Nikon Z7 II & Z6 II User's Guide & Tricks by Ken Rockwell

Nikon Z7 II & Z6 II User's Guide by Ken Rockwell
Full Written User's Guide www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/mir...
Z7 II Review www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/mir...
I got mine at www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produc...
I'd also get it at www.adorama.com/NKZ7M2.html?k...
or at www.amazon.com/dp/B08L614R6K/...
or at www.crutchfield.com/i-rKRWcNE...
or get it used at www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw=...
if you know How to Win at eBay www.kenrockwell.com/tech/ebay...
When you click on the links above to various merchants and make a purchase, this can result in me earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
FTZ adapter www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/mir...
Canon to Nikon Adapter www.kenrockwell.com/tech/frin...
SB-400 Flash www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/sb4...
Auto White Balance Settings www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/d85...
How to Take Great Pictures www.kenrockwell.com/tech.htm
FART First for Fantastic Fotos www.kenrockwell.com/tech/fart...
Adapt Any Lens to Nikon Z www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/mir... or • Adapt ANY Lens to Nikon Z
Z 24-200mm VR Review www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/z/2...
Nikon AF-D 18mm f/2.8 Review www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/182...
Sony vs Canon vs Nikon www.kenrockwell.com/tech/comp...
I get all my gear at www.kenrockwell.com/links.htm...
Contribute at www.paypal.me/kenrockwell
Shot with iPhone 12 Pro Max www.kenrockwell.com/apple/iph... 1080/25
Lit with Luxli lights at 3500K www.kenrockwell.com/tech/luxl...
Left & Right: Timpani at 67% with Angler soft boxes www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produc... & Angler grids www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produc...
Top rear: Cello at 33% with Luxli diffuser www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produc...
Audio recorded with one Senal SCM-660 microphone set to figure-of-eight www.kenrockwell.com/audio/sen...
on Auray desk stand www.kenrockwell.com/audio/aur...
with Auray PFNY-6 Pop Screen www.kenrockwell.com/audio/aur...
on my TASCAM DR-100 MK II www.kenrockwell.com/audio/tas...
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[@germanshepherdmom5411]

I want you to know, as our world is falling apart, your videos are keeping my mind occupied and happy. Thank you Sir.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Sorry about yours, but overall the world is fine. Things always change and it’s never been perfect . Thanks!

[@juansol1499]

Thank you very much for this video, Ken. I'm following you since several years ago, and your information is always the first reference for me, especially when I'm trying to buy a new Nikon product. Greetings from Madrid, Spain.

[@KenRockwellTV]

¡Gracias y Saludos!

[@marc5279]

Ken, that is a good review. Straight to the point and speaking about what users mostly care about

[@KenRockwellTV]

Bingo. That’s what I try to do. Thanks!

[@powerking73]

Great review Ken

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks Rich! Those are just tricks; my full review is at www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/mirrorless/z7-ii.htm and www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/mirrorless/z6-ii.htm with more at my website and a review elsewhere at KZbin, too.

[@leonidassdi]

Excelente como siempre!!!

[@KenRockwellTV]

¡Gracias!

[@sarajitsil]

Fantastic!! Very helpful video. Thanks for creating this 👍

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thank YOU for finding it helpful!

[@pasky7777]

Wow. Since I got my Z6 ii, I have not met anyone who has mastered this camera like you. I am gonna subscribe definitely.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Just takes lots of practice - like getting to Carnegie Hall. Thanks!

[@donkeybizle]

Ken you are the man with a plan. Excellent video!

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thank you!!!

[@mcndev21]

You remind me a lot of my dad, which is a good thing. His last camera was a Nikon D750, he also had several F3s. Thanks for this review very much, candid and to the point.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thank YOU!

[@Magnetron692]

Hi Ken, many thanks! Due to your video about the Fringer adapter I purchased it for my Nikon Z6 and with my Canon EF lenses it works just fine. No issues. With the latest firmware update I even can use my old Canon EF 2.8/28-80 mm L USM with no problem. The Z6 is the best camera I've ever had. Have a nice day! Best wishes from nearby Stuttgart, Germany, Ralf

[@KenRockwellTV]

Excellent! Glad you like it; I’ve never quite trusted cross brand adapters. Thanks und grußen.

[@jackbrumby1892]

Thanks Ken. U1/U2/U3 settings: I go with P.A.L. ie U1: People U2: Action U3: Landscapes. Cheers.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks!

[@thomasphillips5850]

Great video as usual, thanks Ken.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks, Thomas!!!!

[@adrianvanleeuwen]

The best thing I learned from you today is that I can order a EF to NZ adapter to connect a Z camera to my EF lenses with full autofocus. That is great! Your website mentions the Fringer Lens Mount Adapter. Thanks.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Beware. Cross brand adapters never work as well as staying with the same brand. W!

[@timbutler89]

Happy St Patricks Day to you and yours. My partner once thought Ken Rockwell was an alias for another woman but now she thinks I should invite you to tea because I'm constantly on your website. Thank you so much for the info. If I had one criticism it would be that you speak so fast that I am constantly pausing and rewinding but thats how I learn..(and they say I talk fast) Other than that, Just thank you for the website and the reviews over the years. I have learned more from you than any classroom environment. So much so, that I have just bought my first full frame camera since the D7000 (which is still shooting after 500,000 shots and no issues or replacement parts) I'm in love with my Z7ii but so thankful for your guidance. Love to you and your family.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Hi Tim, I do talk fast. I like to get to the point and move on. It’s easy to slow down: find the SETTINGS in your player and then try 0.75x or 0.5x and you’re there. Thanks!!!

[@lalitpawarphotography]

Great Video...to the point...thank you

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thank you! I work really hard to say what needs to be said and skip the fluff.

[@jefflastofka9289]

Nice tips, thanks. You mentioned U1-U3 not being enough. I want Nikon to give us user named custom settings we can scroll through by holding a button and spinning a dial. As many as we want. When you create them in the camera, they're default named, but you could rename them on your computer over USB or with an SD card load perhaps. If you have Nikon's ear through a rep or somehow, please get them going on this. It's just firmware. I think it could be added to the Z50, Z5, Z whatever..... as is.

[@KenRockwellTV]

We all do. Thanks!

[@BabyBoomerChannel]

I bought the SB-400 on eBay based on your recommendation. Great flash.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Love it too! Tha is!

[@sdecarlo]

Thank you

[@KenRockwellTV]

You are very, very welcome.

[@tiedgear175]

You just covered all my questions to my camera, thank you, definitely like and subscribe

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thank you!!!

[@aaronmurgatroyd5810]

Great video Ken, thank you for making this, I have recently upgraded from my D750 to the Z7II with FTZ, its working well or me now, just have to get used to a couple of things, one of the issues is that I tend to move the camera closer to the subject when doing macro photography by pulling the camera away from my face (as my head cant get closer but my hands can), unfortunately the EVF turns off once it gets about half an arms length away and I can’t eyeball the subject anymore, I need to get used to pressing the display button and using the back screen instead I think :). I have considered sticking something over the eye sensor just for macro photography, but I would really rather not do that.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Push the Monitor button on the side of the finder bump a few times and that should lock the evf on. Tap a few more times to get the LCD or auto switching. Good luck!

[@wilmoney4619]

My gawd thankyou! Subscribed!

[@KenRockwellTV]

And thank YOU!!!!!!

[@ifoxxmedia3782]

Thank you for the camera tip I am just switching over to mirrorless

[@KenRockwellTV]

Enjoy! If you are, I’d suggest going with Canon, like an R10. See www.kenrockwell.com/canon/eos-r/r10.htm and also www.kenrockwell.com/tech/comparisons/nikon-vs-canon-vs-sony-full-frame.htm thanks!

[@erichramone7812]

Thank you! Now were talkin great video!

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thank you!!!

[@erichramone7812]

@@KenRockwellTV very useful as I’m a Z6II shooter.

[@HR-wd6cw]

Charging by USB isn't really any faster than using the wall charger, however it is a great option for backup or if you want to charge two batteries at once. (I think Nikon says that charging through USB at 10 watts is about 2.75 hours and charging via AC wall charger -- the MH-25a -- is about 2.25 hours so you save a little time). But this is a great option and I"m glad that Nikon included USB charging in the Z 6II and Z7II cameras. The AF-S and newer AF-P lesnes (which some people still call AF-S) will work with the FTZ. Others will work but you won't have auto focus (like the older AF-D screw drive lenses). I believe that in AF-C mode the reason they didn't change t he color to green when it has acquired focus is that it could become distracting to people shooting objects that may periodically lose focus, like a bird in flight, and so the switching back and forth between green and red might become confusing or distracting to shooters, and that's likely why Nikon did it this way. However, it would have been nice if they would have put the old "focus dot" in the corner in AF-C mode so you can quickly see if the camera has locked focus or not. So you would still have your focus point, but it wouldn't change color (as it is now) but you'd have the dot and arrows in the lower left corner to quickly check focus in AF-C. This would be a less distracting way of giving the photographer some feedback on whether the camera has locked focus or not in AF-C, and it's something they really could implement via firmware.

[@KenRockwellTV]

I published actual power measurements for it in my written review at www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/mirrorless/z7-ii.htm#powerbattery thanks!

[@MichaelKeelphotography]

I just charged through my Samsung cellphone adapter, the fast adapter USB-C etc. I had one bar left, it took an hour, actually maybe a bit under. I'll time it next time. Z7II.

[@suvarnachauhan951]

Great video liked and subscribed 🙏

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thank you!

[@valdezapg]

When charging directly by opening the rubber door, the rubber might stretch in the long term and not be able to close it. I used to load pictures directly from camera with cable from my Nikon D50 and thats what happened.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Could be. I’ve never liked those crummy plastic flaps. Thanks!

[@BeloAir]

Hi Ken as always en excelente tíos video..just try to keep your camera viewfinder a little more clean. No only for your tool but for your eyes. God bless you and thanks again. Loved all your -to the point- videos 👍🏻

[@KenRockwellTV]

THanks; I shoot in such insanely high resolution so close in such good studio light that you can see EVERYTING you can't see in person. The black camera makes it worse because my video camera's auto exposure lightens it further, making any bit of dust or crud SO obvious. THANKS!

[@bobwoolcock]

When using a VR lens on a mirrorless body that has built in stabilization, do the two vibration reduction systems cancel each other out? Do they both function simultaneously - additive? Does the camera sense the lens is a VR and disable the sensor stabilization in favor of the lens stabilization or the other way around or… ?

[@KenRockwellTV]

They work together. Thanks!

[@mjordan812]

That depends on how you define "properly". I still have my F - FTn with manually coupled aperture lenses. Do they work? Yes. Are they a PITA to use? Also yes.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Agreed. Thanks!

[@ryanbell6537]

10:21 Such a cool feature!!

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks!

[@adrianvanleeuwen]

Nikon doesn't have a small flash available (smaller than a SB700 or SB5000). SB400 discontinued as you say. However a Godox flash with a NIkon mount connector would work for its very small Godox TT350N which uses a rechargeable lithium block which is good alternative to using a Nikon flash includes TTL. I have this and like it a lot! Much smaller than the SB700/5000 from Nikon and lithium lasts a very long time. Perhaps you can review this flash.

[@KenRockwellTV]

I’d go used sb400 long before going down to Godox. Thanks! The tt350n is still a big flash

[@bobwoolcock]

Here's an obscure question for you Ken :) Say I'm using my Z7 II (or any camera with WB options) in a single camera set up for a video (or stills for that matter) and I don't want a color timing error to result from a slightly different auto WB every time I change the angle of the shot. Of course you can select a K setting or, God forbid a standard preselect like shade, or sun. What would be nice is to be able to take a sample shot and then save and transfer that auto WB setting for other shots. I don't see how to do that. So I guess the only way to maintain the WB exactly from shot to shot is to acquire a manual preset from a white card and then use that preset for all the shots/clips.

[@KenRockwellTV]

The way it’s been done in TV as along as we’ve had color is to set a custom white balance on a card and leave it that way. Ditto if you have more than one camera, shoot the same card and you’ll be close. Auto will always be adjusting itself as you point the camera around.

[@bobwoolcock]

@@KenRockwellTV You know your stuff Ken :) Thanks.

[@bobwoolcock]

@@KenRockwellTV I have a box of 16 x 20 ink jet paper pre mounted - I’ll take that out on my music video shoots - pure white. I hope- I’ll check out Sams. Thanks !

[@bobwoolcock]

@@KenRockwellTV Too bad we can't copy the specific parameters of the Auto WB from one image to another or freeze and save it. I say that because sometimes i really like what the AWB comes up with - especially the warmer A2 - be nice to save it as a preset. I guess I want too much :)

[@atropicali]

Hi Ken Is it possible to customize the AF-ON button to single point focus like what is done in the dslr

[@KenRockwellTV]

Should be; try it and see the options available. Hint: not all options are available for all buttons; keep looking in the menus and you should be able to program that function to one of the buttons. Dee my full guide at www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/mirrorless/z7-ii-users-guide.htm#top and maybe this is what you're asking: www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/mirrorless/z7-ii-users-guide.htm#fn or www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/mirrorless/z7-ii-users-guide.htm#RF THANKS!

[@slavakhudyakov3807]

Ken always nice to see your videos -- I am following you since 2004 and now I can hear your voice and see you ) U actually looking great and you speak so good! =) One thing -- if I will load your settings into mine Nikon will I get (c) Ken Rockwell in my camera also? )))

[@KenRockwellTV]

Yes, you usually do get that. Be sure to reset image comments to your own data. Thanks!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@johannguasch754]

Hi Ken, nice run down. Still a d800 shooter here and id like to know when you have Z7 ii’s “apply settings to Live view - Off” does it always show the EVF with a wide open aperture even if you idly have the aperture set in smaller aperture? Helpful if it does, since i shoot a lot of f/16 for work.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Usually it works at a random aperture depending on ambient light. Use the depth of field preview is you need it. Big hint: nikon Mirrorless has nothing to do with their DSLRs. If you want Mirrorless, upgrade to Canon or OM system.

[@vikraminfive]

Have been trying to understand what the 3x optical zoom feature is on the z7 mark2. Haven't seen that been explained in and videos so far

[@KenRockwellTV]

Haven’t tried that; look for it in Nikons printed manual that came with your camera. Most likely it’s a digital zoom.

[@barrydoig5263]

Thanks Ken. I am aged 85, and still perky enough to get out and make photographs. My Nikon D7100 has died and can't be repaired. I've ordered a Z6II. It will be my 5th Nikon over 40 years. I still have an AF Micro Nikkor 105mm D lens left over from my film camera days. Will the FTZ Adaptor work on it?

[@KenRockwellTV]

NO. While you can take a picture with this lens ( www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/105af.htm ) on the FTZ but it WON’T AUTOFOCUS. It’s manual focus only on FTZ, swell for macro, and otherwise AOK.

[@Robinicat]

Than you for all the tips and tricks. For some reason I cannot turn on my Low-light AF . Can anyone help?

[@KenRockwellTV]

Beats me! I’ve never liked having to select an option; it should figure it all out based on conditions and just focus properly. Thanks!

[@jlm300185]

Hi Ken Great video as usual.. Thanks for that How do you rate AF performance in low light with On mount flash for events and weddings? Thanks again All the best

[@KenRockwellTV]

Pretty iffy. Sony and Canon are better. Thanks!

[@mizachs]

@@KenRockwellTV Do you think an update would fix AF?

[@KenRockwellTV]

No. The Z7 II still has many of the problems I found with the very first version of the Z7 in 2018. New firmware could make great improvements, however in my experience with Nikon Z over the past almost three years I haven’t see them make any great improvement. Sorry.

[@allenschneider1847]

The control ring on the lense can be programmed to be an "aperture ring"?

[@KenRockwellTV]

Usually, but since they have no clicks it’s awful. If shooting Nikon and you want an aperture ring, use an FX DSLR and an f-mount lens with a marked aperture ring.

[@ruffysvideo]

Ken, I noticed you use the Ritz Gear CF Express card. I have seen in several places that these are sold that the advertisement says “not recommended for Nikon cameras”. I have not found why they say that I was wondering if you have had any problems with that card?

[@KenRockwellTV]

I asked the experts at Ritz. It turns out if you're running old firmware in some Nikons you can have problems, and Ritz just wanted to make sure that everyone was very happy. So long as you are running the latest firmware, you're golden in Nikon. My card works awesome in my Z9 at super high frame rates. Enjoy!

[@philgreenfly211]

Is there a noticeable difference in AF speed using FTZ with AF-S lenses compared to DSLR? Think I saw a comparison that showed that it can take almost double the time on mirrorless using those lenses. Could you confirm, please?

[@KenRockwellTV]

I haven’t used the FTZ much. Even with Z lenses the Mirrorless are slow. Slow not so much if you use and define one fixed sensor, Mirrorless is slow trying to figure out which sensors to use and trying to track.

[@philgreenfly211]

@@KenRockwellTV Appreciate the info =)

[@ryanbell6537]

8:56 Seriously!!! Did a practice shoot with my daughter yesterday as she was jumping on the trampoline. If she didn't look at me, it'd turn red and I would panic like I would at a wedding and pray-and-click and of course they were all sharp. Hahahahahahaha

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks!

[@myyutu2011]

Hello All! May be it will be helpful for Nikon 7zii owners. I had problem "Lens initialization failed" during the first attachment of 24-200 Nikkor Z Lens to camera. It was solved when I turn camera on with the lens adjusted to the maximum focal length - 200 мм. It was my second lens of this type. The first has defect of small plastic ring with Nikkor name at the front of the lens - the ring was not fixed correctly - it jumps out - I exchanged it. The first lens also has initialization error - but it was gone by turn camera off and on as suggested.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Never seen that, thanks!!

[@Smoothnf]

Hey Ken what about this len on my Nikon Z6ii Nikon Nikkor 300mm F/2.8 ED IF Autofocus Lens

[@KenRockwellTV]

It won’t autofocus unless it’s an AF-S version made since 1996 or newer. The 1992-1996 AFI version might autofocus but even if it does was very slow. Older AF versions will NOT autofocus on the FTZ. see www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/300mm-f28-history.htm and www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/mirrorless/lenses/ftz.htm

[@hakaigo1304]

Can u suggest me which camera is best, Canon 80D or Canon T8i (850D)?

[@KenRockwellTV]

The 80D is a much higher line of camera, but bigger and heavier and used to be more expensive when new. I’d prefer the 80D. Thanks!

[@laurencegrant2882]

Thanks, Ken! Are you aware that if I set M exposure with Auto iso ON, it can switch it back to Auto iso OFF? I set U1/2/3 to various, all with auto iso ON but I noticed at a few recent shoots, the Auto iso seem to switch off when on Manual. Could this happen in certain situation?

[@KenRockwellTV]

I would think so. I haven't tried specifically, but AUTO ISO can be turned ON of OFF regardless of the other settings for what I've tried.

[@laurencegrant2882]

@@KenRockwellTV It turned itself off, by itself :( Its a great little camera. I have a D4s/24-70mm 2.8, with your 'vast' experience, would you recommend I look at the 24-70 Z lens for my Z6 or stay with the heavier AF-S and FTZ? Someone said its super sharp.

[@jayanta21sinha]

Good to see you here!! Do you still advise newbies to shoot basic JPEG?

[@KenRockwellTV]

I advise EVERYONE to shoot JPG. I do and so do all my full time pro friends. I think the only people who shoot raw are those who spend more time talking about it and playing on their computer than actually shooting and selling. See also kenrockwell.com/tech/raw.htm

[@jayanta21sinha]

@@KenRockwellTVhow adorable.

[@46thandBliss]

@@jayanta21sinha Worth noting that article was written in 2009. Storage and processing time (like 90% of his argument) is no longer an issue. Jared Polin's video is great "I just received a two way page from Ken Rockwell, he wants his argument back"

[@mikebreazeale2563]

How did you get the horizon line in there? I cannot find that option anywhere....Thanks!

[@KenRockwellTV]

Do you mean the level? Press the DISP button a few times until it comes up.

[@mikebreazeale2563]

@@KenRockwellTV Thank you very much Ken! That worked great. Thanks again for your time...

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thank goodness, and thanks for letting me know it worked. Worse comes to worse there may also be a menu option to add or remove it from that one screen, too.

[@phillip2446]

does anybody know how to use the voice memo for the z6ii with firmware 1.50 ( the laterst firmware update) ? thanks for any help.

[@KenRockwellTV]

No, but people always forget to find Nikons user manual and reading it. Those manuals have all this in them. Thanks!

[@FamousPixs]

Can You Please Review the New Pentax Camera???

[@KenRockwellTV]

Probably won’t have time. Pentax digital has never kept up; it’s like their digital cameras are from the 1980s. Optics (binoculars and scopes) have always been first rate.

[@gryphongryph]

@@KenRockwellTV great spec, does not mean a great camera.

[@androgyne_sander]

Are you sure that Nikon still manufactures AF-D lenses? I doubt that. In my country Nikon does no longer have AF-D lenses on stock. Even many AF-S lenses are also not on stock.

[@KenRockwellTV]

They’re for sale at the good stores I use www.kenrockwell.com/links.htm#stores who ship worldwide. Sorry if your local store doesn’t carry everything; that’s why I buy from the best. Here’s an example www.adorama.com/refby.tpl?sstring=NK5014AFD*&refby=rflaid021866

[@entrepreneurblondie7291]

Hi Ken! I have a question? I have the canon EF 70-300 mm f/4-5.6 IS II lens in my cart on amazon, (using your link). I have a canon 90-D DSLR camera. The review you did convinced me to try it until i can afford to buy the canon 100-400 mm l IS II. Do you still recommend the 70-300 lens I stated in the beginning of this comment? The review raved about this lens so I'm excited to give it a go!.. Thank you!!

[@KenRockwellTV]

Hi Miss Lewis, yes, the 70-300 is awesome. It weighs less and costs less and works just as well as the 100-400. The real question is which range do you prefer and how much do you want to carry all the time. For most people the 70-300 is a better idea unless you really need to get to 400 and are willing to carry around a big heavy metal lens everywhere. The 70-300 IS II www.kenrockwell.com/canon/lenses/70-300mm-is-ii.htm is newer than the 100-400 and far less expensive. If I had bought the 70-300 first I don’t know that I’d ever have bought the 100-400, glorious as it is.

[@KenRockwellTV]

PS - the 70-300 IS II on a 90D is an awesome combo. I don’t know what you’re shooting, but I’m pretty sure you’re going to flip over how fast it focuses and how great your pictures should look. Go for it!

[@entrepreneurblondie7291]

@@KenRockwellTV Oh OK! Thank you!!!

[@entrepreneurblondie7291]

@@KenRockwellTV I'll be doing like b roll video, photos of nature, bird and squirrel video for my cat channel and i'm creating a meditation relax type channel...thought about selling some stock photos and stock footage. Thank you Ken!!

[@KenRockwellTV]

The 70-300 IS II should be ideal for that, with focus as fast as it gets for video. I use “entrepreneuse” for lady entrepreneurs. It’s all from the French, and my mom the pilot always makes sure we refer to her as an aviatrix rather than aviator. It’s like steward/stewardess and actor/actress. Anyway, I’d love to see your channels. Feel free to ask anything at the contact link at my website; once these comments become more than a day or two old I may lose track. You’re in luck; get the right version of the 70-200 and you’re golden, Miss Blondie (I’m so bad). My email is at www.kenrockwell.com/contact1.htm

[@gerhard963]

🎯 Key Takeaways for quick navigation: 00:00 📷 In the video, the speaker shares tips and tricks for operating the Nikon Z7 Mark II and Z6 Mark II cameras, including some features that may also apply to older Z7 and Z6 models. 01:09 🔌 The camera's battery can be charged using the USB-C port, either from a computer, power bank, or wall adapter. Using a USB-C PD power delivery adapter can provide faster charging. 02:18 🔋 The camera can be set to charge only when powered off or only from the battery, which can be adjusted in the settings to conserve power or prioritize the battery. 03:40 💾 The camera has two card slots, one for CFexpress Type B or XQD cards and the other for SD cards, giving users options for storage preferences. 04:51 📸 The speaker recommends using Nikon Z lenses or AF-S lenses with the FTZ adapter for autofocus performance, cautioning that older AF and manual focus lenses may not work as expected. 09:02 🎯 To improve autofocus tracking performance, the speaker suggests setting the camera to AF-C mode with the all-area AF focus area option. 10:09 🔲 Manual focus aids, including focus peaking and focus magnification, can be utilized to achieve precise focus when needed. 11:49 🔢 The speaker prefers shooting in auto mode for exposure settings, letting the camera handle most settings, and only making manual adjustments when necessary. 13:13 🔒 The electronic first curtain shutter can be beneficial for minimizing vibrations, especially useful when shooting with studio strobes or in certain situations. 14:37 🖼️ The camera offers various image crop modes, allowing users to crop images in-camera with different aspect ratios, such as DX, square, or 5:4 crops. 15:06 📸 The speaker recommends using an external flash, such as the Nikon SB-400, for better flash performance and usability, especially when shooting in low light conditions. 16:30 🌈 The auto white balance settings on the camera have multiple options, including Auto 0, Auto 1, Auto 2, and Auto Natural Light, which can be chosen based on shooting conditions and preferences. 17:12 ⏰ The camera provides timed exposures through the "Time" setting in manual exposure mode and supports exposures longer than 30 seconds by enabling extended shutter speeds in custom settings. 17:53 🎬 The camera features user-programmable settings U1, U2, and U3 for quickly switching between different shooting configurations, useful for various shooting scenarios. 18:21 📸 The speaker uses custom user settings (U1, U2, U3) to quickly switch between different shooting configurations for various shooting scenarios, such as landscapes, people shots, or sports. 19:01 🔄 Users can save and load their preferred camera settings into U1, U2, and U3 modes using the camera's menu, allowing for easy customization and quick access to preferred configurations. 19:45 💻 The speaker prefers using a card reader to download pictures from the camera's memory card, finding it faster and more convenient than connecting the camera directly to the computer. However, when necessary, they use the Apple Image Capture app to transfer images via USB. Made with HARPA AI

[@KenRockwellTV]

You know the funny thing is I knew AI rendered this even before I saw the credit. It’s going to be great when AI replaces all the less informed humans who barely can communicate verbally in sales and customer service positions. Thanks!

[@kalikinkarbiswas4975]

Hello sir, I'm a Nikon D750 user & also have many F mount lenses. Now I am planning to buy Nikon Z7ii camera. But confused about 2 lenses, Nikon 28-75 f2.8 and 24-70 f4 ?? Which is suitable for me ?? I'm a wedding photographer & never shoot video.. Please suggest me 🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@KenRockwellTV]

We’re all different. Since I don’t know anything about you I can’t say. This why Nikon makes so many kinds of lenses. Personally I love the Z 24-200mm. Hint: very little if anything if what you already own for Nikon works on Z. Therefore since you’ll have to buy new everything, it’s a perfect time to upgrade to the generally superior Canon EOS-R Mirrorless system. See www.kenrockwell.com/tech/comparisons/nikon-vs-canon-vs-sony-full-frame.htm

[@kalikinkarbiswas4975]

@@KenRockwellTV but I have many F mount lenses, so I can't migrate other brand. If this 2 lenses, which one should pick ??

[@tomwestbrook]

I tried charging the battery in camera using the black Nikon cable, but it didn’t work. I’ll try with an Apple cable & charger.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Only charges with power turned OFF.

[@HP-be2vg]

You need to enable usb charging from the menu. It’s disabled by default.

[@tomwestbrook]

I confirmed usb charging was enabled and was powered off at the time. One thing was I was well into a 5 day hike in the Wind Rivers so was using a big Anker USB battery pack.

[@tomwestbrook]

I figured my problem out...I assumed the power light on the back would light up while charging. I retried it and saw the amber light on the side above the charging port is the indicator....so it works fine, even using the Anker battery pack.

[@CC-hg9un]

Hopefully you blasting them for not making an adapter with an AF screw will wake Nikon up and they'll put one out soon. I have a bunch of old AF-D lenses that I love to use on my D750 (and F4 & F5 for film). I won't even consider a Z camera until I can use these AF-D lenses with full AF capability. They're still good lenses that make nice photos!

[@KenRockwellTV]

Nope. Nikon’s unlikely to do that. They want just enough air of compatibility to get you to buy into the system, and enough incompatibility so you eventually rebuy everything in Z mount. This is why I chose Canon instead- every Is compatible in Canon. Thanks!

[@CC-hg9un]

@@KenRockwellTV This is quite un-Nikon of Nikon, given that they’ve made a point to ensure backwards F mount lens compatibility with all their previous cameras… I don’t get why they wouldn’t want to entice the most number of people to buy a Z mount body and be able to buy an adapter to mount all their legacy F glass with full AF compatibility and non-CPU EXIF data. The Z mount lenses (and Canon RF and Sony GM lenses) are eye-wateringly expensive. I know they’re great lenses, but unless you’re a pro and/or your gear is supplied to you by your organization, they’re way too expensive for the average semi-pro or prosumer to built a versatile kit of them…. I guess I’ll just have to wait until I’m a globetrotting photographer with Nat Geo, Reuters or the AP.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Exactly. The Nikon we all knew from 1959-1989 is long gone. While they still make great industrial optics, their consumer side (that’s all the cameras) has fallen from grace and is just trying to turn a fast buck. Thanks!

[@CC-hg9un]

@@KenRockwellTV 1989? Wow! I didn’t realize Nikon’s problems went all the way back to ‘89. They’ve made a lot of nice cameras and lenses since then, film and digital. Although they never got video and live view right until recently… But you know more than me on the subject.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Give or take. Canon started cleaning Nikon’s clock when the first pro AF camera came out that worked fast enough for sports (EOS-1) around 1990.before Nikon took AF seriously and pros migrated to Canon. Thanks!

[@garnieross9958]

Lots of adapters available for vintageNikon auto focus lenses. FTZ and FTZ II are terrible adapters. I collect vintage Nikon lenses and can find adapters for all of them just not Nikon products. I purchased the Z 6II especially for my vintage Nikon AF lenses. My vintage Nikon Manual focus lenses all work extremely well with my Nikon D750.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Exactly. Forget Mirrorless for legacy lenses, stick with FX DSLRs.

[@cristianmk]

I've read your articles saying Canon is the way to go in mirrorless. But, do you still enjoy shooting with these new Nikons?

[@KenRockwellTV]

I don’t enjoy the nikons as much as shooting the Canons, and “enjoy” it the best way to put it. I prefer the ergonomics of Canon, and there is so much more pride of ownership with domestic Japanese gear than Nikon’s offshored items.

[@livejames9374]

Ken hasn’t made a canon video in 9 months the past 10 videos are Nikon videos. Then a few Sony and back to Nikon. Watch what they do not what the say. Ken loves Nikon. He’s joined the bandwagon of talking bad about Nikon for clicks.

[@woodybear8298]

@@livejames9374 Yep. Ken's a real piece of work.

[@elwelkin]

👍🏼👍🏼

[@KenRockwellTV]

Thanks!!!

[@gerhard963]

🎯 Key Takeaways for quick navigation: 00:00 📷 The video provides tips and tricks for using the Nikon Z7 II and Z6 II cameras, as well as older Z7 and Z6 models. 01:09 🔋 The camera's battery can be charged quickly using a USB-C cable and a power adapter, or even a power bank or computer with USB-C. 02:18 🔌 The camera can be charged while it's on, using USB power delivery, or while it's off, using the battery. 03:27 💡 The camera has various power-saving features, and it's recommended to leave the USB power delivery option enabled for convenience. 05:04 🎚️ The camera's buttons, including the function buttons, can be easily customized for quick access to various settings. 07:09 🚫 Using older Nikon AF lenses on the Z cameras might not provide full autofocus functionality and is generally not recommended. 09:16 🎯 The autofocus system can be optimized for better tracking by setting AFC mode and using the all-area AF mode. 11:07 🔍 The camera offers various manual focus aids, including focus peaking and a three-way null indicator. 12:04 🎛️ Setting the camera to auto mode for basic settings allows the photographer to focus on the subject while the camera handles technical aspects. 12:45 📷 The camera's base ISO is 64, which can be used for slightly better image quality compared to ISO 100. 13:28 🕰️ The electronic first curtain shutter can be used to minimize vibration and is suitable for specific shooting situations. 14:37 🔄 The camera offers various image crop modes, allowing photographersto compose shots according to their artistic preferences. 16:30 📸 The recommended external flash for Nikon Z cameras is the Nikon SB-400 for its compatibility and features. 17:12 🌓 The camera offers long exposure options, including a time setting for exposures beyond 30 seconds. 18:07 📌The U1, U2, and U3 modes allow photographers to quickly switch between pre-set configurations for different shooting situations. 18:21 📷 The speaker uses the U1, U2, and U3 modes to quickly switch between different shooting configurations for landscapes, portraits, and sports photography. 18:49 💾 User settings can be saved and loaded in the camera, making it easy to configure and recall preferred setups. 19:16 🔄 Editing the settings of U1, U2, and U3 modes involves recalling the mode, making changes, and then saving the updated settings. 19:45 💻 The speaker prefers using a card reader to download pictures from the camera, finding it faster and more convenient than connecting the camera directly to the computer. Made with HARPA AI

[@KenRockwellTV]

Ditto

[@countrywyfe]

how to transfer photos from. camera

[@KenRockwellTV]

Hi Vickie, you can plug the camera into your computer and try it that way, however I much prefer just using a card reader. It’s much faster and just works. Thanks for asking!

[@countrywyfe]

@@KenRockwellTV thank you when I put my card reader in my pc. my photos are not showing up. ive updated all my software

[@KenRockwellTV]

Hmm; I’d have to be there. One suggestion is that while SD readers usually work pretty well, third party cfexpress and XQD readers do not. I’d try a Sony, Sandisk or Lexar reader, otherwise I’ve bought off brand readers that so lit don’t work. By “don’t work,” I mean that the data simply doesn’t appear on my computer when I pop in a card. It’s as if there was no card. Does this help at all? Maybe try connecting your camera with a cord; that’s what I did until I got a real reader that worked. Is this helping?

[@woodybear8298]

I thought you dumped Nikon?

[@KenRockwellTV]

You people insist I shoot everything. Nikon’s fine even if I prefer Canon a little more. Thanks!

[@gemstyxwalls1419]

Someone said the cord for USB charging can fry your camera.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Someone always says something negative. I documented this 15 years ago. Ignore this; works great. www.kenrockwell.com/apple/reliability.htm

[@BluesImprov]

OK. . .I'm in the "over 50" crowd that you and so many love to make fun of. . .You know Ken, as I get older its not physical things that bother me, I get around quite well for an "older" guy, but its the hate I'm starting to sense that our culture has for anyone like me who has managed to survive for quite some time. Anyway, I am also not "stuck" with misplaced loyalty, but I have reached the point where I want to upgrade my gear. I've built a website to show some of my photos and artwork, and I've shot all of the photos on it with a Nikon D7100. I would like to get both a mirrorless and full-frame camera and for a while had been considering the Z line. But after watching reviews of others and yourself, I'm not so sure I want to go down that road. I would call myself a serious amateur but I also don't have unlimited funds. So, what would you recommend in Canon's line, for example, that would be a step up from my D7100 but affordable for a serious amateur? I've had inquiries about buying prints of a few of my images but I haven't done anything like that yet. . .But I'd like to and I'd like to continue to produce images that might attract some interest. So I'm NOT stuck with loyalty to Nikon, but I am in a bit of a quandary about which direction to take. The photos on my website consist mostly of car shows, vintage cars, classic airplanes, air shows, both static displays and flying, and some sports on occasion. (www.thephotoartloft.com if you want to see what I like to shoot) I had been considering the Z6II, but now I'm not so sure. I just want to make a wise decision, and not based on ""old guy" loyalty. I'm smarter than that, just unsure about my next move. Any ideas or advice from an experienced guy like you would be appreciated. Thanks!

[@KenRockwellTV]

See www.kenrockwell.com/tech/comparisons/nikon-vs-canon-vs-sony-full-frame.htm it’s not 2006 anymore; Nikon has fallen behind and once you go Mirrorless you will wind up replacing everything, so don’t let your old camera lock you into anything. The 7100 is awesome, no need to “upgrade”

[@BluesImprov]

@@KenRockwellTV Thanks very much for taking the time to reply Ken. . .I really appreciate your reviews, videos, and knowledge!

[@livejames9374]

Rent it. See if you like it and decide for yourself.

[@brucebrowne2077]

There are other reviewers who love the Nikon Z Ii both 6 and 7. Watch more than one reviewer before switching. Many prefer Nikon images over Canon (which I find to skew red). Every reviewer has individual experience which affects perception; look at several!

[@quyenslcnguyen696]

filming this with an iPhone? nice!?!

[@KenRockwellTV]

That’s the best way for these closeups. Thanks!

[@TheGecko213]

Ken speaks English too fast for non-native English people to catch what he says ! I would advise all non-native english people to watch this video at 0.75 speed in the settings. Give me a like if you agree with my advise :))

[@KenRockwellTV]

Exactly. I try to get it done fast and get on with it. If I’m too fast, just change the playback speed at Settings. Easy! Thanks!

[@jonmorgan-parker4209]

Typical of large corporations! Making huge claims about their products when they are lying!!

[@KenRockwellTV]

Scandalous!!!

[@madcat1007]

Looks like you poured salt all over the camera!!

[@KenRockwellTV]

That’s what happens shooting at such high resolution so close and with a black camera that my video camera tried to lighten. Thanks!

[@PaparazziEntertainment]

Good Lord man your Camera is Filthy LOL and you should try a Flashpoint or Godox flash for less than half of the manufacturers flash price and they use fast recycle time rechargable batteries they are a game changer...

[@KenRockwellTV]

It looks horrendously dirty due to my ultra closeups and ultra high resolution and then using lots of light on a black camera, so you’ll see thousands of times more crud than you’d ever see in person. Thanks!

[@gimaru1]

a $3000 camera that doesn’t even have 3 dials? Maybe I’m missing something. No wonder that they fell behind canon so badly. Clunky ergonomics and customizations. Canon is clunky too but at least the R5 works well. It’s all between sony, and canon who’s playing catch up.

[@KenRockwellTV]

Exactly. Nikon has a lot of old people who feel some sort of misplaced loyalty to a company that used to be a leader many decades ago. Nikon is mostly for the over 50 crowd who already own other Nikon gear . Thanks!

[@cryhavoc38]

not sure you have even seen, in person, the Z cameras. The 6 and 7's have three dials. One is below the shutter button, one is at the back, top right, and then you have the pasm dial.

[@gimaru1]

@@cryhavoc38 if you can quickly change the 3 main things in manual mode with rotating dials then you can actually use the camera, regardless of brand

[@cryhavoc38]

@@gimaru1 I forgot one dial. The Z lenses all have a programmable dial on them, much the same as the type Canon uses in the R lineup including the EF-R adapter. You can set the dial on the lens to do quite a few different things. Regarding shooting in manual, I rarely do that. I tend to let the camera handle 2 of the three.

[@4TLOL]

@@KenRockwellTV hey Ken! I'm 33 and just purchased a Nikon z7ii. Is canon really the way to go? I love Nikon