Nikon Z7 Bird In Flight with FTZ Nikkor 200-500mm & Nikon 500m F4 First Day Impressions.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Help support me and what I do: ko-fi.com/marksmithphotography

[@galtidea]

Mark, as usual, a practical, fair and balanced 'real world' review. No BS or attitude...just a guy doing what he loves.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks!

[@jamesollick4413]

I received my Nikon 200-500 f5.6 and tried a few test shots on my D810 in my backyard, handheld. All I can say is WOW! The VR is remarkable, the clarity and sharpness blows me away. An incredible lens for a very good price. Keep up your wonderful videos.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Awesome!

[@lescobrandon3047]

Good review. This morning I tried the Nikkor 300mm f/4 VR and found it to be rather light and incredibly sharp on my Z7. Good for my aging body.

[@raylander6329]

I did watch this vlog again, to revisit some nuances about the Z 7. I love it for video, too. As I am here, I wanted to thank you for the exceptional workshop you taught in Colorado. Got back a couple of weeks ago, and it was incredible. This was a fall color workshop at the end of September, where Mark picked us up at the hotel at 6 am, and drove us to some of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. We even said in the car, that "you know it is going to be a good day when Mark Smith is driving" Got some gorgeous colors in a few locations, especially Dallas Divide in the morning, and Crystal Lake. Mark, you could not have been more accommodating, more professional and teach us more in those few days. A really big thank you.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Ray that is awesome to hear. So glad to help and it was such a fun experience for me as well.

[@daviddavis6819]

Every time you put a video out I feel like I just got a great present!!! Thank you very much! This is the review I've been waiting for since the Z7 came out.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks so much. That is very nice of you to say!

[@UncleVinnys]

Wow, those feathers back-lit by the sun at around the 9:40 mark, Mark, are just stunning. Exquisite detail! Thanks for the camera and lens info. Going out to buy a lottery ticket right now, ha, ha!

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks. Those back lit shots were quite amazing! Lol on the lottery ticket.

[@thedannyg684]

The way you tell a story as you show your photos is wonderful, I enjoy how much you know about the wildlife you are shooting and let us (the viewers) understand a little bit about their behavior. On another note your work is always amazing and I can't wait to get a 200-500 on my Z6. Thank you for the great content.

[@lassg.3047]

Not only do I love your photography but the commentary is brilliant, I recently brought the Z6 and enjoying shooting stills but have not yet tried video, but was very impressed with the way you handled the Z7 its just what I wanted to see how it would stand up to wild life. very enjoyable channel to watch and learn from, thanks.

[@badger0681UK]

Great unbiased video Mark. I love your videos you show what the cameras can do rather than talking endlessly about specifications. Your images are incredible. Thank you for sharing your experiences.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks!

[@nightcoder5k]

Incredibly beautiful photos of wildlife. Thanks for sharing.

[@ashstubbings2603]

The combination of that Nikon z7 with the FTZ Nikkor 500mm f4 is absolutely incredible! And of course, your talent as a photographer! LOL

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks so much. I still think the D850 is better but the Z7 is a good start.

[@pano-rific8838]

Mark, you never cease to amaze me. The birds rim lit at sunset and the flamboyant puck rockers were pure icing. ~ your neighbor

[@dominiqueleblanc2193]

Anoter masterpiece. I held the z7 last week, when a bought my d500. I don't hve alot of money and the d500 will be enough. Great work. Keep it up.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks! The D500 will be just fine. Good choice.

[@hilarywhite0]

Really great! And no mention of the lack of 2 card slots which is great because other reviews write this camera off because of the lack of them, so it's obviously not a big issue at all! Fabulous stuff! It looks like the Z7 is the video camera everybody's been hoping for!

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks! Yeah, 1 card slot, 2 card slots. It is what it is. You have to work with what you have! The video on this camera is very, very good though.

[@paulmorrall5719]

Great review Mark, backing up your comments with real images rather than reading list of specifications is just awesome. I have the D850 and D500 but have sold my D750 to make way for the Z6. 👍

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks! Good choice too. I think the Z6 is going to be the better camera, especially if you want to shoot video. Things are really quiet though on the Z6.

[@gallerysanjaya]

You are really amazing photographer so I have a head Nikon Z7 camera now I am practicing birds photography This video are really helpful me Thank you so much and really appreciate have a wonderful day

[@isthatmysandwich]

Super video Mark. Nice to see the love for the d500 is still there.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks!

[@Ranjan5740]

Awsam, superb, & extraordinary. Other youtubers who could not use z7 properly, should see this video...

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks!

[@golamashraf1464]

Absolutely brilliant pictures and clips Mark! As always, your storytelling is king!

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks so much!

[@Ameliatherobloxfairy]

Once again the magic is revealed but this time with Z7. Liked the bird with light from behind showing brown colours on feathers is amazing. Well done Mark

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks!

[@jowilliebear]

Finally.... someone who knows how to use the tools. Awesome piece. Thanks. Can't wait for more observations on the new tech.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks!

[@edwinmaldonado8761]

Mark you know I am a fan but you going hands on with a camera that everyone has said all the opposite you my man have show what a real photographer is about. Photos are awesome and we appreciate the information on a new camera. Your videos are always so awesome with so much information. Thanks

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks so much. I think some people have been using this camera incorrectly. It is very, very different. With that said, it still isn't quite there yet for stills. For video though, this is a huge improvement for Nikon shooters.

[@LieslHuddleston]

Definitely looks like it's a great camera for video, the photographs do not look like your usual style, can't put my finger on it, I bet the next generation of Nikon mirrorless will be amazing! Nice to see you show off what the camera can do, it would drive me crazy trying to learn an entirely different camera setup.

[@pawankumar-dv1ox]

Finally the review what I was waiting for

[@tedk2814]

My favorite shot also was the Reddish Egret backlit with it's wings outstretched. And the small needle nose fish jumping was the icing on the cake. to me that would be a "wall hanger". Well I'm going out to TM Goodwin and Broadmore Marsh tomorrow morning to practice a bit. On Thursdays, they only allow folks in the Broadmore area. Again...great shots, I always enjoy the "story" Ted

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks so much. I was out there this morning. It was really nice with the clouds and rain.

[@bhikramseth]

Mark your videos are really amazing!! Please release new videos in 4k quality.

[@ugyennorbu9443]

As always Mark you are a potent mixture of raw photographic talent, interesting narration and great attitude. Thank you for the video. My favorite photo is the one of the bird with wings spread and backlit (the one you also mentions at the end) which resembles an angel hovering over the water surface.

[@benbolton625]

Incredible dancing Reddish Egret shot Mark; interesting take on the Z7.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks!

[@jeffhansman2829]

"...and I think the problem here is improper use." Amen, brother. The Z bodies, like any other, require time to learn. Put in that time and you will reap the rewards of the excellent images Mark managed to capture. Well done!

[@jeffdrew625]

The backlit egret pix are excellent! Nice work!

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks!

[@olivierroubieu]

stunning pictures

[@TheAirplaneDriver]

Excellent video, Mark. As always!

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks!

[@carolelabrecque2799]

Another great video and wonderful pics! .... listening to you, I feel like the cobra 🐍 in the basket ... I’m hypnotized as you play the music of this wonderful journey you had there ! Thank you 🙏

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks. That is very nice of you to say.

[@whiplash1938]

Mark, I enjoyed the Z7 trip and really do appreciate your comments. However, I am not sold on this camera. Maybe the next, or subsequent, iteration will be much better. Great job as usual and your narration is outstanding.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks and I agree with you. It has a ways to go in the stills dept but man the video on the z7 is something else.

[@psoon04286]

Awesome as usual, Mark. I’ve shared this and many of your other videos with many of my photography friends. You made KZbin a great source of photographic knowledge in this particularly difficult field of bird photography. Thanks and keep up the great work👍🏼👍🏼

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks so much for doing that. I really appreciate it.

[@psoon04286]

Mark Smith Hello Mark, it’s me again☺️ Got a question this time. How did you setup the Z ‘s viewfinder for you to be able to capture such wonderfully spontaneous shots? I recently borrowed a Z6 for a few days and I was quite frustrated by the EVF being in sleep mode just when I needed it most. Is there a setting to keep it on all the time. I know that by default it goes to sleep after a few seconds of idle to conserve battery

[@josephbristow]

Your really making cool videos , its a pleasure watching your trips ; you are actually taking us through the journey.Keep it up and looking forward to see more

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks!

[@keithjefferson9189]

As a former resident of Florida, I really enjoyed your video. Salute!

[@HappyGrl41]

Those reddish egrets were fun. I haven't seen a live reddish egret in years so it was a nice treat. The Z7 certainly looks promising but it's has a big price tag too.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

I love watching those crazy birds and I agree with your comment on the Z7.

[@billkigathi3492]

Amazing Shots! Really happy you found your groove with your camera

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks

[@Drumdanimal360]

Awesome video & shots as usual Mark!

[@gwtaylor70]

Thank you for another in-depth and honest review Mark. I’m currently in the market for a D500 and this video on the “Z” helped me with that. I will purchase a “Z” once the minor glitches are cleaned up.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks for watching and yes, go with the D500. You won't be disapointed.

[@patricksmith2553]

Well the Z7 does have an autofocus system with Phase and Contrast detect so it cannot miss all of the time, however I equate the Z series autofocus to a mixture of LiveView AF from a DSLR and Phase detect from a mirrorless! So it's not completely useless for action, however it's NOWHERE near the abilities of the D5/D4s or D500/D850. So I can't wait for the D6 and maybe one day a pro-mirrorless from Nikon!

[@marcoantonioregiltv]

I'm feeling the same way... waiting game for now

[@mrmdpgh]

Great assessment. Your pictures and wildlife videos are amazing.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks!

[@alasanonimo8303]

Amazing video and stunning details in every shot.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks

[@721MrG]

08:50 That fish in bottom left corner was like "Run Forest Run" :D and btw walk softly and carry a big lens, love that shirt. Another great video Mark.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

lol, It was funny watching that bird freak out. Thanks for the compliments.

[@eddietaikokfoo]

Amazing photos and videos! Bravo!

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks!

[@4CardsMan]

Great work. I have never seen a nature photograph that compares with the shot at 9:48.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks!

[@santoshmahalik]

I think this is first video demonstrating z7 capability to shoot bird and wildlife. Nikon never made z7 for wildlife photographers... they have not promoted it for this in this angle... Thanks mark, I think because of your unique story telling and skill of photographing birds z7 shines in this video... Nikon needs to bring out a Sony a9 alternative to satisfy sports and wildlife photographers

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Agreed! A Sony A9 with Nikon native glass would be amazing! For now though, I'll gladly take the D500 and the D850. Z6 soon!

[@MichaelSeneschal]

How have I not seen your channel before. Thoroughly enjoyed this video. I wish more people reviewed how you do. Definitely a new subscriber. Thanks for the great content!

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks for watching and enjoy!

[@jorgenavarroazocar]

Great video, very helpful, Thanks

[@soumenroychowdhuryphotogra864]

Great video as usual. Hoping for more content really loving it.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks!

[@lescobrandon3047]

Nice tips especially using the wide focus option. I’ll be using it next week when I will be at an air show.

[@dbhayesart331]

Fantastic video Mark. We'd been hoping for this Z7 review from you. Maybe Nikon will address the issues you brought up. Sure hope so.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks so much. It could be that things are just different on this camera. One thing is for certain though, the auto focus for video is excellent.

[@themaestro7922]

I'm so thankful I have two D850s and finally abandoned the idea of shooting events with one D850 and a lesser second camera like a D610 or D3S. (Woah, I just called the D3S "lesser!" Take THAT, Theoria!) Anyhow, none of your videos will ever be "lesser." Another very fine and detailed job. (Nice Rooseveltian shirt also.)

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Lol. You are lucky. I would like 5 d850s. Each with thier own lens. My son could then be my caddy 😁

[@gordroberts53]

Sounds like a winner camera, sounds strange to hear my D850 called "older"...:-). The back lit Red Heron turning in flight was my favourite, but they were all stunning. Thanks for sharing!

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Older just by comparison. Still my favorite camera though.

[@BioBush]

Fantastic photography! I'm glad the camera performed so well, but you could probably take great pictures with any camera! 🙂

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks so much!

[@judyboyd9530]

I found your video very interesting, I thought your review of the Z7 was very open minded. We don't do enough video to warrant switching to the Z7 and our D850 & D500 are so good that it will be be very long time before we invest in another camera..lol..I loved your late afternoon shots of the tricolored heron's.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks!

[@twk0500]

Mark, I just purchased the Z7 ( also own the D500 ) I was happy to know autofocus and tracking will work as you have demonstrated. Really hope Nikon continues to release updates to improve those aspects even more. While it won’t replace my D500 anytime soon, I’m excited to get into the mirrorless game. Great video and thanks for sharing your experiences.

[@maximme]

one of the BEST autofocus tester on KZbin! the others are jokers, testing autofocus on the SAME FOCAL PLANE. or using ultrawide angles, with EVERYTHING in focus... I would LOVE your opinion on which is the BEST birds in flight AF camera. subscribed.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks so much! The best bird in flight camera in the Nikon world would really depend 3 things. Your budget, your skill and your current lens collection. I think the D850 takes the best images but the D500 is easier to use and a little faster plus cheaper. I'm working on a video now that will talk about which of these two cameras would be the best choice.

[@maximme]

given the everything the same, I would say Nikon D4 is very impressive with its 3D tracking. Canon 1Dx mk2 doesn't even hold a candle to it. I am talking about 1) AF lock ability 2) AF track erratic flight BUT I haven't tried D850. So i can't really compare them. Testing AF with wild birds in flight is really the epitome for AF tracking ability. Keep it up. Right now, you hold this ONE position in all of KZbin :)

[@phooesnax]

Great Job Mark! Love to see zone ins on some the really nice shots. Keep up the great workJim

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thank you!

[@naturealbums]

Thanks for this review. I've been watching many other reviews but I value yours a lot as one of my favourite wildlife photographers. As always a superb entertaining video.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks so much!

[@JeffSelf]

I’m glad I decided not to get the Z6 for now and have bought the D850 instead. I may get one next year or wait for the replacement to be used more for video.

[@santoshmahalik]

I had the same thought of getting z6 but settled for d850 and I am super happy with it. I am looking for a Sony a9 alternative by Nikon. I definitely wanted a mirrorless but I will wait till Nikon bring out their best in coming years and native lens lines will be ready by then

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Good choice.

[@alexyu9037]

Really enjoy your video, well done! Indeed we should spend more time on viewing and caputuring the beautiful pics insteading of doing crazy equipment comparison,

[@madtical777]

Great video mark!! my fav shot among so many , id say was the dragonfly ! wow nice clean image. i liked all the bird shots as always. ive watched countless videos on the performance of the z7 , and i will deff share your video experience! it seems a few high sub channels havent had the best experience with video, but i will lead then here to show a real in field test. im also watching you on amazon! great stuff and happy for your momentum, you really deserve it!! i keep pestering tony & Chelsea to have you on their channel as a guest. i can see coming!!

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks so much! Video on the Z7 is excellent. Auto focus works very, very good. For stills though it is still a little behind the D850 and D500. Thanks for watching on Amazon. I need to get more episodes up there and thanks for suggesting me to the Northrups. Perhaps one day I can be on one of their episodes.

[@GrymmsPlace]

Your pictures are 'annoyingly' mind-blowing and I feel like moving to Florida at dawn :) Thanks for posting such inspirational photographs (and vid-streams) Subscribed!

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks so much!

[@airsoft69]

Fabulous vlog mark love the photography .I have the Fuji xt2 and just purchased the Fuji 100-400mm lens

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks. Good choice!

[@Charmedbyashley]

Hey Mark! me and my family are heading down to Florida on the 9th of November for a week to the Orlando area, do you have any recommendations that are family safe for some nature walking or viewing (i have two little ones that i dont want to get eaten by an alligator) haha Thanks!

[@MarkSmithphotography]

As of right now, the east coast is getting hit with red tide. I would avoid it. That means you need to stay inland a bit. There are plenty of places inland though. In Orlando, there is Orlando Wetlands and Apopka Wildlife Drive both should be kid safe. Just keep your children close and don't let them near any body of water. If you don't mind paying, take them to Gatorland. It can be a lot of fun.

[@Charmedbyashley]

@@MarkSmithphotography thank you! My kids have a healthy fear of gators so they def stay close Haha! Up in Canada they have a fear of raccoons... which is the worst your going to get around my area Haha

[@omarsaletovicprins9632]

Thanks for also comparing this to the D500! Great video as always very well done!

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks!

[@Odinthesleepy]

This is awesome. I'm looking into the z7ii and e erything I've heard about thr af system on both was disconcerting. But this....makes me feel a lot better

[@thalessouto4327]

Nice video. I’d like you make a specific video how to set up the AF-C in your Z7.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Will try and fit it in.

[@ichigokotetsu9540]

Amazing video once again :D I'm saving up for the D850 starting right now. I'm really looking keenly forward to using it!

[@Jepysauce]

Hi, been a sub for a while now (since I saw you at around 3k subs I think). Just wanted to say I really appreciate your videos and love your Photography. Big motivating factor to keep going (Aspiring to take pictures like you sometime)

[@Jepysauce]

Like im serious i LOVE the storytelling in your videos, it makes them so entertaining to watch and I felt like i just spent 5 minutes watching something because it just captured my attention that well, yet i actually watched 14 minutes of content. You have to be one of my favorite KZbinrs, and definitely the top1 for Photography on here. You deserve way more subs

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks so much. Glad to hear you are enjoying the videos.

[@shutterbug1076]

What kind of person gives this video a "thumbs down" ? Great video!!!

[@mrmdpgh]

Try C3 in custom menu to adjust the standby time. I believe it defaults to 30 sec. but can be adjusted.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks!

[@sautsitumorangkpk]

awesome mate ! thanks keep moving ..

[@anfimem]

Great review, beautiful pictures, and as with all of your videos, entertaining as well. Can't wait till Nikon sends you their new 500mm 5.6 for review! (hint, hint, Nikon)

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks so much. I don't think Nikon is going to send me the lens for review but B&H said they will as soon as they get one in and I am looking forward to using it.

[@PhilThach]

Thanks for the video, Mark. This one was particularly interesting to me because I have a Z6 on order. Hopefully, it's video focus will be as good as the Z7 you tested. BTW, was some of this shot at Viera Wetlands? I've only been there once. This was last July. I don't think that was the best time of year for Viera Wetlands, but it was still awesome. That day the place was full of tri-colored heron which I don't get to see back home in Tennessee.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

You are welcome. I think the Z6 will be even better for video. I'm looking forward to trying it out as well. No, this was shot at a waste water treatment plant in Vero Beach and Black Point Drive in Merritt Island. July is the worst month for birds here. You were too soon or too late.

[@curtwells9628]

I would love to see a similar testing of the Nikon Z6...tracking birds but also portrait and landscape. Also a review of the new 2.0 upgrade to the Nikon eye detect would be of interest.

[@fixitright9709]

Up here in Northeast florida, our tri-color herring produces the same ballet type of dancing using its wings to shade the water with it's abrupt 180° turns, but trying to video this with my d750 is impossible, I have much better luck manually focusing. And also the snowy egret does the same thing here following the Tri colors around, and they are one bossy bird! And on a second note I watched your video with the Pelican apparently trying to eat an osprey, well here just last week I was able to witness a pelican trying to take a cormorant, it actually was trying to catch it or at least it appeared that way, repeatedly it tried to swallow the Cormorant just before it dived, but the Cormorant was somewhat indifferent to the assault and didn't seem to care? it was quite a curious encounter, but the Cormorant survived unscathed. Thanks for the videos man I've really enjoying them.

[@beaupfeifferrecordings]

good shots for the reviews on this body mark

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks!

[@kenpeterson3414]

I love the back light bird photos....excellent 👍I am sure the Z7 will be updated in the future...Nikon is behind the eightball.. if Nikon wants to sell mirrorless cameras they need to match or hopefully exceed Sony in features..it will be interesting to watch the market..Ken

[@MarkSmithphotography]

I agree 100%.

[@shang-hsienyang1284]

3:40 Sony stole this feature since the Sony a9, it's unfortunate Nikon decides to drop this feature. Great images by the way, you're always delivering amazing wildlife photos.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Not sure why they would? It is great.

[@billstruth1128]

nice shots - great insights - going to your web site to learn more of your Florida shoot opportunities.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks!

[@davidhart6900]

Mark I have a Z7ii and also love the video capability; I haven’t tried Wide yet only dynamic and pet tracking that aren’t always tracking but picking up other objects instead Stills are my favorite to shoot raw and edit in DXO I wish I could could extract an image from my video and save it as Raw to process In DXO Again I’ll try Wide to see if I can keep the subject in focus Now shooting hummingbirds in trees Ps I love your video and story telling of the Z7; truly awesome Thank You David

[@Alpa6c]

Fujifilm X cameras have "auto power off" setting menu which can be set to various intervals from 15, 30 seconds, 1, 5, and 10 minutes or "off". This sets the amount of time the camera waits before "sleeping". I set my cameras on 2 or 5 minutes occasionally to off. Perhaps the Nikon Z cameras have a similar setting.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

It does. Someone told me how to change it. I didn't even think to look for it. duh

[@rmyr4359]

Great video and amazing photos. Good cameras but I believe man behind camera does a lot.

[@BGrieves]

That 2 second delay is why I went back to the D500. Seemed like every time I missed a great shot was because the camera was asleep (Fuji) It might not be 2 seconds but it is enough to make you miss a pull up and shoot shot.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

You can change this setting so it doesn't go to sleep as often but then you have battery drain.

[@SKgeostrat]

Mark, like always, thanks for an excellent and clear video. Now that the Z6II and Z7II are out, I would love to see if they have made an y progress and you are really the best guy to show us all how to get the most out of these cameras. I am hanging on to my D850 and D500 for the time being, but when you declare the Z line of Nikon to be as good or better than the D850, I'm migrating to Nikon mirrorless, because I really believe they have the best mount for the long term and I know their Z mount lenses are spectacular. In the meantime, I can't wait for COVID to be gone, so I can come shoot with you in Florida.

[@lylecameron5578]

Another great video! Wouldn't it be great if Nikon did a firmware update on the D850 giving us the video AF of the Z. Mark, can't wait for your comparison of the new Nikkor 500mm against your 200-500mm.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

That would be awesome!

[@Chuck_Burke]

Aloha Mark...Have you had a chance to get the Z7ii in your hands. If yes what did you think?

[@Noriuslephotographe]

Your photos are amazing! I am glad to have purchased a d850 with the battery pack . You where talking about your focus settings on the d850, do you have a video about this? thanks again for sharing your passion!

[@MarkSmithphotography]

I sure do. kzbin.info/www/bejne/gF6YiIqceMiorJI

[@KSliauderis]

Fun video and nice narration 🙂, thanks for sharing

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks for watching.

[@1401tag]

Mark, great review. Any chance of a Z7 II field test? I'm particularly worried about the view finder lag and the power save startup lag. Those are issues sure to cost shots. Thanks.

[@tanmay110]

Another great video.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks!

[@lilei911]

I have D750 & 200-500. I like bird photography. Is D500 better than D750 for bird photography?

[@BKMonf]

Hi Mark, I really appreciate your approach to reviewing the gear and how you put together your videos. I enjoy your respectful way of providing information, it shows how much you love photography and want to help people engage as well. I have a D500 and love it!!! I am wanting to add some video to my hobby and have been looking at the Z6 as a travel camera. Wanted to get your thoughts on how to move forward with video and photography. I am not interested in other companies as I love Nikon and know how to use them and don't want to carry two platforms around. Perhaps the best option is to wait until the next iteration of firmware update and keep using my D500 for video as well? Hoping to get your thoughts. Keep up the amazing videos and thanks for spreading your knowledge!!!

[@MarkSmithphotography]

I think the D500 paired with the Z6 will be a great combo. Those two cameras will do it all. I'm planning on adding a Z6 to my kits if it performs well, that or a Fuji XT3.

[@BKMonf]

@@MarkSmithphotography Thanks Mark, truly value your input... Z6 is on the list!!

[@LyneisFilm]

As good as the 200 to 500 mm is, the photos with the F4 500 mm just seem consistently sharper. I agree the 200 to 500 mm works great on capturing small subjects like butterflies or bees. Are you shooting handheld with the F4?

[@MarkSmithphotography]

All handheld but to be fair the 500 f4 shots were from a car and the lens was resting on the window. There is no doubt that the 500mm f4 renders better images.

[@kennethmills5470]

Enjoyed Z7 review with birds. I would like to see you play your best GUITAR lick???

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks and here's what's really funny about your question on the guitar lick. I was in a band for many, many years and the drummer was fantastic. In fact, he was the original drummer for Ted Nugent. His name is the same as your display name here: Ken Mills so I have often wondered if you were him just checking out what I do now. If not, it is a very strange coincidence.

[@spangari]

Z7 has a pin point area focus that is really awesome keeping track of focus....and from other reviewer, the image quality of Z7 actually much better than D850 and 500....better color science and crispier to me

[@MarkSmithphotography]

I like the images from the D850 best.

[@nolanthornberry7531]

The video is nice but the stills seemed to lack the punch you normally get with the 850 and 500.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Agreed 100%. I've mentioned this in other comments. When importing Z7 files into Lightroom, Lightroom automatically applies all kinds of weird settings. That might have something to do with it.

[@ibdaramy5455]

The stills do not lack any punch, in fact, they are better than the D850 when the native Z lenses are used.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Interesting.

[@gosman949]

Thanks for the review. Other reviewers are having an awful time with auto focus on this camera.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks for watching.