Nikon Z9 First look hands on. Autofocus tests

[@RicciTalks]

Everyone you are amazing! … I took a risk putting the 100-400 video up first and was concerned that the Z9 video would not do as well…. But wow you have been amazing thank you for all the comments and all the views my fastest viewed video of all time ❤️ much love to you all I will be replying to all the comments I can over the next for hours and probably days 🤣

[@mikehalliwell7483]

Nice review! Where was the vulture video shot? Hampshire area?

[@rgsauve]

For your video review, please consider touching on the following as others seem to be overlooking these topics that are important to us working videographers... 1. Video dynamic range improvements - are there any? This is the most important thing for me. I'm not a fan of my Z6's highlight rolloff. 2. Has Nikon ever mentioned firmware to get focus-by-wire Z lenses to manual focus linearly like Panasonic has? 3. Anamorphic modes - upcoming? 4. Pre-record for wildlife filming? This would be so awesome and save so much space on those mem cards. 5. Couldn't Nikon offer additional frame rates if they offered cinescope crops (2.39:1) at 8K and 4K? Are cinescope options even on the roadmap? 6. Can you measure actual Viewfinder and HDMI lag? With the Z6 at 24p, it was about 11 frames when shooting NLog and 5 frames for Prores RAW (very challenging for gimbal work). I've heard there have been improvements but no one's actually measured it by recording the camera shooting timecode on a screen. 7. 3D tracking - it's available for photo but will it ever be available for video? 8. Gyro metadata - is Nikon capturing this and will we ever be able to tap into this for post stabilization like other manufacturers have done (Sony I believe)? 9. LUT support? 10. Frame rates like 48p Are you sure they said early next year for 8K 60p RAW? I didn't see the "early" in any literature I've come across.

[@pelafotofotografia]

Dear Ricci: I have a KZbin channel and I always show your channel and your comments. I've been using Nikoon since I was 15 years old (early 70's). Many people follow me because in Brazil few KZbinrs talk about Nikon. I have been trying to raise a flag of resistance against Nikon's discredit because of the problems of the past few years. Seeing the result of Nikon's work on the Z9 was both spectacular and rewarding. Thanks for keeping Nikon lovers up to date. A big hug from Brazil. Fran Camargo

[@wickjohn6149]

Hi- how would you compare the actual Eye AF accuracy on human subjects as related to the Sony's and Canon R5? How does the Z9 perform with strobes and does it fully perform its strobe related functions with whichever brands you may have tested?

[@patricksmith2553]

Could you please test if the new EN-EL18D battery will work in the D6 or D5/D850 with grip camera's and weather or not you need the new charger or not, I have the MH-26a? Or just the D6 should answer the others? I've preordered one to replace the EN-EL18c, hoping to gain even longer battery life in my camera's. Thanks!

[@sidvicious3129]

Ricci as always you are the most complete reviewer when it comes to all things Nikon, keep up the outstanding work. This is why I love it when Ricci Talks, we listen.

[@klaus-hermannotto8289]

I just want to say thank you to Ricci, wonderful, he is the best in Nikon world!

[@RicciTalks]

Means the world to me to hear things like this ❤️

[@nickreid5939]

The Angry Photographer as well.....dont forget...

[@RussellHeller]

@@nickreid5939 The Angry Photographer is a Click Baiter....he never has any PROOF or EXPERIENCE of what he claims...just hearsay and opinion or theory.....Why does he never show us any photos from the field highlighting his expertise....Where is his comparisons with factual , clear information...Sorry...I tuned him off and out when I found quality reviewers like Ricci and others....

[@RicciTalks]

@Siddharth Sriram DX for stills yes ...4K 120 is FX or 2.3xcrop

[@FrederickDunn]

HI Ricci, I saw you on location in Tai's video review. You guys are very fortunate to be in the loop for pre-production testing of the Nikon Gear! I always enjoy your videos and think you deserve much more attention. I jumped on the pre-purchase list yesterday, and as always I'm now backfilling my youtube search to validate my own purchase. I'm doing video and photography of fast-moving tiny insects. I have high hopes for the tracking focus system in this body. It has the potential to vastly improve my entomological research. I also appreciate your modesty and well-reasoned evaluations.

[@sunesnigel]

He is well deserved to be in that spot though.

[@MrSugabear007]

Kai not Tai...

[@SKgeostrat]

Finally, the reward for not jumping ship is here. I can now start the process of migrating to the mirrorless product line. I am selling my D850 and D500 and replacing it with a Z9, all pre ordered yesterday. It should arrive mid november. Happiness is! Very much looking forward to testing the F lenses on the Z9 and of course, little by little, the wonderful S line. Thank you Ricci for so quickly giving us a real impression of what the camera is really about. I listen when you speak Nikon!

[@markshirley01]

It looks a fine camera, definitely the right time to move. Im waiting for their mid market to get a shake up. Then ill sell my D750 and finally get a Z.

[@KGi4]

@@markshirley01 i have d750 and my progress as owning 3rd Nikon DSLR camera, i never overcome how much d750 offers. It's more then enough so far. I focus more postprocess skills, but for the future i am thinking to get Canon RF system cuz simply canon is more focusing and building more inivated lens system, while Nikon casing Sony's shadow in pixel wars 😂

[@MrRalboi919]

@@markshirley01 You gonna pay that close to 6 or 7 grand? Lol

[@RussellHeller]

I moved to the Z line from DSLR, with the advent of the Z6 and Z7...like you been waiting for the Z9....if it bombed I would have jumped to Canon.....BUT I have pre-ordered my Z9 and 100-400mm...firmly in the Nikon camp of lovers now..

[@christinemariutto1021]

I very nearly bought a D6 at the end of last year. I’m so glad I waited. I ordered a Z9 on release day because of your fantastic reviews and information. I literally can’t sleep I’m so excited. Just can’t quite decide which lenses.

[@patbly393]

So excited about the 100-400 S as well, canons version has lead the market for years as a superb lens. The minimum 3.2’ focusing distance set the bar really high and made it a fantastic macro lens.. now nikon’s minimum focus distance of only 2.5’ on the new S lens is an incredible spec!

[@simontrezise8495]

It looks amazing. Thank you for basing your first look on actually using the camera over a decently long period. It's surprising how many KZbinrs leap in without any experience of the camera.

[@bikefreek]

I hope Nikon pays you well because in my opinion you are such a valuable resource to their customers

[@joebastura]

When I upgraded from an older DSLR last year, I stuck with Nikon based more on the long-term lens collection I'd be building (all Z lenses) since I wasn't deep into a lens money hole yet. I was aware the Nikon mirrorless bodies at the time weren't the most groundbreaking or even always keeping up with some of the competition regarding certain features, but I put my faith in Nikon long-term for the bodies, which are an easy upgrade as the years go by compared to swapping brands once you have a lot of lenses. I've been thrilled with the Z lenses I've acquired so far, and I've really enjoyed my Z6, even if not every feature has blown me away (overall performance and image quality have impressed me, though). And now seeing this new Z9 with pricing - and knowing how the tech can trickle down to future bodies by the time I'm ready to upgrade the Z6 - I am extremely happy with my decision. I imagine many other Nikon owners are feeling the same way, as well.

[@MOAB-UT]

I have a D5500 and really want a Z6- it's pricey though especially with glass. I would like the better low light performance the full frame would offer. Both only have 24mpixel resolution though- 45mp would be better though in some cases easier to get blurry shots.

[@davidthompson8153]

Thanks for this Ricci. Certainly one of the best reviews out there as always. The Z9 is certainly going to be a game changer for Nikon.

[@RicciTalks]

Hope so!

[@johnvaleanbaily246]

The most thorough and best analysis of the Z9 I've seen to date. I had watched JP's analysis and it was nowhere near as comprehensive on the AF as yours is. JP's review made me question whether I would purchase the Z9. Your analysis has renewed my appreciation of the Z9's AF (as well as its other features) and my decision to purchase. Thank you.

[@spangari]

i saw it too and I got the impression that he intentionally dumb down the Z9 AF with his comments and missed the focus intentionally at the model shoot at the stairs...he just wanted to deny and deny Nikon's superiority now that he jumped ship to the other brand

[@jaspergoodall3206]

All JP could critique was Nikon’s marketing of the expeed 7 processor, wanted them to call it an expeed lighting or something 🤷‍♂️ that told me something right there. He was desperately trying to find something bad to say 🤣 sad.

[@nickreid5939]

Look at The Angry photographer......

[@RicciTalks]

Glad it was helpful!

[@johnvaleanbaily246]

@@RicciTalks Very. Unfortunately I watched the JP (Fro's) video and I was not optimistic. Thanks for putting things right.

[@AshBashSneakers]

3 months 🤣🤣🤣 I used to think MKBHD was bad pretending not to have a phone.. this is epic I love it

[@millerchibomba]

Best kept secret lol... you'd know the first minute

[@stanobert3475]

I just attended a presentation in Denver. CO, USA with two Nikon ambassadors and cinema photographer Corey Rich. Your video is spot on. This camera is a monster, especially for videographers! It was weird shooting the Z9 at 20 fps with no blackout and only the simulated shutter sound to let me know that the camera was actually creating images. I was also impressed with how lightweight and compact the new 100-400s lens is. The 100-400 also worked very well with the 1.4x TC. This lens is smaller than the images make it seem.

[@flickrchannyuk4396]

I love the way Ricci had to check his phone to remind himself what he doesn't yet have permission to say...that means there is some exciting stuff he knows about but can't tell us yet!

[@JoeHTX]

Thank you Ricci, this is the most informative review of the Z9 that I've seen. I especially liked that you demonstrated the toughness and build quality of the LCD screen, I haven't seen anyone else do that.

[@Rogier1969]

I got my Z9 this afternoon. Your video was hugely helpful in helping me better understand the camera and locate its functionality. Thank you!

[@merkin22]

As always simply the best gear reviews. Nikon's got my deposit, can't wait to get my hands this beast :)

[@luiscpedro]

Excellent review. Nothing like talking clear and going straight to the point. The maturity of knowledge of cause makes all the difference when it comes to recognizing the good, the bad and what sucks and the way to transmit it to others. Your reviews are undoubtedly the best out there. Continuation of the good work you do to the community. Thank you.

[@csc-photo]

You sir, have answered all my Z9 questions and I'm not even half way through this excellent vid yet. This camera is absolutely on my list for 2022 🙂 Thanks for everything Ricci!

[@TorToroPorco]

My favorite part of this video is when Ricci has to consult his phone to see what he can disclose which would imply there could a lot of further surprises in store for future firmware upgrades. Now I’ve got to see whether I can enhance the frame grab with the phone reflected in Ricci’s glasses so I can read what it says.

[@RicciTalks]

good luck haha

[@alpharho_photo]

Thank you, Ricci! Your initial review is a great place to start in understanding the beast of a camera that is the Z9. I'm so glad you had full access to it for three months... I must say Nikon made the right decision here. Kudos! Your review is so much more complete and balanced with respect to others I've seen, and dispels some of the unsubstantiated, uninformed trash talk that some other content providers are already putting out. Keep it up! And please do not hesitate to share with us any features of the camera that in your opinion fall short. That makes it sounds much more valuable to us. Full disclosure: I'm not a target market for this camera (enthusiast landscape photographer, currently using the Z5). My interest is in how it points the way to where Nikon is heading, the capabilities and potential benefits for the rest of the Z line-up.

[@PQPhotography]

When you first began speaking on this camera. I just wasn't interested thinking to myself I won't be able to get the camera anyway with all the chip shortages, however after seeing all the camera features and improvements on auto focus. How could you not get excited. Thank you for your sharing 😊

[@RicciTalks]

thank you for watching !

[@mattgranger]

Great video mate! Awesome to already have so long hands on, congrats!

[@RicciTalks]

Hey Matt thanks for the comment ! 😊

[@chrisogrady28]

We are all very jealous

[@freetibet1000]

Nikon have shown with the Z9 that they understand the needs of professionals, especially action and wildlife photographers. Many of these photographers have remained with their D6 with an optical viewfinder because in their line of work the viewfinder is a very important component of a camera body. Nikon have waited until they had the technology to create an electronic viewfinder replacement that can satisfy real professionals. In the Z9 Nikon have created an EVF that strike a balance between brightness-latency-refresh rate-resolution that can truly satisfy most professionals. On top of that they now have a black-out free (flicker-free) EVF! Nikon believe that the EVF is so important to their professional users that they have created a separate data-feed to it in order to present the user with the best view possible. That’s unique too! This shows how well Nikon understands their pro users.

[@adamgsa737]

Ricci, thanks for another outstanding video! Eeven as a subscriber, I am always amazed with your knowledge of Nikon ecosystem. You seem to know so much more than most of other reviewers. Your reviews and comments are always to the point and without any unwanted fluff. I've watched MANY Z9 videos but yours is the most informative by far. My Z9 is on order. Love your channel, cant' wait for another video.

[@RicciTalks]

Awesome, thank you!

[@davidpalermo4695]

This is by far the most best (and most honest!) review I have seen so far. Good job.

[@RicciTalks]

Appreciate that

[@macmcmillen6282]

This was a fantastic first look/review of the Z 9! You are my goto guy for KZbin reviews of Nikon gear because you just tell it like it is and answer most of the questions people like me have when it comes to new Nikon gear. One thing I'd like to see you talk about is the buffer performance when shooting 20 fps, lossless RAW. Have seen some negative comments on the web that the Z 9 isn't very good compared to the Sony A1. Not sure if those negative comments are credible, however. I preordered a Z 9 with some trepidation, but after watching this video I am confident I made a good decision. Thanks, and keep up the great work!

[@ViratShah]

Looks Amazing Ricci. Hopefully, we will some improvements via a firmware update in Z7II and Z6 .

[@Christographer_UK]

Thanks, Ricci, this has been by far the best & most comprehensive Z9 hands-on video I have seen. I very much appreciate all your hard work putting this together.

[@SwanSycorax]

Absolutely. It must be sickening for Ricci and others who really know what is going on to see Tony Northrup putting out a video pointing out negativities he has surmised from evaluating the teasers but without any hands on experience with the camera. Normally I won't look at a Northrup video but thought it would be interesting to see what he has to say this time and, true to form, .......

[@RickMentore]

The most comprehensive, yet easy to understand review of this new camera! Thanks Ricci!

[@patrickmolloy6994]

great review as always Ricci, its not just your depth of knowledge but your honesty. Keep it up

[@RicciTalks]

I appreciate that

[@mikericciuti5996]

I’ve watched pretty much all of the Z9 videos this week, and this video is by far the best. Thank you!

[@RicciTalks]

Great to hear!

[@gyozakeynsianism]

True! Matt Granger's have been great too.

[@jazinzlaty4823]

This is the review I was waiting for long time and only one out on KZbin where it's including bird eye autofocus! Well done!

[@oerglwoergl]

Can't wait to see some of that technology to come to other Z cameras

[@brittmurray9818]

First off - thanks for the video, you answered a bunch of questions I had about the Z9. I still love my D850 for photos and my A7siii for video - but I've been on the fence about trading in and committing to one system (a1 or waiting on Z9). The Z9 really seems to finally make this an even fight (no shade on Nikon, I've been a Nikon guy my whole life and have been cheering on their mirrorless developments). But lastly - I do need to call you out for flexing on the thumbnail "3 mos with..." because that made me very jealous. :-)

[@RicciTalks]

It’s true 😉

[@gooverland4082]

Ricci, thank you very much for this first Z9 review video. I am impressed, since I saw the Kingfisher pics the AF works. In your future video can you please dive into basic things like flash sync speed, focus shift (bracketing), max exposure times and anything else what concerns in daily business.

[@RedStar89]

This camera feels like Nikon was reborn like a phoenix from the ashes. I am completely blown away by the autofocus. Thats a real game changer for Nikon. Hope this camera does well and that they impliment this technology in the next z6 z7 camera body release in the future.

[@ConorCoen]

The video I've been waiting for , so happy you got to test this for months, as always in-depth knowledge, exciting times for Nikon 👍

[@mcheung05]

The most in-depth reviews on KZbin. Always love your videos!

[@ralfbruening]

Now it is clear for me what you saw in the teasers, comparing it to the Z9 and the 100-400 on the table in Front of you😉 thanks for All and I am looking foreward to hear more about all the nikon gear coming up soon!

[@victorthorne5220]

Such a clear review of so many details. Loved seeing the test on different animals.

[@RicciTalks]

Thank you!

[@TryingtoLearntheuke]

Thanks for the review Ricci. As others have stated, I am on the pre-order list for this camera. Very excited about that especially after watching your review. You are my go to for all Nikon Z items. Very well done review.

[@RicciTalks]

thank you for watching !

[@Globetrotter-1]

Wonderful introduction to what the new Z9 is capable of. Thank you Ricci. 😉📷

[@koziol79]

Rocci, I agree with all the commentaries below. You are the most professional and straight to the point Nikon camera gear reviewer. All your material is super interesting to watch. Well done Buddy and please keep it up🙏

[@joelcrow]

Man this is such a good review! I love all the actual in-camera views and usages... so helpful! Wish people would stop reading spec sheets and do more of this actual demo/usage format!

[@RicciTalks]

Much appreciated!

[@keithsandercock1412]

Excellent, excellent review. Looking forward to more updates. I have already placed an order for a 24-120mm f4S, as my FX version from Nikon has been my most frequently used lens, and a long time favourite.

[@traceysuligoy6713]

You dont owe anyone an apology just take care of yourself. Love your videos. Thank you.

[@gabrielh7718]

Well done Nikon! The aggressive pricing actually makes me consider the Z9 which I never would have thought of

[@ThePhotographyHobbyist]

5:25 I will still argue with people that the resolution of the Z7/Z9 EVF is more than enough. I owned an a7R III in the past and now a few Z cameras (like the Z5 and Z7). The EVF options and the EVF itself is noticeably better on the Nikon compared to the one in the Sony a7R III and I've never once found myself saying "Oh crap, this resolution is not enough for the 45 MP files on my Z7" Never. The images are CRYSTAL CLEAR and sharp when viewed at 100% in the EVF on my Z7. I think there's way too much negative comments about the 3.6 million dot EVFs. Would I like a 5 million dot EVF? I'll take it, no question...but why would I need it? The images at 100% already look outstanding in my Z7's EVF...and I would freely admit it if they didn't. Why do I need a higher res EVF? I don't...even if I'm being picky. This might be where people need to focus more on their photography than their camera's specs and quit all the measurebating. Are you making art/professional images or are you people simply obsessed with the 'best' specs to claim you have a better camera? Get on with the photography and enjoy life.

[@lukeszczepanski2240]

Z9 looks like an amazing achievement. For us mere mortals that can't afford it - what further improvements in AF / tracking can we expect in Z6II/Z7II? Can some of this tech 'trickle down' without changing the processor / sensor?

[@chrisogrady28]

The AF button is so useful, it's honestly the main thing that throws me off when shooting with the D750 and Z6 back and forth. Also as I have Fn1 assigned to focus modes the dedicated button frees up yet another function button!

[@stephencrawford6082]

Superb presentation, no bullshit, no huge ego, just an honest and exhaustive review of what looks like a killer camera. So much so mine is on order.

[@paulkirk5760]

Best review I’ve seen so far! Best wildlife test as well. Really shows off the capabilities for wildlife. The ultimate test would be dragonflies in flight! Haha!

[@thefourthquarter7429]

Love the review. It's obviously a wildlife / action beast, something I can use. Finally can retire my D5/D500. Oddly, I think I will miss them, used them for so long and so used them. Hope they have a cheaper version soon with the same AF, but right now there isn't much more I could ask for, especially with the new 100-400.

[@julienmerelli2191]

how lucky you are!! maybe I will wait for a Z6 III or Z7 III with this new processor and autofocus!!The Z9 is maybe to powerful for me considering that I'm not a video shooter... I love the 100-400 too but unfortunately I think it might be a little bit short for birds... Maybe they are developing a 500 f5.6 or something like that. I'm tired of waiting knowing that Sony and A7 IV looks great with the 200-600 but this Z9 is giving me good hope. Thank you Ricci.

[@MrModerate_kane]

My only question Ricci, do you think we will get a firmware drop for Z6II or Z7II with anything new learned by Nikon during the Z9 development thats useable on Z6II and Z7II?

[@tc6912]

My hopes as well! However (7:30) the description of the seperate channels from the sensor to the viewfinder and memory are a hardware design that is likely not in the current Z's. It may be difficult to overcome the blackout and lag issues without this.

[@victorbastos5859]

Specially the bird eye-af.

[@mickbryan8908]

My concern as well. Couldn't stretch to a Z9 but upgrade to a Z6ii hopping for some firmware updates.

[@chrisvig123]

Unfortunately the slow processor in those models will limit them…they were made as well as they could be for the time

[@mickbryan8908]

@@chrisvig123 understand they can’t compete with a Z9 but the Z6ii is only 12 months old, so whilst a great camera I’m sure there will be room for improvement.

[@michaelbryanphotography2794]

Ricci- Thank you. Very helpful review. I’ve been a die-hard Nikon user for 4 decades and currently shoot with a D850. As you can imagine, I have a lot of F mount lens. I never made the switch to the Z6 or Z7 because of the auto focus deficiencies, but this camera sounds like a game changer. As you have shown, the auto focus is amazing on this camera. Since this can’t really be compared to the previous Z camera’s, I need to know if I could expect the same auto focus performance using my existing lens like the 70-200 VR II or 24-70 2.8 with the FTZ II.

[@gordonyz4]

I have the same question. On D500 the 300/2.8 VR AF drive is really fast but same light, Z6II can't drive as fast

[@johantufvesson2511]

I also wonder about this. I'm not invested in the Z system (yet...), but have read things about super F tele photos not focusing as fast on FTZ as on native D500/D850 etc. I'm thinking of raw focusing speed now (closest to infinity). Could you please measure that with the 600 FL? I'm also very curious about the performance of the 600 FL with teleconverters, which I use all the time.

[@HotGates]

Awesome Ricci this Z9 stopped me from switching to Canon and I just pre-ordered it and the 100-400 S. Just wanted to ask does the multiple exposure give you the final blended image in Raw or is it still jpeg like the Z7II? I'll live with it but just asking, Also the tracking on birds looks fantastic great work Nikon 👍 👏

[@liamgoodvisuals]

I’d like to know about this too!!

[@ramonarias1234]

@@liamgoodvisuals +1

[@BoostLeekdMedia]

Whoa! Awesome review Ricci! Looking forward to that 24-120 F/4 lens review too!

[@wilteduk007]

This is the type of review every nikon owner was looking for on the Z9. Thanks.

[@datdudeinred]

This is the most well organised video on z9 I've seen till now. Everyone else is so all over the place. Thanks 🙌👏🏻

[@escapetothesky]

Raw upto 20 fps only

[@mstorey83]

Thank you Ricci for your passion for this beautiful new instrument! I have placed my pre-order with BandH Photo here in the states and will be watching all you can tell us about the Z9 camera system and associated lens. I primarily do bird photography and can't wait for the improved autofocus system. Love your kingfisher captures! Cheers!

[@wafflebird1]

Absolutely awesome video. Many thanks for a lot of hard work and editing that you had to do. I have a D5 and a D850 and until now have not had much interest in switching. Now I can no longer say that. It is like having the best of both of those cameras and more in one. Great job to you and great job to Nikon!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@paulihnatolia1848]

The most detailed Z9 video I've seen so far. Will be great to see the comparison of the video features and autofocus performance with the R3 and A1.

[@RussellHeller]

Ricci....you are the defined point of information about Nikon gear...your reviews are honest and technically very informative...in easy to understand descriptions...well done again on this and the 100-400mm lens review

[@dansoto3791]

Thank you for such an informative video(as always)! I'm glad you put up some of your stills and video...incredible quality. I've been waiting for this since getting a Z6 ii to see where Nikon was headed next. Would love to know if there is another camera coming that might have the same specs but without the pro grip. Thanks.

[@martinlee1775]

Thank you Ricci for such a great comprehensive review. You’ve answered some of the questions I had….just placed a FTZ II order.

[@EugeneMaynard]

Excellent! As a long term Canon user that has now preordered the Z9 to add to his toolkit your information is and will be extremely helpful for us newbies to the Nikon system. Looking forward to know more!👏🏾🙏🏾

[@hishamosman4341]

Deep down I always felt that Ricci must had his hands on a pre-production unit of the Z9 and true enough that's true. The scary part about this Z9 is that with continuous firmware updates, it could only get better and better. For years, Nikon was bashed left right and center about their mirrorless capabilities and Nikon stayed quiet accumulating feedbacks and what their competition brought out? Then...bang! Nikon unleashed this beast machine! Not only it surpassed everything in the market but Nikon has shifted the goal post so far up for others to catch up? Now I really do hope that Nikon don't abandon DSLR completely?

[@zakcole2229]

OMG Ricci - you got me with the autofocus clips at the beginning. EPIC!!!!!

[@loihpatli]

What an amazing review! Thanks alot Ricci!!!

[@rogermanning4353]

Stellar video! Most complete and clear description of the Z9's capabilities. Brilliant!

[@porkster5924]

The opening few seconds reassured me I’d made the right choice pre-ordering the Z9 when it was tracking the car. Motorsport is my passion and I was longing for a mirrorless version of a cross between my D5 and D850 and I’m sure the Z9 is that baby. I was ready to jump ship to Canon and the R3 but I’ve invested heavily in some prime Nikon glass such as my 400mm f2.8 but I can relax now and keep my stunning lenses and use them with the Z9.

[@gbye007]

Fantastic camera for action shooters, and a halo product to show what the Nikon engineering team can do. Thanks for your fantastically clear and informative 'hands on' videos.

[@JustinOpinionChannel]

Nikon is still not listing 4k @ 120fps in their specs. It's very confusing. Thanks for showing that on the menu.

[@klaus-hermannotto8289]

Awesome report, thank you so much Ricci, it is a joy to listen to your expertise as always 🙏🏻

[@kqschwarz]

This is a Sony shooter thinking of switching for increased robustness. The AF performance of the Z6 & Z7 have held me back. The Z9 seems perfect in all these regards. I just need to hold one in the hand before deciding to assess the weight of the camera and lens. Thank you for the fantastic review. All the best.

[@hokanoi]

😂. Off course you knew more than what you were telling us!!! Love your channel man.. is so refreshing to see a good honest and balanced reviewer..

[@jimixjimix5097]

Hey, the AF intro just blew me away. Best Nikon AF hands down. A great, very informative and insightful video. Thanks!

[@RicciTalks]

Wow, thanks!

[@danielcueva4685]

I like that the viewfinder information changes its orientation when you rotate the camera from horizontal to vertical orientation. KUDOS NIKON!

[@johnhjic2]

Hello Ricci, The colours of your Kingfishers are just amazing for JPG's. All I have to do now is find some money but know where were as much as I was thinking. What a camera at a price to sell. Keep well, keep sage and you still amazing us. P.S. I have just seen Morten's video in quit bad weather tracking wildlife in Svalbard.

[@naturealbums]

Nice work with the Kingfisher video and that cracking shot. This really is amazing progress from Nikon and I like the price. I waited for this camera was going for a Canon R5 now cancelled that thought by the time you add a battery grip and 2 batteries there's only a couple of hundred pounds difference and this is so much more of a camera that doesn't overheat. I really hope it will work with my old Nikon fit sigma 300-800mm. I might also get the 500mm f5.6 or a 100-400mm with the converter.

[@barryobrien1890]

The 500pf is an amazing lens on a z7ii

[@BowlesImages]

Great overview - and thanks for sharing the screen shots of AF modes, subject recognition options, etc. You did a great job of staying quiet about the z9 for three months. It must have been a blast - and incredibly hard to stay quiet. Did you work on the Z9 manual? A lot of this content is extremely helpful for the manual.

[@RicciTalks]

sadly not I think all manuals are dealt with at a Japanese level and then translated around the world

[@studiorosenforsintl.3434]

@@RicciTalks We can always count on Thom.. but his Z9 book will probably be 4000 pages;-)

[@kino_kaos]

Thanks for the detailed review Ricci. It sounds all great for the Nikon Z9 and beyond. A question for most of us mortals is are the zii's now left behind and dumped in terms of ever receiving anything from this tech that may work for us. At least for AF, or should we be happy what we have. Not that Im not, but any part of that 3d tracker would be more then welcome. We dont want 20fps or 8k, but some of that algorithm should be ok for dual x6 processors im sure. Thanks and hope you are allowed to let us know. Cheers.

[@bernardlanguillier7970]

Thanks Ricci! Speaking about raw files in relationship to buffer, I would love Nikon to implement a mode that starts a raw burst in lossless raw for the first x secs and then automatically switches to high efficiency raw to extend the buffer depth. They could call it hybrid raw and it would be selectable among the available raw formats. This would be the best of both worlds. Ensure that most short bursts are captured at max quality but not risk running out of juice even for longer sequences. The duration x could be input by each owner depending on the speed of the CFExpress card they will be using. This would also of course optimize memory card usage by reducing the space needed for long bursts.

[@RicciTalks]

That actually a really great idea I’m not sure if the camera could transition from one quality to a another whilst shooting but I’ll certainly feed it back

[@bernardlanguillier7970]

@@RicciTalks thank you! Yes, I can imagine a possible short drop of shooting speed a the moment of transitioning from lossless to lossy, but if they manage this within the buffer it may be possible to do without actual impact. I am based in Tokyo, speak fluent Japanese and can be reached in case they want more details about the idea. :-)

[@PistolPete13]

Thank you for showing me exactly what I wanted to see and hear about with this new Z9. Examples of the autofocus in action! All the rest of the reviews I saw yesterday were just noise compared to your work. My bank account however, will NOT be thanking you! I think I've been pushed over the edge now and I fully blame you for it. LOL Looking forward to the follow up videos.

[@RicciTalks]

I can only apologise to ur bank 🤣

[@StephanKempchen]

I don’t need it to do better photography. BUT I WAND IT! I cannot justify it at all and I don’t want to risk that my lovely wife moves out if I buy it just for fun. It’s a dilemma. … no it’s not… I decided to keep my wife. 😃 We will see what the future brings. At the moment dreaming about a Z9 must be enough!

[@Azeemmerchant]

I dont need a Z9, but I'm veryyy excited for Z7(3)!!!

[@captainklr6508]

Best detailed review yet, and I watch all the big names. You’re number 1 for me now. Im a new subscriber. Keep up the good work.

[@rodrigomartin-hidalgo1592]

Ricci, superb Nikon machine, superb first hands on video. Do you think we will be getting an update soon to get a similar AF performance on our Z6II or Z7II ? The Z9 new chip and hardware is key for this to be possible, but still I'm wondering how the rest of the Z system will benefit from this new software technology. Awesome work as always!

[@ShaneBaker]

Thanks Ricci. Probably the best video on the Z9 I've seen - apart from the bit where you hung the camera by the back screen! :-)

[@wooster2937]

Ricci not to repeat too much but as 20+ year Nikon guy living and lovin' my Z bodies and having digested probably 10 other KZbin videos this is your best yet, and is head shoulders above everyone else. JP definitely put the camera through its paces too, but head and shoulders my friend. Nice.

[@RicciTalks]

thanks so much !

[@ianfeldmann7380]

Tracking fish eyes, now that’s a good test that nobody else has thought of! 😂

[@hsbokra]

🤓

[@deputydd4364]

Fish eye lenses have been around for years !!

[@alexshdvideo]

Thank you for posting. This new Z9 seems to check most of the boxes out of the gate for my idea of a perfect camera.. . Honestly I’m still on a D300s thinking of a Z6II to do my stills and some video work when I’m not shooting my BMPCC4K. This new Z9 seems compelling, though more than I am willing to spend on something that I’m currently not making money with. If some of these features today came down later this year or next to a Z6III or Z7iii or even a new Z8 I would probably go that route. For my needs and wants for the next 10 years the camera needs to be what you have shown, plus for video live WAVEFORM monitor among other features. Clean uncompressed audio with clean preamp would be good.. then we are talking a bout something complete. But honestly the stills that the Z5 on up are all stellar, plus recording 10 bit prores internally and even a prores raw next year along with NLOG out of the gate plus I’m sure HLG and others for quick turn around.. it’s seriously compelling for me to get a system that can handle 100% of my stills needs and probably 75% of my video needs..

[@danivar86]

Thanks for this. I have some worries regarding the lack of mechanical shutter for flash photography. I've heard that high speed sync works fine, but according to KZbinr Theoria Apophasis it will cause flicker/banding problems when using flash in mixed light scenarios with artificial lights. I do a lot of environmental corporate portraits with flash so these kind of scenarios are very common and important to me. I also use HSS indoors to be able to shoot wide open.

[@ericmilner4367]

It locked on and tracked with a back drone in backlight. I'm sold. Thanks again, Ricci!

[@flickrchannyuk4396]

Great work Ricci! At the time of this comment, there are 24 thumbs down on this video, all from Jared Polin and Tony Northrup fans, probably

[@mikedeloye8060]

Great preview! Organized and on point. Looking forward to the next one. Side note I really liked the shots on the beach with the golden light! The eye detect on birds and animals especially the kingfisher shots were important to me. Thanks again

[@markromany]

well... after watching this video, I can officially say this is the first time I've liked and subscribed before being asked to on the video lol. Great stuff. Love the accuracy, objectivity and content. Thank you!

[@RicciTalks]

well thank you for that !

[@Chris-13]

The most informative video on the Z9 . Thank you Ricci. Better than the Nikon marketing 👍👍🙏🙏

[@R2X2Z]

Your video was one of the first one I watched before pre-ordering the Z9. However, some reviewers, those who only had the camera a few days, screwed up a few of the features, specs. Lol.. I know Z9 has so much features to talk about. The worst are the ones that didn't have the camera and making their reviews on spec sheets and other people's videos. Lol.. After wasting my time (hours) watching those, I had to go back and rewatch this video which is the real deal, facts, features of the Z9.

[@DieHardEddieEdwards]

I always love those months in the lead up where you pretend to have no idea about this stuff. My question here is whether or not you can change the color of the tracking box from yellow to green. Or is that just the color that appears when you record the EVF?

[@pierrelagarde7758]

DPReview seems to say you can"t change it in their own review. But, if ever it's a fact, maybe it can be addressed later by firmware.

[@DieHardEddieEdwards]

@@pierrelagarde7758 I watched a lot of these videos and I’ve seen it show up green. I can’t change it in my Z bodies currently, so I assume they’re right, but I’d like an answer on how they got green.

[@pierrelagarde7758]

@@DieHardEddieEdwards I can be wrong, but I think you can only get them green in AF-S mode. At least it's what I experiment on my Z6.

[@DieHardEddieEdwards]

@@pierrelagarde7758 Yeah, they’re definitely not in AF-S. I know what you mean though. It’s just weird that I’ve seen it green in so many videos.

[@RicciTalks]

DP review are wrong you can change the box to green in Af-C