There’s a lot of mental gymnastics going on here. 1. Likes FE that has no grip, hates Zf because no grip. FE is 100g lighter and you shoot it with 2 hands, same as ZF 2. Complains about lack of customizable buttons on a retro camera (Zf), loves FE that has zero customizable buttons. 3. Complains about muscle memory VS Fuji, but never mentioned muscle memory when switched to Sony, Canon or Leica.
@ericrjennings8 ай бұрын
1: 100g + size + lenses make a difference. You lose 2: FE2 has no other functionality. No need for custom buttons. It’s 100% dedicated to what it is. Nothing more. 3: Sony, canon, and Leica don’t have a 1/2 ass approach. Easy to learn as it makes sense You lose.
@bondgabebond49078 ай бұрын
@@ericrjennings Do you have the FE2? I do and love it. Still working at 40 years of age. Attach a motor drive on the FE2 and you have a monster of a camera. The grip, which houses the motor, makes this one of the nicest cameras to hold. This camera did a lot of work for me while in the USAF. The simplicity of a film camera is what makes them so attractive. I also suggest you get the FM2, a totally manual camera. The FE2, being automatic, needs batteries to operate the shutter. Even without the motor, the FE2 is easy to use, easy to handle. Maybe Nikon made better cameras in the 50s, 60s,70s and went downhill from there.
@ericrjennings8 ай бұрын
@@bondgabebond4907 yes I do. I showed it in the video. I agree that the FE2 is awesome and easier to hold than the ZF
@n1ngnuo8 ай бұрын
It's all for clicks, has nothing to do with the love of photography. He just wants to drive up engagement, which in this case worked. But nobody will subscribe this way and he will close this channel by 2027.
@ericrjennings8 ай бұрын
You must be new here
@matthewjamesmartin8 ай бұрын
I’ve had the ZF for about two weeks, sold my Fujifilm X100v to buy it. Couldn’t be happier. AF, IQ, build quality - all better than the Fuji. Ethos with the grip are fine. The weight is reassuring, the dials are such a joy to use.
@TCinSoCal8 ай бұрын
Have had Zf for few weeks now.. have owned X100V (and F..T) and this comment nails it. I’ll add that Zf dynamic range > X-T5 as I’ve been testing them side by side for weeks. Feels great in-hand. Grip helps. I don’t need Z8 level customizable buttons.
@matthewjamesmartin8 ай бұрын
@@TCinSoCal Completely agree. I thought I would miss the Fuji film simulations/recipes but the files out of the ZF are so good, so true-to-life that I now actually consider the fujifilm recipe I was using to be a bit over the top/garish in comparison.
@ericrjennings8 ай бұрын
@matthewjamesmartin this is a good point. I’ve never really been a fan of the over-baked recipes. I try to stick with something more natural
@smkunder18 ай бұрын
I love my new ZF, sold all my Olympus(OM1) and lenses. I am now all NIkon, Z8, ZF and Nikon Film. I have 0 regrets. The files that come out of these Exspeed 7 cameras are simply fantastic.
@ericrjennings8 ай бұрын
Can’t argue. The files are fantastic
@josephinevera99668 ай бұрын
The only thing holding me back are the size of the lenses. I thought the whole point of mirrorless was to go lighter in weight. The 50 1.2 is 1099 grams.
@D.Trider8 ай бұрын
@@josephinevera9966the 50 1.8 is great! Keep in mind, this isn’t a pro body. This is a lifestyle/everyday type of camera. The 26,28, 40 and 50 1.8 are all great lenses. Voigtlander and Sigma both are releasing new Z mount fx glass as well. Hope this helps!
@craig_cunha8 ай бұрын
@@josephinevera9966 you can’t beat physics. A 1.2 AF lens is always going to be large. Best option, get a mirrorless Nikon or Sony camera and adapt the Voigtlander 50mm 1.2 Leica mount with an AF adapter - much smaller, with stunning IQ.
@csc-photo8 ай бұрын
@@josephinevera9966Quite frankly, Nikon isn’t the system for those concerned about size & weight. They prioritize image quality & performance above all else (this is a plus for me). Certainly with their pro glass. Their 70-200 2.8 S is mind-blowing but it’s also a tank. The 1.2’s are best in their class but yes, heavy, not unlike their competitors.
@chrystalferreira27478 ай бұрын
been using the zf for about 2 weeks now and it's by far the best camera I have ever used. just love it.
@photographydiscourse11858 ай бұрын
I think you make some fair points - your main gripe however seems to be the ergos and for $30 you can get the Small Rig grip that is custom made for this specific camera, which solves the ergo problem completely for all lenses up to about the 24-70 2.8 S in size - this means the 24-120 f/4 is fine and just about all the 1.8 S line prmes which are among the best 1.8 lenses on the market period. As far as not having an aperture ring - this is true - not the design philosophy of Z mount lenses but if you get the Voightlander lenses they are chipped, have aperture rings and in some cases have the design aesthetic of the old AI Nikkor lenses. The ISO dial with the C is largely misunderstood - it is intended to allow the uses to control the ISO with the dials, and/or set and Auto ISO range (e.g. 100-3200) then the camera will range through these ISO values. When this is the case the ISO will not be effected by the dial when the dial is set between 100-3200 but you can immediately override and go higher by setting the dial to a value higher than 3200 - then go back down to 3200 or below to resume Auto ISO - the range you set for this to operate is up to you and is set in the menu - I think it is actually pretty elegant. There could perhaps be more custom buttons and a joystick, but both of these things would certainly take away from the retro aesthetic and in most cases can be worked around - for example the screen itself can be used as a joystick to move the AF points around by dragging your thumb on the screen - but you have to set this up in the menus - I don't think it comes like this fresh out of the box. Is this the perfect camera? Then answer is no, there is no perfect camera, but this camera is done very well and as far as being an image making tool is superior to the Fuji APS-C line for so many reasons - least of which is IQ, low light prowess, and compatibility with superior Z mount glass to name a few. Thanks for your take on the camera! -PD
@ericrjennings8 ай бұрын
Can’t argue with anything you said here.
@vikdaddy8 ай бұрын
I think you're just fighting muscle memory. Also, ensure you do try the voigtlander z mount lenses on the Zf (there's no 35mm 1.2, but there is a 40mm 1.2). It's a revelation. The green confirmation is spot-on.
@D.Trider8 ай бұрын
A couple of points I want to share as someone who also shoots Leica m/sl2. The thing I love about the ZF is its versatility. My Leica m10m I’ll never be able to shoot autofocus. The ZF with adapted m glass is amazing. Focus trap is incredible. I adapt my m glass for the manual experience in a priority. When af is needed it’s far superior to Fuji and Leica. The iq, low light performance and the ability to load film profiles is amazing. The small rig grip solved ergos immediately. But how are the ergos different than your film fe? When I use the cameras without the grip, I hold it as I do a manual film camera… I picked up the Voigtlander 40mm 1.2 for Leica and adapted it. You need to try focus trap. No need to punch in and accurate. I’d encourage you to adapt glass and give it another try. There are trade offs with all cameras but the ZF imo might be the best balance between versatility, iq, low light and price.
@craig_cunha8 ай бұрын
This is why I’m considering the Zf. I may be able to sell my Leica and Sony systems to have one system to do most of what I need (something I’ve been trying to do for a while - simplify). I do love the M, but it’s costly. I never loved my Sonys (have had a couple generations), but they just worked flawlessly. I think the Zf can be a happy marriage, pulling some of the best from both of those systems. If I consolidate, I’d have a lot of extra cash to use towards something else like a vacation or Xmas bills 😂
@ericrjennings8 ай бұрын
@craig_cunha that is what I was after too
@D.Trider8 ай бұрын
@@ericrjennings it’s really tough these days to find that perfect balance. I think the ZF experience with manual lenses is pretty hard to beat and as close to that balance as I’ve had. I might just have to make a video review as well just to show how I’m using it to seriously consider replacing my sl2 setup with a z8. Leica is great for iq and user experience but that is about it.
@D.Trider8 ай бұрын
@@craig_cunha I went for it kind of on impulse at my local camera shop and was blown away to be honest. As you can tell I’m a big fan of this camera. For my commercial work I’m seriously considering selling my sl2 for a z8. Keep my m10m for my passion work and use the ZF as my everyday setup with manual glass. I think I’m going to get off my butt and make my first KZfaq video about this camera. Just go for it man! It has its quirks, but firmware is brand new and the feature set is pretty sweet!
@vikdaddy8 ай бұрын
@@D.Trider I sold my SL2-S for the ZF. Yes, the EVF was stunning on the Leica, but the in focus confirmation with my Voigtlander Z lens is a revelation and even the adapted M glass I'm using is great, because of the auto zoom to eye function.
@gavinlagrange63228 ай бұрын
I'll preface this by saying my main cameras for the past 10 or so years have been largely Fuji X-pro's, Konica Hexar AF, leica M's. All these cameras are at their best when you use them they way they dictate, rather than trying to change them to suit your shooting style. The ZF is very much the same IMO. Fuji's work well for what they do, although they are not without their diabolical quirks. My feeling is that you're trying to hard to shoot the camera like a Fuji. On my ZF I shoot all area AF in continuous, and assigned the back af-l button to 3d tracking when I need a spot focus that can focus/recompose. Totally different to Fuji's but a pretty much flawless AF performance. No need to turn eye detect on/off, just use 3d tracking spot on back button to be selective. Agree on the aperture dials - wish the lenses had them. 40mm Z is stupendously good, better than any of the 23/27 fujis IMO by a long way. Would love an 85mm f2 or 105mm f2.5 in the same style.
@highdynamicphotographyfilm22358 ай бұрын
Well said.
@Cleverconveyence8 ай бұрын
My God I would love a native 105 2.5 that was a lot less large than the 105. 2.8 macro. I just contributed to a Kickstarter last month or so for a 64 mm lens from lomography. Looking forward to that one.
@domtomas11787 ай бұрын
Agree with every thing you said. Except the part about the 40mm f2 (I presume you're talking about the Nikkor) is not better than the Fuji 23mm f1.4 LM WR. ( also the 23 f2 fuji would be like a f2.8 on FF - so I don't consider it a competitor)
@heartyfisher8 ай бұрын
LOL ! I love my Zf ! .. ergonomics are not an issue for me at all. I hold the camera 2 handed when I shoot. Old style with elbows braced on the chest for stability. I don't have the grip .. I am thinking of getting one but more for protection for the camera.. maybe I will go with a half-case instead .... still deciding ..
@craig_cunha8 ай бұрын
Some nice half cases out there. And check out the Neewer grip - looks very cool.
@Jeff_St_John8 ай бұрын
I have had the Zf for almost a month. I own a Pen-F and Fuji X-T5 (and many previous X-T versions before - sound familiar?) I do get everything you say. Is it JUST the fact of owning Fujifilm first, or is Fuji's way actually better? I think the Fuji mode of having the "A" setting on the dials makes more sense to me. The Nikon Df had the same type of PASM switch, but the Fuji "A" setting is just so much more straight forward. After a month of using the Zf, I feel comfortable with using the camera, but I still PREFER the Fujifilm method more. I agree with you that I find myself reaching more for Fuji. In my ideal world, I keep both Fujifilm and the Nikon Zf (and maybe let the Pen-F go... though M4/3 still has its advantages.) Not everyone can keep both, but ESPECIALLY with the SmallRig grip, which made a huge difference for me, I could see using the Zf (but needing it, versus the Fujifilm... ? I definitely do not NEED it.) Lets face it, in YOUR HANDS, whether it is Fujifilm or Nikon Zf, you will take photos you love with either. We want our cameras to be everything in every moment, but your skill (which you definitely have at this point,) will get you fairly similar photos in the end, regardless of which you use. The Nikon being technically better will not get you past the issues (just the same as if you HAD to trade the Fujifilm for Nikon, you would adapt and take awesome photos with the Zf too.)
@ericrjennings8 ай бұрын
I think you’re right. Either could work but this way makes more sense to me
@Johnny-Aloha8 ай бұрын
Dude, do you want a little cheese with that whine? The Zf is lighter than the legendary Nikon F3, which also only had a small grip. I paired my Zf with a Voigtlander 50mm F1.0 Noct, what a low light beast it is now. I believe it will be one of my favorite digital cameras ever, right after my Nikon D700.
@ericrjennings8 ай бұрын
Glad you enjoy it. Not whining… offering an alternative opinion to the 100 nothing but positive reviews
@miguelvasquez32918 ай бұрын
Just buy the grip it is only 34 dlls. I'm glad it is an accessory that I will never buy . Fuji is a cropped sensor, no way to compare. I had the XE 4 with the 28 mm pancake. Equivalent to 40mm . There is no equivalency it is a cropped 28 with the distortion of a wide angle lens. With the Zf, you can use a lot of third-party lenses with an aperture ring and autofocus like the Sony 40mm G. (With asapter). I sold my XE 4 to buy the Zf. It was the best thing I could do.
@user-he7nl5ov6u8 ай бұрын
It's good to have choices , not every camera will work for everyone. I have had the every single X-T and X100 Fuji has made , the ZF isn't as light, or as small physically, but it's better built and, has better image quality, and AF. If I want it to feel smaller or more retro I just adapt Leica M glass , and can AF on those lenses with the techart adapter as well. It's personal preference on the handling , but there's no question it is a better camera than the Fujis. I'm a Fuji fanboy btw ...
@AbbeyRoadDuluth8 ай бұрын
Sounds like you need to stick with Fuji. As a Nikon shooter, the Zf is exquisite for a multitude of reasons. I tried Fuji a few times and could never understand their menus enough to enjoy their cameras. Familiarity with different systems makes getting to know new ones difficult and takes time. The Zf ergonomic nightmare you suggest is a little over the top. I shot a nine hour wedding with it and the Z8 (including the Z 85 1.2) and survived! It is a gorgeous camera body with a Z8 under the hood…amazing file output! Get the SmallRig grip and the Voigtlander APO Lanthar 50/2…it will blow your mind. :)
@D.Trider8 ай бұрын
And the Voigtlander 40mm 1.2. I use the m mount adapted with the ttartisans 6-bit adapter and it’s so fun. Especially with focus trap. Happy shooting!
@ericrjennings8 ай бұрын
Ok “nightmare” maybe was harsh but my first week of using it was distracting enough for me to reconsider. As I type this, I’m afraid to let it go again
@Arturborzecki8 ай бұрын
Nikon Z F and Voigtlander 50mm Lanthar 2.0 is just perfect. Period. Don’t try to setup this camera for Fuji style - it doesn’t make sense at all. And yes grip is necessary - but that’s why you have option- 26mm pankake works without grip. If you attach 85mm then yeah it comes with the grip.
@D.Trider8 ай бұрын
One thing also- this is full frame. Fuji has an inherent size advantage because they’re apsc. You also have to remember that Fuji is on their 5th generation and have a very singular product line. Nikon has a ton of range in their product lineup that Fuji doesn’t have. Oh and not sure if I’ve mentioned this yet, but try MANUAL glass with this camera! 😂
@ericrjennings8 ай бұрын
Do you think Nikon will keep this going?
@D.Trider8 ай бұрын
@@ericrjenningswithout question. This is not a pro body. Nikon believes ergos on the z8 and z9 are pro bodies. This is a fun, feature rich lifestyle camera designed in a retro body. Fujis flagship is the xt5,xh2 and they’re trying position them as pro bodies, hence the ergo difference. This camera is incredible for what it is and how it’s positioned in the market. As I’ve mentioned in my original post- it’s the best balance between style, performance, price and iq.
@joshk22948 ай бұрын
"No aperture rings on the lens. Half in half out [retro camera] experience." Totally agree with you...
@domtomas11788 ай бұрын
Exactly!
@izziereal20108 ай бұрын
The ZF is an awesome camera to use. However, the style and ergonomics are unique and does not fit for all photographers. I have been using this camera for a month now and I must say I have been enjoying shooting with it. I did add the Small Rig grip to my ZF and I will always keep it on. Without the grip, it's difficult to hold when taking pictures. I'm used to using heavier cameras to take pictures, so the weight is not an issue for me. I also use larger lenses on this camera and I have no issues shooting for long periods of time. That includes lenses like the 105mm f2.8 Z and the 70-180mm f2.8 Z lenses. I didn't buy the ZF for its style, I bought it because of the features it has packed in this camera. At one point I would have preferred the camera body of the Z6II, but now I'm used to the ZF body. The complaints in this video are valid points and I would hold this camera before buying it if you're unsure about the grip. As mentioned, I bought the Small Rig grip before the camera was released and it's better to handle. The grip is not as deep as the Z6II, but deep enough to shoot with the lenses I have mentioned earlier.
@ScaleDreamsStudio8 ай бұрын
I bought the Zf as a second Sony Body. (Yes A second Sony body). I use the MEGADAP SONY E TO NIKON Z AUTOFOCUS ADAPTER (ETZ21 PRO) and It works flawlessly. I also use the Sony Mount Voightlander lenses alone with the Sony lenses. I get my apature rings that are missing on the Nikon lenses. I love this way I'm using this camera body. This setup is not for everyone and it might not be for you also.
@kennybaseball178 ай бұрын
Dude, I think you completely missed the design purpose of this camera. It’s retro. Designed after a FM2. Not a comfortable camera.
@ericrjennings8 ай бұрын
Yeah well in that case I got the point I think
@solidstream133 ай бұрын
A camera is like an instrument. If the body does not work for you then you are making the right choice. You should not be distracted from shooting because you are fiddling with menus etc.
@martinandreasson55048 ай бұрын
Its funny but for all the reasons you stated you have a problems with it, i instead really like it for those reasons. The ergo i find perfectly fine, i have smaller hands and i love that Nikon did not go the rout that Fuji has done with the same design on all their cameras and just adding a grip to please people but rather stuck to the design idea of the Nikon FM etc. You can add the small rig grip and its really nice if you find the grip to small and its a no issue after that. I dont find it heavy at all, with the 40mm f2 its easier to carry around than my Leica M240 with lens and fits well in my small bag. The buttons and dials. Yes coming from Fuji many people seem to be in a uproar over the auto ISO and too few FN buttons etc. I love the fact that they have not added tons of them like on Fuji, it feels more true to a retro camera that way and cleaner design, and the ones on there are plenty for ones needs( at least mine hehe ) I also come from both Leica and Fuji over the years and still have both but always shot Nikon as sort of my main working cameras, so the layout etc felt very much at home for me. I feel the Zf fits somewhere in between for me when it comes to the experience i get out from it. While the fuji cameras i own or owned are nice, they are not FF and the built are not at all as good as the Zf. So they are more of a disappointment in that regard for me, the Leica ( M240 in my case) is of course better built but gives me a completely different experience and the Zf lets me shoot in many more situations as well as opens up a huge window of opportunity and fun when it comes to trying vintage glass out. Something i really enjoy too. So im very very happy with mine, and like the Df that you would or already most likely despise for many of the same reasons as the ZF its a camera that im happy Nikon was brave enough to design not listening to everyone but staying true to something close to a FM film camera and like the Df will be unique for what it is and most likely will be for years to come :)
@ericrjennings8 ай бұрын
I’m not knocking it. I’m glad Nikon made this camera and it’s clearly selling like hot cakes, however, like you said, is somewhere between a Fuji and Z6
@craig_cunha8 ай бұрын
These are the reasons I want a Zf. Seems like a perfect option to replace my Sony and Leica mix.
@waynerm0028 ай бұрын
It’s interesting that people say Nikon is trying to make a camera like Fuji but, didn’t do it right. Nikon made a digital version of their film camera, it operates similarly to the Df, Nikon’s retro styled DSLR. Using different systems means a different usage experience on each, we may like or not like how each is implemented but, learning how they work and using as intended will resolve the confusion. I’m not a fan of the body without the grip but, I understand the weight increase. As mirrorless cameras evolve, they will get heavier as adding better sensors to shoot higher video codecs increase the heat, requiring more heatsinks or fans for cooling. Get the grip and learn the camera as it was designed to work, it’s not a Fuji. Give it a fair shake for being a Nikon retro styled camera, learn the controls from the manual/reference guide to gain a full understanding of it. You might come away with a different experience. As someone that bought a Sony F30 and complained about it, I can tell you I had to park my Nikon Z6 II for a few weeks and force myself to learn the controls and menu system to appreciate it (not a fan of the ergonomics still). That made me find out more about it and learn how to properly use it. Remember the Zf is a fusion of a retro styled camera and a mirrorless camera, you can go full retro with the manual controls and turn on the lens control ring to change aperture or use the dial. For the focus point control, remember, that is done via the screen. I think when one gets used to it, the complaints go away.
@martinandreasson55048 ай бұрын
@@ericrjennings Yes in comparison to the Df it seems to be well received by many and not as divided :) I really think its pretty unique at the moment as the only FF retro option when it comes to mirrorless and with the new AF finesses and IBIS etc, so unless more comes with a similar option it might become somewhat of a unicorn like the Df became hehe. But lets see .
@martinandreasson55048 ай бұрын
@@waynerm002 That is exactly how i feel too about it. Seen so many reviews being very quick to "judge" it because they came from another system or not learning how THIS camera actually work and coming into the experience with totally unfair expectations to begin with. Its fine, its them not wanting to use the camera or not liking it not me, but its a bit frustrating to hear that most of the "issues" are non issues once you take the time to learn things and just set it up properly :) People are just too spoiled when it comes to cameras nowadays and want everything at their fingertips not having to spend any time learning the camera first hehe. Just the times we live in. I still have not got used to having a touch screen lol, i came from Df and the D4 so that will take some time getting used to, exactly what you said about the focus point i spent a while figuring out how to quickly get it into the middle spot ;)
@apocryphal_man4 ай бұрын
2018 wants its coffee intro back 😂. Thanks for the vid 👍🏻 I think it's one of the few hype free and useful videos on the camera at this point in time. Don't mind bought opinions and brand loyalists in the comments and keep doing what you do.
@1UAE8 ай бұрын
u should try smallrig grip for ZF
@chuckbaker84138 ай бұрын
I had a fm2 and a fe2… back in the day… both with winders …which as you know are easy to grip.. but I still always adjust my straps so they are tight above my elbow and I can wedge the camera body in the palm of my hand and really get some torque and step leverage so it’s super locked in… no image stabilization back then… try shortening your strip so you lock it in above your elbow and your palm… super steady old Skool
@csc-photo8 ай бұрын
Same boat, no initial interest. I have the Z8 and I'm pretty sure I'll want the Z6III next year, so I decided I didn't need the Zf. The problem is - I really WANT the Zf - so I ordered one today 🙂 There were some promos running, no other vendor has any available, and it'll be a week before it delivers. So I have a few days to bail if I get cold feet, no biggie. Maybe I just needed to get the pre-purchase dopamine out of my system 😆 I'll sleep on it for a few days. Thanks for your thoughts & observations!
@waynerm0028 ай бұрын
Ahh, so you are taking the plunge! Congrats!
@waynerm0028 ай бұрын
Ahh, so you are taking the plunge! Congrats!
@waynerm0028 ай бұрын
Ahh, so you are taking the plunge! Congrats!
@dylandigby17768 ай бұрын
Only rooting for it because I want Canon to be bold enough to revive the P.
@ericrjennings8 ай бұрын
The P would be phenomenal
@CianMcsweeney8 ай бұрын
We can dream!
@perandersen20158 ай бұрын
I would definatlely get the SmallRig grip. It is sticky and makes the camera a whole different experience. I have used it with the AFs 500mm f5.6 Pf lens and it is usable with that bigger lens. Not perfect, but usable. I found that I use the AF differently than on my Nikon Z6II since the AF is just a lot more confident. I used continuos AF on the trigger botton and programmed the AF-l/Ae-L to 3D tracking. I think you need to program it differently than you do on your Fujis. Then you will start to see its capability with different eyes
@ericrjennings8 ай бұрын
That’s fair. You’re probably right
@gordonbrown59018 ай бұрын
I have this camera and a work around for the slippery cover are Dragon Grips. As to everything else, just learn the camera and enjoy the output. I’m 72 and I have no issues with the weight or ergonomics. Cheers.
@notnow13015 ай бұрын
Dear Eric, with BIG smile i watched your video and thought not knowing you perhaps you are a Fuji and not Nikon man, ... When watching your video i also looked at my Nikkormat which have NO GRIP at all and i used that camera with lenses till 300mm and never had complains, .... i am also a NOT switcher, ...i use NIKON from 1970, ... i get my Zf also and saw all vids about that camera, for me its going to be a backup camera when my Z9 doesn't work when photographing Vietnam, ... i am honest i use the kit lens 40 mm, perhaps 50mm 1.8, but not sure yet, besides i also use D850 and D4S the most fast and 99,9% always good picture camera, ... So i liked to watch your vid, thanks for that, but remember its not your camera its your eye which make the picture and the camera can do it little more easy for you Greetings from The Netherlands !
@mnicaisse4 ай бұрын
Yes!! The ZF have so much potential. I have the X-T3, the X-T4 the X-H2s and just added the ZF . I feel the same way about the ZF. What I love most about about the ZF Using the extended grip, mega adapter Sony e lens to Z body. Now aperture rings works, I use sigma I series lens 24mm f/2 used 45mm f2, 50mm f/2 . They Look good and works well. Despite ZF being a bigger sensor and better auto focus The X-T4 XH2s are my winners.
@rarograr6 ай бұрын
I just got my ZF and let me tell you OMG it’s nice. Nikon absolutely nailed it with this camera
@just_A_Hack8 ай бұрын
idk if this would help you or not, but for controlling iso on the scroll wheels, map the record button to iso in stills and when the iso dial (on top) is set to c, you can then just hold the record button and use the back scroll wheel. That is what I did and it worked in that regard for me. Reminded me Nikon's dslrs when using it in that sense.
@alphonsotate29828 ай бұрын
The ZF IS AWSOME with old school glass
@KyleGustafson19868 ай бұрын
Hopefully it increases the quantity and reduces the prices on used Leica Qs and the Fuji XT5s.
@WhoIsSerafin8 ай бұрын
Very nice , very tempting! But I would quickly grow to hate that camera. Too heavy and the lens are too big and heavy. But a beautiful camera.
@ericrjennings8 ай бұрын
Exactly. All my camera wisdom is coming through here
@TCinSoCal8 ай бұрын
The X-T5 feels like a toy compared to the Zf. Have shot them side by side for weeks. Zf has as much grip as the beloved X100V.
@D.Trider8 ай бұрын
Came back to the video and see that you’re still getting roasted on this. No need for that man! I undoubtedly love this camera, but some of these peeps are nuts! You should do a live session on this camera and feed these crazy animals! 😂
@ericrjennings8 ай бұрын
The tribalism is crazy. Offer an alternative opinion and people come after you lol! Maybe I’m wrong … who knows
@D.Trider8 ай бұрын
@@ericrjennings it’s a perfect example of tribalism within the photographic community. Leica, Fuji, Sony, and all the user groups are the same. At least your video is getting traction with the KZfaq algorithms!
@ericrjennings8 ай бұрын
@nice_glass lol if only I was a real KZfaqr and not some GAS addict who makes low quality videos
@D.Trider8 ай бұрын
@@ericrjennings😂
@jmtphotographymedia8 ай бұрын
Interesting viewpoit and good information. I think Nikon might be on to something if they can address the shortcomings. And I the 3rd party manufacturers will make grips to accommodate that issue. Might breed new life into that model as new models come after it.
@berniestang26164 ай бұрын
The grip is definitely a must & pretty nice ! I like the look of the camera. It’s a fun addition .
@noenken8 ай бұрын
Agreed. It needed a better grip and it needed to be lighter. Check the focal plane mark on the top of the Zf, 75% of the mass is behind the sensor. I think the IBIS and the flip out mechanism for the display are the cameras biggest flaws. You cut those out, that makes the camera body lighter and thinner, you put a deeper grip in, rotate the battery 90°, maybe even fit a second full size SD. It would be an immidiate win for anyone who actually lays hands on it. I also sign the demand for aperture rings on lenses, not having those is pure cost cutting. What companies don't realize is by making them cheaper they are also making them "cheaper". And at the same time camera bodies only come with two dials ... for an exposure TRIangle. I'm not sure who started that trend but it needs to ... leave. Forever. I'll keep mine until I find something less compromised. It's a real shame, they were so close.
@marcusjames13268 ай бұрын
finally, someone calling out the lack of a grip on a fairly heavy camera. Have to put a $39 grip on a $2,000 camera. Sticking with my x-t4
@TCinSoCal8 ай бұрын
Also.. the Z 40 f2 is as good, or better, then the beloved Fuji 27 2.8. I own the OG & WR versions. I see no resolution advantage with X-T5/27 over the Zf/40. I do see significant dynamic range advantage with the Zf. Also, Zf with Z 50 1.8 is just as good as X-T5 with 33 1.4. Both great cameras but I like the feel of the Zf and prefer the colors (and shadows allowed) from Zf. I’ll always have a little X-E2/27 combo if I need a Fuji fix.
@ericrjennings8 ай бұрын
The little 40/2 is magic
@TCinSoCal8 ай бұрын
@@ericrjennings it shoots well above its price.
@paulthomas89868 ай бұрын
Love the features, but like you am hesitant due to the weight and ergo's. Still confused as to why Nikon lead with this camera before the Z6 III.
@DSG08058 ай бұрын
If you do back button focusing afs pretty much becomes a none issue as you don’t need afs since the focus and shutter are decoupled. Have not had to go to afs in years because of back button😊
@TCSB298 ай бұрын
i was waiting for you to pick up one of these 😂
@ericrjennings8 ай бұрын
It’s been the singular source of gas for over a month
@hackmandavid4 ай бұрын
I came from D90, D700, D800 and D850 in the past. I like the Zf, it fits my shooting style now as a walk around camera. Got a Nikon grip and some manual focus lenses.
@wheezzy1018 ай бұрын
I love the ZF. Especially with some adapted lenses. I have the 28 and 40 se lenses. My only two complaints is I with the lenses had more weight to them and aperture rings. I also wish m mode allowed the iso dial to override. Other than that I have no complaints. IQ is fantastic and it’s a joy to shoot with. I love the shutter. I shot a wedding with it with no issues along with my M10. I don’t think this camera was meant for the larger lenses. If you really wanted to use them they offer a grip. Honestly the 28 and 40 are fantastic.
@gohilsavio8 ай бұрын
Just go ahead and use the straps... its that simple...
@rotvonrat8 ай бұрын
yeah
@OutRAjious7 ай бұрын
The answer to your conundrum is the Olympus Em1 mk2 with best lenses …. like sigma 56mm and Olympus 17mm 1.8 and even the Oly 14-42 zoom
@tithishnayak43493 ай бұрын
Love the honest POV.
@WaddyMuters8 ай бұрын
Very nice light situation going on in that RV. Also appreciate your insight on the nikon, because on paper that’s a killer camera, but I guess it’s often the little things that can sour an experience.
@ericrjennings8 ай бұрын
I think my issues are personal. For many, it won’t be an issue
@domtomas11788 ай бұрын
I’m with you on the lack of lenses from Nikon. Those plastic non aperture ring lenses just don’t belong with this camera. I’ve tried them in a shop and walked away. This camera needs some nice well built glass with an aperture ring. I’m tempted to adopt the Sigma I-Series f2 primes with it. Heard good things about this setup.
@stuartking41288 ай бұрын
New channel alert,one month three cameras!
@christopherrodriguez72238 ай бұрын
Nice been waiting for this one.
@ArminHirmer2 ай бұрын
Your points have value, yet try and walk around all ay with a Q3, not a hint of grip and yet it works. Regarding lenses, I use my Sigma lenses I have for Sony on it, with aperture ring. So no big deal and of course manual lenses! with this focus system just perfect. If I want less weight and a good grip, I take out my A7Cr :)
@RobTrek8 ай бұрын
I was tempted too but decided against it because I prefer the PASM workflow. Same reason I got the X-H2 over the X-T5. What you might want to look at is the Nikon Df. I have one and it's great. Natively put your Nikon F glass on it. Manually focusing is not great like on a Leica, but doable.
@ericrjennings8 ай бұрын
You know, the ZF was just an itch I had to scratch. I’ve been very happy with Fuji and will stick there. Mostly because I’m currently to committed to a SOOC workflow. XT4 + XH2. The ZF was a blip. I’m after simplicity … if only I could me an M11-P and 50 or 35 work. That would be awesome. Hmmm 🤔
@EDHBlvd8 ай бұрын
The GAS king is back!
@Getoffmycloud538 ай бұрын
I love my Zf ❤
@poniatowski35478 ай бұрын
Love the Zf. I shoot an F3 and FM3A also - Same ergos - its brilliant
@blackskull5056 ай бұрын
Honestly i think you need to try it with the grip. Fuji went through the same thing with the earlier XT series. And yes the Fuji has more customization but the Nikon is think has just enough, 1 or 2 more would’ve been great but I think it takes away from the nostalgia of the camera. The Nikon has better touchscreen implementation and you use it as your joystick to focus. For the lenses, you can pretty much adapt any manual lens and af lenses including leica.
@IntrovertAmateur8 ай бұрын
Hey Eric, I own the Zf for about 1,5 months now and totally agree on your points. After all these weeks I have the same feeling about the Zf like you. I want to love it, but for now it just works for what I need. Great AF, b/w switch is for me a gamechanger (use it every day), rich portrait just looks amazing and this new IBIS works amazing in photo and video. But for now there is no special connection like I have with the Q3 or M6. The main reason why I currently can overlook my personal drawbacks about the Zf (ergo, size, weight and specially missing lens options with apature ring) is the simple fact YT viewers are currently watching Zf content and I'm currently trying my luck by putting videos out there to get the reps in and improve with every video I create. Because of that I use the Zf almost every day and right now the drawbacks are not so present for me, since I work around them, at least for now. Appreciate your honest opinion and as I said totally agree with you.
@ericrjennings8 ай бұрын
Great comment
@williamaustin61328 ай бұрын
While I wouldn't try to argue with your option as that would be pointless, I do think some of your complaints don't line up with what you said your reason was for buying it, how many custom buttons does your film Nikon have?, how easy is it for your Nikon film camera to switch between B&W and Colour?, While the ZF might have professional features I don't think its target market is for working professional work. I don't own the ZF (yet) but I do have an X-T5 and X100F, the control issue you mentioned does seem strange and very limiting, maybe they can address it in a future firmware upgrade or maybe there is a way to work around it that people haven't yet figured out. Having shot FF Nikon's I know that the image quality with the right glass can be better than that of the Fuji's, but is it really that much better and would that translate to the finished print ?, I had the Nikon DF and loved using it but sometimes the images out of it were a bit flat looking, I like the retro look of the ZF and I don't mind that those SE lenses don't have an aperture ring, it would be nice if they did. If and when I do get the ZF I'll get the grip attachment, handling seems to be most reviewers complaint, one calling it a brick. Good review and thanks for your insight
@mikefoster60187 ай бұрын
I was put off by how the Nikon Zf has excellent 'sellable' attributes (plenty of power for size, good focus, cool dials, full frame) but appears lacking on a lot of things that people might not think about first (worse battery life than the X-T5, heavier, weird almost non-existent grip and awkward ergonomics, second card slot is only Micro-SD, fewer and less programable buttons). It seems like a camera designed to blow away competition on paper, but with a few dirty secrets. BUT, although I'm a very happy Fuji X-T5 user despite my crop sensor size, there is no doubt I'd MUCH rather have the Nikon Zf's full frame low light performance. (I know I could run a f1.2 lens etc, but even that's only a f1.8 equivalent from full frame and usually weighs a lot, which undermines the point of a crop sensor mirrorless).
@y.rousso8 ай бұрын
This camera is not for you buddy. You said a lot about its "flaws", but it all boils down to one thing: this camera is made for people that want to shoot manual focus lenses. Want to use modern Z lenses with AF? Get another camera. Want to look cool but not be cool? No can do with this cam. Don't get me wrong. Your views are all valid. It's just that this cam was not made to meet your expectations. One more thing... I am not blaming you, but this thing with everyone complaining about the grip of the Zf and no one complaining about the grip of their iPhone defies all logic... You get to hold a camera like the Zf after 20+ years of waiting and then the first thing you have to say is that it has no grip? This is clearly not for you. Send it back.
@ericrjennings8 ай бұрын
I think you nailed it. It’s a Mf camera. In that case, give me Leica… but I’m sure this is far more versatile. The iPhones grip sucks bad too.
@D.Trider8 ай бұрын
It’s amazing with manual glass. I don’t think Eric should get berated for expressing his initial impressions… but that’s just it. He needs to use the camera with manual glass and see the light. Yes the Nikon native glass doesn’t have an aperture ring, but the ZF is so much better than Fuji in low light, iq and af. I’d rather use the 28mm Nikon and nail focus in low light versus an a slow lens with an aperture ring.
@y.rousso8 ай бұрын
@@D.Trider I use it exclusively with my minolta lenses from the film days. 28mm f/2, 50mm f/1.7, 135mm f/2.8, and 70-210mm f/4. I sold all my other nikon gear (including a Df and a D700!) and gave my two Fuji XEs to my daughters. I wanted to buy the voigtlander 40mn f/1.2 and the Zeiss Biogon 25mm f/2.8 but I can live without them for the moment. Maybe later. I gave the camera the consideration it needed to understand that PASM (though less obvious) is indeed better and that the auto iso implementation is also better than the Fujifilm equivalent and I am quite happy with this camera. I don't care about AF at all. MF is more fun and way more satisfying and rewarding. And should I change my mind and decide to buy an AF lens in the future, the camera will still accept it and do it's magic with it. Plus I have a free video camera thrown in to sweaten the deal. It does not bother me, I don't bother it, but it is there just in case. :)
@D.Trider8 ай бұрын
@@y.roussoexactly. My Leica m bodies will never autofocus. I love manual lenses as well and this is by far the best experience when shooting manual glass. I’ve shot Fuji beginning in 2012 and those cameras were pretty but still missed in terms of adaptable glass. Leicas are great but super $$$. This hits all the marks if expectations are set realistically.
@alex-chicago-808 ай бұрын
The issue here is comparing 2 systems. I get it and it's helpful for those coming from a Fuji. But for me, I never had that experience. I came from a Z6 ii. For street I have a very simple setup, I set the ISO to auto, F stop I'm perfectly fine with it being a wheel, again coming from a Z6 ii, that makes sense to me. To me retaining eye detect even on manual lense is a game changer. The one negative would be the amount of function buttons compared to the Z6 II. But again, I shoot very simple, I really don't switch between settings all the time.
@craig_cunha8 ай бұрын
I can definitely see some of your concerns, but how many of those are because it’s a new body style? Your comfort with Fuji and Oly bodies may be ingrained in your mindset, which will take some time to overcome. Like anything, there’s always some buyers remorse as it’s different than what you had (and the GAS fun is over). How long is your return period? May be worth keeping it for another week or two to see if your thoughts change, especially consider your clear love of the IQ and AF. In terms of the grip, why not hold it like you do the FE and Leicas? With two hands. That handling doesn’t appear to be a drawback for those cameras with no grips. All this, and I haven’t held a Zf, but I am seriously considering it (currently shoot Leica and Sony).
@ericrjennings8 ай бұрын
The Leica and FE2 are smaller and lighter making the strain and slipperiness less of a problem. Is a combination of weight, size , and materials
@D.Trider8 ай бұрын
Couldn’t agree more. When tripod mount and/or additional grip is needed the small rig solves the issue. However when I want a smaller size, I just hold as I do my film cameras that also don’t have a grip. Love the versatility with adapted glass and super fast af when needed. I love Eric’s journey, but I think he needs to stop wishing it was something from another manufacturer and use/honor the camera how it was designed.
@craig_cunha8 ай бұрын
@@ericrjennings I can’t comment on the size, as I haven’t held one. It definitely does look large. But, the weight is only 20 grams heavier than my M240. Yes, weighty, but we all preach how that’s a great thing about Leicas lol
@craig_cunha8 ай бұрын
@@D.Trider That’s my thought as well - be able to build up with a grip is preferred in this case, vs having a big bulky one on all the time. People do that with Leica all the time, if additional grip is required. And for setup, yes, it’s different than Fuji and Leica, but so are the other brands. With the Zf, you get the option of going full manual or a mix of manual dials & PASM. It does seem odd when used to those others, but that doesn’t mean it’s worse. More time needed I think.
@CianMcsweeney8 ай бұрын
@@craig_cunhaZ lenses are also much heavier than Leica M and stick out much more, throwing off the center of gravity, it's not just about the shear weight, it's the overall balance, grippiness and center of gravity
@timgimbert30738 ай бұрын
My muscle memory is set to Nikon so the Zf works for me. The Smallrig grip makes most lenses easy to hold though I haven't used telephoto lenses yet as I have other bodies for that. My only major complaint is the omission of the Recall Shooting Functions option in the function buttons which would let me assign the front button to 3d tracking with Subject Detection turned off which gives you control over the focus point when you want to have an object in focus and there are people in the frame. All of my other Nikon mirrorless, Z6, Z6ii, and Z8, are able to do this.
@laika258 ай бұрын
Looks like you'll have to find your way around it and eventually be happy
@darylnd8 ай бұрын
You frequently say something-or-other "can't be understated." If that were true, you wouldn't talk about it at all. "Overstated" is the word you're looking for. I began photography, four decades ago, with a new NIkon FE, I can see how the ergonomics would be unpleasant with the heavier, digital camera. My X-T3 and my M10 are in my hand when I'm out and about with them. I've abandoned neck straps for wrist straps. My last film camera was a Nikon F100, and I owned a D7100 for a while. The Z series is kind of letting me down, mostly due to the lens selections. I'm a photographer, not a videographer, so I prefer the X-T3 flip screen.
@artsilva8 ай бұрын
I'll get a Df instead with AF-D lenses for the full ergo process
@ericrjennings8 ай бұрын
Probably a better path
@martinandreasson55048 ай бұрын
Although one of the main complaints about the Df was.....drumroll ...the ergonomics dials and the grip ;) I love it hough, but i also like a lot about the Zf hehe.
@artsilva8 ай бұрын
@@martinandreasson5504 right but you still have aperture rings to use if you choose and every F mount lens ever made to mount natively, no adaptation needed. If one is familiar with Nikon Film bodies like the FE/FM and F/F2 then the Df is no issue to handle. It's when one is raised on modern designs that has gripes about the ergonomics. The Zf no-grip situation is a non issue for many of us who never Had a grip to begin with, and common sense dictates that when you put on heavy lenses you support the kit by the lens and NOT the body, for two reasons; 1) obviously the weight balance in the hand, and 2) keep stress off the mount of the body. It is why heavier telephoto lenses has tripod mount collars. Camera lens mounts can handle it's own amount of weight but not the weight of a heavier lens over time.
@MikePGuitars8 ай бұрын
You saved me a rental fee. These were all exactly the things I’m afraid of. I’m sure for some people it will be exactly (or close enough) to what they want. But not for me. 👍 I hope they sell enough that they continue the line and lean into more vintage style lenses.
@D.Trider8 ай бұрын
Adapted glass on this camera is the best experience by far for the manual experience. The af performance is also amazing when needed. Super versatile with great iq and low light performance.
@emmanouiltzavidas91198 ай бұрын
He is making some valid points. I have this camera for a month and while it is heavy, it came with a Small Rig grip for free that helps a lot. PLUS, manual focusing is really a breeze. Combine it with a lens like the Voigtlander 50 mm APO F2 and it is a really good combo!
@MikePGuitars8 ай бұрын
The subject detection with manual focusing is a pretty genius idea.
@mr.meowmeow5058 ай бұрын
Sounds like you need the grip lol. Shoulda mentioned the black and white function on the dial in your critique of custom buttons. Basically you are comparing a camera that you used for four days to ones that became second appendages. It doesn’t matter what brand you move to, it is going to be different. “I really really want to like this camera.” I think you really really wanted a full frame Fuji. People are fundamentally adverse to change, I think.
@andretim758 ай бұрын
The grip is a complete reminiscence from the Nikon F3 ( just mentioning ) -- that is it ! Of course you need the extre grip when it is supposed to be feeling well. But remember -- one had to handle old Nikon F cameras exactly the same way ....
@niclightfoot43296 ай бұрын
I totally disagree. I have had this camera since it was launched last September and it is the best camera I have ever owned. I also own every Nikon professional film camera from the F to the F6 and I still prefer the Fz. I also own the Nikon FM, FE and FM3A (plus many Nikon DSLRs (too many to list), including the the Df) and I still think the Fz is the best camera Nikon have ever made. In terms of grip, Nikon partnered with SmallRig and had them launch a grip even before the Zf launched. This allows you to chose between the vintage aesthetic or having a modern grip for less than £40. I much prefer this camera to my Fujifilm XT3 and XT4 where I am stuck with a modern body aesthetic. Despite the fact Nikor lenses do not have aperture rings, you can map the focus ring to be an aperture ring - not ideal, but it works really well. I also have the F2Z converter and I can use a lot of my F mount lenses with aperture rings on this camera. I prefer this camera to any of my Olympus or Sony cameras. This is the best camera I own!!!
@ericrjennings6 ай бұрын
Glad you like it. I returned it and haven’t missed it for a second
@gregcorker21938 ай бұрын
Refreshingly earnest review. It’s a great camera, but it’s not for everyone.
@leep51138 ай бұрын
You could buy a Small Rig grip or hold it under the lens like people used to do.
@stevenstoller95478 ай бұрын
I love this camera. You have to buy the accessory grip. 40mm1:2 is fabulous. Couldn't disagree more. Amazing eye/face/3d detection focus. I'm not a manual focus guy. You're about the only guy that has panned this camera-everything I've wanted in a camera. Not overdone and that's why I love it. It's like a cheap Leica and better than the Q2's. Sorry.
@anthonystonehouse8 ай бұрын
I feel like it’s a quirky camera and you need to spend time to learn it. I shot Fuji for 7+ years and Sony for the last year. Not a fan of Sony build and feel but also no longer a fan of Fuji image quality and autofocus. I was hoping the Zf would be the perfect combination of the best of both but when I held it in the store I wasn’t a fan of the ergonomics or control layout. I’m waiting to see what happens and now thinking an s5ii with the sigma primes might be a better solution.
@ericrjennings8 ай бұрын
Glad to hear I’m not alone. I’m a fan of lumix stuff but not sure that’s the style camera I want right now.
@anthonystonehouse8 ай бұрын
@@ericrjennings yeah, me too. I don’t know if there is anything out there right now that stands out with regards to image quality, autofocus, and ergonomics/build quality. I haven’t tried as many brands as you but this year I went through a Fuji xh2 and most of their lens catalogue to a Sony a7iv and now I’ve got a Sony a7 cr. Nice lens options and autofocus but pretty poor build quality and interface.
@ericrjennings8 ай бұрын
@thewanderlustnet I’m a fan of the xh2.
@Cleverconveyence8 ай бұрын
Right now I have it to where if you hold the record button while the ISO wheel is on c that lets you control the ISO with the two control wheels. I think you aren't wrong with all of these things. The lack of first party lenses that are sympatico with the sort of philosophy of this camera is really disappointing. Sure, there are many great third party options like the artralab 35mm 1.4 (which I'm basically deep-throating right now at this point) or a number of more affordable options or less affordable options. It really would be nice if Nikon put out some smaller lenses with manual controls, real manual controls, that sort of fit with the beauty of the ZF. That 35 mm I mentioned looks very much like a Nikon lens from the '80s. There's no reason that Nikon can't give us something with the quality that we expect while also delivering some of the extra features that take advantage of this camera. I also agree on the ergonomics. Whenever I one hand the camera I definitely feel like I'm always going to drop it which is not great. However, i just got a peak design wrist strap and honestly it makes it feel a lot better. Adds a couple pounds to the wrist but takes off all the anxiety. And again, I'm going to echo that. The detachable grip is also nice. Sure, they could have given us a more substantial grip, but it would have made the camera bigger. What they've given us gives us the option of changing the shape of the camera. I like that and I'm really glad they went with that. I also agree that the camera is kind of heavy. People talk about this being a walk around camera but honestly I don't know if I see it that way. I had the Nikon zfc and I was sort of expecting a slightly heavier camera, but it ended up being pretty darn heavy, in the range of the Nikon z6ii. I think I would have sacrificed some of that ruggedness for just a few less ounces of weight overall. But I don't know. Maybe they'll come out with a nicer zfc within body image stabilization and also an APSC line thats worth a shit (24mm 1.7 dx excluded). I just feel like most of your criticisms just boil down to things that can be ameliorated through outside means that aren't totally unreasonable. And who knows what Nikon has in store for us next year in terms of lenses. They probably didn't anticipate the ZF being the huge hit that it was (surely they had to know it would be some sort of success) so it's probably going to change the trajectory of what they put out in terms of glass, but I imagine that will have to wait.
@JaimeDelRio8 ай бұрын
Thanks for making this video. Definitely something I need to consider. Especially since Im a wedding shooter.
@davidmascorro56363 ай бұрын
ok review but a 39.00 grip solves your handling issues if it had a joy stick and wheel you talking about it wouldn't be a retro camera . Leica Q's are hard to hold cause there just flat . it's a good camera for what it is and sometimes these reviews get a bit picky. I still like your videos regardless.
@soulopticc5 ай бұрын
I agree with everything you say here. But then i realised it's not my xt-5 and i shouldn't try to make it my xt-5. Once i understood how it wantef to be used, i found it to be an amazing camera. I can't even l9ok at fuji now 😂 plus the image quality is 👌
@ericrjennings5 ай бұрын
Stay tuned. I might have reversed course since this video
@JK_bnw8 ай бұрын
This is the best review I've seen! Thank you so much for your work; I really appreciate it. I'm searching for a camera that would be more versatile but not far away from my x100 and m10 due to style and philosophy. Definitely Nikon made a 'MeToo' camera. So frustrating.
@joellanden94408 ай бұрын
Hold the ZF and spent time with it in the camera store last week. Not for me. Kind of nice looking at first sight (the front), but the bulky screen hinge and the way the screen is not flushed with the body is ugly. Tested with the 50 1.8, and even though it is a smal lens in Z land it was an enormous bulk and weight difference compared to my X-T5 with 35/1.4.
@ericrjennings8 ай бұрын
So you feel me. That’s how I feel
@tonyhayes98278 ай бұрын
It's not nostalgia. Agree about the lack of grip. I love the weight (just me I know) I take all my photos with two hands. I think using one hand to take a photo is ridiculous; I mean what's the point? Is it a macho male thing? (again, just me) Agree 100% they need aperture on the lens and Fuji has nailed it perfectly - best of both worlds. Nikon is as you say half in, half out Lack of joystick was a really stupid decision by Nikon Anyway the reason I like older film cameras is for their dials. I can immediately see my shutter and aperture before I even turn the camera on. That's it. What no-one likes about old film cameras is the lack of grip. We buy old style cameras for their functionality of using dials to change shutter and aperture. Nikon doesn't have an aperture ring on their AF lenses. Also they've castrated all the things we like about modern cameras. A decent grip. A joystick. I don't think there's anything they can do about it. We might think it looks cool but `cool' is a pretty useless thing if it lacks functionality. I don't think we actually want a retro look per se. It's needs to be distilled down to what it is about retro cameras we like. It's basically the ability to change settings with dials; that's it. I don't think there's actually anything else about retro camera bodies we want. Agree about manual focus lenses. We want auto focus lenses with an aperture ring on them I got invested in digital technology when the Nikon D700 came out. That was the camera that made me give up using film and now I'm invested in Nikon. Because of this I LOVE the Zf. Since getting one my Z6ii with a grip and joystick sits ion the shelf. I find this interesting and offer no explanation other than I just love the Zf despite my complaining.
@ericrjennings8 ай бұрын
The one-handed thing is not about one handed holding but more so about bringing it to your face or carrying it around when not on my shoulder.
@jojolino19858 ай бұрын
I was hoping the size will be more akin to the size of the FM2 and oh boy was I so wrong. ZF is a wanna be retro camera. Retro camera's looks work because of their size, weight and lens selection. ZF's retro look doesn't work because of it's behemoth Z mount, increase in size of the camera and lenses. ZF is a bodybuilder trying to compete in athletics. I am still having fun with the ZF, i've had it since the release, however the fun that i'm having is a bit bitter-sweet.
@ericrjennings8 ай бұрын
Sounds like you understand where I’m coming from
@mangopatch18728 ай бұрын
Regarding the body's lack of grip, which you go on and on about, just get one of the commercially available grips, there are three different options as of this writing. This makes your other point about the lenses moot. Regarding the aperture being on a dial, is that _really_ an issue? Reaching for the dial with your right index finger is quick and simple, whereas turning an aperture ring on the lens is a two-finger operation. About your remaining points: Didn't get to hear them, I had to stop watching, your bitter and forceful diatribe style is not my cup of tea.
@ericrjennings8 ай бұрын
So you must own the camera? I can get a grip and still own the camera. I’m giving it another try before making a decision. My videos are always one-take coffee shop conversation style rants. Most times they’re positive and show images but this video was discussing the ergos and giving a counter point of view.
@rudigerwolf96268 ай бұрын
Eric, you already have the film and digital system. Love your review of the ZF. My first digital was the D300, then D800, then D810. Love Nikon. Really wanted to love the ZF. 30 minutes at the camera store was enough. No aperture ring on lenses, poor ergonomics, why modes?, etc. I’m staying with my existing, well thought out system.
@nathanielcashjr.7328 ай бұрын
I did pick up the camera in the store and almost dropped it I put it back because I couldn't hold it.
@momoz888 ай бұрын
Can you push the front and rear dials like on Fujis?
@doogieham8 ай бұрын
Nope
@kieranplaymusic8 ай бұрын
I’ve had the same experience with the Zf. I really wanted to love this camera but it’s badly let down by the ergonomics and user interface. When I’m out with a camera, all I want to do it take pictures and I feel like the Zf does everything possible to get in my way. I’ve forced myself to use it and get past all the issues but I still can’t get on with it. My plan is to sell it, no idea what to replace it with it yet.
@ericrjennings8 ай бұрын
I did the same. I bought a D780 ( I like DSLR’s ) and an A7C.2
@apocryphal_man4 ай бұрын
If you were looking for an excellent tool, the A7CII or A7 IV is better than eveything else in that price range. But it is totally void of soul and to me it's connected to the photography I NEED to do. It doesn't make me want to pick it up for what I WANT to do. Was hoping the Zf would be my solution but I'm totally with you on the user experience.
@danieljung28107 ай бұрын
Complains the ZF-C is too light, then complains the ZF is too heavy, has no issues shooting the less ergonomic FE film camera, b**chs about not enough buttons, but loves the FE. Complaints about muscle memory after shooting for a week 😅. I shot Nikon DSLR for a decade, shot a Fuji for 5 years, and yeah, guess what, it takes time to switch camera systems. Anytime someone says the video isn’t clickbait yet talks about all the BS clickbait stuff thats obvious smh. Last time watching this guy.
@zjouephoto97238 ай бұрын
I get it but I think your review is really by a passionate Fuji user of another brand camera, so obviously the different settings will grate, just as if I go from Nikon to Sony I have similar issues.
@ericrjennings8 ай бұрын
Not really. It’s a preference of how u like to shoot
@felm.9748 ай бұрын
We all love what we are used to :) I would feel the same about a Fuji, Sony or Canon, lol... yes, it isn't perfect, maybe the next one will be. It is a retro camera, meant to maybe be used with two hands, slowly, not meant to use it as a modern camera in my opinion. The other crazy thing is, people want well made cameras made of metal but don't want them to be heavy, I don't get it, yes, they should have probably made the camera with a better grip and grippier body, but, it is what it is, they will probably do ti better next time :)
@ericrjennings8 ай бұрын
I don’t mind heavy. In fact I love Leica , it’s more the grip material, body size, lens sizes, and grip
@RogierYou8 ай бұрын
I went to the store today and had a look trough the viewfinder and dit not like it.
@laika258 ай бұрын
Will you be using your manual Nikkor lenses? Care to recommend a suitable adapter?
@ericrjennings8 ай бұрын
I haven’t searched for one yet
@jtes14428 ай бұрын
I’m a Nikon user and had the ZF for a week and returned it due to the terrible ergonomics. If it had a better grip like the XT5 (which I also own ) that has a nice thumb rest, joystick, and better functionality, I would have kept it. Bottom line, I decided to return it and wait on the Z6III. In the meantime, I have my XT5 for family time and travel.
@ericrjennings8 ай бұрын
I get it!
@amosk248 ай бұрын
WhY CaNt I fInD a ViRgIn wHo'S gOoD iN tHe SaCk!?
@bertyboy71265 ай бұрын
Its not hard if you dont like the ergos dont buy it , to me you seem like a fuji assassin ! just stick to your fuji , the zf is a awsome camera
@ericrjennings5 ай бұрын
Ok 👍
@janromo97538 ай бұрын
I love the Zf, but there is something about it that just is not quite there. IQ I feel lacking behind only slight heavier (once you have Smallrig on it) Leica SL2S, and frankly the AF has been a bit of a nightmare, it picks one subject up well, and tracks it. But my leica does that too, (does not track as well), but that is something I can live with. Especially when the overall ergos/menus are so much more of a joy to use on a Leica. What I do love is the TMZ-02 adapter, makes manual lenses quite fun to use. Actually manually focusing with the focus trap is fun on this camera, but I find that actually hitting the right button to zoom in on the focus very cumbersome on this Fuji. As Eric mentions the menus and trying to customize on this camera I find to be very very annoying and so complex. Anyway, price/quality etc for this price, it’s quite amazing. Bring on some more of the Z mount 2.0 primes and I will be much happier!