Nikon Z6 Best Video Settings

A quick start guide to setting up the Nikon Z6 for video recording - and then some hacks and advanced tips.
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[@CastFromTheHip]

The “not messing around” camera channel. Nice video, very helpful! I’ll have to watch many more times to remember everything haha.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, I appreciate the kind words. Watch as many times as you need. I earn about .03 cents per play.

[@vkc7820]

Wow, I just got a new Z6 for Christmas and your video's have been an amazing help in getting me started and up and running. Thanks for keeping it simple, informative and relative!! You Rock!!!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I appreciate your kind words, thanks for commenting.

[@TheGeoDaddy]

Just starting to play with the Z6 Filmmaker’s Kit - still just trying to get the camera to work with the Moza Air 2 - just an FYI - you need to make the following connection: NIKON Z6-->Micro USB to Type-C Adapter-->M3C-Micro Cable-->CAM CTRL port on Air 2. The CAM CTRL port is on the side of quick release plate, n ext to 7.4V OUT

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for the tip, appreciated.

[@reckerproduction9468]

This is very detailed , Thank You Sir

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I do my best to be detailed, thanks for your kind words.

[@jamesmcgrillis5892]

What a brilliant video. Thanks so much, it's refreshing to hear a technically accurate video going into depth.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

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

[@adamcoss9147]

This video really helped me get over the nervousness of moving into video. I've always thought video would be overwhelming until seeing this breakdown. THANKS!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

That's great! So happy to know that I've helped you start on this new aspect of photography.

[@kazvanderwaard]

Amazing vid! Learned a lot, thanks!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, I appreciate you kind words.

[@photo-markus]

Would you buy this camera for video if you also own D850(used for stills)? Can Z system add value also to stills(Ex: stabilize non VR lenses like 85 mm f/1.4, 80-200 f/2.8 etc; nail better the exposure with the EVF)? Would you buy Z6 as a second camera or wait for the next Z generation mirrorless?(taking in consideration all the lenses that a Nikon shooter owns, it would be hard to go out of the Nikon ecosystem)

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Probably not, unless you need a second camera. I thought the D850 (used or new) was a good choice for video. kzbin.info/www/bejne/jp-bo56Bd6mcf6c

[@dummybert]

I love to see that there is content in YT for mature adults. Not everything should be loud influencers screaming. Besides the nice and gentle tone, I find your videos very informative and well recorded. Thanks!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

That's very kind of you to say, thanks for commenting.

[@mariusdocea438]

hallo please help my, haw to set Z6II how to set the display histogram for exposure and sound monitoring to see the volume and battery level I tried and I don't succeed, if I press the display button or I have a hystogram but I can't see the sound volume and vice versa..thanks

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I"m sorry, I don't have a Z6II to check.

[@javier.garciaa]

Thanks Maarten for your videos ! ! ! I wanted your help, I just bought a SENNHEISER MKE 400 microphone for my Nikon Z7, but my camera doesn't recognize it? . . . Can you help me with the camera setup for an external microphone? please

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I assume that you’re using the XLR/3.5mm adapter? That the battery is inserted and the switch is on, with the little green light on the mic? Have you checked the mic on other devices that use either XLR or 3.5mm input? Have you tried other mics on your Z7?

[@MzTypeOHnegative]

Hey are you able to select 24.00hz in the Nikon Z6 instead of shooting at the NTSC 59.98 setting? What I mean is... are you able to choose a different mode other than NTSC, PAL... can you choose a cinema mode 24.00 option?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Yes 24fps is an option in both HD and 4K.

[@TheGeoDaddy]

Noticed that the Snap Bridge App only works with Auto WB (unless I’m missing something?) and my studio setting is all LEDs set to 5600 so I am getting MC-DC for remote (wired) triggering... hope it works for Video as well as Photo... or it’s going right back and I need another solution for remote triggering

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for adding that note.

[@sangrilaproductionhousefil1618]

I like the way you talk and I like the very much will you explain me lots of love from India😊😊😊😃😃😃

[@MaartenHeilbron]

A pleasure to read your kind words, thanks for commenting, and please say hello to all my friends in India.

[@sangrilaproductionhousefil1618]

@@MaartenHeilbron yes sir why not 😊😊😊

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, I appreciate that.

[@saxhorn1508]

You sound like a native American English speaker. “z” in American English is pronounced “zee”. FYI.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

You are incorrect. I am not American, I am not a native, English is not my first language. In Canada, and in most English-speaking countries, it is pronounced "zed". Please don't feel the need to impose your preferences on me. I'm sure you did not have any trouble understanding what I meant. A little tolerance for those who are not like you would be welcome. FYI

[@marclabro]

nice tuto. can you please explain how to use af-f and wide-L focus ? nikon manual seems to say we need to press halway the shutter button for focus, strange with AF-F.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Sorry, I have no explanation for that design decision.

[@bautistap8515]

I would not recommend Electronic VR on, although steady, it doesn't move smoothly while handheld. On the other side, how do I get the camera to autofocus while shooting video? I had to hold the autofocus button for it to be locked

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Neither would I. If you need steady moves use a tripod or a gimbal. However, it can help with a single unmoving shot. If you want it to focus continuously, use AF-F.

[@whanauli]

Hi, My Z6 camera in custom setting menu G6 Highlight display is gray out. Can you help?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

It is only available in the PASM modes, and either highlight or peaking can be on, although that's not clear from the settings which dim out.

[@avs71087]

Great video as always Maarten. I was wondering if you have ever considered reviewing cellphone cameras as well...your views and opinions would be of great help. Thnx for this video , and all the others as well...

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for the kind words. Not really ... although I do on occasion use my cell phone camera for some documentary purpose, and it's the only thing that can take a video inside a viewfinder, it's just not of interest to me. Sorry, and there are, of course, many others that do.

[@Govinkuna]

Thanks for the informative quick guide on the video setting!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

It's always nice to know that my videos are helpful and appreciated.

[@piakphotography]

My question is about panning video shoot......My set up is F mount VR lense on Z6. I can activate IBIS by switch VR on lense-it show "ON" in LCD. Unfortunately, there is no 'Sport" mode in camera to choose in case i will do panning video recording. (I understand that with my current set up, the camera will try to stabilize when the camera pan, this will make jittery footage) .I tried to compare with ON and Off , i could not see any difference in jittery in horizontal direction. Or may be i did a test wrongly......Could you advise if i should ON the IBIS or keep it Off when panning?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

If you are using a tripod, turn stabilization off, as it hinders more than helps. However, I don't understand why it doesn't have sport mode. Have you updated the firmware?

[@piakphotography]

@@MaartenHeilbron Thanks for reply, My firmware is 3.00. This is handheld shoot. I believe the Sport is only active in native lense.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@piakphotography Sorry, should have picked up that detail.

[@ru.wwwwolk]

Hello! You couldn't answer me - I have a slight red skin tone in my flat profile. I'm taking the balance on the gray card. But there is a magenta on people's faces. What am I doing wrong?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Not sure what's wrong, but you can always make an adjustment to a colour balance that's slightly off while editing or in camera using the white balance fine-tuning adjustment to reduce the magenta. Alternately, if you know the colour temperature of your lighting, use the appropriate K value (or do a few tests to determine which is best).

[@ru.wwwwolk]

@@MaartenHeilbron Thank you Marten.

[@lazyliquid]

Great stuff for a video noob like me. Thanks!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Glad to help! Thanks for commenting.

[@tmztvaustralia]

Best video for concise setup. Lots of waffle in others.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Always nice to read the viewers appreciated my work. Personally, I rather enjoy waffles - particularly with some fresh fruit and whipped cream!

[@JedCordwell]

Thank you for the tutorial. It is most helpful.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for your kind words.

[@natewillis1485]

Hi Maarten ! Great video once again ! I have a question I was hoping you could answer. I have the Z6 and a Ninja V and can’t seem to wrap my head around using 8 or 10-bit in conjunction with output on the Ninja V set to N-log or Rec709. I’ve found that shooting 10-bit/N-log gives me a lot of noise but 10-bit/rec709 doesn’t. Could you explain why this is the case and if I’m doing it right shooting in 10-bit/rec709 over 10-bit/n-log? Cheers !

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Are the apparent shadow levels the same? Is this before or after the appropriate LUT or exposure settings are made? It seems likely that it's mostly a level shift which makes the noise more obvious - but hard to tell without discussing other settings and seeing the footage.

[@jonweeee]

I've hooked up my z6 to a monitor, but cant seem to get an image displaying on my monitor. However when I do go into the z6 menu page, the menu page is reflected on my monitor. Can anyone tell me why am I not getting an image when I'm trying to record?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Possibly the monitor doesn't support the video output (the menu outputs with different settings). Try the HD30frame video setting.

[@jonweeee]

@@MaartenHeilbron Thanks, but I realized that my camera was in slow mo, switched back to 30fps and it was alright

[@moderntimes4814]

Can we get 4.2.2. colour with high fps, with external recorders

[@MaartenHeilbron]

In HD120fps, yes.

[@moderntimes4814]

@@MaartenHeilbron ok thanks

[@RDreview]

Many, many, many thanks for this video. It`s great!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Always nice to hear from a viewer who enjoyed my videos.

[@RobinPM100]

I am using firmware 3.0 on my Nikon Z6 and video autofocus is still pain in the ass. I tested many settings and I must correct you, AF area should not be set to auto but Wide-L, this type of settings keeps the picture sharp, auto tends to blur your image and sharpen it again randomly, also, when in Auto, put your hand in front of the objective and it wont focus on it, but when you have wide-L it will immediately focus, so my recommendation is turn face detection on + combine it with Wide-L, really the best + set autofocus speed reaction to 5, max

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Have you tried manual focus? It really is the best solution if you need to stop focus from wandering.

[@RobinPM100]

Maarten Heilbron no, I did not, I am too lazy to constantly focus manually 😄 but of course, real movie cameramans always focus manually, anyway, it is irony, that ordinery average camcorders keep your picture sharp and these super expensive mirrorless cameras tend to wander in focus, sharp, blurry for a second, sharp again etc

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@RobinPM100 Don't be so lazy. I will note that in my practice, the Z7 and Z6, when properly set provide a very stable focussed image, even in AF-C.

[@RobinPM100]

@@MaartenHeilbron I will try to use it, it will be really needed - to stop those blurry video moments, autofocus is really far from perfect... otherwise I love Z6, perfect photos and incredible video quality - on neutral color settings, auto profile settings sucks too, too much contrast, over saturated etc

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@RobinPM100 I'm happy to hear that Nikon has settings to suit your preferences.

[@faddlewaddle2615]

Thanks for this but I've yet to get a Z6 because of the lack of folks showing off how proud they are of their possession. Even the folks below who've commented haven't been anxious to post related videos...although, admittedly, I stopped checking after the first 10. Regardless, I get the feeling folks have been returning their copies en masse. Don't get me wrong. I'm not against Nikon. Been a Nikon man for 16 years, but I've been pouring all over the internet and it's mighty quiet out there...relatively speaking.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Yes, so far neither Z model has become a best seller - if you want to know how popular a camera is, check on Amazon for sales rankings or on flickr.

[@SovanoraHounKhin]

Good use information 😊

[@MaartenHeilbron]

So nice of you to comment with your kind words, thanks!

[@louiebalajadia7671]

Hi Maarten can you please explain furthet why you choose mode M for video

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Certainly. 1) The optimal shutter speed (for non-high speed/slow motion) for video recording is 1/60, for the accepted amount of motion blur. 2) In many cameras, the auto aperture adjustment provides a noticeable step when changing. Also, I prefer to control the aperture to set the depth of field and defocus the background. 3) Even though the shutter and aperture are set manually, autoISO sets the overall exposure. However, for many situations, it may also make minor adjustments which will affect the overall scene, which may make edits more obvious. Also, I highly recommend that you use manual white balance. Again, the small adjustments made will increase editing complexity. Hope this helps.

[@louiebalajadia7671]

@@MaartenHeilbron thanks you so much for the prompt reply.

[@filmmakingbasics3285]

Video goes too fast

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Please use KZbin's tools to slow down the playback, or rewind and replay the sections you need.

[@PeQiT]

You and few other people on youtube made me upgrade my D3300 to Z6, instead of Z50. What a massive frickin upgrade! I looove your personality, and I enjoy watching every single video of you, so far. I don't know what it is, but every other moment I feel like you're going to roast me, but it never happens. :D Keep doing what you're doing!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

If it's your fantasy to be roasted by me, maybe we could make that happen! Until then, I'm thankful for your kind words.

[@tooshmart6669]

Do you have to hit "record" to get the best hdmi out quality? I remember in some Nikon Dslr's the hdmi out was 720p until the record button was hit then the camera would spit out 1080p to the recorder. In a way to get around the record limit are you hurting video quality by not hitting the recording button on the new Z cameras? Great vid

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for your kind words. The HDMI quality is the same, whether you hit record on the camera, the external recorder or both.

[@seanschannel6786]

incredible & to the point video 1000/10

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, a pleasure to read your kind comment.

[@kannanvb]

This is the first best thing which I got after purchasing Z6. Guess what would be the second best ?? I got an impressive footage quality and smoother workflow. Lots of love !!! Thank You !

[@MaartenHeilbron]

You are very kind. Thanks for taking the time to post your comments.

[@kjvisual7]

Thanks again. There is another KZbin video out there saying that LCD peaking, focus aids, and histogram were not available. So I was worried. Thanks to your video, I'm am much more comfortable.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Always nice to hear that I've provided useful information.

[@eyetheuniqueview6908]

Thank you . Sir

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, always nice to know my videos are appreciated.

[@jamerson808]

Excellent video

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I appreciate the kind words, thanks.

[@georgikozhuharov2293]

Hi, thank you for the video. is the quality with external recorder much better for video. Because, I'am wondering to buy one external recorder for documentary production. I filmed with Z6 documentary project and I was OK with the quality of the video. Now Iám wondering to attach external recorder, but is it worth it enough.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Always my pleasure. For the Z6, the advantages of an external recorder appear when shooting with Nlog, and when significant colour grading is going to be done. If you are looking to improve the quality of your recordings, I'd suggest you pay attention to lighting, which can do much more to improve the results than an external recorder.

[@CSGPhotos]

I had an issue with .MOV Files in Premeire Pro on my PC. I called the Adobe Support Center and they told me that PC's work better with the MP4 Format.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Really? Sounds like an uninformed support tech. The only different between the two is the audio format.

[@CSGPhotos]

@@MaartenHeilbron he said something about the. Mov codec not being recognized.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@CSGPhotos That's uninformed. I'm not currently using Premiere, but there is a specific workflow for importing "unrecognized" files like .MOV and XAVC-S.

[@CSGPhotos]

@@MaartenHeilbron I did feel as though the agent was not completely correct, but I don't know the method myself. I have switched the camera to MP4 and for now have had no issues.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@CSGPhotos Very good.

[@JasbirSingh-xm9pn]

Please translate in Hindi language

[@MaartenHeilbron]

How would I do that? Do you speak Hindi? If you translate, I'll post it.

[@japoak]

Straightforward video and to the point without the fluff mostly other people include!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, I do appreciate your kind words.

[@serdar_k]

I recently picked up a Z6 and was wondering why my 120p wasn't slowed down when viewing the files on my PC. I didn't realise I had to slow it down using post-production! Thank you!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Always nice to know I've provided useful information.

[@smalltalk.productions9977]

thank you for the effort and the sharing. i am seriously looking at the nikon z6 as a hybrid tool, especially for non-intrusive talking head interviews. unfortunately, i was very underwhelmed by the quality of the internal z6 pre-amps (12:25). do you think it might have been your set-up or does the z6 just not have quality audio?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, I appreciate your kind words. No small hybrid camera provides quality audio using the internal mics. The exception might be those that support an external XLR input accessory. And there are many factors that may influence the recording. If you are concerned about audio, I highly recommend that you use a shotgun or lav mics and an external recorder.

[@huyhuynh9523]

Great instruction, thank you Maarten. I noted that you show the video using Manual mode. Have you tried to record a movie using in shutter priority mode? It appears that you can't change the camera default shutter speed setting, 1/30 on my Z6. Aperture priority mode however is fine as I can change the aperture as need. Is there a reason Nikon does not allow S-mode to change shutter speed other than 1/30? Thanks again for the great instructional video. Regards, HH

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I shoot in manual mode so that I can control both the shutter (always 1/60) and the aperture for the depth of field I want. For overall exposure, I then let the AutoISO do its work, or set the ISO manually to my preference for the scene. In video, the lowest possible shutter is 1/30 (many manufacturers won't let the shutter be set lower, but some like Sony do - providing an interesting blurring effect). Thanks for your kind words, they are always appreciated.

[@macthelegend5250]

You are a god send. Just got hired for a big project and they want me to use this camera. Thank you!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

So glad to hear that I was able to help. Thanks for your kind words, appreciated.

[@walkie1985]

People like you still exist in this world then eh? Really informative video, extremely helpful and a great delivery. Thank you!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

What a pleasure to read your kind words, thanks for commenting.

[@fernandokrichilski2110]

Maarten, thanks for a great tutorial. I did not manage to set the OK button for recording. Followed your instructions but it is not working for me. Any additional tips?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Can't think what might be wrong - it may be terrible advice, but a reset could possibly clear that up, I find it hard to know which settings impact on others and sometimes resort to that as a solution.

[@patrick.771]

Thanks a lot! Would you also use M and AutoISO when you are filming nature scenes on a tripod where the light (sun/clouds) changes during recording? So that AutoISO adapts the esposure all the time when it is necessary?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Yes, that should work under those circumstances. Thanks for your kind words.

[@laferrieremichel355]

Thank you for your video.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

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

[@alenlenia]

this is exactly what i been looking for , Thank you!!!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I'm so glad to hear that, always nice to know my videos are useful.

[@nrgohilbandhanstudio5048]

in 64 gb memory card how many recordings in z6 1080 50p one hour ,2 hour or many ore

[@MaartenHeilbron]

About 3 minutes per GB.

[@rmmst49]

great video! wasn’t expecting to watch the whole thing but so much good info! thanks!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Glad you liked it! Always nice to hear from a viewer who appreciates my work. Thanks!!

[@constantinstingaciu5550]

super you are the best bravo

[@MaartenHeilbron]

That's very kind, thank you!!

[@admiral17]

Nothing to add that other people haven't already said, but I just wanted to say thank you for making and sharing this - it's perfect for getting started with video and exactly what I needed!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

You're very welcome, it's always nice to hear from a viewer who has been helped with my videos.

[@alan.macrae]

Thank you Maarten. Great video as I prepare to embark on a fairly large video project.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Always nice to know that my videos are helpful and appreciated.

[@andyvan5692]

nice to have a comprehensive and "out of the box" start-up guide to the video side of things, especially since Nikon themselves mainly do their digitutor and other videos based on the still use of their cameras, only showing highlights of the features, but your video went through the settings and why you use them, and a quick start at the beginning which helps us when we get the camera, and have kids to get a video of quick-smart. hope you don't mind, but I added this video to a playlist I made of the Z6 videos from Nikon digitutor, as IT does add to their own instructions: kzbin.info/aero/PLbWx0_w2aL25ggtKfiYmht11P5H5buBfB

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, I appreciate your kind words and your support.. Note that I have just updated the focus settings here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bX7Yl31uhb6El6M

[@kangarulzx]

10:14 wait, so you cannot do 10Bit 4K? only 10Bit 1080p?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Good question - I thought this was probably over-kill for this video, but the detail here (as botched in the Help screen I captured in the video) is: "10 bit can be used only with compatible recorders. Regardless of the display mode selected, the camera monitor will turn on and the viewfinder will remain blank. No photos can be taken; during movie recording, the following additional restrictions apply when 3840 × 2160 is selected for frame size: • Movies are not recorded to memory cards inserted in the camera." So, as long as the external recorder supports 10 bit, you can record 4K - but not to the internal card. Hope this helps.

[@kangarulzx]

@@MaartenHeilbron really appreciate the explanation! amazing video for different levels of photographer / videographer

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Always happy to help.

[@alan.macrae]

Thanks Maarten! Very useful information as I prepare to embark on a video project using two Nikon Z cameras. You answered many questions I had. Sincerely grateful.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I'm glad to hear you found it helpful, thanks for your kind words.

[@frankline.gonzalez-dwindt2355]

Excellent video. Many thanks for sharing all your tips and insights

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I appreciate your kind words, thanks for posting.

[@nikhilvideo2140]

Thanks sir

[@MaartenHeilbron]

So nice of you to say, thanks!

[@georgecharpentier6043]

I have watched this a second time, and will most certainly watch it a few more. Concise, clear and chock full of one bit after another of useful information. Thank you!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Wow, thanks! It is nice to read that my work is appreciated.

[@MKSHARAN100]

Very well explained. Which external mic you would recommend?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Whichever one suits your purpose - there are no general purpose mics. Here are some suggestions - kzbin.info/www/bejne/jaKrnIuFnrGGi7c

[@fotomule]

You are a natural :-). You captivated me enough to make me learn a whole much more about my new camera. Thx.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

It was a pleasure to read your kind words - and I'm glad to hear it motivated you to expand your skills. Thanks for commenting.

[@maxblom3477]

Fantastic video. Gave me just the right info I needed for my first interaction with a Z6. Thanks for your help Maarten, subscribed ☺

[@MaartenHeilbron]

It's always nice to know that I've provided a video that's good enough to convince you to subscribe. Thanks

[@mikeski30]

Great explanation, thanks!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Always my pleasure, thanks for the kind words.

[@oo0RECON0oo]

Love your videos bro. Very detailed, Thank You for all of them.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, I appreciate the kind words.

[@CaminoDidjeridu]

Hello Maarten. Can we use Preset White Ballance in Video with the Z6? In my D750 it seems like, the same Preset WB changes to warmer tone when I switch from Photo Live View to Video Live View. By the way, do you know why is this happening?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Do you mean that in the D750, when you capture a custom white balance the balance is different between the video mode and the stills mode? Is something else, like exposure or colour profile also changing?Yes you can capture a custom (not sure why it's called Preset in the Nikon language) white balance and use it in video mode. In fact, I'd recommend that you do that, or dial in the appropriate Kelvin setting for the light in the scene.

[@CaminoDidjeridu]

@@MaartenHeilbron Thank you for answering me! I finaly got to have Preset WB in Video Mode in my Nikon D750. I hope I didn't bring any confusion in your channel with my question. Here's some facts. It seems D750 has different Preset WB for Photo and Video Mode, so in Video Mode when I pressed the WB buton and turned the dial to switch from d-1 to d-2 for example, there where empty slots there, and not the mesurements I had taken in Photo Mode. So... I took a picture in Photo Mode (with the desired Preset WB), turned to Video Mode, MENU, VIDEO TAB, WB, PRESET, and I acquired data from the photo. Done! Still cannot acquire data directrly, but I am still working on it (in the middle while - any ideas would be deeply appreciated). Thank you again for your interest!! 😀

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for adding this detail, that's a feature I didn't find.

[@dahelmet3372]

Most guys go thru the video settings menu, starting from the top of the menu and work their way down the list of settings.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

So, thanks for your thoughts, but I'm never going to be like most guys, sorry. I think it's not very useful to do that, and prefer to organize my information in a logical order, rather than the arbitrary one imposed by the often illogical order imposed by the menu. I also prefer to be task-oriented than menu driven. I found it difficult, if not impossible, to learn a software application if all the instructor did was walk through the menus - but I always appreciated when a series of steps were presented in the order one might actually use them. That said, I do apologize that I'm not meeting your needs, but it does sound as if there are many others that do.

[@rickvestuto]

Hey Buddy Another Great Video However, there is no bug for Triggering the recorder (Or at least the Ninja V) You have to set the recorder to trigger in the Atomos menu as well as the camera Works great for me Thanks for all you do Regards, Rick

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, I do appreciate the kind words. I'm happy to hear that you have it working. I did try a bunch of things and blamed it on my configuration, but when I posted the Z7 version of this, a couple of viewers said they also had issues and one reported that Nikon had acknowledged and promised to fix the bug. Happy to hear that there is a solution. Now to find it ...

[@rickvestuto]

@@MaartenHeilbron Thanks for the reply Now you have me thinking Triggering works perfect on my Z6 so I just assumed it worked on my Z7 Now I will have to check I will confirm with you soon Again, Best regards, Rick

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I look forward to your report.

[@hayezmohairbi]

What will be the best sitting to video ice hockey game in door of course?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I'd shutter 1/60, and a middle aperture (F8 or so) to keep a reasonable depth of field. Then let AutoISO set the exposure. You may have to play with the meter mode or the exposure compensation to get the exposure balanced between the white ice and dark players.

[@jdsmphotography2144]

Thanks thanks thanks thanks from Egypt, you cover everything in a lovely way

[@MaartenHeilbron]

That's very kind of you to say, thanks.

[@avarmadillo]

You probably won't see this, since this was made some time ago, but I do have a question about manually setting the HD 120p setting. Of course, when you're shooting in the slow motion mode the camera sets the frame rate at 125. But when you manually set the frame rate in the non-slow motion HD 120p mode do you double the frame rate to 250? Great presentation, Maarten, as always! Thanks so much.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Always nice to see your avatar - and I do read and reply to ALL comments (no matter how old the video). The camera's fastest frame rate is 120. The HD 120 mode records audio and must be slowed down (if that's the reason for using the setting) in post. The slow motion modes record at 120 frames (silent) and does the slow motion in camera by playing back at a slower speed. In either case, use a shutter speed of 1/120 or faster for slow motion.

[@avarmadillo]

Maarten Heilbron thanks so much for your due diligence. Makes me wish I were more so on my business KZbin site. 😟 But I’m still not all that clear on the matter. It’s my fault since I really framed the question poorly. Let’s see if I can do better: Today I shot some 60p with a shutter setting of 120. Editing I doubled the length, playing back at 60 FPS. It looked great. Better, I think, than using Nikon’s presets. I also did the same shooting 120p: using a shutter speed of 250. (Four times slower in playback. It seemed to work fine- and again, on cursory observation, I thought it might look better than the camera preset. Is this a Legit way of doing this? It seems to they way to do the slomo and keep the best image quality.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@avarmadillo You don't need to increase the shutter that much (unless the action is really fast. 1/120 would be fine for 120p. Yes, I would always prefer to shoot with the highest frame rate (and data rate) for slow motion instead of using an in-camera slow motion capability, unless it achieves a slower rate than I can get by slowing the footage in post (likely something higher than 5x). Hope this helps.

[@avarmadillo]

@@MaartenHeilbron Thanks, Maarten. The Z6 seems to shoot 250 fps video fine, so why not do it when and where you can. After all, most slo-mo is shot out and about, where there's plenty of light. Of course, my main concern is minimizing the softness that I see is so much slomo footage not from a dedicated for that purpose. I note the Z6 clips shot that way actually have a slider with a start and end point you can adjust to get the slow motion effect in the clip where you want it. But this is just in reading the clips once uploaded. When I load them into fcpx you have to adjust speeds manually. kind of weird if you ask me...even though no one did.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@avarmadillo ? Did I miss something? I think the highest frame rate on the Z6 is 120 frames. You will find that the ability to slow below the multiple of the shooting frame rate to the output frame rate (for example, when you shoot 120 frames and output to 30 frames the footage can be slowed to 25% without losing or interpolating frames) improves with an editor like Final Cut, where the ability to interpolate and frame blend can provide a higher quality slow motion at a slower speed than that available in camera.

[@johnspijkers7368]

Maarten, thanks for this video. I have a question: I am testing my Z6 with a Nikon 24-70 2.8 AF-S lens. If I use your AF-settings, the lens keeps trying to focus and acts very nervous. The sound of the lens is very audible. Does this only happen with AF-S lenses and not with Z-lenses, or am I doing something wrong? Setting the AF on AF-C instead of AF-F is more "relaxed"...

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I don't have experience with adapted lenses, and Nikon's wide variety of older lenses and focus motor systems may not all be suitable companions for the Z series. I would recommend a native Z lens. I would always suggest manual focus, if at all possible - for instance, if the subject to camera distance isn't changing much. Otherwise, anything that sounds quieter will be better. Hope this helps.

[@johnspijkers7368]

@@MaartenHeilbron Thank you. I Have found information from other users that have the same issue with AF-S lenses. Guess I have to start saving for Z lenses... At least for video purposes. For photography the Z6 with AF-S lenses and the FTZ adapter work just fine!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@johnspijkers7368 I'm always happy to help.

[@johnspijkers7368]

@@MaartenHeilbron Thanks again!

[@RocMac83]

Sorry, N-log yes or not? thanks.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Not. Unless - kzbin.info/www/bejne/nou9nZZufMZ5mMk

[@RocMac83]

@@MaartenHeilbron N log only with a external monitor?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@RocMac83 Yes, as explained/demonstrated in the video.

[@IoanSaid]

Great video, thanks! :)

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Always nice to know my videos are useful and appreciated.

[@kjvisual7]

Question. Is the internal mic preamp poor quality? Some reviews are saying that the Z6 mic preamp was very low quality. Listening to your eyeglass mounted lav seemed to support the idea that audio quality is poor.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I don't think so, it's no worse, or materially different from other cameras in this class. If you are serious about audio quality, there is no camera that's suitable.

[@brad_neal]

@@MaartenHeilbron I agree, when you switched over to the lav, the audio was clipping and sounded noticeably worse than the rest of the recording. Were you recording to and external recorder for the bulk of your video? It sounded way better.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Oh, I see. The levels were not set properly. The on camera audio was recorded on the Fujifilm X-H1 using a hardwired lav. (VT 506). Most is recorded with a Rode NT USB as voice over.

[@brad_neal]

@@MaartenHeilbron Thanks for the reply!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@brad_neal Always happy to help.

[@EricWoodyVariety59]

thank you for the tips

[@MaartenHeilbron]

My pleasure, always happy to help. Thanks for commenting, a pleasure to read your kind words.

[@Manjeetsingh24505]

How to connect to my Android phone

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Install the Nikon Smartbridge app - kzbin.info/www/bejne/l6CxfpujgbSUh5I

[@arashsameti2107]

Thank you

[@MaartenHeilbron]

You're welcome, I appreciate the kind words.

[@arashsameti2107]

@@MaartenHeilbron I also enjoy hearing the words of smart people. .thank you

[@johnxu6477]

What will be the best sitting to real estate video?I have z50 ,thanks a lot

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Which of the settings in this video don't seem to be working? I'd suggest the widest possible lens and shooting with a gimbal stabilizer. Fro accurate colours use a custom white balance (potentially different for each room). Lighting (large soft boxes) will help.

[@johnxu6477]

@@MaartenHeilbron z50 doesnt have nlong.is this effect the video setting?

[@johnxu6477]

i used af-f and auto area af not sure it's food for real state

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@johnxu6477 NLog has little value for interiors with limited dynamic range.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@johnxu6477 If that's not working, you're likely moving too quickly.

[@colmranger]

Id love to ask Martin what mirrorless system would you recommend for nature/wildlife photography? I find it too awkward carrying heavy gear and taking it on flights travelling :) I'd love to hear your opinion :)

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Maarten thinks that any mirrorless system would be fine - APS-C or Full Frame. What you need to choose first is the lens. If you're already a wildlife photographer, you'll know what distance you like to/need to work at, and what aperture you need for the situations you like to shoot. The limited native lens selection might narrow your choices - choose an adapter lens and you've lost all advantages of size and weight. Once you have the lens, the rest is fairly easy. Sony's focus system (currently led by the A6400) is the best, (and by best I mean provides great coverage, excellent tracking and fast acquisition) but unless you're very demanding, the others aren't far behind. Then, hey, consider price, your favourite brand, the feel of the camera in your hand and any specific feature needs you might have. Nikon continues to make the most rugged cameras - and there's no mirrorless camera as rugged as the top of the line Nikons.

[@colmranger]

@@MaartenHeilbron thanks so much for giving up your time and answering my question in great detail. I have a Canon 7d mk ii and the Canon 100-400mm f5.6 prime, I also have Sony a6000 for travel. The Canon is rugged but heavy and costs a lot to carry on flights. Perhaps I just need to get an adaptor for the a6000 and the Canon 400mm. You are an absolute gentleman I always love your videos. Thanks again regards from Ireland :)

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Hello Ireland! I'm always happy to help - but in the end, it is your decision, and it sounds like you're already fairly well prepared. And thanks for your kind words, always appreciated.

[@marinrealestatephotography]

Thank you very much for the setup info. I am a bit surprised / disappointed to hear that the dynamic range is pretty low for a full frame camera. I think it is less than my a6500 (and my D750 before that if I used a very flat profile).

[@MaartenHeilbron]

The XYLA chart dynamic range, which is used for video is not the same as the standard dynamic range measurement used for stills. These results reflect the application of the F-Log mode for video recording.

[@marinrealestatephotography]

@@MaartenHeilbron Yes, Thanks. And if I remember correctly, that N-Log dynamic range is maybe on par (or less) than that of SLOG 2 on the a6500 and FLOG on the X-T3 (but I don't want to swear by that). It would have been great if the 10-bit NLOG had as much DR as the 8-bit SLOG 2 of an a7 III but alas, not to be I guess. (And to all who wonder, I know that DR is not the be all, end all to a camera, but for my own PERSONAL video needs, it is real important).

[@MaartenHeilbron]

In general, I advise my viewers to avoid using the extended dynamic range, as in cameras which don't produce a high quality high bandwidth recording, the results can be less than optimal. While Sony's extended dynamic range (SLOG3 in particular) can provide a lot of latitude, it also comes with a great deal of noise in darker areas of the image.

[@michaelpoczynek]

Thanks all great information.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

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

[@SeeMeTalk]

Greetings Maarten. Your videos are excellent. Thanks for sharing your tips on Z6. I am planning to buy one for personal use. Ask people to hit the like button your not getting enough likes. Wish you all the best. Cheers.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, always nice to read kind words from my readers. I don't think that's necessary, I'm happy to let my viewers do as they please, and I like to know that they're acting on their own initiative.

[@SeeMeTalk]

@@MaartenHeilbron That is very polite of you. Thanks again.Wish you all the best. Cheers.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I appreciate your kind interest, thanks.

[@martinschmitzitsecurity5581]

Hi Maarten, always great content, thanks a lot!!! May I ask what you are using to remote-control Z6 for video-recording? My equipment does not start video! Any special settings needed? Thanks & kind regards from Germany Martin

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thank you for your kind words. I don't start the camera by remote control. I start it and then (if I'm the subject) I return to the position in the shot.

[@martinschmitzitsecurity5581]

Thanks Maarten for super-quick reply. I watched this (?) video some time ago and I thought you mentioned RC for video. Nevermind, I will do it manually as well then.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@martinschmitzitsecurity5581 You could try to use the Snapbridge app, but it's not as reliable as you might like.

[@martinschmitzitsecurity5581]

Because I have seen many people asking for it: you can start video remote-controlled with Nikon Equipment or even the Yongnuo OS00509. You just need to reconfigure the Z6 to start video when you hit the "normal" camera shutter release (in "settings /G2")!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@martinschmitzitsecurity5581 Thanks for adding this note.

[@MichaelShellenberger]

Thanks! Very concise and helpful!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Always my pleasure, thank you for your kind words.

[@hervebellenger7092]

This is the right way to get started ...Thank you

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, glad you found it helpful.

[@miguelgallardotrejo5174]

Hi, I want to buy the z6 to record video. but according to the specifications the battery lasts only 15 min, is it true? or how long does it last?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Over an hour of continuous recording in my experience, it does depend on the conditions.

[@azmannn8798]

i used most for video.. and battery last 5-6 hours continous used

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@azmannn8798 Thanks for sharing those excellent results. Impressive.

[@SuprXer0]

great video, thanks for sharing!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for watching! Nice to know it's appreciated.

[@valbou1089]

Thanks for these explanations. N-Log is limited to 800 ISO minimum. Is it the same when choosing neutral or flat profiles or you can shoot at 100 ISO with them?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Always my pleasure, and always nice to know my content is appreciated. Those options are not available when NLog is on.

[@valbou1089]

@@MaartenHeilbron Of course, but if you choose Neutral or Flat (and not N-Log), is 100 ISO possible?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Yes, it is.

[@valbou1089]

@@MaartenHeilbron thanks

[@remz5722]

Do you format the video card to maximize space before shooting or is there another techinical reason for doing so?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Primarily to maximize space. However, I also find that cards are less likely to develop data errors when regularly formatted and formatting also reveals any physical errors that occur.

[@remz5722]

@@MaartenHeilbron thank you for your reply. Love your videos by the way! keep it up :)

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Always happy to help, and thanks for your kind words.

[@eoinphotography]

What a gent!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

That's very kind of you to say, thanks!

[@MrYadjdf]

Thank you (:

[@MaartenHeilbron]

You're welcome, I appreciate your kind words.

[@koot47]

Very Informative Video. Thank you . I do have a question though... I don't know why my G6 menu is not available on my Z6.. Can you help?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for the kind words, unfortunately. I'm not sure what would stop highlight display from being available. Are you in video mode? The manual makes no mention of exclusions.

[@koot47]

Maarten Heilbron thank you for getting back promptly Maarten. It’s the same for both video and photo mode .. no G 6 menu is highlighted ...

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Hmmmm ... do you have an external monitor connected? Have you tried resetting?

[@koot47]

Not yet.. But I suspect I will be getting one. I will try and reset the menu again.. I just wished it would show Zebras like the Sony cameras so you can see if you are overexposed or not.@@MaartenHeilbron

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Hmmm ... have you tried contacting Nikon support?

[@pego99]

What is a ZED 6? My camera from Nikon refers to it as a Z6?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I don't understand the difference. Is this a serious question?

[@pego99]

@@MaartenHeilbron yes of course why not call it by the correct name. Is the D5 a Dog 5?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I'm honestly completely lost by your comments. No-one pronounces the letter "D" as dog. Everyone pronounces the letter Z as zed.

[@elnericoo]

Zed is British and Canadian pronounciation. "Zee" is the American pronounciation. 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@elnericoo Why can't Americans pronounce it properly?

[@DennisBloodnokPhotographyVideo]

Maarten, Interesting video. You have gone into a great deal of very useful detail. I appreciate this very much. But there is one "elephant in the room". To cut a long story short, how good is the autofocus in video mode ?? As a matter of interest, I am a Nikon DSLR user (I have a D7000, D750 and D700 plus several Nikon Lenses). I am very happy with the still images that I am able to create. But video is a very different story. The D700 has no video capabilities whatsoever. The D7000 and D750 have no 4K and both have very poor autofocus in video mode. As I am a KZbinr (albeit at a much smaller scale than your good self). As I do my KZbin videos alone, this means that I have a tricky job in setting-up manual focus for my videos. A way around this issue would be a camera with both good stills autofocus and video autofocus. I would be very interested to hear your thoughts on how good (or bad) video autofocus is on the Z6 please ??

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for the kind words. I've asked the elephant, and he says that the autofocus is fairly reliable (you can see it in action here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/l6CxfpujgbSUh5I My on camera scenes are done with the Z7 (which is very similar in af capability) with AF-F and auto area, face detect on. Some cameras would do a slight wobble (the background isn't steady) but the shot here is solid. Not sure about action. That said, if I can use manual focus for video (I was trying to make a point with the Snapbridge post) I do. If you're shooting on your own (as I often do) just put something where you'll be - I use a mic stand if I'm standing, or just anything if I'm sitting at a table to set manual focus. The advantage of manual focus is that you can set the back of the focus area at the focussed point (AF would put it in the middle), this gives a better defocussed background, particularly in a small space.