Nikon Zf - A retro travel camera?

[@gavinlagrange6322]

Gotta be one of the best reviews of this camera out there.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Thanks Gavin!

[@mcd817]

One of the best Zf reviews!

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Thanks Menchang! I really appreciate the comment. Glad you enjoyed it!

[@coolfish911]

I have been using Zf since January. This is absolutely spot on! Emil’s comments and experience on the manual controls, ergonomics and experience, the design ethos are absolutely spot on. This camera design, controls are drawn from all the Nikon’s film camera designs and experience. This is something that most influencers, “creators”, and reviewers miss by miles. Most just don’t understand this camera. I think it’s mostly because they have not experienced manual film cameras for a length of time. But I think those who have used film cameras understand the design and compromises made, and probably can take to this camera like hand in glove. I have been using the camera without any grip. Even though I love my Z8 for wildlife and landscapes, the Zf has become my EDC. It’s a joy to use. I, however, would disagree with Emil on the B&W mode. I never did shoot B&W during my film camera days, but discovering this mode on the Zf has been such a pleasure and I am glad Nikon included this mode with a physical mode switch, even though this mode is readily available from the “i” menu. I whole heartedly agree on the need for small manual primes with aperture rings. This is “vintage” done right. The Zf has translated the ability and joy of using film cameras for the digital age. Nikon has delivered! Thank you Emil, for putting together your thoughts and experiences in such a concise and thoughtful manner!

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Thanks Arbinde. I’ll concede that I might be in the minority not liking the b&w switch 😂 glad you enjoyed the review. It was done in a bit of a rush, but loved shooting with the camera and am very interested in getting my own now.

[@BryanRobb-t3l]

New owner of this camera for a couple months now. I’m an enthusiast and I’m blown away by the images I’m getting. So happy with it. I still need to get into the manual primes but haven’t yet got the budget for an adapter and a bag full of lenses, but the 40mm f/2 and 85mm f/1.8 are just awesome. The 40 in particular is great for taking the camera with me to get together and not feeling like I’m pretending to be a professional.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Thanks for the comment Bryan! I agree that the camera shines with that little 40mm. I hope that the camera serves you well...it should as it's a really capable all-rounder.

[@amaimani]

Man, this was the best talk about ZF. You made me love my ZF more. Cheers for gr8 review.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Thanks, comment is much appreciated!

[@catherineo2134]

I concur with everyone else who found this to be a really excellent review - one of the best! A professionals ‘user experience’ plus real world images & video made this review very compelling and enjoyable. My first camera was a Nikon F2, and I still have the F3… I immediately saw the similarities and homage in the Zf. I look forward to your take on the just released Z6 lll - heavily video centric, at a good price, loaded with features…and reviewers hyperbole.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Thanks Catherine! I love the last line of your comment 😂 there’s definitely a lot of hyperbole out there!

[@LazHarris]

I've watched a couple dozen review videos on this camera. This is by far the most useful! -At least for my use case, and someone coming from a D850. Kudos!

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Thanks Laz. I really enjoyed the Zf...now hoping to get my own at some point. For the time being though the D850s pay the mortgage and feed the kids.

[@EdAb]

Hello from Canada. I've never seen you channel before, stumbled here almost by accident. This was the best presentation on the Zf I've watched, especially when compared to all of the "big" channels. Great job!

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Thank you! I really appreciate that feedback. Hello back from SA. Canada remains one of the best countries I’ve visited.

[@harpenfluit]

I have the Z9 (with full SmallRig case) and it’s a very intimidating camera, not mentioning the weight. I love my Zf and just ordered the Voightlander 40mm/1.2 and it will be my only travel camera. Great review. Thank you.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Thanks for sharing. I hundred percent agree that the physical size of a camera can influence how people respond to being photographed. Intimidating is the right word.

[@justinjawanda2518]

I had no idea that you can record a voice memo to specific photos. That is a feature that I haven't heard mentioned in other reviews so thank you for mentioning it! honestly that small feature is just another thing convincing me to buy the Zf and its something that I would not have known about if it wasn't for your review, so thank you for mentioning it! Also, thank you for such a great distinction between street and travel photography needs. This is something I have always thought about but not been able to put into words, and having just traveled to Japan, I can truly appreciate this perspective and I understand why the distinction between travel and street needs to be made. This is a great video all around. Very informative! Thanks!

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Thanks for comments Justin! I sort of stumbled on the voice note feature. I'm fairly sure Nikon will stick it in future cameras (it would be silly not to, but then again it's been missing from all except the top level cameras for years). The Z8 does have it as well and I think the Z6ii with updated firmware.

[@ji-ming]

As someone who was born in Madagascar, I always feel a sense of pride when I see others going there or just talking about it! And the photographs you took are amazing! I agree with what you said about the lack of an aperture ring on the lenses, and after shooting with manual focus lenses and Fuji lenses for years now, I don't understand why people took it away in the first place, it just feels so intuitive! The design of the small 40mm kit lens is really nice from afar, but the fact that it doesn't have an aperture ring on it and the fact that it feels plasticky relative to the solid and luxurious feel of the Zf is a huge turn off. I like your idea of just using manual focus primes on it!

[@emilvonmaltitz]

It is an astounding country. I consider myself extremely fortunate to he able to travel there and run workshops! You’re right about the 40mm. Really awesome lens optically, but just doesn’t gel with the whole ethos and feel of the Zf. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@jonathandegard]

The best video I saw for the ZF !

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Thanks so much Jonathan!

[@Stesalti]

Best video of Zf that i have seen... I have it. and I can confirm every word. for better or for worse. Good job bro

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Thanks so much!

[@darioazevedoph.d.8334]

Best review in years... congratulations!

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Wow! Thanks Dario. It was done in a bit of a rush, so appreciate your comment. Thanks

[@NitroXpress]

Best review of the ZF I´ve seen so far.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Thanks dude!

[@smkunder1]

Wow, fantastic description of the ZF, well done!

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Thanks Steve! Glad you liked it!

[@discotechwreck]

Outstanding review!

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Thanks Andrew!

[@klabton]

I love this camera. The very fact that I have such a beautiful thing with me makes me want to grab it and press the shutter button. I have the Z9 as a work tool. But the Zf gives that feeling of being closer to creating photography when I take control of all the settings.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

I agree. There's very few camera's that are not capable these days (I'd say any main brand camera post 2016 is absolutely fantastic) but there is something to be said about a piece of kit that makes you want to use it for reasons other than the fact that it's good at what it does (gestalt, feel in the hand...whatever it happens to be).

[@MHeadroom]

Great review. Well done. 👏 I’ve recently upgraded from a Df which I’ve had for 10 years. The Zf is a game changer. It has a slightly smaller body to the Df. I no longer feel comfortable using a 24-70 f2.8 zoom as my go to travel lens. Now exclusive limiting myself to a 50mm f1.4 AF-D, 85mm AF-S f1.4 and my 12-24mm f2.8 zoom as my travel kit. Generally the 50 is on the Zf body 80% of the time as I just love that combo for street. 85mm for portrait work, and indoors or wide work is still captured using my 12-24 zoom. I love street work using my 50, just so enjoyable. The Zf really has brought my primes back into to my travel bag. Love it!

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Great setup, I’m more into 40mm and slightly wider, but the 50 f1.8D continues to be an excellent lens and one which I imagine works nicely with the adaoters to mirrorless.

[@skvltdmedia]

WHOAAAA, voice notes?! That, seriously amazing of feat!

[@heymkay]

this was so helpful one of the best reviews ive ever watched!

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Wow, thanks! I personally felt it was rushed as I had to get it out before the Z6iii launch....now I'm trying to see whether I can get Nikon to send me some more kit to play with ;)

[@Chris-13]

Great review thank you, subscribed to your channel. Love the no hype style of presentation.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Thanks for the sub Chris! I try to avoid the 'bro-tography' that abounds. Happy that some people prefer it.

[@jbtubman]

This was very helpful. I have tried the camera out in a local camera store (with my own SD card) and it impressed me. I respectfully disagree with you about the B&W switch; I really liked being able to see what the B&W image would look like as I was shooting it. Thanks for making this video.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

:D Happy to concede that I might be in the minority with not finding the B&W switch useful...so you see focus more easily in B&W? I guess that makes sense considering it's easier to see the effects of sharpening in B&W when using converters like Lightroom.

[@skfoto]

What an amazing real-world, hands-on travel review by an actual photographer. Your video is extremely informative, with great explanations and thought process, and stellar photos to accompany the narrative. I have a Fuji X-S20 for general photography (amazing for travel, birds, portrait) and a Leica M10r. I very much like retro dial cameras and so I recently purchased the ZF (honed my photo experience with the FM2 and used Nikon D300s for years) with the 40 and 28 lenses. I forgot how fantastic, natural and vibrant Nikon’s colors are. And that camera is really well built. I do find that micro SD very useful, you forget about it and use it as a backup, like a built-in storage a la Leica M11. I am impressed by how well the ZF handles and feels. I do not use any grip since I only the aforementioned primes, but added the Falcam F38 plate since that is the quick release system of my choice. Thank you.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Thanks for sharing your experience with the Zf. I didn't really use the microSD but I agree with you that it's a useful backup that you can sort of just leave and forget about (there if you need it).

[@cwsam1256]

Nicely done review, thank-you.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Absolute pleasure. Thank you for watching!

[@KnuckleDragger42069]

Great camera review, thorough and thoughtful and didn’t use the word “vibe” once,

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Thanks! Oh no, maybe I should add it here 😂 it’s got the vibes! Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@juliette-mansour]

What a fantastic review of the Zf! You really cover all the angles. I have the 28mm f/2, 40 f/2, for street, the 50 f/1.8 for a variety of types of photography and currently, since I no longer have a wildlife camera, the Zf is my temporary birding camera with the 150-500mm - but that's temporary until I eventually decide on the Z6iii or Z8. Ultimately, I want the Zf to only use small primes, as you mention. Thanks so much!

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Thanks Juliette! Interesting choice as a birding camera considering the lack of grip. Personally I'd go for the Z8 for birding simply as it has a few more pixels. For larger wildlife that would be less of an issue and I certainly had no problem with the 24mp of hte Zf photographing lemurs. With birds though, the 45mp of the Z8 would make a big difference. Thanks for watching and for the comment.

[@juliette-mansour]

@@emilvonmaltitz yes, it's definitely a band-aid/temporary solution whilst my bank account recovers! I do have a grip as well. Next year if Nikon doesn't come up with something more compelling, I'll pick up the Z8. Birding is where I spend 20% or less of my time anyway. Street photography is my #1 love and the Zf is fantastic for that, as you showed. Thank you!

[@emilvonmaltitz]

@@juliette-mansour I suspect an upgrade to the Z7ii, but it’ll have a similar price jump as the Z6ii to Z6iii…geez but cameras are expensive 😬

[@juliette-mansour]

@@emilvonmaltitz they sure are!! In that case, I would just get the Z8

[@curiouslizard]

Nice review and discussion. I run my Zf just like I ran my FM series cameras for decades. Shortly after purchase I spent two weeks in India with 28 f2.8, 40 f/2 and 85 f/1.8 primes. The camera and lenses were exactly what I needed for my travel and documentary photography. I’m so pleased, classic Nikon form and function. I use it with the rear screen flipped to the closed position.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Pretty much how I would prefer to use it...although I think I'd look at some of the manual focus alternatives that come with a....aperture ring 🙃

[@tomegel659]

Great detailed and thorough review! I use the Zf for travel with the 24-70/4 and 14-30/4. For street, I like the Z 28/2.8 and for night, the Z 40/2. Instead of an L-bracket, I use the grip from Neweer. It has a 1/4” threaded hole on the side where I can attach a small Arca plate for when I need to shoot in portrait orientation.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

I’ll look into that grip idea. The lenses are exactly the one’s I’d recommend if someone came to me asking about a travel setup.

[@texturner5940]

I'm lucky enough to be able to own an F3 and Zf, and totally agree with you on that one. Much more like the F3!

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Thanks Tex! Yup, it makes for a very familiar shooting experience with lenses that have an aperture ring.

[@texturner5940]

@@emilvonmaltitz I'm looking forward to the getting my hands on one of the new 35 or 50mm f1.4 Z lenses with the aperture control ring!

[@emilvonmaltitz]

@@texturner5940 I'm keen to see how they fare. Like the focus ring, it's by wire so the feel is going to be very different to a traditional aperture ring I suspect.

[@texturner5940]

​​@@emilvonmaltitzI've got the 24-70mm f2.8 Z lens, fly by wire aperture ring isn't the best. Too easy to bump and stop down 2 stops accidentally

[@richardlucascronley5128]

So glad i have a ZF!!

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Just waiting to get my own (and not one on loan)

[@richardlucascronley5128]

@@emilvonmaltitz theres some popping up used online in good shape, could probably save yourself a few hundred buck

[@Cotictimmy]

I shoot D3x & D3s now and I have a D610 too. All of those bought cheaply used. The Zf seems like my next camera but it's too expensive for now, but I think it will hit my price point used in the next year. I shot with FE & FE2 back in the day and my Dad had an F3, so I think the Zf will suit me very well.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

One of the things that will really surprise you is the size and weight reduction from the D3x. I am also waiting for the used and demo sales to come out as the Zf is a phenomenal all-rounder (just with dial user interface). My take-away ultimately is that if you enjoyed shooting with a FE2/FM2/F3 then you'll enjoy the Zf. Other photographers who cut their teeth on F801/F90/F80s might not enjoy the full dial approach as much.

[@Cotictimmy]

@@emilvonmaltitz Yes - I liked the FE film bodies, but I also really like the F90 & F100 bodies. The Zf shutter shutter speed dial is in whole stops, so (personally) at this point I have no intention of using the top dial that way. I will set it to allow me use the front & rear control wheels for my shutter speeds in 1/3rd stops - as I do currently on my DSLRs

[@artsilva]

Thank you!!! FINALLY, someone who knows what they are talking about in regards of what the Zf resembles. I too have shot Nikon FE and some FM bodies since the late 70s so I know these cameras quite intimately. The marketing that worked for the Zfc does not work with the Zf. It does NOT look like an FM2 but more like an FE or FE2, anyone with two eyes can see it, just look at the prism housing/nameplate shapes. I also agree that the body bulk does match the F3 but in all esthetics and handling it is a digital FE and the Zfc is the FM/FM2 (again looking at the prism/name plate shapes. I think the ones pushing this incorrect marketing matchups are either lazy to look for themselves and have Never used the FE and FM bodies or even the F3, or are gullible to follow incorrect marketing which is a fail on whoever from Nikon marketing put that info out. Looking at the Zf and Zfc, they Both can not be an FM2-like while ignoring the FE/FE2 which in my five decade experience the better camera.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Yes, when I picked up the Zfc for the first time it was definitely closer in feel and size (but not quality) to the FM. The Zf on the other hands feels much more sturdy in the hand (like it can handle the abuse a working PJ would throw at it), but it is not small like an FM would be.

[@Choetaesun]

Your concept is exact what I want to say!

[@mikiethebikie]

I am with you on the idea of primes.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

I would have loved to have tried out the Nikon primes, but sadly I wasn’t sent any of those to play with. Nikon needs to make more I think

[@prehim-preetamnegi9088]

Well said. Nikon's amazing allround FX camera. Nice AF, nice low light performer, great stabilization. I Owen and wish another backup Zf after testing high priced Z8 and Z9.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

@@prehim-preetamnegi9088 I suspect the Zf may get some nice discounts to differentiate from the Z6iii later this year… will make it even more attractive

[@kentkochheiser911]

Excellent review, thank you. I’ve had mine nearly since release and being comfortable with dials and manual focus, I really enjoy using the Zf with Voigtlander’s native Z mount lenses. The subject detect with manual focus lenses, especially in low light and with magnification is for me a game changer. If you get a chance to try a Zf with the Voigtlander 40 f/1.2 you’ll be amazed. Thanks again for a well thought out review.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Thanks Kent. That does sound like a nice setup. I'm still on my DSLRs for the time being (this was a loaner unit from Nikon South Africa), but would like to now get my own Zf. Absolutely loved using it and would really enjoy it with Native Z-mount manual glass (I quite like the look of the new Nonikkor lenses although I have yet to see how good they are optically.

[@FWoods-g5z]

Thank you for the great review! I went straight on to your engaging video on portrait shooting - it opens up one's view!. I have come to adore my Pen-F and for two reasons - it inspires you to pick it up and play, and, as you mention, it makes people lower their guard. It is disarming because it doesn't look like it will capture every pore when taking a close up and at the same time is charming with nostalgia. Hopefully my newly purchased Zf will have the same effect. I've already come to miss the resistance of the EV dial and perfectly placed and sized aperture dial on the Pen-F, things I'm sure I will get used to or swap around. Another notable difference seems the Zf's insistence on altering the exposure settings in aperture priority mode with matrix metering when only changing the focus point. Puzzling indeed.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

You sort of nailed it with commenting that a camera makes you want to use it (in relation to your Olly). I suspect that the Zf will have a similar effect to your own desire to shoot. What a lot of pundits forget is that the vast majority of photographers are shooting out of pleasure, not in pursuit of some pinnacle of image quality (although that would be nice) or for a demanding client. So, yes, the camera needs to also have a gestalt that makes you want to use it. The Pen F has that I think, as does the Zf. Earlier Fujifilms had it too, more so the earlier models than the current generation IMO which are becoming more like their competitors in form. I didn't come across the issue you are having with metering though. One thing to note regarding that though is that the matrix metering recalculates based on the focus point itself...giving that point priority. Probably why you are seeing the exposures changes there.

[@FWoods-g5z]

@@emilvonmaltitz Thank you for your reply! Letting go of a pursuit of image quality - near perfect crispness, superb composition and a colour contrast to get any photographer to check twice - is liberating when one concedes you're not going to come close. Now it becomes a pursuit of capturing that of emotional value to oneself and those around you, within the limits of your own aptitude and willingness to put in the work. And, like you implied, a camera that stimulates play and creativity will encourage you to keep picking it up and have fun, even when humbled by one's own limits. Too bad this visceral experience cannot be listed in a specifications table. There's another unquantifiable property these cameras have, it makes people strike up a conversation. As you mentioned yourself, it often starts along the lines of "does it take film?". My workflow used to be to take in the scene, adapt the EV to my subject in combination with matrix metering. Now that, as you say, the focus point adds more weight to the metering my workflow will have to change. Changing platforms keeps you on your toes, testing one's fundamentals!

[@villegas24]

I just received mine and I love it so much. A few years ago I was sad thinking Nikon dropped the ball and would eventually go out of business but I am happy to see they are back in the game.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

So far they have had marketing successes with the Z9, Z8 and (I think some photographers were surprised here) the Zf… Nikon is on a roll at the moment. Next week should be interesting.

[@andretim75]

Amazing review -- totally convincing ! Subscribed !

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Thanks Andre! and thanks for the subscribe!

[@markusbuechter3766]

Thank you for this in depth review. If you like manual lenses, try the Voigtländer 40mm 1.2 Z mount version. You take full advantage of the eye focus control in manual mode if you shoot portraits. This lens is more or less glue to my Zf.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Thanks Markus. Eventually I’d like to. I’ve always loved the voigtlanders I’ve owned.

[@jameskezman]

Fantastic review!!

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Thanks James!

[@AdamAllen]

Great review. I'm certainly one of those users who lives in the BW switch. Also, Nikon really needs more smaller lenses. I hate that there isn't a 35mm & 50mm "SE" lens.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Artralab have an interesting and hopefully expanding range of ‘Nonikkor’ lenses which are modern mirrorless optical in Ai looking housing. Look amazing on the Zf…curious how sharp they are

[@AmbercoolPhotography]

I agree with everything

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Thanks!

[@rajeshjantilal]

hey emil. great in depth review. however, me wonders why you dont have a zf/ i am a documentary/p/journalism tog.... have shot FM'2 back in the day... but you dont own a zf?cheers

[@SLEHphoto]

An interesting look at a beautiful camera that can indeed be a powerful and advanced all-rounder if you can come to terms with the user concept. Best regards SLEH

[@emilvonmaltitz]

In a nutshell that’s it. You either like the dial concept or not. Thanks for watching.

[@EisenheimHendrix]

What I can see is the Zf is a more modern camera, something for future film makers and photographers.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

It’s absolutely very modern with it’s autofocus, vibration reduction and ability to record N-Log 4k. It just has a nostalgic twist to its form.

[@merricfoley6481]

I’m not even in the market for this camera, but a brilliant review. Wish more product reviews were this good.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Thanks Merric! Glad you enjoyed it.

[@jtes1442]

I’ve been using the ZF for travel over the past two months. It’s visually stunning but has poor handling. On the plus side, the autofocus is excellent. I appreciate everything about it except for the flippy screen, which is cumbersome for street photography. Previously, I had an XT5, which I traded for the ZF. The Fuji was more user-friendly thanks to its screen, joystick, and customizable buttons.

[@davidgaritta9195]

same here. Traded the XT5 for the ZF and no regrets from that exchange. ZF's AF and low light performances tops Fuji by a mile

[@emilvonmaltitz]

I’m also not sold on the flippy screen after having used it. I think for street and travel the older tilt screen is actually more useable…but then again if you want to go all retro (not really) you can reverse the flippy screen to hide it (faux retro)

[@emilvonmaltitz]

And your thoughts on the IQ for landscape. 24mp is definitely enough but I’m guessing a lot of buyers will look at and he tempted by the 40mp on the Fuji.

[@helmutsassenfeld8002]

Great review. Any issues with keeping the sensor clean? It’s zf or z8 for me. If the zf had a few more megapixels for cropping and a sensor shield, it would be an easy choice

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Same issues as any mirrorless unfortunately. Although cleaning is easier than with a DSLR since the sensor is so close to the mount. The Zf and Z8 are chalk and cheese though. The Z8 is sized more like the D850 (with similar weight too) while the Zf is quite a lot lighter and smaller. Even the feature sets are different. I’d decide based on your non-negotiables. If max sensor resolution is important, go Z8

[@helmutsassenfeld8002]

@@emilvonmaltitz do you have a z8 ? Does the shield reduce cleaning? My camera has been the D700 since 2008 so the z8 would be very familiar. I haven’t had to clean its sensor yet!Full frame big prints from the D700 are great but even a 2X crop hurts quality. The zf reminds me of my older beautiful film Nikons but I love the possibility of a 4x crop on 45mp having the same quality as the D700 full frame.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

@@helmutsassenfeld8002 I am still a DSLR user: D850, D780 and a backup D800e. I get to shoot with mirrorless when I get loan gear from Nikon SA and with photographers who join me on workshops. One day I’ll probably get a z8 as it’s the logical lateral move from the D850 into Mirrorless. Right now though, as a working professional, as much as I love the mirrorless cameras I’ve worked with, financially it still makes sense for me to stick with what I have (until it dies and I have to get mirrorless).

[@MiladJP]

You have absolutely nailed it! I was not expecting anything and got convinced that I’ll switch now my system to the Nikon zf ! Thank you for this great review

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Thanks! I appreciate the feedback.

[@bcBiz]

Dag Se from Canada. Fabulous review. I switched most of my DSLR lenses with the execption of the 105f1.4, use it on the D850. I can use my Nikon lenses from 1969, the old Ai lenses. Tried the manual lenses, but desided to go native and have a range of Z lenses. By the way, I think I saw Durban Photo, if yes, does Whysals museum still exist? Thanks again

[@emilvonmaltitz]

More meneer! Ja, the ‘native’ Z lenses are fantastic and probably the primary reason for me wanting to go mirrorless. At the moment though clients can’t tell the difference so although I really want to own a Zf, I still have my D850s which tock along paying the bills. Sadly Whysalls closed down several years ago. Bit of a palaver there as well. The owners literally upped and left without even informing the staff. They all arrived at work and there was no one to open up. Debts and a quiet emigration apparently.

[@emyoswald]

I upgraded from an 11 year old d5100 to the Zf in October 2023. ANY camera coming from that would be a massive improvement, but I've adored my time with it, especially since I went from being a 19/20 year old enthusiast to a professional photographer and videographer looking to do more personal and freelance work (we shoot Sony at dayjob, but I prefer Nikon's UI and already had the lenses). The dials are more intuitive for me, and I'm definitely a sucker for retro-inspired aesthetics, but it's genuinely just a solid camera.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

That's a massive upgrade! Also interested to hear how you are bouncing between such wildly different UI's - that can't be easy. Possibly that's why you are finding the dials intuitive...holding the Zf is very different to shooting with a Sony or even the Nikon DSLRs, and possibly that's a good thing if you are working between systems.

[@emyoswald]

@@emilvonmaltitz honestly I don’t think they’re that different; mostly just a few key menu changes to remember (the worst being making new folders in Nikon). I will say that my boss’s kit is Canon, from a team merger before I got here, and the menu system for THAT does not stick in my head for love or money, so mostly I give the 5D and C200 to our student worker and keep the Sonys for myself 😂 he does use the FX3 some tho!

[@jeffmerheb3182]

What do you think of the 24mm f1.8 S on the Zf? I am used to use 24mm fast lens for all my photography (travel,street, landscape...)

[@emilvonmaltitz]

The lens itself is a fantastically sharp lens. I've only had a chance to play with it and don't know it intimately, but other photographers who have it say it's fantastic. It doesn't feel quite as robust as some of the other f2.8 zooms (my impression when holding it). The only niggle I personally have with the lens is the long shape, which doesn't suit the Zf for street. Again, an entirely personal feeling. For travel and street I would love to see the diminutive Tamron 24mm f2.8 come out in Z mount, but it hasn't...so the Nikkor 24mm 1.8S is probably the best 24mm option for the Z system.

[@jeffmerheb3182]

@emilvonmaltitz I agree , I would have gone with the 26mm f2.8 but it's lacking sharpness corner to corner , sunstars are meh, and I love to have f1.4 or f1 8 for low light streets. I would have preferred a shorter shape for the 24 f1.8 to be perfectly in balance with the retro look of the Zf , nikon should have made it like the sony gm 24mm f1.4, but hey nothing's perfect! I don't take photos as close as you of people, about 5 years of street photos only once I have been notified by a dude in Spain as he was walking with his girlfriend, and I had a smaller lens aka Fujifilm 18mm f1.4 on x-T5

[@photographlisbon]

Are you considering a similar video for the Z6 iii? Trying to decide between the two for urban, low light portraits.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

I would love to. I’m still running a tiny channel so don’t get any preferential treatment from any companies other than Leofoto and Nisi (both the SA distributers) but I’ll he contacting Nikon SA to see if I can.

[@seba3233]

Nice video . for outdoor walks, street and portraits of my little daughter, what do you recommend on Nikon Z f? tamron 28-75mm f2.8 di iii vxd g2 or Nikkor z 24-120 f4 s

[@emilvonmaltitz]

They're both physically larger than I would personally like to be absolutely honest. However, having owned the previous F-mount 24-120, I would say that is a more versatile lens than the 28-75. You go for the latter if you absolutely need the f2.8 I think. Otherwise the wider angle of the 24-120 and longer reach is more versatile.

[@ThePhotographyHobbyist]

10:05 That's a rebranded Tamron lens anyway. I agree about the Nikon 24-70mm f/4 lens. It's compact AND it's outstanding image quality. I'd also much rather have 24mm at the wide end vs 28mm, so that immediately rules out the 28-75 for me...and the fact that I'm sold on the Nikon made Z mount lenses after all that I've used...they're just a bit better or (or more) in some cases than the rebranded 3rd party lenses or 3rd party lenses in general.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

I have to admit I have been happy with the recent Tamron lenses on my F-mount cameras (I use the G2 70-200mm f2.8 regularly). The 28-75 was fantastic optically, but it just doesn't have the same build quality as the Nikkor 24-70 f4. Like you, I prefer the wider 24mm at the wide end.

[@bernardlesperance742]

Great review. Thanks. I'm still with Nikon DSLRs as I haven't liked the EVFs with Z bodies - though I haven't tried the ones on the Z8 and Z9 yet, which I'm told are as close to optical viewfinders as you can get. Still, I suspect they would also feel like I'm looking at a 50's TV screen - which I don't at all like. So I'll very likely stick with my DSLRs (D810, D3X) for a good while yet. Also much prefer the DSLR lenses - and wouldn't relish making them longer (and less balanced) with an adapter. 'If it ain't broke, no need to "fix" it.'

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Thanks Bernard. I haven't had much chance to shoot with a Z8 and Z9 (only a cursory play so far) but yes, the EVF is really good...but not exactly like an OVF yet. Close...but you'll know the difference. The one area where an OVF still excels in my opinion is still in the studio. Yes, the EVF boosts the shadows etc, but it's replaced by noise. So I personally still prefer an OVF in studio. There's a part of me (quite a big part) that regrets selling my D3x. Its sensor has a certain look to the files that I have always loved. Definitely not as high dynamic range and highlight retention than my D850, but used carefully a really excellent colour response with a noise pattern that looked more like grain than digital noise.

[@HustleHue]

AMAZING VIDEO!

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Thanks so much Jeremy!

[@scottfreckle237]

The B&W dial for me is a fantastic thing, I shoot around 90% for B&W and on my D610 I just have the picture control set to MC so that when I review the image on the screen it's in B&W even though I shoot raw so the actual file is still being recorded as a colour image, I can't wait to try out the B&W setting, I can see that for anyone who never or rarely shoots to edit in B&W that the dial is pointless but when you think this camera is definitely aimed at older photographers like me who grew up using slr film cameras the B&W switch makes perfect sense and will get used a lot.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

I've been called out by more than one viewer that I was being unfair about the B&W switch...happy to concede this point...What it shows is perhaps that Nikon did their homework in adding it.

[@felm.974]

I fully disagree about the B&W button lol. I love it :)

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Fair enough! I concede my view is in the minority considering some of the other comments 😂

[@Renzsu]

I have a Leica M10 and a Nikon Z6. I'm all for small primes. 28mm, 50mm.. possibly a 90mm, that's all you need really. I'm now really tempted to get the Zf in combination with the Techart TZM-02 autofocus adapter. That way I can use my tiny Leica primes with state of the art autofocus. A potentially amazing combination. The pixel shift functionality will be great as well for digitising my medium format film. I for now though I've just ordered the adapter, and I'll use it on my Z6 for a while before deciding on the Zf (or Z6III?).

[@emilvonmaltitz]

To use pixel shift for digitising film! That IS an interesting idea 💡 I use my D850 to digitise my 6x4,5 negs, but I think you’re on to something with the pixelshift to do that!

[@Renzsu]

@@emilvonmaltitz I saw a few videos on that and the idea is that by using the pixel shift functionality, you record all the pixels you miss out on with a bayer filter sensor. So grain is much more clear and precise, like you would get from a monochrome sensor. I would probably still only use it for quality scans that I plan on printing, because of the extra steps and effort involved. But it seems to be worth it.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

@Renzsu if I get the opportunity to test this out I will. Sadly I don't have the Zf currently as it was a loaner camera from Nikon South Africa. I'll be sure to 'scan' some film if I get it back though]

[@briancarlisle2534]

I am racking my brain here. I don’t shoot video and I feel I just bought the z6iii wasting my money and should have kept my Zf. I have the 180-600, 24-120, and the 105. It was the ergonomics that I could get used to. But I do shoot wildlife, I shoot landscape, and I do shoot macro. I don’t have the money for the Z8, so I’m your honest opinion, should I trade my z6iii back to the Zf? Or just keep the Z6iii and get used to it? I’m no professional, but I do love to print and I do love to post my pictures. Help me make up my mind.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

That's a tough one Brian. The Z6iii is a better video camera than the Zf, period. The Zf uses the older sensor which actually has more dynamic range at base ISO than the new semi0stacked sensor that the Z6iii uses. So on paper potentially the Zf is possibly a better stills camera. But that's splitting hairs I suspect. Both are excellent. My personal opinion is to choose the camera that feels the most comfortable 'in hand'. I loved the Zf for its dials, retro feel, and how it worked with short telephoto lenses. With longer zooms I suspect that the Z6iii would be my preference. Were I in the same situation, I probably wouldn't have bought the Z6iii (if I already owned the Zf). However, if I had, I'd just stick with the Z6iii and spend some time getting used to it (unless you you really hate the ergonomics).

[@dennisjones5579]

Where did you purchase the Leofoto LPN-Zf bracket? I'm unable to locate it on Amazon. Thanks for the great video

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Unfortunately I didn't. That's the one I recommend though. I ended up having to get a 3-Legged Thing Eliie Short which I had to modify to fit properly (not ideal). Check with your local Leofoto supplier for the LPN-Zf (in South Africa I can help get it on special order).

[@johnyoung1606]

Why the newest FTZ adapter over the first Nikon Branded FTZ ???? ThankYou for a great review :) :) :)

[@emilvonmaltitz]

I cut a long section explaining it. The problem is that you cannot change between f-mount lenses on the FTZ and Z-mount lenses while on a tripod. You have to remove the camera from the tripod to mount the new lens. The foot on the old FTZ means you can’t remove the adapter while mounted to a tripod.

[@johnyoung1606]

@@emilvonmaltitz K thanks for the quick response!! I will try to look thru all of Your videos for Jewels of Wisdom :) I seldom use a tripod when I would not be using a Z lens (the older lenses in most cases are a bit lacking in IQ (My opinion)) Although I do have a spot in My heart for some F lenses such as the 105mm AFS f1.4E (they are almost all good if not great if stopped down sufficiently)... But the Z Primes are Stunning !!!!!!!! :) :) :)

[@stevegodsell]

I really get why this is an attractive camera, and thanks for the great video. But after trying this against a Fujifilm XT series, the results are so similar that the lightness of the Fuji system does make that a more compelling argument.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

And you wouldn't be wrong. Nikon have very stiff and established competition in the form of Fujifilm. The latter will always be smaller and lighter thanks to the smaller sensor requiring physically less glass in the lenses. I have been absolutely stunned by the IQ out of the XT-5 (a very popular camera on the workshops that we run) and still own and use a very beat up XT-1. Build quality wise though I'd say the Nikon just pips the Fujifilm. If you are more used to the Nikon colour or already have a phalanx of Nikon lenses, then the Zf makes a lot of sense (or if full-frame is important to you). If weight is the primary concern though, then Fujifilm wins outright over the Nikon system as a whole.

[@artgreen6915]

26:14 sorry I didn't understand the point here. Focussing on stars with the EVF on, instead of .....? I think you're comparing with DSLR live view on poor back screens maybe, but compared with current mirrorless what is your point? 'Or, the EVF of something like the Z6 or Z7'. Why were you squinting with their EVFs but not the Zf? Edit: oic you meant the EVF purely as a representation, it was the underlying improvement in the sensor's mid/high ISO noise that was represented in the EVF? But doesn't the Zf have the same sensor as the Z6ii? I'm still confused.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Yup, it is the same sensor but Nikon seems to have eked out better viewing of dark subjects. I had a photographer with me who had the Z7ii and the viewing experience between the two was completely different. It might be 'starlight view' which is new to Nikon cameras from the Z8 onwards. Either way, photographing the night sky was significantly easier with the Zf than with the Z7ii (and the Z6ii from my previous experience with it in Botswana).

[@DrZeeple]

Hurray, no time wasted on specs!

[@vickosis]

Great review which I enjoyed watching even though I already knew most of it. I'd say that with an addition of the optional grip from 3rd parties like SmallRig the Zf is capable of holding largere lenses. I've used my 105mm prime on it with FTZ and I managed just fine although not quite as comfortable as the Z6. Very capable AF although some of my picks were still not in focus even though I got the green confirmation even in AF-C, to a point I got just as many keepers with a Z fc using the same lens at the same event/conditions. Mind you this could be due to my custom focus area setup or because I was shooting in silent mode, but definitely the AF does indeed feel like a major upgrade. You covered most things, although I'm not sure you mentioned starlight view or eye detect/subject tracking capability using manual lenses which in my opinion is another huge plus as you can also zoom in 100% to the eye by pressing the OK button and tweak manual focus to get even more keepers. It's like you say the Zf is a great camera for most types of photography 😊

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Thanks! I didn't specifically mention starlight view, but I did chat about the 'see in the dark ability' of the camera, particularly when photographing the stars. I've never had it this easy in focusing on stars for astro-photography. Probably the easiest set up and focusing I've ever had for photographing the MW.

[@jenslorat5483]

How was your experience in regards of dirt on the sensor?

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Not the best, not the worst. Like all mirrorless cameras it is more susceptible to collecting crud on the sensor (compared to DSLRs) but I was able to clean it fairly easily (blower several times and one wet clean…which was not a surprise considering how dusty Madagascar is in the south).

[@warthog123]

How do you feel about using the 40mm f2 instead of the voigander with ftz.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

It makes for a smaller lighter package and is probably optically better (the voigtlander is an older optical design as far as I know and older lens on top of that). I do love the ‘character’ of my voigtlander but would happily use the native z-mount nikkor. I was just using what I already have.

[@mikh8l]

I shoot raw too, but do use the B&W switch for doing Manual Focus.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

I've seen that a few times now in the comments. If I get the camera back again I'll give that a go. I was using the peaking for the most part.

[@allenschneider1847]

Do any of the lenses for this camera have a aperture ring on the lense?

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Unfortunately none of the new Nikkor lenses have an aperture ring...it's something I feel is lacking from the user experience of the Zf. If you want aperture rings you have to go for the new Chinese manufactured manual focus lenses

[@tomashalmstad5188]

@@emilvonmaltitz the latest Voigtländer Z-native lenses have aperture rings and give eye and face recognition and green colour confirmation of focus with manual focus. Thanks for an excellent video.

[@montycraig5659]

The card slot is like my D7000. I like having dual slots.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

It has dual…just not perfect dual slots (a micro SD is a pain on the …) I think of dual slots of equal caliber are required then the Z6iii is a better bet.

[@trockenfish]

Fantastic in-depth review, thank you very much! I own the ZF since March and am also more than happy. It takes time to dial in and get used to its controls but it it more capable than I will ever need realistically. Totally agree that the small lens setup is the way to go. Hence I got the 28mm + 40mm Z, both of which are great. But I just had to get the 24-120mm Z for its versatility and image quality as well as the FTZ II adapter so that I can continue to use my beloved F mount lenses.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Thanks for sharing. I suspect I’d also go for the 28+40 (although I really wish we could get a small 24mm). As I’m still a DSLR user (until they die) it’s still just wish-list creation though 😜

[@karlbratby4349]

awesome, would be interested to know if you bought one for yourself after this experince?

[@emilvonmaltitz]

I would love to! I'm still in the F-mount family until my D850s die. If I had the available cash though I would pick one up.

[@jonbarnard7186]

It's a shame Nikon chose to go with the fully articulating screen instead of a tilt up screen. Of course, very few cameras have a flip-up screen these days, which is too bad, because I find those articulating screens to be a pain in the ass, especially if you use an L-bracket. But now everything has to be a vlogging camera. Still, I'm a bit surprised at Nikon's choice, given the aesthetic and ethos of the camera. For me, it would be a perfect body if not for the screen. Still, I have a feeling I'll buy this thing one day. It's such a nice camera. I would love to walk around with this thing with the the 28 or 26mm attached. That would be a great walk-around camera. Great review.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

It's interesting to see the split reactions to the articulating screen. Some viewers think it's Nikon 'catching up', while otehrs miss the old swivel screen. It depends what you are using it for really. For dedicated video operators I get the articulating screen, but for candid, street and general stills photography I prefer the tilt screen as you mention. Then again I have also seen photographers flip the Zf's screen around so that they can't see it at all...further enhancing the 'retro' feel to the camera. I agree with you about the articulating screen being a pain with L-brackets!

[@heinzkreutziger2218]

Very good review. Do you have also experience with the Zfc ? I know it is an APS C camera rather than an fullframe camera. The zfc is simply more affordable for me.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

I do. I have had several photographers join workshops with it and have also had it on loan for a week to play with. The two cameras are world's apart unfortunately. Think of the Zfc as a Z50 mkii in a 'retro-ish' styled body. The body is somewhat more 'plastic-icky' feeling compared to the Zf which really feels sturdy in hand. Image quality is great for an APS-C camera with a 20mp sensor and it is a lot fun to shoot with. It's also super light so makes a great travel camera. BUT, if you compare the Fujifilm XT-2 (an older camera) with the Zfc, the former feels more robust. As much as I am a Nikon fan, if you are going for the smaller sensor, look at the Fuji as an alternative. Or else save up for the Zf (and well-heeled amateurs are going to sell the Zf secondhand as they get fomo with the new Z6iii) which you really won't regret.

[@munkmegtube]

I set my BW in deep tone filter it’s so nice

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Yup, I've had several viewers call me out for my bias 😂 happy to concede that it's useful for many.

[@TheJoaovascorodrigue]

How about its weight? For me, it is important the weight for travel I have a very old D200, yes prehistoric, and it is sooo heavy I don't use it.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Hi Joao, if the D200 weight is too much for your personal use, the Zf - or any full-frame camera - is going to have the same concern for you. That said, the Zf is 200g lighter than the D200 was (710g with battery compared to 920g). If you get small primes then the weight stays down. As soon as you get any of the new S-line zooms though, then the weight advantage disappears. If weight and size are your biggest concerns I would consider Fujifilm. The smaller APS-C sensor means for a smaller lens and will also be familiar to you from the D200's format. Even an old (and now cheap) XT-2 will feel like it's lightyears ahead of the D200 and will weigh next to nothing compared to it (507g with battery).

[@TheJoaovascorodrigue]

@@emilvonmaltitz I've been looking at Fuji, but as I also like to make Milky way and I do not know if a APS-C produces noise. Thank you for your comprehensive answer. Really helps. Regards

[@emilvonmaltitz]

For MW I've certainly found that the cleanest images seem to come from the crop of 24mp FF cameras out there. However, the workshops we run through Nature's Light have a large number of Fujifilm users and they seem to get pretty good results with the right lenses (wide aperture 10 and 12mm optics). I'd suggest renting a Fujifilm setup for a night shoot to see how you find it. I still own and occasionally use a very beat up Fuji XT-1 and happily used it for nighttime MW timelapses with a Samyang 12mm f2 lens.

[@TheJoaovascorodrigue]

@@emilvonmaltitz Awesome, thanks for the advise! Great work.

[@vasvao]

you should review the ZF with a Techart M to Z AF adapter with Leica M lens, I think it's perfect for street photography

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Would love to… anyone offering to lend me one?

[@HerrSpuzzmacher]

I think the Zf more closely resembles the size & mass of my F2, which is a pretty big slab of metal. I wish the Zf were more compact & had the larger grip of the F3/FA & cant the batt on a 45, and the hinged lcd vs the goofy pivoting thing for waist level. & maybe knobs that arent 2x high for some strange reason. Just shrink it Nikon! And hire someone to fix the wireless connectivity to tethered shooting so we can actually focus accurately when doing those huge 96mp pixel shift comps.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Hmmm, I think the F2 is maybe a bit heavier. The viewfinder experience is more is more akin to the f3's HP viewfinder. But I mean there isn't exactly a mountain of difference between the F2 and the F3 size wise. Comes more down to how you hold the camera as the shutter button placement is slightly different and there's that tiny grip on the F3. The F2 is maybe 2mm longer but the width and height are the same (looking my two copies on my desk...love both of them).

[@bsc001]

Het jou video geniet, dankie Emil. Echo wat jy sê, dis ‘n baie lekker travel-camera. Groete vanuit Melbourne.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Baie dankie meneer!

[@bsc001]

@@emilvonmaltitz Cheers Emil. Will subscribe, would be nice to catch-up and buy you a coffee, when I visit South Africa again. Will relocate to Portugal end of September, probably pop over in December. Chat later again, enjoy that side!

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Absolutely. Give me a shout if you're near Durban!

[@enshongmiranda]

For the B&W switch to be more useful, I wish Nikon would let users set it to JPEG only separately from regular photo mode. Also have photo and video settings be separate. Let users save settings when on video mode (maybe make it command dial based, instead of reading the analog dials).

[@emilvonmaltitz]

That’s an excellent idea!

[@davidroberts6766]

Fantastic video. I bought the Zf with travel in mind. I did a Europe trip last year with the Z7II and it was exceptional. However, I wanted a camera that had upgraded autofocus, but which would also worked well with my vast MF Nikkor and Voigtlander collections. At 60 this year, lighter gear, overall, has a real appeal.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Thanks, It fefinitekly i a great camera for photographers wanting to use their older gear...of course any camera with an adapter does that fine, but the Zf just seems the 'right' camera to do it with ;)

[@webersteve1547]

Very helpfull, thank you

[@emilvonmaltitz]

It's a pleasure. Thanks for watching

[@juergen-schanz]

This video was very helpful, but also expensive for me.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Glad it was helpful Juergen...sorry about it hitting the pocket though.

[@Daniel_Zalman]

I’m not sure why you are recommending the 24-70 f4 over the 28-75 2.8 based on the parameters that you’ve outline. The 2.8 lens is only 65 grams heavier and has a smaller filter diameter of 67mm vs 72mm.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

It’s not just about weight. It’s the overall dimensions. The 28-75 is quite a bit longer than the 24-70. As a walk around lens I also personally prefer the wider end of the 24-70. That doesn’t make it the right choice for everyone though, and the 28-75 is optically really good. For me though the eventual size of the lens and body (zf and its ergonomics in particular) tip the scales toward the 24-70.

[@Rios278]

My only real complaint is the 1/8000 sec as max. electronic shutter. Even my Fuji XE4 has an ES up till 1/25000 sec. Work around is a obviously a ND filter.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

I’m not really sure I follow. What are you photographing that you need such a high speed? I can’t off the top of my head think of a situation where one would need an ND to restrict the light to 1/8000th of a sec. It’s usually the opposite. Is it quite a specific thing you are photographing?

[@KeAiFu]

If I want a full frame allrounder und travel camera - I would take the Sony A7CII - smaller, better haptic, better sensor and wider choice of lenses.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

The A7CII is an excellent camera, but if you are a Nikon user the Zf is probably the more likely choice. If you mean 'haptic' as in how the camera operates, that's a very personal preference regardless of which camera one selects. I know photographers who far prefer the feel and control of a camera like the Zf, and others who prefer the more modern UI of a camera like the Sony A7C.

[@ultrasonicradiation]

Just needs sigma contemporary lenses to make the ZF perfect

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Possibly. The Contemporary lenses are just big and heavy though (although optically superb 👌). I personally think Tamron’s tiny 2.8 primes are a better for travel photography. They don’t match the optical limits of some of Sigma’s best IMO though.

[@ultrasonicradiation]

@@emilvonmaltitz What are you talking about? Sigma’s contemporary 17mm f4, 24mm f3.5, 45mm f2.8, and 90mm f2.8 are lightest in their class. Their F2 are also extremely light and well built for its price.

[@jtes1442]

Regular cameras are not intimidating. It’s just that people more than ever seem to be more concerned about their privacy. The ZF is a great camera but the screen is not great for street use unless of course you want to use it like an old school SLR and not have a screen to look at. I had both the ZF and Fuji XT5 for about 5 months, but despite the superior AF and lowlight capabilitiues of the ZF ,I kept the XT5.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Like you, I'm not a huge fan of the swivel lcd, but for every photographer who dislikes it, there's one who loves it. Go figure. I disagree about cameras not being intimidating though. I run workshops in Madagascar and Namibia and in some places people who allow us to take photographs, and are aware, of what a camera is, react very differently to being photographed with something like a XT-5 or Zf, to when they are photographed with a D5 and 24-70mm f2.8 lens (or Canon 1Dxiii etc). Yes, a lot of people couldn't care less, but the size of the camera does seem to change whether a person looks more relaxed or is 'tense/nervous' in front of the lens. Just my thoughts though. It might have more to do with the photographer than the camera.

[@EvilTeddie23]

I'm traveling to India again but this time with 2x Zf's and Voigtlander Z primes (and 1 adapted Voigtlander M F2.8 color Skoper II). I'll shoot 28mm F2.8 on one and 75mm F1.5 on the other. Also taking the 40mm F1.2 Z and 15mm Z. I personally feel the Zf is NOT a great street camera because it is way too big. I use a Ricoh GR III or GR film camera for that, but it depends on how you shoot street. I believe Daido Moriyama said it perfectly. It's not the person you are pointing the camera at that is the issue, it's everyone else around the area that sees you. You effectively pollute the scene by sticking something like a Zf in someone's face.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Nailed it with ‘depends on how you shoot’. I know street photographers who reckon the best street camera is a cell phone or a disposable film camera.

[@EvilTeddie23]

@@emilvonmaltitz It depends how close you want to get and whether you want to be seen.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

@@EvilTeddie23 my style of photography tends towards engagement of the subject, as opposed to candid capture (I’ve never really felt comfortable with the latter…personal choice no judgement made to either style) so although the Zf is bigger than something like the GR, it’s still significantly smaller than a D6 with f2.8 zoom.

[@ladymary22]

Its versatility interests me. It ends up being economical

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Yes, I’d agree with that comment. Particularly with the launch of the Z6iii. The Zf comes out as the very closely capable in every department, but more affordable option… you just have to be okay with the user interface.

[@bobjohnson9597]

Sad to say I chose the extremely Woke company Panasonic S5ii as I didnt like my Fuji XE camera with the similar dials approach layout for street photography. I really regret that decision now. I didnt realize the ZF had the option of the PASM option and I didnt realize it had the flippy screen as the Z6ii I held in the store had a tilt only screen. People need to be patient and hold and try the different cameras if possible before simply looking on line and purchasing. Thank you for such an amazing review.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Thanks for watching and for the comment Bob. The S5ii is an exceptional camera...as with every camera it has it's quirks. Give it some more time and it might grow on you. That's a very valid point about photographers holding and trying a camera personally before purchasing. Right now there are very few cameras that aren't brilliant (the same can be said from camera 8 years ago), but how they feel in hand is wildly different and very subjective for every user. The example I often use is my first 'online' purchase of a Nikon F100 (years ago). Awesome camera, but I couldn't use it for longer than 2 hours at a stretch (event photography etc) without getting a blister on the tip of my right hand ring finger. The grip was just a smidgeon too small. Ended up resorting back to my F4 (still the most comfortable camera I have ever used) and a battery gripped FE2. If I had actually held the F100 in hand before purchasing, I probably wouldn't have bought it.

[@AlanGreenberg-i8p]

I totally love the Zf w/ a Nikkor Z 24-120 for travel and have used it in Japan, US Southwest, Manhattan and others. I pair it with a Leica Q3 for those times I wish to be inconspicuous.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Thanks for sharing. Do you add a grip to better handle the weight of the 24-120?

[@AlanGreenberg-i8p]

@@emilvonmaltitz Thanks, I use the Smallrig grip and find it a great addition. I'm waiting to see if RRS gets off the dime and manufactures a better grip. BTW, using the 24-120 means I never need to travel with any additional lenses. Great review

[@richardbierman9856]

Record limit of 29 minutes? Are you sure about that?

[@emilvonmaltitz]

I’d be thrilled to hear otherwise, but didn’t get a chance to test it directly. When you hit the record button you get the usual countdown timer on the EVF/LCD.

[@richardbierman9856]

@@emilvonmaltitz According to internet. max recording time is 129 minutes!

[@emilvonmaltitz]

@@richardbierman9856 that’s really good to know! Wish I’d had the camera for longer to test, but 2 and a bit weeks was all I could get.

[@gordonyoung1970]

Finally Nikon have caught up with Canon , only 10yrs late, with a fully articulating screen !

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Well, that’s debatable as to whether it’s an improvement. For some photographers the older tilt screen is preferable (I suspect I’m one of them). For others the flippy screen is better. So I don’t really see it as ‘catching’ up. There are pros and cons to both.

[@gordonyoung1970]

@@emilvonmaltitz So whats the CON to the fully articulating screen, and if it were, why Nikon finally deciding to use it. Ive used Nikon ,Sony, Panasonic, and Canon ive never found 1 instance where its been a "CON" on the other hand many times where its been a plus. For some reason Canon doesnt have it on all models I have a 5Dmk4 and an older 6D neither of which has an articulating screen or even a foldable out one. Sony have had articulating screens on most of their video cameras for a long long time, so it cant be a patent reason. The tilt screen is NOT older , or what you mean by older, Canon have used the articulating screen for at least about 12 years or more, being on the Canon. model i was using back then, so you can hardly call it NEW ! About the only possible con, is it sticks out, well only if you need it too, otherwise it folds flat against the body. Ive never come close to damaging or breaking a screen. That would be the owners fault not the screens

[@emilvonmaltitz]

Sorry for taking so long to responding to this @gordonyoung1970 - I kept missing the comment in my feed. We actually had a long discussion around this while in Madagascar during the workshop where I filmed most of this. One of the participants on the workshop is a street photographer by preference and he found that working with the fully-articulating screen was off-putting while shooting candid photography. His preferred style was waist level shooting like we used to do with the old waist level finder on medium format film cameras (yes you can flip out the screen but his comment was that the line-of-sight was now off center from the lens itself, making it harder to compose quickly). Then there was the working on a tripod. If you are shooting vertical, then the fully articulated panel is brilliant. The caveat there is that the articulating panel messes with your use of most L-brackets. If you are shooting on a tripod it's also quicker to use a tilt screen (when you have the camera in horizontal/landscape orientation), but these tilt screens are horrible when shooting vertically. Some photographers like the fact that the fully articulating panel can be reversed, but then you also end up flipping it out constantly which can be irritating...and you always have to flip it out if you want to have it an angle...which takes longer than with a standard tilt screen. Personally I don't think either is better than the other, they're just different. I think I would have preferred a Zf with a tilt screen for my particular style of shooting, but the Z6iii as is with a fully articulated screen (the full articulation does make it easier for rigging cameras for cine work).

[@gordonyoung1970]

@@emilvonmaltitz I apologise in advance for my lengthy reply. If the user ( street photographer) doesnt require it fine, it is horses for courses, i use my viewfinder more than the screen anyway. but as for it getting in the way, thats ridiculous, as it folds flat either open for use, or closed'. in the flat open position it certainly doesnt get in the way of L brackets or on a tripod. Only being able to use the flip screen horizontaly limits it far more then the articulating screen flat open. So I will say i'm generalising about the benefit of the articulating scree, of course there are some who dont require it. I was a Nikon user, then changed to Canon ( not because of the screen) and when Sony brought out they AR7 mk2 I bought with 2 zoom lenses while keeping my extensive Canon equipment. The Sony has the flip screen. I sold off the Sony gear and kept the Canon. Reason , because there were very few 3rd part lens makers offering the Sony Mount at the time, and the price of Sonys lenses, eg I wanted to buy Sony's 100-400, cost was £1850, The Canon L100-400 was slightly over £500 cheaper and with the difference bought the m3 1.4 tele extender. The canon lens is slightly better, But the quality of the Sony body with 40+ mil pixel's was astounding. So its not just about the articulating screen, pros and cons on both sides. All im saying is after years of using both , the articulating screen has been more of a benefit than just the flip out. More so now im in my 70's for those low shots its indispensable, and if your in a big crowd its better for overhead shots as well. Maybe some now fold out at 90 degrees. ? Its also a lot easier to shield the screen in bright sunlight, a shade which can be attached to the fully articulating screen in seconds. Now similar might now be available for the flip screen i am not up to date. Now i go w a a a y back to only fully manual cameras, and used Mamiya C3/C33, so parralax problems, but only until you get used to the camera. Then the Mamiya RB67 with its rotating back, but is an SLR, that rotating back was fantastic when size was everything. as with the normal 6/6 cm you cropped it either horizontal or vertically and lost maybe 20% of the useable film area, the rotating back meant a far larger useable negative area so better quality. No one used 35 mm to photograph weddings back then. So whichever screen your using its a case of adapting to it. My most recent main Camera was the Canon 5D mk4 which had neither of those screens, as was my 6D but nearly every other model had the full articulating screen. Its when you are used to having one then suddenly not having one that you appreciate its versitility. Ive downsized and gone for Canons R8 wirght being more important now , but its half the weight of the 5D mk 4 when both fitted with the 10/400. It too has the fully articulating screen, I always prefered a second body rather than a 2 card slot ( which the 5D mk4 had) and at least 1 cropped sensor body, for that extra reach. Ive added the Canon R100 which is a cropped sensor , but a fixed screen , a TINY camera though almost pocketable depending on the lens. So im not advocating any system as better or worse , just that i find the articulating screen more beneficial than not in certain circumstances

[@alanjones3076]

Almost good “travel” camera. Needs better evf, 5.x and 120 refresh and a 30-40 sensor. Let’s call it what it is, a half ass testing the waters and the CFO should have trusted the idea and Nikon should have dropped the next version first!!!! Also, if Fuji does not get off the myopic X and drop the next xpro as FF, Nikon will crush them with theirs. lol cause ya know it’s coming.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

I don’t really agree. Yes, all the things you mention would he nice, but would drive the price up significantly, and then muddy the water around the Z7ii and 78. I absolutely agree that the points you mention would be wonderful, but completely understand why Nikon didn’t do that (they would also have known about the Z6iii coning out and within a timeframe that they wouldn’t want its sales impacted by the Zf. Fuji are unlikely to come out with FF. They’ve doubled down on MF and APS-C and have repeatedly said this in interviews and in their reporting. Personally I think this was far from half arsed testing. The Df was a frankencamera and was an example of not doing it right. Apart from lenses that don’t have an aperture ring the Zf did a pretty good job of retro dials done usably IMO.

[@babyboy1971]

Considering jumping from Fuji (XT5) to Nikon ZF. Anyone done this? I’m a headshot photographer. My cameras pay my rent.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

The XT-5 is a very capable camera. I’m bot sure you’d gain much by swopping… it would be a wholesale change system wise. As I see it the XT-5 is cheaper as a system, as well as smaller (fujifilm APS-c vs Nikon FF). The Zf has better build quality and durability and I personally prefer the controls (the XT-5 is quite fiddly I find and doesn’t feel quite as durable). However the XT-5 does have a nicer rear LCD and is slightly more comfortable to hold (the lack of grip could be an issue for you, although that can be changed with an add on grip to the Zf). I’d say rent a Zf for a weekend and see if you find it ‘better’ to handle or not. IQ wise the the XT-5 has more pixels, but the Zf has more useable Dynamic range (and yes, I’ve used, played with and seen the results from both cameras). The XT-5 has a slightly faster sync speed of 1/250th of a second which might make a difference for you. On a personal note I prefer the Zf, but the Xt-5 is an extremely good camera.

[@babyboy1971]

@@emilvonmaltitz thank you. That actually made me feel better. I love my XT5. I’ll rent a Nikon, I’m sure it’s lovely. But the XT5 is like second nature to me at this point. I just pray that Fuji fixes the autofocus system.

[@emilvonmaltitz]

@@babyboy1971 if you’re comfortable with the Fuji, I’d probably stick with it. Definitely rent the Zf, but I have to say that switching brands often causes all sorts of issues…takes a while to get used to the new camera and system.