Nikon Z50 review - detailed, hands-on, not sponsored

A detailed, hands-on review of the Nikon Z50, describing everything you need to know about this camera.
RELATED VIDEOS
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Part Two • Nikon Z50 review - det...
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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0:50 sample images
1:19 design, body, controls
3:09 touch LCD
4:04 pre-shot configuration
4:42 kit lens 16-50
5:53 manual exposure controls
6:40 AutoISO, ISO samples
7:56 P, A, S modes
8:29 Colour Profiles, Filters
9:25 dynamic range controls
10:17 focus settings and touch
11:40 back focus
11:58 face/eye detect
#NOTSPONSORED
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I have not received compensation in exchange for posting this review.
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AFFILIATE LINKS
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I will receive a small commission if you purchase:
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ABOUT ME
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I do read and respond to all comments, which are moderated. If you leave a relevant question or civil comment without links (which are filtered by youtube) it will be posted, I will reply.
Spend more time with me:
WEBSITE/BLOG: maartech.com
CONTACT: maartendotheilbronatgmaildotcom
DISCLOSURE
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I am not sponsored or compensated by any manufacturer, I have not accepted payment to review this or any product. Even if a product was provided at no cost to me, I don’t allow the provider to review the script or video prior to posting.
I am compensated by Google Adwords, who place videos before and after my videos. I receive a small commission from B&H and Amazon if you purchase using the affiliate links.
Please do not allow this to influence your purchase decision. Should you wish to support me, please use the links above.
I encourage you to visit and support your local photo/video retailer.

[@cameraz99]

This is the absolute best video I've seen on the Z 50, and I've seen about all of them! Nobody has come close to the amount of details you have discussed. And I love the suggestion that people judge the camera on its own merits! Subscribed! 📸

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I appreciate your kind words, thanks for taking the time to comment.

[@syedfarhan1643]

The best video on Z50 on youtube. No drama, just pure content.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

That's very kind. I'm just not good at drama. Thanks, I appreciate your kind words.

[@TaipeiGeek]

For the price Nikon charges, this camera has a lot of customizability, and two scroll wheels. That's amazing.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

You're right, it's a pretty good value among the APS-C models.

[@vontknot]

Hey Maarten, great video. I own the z7; if this camera is like the z7, then there is a simpler way to turn off auto ISO if you have ISO assigned to a button. You can press the button and use the front dial to turn on/off auto ISO, while the back dial adjusts the manual ISO value.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for the kind words, and the tip, appreciated.

[@kwing-yumak4839]

Dear Maarten, just want to let you know that quick selection of auto ISO can be done by hold-pressing the ISO button and turn the sub-dial at the front.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Great tip, thanks for sharing!

[@slaughtered777]

@@MaartenHeilbron Also if you select ISO in the i-menu, and hit Down on the D-pad inside the ISO menu, you get quick access to Auto ISO on/off and Max Sensitivity 😄

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@slaughtered777 Thanks for sharing this tip!

[@wilteduk007]

I find myself watching whatever you review, whether I'm interested in buying it or not.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

That is very kind indeed, thanks for commenting.

[@feliperodriguez8373]

Lol Bro I'm doing the sale XD

[@antonoat]

You are not the only one!

[@subrotomitra]

Honest

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@subrotomitra Thanks!

[@Craig_Anderson]

A review from Maarten? Of course I'd watch it! This is one of very vew places to get an informative, unbiased, serious video review of cameras

[@MaartenHeilbron]

How kind of you to say, thanks for commenting.

[@evangraham376]

Hello Maarten. I wanted to add something that Z50 users might enjoy knowing. In case you’re new to this camera, I went on a shoot this morning and took 440 shots (no video). With Nikon’s 300 shot estimated battery life I think you will appreciate that after 440 shot the camera’s indicator still shows a full battery. Of course we all know it’s not full, but it’s still nice to have ample battery life well beyond the 300 mark. I’m viewing this video for the second time because I found it so useful and informative. Thank you again for an excellent review of this lovely little camera!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for your real-world update. I'll think you'll find that's true of most cameras - the CIPA test results provide a consistent and repeatable result for comparison.

[@ShaunakHub]

Your reviews are really great! You have the rare quality of equally highlighting pros and cons of all the products you review, unlike other reviewers who will harp about either pros or cons for 90% of the videos. Also, love your overall composure and manner of speaking - hence watch whatever you upload whether I am interested or not in that product (like Z50) :-D

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thank you so much! It was a pleasure to read your kind words.

[@pblnlpalu]

Maarten, I wish you and your lovely wife happy Xmas and a great new year 2020! Greetz from Paul in Holland!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for the kind wishes, please give my best holiday wishes to all my friends in the Netherlands, en zaalig uiteinden.

[@markyork5839]

Great review. Cear and informative. No ego, no waffle - as is all too often the case with KZbinrs. Subscribed.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

That's great, always nice to hear from a viewer who appreciates my style.

[@sugarfreedaddie5995]

Haven't even heard of it yet and i love it. As a Nikon shooter we have been wanting something like this for awhile even with the Nikon z6 series already out.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for the kind words.

[@davidlewis1787]

I love your demonstrations using Lego and dolls...quick, brilliant and also amusing...the best reviews I have seen.❤️👍

[@MaartenHeilbron]

That's very kind, thanks, appreciated.

[@kierenkd]

Nikon make excellent cameras. I was so happy with my D40 and D7000 but switched to another brand as I felt they were never going to give me an affordable, good quality set of primes or normal lenses. The combo of the Fuji X-T30 with 14-45 and 35mm F1.4 seems perfect for me. I considered canon too. The Z50 with a 15-45 or 13/14-40 would be great with perhaps some F2 lenses at 23 / 28 / 36 / 55mm range for example

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Yes, it would be good to have some better quality, larger aperture and prime lenses for the dx z mount.

[@faisalsheraz8101]

Well the lack of Nikon Z dx lens specially prime ones are a big issue with this Apsc model otherwise it seems a very good model along with good features..and personally I am not in favour of using full frame lens with crop bodies, it really kills the advantage of small mirror less system.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@faisalsheraz8101 Well, there's always the FTZ adapter.

[@LMoProVisualComm]

Maybe the best short review ever for this system... Seems that it had a ton of bells and whistles!!! That HDR MODE wow

[@MaartenHeilbron]

It was a pleasure to read your kind words, thanks.

[@ajameslee]

I love your videos! Your delivery is fantastic and enjoyable to watch.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

It was a pleasure to read your kind words, thanks!!

[@madphotographer762]

Brilliant review !! You are the master!!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, your kind words are appreciated.

[@Digmen1]

I always like your reviews I saw the other day that the Z50 is the top selling camera in Japan for last month! Ahead of the M50 and the A6400

[@MaartenHeilbron]

That's interesting, thanks for the update.

[@aitchessanon4312]

Hello Maarten - I'm enjoying your review, which is as detailed and informative as usual. I just paused it to type this, a quick comment about the Auto ISO setting - I have found an easier way to turn the Auto feature on and off than having to enter the menu system. You are correct in pointing out that touching the ISO value box on the screen doesn't allow us to turn on or off the Auto ISO setting. However, if you access ISO by a quick press on the ISO button near the shutter release (or if you have the ISO value as one of the controls on the i Menu - basically, any method that turns the ISO value display at the bottom of the screen yellow) - then one of the control dials alters the ISO value (or if it's in Auto ISO, it alters the default ISO value the camera is aiming for) and the other dial acts as a simple toggle between Auto ISO and manual ISO. It's quite convenient as you are able to see the little Auto legend below ISO appear and disappear as you click whichever of the two control dials your particular preferred configuration places this functionality on - so, to enter or leave Auto ISO, it's just one button press, one click of the relevant dial and half-press the shutter button or any other method of accepting the change.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for the kind words -yes, that works on other models, but I didn't try that here. I appreciate the tip - always nice to have viewers step in when I mis-step.

[@pretenditsok242]

I know this isn’t a pro level camera but how good is the IQ? I am a dslr lover and I recently purchased the Fuji xt30 but I wondered about this as well. I used both Canon and Nikon pre Fuji and to be honest, I miss my chunky dslr. The user manual is 300 pages long for the xt30 and I just want to shoot without reading a book first! It seems like the more I use it, the WORSE I get instead of better! I truly do miss just picking up my Canon or Nikon, and getting right to it instead of having to choose from menu’s, dub menu’s and still not really feeling satisfied. Thank you!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@pretenditsok242 Sorry to hear that you're not having the experience you like. On the Z50 the image quality would be better if the lenses were better. I wish I'd been able to shoot with a full frame Z lens.

[@pretenditsok242]

Maarten Heilbron Thanks for your response. I think this is a fantastic camera. I purchased the Fujinon 35mm 1.8 to go with it because it was cheaper than the 18-55mm 2.8 kit. Again, a great combo. I just really don’t like the grip and I keep hitting the Q button and I just really miss my chunky “ clunky “ dslr. I kept hearing reviewers and users say it is a great second body. I can see why but I also think for the right person, it can be their only body. I learned on a Canon and a Pentax K1000 ,then I purchased a Pentax MX-1 as a point and shoot and finally , when my T3I started to die after several years of being a beast of a camera, I purchased a Nikon just out of curiosity. However, I truly am a Canon shooter at heart and it’s time to stop trying to follow the trends and do what’s right for me. I love your reviews. They are the best I have seen. Thanks for reading my comments. Cheers!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@pretenditsok242 Yes, do what's right for you, nothing else matters.

[@Klarato123]

Thank you so much for the great reviews. Been trying to find a good camera for travelling that isn't complicated and most other reviews seem to throw anything that isn't high end DSLR right under the bus. Thanks agian and keep up the great work!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Glad to help! Always nice to hear that my videos are appreciated. Thanks!

[@nigeldawson8218]

I see this as a replacement for my Nikon 1. A great travel camera for good quality casual photography fun. THx.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Absolutely! thanks for your kind words.

[@jpdj2715]

With a background in large and medium format, Nikon pro gear used to be the snapshot and holiday camera. A history and evolution got me to the Z 7 and it's primes. Now the Z primes, extremely good, are not small, so I considered a Z DX basic zoom as walk-around, no planned serious work, snapshot, sort of pancake, lens, for the Z 7. To the brick and mortar shops. In videos, that Z 50 looks OK. Its size does not come across. Now it sat there on a shelf. Wow, that thing is cute as a puppy (a lot cuter than a bug). Smaller than I had thought. It has a serious IWOOT factor (I want one of those). And for image quality it can compete with a D500. Put a Z 50mm/1.8S on it - one of the best lenses ever - and you got a handy portrait camera. But, that plastic DX standard zoom is already surprisingly good.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

[@MrArunavadatta]

One of the best camera reviews I have ever watched..

[@MaartenHeilbron]

A pleasure to read your kind words, thanks!!!

[@MrArunavadatta]

@@MaartenHeilbron how do you manage to display the cameras menu on the screen ?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@MrArunavadatta It's recorded from the HDMI output.kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z4WslKWre6loftE

[@MrArunavadatta]

@@MaartenHeilbron Thanks for sharing

[@georgecharpentier6043]

Excellent presentation! Concise, organized, clear - very useful and helpful.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, it was a pleasure to read your kind words.

[@jonbarnard7186]

If this camera had ibis , I'd buy it in a heartbeat. So I just bought the lens, and I'm looking forward to taking it out on the street on my Z7. Please do the lens review (although it's too late since I already bought it.)

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Would a tripod, a fast lens or lighting not be other solutions you'd consider? I find in body stabilization to be a feature I rarely depend on.

[@duncangibson5631]

Hi, I just bought the Z50 because of the weight an several other features I truly enjoy it..I come across this Video bye accident and found it very interesting .I'm now ready for the second Video Thanks again

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, always nice to hear from a viewer who appreciates my work.

[@Blue_Newt_01]

Love this little gem and I shoot with the z6 and d750. I attached a third party adapter, which is more streamline than the FTZ, and use it with those old school manual focus nikkor primes. Wonderful to focus with peaking!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Always nice to have an experienced report. Thanks.

[@stephanweiskorn6760]

Excellent video 😊!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks! Always nice to read appreciative comments.

[@mrcoolwebsworld]

I never purchase a new camera or phone at Christmas waiting for the sales or used, last year I broke my rule after watching the toppers in Holland a couple of days later I noticed a Nikon D5600 with 18-140 lens for $790 CAD. I remembered your old review so sitting in the ice cold on Kalverstraat watched it on my mobile then purchased for a birthday. Mobile phones have out sold cameras at my local camera shop this year though the OMD 3 possible due to its low price size and flip out screen are selling. None of the big names Nikon Sony Canon are selling this can only be due to price. Mate 20 pro seems to be the top selling phone. May your reviews long continue and may I like I am sure everyone who reads them wish you a very Happy Christmas and a Great New Year.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Ah, Kalverstraat, Thanks for your kind wishes.

[@mrcoolwebsworld]

Yes will be at Ziggo Dome New Years and will be shopping the day after for a good used Sony A7 Mk3 pay in euros play with it if I dont like it sell it in the UK with a profit if the exchange rate is good. What fun it used to be spending long hours in the home made darkroom with film and prints and experimenting now its point shoot and the camera does it all.

[@rotvonrat]

Think you are the best and most useful camera guy on KZbin.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Always nice to hear from a viewer who appreciates my work.

[@GemstoneAutos]

Love your channel, just started one this year while a lot different than yours, I certainly find you a good role model in the way you present your content. Thank you for doing this...

[@MaartenHeilbron]

What a pleasure to read your kind words. I'm happy to hear that I'm providing model behaviour. Thanks!

[@antonoat]

Excellent review as always Maarten, thank you. Seasons greeting to you and your family. All the very best for 2020. PS looking forward to your Z series lens review.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for your kind wishes and kind words.

[@kencochrane8795]

Based upon your (and other) review, I purchased the Z50. Really like it and the 16-50 mm lens. The only thing I dont like is that you cannot lock the focus box in place. Hopefully nikon will include this in a future Firmware update. Thanks again for your review

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Good comment - although you'll find it wanders less if you turn off the touch screen.

[@peterslagmolen]

great video! There is however a faster way to change ISO from auto to manuel. By holding the iso button and turn the wheal in front :-)

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Great tip, thanks for sharing.

[@faisalee]

Beautiful review! I love the way you explain and talk 🙂

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks - a pleasure to read your kind words, appreciated.

[@ajhigginscomposer]

Another guy from Austin's channel. You probably have gotten a lot of comments like this so I won't waste your time. He said that you were a great, expert source for photographers. 😀

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, I appreciate the kind words as well as Austin's kind gesture.

[@hernerwerzog9700]

Austin McConnel brought me here. In his latest video, he recommended your channel :)

[@MaartenHeilbron]

He's very kind, and thanks for following his guidance.

[@hernerwerzog9700]

@@MaartenHeilbron He is indeed. I am already subsriced to your channel and I really like the videos I've seen so far

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@hernerwerzog9700 Thanks, always nice to hear from viewers who appreciate my work.

[@hernerwerzog9700]

@@MaartenHeilbron You're welcome :) All the best from Germany

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@hernerwerzog9700 Thanks. Please say hello to all my friends in Germany, particularly those in Heilbronn

[@martinhommel9967]

Interesting and informative video. Thank you. Merry Christmas and a happy new year

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for your kind words and kind wishes.

[@kentmemories]

Great review.. Z50 has the best ergo to my hand, bar none.. High ISO is quite amazing..

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for your kind words, they are appreciated.

[@lorenschwiderski]

Thanks for the review! Wish that Nikon would have got into the game earlier, as they feel so good in hand and controls are so nice. Looks like, along with Fujifilm cameras, something very good to consider in the future. From what I have read the Fujinon lenses are very nice in the lower priced range. I like your detailed reviews on cameras - thanks again!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for your kind words, always nice to know I'm providing useful information for my viewers.

[@beksinski]

Awesome. I just bought one today. Very helpful.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for your kind words, appreciated.

[@Digmen1]

You can buy a small rig mount to put your tripod to one side for blogging.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Great suggestion, if you can find a way to mount it.

[@MyHumanWreckage]

Top notch review, as usual.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I appreciate your kind words, thanks.

[@ronspi]

Got the camera with the two available lenses and the FTZ adapter as one package. The full frame lenses and the DX ones, using the FTZ adapter are working great. So far I tried all my Nikon lenses and the Tokina 11-16mm F2.8 DX and all are fast to focus with great image quality. It is small, and so far I cannot find extra batteries on the market (December 22, 2019). The first charge provided 150 images at the battery level shows Full. I used some of the settings in your review - thank you for those. I'm not a video person (for that I like to use a video camera) but with this tiny body and the options of the so many lenses I already have, I might start practicing video as well. Happy, health and productive 2020 to you and all who read.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for the update, are the Nikon batteries not available, or are you looking for third party batteries?

[@ronspi]

@@MaartenHeilbron So far, no one carries only batteries. No third party available at all. Nikon sellers still don't have the Nikon batteries in stock. Yes, I can connect a small power-brick into the Hotshoe and constantly charge (like I do with my Sony). It is working fine, but I still would like to see batteries. I also ordered the L bracket that allows the tripod to be connected to the side of the camera, allowing the LCD to be folded down and the tripod is not in the way.www.smallrig.com/smallrig-vlogging-mounting-plate-for-nikon-z50-camera-lcn2525.html?gclid=Cj0KCQiA6IHwBRCJARIsALNjViW2o5EAoXntK1f81jlJnk2kLJEH7babhZbVK2H1OFGiO_YV_fvzPikaAk1oEALw_wcB

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@ronspi Makes me appreciate companies like Fujifilm that use the same battery in every model.

[@ronspi]

@@MaartenHeilbron True. Nikon did it well from the D7000, D800, D850 to the D500. I don't know why they changed. Going small still needs the good grip - this is where the battery should be, I thought.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@ronspi What goes on in the heads of photo brand and product managers eludes me.

[@ruff1draft]

Maarten in my opinion the Nikon Z50 is a mirror-less Nikon D5500/Nikon D5600 with a bit more added to it. Unfortunately the Nikon Z50 does not have the flip vertical screen like the Nikon D5500/Nikon D5600 does. Infact the Nikon Z50 has made me use my Nikon D5500 more when I go out for street photography and has inspired me to purchase the Nikon D5600 to go along with the my Nikon D5500. Also going to purchase the Nikon D750 replacement along with the Nikon D750 itself and the Canon 90D. I want my very own unique camera collection.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

It sounds as if you're well on your way to your goal. The collection will be unique, even if the cameras are not.

[@ruff1draft]

@@MaartenHeilbron Very true. But did you find similarities Photography wise between the Nikon Z50 and the Nikon D5500/Nikon D5600. And do you know when the Nikon D750 replacement is coming out.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@ruff1draft Nikon does not provide any advance information to Canadian reviewers. There are obviously similarities between these cameras, that's mostly due to Nikon's menu system and general approach.

[@kencochrane8795]

Per Martin’s advice, turned off the touch screen in the menu. Problem mostly solved. I dont really use the touchscreen feature anyway. Thanks Martin

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Always nice to know I've been helpful, thanks for commenting.

[@FawnandEvon]

I love your reviews, I have yet to find the right camera for me.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for the kind words - yes, there is as yet no perfect camera.

[@testcams]

@6:48, A simpler way to turn Auto ISO on/off is to hold the ISO button while turning the sub-command dial.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Yes! I should have remembered that from other Nikon models, thanks for the tip.

[@gary.kenyon]

Fantastic reviews. Thank you. I want a camera for holiday and can’t make my mind up between canon G7x ii or the Nikon z50. What would you buy to cart around all day but get good image quality. Thank you

[@MaartenHeilbron]

The Z50.

[@pdimages]

there is a small rig off set you can get that lets you put the tripod mount to the side as to no block the screen.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Tell me more.

[@lfmtube]

A great video Thanks! I like the emotional tone that your videos shows. Greetings from Buenos Aires, Argentina

[@MaartenHeilbron]

A pleasure to read you kind words, thanks for commenting. Please say hello to all my friend in Buenos Aires.

[@BernardSolomon]

Lovely video - content and delivery wise. And thank you for calling it a 'Zed'50.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for the kind words. Is there another way to call it?

[@chiquitocastaneda2851]

Maarten this is one heck of a review the only thing is I didn't understand most of it but I can tell it was a review that would help someone that knows optics... Chiquito...

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, sorry that you weren't able to get all of it, but I do appreciate the kind words.

[@jamespkuzman]

I realize this is a bit of an “apples and oranges” statement since I’m about to compare a mirrorless camera to a DSLR, but assuming Nikon is aiming for an entry-level photographer - someone moving up from a cell phone or a point-and-shoot camera, which seems pretty accurate considering they’ve kept on with the scene modes and various filter effects - the comparison to their own D5600 doesn’t seem entirely unfair. At standard pricing for a two lens kit, the Z50 is only a couple of hundred dollars more than the D5600. Right now though, the D5600 two lens kit is selling for one half of the cost of the comparable Z50 kit. Unless you’re a savvy enough buyer to know why you’d prefer mirrorless, would appreciate the magnesium body, or the weather sealing - which I don’t think is a safe assumption for this customer - the pricing structure isn’t exactly setting up the Z50 for a record-breaking start sales-wise. I’m not sure that that slow kit zoom is going to inspire anyone either, especially with no image stabilization in body or in lens. For the right photographer in the right (read “well lit”) conditions, maybe there’s something to appreciate here, but for the money, I think there are several more attractive options from Sony, Fuji, Panasonic, and Olympus (for mirrorless) or Nikon’s own proven stable of entry-level DSLR’s for those preferring a more traditional option. All of that said, still an enjoyable review well presented!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for your kind words - pricing, model numbering and the decision as to which features to include is all beyond me.

[@aitchessanon4312]

@Jim Kuzman The kit zoom is stabilised (as is the DX Z tele zoom also), though the full frame lenses aren't, of course.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@aitchessanon4312 Thanks for adding that note.

[@jasonrankin9515]

You sir are a true GURU

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, your kind words are appreciated.

[@mick1967]

I like your detailed reviews very much. 😊👍🏻 At 6:48 you say you’re looking for an easier way to turn Auto ISO on and off than going into the menu. Did you forget the ISO button close to the shutter? There is no easier way to switch on/off Auto ISO. Edit: Sorry for repetition I just saw that there were other people here who gave that tip. As the german comedian Karl Valentin from the 40s said, everything is already said but not from everyone.😉

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Sorry, senior moment. I knew that, but.

[@fjphoto23]

Use the front facing dial/wheel to switch ISO mode while holding down the ISO button.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@fjphoto23 Got it, thanks.

[@viktorrahal2079]

Outstanding Review. This camera seems to have the best ISO performance in low light among APS-C mirrorless cameras, do you agree? I checked this camera in the store after your review, it is very well built and for me it has the nicest viewfinder of all the competition

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I haven't had the chance to compare it against all APS-C mirrorless models. dpreview does excellent work in providing direct comparison images between models. Thanks also for your kind words, always appreciated.

[@michaelbruchas6663]

Maarten - love your videos! Still thinking about this as USED body buy. Have a used D7100 which I hardly use. The other Z cameras are out of this old man’s budget.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

If you hardly use your current camera, why are you looking for a new one?

[@michaelbruchas6663]

Good point. Need to use the D7100...

[@CarlosVargascv]

Marteen, I just want to say that this is an amazing review. I think it you just sold me on the Z50! (Also, the link to the second part in the Description is not correct, it sends me to a Private Video. The link at the end of the video does work though).

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks you for your very kind words, and for the note - I've (hopefully) fixed it.

[@ruff1draft]

Wished the Nikon Z50 had a similar design to the Nikon D5600. With the fully articulated screen and the sd at the side. I fact that's what I am going to eventually do. I already own the Nikon D5500 so I will probably get another one off them and a Nikon D5600 and the Nikon D750 for my street photography

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Always nice to hear from a photographer who has a solution that suits their needs.

[@WillBorkowski]

Will the photos look identical between a Z6 w/ 24mm lens and a Z50 w/ the equivalent in 16mm?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Probably not, for many factors.

[@sdhute]

Still very relevant today especially with the 3rd party lenses out now days.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, always nice to know my work is appreciated.

[@samg1364]

As always, thank you for the excellent review. I am having a hard time deciding between the Z50 and the Sony A6400. Which would you purchase? I know every person has their own usage, but as whole package, which one would you pick since you know more than me about cameras? Thanks...

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I like them both. Image quality and functionality is pretty identical, exposure controls are good, focus is comparable. I prefer the layout and design of the Z50, as I find the A6400 just a little too small. However, at the moment (unless you already have Nikon lenses and are buying the adapter) the native Z lens selection is small with few (but more coming) DX format lenses. While the FX lenses are lovely, they are pricey. At the moment, there is a larger selection of lenses for e-mount cameras.

[@samg1364]

Maarten Heilbron Thank you!

[@cindybowers6581]

Wow, thank you for this comprehensive review. Last year, I took the plunge into Nikon with buying the D850 which is a great camera although its too heavy to hike with and too expensive for fear of that someone will steal or I will loose if I take on my travels. I do use it for short hikes and for portraits and plan to work on some star trails this spring. So I am giving the Z50 some serious consideration to serve my needs for a travel camera because it is small and weighs less. I realize that I am giving up my image quality and going from a FX to a DX but the Z50 will become my play camera and my D850 will remain my workhorse. That's my tentative plan but I need to know a little more before I jump into another new camera. Now... . If I use the adapter on the Z50, I can use my Nikon F lens. But I have a few questions if you could help me out. My Nikon F lens are full frame while the Z50 is not a full frame. Will that affect my F lens in any negative way? After buying so much for my lens I don't want to mess up their stabilization features. Any insights to my questions would be extremely helpful. Thanks again for your detailed review on the Z50.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

A pleasure to read your kind words, always nice to know my videos are useful and appreciated.

[@ryonatkinson6637]

this is genuenly a great review

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for your kind words.

[@mariocastaneda1731]

Hi Maarten. Great review as usual. You may know about the sensor self cleaning system. I read on a good source of information that the Z50 is lacking the on sensor self cleaning dust system. Do you know about it? If that would be the case, what is the best way to clean the sensor? Thank you!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

It is true that the Z50 does not have the sensor-shaking, lens-cleaning feature in most cases I don't find it useful. As the Z50 manual suggests, using a soft hand blower and possibly a brush remains the best method. If the dirt accumulation is worse than that, you are best to take it to a dealer or reputable repair shop for a cleaning. If you are the careful and patient type, it is possible to do it yourself with products like lens pen, but I hesitate to recommend this as the possibility of damage is significant.

[@leeziezhu9694]

Thanks for the review. I am considering z50, but it is still worth buying in 2022 in a couples of days or shall i wait for z50 replacement like mark ii for z6 and z7?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I would hold out for a Z6. As the only good Z lenses are full frame, it seems like a waste of money to buy a crop sensor. Thanks, I appreciate the kind words.

[@leeziezhu9694]

@@MaartenHeilbron Thanks for your reply. I wish to own Z6 one day too. But it is too bad as I have a lot of dx lenses and it would be too costly to switch to FX system. That is why I am considering Z50 and still thinking if it is worth buying in 2022 which coming soon.

[@michaelellard4664]

Thanks for the review.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

It's my pleasure, thanks for your kind words.

[@Valhalla.Studio]

Nice review, thank you!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Glad you enjoyed it! Always nice to read kind words.

[@rosaliapazos1755]

I have a nikon d3100 and I would like to upgrade it for this Nikon z50. Is it superior? To what camera could it be compared? Thank you.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Superior in what way? What are your issues with the D3100 that are driving your desire to upgrade?

[@parranoic]

Would you rather use the m50 or the z50 ? Ignoring the lenses available since both can use canon/nikon lenses with that small of a flange distance.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I would rather use the Z50.

[@CWL51]

It would be great if you will make a video to review F mount lens on Z50. Great review.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I'll add that to the to-do list, maybe include that in the lens roundup.

[@matic2601]

Thank you for this review.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, always nice to hear from a satisfied viewer.

[@b4air]

If I was on the market to buy a APSC (Half frame) camera, this would be my choice. I bought a Nikon Z6 last year and very happy with it. #FutureIsMirrorless

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for adding your recommendation. However, the APS-C mirrorless shelf is crowded with very strong competitors.

[@kencochrane8795]

Question: The Z6 is 24mp and the Z50 about 21mp with a much smaller sensor. Does that mean that the resolution of the Z50 images are about the same or possibly greater than the Z6 because of the smaller sensor? Thanks

[@MaartenHeilbron]

The difference is the size of the pixels - and larger pixels can capture more light in less time. In this case, that's the advantage of the larger sensor. The resolution is nearly the same.

[@rydergw]

Merry Christmas Maarten. From Gerald in Australia. :-)

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, I appreciate your kind wishes. A very Merry Christmas to all my friends in Australia who are celebrating the season.

[@ThePhotographyHobbyist]

Bored and craving Z50 news, so while I wait for my Z50 to arrive tomorrow to go with my Z7, here I am :-)

[@MaartenHeilbron]

While I realize these are less than ideal circumstances, thanks for watching.

[@ThePhotographyHobbyist]

Maarten Heilbron Hehe. You’re welcome. Your videos are always thorough and informative/useful.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@ThePhotographyHobbyist Thanks for the kind words.

[@MasterFangus]

Hello Maarten, thanks for the video! One question: why is there a flashing red lightning bolt in the lower right hand of the screen? It looks quite annoying, is there a way to disable it? Thanks in advance!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I don't know this icon. I assume it's on the screen and not the photographs or video recordings. Does it also appear on the viewfinder, or just the screen? Is it always there, or is it associated with certain other settings?

[@MasterFangus]

@@MaartenHeilbron it appears on both, i think it's associated with the flash settings and from what i heard it means the camera is telling you the photo is underexposed. At 3:10 you can see the icon (the ISO icon blinks too).

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@MasterFangus Ah, right and right. I made the mistake of checking with the manual - which doesn't note this one. Yes, the camera is advising you to use flash.

[@MasterFangus]

@@MaartenHeilbron precisely! Do you think there's a way to disable it?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@MasterFangus Add more light? Put a flash on? Sadly, no. Nikon doesn't provide the kinds of screen custom settings that (for instance) Fujifilm does.

[@kencochrane8795]

Thank you Martin!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Always glad to know I've been helpful, thanks!!

[@Shorty_Lickens]

I didnt love it as much as the Sony a6400 because it had inferior low-light autofocus and metering. If I had not compared it to other contemporary cameras I'd have probably loved it.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Minor differences. It's easy to get lost in a sea of features with very small differences.

[@eheheh3263]

I need some advice. Would it be a good idea to upgrade my Nikon d5300 with the Nikon Z50? (Anyone who knows about cameras) I’m a beginner. Thank You.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Yes, seems like a good idea, but what aspects of the D5300 are no longer pleasing you and what improvements do you hope for when you upgrade?

[@themotorcycleenthusiast496]

Sir d7500 or z50 for photography? Image quality and focusing is the main priority sir !

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Image quality the same, focussing is better on the Z50.

[@RobShootPhotos]

So your saying if your in Aperture or Shutter one of the command dials can't be used for exposure compensation until you push EV +/- button? To me that is the whole reason why I look to buy a camera with two command dials, so I don't have to press a button to do exposure compensation in A & S modes.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

That is exactly what I'm saying. In aperture and shutter priority both dials adjust the aperture or shutter.

[@RobShootPhotos]

@@MaartenHeilbron that's a real head-scratcher. I would have never thought that would be an issue with dual command dials. I would be returning it so quickly. Glad to have your channels since I live in the middle of nowhere when it comes to camera stores. Keep up the good work!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@RobShootPhotos thanks for the kind words, I'm always happy to help.

[@checksix_TC]

Just like Canon USA has Rudy Winston for tutorials, Nikon should hire you.😉

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Yes, but then I couldn't tell you what I really think.

[@danieldreifuss378]

Great video

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for the kind words, appreciated.

[@gman922]

Hope it works better and is simpler to use than the canon eos m6 I just got rid of and bought a Nikon D700

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I hope so too.

[@gman922]

@@MaartenHeilbron For $450 I bought a Minty Nikon D700 with 16K clicks and a Nikon AF 50MM f1.4 D that canon m6 I had was horrible.When the manufacturers bring out a simple no video mirror less with just 4 settings S,P,M and A I would get one

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@gman922 Yes, that would appeal to me.

[@michealvega1373]

Austin has brought me here!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

That was very kind of Austin - what a generous spirit.

[@AniketSen-dn5ij]

Hello Maarten, I am so glad I bumped into your channel, the Z50 intrigues me. I am an utter novice at best, I have only used point and shoots before and my main go to is my iPhone. So this is my first ever real foray into cameras. I am getting the Z50 with a single kit lens for $899, is that a good buy in mid 2021? Appreciate your feedback on this.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

My issue with the Z50 is the shortage of quality lenses. If you want better than the kit, you'll have to go to full frame, which kind of makes me feel that even the first gen Z6 might be a better choice.

[@AniketSen-dn5ij]

@@MaartenHeilbron Valid points Sir! I have a couple of dilemas, your feedback will be highly appreciated: Since I have no real experience with DSLRs & Mirrorless, wouldn't a full frame be an overkill? Where I live, the Z6 Gen 1 body only costs $1199, I am trying to optimally grab my gear within $1000 along with a single kit lens, maybe a hundred dollars give or take, in that regard, my options as available in my region are XT30, M6 MKII, Z50 & A6400. It would mean a world to me if you could help me decide my first ever gear. My focus is purely image quality, I am not weighing on video capabilites much, I prefer my smartphone and action cam for that. Cheers & thanks in advance!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@AniketSen-dn5ij Understood. Yes, it likely is overkill, but it provides superior quality. The best alternate would be the X-T30, as Fujiflm's crop lenses are of higher quality than the others.

[@kaizen9986]

Tamron we need the 16-300mm Z mount Please !!!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Hope they're listening.

[@AcidicDelusion]

I hope it does well for Nikon.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Early reports are looking good.

[@skakdosmer]

Thanks for the review. I have a few questions: 1) The eyes for camera strap attachment look like nothing I've seen before. But then I'm not familiar with Nikon. Are they special for this camera? 2) ...and do you trust them to hold up over time? They do look a bit flimsy, and like they could distract you or even get in your way. 3) You mentioned the guide number of the inbuilt flash to be “7 over 22”. What does that mean? I've always seen guide numbers given as just one integer, such as 12 - meaning a reach of 12 meters at ISO 100. 4) Did I understand you correctly: There’s no option of back button focus in Manual mode? I hope I misunderstood!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, always nice to see your comments and to read your kind words. Yes, the ears are different. They don’t seem flimsy, but I didn’t see any way to remove them without destroying them. I was also confused, but that’s how it’s stated in the specifications - 7/22. Sorry if I was unclear. I typically expect to switch to manual focus and then use the af-on button for back focus. Here (and it’s not completely unusual) the af-on button doesn’t work when manual focus is selected.

[@skakdosmer]

@@MaartenHeilbron Oh, it doesn't work if manual FOCUS is selected? Thanks for clearing that up - I’m glad I misunderstood! I wouldn’t have expected af-on to work with manual focus.

[@skakdosmer]

By the way, I think maybe the guide number should be read as 7 meters or 22 feet. That's not very powerful even for an inbuilt flash.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@skakdosmer Of course! Feet and metres. What was I thinking?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@skakdosmer I do expect AF-On to work in all modes.

[@carlkim2577]

I wish you'd spoken about availability of native lens. That would be my concern. I get the feeling Nikon will focus on full frame.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

There's not much to say, and I said it. Expecting Nikon to deliver quality lenses for Z-DX format bodies is a losing proposition. Didn't happen for F mount, unlikely here either. If you want quality lenses, you're going to be buying Z-FX lenses, luckily, they're very good. kzbin.info/www/bejne/f5CVZamae61qeJI

[@fjphoto23]

There are third party Z lenses by Rokinon, Samyang etc.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@fjphoto23 Thanks for adding this note.

[@paduchiu]

An excellent review, as usual, I just had to say it, OK?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Glad you enjoyed it, thanks for your kind words.

[@cillyede]

Very good!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thank you for your kind words.

[@dgqx]

how would you compare z50 to fuji xt-30, for general / street photography? thank you for the review

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Both would be good choices, depending on your specific preferences.

[@dgqx]

@@MaartenHeilbron Hi Maarten, another priority is the ease of use, practicality - I admire Canon menus / button layout / ergonomy in this sense. So if I reask my question and add another camera to this, EOS m6 mark ii, which one will be the most engaging to use for general photography in your opinion? Thank you !

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@dgqx Don't confuse familiarity with ease of use and customer-centric design. The M series suffers from a lack of quality lenses.

[@dgqx]

​@@MaartenHeilbron It is not related to familiarity - I stated my personal preference towards a specific control button layout, and finally asked about your opinion of the unit itself - not the lens range. thank you

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@dgqx I'm sorry for jumping to conclusions. If you are searching for an easy physical control layout the Fuji X-T3 or X-T4 would be my recommendations. The best camera menu system is found on Panasonic cameras. I consider the M series to be lesser because of the lens availability - sorry if that was not clear.

[@mrcoolwebsworld]

Informed new super phone on the way Xiaomi 168mp 17-250 lens range. With a price of 850 cad. Perfect night vision and a fast speed. Will have to try this out instore when it arrives.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Yes, that's a plan.

[@bigallsee9010]

@11.40 is about "back button focus" [not "back focus"], isn´t it?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

If you must be so exacting, yes, that’s correct.

[@biswarupmuk]

Greetings and thanks from Kolkata, India for the beautiful review. I would like to know which camera would you suggest between z50, D7500 and D750 in 2020. I am an amateur who wishes to jump from D5300 and generally do travel landscapes and portraits. Thanks in advance.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

First, what is there about the D5300 that no longer pleases? What specific improvements are you hoping for with a new camera? Why would you consider mirrorless?

[@biswarupmuk]

@@MaartenHeilbron Low light, star trails, depth of field advantage of the full frame for landscapes. 16mm advantage for z50 kit. Upgrade. Don't have any legacy lens as such.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@biswarupmuk In that case, only the D750 has the full frame advantage.

[@OfficeofthePacific]

Maarten, I just bought a Z50 and I'm new to the camera/video world. I noticed the thing is always changing brightness and darkness fairly often. I would assume that has to do with White Balance auto setting or something? Also I was told by Nikon that the AF feature does not work when the HIgh Quality setting is engaged. When I was talking to a Nikon support tech he said it has nothing to do with High quality being engaged but rather a higher video fps, but they don't clarify when AF is disabled... at what fps? 30, 60 or 120fps? Would love any feedback. Great videos, keep it up.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for the kind words. Not sure the effect you're referring to. Does this happen while you focus? Which exposure mode are you using? I would not suspect white balance. Face detect is not available at 120/100 - but AF is. (P 139 of the manual)

[@OfficeofthePacific]

@@MaartenHeilbron Awesome Maarten. I use the Automatic setting, but somehow it seems like the camera is constantly changing whites and darks while I video. When I check the white balance seetings, while in the automatic setting it seems like this is going to constantly adjust which essentially ruins the footage as it's not consistant. I wonder if I need to set the White Balance to shade or something like this when filming in darker areas, then maybe it won't be constantly changing as I film? Thanks

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@OfficeofthePacific Oh, video. Yes, you're best to use manual settings in video unless the light levels are changing dramatically. The problem is not white balance (which is a colour change in response to ambient light), it's auto exposure. It's also possible that your meter mode is set for a small area, which makes it over-react. You should use matrix, maybe centre weighted.

[@OfficeofthePacific]

@@MaartenHeilbron very good, thank you Maarten 🙏👍

[@OfficeofthePacific]

@@MaartenHeilbron can I still use auto focus while in the Manual setting? I tried it before but I wasn't sure all of the settings to use. I will spend time shooting video and figure it all out. Thank you for your help. You have useful and great videos!

[@mahiraopel3224]

Somethings are annoying about this camera but I’m transitioning from D90 to Z50. I think I will require a crash course to get used to the z series.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I think it should be basically familiar - Nikon has a certain level of consistency.