I Changed My Mind and Bought the Nikon Z50II - APS-C Lenses I'll Use & What I'm Selling

[@craigcarlson4022]

Congrats on your new Z50ii. I’ve had my Z50 for 4+ years, a full set of lenses for it, and bought a Z30 recently. But i share Raymund’s frustration with the Z30’s lack of evf…the problem is that even when the lcd’s brightness is turned to it’s maximum it is still not bright enough to see in sunlight. I do have the 18-140 and love it for travel, and then carry the 12-28 for wide shots. I will take the z30 along with the 12-28 on it (and 18-140 on z50) to cut down on lens changing.

[@andyh2555]

Welcome to the Z50 II owners club! Had all the Z DX bodies, and this is the absolutely the best!

[@cb2917]

isnt the battery life really frustrating compared to a d500?

[@stanobert3475]

I completely agree with Raymond. No viewfinders is a no-go for me! I also agree with you about Sony cameras. I am not crazy about their colors. I shoot Nikon and Fuji instead. I like both of their colors for different reasons.

[@ricknicholson5894]

Thought I would warn your viewers. No one in the States seems to be conscious of the fact that tariffs are going to hurt your photography purchasing power. For example (think Viltrox, Godox, Sirui and other brands) a 35 % tariff is to be imposed on Chinese goods shipped into the states so all Viltrox and other Chinese brands are going up very soon once the tariffs are put in place, weeks away. So if you are considering any photo purchases made out of country, and just about all of them are imports, the prices are going up. And obviously the larger the dollar amount of the purchase, the more it is going to cost. So if you are thinking fairly seriously about a photography purchase such as Viltrox lenses and money isn't an issue right now - buy now.

[@helvti1502]

I use mine with the Nikkor Z DX 24/1.7. These days I prefer the 35mm look over the 50mm look.

[@DeanAllman]

This is very cool. I watched your review of the Z50II about a week after I bought mine. You hit all the good points in the review, but I was surprised to see you were hanging on your the Z30. I had sold mine to help pay for the Z50II, as I decided the new camera could do everything the Z30 did plus it has an EVF which has become a mandatory feature for me with my aging eyesight. So I had to smile when I watched this today. And to add to the serendipity here, I also have the Viltrox 35mm f/1.7 on order. I got the Viltrox 56mm f/1.7 at the same time the Z50II came in, and was blown away with the image quality. So the 35mm was a no brainer. Have fun and enjoy this terrific little camera. It’s a lot of fun.

[@DeanAllman]

Also, the Nikon 70-200 f/2.8 and the Nikon 105mm Macro have VR, and I am looking forward to using them on the Z50II as well.

[@Bethos1247-Arne]

Bought a Z50 II just some week ago and I am HAPPY. Small, capable, incredible. Jpegs are fantastic already, Z-mount DX glass is small yet good. The Z50 II is, while not perfect, really good. I am an experienced hobbyist with a lot of DSLR practice. Z50 II is the first mirrorless I tried which works for me.

[@lstrunk2]

My Z50ii is turning out to be a magnet for small fast primes for me. I'm looking at the viltrox 35, I just need to decide how it fits, since I have the Nikon 28 f2.8. I 've also looked at the Viltrox 16mm, but wish it was smaller. I can't imagine getting rid of my 16-50. It's a fair weather lens for sure, it needs a LOT of light. But its size and quality make it a keeper. I was shocked at the quality I got from it during a Utah NP tour a couple years ago.

[@CloverPhotoandVideo]

It's a great little camera. I especially enjoy using Bird Detection and the Pre-Capture feature is very useful and works well.

[@PhilThach]

You'll love the 600 6.3 PF, I bought mine while it was on sale for $800 off recently. The first day I took it out on the Z50 II. It worked great. I do prefer to use it on my Z8 but it's certainly a lighter packed on the Z50 II.

[@randallbrander8157]

I agree with Raymond with the lack of a viewfinder on the Z30 & ZV1. Sold Z30 because of overheating to early for my needs in video recording and the ZV1 for video record time limit. For my Nikon APSC needs I own the Z50II & Zfc. Cheers!

[@jeffellis662]

I used to own the Z50 but sold it when I got a Fuji x-t5 which was almost the same size. I was excited by the Z50 II announcement but when it didn’t have IBIS I said no. I ended up changing my mind and mine arrived yesterday. I wish I hadn’t sold the 18-140 when I sold the Z50, but I needed the money and my wife only used the 16-60 and 50-250 with the Zfc I gave her. Will live with a 16-50 and sharing the 50-250 for now. I love Viltrox came out with the Air series. I saw a rumor they havre a 25mm f/1.7 coming and I think that is the one I will buy. If the Z50 II had IBIS I would more of the longer primes. I will try my Nikon 40mm f/2 on the Z50 II and see how that goes. Smaller and light is the reason for APS-C for me and keeps my full frame down to just my Nikon Zf that I love for low light.

[@jasoneldridgephotography]

Always great to see your videos and congrats on the new camera. Happy New Year!

[@RandyArellano]

After the release of the Z50ii in Nov, I knew I was eventually going to get one - eventually bought it in early Dec. It has been a fantastic addition to my kit! I have a Z30 also and had considered selling it, but ended up keeping it. I initially bought the Z30 as my hiking/biking/travel camera. I brought it (along with my Z7ii) to my first visit to Glacier NP last July. It took fantastic hiking pics and I enjoyed using it for hikes. I brought along my Z7ii, also, on one of my first hikes (Hidden Lake), and as one would expect it was great to have images from that camera. But on later hikes, the Z30 and my phone camera were perfectly fine - though I kinda wish I would've taken my Z30 also on my bike ride up GttSR along with my cell phone. 🤦‍♂ I plan on using my Z50ii as a complementary camera to the Z30 for travel, cycling, hiking, and dedicated active outdoor activities. And they both fit in well as an everyday grab-n-go kit. I keep my Z7ii for dedicated photo trips, astro, and landscape/nightscape stuff.

[@gvz1538]

Fantastic video Leigh & Raymond!! And great rationale for buying / selling. And I have two of the Viltrox lenses on my to-be-purchased list: the 75mm f/1.2 and the 13mm f/1.4, both in XF mount. The 35mm f/1.7 is quite a bit lighter than the Fujifilm 33mm f/1.4 (and a nice price), although I already have the Zeiss 32mm f/1.8 which easily supports the Fuji 40MP. Lastly the Z50 II sounds like a great body to those of us that love Nikon and viewfinders 🙂

[@peterperry6696]

Welcome to the Z50ii Ownership club! I sold my Z50 as soon as the Z50ii came out and it has restored my enthusiasm for photography (and increased my discretionary spending on new lenses, unfortunately!). I have a fullframe kit with a Z5, and Nikon lenses 14-30, 24-70, 100-400, and 105MC. But I always find myself reaching for the DX camera. I have both kit lenses that came with the original Z50, but I love carrying around the Z50ii with light primes. I am pairing it most of the time with my full frame Viltrox 24mm f1.8, but have added a Viltrox 56mm 1.7 Air, and a TTArtisans 75mm f2. I have a Viltrox 35 1.7 Air on order! The full frame 14-30 works great on the Z50ii (though the built-in flash throws a shadow with that big lens front getting in the way). And if I want to shoot birds, the 100-400 on the DX with the TC1.4 gives me an effective FOV equivalent to a an 840mm lens at f8. This camera is a game changer with focus capabilities and subject detection that leave the old version in the dust.

[@heinrichkolb5182]

I also bought this camera. It complements my Z8 and my Z9 ideally. The Z50ii is a sharp weapon shaped like a squirt gun. I can always have them with me. All of my heavy lenses perform excellently, but I will still use small kit lenses. When I bought the camera I asked my dealer for an irresistible offer for an 18-140mm and I got the DX 24mm 1.7 and the 50-250mm as used bargains. I'm shocked at how well the little telephoto lens captures lively garden birds and squirrels. With the little 24s I was able to capture the magic of the Christmas markets, that you can smell the gingerbread and the mulled wine. What more could you want? At this price? With this awesome camera and three lenses, I have redundant second photography equipment in my pocket. Brilliant! Of course I could use all of my existing lenses, but that would make this little treasure lose its charm. Please excuse my bad English.

[@classicrockonly]

With your endorsement, I’m sold. My wife and I need a new camera, and I need something to replace my D300 which died. I’ll try out a Viltrox lens! A good 35mm at a good size/price is something I’ve needed. Right now I shoot with a Canon 5D mk1 with 40mm pancake lens. This could be a good replacement for that

[@callline7183]

Fun to see excellent photos of my hometown! Taking advantage of the Christmas lights. That would be a fun challenge, and reminds me there are good photos to capture if you just look around!

[@babyboy1971]

I’m having analysis paralysis. I currently have the Nikon Zf and am looking to get another Nikon now. I really do NOT want to spend the money to get the Z6III. I’m a portrait & headshot photographer, and I work in studio and in natural light. Occasionally, I photograph family sessions, mostly posed. Once in a while, I do street or landscape. No birds, no sports, no weddings or events. No fast action. I am thinking Z5 or Z6II, but joe I’m looking at the Z50II. I jumped from Fuji to get into Nikon so I’m not scared of APS-C but I’m also leaning towards another full frame backup. I have the 40, 50 and 85 Z lenses. I don’t care if the function or form is the same, I want the images between the Zf and whatever I choose to be close in matching. Is the sensor (not the processor) similar in Z6II, and Zf?

[@luissalazar2021]

You got me thinking about Nikon, specially the z8. I always learning about the photography. Thank you for sharing. Happy new year

[@SanoyNimbus]

I have a Z6III and a Z6II (used to have two Z6II before buying the Z6III) ... I used to have a Zfc as my third camera, but gave that to my daughter ... I do not think the Zfc can fill the role as backup for the Z6III, as it could for the Z6II-cameras ... but I am sure the Z50ii can! So, I really want one! :) It could be my backup when traveling light and my to go camera on my day of. :)

[@MohsinWadee]

I was going to get the Z50 II with the Sigma 30mm 1.4 lens you reviewed a while back. Would you still take the Viltrox over this Sigma?

[@LeighAndRaymond]

That’s a tough question! If budget is the deciding factor, this is the one. It’s also a little smaller. But if you’d like the extra aperture, the Sigma is the way to go. They’re both great lenses so either would be great.

[@MohsinWadee]

@@LeighAndRaymond thanks Leigh!

[@grahamniven]

Love my Z50ii, pairs very well with the Tamron 50-400 for walks in nature. The AF is amazingly good imo.

[@planeador21]

having the z50, does it make sense keeping the om5?

[@LeighAndRaymond]

For me, absolutely!

[@enzocannizzo8744]

Thank you for your excellent presentation and ALL your past presentations !!!! Question. I own Z50, zfc and Z 5, Z6. Therefore, with Nikon, I have DX and FX cameras. For Z 50 / zfc I kept my purchases limited to Nikon DX Z mount. I want to accommodate my FX Z cameras too. The Nikon cost for FX Z mount is very expensive. What is your advice with purchasing (The non-Non-branded lenses you used ) but ONLY in FX mount to accommodate the Z50, ZFC, AND Z 5, Z6 too ?? What are the pros and cons ( One can incur $$$ buying different mounts for DX and FX w/ new Nikon Z cameras? Any advice would be greatly appreciated THANK YOU 👍👍

[@YetAnotherToken]

Hi, similar interest here. I own a Nikon Z6 (beside A6000 and Olympus M10II), did not use it much in last 2-3 years because I ignored the high lense prices for Z FX mount years ago. My lenses I bought back then: Z 24-70 4.0 (kit) + used Nikon 50mm 1.8(G) (FTZ) + used Sigma 105mm 2.8 (FTZ). I'd like to have sth. wider than 24mm and more zoom than 105mm, but very expensive. I think I should have gotten an APS-C, but I was so disappointed with my Sony A6000 (Focus and noise) before. ->> May be s.o. can recommend some wider lenses (FTZ is okay) and/or zoom lensesthat work well with the Z6

[@robertpfeifer3445]

I love the Z30. Don’t miss the viewfinder. Great travel camera. Also love Viltrox lenses. Amazing quality.

[@adrianvanleeuwen]

Yes, I would want a z50ii as well, however I already own a Z30, so an upgrade would cost a lot in Canada ($779. z30 body vs. $1249. in Canadian dollars for the Z50ii body). I will wait a couple of years before upgrading, and most of my work goes to my bigger Z6ii except for, on the go vlogging and some street shooting. Thanks for your review. Z50ii does seem to be a very good upgrade. I am also looking at some Viltrox primes for either camera, like a 35mm prime, so thanks for showing the lens choices.

[@HeideMason]

I shoot the Z8 with big lenses most of the time. But carrying it is a drag and requires dedication. I watched your review of the Z50ii and contacted the manager of my preferred camera store (Allen's Camera in Penn.) and asked her opinion. We discussed it at length and I ordered the two lens kit with the 16-50 and the 50-250. Nikon is offering a discount if you order an additional lens, so I ordered the 18-140, based in part on your review, as well as others. My last lens will be the Viltrox prime. I'm also trying to get ahead of the tariffs. This is a sweet little camera. Easy in the hands and takes great photos. I don't understand the people who take the time to attack people online. If you disagree, fine. Disagree, we're still allowed to do that. Just don't be so darn nasty about it.

[@martydibergi5228]

Well, I would love to buy a full frame new digital Nikon Camera. I had unexpected emergency spine fusion last year. I am still suffering from nerve damage and pain. Camera weight and large lenses would be a no go anymore. Perhaps this camera would be the right choice.?q

[@lorihalpern2873]

I have used a Z50 for action sports and found the rolling blackout to be a huge issue for me - especially as I compared it to my D500 which I love and still use. I am waiting for a new Z camera that will do what the D500 does. . Do you experience any blackout with the Z50II and do you think it has the speed you need for action sports? I love this size - I found the Z9 and Z8 too big for me. Would love to hear your thoughts Leigh? and would love to see a video using the Z50II for action sports

[@lstrunk2]

I sold my D500 to get the z50ii, to get the weight down to something I can use without pain or fear of dropping. The z50ii doesn't have the raw speed of the D500, but its much better than the Z50 or zfc (which I have) So far, the blackout with mechanical shutter is not bad, but it does look a bit different. I am getting more in focus shots of songbirds that I did with my d500. I'll know better once the weather warms up, and I can get out more.

[@edwardphilipmarianafzger9800]

Nice you got that one now the Viltrox 135mm F1.8 LAB lens !

[@clancydubh]

This is a great camera for a photographer who is not into all the bells and whistles that the "pros" love to brag about. It is functional and way more than adequate for any amateur into photography.

[@mcoffroadinaz4075]

Maybe you can give your thoughts on this.... I've been waiting on a decent Nikon APS body for high-speed items such as racing, or even bird watching, but nothing DX seems appropriate. I'm currently using the Canon R7 for those duties, but have NEVER liked their menu layout, since I was pretty much weened on the Nikon side menu system. I need that "mind-muscle-memory" for action environments. From a quality standpoint the Canon R7 is amazing. The focus is like it reads my mind, and the Z-lens have been exceptional. Contrast detect focus from Nikon has always been problematic for me, in a high action environment, and my Nikons always tend to back focus unless I go single point. I feel like I need to hold out with the Canon R7 for a while longer in 1.6 land. Thoughts or ideas specifically for Nikon DX would be appreciated for the action side of the house.

[@LeighAndRaymond]

A lot of folks have been waiting on a DX Z body for speed! I've never had issues with Nikon's focusing. I can think of two reasons you are experiencing back focusing... If the subject is coming toward you, the camera simply might not be fast enough to keep up with the subject. I've experienced this on even the fastest cameras, including the Nikon Z9 and the Sony a1 and a9 cameras. My second thought is your lens choice. If you are using an adapted lens, like an F Mount lens on a Z Mount body using the FTZ adapter, you may need to fine tune the autofocus. You can do that in the menus and it works wonders. All of that being said, I think I'll do a video about action photography with the Z50II!

[@mcoffroadinaz4075]

@@LeighAndRaymond SUNDAY- NHRA Arizona Nationals Sun, Mar 23, 2025 ⦁ 7:30am Firebird Motorsports Park Here's your assignment. :) Bring and wear earplugs.

[@cameraz99]

@@LeighAndRaymond -- Leigh, could you please do a video on how to fine tune the autofocus while using the FTZ adapter? It would be very helpful. Thank you.

[@RudiZimmerer]

I also bought the Nikon Z50II, an awesome camera with a professional autofocus system... For blogging the Viltrox 20mm F2.8 is perfect... I can't understand why not other lens producer offers a 20mm lens? For vlogging it is the best focal length and an absolute must... To 95 % i use the old Nikon 16-80mm F2.8 -F4 and i use 2 Lithium batteries, putting them under the camera and in additional a lens in front of the image sensor... That is an absolute must for me, too short battery life with a Nikon battery and with Lithium batteries 3600mA so that is 3 times more power and the protection lens for the image sensor is an absolute must, even a very cheap $3..

[@obedbrinkman]

congratz! 🤩 the version 2 has some serious upgrades!

[@rbos6001]

Tried a Nikon Z50 and Z6ii recently also had the Zfc when it came out but sold it after a year. I really feel their lens lineup is the most complete for my usecases, but cant get used to that autofocus system which whatever youtube video I used too setup I felt I could not trust in afc. This may sound weird but I really wanted to love their camera's perhaps with the new processor and 3d tracking its better, but in the end it only validated my previous purchases of the Fujifilm X-H2 and Canon R8 which is also a result in itself. Perhaps one day Nikon you helped me enter the hobby at least with the Nikon 1 system 😊.

[@lawoei]

The Z30's superior weight got me hooked when shooting with the kit lens! The rest are just heavier than it should be?

[@maarekstele2815]

Lee, when you sell gear to buy a new camera, where do you sell it typically?

[@LeighAndRaymond]

Good question! I have used KEH for many years. I'm even an affiliate now. If you're interested in using my links... For 5% off your first order*, use the code SNAPCHICK12 at shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=2502710&u=1838049&m=66875&urllink=&afftrack= For a 5% bonus when you sell your gear, use code SNAPCHICK12-SELL at shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=1641780&u=1838049&m=66875&urllink=&afftrack= *exclusions apply

[@maarekstele2815]

@@LeighAndRaymond thank you... I use KEH often, but not for new gear purchases. Do you sell to them for cash or trade credit only? I sold them some of my gear to use in trade for a camera but was not able to get a new camera like the z50ii from them. Was mostly curious where you would sell the gear you mentioned when you wanted to buy a new Nikon like the z50ii... I've got a z50 I would be happy to sell and maybe a few other items and would love to pick up the z50ii..

[@starbase218]

I'm not really a prime user except for a nifty fifty. If I'd pick an APS-C body to build a system around, I might go with the Sony A6700. There just aren't enough interesting zoom lenses for the Z50 II. For a dedicated wildlife camera in addition to a Z5/6 body, though, it's excellent.

[@trbowlin]

I'm very interested in the camera but shoot video a fair amount too. In your review video you only mentioned it briefly. Could you give us an episode demoing the video capabilities. From what I can find on the internet, I can leverage my investment in my Sigma Art F-mounts with an adaptor. I really love those lenses and frankly the entry barrier to the full frame Z bodies is having to invest in new glass. Thanks, love your work.

[@tedk2814]

My first Viltrox lens is the 16mm 1.8 which I tried to use for astrophotography. I love it and find it very useful in other areas and it's my widest lens. I would purchase other Viltrox lens.

[@chuckwalla2967]

Those Viltroxes are not stabilized, right?

[@LeighAndRaymond]

Correct.

[@Timetrends-n5t]

Would you chose this over the Zf?

[@cameraz99]

I'd like to sell my Z50 for a Z50II, but I hate the swing-out LCD screen! It gets in the way when you use a camera strap. And why would I want a screen sticking out on the side when I'm shooting video? The flip up/down screen works better for me. Also, I don't do vlogging, so I don't need a screen that points forward. I do like that Expeed 7 processor, however.

[@TorstiVuorma]

Thank's! Good vid. I hope you write what kind of objects / bodys you use at pictures, what i van see .. i haven't so good english at i can already heard this things.. and sometimes somebody can sleep when i see you vid's.. 👍

[@SanoyNimbus]

About the lens ... Viltrox 35 ...I have the 28mm 2.8 and the 40mm 2.0 from Nikon ... two great and small lenses that also works with my Z6II and Z6III. So, no I would probably not get the 35mm 1.7 DX lens. ... The only two DX lenses I can consider is the 16-55 and the 24 1.7 from Nikon ... The 24 is close to a 28 ... but 1.7 and the size of it is nice...

[@raymondbiller2257]

As a Z50 owner I really enjoyed this video except for 1 thing, depth of field. I found all of the out of focus very distracting. I would think that it would not be too difficult to keep a person and a camera that is quite close to the person all in focus. BTW, I use the Nikon 18-140 as my lens on my Z50. I also have an old 18-200 that I could use as well if needed.

[@streetphotographyworld]

If i buy that camera will i take better photos?

[@magnekeilandolsen934]

Thanks a lot for your review. I have looked at the same camera, but I'm reluctant due to the lack of IBIS if paired with non-VR glass. My use case will be video recording (as a new beginner) but also for stills. Your comments on my concern will be highly appreciated.

[@stigfloberghagenphotography]

Great video. Nikon ziii user here🙂👍

[@champagnesumo]

Just curious, have you compared the Z50ii to any of Fujifilm's offerings? I shoot both Nikon and Fujifilm.

[@LeighAndRaymond]

I have used many Fujifilm cameras and currently own the X100V. They are also amazing and we are pretty much always considering a Fujfilm purchase. The convenient thing about Nikon, for us, is that we already own a bunch of Z Mount lenses. With Fujifilm, we'd be starting from scratch!

[@Atrangi_chhap]

Hi Leigh, Great video.. I need your help to resolve the issue of slight misfocusing on all af modes except pin point and single point mode. Is this an issue with few z50iis or could I have done any wrong setting in camera(i did rest the camera setting but the ossue persits). Thanks

[@Jacko_486]

Thanks for your video. Looking to get the Z50ii as my D7200 has no flip screen (really annoying) and poor video.

[@R.Franke]

Interesting video, disclosing with the help of Viltrox that sharing lenses between FX and DX doesn't really work out. Instead of dedicated DX 16/1.4, 35/1.7 and 75/1.2, I would prefer to have equivalent FX 24/2, 50/2.8 and 105/1.8 on a lightweight FX body instead. Then the concept of *interchangeable* lenses can fly.

[@LeighAndRaymond]

We all have our own preferences. Luckily, there are enough options out there for all of us. :)

[@R.Franke]

Sure. But do we really need overlapping features with different sensor sizes, in the end increasing cost of photography?

[@FreddyRozen]

​@@R.Frankewould you mind explaining how that increases the cost of photography?

[@R.Franke]

Multiple lines of equivalent lenses reduce the effect of scale. Maybe fine if one manufacturer like Nikon focuses on full frame, whereas other manufacturers like Viltrox focus on open flanks in APS-C. Still, if Viltrox made e.g. FX 105/1.8, instead of DX 75/1.2, customers could stick with a full frame body for getting the advantage of this lens.

[@FreddyRozen]

@@R.Franke By that logic, all auto makers should make one vehicle, all clothes manufacturers should make just one top and one bottom and you're implying that your business acumen is better than Nikon, Sony and Canon. These different products are made because there's a market and plenty of demand to scale fine. I like full frame because of quality, I like DX because of size. I have a need and place for both in my kit.

[@Danny_Boel]

I just got the Viltrox 56mm 1.7 air ( from Ali express) but I still have to buy a Z-camera for it 🤠, I am hoping to find a reasonably priced second hand Z50

[@gordon3988]

Enjoy! Seems like a nice smallish camera to me and a great fit for many uses. Was this in-lieu of the OM5 you were getting..quite a different use case I would imagine.

[@LeighAndRaymond]

I own both. They are similar in terms of size and use and they'll both get lots of use in our household!

[@olesheim]

I bought til Viltrox 35mm f1.7 too - and a TTartisan 56 mm and 10 mm. Seems like the Chinese lenses are a bit up and down, so you have to research a bit before buying. But the best of these cheap lenses seems to be as good as cheap Nikon lenses - like 24mm 1.7, 40mm, etc.

[@sdhute]

I’d purchase Nikon just for the viltrox lenses. They are amazing and fiill a lot of gaps from 1st party lenses at a price that can’t be beat.

[@malvoseajupiter]

I have no idea if these videos are genuine or another promotional video. internet is so screwed right now.

[@Bayonet1809]

Agreed, seemed over-the-top positive.

[@LTPottenger]

z50 and z30 from nikon are the best cameras out by far for all around value. Kneecon has it all now, there is zero reason to get into any other system atm. Canon new lenses are ripoff and they don't support old ones and their camera line is a mess. Rest have nothing over kneecon at all today and lenses lag far behind in specs, value or both. This particular camera is especially good for video.

[@bingbong4848]

You're most likely viewing this as someone who is invested in one camera and system for a number of years, like most people, whether hobby or pro. Snap chick and most other big KZbinrs do this for a living and are in a position to justify new gear on a regular basis. They provide a good service.Use their reviews as a tool to stay informed of what is out there. Clicking those affiliate links and buying the gear is optional. 😊

[@Bayonet1809]

@@bingbong4848 They can justify new gear because the affiliate links make it possible. But you are missing the point: this video comes across as shilling a bit too much. Not balanced, objective, or thorough; just effusive positivity.

[@bingbong4848]

@Bayonet1809 sponsorship is where the money is, not affiliate links. the camera does what she needs it to do and that's fine. She doesn't know what will work for your use case. Watch different reviews and make a wise buying decision. There may be someone more aligned with what you want to know. This youtuber has been using Nikon for years. I trust her reviews knowing she's a fan. There are other KZbinrs I avoid. I would also say that this video wasn't really meant to be a review of the camera, more that's investing in the camera, so keep that in mind.

[@blackmamba3427]

Awesome video ❤

[@Ben_Stewart]

I regretted selling my Z50. I'll wait for this one to go on sale. 📷

[@nsontung]

8:20 right, Sony's color made me switch from Sony back to Nikon and Canon. The Sony WB doesn't look good to me either.

[@PJ-om2wq]

That 35mm looks enormous compared to a 50mm F mount lens. I honestly think that my D780 or Df with a 50mm is no larger and it's full frame. I know that mirrorless has other advantages but the smaller size argument is a con.

[@FreddyRozen]

It's a total con until you actually check specs. Not only is your D780 bigger, it's also 345 grams heavier. And the lens you said looks enormous weighs nearly nothing and only looks big because the camera is very small.

[@Interbeing_CDN]

Another great option with the Z50II for those that are looking for a small light wildlife option is coupling the Z50II with the Nikon 400mm f/4.5

[@avnerbenzvi8757]

try the 27 F/1,2 for APSC Z Mount

[@davidroberts6766]

It’s the only new Nikon, I am considering…..I have three Z cameras…. I love them all….Zfc, Zf, Z7II. However, the expeed 7, AF on Z50II intrigues. I broke my hip in December and full recovery could take up to a year. I feel like the Zfc and light zooms, primes, are going to be even more used in 2025, as a result. Having a more capable DX camera, might be the ticket…..hmmmmmm. I just bought the 35mm viltrox air and have 56mm f1.7 Viltrox air and Nikkor 24mm f1.7 DX….great, light, fast primes for my Zfc plus Nikkor 12-24 PZ

[@angeloplayforone]

You have also Sigma lenses for APS-C for Z-mount.

[@LeighAndRaymond]

Yes, I mentioned that in the video. The trio of Z Mount APS-C f/1.4 primes are amazing and I want all of them. I think the 16mm will be my first purchase. :)

[@matthiasschmitz873]

@@LeighAndRaymond 238 / 5.000 I use the Sigma 30 mm on the Z50II and am very happy with it. If you compare the Sigma 30 with the Viltrox 35, which would you prefer and why? By the way, I'm really looking forward to your further reports on the Z50II.😉

[@ufukkiblat]

You said you have used all the Z cameras but no mention of ZF?

[@martingreenberg870]

Happy New Year to Leigh, Raymond, and family. I’m an old guy. I prefer an EVF to just a LCD like Raymond. I don’t think this is a schilling video. The Z50ii has the feature set aleigh & Raymond like. Just like the collection of bodies & lenses they already own. I hope you love and get good use out of your new body and lenses. Question. How many bodies and lenses do you own? I am a hoarder. I am guilty because I don’t sell my old gear. Sometimes I gift them. Sometimes I just keep them without selling them. Like another channel host, my resolution this year is no new cameras. I’m still on the lookout for a Sony RX1Rii at a good price. Good luck with that. I have bodies with features I either don’t use or don’t know how to use. So my cameras are smarter than I am. Living in a two photographer household must be nice because your spouse understands. I hope all the viewers watching this video have a great new year. I hope you enjoy your gear and produce wonderful images. Mask On Nurse Marty (Ret)

[@jpdeardenphotography]

Happy new year to you and Raymond drom across the pond. Looking forward to 2025. X

[@davidipema7898]

happy new year

[@LeighAndRaymond]

Thank you - you too!

[@axelgordes3051]

Hey! I have seen the last video and I told you that I will buy it! And “Tada” I got it. I’m really deeply impressed! I love it. From Viltrox, I use the AF 33 mm, F/1.4 DX. Mega satisfied. Greetings from Germany.

[@ZOB4]

I disagree on the colors from Sony - I consistently get positive comments on the color from my Sony bodies that I use for sports work.

[@AsDoomas]

Walkmans colors ? What you talking about ? 😂

[@kbarrett1844]

Agreed. Sony's current color science is much improved.

[@LeighAndRaymond]

Absolutely. A ton of folks like Sony's colors. My personal preference is to start with a more natural color science. :)

[@josephchan4198]

Awesome!!

[@JonPorter94087]

Nikon did an excellent job on the Z50-2. I sold my Z50 because of the uncomfortable grip and the lack of Zoom/Display buttons and switched to the Zfc. Nikon corrected those issues and more on the Z50-2. My only disappointment with the Z50-2 is that Nikon stuck with those annoying triangle-on-a post strap lugs instead of switching to the recessed metal bars like the Z30 has.

[@Wendy-cf5tv]

Will this camera capture the Milky Way nicely with the right lens?

[@LeighAndRaymond]

Sure! I've used all sorts of cameras to capture the Milky Way, including the Nikon Z30!

[@Interbeing_CDN]

Yes, with a fast wide prime, it will work fantastic. In APSC format I prefer the Viltrox 13mm f/1.4.

[@domenicoavizzano8841]

I think it's a clear fraud, the Nikon Z50II. Should it have costed 500 dollars, in my humble opinion : only in that case it would have been an honest deal.. It's so much better a Nikon D5600 reflex for photography, for example.. Anyway, have a beautiful New Year! Domenico

[@sandrahildebrand4475]

Missing IBIS is still a great caveat, though.

[@Aperazzo_Salsa_Pics]

No. It is not. Just learn to properly set it up. Or get a tripod. Or get Nikon lenses that have it built in. You now get incredible AF. That’s a lot more usable than IBIS in day to day usage.

[@bingbong4848]

​@@Aperazzo_Salsa_Picsibis is great for handheld work, especially video. Tripods have limited or specific uses.

[@Aperazzo_Salsa_Pics]

@ There is a vibration reduction function for video. Given price range, it makes more sense to have excellent AF than IBIS. Seems that (most of) the competition also has no IBIS at these costs.

[@NetvoTV]

Hey Leigh & Raymond, my name is Johnny and I'm a freelance logo designer, would you love to have me to redesign your logo to add some fun mountain elements to it and design some merch print arts for your channel for your fans to buy them to support your hardworks and it will drive loyalty and act as wearables busienss cards for you guys too? Let me know if you guys are interested!

[@randallbrander8157]

Nikon Z50II & Nikkor Z 180-600mm and the Nikon D500 & Tamron 180-600mm G2 will be compared. Finding out that each cameras are excellent. Now for the comparison will be forthcoming. Happy Holidays and Best Wishes for 2025 too You and Raymond. Cheers! 🐎

[@EugeneMaynard]

Enjoy!😎 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🇸🇪🇹🇹

[@platino536]

A gorgeous lady 😊

[@sijilo]

[@cosmicnomad9324]

If you bought it.. Then I will too! 🎉 congratulations🎉

[@mrlau630]

you like to have all the brands :) why?!

[@LeighAndRaymond]

There are a number of reasons, but a couple are - We do this for a living and it's good to have a number of different brands so I can use new lenses and make comparisons. Also, Raymond and I love photography - using different brands is enjoyable for us and it helps keep us on our toes!

[@jameshoward5324]

They have to promote brands to make it financially sustainable. That said, take everything with a grain of salt. If you have a full frame Z mount system with lenses, I see little reason to get a Z50 mark II, but I don’t do vlogging or KZbin. Nikon has been slow in implementing APSC lens development. In the APSC space, Fuji and Sony have the best options, but what Leigh says about Sony colors is absolutely correct. At this point I think the best option for most serious Nikon shooters will be to get a Z6 mark III as their first camera with a Z 24-120 S lens. All channels are becoming like infomercials now, but I don’t blame Leigh and Raymond for this. They have to monetize the channel somehow. How about Snapchick tee shirts?

[@Interbeing_CDN]

@@jameshoward5324 I have the Z9, Z6III, and Z6 full frame cameras along with a full complement of both zooms and prime lenses. They are great cameras, however, the small Z50II, and previous iterations of the Z APSC cameras are fantastic to use while traveling or hiking when size and weight can be an issue.

[@FreddyRozen]

I couldn't disagree more. I have the Z6 III (No "mark" in the name. That's a Canon only thing) with the 24-120. I opted for a full DX kit for travel when I don't want to carry the bigger and heavier gear. I have the 12-28, 18-140 and 50-250. They weigh nothing. I love them.

[@mozzman]

You think Nikon pays these channels? LOL 🤣

[@DVtecmedia]

👎

[@eltinjones4542]

For the ordinary photographer prime lenses are impractical and a waste of money

[@amirbabfish]

no IBIS? no buy

[@arunphillips6977]

The biggest question why any Z camera? What can these cameras provide above the older 'much more tactile and easier to use' DSLR's such as the D850/D810, and even amazing smaller APC's such as the D7200, or even older DSLR's? Are these Z camera's producing better images than the 10, 15, 20 year old camera's? I very much doubt it. All we ever see on YT is this endless crap of buying the latest mirrorless...it's becoming so boring now. Sidenote, so many photographers have dumped these Chinese/Thai toy mirrorless cameras and gone back to the tried and trusted cameras from the golden age of digital...and I'm one of them!

[@paulconnors2078]

I'm sorry you are WRONG! I have both Z and F mount bodies and it's provable that the Z lenses on Z bodies are far sharper than the older F mount glass on F mount bodies. In fact, F mount glass, even when used with the FTZ adapters ends up being sharper than were originally on F mount bodies. As an FYI, I own the z9, the Zf, 2 D850s, 2 D750s, 4 Nikon F5 SLRs, 3 F100s, 2 N80s and an F6 and I love all of them, but Z bodies and the associated glass brings sharper, more vivid imagery into its best light.

[@arunphillips6977]

@@paulconnors2078 Did you actually read what I wrote, who mentioned anything about sharpness? Photography is not just about sharpness from any given lens - I would wager that many many great images taken over the 100 years including recent times have some very slight out of focus (intentionally or unintentionally) captures which have greatly contributed to a stunning shot! This recent obsession with 'the ultimate sharpness' is yet another example of the crappy uneducated and ill informed garbage out there that the internet generation are gullible enough to swallow! Mirrorless has pretty much reached it's peak in just a short space of time, the manufacturers have run out of ideas of what to cram in to these weeny Chinese toys, so they'll probably be coming up with next 'must have' nonsense, which of course many gullible consumers will go for...just because they have to have it! I'll bet my D4/D810/D850 and especially my 16 year old D700 will all outlast any crappy Z series. And I can also assure you that the level of sharpness I get from my N series glass is plenty sharp enough. You have to ask yourself is this video about photography, or gadget consumerism?

[@johnmakphotography]

Mirrorless cameras, like the Nikon Z series, are becoming popular for both photography and video because they are smaller, lighter, and more versatile than older DSLRs. They offer faster autofocus, especially for video, with features like eye-tracking and continuous focus during recording, which many DSLRs struggle with. The video quality is better, too, with 4K recording and improved stabilization. Mirrorless cameras also have electronic viewfinders, giving real-time exposure previews and better focus assistance. While older DSLRs like the D850 still produce great images, the newer mirrorless models have better sensors, faster performance, and future-proof features that make them ideal for both photo and video work.

[@chingo3625]

You will regret this plastic junk, except its Expeed 7 processor.

[@martysender5539]

Boring