Nikon Z50 Review by Ken Rockwell

Nikon Z50 Review by Ken Rockwell
Sample files & written review www.kenrockwel...
Pro User's Guide www.kenrockwel...
I got mine at www.bhphotovid...
or www.adorama.com...
or amzn.to/37LyXke
or www.crutchfield...
When you click on the links above to various merchants and make a purchase, this can result in me earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Ken Rockwell® is a registered trademark.

[@josephl.cinematographerpho4976]

great review, thoroughly enjoyed it, great that you stuck it to all those newbie photographers saying that Sony owns the world of optics now, NIKON is still my top choice, i use the z50 mainly for video and it is just gorgeous, it is afixed to my gimbal all day, the balance the color, and focusing is wonderful, looking foward to taking pictures with it professionally once the weather gets better for subjects thanks for the positive review on such a great little camera kit, a little upset extra batteries are still not available as of yet, dont know why

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks! It’s nice to have a seasoned pro read and appreciate my stuff from an experienced perspective.

[@hoojamaflicks]

which gimbal do you use with it, and are you able to deploy the flip down screen with it?

[@josephl.cinematographerpho4976]

@@hoojamaflicks The Zyrun Crane 2, There is no need to use a flip down screen on a gimbal only need to flip up so I can see it from above for low shots, it is the best balanced camera on a gimbal I have ever used, and it works incredibly well in focus, low light and overall image quality, aside from the slightly better Z6

[@tomtomtom7411]

Nikon is loosing market share because less innovative technology

[@josephl.cinematographerpho4976]

@@tomtomtom7411 respectfully disagree, yes they where late to the market, but the mirrorless entry on first wave are amoung the best cameras in the industry, and the nikons support the best cards in the market, with now the cf cards with the new update...the only ones...now we support 12 bit raw video output for video...these cameras will be a top choice for cinematographers that sounds pretty innovative to me...even though bandwagon buyers are in plenty with Sony...Nikon and Canons already installed base far exceed any other camera manufacturer, I think they entered as a Lion and will continue to roar back to the top...i edit sony, nikon. and Canon..all day long..Nikon is my favorite picture. The proof and writing is in the wall...competition is a good thing for everyone

[@frankthespank]

Hey Ken, if you wanna separate yourself from other KZbinrs... try reviewing old cameras, cameras that are bargains on the used market that are still good today. Love your work and I’m glad you’re on KZbin!

[@KenRockwellTV]

I could, and it would take forever. Maybe, but there's so much new stuff coming out...

[@WhittyPics]

He has ton of that stuff on his website.

[@subhendurth]

Thank you Ken.Almost all youtube influencers are highly influenced by sony marketing campaigns.breath of fresh nikon air...

[@KenRockwellTV]

I'm influenced by no one; been doing this all myself since 1999 - and shooting since I was age 5.

[@thinkinginpictures4071]

Really nice speaking voice. I'm surprised you waited this long to start a video channel. Straight to the point- I like it.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks!

[@marcusgrandon3640]

Hi Ken, I'm a long-time reader (since 2004) and happy to see you've moved into video reviews. Keep up the great work!

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks Marcus!!!!

[@vnohelix]

Darn, been reading on your website as long as I can remember. No idea you are here on KZbin as well. Thank you for all your reviews. Much appreciated!

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thank you! Much more in store.

[@Jantonvid]

I'm glad you are making KZbin videos. I wonder how many "pros" over on the forums will be hating on you for not just having a successful informative website but now a successful KZbin channel.

[@KenRockwellTV]

All the less successful ones. The good ones have no time for forums. Thanks for the comment!

[@fu2ur3]

Wow Ken! You have run the website for 20 years and you did it all by yourself! Amazing!

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thank you! Lots of work, that's for sure; I have zero assistants.

[@justinwatson384]

I have been going to your website for over a decade, very happy to find you on YT. I have always loved your style, you are intelligent, concise and you’re a Nikon guy

[@KenRockwellTV]

THANK YOU !!!!

[@madphotographer762]

I love your confidence stating that the Nikon Z50 is the best APSC.... lol. I wish more KZbinrs were honest enough to express their views.

[@KenRockwellTV]

And I say what sucks, too. As at least a third generation Native New Yorker we say it like it is. Thanks!

[@milk-it]

I've been waiting for ages for you to publish on KZbin. Great to have you on here!

[@KenRockwellTV]

THANK YOU!!!!!!

[@stevengrey1948]

I have been following your website for many years. Really excited to see you on KZbin. subscribed.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks Steven!!!!!

[@jimferrara4747]

Just came across your YT site and saw this video. WOW!!! Fantastic review. You literally saved me big bucks. I was moving to buy a Z6, but after watching your video and then reading your review on your web page, I’m getting the Z50 instead. I’m now a subscriber. Thanks for the info.

[@KenRockwellTV]

I agree: I prefer the Z50. Better, smaller and much less expensive.

[@WaniMedia]

Omg i just discovered your channel, been reading for years

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks! KenRockwell.TV

[@clarencesail]

Years ago you taught me about my D90. Now that my D90 is having serious ERR issues with the mirror sticking, I just ordered a Z50 as your review was the "icing on the cake" if you will. Thank you.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Love it! Hope you love yours. Something about the Z50 just clicks (ha ha) with me. Just don’t expect it to track action or moving kids. Thanks!

[@TracyClark]

I don’t always agree with Ken but absolutely agree with him here. He covers the Z50 well. I own this camera after trying the A6600 & A7iii. Is it’s AF as good as the Sony? Not quite but it’s really close & plenty good. I considered the Z6 & Z6ii but don’t need them for what I want. The Z50 and the small kit lens take amazing shots. He is 100% right about the flash and it covers the slow kit lens indoors. One hand use is easy. I also don’t want to use XQD. I did that with a D500 & prefer single card/import/edit flow. The metering of the Z50 reminds me of my D7500 in that it’s excellent at getting the image right. It also has highlight weighted metering so you can have fun with light/shadows & B&W if you like. This camera is fighting by X100V for what I grab when I leave the house. It’s THE BEST bargain in mirrorless right now IMO. Will I get a Z6ii? Maybe... but I’m in no hurry as the Z50 does pretty much all I need.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Yes! Love it. Thanks.

[@jdudefun1755]

Thanks Ken. I read your content when I first bought my D7000. You’re a little late to the KZbin game but you can still catch up (and make millions from KZbin). We need your content, reviews, and tutorials on KZbin! Thank you!

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thank YOU!

[@billhallsongs]

With Ken you expect the best and get the best in a review. A great photographer and speaker as well! Thanks Ken!

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thank YOU! You guys make this all worthwhile.

[@madhousenetwork]

I bought nikon z50 after a big confusion against sony a6400. But am happy with my purchase now

[@KenRockwellTV]

I prefer the Z50; handles much better and colors much better. Thanks!

[@madhousenetwork]

@@KenRockwellTV absolutely! And costs less

[@samygold100]

How is it so far?

[@madhousenetwork]

@@samygold100 it's great mate. But I only use it for occasions due to lack of time. so haven't tweaked the settings like Ken had mentioned. may be will play with it sooner. but it's a great buy!

[@dr.sandipmehta973]

welcome to KZbin. millions have loved your reviews on your website (still do), You sound gr8 just as well you write on your website.wish you all the best and I am sure you will have gr8 success

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks! You 're the best, Doctor!

[@ericerickson6537]

I own both the z6 and the z50 and love the little 50. Works great with other S primes on it as well.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks!

[@ktcool4660]

Your voice is exactly as I imagined.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Too Cool! THANKS!!!

[@haagenkreutz3698]

I just scrolled through the comments and i gotta say: Damn, you answer every single post! Nice to see, sir!

[@KenRockwellTV]

Is that good? I LOVE the fact that you guys see my stuff. I spend a lot of time doing it and am elated that people watch and respond. THANKS!

[@winsonip4447]

Glad to see you make KZbin video. Still remember my first camera Powershot s90 and read your review. Now I'm working on D850 and many good Lens. Good for every amateur to see Ken's guide and learn about their machine.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks!

[@reddevil211287]

I can attest to everything he’s saying in the video. Brilliant camera. My D810 is gathering dust now... This will probably be the last camera I’ll need to buy unless I drop it or something.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks!

[@jigsmedina]

I finally heard Ken Rockwell’s voice. 😁

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks!

[@adss70]

Your articles have made such a difference to my decisions as to which camera and lens to buy as a beginner photographer. ... and about 3 years ago I was actually wondering why you were not on KZbin. So.... I am really pleased to run into your channel.

[@KenRockwellTV]

I wasn't on YT as it's easier to read something in 30 seconds than to watch the same thing for 30 minutes of fluff on video, and that you can't really get away watching too much video while at work.

[@adss70]

Ken Rockwell .... then again, watching KZbin videos at work might actually result with more (unplanned) time to keep on watching KZbin videos.... whilst reading job advertisements :). Jokes aside, for me YT is more of a replacement for my TV, and one of the avenues that motivates me to take more photos, or try to create vlogs with my kids. However, when it comes to actually choosing a product, and I might be not a common current examples, although I start with a browse through YT, I feel that I need to dive a tad deeper into the products... hence why you influenced me to firstly but my Nikon D750 (even if in Nov 2017 it was a tad old and rumour of the d850 was already in the public domain), and then buy the following two lenses: the first one was via your affiliate link.... but postage and handling from the US to Australia was a tad expensive. I still find myself seeing KZbin videos of products that sound interestingly ... and then going to your website to learn more. I think that YT will be great for those of us that value your work and expertise, and is likely to get a new generation of kids to also discover you. PS. It was a great Sunday afternoon buzz seeing you reply to my comment. Thank you.

[@astrocrypto4155]

Great review. I noticed that you haven't discussed the focus peaking feature added to these new Z series for Nikons to which we can only get this from a mirrorless. I hated manual focus for manual lenses and w/ this feature, it was such breeze. And the eye auto focus, we know its not stellar compared to other brands, but this one of the reasons why i switched to mirrorless especially im more into portrait photography. Looking forward for more of your reviews. I'm an avid fan with your website and I always visit it for comparison before buying my lenses and cameras. Well done and more power to this channel. Cheers! 🍻👍👏👌😊

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks! Never played much with manual focus; I reserve them at for shooting my Hasselblad 2-1/4 and 4x5 cameras.

[@TonyAndChelsea]

Glad you're joining us here, Ken! Welcome and have fun with it!

[@KenRockwellTV]

You guys are THE BEST!!!! THANKS!!!

[@Marvomat8291]

Everyone just wants to buy a "fancy" Sony or Fuji camera because they are totally hyped by the influencers. Fuji's autofocus is just super slow compared to the others. Nobody tells you that some of the Sony menu is really bad. And instead of maintaining its cameras, Sony keeps bringing out new models. The A6400 was already totally outdated when it was released and the A6600 costs as much as a Sony full frame camera. That just makes absolutely no sense. The Z50 is a really underrated camera and the Nikon menu is super user-friendly!

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks!!!

[@waltermayr339]

You're absolutely right - a built in flash is great, activated in a split second and no extra stuff to lug around and mount. I never would have believed that I would take it seriously and would no longer want to do without it.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Just see the huge difference it makes. Thanks!

[@alaincorpuz8385]

OMG! I really really loved how you review nikon gears. I loved how you go over details and you have a such wonderful kids ❤️😍. I am from the Philippines and your reviews made me stay with Nikon system. I am amazed with this that you have started a you tube channel.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks!!!

[@snowcat20]

Z50 has the same level of weather shielding as D7500, Nikon says. It happens that I've tested D7500 regarding this, once I've slipped down a small hill, which was wet after recent rain. The camera never fell down, but I "scooped up" quite an amount of dirt with my new shiny (back then) D7500. That felt awful, really. BUT i just turned the camera off, took the battery away from it and then, when I've got home, I washed my D7500 under a small trickle of water running from my tap tube. I cleaned every bit of dirt, then let the camera dry for like 2 hours and then turned it on. It served me god for 2 years after that, till I've sold it after getting Z50. So is Z50 has the same level of protection, it's perfectly OK.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks for the information!

[@sergeantcrow]

Ken Rockwell ! On KZbin... Interesting times ahead ! : )

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks!

[@irvinmartin9259]

“If you’re playing on a computer, you’re not photographing.” Yes! The impression I get from most other camera reviews is that a camera is a data hoovering device, and that photography is just image processing afterwards. Perhaps it’s partly because I like cameras, and I enjoy the operation of the machine. But, to me, photography is using the tool at hand, in the moment. I’m not above using my iMacs built in software to fix the odd screw-up, but generally, what I find most satisfying is learning to get it right at the start.

[@KenRockwellTV]

99% of photography happens before the shutter opens, and 100% of it depends on what’s right behind the camera - us. Thanks!

[@mamamia601]

Your articles introduced me to my first Nikon camera years ago, and I didn't know you actually have a KZbin channel haha. All the best!

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thank you! The website is always more up to date and complete; this channel is just for laughs. Thanks!!!!

[@victoriasinda8050]

I frequently visit your website. I like your articles on the Z series cameras.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks!

[@RobertNuttmann]

Really great review. Says what it needs to say and refers you to web site for more details. I have a z 50 with both lenses. This camera was better than my z 7 or iPhone for stills and video for Thanksgiving and yesterday’s grand child’s birthday. Plus this camera puts out great jpegs and no need for raw. Same with video. The z 50 handles just great shooting video. Very good stabilization. Absolutely the upgrade I was looking for in crop sensor over the d5500. And center viewfinder with eyepiece set back a bit is super.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Glad you love it! Newer cameras just seem to get more magic that makes better pictures. Thanks!

[@alexchrist4342]

Just the comment I have been looking for! I am in the process of moving from a D5500 and was on the fence about the z 50. I've been told it can be comparable to the D7500 as well.

[@RobertNuttmann]

@@alexchrist4342 This is just my opinion of course. For me the D7500 would be a downgrade from the D5500. Much heavier, bigger, but same photo quality. For me the key to enjoying the D5500 was the wonderful light weight and ease of handling and use. The Z 50 has that same feel as the D5500. The D7500 much bigger and heavier than either. Z 50 has an EVF plus eye auto focus and so on. But both D7500 and Z50 are very good cameras. Likely you will not be sorry with either.

[@chuckchoi3794]

Finally, KenRockwell.com is on KZbin. Great to see you Ken :)

[@KenRockwellTV]

THANKS Chuck!!!!

[@spritual_enlightenment]

There are many camera related channels here, but you are the first or only one mentioning use of flashlight during daytime. Also you mentioned many features that others didn't bother talking about. So good job, Ken. Appreciated. Indeed, I'm thinking about this camera and 2 zoom lenses package.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Great camera! Thanks for the comment. As guy who actually shoots rather than just talks (www.kenrockwell.com/tech/2-kinds-of-photographers.htm), I see what actually matters for making pictures.

[@spritual_enlightenment]

@@KenRockwellTV, Somehow, I didn't get notices from YT when you replied. Twice already. By the way, I read every article in your site years ago. Thanks for your informative writings, Ken. Oh, a close parenthesis in the link above, a symbol after "htm" causes an error to open that page.

[@reesss4]

Great video. I hope you get to do more of these as it is fun to watch!

[@KenRockwellTV]

Toda raba!

[@5smoothstonesproject740]

great review . Q: if you had a choice between the Z30 or the Z50, which one would recommend

[@KenRockwellTV]

Easy: the Z50. The z30 is awful, no viewfinder! Go Z50.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Z30 review www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/z/z30.htm

[@KenRockwellTV]

Even more detailed z50 review www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/mirrorless/z50.htm

[@KenRockwellTV]

And yikes, the z30 doesn’t even have a built in flash.

[@winfcad]

It’s very rare for nowadays that people review and use a camera not just specs. I used to weight on specs. It didn’t work for me and end up selling it waste money and time. Thank you making for such a great review !

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks!

[@neklamp2431]

Ok I have to ask. I have the D90 (yes, that old dog) with 18-105mm, 35mm nikorr, a samyang 8mm and a cheap Tamron 70-300mm with no VR. Should I buy the 16-50 plus the adapter or the kit with the two lenses??? I still want to use the 18-105mm and 35mm. And from what you said, non cpu lenses with manual focus don't work, which made me sad...

[@KenRockwellTV]

Manual lenses take great pictures on the Z50, but they're a pain compared to the Z native lenses. I'd get rid of the old stuff and use the Z16-50 & Z 50-250 fo rbest and easiest results on Z50. THanks for askign!

[@neklamp2431]

@@KenRockwellTV Thank you!

[@phase4485]

Thanks for the great video! I'm interested in buying this camera. Will it work with Nikon DX lenses or will I also need to buy the FTX adapter to fit these lenses? Thinking of an ultra-wide Sigma 10-20mm DX lens.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Forget sigma. The Z50 works with most AF-S DX lenses, but only if you buy the FTZ. See www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/mirrorless/lenses/ftz.htm for details. Get the superb Nikon AF-S 10-20mm www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/10-20mm.htm for just $309 - or consider upgrading to Canon.

[@mok8591]

Such an enthusiastic review. Really enjoyed it and now i’m tempted to upgrade.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Fun Little camera! The Z fc is just as much fun, in silver www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/z/z-fc.htm

[@TylerGajewski]

Ken, really happy to see your reviews on KZbin. Your website helped me purchase the Nikkor 50mm f/1.2 and the 35mm f/1.4 ais and I love using them on my D750 and Z6. Your reviews also helped me put together my own reviews on both of those lenses. Thanks for all the great info and look forward to more reviews from you.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks Tyler!

[@billhallsongs]

You expect the best technically, artitsically and honestly from Ken and that is what you get!! Great real world review as always Ken! Thanks

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks Bill!

[@billhallsongs]

You are very welcome Ken.

[@graemestewar]

Well done Ken. I am extremely impressed that you reply to most/all of your readers/viewers. Shows your commitment. I bought the Z50 after switching to only a phone from a panasonic bridge camera. I had 2 problems with the phone (Pixel 4) only - you could hardly see the screen in bright sunlight and the pinch to zoom is still a bit fiddly after all these years. Of course, you have more control with the Z50 but these were the main reasons - the viewfinder and ergonomics. I actually prefer the phone for indoors and low light.

[@KenRockwellTV]

I do love to help as you see. Try iPhone if you dislike the others; I love my iPhones. Thanks!!!

[@graemestewar]

You are an absolute star ken. And you proved my point by posting a reply immediatley. I might get an I-phone next time I heard the screens are brighter. Keep up the good work. I love your reviews no matter what some of the camera techies say. You are real life and they are stuck in the 70s comparing everything to film. Time to move on and not have 80 prime lenses.

[@avinbarana3015]

Ken, You are simply the best.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Fantastic! Thank you.

[@toussaintmichael]

Thank you for the review. Love your reviews and I have been a big fan of your work. Hope to see more! Cheers!

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks!

[@DocBoA]

Mine will be arriving tomorrow. As a nikon dslr shooter and after having rented the z50 for a week, this is the most excited I've been to receive a camera body in some time. Great review K Rock

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks! Hope you love it!!!

[@ReligiousZombie]

Thanks for only showing the camera and photographs made by it. Too many KZbin reviewers go into narcissist mode and just point the camcorder at their face the entire time, as if their face is more important than the product being reviewed.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Exactly! Might as well read my website instead of listening to some inexperienced person with no portfolio simply parrot specs. Thanks!

[@marcoantonioregiltv]

Great review!!!

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks Marco!!

[@donharrold1375]

A refreshing professional’s view rather than the biased, nit picking reviews delivered by sneering, cork sniffing product reviewers that are all too common on KZbin.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks for noticing!!!

[@sarahsmith-cx9my]

"cork sniffing" ! Thank you for making me laugh. And you're so right.

[@RVingTheCountry]

Man.. best review out there for this camera and I’ve seen them all. I just bought this camera with a nice Nikkor 50 mm/18.s lens. I haven’t even used the stock lens yet but I want to try it. You made me like this camera even more. I’m keeping it now. Thanks. New SUBSCRIBER.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Do try the tiny 16-50mm, it’s so tiny it works really well with the Z50. Thanks!!!

[@RVingTheCountry]

Ken Rockwell I put it on, hoping to take some shits tomorrow. Thanks. I’m hoping you have a vid of your presets for the U1 and U2 options

[@Boz1211111]

Why vivid with added saturation? Noone will shoot like this. I only ever use standard or neutral profile. Whats the point for photos to be straight from the camera when it does not show what it should

[@KenRockwellTV]

This is art. It’s supposed to look as the artist imagines it. I imagine vivid colors. Art is not the duplication of reality; this is why I sell so much and won so many competitions while others don’t. It’s all in how you want your pictures to look; I want mine WILD. THANKS!

[@jdudefun1755]

Ken Rockwell exactly! An example is astrophotography.

[@Alex-94]

​@@KenRockwellTV This is a video review of a camera maybe its not the best choice to show sample images in a camera review that doesn't represent what actual images straight out of the camera will actually look like?

[@jjjj5452]

The kit lens is awesome on the Z cameras. No need to buy other lenses really

[@KenRockwellTV]

Exactly. The tiny 16-50mm makes the camera. Thanks!

[@daisypeony66]

Loved your reviews. Just received my Z50 upgraded from my D3100. WOW! One thing I was looking for was a fantastic, crisp camera for traveling. This is one of the best cameras for traveling due to fantastic photos and LIGHT! Can't believe the weight difference! Last trip to the Rockies my neck was killing me lugging the 3100. Can't wait to travel with this one! So many photographers who have DSLR's, like the 750 say 9x out of 10 they grab this one!

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks!

[@mcdonaj2]

The z50 with a 16-50 in your pocket sure beats your 750 with 24-120 f4 in the bag at home. I have owned full frame and aps-c for years. In my busy life, I find myself taking my z50 out a lot more. I think the z50 is a hit. I agree/disagree on adapting lenses. I adapt prime lenses like 35/50 i.8s and the 60/105 micro lenses. The new 50-250 is very sharp as well. Don't sleep on taking outdoor portraits with the 50-250 either. The FTZ partially defeats the upside (compactness) of this camera system (especially zooms), but does open up a way to transition from F mount to Z mount users.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Amen, brother! Thanks for the comment.

[@benblitzkrieg]

Hi, Ken. If given the choice, would you prefer this over the XT3 or XS10? Only for casual family outing photos and self-portrait is required (though this would be a problem on the XT3 without the flip screen). Would love to hear your thoughts on this. Thanks!

[@KenRockwellTV]

Yes, I prefer Nikon to anything from Fuji with interchangeable lenses. Only Fuji I really like are their real Velvia 50 and acros 100 films, and the x100 camera series - not any interchanable lens cameras. But that’s just me.

[@nerajesh]

Z50 or Zfc ? Which one you would suggest Ken ? Z50 has built in flash :(

[@KenRockwellTV]

Then Z50 it is; mount more practical. Zac more for fun, if you like the look. Most of the two are the same otherwise; rich the one that feels best in your hand for what you do. Thanks!

[@nerajesh]

@@KenRockwellTV Z50 with 16-50 sufficient for carrying day to day ? For general purpose photography

[@KenRockwellTV]

@@nerajesh absolutely. The tiny 16-50 is the perfect lens, get it as a kit. The 50-250 also comes very inexpensively when you get the camera if you’re Interested.

[@HippieMagic]

I ended up going with the Zfc myself. I wanted a more retro feel with the dials on top for when I want to shoot pure manual and try to return to my roots. I’m in the process of stocking up on film gear again so wanted something sort of like my Pentax K1000. It definitely feels like a great alternative to when I don’t want to carry around my D810, which honestly I still have BECAUSE of the flash lol. I do wish the fc had a flash hidden in the fake prism on top but I guess for my wants it’s not a big deal.

[@Indik47]

Love your remark about weather sealing :) I`ve been shooting non-weather sealed cheap DSLRs when skiing in the rain, heavy snow, backpacking in for weeks the mountains (moist weather) - never had any problem, ever. Weather sealing is way overrated for everybody but the top paid professionals. Problems may come when you change lenses in the rain, but even the best-sealed camera can get water inside when you open the mount :)

[@KenRockwellTV]

Exactly, brother! Thanks!

[@stevestruthers6180]

Looks like Nikon have a winner on their hands. I recently ordered a Z50 and it should be arriving tomorrow. Looking forward to taking pictures with it.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Let me know how you like it! Love mine.

[@mrrolandlawrence]

tony & chelsea could learn a lot from this man :)

[@KenRockwellTV]

I LOVE T&C! They're the nicest people you'll ever meet.

[@obedbrinkman]

love my z50, very underestimated camera

[@KenRockwellTV]

Exactly! It’s probably Nikon’s best, AND least expensive. Thanks!

[@snowcat20]

I own the Z50. And I agree - it is THE BEST APS-C morrorless camera on the current market.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Glad you love it as much as I love mine. I love it when I get surprised by something much better than I expected.

[@JULIENVANCAMP]

fUJI x-T3 also.......

[@somduttasinha7564]

This is a nice elaborate review of Z50. Thanks a lot. But one thing I couldn't able to understand why "mirror less" in not upto the mark with DSLR in case of action and sports photography. May we please elaborate the things for me?

[@KenRockwellTV]

Simple: with dslr the specialized af sensors are exposed directly to the lens image and act on it in real time. With Mirrorless the af sensors are on the image sensor, and have to be read only a limited number of times per second so there is always a delay. The state of the art is Sony A9, and only that reads at 60 times per second - far worse than real time. Thanks.

[@somduttasinha7564]

@@KenRockwellTV thanks a lot for your explanation. Too easy to understand.... Just love it

[@awretchedslug]

Sold a D810 for the z50 and couldn't be happier. The AF alone was worth it.

[@KenRockwellTV]

So cool seeing the world through the electronic finder, eh? Thanks for the comment!

[@m.s.salgueiro2683]

Welcome to youtube, dont mind the trolls.

[@KenRockwellTV]

I miss the trolls! Thanks!

[@jauffins]

Love how in-depth this review is, but full-time manual focus is found on lenses other than Nikon (you state in the video that it's a core competency of Nikon that nobody else has) just an FYI.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Few if any Mirrorless lenses on Sony, on Fuji or on Canon do this. To get it to work is difficult and limited on the other brands. Thanks!

[@porkbeans2335]

My first real camera, bought this and using your tutorial as a starting base to learn. Thanks for the info, it's helping quite a bit.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Be sure to read the HOW-TO articles at KenRockwell.com to learn how to take great pictures, and see also my guides on how to use the camera. Seeing how to use the camera is easy; learning how to take a great picture can take a lifetime; see my how-tos. Happy New Year and thanks!

[@mt-nv4jd]

To my eye, the +3 saturation is a bit too much.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Then set it however it looks awesome to you. Thanks!

[@tomd4748]

Agreed. I max mine out at +2.88

[@antoinek1468]

Hi Ken, thanks for your review, which is exactly what I found on your website for years : no fuss about geeky gadgetry and straight to the important points. I have a question though regardiong Z50, dont you think the shadows are a little crushed by default ? I mean, not on your photos, but on all the others I've seen on Internet. And is there a trick to lighten these shadows right in camera without having to expose ++ ?? And a last thing : you speak a little too quickly wich makes it difficult for my simple french mind to understand you !

[@KenRockwellTV]

Well, if mine are ok and others you’ve seen have that problem, it’s operator error, not the camera. People need to pop up their flash more often, that’s why it’s there. The z50 is even so smart that it blinks the flash icon to tell you to use it in daylight when needed, although most people ignore the cameras request to use flash

[@dance2jam]

Ken, you have wonderful information at your website and thank you for being so diligent at collecting all the data and providing it as a reference. That said, I don't understand statements such as "vivid accurate colors" shot at max settings like plus 3 saturation (I realize this is the way you like to shoot, but it's not the way my eye "accurately" views the landscape or wildlife) and when speaking about the two lenses for the Z50 you say that the VR is so good "I can shoot these lenses down so slow I haven't even tested them yet!". Huh? Keep doing your reviews but like mixed metaphors some of the language has me scratching my head and replaying the audio.

[@KenRockwellTV]

I'm an artist. "Accurate" in this case means matching my vision for how my final work should look, NOT that it should match whatever the source is. Art is the expression of imagination, not simply duplicating reality. Thanks!

[@marcelniquet3678]

As much as I love everything about my Z50 (specially it’s ergonomic), when you pretend you can't get that level of color quality out of camera from a Fuji camera, I would say you are more enthusiastic than true. I’ve owned and used seven different Fuji cameras (still own two). When I compare, both the Z50 and X-T30 JPEGS are very enjoyables, but to choose from, the Fuji colors are generally better and closer to the real world. Also, while the Canon Creative Picture Control can be fun to explore, it does not at all match the unique and fantastic Fuji Film Simulation set. That said, the Z is a wonderful camera. I love it.

[@KenRockwellTV]

I am a very picky artist. I see things most others don’t. Thanks!

[@willzhang3079]

Fuji color always pinkish which is not good looking and natural

[@scriptosaurusrex]

Oh god. Ken Rockhead is on youtube now....

[@KenRockwellTV]

Better lock up the TV! Thanks!

[@TL-xw6fh]

I have to agree with Ken about Fuji cameras. There is so much talk about how great they are, but seriously they are over-rated. I had a XT-2 loaner for a day, shooting over 600 shots around London and when looking at the images, really do not see what the fuss is about. They are no better than other APS-C cameras, and only slightly better than MFT cameras.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Happy New Year and thanks!

[@avinashswamy2311]

Hey Ken, I am a big fan of your webpage and I am happy that you are now on video as well. I just hope you don't ditch your webpage for the video. Your webpage is a damn encyclopedia. Thanks for this BTW 😊. Nash

[@KenRockwellTV]

Always working like crazy at KenRockwell.com. New articles up for D870 www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/d780.htm and 1DX Mk III www.kenrockwell.com/canon/1dx-mk-iii.htm

[@UwePeche]

I mostly shoot Film and still can find a lot of Information on your site. Sometimes i disagreed, just to buy the Camera that i wanted. And than i learned you was right. :D I like you practical Point of View, the most expensive Gear isn't always the best Choice, especially when you want it carry around the whole Day and have Fun. Greetings from Germany!

[@KenRockwellTV]

Danke!!! LEICA LEICA LEICA!!!!

[@pierrebouchard4289]

Time to upgrade from D7200 to Z50 ... :-)

[@KenRockwellTV]

Love the Z50! So much fun seeing it all in the finder. Thanks for the comment.

[@jimmyhillreckon]

👍

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks!

[@Kinnup7]

Subcribed and liked. I have been a reader of your website and now look forward to your video reviews on KZbin. I love how candid you are about the manufacturer and your experience with customer support. Great content and will be following this channel going forward for more hands on in depth tell it like it is reviews.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thank you! I always tell it like it is. Thanks for noticing.

[@aravindanr7942]

Thanks lot Ken, Excellent detailed in depth review with A to Z Analysis.I liked the review.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thank YOU!!!!

[@jamesryan1939]

z50 is unmatched in it's price point when you add up size, ergonomics, features, build quality, and images quality. I have been shooting full frame for over 10 year, but you still need a smaller camera for personal use. The Sony a6400 has terrible ergonomics, and the Canon m6II has no EVF built in and a completely separate lens mount than their other cameras.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Amen brother!

[@petercharlesrees]

Hilarious, after photographing professionally for many years a small electronic device has been created where you "simply need to point it and with zero effort you make fantastic images" , thank goodness the path to creativity has been made a piece of cake!! ;)

[@KenRockwellTV]

Yes, no longer is any vision required. Today, everyone is an expert capable of creating outstanding images. Thank you!

[@johnnybigs1527]

Thanks Ken. Well rounded, informative and insightful walk around the Z50. Your back in your zone.👍

[@KenRockwellTV]

Never left! Thanks!!!

[@ChrisWesselman]

Good, comprehensive review. I took the hot shot cover from my old D50, and I'm using it on my new Z50. One less worry in inclement weather. I heard that the pop-up flash was responsible for most of the weather seal difference from the Z6/Z7. (The seal on the kit lenses, of course, could be less, as well.)

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks! As my review pointed out, I don't fret about whether sealing. I go back inside if it gets too nasty and/or shoot out a car window.

[@myles4714]

“ Twiddle around with raw“, “I don’t have time to play on a computer“. Big YIKES, bad take.

[@KenRockwellTV]

I don’t. Computers are just time wasters for my kids. Might as well be dead if you’re going to spend time in front of one. Thanks for the comment.

[@myles4714]

@@KenRockwellTV That’s extremely dismissive of graphic designers, digital illustrators, video editors, animators, 3D sculptors, and yes, digital photographers, who have mastered computer software to produce the highest quality art. Bad take Ken.

[@pal2tech]

@@KenRockwellTV As someone that has worked professionally with computers for over 20 years, as well as running a photography youtube channel, I'm very disappointed to hear you say "Might as well be dead if you’re going to spend time in front of one." I find that ignorant and unbecoming of someone with your experience. It's the kind of thing someone would tap out on a cell phone to start an argument on twitter -- which may be a better media company for you to publish to than KZbin. Computers in fact helped create your KZbin channel and edit your videos; computers give thousands of people jobs, have save lives medically ever day, and have changed the world for the better in thousands of ways. If you're going to get into the KZbin game, you might want to consider keeping the negativity and dismissiveness out of the comments on your channel. It makes you look amateur. That said, if you are referring to spending less time in front of Lightroom sliders and more time shooting photos, I agree with you 100%. But maybe say that w/o the sarcasm. Just my $0.02 as a fellow KZbinr.

[@KenRockwellTV]

@@pal2tech Thanks for the reply. I've been getting paid to work on computers since the 1970s where all we had were TRS-80. Great if you're a tech computer guy, but has nothing to do with shooting. The world needs all types, and visual artists

[@AbbasBinYounas]

@@pal2tech I think Ken is speaking purely from a photographer's perspective, hinting towards the excessive use of computers in photo retouching, just like you've mentioned in end of your comment. We owe our normal daily functioning to computers, no doubt, but I do agree with Ken's sentiment relating to the over-the-top retouching of photos, especially when going after currently popular "looks". As a photographer, the more time we spend behind the camera, the less time we need to spend in front of the monitor, I guess.

[@shang-hsienyang1284]

Wow, welcome to the game Mr. Rockwell!

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thank you!

[@gregoryrogalsky6937]

Great review.. Your passion for shooting really comes through.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks! Glad you noticed I’m a shooter rather than a spec reader. One fine day I need to do a video on why your camera just doesn’t matter at all www.kenrockwell.com/tech/notcamera.htm and www.kenrockwell.com/tech/not-about-your-camera.htm

[@vangestelwijnen]

Excellent review Ken! Thanks. And I am a old school shooter, so stick with my D700-50mm and D7200 with the rest for the time being. But worth considering, this Z!

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks!

[@miloradkaravidin8818]

Nice to see reviews from a legend!

[@KenRockwellTV]

Nice to get compliments from my great readers! Thanks!

[@tomonabudget]

Oh my, finally someone that likes a built in Flash. I've been missing that on my Mid-Level+ Sony's as I found the Flash awesome for triggering a Wireless flash without needing to carry extra equipment.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Exactly. Thanks!

[@stevenkahchunwong6558]

Hi Ken! Great to see you on KZbin. I bought a D600 many years ago and bought a 28 1.8 because of your reviews. They are still serving me very well but the weight is too heavy for my trips for most of the time. Therefore, I have been thinking to trade them in for this camera with the kit lens. In your opinion, is it worth it?

[@KenRockwellTV]

See www.kenrockwell.com/tech/is-it-worth-it.htm

[@danc3693]

Ken Rockwell Thanks for that link! Everything there is sooo true :-)

[@Wildfireaarhus]

I have a Nikon D500 and take alot of pictures in my garden, but the birds don't like the sounds when i take the pictures. Some of them get sceared... Could this replace my D500 in my garden?

[@KenRockwellTV]

Nikon mirrorless isn’t very good compared to Canon. The z50 has very slow autofocus. Instead I’d get a Canon R50 www.kenrockwell.com/canon/eos-r/r50.htm or better and RF 100-400 lens or better www.kenrockwell.com/canon/eos-r/lenses/100-400mm.htm

[@bijanchoudhury1440]

Good to see you in YouTUbe ... This is what should be in a review ... photographs and lot of photographs ... Please put even more photos in your upcoming videos ...Your voice is clear and precise to the point ... I am going to look forward to your reviews ... may or may not agree with all your comments ... but enjoyed your show ... Thank you.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thank YOU! Without photos, obviously it wouldn’t be a review - just random thoughts. Photos say everything; without photos how could the possibly be a review? Thanks again!

[@gregsullivan7408]

Thanks for the great review, and I'm *glad* it has the Z mount. (glares at Tony Northrup!)

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks, Greg!

[@porter4856]

Ken (always loved your site & links), 3 years later how do you feel about this camera kit with both the 16-50/50-250 for $1100? Great value? Anything else to consider first around the $1k mark? Did the firmware update in January make a big difference for this camera?

[@KenRockwellTV]

I’ve never seen Nikons firmware make any noticeable improvement. Z50 is fun, but not for action. My Canon R50 just showed up, gimme a while to write its review. www.kenrockwell.com/canon/eos-r/r50.htm

[@markshirley01]

Great review thanks Ken. It's just trying to figure what it's like for video now.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Not all that exciting; I forgot to put in my video samples. I use my iPhone for better results for video.