6612]

No doubt that the Z9 is a beast. Though I just sold mine in exchange for a Sony A9III. As a concert photographer, soaked in LED lights 24/7, I had to get rid of the banding issues.

[@I-LightMedia]

The next gen project team should make the AF stickiness its top priority.

[@denisnicholson2528]

I hope they bring an FTZ adaptor that autofocuses the D screwdrive lenses. I would jump to the Z bodies easily.

[@mathiaserichsen8177]

I’d love 6-8K open gate video and better autofocus. If they could add internal e-ND in a new version of Z9/8 too, that would be sweet 🎉

[@JohnSwen-p6b]

I would suspect a Z9 II at the end of 2025 if Nikon sticks with a four year refresh cycle. RAW precapture would be nice and better AF. Frankly, I really can't think of anything else in terms of features, but lightweight would be good. I primarily use Canon, but do use the Z9 + 800 mm PF lens for small birds. Likely, I will replace my Z9 with a Z8 Mark 2 in a few years.

[@DanielRodriguez-fg5ll]

I hear firmware 5.2 will protect the sensor shield from sun rays :)

[@waveland]

I shoot far more video than stills these days which has led me to add Sony FX cameras along side my Z9 which I use primarily for stills. Since Sony is specified so often for agency and other paid work, I’m a bit more interested in what the next FX9 will bring to the market and at what price point. Nevertheless , there is a place in my workflow for a Z9 and potentially a Z9II for long lens slow motion filming. Give me 8k 120 in N-RAW, an open gate aspect ratio option, comprehensive desqueeze, CF-Express 4.0 support (sorta mandatory for those data rates), full log profile support in all the record modes, a second USB-C port, full support for dual native ISO, and a definite yes to individual port covers like on my FX3, then we’re talking. But I’m not holding my breath. Camera replacement cycles seem to be getting longer these days.

[@thomastuorto9929]

Came a long way. I haven't seen your AF issue vid but would like to see a more accurate at long distance & low light AF accuracy for bird/wildlife photography. I haven't upgraded to mirrorless yet but I see photos everyday & while Nikon holds its own, at longer distances it doesn't do as well as Sony & would have to guess the new Canons judging by what the reviews & photos posted are showing. I'm vested in Nikon F-glass & really would like to stay in camp ($$$) but don't want to settle for less anymore either. Thanks for the vid.

[@EugeneMaynard]

The Z9 was my first ever Nikon after most of my forty year career shooting with mainly Canon! It was more the video specs that made me decide to add Nikon to my Canon kit and not upgrade to the Canon R3 at the time of release! Seven Zs lenses and one Z6III later with no further investment in Canon gear since then has had my colleagues calling me a switcher (far from the truth)😂 Shutter angle was the one thing I was wishing for from day one and now Nikon has delivered! If the next flagship has Red Raw I will not hestitate to open my wallet!👏🏾👍🏾🙏🏾 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🇸🇪🇹🇹

[@seamastergmt]

I love my Z9. There would have to epic updates for me to buy a Z10, or Z9II.

[@borisgalos6967]

Nah. What's really needed is an update to the Z 8 that prevents it from being dropped or waterlogged. 😉

[@rbos6001]

Looking at the lens selection of Nikon it seems to fit me the best. Unfortunately they don't have every camera body type I desire. The Nikon Z6iii comes closest. I am a hobbyist and do not want to spend such a large amount on Nikon Z8 or Z9 or even carry that weight around eventhough they probably are highly capable. What I am missing though is a travel camera from Nikons lineup a la a Sony A6100/A6400 type of camera. Nikon Z50ii and also the Z6iii unfortunately cater again to the vlogging/video crowd. I dont mind it on the Z6III but for a travel camera rather have a screen a la the nikon z50 had. Unfortunately the Z50ii has gone to an articulating screen and became heavier. Id like Nikon to make a dx camera with autofocus on par with the Z6III. Hope perhaps a ZFC ii becomes more photocentric focussed with a tilting screen. Anyway I have tried many camera systems myself over the last year and a bit tired of it tbh. I just desire a single system that delivers it all to me, but there is always a downside unfortunately. 😢 Sony A7C/A6100 - highly capable camera's with great autofocus and Indid like the A6100. Editing the Sony files however did not make me happy coming from Fujifilm needed a lot of color correcting. Canon R8 - still have it, very good at low noise. Easy ediitng of files though white balance seems a bit of most of the time. Miss the Joystick a bit but I can upgrade or downgrade to either r6II or R10. Canon lenses are expensive and no third party autofocus full frame lenses exist. Nikon Z50/ZFC - autofocus when it nails its very great image quality. Images are easy to edit though sometimes a bit to contrasty but thats easily solved. Autofocus is a bit and hit and mis for me. Missing a joystick, but the Fullframe options have them. 24mm 1.7 dx and 40mm f/2 we're very nice lenses for that system. Though its a shame the lenses dont have is since the z50/zfc do not have ibis. Panasonic G100 very nice image quality. Autofocus a bit flaky with non static subjects seems better in the G9ii but thats a bigger body. Sigma support for L mount if you want fullframe S5ii. Only articulating screens on recent models. Fujifilm the brand I went with the longest 10 years almost. Had a lot of bodies X-T1, X-T3, X-H2 (current), X-A10 (current), X-A5, X-Pro 1, X-E3. Image quality is superb dont need much white balance adjusting or color grading usually. Several body styles. Loss of Details on high iso is a big downside. They screwed the firmware of the X-H2 (now seems better again) if not I didnt went in this rabid loophole of GAS I want to get out of. Prefer to have a single mount system. Eg. Sony, Nikon or Canon. If not a dual mount system with the same manufacturer is also ok eg. Panasonic or Fujifilm. Currently have four different systems. Ricoh GRIII, Fujifilm, Panasonic (for sale) currently and Canon. That's too much. How KZbinr deal with that I would like to know. Shouldnt complain have the luxury of trying and owned or have owned a lot of systems.

[@chipsrafferty8362]

Don’t,don’t,don’t change the ergonomics of the Z-9,the finish could use a refresh,as it tends to separate from the chassis in places and the portal tabs are poorly designed.

[@enricomarconi8358]

No Matt, it was released on the 24 December 2021 (meaning a week away from 2022 that is!). This makes the Z9 only two years old going for 3 now...

[@mattgranger]

As yep. Corrected in description

[@enricomarconi8358]

@@mattgranger great stuff Matt! And yes, that camera hasn't ceased to amaze me... I remember at launch it looked awesome but there was disappointment around for 'underperforming'... the hardware was all there though, all we truly needed was a great software. Nikon has done extremely well with providing us all these firmware updates! I have great expectation for next gen Z9 II (the sequel!)

[@stefan_becker]

The AF of the Z8 (and probably also of the Z9 even though I only own a Z8) could still be a bit better in my experience. Compared to my Sony A7rV it's definitively one or two steps behind (not for action, but for eye detection). You can point the Sony A7rV with a 50mm f1.2GM lens at f1.2 in any light in any direction with a person in frame, press the shutter button immediately and be sure to get a tack sharp picture. This does not work as reliably with my Z8. In my opinion the Z8 works best, if one uses AF tracking. But then you first need to select your subject which is something you don't have to do with Sony because it "just works". If you try "pointing the Z8 roughly in the direction of a person and simply press the shutter button" in my experience you'll end up with 10% incorrectly focused pictures and another 15% more or less sharp pictures while the rest of the pictures is perfectly in focus. With tracking the focus accuracy of the Z8 is in my experience a lot better.

[@CapucineMacron-r1h]

Z8 might be able to have Precapture raw but not Z9 as it’s two years older in technology. Hence, the hardware in Z8 might be able to handle Precapture raw? Z9 released in December 2021 Z8 released in May 2023

[@mattgranger]

Nope. The Z8 has lesser hardware overall compared to the Z9. In the areas that matter they are the same, and the Z9 handles heat better. IF the Z8 can handle it, so can the Z9.

[@CapucineMacron-r1h]

@ In your opinion, do you think that the z8 has the technical capacity to handle Precapture raw?

[@mattgranger]

I really have no idea. But it seems to reason out it should manage some lower frame rate in compressed raw.

[@SurfSnowMusicLife]

Nice shirt!

[@selianboy8508]

Nikon has always remained gold... others just end up getting old!

[@christiankonig5445]

Hello Matt, my Z9II wishes for stills photography go in the same direction as yours, I think that we will have a New Z9 (whatever the name) in 2025. Therefore I have in august 2024 already preordered two Z9II. Hoping precapture raw, multi exposer raw , 30, 60 frames/second raw and dual expeed 8 processor. Regards, Christian from France

[@v3rlon]

Z9ii features I want: Global shutter More dynamic range (always want more) Higher top end ISO (useful) Slightly smaller (shorter height, specifically) A way to lock the switch on the bottom grip so I stop accidentally turning it on More battery life 4K 240 Broader support for HE* RAW Faster better easier connection to phone/tablet App Built in Astro capabilities (darks/lights/brights - would even like stacking) Focus stacks and panorama stitches (and Astro stacks) as tiff or RAW instead of jpg. Makes models show up on time.

[@mattgranger]

Sadly your top 3 requests are in conflict.

[@davebecks10]

And GPS of course😁

[@v3rlon]

@@davebecks10 The Z9 already has GPS

[@v3rlon]

@@mattgranger That is what technology is for. You asked me what I wanted. Heck my last request would require divine intervention.

[@tormiraik]

I would love the nikon to start focusing on the eye and not on the eyelashes or nose

[@WiFuzzy]

ok. Is it just me or are the youtube channels playing their part in cranking up camera costs. I mean what is the point. Every year they all just want more, faster, better, and more expensive. Like, way more expensive. Just compare media cast from 8 or 10 years ago. What I paid for all my cards might get me one card now. And thats the camera needing way more storage and way more speed. How about better and cheaper. It's how it's supposed to work. Not the other way around.

[@lensman5762]

More, faster, more irrelevant features, more expensive, all correct, but not necessarily better cameras. All these reminds me of the camera club for old men of whom I am one BTW, that my lens is bigger than yours. I am stil! waiting to see a photographer showing us how he or she actually used any of these features?

[@WarriorsPhoto]

Nikon Z9 is almost 4 years old. 😮😮😮 Maybe it is good I didn’t get one. 😊

[@gosman949]

yes, patience is a virtue, and you should never buy the first model of anything.

[@WarriorsPhoto]

@ Especially with cars! Lol 😏😉😂

[@getabey]

Btw, it is released in Dec 2021, not 2020!!!

[@sgt13echo]

Rich Tone Portrait 😳 How did I miss that?

[@Martin-nu6ym]

For the way I use the Z9, I really don't think I have a need for any improvements. I would rather see Nikon release a Z-mount 200mm 1:1 macro lens.

[@DarthPrime10]

Those are some headbanger updates and I hope the same ones make their way to the Z8.

[@jonhellerphotography]

They need to update Nikon RAW so you can edit videos in Premiere Pro

[@liamgoodvisuals]

And still no dual-card video recording, meanwhile all their competitors offer it. Quite disappointed.

[@realnikonlover6207]

Surprise us Nikon with something earth shattering in next flagship camera. Z9II? No! Make it a Z1Red!

[@ilfotografoviaggiatore]

Per favore inserisci la traccia audio in italiano.Grazie

[@lukaszklopotek]

Pizza! Macaroni! Mucho!

[@dragSD666]

Sony a1 came first then came the Nikon Z9 December 21, 2021

[@M7i_fr]

Z8 ♥️

[@davidpearson3304]

Nikon (or any camera maker for that matter) could literally build a camera for an individual with their desired specs and that person would come on a message board/social network or KZbin comment section and STILL bitch, moan and complain about the camera they personally designed

[@carlosandreviana9448]

zf customers are so happy. Zero important updates since its release

[@ATvisual]

I wish Sony a1 gets firmware updates like Nikon Z9… Oh wait, nvm a1 ii is out🤬