A Working Professionals Take on the NIKON Z8

[@TheMonochromeMemoirs]

After 3 weddings, two engagement sessions and one senior portrait shoot I wanted to give my complete review of the Nikon Z8 from a wedding photographers perspective. I love this camera but it does have some drawbacks. I spent a lot of this review comparing it to the Nikon Z6ii which I have been using happily for years now. Hope this helps - Will

[@nil_martins]

I'm a long way from having the resources to invest in equipment like the Z9 and Z8, however, watching a wedding photographer talk about their experiences is on another level. Only people who are involved in social events really know what the camera needs to have to meet our needs and expectations. A hug from Brazil! Congratulations!

[@fuzzytalz]

To regain the functionality of the subject tracking box from your Z 6II, simply assign 3D tracking with AF-ON to the button of your choice. Looks different but works the same.

[@valhallaworksfi]

On the Z6II i use the same funktion, though on a stock setup, this can be achived with the ok button to get the target, Shutter release to lock and zoom out - to stop and go back

[@richardwojtczak5521]

I’ve had the z9 for over a year now, moving from d850. Just an amazing camera for me. Z8 for a couple of months now. Wanted a backup and a smaller lighter form factor for certain occasions. Very happy.

[@jimlafferty]

I know I'm late here, but I came to the Z8, after having set up my Z6 AF as you demonstrated ages ago. It was fantastic. This is the front FN button toggling between "sticky box" and Eye AF. I *think* this is the issue you're mentioning around 16:10. Here's how I've programmed it on the Z8: disable global eye AF; then, use 3d Tracking as your default mode (this is "sticky box"); then, assign your FN button to "recall shooting function (hold)", and within the RSFH settings, *enable* eye/face tracking. Done!

[@reggiehil]

I have the Z9 and the AF mode you are looking for is 3D. I used to have the Z6ii and i used "Subject tracking/target" . If the Z8 is like the Z9 (which i have heard), switch to 3D.

[@fatherdanmclaughlinosa3215]

I liked your video on your experience using the Z8. I am considering buying the Z6 III but your comments on the Z8 build quality , overheating and focus control issues makes me want to wait until the first reviews before I buy. I like my Z6 II very much.

[@jgranseth]

Hi Will! Thanks for the thorough review. Interesting take, but I gotta say, many of your negatives seem to be very subjective. I'm using Z8s now, coming from the Z6II and Z7II. I have no issues with build quality, grip size and ergonomics. To me they are all improved on the Z8. All the dials feel great to me. No heat warnings either. Maybe some issue with your particular copy? Anyway, as for the AF and target with lock on, I'm happy to tell you that you CAN program this on the Z8. I loved this feature on the Z6II/Z7II, and I found a way to bring it back on the Z8. You have to program the FN button to: Recall shooting functions (hold) Unhook everything but: AF-Area mode - set it to [3D] and AF subject detection options - set to OFF This will give you a box you can place over your subject and track, just like on your Z6II. I actually think it's even better, because the tracking box is smaller. Hope it works out for you!

[@recreationalplutonium]

thx dude. only review that talks about the important things (ergonomics). wish youtube reviewers would stop sperging out about all the tech while ignoring haptics/ergonomics.

[@TheMonochromeMemoirs]

You know how it is man, 99% of everything on YT is just an advertisement

[@Kshitij.Sharma]

Great to see you back! As someone mentioned use Delkin Black cards and you should be good with hot card warnings.

[@pete_stewardson]

For your tracking issue program a fn button to recall shooting hold then set the af mode to 3D tracking in recall shooting.

[@blubravery]

I was going to ask if 3D tracking is the same as subject tracking in the lower models

[@pete_stewardson]

@@blubravery not quite, but it gives you more options. You can have it with subject detection off then it’s very like it, just better tracking. Or with subject detection so it will find a subject then when activating af will lock onto that. But with subject detection off it works in the same way as the previous models.

[@TheMonochromeMemoirs]

Great tip I’ll give it a try. Not a huge fan of the 3d mode with subject detection. A lot of times I want to focus on hands or hit other things with that target box but if it’s anywhere near a face it will go right for the eye..

[@tomaocron]

@@TheMonochromeMemoirs Wedding photog here...on my Z9 I use the 3d mode with face on, and you're right, it sometimes grabs eyes when I don't want it to. The solution is to set Fn1 (or whatever button you want) to "Recall shooting function (hold)" and then checkmark "AF subject detection options". This will toggle the eye detect on and off. But the trick is to have face detect turned ON in your "i" menu or it won't toggle. I also use my Z6ii with the target as you mentioned and it worked great, but I actually like the Z9 (Z8) 3d mode better now. No need to have the camera guess at which face you want...put the face you want under the 3d box and recompose. It's very sticky and works superbly.

[@TheMonochromeMemoirs]

@quinnhystad8090 excellent excellent tip. Will integrate this set up and test it out 🥂

[@luisdiegosalas]

Great video. I have assigned the "Recall shooting functions (hold)" to my Fn1 button changing only: a) the AF-Area Mode to 3D and b) increasing the release mode to 15 fps. So I now work on AF-C full area with subject recognition and if that doesn't do it, I just push that Fn1 button and instantly change to 3D. If you want 3D without subject recognition just disable that too in the Recall shooting functions. I did that, but on a separate menu bank that's assigned to another button.

[@bobbullethalf]

The Z6II is a wonderful camera and I have been contemplating upgrading to the Z8 but I think I might wait. Or maybe the Z6III.

[@spinthma]

One of the best differentiating review of the Nikon Z8 - thank you.

[@germanshepherdmom5411]

I love, love, love my Z8!!! I don’t really notice what you’re noticing. I also have the Z9 and Z7ii…previously the D850. Mirrorless cameras in general, no matter what the brand seem to be less robust of a build then DSLR’s. The output from the Z8 is extraordinarily good. I’ve never had a hot card warning, I shoot wildlife so you’re definitely using it more than me. I’m 💯 satisfied with mine though.

[@TheMonochromeMemoirs]

Excellent 😎🥂🥂

[@sambogosse]

Hi, the "recalll AF" function allows to reach something equivalent of target lock-on of the z6 if you set it up as 3d tracking and assign it to an fn button.

[@dylanjames2213]

Wedding photographer here. I love the Z8. So much so, I immediately bought a second one. I use/used the Z6ii auto-area/fn tracking method you do, but on the Z8 I find 3D tracking with eye AF works perfectly for 80-90% of the wedding day. I big positive for me, which was unexpected, is how much I am appreciating the extra megapixels. For certain photos, I can deliver a wide and cropped version of the photo, to where it feels like two separate photos (or deliver a vertical and horizontal version). The overheating is a big concern though. I get the hot card warning frequently. I've heard the camera will get the hot card warning loooong before it actually shuts off, but the physical heat you can feel from the camera is alarming. I agree with you on the dials too... they feel like dogsh*t. Haha.

[@emersonpalomino6748]

its funny to hear you talking about your upgrade from the 6II and im just here with my d5100 but i just rented the z8 to try it out. looks amazing and i think EVERYTHING will be an upgrade

[@jrarsenault1937]

Always a straight shooter! Thanks for the honest insights, have a Z7 and happy with it - probably not making the jump based on your lone voice in the wilderness about the shortcomings. Kudos ...

[@TheMonochromeMemoirs]

🥂🥂🥂

[@johnw.3636]

Why not try it out? It's okay to listen to a review from someone you respect or admire, but I don't understand making hardline decisions based on sometime else's review or opinion, especially just one person. It really doesn't make sense. But to each his or her own. I, personally, am interested enough to rent it and try it for myself.

[@jrarsenault1937]

It's not my first input, it's the most recent of many truthful ones deep in a world of mostly fanboys. $4000+tx is a significant outlay for most, just not seeing its need for me with a Z7ii already in hand for my applications @@johnw.3636

[@johnw.3636]

@@jrarsenault1937 Sorry, I was going by your original post that suggested you weren't going to make the jump based on the "lone voice in the wilderness."

[@faisy5c]

I have been using Nikon D7100 and D850 for the last ten years and to date I have never experienced any fault in build quality, grip or shutter wheel as you mentioned and to date I have not heard anyone mentioning such a fault. The only issue I’ve faced with Nikon Mirrorless was autofocus & videography, moreover it was solved once Z9 & Z8 launched. So,without a doubt, I’m going to upgrade mine to Z8

[@AMGOSUK]

Ok honest review - You are using SanDisk CFE-B cards which are junk (the good news Lexar CFE-B are worse, but Delkin Black are great and so are the new Delkin Power G4). And you are shooting 45mp not 24mp. A hot card warning has no impact on performance so it is hot not overheating. Just ignore it until the RED warning comes up. You could try High Efficiency * RAW -- I only use Lossless RAW and BIG ultra fast cards -- on my pair of Z9 and pair of Z8 and I shoot Big cats in the heat of africa without issues. mostly at 20 fps and 8k n-raw vids. What if I said to you the front wheel and skin is the same as the z6. And rear wheel the same as z9. Sure the big rear wheel on the Z6/Z7 is gone Target is on the z6/z7 - a vastly improved version of 3D tracking is on the z8/z9 and it is way better when you learn to use it as designed - just assign 3D tracking with af-on to a button, place the af box on your subject (which is REALLY important in a crowd) then press your assigned button and track and recompose as you wish. You probably need to look at the manual or any of 1000 vids (Hudson Henry's are the best). Set (a3) blocked response on 5 and steady. It should not jump. it it does just lift off the button, re-aquire your subject and go again -- very fast. Only Wide Area AF, Auto Area AF and 3D tracking use Subject Detection. Whereas Single Pint, Pin-point and Dynamic Area AF do not use SD. I use the AF-on button for 3D+AF-ON this which tells you how much I use 3D. I also programme my Fn1 and Fn2 buttons with Dynamic Small+AF-ON and Auto-Area AF (just because I shoot fast movers as well). More often than not I leave AF-ON assigned to the shutter button and choose a general AF mode for what ever I am shooting -- typically C1. Steve Perry has advised to use a 1x1 box as C1 and a different shape as C2. Discover what Shooting Recall Hold Function you want to use for each menu bank -- mine is 20fps, f/5.6, 1/1600th, AutoISO, EC=0, so I can instantly respond to action. You may well want a different setting for flash set up or use a different menu bank for that. Turn the brightness of the EVF/lcd down to -1 to save some power - also look at the timing settings for when the camera swaps into stand by -- no need to turn it off and on all the time -- but standby does use battery a bit.. The more you use the camera when it is set up for your use the more easier it will gert and the better results you will achieve. Suggest you look at Thom Hogan's book.

[@peterlooper7956]

Agree with you 100% Andy.

[@StudioRivy]

I wish you would do a vid on this. I just recently went from D750 past 9 years wedding photog, to this camera and it’s a little overwhelming to understand exactly what you are explaining. I need a visual 🙏🏼

[@northernmatt4684]

100% agree on camera ergonomics being as important as everything else. I have gone from a Sony A7RiIV to a Fuji GX50R and now to Z9. I had the GFX50R and bought a Cannon 1DX Mark II (got it second hand a few years ago). After shooting the Cannon 1DX Mark II I fell in love with the full size body. Don't regret the Z9, it just a tank and has everything i need. The fuji and sony's had great image quality but didn't have ergonomics

[@greghuber9256]

I seem to be tracking with you. Bought the Z6 about a month after you did and have been benefitting from and recommending your videos. Got one of the first Z8’s primarily for the football season, but have been shooting events as well. Sent it in just before football started to get the recalls fixed and used my trusty Z6 that I LOVE for a couple of events. After over a month with the Z8 feeling only so-so about it , that weekend back on the Z6 made me absolutely love the Z8. I’m hooked.

[@stephaneclaveau9736]

I use wide area large with BBF, and assign on function button 1 3D tracking and on the second one i have a small area resized like pin point, all with face tracking, and when you get used to it, it's great way to work, but i don't do weddings :)

[@Diversephotography]

Can you tell me how to make sure face tracking is on please

[@walkingmeditation61]

Everything you say about the quality is called "made cheaper in Thailand" for the 4 grand Nikon "catch up" to Sony & Canon price point. Nailed it !

[@MichaelSeneschal]

Nice. I have a copy from NPS coming in 2 weeks to shoot a wedding. This is good info.

[@bmwb10ix]

I have my record button set to hols then i can cycle through AF areas, then I have my stick set to use the AF with whatever area ive currently got and the my AF back button is always the 3D tracking. But you can also use your front button to turn subject detection on and off, then your 3D tracking will just act like your Z6 tracking box when you press the AF back button instead of trying to tracking other things in the scene. And also they seem to have a option now to confiure a set of settings to a button, so i have to assign a setting config just to do scot metering on a button, but you can set loats of things to happen with one press of a button. And... you have the groups to assign different settings. so its a lot to get used to but good if you can get themm right. Steve Perry has good videos on autofocus because of his wildlife secenarios and needs instant backups for when autofocus is not working in a difficult scene. Thanks for the video :D

[@Mrmissingmissing]

I'm also a wedding shooter. You hit the nail off on the head with this. I've pushed about 20k frames through mine and my experience is largely the same with one major exception. Autofocus confidence. I find that while my camera shows confirmation that something is sharp while I'm shooting when I review the image later it isn't. It's just a tiny bit soft ( I can save it most of the time ) but I don't trust the camera anymore. There will be some sharp images in there but I would say the sharp to soft ratio is about 75% soft. When you have a couple running down an aisle and you can only get a few shots off this is an unacceptable ratio. The second but more significant issue that no one seems to talk about ( perhaps I'm too old school in the way I shoot) is that if I'm in a low light environment like a wedding reception and have to do a group portrait with flash and want to stop down to 5.6 or 8 to make sure that everyone is sharp then I have a 20% chance that the camera will actually focus ( AF hunting) and get it sharp. It doesn't matter which AF mode you shoot in for this. The only workaround that I've found is that you have to use a supplemental light source ( led or a flash with a led modeling lamp) to light the subject and get focus. This is time consuming and can make the subjects squint. In contrast my wife shoots a Canon R3 and it will focus every time at F8 in light that is almost too dim to see. The Z8 does better if you shoot fast primes wide open but at this point you shouldn't have to adjust your shooting style to meet the limitations of a "flagship" camera. The camera has so many great attributes but they count for nothing if you can't make sharp images and trust the AF. Weddings just dont afford you a second chance. The other thing that bugs me but it's less of an issue is that its high ISO noise is pretty significant. It's a LOT worse than the Z6ii. You can save it in Lightroom but when you are dealing with thousands of images it can really slow your workflow down. I do prefer the Z8 to the Z6ii but the AF issue is a dealbreaker for me and I think I'm going to sell it and wait for a (hopefully improved) Z6iii down the line.

[@TheMonochromeMemoirs]

This is really interesting to hear. My Experience with the AF has been good so far, haven't missed anything but when i am in a dark reception situation im always in AF-s and firing the green AF light to get focus. Are you staying in AF-c?

[@CGYPP]

just be aware, that you need a faster shutter speed compared to Z6II. I use Z6+Z7+Z8+Z9, I sometimes forget that if the subject moves (slowly) I can get away with 1/500 on my Z6, but not on my Z9 (Z8 just came a week ago so I cannot compare yet) - there I need 1/800s. Did you take this into acount? But I dont dismiss your remark in any way. I also struggle on some occasions, especially the combo Z9 + 24-70 f/2.8 S gives me blurry photos more often than I would wish (I try to opt for AF-S as much as possible...I used to rely on AF-ON + AF-C all the time, now I try to avoid that completely in static circumstances).

[@Mrmissingmissing]

@@CGYPP Yeah. It's not motion blur. It literally can't find focus ( in lower light) or confirms that the subject is in focus but when you look in post it's a tiny bit off. Any of the scenarios is unacceptable for their "flagship" IMHO.

[@Travel_Photography_Dude]

The overheating is definitely an issue I’ve never had a camera have heating issues before. ( coming from a z6). The z8 gets warm to the touch pretty often and I’ve gotten hot card warnings just with photos too. That case it was in 110 degree weather though, but I ended up putting the z8 in my car in front of the AC vents to cool off. Otherwise I really enjoy the camera and the autofocus works really well and if it’s not working in a situation a go to one of the smaller area boxes and move that over the persons face to pick up the eye and it’s basically nailing focus every time like that

[@kennypringle4580]

I’m still shooting my (2) d500’s for school yearbook, sports portraits, and personal use. I use my (2) d850’s for corporate events, weddings, family sessions and headshots. I don’t know that I’ll go mirrorless any time soon. At age 71 I may quit soon and never go mirrorless.

[@LightTheShadows]

Thank you for that great real world report. I encountered some of your points by myself but two things I want to mention. AF tracking: please check for hybrid autofocus / hand off. It basically grabbing autofocus with a small area/single point and then switching to 3D tracking with a press of a button. Explained best by Hudson Henry imho. ISO: 64 to 100 is 2/3rd of a stop, ISO 50 is a full stop.

[@brandonpierce]

Check out the Delkin BLACK or Prograde Cobalt cards. They’re more rugged.

[@mulhallimages]

Interesting critiques. I have a Z9. I primarily shoot sports/events for a couple different studios, and some portrait work. I have a Z6 that I still use, and I feel like the Z9 is a bit night and day. There was definitely a learning curve. If I wasn't doing paid work, I'm not sure I'd have sprung for the 9. I'd having waited for the Z8, or even stayed with a D850 If were just a hobbyist. Believe it or not, as a sports photographer, I can be moving around a bit, depending on the sport of course. Which ties into the auto focus. The Z8/Z9 have next gen auto focus. With more options. I have four different auto focus modes mapped to buttons on my Z9 for sports work. It's taken me some time to get a work flow down. Even then, I may change it up, depending on the sport. I'll have a dynamic area option, an AAF, 3D, and a final button with the C1 box with detection enabled. Your experience with your eye detect on the Z8 jumping around, can happen on the 9 as well. Once in a while I'll get a back focused photo. That happens way often on my 6. I did get "eyelash" AF too on the 9, during recent portrait shoot. I haven't had a hot card warning on the 9. Personally, I think the build quality is great. The command dials haven't been an issue for me. I don't like the fact that the viewfinder isn't as centered on the body. I shoot in portrait mode alot, based on the type of shooting I do. As such, the camera has to be lifted higher to meet my eye, than any camera I've ever used. The 9 isn't light, and it can be alot to lug around all day. I'm able to use a mono pod based on what I do. Love your channel.

[@magicalwishlist6616]

Here are my responses Grip, mine is more than adequate. Seems same as my Z7. No issue for me. Maybe you have very smooth fingers....😊 Rear screen. Its very strong it will not break it's the same as the Z9. The lugs are larger than the Z7. Its 😊😊 easy to deploy. I find my Z7 difficult to deploy. Overheating. There are plenty of KZbin videos that have not shown this. I shoot 1080 and never see overheating. Focus, should never need to access menus. You need to dig into the focus options. There are heaps of options. With face focus, presetting smaller focus area is helpful. All area will be less controllable. They do need more work on the algorithm. The Z9 is getting a lot of work in this area. They are very dependent on the skill of the software guys. Canon. And Sony must have some very sharp coders.... Batteries, take spares. Its not an issue. 8 hours is a lot. Grip agree is ugly. Wake up speed? It's fast you must have extreme expectations. Less than half second. My Z7 is never off so it's always available. Build quality will be fixed. I never use those lugs. Black Rapid strap with plate mount and safety strap. But still it's not a good look.

[@sports_car_enthusiast]

Some cards are known to overheat. Stay away from sandisk...delkin black should be good. Not sure about angelbird or prograde. On the AF system, looks like you just need more time to tinker and learn how it functions vs the z6ii, for example, as others have mentioned, you can assign 3D tracking to an FN button, same as the subject tracking in your z6ii (z6/6ii does not have 3D tracking btw, it's just subject tracking). On the batteries, which type do you have? There's A, B and C (C lasts longer).

[@dance2jam]

Not sure the following will solve your problem with the "Punch in to subject focus" as I'm not 100 percent sure what you are talking about, but I do have a solution (like Julie below) that I enabled - and this might provide a fast workaround. Fn 1 (wildlife, sports, action Z9) is programmed for a custom wide area 1x1 square, so that subject detection can be enabled. My DISP button is "Recall function shooting" with subject detection checked and mapped to the DISP button. If the subject detection jumps to something other than what I want (personally, I only use 3D on occasion, because it is still too unpredictable for me on many occasions), then I hit the DISP button and turn subject detection off (and back after I've captured the shot). For me, this was a fast work-around for the problem I think you are describing. Ideal, no, but it gets the job done.

[@jfphotography69]

I never attach any strap to the cameras strap holders, the strap always gets in the the way of your hands. I use a peak design strap and attach it to the bottom of the camera if you have a light lens on the camera body, or the lens foot for heavier lenses like the Sigma 105mm F/1.4 Art lens or any 70-200mm lens. Plus this way the strap does not get in the way of your hands and the controls of the camera body.

[@mikekerouac3452]

I have used over 100 different camera bodies at this point. I dont think the wheels on the Z8 are any worse than any other camera I've used. They work just fine. You want a tough thumbwheel? Leica Q3. You want wonky wheels? Hassy X1d. I feel like you were really reaching for something on the negative side to highlight the thumbwheel.

[@ecobooster8298]

Thank you so much for your honest POVs!! Really awesome. I still have my D800 and D810. Used to do weddings as well but my business took a toll during covid and ultimately shut down pretty much. Now I just do portraits, landscapes and astrophotography. Looking to upgrade and the Z8 is what I'm looking at for sure. You mentioned the photographer from Mexico. Can you provide his KZbin or website? A photographer who gives props to other photographers really means a lot!! Keep up the awesome work!!

[@CJMajesty]

Glad to see you back man.

[@TheMonochromeMemoirs]

Glad to see you here buddy 🥂

[@felm.974]

Too many complains, I haven't seen anyone complain his much about the Z8... I don't agree about the grip, it seems grippy to me, the card thing, you need better cards than Sandisk, the thing with the camera strap, it was only a few people who had that happen to them.. so far I am super happy with the Z8, you are speaking as if the Z6ii is better than the Z8... anyway, everyone has an opinion, to each their own.

[@TheMonochromeMemoirs]

Thanks so much for watching brother 👍

[@felm.974]

@@TheMonochromeMemoirs sorry, i didn't want to post an emotional response, but I love the Z8, it is not perfect but as long we are all happy that's what matters.

[@TheMonochromeMemoirs]

@@felm.974 absolutely right! Should never get emotional about a camera, it doesn’t get emotional about us 🤣!

[@felm.974]

@@TheMonochromeMemoirs LOL true, I mean, I can admit about the screen being a bit weird to handle but other than that, it is the best camera I have ever owned, I owned the Z6ii and it was amazing but this one is amazing too.. but I understand where you are coming from, I am annoyed about the camera strapped thing too but, it is what it is, plus I think that was Nikon trying to be overly cautious I don't think all those cameras are affected, but I could be wrong... but anyway, looking forward to more of your content as always, keep up the good work.

[@greghuber9256]

Dude - I’ve been chasing solutions to the hot card issue, and no card brand solves it. I agree with Will….something wrong with the thermal control design vs heat generated by the electronics.

[@nirajgandhi5921]

Great video! After using the z9 for a year, I wasn’t as impressed with the z8 as others! I realized that I used the vertical grip A LOT and love the extra battery life and CF express cards of the z9

[@serdaracun7098]

First of all thank you for your real “real world” review from a wedding photographer perspective. However, I wonder your thoughts now especially after firmware 2.0 as this video was before this firmware release. Is this only me who is waiting for a second round? :) thx

[@brambooth]

I get that hot card warning all the time when I’m filming on my Z6 II on a SanDisk card. When I’m filming with a Hoodman card it doesn’t do that. So strange that still isn’t fixed. Thanks for this video! Love your video! The review about the z6 II was the reason I bought it instead of the Z7 II Love your content bro! 🤟🏻🤟🏻🤟🏻

[@davetv8171]

Great review. I got the overheat warning using a Lexar. It took me off guard as I’ve never seen this with the z6/z9/z7. The camera is great though and I even with the recalls, the mount is good and I only use the lug for a peak design micro clutch. The tilt screen does take some time but they are the best amongst the other brands for photography.

[@csc-photo]

Love the straight, honest real-world observations from a working pro. I have the Z6II (still absolutely love it) and also the Z8, using it for events (no weddings yet) and personal photography. It's bananas-level good, and for sure nailing shots I would have missed with earlier models. Some thoughts, in no particular order. No obligation to read my ramblings here 😆 First, relegate your SanDisk card to backup only - their CFEB cards run HOT, maybe the worst of the hot-running cards. I guarantee with the Delkin (specifically Delkin Black - current B&H deal today, 325gb is $199) or ProGrade Cobalt you'll see a massive improvement (likely no hot card warnings at all). There was also a recent minor fw update for the Z8 where the warning thresholds were slightly adjusted, among other little updates. I was thrilled to see the rubber dials on the Z8 - I love them. Mine feel totally fine / great tactile feedback. The metal Z6II dials with the thinner ridges, I never quite got along with them. More pressure required to roll them. Big disappointment, the Z8's grip (MB-N12), I had it and returned it. Aside from making the Z8 giant - the dials are plastic... nopes. You can do the same Subject Tracking (now 3D Tracking) setup as the Z6II with Recall Shooting Functions (Hold), set to Fn1 or Fn2. You can set it with or without subject detection, and lots of other settings. Recall Shooting Functions is a game-changing feature, maybe my favorite. My biggest Z8 disappointment honestly - I just wanted the damn card door lock button from the Z9 😆 (truth). But the Z8's door does seem stickier/ less prone to a wardrobe malfunction than the Z6II's door. I need to experiment with the AF-ON / Focus Peaking activation - never knew / thanks! Anyways I'll stop here - thanks for another informative video! 👏🏻

[@TheMonochromeMemoirs]

Awesome comment and totally agree with the Z6 card door. Soooo many times that’s gotten caught on something and came open while I was walking around 🤦🏻‍♂️

[@nicolascarle8210]

I will second that I believe the upgrade from folks with z6/z6II is not just getting the body-only Z8 or Z9, its upgrading all your cards etc as the ones from the Z6/Z6II just won't cut it... like he mentioned in the video, I too was about to but Sandisk Cf cards for the Z6II etc with the intent of using them on a Z8 or Z9 if I upgraded that way but oh no, you nailed it, you need Prograde Cobalt or Delkin Black that have been tested and indeed run way cooler in camera than other 'Hot' cards... so upgrading isn't as straight forward as some of the DSLR days and what not..

[@skurt2752]

Update to my comments after owning the z8 for half a year. I shoot corporate interviews and panel interviews for about 60min or longer some times. I shoot at 4k 30fps. I have never and I repeat NEVER had an over heat warning. I have never and I mean NEVER had I ever gotten an over heat warning while shooting photos. With the proper CFexpress card you won’t have issues. The camera does not feel cheap at all. The focus issues he is having is all user error dude does not know how to use the camera. After hours of shooting with this camera. Including weddings. This camera has never gotten hot in my hand EVER.

[@chrisbaudeg3233]

William, well said, and accurate comments. Duly ignored by Nikon and the fanboys, and the bird crowd.

[@DBest1966]

You can set one of the function buttons to 3D tracking. Is that what you are talking about? Also my Sandisk cards get hot in the reader, I never noticed it while they were in the 6’s, but definitely the reader. I don’t get that at all with the Prograde Cobalt cards.

[@reganalbertson1593]

On the hot card issue...SD or CF? 256gb cards get hotter quicker than 128gb does with the same task. I appreciate your candor and completeness.

[@TheMonochromeMemoirs]

CF! And that’s a good point that may help on the GB size.. I’ve ditched the 256g Sandusky and opted for 2x 128g Delkins instead. Will report back!

[@zenphotocraftmedia8326]

I'm having trouble getting the high speed sync get to work with the godox trigger to with the ad200 when I turn thr setting both on camera and trigger on the z8 n godox . Once I set 1/320 black screen n white line. If I use the ad600 I see strip's pass 1/1000

[@caleidoo]

My own two cents, being in the same situation: using a Z6 + Z6II for weddings since 2018 and rented out a Z8 and Z9 a couple of times. I had the same weird ergonomic feeling, but with the shutter button. It feels completely different than my Z6II's. It's more spongy, it feels like you need to push deeper and the trigger is deeper inside the body. It's weird to explain, but that's what I noticed. I also agree with the grip. I don't have the biggest hands, but it feels a lot better to carry a Z6II. Maybe they could have made the grip more hollow so my finger tips could go around more, I don't know. About the eye AF jumping, it can help to put up an AF zone that limits where the camera picks up eyes & faces. I've rented & used both Z8 & Z9 on weddings and indeed the Z9 starts up faster than the Z8. Makes little sense, because the hardware is almost the same. You'd almost think that Nikon built in a delay. Btw, 3500-5000 on a 8hr wedding? That's a lot. I do about 5000-6000 on a full day wedding with 1hr of partying. And in my country that's about from 8 AM to 1AM with only a break during lunch and a quick meal at diner. I don't understand people hiring a wedding photographer for just 8hrs. Do you Americans do everything in 8hrs? Prep, church, lunch, shoot, reception, diner, first dance, party? Unless people hire different photographers for different moments, I'm not seeing how someone can capture a wedding in 8hrs. No disrespect to you, of course. What I also remember from using the Z8 is the stickier AF and how it can track and find faces in very dark and/or dynamic lit locations, like a dancefloor. There my Z6II would struggle or become nearly useless. And because I refuse to use manual focus , stop down my aperture and flash hard, I'm still forced to grab my trusty D750 & SB-910 (with ever working AF assist light) for those dancefloor pics. But 45Mp, it's a nice resolution bump. But on the other hand, I miss the cleanness and low noise of the Z6II sensor. I could shoot very clean ISO 4000 shots and even have useable ISO 8000-12800 shots with LR ai NR applied and tweaked. But at the Z8, ISO 4000 and higher got noisy very quickly. That was a let down. I know LR could save a lot, but the threshold has moved. On the Z6II I could shoot at ISO 8000 without any worries. On the Z8 it would be problematic, especially if I need to recover some shadows. The zero black out is cool, but I'd rather have a 1/320 or 1/400s sync speed instead. 1/200s is just very 2008 ish and I occasionally get motion blur in flash photos on my Z6II. You'd expect more from a top body. But being able to shoot F1.4 wide open in the sun is fantastic. No fiddling with ND filters. The better focus peaking is probably a feature of a higher res sensor. More pixels. More detail. Same reason why the Z7II picks up eyes at a slightly further distance than the Z6II: the amount of pixels to form and recognize the shape of an eye or face just hits the sensor/software sooner. My Z6 (paired with a Z6II) is starting to act weird on some assignments - the EVF would start to stutter and then freeze. Nothing works. Even the on-off.. The only solution is pop the battery out & back in. That's not good, obviously. So I might change that one into a Z8 if it gets worse. A Z6II & Z8 looks like a great duo. But I have to end with my curiosity towards the Z6III - big surprise, I know, a baby Z8 with a better low light sensor would be perfect.

[@markreuchlin3915]

8hrs is very common for wedding photographers in the US, and 3-5000 photos is the norm (normally you are expected to deliver around 100 photos/hr after culling and editing). It gets particularly challenging when there is no planner and we are expected to keep everyone on schedule to ensure we get our shots before we run out of time i.e. cake cutting and bouquet toss always goes down to the wire. The difference is there is usually only one meal here so it goes something like this (order subject to change) - prep (bride and groom), details, first look, venue, ceremony, cocktail hour, group portraits, couple's session, grand entrance, any culturally specific activity, speeches, first dance, party, cake cutting, bouquet toss, more party (time permitting).

[@kingofkings89pl]

Hi! Amazing review, so what's the best camera for professionals right now?

[@sir_nousis8230]

Hello brother! I agree with you in most parts, especially in the quality issues you mentioned. I am a bit disappointed by the quality followed by the super high price you pay. Regarding your focusing problem with the 3D tracking I had the same issue. I found the following solution online that made my life easier. Go to your custom buttons menu and select the Fn2. Go down to the recall shooting functions and scroll down the whole menu unchecking everything except Af-area mode which should be set to 3D and AFsubject detection options which should be set OFF. Press menu to SAVE! What this does is that when you are in 3d tracking mode and you have your fn2 button pressed, the 3d box acts like a subject tracking box like in the Z6ii and it doesn’t lock to the eye or face but at the point that you placed the box. Try it and let me know if that helped! Cheers, Bill

[@tectoramia-sz1lu]

Not being a Pro, I find the Z8 just right for me. Yes the aperture wheel could be better . I don't do a lot of video, so battery is not a problem.

[@pedrobartolomei7707]

I was at the presentation of the camera in our city and noticed the wheels issue, thought it might wear of a little and get better in time....

[@fredmuellerphotographer4532]

big miss on the "target box" complaint ... just program 3D AF to any button ...

[@greghuber9256]

I’m curious which of the AutoWB modes you use?

[@TheMonochromeMemoirs]

Hey Greg, using A0!

[@titussasmoko2353]

I'm not really sure about you saying the Z8 doesn't feel as robust as D850, because I handled a D850 + AFS 24-70 G once, and strangely, it felt kinda 'hollow', and my Z6 + L-bracket + 24-70 2.8 S felt 'dense' ... was perplexed a bit by that, but then, that D850 sensor is just unbelievably good.

[@JohnDeCarteretElvis]

You mention 'No Blackout,' that has not been the case with me. I have had 'Blackout,' with the z8 and it was quite disorientating. As you mention the recall due to the eyelets coming out, I had that issue as well. Plus my z8 parted company with my lens. The lens was fitted correctly and when I went to take a picture as I was lifting the camera the lens fell off. Nikon had no explanation and took two months to come back with that. I lost two months during the time that they had my camera and lens. I have found that the z8 requires perfect lighting to take a half-decent picture and preferably a stationary target. The images I have found to be extremely grainy and lacking in detail in anything other than perfect weather. The image quality loses out to my D7200 time and again in bad light and I'm not talking dark, just not bright. I regret purchasing the z8 and you're correct about the grip it is cumbersome and the body grip isn't that grippy. My biggest disappointment is that there is no longer an option to set 'No Compression.' 'Lossless Compression,' compresses and any compression and you lose data. Even on the highest possible quality setting, I have had images reduced to 15mb and that is shooting in RAW. The resulting images are useless and extremely grainy. In the same conditions my D7200 wins hands down and with more data available to manipulate the image in Photoshop. I'm now looking at selling my z8, it simply isn't worth the additional £3,000.00 more than the D7200 cost me.

[@jimpack9622]

You are doing something wrong, it uses a dual feed so there is never a black out issue

[@JohnDeCarteretElvis]

@@jimpack9622 Well, I'm afraid for me on that particular occasion there definitely was several blackouts. I'd not changed any of the settings that I'd been using for the past hour taking very similar shits of the ocean waves hitting the shore. It was night, but these shots were well lighted by a near by building. I was simply shooting at 5 frames per second and I had blackouts. I couldn't see through the viewfinder. As I've been taking photographs for over 40 years, I think I know what I saw, as for doing something wrong, all I did was press the button to take the shot and hold as I had been doing all night. Overal, I'm not impressed with the z8, especially in low light. Just didn't have the cash for the z9, so I'll wait until the z9 MKII is released and do a part ex. I much prefer having two slots the same, the one of each is quite a handicap, at least for me. And there are one or two other niggles, that if I'd known about, I wouldn't have gone for the z8 and held back until I had the cash for the z9.

[@jimpack9622]

@@JohnDeCarteretElvis I owned both, there is no difference except for battery life and heat dissipation. If you understood the dual stream you would understand why there is no blackout even if you have been shooting for 80 years.

[@leeeverette69]

The grip for the z6 isn’t available anymore: any other recommendations?

[@TheMonochromeMemoirs]

The meike?! That sucks. It was honestly the only one I liked.. have you tried eBay?

[@thisisbenji90]

@16:25 use recall shooting hold to switch to 3d, nearly the same results.

[@robertcolby5250]

Great run down from a real working photographer that knows how he wants his tools to work! Looking forward to more great content from you! Question - you were going to use G lenses for the rest of this season, did you use them with the Z8 for the three weddings you just completed? If so, did you see improvement in the lens performances on the Z8?

[@TheMonochromeMemoirs]

Yes! Used G lenses and they were fantastic on the Z8. Much faster AF

[@derrickparsonsphoto]

I have had my Z9 essentially since launch and I have never had an issue with hot cards. And I do use it for wedding photography, videography, and commercial video where I am at the 4k 60 ro 120fps or even some 8k. I do have those delkin cards so hopefully those are better for you. It is interesting that these cameras are so powerful now that we have these heat problems. You nailed it that the Z9 seems to be ok, but we have seen with Sony and canon as well as now the z8 the heat problems for these more compact camera bodies. FOCUS: I have my fn1 button set to AF-area mode, (3d) This makes it so when you hold fn1 you go to 3d tracking and then I pick what I want to lock on to and back button focus. So normally I am in full wide, and then if I don't like what it's on I can easily override it. It's not quite the same as the z6ii but this has worked for me. Messing with the smaller boxes for the AF so it doesn't even have the option to look for faces outside your intended area seems to work pretty well too. Ergonomic wise I think that the z9 is a step up from the z6ii. The dials are not as nice and clicky and tactile, but have held up perfectly as you would expect. The wake speed on my z9 is pretty much instant? I think that the sd slot slows the z8 down a lot. I can switch from a burst of photos to recording video as fast as I can hit the buttons. Big agree on white balance Sorry for the small novel. Love your work my friend!

[@NVIK5]

The Z9 does not overheat, but the Z8 does.

[@derrickparsonsphoto]

@@NVIK5 sure but the camera overheating and the memory cards overheating are slightly different issues.

[@NVIK5]

@@derrickparsonsphoto these are related, the camera should also transport heat away from the memory card effectively.

[@TheMonochromeMemoirs]

@derrickparsons2094 it’s not just a memory card issue. The camera for sure heats up too much even when not shooting video. The cards seem to just make a difference on how fast. Read the replies, there’s lots of anecdotes.

[@derrickparsonsphoto]

@@TheMonochromeMemoirs oh definitely, there is so much power in these cameras and the smaller body sizes give the heat no where to go. The Z8 getting too hot while shooting photos is really shitty.

[@CGYPP]

To me it feels like z6/7 series is not very compatibale with z8/9 series, since the autofocus is quite different (and also slightly the button layout). I opted for Z8+Z9 for the moment, but I do not enjoy the weight of these bodies, so I hope the Z6 III will have the Z8 autofocus so that I can use them simultaneously.

[@TheMonochromeMemoirs]

Fully agree. If the Z6iii has much better AF with a 24mp sensor I will be selling my Z8

[@HI2LIFE]

Could you please do a review on the new Nikon zf full frame? Thank you so much! From Australia

[@TheMonochromeMemoirs]

Coming very soon! Just got mine 2 weeks ago

[@Heppy-k9]

I would love to hear your opinion on the new Nikon Zf and the assumption & probability that the Z6 iii will most likely be based on the same technical details of the Zf - 24 MPX - Expeed 7 - best in class Low-Light in a Z6 body … and then whether or not you recommend the Z8 over the Z6 iii for events … ?

[@TheMonochromeMemoirs]

I have Nikon sending me out one to test 🤜🤛

[@deonsiegruhn8275]

Watch Hudson Henry's setup guide for the 3D hand off method....

[@jeffpolk4800]

I’ve got hot card warnings from both my z6ii and z9 on hot days. It happens.

[@nathanielcashjr.732]

I find the wake-up speed on mine to be significantly faster than my Z6II.

[@MichaelSeneschal]

Target Lock On = 3D tracking. 3D tracking is actually better that Target Lock, because it also incorporates Eye AF if you target on a face.

[@photographybydash]

Thank you for this breakdown and all the information!

[@TheMonochromeMemoirs]

Thanks for watching!

[@luka_III]

You're just too accustomed to strange wheels of z6/7 bodies... 😂 So, how do you film yourself on Z6II? You flip the screen? I love all those shortcomings of Z8! Plus, check those cards...

[@vanlee0831]

About the dial wheel , it feels sticky and slow when you adjusting it. Z9 is a little better in quality but it doesn’t feel smoothly. The best dial of Nikon , in my experience , is D3-D6 .

[@TheMonochromeMemoirs]

Certainly does. And I think it wouldn’t have been an issue if the ridges in the dial were just a little bigger so your thumb can sink in

[@TheAccidentalPhotographer]

Listening to your experience with autofocus (If I was understanding your situation correctly) I have had the same albeit with Animals where the identification would seek to go to the wrong place (either another animal, an ear etc). A work around I have employed is to set the memory recall to be just subject detection turned off meaning that it gives me the 3d tracking (my default mode) but without the identification/override. It allows me to focus on the subject and while it may not give me the eye at f7.1 and above the sharpness doesn't seem to suffer all that much

[@mlibby05]

Focus peaking works the same on the Z6. No need to switch to manual mode, just move the focus ring and it shows the peaking effect.

[@TheMonochromeMemoirs]

Yes that’s what I said 👍

[@andrewf.7813]

I can relate to back wheel comment. I think its not anything to do with the Z8 in general but to your camera. My Z8 dials are fine and feel the same as my other Z’s. On the other hand, my D4s back in the days did have the problem you describe. When you send it back to Nikon for the camera strap attachment fix, I would defo mention this. Maybe its cheap and easy to correct. Let me know how you get on!

[@phillippugh2161]

My short recommendation...get another d850 for weddings ...........all day battery an 45 mp

[@JohnArmato]

I’m really looking to get into the mirrorless line up. I’m tempted to grab a 6ii. I currently shoot a d850, but budget is light at the moment. Maybe it makes more sense to wait until the z8 comes down in price and not bother with the z6ii?

[@greghuber9256]

Regarding your 1 button Z6 override…on the Z6 if it was hunting AT ALL, or not on the subject I want, I just touch the focus ring and use peaking. Like you, I almost never miss focus on my Z6 and I’ll bet I’m as fast with peaking focus as I would be with the button approach. That has translated to the Z8 for me. I’m sure you’ve tried that…wondering what your thoughts are on that vs your button method.

[@carlosnel2487]

Hi, really enjoy your video’s and learning a lot with it, but I have a question concerning the Z8, because I have just purchased one. Can you/do you need to cleanse the sensor as much as with the z6ii?

[@mhkhung]

Not sure what you are talking about override. I can easily override with single point or 3d with different buttons.

[@lslater444]

I purchased the new Nikon z8, and I'm getting serious horizontal banding when I shoot in HSS. ALL firmware is Current and Up -to-date. I'm at a loss. I’ve shot changing from rear curtain and front curtain, and STILL, I find banding when I shoot HSS past 1/250 shutter speed. I have contacted several KZbinrs, and they all feel it's the ad200pros. I have tried changing the Photo Flicker Reduction in Z8 settings and the High-Frequency Flicker Reduction. Nothing changes. I hope someone reads this and has some good advice for me. My equipment is: My AD200Pro’s firmware is currently: U-1.5 and my Nikon Z8 has the latest firmware: C:Ver.1.01 R2 PRO II N current firmware is: 1.5 So it has nothing to do with the firmware. Every time I go into HSS, it causes banding. you can see it in their faces below. I’m desperate to figure this out. I specialize in Dramatic Sports shoots so I need to stop action. I just don't think the Nikon z8 will work for me.

[@lslater444]

The more I go down the rabbit hole, the more I learn there are serious issues with banding in HSS in the Nikon Z8, and it sounds like Z9. I have contacted Godox, and they said there may be a compatibility issue in HSS mode between AD200PRO and Nikon Z8 now. Sorry for the inconvenience. Our technicians are working diligently to overcome this issue, and we look forward to resolving it in the future. I also contacted Westcott, and they said Westcott should get a report on the Z8 testing shortly. We are not receiving reports on banding for the Z9 below 1/4000 of a second with the latest firmware. We expect the Z8 to respond similarly. So there are some serious issues with HSS between Nikon z8/9’s and lighting. I also learned from a Major KZbinr that there is banding when shooting concerts. I’m so very sad. I was so excited to purchase the Nikon z8, but it’s just not going to work for my dramatic athletes and concerts. I have ordered some Westcott FJ400 & FJ200. They should arrive tomorrow, and I will test them.

[@doogieham]

Will, did you notice any improvement in the in-body VR between the Z8 and the Z6ii?

[@stefan_becker]

A lot of things especially autofocus got a lot better with firmware 2.0.

[@RichKessler3]

I'm just curious why you skipped the Z9 and stuck with the 6/6ii and then the 8

[@DayumMarq]

I switched to Sony, after waiting for a z6ii update for a little over a year. and I think that the eye auto focus going to another eye is a common theme on all cameras (tried an r5 before going to Sony) and I would say the real thing that is annoying about the Nikon auto focus isn't the quirks, because every camera has those, lol its how difficult it is to get it back on target. your issues with the z8, or the fix with the z6ii with the front button is fine, but its so much easier on Sony, just have a flexible spot, and the fix is one touch away. the little things are what is the most annoying about a camera lol

[@vanlee0831]

About the lens mount and strip issues , I don’t understand why Nikon would let these happen. These two issue are very basic and they had done pretty well over a decade.

[@ThomazMartinez]

I wish you had also Z9 to compare Z8 against its build quality

[@edphi]

What card were you using when its hot?

[@TheMonochromeMemoirs]

Sandisk 256g

[@csabapapp8481]

I doubt that with the Z8 Nikon forgot how to get the ergonomics right. Anyway, I'll find it out myself soon. I agree, it is pretty important when you have to grab a piece of brick all day long.

[@csabapapp8481]

You were right. The grip feels more plastic and the dials too. Plus the rear dial has this cover bumb on the body, what makes it harder to turn. Very strange that a 4000 euros camera feels like some plastic toy. My D500 feels a lot better in the hand.

[@odedia]

How would you compare the wheels on the Z8 to the wheels on the Z9? Are they identical?

[@jimpack9622]

Nope the Z9 felt better, more robust and sensitive.

[@jurgendekeyser288]

Wouldn't it be nice to have the option to turn on focus peaking while shooting in AF?

[@TheMonochromeMemoirs]

Well you do, it always activates when you press focus and turn the manual focus wheel on the lens 😎

[@jurgendekeyser288]

@TheMonochromeMemoirs I know... I actually learned from you a long time ago but then what is the point of using af? What I also would like is the horizontal thing (don't know the exact word for it) and the histogram at the same time🙂

[@Altitude2011]

Hello, regarding your autofocus issue, I would use 3D tracking instead.

[@Trevisol16]

I have two Z6 II cameras, and I want to upgrade to the Z8. However, as you mentioned, I initially plan to only replace one of them, so here's my question: How do the files from both cameras work together during editing? I was traumatized when I had the Z6 and D750, and later the Z6 and Z5, as their files were very different, and it was challenging to achieve consistent colors in my edits

[@leonmullingscreative]

any more details on the challanges you had with the files comparing the Z6 & Z5?

[@caleidoo]

Yeah, I can feel you. Did the same thing, Worked with two D750's (excellent camera), but dived into the Z system with the Z6 and started to carry a D750 and Z6 on a harness. The white balance difference in LR between the two bodies was a huge pain in the *ss. If you applied settings to both in a batch, one of them was way too green or purple. Buying a Z6II was escape from that rabbit hole and decreased my editing time immediately. I have worked with Z8 files and Z6II files and there seem to be no significant difference, so you're good. At least not in LR. But I recommend renting a Z8 and trying out both cameras side by side and load up the files.

[@Trevisol16]

@@leonmullingscreative For me, the colors and contrast of the Z5 were much closer to the D750, while the colors of the Z6 are much more vibrant and have higher contrast. The difference, in my opinion, is huge. Perhaps it's due to the technology of each sensor (The Z6 has a BSI sensor if I'm not mistaken), but in my case, as I work with heavy color grading, it was difficult to work with both cameras together, especially in situations like events where editing is faster. Having to equalize the photos for each environment was quite challenging, and even when I managed to do so, the results were usually different. I much preferred the files from the Z6.

[@Trevisol16]

@@caleidoo I did the same thing, upgraded to the Z6II and kept my Z6, and it was a lifesaver for my editing and time! Unfortunately, I can't test it beforehand since I'm buying it abroad (in another country), so I'm relying on reports from colleagues. Currently, I use Capture One, but I also believe that the files won't be too different in terms of colors since they are very similar technologies. I think the Z5 uses a sensor similar to the D750, which is why there's such a difference. I'll trust that I won't have too many issues. Based on our friend's report here, the biggest difference still seems to be the fact that the Z8 can easily equalize the white balance, while the Z6, at least for me, tends to struggle in challenging situations. But nothing I can't resolve in post-production.

[@caleidoo]

@@Trevisol16 Auto white balance is only relevant if you shoot JPEG only - which would be ridiculous with such a camera - and if you leave your white balance at "as shot" in Lightroom , which would also be a weird choice, no matter how good the camera is. I mean, a good auto white balance sure is good for quick shots, but you're always going to apply your own white balance to any professional workload. The Z5 indeed has a sensor based or very familiar to the D750.

[@dinoschristodoulides5226]

What abt low light focus ? My z6ii it struggles

[@jpdj2715]

Flabbergasted - my first 24h feeling about the Z 8. Sold my Z 7ii yesterday and bought a Z 8. I frequently shoot portraits in cosy room light - about LV 6 or 5, with strobe light. The Z 7ii could not deal with its "recognition AI AF" at about LV 7 and down [2]. I can't speak for the Z 6(ii). The Z 8, I set to 3D tracking and auto recognition of humans. One thing that slowed me down was the dance with (AF) focusing points around the viewfinder. The Z 8 is fabulous. Point the 3D box over the sitter's preferred eye, recompose, bam. Extremely high keeper-rate in low light. The mirrorless cameras use basic autofocus logic for focusing and that's called AF, too. A Z f (IIRC) can AF-focus down to LV -10. At LV -10, its sensor cannot measure light any longer but it can focus. And you can shoot a very long exposure time shot to get an image. The Z 8 goes down to LV -9 for focusing. While Nikon is completely mystical about the details here, note that recognition AI AF needs some sort of a usable image for it to recognise something. The difference between the EXPEED 7 cameras and the older with one r two EXPEED 6 processors, is that the EXPEED 7 is 10 to 20 times faster and can process a lot more data in less time. For example the firmware file for the Z 8 is twice as large as for the Z 7ii. Half of that double size may be a database with learned shapes for recognition ("learning" AI references the development stage where the AI program is taught what's right and wrong. Then when that software goes into operation, generally, the learning stops - because, who tells what is right and wrong?). Anyhow, recognition AF AI needing recognisable images for it to work, means that it will not work down to LV -9. The difference between the 24MP and 45MP Nikons is different than most people assume. The 24MP has an OLPF the 45 has not. Nikon first Eliminated the OLPF in the D800E version of the D800 - these two cameras are identical otherwise. As that OLPF was originally devised of as a way to make raw processing [1] easier. At low resolution the problems that basic raw processing generates will not be noticed. With increasing resolution problems became more noticeable and more in the way. The sweet spot for the OLPF is 24MP. The OLPF disperses light travelling to photosite [x,y] so that a bit of that light hits the neighbouring photosites (photocell, photodiodes) too. This reduces low light sensitivity, adds a bit of noise that in a weird way reduces the noise from inadequate raw processing. The downsides of the OLPF are: reduced colour space, reduced dynamic range (DR), reduced contrast envelope (DR available to one shot), reduced (contour) sharpness, and it messes with vignetting. As the 45MP does not have all these problems, its smaller photosites suffer less from the size reduction then we would assume. The absence of the OLPF is however "there is no such thing as a free lunch". As raw processing is more difficult, we may see some grain in the darker, blurry, and/or low contrast image zones. That is failed/inadequate deBayerisation. Adobe came up with "noise" fix last year with the optional "AI Denoise" in Adobe Camera Raw, while Topaz and DxO had a head start of several years. Note that this kind of noise is pure "Bayer noise" - fluencers call it luminance or colour noise and blame the sensor or camera. That helps parties like Adobe to take 10 years to come up with something better in raw processing. The gain in sharpness between different MP sensors is generally marginal, but between OLPF vs no OLPF the difference is shocking. Go to DxOMark, find the sharpest F-mount lens they tested, and see how sharp it is on a D800 and compare to D800E. Also compare a 24MP D camera with that lens to the D800. And then that lens on the D800E to that lens on the D850. I choose room light level as a way to control the opening of the sitter's iris. Dilated looks more attractive, but too dilated looks weird or sick and robs the iris colour. Before the buy, I created an EV to LV conversion spreadsheet and entered exposure data from Z 8 tests in KZbin. Nobody went under LV 10. The only one with relevant (to me) shots was Mathieu Gasquet - excellent test and write up in his website. [1] the raw image file consists of monochrome (mono=single chrome=colour) data elements. As in colour theory, black, grey, and white are not colours, calling black & white images monochrome is hysterically wrong. Same for a Leica Monochrom. The adjective monochrome was appropriate in the old B&W film days as it applied to light-sensitive emulsions (layers) that only had sensitivity in one colour band of the humanly visible spectrum. So the raw file has monochrome data elements that represent exposure values from three spectral bands: red, green, and blue. But none of these elements has RGB. Raw processing is the mathematically precise and repeatable wild-assed guessing of the missing colours. And so, each R data element becomes an RGB pixel, each green one also RGB and each blue one RGB too. [2] LV = EV@ISO100 - LV: Light Value. EV: Exposure Value.

[@dinoschristodoulides5226]

@@jpdj2715 wow thank you for time and effort to answer to my question. You are The Architect from the Matrix if i have to guess. Thank you again.

[@jpdj2715]

@@dinoschristodoulides5226 - when the characters in the Matrix Trilogy finally fund "The Architect" his answer boiled down to "I don't know". Biochemist: DNA with knowledge of itself. Economist: someone who also doesn't know. Architect? The fun. I think I'm not in Plato's cave (metaphor for the subconscious or unaware). Yet do not worry about questions I cannot answer.

[@manilamartin1001]

Good review.

[@nicolascarle8210]

Great content as always, and I would say that if/when the Z6III were to ever come out with the ZF flip screen and basically keep the Z6II body-ish then you would be a happy camper... problem is that will Nikon release the Z6III? ever? Most people say without question that the Z8 and Z9 are in everyway better cameras than anything lower in the lineup so appreciate your real-world use and feedback! Keep doing your thing! (ps I do need to upgrade and its a tricky time because I would be at the store right now if the Z6III was out, but the upgrade option is like you, a Z8 or Z9)

[@Diversephotography]

Definitely need a quality CF card

[@robertleidner9703]

Mine is great, but it doesn’t sing like other great Nikons I’ve had. D3s, d700, d810, Z6ii Even with the minor issue I had with focus on the Z6ii it still felt right. Z8 is lacking that. Also I get hot card warnings in still often. Need to send it to Nikon once my wedding season is over

[@TheMonochromeMemoirs]

Perfectly said

[@madst7521]

Picking the right card seems to make a huge difference in overheating or not. Last larger comparison of cards I saw had Delkin Black as keeping much cooler than the competition. Also,purely from curiosity - is this with the latest firmware or the 1.0? Nikon changed some limits on alerting about for hot cards.

[@robertleidner9703]

@@madst7521 it is, and yes I don’t get the warning as often but it still gets hot. I even bought new cards based on what the Nikon rep suggested.