Nikon Zf Hands On: The Best "Vintage" Mirrorless Camera

An early first impressions review of the Nikon Zf. Discussing handling, build quality, aesthetics, specs, new features, and the familiar sensor.
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An early first impressions review of the Nikon Zf. Discussing handling, build quality, aesthetics, specs, new features, and the familiar sensor.
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Table of Contents:
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0:00 - Intro & Disclosure
1:30 - Sensor
2:09 - 40mm Lens
2:31 - Dials & Screens
3:35 - Build & Ergonomics
4:18 - Card Slots
5:40 - Burst Rates
6:02 - Ports & Buttons
6:50 - Autofocus
7:08 - Monochrome
7:58 - Stabilization
9:42 - Video Features
10:37 - Record Times
11:33 - Tools & Menus
13:02 - Body & Lens Options
13:20 - Final Thoughts
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#nikon #nikonzf #camerareview

[@geraldundone]

#PatrickElbow

[@jackwillexplode]

Elbow was mvp for sure

[@mcronfpv8736]

@@jackwillexplode hahaha patrick can never go un noticed

[@imaner76]

Time to give him the elbow? 😂

[@svendollbaum1338]

I was triggered so much by the articulating arm i couldn´t focus the review anymore.

[@peichenFilm]

wheres the fujifilm gfx

[@curtisworhach]

im a fan of the chaperone interview dynamic. it was interesting to have a person there to immediately give feedback and answers when you had a question or critique

[@TheKillingTreeTT]

It's funny how KZbin is turning to a SNL type of tv show 😅

[@LashanR]

I am too, though I think it would be better if Gerald had time to test out the camera privately before the chaperone style setup. More experience and can get his questions answered

[@nathanjohnson5304]

Agreed, if it's gonna be a preview video anyway, this is just better IMO. Getting some insight into the design philosophy from an actual Nikon rep helps and differentiates your content from the sea of other preview videos where no one is doing hard review work.

[@andreialexandru05]

It was refreshingly different - and that is good. More dynamic than a monologue. Not that the monologues are bad per se, but you know, diverse content and stuff. Plus it's a proven format for a reason - it works, it's fun, it creates conversation.

[@naders.171]

Unlike some car dealership salespersons who do not know their cars and try to make a sale by BSing you, the chaperone was very knowledgeable about the product and their lineup. More chaperones please!

[@thatjordandrake]

You made Chris a guest, we made him hold a light. You're nicer.

[@trym2121]

Now I just noticed Chris is the pinball/light guy from PP video. You're making Nikon guy to hold and promote westcott. Genius!

[@TehKei]

I was curious who that guy was lol.

[@suatst]

😂😂😂

[@Gremlack13]

He did a great job holding that light, by the way!!!

[@chrisogonek4304]

I think they only used me because of my height 😂@@Gremlack13

[@MarkBennettCameraCrisis]

Gerald said “WHAT” to the micro sd card slot like my man, Skeletor. Midnight video, screaming like Skeletor, talk show set - I’m loving this multiverse

[@darksiderahb]

Honestly, I am a little shocked more cameras haven't used micro SD as a second card option. Especially considering how many action cams and drones have recorded some flavor of 4k to micro SD for years, now. Having a micro SD backup is genius. It certainly beats having no backup at all. This camera is making a strong case over something like a Fuji XT5 or similar Fuji camera.

[@ashliehiggins]

But Fuji film sims, and Fuji colour, and marginally cheaper lenses.

[@trym2121]

Because micro-sd uhs II is really rare and maybe easy to break due to its size. Even this camera is uhs I micro SD card slot

[@danielvilliers612]

​@ashliehiggins nikon does have a nice set of affordable lens ,for example they have a full trinity of tamron licensed 2.8 trinity lenses. Then you have all the cheap Chinese coming out.

[@CianMcsweeney]

It's close but not quite ahead of the x-t5 for me personally, 40mp, lack of lenses with aperture rings and Fuji film sims are the main difference makers. Still, nice to have a retro full frame option that isn't a Leica

[@craftedpixel]

The problem is that the micro sd slot does not work for video

[@robert_may]

That 40mm f/2 is a bargain of a lens. One of my favourite lenses of recent years because it's so weirdly good for a really reasonable price.

[@rickbiessman6084]

And I suspect I might love the focal length as my always on walk around thing! I’m going back and forth between a 35 1.8 and 45 1.8 at the moment. Dang. I didn’t want any more reasons to want to switch to Nikon. :D But the Zf makes some strong arguments.

[@CianMcsweeney]

If Nikon throw an aperture ring on that I'd be sold

[@qiyuxuan9437]

​@@CianMcsweeneyalso linear focus ring, I think nikon already did firmware upgrade too all S line lenses for linear focus ring, but not yet on non S line lenses.

[@giklab]

The 28mm is even better optically. Easy recommend, if you are thinking about it.

[@UnconventionalReasoning]

@@rickbiessman6084 You can also mostly ignore the term, "color science"...

[@cammliu]

This was great 😂 love the dynamic between you all. It was nice having Chris there to add that extra sense of credibility, and Patrick to get the hipster approval hahaha. #PatrickElbow

[@tombuck]

I’ll be honest, “Camera Chaperone” sounds like a sweet gig. As someone who has chaperoned many high school student trips, cameras probably get into slightly fewer shenanigans. Or maybe more? 🤔

[@chrisogonek4304]

It depends on which reviewer has it!

[@senseofeverthing]

Actually I like having the Nikon guide at the show. He adds value since he swiftly explains the camera functions like how to tourn off the selfie mode. Smart move

[@impatrickt]

Think we might have to make #PatrickElbow merch.

[@AnthonnyTag]

this was great, chris was great, patrick is awesome, he honestly should be a co host more or hop in for his take more. Absolutely love this. TV is still killing me though

[@Ed-davies]

Oh man! The Fm2n was one of my favourite cameras ever, going to have to check this out. I loved the dynamic on this video, this sort of talk show / showcase style was awesome

[@VonHughesStanton]

I love the spoke person interview style of this video. It’s a Q&A with a credible guest. Love his knowledge of Nikon technical aspects.

[@luke.hutcherson]

I liked the chaperone feel, also I think that camera could be a hit. You might've been a tad too critical. Considering the target market of the camera, the buyer's probably wouldn't be too concerned with the "inconveniences or annoyances" you mentioned. I think the specs of the camera are more than generous and impressive considering it's marketed as a cute, vintage, aesthetic, every day point and shoot, vlog camera. The people who will be interested in this camera, won't need it for what it doesn't have. On the other hand, I think it would have been nice to see them dumb it down a tad and make it more affordable. At $1,500-$1,600 I think it would be more appealing. Cool to see, though.

[@VIDEOVISTAVIEW2020]

1,500-1,600 is a price range for cameras with lesser specs. This ZF is basically a baby Z8 with most of the bells and whistles plus a flippy camera that will appeal to vloggers and only half the price of the Z8

[@KNAPPAID]

That would kill z6 sales

[@JeffGeerling]

They obviously were nervous about getting the Zf Undone.

[@thanhluan4342]

4:26 I like how they both silence to the MicroSD card slot 🤣

[@PopTartHeaven]

Love this format when it’s a guest like Chris. Very entertaining to watch and so different from other camera KZbinrs!

[@mkdn]

I watched this video based solely on the personalities and the Patrick and Gerald show delivered

[@Hobbies4Hire]

Great job on the video folks! Thanks for making it. Nice formatting!

[@ShortFootMedia]

Really liked this format Gerald! Great video!!

[@buckaroobrogan]

No matter what time Gerald posts, it is the perfect time to get Undone.

[@TechMixr]

Craaaaaazy …..

[@tomcruz3774]

This was a lot of fun to watch. Also thanks for the closed caption subtitles. Im watching this in a busy resto and i left my headphones at home

[@krazywabbit]

Loving the new format. You are smiling and laughing more.

[@mrshaheedmalik]

That Patrick jump cut got me. 😂

[@unclejerry486]

love the new format, great work!

[@thidnascimento]

That was fun to watch! Love the dynamic. And that camera is good! Full specs in a vintage body. Its perfect for safety, walk around big cities without drag attention from pickpockets

[@stereoviaradio]

Nice update to the Zfc! Go Gerald!

[@CarmenBota]

Thank you, I love this format.

[@jannespollet4830]

I like the new set-up. Really nice vibe from everyone

[@JW-nc3zr]

I like how Gerald carries himself so gracefully and maintains a very professional production environment

[@smartideas-pedro1690]

are you a bot?

[@david_corns]

Except for the cameraman standing in front of the shot on the right hand side!

[@vanitymetrics2234]

Next, Nikon PLEASE develop a new "classic" full frame rangefinder camera inspired by Nikon SP, Nikon S3. Please, please. It will sale like a cake.

[@naeemashaari]

getting interesting ! didnt expect Patrick to be in this video, but I need moreee

[@shApYT]

Loving the new energy

[@__-lt4hm]

I see comments about the retro looks, but this is a legit retro “feeling” camera and not just for the looks as previous retro cameras were. This is a sure hit for Nikon!

[@DarkTrapStudio]

"Hi I'm Gerald Undone, and I like Patrick Elbow in my guest shot"

[@gusbromski]

Set looks great!

[@Not_Info]

Gerald, I love this format! I'd recommend you put the guest chair on a elevated platform so that you and the guest are at the same height

[@JayaPrithiviRaj]

I definitely enjoyed watching this new video approach you got going on. 😂 Really entertaining.

[@drrrw]

Pure fun camera nerdy talk. I love it.

[@TechMixr]

Literally the algorithm just suggested the video when you chopped off your hair a while ago and was watching this on my other account. Assuming the embargo lifted because it’s midnight lol. Love your content and the new set man! Because of you I bought 2 S5II’s from Camera Canada 😂

[@seansims2475]

I really like this new format #PatrickElbow

[@eddiecarrasco878]

No gonna lie, this camera is stylish and very functional for both photo AND VIDEO. Excited to test out this camera.

[@CollinShook]

This talk show is Top Tier!

[@CsendesMark]

Nice wholesome show 😃

[@markwiemels]

The new set and camera angles are dialled in already. Works so well. Order that 2nd MHK50 and it’s going to be better than any of the network talk shows.

[@KNAPPAID]

Off all the comments i stumbled upon mark

[@kencult]

I'm excited to see a full review of this one. I'm curious to know how good the stabilization has improved. Also with 10 bit N-log internal? Seems like a solid buy. Am I missing something?

[@chrisbrockhurst]

i feel like this is going to do very, very well.

[@steveschnetzler5471]

I like this format, not as rigorous, but more fun. Thanks.

[@johnnyboy8132]

The new main shot feels like a bad spoof of the “merv griffin” Seinfeld episode

[@63MacGuy]

I loved the interview

[@thisiskenyoung]

This new show format is interesting 12:04 but can u ask the camera man not to stand there😂

[@WesPerry]

Still loving the format. Hopefully it takes off for you!

[@WhiteWulfe]

Chris was awesome. Looks like a nice little camera too, and one that could be a ton of fun, doubly so if it were full spectrum modified...

[@ShawnPBruce]

I’m sold on this camera. Will definitely pick one up at some point.

[@RoryKnighton]

You've done such a good job with the the dry room and acoustics, that the lack of room tone makes the video a little eerie to listen to/watch. I'd add in some artificial room tone and ambiance, plus the occasional music track to cut the dead silence. Otherwise, always love your stuff Gerald.

[@NikonCanada]

What? 14:15 I thought we sent Chris to interview Gerald?

[@ramankale8947]

Big fan of your videos! I learn a lot from you. Please do a video on Fuji XS-20 if you get a chance, no rush.

[@davidsaylors]

This was too good. Best video ever 🎉

[@injeolmi6]

Full frame, huh? Now that's something I'm interested in. I was looking at a Zfc a few years ago, but the crop just didn't sound convincing to me. Maybe I get a Zf!

[@injeolmi6]

We all loved Patrick's elbow, btw.

[@FullFrameStudio]

props to the chaperone he knew how to respond to every question or concern

[@CoalitionGaming]

Woooo Hands On won!

[@craigcarlson4022]

Kudos to Chris for being a good sport. I don’t care about the retro design, but i DO love that they finally put a flippy LCD on it. And not knowing how long we’ll have to wait for the Z6iii, i ordered it.

[@AndiGomez-yu2dx]

How's it been so far?

[@craigcarlson4022]

@@AndiGomez-yu2dx Andi, I had the chance to hold and use the ZF at a Nikon event. I was really put off by how one uses it. Its sort of neither a straight dial only model like a Fuji, nor a modern Nikon Z6. I really didn’t like that and i didn’t like the lack of grip and slippery finish on the body. So i cancelled my pre order and am waiting for the new models.

[@StreetsOfVancouverChannel]

I'm more excited about that **GORGEOUS NEW LENS** than I am the camera! ;)

[@jay_elias__]

Man, if I had the money I'd buy it right now fr.

[@MrAlElmes]

I want more Chris, he should be in every video. Especially non Nikon ones.

[@chrisogonek4304]

I’m not sure Gerald wants me there helping review the latest Sony or Canon’s 😂

[@TheNationalTrails]

Nikon / Nippon agent ALERT! Gerald is officially Done! "You do not talk about the 2hr-and-5 minute recording limit."

[@Harryontwowheels]

Great video, very funny to watch!

[@luke.hutcherson]

I think if Canon came out with a "Canon AE-1" replica/inspired mirrorless camera with similar specs I would buy it in a heartbeat. I'd like to see a consumer and pro version of it. One with more consumer grade specs and one that's pretty beefed up. Canon AE-XP and Canon AE-X ("X" represents the "crossover" that has taken place, and the "P" stands for 'Popular', in the Japanese sense of meaning 'for everybody'.one that's pretty beefed up) It would be nice for it to have a similar heavy, metal, tactile experience with similar physical dials.

[@ThisIsTechToday]

Sounds good! 😛

[@1fareast14]

Id rather have the flippy screen on the big cameras and the tilt screen on the small ones. Dual slot of some kind is nice

[@stickgarrote8582]

The box at the beginning with both latches open was stressful. Made me happy when Chris closed one of them 😂 That one latch rule has been a life saver so many times. Love the fully articulating screen but the poor grip and bottom card slots rule this out for me.

[@teresacms79]

great video!

[@davidmaher3127]

Gotta love the unmanned wide shot.

[@Flamamacue]

This is almost exactly everything I hoped they'd do with the Z8. 10-bit internal video, full flip screen, better AF, faster processor in the Expeed 7 & half the price the Z8 actually was. 12-bit RAW video and all is cool but the Z9 already had it & the file sizes are impractical for a lot of shooting, I'd like something not quite so overkill in a smaller body at half the price without going all the way down to 8-bit video in 2023. Also a note to Nikon, it's beyond time to release the "Filmmaker upgrade" for free as a downloadable FW update. Your competition is killing you in that space, I shouldn't need to give you more money and part with the camera for a week just to make it almost as good as the competition's camera come as stock.

[@take5productions115]

I like the new set Gerold! Been watching your videos for years. Keep up the good work!

[@OnlyCitrus]

The xs20 recipe is what I am looking forward to now. A gen old sensor coupled with a current gen processor.

[@IMNOTABARISTA]

Damn, this is the new true love ❤️

[@yophotodude7693]

I was originally bothered by the card slot configuration, but it should only be a problem in overflow mode. If you're doing backup then you are really just dealing with the main SD card. You should never have to pop out the Micro card, just format it after you've backed up the primary. If you do shoot RAW+JPEG and the JPEGs to the second slot, then you may need to remove it to get to the JPEGs. So for some it won't be an issue.

[@homvyoon]

I love it !

[@WhatIFeelLike]

The only reason I liked the chaperone idea cause it made this videos dynamic super fun! I could care less about this camera personally but I enjoyed the video!

[@fnotcool]

kinda like this having a guest format. would be sick to utilize it more often now since the set kind of caters to it with that wider shot.

[@nolannatashaTV]

That was a fun format. I watched even though I could never justify buying that camera. Love the combo of you and Patrick.

[@Chhuoey]

It’s a gorgeous camera, always wanted something like this. But once I heard the full frame sensor (it’s fair to have one) and the new processor I knew I’d be expensive. $2k for body alone is a lot of film and a nice used film camera. But it’ll still probably sell well like the x100v and I doubt it’s going to feel like a bad value if you can afford it at the end of the day

[@izzwizamahjah275]

This Nikon is pretty much a fujifilm xt4

[@CartyCantDance]

They hade the Nikon zfc for you i guess

[@hellatightdude]

@@izzwizamahjah275except it’s full frame. Big difference there.

[@danielvilliers612]

How many films can you buy with let's say 1500 use?

[@hellatightdude]

@@danielvilliers612 honestly if it were me and the way I shoot, not even a year’s worth including development and scanning costs.

[@joemonteithcinematography7477]

Gerald, you should ask Nikon about implementing gyro-data recording. Since this camera along with many others (including the original Z6) has built-in electronic stabilization, I assume the camera has a gyro sensor. If Nikon simply gave us a way to log this gyro data, we could use it in Gyroflow for gyro-stabilization. Even if Nikon didn't develop their own stabilization software, just being able to capture this data would be absolutely amazing.

[@ellarpc]

I wish you would do a full review on this camera.

[@CookinWithSquirrl]

Good stuff, friend.

[@chromaticvisuelle]

I want one!

[@TechWandererYT]

It's always the same with Gerald. I click on the thumbnail for the tech, I stay for genuine laughs. Please never stop. You and Mark from Camera Crisis are, by far, the best camera tech people out there. Is it a coincidence that you're both from Canada?

[@MarkD3P]

Great review, as always, Gerald. Thanks. I've been looking at iPhone 15 Pro log ProRes footage today, which seems impressive. I'd kill to see a Gerald Undone take on it, with a deep dive on actual dynamic range, or even better, a shootout between the iPhone 15 Pro and maybe decent cinema camera, such as a C70.

[@KitBetts-Masters]

Gerald just became my number one reviewer. Because... zed. Well Kai also, and Gordon, they are all ok in my book.

[@creativevisiongaming]

As a Canon shooting, I'm interested in this camera.

[@andretim75]

IT could definitely be a main camera for many !! I like it actually. - quite a bit !

[@suicidalkatt]

Key thing that wasn't mentioned and was slightly talked about was the 'there's no joystick', but the camera does have some touch screen functions for when you're using the view finder. I'm going to just blame Chris for not jumping in and taking your talking point.

[@johnclay7644]

informative video.

[@SalarMahdavi]

I wish every camera review video in this channel was with someone from company.

[@NikolaVojvodic]

Excellent video! Really enjoyed the dynamic between the three of you! 🤘🤘

[@berniestang2616]

Looks awesome!!! Does the Zf have a mechanical or electronic shutter …. ?? THANK YOU ❤

[@johannes.scharf]

2:56 When you turned the camera around, so the display showed off the first time, I originally was like „Hang on, this is a digital camera?“ It has great similarities with my analog Praktika…

[@robbie154]

As a wedding photographer honestly I’ll take a micro sd as a back up over nothing. The big downfall of the A7c lineup for pro work is the one card slot, same with the q3.

[@danielvilliers612]

Yep and it can stay permanently as an internal backup

[@JenniferKlinger]

The PASM dial is unneccessary. Fujifilm nailed this years before.