Reviewing the Z fc - Nikon's Retro Z camera - 6 months on

Having spent some time with the Z fc and its accompanying lenses, Becky gives us her view on the cameras strengths, weaknesses, and walks us through some nature. There may also be a guest appearance from a well-known co-host...
In this video:
18-140mm DX - shop.graysofwe......
24-200mm VR - shop.graysofwe......
Check our our website and e-shop: www.graysofwes...
*Our e-shop is open to all EU and UK residents. For orders from the rest of the world , send us an email at [e-mail] or call us [phone]*
Contribute to our Coffee Fund: paypal.me/GoWL...
Presentation
Rebecca Danese: bit.ly/Bex_on_I...
Konstantin Kochkin: bit.ly/kon_on_i...
Production
Xam Rosales: bit.ly/xamoninsta
Post-production: Rebecca Danese
Subscribe to our newsletter to get updates about our offers: bit.ly/newslet...
Contact us: [e-mail]

[@pauldanesi3299]

I have the Z6, Z50, Z FC and D500. I do mostly sports photography and when shooting baseball, basketball and American football I use the D500 and Z FC to take advantage of the crop factor. I find the Z FC focuses faster than the Z50 and comparable with the Z6. Dont let the ergonomics turn you off. A Small Rig attachment solves your grip issue. Also I don't use the knobs for ISO, or shutter speed, I mostly use auto ISO from My Menu. I love the Z FC!

[@ramnindersingh4683]

Hi Paul, I am thinking to buy a Z FC for sports photography. Can you please recommend a lens.

[@pauldanesi3299]

@@ramnindersingh4683 the most useful lens is the 70-200mm f/2.8. Just about every sport, indoors or outside can use this lens. With the Z FC it would be cheaper using an F Mount lens and the FTZ adapter. Both Tamron and Sigma have reasonably priced F Mounts. Of couse the Nikon Z Mount would be the best option if you could afford it. Good luck.

[@adrianmcastro]

Your comment made me decide 🤣 thank you

[@Hippydippy935]

I bought one 4 months ago and shoot mainly architecture and landscapes. I added the small grip which is great for adding some grip and weight. The shots I get are amazing, especially considering it’s a crop sensor at 20.9MP. I shoot everything in RAW and then use the NX studio which is easy to use and does a great job. I’ve blown up a couple of shots to 16*24 and the detail and Colors are stunning.

[@GrahamSmithVideos]

I am loving my second hand zfc, which came with the Nikon grip which really helps. I have set up the video on/off button to take me to my menu, where the top item is ISO setting, where I can set Auto ISO. Three taps and I can make the switch. A lovely light camera with high ISO capability and VR in the 16-50 lens gives phenomenal low light performance. Love it.

[@lstrunk2]

I've had my Z fc for 2 months and LOVE it for taking everywhere and family gatherings. The interesting bit is I use Auto ISO on it, more than my D500. I'm finding it simple to adjust my max ISO while shooting. If I'm shooting in S mode, I also set it to 1/3 stop. My favorite thing about it turns out to be that I really like not having the screen on the back tempting me to check my shots. I'm also surprised that I'm not having problems switching between my Z fc and my D500.

[@markstemmett5296]

One of the nicest cameras I have owned, light simple and fun

[@Richard_Ashton]

Mine's coming tomorrow. I got the version with two kit lenses after reading that both were good and sharp (or I would have had that 28mm). I expect all of my forthcoming photographs to be just perfect...

[@david.robertson.photography]

Interesting subject unfortunately spoilt by the poor audio quality. I enjoy the compact nature of the Z50, especially for street photography, and the 16-50 is a cracking plastic-fantastic lens. I am not sure the new 28 & 40 offer much extra...accept for the fx properties for use on my full frame bodies. I wouldn't splash out on the Zfc now but I would probably buy it if I didn't have the Z50. As for the retro...might confuse me as I pick up my Nikon FE! 🙂

[@warrickcoe5576]

I think one of the best things about the zfc is that it is fun. It's capable,I can give it to my young daughters to use to look cool in a coffee shop with its small size and easy portability being a genuine plus. I can also use it for short product videos, as a high quality webcam for video conferencing and a travel camera for holidays and family shots when you want more than a phone without the heft of full frame. It gets me out of my day to day regular shooting habits with its retro dials. Do I want the ZF? Sure but the price and weight trade off for me is just not worth it.

[@eherrmann01]

I had the Zfc with the 28mm SE lens on pre-order, then when I found out that it was going to be several months before it shipped, I gave in to my G.A.S., cancelled the order and got the Z6II 24-70mm combo instead. On the plus side, I still have my Df for when I want to go retro with my digital photography..

[@eherrmann01]

@@PSYCHIC_PSYCHO I agree that it's a far superior camera, but it would be a great looking addition to my collection of Nikon SLR bodies.

[@simonm.1122]

This camera… ugh. Been waiting for a digital FM/FE for over a decade. Nikon finally makes one… out of plastic? Crop sensor? No new DX lenses to support it? Banging my head against the wall over here…

[@chloescanlon1107]

Why oh why did Nikon handicap this camera by giving it the slow, cumbersome and obtrusive side hinged selfie screen? I guess they were succumbing to all the KZbinrs crying and moaning for one.

[@duncanthorn6338]

Informative as always, but for some reason the audio is not up to par on this video. Maybe work on that for the future.

[@thisisbenji90]

Sounds okay to me?

[@potusuk]

no, I agree Duncan. It seems many times when Kon & Becky are out on the road, that the mics aren't placed properly, hidden by clothing so it is muffled. All it takes is for the camera person to plug in their headphones and listen better. Sound is always a neglected skill by people shooting vision but it need not be too much of a problem. Just move the lavaliers or whatever is being used to a clearer position. We're not looking (listening) for concert quality :)

[@psoon04286]

Yup, audio not the usual standard. Great content though, would like to get another Z body, DX preferably, but with IBIS.

[@richardreddyrredd8110]

@@psoon04286 I think it was a bit windy when they were shooting this one. Turn on the "CC" to get a view of the spoken words. That helped.

[@NikCan66]

Great points raised but the audio seems a bit low

[@halvideos]

I personally bought ZFC I am loving it. I Record professional videos with it mostly interviews and my zoom H5 for audio. I am using the z50mm f/1.8 for interviews and 16-50mm kit lens for broll. The auto focus on the camera works well and have not had any problems yet

[@1990geddes]

I have had a zfc since august last year. Personally I like it a lot having had a fm2 as a teenager (I'm 32 now) but I agree I would have preferred it to be full frame, it's unfortunate the fx z cameras don't mimic older film cameras. I agree i think it has been marketed wrong and that the online videos did the better job the 16-50 kit seems to be aimed more at influencers and the 28mm kit more at people like myself that had their old film cameras. In regards to the grip I bought the smallrig grip and it turns it into a different camera by adding some weight and a little grip the form for me is vastly better. The only frustrating thing is the lack of more affordable fast glass from nikon or 3rd party manufacturers. I'm hoping to buy the 28-75 for both my z6 and the zfc.

[@philipperry1]

I have owned a Zfc for over a year and I just LOVE it! Looks great, performs well, light and with the variety of Z lenses becoming available, is proving very versatile. I rarely use my D7200 these days as I so love the Zfc. I use the Smallrig grip and find this perfect for improving handling whilst maintaining the retro styling.

[@Joseph-iu6ip]

I have the Z fc and a Z7. The Z fc has become my everyday camera and it’s just fun to use.

[@PLANETWATERMELON]

6 months or a few weeks? Sounded like you said a few weeks. Titles needs to be accurate.

[@steveboys5369]

Personally I'd love an entry level Z camera ( currently in the cheap seats with a D3500 ), but I think I'd need the Z50 for the "grip", having hands more like Kenny Everett's preacher

[@NashCityRob]

I got the Zfc with the smallrig grip, and it has made the camera for me absolutely perfect!!! I went from my D3300 to the Zfc I couldn't be happier with this. The Handgrip is only $40 and adds a metal bottom, a good feel Handgrip and keeps the look and feel of the Zfc style. So the cam stays nice and pretty with the attachment.

[@stuartriley]

I bought the Nikon Zfc mirrorless based on your channel review . I really like it and agree as a Dx style sensor it has great images and does have low light performance (nightscapes). I thank you for the review and your videos.

[@SanoyNimbus]

Since I did a short test with the Z50 spring 2020 I knew the Zfc would not be a bad camera, since it was said to be using Z50 technology ... So when Nikon announced it I ordered it directly. I did not need it. Since I already had two Z6ii bodies, but the look of it appealed and I thought it would be a great weekend camera to bring on short trips and family occasions ... I did not intended to use it for work. But now If I look back in the rear mirror. I have been using it a lot for work. I always bring two cameras with me for work. Today I bring either the two Z6ii or one of them and the Zfc ... depending on what the job is. I bought it with the 28mm 2.8 SE - a beautiful and good lens. And later I bought the black 16-50 DX. I think that one looks better on the Zfc than the silver one. The silver looks more plastic than the black one, probably because the black one does not look fake metal ... Any way. I really love the Zfc as it is. Of course it would have ben better if it was an FX camera. Of course IBIS would have been nice, a headphone output, sensor cleaning etc ... But if each of this extra would have added on the price. I am glad they settled for the level that they did. I think a DX-camera was a better choice than a FX one that would have costed more than the Z6ii. I wouldn't have bought the FX one even though I would have liked it. It would not filled my "need" of a cheap, small, weekend camera ... because it would have been bulkier (more like the Z6/Z7 size) ... So I am not sure if there will be any FX camera like this. Who will it be made for? Professionals, that works must faster with the other pro bodies or semi pro bodies? Beginners who today thinks the price of the Z6ii is too much? Entusiasts who already have or want to get into the Z-sytem? They are better of with the existing cameras (and coming versions) than a retro looking camera that they have to pay extra for. Maybe some true entusiast will buy it. The ones that bought the Df camera and have sticked to that one since they bought it? ... But they are so few it will cost Nikon more than they will gain ... I hope I am wrong. But I will not buy the Zff(?) if I am wrong ... I love my Zfc and my Two Z6ii cameras. :)

[@johnhjic2]

Hello Becky, what happened to our sound?

[@EEM131E]

As a number of others have mentioned, the audio quality of this video leaves a lot to be desired. It sounds like two tin cans with a piece of string. 📶

[@dct124]

1:29 Can you not use the Fn button in the front of the camera? Mapped to "Access Top Item in My Menu", set to Auto ISO?

[@ademola5803]

I have a nikon Z6 for weddings. Can I use this camera as a back up camera.

[@obedbrinkman]

i own the z50 but the zfc is a gem

[@ALWH1314]

I wish Zfc a FX with IBIS. If Sony can made an A7C, Nikon can do better.

[@aerialfilm1]

Last summer in Tokyo I played with the zfc, and would have bought one if any were in stock. But when one shop had the z50 on display right next to the zfc display, I was able to do a little side by side comparison. My photography journey started back when all cameras looked like the zfc and I thought I’d love it, but I’ve become accustomed to command dials, function buttons and a grip. Once back home in Florida I bought a z50 and two kit lenses and since haven’t really picked up my Z6 kit, and for what I’m doing now I don’t feel the least bit compromised with the z50. Over the years my spine has been used, abused and broken. Lightweight kit is paramount. Only now am I beginning to understand what the old guys were trying to tell me 30-40 years ago.

[@eltinjones4542]

Two things that I like about this camera are the fully articulating screen, not for selfies but portrait shots at a low level - I have AS. Secondly it's ability to shoot long exposures without messing around with a phone. I don't think it takes a cable release? I don't like the fact that it's no hand grip (You may have mentioned that) I have a Nikon FE, which I haven't use for years and I don't want to go back to physical dials to set speeds, ISO etc If I move on to Nikon mirrorless the Z50 would be a better chouce for me. The full frame Z's with lenses etc, are far too expensive for what I do. Thanks for the I formative video 📷👍

[@dennisg4196]

Thank you for a video not about the Z9. Might be a possibility, but I look for 2 card slots. An FX version would be great.

[@irvinmartin9259]

I ordered mine with the 28mm at a local shop last Fall, and received it sooner than expected when someone else’s earlier order was canceled. It’s been great fun to use, even though I already had a Z50 with the 16-50mm lens. I also bought the FTZ adapter, because I have several DX SLR lenses. Just one problem. The Z50 works fine with the adapter, but the Zfc just shows a message, “FTZ mount adapter firmware version not supported. Upgrade FTZ firmware.” Why is this even necessary? How do you upgrade an adapter?

[@DeanAllman]

What camera firmware version are you using? Latest Zfc firmware is version 1.20. I got the same error message with the new FTZ II on my Z7ii. Upgrading the camera firmware took care of the issue.

[@peterlooper7956]

Nikon say: Any camera and mount adapter firmware updates must be performed before the firmware for F mount lenses can be updated. Before updating the firmware for F mount lenses: Check the camera firmware and update to the latest version if the “C” firmware version is earlier than 3.10 (Z 7 or Z 6) or 2.00 (Z 50). Remove the FTZ mount adapter before updating the camera firmware. Check the mount adapter firmware and update to the latest version if the mount adapter (MA) firmware version is earlier than 1.10. Remove F mount lenses before updating the mount adapter firmware. Users of the Z 6II and other Z-series cameras released in or after November, 2020, should install this update if the camera displays a message prompting them to update the FTZ mount adapter firmware. It's very easy to do.

[@violentvinyl]

The grip from SmallRig is a no brainer. It is less than half the price of the Nikon one, and in my opinion it preserves the aesthetic of the camera much better (not to mention it adds an extra strap loop, arca swiss plate, cold shoe, and a threaded hole for mounting in the portrait orientation).

[@andyvan5692]

really informative, and LOVE the outdoor streams!!, but one point, the iso on the Zfc can be added to the dials (menu control-as per other models), from my basic memory it lies in the iso menu, as an option in the iso settings, to use as electronic dials?; but as you are already using shutter speed by electronic dials method, you might have to assign a different custom control in the F1/F2 custom controls menu's.

[@iamhassan9943]

No, it can not. The only way is to add it to the My Menu. But this is less than the most efficient way and does not allow adjustments. Only the ability to turn on or off Auto ISO.

[@lstrunk2]

@@iamhassan9943 Once auto ISO is turned on, set your MAX ISO to 200. You can then use the ISO dial to adjust the max ISO. For example, if you set max ISO to 200 and the dial to 3200, the max ISO will now be 3200.

[@iamhassan9943]

@@lstrunk2 I know this. But, that is not what she was talking about. And not what I was talking about either. YOU CAN NOT change the ISO from Auto to manual from the dials. You have to go into the menu. She has mentioned not being able to easily and quickly change the ISO before. Also what you are talking about is not a great way to do it as it limits your ISO and is a clunky way of doing that. You also have no way to change the ISO through the lens control rings either as it is not an option. The best quickest way is to put the exposure compensation on one of the lens control rings. But, then that is also not the ISO setting.

[@lstrunk2]

@@iamhassan9943 I understand, and at first, not having an A mode on the dial was frustrating. The Z fc is definitely not a fast camera. I do wish we had auto on all the dials in place of the mode switch and an9ther custom button. I've found that I'm using auto iso more on my Z fc, than I am on my D500. I don't often switch in and out of auto iso, I'm either in it or I'm not. And if I need to go fast, I grab something else.

[@JFabrication]

Try some thinner running gloves out, and if its stupid cold out, can use a fingerless knit glove over them?

[@lynelljansen8057]

I have a pair makes all the difference

[@intrinsicimagery]

Oooh. The audio is not up to your usual standard.

[@sabbottart]

I don’t see how you shoot on grey overcast days. I never bother.

[@arunamaya]

Don't complain about the Z fc grip. It is retro inspired design. Just buy an extra hand grip or thumb grip if needed.

[@mamba109]

Retro-inspired doesn't mean it has to be retro duplicated 1 to 1. It's still a valid complaint, it's 2022. They could add a small grip while keeping the retro aesthetics, the Olympus OMD E-M5 line does this really well. I can comfortable 1-hand hold with confidence a 75-300mm lens on it.

[@richardpetrovic8941]

Z fc is camera with crop sensor.

[@dct124]

Lol 🤣 everyone still complains about that flip down screen and tripods, 😭 could've just used Snapbridge 🤷🏾‍♂️ Smartphone, Tablet or Laptop with full wireless remote control over the camera and put the screen ANYWHERE and not have to* get up. Say you have a flip out screen, you still have to get up to control the camera.

[@3sixty2degres]

I hesitated to getting the ZF C and went for the Z50, which I love I really wanted to go for that retro style and feel but I found that the grip of the Z50 is more comfortable and I'm not so worried of dropping it. I have the Z6 ii and I find myself suprised that when ever I go out for a walk I'll grab the Z50 and throw it in my pocket.

[@stanobert3475]

SmallRig makes a grip specifically for the Zfc. I purchased this third party grip for my Zfc and it makes a big difference. It only cost $40 USD.

[@Kevin-Pdog]

@@stanobert3475 but the problem is that with the grip it’s a bit harder to put in the pocket … it does feel much much better tho

[@sdhute]

I would have purchased this if it had custom control dials. Then again that's not standard on analog looking cameras. I picked up the z50 those custom dials are important to me to get into black and white profiles for quick street photography.

[@eskomies]

I got my Z fc just a week ago. Still learning what it can do. But very promising start. Seems like there are not so many Z DX lenses though. I hope Nikon would make some more prime lenses. They got only this 24mm which is full frame 35mm equivalent. At least 50mm equivalent would do. But loving the body for sure. And I was mainly a Canon shooter.

[@stephenfranklin8258]

Like Becky, the Zfc reminded me of my old Df - I regard it as my ‘slow me down and think about it’ camera as an adjunct to my Z6 II. The grip wasn’t great, even the Df had a small grip of course, but I knew I was buying the Smallrig one, which is great - better than the Nikon one IMO. My one frustration, as Becky said, is menu diving for Auto ISO etc - extra Fn button or two would be great but that’s the nature of the beast of course. The IQ is excellent and In some respects, I regard it as a (expensive!) T/C for FF lenses.

[@davidjohnson4451]

I now own TWO. I use the Z 9 when I need speed. THe Z fc is a great little camera. The video is very good. I add a leather half case. The addition of the TP Original leather halfcase adds grip, protection, and they are beautiful. I have one camera with the rufous brown and one in green. I have examined the special edition colors and prefer the cowhide half case on the black standard Z fc. the Nikon I use the 16-50s ALL of the time. For 50-250 lens I use the Z 50 with the lens shade and a polarizing filter.

[@Kupfertopf65]

I got. my Z-FC yesterday with the 28mm SE and the Smallrig Grip……Great Combo. Now playing around with the menu and settings. I customized the recording button in photo mode with the ISO Auto Setting. 😉🤫👍🏼

[@sonholee5769]

In fuji cameras, SS can be changed with the retro top dial, but then it can be honed into an in between shutter speed using one of the command dials. A person could set it to 1/60 for example on top, but increase it or decrease it in small increments using the a command dial. Could be an easy firmware update. I would be sorely tempted if it was FF and the manual focusing experience was really good.

[@richardb.1414]

There are these army mittens without an "index finger" for snipers, obviously found it useful for my camera release button. Hi, army guys can't you give Becky a pair of these mittens free of charge ?

[@bar_288]

I wish Nikon to release a canon m200 type compact camera 📸 for easy carry around.. or may be coolpix version ii ??

[@OutRAjious]

what I want to know is would you buy this over the fuji xs10 going by jpgs and user experience

[@nikitis13]

Available with an optional grip if you miss that kind of thing.

[@hagentrondheim3675]

Love the retro styling. But I will wait for a FF with Ibis.

[@jtes1442]

I’m intrigued by the ZFC . I wish it had a joystick .

[@mustafagokcan5289]

U need to fix your microphone.

[@KarenVaisman1]

Loved the old cars! Nice to see you go on location

[@normantrowell3767]

audio is awfull

[@roktin354]

good shot

[@kaminobatto]

I love my Z fc! I had it for 5 months now. I used it fully manually and I tuck the screen away (though I keep the exposure simulation). I use it mostly with the 16-50mm kit lens which is an extremely useful focal length and it keeps the body light and compact. My second favorite use of this camera body is with manual F or Z glass, it just lends itself to this! And with the ability to magnify in the EVF, you can get tack sharp photos. I just love it. My only gripe with it is the little surface area to grip on. I always feel like unless I hold it very tight it will slip and fall, so I get tired of holding it after an hour or so of shooting. I'm really considering to invest in the grip, though I prefer how it looks without one.

[@kristidubois8400]

If it had IBIS I would be interested. I'm waiting to see what the next DX camera body has to offer. No IBIS is why I got rid of my D7200 and switched to a Z6. I still have a couple of DX lenses that I like, hoping to get a good DX body in the future.

[@cotswoldphotographers]

You can’t compare this to a D7200 and I promise you’d be surprised it’s so incredibly light that stabilisation isn’t really that important especially paired with the 28mm, it’s an absolute gem. Yes for the longer lenses but then again they come with VR built in. I had a D7200 and now a D750 so totally understand your misapprehension. However, I can confidently say this seeing as my wife has a Z6 and Zfc.

[@kristidubois8400]

@@cotswoldphotographers I have arthritis and shaky hands, so IBIS does really help me. I don't want to lug a tripod everywhere I go. IBIS wasn't important to me until the past 5 years or so. Stuff happens as one ages.

[@stavros.fourfourianakis]

I have the camera for 3 months, and I am happy with it. It is lighter than my Z6, I love the looks and the use with the 28mm lens that I bought it as a kit. I have also got the Smallrig Grip, as it doesn't affect the retro styling, and helps you holding it with one hand (I was expecting to like it also without the grip as I have used in the past an FE, but it helps a lot). I am always using the Auto-ISO and I love that using the ISO dial, I can set the lower ISO in order to get the depth of field or Speed that I need (depending if I am using S or A priority). What I don't like, is that plastic battery door and also Smallrig Grip makes the base of the camera to look more sturdy that it really is.

[@bradarmstrong7467]

Full frame, take my money. Would be a fun back up camera especially if AF approaches Z9. I agree put an auto iso on the dial. I have a lot of film camera’s including at least one version of all F camera’s and learned completely manually and I think if you can’t shoot that way you are not a photographer your a picture taker. The DF is great but a mirror less version with a few tweaks would be great!

[@dct124]

DX Entry Line (IBIS N/A) Z50 - Vloggers Z30 - Streamers Specialty Zfc - Street/Travel FX Entry Line (IBIS) Z5 - Product/Wedding/Event Prosumer Line (IBIS) Z6 II - Run & Gun Z7 II - Landscape/Architecture Specialty Z8 - Studio Pro Line (IBIS) Z9 - Sports, Action, Wildlife, Photojournalist & Cinema B