Nikon Zfc ATTACKS Fuji! Better than iPhone?

Sign up for your PPA membership and save $25 using this link: www.ppa.com/join/tony-chelsea... #sponsored
Tony & Chelsea Northrup review Nikon's new retro DX mirrorless camera, the Nikon Z fc ($1,100 at sdp.io/zfc)! They compare it against a used Fujifilm X-T3 (sdp.io/xt3), an old favorite with analog dials for the aperture, shutter speed and ISO. Tony has some gripes about the Zfc's controls because they still require you to use the traditional P/A/S/M camera modes.
The Northrup's then compare the Z fc vs iPhone because it's the most popular consumer camera in the world. They check still image quality in both good light and low-light. They compare the dynamic range and video quality of both the front and back cameras. They also review the video stabilization when walking.

[@richrollin4867]

iPhone lenses are becoming so fast that it's becoming difficult to achieve front-to-back focus when required. Being able to stop down the lens on a 'normal' camera is an advantage that is too often overlooked.

[@richrollin4867]

And it's rather ironic that smart phone cameras, which have traditionally struggled with achieving a convincing shallow DOF, may now face the opposite problem. Perhaps rapid focus stacking combined with AI is the solution - I very much doubt that we'll see true variable aperture lenses in smartphones.

[@ytr8989]

You can still achieve front and back focus. Try making your pointer very small, and either pointing it on the nearest point of your subject, or furthest point from your subject. The AI in the iPhone will compensate, and give you a decent blurt background or foreground. But still nothing like you get from stopping down the aperture. I wonder if it ever occurred to him that he could use manual mode to get some better images and video. Well, he’s still an amateur, I guess.

[@richrollin4867]

@@ytr8989 You've completely misunderstood the comment. 'Front-to-back focus'. Not 'front or back focus'. I'm talking about near to infinity focus, with nothing out of focus. That's very hard if you can't stop down. Stopping down reduces blur (out of focus areas) - it doesn't increase it. You can't stop-down on an iPhone. The aperture is fixed, and wide.

[@TechnoBabble]

@@richrollin4867 The Galaxy S9 already had a variable aperture lens. Still using my S9 now and it's pretty cool being able to switch between f/1.5 and f/2.4 on it.

[@richrollin4867]

@@TechnoBabble Good info - thanks.

[@susanlynn5290]

I own the D850 , it will always be the workhorse that I love..and I just bought the zfc as my walk about camera, which I’m happy with.

[@pauldanesiphotography]

Recently purchased the Z FC and I am in love with it. I am shocked how much better it is than the Z50. As a former CFO of an all-male high school in RI, I have started a 2nd career as a photographer. The Z FC fills a lot of my needs: for sports it is my backup to the D500 because it has a better auto focus system than my Z50 and Z6. For wildlife and bird photography is is my goto over the Z6 because of the crop factor and the autofocus (plus the 11 frames per second). While every reviewer will point out the shortcomings with lens selection, the FTZ adapted has allowed me to use all of the lenses that I use with my D500. Even though it is a small body, I can shoot with the Nikon 200-500 and Tamron 150-600 will little trouble now that I have added the Small Rig grip. The grip allows me to have a better hold of a lens/camera combo with most of the weight in the front end of the camera. I really, really love the Z FC for many reasons and what I thought was going to be a purchase based on aesthetics, is now based on performance. Love it. Thanks for defending it, Chelsea!

[@Ahlg1990]

I’m curious, In what ways is it better than the z50? Isn’t it mostly a cosmetic rework?

[@pauldanesi3299]

@@Ahlg1990 if that was the case I wouldn't waste my money on a cosmetic difference. I am a professional photographer who needs to have cameras that perform and that is what the Z FC does. I bought the Z6 and Z50 when they came out but wasn't satisfied with the autofocus. It's okay, but could be better. The Z6ii came out to enhance and upgrade the auto focus issues. I was thinking of buying the Z6ii but when I heard the Z FC had the same suto focus as the Z6ii. I bought these Z FC instead.There are other improvements from the Z50 like the articulating screen, but that feature is of no interest to me but could be to others. To me, I saved $1000÷ by getting the Z FC instead of the Z6ii. As of now I am very satisfied.

[@AllieOnPointe]

The reason I originally got into photography was because I loved the look of Olympus’ cameras. I started with the omd-em10 and it was so much fun to use that it made me want to take photos. Now I have the Pen F and it’s so fun and looks super cool too!

[@jonstewart9315]

The thing I like better about Fuji’s is that most of their lenses have an aperture ring. I find moving an aperture ring is very satisfying.

[@christopherstevenson9737]

Ditto. As old school as it gets. Shutter dial / Aperture Ring.! Done

[@Quoutub]

It's a disadvantage as it makes it more difficult to switch from for example M to P. Another disadvantage is that you can't quickly switch between two different aperture settings (that's possible with M and A modes). It's also very bad that you apparently can't remove a Fujifilm lens (35mm f/1.4) from a Fujifilm camera without moving the aperture ring. I tried, but no success. This issue is not even mentioned in the manual. Very poor design.

[@tankerbruja]

I’m surprised Nikon forgot about the aperture ring, and a threaded shutter button(like fuji or almost every film camera, including the old nikons it’s coming from)

[@jaredcwhite]

FYI, if you're thinking the dark tones are getting lost on the Nikon Z fc video footage as compared to iPhone, you can switch to a flat/neutral profile in the Z fc, and with a little light grading in your video editor, the quality is astounding. I also turn sharpness down to 0, as I find the more natural/softer look is far more cinematic. Anyway, I'm excited you're spreading the word about the Nikon Z fc…I picked one up almost immediately after launch and I'm incredibly happy with it! And that's coming from a long-time Canon guy!

[@zkfotos3177]

When comparing the dynamic range with iPhone you need to do two things. Either act as a newbie and put the camera in full auto mode and let the camera do its thing, or act as professional and shoot HDR (either in-camera or on computer) and then merge the exposure. iPhone is all automatic, so you will always get that HDR look, even when you do not want it. With an ILC camera like Nikon, you either need to TELL camera to do it, or do it yourself.

[@UTAH100]

I'm pretty sure he know this. He has literally written books about it. Plus, I think he is highlighting how most people would point and shoot- without changing numerous settings.

[@zkfotos3177]

@@UTAH100 Yes, of course he knows that. Yet, he chooses to ignore that in his review to present an incorrect narrative. As for point&shoot, Zfc does have an auto mode. Set the camera to that and then compare.

[@UTAH100]

@@zkfotos3177 I sense you are a bit of a cynical bloke. Tony and Chelsea have generously shared a vast amount of their knowledge FOR FREE. I doubt he enjoys trying to deceive people. Some do this so I do get where you are coming from but I think he is ok.

[@zkfotos3177]

@@UTAH100 I am not cynical. In my original comment I did not mention the creators. I just explained matter of fact so that any users of Z50, who are wondering why their images aren't better then smartphone, can do the right thing.

[@UTAH100]

@@zkfotos3177 You are cynical- but that is ok, just be real. You said "Yet, he chooses to ignore that in his review to present an incorrect narrative." HE implies TONY. Don't try to spin it.🙄

[@barryobrien1890]

I love the dials for teaching the exposure triangle, my students just get it much easier than the menus. The camerabis also much easier to use in places where DSLRs are discouraged like museums and restaurants as it looks like a snapshot camera. Overall a great addition

[@thisisbenji90]

Idk, as a Fuji user, I think I like the Nikon implementation of modes better. It’s a pain to have to rotate dials from “A” to somewhere in the middle of the dial. It seems like it would be quicker to just switch a switch to go from program to shutter priority.

[@milannedeljkovic4092]

Can I change aperture and shutter speed using touchscreen like Cannon M50 or I must use dials only?

[@ytr8989]

The Zfc has focus stacking. Why didn’t you mention it, or use it when comparing it to the iPhone? Also, the Nikon captured the light exactly as you see it, with the eyes lighting up in the dark. You also need to redo your video using the new Viltrox f1.4 lenses. Proper lighting techniques also play a major role in both video and still shots. There’s more to it then just pointing it and shooting. The iPhone is still just a point ‘n’ shoot camera and video recorder. For a quick shot or quick video clip the phone is fine. For anything more serious, you’ll need a camera.

[@dilon7537]

Hi, what is the best auto flash for canon 800D. I am looking for budget one please. Please help me. Thank you

[@danielhedquist9830]

Thank you for a great video 👍🏻 I have the kit with the 28mm 2.8 and I like that combo. Really fun to shoot street with 👍🏻

[@stevecrawford3551]

Great video… what camera did you shot this with… ? Lav.’s,… etc. 😀

[@jean-philippeperetti8463]

Chelsea, I'm French and the way you pronounced "artiste" at 2'37 put a smile on my face.

[@kaminobatto]

I preordered one and received it on August 1st. I love the way it feels in my hand and the way it looks with vintage Nikkor glass. A very different experience than shooting with my big DSLR, both are fun in their own way, but I have a slight preference for this. I love the quality of the shots I'm getting from it.

[@diegomlpz3094]

You should really try fujifilm then if you like this

[@kaminobatto]

@@diegomlpz3094 I don't mind at all in principle, however, I'm invested in the Nikon system with a lot of gear.

[@wtfdidijustwatch5053]

I tried it in a store but it felt like my strong muscular forearms coupled with my man-sized hands could easily crush it like an empty cigarette pack...😔

[@colinshomepage1214]

@@wtfdidijustwatch5053 I would check your skin colour you could be the incredible hulk,

[@davemiller3349]

Does this camera accept F mount vintage lenses or do you need an adapter??

[@dant1241]

Great Video ! I love the leather case and strap for the X-t3. Do you know who made it ? Ty Dan

[@TonyAndChelsea]

Kaza Deluxe. I have at least 3 of their cases. No affiliation.

[@techguyMD]

Zfc beat the snot out of the iphone in the selfie video comparison. It looked remarkably better.

[@badgertale]

Was there post processing or are these images right out of the camera?

[@shadyninja1]

I expect the Nikon to have better ISO than the fuji

[@macjeffff]

You didn't mention the great Nikon app. I'm surprised how well it works, and how quickly it transfers images to the Photos app. QUESTION: Can't the Zfc use any DX lens?

[@ameyawadekar9901]

What do you guys think about the fujifilm xt200

[@logonzalez9183]

This has to be my favourite review so far on any product. Thanks for the great tips and detailed information with the comparisons.

[@slimphotog]

11:21 I'm so close to switching from the Sony A6400. Is the Z fc on par with the Sony A6400 in terms of accuracy and tracking autofocus? How was that lens/body combo to hold?

[@BGuggz]

I would love to know also. I have an a660 and would love to know.

[@TonyAndChelsea]

Yeah I think the AF is similar. Handling is better on the Nikon. Sony has lenses.

[@johnherzel718]

How does the XT-30 with a pancake lens compare to to the ZFC?

[@bobfancy77]

Another great video, thank you. I was a Nikon aficionado but switched all my pro gear a few years ago for Fuji and have not looked back. When this Nikon was announced I did consider buying it as it looks like my first Nikon FE and the nostalgia got to me. However I've seen nothing in any of the reviews which have persuaded me to add it to my XT3 and X100V.

[@ytr8989]

You can use the 24-200 Z lens. If your afraid to use FX lenses, then Viltrox has made 3 AF APS-C lenses for the Nikon, 23mm f1.4, 33mm f1.4, and 56mm f1.4. .

[@jimmyhinAK]

I have a fuji xt1 love the tactile feel of the knobs and not going into a ton of menu’s.

[@richardt1792]

Since most of my life I have lived in the film only era, when I want a camera with the vintage look, I grab either my Canon F-1 New, or my Nikon F2 AS. As for digital cameras, I really don't care much about the appearance, they're changing every 6 months or so anyway. I do the same thing with digital cameras that I do with cell phones, I buy the last year's model when the price drops. Since photography is a hobby, I don't need to have cutting edge technology.

[@Petertronic]

The iphone was probably doing HDR processing with 2 or more frames. Was it fair to compare that with a single frame on the other cameras?

[@naveensmart87]

Hi Tony, Can I ask which focal length did you film this video? 35mm lens

[@TonyAndChelsea]

Mostly a 24-70

[@tantsura]

@Chelsea Northrup nice strap on your Zfc. Which brand?

[@mr.chronograph9022]

Can you use DSLR lenses on this camera?

[@ChargerInHell]

I still wondering if it’s worth it to change my D750 for Fujifilm X100V or ZFC. I can use my F mount lenses on ZFC but on other side X100V is more compact and seems to be better to carry everyday. I’m not sure how the ISO handling versus D750. Probably the full frame sensor will win this game.

[@polaris8126]

I hope you did not change! d750 still rocks!

[@TheCaboChannelMexico]

I appreciate the effort and the humour; such a pleasant change from some "photography" channels.

[@divinerdetective44]

I bought a refurbished Nikkor Z DX 50-250mm lens, which has VR, to go with my mint green Z fc. It's perfect with the Z fc. I've also used the Nikkor Z full frame 24-200mm lens and it does work well. A lens any bigger would be annoying, but that's not the way the Z fc is meant to be used. If I want to do more "serious" photography I can always break out my Z 7.

[@wibbley1]

4:50 Put it in P mode, if you do not like the settings the camera has selected, turn the whizzy wheel, e/g if camera has selected f/5.6 1/250 then by turning the whizzy wheel, you can select any of the other settings that will give the correct exposure, eg, f/8 1/125 or turn the other way to get f/4 1/500 and so on. Works with other nikons, should work with Zed F C

[@sixthdutch]

He knows how to use a PASM dial. He just doesn’t think you should have to worry about changing it when the fact that you’re changing the shutter speed dial can already communicate that to the camera, like on a Fuji.

[@max5250]

@@sixthdutch Nikon decided to go different way than Fuji, so they didn't remove PASM dial, therefore they had to do it this way, since overriding PASM would make even more confusion. Fuji doesn't have PASM dial, hence, position of specific dial, determines relevant mode (numeric value tells camera to use that, while A tells the camera to choose suitable value for proper exposition in combination with other parameters). When using Nikon, you first have to decide what mode you are going to use, and then adjust only parameters adjustable in that mode, while when using Fuji, you set to A any parameter you want the camera to set it automatically.

[@sixthdutch]

@@max5250 I fully understand this. So does Tony. His criticism is that the Fuji system works better. He never said "I don't understand the Nikon system, I can't figure out how to get it to work."

[@max5250]

@@sixthdutch I agree on that, but he said it (at least I understood it that way) as if that behaviour (camera not responding to parameter change on a dial) was something that could be changed in a future, but it can't, at least not without Nikon giving up from PASM mode dial, which would be somewhat equal to accepting Fuji system. I guess Nikon wanted to create something different from Fuji, but it ended up as less appealing solution.

[@valeriepung5041]

I have a Fujifilm X-T2 with the 18-50mm kit lens. I do enjoy the camera very much, but was considering switching to a Z fc due to hearing that Canon lenses convert better to Nikon than Fujifilm (wife has a Canon R7 and we have invested in quality EF mount Sigma lenses and it would be nice to share them. Does anyone have thoughts or experience in this area?

[@ozwrangler.c]

If you like this sort of camera, get a Fujifilm Fuji XT30 is smaller, lighter than the XT3 Tony shows with same, great range of lenses, including 3rd party options

[@TheOfficialOrangeMan]

I'm just gonna get the XT20. Cheap as chips and almost as good as the XT30. Also I hear the XT30 has some annoying problem with the Q button.

[@ozwrangler.c]

@@TheOfficialOrangeMan I’ve got the XT30 and the workaround is to disable the Q button and remap to AEL button, instead. I also read a lot about lack of grip, but find it’s fine. Have fun with whatever camera you get 🙂

[@tlg6339]

@@TheOfficialOrangeMan I've had an XT20 for 3 years and added the grip. I will use this camera until it dies. It does everything I and most people need.

[@blekenbleu]

6:22 / 16:43 that red alfa melted my heart

[@fricki1997]

There's not even a reason to spend that much if you're after a vintage-style camera. The Fuji X-E1, X-E2 and X-T1 are quite inexpensive nowadays, and still more than enough for most users.

[@ldstirling]

Even cameras like the X-T20 and X-T2, bought used are great deals. I bought an X-H1 last year for the IBIS, making all my adapted vintage glass now stabilized...yay!

[@shizenjapan]

If Tony had of selected HDR then the bear thing would have come out much better. Centering the spot meter on that bear thing and increasing the exposure would also have helped. A smartphone camera is like an automatic car easy to operate, anyone can use it to take reasonable photos. A traditional camera is like a manual car, only some can operate it correctly and actually get good results. In most cases it is not the camera, but the user who is at fault. Any camera will take very good photos in almost any situation if you know how to use it properly.

[@cotswoldphotographers]

This is a camera for a specific market i.e people already bought into the Nikon eco system or those with specific requirements. From what I’ve seen elsewhere it appears to be a very good alternative to the Fuji system. Nikon are never going to be able to fully compete with Fuji in this market because this is where Fuji set their stall. However, as an alternative this is ideal especially if your main gear is Nikon full frame. Additionally there will be third party lenses available such as viltrox that are specific to crop sensor. I personally think it’s a good move for Nikon and makes sound financial sense. Well done Nikon.

[@brianriebedriveselectric]

The Bear! The Bear! 🤣🤣🤣🤣 Great/disturbing photo subject. I haven’t laughed this hard at a camera review ever. Very topical for October too. Wonderful.

[@vampolascott36]

I almost bought the Zfc when I got back into photography this summer. At the time, I hadn't paid any attention to cameras for 20 years and the only thing I knew about the new crop of cameras is that they also have video. I just loved the look of the Nikon.

[@nout1972]

15:18 I don't agree with the more natural colors. I am pretty certain the warm hue of the Nikon is more in line with what your eyes registered when taking that picture. That's the thing that bugs me about the iPhone: indoor pictures made at evening/night all look like they are made at noon, without the warm yellow glow the light bulbs give off. I find it easier to lower some red/yellow cast in post processing than changing the hue and up the saturation a bit afterwards without adding noise in the process.

[@matthewhigbee9744]

Semi auto mode is sometimes possible. For wildlife I use manual mode with the ISO set to auto. I retain the control I want over the Aperture and the Shutter. This way I don't miss shots trying to get all my settings right, just need to make sure the shutter speed is correct for motion blur and shake. Using a Canon R5.

[@bagery]

CONGRATS Frank!!! :)

[@FrankDiNardi]

Thank you!!

[@PacNorthOR]

Coming into this video late 2023 while I look to get back into photography. I was surprised by how much I liked this video. Thanks!

[@isoar599]

I have been using X-t3 for about a year. The aperture ring has become very comfortable and natural. I adjust it constantly while shooting. It would be hard to go back to a different setup.

[@fotosbynor0001]

The X-T3 is an awesome camera!! I have been a Canon fan over a Nikon anyway, but it looks like Nikon is trying to look like Fuji. hehe I figure you like the Fuji lenses, but look at Tamron also, They don't have the aperture ring, but you always have the dial on the front of the camera, I use that a lot. I just got my X-T3 a few months ago, came from Canon and I am still getting used to working the settings. Canon made me lazy with their "Program" mode. ^_^

[@jan-martinulvag1953]

Why is the front element of the Nikon lens so small ?

[@Vartan297]

Would an XT20 be better just for photos? Taking into account the price

[@zaneclone]

Regarding the mode dial "problem"- couldn't Tony just use auto iso with min shutter speed in tandem with aperture mode ?

[@daytona765]

i own a d810/d7100 and a z50. i love the z50 for hikes or walks in the rain. and/or just locking the aperature to f8 in good weather and just shooting. i also own a 24-70 f4, but im not really happy with its result for its size(why not just take my dslr). i've fallen back in love with the 16-50mm. IMO the z50 is best with the kit lens, despite its downfalls. its the widest i can get in z mount, its slow, but it just takes more skill compared to using fast primes on my d810. **(im not implying anyone doesnt have skill or i have skill), and composition to get the interesting picture im craving. also the lens locking. It takes a bit of getting used to, theres a vagueness to it that makes you not able to tell when it will snap out/in. i just abuse it and rip it open.

[@hoodie3810]

I think a lot of the wins you gave the iPhone come down to personal preference. For example, the dynamic range test on the creepy bear thing might have more detail, but I think the iPhone image looked very flat and boring. The Zfc image was super moody and to me a lot more visually interesting and appealing. As far as the PASM issue, I think that's a great point and the 'Auto' option should have been put on each dial. Personally though I think I'd just always shoot in M mode, it's part of the fun of a tactile camera :)

[@lotharjoseph5040]

guys plz can you just do a comparison between lumex S5 with Nikon Z 6ii side by side?? because i see both with the same price & senser & resolution and both has beautiful colors & picture profile ,so i think it will be a great battle...and by away no photographers did it before exactly between 2 of them side by side... thanks for listening 🙏

[@markwornom1050]

Thanks for the useful video! To supplement my D500 beast that I love, I've been shopping lighter cameras to reduce the load on my bad back for longer hikes. The Zfc was definitely on the short list because I like the styling and it would allow me to still use my collection of DX glass without crop. But it's starting to look like a new iPhone might be what I really need instead, especially with the addition of all OIS lenses and 3x zoom now offered in the new iPhone 13 Pro.

[@dogsbyfire]

Nice review! Thank you

[@timodings]

The A on the Fuji dials might be nice for photographers, who know, what this means, but I think the solution with the mode dial is definitely easier and more intuitive to use. And I think the camera isn't aimed at us enthusiasts, so... The Zf with full frame sensor is coming, I am pretty sure and that will probably be more focused on enthusiasts, like with the Z5 and Z50.

[@UrbaneHobbit]

Been thinking for a while about why “real” camera companies won’t just go full-bore into computational photography and take the smartphones head-on. At first I thought it was just the challenges of fast readout and image pipeline on bigger sensors, and that we just have to wait until that gets efficient enough to support chimping without overheating. But then I realized that most camera manufacturers also sell at least two lines of lenses - kit/hobbyist and professional - and the solution for low light and subject isolation with that business model is to get owners to upgrade from small aperture basic glass to large aperture complex glass with exotic elements, technical coatings, and all the rest. Putting smartphone-like computational night sight and portrait modes into large-sensor camera bodies would cut off that lens upgrade path, along with its multi-thousand-dollar price points. Maybe one of the camera companies will figure out a new business model that combines advanced software imaging with high-end glass. For now, I’m staying a little pessimistic, and still planning on carrying a late-model smartphone to handle very dark shooting situations like Tony’s horrorbear…

[@chasingvenusfilmarts]

Congrats Frank (and family!) Beautiful baby.

[@FrankDiNardi]

Thanks Tobias!!

[@eskrima1]

Great review. I have a canon 5dmk4 and a Fuji xt3. I always grab the Fuji for anything except wildlife or astro photography. Great IQ and a fun camera.

[@tielmaster7879]

I just found out Viltrox released a 23 1.4, 33 1.4 and a 56 1.4 for nikon z apsc that has autofocus. All for under $400 each. Yeah I too questioned the Z fc but now three tiny all metal apsc prime lenses, perfect for the camera. I like where this is going....🤔

[@Neopulse00]

2:35 - Reminds me a scene from the film "Gone in 60 Seconds." Where Nicolas Cage's character, Memphis, is at the Ferrari dealership looking at the new cars in order to recon the dealer's inventory. He wanted an older classic Ferrari because if he owned one, he would look like a connoisseur to other people. It holds a form of prestige from onlookers.

[@biffy7]

The way Fuji handles setting aperture and shutter speed is simply brilliant.

[@psysword]

The 16-50 dx native lens is a keeper for me. I have all bases covered with this from landscape to portrait at 50mm. Yes I agree that there might be gotcha moments with the shooting like the articulating screen flaking out on me at various angles. That’s what I really hate about it. The video is stunning with the articulating screen. Proper vlogging material. Nikon has a winner even with the silver 16-50mm dx lens.

[@earthfeeler]

I'm a Nikon shooter and I was pretty close to picking up a XT-4 as a fun camera but then the Zfc was announced and it was the perfect fit since I can adapt all the glass I already have. Also purchased the 16-80 f2.8-4 for F-Mount and adapted it as my grab and go camera. The eye af is significantly improved over my Z7

[@v_stands_for_value124]

XT4 as a fun camera? Wtf? It mopes like everything under 3k

[@marckyrd17]

no hand grip

[@liv0003]

Xt4 is a superior camera to that Nikon

[@rakeshkrishnaraj1755]

I love my fujix100v. The jpeg sooc images are simply stunning and the pictures are so punchy.

[@JoeHoddinott]

What's more difficult: Pulling all the way in the parking spot or the PASM switch?

[@camerathencoffee]

Though Fujifilm has already set a high standard in the retro ergonomics category, But Nikon Zfc is a good competition now ☺️

[@fabioarodrigues]

Before Fuji, Olympus brought a similar experience of a retro / fun camera way before with the OM-D E-M5 in 2012. And with the plus of an awesome 5 axis IBIS. I've been asked a lot of times in my trips around the world if I was using a film camera when shooting with my trusty E-M5.

[@HansHimerick]

I think the low light comparison is a little misleading. The IPhone is using HDR for the photo to fix the low lighting issues while the ZFC is underexposed and depends on post raw processing. Experienced photographers can spot this, but this is aimed at amateur photographers, who wouldn’t have the experience to know that you can get much better low light results from a APS-C camera that is almost a decade older using HDR, or has the exposure adjusted.

[@tlrsevennine9338]

I don"t think that PASM is a design flaw. I think that it is a nod to the retro style of cameras like the AE1 etc. Is that fair Tony?

[@adrianvanleeuwen]

The image quality in video is sooo much better on the Nikon Zfc than the iphone.

[@BGuggz]

Good video, terrible parking job 1:14 😂

[@TonyAndChelsea]

Lol I had to get back in and move the car. Was distracted by being on camera 😁

[@PaulSafford]

Love your videos, can’t imagine the level of effort to provide content with no guarantee of return. I wanted to chime in to disqualify the insurance that PPA provides. If your bag is stolen at an event or off a hotel’s bell boy’s cart you’re not covered. I had a wild life lens stolen off a hotel’s bell boy’s cart and PPA classified the theft as Mysterious disappearance which is specifically excluded from coverage. Luckily - and to my surprise, at no additional charge - l was able to access coverage thru my homeowners coverage. I had bought into PPA for the gear coverage but after my experience I dropped them as I have built in coverage with USAA.

[@PaulSafford]

Oh forgot to mention y’all are such a cute couple

[@ronshaw80]

Very similar to my Z50. I got mine with the FTZ adapter instead of the plastic lenses, and use my Sigma 17-50 F2.8 on it. I love the combo. Razor sharp images.

[@luhamay]

How's your experience with the 17-50? Autofocus and stabilization works good? It miss focus a lot?

[@ronshaw80]

@@luhamay I love the 17-50 F2.8. On my previous camera, the Nikon D7200, I had to calibrate the lens, and after that, focus was very good. On my new camera, the Z50, it never misses focus. That is a major advantage of mirrorless cameras. Since the focusing is on the sensor, you no longer need to calibrate any lens. The Sigma 17-50 F2.8 is a bargain in a fast constant aperture lens. I have been using it almost exclusively since I bought it about 4 years ago. Build quality is really good, and it still feels and handles like it did when it was new.

[@ajquestell]

What kind of parking is that?

[@HR-wd6cw]

I agree that little cameras even like the Zfc can bring back the fun of photography (I'm considering one, even though I have other cameras). I think in a way, it sort of brings back the basics of photography, ie. the exposure triangle. If you put the Zfc on manual mode, you go back to that same feeling as when you were learning about this stuff and I think it makes the experience a bit more enjoyable. I couldn't see the Zfc as being a real professional camera but I think it is a good option for enthusiasts who want perhaps that "fun" factor in their photography. While the gear itself isn't usually important, I think the Zfc does help bring back the fun factor to Nikon users at least. I personally think the Zfc would be a great street photography camera. First, it doesn't appear like a pro DSLR. Second it's pretty inexpensive to replace should get it damaged or destroyed or stolen. I'd much rather take a Z50 or Zfc out doing street photography than my $5000 FF rig. Nikon should have done away with the PSAM dial and just had what Fuji has on the XT30. Auto ON/OFF switch. When it's on, the camera is in full auto mode, when it's off, you use the shutter speed, ISO and aperture controls like you would. Basically if Auto is OFF, it's in manual mode. Personally I think they should have done away with the other modes on this camera as the people who want to get this are likely going to use it in manual mode and/or already have a good understanding of the exposure triangle. Yes these modes make operation faster, but I think it sort of does kill the excitement because you have to remember to flip the PSAM dial to the correct mode you want or the other dials may not do anything. So it can be confusing, and if you're in a rush, you may not realize why your camera, for example, won't change shutter speed even though you've use the shutter speed dial. (regarding the lens, actaully for being a cheap kit lens, it performs quite well. It's not as fast as say Fuji's 18-55 f/2.8-4 lens but it certain is better than say the Sony 16-50 which they have been bundling with their a6000 series bodies for about 8-9 years now.)

[@looneyburgmusic]

"I think in a way, it sort of brings back the basics of photography, ie. the exposure triangle. " - You mean the way you can do the exact same thing with nearly every DSLR, and every above "point-and-shoot" film camera? I honestly don't get what copying the look of an older film camera body does to change the experience of shooting with a digital, compared to shooting with film - the two are totally different worlds...

[@TzetziLazarov]

Toni, the A-M-P-S Mode dail is there due to patent BS. They would have changed it if they were legaly allowed.

[@theflyest203]

Viltrox has small apsc 1.4 native primes for Nikon z bodies for the zfc

[@picgaz5183]

Love your videos, I have multiple cameras, and still use a smartphone for eBay, they generally seem better particularly after eBays compression. (I use Samsung A72) 👍

[@timleahezra]

It really is a fair point, with a slow kit lens, you really are going to have trouble getting consistently good results inside with natural light and to fix that you need a fast lens. It would have been nice to see the Fuji in that part of the review with something like a 35mm f2, which doesn't cost much more than a Nikon adapter. Also, if you're stuck with a kit lens, you could compare with something like a Sony ZV1, which is truly pocketable and a better smartphone compare. I don't have such a new phone, but another thing that kills phone photos is the lag. Especially in low light, things that move are in a different spot by the time the photo is actually taken.

[@Todestelzer]

I recommend the app focus for Portrait shoots on the iPhone. At least for the iPhone 10, the phone i have right now. You can edit the focus after the shoot and much more. Different lens simulations for example.

[@villageblunder4787]

Love the walking in sync.

[@michaeldelrossi4487]

What happened to the Fujifilm updates? Rather than the Nikon Zfc & iPhone!

[@mangoldm]

Please do a review of that car and explain what happened to the Tesla.

[@ytr8989]

The Fujifilm X100V won a bronze award at this year’s IDEA 2021. The X-T30 was featured finalist again.

[@Quoutub]

15:26 At least in the center of the frame, Aps-c kit lenses usually outresolve 24 megapixel sensors without any problems as long as field curvature is not an issue. I don't know how sharp Nikon's lens is, but one wouldn't expect a huge advantage anyway. It has less than 21 megapixels and the field of view is significantly larger, which reduces the number of pixels per angle.

[@zkfotos3177]

The difference is in sharpening and not the lens or pixels. iPhone image has extreme levels of sharpening applied to it. It looks unnatural to photographer's eyes, but maybe not to consumers. In the end, you can get extra sharpening either in camera or on computer.

[@2233highlander]

Hi Tony and Chelsea, I own the Zfc camera and find it brilliant; ever though I use the Sony A1 and A9-2! Ian

[@SPINYMAN]

Where are the lenses to support this body?

[@Flashback_Jack]

11:38: You betta WORK! (my cam is a D850. Sony ZV-1 for casual shooting)

[@r_cab314]

I was actually looking at these two specific camera and also the nikon z50 i am the enthusiast described by chelsea who wants to get i to photography, also take great photos of my growing child. Any thoughts on the z50

[@lynelljansen8057]

I have the z50 and the z 6 ii. I love them both, the z fc is very similar in specs to the z50. The z fc is just more retro and fun!! Difference in Z 50 to z fc. Z 50 has a built in flash, and scene modes. Z 50 has an articulating screen which I love and wish they added to the z 50. But I would highly recommend the z 50.

[@r_cab314]

@@lynelljansen8057 I went with the fujifilm xt-3. Thanks you.

[@lynelljansen8057]

@@r_cab314 enjoy!!!!

[@alainzanchetta]

The automatic mode of the Fuji seems a great idea. However, it's normal that Nikon used the PASM on both Df and Zfc as it was the standard on film Nikon cameras such as FA or more recently N801, N90, etc...

[@clivebennett8103]

What a clear and informative review! Held my attention throughout and was accessible (I should think) to all levels of photographer. Thank you!

[@gaitanos]

I think that Nikon should make a full frame retro camera like the Zfc. The Df is a great still photo camera and I still use it along with my other camera bodies but the Df has a special feel. Make a 24 MP Zf Nikon.

[@oo0RECON0oo]

Turn spot meter on if your in eye auto focus to get the exposure correct in low light on your subject.

[@akivashapero8410]

Great review. I bought a Zfc, I really enjoy it as a fun camera and a backup to my Z6ii. BTW, thx, I joined PPA last week with my Tony coupon. Cheers.

[@Ausknutz]

Glad to see Nikon is finally making cameras with flip screen. I bought a D5600 for this reason, it was the only Nikon camera with flip screen at the time

[@batsonelectronics]

the D5300 I used to have also had one. So did the D7200.

[@feraudyh]

@@batsonelectronics I have a D7200. I haven't noticed that it has a flip screen. Maybe I should have a close look ;). Was that a typo?

[@batsonelectronics]

@@feraudyh D7500. I guess it isn't a flip either but it does come out for above or below shooting. The D5300 did have a fully flippy screen however, 3 generations before the D5600.

[@doorknob2150]

12:32 - Wait, the bear's eyes actually DO glow!? WTF?! great video. Made me confident in my purchase of the ZFC, finicky dials aside, I think im going to enjoy photography again