Nikon Z6ii Review Follow Up 6 Months Later

[@marktvcturner2448]

Thanks for the video. I shoot live performances (mostly circus) and am contemplating going from my D5 to the Z6II. You've given me some food for thought. Cheers!

[@paulcampbell7518]

Recently used the Z 7II eye auto focus for three senior portrait shoots - The auto-focus is AMAZING - Instead of setting up poses, I was capturing personalities. Going back single-point focus for portrait work is like working with my hands tied.

[@WAPhoto]

Nice balanced review. Good that you mention AF-C holding down AF-ON button. Far too much misinformation and influencer hype confusing people.

[@csc-photo]

The Z6II is the best camera I've owned in 30 years of photography - it's an amazing all-arounder. Great content here / new sub! 🙂👍🏻

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

Hi Craig, I echo your sentiments. I absolutely love this camera as well. Thanks for watching & subscribing!

[@outdoortechtrekguy1029]

Thanks I did a lot of research and now looking to order one next week

[@hishamosman4341]

Agreed. The Z6ii is probably Nikon's most important mirrorless body as it provides the best compromise in all areas. Future firmware updates will improve it even more.

[@debangarajchoudhury1409]

When the video started playing, I thought is this playing in 4k? Then I checked to see it was playing only in 720p. Wow!!The video quality is so good

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

Glad to hear the video looks sharp! Thanks for watching! :)

[@ITSPYR0N]

Your videos came up last month and helped reassure me with my 6ii purchase but my DSLR route went in the same start to finish point but went in a detour lol! D750 to D850 (I wanted to feel that higher MP) to Z7 to Z6ii. The key thing you mentioned was low light performance. The reason why I switched from the Z7 to Z6ii (other than the extra card slot and dual processor) is because of the low light AF performance. I learned when using a speedlite, mirrorless cameras cannot see the infrared AF assist beam. So in very low light situations like a night club/lounge situation, my Z7 really struggled. Sure, I could have used MF with a smaller aperture but in a run and gun situation and with the money invested into the gear, I'd hope that I could rely on the gear I had but ended up getting the majority of photos I took being out of focus. In fact, there was another photog at that event using a DSRL and his photos were way better than mine lol! Fast forward to the Z6ii and the new firmware update available to the 7ii and 6ii I no longer have any issues. Whilst they cannot see the IF AF assist beam, I also got a Godox V1 speedlite which also has a modeling lamp to help those super low light situations just in case. Finally I tried using the camera without back button AF but your video here influenced me to re-enable it. Thanks for that and your great videos!

[@cameraz99]

Great video! I sold one of my two D750s to buy a Z6 II. I recently had a paid job photographing an event which required me to shoot indoors and outdoors for six days. Most of the indoor shots were without flash. For five days I shot with my Z6 II, and on the sixth day I decided to use my D750. I was surprised at how much better the Z6 II was. I had many more keepers as opposed to the D750. I'm hoping to some day sell the D750 and pick up another Z6 II for backup.

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

Looks like we're sharing the exact same experience! Thanks for your comment and thanks for watching. Happy shooting! :)

[@abbyjoystudio]

Thanks for sharing! I bought the Z6ii and am still debating whether I should keep it or go back to my D750. I need to play more with the Z6ii EVF vs the D750 Face detect.

[@BowlesImages]

Hi Mike - nice review and tips. I'm using the Z6 and Z7ii, and sold my last DSLR a couple of weeks ago. One thing you didn't mention was the quality of images with the Z cameras and Z glass. The ability to shoot wide open is pretty amazing with almost every lens - both primes and fast zooms are incredible.

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

Hi Eric, you're exactly right. Glad you're enjoying your Z cameras/glass as well. The second photo example I have at the 0:05 mark is so ridiculously sharp. The Eye/Face AF locked focus on her eye and I was shooting with wide open with my adapted 85mm f/1.4 at the time. Thanks for pointing this out, and thanks for watching!

[@aravindanr7942]

@@MikeMcGeePhotography wow pls suggest z glass also

[@Wildcopper]

I'm often on the way with the "kit" Z lens 24-70 F/4S on my Z6-II, and I'm amazed by the quality of street photos I can take with that inexpensive lens. The fact that I just need one lens for street shots is just great, I'll probably upgrade to the better version (24-70 F/2.8S), but the entry version already does an amazing job.

[@photoreviewed-com]

Thank you for another valuable review. Happy to share it!

[@adrianvanleeuwen]

Great trick with AF-C with AF-ON activated in menu. I will have to try that. Just sold my Z5 and the prices of Z6ii are really low lately in my area so buying one soon (they are throwing in a free FTZii with the camera at some stores locally). Although the next camera Z6iii will have more features it will also cost a lot more, so a Z6ii is in my budget range, and you make it sound like a great camera! My Z5 was okay, images were sharp, but the Z6ii has the speed in AF, and is less likely to have flickering on the back screen like what the Z5 sometimes has when recording video with less processing power, due to the dual processors of Z6ii vs. single processor of Z5. (while Z5 did flicker sometimes, not always, on the back screen, the recording itself was still clean in Full HD with Z5). An upgrade would be better. Thanks for your review!

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

Hey Adrian, glad to hear you liked my review. I absolutely LOVE my z6ii. It's been about 2 years since I migrated from the D750 and I have absolutely no regrets whatsoever. I still use the FTZ adapter as well with my 85mm f/1.4 F-mount lens, why? Because it's awesome, and to me there's no need to upgrade to the new (and expensive) Z-Mount 85mm f/1.2 prime, largely due to the cost/weight. The z6ii just works, and works so well. Can't say enough positive things about it. Thanks again for your comment!

[@VGrantphotographyllc]

You are a life saver. I'm a beginner and I've watched video after video to figure out how to stop the soft focus and pictures not sharp at all. Your tip for AF Activation and AF-On, did the trick for my Nikon Z5. Literally stopped me from switching to Sony A7iv mid purchase.....phew😭 THANK YOU SIR.

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

That's so great to hear that my video helped you! You made my day in knowing that the video solved your issue, and thanks so much for watching. Cheers!

[@blu817]

One of the better videos about the Z6ii I've seen! What kind of lens do you like to shoot with on the Z6ii?

[@Digmen1]

Its great to see follow up reviews of the new Nikons after months of good use. Thanks I'm planning to get a Z6ii very soon

[@reneefariasphoto40]

For me, AFC + Eye auto works for me. However, that side of head type of shot, I hit the tracking "ok" button and move it where I want it. That, for me, is much faster that resetting AF to something else. Hit "ok" again back to eye auto AF. :) At this point we are at FW1.4, and it's the best FW for this camera. I recently shot a marathon... 2000 frames... with 70-200 F/2.8 FL adapted... results... 1992 keepers. That's right only missed 8 frames. Love these new systems. I too came from DSLRs... started my career in 1996 with the N90s, then... F100 - F5 and then D300, D700, D3s, D750, D4, D5 and love the Z system the best.

[@pulykamell]

This is good to hear. I just ordered my Z6ii after hemming and hawing for awhile about upgrading my long-in-the-tooth D750s, but I had been sold on mirrorless as my upgrade path. After some reasearch the Z6ii made the most sense for me, and now I find your video further confirming my choice. I can't wait to get it and join the mirrorless world! (Backordered for the moment, though.) I haven't been this excited about a camera since I got a D3 in 2007.

[@carlmcneill1139]

I also came from a d750 to the z6 ii. My d750 took a wave at the beach and it killed it. Luckily 8 had bought an extended warranty that covered such damage so I got a check for what I paid for my camera. They usually give you the option of having it replaced but they said they didn't have any d750's in stock and didn't think they would be getting any more. I took the money and bought my z6 ii with it. I agree that I get way more keepers. I'm an amateur so I don't do a lot of portraits. This year I've only done my daughter's prom pics and 2 paid senior portrait sessions. The firmware updates really made this a great camera and I'm looking forward to the next update. One thing I'd like to see changed is the confirmation box. It's red instead of green. I hope some day they can get rid of the blackout in the EVF when shooting in burst mode. And I hope they continue improving the focus system and the overlay. Maybe we'll get some of the same algorithms as the z9 coming soon. I haven't used mine for video yet and I'm not that concerned about it. I would probably have to buy a dedicated hard drive just to store video and then learn how to edit it.

[@turrisi2]

Great point about the audio. Another tip for the audio on Nikon bodies is to keep the internal preamp on the Nikon as low as possible. The louder it goes the more ground noise you hear. They've made huge improvements in the Z bodies but they're still not pro audio equipment level. Try to get the Wireless Go/whatever your input as hot as you can without clipping/distortion coming into the body to minimize any interference from the Nikon preamp.Then manually adjust the settings in camera to put the volume low.

[@Wildcopper]

The 1.40 firmware makes the autofocus even better ! :)

[@r1berto1]

I purchased a Z6 when it was released, just over 3 years ago. I fell in love with it, it was as if I had started photography all over again. After that I started buying Z prime lenses. I started taking pictures around age 16 and purchased my first Nikon around 1972 (it was a used F2 with a zoom lens). After a lifetime shooting Nikon I accumulated several DSLRs and a dozen lenses. I recently got a Z6II, it is now my main camera, the year old Z6 became my back-up. I'm all in with the Z series and have sold most of my DSLR collection along with the F lenses. The auto focus, resolution, low light capability and overall performance make these Z cameras and lenses my only choice. I hope you enjoy yours. Thanks for your post.

[@r1berto1]

Update June 2023: I gave away my Z6 to my 15 year old grandson. I also just got a Z30 to use as a second camera and a possible Z6ii back-up.

[@lokeshmahendrakar4948]

Hello excellent work instead of changing Autofocus modes just assign tracking to function button and that becomes your tracker so that you can lock focus to back of the head or other inanimate objects ..

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

Hi Lokesh, this is definitely a solid suggestion as well. I have noticed that I get better results when using AF-S single point when shooting a backlit subject into the direct sun, but your suggestion is an excellent option as well. Always good to have options, and thanks for mentioning this option as well!

[@rickpinelli1586]

Hello Mike. I have a Z7 and have not experienced any issues with low light photography.

[@ivanfuentes2872]

Thank you so very much for this video, I was planning to buy a camera and you give me answer to all my questions. I love to have a video about basic setup for this camera just because I don't have much experience as a photographer. Thanks again

[@Sajal89]

Your video pops up amazingly 60fps wow..🔥🔥

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

Nice!

[@2011troya]

And just like that the D750 gets shelved 😂🤣 Absolutely amazing man! Slowly but surely convincing me to do the same to my D750

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

I absolutely LOVE the D750, love it. But I have to say, no regrets at all in migrating to the Z6ii. :)

[@markshirley01]

Im a D750 user - still not sure about buying Nikon, Im looking at the R6 as my next camera. Taylor Jackson the last big KZbinr seems to be moving to canon slowly, Im just not convinced by Nikon anymore.

[@2011troya]

@@markshirley01 are you more of a hobbyist or a professional using your camera for income? I find myself being pulled ever so subtly to the Sony A7R III, it’s got a much wider gamut of features than the D750 and the sheer age of the D750 makes it slightly limited by the advancements of technology. Great camera, absolute workhorse … but in some situations just lacking just a bit

[@markshirley01]

@@2011troya I make living from my camera. Im a graphic designer that now shoots a lot of online content.

[@randersen3103]

Hi Mike great videos you are making, I have the D750 and struggling between the Z7ii & Z6ii your points on price - file size etc has made my choice very easy the Z6ii will be the winner Cheers and great work !!!!

[@georgiaboy2023]

absolutely love your breakdowns man! incredibly helpful and straight forward. great personality as well!

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

Thanks so much for your kind words, Joshua!

[@mickeyreyes3189]

Thank you for helping me make up my mind about upgrading!

[@irasimaging]

Great video Mike... am a d750 user for quite some time and will get the z6ii with the grip... thanks for the advise... cheers...

[@exs1803]

Inforamaive and nteresting explanations of the focusing capabilities and focus setting of the Z6II based on your experience.

[@GeoffKirby]

My 2 Z6ii have now shot over 34 weddings from this year and I love them to bits and I have shelved my D750 and I agree on what you are saying. As a wedding photographer, I have some issues with low light situations and acquiring focus where my D4 and D750 would have nailed it as they used infra-red to help them whereas mirrorless doesn't. I'm talking iso's over 2000, wide open aperture and shutter about 125th. Does anyone else experience the same issues? It might be resolved in another firmware upgrade soon I hope.

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

Hey Geoff, thanks for your comment and this is excellent feedback that I was looking for. As a portrait photographer I get to control light much more than a wedding/event photographer, etc. so this is interesting to hear your experience. Just curious, for your issues acquiring focus in low light situations with the Z6ii, do you have trouble even in Single point focus modes (Either AF-S or AF-C), or are the low light focus issues with the Eye/Face AF focus mode not able to seek/lock focus? The nerd in me almost wants to try to replicate a similar low light situation to replicate any issue you may have so I'd love to hear more about this, and yes, I definitely hope this gets solved for you in a firmware update. Thanks for your comment and thanks for watching!

[@BowlesImages]

Hi Geoff - one idea that might help is the Z cameras have Low Light Mode - Custom Setting A-10. It activates in low light situations but only with AF-S. I have it turned On in my Z cameras and I simply switch from AF-C to AF-S to activate it. I also include Pinpoint AF in my AF area modes. It's also available only when I switch to AF-S. Photographing the lunar eclipse during totality, I stopped using my D850 and only used my Z6 because focus was so much better with these modes.

[@manilamartin1001]

I also struggle a little when weddings are lowlight. I shoot video as well as photo out of the same camera and yes, that video in lowlight drives me crazy still. That's my biggest complaint. My work around is backbutton focus especially in video. Other than that, I really love this camera.

[@abbyjoystudio]

@@manilamartin1001 For videos, do you focus manually and do you have any Z lenses? I’m trying to do more videos at weddings but because I don’t have any Z lenses, I’m not sure if the automatic focusing is always going to be that “choppy”.

[@manilamartin1001]

@@abbyjoystudio i use autofocus. It works ok with z lenses. With photo or video. My sigma f mount work but not as well. I dont like using them for video. Just pics.

[@Sabbra]

Im doing the same leap...from d750 to z6ii

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

I think you''ll really enjoy the jump. I sure have. :) Thanks for watching!

[@markshirley01]

Thanks really helpful. Im a hybrid shooter so not sure if BBF is still relevant as a focus system for that, but for stills it makes sense. The trouble is the world of cameras is no longer just stills, video is huge now.

[@CensuTaRozina]

love you vids mate i got the z6ii . thanks for all the tips , brilliant realy helps , and it s true amazing quality

[@craigc239]

Dude...you are the best!!

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

Thanks, Craig!

[@dariuszlis4412]

Hi Mike thanks for another nice video. Im planning to buy z6ii , already sold my D600 . Probably will wait until Black Friday or Christmas time. It will be nice to see your favourite F lenses and they work with FTZ adapter. Thanks

[@snerp]

Great tips, very helpful!

[@sbphotography3751]

Thank you for this honest and useful appraisal!

[@paulbusby2013]

The reason I bought the Z6 over the Z7 was the former's better high ISO performance as well as cost. I have heard the Z7 only looses 2/3 of a stop which is pretty phenomenal. IIRC, the low light performance between both Mk1 & MkII is the same. The AF tracking in particular ain't as good as on Canon's & Sony's but the gap can be closed by selecting the best settings for our individual styles rather than slavishly copying some admired pro's ones.

[@emmanuelchacon8900]

"Nintendo Thumb"... PRICELESS :D

[@87Aljack]

Just bought one 2 minutes ago. Can't wait to try it!!

[@sammunzani7276]

Thank you for the detailed review. It was helpful. BTW, what camera and lens did you use to record this video session? The video quality and sharpness is top notch.

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

Thanks, Sam. For this video, I'm using the kit lens that came with the Z6ii. It's the 24-70mm f/4 zoom lens, with my Z6ii. Hope this helps!

[@RadAlzyoud]

Beautiful photos.

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

Thank you so much, Rad!

[@noe6596]

Thanks for your video, really taught me to not baby the z6ii as it’s capable 😊

[@paulbusby2013]

I sold my D700 (absolutely iconic camera just like Canon's A1 pre-AF film camera was). I then sold my F series lenses so have a number of astonishingly good Z series lenses including the Z85/1.8 to use with my Z6. I used to use AFS with the shutter button as I did with the D700. I changed to BBF solely to use AFC but normally with a single press. To me, this is the whole point of using BBF to be able to instantly switch to AFC that you can't achieve if the shutter button is also used for focussing unless you set it then its one or the other. The only issue as a non-professional user is to remember to BBF 1st - old habits can linger!

[@georgedavall9449]

Oh Paul

[@alanwellsphotography]

Thanks for this 😀 going to pickup my new Z6ii this morning and you have reassured me that I’m doing the right thing 😃 my D800 might just be a camera that sits gathering dust now 😂

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

Hi Alan, I think you're going to love it.

[@alanwellsphotography]

@@MikeMcGeePhotography a few days in and yes i love it, done my first studio session with it the other day and it took me a minute to figure out that i needed to disengage the live view as it wouldn’t focus on the eye

[@ljwhatup]

Great video!! 👍 You just gained a new subscriber. I have two Z6II's and I love them. They are making me money as I need to.

[@GeoffKirby]

Stunning work btw!

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

Thanks so much Geoff! :)

[@felm.974]

Love your videos man, specially bc you use Nikon, keep them coming :)

[@willowolson8927]

Great review, thank you so much for the AF-On button info. In regards to portrait photography, which lens do you recommend? Heading out tonight to go make the purchase (body & lens). Super pumped after days and days of reading, researching and watching reviews.

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

Thanks for your kind words, and for your question, I'm a big fan of 85mm prime lenses for portraits. The Z-mount 85mm f/1.8 is a great option if you have a Z6ii, and don't have any f-mount lenses you need to adapt over. I use the 85mm f/1.4 (f-mount adapted) on my z6ii and it's my go to portrait lens. Hope this info helps, and thanks for watching.

[@fabiomarujo4290]

Obrigado, novamente!!

[@andreahuss3156]

This was SOOO helpful! Thank you!

[@jmartinianovlogging1482]

so transparent vlogger... "joystick😄" "nintendo thumb😄" thank you for making this video... i have D750... now im getting convince...

[@kgarvey12]

This is great, so helpful. Thank you! Have you used your ef lenses on moving subjects using the adapter with success? That's what I'm most worried about. Thank you!

[@scotboy1297]

Nikon and Canon have best color science with Sony being the best at autofocus I find.

[@chrispeden979]

So what you describe with the Af-on button is if your essentially burst shooting. If your taking single shots the practice with dSLRs was to let off in af-c because that meant the focusing stopped and essentially was locked. The Z Focus system kinda puts this practice obsolete. The odd thing is that in AF-S you have to hold the af-on button if your shutter release is set to focus which is the default. Otherwise if the camera detects it’s no longer in focus which if your not steady can happen it won’t fire.

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

Hi Chris, essentially yes, by the terminology I'm using "burst shooting" but without the constant burst (if that makes sense). I don't let off AF-ON. My previous AF-S/Single Point method of manually finding the eye in portrait shooting was slower and more labor intensive but it works/worked great with the D750. But with the advancements with the Eye/Face AF of the Z6ii, that style of shooting is no longer my default mode. I'm now virtually always in AF-C with Eye/Face AF, holding down AF-ON, even if I'm taking my time and framing a shot. This method is really only possible due to the advancements in the Eye/Face AF, so it wasn't a viable option with the D750. Hope this makes sense.

[@chrispeden979]

@@MikeMcGeePhotography I get what you’re saying. I came from a D750 too. I was just clarifying the release method was for DSLRs. The Z focus system makes that method unnecessary.

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

@@chrispeden979 Ah, gotcha Chris. I see what you're saying as well. Yup, you're right.

[@michael-4k4000]

I can get well over 1,000 pics on my Z6ll. Now if you are doing video and pictures it depends on a bunch of variables, for example, shooting in 4k120 uses a lot more battery then 1080p60

[@montazownianr1]

Im waiting for z6 III up to end of February. if price will be like canon eos R6, then i will buy Nikon, if will be too expensive for just few new tricks, than I will buy Z6 II.

[@Ihab.A]

Gotta try the back focus technique

[@howiedunbar61]

Care to share your video settings? Your picture and audio quality is top notch.

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

Hi Howie, thanks for your comment. I just shoot with the kit 24-70mm f/4 lens, and shoot at f/5, 1/160 ISO 400 and auto white balance. I don't tweak any white balance in post. I shoot at 1080p and upscale in Final Cut Pro to 4k. For audio I use the Rode Wireless Go II. Hope this info helps.

[@shlomokatz1811]

Low Light - There are issues with high ISO - too much grain BBF - I don't see the difference between using BBF (back button focus) vs shutter release focus - need more explanation about the differences or advantages of BBF. Great video Thank you

[@BokushingusKendoTV]

BBF is better if you are using afc (continuous focus). One finger stays on the focus. The other activates the shutter release. It just makes it easier to keep focus without taking a shot For Nikon, when you use high ISO, use the nikon nx software. It knows how to take out the noise. You will be surprised how well it works.

[@ampmmbe1590]

Just subscribed. Thank you for videos!!!

[@Azeemmerchant]

❤️❤️❤️

[@luissalazar2159]

What is your favorite Nikon lens and why ? I am considering 24-70 . Thanks for sharing

[@Vemovemo1]

Amazing video! Great content thanks, do you have a z5 video?

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

Thanks for your kind words. Sorry, I don't have a Z5 video, but thanks for watching.

[@dylanb_2011]

How do the DSLR Nikon lenses do on this camera with the FTZ adapter? Should I keep them if I move to mirrorless?

[@abbyjoystudio]

What do you think about Z6ii for videos? I’m trying to film more at weddings when I’m second shooting so I can upload on KZbin.

[@nildalemus510]

Very very helpful

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

You're very welcome, Nilda! Thanks for watching!

[@jonreytan]

from 10min-11:30min you mention a really cool trick. AF-C and holding down the back button to constantly focus and refocus your subject.... i have a question- does that mean that I'd have to surrender my back-button focus setting? It's an old habit from my DSLR days

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

Hey there, this is using AF-C and the AF-ON button on the back, as it's the same button used in back-button focusing. It's just switching from AF-S to AF-C, but with AF-C, it's constantly locking focus while doing back-button focusing. It's still back button focusing and a game changer for getting so many more photos with locked focus, even when you subject may move a bit. Hope this helps.

[@jonreytan]

@@MikeMcGeePhotography Makes sense, thank you!

[@pathfindercod4638]

Great video man!

[@BluesImprov]

Just writing to ask if you deleted my comment written on Friday. . .I wasn't criticizing Nikon, I have shot Nikon all my life and I prefer Nikon. I just wanted your honest opinion to help me make a decision regarding the Z6ii. Sorry if my question and comment was offensive in any way. Sorry but I thought I made a well thought out comment and was just looking for some help in making my decision, that's all.

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

BluesImprov, I'm so glad you wrote back! I received two email alerts yesterday that you made a comment. I clicked the reply button (via email) and when it launched KZbin your comments were gone. I'm guessing that KZbin thinks it was spam since you included a link to your web site. You didn't say anything wrong at all. Weird they got removed. Since there's no messaging system here I couldn't reply to you directly. So thankfully you posted again so I can reply to your question. For those unable to see BluesImprov's initial question, he asked a great question about being excited about the Z6ii, but he saw some KZbin videos saying that Nikon was in trouble and doomed as a company so it gave him pause about buying a new Z6ii if the future of Nikon was "doomed" and "dying", and asked how I feel about buying a Z6ii if Nikon is dying. So let me address this my thoughts I this: I'm getting older and with age comes perspective. With COVID-19, major manufacturers hit unprecedented supply chain issues, etc. Doom and Gloom headlines get all the clicks, but positivity rarely makes the headlines. Nikon reported better-than-expected earnings for the last quarter, had a surplus before the pandemic, and will bounce back. But even just stating this type of info then brings out "debates" (more like arguments) and more negativity. So my suggestion, If you're excited and want a Z6ii as you mentioned, then buy your Z6ii, and you will be too happy taking photos with it to worry about company financials and click-baity type articles. It's a fantastic camera, and I just migrated to all new mirrorless gear and will be first in line for the new z series 85mm f/1.2 when its available. P.S. I was able to see your web site link via email since I got alerted to your original reply via email, and your car photos are great! I really really enjoy your use of non-typical perspectives when shooting cars. The hood ornament of the red Pontiac, and the engine shot of the Vette, all great stuff man.

[@BluesImprov]

@@MikeMcGeePhotography Thanks so much for your reply Mike, I really appreciate it! Your perspective is very valuable and helpful. You're so right about click-bait and the "arguments" about brands. By the way, I visited your website and to say I'm impressed with your work is the understatement of the year. You are such a talented professional. I envy your ability to work with people, and the results you achieve are fabulous. And I'm encouraged by your kind words about some of my photos, thanks very much. I also really enjoy the way you take the time to respond to comments. Your explanations and details about how you work and use your gear is very enlightening. I especially enjoyed seeing the cameras and lenses you use on your website. Glad I found you here and look forward to learning more from you. I'm getting older too, but I'm determined to keep learning and having fun with my camera. Thanks again!

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

@@BluesImprov You're so kind, man! Thanks for your kind words and I'm really glad this channel allows me to interact with people like yourself where I get to see your work as well and get to share ideas and positivity. I hope you do get the Z6ii because it's a REALLY solid camera. Either way, happy shooting!

[@phillip2446]

hi mike. i just got my z6ii. i wanted to use the voice memo which is at wrench > voice memo options. can't figure out to use it. do you know how to use it? any help would be appreciated.

[@busseyb.227]

Love my D750 but really wanting to love my Z6II. I'm sure it's just me and learning mirrorless.

[@abbyjoystudio]

I have the same issue-I’m trying to see if I should return my Z6ii..

[@Digmen1]

Where did you get the model you used for the auto eye focus demo. What is her hourly rate?

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

LOL Not to mention this model is always on time too. Never late! :)

[@camilo8cheryl]

Waiting for the firmware update from some Z9 features👍

[@musicpoetry2009]

Hi Mike, great video, beautiful photos! I feel very similar, coming from d850, the eye af is such a great help. But i have the feeling that the af-s is giving me a little sharper images (than af-c). Did you notice some difference? Greetings

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

Hey there musicpoetry! AF-C with Eye/Face AF is definitely producing extremely sharp images on this end, when using back button focusing and holding down AF-ON to lock that eye focus. I personally don't notice any difference between AF-S and AF-C in terms of sharper images. Hope this info helps in any way, and thanks for watching!

[@ashokan134]

Thanks!

[@berndmevers]

Love my Z5. Sold my D700

[@jonhermannsson9231]

Nice video Nikon needs to release a new firmware for AFC and eye af Even the old Sony A7 3 has better afc and eye af The canon r6 and Sony A7 4 are considerably better in afc and eye af I have the z6 2. And often have to pick up my Sony A7/r. 3’s. If I need more sticky and reliable af Love the z6 2 But it is way behind the competition when it comes to AFC Rumor was that in September 2021 we would get a firmware. But as rumor has died I don’t expect any more updates. :( Think they will release z6 3 next year

[@znbh]

do you mind showing eye AF during video for the z6 ii ? im really interested in seeing someone cover that so i can decide if it’s truly worth me upgrading from my d750. thanks !

[@darkreigncometh]

The only issue I have had with the Z6II is with the 24-70 2.8 S lens. It has some issues with that lens, it was blurry not soft at the edges. Glad it was a rental. Other than that, love this camera.

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

Very interesting. I have both the 24-70 f2.8 S and the "kit" 24-70 f4. No issues with either on this end. Perhaps it was a faulty rental version? Just an idea because my f/2.8 S (and even the kit lens) are extremely sharp. But thanks for mentioning this. Interesting stuff.

[@darkreigncometh]

@@MikeMcGeePhotography you may be correct. I rented it twice and had the same issue. There were tines where the 24-70 just wouldn't focus and I had to remove it and attach it again. Glad to hear it may have been a rental issue. I plan to buy it soon and was worried. Awesome video!

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

@@darkreigncometh Yeah, that sounds really strange if the lens wouldn't focus as well. I haven't experienced anything like that, so hopefully it was just a rental lens that wasn't quite right. I love the f/2.8, but the kit lens is so good too, I use it for all of my KZbin videos. Glad you liked this video! :)

[@baronsilverton6504]

It was just the rental lens. I have this lens as well as 8 other Z mount lenses - never had anything remotely like the problem you describe. You will love the 24-70 2.8 S lens - it is phenomenal, but then so are all the S line lenses - some better than others, but even the worst ones are exceptional and generally better than older F Mount versions.

[@robgrant7683]

Hi Mike. Excellent job on the Z6ii videos, very helpful. I'm a wedding photographer who shoots 30 or so weddings a year and I use two Nikon D750's. I love them as you did. But they're getting older and I need a new camera and looking heavily at the Z6ii. One concern I have is that I've heard my Pocket Wizard flash triggers are not compatible with that camera. I was wondering if you use Nikon flashes at all and can recommend a flash trigger compatible with the Z6ii and Nikon flashes. I need it to have a hot shoe on top of the transmitter but also I want to be able to control the power of the other flashes from the transmitter or my on camera flash which I can do now with my Pocket Wizards. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

Hey Rob, thanks for your kind words and I'm glad these videos are helpful. In terms of Pocket Wizard flash triggers, what exact triggers are you using? It just depends on the trigger. I have migrated to a trigger called The Raven and it can trigger PocketWizard, Paul C Buff, Godox, and Profoto...and even send a trigger to more than one company's trigger at the same time. However, it's pricey. There are definitely PocketWizard triggers are are compatible with the Z6ii. It just depend on the trigger you have, etc. If you let me know the exact trigger, I can maybe provide more info for you. Thanks.

[@robgrant7683]

@@MikeMcGeePhotography Thanks for the reply Mike. I have three of the Pocket Wizard Flex TT5’s. I thought I saw that they were not compatible with the Z6ii. Would love to save money and use those but open to other ideas. I just need to be able to put a flash on top of the trigger and control the power of all remotely so doesn’t look like The Raven would work for me. I appreciate your suggestions.

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

@@robgrant7683 Pocket Wizard Flex TT5 are compatible when upgraded to the e-release software, but they don't offer TTL with the Nikon Z6ii. You can upgrade them to the new e-release software, but for TTL, you will need a different trigger like The Raven that I mentioned previously. The Raven is pricey, so I can understand why that's cost-prohibitive. But really it's more about upgrading just the trigger, and then you can keep using the Flex TT5's as receivers when you have updated them to the e-release software. Hope that info helps.

[@robgrant7683]

@@MikeMcGeePhotography Thanks Mike. I'm fine without TTL since I use them in Manual. I don’t think The Raven would work for me since I need to put a flash on top and it doesn’t look like that’s possible with The Raven. It would be fine for the portraits but once I go to the reception I typically bounce an on camera flash off a wall and combine that with off camera flash and adjust the ratios as needed. On a side note, my D750 is pretty good at focusing in low light but sometimes at very dark receptions it struggles. I’m hoping the Z6ii is at least as good or hopefully better. Other than I’ll be purchasing soon I think. Thanks for the help figuring it out.

[@robgrant7683]

@@MikeMcGeePhotography I bought the Z6ii a few days ago along with the 24-120 f4 and loving it. As you recommended I updated my Pocket Wizard firmware for the Flex TT5's and it's working great. Thanks for the info and advice.

[@HEARTISTWORLD]

Hey bro I open my new studio November 1st and I use a z6II. Should I buy z mount 85mm 1.8 or is the f mount any good

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

If I was starting fresh, I'd definitely get the Z mount 85mm f/1.8. I don't have that lens but I only hear great things about it. Nikon's roadmap shows a native Z 85mm f/1.2 available down the road, but you may find the f/1.8 is more than enough (depending upon how your shoot.) Congratulations on opening a new studio, that's a big deal! Cheers!!

[@michael-4k4000]

Great video. I hear people talk about back button focus. I don’t get it, I’ve tried it and it’s an extra button to remember to press. Just push the shutter 1/2 way down it does the same thing. What am I missing? I’m an ideal world we would want to press as few buttons as possible.

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

Hi Michael, thanks for your comment. I'm a big fan of having people do what works best for them. So this isn't me telling you you should do it this way, but I'll explain a brief reason of why I do this, and why you may want to at least try the back-button focusing method for portrait shooting to see if you like it. With the half-button press of the shutter and then a full button press to click (take the picture) yes, you're using only one button. But with this method this button is doing double-duty, and you're going to have to reset focus each time you want to fire. Even in the brief moment from when you lock focus with the half-press, any potential delay in clicking the shutter to fire, you *may* have a subject move and miss focus. With back-button focusing, if you set your camera to AF-C (not AF-S) with the focusing mode being the Eye/Face Auto Focus, and have back button focusing on, the camera is *constantly* locking focusing no matter wha when you push and hold down the back AF-ON button, because the focusing is handled by the AF-ON button. If the subject moves a bit, the camera is updating that focus no matter what, and then when you click the shutter you're stopping time at that exact interval where the back button was locking/updating focus each time. Definitely use what works best for you, but just wanted to expand on this a bit to explain why back button focusing when used with Eye/Face AF and AF-C has been such a game-changer for me, primarily because the Eye/Face AF is so excellent. Hope this info helps, cheers!

[@JessDemant]

Beautiful pictures said by a Sony user 👏

[@jdgphotographerbyjavierdia6211]

Let me ask you Mike, using the adapter and a third party lens, the continuos focusing works as good as with the native lenses?

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

I haven't tried it with a third party lens, but I've tried it with my trusty 85mm f/1.4 Nikon F-mount lens and via the FTZ adapter, continuous focusing works PERFECTLY. It's so good that I haven't replaced this lens. I thought I would need to get a native 85mm Z lens, but I never did. I hope this info helps.

[@johnvillalovos]

Great video! On the eye AF, do you ever use the Wide-area AF (L-people) mode? I thought in the video you were using Auto-area AF (people) mode. I heard some people prefer the Wide-area AF (L-people) mode and curious if you have tried it.

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

Hi John, good question. I typically do solo shoots with one person in frame so I just use the Auto-area AF (people) since it's only going to pickup/detect one person anyway, and I let the camera find the subject. I could definitely see where a wedding or event photographer could really benefit from Wide-Area AF (people) to isolate certain subjects from a crowd, but I really don't need it so I just use Auto-area AF (people). Hope this helps in any way. Cheers.

[@johnvillalovos]

@@MikeMcGeePhotography Thanks for the great response. Makes total sense.

[@Deepak_Vijayarajan]

Nikon z6ii or sony a7iii for a photography only ,which one will you suggest me to buy from these .can you help me in this ?

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

Hi Dr. Shelby, thanks for your question. I'm never really a good person to ask for this type of stuff because I only have experience with the Z6ii, and I think we're at a point in the tech where any modern camera can yield amazing results, so it's more a matter of may touching and feeling the ergonomics and playing with the settings to see which one feels right to you. It's a bit like recommending a Toyota or Honda...they're both fine cars. :)

[@game2572]

Doesn't continuous auto focus burn through battery?

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

Not at all! Fire away! You're much likely to use far more battery using the back display, etc. Continuous focus is the way to go for portraits for me.

[@rameshdigitals374]

super sir

[@raphaeld.6671]

Great Video! Can you recommend a cfexpress card reader? Which one do you use?

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

Hi Raphael, I actually use two of these (one at home and one at my studio). Here is the link: amzn.to/3izW3B5 They are not cheap, but they have performed perfectly, and it has two slots for both cfexpress and an SD card, just like the Z6ii. This reader has worked great for me. Hope this helps.

[@raphaeld.6671]

@@MikeMcGeePhotography Cool, thanks!!

[@Emulives]

Its true the z6 II can overheat just with shots?

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

Never had that happen. When shooting video, I've seen a HOT display since the card internally can get piping hot, but I've never had the camera body overheat when shooting stills ever....and I've shot so many stills with the Z6ii that I've had the shutter replaced on one of them. I absolutely love the Z6ii.

[@Emulives]

@@MikeMcGeePhotography thanks for your videos and this feedback. I shoot most school events, and some are pretty tought . And I'm from Brazil...a hot country.

[@game2572]

What lenses do you use😊

[@MikeMcGeePhotography]

I use an 85mm prime f/1.4 F-mount with the FTZ adapter, along with native Z lenses like the 70-200mm f/2.8Z, and 24-70 f/2.8 and the kit 24-70 f/4 is a champ as well. Those are my main lenses.

[@genin69]

Americans: its "Zee"6 The rest of the world: it's "Zed"6

[@hitmanhart22]

I don't think the eye AF performance is that good.....I have been using the Z system since Nov 2018....and it's NOT impressive. Canon is best followed by Sony today

[@ghas4151]

The eye AF is very good and not far off Sony and Canon. Where Nikon struggles is real-time object tracking, which is no where near as good as the other two. Rumour has it that there will be a big firmware update after the Z9 is released. We will see, but eye AF is great already. Check Manny Ortiz’s review of the three systems.

[@AntonisKorakakis]

Have you tried any of them or you are just reproducing what you see in Jared Polin's videos?

[@hitmanhart22]

@@AntonisKorakakis I have been using the Z system since Nov 2018.....been one of the early adopters due to my trust in Nikon......but it's frustrating that it's taking them so many years....still the AF is not good enough....it's like Nikon does not want to hear it's users.

[@AntonisKorakakis]

@@hitmanhart22 having tried the Z6ii with native glass I can say the AF covers all my needs. If you're a sport or wildlife photographer I get it, but most people just whine about specs they don't use...

[@hitmanhart22]

@@AntonisKorakakis no, I'm not whining about specs. Overall the Z6 ii is a fantastic camera but it is not enough. For fast action....not sports or wildlife....the autofocus fails miserably and I have to constantly keep changing my af modes.....to the point that I have nearly stopped using their AI AF mode......so wasn't the d850 better then....

[@andreasjordi]

Super, thanks, sub Made👍