Nikon Z6III Camera | One Month Assesssment with Video & Photo Examples

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Did you or will you buy a Nikon Z6III? If you did what's your opinion? Can you compare to a previous iteration? Let us know in the comments.

[@kapurar]

I currently own the Z8 and absolutely love it. I am looking for a smaller body for every day use and will likely pick up a Z6III when the price drops.

[@joeclaymore]

So thankful that you did a month in review. Was excited and totally planned on getting a z6iii when it was first announced. Then I realized I would rather spend a little more for the z8 and get more megapixels.

[@williambuford6136]

I own the Z6iii from Launch. It is a replacement for my Z6ii. I have a Z8 as well.

[@Vaptomwen]

Just brought the zf so the z6iii will be in a few months

[@elliotresnick5433]

@@RaymondParkerPhoto I noticed you own a 40mm f/2 Z mount lens… how do you like it because I love that focal length for everyday shooting? It’s not weather sealed, correct?

[@ptaylor352]

I have just under 6000 pictures on my Z6iii, which I got on June the 25th. Those were all from in-studio photo shoots, as I haven't had an opportunity to shoot outside. I've shot Nikon for years, and currently still have a couple of D750's, a Z6ii, and the Z8. I love them all; and for the past year exclusively used the Z8. But it gets a bit heavy at the end of a long shoot. So I'm absolutely in love with my new Z6iii. - - For the longest time I've heard all the KZbinrs complain about the fact Nikon doesn't have flippy screens. Well, now that I've got one I gotta confess that I don't like the flippy part very much. Yeah, there are a few times when it is useful, but the screen on the Z8 is my preference, by far. The only other thing is that once in the middle of a shoot I got an error message about the UHS-II memory card wasn't responding, and the camera was locked up. I don't know what I did to get it working again, but it's not happened again and everything is operating as it should. Otherwise, I love this camera! Fantastic focusing; beautiful colors, and outstanding ergonometrics,

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

I concur; it's a great camera overall (other than the floppy screen). It does seem to be picky about cards. I wonder if a firmware update might rectify that? Mind you, haven't had an issue since that first hiccup. 🤞🏻

[@waynerm002]

It would have been great if they put a screen like the A7R V on the Z6 III, that is the best one that suits the needs of both photographers and videographers. Let’s hope Nikon comes up with a similar design in the future.

[@MrPhotog7]

@@waynerm002yes, I agree.

[@williambuford6136]

@@waynerm002 Agreed!

[@randallbrander8157]

Well, Raymond You are the second KZbinr that I know that has complained about the freezing of the camera. A viewer Wedding Photographer from Australia notified me the same happened to him. The cards from one brand works flawlessly in all of the other Nikon and one Canon Cameras that I own. I own two Z6III's and when panning or vlogging or switching hands using a small tripod the camera would freeze. So us three have used different cards and the Z6III are freezing. Either it is a heat issue, brand card issue or a bad drive SD/ CFExpress that has caused this freezing in three different countries that I know of. So a lot of people were complaining about the Zf Sensor moving when turned off. Nikon stated it was not locked down. I believe that the Z6III does have this feature of the sensor being locked down and it is not the only camera that has this clunking noise when viewing playback, or even going into the menu settings, I own quite a few. I did a dark test one night and I could not see my figure on the LCD screen but the camera did have a box around my glasses. So Dynamic Range doesn't bother me. I love to do 6k 60 at 10 bit 4-2-2 H265 and it works. If one type of card fails I got a backup. You are Great as always in your storytelling and very explicit in explaining things which I appreciate tremendously. My view is if the camera doesn't perform the way that is necessary for the content, then send it back or sell it. This camera has plenty of features and performs more to my expectations. I get a lot more photos that are sharp and the video specs are unbelievable. Great Video as always. Cheers!

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Thanks Randall. Interesting -- the freezing issue. As I said, the camera seems more finicky when it comes to cards it "approves of." I will test more. The Z6III does have IBIS lock and, as noted in the video, the Zf doesn't. I am also liking the camera overall.

[@JET-Photo]

The sensor moving around inside the Zf bothers me. It reminds me of a Fuji lens that did the same thing. I thought it was broken when I first moved it around.

[@randallbrander8157]

@@JET-Photo So a lot of people complained about that and Nikon with a larger camera size put the locking mechanism in. But now if you want to view your pics or go to the menu settings, turning it off you hear a clunk also. My R6II does that when shutting down. It reminds me of the Leica Me when snapping a picture. KerClunk! LOL! Cheers!

[@hughbyrne5633]

Thank you for the review. I upgraded from the Z6II to the Z6III as aoon as it was available. As someone who shoots pro sports with multiple camera bodies, I notice a substantial difference between the two in the speed at which the camera can wake up from rest and acquire focus. It is the difference between getting a peak action/fan reaction shot or missing it. The KZbin world has largely overlooked this usability improvement. I agree with you on the flip screen, uggh. Maybe I'll get used to it eventually.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Thanks Hugh; my pleasure. Yeah, the Zf has kinda trained me to tolerate the flip screen but still not my favourite feature. I haven't noticed the speedier "wakeup" speed. Now I'll have to do comparisons.

[@guyyowell8547]

I totally agree with your point of view regarding the extent certain KZbinrs (is that a word?) will go to evaluate a camera under conditions that photographers (and videographers) would rarely use. Of course there are times when we can’t control ideal lighting conditions and having more dynamic range is indeed helpful, but a “seasoned” photographer would rarely need to recover 4 to 5 stops in the shadows. That’s just bad photography/videography.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Yep. While I can tell the difference between, say, the Z9 and this camera,, this is an excellent camera, at the price and Nikon hit the right balance.

[@guyyowell8547]

@@RaymondParkerPhoto I really enjoy your channel, but what I really don’t understand is do you really NEED the Zf and the Z6III or are they a “just nice to have”? I have both the Z8 and Z9, and I can’t really justify either of those cameras because they just don’t compare to the 8 and 9. What can you do with those cameras that cannot be done with the Z8 or Z9?

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

For me, the Z6III was more than a "nice to have." I'm selling one of my original Z6s (the other stays on the overhead rig in the studio) and the video specs on the III are very useful. The Z8 and Z9 are still the choice in studio and/or when I need more pixels, or vertical grip, as I mentioned, or 8K (but that 5.4K is gonna see a lot of use). Of them all, the Zf is the "vanity camera." But it's fun, my first choice for travel and, as seen in the video, often another video angle. The 10-bit 4K is nice.

[@kalimarus]

@@guyyowell8547I have the Z8 and the Zf, the Zf will not outshoot the Z8 really at anything, BUT the Zf is way more enjoyable to actually use if you like the dials experience and older manual lenses espiecially. If you are the “I must have a good grip and ergo’s” person then you’ll likely really not like the Zf, but if you like Fuji’s, Leicas etc you’ll find it’s a really nice alternative to switch things up. The Zf sensor is also really nice.

[@J5388T]

A well described and rounded summary of this new camera, thank you!

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Cheers! My pleasure.

[@waynerm002]

Great video Ray. Thanks for showing the photos and explaining about the ones that had some tweaks to correct. The dynamic range thing doesn't take into account a comparison of other stacked sensors as a comparison and explain that they also had a DR dip compared to their BSI counterpart. The original A9 stacked sensor has better DR than the new A9 III stacked global sensor, you gain some performance but, lose a bit of DR however, in the A9 III Sony has implemented some noise reduction (as on a lot of their sensors) features to compensate in order to end up with the results on the chart. In real life this also shows the camera performs well but the chart folks also jumped all over it. Gerald did a great job in explaining this on the video side, with some NR applied, the DR improved, this is the same on the photo side. Nikon doesn't follow this process however, there are professional software that can be used to clean up noise further (which isn't mentioned). If one has to constantly work to recover 4-6 stop of under exposure, this means the image was not exposed correctly from the start. This seems to be a "major" issue for some photographers, much the same as the flip forward screen. Technology is always changing, which means there will be somethings better or not as good as the older tech. CCD is great but expensive to manufacturer with higher MP size, so CMOS won there, BSI tech provided better performance than CMOS and Stacked CMOS was what everyone wanted for speed, then came the Global (also Stacked) shutter CMOS sensor and yep, has less DR than the ones before it. What have we noticed with each new iteration, some DR loss for the gain in performance with improved noise reduction algorithm added to the camera, granted this mainly affects jpgs but, some manufacturers are applying NR to improve things before the image/footage gets to software. For $2500, the Z6 III with a partially stacked sensor is a win for hybrid shooters that don't want to fork over the cash for what the Sony A1, A9, A9 II/A9 III, Nikon Z8/9 or Canon R3. In the Z6 III, they get a camera with performance stats close to those big boys at a considerable savings.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Thanks Wayne for adding this perspective. As I say, correct exposure is still important. We all miss occasionally and it's nice to have flexibility (I'd love 17 stops!) but I'm not feeling constricted. I know when I'll pick up the Z9 or Z8. I don't think anyone who is considering the Z6III as an everyday camera or even a work camera for most subjects should be influenced by this tempest in a teapot.

[@waynerm002]

@@RaymondParkerPhoto Agreed, some folks are really missing what the Z6 III can do, for the price. I get it isn't for everyone, I see a number of landscape folks complaining, I remind them there are medium format cameras that will suit their needs. The Z7 III is a great camera for that purpose and now costs USD $2300!

[@jonclark8271]

Excellent observations on new z6iii. I too bought it and previously had z6 in addition to z9. I am returning from London. Was there for travel pics. Works great with exception you mentioned. It locked up on me. I resorted to pulling battery that release the lock up. I figured upon return to states I would see if others had the issue and cause. I will check my cards see if they are the culprit. They work fine in z9. I wish Nikon would make light weight compact zoom lens for travel. Similar to the 40mm size to pair with it.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Thanks for adding your experience, Jon.

[@loihpatli]

Really informative video, thanks Ray! Hope i'll switch to Z6 mark 3 from my Z6 mark 1 some day

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Cheers!

[@dominiclester3232]

Thanks Ray, yet another chilled and wise discussion 👏👏! Lots of reviews (including yours) have shown the P2P graph for dynamic range, but the very next page on that site shows how much shadows can be recovered, relative to iso and the Z6iii is twice as good as the other Z6 cameras and it rivals...Worth mentioning, I’d suggest.

[@MikeJamesMedia]

Thanks, Ray! (For now, I'm quite happy with my Z6II and Z9 combo, but was interested to hear your thoughts.)

[@fleemwings207]

Thank you for your review, Raymond. I waited for the Z6 III release before buying my D750 replacement camera. Alas, the Z6 III was a far too advanced camera for me, especially as I shoot very little video. So, I settled for a Z6 II and it has already proven to be more camera than I need! I guess I am more a Z5 type of user but needs something in reserve for the trickier shoots that I do. I could not possibly justify the huge jump in price to a Z6 III. Still it is good to know that it is a good camera. I hope that future firmware updates will refine its rough edges and all users will be happy!

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Cheers! Nothing wrong with the Z6II, or Z6 either: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jWSwYnucndB5iM0

[@perandersen2015]

Hi Raymond. If you don't use the triangel hinges, I would dismount/remove them. I mounted the Peak Design Anchors directly to the camera eyelets after removal of the hinges. You can always mount them again if you need them

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Hi. As I said (and illustrated) in the video, I don't use them. I'll remove them from the Z6III when I get my cage. I have a plastic organizer case that contains all the rings from my other five Z cameras.

[@Powerstroke98]

Still operating my D750, and wondering about upgrades, thus thought I'd watch this video. I see so many folks thrilled with their D850's, that I thought maybe that would be plenty of upgrade, since I'm more of a hobby/enthusiast, having had my D750 from the day they came out so many years ago, of which, I've never had a single problem with my D750 in all that time, thus a little hesitant with even more electronics in it. I do like the button positions of the Z8 myself, but being Canadian, the price as an enthusiast has me shy away somewhat. Nonetheless, I appreciate this review, and I'll be watching others, before jumping in with both feel, but I'm certainly open to advice/opinions as well.

[@SauceBoss1824]

Hey Raymond! I am a fan of your channel and keep up with your content! I purchased a Z6iii after owning a Z6ii and shooting it for over 200 000 images, I don't know if it was just me but my images came out looking softer with my Z 70-200 on the new Z6iii compared to the Z6ii - I actually returned and got a second Z6iii and compared that one again to the Z6ii and it still looked off. Have you ever compared both side by side and pixel peeped them by any chance? Keep producing your content - Cheers!

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Thanks! I own the original Z6 (x2) and often mix and match. I'm not sure that I've compared the 70-200 between both. Interesting. I'll see what I can come up with.

[@doogieham]

Thanks for a really insightful and well-conceived review, Ray. I really appreciate how you added the lens and settings to the photos at the beginning of your video. I also like how you showed the photos first before giving your likes and dislikes. BTW, what do you think about the new higher-res viewfinder?

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Cheers! The addition of those titles and data takes hours but I think it's a good "public service." Glad they help. I was remiss in not commenting on the EVF (should this video have been longer? 😀). I love it! Very handy on several very sunny days recorded here while wearing sunglasses.

[@doogieham]

@@RaymondParkerPhoto That's good to know about the EVF. Actually, 20 mins is just about right in terms of video length, Ray. And you have to reserve something to talk about in the follow-up videos, right?

[@doogieham]

Like you. I really wish that Nikon had implemented the Z8/Z9 style of LCD screen on the Z76iii or adopted the Sony A7R V multi-angle screen that keeps everyone happy.

[@mattiharo]

I tried my Z6iii Nikon with Nikon Imaging Cloud service with a Dropbox sync. All was well except that the pictures synced into the root folder of my Dropbox account, which is unacceptable. Didn’t find any way to configure a subfolder within the web configuration page of the service settings. Currently the service is unusable until I find the way to configure a Dropbox subfolder for the synced pictures. Hopefully there is a solution for this and I just haven’t found it yet.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Thanks for the info!

[@marcusbraun8889]

I'm not a fan of all those 'mesurebators' videos, where cameras a run through testbenches, shoot test charts and brick walls. Of course finding issues is the reason, not necessarily for the issues themselves, but for the guaranteed increase in clicks thereafter. Best is to go out and use the thing, you will find out what it can do and what it can't - and yes, all cameras have ”can'ts" - and how you can make it work for you. I'm still happily using a z7 first gen, a camera which can't focus on anything moving as fast as a glacier and has horrible striping if you lift the shadows by 6 full steps or whatever. Got over five years of great use of that lousy little camera so far...😅 I realize you lifted those shadows in the cyclo/deer images to demonstrate what's possible, but both are over the top IMO, they got this unnatural HDR look which hurts my eyes. Good overview of the z6 III overall, balanced and not the usual 'I found an issue' click bait.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Hi Marcus. I've said in other videos that the only talent photographers need today, considering the editing power we have at hand, is restraint. And I agree those two images, as presented, lack that. Were I to print them, they'd be less "in your face." But I think, as you say, they illustrate the Z6III's versatility in that regard. Just because we can do it, doesn't mean we should. My whole approach in this video was to hopefully present a "real world" alternative to the technical "measurebating," as you call it.

[@marcusbraun8889]

@@RaymondParkerPhoto ​@RaymondParkerPhoto - yes, I like the absence of test charts and lab results! It is said that certain 'mesurebators' do outdoor testing as well; they are said to bring their own brick walls into the forest and assemble them there, to ensure constant and comparable results...

[@Mersuharrastaja]

I ordered new Nikon just when Z6III was released. I littlebit thinking sould I buy Z6III or Z8, I ordered Z8 because I like more tilting screen and Z6III screen does not open strait, it leave little bit angle. There was other reason also.

[@lawrose4]

Did you first format the card you had used in the Z8 in the Z6III?

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Yes.

[@rleeshutter]

What lens did you use while shooting the deer? Thank you!

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

As per titles on the opening gallery, Z 400 f/4.5 VR S. Exif there too.

[@rleeshutter]

@@RaymondParkerPhoto Thank you, I can't believe I missed that!

[@Jgheiler]

Hi there, is the AF in this camera more accurate than the ZF? I have the ZF and I like it's dynamic range and vivid pictures, but sometimes the AF misses in candid moments

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

I've not had any particular issue with accuracy of AF with the Zf. The Z6III is similarly accurate in terms of acquisition and tracking. It is important to select the correct combination of focus mode/area/subject.

[@paulhab7267]

Thanks great video 😮

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

glad you enjoyed.

[@mainmain5303]

Gerald’s DR test was on raw video. Photons test is on stills. They’re different for multiple reasons.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

While I made it clear that Gerald's tests were on video, I should have clarified William's protocols. Still, I think there are parallels. Both stills and video are recorded by the same sensor after all. The differences would be in how the "electronics and firmware operate" in relation to each, to quote William directly.

[@bsc001]

Thanx for the review, Ray. I won’t be getting the z6iii, the body is too small for me. I do own the z8 and z9, much better suited to my larger hands.

[@OH.MYGOAT]

Hey Raymond, for someone who shoots a lot of sports and landscape, and occasional videos would you say a z6iii is good value for its price over the Z8.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

I've shot a bit of sport with the Z6III and it performed well. The Z8 is a great camera but of course more expensive.

[@OH.MYGOAT]

@@RaymondParkerPhoto pickin up a z6iii. Lets see how i like it

[@JET-Photo]

Had to sell my Z8 (to later find out I didn't need to) so I ordered a Z6III as a replacement. I'm not worried about DR and I certainly will never be under/over exposing by 5-6 stops in photos or video. I believe certain KZbinrs are just trying to find something wrong with any Nikon camera they can. I don't know why, but every camera made in the last 6 years can be used to get great images and video if you properly expose. I have been wondering alot what will happen when ALL cameras eventually have a global shutter, shooting 240fps 14 bit RAW, 960p RAW video and AF that is equal? What will they (KZbinrs) find wrong with the cameras then? I will end up getting another Z8 eventually, but the Z6III will fill most of my needs, if not all. I may wait on Nikon to drop a monumental camera using a global shutter borrowed from the RED purchase. Some of those RED cameras are getting 16 stops of DR with r3d RAW. I wonder what the KZbinrs will find wrong with that LOL

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Agreed. Someone will always find something to complain about -- I did my best in this video 😀 but, so far, I'm very happy with the Z6III.

[@startrekmelo2749]

​@@RaymondParkerPhotoMan I just watched petalpixel channel and they said they literally compared the Nikon z6iii to an apsc sensor camera because of its dynamic range... I was speechless and a bit annoyed. I watched them a little bit but everytime they review a camera; they give you so many cons that I decide that I no longer want to buy a camera. I'm still using a fuji xt20 looking to upgrade.

[@davetv8171]

I was in the same boat. I will get another z8 next year for its usage and mp skills over the 24mp z6iii and a9iii. I also have the megadap to use the Sony lenses on the z6iii. I shoot salsa with these cameras. The Sony with the 20 1.8 and the Nikon with the 50 1.4 GM, and lately with a speed light with low shutter speed shots. I like it slightly more than the Z6ii for lowlight af but need more time with it! When I had the Z8, I had the 50 1.2 GM adapted and it took great shots but would pulsate back and forth in and out of AF sometimes and that may be due to the adapter. I would say this camera with the night eagle cage is bigger than the a9iii but I do prefer the Z ergonomics and easy to open card door. The Sony has it beat with its back wheel customization and I only really need it for pivotal action moments mostly but the Z6iii is very fun to shoot with.

[@JET-Photo]

@@davetv8171 I think I'm gonna wait and see if Nikon releases a low megapixel flagship. At least for a few months. I just have a gut feeling something is coming. RED has a global shutter FF sensor and it wouldn't take much for Nikon to incorporate it into a body of their own. I had a Sony A9 a couple of years ago and it was still better then than a lot of the newer stuff out. I had a Fuji XH2s and the A9 was slightly better at 5 years old ( at the time). I just couldn't get used to the Sony ergonomics and colors. I know they have improved both but I have moved on too far to go back lol. Although that A9III is pretty tempting. I loved my Z8 but the file sizes were a pain sometimes. Specially when I shot at the track and a wedding. I wish I could have a 24 or 33mp inside a Z8 body with Z8 speed.

[@cookedart]

I've noticed that if I turn on "silent mode" The Camera is less noisy. It seems to engage the ibis lock even when entering the menus by default, but when silent mode is on, it doesn't seem to chirp anymore when hitting the menu button. Hope this helps someone. Unfortunately it still chirps in silent mode when turning the camera on and off.

[@cookedart]

Also, i discovered if you turn ibis off before turning off the camera, turning on the camera is also much quieter. Maybe useful if you're in a very sound sensitive situation.

[@nicholasee3220]

How is the improvement of the IBIS compared to the z8?

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

TBH, I don't notice a huge change. It's excellent across the board with the Zf and Z6III advertised as "up to 8-stops" depending on the lens used. Still, I take notice of focal length and conditions because no IBIS/lens VR can replace best practices in the real world.

[@nicholasee3220]

@@RaymondParkerPhotothank you Raymond appreciate you

[@4rroby]

I just purchased the z6lll. I’m also concerned about the dynamic range and noise issues. For my work, I’m not sure if it was worth the upgrade. I’m considering returning it, just keep using my Z6 ll and D750.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

I'm sincerely interested to know if you've experienced these issues, under what circumstances, and how they affect your work. I haven't run across anything that negatively impacts my work.

[@4rroby]

@@RaymondParkerPhoto I’m haven’t used it yet for any of my work yet. I’ve just notice some issues with the autofocus and WiFi connections. I’m still trying to figure out the camera.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

I realize there's a lot of FUD floating around the Web. I'd encourage you to put that aside and draw your own conclusions based on your experience before you give up on what is an excellent new iteration of the Z6 camera. The autofocus, in my experience, is as good as the Z8 and Z9, albeit without specific bird recognition at the moment.

[@CharlieGroh]

So the battery grip for the Z6III will work with the Z6II...great...but will the MB-NII grip I bought for my Z6II work with the Z6III?

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

I don't believe it will.

[@CharlieGroh]

@@RaymondParkerPhoto no, I looked it up. The *size* of the bodies is different so I find it odd that the pack would be compatable at all!

[@Ben_Stewart]

I am just a bit concerned about the flickering in the shadows. I hope Nikon can address this.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

I will be testing more but, as I've said and I think my examples show, it's not something I've seen. I think it needs more investigation before we call it a widespread issue.

[@anilaboutme]

True I have it too but I don't really notice it in SDR. Just log. I hope they'll fix it in a firmware update.

[@WhySteve]

I rented one for a day. Things I disliked was unable to shoot log internally, playback freezing/crashing and autofocus sticking to everythng but the actual subject in the frame😅 so it made it hard to shoot myself.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Hmmm. Not experienced any of those issues. It's important to use the correct focus settings and subject recognition--choose from people, animals, vehicles, planes and the results are near perfect in my experience. You can shoot LOG internally. I did it for this video and included examples.

[@WhySteve]

I didn't find any log settings. Note I only had an SD card so maybe that was the restriction? But for the focus, I filmed a video about a dog with animal tracking on, and it still locked onto things like trees 10km in the background, haha.

[@cornellouis]

the clunk when accessing the menu can be turned off by using "silent mode". That might also disable the mechnical shutter tho... I hope nikon will make the settings more fine grain.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

"Silent Mode" is the electronic shutter.

[@cornellouis]

@@RaymondParkerPhoto yes... i use this on my Z9 and I guess in that case there is only electronic shutter, lol. oops.

[@AlienGrade]

i had issues on Z6III recording 6k pro res raw Angelbird AV PRO CFeXPRESS B 1700mbs forget it, then tried a OWC Atlas pro r3650MBs better, but someone needs to flag cards that do not work.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

That would be quite a challenge for one person. Hopefully we can crowd source something of a list here, so thanks for adding your experience.

[@alwinbenjamin]

👑👏🏻❤️

[@carlmcneill1139]

I think I want to sell my z6 II next year and get this camera. I think I want to wait until they fix some of the bugs first. That way I'll get a model with all the fixes. I may even wait for it to go on sale. I have the z8 so I'm not concerned with dynamic range. I'll still have that covered with the z8. That will be the camera I use for landscape, sports and wildlife. I use my z6 II for street photography, milky way and general photography when I don't need the extra megapixels or I just want a smaller lighter body. The two things I don't like about the z6 II is the screen blackout in burst mode and the focus tracking. It's fine for portraits and most situations but it's not as good as the z8. I know with the mechanical shutter there's still a little bit of blackout on the z6 III but that's expected because of the shutter opening and closing. You're going to see that with a DSLR or even a film camera. What I'm referring to is the screen blacking out from the time you push the shutter button until you let off our until the buffer reaches its limit. You can't track subjects that are moving. I'm a hobbyist so it's not like I really need the z6 III. I just wasn't it. I have been eyeing the zf though.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

If I had to choose between the Zf and Z6III, the Z6III wins. But it's just because the Z6III has better ergonomics and 6K video. Otherwise the Zf is fun and compact. Different tools. Z8 is the winner though.

[@carlmcneill1139]

@RaymondParkerPhoto ergonomics is big for me. I've never used any of my cameras for video. I might at some point. Video editing seems like it's so time consuming. I used to be more of a landscape photographer because I love beautiful sunrises and sunsets. I took up street photography a couple of years ago. I find it to be the most challenging type of photography so far. That's why the zf appeals to me. I have a Canon AE-1 that basically has the same ergonomics as the zf. So I really don't need to zf if I'm wanting to use a classic style body. I already have the AE-1 for that.

[@cameraconspiracies]

In regards to the mode dial. All I said was that it was very awkward to use with big telephoto lenses. You have to take your right hand off the grip to turn the dial. You also have to awkwardly hold a button down while turning it, where some other companies use a button that stays locked or unlocked when you press it. Nikon Z5 has the dial on the right side. I think anyone using this dial regularly would want it on the right side, and able to turn freely and lock when desired. You said yourself that you just leave it in manual, and that you don't even use the dial for your style of shooting. If you had to use it for your work, you'd notice it immediately. I use it almost every shot to switch between 6k 60p raw and HD 240p, and it's very frustrating to do that with a big wildlife lens while also trying to keep a bird in the frame through the EVF. That dial is my every day nightmare in an otherwise amazing camera ;)

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Hi Kasey. Thanks for stopping by. I see your point; I was, after all, "trained" on the Nikon FM. Today, my muscle memory is similarly trained by the Z Series cameras which are all essentially designed the same, whether the earlier Z6s (which I bought), Z9, Z8, or Zf. All these work well for me. When I'm shooting wildlife, the "heaviest" lens I'll use is the 400mm f/4.5 VR S, maybe with a TC. I handheld the deer shot featured in this video. I have no trouble reaching the mode dial, though I more often use a monopod with heavier combos. So it seems like we have different shooting styles. Or maybe it's that I'm left handed/eyed ... or it's just a left-coast thing. 😀 Cheers!

[@firegoat73]

When he commented on the dial I knew EXACTLY who he was talking about, lol.

[@cameraconspiracies]

@@RaymondParkerPhoto You lefties :) I get by somehow, but I find it so much easier with the right handed dial :)

[@marcusbraun8889]

Until today I didn't know that it is 'awkward to hold down the button and turn the dial with my left hand '. I use the dial since 5 years, going between c1-3, on my Z7 and had to grab it to check if it's the same. Yes, it is. Obviously I never noticed. Then again my life doesn't depend on filming feathered friends handheld with long tele lenses. Can't that be done better with the i-menu perhaps if it's such an issue?

[@cameraconspiracies]

@@marcusbraun8889 No, the i menu can't change codecs, only framerates and it takes way longer to do that than with the custom dial.

[@twinklestar2490]

Does. It overheats?

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

No problems over the month I've used it ... in the heat of the summer. I don't, however, record big files for hours at a time.

[@thomaschamberlin2485]

I have a Z9 and Zf. I would have upgraded the Zf to the Z6iii if it had a tilt screen. But the flippy screen and lack of Bird detection was a deal killer. Omar Gonzalez just did a three week review of the Z6iii. He just found that it is best to expose for the highlights as the Z6iii could not bring them back like his Sony does. He also noted a shimmer in the shadows in n-log like others were seeing. It will be interesting to see if the Olympics photographers are using the Z6iii and using Nikon cloud to submit their images.

[@waynerm002]

I would guess Olympics photographers will use the Z9 as it is a pro body and can shoot up to 120fps. When going up against the Sony A9 III and Canon R1, with stacked sensors and fast readout, the Z9 is the camera that competes better with its 45MP sensor, turned down to Medium (25.6MP) size.

[@_cyclofob8990]

The flippy screen would be a reason for me to switch from my Z6II to the Z6III 😅

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

You're one of the people I referred to in the video. I wish Nikon has offered 2 versions! 😀

[@airjaff]

I'm not interested in stack sensor, b give me slower read out high dynamic range high mp and good auto focus and that's my ideal camera

[@williambuford6136]

Hopefully Nikon will release that camera later this year.

[@Ivokbg]

Hey, Rey! Great video as always! So far I dislike two things. 1. On a gimbal, when you use the gimbal focus wheel you have to be in AF mode in which there is no focus peaking. In order to have focus peaking you have to switch to MF, but then the gimbal focus wheel becomes unfunctional. That is very weird and it carries over from the Z6II and pretty much ties your hands. 2. When shooting ProRes the lowest fps in 1080p is 50fps, there is no 25 or 30...which is weird. You have to shoot in 4K. What's your take on those shortcomings? Any workarounds? Thanks!

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

I see what you mean about ProRes. However, it's not a setting combo I ever use so I *personally* don't see it as a shortcoming. I also don't own a gimbal; I prefer using a rig. But focus peaking is usually meant to aid manual focus. The autofocus is pretty reliable in my experience. Sorry I can't test that issue.

[@mrdarryljones1]

It seems I would have been settling if I had waited for the Z6iii to come off back order. Happy as a clam with my new trio, Z6ii, Zf and Z8! Keep doing you Ray!👍🏽

[@wanderlust0120]

Looks like at some point Raymond got Undone

[@JasonLorette]

The DR is not an issue for me at, at least hasn't been so far. I agree the "clunk" was a bit shocking, and the strap ring card door thing is just a really bizarre detail for Nikon to miss. Love my flippy screen...finally Nikon! The absolute BIG thing that I am really disappointed about is not being able to record video to the SD card, which is just baffling to me (I hope this changes with a firmware update)! But my first KZbin video with it to Grand Manan everything turned out awesome...loving it so far.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Hi Jason. The DR is not as wide as, say, the Z8 and it's more noticeable in DX (a rare case for me) but, as I hope I've shown, it's no biggie. You should be able to record video to the SD. Maybe not RAW but everything else should be OK, including ProRes 422 HQ 10-bit, which is excellent for most conditions. What card are you using?

[@JasonLorette]

@@RaymondParkerPhoto Two Lexars, both 64GB, gold CF-B, and silver SD…it’s weird.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

I'm using the SDXC V90 cards I've reviewed. No issues. I just tested again to make sure.

[@JasonLorette]

@@RaymondParkerPhoto Hmmm, I’m going to have to check again, maybe I’ve set something wrong.

[@JasonLorette]

@@RaymondParkerPhoto I think I was unclear...I meant record video to "both" the CF Express AND the SD at the same time, not just the SD (like I can with RAW photos). As a "destination" for video the menu only give the option of 'either' C/X or SD, not both...at least that I can see.

[@waveland]

I have returned 4 Z6IIIs due to the flickering shadows problem or because the video focus did not work properly. I think it will be a great camera once Nikon sorts out the sensor problems, but for now my hybrid dollars are headed in a different direction.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

I haven't seen that behaviour. From what I gather (after your comment--also saw your comments on Robert May's video) it isn't everyone's experience either. I seem to recall once seeing a similar issue with my Z9 at some settings, but pretty extreme ISO. For my use case, I rarely if ever shoot above 32000 ISO. I don't understand at all what May is talking about when he says he can't "monitor" the camera when shooting himself, that one has to use an auto setting. Personally, I *never* use auto exposure settings. All my talking head videos are shot manually, except for autofocus, which works flawlessly 99.9% of the time. I'll do some tests but, as I say, haven't seen this so far.

[@jamesfeehan8073]

​@RaymondParkerPhoto Hi! Enjoyed the useful review, thanks! Have you managed to find this effect in tests yet? Looking to upgrade ot this body, but having trouble deciding if this is an annoying camera flaw or KZbin nitpicking that I'm unlikely to ever see in real-world use.

[@elliotresnick5433]

I noticed you own a Z 40mm lens. How do you like it? Does it have a plastic mount so not weather sealed because I love that focal length as a walk around lens?

[@waveland]

@@elliotresnick5433 I don’t own that lens.

[@roybixby6135]

Great Video - it didnt feel like Kodachrome had 8 stops of DR at the time ... 🦘

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

True that!