Only just got my Z9 - it’s left the house twice - but I already have so much confidence in it.

Always wanted to visit Australia. Won $100 in 6th grade in the 1950s first prize paper on Australia. It is a wonderous place. Probably at 78 years old I will never get there, but Matt Irwin helps me rekindle my love for the Land Down Under.

February will by my one year mark. The Z9 continues to amaze me every time I pick it up. Way to go Nikon !! Great video Matt!

I upgraded from a D7200 to the Z9 a few months back and all I can say is WOW. I shoot Landscape, Astro, Wildlife and Action (in water surfing) sports. I can honestly say, this maybe the last camera I will ever have to buy. It dose everything I need and more. Pura Vida Matt!

Great commentary Matt. You have championed Nikon on youtube for several years now and I applaud you for doing so. Some others on yt were and still are doing Nikon down at every opportunity and you have been a breath of fresh air. I have had my Z9 for 6 months now and it is a brilliant camera for all the reasons you gave and more. The Z9 is so good that I recently sold all my F mount gear and I am now completely Z mount and am waiting with great anticipation for my 600 f4 TC to arrive. Keep up the great work Matt 😎👍

Finally saw one in the wild last week. He let me handle it for a bit; she is a big girl. Still giving me pause. But not as bad as I feared, still prefer the Z6/7 body size & weight. But oh so tempting!

always enjoy hearing your thoughts Matt.

Thank you Matt , always love you vids

Sitting in a very cold mountain in Norway (-16C outside, however very cosy inside the cabin....) watching your presentation. Thanks for a Great presentation. I Think you nailed it.. One of your best 👍👍

Thanks for the great overview.

I just got my Z9 a little over a week ago and absolutely love it. The size and feel are fantastic and the colors are superb. I’m coming from a Sony A1 and I am so happy I made the switch.

Great video. Some spectacular shots in there Matt. It’s great to see such a talented photographer and film maker creating valuable, considered KZfaq content as well. I love my Z9. I can’t say it’ll be the last camera I buy, but it has ticked more boxes than I ever needed ticked. Thanks for the vid 👍🏻

Thank you so very much! Impressive exposition. Among the numerous fascinating points made, I was excited to get your take on using some superb Sony glass on the Z9 with adaptation. Your photos and videos are exemplary. Happy and Healthy Holidays!

This Camera Leaves Me in AWE!!! I got mine in early January 2022!! Like You@Matt & @John Ishii I have worked professionally with this GAME Changer!!! Your Evaluations and Reflections I resonate with!! To Think that Nikon has progressed this far This Fast is Stupendous!!! Matt Keep Winning Insightful & Thoughtful Reflections coming bro!! I love your videos!! Thank you for being a very positive content creator!!! Continued Blessings Man!!

I am really in a quandary about the Z9. In addition to oodles of legacy F mount gear, dating back several decades, I have three Z cameras; the Z7II with grip, Z6, Zfc and about ten Z lenses. When the Z9 hit the market, it was clear it was THE flagship. However, I thought I mostly use my Z7ii for landscape work, and split family pics between the Z6 and Zfc, so I was not sure whether it fit my use case. I figured, that upgrading to the next gen Z6 version 3 was more logical. Its a year on, and no generation 3 announced, as yet, and my 4 year old granddaughter is sometimes too fast for AF on the Zfc and Z6. I could trade in all three for a Z9 and not much more $. The Z9 clearly could easily replace all of them in my use cases. Realistically, I know in my heart that I want much better focussing Z6III, but one camera to rule them all (well replace them all) could work too. One thing the Z9 cannot do, is go lighter / smaller when I want, as current Zs offer me. Morale of this story…this amateur wants Nikon to announce improved AF alternatives!

Thanks for continuing to make your videos, Matt. It's nice to see a fellow pro user flying the Nikon flag, but doing so in such a way that specifically showcases why he continues to embrace the brand. More importantly, your videos are always friendly, authentic and informative. As someone who shoots with both Nikon and Fujifilm, I find your work a pleasant respite from so much of the brand warring that is fomented online.

Hi there Matt. Nice summary video at the end of the year. All the best for the 'Silly Season'.

Hi Matt, I have owned the Nikon Z9 since December 24, 2021. This is the best camera which I have ever used. Now my main issue is that I have difficulties in using my Nikon Z7II because I prefer using my Nikon Z9 a lot more…

I still haven’t bought one yet as i have other priorities still. Ergonomics is why i went Nikon, so glad to hear you bring it up; as well as all the technological breakthroughs. Hope you and your family have a great festive break Matt

Same experience and thoughts here Matt! I have never used any other Nikon camera so I cannot compare or know the progression and shooting experience the Z9 has gained over the others but it forms the base of my new primary hybrid system as of 2022! It is a power house and I believe Nikon are just getting started! I am all in!👏🏾👍🏾🙏🏾

In the same boat got my first Z9 December 23rd and then my second a month or two later - Great camera, thanks Mat

Nikon is ruling the modern optics technologies.

Thanks!! I got mine in August. I rented a 100 to 400 for vacation....it was spectacular!

Great 1 year thoughts Matt! Time has flown by and it'll be a year for me in 3 months. As you say, the firmware updates have been epic, essentially giving us what in the past would have been a Z9 II or S .... I've used mine more for video than stills so far and the 8K 10-bit is just so nice to work with -- the bonus being all that room to play in 4K. I haven't used RAW too much but it edits nicely, too. I don't do as much in the way of photojournalism, sports, and wildlife these days but the AF acquisition and speed is phenomenal. Well, I'd better save something for *my* review! 😀 Cheers, Ray.

I think I'll be using my Z9 for many years to come. Nikon weren't joking when they said it was their best camera ever! I've managed to get some very nice bird photos with it and can't wait to take it to Africa for some serious wildlife photography.

Great video Matt! I have two Z'9's only because my wife shoots right along with me. I have had them both for about a year as well and I agree fully with you on all your remarks. I am going to have an upcoming video on my channel with a spectacular Sony lens adapted to the Z9, stay tuned in a couple weeks. I am waiting on my Z 600 TC f/4 lens to arrive as well.

Hi Matt, I traded my D850 towards a Z9 last spring and what an amazing camera. I do wildlife photography and this camera is a game changer for eye focus and seeing the exposure in real time, just unbelievable. Getting photos in low light and bright sun is so much better. I hardly ever pick up my D500 anymore! Being tech challenged, I have accidentally hit a button and messed up settings a couple of times. I had to resort to utube to find the fix!! Thanks for your great info.

Excellent recap & first-year observations, thanks Matt! I've built up my Z glass while running with my Z6II (best camera I've ever had!), looking forward to adding an Expeed7 body next year. Z9, Z8, Z6III? Time will tell. What an amazing Z system Nikon has created for us. 😎📷

I've got my z9 since the beginning of july and must say I love it. It is a multi-tool camera that can do it all whatever you like. It is just your own imagination that sets the limit for you. I have tried sports-photo (World Championship for OK-Dingies in Marstrand, Sweden), Windsurfing at the Swedish Westcoast, my daughters wedding (both stills and video (with my z7ii)), bird photography and landscape. I have also bought the Megadap ETZ21 adapter and bought also Sony's 200-600 G lens. It works fine on my Z9. I'm looking forward to look at your video-test of the Sony lens that you mentioned in your video. As an amateur/hobbyist I am thankful for your videos and your honest thoughts about Nikon. I get inspired by your presentation on new useful gears and lenses for Nikon. Many thanks Matt!!

Great video Matt, having now had a Z9 in my hands I so want one of these. don't need the video or high frame rates, but for me, things like the shutter shield would make such a difference when changing lenses in the field

Thanks for the review. I’ve been desiring one of these since launch .Soon I’ll have the cash. I’m in.

Thanks Matt for all the great insight and inspiration you provided us with the Z9. I'm 6 months in with mine and I'm ready for my second one. Nothing else compares.

Hi Matt, thanks for the sharing your experience, I have been thrilled with my Z9 especially after Nikon did the tweaks in the firmware that were absolutely necessary in the beginning and continuing to upgrade giving us some pleasant surprises and new features. I knew upfront that it would be competitive with what was out there and with the firmware upgrades in place I feel if you look at what it does for the money it really is hard to beat. Flowing down the Z9 tech is critical to future releases and Nikon knows that, they don't need us to tell them that and I think everyone will be pleasantly surprised when all is said and done. Obviously many anxiously await what is to come and it doesn't always happen fast enough for the Nikon faithful but I would rather have it come out the gate strong with no issues rather than rushing everything, hopefully initial quantities will be adequate to satisfy us regular folks not just the NPS crowd.Take care and have a great Holiday season. - Jeff

Thanks for the video it was really interesting. I can only hope to own a camera like the Z9. Maybe one day. I very recently brought a Nikon Z30. Way down the other end of the scale and I am excited about that little entry level mirrorless camera as you are about your Z9. It has made my workflow as small as it is so much easier. I show my first serious video with it last night and I was so impressed with what I ended up with I can only imagine what the Z9 has allowed you to do. I am totally blown away with the tech ie I have it set so using the SnapBridge app the camera automatically connects to my phone, transfers the images to Apple Photos, then to Google photos and later that evening my Chrome Cast has images I have taken that day and I haven’t had to lift a finger to do it. I love my little Z30 as much as you love your Z9. The only issue I have had with mine is it overheats with 4K 30 in about 20 mins 4k 24 it’s 52 mins. I extended those times by installing a SmallRig Arca-Swiss base plate on the camera to act as a heat sync, it even looks like it belongs there. Thanks again for the video I like the way it was presented and you have a new subscriber.

Again a great video from you to watch and listen carefully and the samples are really shown best of the best, just superb! I am super exciting what comes next, because of weight I like to wait for the rumoured Z8 with technical features of the Z9. Using a Z6 with plenty of all kind prime lenses and perfect zooms, just sold a Z7, I am prepared for another step and level. I often thought why not coming out with a much cheaper Z8 SE just for stills photography?

I love my Z9, I adapt the 500mm pf to it and it works beautifully. I just ordered the 24-70 2.8, the 50mm 1.8 and the 105mm. I think I will get many years of enjoyment out of it.

Well done, Matt. My first shoot with the Z9 months ago was at an Indy series race. Great day it was. That was with a 300 f/4 and a 200-500. Since then I added a 400 f/4.5 Z and just yesterday NPS confirmed shipping the 1.4Z tele. Excited all over again! I think I will plan a visit to Blue Cypress Lake near Vero Beach to shoot ospreys and roseate spoonbills to put it all to good use. Cheers, Matt

So many great cameras that makes deciding which one to buy harder! Great video

I still have two and a half months to go until I reach a full year. I really enjoy shooting it. Two minor gripes: it gets heavy after some time and culling pictures has become a chore. Luxury problems... really. I started using it with the 500 pf, had a few outings with the 105 and the 300/2.8 VR2, but now I mostly use the 800 pf (which has its own share of luxury problems). Thanks for the video! Love your energy!

Had mine for a for few months now. So far it has produced great image quality and the autofocus is a huge leap forward. Hoping to do some birding soon with my 200-500.

Annother great video from you Matt. I love the cinematic background nice bokeh - not too much. To me, you were like Winston Churchill in the dark times giving us Nikon users hope before they released the Z9 That idea of your with the wireless audo seems a great idea to me. And yes that images in this video are imazing. Looking forward to 2023.

Great review of the Z9 and the same here its being a quantum leap.

Nice video Matt, ordered my Z9 in October got it end of January, have Z6ii , 11mm TTArtisans, 20mm1.8, 50mm1.8, 105 mm 2.8 macro, 14-30 f4, 24-70 f4, 70-200 2.8 and recently bought the 400 mm f4.5. 40mm f2 and the28mm 2.8 both on your recommendation I agree with everything you said about the Z9,it’s a phenomenal beast, Jack of all trades and master of most of them. This year my gears been to Egypt twice Maldives and Malta it never missed a beat even when shooting at nearly 40degC . My favourite lens so far is the 400 f4.5 I wish I could afford the the longer lenses but they are out of my price range being retired. Keep up the good work of promoting photography. Happy Christmas to you and your family.😊😊😊

Hello Matt. Merry Christmas. I was on the fence but I just bought one. I have been with Nikon D200 though the Nikon Z6. I have a large collection of glass. Been shooting more video and when I saw this I started saving. Can't wait to get it. Should arrive in 2 days. So nice to hear to confirm it's a great camera.

Hello Matt, I know that I did not get my Z9 until Feb 2022, but that said it is still one of the most giving buts of camera that I have ever used. At time in very low light it may be noisy but a quick run though some software like Topaz...ect sort that and it just gives. That said I ordered 3 weeks before the Z9 the 100mm-400mm and that is now were and I saw somewhere Nikon have stopped taking orders. But I guess it will come when it arrives. Keep well, keep save and I hope you and your family have an amazing Xmas time.

Hi Matt, there's no doubt the Z9 is some beast! .. sadly not one I'll ever be able to afford mate, but what a bit of kit! .. and before I forget, thanks for another year of interesting, enjoyable and informative videos. Please also give my best to Joe.

I too love my Z9!

Hi Matt, I like your enthusiasm about the Z9. You certainly produce some of the best videos in this crowded youtube scene. And unlike many youtuber, you know how to get the best out of the camera. As a longtime SONY user (A1, A9, A7RIi, A7S), I have to give credit to the Nikon Z9 and it's engineers.

I Yearn for this camera

Hey Matt! Great video, just a quick heads, up the pop-up links in the corner that you point to aren’t showing up. Don’t want you to miss out on views so I thought I would bring it to your attention.

The wireless audio is brilliant as an option. For many the hotshoe and mic line In system like the fx3 and a7siii is super nice too. I like the choice of having both. Just make sure that hotshoe cover is very waterproof. Because you make a very valid point

Hi Matt! I could not more agree with all what you have said about this wonderful Z-beast! Could you please let us know the EXIF-data of these fantastic pics in this very YT-movie - please! And, are you using the automatic modes or are you strictly on "manual". Please also tell us about your settings of above mentioned pics. They are so fantastic - and, so extremely sharp!! Just incredible! Keep well and - go on and keep showing us your great works! Thank you very much! Rolf Oehen, Switzerland

Actually It is quite possible to take wireless audio, Nikon just have to add A2DP profile in bluetooth of this camera. We never know Nikon may be opening cards with every firmware update. Because Nikon is using only 25% of expeed7 right now.

I’ve finally ordered my Z9 after waiting for a bit and continuing to rock my 2 D850s and my Z7. Can’t wait till it arrives in a couple of days just in time to add it to the mix for the wedding next week.

After 10 years using my D800E, the Z9 was my motivation to switch to mirrorless. Everything about the camera is amazing. I shoot mainly landscapes but also wildlife and sports. Just an enthusiast, not a pro. The worst thing, no, frustrating thing, about the Z system has been availability. After waiting months for all but one lens I have now built up to the Z9, 15-30, 24-120 and 100-400. But I am still finding the TC1.4x and the 18d impossible to get here in the UK. Not that I need a spare battery. Battery life is excellent. Thanks for your content. Always very informative.

Regarding the wireless audio, Nikon did actually include wireless BT timecode in the latest firmware update. That's huge. You should look into it Matt! Or have you already done so? Easily available timecode makes everything with audio (and multiple cameras extremely much easier). And now Nikon supports it. Great!

Its strange..... It feels like more than a year that the Z9 has been around. maybe it is just that so much has happened around this camera or maybe it is just my short journey with my Z9 has been quite intense?? I know that I am still learning how to drive my Z9 but I have it doing the basics that I want and need , and as such I can then take my time to mold my usage over time. From that first time that you let me "have a turn" of your Z9 way back in march I knew that the urge to get one from all the launch hype was justified. Since finally having my own and working with it I have been very happy that what i initially thought were ways that this camera was going to help me have already proven to be true for me and my use case. Then on top of that is the pleasant surprise that things like the 1.4 TC attached to my old 400 2.8 now function smoother/faster than they did when mounted on my D5! I have no hard evidence for this just my feelings/sense of the improved performance but I know that the 400 with TC attached on the D5 always felt a little slower to focus than the 400 without the TC and on the Z9 it just feels like there is no difference between the two set ups and that is something that i was not expecting. Given my life and work situation the Z9 may well be the last camera body that i purchase (caveat I may also get a second one at some point) but Nikon will get more money from me through lenses over the coming years. The 85 1.8 has amazed me and I am super happy with my recent purchase of the 24-120. These lenses have filled needs for me that i did not really have covered in my old F mount glass and soon I will be looking at replacing some F mount glass with the new glass. First of these next year is likely to be the 70-200 before selling all useful body parts to get hold of the new 400!! But that will be a little way off for now. Anyway this is turning into an essay of a comment but i do want to say... Thanks Matt for your considered content and for the times you have let me get to have a play with your kit so I can make better decisions for myself and my use cases. Hope that everyone has a happy and pleasant christmas and new year period.

I love my Z9 too, for all the usual reasons. One "little thing"... the sensor shield... I turned mine on before I ever took the body cap off and mounted a lens. Now, I've had it for almost 10 months, and have never needed to clean the sensor. (I used to do it every couple of months at least, with DSLRs.) Nice.

I am slow to swap over because when building a home on wheels I can't spend money on other things until it is finished but I must say I am looking forward to getting it

Great video. I just recently had my hands on this camera in a Nikon demo room here in Taipei. The camera is an absolute beast, but it was really heavy, and I'm a D810 owner. Definitely overkill for me. I'm now hoping to get the black Z fc (currently not available) and I'm waiting for the Z6 III. I feel that segment is the sweet spot for me, a hobbyist.

It's a superb camera and a permanent keeper to me - slowly expanding my Nikon Z system and good supplement to my existing F D800 and lenses and 2 other Z cameras (stills backup & DX) Z7 + Z50. Hopefully we see Nikon add more Nikon Z cameras in 2023; think we will see the Z8 / Z7 III, Z6 III and a Z70 (R7 equiv) camera

I’m wishing, hoping and praying the next Nikon is as you described! Similar DNA but less expensive! I don’t need all of the video capabilities! Thanks for your review!

Hi Matt! I think judging from your conversation with Seth and Ricci, it did seem like from what Ricci was saying, that the firmware updates we have seen so far for the Z 9 had ALL been planned well before the launch of the camera (I.e 1 or two years before) So I think the other things, like increased frame rates leveraging the HE Files are all still to come, as they has to work off the pre planned firmware updates before

Yah, I'm loving my Z9. Most definitely we're in the computer with a lens world now. Nothing 'serious' and nothing that tends to replicate itself but enough quirkiness that having a backup camera thoughts often flash through my mind :) That's not bitching, the camera is spectacular but what makes it so takes it deeper into the non analog world and all the quirks that come with that especially when I'm in an environment where it's pouring rain or snowing in very cold temps (I've shot with this camera in -30C), or setting the camera down in marsh mud (eg waterfowl crap :) ), to get a shot. And hey, it's standing up to all that like a champ, too. Can't wait to shoot wildlife with this camera with a native Z lens! (supply chain/manufacturing delay issues continue to break my heart LOL) Been shooting otherwise with the 50 1.2 lately and getting a reminder of just how incredible the Z lenses are, as well. I mean, really, the focus ring on the 50 1.2 is like nothing I've ever used. But I digress in my infatuation :). Great video, as always. Thanks, Matt. Cheers!

I was interested to hear you were using the h265 8K and wondering how you feel about the quality. I did some tests with my z9 to compare the h265 extended oversampled 4K vs the 8K. I found details in the 8K footage was fairly blurred and softened, looking almost identical to the 4K which was super sharp thanks to the extended oversampling. Since then I’ve never touched the 8K h265, shooting in NRAW when I really feel I need 8K. Thoughts?

30 years Matt! You're a master of the art! :) Quick question, how do you find the noise of the Rode Lav you are using? I end up needing to a lot noise reduction on the Audio from it. I have the same mics and use it on a Sony. I find there's some kind of electrical noise interference...

Great summary Matt do you think there is capacity for the Z9 to do 30 FPS in some form of raw in the future ?

Would love if you could put the meta data on your excellent photos. Nice video. Thanks.

I like what you are saying and the ideas of future features like wireless audio… but worry adding and expanding more into video based features will price the camera out of the reach of the hobbyist photographers. The current Z9 price is on the edge of a hobby photographer budget.

I like your overall outlook on the Z system. There are lots of glass-half-full websites and comments (Nikon must do this, Nikon must do now, or else) on the web. However, I always try to think 'why are they doing this, there must be a reason behind this' instead of assuming I know better. Learned this as a young fellow bouncing about Asia a long time ago, and yes, lots of things were - and still are - done differently there. In that sense I agree, the Z system is coming together step by step, and in a really strong way, I would say. I was for many years with a D3 and f2.8 zooms but for my use more compact and lighter is more the focus now. The z7 first gen gave me the opportunity to 'go Z' and it still is a very capable camera, even by today's standards. Still goes strong for me, and gives me the time to wait until that smaller Z comes along with z9 goodies. I think the wait is worth it, because the Z system has come a long way in the past two years - add another two years, and yayyy! ☺

Thanks very much, Matt. I'm still wading into the learning curve, but I know its worth the long term investment of my time.

Love mine. Shot motorsports and aviation all this year. Most of the time with the 300 2.8, 500 4, F mount lenses, and the 70-200 2.8 Z lens.

Thank you Matt Teaching to the converted I guess, I'm an old timer now, but all those years ago, I got Nikon because of the backwards compatibility, sold all those old lenses now but Nikon still saving me a lot of money (wife would disagree with that 😃), have the latest holy trinity prior to the s lenses, and with the FTZ, they have saved me money already, Trouble is, I really need about 800mm for most of my little birds, but the 800 PF are like hens teeth. and haven't got enough slack on the CC for the 600 f4 s Thank you for your post, very reassuring to all the Nikon shooters out there, and those that are still sitting on the fence Wishing you and your family a safe and happy Xmas Regards, Gary ................ AU

After a disappointing foray into a Z7 I, I took a chance and got a Z9 mid-February. It’s been a great camera. It does everything I could possibly want to do with it. I’ve kept some of the F-Mount glass since new glass is so expensive and I had a lot invested. I’ve also kept the D850 as a backup camera. The 3 Z (S) lenses I have purchased work flawlessly. I appreciate your videos! JP can have his Canons and Sonys. I’ll stick with Nikon!

I mainly shoot nature and wildlife, especially birds along with some sports. Until I picked up a Z9 in February, I was using a D850 / D500 combination. While the Z9 has significantly improved my keeper rate the AF system needs improvement. The AF eye tracking system works extremely well for large subjects on plain backgrounds, but not as well for smaller subjects like songbirds, especially in trees. It does not always recognize the subject and rarely locks on the eye, and it tends to lock on the background. You have to let off the BBF button and manually focus, then re-engage AF to get a lock. It also as problems locking on the eyes of subjects like Bitterns (lower contrast). I end up reverting to the same AF techniques and settings I use with the D850. So, there is more work to do with AF. I still use my Nikon 200-500mm f/5.6 and 600mm f/4G glass with the FTZ II adapter. I really want to see the 200-600 Nikon has promised and will probably pick up Nikon's 800mm f/6.3. I would like to see a Nikon body dedicated to stills, and a DX 24mp Z9 equivalent maybe that can shoot 40-60fps raw.

I would love to own a Z9. It will never happen simply because of cost: doesn’t keep me from wanting it though! I am hoping to be able to afford the Z7II by the end of 2023. I’m saving up for it!!

Got my Z9 in July after eight months of waiting. I was an early adopter of the Z system, purchasing a Z7 upon its release and the Z9 was the great leap forward in technology that made upgrading appealing. While it may be overkill for an enthusiast, at 70 years old, it could be the last camera I ever buy. I hope not but, you never know. I would echo the thoughts of Seth Miranda in your epic chats, that the Z9 seems to be designed to encourage the remaning Nikon DSLR holdouts to make the jump to mirrorless. The AF is solid, the resolution, and rendering is beautiful, and the ergonomics are outstanding. Perhaps the rumored Z8 will inherit some of the file handling of the Z9, but in the more familiar Z-system package and ergonomics of the original Z's. The future is bright for Nikon. Cheers!

I bought the nikon z9 when it came out and the camera is a monster. I also purchased a gimbal too.

As a (secondary) Nikon Z 5 shooter I run jealous hearing about the high frequency of firmware updates and in addition containing feature enhancements. The number of Z 5 updates can be counted with the fingers of one hand....

I’ve never owned a flagship full frame camera before, but the Z9 just seems such good value for what you get. I’ve finally taken the plunge and should be receiving mine tomorrow. Fun times ahead! Depending on how the Z8 looks, I may trade in one of my Z6 II for it, or like you, i may end up picking up a second Z9. For me the Z8 would need to have a stacked sensor and the same layout as the Z9. I’m not interested in an A7RV competitor.

HI Matt. This is a nIce recap on your first year with the Z9. It makes me question my decision to wait. A year ago, as much as I wanted the Z9 (and had the money to get it), I really thought that it was not fully directed at my specific use cases. Not that it could not fully and completely work for my use cases, but that its primary direction (its first love) was speed in the form of frames per second. As I am not a sports/action/wildlife photographer, I did not (do not) need 20 FPS - I don't even really need anything more than 10 FPS (if that). Shooting environmental portraits, studio portraits and events, I was/am mostly happy with my Z6II - especially for events as I like the small form factor as I am usually carrying around two cameras with two primes for hours on end. Although I do often use a vertical grip for my portraiture, I never use it for events - again because I do not want to add bulk and weight. So my thinking was once again the Z9 is not for me - I should wait for the Z8 and/or the Z6III - probably both. Two Z6III's for the events, and a high MP Z8 for portraits - with the optional grip so I can use it to shoot vertically when desired, but have the option to take it off. I also figured that for the price of a Z9 (which is priced remarkably low for its offering) I would be able to get two Z6III's - so even buying an additional Z8, I would likely be USD $1000+ or so ahead versus having a Z9 and two Z6III's. All of this was (I think) sound thinking at the time, but the one thing I did not expect was that a full year later there would be still not even an announcement for either the Z6III or the Z8. Don't misunderstand - I am not a Nikon basher on this point or even complaining - you can see my pov in the videos that I have recently put out on this subject. That said, even though I believe I understand what Nikon is doing and where they are going, and that in six months from now (or less) I am likely to be very happy, I am still, candidly, just a bit disappointed that there has not been at least a development announcement - but more to the point I start to wonder if I should just go ahead and get a Z9 😂There is no doubt that it would work well for me - I knew that a year ago - and hearing you reiterate all its virtues and how it has served you cements this point! Alas, just as you are going to wait to see what is next for your second camera, I think I will likewise be waiting to see what is next - I will either have two Z6III's and a Z8 in 2023, or if somehow one or both of those cameras are not as right for me as I expected, I will then finally just get the Z9. Either way, as you point out, it is a great time to be a Nikon shooter - I think 2023 is a break away year for Nikon where they re-establish themselves as the premier brand. Thanks again Matt for all the work you do - I know how much work it is to put out videos like this (rather I have a good sense of it as my videos are far less produced) but I get the idea and you have done a bang up job with your channel these last few years - been watching from just about the beginning. Anyway - I appreciate you and the channel a lot - please keep up the good work! -PD

I so enjoy your evangelism!

Z9 is the best camera I have ever owned.

Yeah i can revive my fist year in just one word, wow... My last flagship was the D4s, then the 850 was my workhorse as my last dlsr. The Z6 came and i didn't like it at all from the start but it started growing on me and soon i found out that the 850 stayed down in the bag more often. My dream camera was a future flagship, a mirror less one and then the rumors started, as soon i could i pre orderd a Z9 and it was just to wait. From day one i just cant stop say wow, its amazing. Now when the lenses starts to be only Z lenses im even more satisfied, love the 800pf for my wildlife and just wait for the 85f1.2 for my more daily kind of work (portrait and model). The Z9 is just insanely good as a all ronder and im so satisfied with it and it just keeps on being a new camera with the updates.

Matt, are you a photographer or a fortune teller? I just watched this video for the first time today (13/12/2023) and am amazed! Your predictions were right (again,) amazingly. Your prediction about its prize that may be on a special/come down turn out to be true this week. Generally, I did not monitor the Z9 price as I have been happily using my Z8. But two days ago when I noticed that the Z9 price on Amazon dropped to AUD7,503.02, I asked myself, “Do I need a spare camera?” The answer was “Yes, definitely.” So it was a logical step to click that “Buy Now” ugly button right there and then. Actually, it should arrive any minute now (shipped from Japan.) Hopefully, my right arm will not mind it. Of course, as you said about the Z9 new features and up coming another firmware update this month or next, it is confirmed that Nikon really wants to take care of its customers. Thank you for your excellent and informative videos and keep them coming. Do not visit the city that often these days but might run into you there one day ✌️

I bought the Z9 and I prefer it for events, sports, and wildlife. As for my D850, it's my go-to for nature closeups and landscapes.

Hey, Matt Thanks for the info. 👍 I’m a wildlife shooter and am looking for a lightweight audio solution for my upcoming expedition to photo coastal wolves on the west coast of Vancouver Island. I’ll be shooting a mix of stills and video (video is new to me). Is the z9 mike ok as is, or would you recommend adding a RODE, DJI, or mini-shotgun mike? Sound won’t be my biggest concern, but I’d like to at least have something not atrocious. Cheers from Canada!

I jumped from a D3300 to a D850 last year to the Z9 this year! loving every bit of it, it did take me some time to get used to the new AF system but once you map multiple focus modes like 3d, wilde large and single point, theres absolutely nothing that misses the focus. I mainly shoot action/birds in flight. fn1 - 3d tracking, fn2 - dynamic area large (for when subject detection doesnt work), joystick press, single point af. One thing that i did notice is that the 200-500 used to work far better on the d850 than my z9, not sure why im getting way softer images than i used to. even tried af fine tune, but didnt help. although, i did notice considerably sharper images at higher shutter speed when my VR was off

The Z 9 is the BEST camera I ever have used and I have owned cameras in the film days that were FAR more expensive and FAR slower. I also own and use the Z 50 and the Z fc (two of these!) and sold theZ 6 II as I needed the money for a non photo investment. The Z 9 I use with the 100-400 S lens and for the first time use with confidence the Z 1.4 TC. I also use it a LOT with the Z 14- 30. I kept my Z 6 II kit lens, the 24-70 F4 lens. It is that good. I do intend to buy the Z 8 when it comes out. NO INTEREST in a Z 6 III. THE Z 6 II was NOT what I wanted or needed.

I just shot an event and live music with my Z9 and all manual focus lenses. I used the Voigtlander 15mm f/4.5 , Voigtlander 40mm f/1.2 , Nikkor 55mm f/1.2 Non Ai , Nikkor 135mm f/2.0 Ai . I shot wide open most of the time . I used focus peaking and is worked phenomenally. I also shoot manual focus on my Sony a7siii. I cannot get as accurate focus shooting focus peaking with the Sony . Live Music can really stress autofocus systems especially older dslrs . This Z9 in these tricky lighting and movement situations is getting more keepers than my Sony bodies. I am really starting to fall in love with the Z9. It is not as easy to just pick up and shoot. Also while moving and shooting as an action camera I accidentally touch the buttons on the front of the grip and change settings while shooting. The camera is not as natural to grab and go as my a7siii’s . I’ve always shot Nikon and they have always been a grab n go experience. Not with the Z9 it’s a camera you learn . I have never had a camera that I can manual focus action as easy as I can with the Z9. I have been shooting video with the camera also and it’s a nice image . Easy to set up and go with fast . Phenomenal camera that’s working side by side with my d850,810,500 and two Sony a7siii’s

Hello Matt, the thing that makes me angry is all the other Canon and Sony boys dissing this great camera. I have had mine for just over a month and I am quite happy with it. I only have one lens so far, but it is taking great photos. I started with Canon as a student and just got tired of wanting to upgrade and the other brands not having what I want and need. I took the plunge and bought it and am very happy with it.

well i have not been taken by the z9 yet waiting to see whats coming up at the end of the month. 1/200 flash sync suck if not i will cross over to sony after all most 20 years of shooting nikon. a z9ii or really impressive z8 could change that i do have loads of nikon glass...

I sold my z6ii and 7ii for the Z9 and i see the AF accuracy improvements. I wanted to consolidate my kit to one small system with Sony. But i cant. That speaks volumes of why the bigger Z9 is worth carrying. I sold the z lenses and just when i was close to selling the Z9, they release the 400 4.5. Damn, Nikon.. what a lens! Now i just adapt my lighter sony GMs to the Z9 via the megadap etz21 and its worth it.

Great Vid -- agree 100% awesome product - I do have two. BUT -- the Z9 is designed for Professional Level users, not folk who simply will not adapt to it. AND here is the rub -- many users - that would be those who complain loudly and seemingly continuously -- simply have not adapted to how the Z9 works and how it is changed from initial launch to now Firmware 3.0. YES -- I do mean the AutoFocus and 3D tracking in particular. Most of these folk are SIMPLY using the AF-poorly. They stick in 3D mode for FAR too long and they EXPECT the Subject Detection to work in all circumstances. These opinions are pure garbage. Then we have those who consider $5.5k a huge investment and therefore have unrealistic expectations -- like the camera is supposed to know what they want to shoot and do all the work for them -- entirely ignoring the need for them as users to have Pro-Level capabilities and attitudes. Simply and doggedly using the wrong settings, wrong AF-mode and bad technique will only lead to frustration. This camera is "THE BEST" hybrid Cinema camera and only getting better with each Firmware update -- now we have time code sync, high-res zoom and a host of other capabilities for professional video shooters AS WELL. It is so much more than a stills camera. AND seems to me will simply continue to improve. But the Z9 is only part of the storey -- I own and use the new Z400/2.8TC and Z600/4.0TC, as well as a large number of other S-line lenses, and when paired with the Z9 the results and the success rate is truly extraordinary. So much so that I sold 50 f-mount bodies and lenses -- including 2 D850 and a host of AF-S E and G lenses. I am looking/waiting to see the output from professional video shoots taken with the Z9 and the great Nikon lenses or any of the manual focus Z-mount CINE lenses from a number of manufacturers or PL-mount with an adapter. AND this is one of the great wins -- the tiny Flange Depth of the Z9 (z-system) means that almost any lens can be adapted for use on it. I am looking forward to CP+ in Feb 2023 and what I hope are a flood of Nikon product launches.

I love my Z6ii and love the idea of the Z9. I'm very tempted but I don't need the frame rates, or the 8K video. I would love a Z8 that's halfway between, slightly better video than the current Z6/7 offerings (though the video is surprisingly good being 8-bit) with perhaps 4/6K raw or 10-bit options, slightly faster FPS than the Z6 but the upgraded AF of the Z9 with a price point in between

I've rented (hired) a Z9 for the holiday. This will determine if I buy one or wait for "what's next" while I continue to use my D850/D500.

March 2023 will be my 1 year mark!,...or is it April 2023? Edit: Hey Matt, what brand is that Wireless flash model you're using with the Z9,...the thingy in the Z9's hotshoe?

As hobbyist photographer, I can't justify the cost of the Z9. I currently own the Z50 for travel. I wish Nikon would introduce a mid-tier camera or Z50 mark II with similar AF of the Z9 and IBS. Sony and Canon, seem to addressing the hobbyist needs with their product portfolio.

I love my Z9. I upgraded from a D850. The D850 was a great camera but in some areas I felt it was holding me back. The Z9 does nothing but pull me forward. The Z9 is my Excalibur in photography.

Pro maker carry enthusiast hobbyist and casual market. Nikon has expereince in this way back in nikon f2s era