Nikon Z7 (and Z6) - How to focus

[@jeffreyharrison3731]

Just bought the Z7ii and with an overseas trip coming up, this video is a life saver. The detail and professionalism that went into this review is much appreciated.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

A pleasure to read your kind words, thanks for taking the time to comment.

[@Sandwich137]

You are the mister Rodgers of photography Thank you

[@MaartenHeilbron]

But I can't match his sweater game. I do thank for your kind words.

[@jeffhansman2829]

Exactly what I was thinking, and it's genuine compliment!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@jeffhansman2829 Yes, it is appreciated. I worked in master control at TVOntario, so watched his show twice a day.

[@jasonthompson2059]

Scrolled down to write the same thing lol

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@jasonthompson2059 Thanks, your compliment is appreciated.

[@ericleszkowicz898]

What an incredibly outstanding choice of examples to show how the focus works and how well it works. Was even helpful to me a full-time Nikon professional.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, I really appreciate your kind words, it’s always nice to know my videos are useful.

[@kleinbjoern]

Ten minutes stuffed with useful information, great illustrating examples and absolutely no irrelevant talk. I loved it!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks - that is exactly what I am trying to do. I appreciate the kind words.

[@54johnpaul]

Thank you Maarten for your Z Series tutorials. I found the autofocus sections particularly helpful. After all these years of using Nikon you would have thought it would be easy but it's always reassuring to know I'm doing things right. It is very easy to go the wrong way! I'm loving my Z6 and the eye-af in firmware V2 is great. I really like your gentle yet authoritative delivery. I am tired of the "my camera is better than your camera" posts from other channels. Tutorials are always great even if you are relatively experienced. Never too old to learn something new!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

It's always great to hear that my work is appreciated, thanks for taking the time to post your comments.

[@guyroberts4303]

Ive been using the Z7 for 4 months and this is by far the best explanation of the focusing system I have seen.. Great Video

[@MaartenHeilbron]

A pleasure to read your kind words, thanks for commenting.

[@jamesDJRPM]

There's not a person alive that could not subscribe after a beautiful and courteous outro like that.. Thanks for the great video.. I'm about to search your channel for more Z6 tips..

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, I appreciate your kind words, and your interest.

[@danielcrotty8697]

Thank you for this video! I recently bought the Z6 and am really enjoying it.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Always my pleasure, thanks for your kind words. It is an enjoyable camera. Full review follows in a few weeks.

[@KungPowEnterFist]

Maarten, you are one of the best camera tech guys on YT. Great work, as usual! Straightforward and simple to follow.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thank you, I appreciate the kind words.

[@MrToonfish]

Dear Maarten, you deserve a Grammy award ! Every single video is very useful and you work is really appreciated, always clear, always right to the point ! Thank you for your time. Have a new Z6 + the 24-70mm. Also very old user of DSLR's, and mirrorless from Fuji... X-T1 and X-Pro1 + X-T2 and X-PRO2 (do not have any X-T3 yet). And I kept 2 of my fav DSLR's, the NIKON D610 and the D750 both are used with a 24-70mm f/2.8 lens on each one.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for your very kind words, always nice to read that my viewers appreciate my work.

[@prabhakarpshetty2282]

These are the kind of videos we need than the typical ones we see on yt. Amazing and educational.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thank you for your kind words, I do my best to produce quality content.

[@RRRCCCDDD]

Just bought the Z6, SO glad you made this. Your vids are the best. So clear

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Always nice to know that my videos are useful and are appreciated. Thank you for your kind words.

[@trevorcohen3033]

Love the articulate ( no BS) information. Much appreciated ... Thank You!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

A pleasure to read your comments, thanks for the kind words.

[@seanscales393]

This is excellent! Your detailed information, your cadence of delivery, your voice, and your choice of example images were perfect.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I appreciate your kind words, thanks.

[@GreggRoberts]

This is very helpful. I'm finally upgrading from my Leica R7 (ancient). I'm just now coming around. I spent a decade working in custom labs and was bitter when the silver industry dried up. I'm getting the z6.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Always nice to know my videos provide useful information, thanks for commenting.

[@kjvisual7]

Thank you. We don't have the Z6 yet. This video helps me feel more comfortable that the Z6 will be super useful.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, I appreciate the kind words.

[@mariomeasor]

1:35 into the video and I already love it. I never thought about using the menu in the view finder to adjust the diopter.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I do appreciate knowing that I've provided useful information, thanks for the kind words.

[@jamerson808]

Man you make the best Z6 videos ever man, thank you so much

[@MaartenHeilbron]

That's very kind, always nice to hear from a viewer who appreciates my work.

[@shuswaptoy]

Thank you for a very good tutorial that is thorough and comprehensive. I really enjoy all your videos on all the different cameras.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, I appreciate your kind words.

[@garylockley5944]

Just bought a Z6. A very informative video, easier than trying to read the manual. And thank you for saying Z6 and not Zee 6...Grrrr

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for your kind words, appreciated.

[@michaelbertelsen7994]

Just bought the Z6, waiting for it to arrive 😊. Thank you for this excellent video 👍

[@MaartenHeilbron]

No problem 👍 thanks for your kind words and emojis.

[@petersmyth8428]

I just purchased a Z6 (May 2020) and this is by far the best tutorial on its autofocus by a country mile. Please can we have a similar one for firmware 3.o as perhaps a short an update. Thanks, Maarten.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I did this - kzbin.info/www/bejne/bX7Yl31uhb6El6M - is that helpful?

[@aldeen1982]

Really nice video! Nikon told the audience even in their Z6 printed commercial magazines that they are going to implement the Eye AF later - so no real issue here.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Yes, well I don’t comment on features that I can’t use. Hopefully will be able to try the update soon.

[@terry2855]

Great tutorial! I recently got the Z6 and really like it.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for the kind words, always appreciated.

[@chaselaidlaw]

Really enjoy your detailed videos! Thank you for creating these.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Always my pleasure, thanks for your kind words.

[@akipanda]

Thank you for your helpful video. Just got my Z6 yesterday, (after watching your video review, it has helped me to consider getting a Z6)

[@MaartenHeilbron]

It's always nice to read that my videos have been helpful.

[@anegrudop1769]

Hello. Good description. I am also a z6 user. I recommend a z6 test with the 18 - 55mm f / 3.5 kit lens. f / 5.6 dx. It has an incredible video autofocus and no catching sounds.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for the kind words.

[@bedwinH]

thanks a lot, Maarten for the detailed video. I would like to know if there is a way to change the aperture on Z6 50mm f1.8!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Yes, of course, using the standard aperture adjustment tools on the Z6.

[@Elena-uj4mb]

You are wonderful teacher! Thank you so much!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

You are so welcome! A pleasure to read your kind words.

[@MWTH37]

Thanks for the Video Maarten always useful information and for those who don't already know Nikon has released some firmware update that now give both Zeds the face, Eye and even for animals also improved tracking

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I appreciate your kind words. Yes, noted. Will do an update.

[@distomos8118]

Great review/tutorial as always. Thank you! Are you planing to update it to cover the new Z-Models, as they have implemented some new features? Or have you already and I just missed the video?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I wish I could. At this point, Nikon Canada has suspended their reviewer loan program.

[@distomos8118]

@@MaartenHeilbron I’d lend you mine, but we’re to far apart I’m afraid. 😉

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@distomos8118 Thanks, that's very kind.

[@distomos8118]

@@MaartenHeilbron Do you happen to know if there exists some kind of menu overview, like a map to show all menu items from a bird’s view? I tend to get lost or forget how I got the some specific settings. I searched the internet but didn’t come up with something useful. So if you happen to know you’re help would be much appreciated.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@distomos8118 Great idea! No, I haven't heard of anything like that.

[@CastFromTheHip]

Best camera know-how on the tubes. Thanks!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

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

[@americanexpatintablasislan6419]

Maarten you are such a great teacher!!!!! Just to confirm. NO focus tracking for video. Is that right ? What competitor does focus tracking on video please? Many many thanks !!!! :-)

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for the kind words. Confirmed. Try the latest Sony models, I'm just reviewing the A7R4, which does a reasonable call.

[@GaneshShanker2]

I sincerely appreciate you for making this video an excellent tutorial on the focus system of the Z-series camera. Are you referring to the directional pad as the joystick?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for your kind words. There are two navigation devices - the D-pad and the joystick.

[@GaneshShanker2]

@@MaartenHeilbron I believe you are referring to the sub-selector button above the i button and the multi-selector button.

[@michaelpoczynek]

Thank you so much for making this video. It was very helpful. Just curious, I am shooting in a studio and every time I turn the camera off & on, I need to refocus my subject. This happen when I do the focus in M or A. Any ideas to keep the focus in place in a studio? Thanks.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thank you for your kind words. Yes, that seems to be a characteristic of the camera, not sure if that's fixable - maybe if there was a mechanical (instead of focus by wire) lens.

[@michaelpoczynek]

@@MaartenHeilbron Thank you. I am going to try face focus to see if that works. Thanks for the idea of a manual lens. Cheers!

[@DECKARD263354BR]

Great video Thankyou!! What is the best focus point box size for Landscapes and architecture say from F5.6-F11 ? Thankyou

[@MaartenHeilbron]

The one that covers the area of the image you want in focus.

[@DECKARD263354BR]

@@MaartenHeilbron Thanks for the reply, more specifically if im capturing a warehouse at say at an aperture around F8-F11 and both the regular focus box and the wide focus box cover the same area would there be a difference in focus accuracy between these 2 ? Thanks again.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

That's too specific a question to provide a generic answer. That would depend on the landscape, the lighting and the lens. Why not try both? Or try a focus shift burst to make sure you get the sweet spot?

[@NomadicWoodsman]

Great video ! Which modes would be best for vlogging in video mode ? Just how to have your face in focus as you try to do a selfie or film yourself while holding the camera ?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, video mode would be best. Just point it at yourself with the settings as described and it should identify your face.

[@NomadicWoodsman]

@@MaartenHeilbron thanks subbed ! Could you do a video on z6 time Lapse tips??

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, appreciated. Probably not, but I'll keep the idea around for a bit. The only tip I have is that if you're going to create a video from the images, shoot at 16x9. Otherwise, it's just trying to find the settings that give the effect you want - there are lots of ways to do this, most of them are interesting.

[@NomadicWoodsman]

@@MaartenHeilbron 16x9???I am very beginner is that the size of the image ?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

That is the aspect ratio of the still image - so that it matches the aspect ratio of HD video.

[@michaelbeland8188]

Thank you for the very helpful video. As hard as I try to learn the z6's capabilities with the manual, sometimes I just get better results with someone showing me how things work. I do have one question: at approximately 6:40 in the video you mention that a distance ruler shows up when you are in Manual Focus mode. I haven't been able to find that feature on my Z6. Perhaps it is only displayed with the S-mount lens? I'm using the FTX adapter and a Nikon 24-105mm F/4 that came with my D750. Thank you!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I too am a visual learner, likely a spectrum issue. The ruler isn't mentioned in the manual, either with regard to the screen displays or manual focus. It just appeared for me - I assume you've cycled through all the display options. I wasn't using an adapted lens, so maybe that's the answer.

[@cyberr2k]

I just got my new Z6 (body only) couple of days back. Iam more of a beginner. Thank you for the explanation on Autofocus modes. Will be really useful for my shoot. Just need a info...if given a option to choose only one all purpose lens what would be your suggestion.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

The kit 24-70 is a very good starting point. If your wallet can handle it the 24-70F2.8 is even better.

[@kenmcarthurphotography6544]

Thank you so much great run through, cleared up a few mysteries for me.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Always a pleasure to read that my content has been useful, thanks!

[@lubiesutton7510]

Are you David Atterborough of photography tutorials

[@MaartenHeilbron]

That's quite a compliment, and although I'm not sure it's deserved, I do very much appreciate your kind words.

[@aussie8114]

You show how the focus point turns green once focused, as it should. I’ve always wondered why the heck that doesn’t happen on the D810. Got 2 bodies and know the settings extremely well but they just don’t turn green. Red only for a fraction of a second once you 1/2 depress shutter or AF back button, then it goes out. The red seems to serve no purpose other than to tell you the AF has at least started. Only visual way to confirm focus is to shift your eye down to the little grey focus circle in the letterbox bar. Must be an oversight by Nikon but seems a stupid thing to not employ. If nothing else at least the little green circle could appear as green and not grey. Looking forward to upgrading to a Z but will wait for one or two more generations. Your videos are STELLAR Maarten 👍🏼👍🏼

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Hmmmm ... you're aware that green only appears in single and not continuous focus mode?

[@aussie8114]

Maarten Heilbron Yes. But still never appears in AF S. It’s just absent from the D810. Regardless of menu settings. Tried all combinations of AF related menu items but NOPE it just doesn’t happen 🤷🏼‍♂️ In AF S I can have the beep activate which is a reassurance but of course no beep available in AF C. I prefer to use AF C back button focus but have to just presume it’s focused because can’t shift eye to look at the little grey circle. I can set AF C to FOCUS regarding the Release Priority Selection setting. I might try some tests using that release setting to see how many in focus shots I get in AF C. If the camera successfully judges focus correctly in AF C with FOCUS set in the AF priority selection then I guess I can trust the camera without a green confirmation. But something green would be nice 😀

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@aussie8114 That is strange, but I don't have any experience with the D810.

[@aussie8114]

Maarten Heilbron I will survive until I get a lovely Nikon Z in a few years 😅

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@aussie8114 Survival is paramount. And who knows what Nikon will have improved in a few years.

[@rtsizemore]

Great video!! Thanks for posting! Question... I have a Z7ii and when using some lenses the red focus square turns green when focused. However, with vintage manual lenses, how (if at all possible) can I turn that feature ON? I know I can (and do) use 'focus peaking' - but I'd prefer to have the red square turn green. Thank you! Tom

[@MaartenHeilbron]

You cannot, as that features requires camera/lens communication which those older manual lenses don't support.

[@willymarthinsen9629]

Great tutorial! I have searched for a solution of an annoying problem on my z7. When i use the rear screen for focus and push the + button, it zooms in far too much. It zoom so deep that it is difficult to quickly find the item. I would like the + button to behave like when i look at a picture at the rear screen or evf. where i can do a much more incremental zoom. How can i set up my z7 that way?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for the kind words. There are multiple zoom levels, pressing the +/- keys while focussing should provide incremental zoom settings. I don't think there are any settings which effect this.

[@ivan_i_am]

HI Maarten, this is a great tutorial. is there a way you share custom settings so that we could 'load' ?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

You'll have to capture them one by one from the video. And please use these as a starting point - each situation will be different and require some adjustment(s).

[@Jonathan.Cajica]

Really great and informative video. I will just add that Eye Autofocus is coming via SW update in the future, as announced by Nikon during CES a few weeks ago.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, I appreciate the kind words. There is a great deal that is still unknown about this feature - I'll wait and see - but it's a good step forwards.

[@johnford635]

Excellent tutorial and thank you. Learned a lot!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

That is exactly what I hope to hear - thanks for the kind words.

[@ComPH2]

I am new to Nikon after decades of using other cameras. I really like your videos as well, but - yes there is a but - could you make at least one introductory video for people who are learning, and who when you call for some specific menu or button or whatever, need to pause it and search around to find out where that item is, to eventually continue the video. Sort of more step by step for frustrated beginners like myself. I realize that it wouldn't be for everyone, but it would make the transition from other systems much less frustrating. In the meantime, even though I do a lot of pausing, I enjoy your videos and they help me getting to control the camera instead of using it as a point and shoot.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I usually only have a camera long enough to do the review, and maybe a video settings or focus video like this one. I don't want to make any promises, but I do appreciate the kind words and the suggestion - let me see what I can do.

[@joelburns348]

Very nice presentation. Look forward to checking out your other videos.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I appreciate the kind words, and hope you enjoy my other videos.

[@MichaelMartin-lv6fs]

Great video! Quick question on the Z6. How do you get accurate focus at apertures smaller than f5.6, given that the Z6 doesn't physically close the aperture beyond f5.6 until the shutter is pressed. Example, I focus on a distant tree in a lanscape shot at f11, it looks in focus in the viewfinder (which is actually showing f5.6 dof), but when I take the shot it's not in focus. Am I missing something? Any help appreciated

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Try using the electronic front curtain shutter. What you're seeing is likely a small camera shake from the shutter opening.

[@MichaelMartin-lv6fs]

@@MaartenHeilbron Thanks for your reply. I'm talking about this problem, which you may already be aware of. kzbin.info/www/bejne/oHqUemV4g550fqs

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@MichaelMartin-lv6fs Oh. So you can get an accurate focus, you just can't preview the depth of field in magnify view. I'm not sure of the value of previewing bokeh in magnify view - don't you really want to see the whole image when checking depth of field?

[@matteo.rovella.pictures]

Hello. Thank you for the video MAarten but on my Nikon Z7 Autofocus trackin in video mode seems not to work if I want to film my self and I do not have an operator filming me. Can you explain how to set the camera to make it work? thanks a lot.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I have updated this video here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bX7Yl31uhb6El6M If the distance between you and the camera is not changing, use manual focus - it is more reliable in every way. If you must use AF, then don't use tracking. use AFF mode with auto-area AF and face detect on.

[@johnb8538]

Thank you for the Auto Focus info- what settings would you use for street shooting- sometimes I go out all manual- and sometimes aperture priority- and then also have to think about ISO.... sometime auto ISO - if I am standing at one area- watching waiting... AF-S..... but walking- sometimes, AF-C.... so many options- thank you for your input on settings

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Manual is very traditional - you'll likely miss fewer shots. AFS or AFC are not as reliable. Yes, a lot more options than Gary Winogrand had to consider. Light doesn't change that much, set the shutter to the speed you need (depends on you and the lens) then the aperture, as wide as you dare - then just set the ISO to what feels correct, shoot RAW so you can adjust in post if needed.

[@johnb8538]

Maarten- thank you for the response......on my Z7, majority of the time, I am using the 35 fixed........although I do have the 24-70, but feel if I need to get up close, then I use my feet! I will focus more on Manual.... certainly takes away decision making on the AFS/AFC.........Thanks again for your video, great information...... very helpful- Cheers @@MaartenHeilbron

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I appreciate the kind words, and I am always happy to help.

[@leonard187]

Wow thanks for this awesome amazing fantastic informative information filled video it was an eye opening amazing experience watching you explain this new camera from Nikon

[@MaartenHeilbron]

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

[@aaronleepdx]

Great video! Just got the Z6. Love it. Question - on focus tracking with lock-on shouldn’t you pick “quick” If shooting people nothing more frustrating than a slow focus?? Why pick delayed?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

So that it's not so easily distracted once it's found a subject.

[@champnessjack1154]

Good tutorial - great pace, and packed with good suggestions. Thanks.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

That's very kind, thanks for commenting.

[@jamerson808]

Man they need to put you TV, you are my go to guy for the Z6

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, I appreciate the kind words. KZbin is a much more reasonable place to be than TV. On TV there would have to be ads, and the broadcaster would go to the camera companies and then they'd want to influence my content. I'm happy here.

[@jamerson808]

@@MaartenHeilbron well I just want to let you know that you have the best Z6 videos I've seen on KZbin and I really appreciate it my brotha!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@jamerson808 Thanks again, always nice to know that my family is supportive of my work. Appreciated.

[@markdavies1019]

Excellent, concise information Maarten. Thank you. I may have missed something, but my old D810 had a focus point lock ('L') around the multi-selector; there doesn't appear to be such a lock for the Z7. I tried the Z7 today in a shop and kept accidentally moving the focussing square. Is it me, or is there a way to prevent this? Thanks!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for the kind words. There isn't, and that keeps happening to me - it's constantly in the bottom left corner, even when I don't think I'm moving it.

[@markdavies1019]

Thanks for your swift reply Maarten. That's unfortunate. I wonder if that could eventually be fixed by a firmware update. Fingers crossed! I'll see if I can feedback my suggestions through the Nikon Customer Service portal. Keep up the good work!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@markdavies1019 I'm always happy to help. Let's see if that works.

[@Paradigm816]

Great video, Maarten. Am I understanding correctly that, while in continuous autofocus mode, I’d still have to press the AF ON button to focus? Is this true for the eye detection? Once it finds the eye and placed the Amber box around the eye, I’d still have to press the focus button?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

In stills mode, yes. Not in video.

[@justinporterproductions]

LOVING your channel! Subscribed!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

That's great, thanks for subscribing.

[@TheSjmikesell]

I noticed while you’re shooting that your data displays down the right side of the screen while mine displays across the top. Is there a setting that I’m missing that changes the way that is/can be displayed? It seems more streamlined that way, and I’d like to change mine if possible.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Yes, sorry, that's misleading. The data display on the HDMI output (which I use to show your the screens) does not mirror the LCD display.

[@TheSjmikesell]

Ahhh, I see. I just got my Z 6ii as a gift and am still learning and trying to set it up. I was looking everywhere for an answer to this as yours wasn’t the first video I saw with that display. Thanks so much for your response and putting an end to my searching!! 🙌🏻

[@MaartenHeilbron]

​@@TheSjmikesell Glad we have an answer, sorry it's not to your liking.

[@ReR7474]

Hi. I’m using my significant other’s Z7. When I’m shooting video, I have to continue af and it clicks trying to focus on an object moving at relative short distance. How do make it follow the object and focus without making the clicking since it also records it

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Is the distance too close for the lens to focus? Which lens are you using, as that's not a sound I've heard.

[@oo0RECON0oo]

Have you made a video detailing a method on how to copy all settings and picture control settings etc from the z6 to another z6? I can’t find a video on KZbin explaining how to do this. I want an exact copy of my camera onto another z6.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I have not, but it is easy and straightforward. Have you tried? Where did it not work for you?

[@oo0RECON0oo]

Maarten Heilbron in the not trying lol, not sure how to do it. Just delete the bin file off the destination z6 and copy the bin file from the source z6 to the destination z6? Are the bin files serial coded to the cameras?

[@oo0RECON0oo]

Maarten Heilbron what is the process to do this?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@oo0RECON0oo Yes, that should work. I didn't have two cameras to see whether they're coded - but that would just be stupid if they did it.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

There's a little more detail in my advanced settings video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mpSqe6uef657e6c

[@Winharper1211]

Sir, how can you set that focus speed so slowly @7:25min.? My focus speed is just too fast(not cinematic for videos) even when I set the speed to very slow( -5).

[@MaartenHeilbron]

This is a video setting, that works with continuous mode when you use touch to change the focus point.

[@Winharper1211]

@@MaartenHeilbron that doesn't work. still too fast. not like in your video @7:25min sir.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@Winharper1211 Not sure what the difference might be in your settings or situation.

[@Winharper1211]

Now i know why...i only have f-mount lenses...and thats the reason why. I‘ve testet it today with the 24-70 Z-Mount and the autofocus is exactly smooth like in your video

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I see, good to know you've found an explanation.

[@KelbellMakeup]

I want to do back button focusing. However, when I change my A7 to enable “AF-ON Only” it still isn’t focusing when I press the AF button. So I changed the focus mode to continuous focus and it’s still not doing anything when I press the AF button. I also checked that f2 assignment for the AF button is on AE/AF. Still, this button does nothing when pressed except show “AF-L” on my viewfinder. What am I doing wrong?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

When you set "AF-ON only", you disable the shutter from autofocusing. To enable the AF button to focus, you need to set it to AF-On (not AE/AF). Then it will focus. Incidentally, I assume that "A7" in the second sentence is a typo and that you're asking about a Nikon camera, not the Sony A7.

[@Kelbell805]

Maarten Heilbron Yes, Sorry Z7. Oops. I ended up resetting all of my settings and then just changing the one and it works! Thank you so much for your reply. I’m definitely subscribing to your channel!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@Kelbell805 always happy to help - sometimes a reset finds and fixes whatever was blocking the setting. I wish the manual was more detailed about the exclusions.

[@websiteckron8591]

Thanks for your very informative video. You come straight to the point. I have got the z6 a few months and I find it very, very hard to focus in low light situation. Even in good light I have a lot of miss focused images although I use back button focus method and single AF. I switched from D 750 to Z6 and the Unreliable autofocus is a big issue for me. I still hope it is me not the camera though.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

A pleasure to read your kind words. If you are familiar with back focus, I don't understand why this technique shouldn't work for you. What area are you using? Have you tried the others? Does shutter/focus work better when you try that?

[@mrmdpgh]

Nikon recently announced that they are adding eye-detect focusing through a firmware update.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I heard, that will be super.

[@AdaptingCamera]

It's added and works fine.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@AdaptingCamera Eye Autofocus update @

[@chocloditelensman]

Good review. Buying one soon as my back up or maybe even my main camera.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, it's always nice to know I've provided useful information.

[@adlawd3297]

Great succinct video, would love a quick tutorial on video focus techniques specifically with a gimbal + Z6!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for the kind words. Thought I covered that ... what are you missing?

[@AlexanderGorbunov]

Hello! For some reason, I can't turn on the combination of image peaks in the shooting mode with the focus shift, with the nikkor 105 mm f 1.4 lens, I made all the settings as you have, but it doesn't work :( Nikon Z7

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Did you understand that the peaking view is only available after you've taken the image? It creates a confirmation image.

[@AlexanderGorbunov]

@@MaartenHeilbron It turned out that this function does not work in the nikon z7, through the FTZ adapter with lenses from SLR cameras :(

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@AlexanderGorbunov That's unfortunate.

[@lalsenarath]

Is it posible to multi shoot same image with multiple apathure size and auto selected speeds, or iso?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Yes, it's called bracketing. Check p196 of the manual to see which settings are affected in each of the exposure modes.

[@petermalone7869]

does face detect pick up multiple faces in a group shot? Or for a group shot , would you recommend single point af with a larger aperture?? . i love your videos and am a new subscriber!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

It does identify multiple faces (usually). However, it might be best to choose one with single point, as you suggest.

[@photonsonpixels]

Martin, can you explain how split screen work? And how to leverage live view to ensure precise focus using magnification of the screen? Thank you!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Objects in the top and bottom half of the circle are mis-aligned when they're not in focus. If you try it you can make sense of it rather quickly, but it is not the easiest or simplest way to accurate focus (use expanded view).

[@photonsonpixels]

Maarten Heilbron Thank you so much for your advice; much appreciated!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Always happy to help.

[@mattkargar9254]

It was very useful and enjoyable . Thank you very much

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I appreciate the kind words, thanks for commenting.

[@trixr4kidsdawg]

Great video Maarten, thanks

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Glad you enjoyed it, thanks, I appreciate your kind words.

[@greyhoundrick5568]

Hi Maarten, Thanks so much for your excellent content! Can you tell me if there is any way, when shooting in Continuous focus, if you have reached the limit of your lenses close up focusing? On my DSLRs I can look at the white focus dot but this camera doesn’t have a focus dot on AF-C mode. Thanks again and I look forward to viewing all of your videos. Best to you, Rick

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Not sure what you mean by the limit? The minimum focus distance is .38m (1.25ft). I'm not sure of the role of the focus dot, but it doesn't appear when using AF-C.

[@greyhoundrick5568]

@@MaartenHeilbron Im sorry Maarten, I should have been more clear. What I meant is the minimum focus distance as you stated. Normally, on my DSLRs when I get too close to the subject and my lens cant focus any longer the white focus dot in the view finder won't light up any longer. This is a good indicator to tell you that the camera isn't focusing so the distance between the subject and the lens needs to be increased. My Nikon Z7 does not have this feature so when you are too close to the subject you don't get any indication (not that I know of any way). Im hoping Nikon will put a focus confirmation indicator in AF-C in their next firmware update as this is very important in my opinion. They have focus confirmation in AF-S and M modes but not AF-C. thanks again!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Oh, that white dot wit the two triangles - not the one in the middle of the focus square. I'm not sure why you want that in AF-C, as it's only useful when you're setting the focus manually ... or am I still missing something?

[@greyhoundrick5568]

@@MaartenHeilbron The white dot that indicates focus with the two triangles is included in Manual focus on the Z7 and also on the Manual Focus AND Continuous Focus on Nikon DSLRs. I really like that feature in AF-C because it gives you real time feedback to let you know if you are in focus when using AF-C. As it stands right now there is nothing at all on the Z6 or Z7 that will tell you if you are in focus when using AF-C which I think is a big flaw. As we were talking about earlier. If you are too close to your subject because of the lens' close distance limitations and there is nothing to tell you you aren't in focus it would be easy to take a bunch of shots not realizing that none of them will be in focus. Also, when shooting in AF-C its nice to know if you have locked on to a subject by having the camera verify to you that you are in focus by having an indicator. That's how it works in the DSLRs. Not sure why they don't have that in the Z cameras. Im hoping it was just an oversight that will be corrected.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for the explanation. I really only ever looked at the spot for manual focus, as an assist. I'm going to keep my eye on it - maybe this welcome in the firmware update.

[@RocMac83]

I set everything as in the video, the only thing I don't like is that I focus with the AF-ON tadto, how do I go back to the previous button? Thank you.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

A7 controls whether or not the shutter also focusses.

[@remektekmedia6641]

As usual, another clear and informative review. Thanks. As an ex-Nikon user who has switched to Fuji X-T3, I would love you to do a subjective comparison between these 2 cameras. By subjective, I mean from a using point of view and not a spec comparison. Thanks you...

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I appreciate the kind words. You're right, that would be good. I'd actually like to do that with the Sony A7III also.

[@remektekmedia6641]

@@MaartenHeilbron Yes, I think a 3-way comparison would be great, with special focus on video shooting and stills shooting, as two distinct comparisons. I am looking forward to this review by you.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I will do my best, it will require a little coordination.

[@VikramSudera]

thanks for this video maarten. I bought a z6 after watching your review. I have a question. On movie mode, Af-C set wide, the rectangle tracks my children running around but it does not focus on them, even though the square is around them. For example. My son is in the garden, I begin filming and he is in perfect focus, as he moves around the frame (forwards and backwards) the rectangle follows him perfectly, but he is out of focus for the duration of the video. Even when he is moving smoothly and slowly. Am I doing something wrong?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

In video mode use AF-F to follow.

[@VikramSudera]

Maarten Heilbron thanks will give it a try.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Always happy to help.

[@zone6789]

There is no way to get the focus confirmation dot when using manual focus lenses with adapters, is there? I tried a Novoflex adapter and vintage Leica R lenses on a Z 5 and set it to MF, but a focus confirmation dot never appeared. It was a real challenge to focus the Leica lenses accurately, even with the focus peaking on.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

It depends on the adapter (and the lens). WIth the Nikon FTZ, and Nikon F lenses, you will have more features than with Novoflex.

[@triciahohl4233]

Great video! I can't get my eye focus to work even though it's in auto-area mode. Could it be the DLSR Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Lens? Maybe it's not compatible? All the other focus points work.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

It's possible that the lens with the adapter doesn't support that feature, but there are other possibilities. Sorry I can't be more help.

[@charlierivera5725]

Great review thank you. Are these settings the same for the Z6?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I appreciate your kind words. Yes, they are identical, however the number of focus points is lower. Just finishing my Z6/Z7 comparison, and working on the full review.

[@ericleszkowicz898]

Mirror image of the z7 Or should that be mirrorless 🤪

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@ericleszkowicz898 hehe, thanks.

[@TimSiggs]

Hi Maarten, great video as always. Can I ask what you think of the Z6 for Bird video with say a 200-500. Do you think the auto focus is good ? Many thanks in advance.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, I appreciate your kind words. I think the AF is up to the task - although if you need to use pinpoint, it's not as fast as spot - still plenty fast though.

[@TimSiggs]

@@MaartenHeilbron Many thanks Maarten.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Always happy to help.

[@NikolajFreiesleben]

Great tutorial. Maarten, how do you rate the AF on Z6/Z7 , is it as unreliable as some reviewers think? Do you think its mostly usererror when the AF is unreliable.? Thank you.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for the kind words. I think it's mostly a case of missed expectations. If the camera is moving and you need it to quickly find and focus on the closest object that works reasonably well - particularly if you use touch. However, if you're a constant distance from the subject and you're expecting it to maintain focus without adjustments - that's more than it can maintain and you should use manual focus. In fact, I would use manual focus in every situation where the distance between the subject and the camera remains fairly constant. I would then close the aperture (say F8) to get a larger depth of field to allow for some movement.

[@bap1944]

Excellent information CLEAR... I own Z6 XT3 D850 D500 lots token in mind when shooting.. probably will sell XT3

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for the kind words, always appreciated.

[@mikelm222]

Can you move the focus point diagonally with the joy stick ? - Thanks for a good review

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Yes, maybe it’s an optical illusion, but that seems to work.

[@Drag0nMagic]

I really enjoyed your style and informative video. Thank you! and Subscribed

[@MaartenHeilbron]

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

[@moealyasini2784]

AMAZING Review ONE QUESTION: I cant find a way to you Face tracking when using 1080p 120 fps Video !!! Only when dropping to 60p is that correct?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, I appreciate your kind words. Yes, that's correct.

[@pallavdas3842]

Did you have a chance to review the Z6-II

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Not as yet, Nikon Canada's reviewer loan program is on hold.

[@markshirley01]

Excellent Maarten - very helpful.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for your kind words, appreciated.

[@IanWilkinson]

Thanks Maarten - nicely explained.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I appreciate the kind words, thanks.

[@andyvan5692]

nice video, but as far as focus stacking goes, would rather use the ftz adaptor and one of nikon's f-mount tilt/shift lenses, as this gets the whole focus plane in view and shot in one shot, so no disappointments due to the software rendering or because of combining exposures.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for the kind words. There are (as you point out) many solutions to this issue.

[@supersam5120]

This saved me, thank you!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Always nice to know my videos are useful and appreciated, thanks for commenting.

[@ujjalchakraborty8036]

i am confused plz suggest z6 or a7iii who is best in photography? plz plz..

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Both are very good cameras. However, there is no "best" here, as much as other reviewers might like to pretend that there is. Possibly, there is more suitable for specific photographers and their needs. You should not be disappointed with either of these cameras.

[@ujjalchakraborty8036]

@@MaartenHeilbron thanks sir

[@raythemanroe]

I commented first!! Good run through of the Z7

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Congrats! Thanks for your kind and fast words.

[@mellsc766]

Would these work with the Z6ii?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Yes, with very minor changes.

[@AdaptingCamera]

In the meantime, Nikon updated the firmware to include even eye detect focus. You should update the video by adding a text correction.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

You'll find a card about :25s in, and a reference in the description. Here's the link to my update: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aX6zlqaLi8tnsLc

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Eye Autofocus update @

[@alincostache2750]

Thank you for this video

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thank you for your kind words, appreciated.

[@Adel_Barham]

thank you! this was much useful

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I'm always pleased to know my viewers find my videos useful.

[@saddmonkey1]

Thank you-very helpful!!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Always nice to know, thanks for the kind words.

[@salimansari7393]

Very nice sir

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I appreciate your kind words, thanks.