Nikon ZFC - As Good as it Looks?

[@flickrchannyuk4396]

Nice video. I’ve had the Zfc since launch, it is my take everywhere and second camera to take on trips. A joy to use. Usb charging is really nice. And, though quite a bit more expensive the optional Nikon grip goes really well with it.

[@Marco-Corino]

I bought the Viltrox 75 f/1.2 and love the manual commands for connection with photography!

[@kaminobatto]

This is the only camera I ever pre-ordered because I was that sure I will enjoy it, and it got me back into photography after a 3-year hiatus. Before I bought the Smallrig grip, I struggled a bit while carrying it because the distance between the lens mount and the right side of the body is so tiny to hold it comfortably for a long time, and I always found myself straining my hand to hold it tight in fear of it slipping and falling. Another issue that I found is the battery life as you have pointed out; however, the same issue happens with my Z50, which uses the same battery as well, so it's a battery thing for sure. Otherwise, I love the manual dials, the retro look, and pairing this with older Nikon AI-S glass, which adds more charm and a much needed heft to this light body IMO.

[@RussandLoz]

Nice, which AI-S glass do you enjoy or recommend? Manual focus though?

[@kaminobatto]

@@RussandLoz Yep, fully manual glass. I personally use 50mm F1.2, 105 F2.5, and a 24 F2.8. While they're all manual focus, the magnification possibility for critical focus makes it a breeze. Your Z fc can save up to 10 manual lenses for correct metering. Moreover, if you want EXIF data, you can always add a Dandelion chip to your lens if you choose to do so, they've quite affordable.

[@vn9528]

Thank you for a very informative video. I am looking to purchase one camera this month. Nikon Zfc is the one I initially fixated on, however came across Leica D-LUX 7. I am not an expert in photography, but want to learn. What camera you would recommend for a novice like me.

[@RussandLoz]

@@vn9528 I think a camera with the option of retro manual controls is the most fun and artistic. So any that do that will be good

[@kaminobatto]

@@vn9528 I am not the one who posted the video :) in any case, the D-Lux 7 is 3 years older, has a smaller sensor, worse AF, lower low-light performance, and does not offer the ability to change lenses. If you're OK with all that and it doesn't affect your use case, you can consider the Leica. However, if photography is something you're planning on getting more serious about in the future, the Z fc offers that upgradeability that you'll miss out on with the D-Lux 7 and the better specs in general. Another consideration is your budget for the camera, I know that the D-Lux 7 has some very good used offers in the market, so it might be cheaper to start with and it's a compact all-in-one camera that will be fun, small, and light to walk around with, and of course there is that Leica badge if that's your thing.

[@dougsaroma]

The Z FC is my only mirrorless. It's a cool camera, but coming from decades of DSLR use for sports and wildlife I found it to be unwieldy with the big lenses I frequently use. I thought it would be an easy transition because I came up using pre-DSLR bodies that look similar, the FM, FE-2, etc. But there was an optional "motor drive" back in those days, and they stayed on the camera when shooting the things I did most. It gave it a nice grip, battery power, and a blazing 3.2 frames per second! But best of all it gave you a shutter button in front of the camera. And aside from the strange controls, that is what I miss the most in my Z FC. It's uncomfortable and far less stabile using a lens of any size, and even with a small lens it feels weird and my grip hand gets a bit sore with a lot of use. It's not as ergonomic as a DSLR. We're no longer trained with years of old school heavy-bodied SLR shooting that made us develop that grip style. The Smallrig grip helps with carrying it around, but not so much for extensive shooting. I wish they made a battery grip for the Z FC to match the old camera bodies that inspired it. Photo quality is great, though, basically the same sensor as the D500, which is what I used 95 percent of the time.

[@PAllen77]

I’m just getting into the market for a camera, and hoping to learn more about the art form. Had an instinct that this could be a good camera start with, and I really appreciated this thorough review.

[@RussandLoz]

They say Fujifilm are good but I don’t know anything about them. Recently upgraded to zf which is incredible but expensive.

[@markturriff994]

Love my Zfc

[@RussandLoz]

What’s your most desired improvement for the zfc 2?

[@markturriff994]

@@RussandLoz I guess IBIS but really I never really miss it - my Z9 is a perfect foil for my Zfc rather than the other way around 😜

[@gerryhardman9060]

Thanks for your review, which was actually fairly comprehensive. I just bought a Zfc and I bought a black one because I always had black Nikons when I shot film. And this camera takes me back to my film days and because I made a grip for my Nikkormat to match the grip I had on my Nike FE I now use that grip on this camera, which makes it very nice to use even with heavier lenses. This camera without a grip is not very comfortable to hold so I can see why you bought the grip for it. I really enjoyed using it though and I love the retro look and to use it without the back screen. Just like a film camera. It’s a nice compliment to my Z5 so if I need full frame I have that. I’m very interested in these Viltrox lenses although like you mentioned the 24 1.7 is a nice option. I have a 24 F2 Nikkor Ais with a dandelion chip that I use with the FTZ adaptor and it’s a very nice on that camera. Mainly because 35 mm was my preferred focal length and the 24 gives me a 36 mm equivalent, close enough.Regards Gerry

[@RussandLoz]

Thanks Gerry, viltrox dx lenses are great. I had the 23 and 33 1.4. We have review of those too

[@yoelrey]

Looking forward to your hear about your experience with the Z8. I am sure you will make a video about it.

[@RussandLoz]

Yes. Making notes as I go along. 😊

[@simonm.1122]

Z fc is a great little camera. It is my go-to travel camera. Super light-weight, and the 50-250 DX lens is shockingly good for being so cheap and light. Totally agree that the battery is too small and drains fast once it hits 2/3 power. If out and about for a whole day, have a couple extra batteries. Super excited for the 24 1.7 DX lens. My other camera is a Df, which, while being lower resolution, puts out gorgeous images with older AF and manual F-mount lenses, but way too heavy a kit for vacations, hiking, etc.

[@DukeNukemFl]

I bought my zfc a few months back and just picked up an ftz 2 adaptor so i could use my f mount lens. This camera feels like its meant to be use with older mf lenses For one you get even more of the retro look and feels like you are shooting on film. But with no expensive film rolls and processing. For street photography, low light and as an every day camera that just makes it perfect for me. With a 24mm or 35mm for get 35 or 50 equivalent its just right. I do reallllly wish it had a few more of the features you mentioned but honestly really happy so far

[@RussandLoz]

I wonder what the rumoured ZF will feature

[@Gualdo007]

I have one and agree with most what you said. Only thing I really miss is the auto iso switch, now you have to go into the menu. But I love the form factor, manual switches and also picture quality is to too bad whether is enough light. Super nice camera. I don't think I would go for an ZF, as this would be bigger and heavier which is just what I like about the Zfc. Nice review!

[@DamoDGCUK]

I just brought myself a Nikon Zfc with Z DX 16-50mm VR, DX 50-200mm lens and FTZ II ( Z to F mount) Adaptor. I was looking on a Nikon DSLR to replace my tired and heavily used Nikon D7000. I had a look at D750, the Z50 and Zfc. As soon as I saw the Nikon Zfc, I feel in love with it and it reminded me of my college and uni days of running around with my Nikon EM (which I still have) shooting 35 mm IIford 100 ISO and 400 ISO black and white film. Yes I agree there is a lot of improvement that could have been put to the Zfc model and the fact of the 4000th shutter speed it could be a problem. But I just love the classic look, the mechanical look and even in my short time of using it I have a fun with it. Like you and love camera that spur on creativity in Photography. With the many features the that the camera has pack in it, with it classic design. I think I am going to have amazing fun with it. But I do need to get a grip and another spare battery... all photographers should have at least a couple of battery. I am though just wondering if there is compatible battery grip that you recommend of the Nikon Zfc?

[@RussandLoz]

The Smallrig grip is great and looks seamless

[@UnconventionalReasoning]

I hope we can get past the idea that a camera released less than two years ago [July 2021] is "outdated" and needs a version 2.

[@RussandLoz]

With new line of tech it takes years to find its feet especially with new innovations. Just like the z8/9 are built upon its beginnings of z6.

[@UnconventionalReasoning]

​@@RussandLoz Yes, the Zfc was also built upon the tech of the Z6. If the Zfc is selling very well with GenZ hipsters, I agree that it should get significant attention from Nikon.

[@alfredandersonanderson7647]

I bought one and like you just love it. I’m 71 and I especially love the retro look n feel. Great review. Looks super retro when you get the aftermarket retro camera body cases

[@pauka13]

What do you think about the upcoming Zf? Could it be the perfect retro mirrorless camera?

[@RussandLoz]

Yeah wild rumours going around. I did a video on my expectations a few weeks ago. Issue is I have dx lenses with a nice aperture ring. Full frame ones don’t

[@divinerdetective44]

It's a decent little walk about camera. The Small Rig grip is a necessity for sure, as soon as I took the Z fc out of the box I knew I couldn't work with it without the grip. Yes, features like IBIS would be nice, but the point of this camera was to keep the cost down. I've never had the battery run out as I don't shoot that much. However, I make a point of charging the battery nearly every time I use it and I've noticed it takes a long time to charge even when I haven't taken many photos. This is the only camera I own that I haven't bought a second back up battery for as generally I use my other Nikons more. My main reason for purchasing this was to have a light weight kit. I use the Z 50-250 lens. I also got sucked in by the color options, so sick of everything being black black black... Went for the mint green, strictly a vanity decision, the color brings me Joy.

[@mchjubjub6915]

Great review👍 Yes it makes me want to buy one as I miss the retro look (wondering if I'm retro as I have reached a certain look/age!) IBIS on my Pentax K1000 wpuld have been great or even auto focus but eventually got the D50 and the incredible D500 then Z7. Always had an issue with the plastic look and as pentax (or Ricoh now I believe) only made one mirrorless (as far as i know) it was up to a decision to maybe purchase a Zfc or similar. However, a full frame version like you say might make it heavier and larger maybe so do I want a crop sensor? No, not really but the look is just so inviting that maybe i might just jump in!!

[@RussandLoz]

Make sure you find a good deal to make it an easier decision 😊

[@wa7sca]

I do like the retro design. It takes me back to the nostalgia of my film cameras. If only it had been designed with a full frame sensor like the Z5.

[@stephenspiteri_zunkus]

I think it’s great but I have this issue with it not being full frame. It’s just that I’d like to have the lens attached behaving like it says on its focal length. It’s daft I know but it’s how I am. So I’m still waiting for a full frame retro. I’ll buy it as soon as it comes out for the same reason you bought yours.

[@RussandLoz]

Yeah the focal length thing is a pain. But with them making dx lenses I’m not sure they will make the next one full frame

[@stephenspiteri_zunkus]

@@RussandLoz I do get that dx lenses can be smaller/lighter but to continue buying lenses when one is already covered in ff.

[@andikunar7183]

Great video, thanks, completely agree (and have one with the Smallrig grip). I have the Viltrox 56/1.4 for it (85-like is more my interest). I did NOT like the Viltrox's aperture ring, because it always tends to move on its own - so I taped it fixed at open and just use the dials (got used to it with the G lenses). I got the 28/2.8 kit lens, the 24-70/4 and the 50-250 (both bought cheaply / 2nd hand) are my zoom lenses. I reprogramed the video-record button in photo mode to ISO (one dial is then AutoISO ON/OFF like with the D850). I use the ultralight Zfc as a studio-cam on a tiny arca-mount ballhead on one of my light-stand's arms. And it's display in portrait-orientation acts like a very cool old-time waist-level viewfinder. P.S. I really like your comment about the Z8 as a complex computer - I'm still tweaking/programming it, but it helped me get over selling-remorse for my D850 (the Z7ii wasn't - I got a discounted 2nd hand one, so it stays as backup which can accept Z-mount).

[@RussandLoz]

Thanks Andi, good idea about reassigning buttons, though I'm ok with the viltrox ring, mine seems quite stiff so hasn't happened to me yet. How do you find the zfc image quality?

[@andikunar7183]

@@RussandLoz for me image quality is totally OK, and quite surprising for such an inconspicuous, light cam. I had a studio-shooting once, where I despaired with the Zfc+Viltrox on the tripod because all pics were suddenly/inexplicably totally dark. Later (after switching to the D850) found out, that I mistakenly moved the aperture ring on the lens. I am used to Nikkors having a lock-switch. So therefore the (removable) tape. I also use the Zfc+Viltrox or 28 mostly for when I don't want attention because of a "pro" body+lens - works really well, everybody underestimates this cam. Or also with the Viltrox in a cheap underwater-housing to keep it dry when shooting in the sea (but above water). And also for experiments like with the Lensbaby Omni on the Viltrox. What did not work out for me was the ver fast Chinese manual-focus primes (50/1.2). Manual focusing, even with focus-peaking does not work well enough for me + my people-subjects. I might give it another try on the Z8 at some time.

[@PavelGramatikov]

Lovely video and camera. The jello effect comes from the electronic VR and it can be turned off.

[@RussandLoz]

Interesting, i'll have to try that. Though a big issue is longer focal lengths 35+ have a shakey look without VR.

[@Marco-Corino]

Can you advise me for an external flash to buy?

[@RussandLoz]

I have a video comparing the sb700 Vs the godox v1. Both work well. See lit video 😊

[@VolkswagenNut1969]

I bought one a couple of months ago as a backup just for fun because it reminded me of the iconic old FE/FM film cameras from back in my film days. It’s a lot more fun to use (and look at) and easy to carry around. I first started using it instead of my iPhone for quickie shots, trips or Facebook friend stuff not just because of the fun and nostalgia, but better quality. But then I started using it occasionally in place of my Sony a7R4 for architectural and real estate work. This should absolutely not be the camera for that, but the sharpness and colors are actually better than the monster Sony. So now I’m packing up the Sony to trade for the Zf, hoping it will be the best of both worlds. 🤔

[@RussandLoz]

Wow, i've never used a Sony but that is impressive. I'm tempted to trade up to the ZF as that is full frame and has great VR for video. But is bigger and heavier

[@VolkswagenNut1969]

@@RussandLoz I’ve heard that it’s a fair amount heavier, we’ll see. 😉 The Sony cameras are great, except for probably the worst color science compared to Canon, Fuji and Nikon. And now even the Nikon autofocus system seems to edge them out as the best, after being the worst in the world several years ago.

[@Digmen1]

Great video Russ (or Loz) I have had my Nikon mint green zfc since they were released. And I love it. It draws attantion whenever I take it out. I also have the small rig grip which makes it very easy to ick up and hold Yes two or three more features and it would be the perfect camers - a tally light would be great like on the Z30 (PS I also have a Z6ii)

[@RussandLoz]

Thanks, I was thinking of the brown but thought I might get board or it lol. What’s a tally light?

[@Digmen1]

@@RussandLoz Its the red light that the Z30 has that faces towards the subject if you are making a videoo, so that you know thats its actually recording

[@UncommonSense1776]

The one thing, when watching these videos about this camera, that I find most amusing is the comment that almost inevitably comes up regarding the lack of a grip. Wayback when, in the film days, seldom was there a camera that had a built-in grip. I shot film with a Nikon FE with a Vivitar Series 1 70 - 210mm lens with no grip, unless I hung the large motor drive off of it

[@RussandLoz]

True. But that’s where advancing with ergonomics are a great innovation. The ZF also suffers with a lack of sensible grip for normal full frame lenses too. Shame really

[@UncommonSense1776]

@@RussandLoz i’m not knocking innovation, I’m simply stating that back in the day, many very good photos were taken with long lenses and without a grip on the camera. I’ve been considering the Nikon Z Fc as it reminds me of my old FE, having all the major settings right in front of you.

[@RussandLoz]

@@UncommonSense1776 I enjoy the zfc part from a few things which may put you off. See our review 😊

[@ivanbolton5477]

Great review. Totally agree. I use mine a lot. Only irritation is the on off switch can be set to on too easily when putting it away, unlike the other Z cameras which have a much ‘stiffer’ switch

[@RussandLoz]

Thanks. I haven’t come across that issue yet. But I have pressed things I don’t mean to with the smaller body

[@AccessiblePhotography]

Yeah but the camera shuts off after a few minutes. Check your settings if yours doesn’t. It might just be standby mode but it doesn’t seem to drain the battery with me. I’ve left it switched on for days.

[@absurdfool]

Zf will be my pick

[@RussandLoz]

Yes, I’ve upgraded to the ZF. But the zfc is a lot cheaper for those on a budget

[@AccessiblePhotography]

Pleasurable review to watch. I like your style. Also, bought the Zfc not too long ago and love it. Yep it’s much easier than my D850 (I’m not able to buy a Z8. Lucky you). It’s a better camera when, like you, you add a manual lens with an aperture ring. Really feels like an old film camera then. I’m going to check out the lenses you used. See if they are affordable. I do agree though, heavy lens would not work well on such a light camera. I’m not sure the mount would be strong enough on what feels like a cheap plastic body. 😢

[@RussandLoz]

Thanks. I really like Viltrox lenses. Small light and seem good quality and affordable.

[@Vromiaris778]

I have the Z50, so the ZFC in it’s current form would not be a good fit - much as I love the retro look & feel - had it had IBIS, I would have already bought one. I am holding out hope that Nikon release a Z8 / Z9 type body with a DX sensor & price next - that would be my pick for sure.

[@harryburnett7086]

Actually look up tutorials for on camera flash and techniques , use it as deflect flash and several other ways , Vanessa Joy has a awzum video on it

[@yophotodude7693]

You probably should not be shooting video at 1/4000 or 1/8000 anyway. You should be shooting at 2x the frame rate, which is a max of 1/125th. This is why video people carry ND filters. As stills, I rarely ever can get over 1/4000th anyway.

[@greggh]

30+ MP would be a bad a idea for a ZFC2. Higher MP = worse rolling shutter. Would limit its usability for video. Would be great for photo only shooter though.

[@theforgereviews4346]

The grip is reminiscent of cameras like the Nikon FG. Essentially no grip😂. But I would always have a band around my neck with my film cameras. About to do a deal with a guy for the zfc with the 28mm F2.8 lense for 500$U.S.

[@timjames6190]

Don’t you just wish camera companies sort out the grip so it’s standard

[@RussandLoz]

Yeah it’s a bit silly not having an adequate grip. Maybe they think we want to go back to times they didn’t have them lol

[@harryburnett7086]

Viltrox would equal a close to 50 mm on a apc sensor

[@harryburnett7086]

Nikon if your listening make a ff like this with new z 8 processor and a battery grip

[@photoreviewed-com]

Very informative review :) Nikon dressed up in Fuji clothes.

[@RussandLoz]

Yeah in a way, though Nikon film cameras looked like that too. Fuji cameras might well be better at the moment. Be interesting to see the zfc 2 to correct things.

[@victorlim5077]

​@@RussandLozYeah, Nikon did Retro way longer than Fuji. I think Fuji copied Nikon.

[@photoreviewed-com]

@@victorlim5077 If it's copy then it's a very good one :) Personally I think they found a niche and successfully explored it.

[@victorlim5077]

@@photoreviewed-com Yes, they did. Especially the X100 series. Me personally I think I will wait for the full frame retro body from Nikon.

[@stephanweiskorn6760]

The humble cheaper Fujifilm XT30ii has better specs! 😮

[@RussandLoz]

Yes. The zfc is outdated. I sold it for the Nikon ZF. It’s a retro pore house

[@PAllen77]

I was thinking about buying this camera, but I just noticed this comment. In 2024 are there better options for a beginner camera that still has that old-school feel?

[@RussandLoz]

@@PAllen77 I only know Nikon. I’ve upgraded to Nikon zf but that is £2000. Zfc on used market could be £500 and a great little camera for the price but has limitations

[@ladyethyme]

Gosh you have long fingers!

[@RussandLoz]

Thanks, lol, they are more slim than anything

[@ladyethyme]

@@RussandLozindeed. I just realized how odd that comment must have sounded… I am a fine artist (painter), so I notice these things about people. I swear I'm not a weird creeper or anything lol 😂

[@RussandLoz]

@@ladyethyme I often have remarks about my hands, no offence taken, they would make a good hand portrait

[@ladyethyme]

@@RussandLoz Yes absolutely, they would.

[@juliaanderson74]

This video is still depressing. Damn

[@RussandLoz]

Depressing? Lol