Nikon Z6 III REAL WORLD Preview: Did they FINALLY Do It?!

[@cristianblazquez7930]

Hi Jared, I have been a Nikon user for years and I do professional work with the Nikon Z F. For focusing, what I do is lower the focus reaction from the menu, so that if something crosses in front of the subject's face , the focus does not go away and is not so reactive. For example, in the boxing fights you have shown the focus goes to the gloves as soon as they are placed in front of the face. With a less reactive focus, you will still focus on the face even if there are things happening in front of you. This makes for a more "organic" approach and will increase the success of your in-focus photos. Great work, I like your videos!

[@thomastuorto9929]

Sounds like it makes sense to me for 90% of most shooting scenarios, Thanks for the info.

[@chrisbaudeg3233]

>> lower the focus reaction from the menu, so that if something crosses in front of the subject's face

[@laidbaqq]

I appreciate this info. Do you primarily use AF-F when using this feature?

[@cristianblazquez7930]

​@@laidbaqqAF-F in video, AF-C in photo mode.

[@laidbaqq]

@@cristianblazquez7930 Appreciated.

[@sanekn]

Still using the original Z6 and still loving it. Yes, the focus is tricky sometimes, but nothing too stressfull in day to day amateur shooting. Basically catching the subject and recompose, fast enough for me.

[@jean-philippeperetti8463]

"Fast enough for me". I like that. This is what stills photography is all about, to most of us, amateurs, anyway.

[@NumberOneBlackGuy]

Im genuinely happy to see a comment like this. Whatever works for you 💪🏿

[@montagdp]

Yup, me too. The Z6III looks great, though. I might get one in a few years.

[@nyambe]

This is exactly my point. At this point in the game, who is not happy with their setup?

[@NumberOneBlackGuy]

@@nyambe there is nothing in my setup that doesn't meet my needs. I would just like a a7c as an everyday carry instead of carrying around the IV.

[@OSUCherokee1]

It is time... for me to upgrade my Z6 to the Z6iii. As much as I desperately want to go Z8; I need a body that is close in performance that allows me to save some cash and keep improving my glass and my abilities. I believe the Z6iii is just that camera. Great preview Jared! Thanks! I've been waiting for this on bated breath all weekend.

[@froknowsphoto]

go for it

[@baljindersinghsidhu3959]

Z6III IS DOPE❤❤❤❤

[@Gr_photographer]

You can easily go for a used z8 with a few bucks more

[@26abraramir]

I would wait till red and Nikon comes up with something lol

[@jensclemens]

Dear Jared, I have been following your channel for many years, no idea how long, an eternity. You are and will remain one of the most important authorities for me when it comes to the quality of cameras and lenses. You simply do a great job! I just want to say thank you for that! And by the way, it was you who led me, as a former Nikon disciple (which you once were too), to Sony, which I have never regretted. I still feel connected to Nikon and it seems as if they have now caught up with the competition. I wish you all the best! Best wishes from Germany, Jens 🤗😘🍀

[@bobbullethalf]

The Nikon Z6III, the one I have been waiting for. Nikon is really doing some great things.

Wow

[@vivalasvegas702]

Did u see the AF behavior? I’m telling u, it’s not great.

[@mlai2546]

​@vivalasvegas702 which part? The part where the subject keeps getting obstructed?

[@vincepatricknartea145]

​@@vivalasvegas702 Watch other reviewers. AF is great idk why he is always struggling with nikon autofocus

[@CaptainHurricane]

Well the Canon R6 II can do it.

[@RogerBarrera]

Thank you for the effort and hard work that went into this video. Your video is what sold me on getting this new Z6. I purchased it today from B&C Camera in Las Vegas. Your video supported a local Vegas business and a fellow KZbinr so thank you again. We review products in a different industry and I wanted to take a minute to let you know that your work is appreciated. Thanks again, keep crushing it! 👍🏼👊🏻

[@MrCoolAttitude]

This is the mirrorless I'll be getting when I save up enough. I've had a great run with dslr since getting my d700 many years ago.

[@JSmith73]

Ditto from a fellow D700 owner; hoping it'll come down in price in a year or so.

[@Photo0021]

When I see the III I just think how good value the II will be soon. Absolutely great camera already, keep an eye out for clearance deals! I hope to see a Z5ii someday too.

[@grootbatavia]

The ii is already on sale with some retailers. You can literally grab 2 brand new ii's for the price of one iii in Europe. Ridiculous. Great value and I would grab one or two if only it had the iii EVF... Oh well.

[@joshuaconti989]

the pricing for IIs on KEH/MPB is already sub 1500... original 6s are below 1k... so its a good trend

[@adamleszko1588]

even last black friday, z6ii in europe was 1800e with a 24-70/4 kit (the body was priced 1200e and the lens 600e in this deal)

[@CC3GROUNDZERO]

@@grootbatavia The Z6 II's AF leaves A LOT to be desired though, why would anyone want to get that over e.g. an A7 III?

[@grootbatavia]

@@CC3GROUNDZERO No one should, but I'm invested in Nikon and NPS treats me ok. That said, I still use a D5 and a pair of D500's for my work. I have a z6 for some old manual focus lenses. That's why the evf in the iii would be nice.

[@mauriciolee7349]

Thank Jared for such a COMPREHENSIVE review of the photography & videography ability of this camera. I love your HONESTY when you state that Nikon AUTOFOCUS is NOT as good as that of Canon & Sony. And you back up that statement by showing the Nikon Z6III autofocus misses the eyes of the Muya Thai fighters starting at 10 minutes into your video. I have watched around 10 video reviews of this camera. Many of them don’t mention its disadvantages at all. NO WONDER you get 1.47M subscribers. We need MORE REVIEWERS LIKE You.

[@amirrarastehpour5393]

I like my Z6 II. I was considering upgrading my Z6II to Z6III mainly for the updated fully articulated back screen and low light situation, but I went ahead and got my Nikon Z8, and let me tell you, I am beyond happy and satisfied with it. I agree with you that it is annoying that the screen wouldn't get aligned with the body of the camera and it makes it more difficult to align the compositions; especially for someone like me with OCD. On the other hand, there is always the option of an external viewfinder as well. I think I stick with my Z6II. I don't believe it would be worth upgrading for another 1000 dollars or so! Thank you for all of your enlightenment... 🙏

[@Jespervangcom]

Jumped into the Z system more than a year ago, with the Z30 and Z6 ii, and already ready for the z6 iii. I really like your videos Jared, knowing you are an old Nikon user, you don't bash the system , but politely explain what does not work and what does ! Thank you for your videos :-)

[@Carlos-tm6zk]

Hi! I’m a canon shooter, with the R6, and I must say this is one great entry by Nikon, well done! Pushing things a notch, with the new sensor! All best!

[@froknowsphoto]

still prefer Canon lenses

[@Carlos-tm6zk]

@@froknowsphoto yes, there’s more to a system than just a sensor… But it’s a step in the right direction and pushes the industry forward, I would say! All best

[@samarianosans]

@@froknowsphoto and ergonomics. by far

[@18yearsoldnot]

@@froknowsphotoNikon colour science way better ❤

[@MrCloud254]

Pretty sure everyone who was waiting for this eventually grabbed a Z8, but glad it finally showed up! I definitely prefer the Z6/7 Body styles over my Z8, and the EVF looks amazing! Would be an amazing travel camera, or a secondary to a Z8 for weddings

[@froknowsphoto]

it's a solid camera

[@onegeenious916]

Not me. Higher resolution, better focus and form factor were the three things (kinda) in that order that I was looking out for with the z6iii. The Z8 resolution is great but the form factor doesn't seem appealing for the streets. The ZF is nice looking but dumping my 6ii for it would've been more about the looks than fitting my needs. I'm disappointed that the sensor isn't larger on 6iii so now I have to decide if the autofocus is that much better to justify the upgrade. Otherwise I guess I'll wait and see what Nikon will do next. Ultimately I think upgrading to the 6iii may be still my best choice, but then I'll probably be looking for a smaller form factor(maybe a Sony 😮) as a walk around. I bought a used A6300 last year and the size is perfect but the battery life sucks. Maybe I'll go back to my d5600 as a constant companion. Lol I all I want is the perfect camera

[@bluemystic7501]

@@onegeenious916 You already have a good camera, why are you watching these videos? lol

[@jbilly24]

@@onegeenious916 🤣 The Z8 is what, a few centimeters bigger? Amazing what spoiled brat consumers we've become.

[@onegeenious916]

@@bluemystic7501 lol lately I've done a pretty good job avoiding the gear acquisition videos, but I've been anticipating the roll out of this particular camera (Z6III) really for one reason... The autofocus. The Z6II's focus did get better from when it was released and it has served me well over the last three years, but with the A's playing in Sacramento for the next three years and my grandson turning six, becoming a big Reynaldo fan and wanting to play soccer, I have an excuse to trade up to a camera that I won't have to worry about focus as much. I am smart enough though to wait until all the hype videos have subsided and hopefully get my hands on it for a test run. But who knows, I may wait to see if there's a Z7III in Nikon's future. The improved focus plus the resolution in a form smaller than a Z8 might be worth the wait.

[@hidetoshitakahashi3881]

Excellent review! Thank you ,Jared!! This is such a professional review and it's a day and night as compared to known married couple's KZbin review.

[@salehalrashdan]

They should have named it the Z69

[@itsa_me_amikey]

Number 1 best seller, ever.

[@brettbaker7049]

Gotta wait for the Z6IX

[@seahour9147]

lol. Missed opportunity.

[@robertbohnaker9898]

Thanks Jared for telling the AF focus issues with closer up subjects that other reviewers are soft pedaling…😊

[@77dris]

Got the R6 II almost two years ago and really love it. I'm happy that my Nikon friends now have a camera that is similar to use with confidence. 👏 I really love that 4k 120 with a crop option. That is something I'd been wishing the R6 II could do maybe with a firmware update.

[@wm1573]

True👍 all tho the z6iii is significantly superior to the r6 ii

[@721MrG]

Buffer size must be outstanding since he failed to mention it.

[@Brownwhale7]

Others have tested the buffer and weren't able to reach the bottom. It just keeps going.

[@qiyuxuan9437]

Well, buffer size is only relevant if you use SD cards, if you use high speed cfb cards, you probably can burst indefinitely until the card is full, since Z8 and Z9 can already do 20+ second burst using fast card with 45mp raw files, 24mp has smaller file, so it likely can handle much longer burst.

[@felm.974]

Yep, he loves focusing on the AF which is like great but he wants it to be perfect as if Canon's and Sony's is lol, SMH

[@alchapel]

You can shoot basically forever without stopping on the CFeB card

[@redroseskull]

I would like to see a comparison between nikon Zf and Z6III when it comes to photography as I do not care about videography at all.

[@kristintaylor4908]

Same!

[@Cleverconveyence]

Yes. The upload to cloud services automatically feature rules. What else is there in there? I don't shoot sports.

[@Britton0932]

Took my dog for a walk wearing one of my “I Shoot RAW” shirt. Some guy jogging yells to me, “Jared Polin Fro Knows Photo!!!” I thought, “WTF?”, looked down and realized as he passed. Replied, “oh Yeah! Right! I Shoot RAW!” Thumbs up. Now past me, he shouts, “I shoot RAW too! Have a great day!” Brooklyn, NY

[@peterhanahoe4913]

Enjoyed your review, very informative. I love the way you make notes then highlight every line.

[@mayureshgawade7938]

I'm so happy to see the space of z6iii .. i have z5 n I wanted to upgrade system ... im going to buy sony but now m gone stick with nikon with z6iii

[@froknowsphoto]

good choice

[@mayureshgawade7938]

@froknowsphoto thanks for the reply my big fan of yours ❤️ love from India

[@khongwengchee]

Would prefer if they had included a variangle fully articulating screen like the Panasonic S1H

[@CarlosYanesB]

That would be incredible

[@funkyboogiee]

CONSIDERING, getting Z6 iii as my first Nikon. I'd be jumping from Fuji XT-4 and Fuji glass, so I may just upgrade w/in the Fuji X world for now, but definitely considering a Nikon Z6 iii

[@chawenhalo0089]

Nice to see Nikon back in the game, big time.

[@Powerstroke98]

I've never taken sports photo's before, so being a landscape/nature photographer, the eye detection isn't quite as important, other than when I choose to go out on a bird shoot. What amazes me, is if you go back 7 or 8 years, you'd certainly not be complaining about anything and be excited to hear of what these cameras can do in this day and age. Nonetheless, the EVF, the glass...things have improved considerably and many I'm sure are tossing the two Z6iii or Z8 around these days, wondering if the Z8 would be truly worth the additional $? I suppose that depends a great deal on what kind of photographer you are! Many state the video portion of the camera sets it apart...but in all the years I've had my Nikon cameras, I've never taken a video, as I use my iPhone Pro Max for that, but I don't believe Nikon makes a dedicated still camera only? We all have different needs, so a big thanks for this update on the Z6iii, and hopefully see a 'full version' camera, to see if any possible updates has made any changes from this current one.

[@zanethebest9925]

The queen is backkk

[@aayushkhare656]

Only here for the sniff test

[@paulgood2218]

Yup definitely the good stuff uncut pure ... Stuff lol

[@matthewkesterson]

Joe? Is that you?

[@tielmaster7879]

What about the wind tunnel test? Very important if you're using gear outdoors.

[@616universe3]

😂

[@MrBazReviews]

Yup smells like thermoplastic... 😮

[@starbase218]

I think it’s important to note that while the AF may not be sticking to the eye if something is obscuring that person, that’s not necessarily a bad thing. It really depends on what you want as a user. Also, there are options in the Z6 III menus to set the AF to not try and refocus immediately. This could mitigate any issues if you do find it annoying.

[@froknowsphoto]

those "options" nikon has for af tracking and stickeyness don't change anything. I've tried them, they don't solve the problem.

[@MrPiffSmiff]

User error

[@CaptainHurricane]

Very unlikely. Jared has been professional for a long time, and I just can't see that he has done anything wrong to cause the autofocus to behave like that.

[@starbase218]

@@CaptainHurricaneJulia Trotti is also a professional. As is Jan Wegener as well btw. The reason I mention him is that the narrative is that the Z6 III stabilization in video is not as good as competitors. And the footage they show confirms that. But then you see Jan showing footage of wildlife and suddenly Nikon is ahead of competitors. AF performance is probably very similar. I’m not saying Jared’s conclusion is wrong for how he shot this camera. What I am saying is, there are many variables, and AF performance in particular is often dependent on variables.

[@MrPiffSmiff]

I've tried those options and they do change the behaviour. Not all "pro's" use the right settings.

[@erik_stein]

I only highlight the important information on my notes, too. Super helpful.

[@RomainLussier]

I loved everything about this review. Truly, the quality of your work is outstanding! Thank you for this, it's great! I was already convinced but now I am even more! On a side note, the photos at 23:12 and 23:14 are so strong, they're breathtaking! That's exactly the kind of photography I'd like to do now that I'm getting back into it.

[@alphajam1]

Nice, I wanted a smaller Nikon that I can carry around as my daily carry. The Z 8 and 9 has the hardware so firmware still has room to improve autofocus with the stacked sensor. I get about 90% success rate, maybe because so use to DSLR. But you get use to the situations where the autofocus gets distracted, it kind of keeps me focused. One tip don't press the focus button. I tap the single point if it does lock onto to the background. If your using the rear screen, tap focus works even faster. You have more situational awareness when the body and lens isn't blocking your view.

[@froknowsphoto]

i agree

[@LunaBelAir]

Those specs are just the things i need and sweet spot for the megapixels.

[@RichardLarssen]

Only 24mp is a dealbreaker for me, other than that it looks great.

[@LunaBelAir]

@@RichardLarssen Yeah, its kinda low but still nowadays i feel like its enough. Coming from Sony A7RIV… Sometimes those files are overkill for my workflow. 😁

[@froknowsphoto]

yup

[@Chopper153]

​@@RichardLarssenYou should get a Z8 then.

[@RichardLarssen]

@@LunaBelAir I use the A7RV and 61mp is great actually, even for nightshoots. I had the A1 also with 50MP. Never going lower. Cropping for birds, and big prints for my landscapes which I sell. 24MP is the one reason I did not buy the A9III. But of course, not everyone needs more than 24MP.

[@thebelly925]

I thought about taking a drink every time I heard ‘partially stacked sensor’. I almost died.

I thought I saw on a picture that it FINALLY gets a rear screen that can be turned upwards in portrait mode(?). I've been waiting for that on a Z6 since 2018. I couldn't wait for this one so switched to Canon in February 2023.

[@froknowsphoto]

interestion

[@highanddryful]

I'm intrigued with the infinite buffer, a bottomless buffer at 20 frames a second is truly remarkable!

[@BGLionful]

Banger for 2.5K usd! Myonly gripe with it is the lack of redundant video recording. The only other fault I find is the "meh" dynamic range for video, but definetly not a deal breaker. I do hope they add redundant recording via firmware tho, that is a deal breaker for me, and many others I am sure.. Great camera indeed!

[@stevenwaldstein2249]

Thank you for the pre-review. I considered adding this even though I currently don’t shoot video but did pre-ordered it. After your review I reconsidered and will look at the Canon EOS R6 II since the resolutions are the same and Canon is my backup to my Sony systems and I have excellent RF L glass. Sold all my Nikon glass when I walked away from my Z9 since there was no smaller / lighter body to use with the Z9, an opportunity missed I guess. Let’s see a Z6III vs R6 II comparison as soon as possible. Take care.

[@petergal9702]

Mixed feelings. Thumbs up for the "semi-stacked" sensor, but this auto focus still one step behind canon (and maybe sony as well).

[@mrheikkipekka]

I shoot events with two cameras one with wide-angle 24/1.4 and one short tele 85/1.8 and I’ve been happy with my two D750s. I wonder how shooting people in events might benefit switching from D750s to Z6 IIIs.

[@AndrejsZavadskis]

the scariest aspect for a lot of photographers (or is it just me?) is that ‘mid-range’ is 3k euros for the body only ….

[@CaptainHurricane]

Yes, cameras are just getting more and more expensive.

[@JSmith73]

My D700 collecting dust, I was really looking forward to the III update, but that suspicion of a price increase turned out to be real. I guess my next camera will be a refresh of my mobile phone after all.

[@d.k.1394]

Hehe​@@JSmith73

[@gregorius4648]

I don't really care about the mid-range status. The performance is more important to me. The performance it gives for the price is reasonable imo. Also it's a new camera so it's understandable if it's a bit expensive.

[@Fuchs85DE]

You can just use the D700?

[@vision-gc4hy]

What a great rundown of the Z6III. Thank you Jared. Though I do feel like they improved the autofocus on my earlier Z6 from what it was when I first bought it. Not super great, but I feel significantly better. I loved the beat down on the playground. That was fun.

[@dontrapani7778]

I used a D750 for quite a while, then finally switched to an A7iv when I wanted to try mirrorless. Both had two SD card slots, which is a must-have for me. I checked the specs on the Z6iii and it can only use ONE SD card, you have to buy different cards with this camera to use 2 slots. That is a deal-breaker for me. When Nikon figures out that buying and mixing different cards is cumbersome, and makes a camera that can accept SD cards AS WELL AS others, like Sony does, then I'll be interested.

[@thomassager1755]

The pics of the kids are absolutely adorable

[@jazinzlaty4823]

I had canon r6ii 100-500mm and Nikon z8 180-600mm for 14 days to photograph swifts Z8 was the winner for me

[@HippieMagic]

I went with a Z6II for my first foray into FX mirrorless. You can get them for less than a Z5 now and honestly it seemed like enough for me so I can start working on collecting lenses. I just think once I get into the $2500 price range I’d rather get the Z8 personally.

[@bbasiaga]

Looks like a really nice body. Glad to see Nikon continuing to produce good stuff. Im a canon guy, but competition is good for the market in general.

[@ANSWERTHECALLOFJESUSCHRIST]

If there's something I've witnessed year after year watching this channel, it's that Jared can take great pictures with any camera. In my brain it's kind of irrelevant if the camera rocks or sucks when I know the sample pictures are gonna be good regardless. 😅

[@stephensartori5787]

Great Pics and probably your greatest review ever. Extremely informative, fair and yet still entertaining. You’ve (in my opinion) perfected the 'Review Process' Well done ! Thank you.

[@bencollins7684]

GO NIKON!

[@JoZhWorld]

Almost want to purchase S5iix end of June but dang... Will spend a bit more for this Z6iii for hybrid (video first) 🤔

[@billsimmons1753]

Excellent gallery of shots at the end, Fro, which also well display what this camera is capable of.

[@FakhrusySyakir]

I'm from Indonesia 🇮🇩. currently still using a Nikon D7200 camera and 80-200 afd lens to photograph sports. Hopefully one day I can buy a Nikon Z6III camera

[@d.k.1394]

Yes soo dear. Hi I love bali from australia

[@FakhrusySyakir]

@@d.k.1394 Bali is Beautiful Island

[@d.k.1394]

@@FakhrusySyakir so great for photography

[@ChickenMeister84]

@11:15 That is a fair point about the Nikon getting distracted but the samples you chose from Canon to compare don't have nearly as much movement going on as the Nikon Z6 III clip you chose. Should be a 1:1 comparison.

[@CaptainHurricane]

I have had another look, and I think you are right.

[@felm.974]

BINGO!!!!!!!!

[@rosscameron4219]

It would be good to see how it shoots in low light inside. When shooting reception and dancing with on camera flash on the z6ii the AF was particularly bad.

[@PaulNewberyPhotography]

Mmm. Not sure. It looks a great camera. I still shoot the first z6. The poor AF performance isn't an issue for me and the few videos I do make suck due to my incompetence so I don't think I have a valid reason to upgrade.

[@fetzie23]

I agree about the flippy screen. The prism-hinge that the Z8 and Z9 inherited from the D500/D5/D850 is, when you need it, super useful. I think that they probably reacted to the vlogger scene wanting to be able to see yourself in the frame (because they don't know how to frame a scene? idk ;)), and engineering the prism hinge to also flip out horizontally probably wasn't going to happen.

[@marinrealestatephotography]

Glad to hear that Nikon has come out with a really cool and competent camera. Definitely on my radar. I have been thinking of the Canon R6 II but am concerned about the dynamic range in video, as the original R6 seemed to have lower DR than the competition (like, the Sony a7 IV and the Panasonic S5 / S5 II). Yes, I realize that dynamic range isn't everything, but for someone like me who shoots a lot of real estate videos, dynamic range is pretty darn important. As for the Z6 III, I am curious if they added waveforms or false color, or if they are sill using the wonky zebra system they had before. Also, is there much lag on the HDMI output? (Panasonic S cameras have a significant amount of lag through the HDMI port.) Any idea of SSD recording will become available? I mean, internal N-RAW recording is great, but being able to record it to an SSD would be even better.

[@vito9087]

This is a great camera... i can't switch from Sony. Im too invested in their lenses. The good news is that these camera manufacturers just keep getting better and better no matter what your brand is. Sony's eye af is still much better imo though.

[@theory8sf]

There is an adapter that let you use your Sony lens in a Nikon Z body with auto focus!

[@kwstasf]

I lost my patience and bought the Z8 two months ago but i think that Z6iii is a very good option for a second camera. CU later Z6iii

[@ahmedahmolla]

nice report.. nice camera! in my opinion fast change focus better than stuck one, you can change the respond in the setting to make it stickier to the subject, I do this in some situations in my Z8.

[@sunrisesunset8843]

perfect for real estate photography and videography. Thanks Jared!😊

[@JosephAtMolina]

The Z9 had a similar difference between the coloring on the EVF and the monitor. You can adjust them in the settings to get them to match. I like it this way.

[@stepheneckert4006]

You like them not matching? Im glad I based my WB & exposure for the video on the touchscreen because the EVF was significantly warmer and brighter. I typically go back and forth between evf and touchscreen and this made it a hassle not knowing which one to trust. I don’t want to have to do tests to find out and then calibrate from there

[@JosephAtMolina]

@@stepheneckert4006 Looking at the monitor, I have environmental factors that influence how the image looks. Looking through the EVF, colors are isolated with no external light influencing how the image looks. So, if I'm at a shoot or a video job, I can adjust it separate so that it looks more like what I'm seeing through the EVF on the monitor. So, I calibrate the EVF separate from the monitor.

[@BoostLeekdMedia]

Awesome video Jared! Was great to see the autofocus in action too! I think this IS the upgrade for most Z6 users, like myself, that wants some of the Z8/Z9 goodies. Also, that articulating screen is hella nice!

[@alphajam1]

I found out that Nikon is using eye detect IBIS in the Z6III. This maybe a huge, using stabilization on moving subjects to stop action. This is a big step over regular VR and IBIS that uses the whole frame. This will allow stabilization of a subject in the frame.

[@pratakk]

Well - the AF on the Z6 was greatly improved by firmware updates. It did not even have eye-tracking when it came out. I just proofed you wrong Jared Polin, that firmware cannot improve AF. And the reason is simple: Tracking is mainly software-driven. As long as the algorithms can be handled by the processor fast enough you can improve AF with firmware-updates. AND AGAIN: The original Z6 had really bad AF performance and now is really usable with eye-tracking not much worse than z6 ii.

[@richardstaz721]

I waited for such a long time for Nikon to come out with a proper focussing and tracking camera that I eventually sold my Z7ii and lenses and bought the Sony A7RV - the difference was like night and day, and whilst Nikon have brought out the similar performing Z9 and Z8, they are huge in size and weight. This Z6iii finally appears to offer the autofocus performance in a package I wished for and I would expect a similarly advanced z7iii will be here soon, but for me it’s too late - I won’t be changing back to Nikon they took far too long to match Sony and then Canon, but I’m glad they now have.

[@jbilly24]

Amazing comment. Lucky for Nikon, they won't miss you. 😂

[@mohamedgameel2634]

Great Job , Nikon

[@SouthlandAshley]

I am looking to upgrade from my D700 to the D850. Would this be a better choice? I’m an equine photographer but I do want to shoot video as well. I don’t know much about the pros and cons of mirrorless

[@jaybeemaster896]

I like how Jared's paper is all yellow from the highlight marker, only not where he holds it with his finger, when he dunk it in the colour can. :D

[@poikatiikeri]

I get banding on my Z8 with godox ad400pros no matter what high frequency settings i use when i shoot hss faster than 1/1000s

[@livejames9374]

It’s a godox issue that they haven’t fixed. I had to move to profoto to fix the issue.

[@alwynsmit3546]

Jared, I see Vahagraphy made a video in response to this one of yours. He's crying that you aren't saying how absolutely brilliant this camera is & how it's the best thing since banana bread

[@realJonSpringer]

This is great. I’ll be picking one of these up!

[@sb4photos]

Totally agree about the z9 autofocus stickiness lack of

[@CaptainHurricane]

Do you have one ?

[@johnsontao3962]

Auto focus better than the zf?

[@seanuyematsu4929]

Hi Jared, When you did this review you used a video recorder, could you expand a little on what device you used and if you did a review, could you send me the link? Thanks in advance and great review. I currently own the Z6 II and really debating on upgrading to the Z6 III.

[@carlkristensen8398]

You are good to get the kids going. It is easy to tell those kids had a great time with You teasing them - and great photos came out of it...

[@Fuchs85DE]

Maybe that part is more important than the camera? 😇

[@carlkristensen8398]

@@Fuchs85DE I could watch several videos about the camera. I choose Jared because he is very accurate in hes testings, and honest with the results. And then he is a funny guy, and I just think he should have recognition for hes effords to get good shots with the children without them being bored........

[@TurkiyeSevdas]

Adjust the camera AF settings properly and do the same work as Sony's latest model, and it will be on everyone's mind.

[@marcusbeasley3212]

I really wish Nikon adopted some of the body design choices from Fuji's XH bodies, but this would be a great replacement to my Z6II. Happy to hear they updated the EVF.

[@jtap484]

This is going to be awesome! Time to head over to B&H to preorder!

[@froknowsphoto]

do it!!!

[@paulakotula3417]

Great video. Love the music!!! Who is it?

[@RussandLoz]

Here in the UK the z63 is more expensive than in the USA, here with the z8 discounted with promo and the zf even cheaper, it's not so easy a decision

[@MrTwe4kz]

I'm want to upgrade from my old D7000 to a new Nikon. I own some old full frame glasses. Should I go for the Z6iii or Z8? Both are close price wise at the moment... 😢

[@briancarlisle2534]

Like; I wonder if I’d really be able to tell the difference between a Z7ii and the Z6iii if I printed a 24x24 picture of a mountain and hung it on a wall. Could both be totally different looking Would like 1 camera for wildlife and landscape.

[@potatofuryy]

Pixel shift - Bracketing, now with extra resolution!

[@KNZ5]

Nikon Z8/9 gives you the option to choose how fast the focus should change if a new subject is detected. I wonder if you change this option to a slower adaption speed. This should make the focus more sticky.

[@stepheneckert4006]

We did this several times during the shoot, wasn’t much of a change

[@froknowsphoto]

I agree with stephen, we did all of that

[@HR-wd6cw]

While I think Nikon has done a decent job here, there are some concerning areas like AF still (from some videos I saw, it looks like it is still not as confident as the Z8 and Z8, and part of that may be the fully stacked sensor vs partially stacked). But beyond that I think they are somewhat heaidng in the right direction but again, I don't know if the Z6 III is a $2500 camera either (maybe it should have been $2200). The AF was the biggest potential concern I saw, and while it's much better than the Z6 II and Zf, it's still a step or two behind the Z8 and Z9 which have basically the same AF and the best in the Z line-up (which they should being flagship/near-flagship status). So that's understandable but I think when it comes to things like tracking an animal or person's eye it shouldn't be lagging like I saw in one other comparison (it was a of a pre-production model, but my guess is that part probably doesn't matter in reality). But the other benefits (for video shooters) are interesting and I'm sure appreciated, but I almost feel the Z6 III was geared too much towards video, and not enough was included for stills photographers. I'm just thinking they may lose some customers over this who were hoping for something with a confident AF system and I guess the jury is out on that. That's the biggest hurdle I saw so far in videos. But the video specs look to be good though, so again, for video shooters, this is perhaps a very good camera for $2500. For stills shooters, eh, maybe, maybe not. At the same time it does make the Z8 (on sale at $3500) look like a steal in comparison though. I think the biggest take-away IMO for this camera (that would be of relevance to me, now owning a Z8 and Zf) is the EVF, but in reality, the Z8's EVF is plenty good compared to previous gen EVFs like those on the gen 2 Z6/Z7, so I'm not sure that alone would be enough for some people to upgrade as the Z8's EVF at least is pretty smooth in operation and refreshes fast enough for a completely blackout free experience -- although I thnk part of the blackout on the Z6 III is the MS and one other area -- of many -- that will set the Z8 and Z6 III (and a Z7 III whenever that is) apart -- you may still get blackout with the MS. I do agree with the assessment that if you have the Z5/Z6/Z6 II that this may be a worth upgrade. if you have the Zf, maybe less so unless you shoot video since the Zf's AF was improved over the Z6 II by a good amount although still below that of the Z6 III. And then if you own a Z8, maybe the Z6 III could be a backup camera if you didn't want to get another Z8 (although I would probably just buy a second Z8 at the sale price if it was me but there is a $1000 price difference, but you can also get the Z8 today, the Z6 III supposedly will start shipping in July, but who knows if it will be backordered for weeks/months like the Z8 and Zf were.

[@thinkinginpictures4071]

Hard to find good controlled tests regarding AF even long after release. Hopefully someone will dive into that within the next few weeks.

[@vincepatricknartea145]

Watch Julia Thottis review. Nailed the focus. Do not focus on one reviewer only.

[@sh3nxiuluo]

Is the big difference compared z6iii with z8 about autofocus? I currently using a7iv and zf.. plan switch my a7iv to Z6iii.. hope can give me some advice

[@TravelNatureEU]

I'm still stuck with the original Z6! I've been waiting for this upgrade for way too long! But finally it's here!

[@saeidjavadi]

Great presentation, which deserves a great thank you.

[@davidtheys6000]

Does the Z6iii blackout? (I hate blackouts).. I like the Z8 and Z9 but for studio I'm afraid for banding.. pff

[@michaelechteld]

Wonderful images. That last portrait is fabulous.

[@AR1xRUSHY]

Waited so long for the Z6iii that I ended up getting the Z8. The Z6iii will be my next camera after the F5.

[@luka_III]

KUDOS for pointing it out that those twisty screens are cheap and unnatural... they should be delineation between vlogger's and photographer's camera. Screen of D750 could be even pulled over viewfinder for perfect gimbal usage!!!

[@sidraiz22]

Hopefully this is my next camera! 😁

[@ToxicChillz]

just going to point out, you said that it has the same autofocus as the z8 and z9, it does, all apart from the bird tracking mode that they have, for some reason that has been omitted, hopefully that comes via a firmware update. This is definitely a great option for anyone looking at a camera in this price range, pretty much class leading!

[@stepheneckert4006]

They combined Bird mode with Animals. Animals just includes everything now

[@ErikHernandezPhotography]

@jaredpolin When can we expect a user guide video from you for the z6 iii?

[@MKFAGAN]

I like your reviews the nikon pics look fine on a phone but watching this on a S9 ultra 14 inch tablet especially the game photos not so good maybe it's the 24mp sensor being cropped not sure

[@smallrtech]

the color difference between the EVF and the screen might be because the EVF colorspace is in display P3 and the screen is only in Rec709. This might create issue when previewing srgb stuff depending on how nikon use viewtransforms.

[@stepheneckert4006]

The screen was actually more accurate to the final video footage. The evf was significantly brighter and warmer

[@saeidjavadi]

Do you think there is still room to improve on the auto focus function, or have they reached the limit?

[@paulmorajoshua1]

I've been following you for over a decade now. The only youtube page I come to when finding out about cameras. Your real world reviews are the best. Keep up the good work!

[@froknowsphoto]

Thank you! We put a lot of time and effort into these, glad it shows.