Nikon Z8 Review & Sample Images by Ken Rockwell

Nikon Z8 Review & Sample Images by Ken Rockwell
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[@nvduceii]

The z8 reminds me of the d700, it's basically the modern day d700, in all honesty. A flagship model(z9/d3) with the grip removed, some adjustments to storage option but overall the same spectacular package. I'm also really glad they didn't take away much if anything as opposed to the d700 losing half of the d3's burst rate

[@KenRockwellTV]

I likened it to the d850 and get your point. Thanks!

[@iggytse]

I agree. The Z9 and Z8 are the first Nikon mirrorless to not have major design flaws, namely the auto focus. I believe once the d780 reaches 5 years old Nikon will filter the auto focus down to the cheaper bodies like a Z6iii

[@castieldiallo2945]

D700 nothing. It was a basic and overrated camera. The Z8 is more like a D850.

[@arpinkus]

Used my D850 for over 5 years. The Z8 is my first mirrorless. The Z8 is like an old friend; smooth transition. @@castieldiallo2945

[@Ben_Stewart]

The Z8 is the perfect camera. I don't notice much difference with the Canon R5 AF. It can only get better from here. I find the Nikkor Glass to be industry leading over Sony and Canon. Can't wait to see your review on the 180-600. 📷

[@KenRockwellTV]

Me too! I’m sure the 180-600 rocks; long teles have always been Nikon’s forté.

[@nickwilliams7867]

Nikon glass is better on the long end but not the short end. Look at Sony glass 14 20 24 35 x2 50 x3 85 135 primes then look at he weight of the zooms 70-200 Sony is 400 grams lighter. I think Nikon will catch up but they are some way off for now.

[@panzer3279]

@@nickwilliams7867 The Nikon 70-200 F2.8 VR S has more superior optics than the Sony one and less focus breathing. Can't talk about the others, but I'm sure there will be a reason for their weight.

[@nickwilliams7867]

@@panzer3279 The Sony is perfect for photographers, razor sharp with lightning AF. Sony and Nikon have a different approach to lens design. Nikon going for the perfect lens as if they were designing it for a film camera. With no regards to weight and size. Sony design there's knowing the type of camera they will be mounted on. There cameras have focus breathing compensation tech meaning they can build lenses small and lighter. As a working photographer I prefer Sony's approach, which saves a lot of weight and size. When it comes to the camera I much prefer Nikons slightly larger size and they are design for photographers. Sony's cameras are amazing but I don't like the way they feel. I also love the price of Nikons. The Z8 is seriously good value when you compare it to Sony.

[@Mr09260]

Rubbish the Z 14-24 , 20mm f1.8 , 24-70 F2.8 , 24 -120 F4 , 50 f1.32 50 F1.8 , 70-200 S are ALL the Best on the Planet all Brands @@nickwilliams7867

[@victorlim5077]

Looks like Nikon has a winner here with the Z8. Saw many fantastic bird in flight photos with the 400mm F4.5 and 800mm F6.3 PF online.

[@KenRockwellTV]

That’s right, extremely popular camera. Thanks!

[@jorgepinogarciadelasbayonas]

I've heard that many Canon R-series cameras have severe problems like the R5 und R6 models. Many users complain those cameras have freezing / lock-up issues, the hot shoe on the camera comes loose or falls off or the cameras are overheating with video recording. Quality control at Canon goes down.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Ignore it. Mine work great. There’s always complaints about everything, especially popular products, on the internet. I wrote a whole article about this effect 15 years ago at www.kenrockwell.com/apple/reliability.htm

[@livejames9374]

All true. Look how many firmware updates canon needs to take down. My hot shoe failed after months of use.

[@Ben_Stewart]

Don't forget the Z8 was launched right after winning their lawsuit against them by RED. Nikon did this industry a huge favor.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks.

[@AR1xRUSHY]

Now they own red, amazing how things changed within the past year

[@RejeRush]

Great video. Try the joystick instead of the directional pad for moving focusing points. You can even change the speed at which the points move.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks, but clickers are so 1979s when better cameras have directly responding proportional controls. Thanks!!

[@mikkey246]

Good pointers

[@kevinmac9442]

Personally I like the screen mechanism Nikon is putting on the Z8 and Z9 because it makes it easier to keep your view straight with your subject when shooting at low angles both horizontally and vertically. I don't really think it is meant for both hinges to be opened at the same time, it best to use either the vertical hinge OR the horizontal. It doesn't make sense to question why someone would use a pro Nikon for video and then criticize the screen for not being able to use it for selfies or videoing yourself😂That being said, the Sony A7rv screen seems to be the best screen mechanism around at the moment. Other than those gripes, great review and keep up the good work👍

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks! Just sharing what I see.

[@iggytse]

The ace up the sleeve of the Z9 and Z8 is that it records raw compressed video internally. Only RED cameras do that until Nikon recently won a lawsuit against RED. I believe the Z8 will be popular for hybrid wedding shooters because of that reason unless Canon and Sony implement the same feature.

[@edphi]

But he says his iPhone is even better 😂

[@prokremelskidezolati1426]

@@edphi loool

[@iggytse]

@@edphi yes that was a strange comment. Definitely true for most of the Nikon DSLR. Expect for the D780 video was almost unusable unless you do manual focusing. And for someone who isn’t a video professionally it probably would be easier to use a flagship iPhone than using to figure out the controls on a Z8. But if you look at the Nikon marketing they are heavily pushing the video credentials of this Z8. The value proposition is now the Z8 is not just a pro photo shooter but has the chops for video as well.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks!

[@KenRockwellTV]

In real world conditions and if you use autofocus, it is.

[@sedevacante966]

When I use canon cameras in video mode the fps of the viewfinder dips to like 30fps when I'm not recording. That makes it harder to track things unless I'm recording. I see on the z8 you can record at 120 fps with sound and autofocus. Does the framerate in the viewfinder stay at 120fps before hitting the record button?

[@KenRockwellTV]

Easy fix. You're seeing the default STANDBY LOW RESOLUTION mode that saves power while you're not actually rolling. You can get the high finder frame rate while in standby by setting MENU > CAMERA PAGE 8 > Standby: Low res. > Off (default is On). This and more will be in my EOS R8 User's Guide at www.kenrockwell.com/canon/eos-r/eos-r8-users-guide.htm (under construction today), and this tip specifically is at www.kenrockwell.com/canon/eos-r/eos-r8-users-guide.htm#idlefinder THANKS!!

[@sedevacante966]

@@KenRockwellTV Wow, thanks for that! Subbed.

[@sevdarasdaras]

Thanks Ken. Great work as always. You see the things that really matter. No fancy intros, no BS. You are the Nr. 1. For so many years

[@KenRockwellTV]

You rule! Without great readers like you it would all be for nothing. THANKS and thanks for reading!

[@TonyFabris-lb2mg]

It’s All BS…!

[@dcd1351]

Thanks for your opinion on it, you have a great eye or experience on smal issues no one other found out up to now.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Actually, anyone who actually shoots will see all this and more after shooting one job with it. Sad reality is most "reviews" you see are from people who don't actually shoot for a living and instead just talk about it. THANKS!!!!

[@alphajam1]

Ken you don't have to take your eye off the viewfinder in order to switch shooting banks anymore. Press the i button. Or program a function button.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks!

[@Uisci81]

Love your videos! Question. I have a canon dslr crop. I’m looking to go full frame mirrorkess and debating between z8 and R5ii, I know both are WAY more than I need as right now I mainly do landscape and surf photography, however, as my hobby grows i want to do sports/events etc. I want a buy once cry one camera I can easily use for the next 7+ years. I love the ergonomics of the canon, I like the features of the z8 (tilt screen for low angle shots/night more/astro star focus etc) I know buying either one locks me into their kens system. Iv also heard you say that canon is best for getting into FF. Do you still feel that way. I’m specially looking between the z8 and R5ii

[@KenRockwellTV]

Forget Z8. Autofocus is inferior and so are playback ergonomics. I’d get an R6 mk II which runs even faster / 40 FPS with full tracking.

[@deeteeohbee6794]

Getting stuck when scrolling happens when you even slightly change direction. If you want to go from vertical scrolling to horizontal you can't transition from one to the other, you have to let go of the button and press the new direction.

[@prokremelskidezolati1426]

loool

[@realnikonlover6207]

Great stuff Ken! I am passing this link along to my son-in-law who recently became a Z8 shooter. Your channel is always full of good content and love your years (following 20 years) of work in the field of photography and videography. You are always #1 in my book. Kudos always and cheers to many more years of fun! - Jim

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks Jim! Be sure to see my tips at www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/z/z8-users-guide.htm

[@evanessencephotography4385]

Been following you and reading your books since the Dean Collins days! Thank you!

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thank you!!!!!

[@cheapsk8]

Sir, you are an international treasure. Ive never bought a lens or camera without first looking for your review. ❤

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thank you, but the real treasures are readers like you who appreciate my decades of tireless devotion to helping.

[@DuragVince-]

Hi Ken, Thanks for the review. Do you think the R5 is still worth buying today? I’m trying to either go with the R5, A7r V or Z8. Would appreciate your input. Thank you!

[@KenRockwellTV]

Yes, but I’m concerned that the price is still so high. A Mark II version can’t be that far off and prices should be much less today for a model that was released three years ago. Then again a strong price shows us it’s in demand. Look for a used one for about $2,900; see links in my written review at www.kenrockwell.com/canon/eos-r/r5.htm

[@KenRockwellTV]

I would only go Canon. Sony has awful ergonomics and iffy color rendition (but great autofocus) and nikon has its systemic deep flaws.

[@PrabhavKashyapGodavarthy]

@@KenRockwellTVbut expensive Canon glass and no third party lens support is why Sony pulls so many first time mirror less buyers, don’t you think?

[@33antonius]

Thank you for this excellent and well balanced review. I allways check your reviews first. Good to be critical on the manufacturing process!

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thank you!!!!!

[@twelvethirtyfour]

I’ve followed your website since what has to be like 2006 and I somehow never knew you did videos. You sound exactly like what Ken Rockwell sounds like in my head.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Yikes!!! Thanks!

[@sifelaver]

ken! at the 10:00 mark the left strap anchor (where the CHG lamp is) your copy like mine has what looks like a crevice where the anchor meets the body. do you see that? it’s not on the right side of the camera. the left side looks like a chunk of material fell off. MINE IS LIKE THAT TOO! what is that!? resisting the urge to putty it up or krazy glue!!!

[@KenRockwellTV]

If I’m seeing what you’re seeing, that’s the rubber connector cover leash that keeps the rubber cover from getting lost. It encircles the strap lug and you may safely ignore those gaps - they’re just rubber. Thanks!

[@sifelaver]

@@KenRockwellTV Oh yeah! I see it now! That's what it is, for that 10 pin connector. Right on! Thanks Ken!!

[@johnsmith1474]

Nobody cuts to the chase like Rockwell, I have purchased two Canon lenses (used on Ebay) based on his lens analysis including the 100-400 L II zoom ($1100 in mint!). I'd note that I suspect the high speed function of this Z8 is only with some particularly expensive memory card, which brings up the point that these cameras should have built in memory. Q. Did you make a user guide for the 5D4? (I see you did for the mark III.) I know how to use it, but if you wrote a guide I would definitely read it and take from it what I've missed (though I did not toss the 100-400 hood ;)

[@jeffreyhall6311]

Excellent review. Totally agree with you about video, filenames, and user modes. Glad to hear that my next camera decision will be so easy.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks!

[@theozeus]

Love your reviews, your website has been a great source of information for me. Thanks Ken!

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks! I do it all for you guys, thanks for reading!!!

[@tonygreenmike]

the diopter wheel looks nice...

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks!

[@HotGates]

Very nice Ken, Hey since you've tried the OM-1 how's the AF Tracking compared to the Z8?

[@KenRockwellTV]

OM-1 has even worse All-Area AF selection; it doesn't even work. If you select one zone and want the camera to rack around, I'f opine Nikon is better than OM, and if you care, go Canon or Sony for good mirrorless AF.

[@HotGates]

@@KenRockwellTV Ok thanks I already have the Canon R3 which is awesome; )

[@kaunas9734]

@KenRockwellTV Great review and info! Now in July 2024, are your thoughts still the same on Z8? I am debating, for sports, the Z8 vs the R5, or possibly the R5 Mark II soon. Thoughts?

[@KenRockwellTV]

I love the R6 mark II above every other camera. I do not like the Z8 on real world grounds even though the tech image quality is superb. The R5 is old and wasn’t for speed. R6 mark II hums along silently at 40FPS with tracking AF and AE, get one ! www.kenrockwell.com/canon/eos-r/r6-ii.htm

[@KenRockwellTV]

But why the old full frame format for sports if you’re always shooting tele? The APS-C cameras get so much closer

[@kaunas9734]

@@KenRockwellTV thanks for replying, I love your stuff! Ironically I have two d500s that I've used for the past year (bought used). They do a fine job, but I constantly see sharper photos out there online. And I can't crop in on my photos without losing sharpness, like my friend can with her Sony a7iii. I'm constantly told by others that it's because mine is a crop sensor and it's older technology. So that's my push to switch. 🤷. I hadn't thought about the R6ii. Also my current Tamron lenses are Nikon version so I believe they couldn't be used on a Canon, so that's a concern. Does that impact your suggestion?

[@KenRockwellTV]

@@kaunas9734 It's how you shoot it and how you set the camera's sharpening controls and how you prep the image to display it. Crop sensor has nothing to do with it. see also www.kenrockwell.com/tech/pixel-dumping.htm Thanks!

[@Skidoo22]

Hey Nikon, how about a f-z adapter for D lens autofocus and metering with ais lenses, no soft sunstars with that old glass!

[@KenRockwellTV]

That's called the Canon EF to RF adapter which works with everything Canon has made since 1987, one of many reasons I dumped Nikon and upgraded to Canon back in 2012!

[@FamousPixs]

Can you Please compare the Nikon Z8 to the New Pentax Camera???

[@KenRockwellTV]

Sure! Thanks.

[@adokapo]

Would love to see this sensor in some even simpler camera. Maybe FF version of Z30.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Try the Z5. Different sensor, same pictures in lighter camera. Thanks!

[@porter4856]

Ken, are you doing a hands on review of the canon R8 anytime soon?

[@KenRockwellTV]

As soon as mine arrives! See here for the latest as I add to this page www.kenrockwell.com/canon/eos-r/r8.htm

[@garyspeiser5946]

Thank you very much, Ken. I read your on-line reviews for the RP and the R8. I actually first bought the RP and was able to switch it for the R8 when it came out, [both] because of your review. I've been taking photos for many years and had cameras like the Canon AV-1, Nikon FM, Nikon D90, Maxxum 9Xi (Actually, my favorite), Pentax 6x7 and Lumix G9 (despite being MFT, it's quite big and heavy). I'll check back if you have any tutorials or your favorite R8 settings. I'd would have kept the 6x7 but it's extremely hard finding a place to develop in Jerusalem which where I am right now. Take care, Gary

[@KenRockwellTV]

Hi! I just got my R8 and its review is growing daily, gimme a week or two for it to fill out. Have fun and toda raba for writing!

[@garyspeiser5946]

Thank you

[@garyspeiser5946]

תודה רבה. That’s toda raba in Hebrew 😊

[@tonygreenmike]

Dear Ken I'd like to hear your opinion about the Cameramakers' decision of excluding the top lcd panel in some models. Some of the mid-level cameras or semi-professional bodies like the Canon 60d or 70d had it. But in the latest models only the professional bodies have it. I am kinda stuck with the top panel and I personally feel its quicker to have a glance at the info on top panel than to navigate through the options that appear on rear screen especially when I just have to know about the exposure setting (ss, ap, ISO) and the other info such as battery power level, metering mode and drive. Thank you.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Top LCDs are obsolete; a leftover from 1980s and 1990s film days when we couldn’t put a bigger screen on the back. Today LCDs aren’t needed at all; we have our finder. We’re all different and I prefer a big mode dial rather than a duplicate screen. Thanks!

[@DBaizan]

I noted your comment about having to use the touchpad to move the focus area around. Why not assign the joystick to that function? I have mine to reset to center when I push the joystick, and move in all directions as I push the joystick. Otherwise, I enjoy your clarity and brevity. For facts per minute, you’re untouched!

[@KenRockwellTV]

Joystick is much slower and less precise than a live touchscreen as you can do on the Zf.

[@DBaizan]

@@KenRockwellTV Thanks for bringing that up. I didn’t know the zf had that capability. Maybe that can appear in the Z8 via a firmware update. I know it’s useful; I use it on a Sony RX10 IV.

[@tonygreenmike]

03:28 If I remember correctly Minolta was the first to introduce the rotation of display on LCD with one of the Dynax models. Am I right Ken ? not sure if it was the 7 or 9.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Beats me, I started with Minolta in 1973 and stepped up to nikon in 1984. Minolta has never been a player in the pro market. Thanks!

[@ronaldsand3000]

Great honest review as always, many thanks! Putting the vertical grip and larger battery aside, is there a compelling reason to still buy the Z9 over the Z8?

[@KenRockwellTV]

Maybe there's something I missed, but no, unless you need the bigger battery or GPS, the Z8 renders the Z9 completely obsolete.

[@ronaldsand3000]

@@KenRockwellTV many thanks for your reply I’ll make my purchase accordingly

[@peterlooper7956]

Better heat dissipation due to larger size and full magnesium body, built in GPS, extra customisable buttons, with CFExpress slots. Some things some people want, others not.

[@LouisLuzuka]

Been waiting for this 😮

[@KenRockwellTV]

The real review has been up at www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/z/z8.htm for a long time. Thanks!

[@LouisLuzuka]

@@KenRockwellTV I mean I 've been waiting for a new video from you its the highlight of my day :D

[@destinyangel5]

Great review Ken as always, but feedback is suggesting the D850 actually has more dynamic range than this mirrorless Z8 and Z9 ? It's apparently to do with the faster read speed of the "stacked " sensor the readout speed ? so you get no motion blur but it apparently sacrifices a small percentage of dynamic rage / resolution ? maybe you can't notice it and only its in lab testing results ? can you clarify this please ?

[@ArtUniverse]

The D850 has a touch higher dynamic range, but I found the difference to be basically imperceptible in real world scenarios, outside lab tests.

[@KenRockwellTV]

How do you people measure this, or do you believe random people on the internet? There is no dynamic range spec; I’ve never seen any difference however amateurs often make invalid tests and comparisons that show differences as flaws in test procedure and people misconstrue that this is coming from the camera. Thanks!

[@camerapunk4109]

My Dude Ken Masters!!!!!!!!!! Glad you’re back and delivering another awesome review (also that was a street fighter reference 😅)

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thank you! Had a broken arm set me back first half of 2023.

[@Travelagent]

As I use my camera mainly for shots under extremely harsh conditions (very sandy, extremely hot - mostly deserts). What I just can say is, that - besides Pentax - Nikon is the only manufacturer were you can absolutely rely on the "weather-protection" of their cameras and lenses! The plastic on most of the Canon-cameras doesn`t seem to withstand extreme heat and the Sony-cameras and -lenses proofed to be quiete useless under sandy conditions! For me personaly, the reliability of a system is much more important than the "latest and greatest" in technology!

[@KenRockwellTV]

I agree, if you’re in those nasty conditions. When I’m in the desert thank goodness I don’t have to be out mid afternoon!

[@jay-by1se]

I really hated the r6ii, it felt like a toy and I just didn't really enjoy the photos it takes. My old Nikon DSLR takes so much better shots. And I feel like my Olympus is so much better than Canon. But everyone reviewing the Nikon's just says they didn't match up. I love the photos Nikon creates so it's really sad to switch to the cheap plastic of Canon.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Yes, Nikons and Canon’s can make Marvelous images. I stopped keeping nikon around 2012 when most things had their manufacturing dumped overseas, and I’m glad I moved to Canon as my predictions have been right these past 11 years - nikon has dumped just about everything overseas. Thanks!

[@jay-by1se]

@@KenRockwellTV I'm really exploring Olympus now.

[@MaherAlahdabMD]

I disagree with your comment about "only use this camera for video if you are in Holywood and you have 3 assistants to pull focus". I shot for my KZbin channels on the D850 and after than on the Z6ii and although an iphone can shoot good video during well lit conditions, in any "moody" lighting situations or night shots you want a proper mirrorless camera. The flexibility of selective focus and possibility for exchanging lenses is also something the iPhone cannot match.

[@KenRockwellTV]

All good.

[@AaronBowser]

I get taking video with the phone is you need a quick video of something to post for insta.. But.... I'm starting to use my camera over the simplicity of the phone because you just get better video.. Better looking video... Imagine showing up to a wedding and pulling out your iPhone as your main video camera 😮 🤯

[@bytecode5834]

Thanks for the review

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thank YOU!

[@Mr09260]

Nikon Z System is the King >> Z Mount advantage >> BETTER Lenses etc

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thank you!!

[@komanguy]

Excellent review! Very detailed with cons and pros! Great!

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thank you!!!

[@stevek8829]

Thank you for pointing out those niggles. They make a Nikon user right at home.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Just saying it like it is. No one pays me to do this so I can be brutally honest - I hate being lied to by marketing departments.

[@garyspeiser5946]

Hi Mr. Rockwell. I'm not sure where to leave this message so I decided to add it to a recent posting. I was wondering if you will be creating youtube videos for the Canon R8. Thank you, Gary

[@KenRockwellTV]

Of course, but the review mail review is already at www.kenrockwell.com/canon/eos-r/r8.htm. I just got mine and love it and will be adding a lot to that written review in the next couple of weekend. Thanks!

[@garyspeiser5946]

@@KenRockwellTV Thank you very much, Ken. I read your on-line reviews for the RP and the R8. I actually first bought the RP and was able to switch it for the R8 when it came out, [both] because of your review. I've been taking photos for many years and had cameras like the Canon AV-1, Nikon FM, Nikon D90, Maxxum 9Xi (Actually, my favorite), Pentax 6x7 and Lumix G9 (despite being MFT, it's quite big and heavy). I'll check back if you have any tutorials or your favorite R8 settings. I'd would have kept the 6x7 but it's extremely hard finding a place to develop in Jerusalem which where I am right now. Take care, Gary

[@Mrmissingmissing]

Spot on. I'm glad I'm not the only one who thinks the AF is lacking and that the "sticky" image when reviewing is SUPER annoying.

[@KenRockwellTV]

It helps that I shoot all brands, so the sucky stuff about each camera is far more obvious to me. Thanks!

[@maurogalch2098]

Good morning everybody! Although Nikon presents an auto focus a little inferior to Canon and Sony, the latter always presented colors that I don't appreciate. Do the colors of the new Sony 6700 photos continue with this characteristic? I intend to migrate to mirrorless in the future, but I find Nikon mirrorless disappointing and for now the choice is between Canon and Sony, although I have used Nikon SLR and DSLR since 1995. Great review! Greetings from Brazil!

[@KenRockwellTV]

I agree that Sony colors don’t excite me and give decidedly inferior results to educated eyes - but our tastes will differ. What’s clear amount everyone is that Sony’s menus and ergonomics are dead last. I’d forget Sony and stick with Canon. The more your shoot the more apparent it becomes. Thanks!

[@maurogalch2098]

@@KenRockwellTV Thanks!

[@ArtUniverse]

Got my Z8 recently, switching from the D810. I'm extremely impressed by how "smart" this camera is. Shooting action at 20 frames per second feels like cheating! May be a minor thing, but I'm super happy about the voice memo feature. The last camera which had it was a Coolpix compact I bought in 2004! I remember using it a lot back in the day, made organzing pictures much easier on a computer. For some reason, Nikon didn't include this feature in almost any of their DSLRs over the years. I agree about the LCD tilt mechanism, it's overengineered to the point of being comical. Why didn't they just make it a regular flip screen?

[@KenRockwellTV]

Beats me about screen; Nikon often forgets to ask me first. Thanks!

[@Laladeduh]

Probably because it's not a "selfie" camera. Use your smart phone for that. For serious photography one only needs a slight positioning to perform the task.

[@VioAdri83]

I menu does the trick for the banks switching.

[@KenRockwellTV]

It works, but takes way too long when things are in your face all day as it is with me. Thanks!

[@AaronBowser]

I often feel like Nikon targets professional studio photographers and portrait, wedding photographers. Sony targets the hobbyist and KZbinr, and Canon for sports and wildlife. Which explains the technology and choices in each camera.

[@KenRockwellTV]

I wouldn’t go that far. Each tries their best with a range of cameras to try to cover every kind. What you’re seeing is the way each brand has certain similarities across all models. Thanks!

[@AaronBowser]

@@KenRockwellTV I agree each brand covers all types of photography and well. But when looking at the nuances and the engineering choices for example Nikon focuses on the output of the camera (files with accurate colors and superior quality)... The autofocus is great in studio settings where you might be a product photographer or fashion photographer or you do passport photos... Or weddings/outdoor portraits... Or real estate or landscape Sony focuses on getting the image easier and assuming the camera will be unmanned at times. They prioritize autofocus, selfie screens, and PPS (photos per second) which for a blogger and KZbinr are an absolute must have. The end output is the trade-off with less than accurate colors which is not a priority for a KZbinr or blogger. Canon autofocus, PPS (pics per second), lower megapixel count all move toward journalist photographers like sports and wildlife. Getting the bird eye while flying away at crazy speeds or being out in Africa shooting running cheetahs chasing gazelles and getting the eye sharp on the cheetah... Or getting the shot of the moment the ball touches the bat in baseball... That's why 120 images per second is necessary and lower megapixel count because a lot of journalists don't need or want high megapixel counts But like you said each brand does everything well enough that they cover all the arts of photography.

[@JasonOverHere]

I don't know about that. I recently bought a Z6 and a 35mm S Z-mount lens, both barely used and mint. (Returned since.) The NEF files from that camera were easily the worst quality raw files I've ever worked with, particularly if there was any sort of back-lighting. I mean complete dreck, absolutely falling apart the instant I tried to do anything with shadows. My old Sony a6000 and my easy-to-carry Canon M200 shoot better quality raw files at similar ISO, and I can pull significant detail out of the shadows when needed without the colour going sideways. (This matters because I often shoot in forests.) Neither of those cameras are anywhere near pro status, and both are APS-C instead of the full frame Nikon. Assuming LR was at fault, I downloaded Nikon's NX Studio: Marginally better shadow recovery, but still horrendous IQ. I "wanted" to believe in Nikon, because I like cheering for the underdog, but man, that image quality was horrendous. I wondered if I had a bad camera, but in good light, the images were fine. It lead me to suspect Nikon isn't all its marketing is cracked up to be, which is unfortunate, because the build quality felt great, minus the noisy AF on the lens and the rubbish AF-C on the old Z6. (Yes, I understand that it was their first gen Z mount, but they weren't new to mirrorless, or to digital in general.) Anyway, to each their own. :) @@AaronBowser

[@AaronBowser]

@@JasonOverHere you have to be trolling.

[@JasonOverHere]

@@AaronBowser I wish I was! I actually want Nikon to succeed, and I’m more or less brand-agnostic. Maybe I had a bad copy, but it was literally the worst mirrorless experience I’ve had with IQ. In decent light, it was fine, so I don’t know that it was the camera. (The lens, perhaps?) But I returned it the day after I got it (local camera store). I was shocked at how bad the images were when I tried to pull up shadows. Colour noise, weird colour shifts I’ve never seen before in a camera, and the same happened with NX Studio. Just a little less obvious. I had even tested raw files from the Z6 via DPReview’s archive before getting it, so believed it would be decent. But…to put it gently, reality doesn’t always line up with curated reviewer images or online discussions. Yes, my usage is tough on camera sensors, but that’s life. I wish them all the best, yet that was my first real-world experience with the Z mount, and I’m not anxious to repeat it.

[@paulmitchell1580]

Do you think if sell my D850 and buy a Z8 my photography will get better?

[@KenRockwellTV]

Nope. Won’t change at all. It’s you, not the camera. Honestly I’m more of a fan of the R6 mk II from Canon, but that’s just me. See www.kenrockwell.com/tech/not-about-your-camera.htm and www.kenrockwell.com/tech/notcamera.htm and www.kenrockwell.com/canon/eos-r/r6-ii.htm thanks!

[@Laladeduh]

@@KenRockwellTV "> It’s you, not the camera." Baloney. True, it starts with the photographer but if the camera didn't matter we'd all be shooting with entry-level cameras and saving our dough.

[@KenRockwellTV]

OK, spend what you like, but I can make great pictures I have sold for thousands of dollars to major clients like Merck and McDonald's with very basic cameras. we're all different.@@Laladeduh

[@rpprojectboyz]

I use the z8 over my cannon now. I rarely see cannon products in the field, mostly sony & nikon

[@Macjohn1419]

I agree that I would never use the camera for video. I’d either use my iPhone or a dedicated video camera. Pick it up and start recording. Why burn up the camera sensor shooting videos all the time. A dedicated video camera doesn’t overheat like these cameras and have longer recording times.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks!

[@250157andyw]

Use the joystick to move the focus point - it seems that you are getting a lot of this wrong!

[@KenRockwellTV]

I prefer a linear method rather than the of fashioned clickers. Thanks!

[@billx4266]

This or still the eos R5?

[@KenRockwellTV]

R5 every day, baby. Thanks!

[@prokremelskidezolati1426]

Z8 - shutterless, better IQ, better DR, better video, better Nikon glass...the ONLY better thing in Canon world is slightly better AF in some cases. That's it.

[@ghas4151]

The Z8 is objectively a better camera.

[@livejames9374]

@@prokremelskidezolati1426I have both and R5 doesn’t even have better af. It’s behind in most cases outside of bird subject detection.

[@elliotlee233]

I'm sure it's far superior to my much loved D700, but I just didn't care. Until I can't shoot what I want to with my one of my D700 bodies (or occasionally with my D750) I really don't need to upgrade to mirrorless 😊 especially as I still use loads of older AF lenses.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Exactly!! Thanks!

[@dct124]

I'd assume to delete group shots, you'd need to create a new folder. Lock the keepers, the delete all. Should only delete from the specific folder 📂 at least that's what older Nikon's did

[@KenRockwellTV]

Exactly, but the time spent trying to mark good and bad means other photos lost at the same time we were fiddling with our screens.

[@dct124]

@@KenRockwellTV yep. I like the Android option for group deletion where it groups burst together. I think the capability is possible.

[@AnandaGarden]

Thanks, Ken.. Former F4 shooter, loved it. R6 now, a keeper.

[@KenRockwellTV]

YES!!!!! Thanks!

[@KatieF307]

I still have my D850, and yeah, the autofocus tracking sucks. I realize some folks really like the Canon R6 M2, and some do not. I just can't pull the trigger on upgrading to another Nikon. I have a ton of glass, and it would be convenient, but the stuff this review nailed as problems should not still be going on. Yes, the customized banks are a mess on all of the cameras with the exception of the D7000 that gave you two choices on the selector wheel to choose. Reducing the available picture modes is nuts. I have choice of 5 modes on my D850, and Nikon just picks this model to mess up the offerings? The autofocus still concerns me despite all of the proclamations that it has been improved.

[@KenRockwellTV]

I'd pass on the Z8. Both of mine have AF much worse than Nikon's DSLRs kenrockwell.com/nikon/z/z8.htm#af . If you go mirrorless you'll wind up re-buying everything anyway, so time to bite the bullet and go to Canon for mirrorless. Nikon just hasn't caught up and survives on misplaced loyalty from old-timers. Thanks!

[@KatieF307]

@@KenRockwellTV Not to mention all of the fun in obtaining Z lenses at some point. I still can't believe they cannot figure out the rear LCD panel. Sony has had the fully articulating panels for about 20 years or more on their video cameras. You might think Nikon could come up with something much better. The other annoyance I have is that in terms of body design, the DSLRs prior to the Z series, were very elegant. The new Z bodies are boxy and kludgy.

[@derekgillan7314]

A lemon! will nikon update firmware to stop the strap mounts falling out? Do you think this is a serious fault or just bad design? Even the D3200 + rotates the image.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Who knows? I sent mine back when I saw it was offshored. Personally I stick to Canon.

[@derekgillan7314]

thx for your reply@@KenRockwellTV

[@Mrdalejo2]

Iphone records better video than z8? Are you saying that for real?

[@KenRockwellTV]

Yes. In real-world conditions, iPhone compensates for practical lighting conditions and autofocuses far better. Try it and see as I did. If you're a Hollywood DP and ASC member with crews behind you to set the lights and pull focus professionally the Z8 might have some arcane technical advantage, but in the real world with only a couple people (or less) on lighting and camera, iPhone wins. Sorry if I'm not on anyone's payroll and say it like it is! Thanks!

[@Mrdalejo2]

Thankfully I am not on any one’s payroll, I just buy the best tools for my needs. I have used the Iphone since the first model came out years ago, and have to say that for no important material, the iphone might be ok, but for my important personal life moments and work, I would never rely on the Iphone for many reasons. Unfortunately that has been the reason of the downfall of many businesses in my industry. Thanks for your work for so many years!

[@billyh4068]

I'm surprised the Nikon engineers aren't watching your videos to find out what the defects are, and correcting them!😟

[@KenRockwellTV]

I agree. It’s funny and sad when their researchers offer to pay me for market input when it’s all there for free!

[@OvertakeGT]

Canon R7 Video review would be nice! Good website

[@KenRockwellTV]

The complete R7 review is at www.kenrockwell.com/canon/eos-r/r7.htm THANKS!!!!

[@AmbercoolPhotography]

You should do reviews for all cameras.

[@KenRockwellTV]

I have. They are all at www.kenrockwell.com/tech/reviews.htm Thanks!

[@prokremelskidezolati1426]

no way :)))

[@nunwalksinabar]

Another great review. Thanks Ken.

[@KenRockwellTV]

THanks!

[@georgescanvas]

Great minds think alike.... I thought I was the only person on earth who dislikes that rear screen with it's retracting struts & hinge pivots . . . . accident waiting to happen. Imagine trying to clean dust & mud off it.....

[@KenRockwellTV]

Just saying it like it is. Thanks!

[@black-boy520]

good!!!!!!!!

[@KenRockwellTV]

THANK YOU!!!

[@jj-kf9wo]

wow - this man is so thorough....

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thank you!!

[@DAVE_WHITE]

Glad you stated they are still behind on autofocus.. After using Nikon for over 22 years last year I tried the Canon R7 WOW that was it.. I now own a R5 r7 R6 R3 and sold and or traded YEARS of nikon cameras and glass in to get my Canon system going.. I get such a better keeper rate in all shooting from wildlife to sports and I am glad to have made the switch..

[@KenRockwellTV]

Exactly. Beats me why no one else mans up and says it like it is, of maybe I'm the only guy who both actually shoots rather than just talks about it AND actually shoots all these cameras out of curiosity, always looking for the next way to give me more of a competitive edge. THANKS!

[@racketmeister3773]

Same, always had Nikon. Wasn’t happy with D500 results so bought an R7 and wow it’s night and day better than anything from Nikon.

[@DAVE_WHITE]

@@KenRockwellTV Because they are paid for their reviews in someway, even though they say they ae not, You and Jared are pretty much straight shooters with showing issues.. Or making real statements..

[@KenRockwellTV]

@@DAVE_WHITE Beware, those with huge followings are rarely pro shooters - they're talkers. See www.kenrockwell.com/tech/2-kinds-of-photographers.htm

[@prokremelskidezolati1426]

@@racketmeister3773 "it’s night and day better than anything from Nikon" of course, of course, loooooool

[@Keith80027]

I believe Ken is still a Canon shooter/

[@KenRockwellTV]

I’ve shot Nikon since 1983. I shoot everything today. When I have a choice I prefer Canon. I have since 2012. Thanks!

[@CsendesMark]

The limit on only 4 digits in the filename is idiotic. We have Ext Fat for the current memory cards, which has option to have 255 char long filenames, and NOT 8 NIKON wakey wakey 😁

[@KenRockwellTV]

Nikon bad. Oh well, at least they title their cards, unlike Sony.

[@paulo7200]

Canon R8 review coming?

[@KenRockwellTV]

It’s online at www.kenrockwell.com/canon/eos-r/r8.htm and will update as soon as mine arrives. Takes longer to make it to videos here. Thanks!

[@destinyangel5]

Same same as the Z 9, smaller good, a shame they didn't allow the bigger Z 9 /D6 /D850 bigger capable batteries in grip just like we can have in the still relevant Legend D850, with the optional Z8 grip , this was disappointing from Nikon . I feel everybody is anticipating a much better 24 MP Z6III which will be even lighter smaller than the Z8 with better focusing and better un cropped 4K but apparently the next Nikon FFM will be a retro FF like zfc style with the older Z6II insides ?

[@KenRockwellTV]

This is the battery grip for the z8: www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1766344-REG/nikon_27227_mb_n12_power_battery_pack.html/BI/287/KBID/1037

[@bradl2636]

An absurdly huge medium format sized mount leads to absurdly huge full frame 35mm format lenses. Even worse for APS-C.

[@prokremelskidezolati1426]

"An absurdly huge FF mount leads to absurdly huge lenses." 100% moronic post - just check the size AND weight of Nikon lenses and compare theme to the "perfect" Canon ones, loool

[@KenRockwellTV]

Yes, oversized mount to try to impress the innocent. Thanks!

[@bradl2636]

@@prokremelskidezolati1426 I will as soon as Nikon releases a decent number of APS-C lenses for Z mount in the meantime my Sony APS-C glass selection is a gluttony of choice that can actually autofocus 🤣🤣🤣 And I’ll stick with my 30+ F mount Nikkors too.

[@bradl2636]

@@KenRockwellTV Nikon’s engineering decisions for mirrorless are truly head scratching stuff. A medium format mount to host APS-C..? 🤣🤣🤣

[@kevinmac9442]

@@bradl2636 I think you answered the reason they did that in your own response. Perhaps it's a medium format sized mount to one day host medium format sensors and lenses.

[@SeanMcChannel]

I have Nikon Z8 and Canon R6ii. Canon R6ii AF especially speed of subject recognition beats Z8 no question - especially when shooting stills of small birds. Z8 takes so much longer to identify small birds when on animal subject recognition setting, even when using various small AF boxes custom sizes. Also then one needs to hand off tracking to 3D tracking in Z8 while R6II just tracks over frame with no user input required. I have only used R6ii for a few days, but even with old EF100-400 (first version) R6II identifies subjects and locks to eyes much quicker as well than Z8, especially when birds are little smaller in frame. Z8 needs the birds to be much closer and larger in frame. Guess R6II +-1000 focus points beats Z8's +-490 focus points... Also I'm guessing the current Z8 firmware for animal is probably like Z9 original ver 3 firmware or something... AF does seem inferior to Z9 v4 or 4.1 for birds sure imho. I really wanted to like Nikon after all the buzz and hype, and due to Canon normally using their cripple hammer on its cameras... but I don't know if I will keep Z8. And then Nikon has taken sneaky move when they posted a video saying Z9 firmware V4 automated shooting function would be coming to Z8 - but then they quietly edited their KZbin video to remove the comments on that after many people had noted this. That was sneaky - I understand they want to differentiate Z8 and Z9... but don't do this sh!t. Of course the Z8 has much better video modes like 4k120, 8K60, Raw etc. but price of Z8 is like 70% more than R6II so that should be expected....

[@KenRockwellTV]

Exactly. While I buy and review things like the Z8 because people want my thoughts, as you’ve seen overall the Z8 I find inferior in actual usage. I upgraded to Canon in 2012 personally and am so glad I did. Thanks!

[@Fstudiophoto]

Z8 as newer of D850

[@KenRockwellTV]

Yes. As newer Mirrorless version of d850.

[@TheVitalishe]

If you are wondering how aliens would review human tech this review would give you an idea ;-)

[@KenRockwellTV]

Aha!

[@maurogalch2098]

My first Nikon was a N50 SLR and the last will be a D500 DSLR. Nikon's persistence in not adopting the presets in the new cameras, the ridiculous LCD mechanism on this Z8, the lack of a professional mirrorless to replace the D500, the abandonment of technical assistance in Brazil and the weaker focusing system that its competitors made me believe that I will not buy mirrorless from this manufacturer in the near future, even with the advancement of being shutterless. Congratulations on the honest video. Greetings from Brazil!

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks!!

[@Mr09260]

SD Cards are MUCH slower than Sd Cards >>

[@KenRockwellTV]

Of course!

[@deingewissen_official]

Cool no nonsense review

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks! I try to get to the point.

[@flowermaze___]

Wow that's an ugly camera... what's going on over at nikon these days? The Z5/Z6 was approaching an interesting form factor with a style. The Z8 / Z9 seem to be back to that blocky, bulbous style of the HUUUGE DSLRS of nikon and canon.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Nikon lost the mirrorless race. I stick with Canon, Thanks!

[@solidstream13]

I wish the screen flipped around for selfie video.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Weird, huh? It looks like it does so much, but it doesn’t. Thanks!

[@michaellee3903]

This camera is not designed for selfie videos for crying out loud!!! I guarantee you if it did there will be plenty of other photographers whining that it went in that direction! Some of you people complain about the dumbest shit on these cameras.

[@kainlestad]

Too many complains, smell some bias here…

[@KenRockwellTV]

Nope, just being honest since I own all this stuff and aren’t arias to say it like it is. Thanks!

[@salehalrashdan]

I am viewer # 34 watching from Huntington Beach, California

[@KenRockwellTV]

I think you're #1, numero uno! THANKS!!!!!

[@salehalrashdan]

@@KenRockwellTV ❤️

[@douglasstemke2444]

$4,000. Sadly, that's my unattainable reality.

[@KenRockwellTV]

There’s always used - or the Zf.

[@williamblackwell9558]

It's hard to take you seriously Ken when you say things like an iPhone takes better video ...lol.

[@KenRockwellTV]

It does - I've used it to shoot everything on this KenRockwell.TV channel! Thanks!

[@roo1538]

idk what Nikon is doing, Canon is beating them on all fronts

[@KenRockwellTV]

Nikon admitted to this about five years ago in a press release that announced a restructuring laying off 5,000 in the camera division so they could focus on their more profitable areas of medical imaging and semiconductor manufacturing. They made the right choice for themselves long term; camera sales are way down. Nikon lacks the budget to be great as they were back in the golden days of 35mm and DSLR cameras. They’re slacking in the Mirrorless space.

[@prokremelskidezolati1426]

hm, really? You mean price or the weight of the lenses? loooool

[@KenRockwellTV]

@@livejames9374Canon’s supremacy has been exhaustively documented www.kenrockwell.com/tech/comparisons/nikon-vs-canon-vs-sony-full-frame.htm😊 thanks!

[@roo1538]

@@prokremelskidezolati1426 one random example that comes to mind is Nikon lacking a working pro wide zoom, there's only the 14-30 F4 and the novelty 14-24 F2.8

[@K9malinois_dog_love]

Nikon definitely down grade the quality on this one.

[@KenRockwellTV]

I went Canon in 2012 and so glad I did. Thanks!