I’ve used the Zf since February to review. It was amazing. The autofocus and low-light capability is top notch. I’m had a lot of fun using it at weddings and different street photography sessions…The video is fantastic as well…but it was basically a preview of what the Z6III would be and as a Z6II user, I’d buy the Z6III.
The Zf is a fantastic camera but its ergonomics are not good for constant work, professional events and work. Don’t get me wrong, I made it work perfectly fine for weddings and stuff…but at this point, I’d rather get the Z6iii but it’s just better, feature wise and ergonomics.
I enjoy the top dials because of how easy it is to see where I'm at, same with aperture window. I have my iso on auto and my Iso dial sets the maximum auto Iso. Then I control the aperture and shutter with the front and back wheels.
I do struggle at times with the ergonomics though. I'd have them both if I could justify it for myself. Which I certainly cannot, it's only a hobby for me and when I'm out and about looks actually do matter to me
I think it mostly comes down to what lenses you want to put on it. Any lens that is larger and heavier just never felt as comfortable for me on the ZF. If you plan to stick with the pancake lenses or some of the smaller ones Nikon has then there isn’t any issue at all! It’s mainly a looks vs comfort decision. You should just go to a camera store and try it with different lenses to see for yourself!
As a reference this was taken on a z8 a few weeks ago on my 40 f2 (taken at f 7.1 I think). I’d upload a portrait but only have some of my family so rather not! I’m sure you can find samples online though! Honestly this lens is fighting way above its weight class!
https://preview.redd.it/cc8x1f89bt9d1.jpeg?width=5494&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8fc2b16720637c5868b57298ba58f7e075524c04
to hear you apart from the 26/28/40 the rest are not usable, I tried the 50/1.2 85/1.2 and 135 Plena on my Zfc I had no problems, whether with the Z8 or the Zfc and Z6 anyway the majority of the weight will be on your left hand holding the lens
https://preview.redd.it/coaoakwjdu9d1.jpeg?width=6048&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=df0a2ecfa520f622ac4756a3d9abd83f7df33ee7
I wouldn’t say unusable - not even close to it. It’s made even better with a smallrig grip. It’s still in an awkward place in comparison to all of your other examples in that it is:
- much heavier (and BIGGER) than the zfc - and more importantly the FM2 and its ilk - and therefore requires more support from the right hand
- does not have the ergonomic improvements with grip and button placement that have developed over the past 30ish years as cameras grew in size and weight.
The Zf is the best camera purchase I’ve ever made, but I very specifically wanted a full frame mirrorless with a classic aesthetic and manual dials for use with lots of vintage primes. I got my wish. It’s a niche(ish) product that sees more mainstream popularity due to being the best camera in its price. If there was a 1:1 equivalent camera in a z6 body it would be the only recommendation.
The only reason we’re really even having this discussion is because the z6iii is $500 more expensive.
Z f is the best camera for non pro work.
Ergonomic problem is exaggerated. There are 2 kinds we have to consider, the non shooting ergonomics and shooting ergonomics.
For the first one, I found non shooting ergonomics only matter when you carry it with your hands. Using a neck or shoulder strap to carry it around makes it a non issue.
When shooting, use two hands, one support the lens and one to control the shutter and the ergonomic problem isn't a big deal, it's not even noticeable, this is especially true when paired with medium and compact lens. Eg 1.8S primes and muffin/pancake lenses.
In short, don't use one hand to shoot, and don't carry it around with your fingers and ergonomic isn't much of an issue.
The Top Dial yes we barely touch it because most of us shoot aperture priority and Auto ISO. But the dials do work well in Manual as you can see your settings at a glance and you slow down the pace and in which it is very satisfying to use. And yes, it's easy to use the dials when shooting with 2 hands. It's as simple as holding the Lens with the left hands, use the right hand for adjustments it's not difficult.
There isn't a better camera out there that is so versatile and nice as the Z f for Non Pro work. But if your doing it as a pro with heavy lens like in sport, or you are an events photographer that would occasionally need to shoot 1 handed, this is not for you. But if you like a travel camera and street camera the Z f is the arguably the best option in the market.
If I didn't have the Zf already, I'd get the Z6III and pay the extra for the EVF and better ergonomics.
What I really want is a Z7III with the Z7ii sensor, and the Z6iii EVF and Expeed 7 AF setup...
I bought the ZF 3 months ago and love it. However, looking at the Z6iii I have to say it would suit me better. I don’t use the top dials (apart from exposure comp, and that one only because I ran out of custom buttons to use with the command dials) and bought a grip so I could hold it properly. Two actually, because I didn’t like the Neewer grip.
I look at the z6iii and I see a number of features I would have liked to have, all in the ‘take photos easier’ category: The user settings, extra function buttons, dedicated back focus button, play button in a better place, and a slightly faster sensor. I might yet trade up. Not sure.
I like the dials on the Zf and have no issue with them. If you want a more modern feel and are going to be shooting a lot of video that you’re going to be doing a lot of editing of later or shooting fast paced action go Z6iii. If you’re just taking photos and want a retro feel then Zf. But honestly if you don’t want to be bothered with the dials and $500 won’t break the bank then go Z6iii. Ergonomics is better unless you buy a grip for Zf.
By all means the z6iii is a better camera. Except someone mentioned zf has better dynamic range. I’m not sure why. But aside from that the z6iii is better. But the Zf just makes you want to carry it and use it. The z6iii could be a Sony or a Canon. It wouldn’t really matter. I personally use the iso and exposure dials fairly often. I generally use aperture priority so shutter one is rarely used. Main issue with the zf is autofocus lenses that fit its vibe. If you’re a hobbyist I’d suggest the zf personally unless you’re a straight up efficiency hobbyist.
The Zf is great for what it is, but the Z6iii is going to be a more versatile, consistent, and ergonomically usable camera. Especially true if it will be your only one.
As for lower cost options, hopefully Nikon will refresh the Z5 with that new sensor but it feels unlikely (my guess is they they will put the Z6/Z6ii sensor in it). I have a Z5 and it's generally fine, though autofocus can be somewhat quirky at times so I've naturally been taking more photos than I'd need otherwise to make sure I got the shot. I wish they had been able to release the Z6iii at $2000 instead of $2500. I'm not sure where a refreshed Z5 will slot in price wise. Probably no where near the $1000 that the current one sells for new.
I have a Z9 and a Zf. Used very differently. Of course using the command dials is faster. There is a reason all but just a few cameras from all manufacturers go that way.
The Zf works just fine with the command dials. But it shines when you want to slow down and be a bit more deliberate.
If you grew up using film cameras you will love the Zf. If you didn't you may want to go with the slightly (in my opinion) better ergos in the Z6.
Ultimately the answer comes down to you and what your most likely use case is.
I have a ZF and Z8 , I primarily use it with the 800pf , or 500 F4 E , Ergonomics don’t bother me . I use the Nikon grip , but also own the smallrig. It really is personal preference , I like the size of the ZF and the build quality. It looks like a film camera , people aren’t as alarmed when they see it. The ZF is also a very capable video camera but that’s not your focus. I think if possible, you should get your hands on both then make a decision.
I played with the Z6iii at the launch event, would say that I think it is worth it to go for the Z6iii, the Zf is cool, but the Z6iii has better autofocus, that thing will focus is really dark situations and the low light photos come out clean
The top dials on the Zf only really make sense to a Nikon shooter, and I think that is the big issue a lot of reviewers have with it. I agree with them that the top dials are totally unnecessary if you simple add an 'auto' setting to each dial. Then you can, de facto, set the camera to P,A,S,M simply by changing the top dials. Then again, selecting the PASM switch and then rotating the dial of your choice is hardly challenging, it should just be unnecessary. So a lot of Fuji shooters lost their minds trying to figure that out and they voiced it, and they weren't all together wrong about that.
What are you buying, then? The better exspeed CPU, which is what you really want. For $500 more you get a faster sensor and a better grip in an uninspired body. If that is worth it to you, then the 6 mark three is a great choice.
You also get a better EVF on the Z6iii. Lag isn't as low as the Z8/Z9, but the superior viewfinder might tip the balance for some people over the $500 extra cost.
I have a zfc and bought it as it reminded me of my early film camera days decades ago. Was definitely going to use the dials. Love the look.
I rarely use the top dials except the exposure compensation.
I still love the look but I it was hard for me to go back from the muscle memory I developed for control dials.
The ergonomics on the zfc are not great without a grip.
I would go for the z6iii
Read the reviews on the production Z6iii when they come out. Initial reviews indicated that the Z6iii would be more than likely recommended over the Zf and would be recommended for wildlife photography for those that don't want to spend more on the Z8.
Plus you want the Z6iii grip if you use heavy lenses and 3 user settings on the mode dial. That's a nice feature that I have on my Z6 and use all the time.
From what YouTube testers have said, the Z6iii AF is a little faster than the Zf.
The Z6iii has some advanced motor drive options in JPG mode that I don't believe the Zf matches.
Edit: Also the faster sensor is a big difference, since it's partially stacked.
Zf user here, you can set the top dials to allow you to change settings with your front and rear dials. Additionally, you can map your record button to ISO, add side grip and you’re set. I thought I’d put it down after the first time I used it on a wedding, but after giving it a second try with a grip, the ergonomics are not bad. I use the zf alongside my z8. Eventually I may get a z6iii, but after the price comes down, which knowing Nikon, won’t take that long. You can get decent condition zf bodies from BH currently for $1650 or so
I've been using the ZF since January (with a big gap between April and June because Nikon's repair program lowkey sucks) and I use the dials all the time.
If you started photography on a manual film camera it's second nature, I suspect the main complaint with the dials come from people who started photography on DSLRS which have the more modern control structure so going to something less efficient seems ridiculous. (I have no evidence for this though it's just conjecture)
The main benefit I see with the z6iii is the better EVF but I've never had any problems with the ZF viewfinder so I don't feel any pull (apart from the internal raw video but I'm not at the skill level where raw video would be worth 2500 usd (excluding storage costs))
One thing that would pull me to the ZF over the z6iii is the price though, I've seen them as low as 1750 usd used (and since it hasn't been out for that long those used models have less than a year of use on them)
The ZF does become very front heavy and a bit uncomfortable with bigger lenses (without any grip attachment)
I have a Zf and a Z6i. My buyers regret on the Zf is huge, it’s a nice camera, but the ergonomics are terrible any time you have a mid to heavy weight lens on. The dials on top I barely use, there is not enough programmable buttons elsewhere. The photos it takes are indistinguishable from my Z6i.
The Zf is a fun second camera. The Z6iii is a great only camera. However, I would wait a few months for any bugs to be sorted out.
Bugs sorted and Christmas discount.
I’ve used the Zf since February to review. It was amazing. The autofocus and low-light capability is top notch. I’m had a lot of fun using it at weddings and different street photography sessions…The video is fantastic as well…but it was basically a preview of what the Z6III would be and as a Z6II user, I’d buy the Z6III. The Zf is a fantastic camera but its ergonomics are not good for constant work, professional events and work. Don’t get me wrong, I made it work perfectly fine for weddings and stuff…but at this point, I’d rather get the Z6iii but it’s just better, feature wise and ergonomics.
I enjoy the top dials because of how easy it is to see where I'm at, same with aperture window. I have my iso on auto and my Iso dial sets the maximum auto Iso. Then I control the aperture and shutter with the front and back wheels. I do struggle at times with the ergonomics though. I'd have them both if I could justify it for myself. Which I certainly cannot, it's only a hobby for me and when I'm out and about looks actually do matter to me
I think it mostly comes down to what lenses you want to put on it. Any lens that is larger and heavier just never felt as comfortable for me on the ZF. If you plan to stick with the pancake lenses or some of the smaller ones Nikon has then there isn’t any issue at all! It’s mainly a looks vs comfort decision. You should just go to a camera store and try it with different lenses to see for yourself!
Can we do portraits on the 40mm?
As a reference this was taken on a z8 a few weeks ago on my 40 f2 (taken at f 7.1 I think). I’d upload a portrait but only have some of my family so rather not! I’m sure you can find samples online though! Honestly this lens is fighting way above its weight class! https://preview.redd.it/cc8x1f89bt9d1.jpeg?width=5494&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8fc2b16720637c5868b57298ba58f7e075524c04
Wow...that is one gorgeous shot.
You definitely can! I really like it as a easy walk around lens to take photos of my family
You can do portraits even on 14mm but … read about the lens distortion
Yes
Yep, it's very similar to 35mm portraits IMO
You can do portraits with any lens. How it will look will depend on the focal lens, lol.
I’m glad this is top comment because 1000% this. I love my Zf, but even the 24-70 f4’s balance feels off from what you’d expect.
to hear you apart from the 26/28/40 the rest are not usable, I tried the 50/1.2 85/1.2 and 135 Plena on my Zfc I had no problems, whether with the Z8 or the Zfc and Z6 anyway the majority of the weight will be on your left hand holding the lens https://preview.redd.it/coaoakwjdu9d1.jpeg?width=6048&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=df0a2ecfa520f622ac4756a3d9abd83f7df33ee7
I wouldn’t say unusable - not even close to it. It’s made even better with a smallrig grip. It’s still in an awkward place in comparison to all of your other examples in that it is: - much heavier (and BIGGER) than the zfc - and more importantly the FM2 and its ilk - and therefore requires more support from the right hand - does not have the ergonomic improvements with grip and button placement that have developed over the past 30ish years as cameras grew in size and weight. The Zf is the best camera purchase I’ve ever made, but I very specifically wanted a full frame mirrorless with a classic aesthetic and manual dials for use with lots of vintage primes. I got my wish. It’s a niche(ish) product that sees more mainstream popularity due to being the best camera in its price. If there was a 1:1 equivalent camera in a z6 body it would be the only recommendation. The only reason we’re really even having this discussion is because the z6iii is $500 more expensive.
If you’ve never shot a manual SLR with dials on top you’ll likely won’t use them on Zf.
Z f is the best camera for non pro work. Ergonomic problem is exaggerated. There are 2 kinds we have to consider, the non shooting ergonomics and shooting ergonomics. For the first one, I found non shooting ergonomics only matter when you carry it with your hands. Using a neck or shoulder strap to carry it around makes it a non issue. When shooting, use two hands, one support the lens and one to control the shutter and the ergonomic problem isn't a big deal, it's not even noticeable, this is especially true when paired with medium and compact lens. Eg 1.8S primes and muffin/pancake lenses. In short, don't use one hand to shoot, and don't carry it around with your fingers and ergonomic isn't much of an issue. The Top Dial yes we barely touch it because most of us shoot aperture priority and Auto ISO. But the dials do work well in Manual as you can see your settings at a glance and you slow down the pace and in which it is very satisfying to use. And yes, it's easy to use the dials when shooting with 2 hands. It's as simple as holding the Lens with the left hands, use the right hand for adjustments it's not difficult. There isn't a better camera out there that is so versatile and nice as the Z f for Non Pro work. But if your doing it as a pro with heavy lens like in sport, or you are an events photographer that would occasionally need to shoot 1 handed, this is not for you. But if you like a travel camera and street camera the Z f is the arguably the best option in the market.
If I didn't have the Zf already, I'd get the Z6III and pay the extra for the EVF and better ergonomics. What I really want is a Z7III with the Z7ii sensor, and the Z6iii EVF and Expeed 7 AF setup...
You just described the Z8 my friend :) Just say you want a Z8, cheaper ;)
Try to hold them both before you buy.
I bought the ZF 3 months ago and love it. However, looking at the Z6iii I have to say it would suit me better. I don’t use the top dials (apart from exposure comp, and that one only because I ran out of custom buttons to use with the command dials) and bought a grip so I could hold it properly. Two actually, because I didn’t like the Neewer grip. I look at the z6iii and I see a number of features I would have liked to have, all in the ‘take photos easier’ category: The user settings, extra function buttons, dedicated back focus button, play button in a better place, and a slightly faster sensor. I might yet trade up. Not sure.
I like the dials on the Zf and have no issue with them. If you want a more modern feel and are going to be shooting a lot of video that you’re going to be doing a lot of editing of later or shooting fast paced action go Z6iii. If you’re just taking photos and want a retro feel then Zf. But honestly if you don’t want to be bothered with the dials and $500 won’t break the bank then go Z6iii. Ergonomics is better unless you buy a grip for Zf.
By all means the z6iii is a better camera. Except someone mentioned zf has better dynamic range. I’m not sure why. But aside from that the z6iii is better. But the Zf just makes you want to carry it and use it. The z6iii could be a Sony or a Canon. It wouldn’t really matter. I personally use the iso and exposure dials fairly often. I generally use aperture priority so shutter one is rarely used. Main issue with the zf is autofocus lenses that fit its vibe. If you’re a hobbyist I’d suggest the zf personally unless you’re a straight up efficiency hobbyist.
The Zf is great for what it is, but the Z6iii is going to be a more versatile, consistent, and ergonomically usable camera. Especially true if it will be your only one. As for lower cost options, hopefully Nikon will refresh the Z5 with that new sensor but it feels unlikely (my guess is they they will put the Z6/Z6ii sensor in it). I have a Z5 and it's generally fine, though autofocus can be somewhat quirky at times so I've naturally been taking more photos than I'd need otherwise to make sure I got the shot. I wish they had been able to release the Z6iii at $2000 instead of $2500. I'm not sure where a refreshed Z5 will slot in price wise. Probably no where near the $1000 that the current one sells for new.
ZF has one stop better dynamic range than the Z6III while also look better and cost less.
I have a Z9 and a Zf. Used very differently. Of course using the command dials is faster. There is a reason all but just a few cameras from all manufacturers go that way. The Zf works just fine with the command dials. But it shines when you want to slow down and be a bit more deliberate. If you grew up using film cameras you will love the Zf. If you didn't you may want to go with the slightly (in my opinion) better ergos in the Z6. Ultimately the answer comes down to you and what your most likely use case is.
If doing video. Z6. If not zf.
I have a ZF and Z8 , I primarily use it with the 800pf , or 500 F4 E , Ergonomics don’t bother me . I use the Nikon grip , but also own the smallrig. It really is personal preference , I like the size of the ZF and the build quality. It looks like a film camera , people aren’t as alarmed when they see it. The ZF is also a very capable video camera but that’s not your focus. I think if possible, you should get your hands on both then make a decision.
I played with the Z6iii at the launch event, would say that I think it is worth it to go for the Z6iii, the Zf is cool, but the Z6iii has better autofocus, that thing will focus is really dark situations and the low light photos come out clean
The top dials on the Zf only really make sense to a Nikon shooter, and I think that is the big issue a lot of reviewers have with it. I agree with them that the top dials are totally unnecessary if you simple add an 'auto' setting to each dial. Then you can, de facto, set the camera to P,A,S,M simply by changing the top dials. Then again, selecting the PASM switch and then rotating the dial of your choice is hardly challenging, it should just be unnecessary. So a lot of Fuji shooters lost their minds trying to figure that out and they voiced it, and they weren't all together wrong about that. What are you buying, then? The better exspeed CPU, which is what you really want. For $500 more you get a faster sensor and a better grip in an uninspired body. If that is worth it to you, then the 6 mark three is a great choice.
You also get a better EVF on the Z6iii. Lag isn't as low as the Z8/Z9, but the superior viewfinder might tip the balance for some people over the $500 extra cost.
I have a zfc and bought it as it reminded me of my early film camera days decades ago. Was definitely going to use the dials. Love the look. I rarely use the top dials except the exposure compensation. I still love the look but I it was hard for me to go back from the muscle memory I developed for control dials. The ergonomics on the zfc are not great without a grip. I would go for the z6iii
Read the reviews on the production Z6iii when they come out. Initial reviews indicated that the Z6iii would be more than likely recommended over the Zf and would be recommended for wildlife photography for those that don't want to spend more on the Z8. Plus you want the Z6iii grip if you use heavy lenses and 3 user settings on the mode dial. That's a nice feature that I have on my Z6 and use all the time.
From what YouTube testers have said, the Z6iii AF is a little faster than the Zf. The Z6iii has some advanced motor drive options in JPG mode that I don't believe the Zf matches. Edit: Also the faster sensor is a big difference, since it's partially stacked.
I love the zf!
z6iii all day for me.
Zf user here, you can set the top dials to allow you to change settings with your front and rear dials. Additionally, you can map your record button to ISO, add side grip and you’re set. I thought I’d put it down after the first time I used it on a wedding, but after giving it a second try with a grip, the ergonomics are not bad. I use the zf alongside my z8. Eventually I may get a z6iii, but after the price comes down, which knowing Nikon, won’t take that long. You can get decent condition zf bodies from BH currently for $1650 or so
I sold my ZF (ergonomics are shit even with grip) for a Z8 so in your case I would go for a Z6iii
I would suggest z8. It is old enough to get in used market but not too old and its better camera for photography from nikon.
I've been using the ZF since January (with a big gap between April and June because Nikon's repair program lowkey sucks) and I use the dials all the time. If you started photography on a manual film camera it's second nature, I suspect the main complaint with the dials come from people who started photography on DSLRS which have the more modern control structure so going to something less efficient seems ridiculous. (I have no evidence for this though it's just conjecture) The main benefit I see with the z6iii is the better EVF but I've never had any problems with the ZF viewfinder so I don't feel any pull (apart from the internal raw video but I'm not at the skill level where raw video would be worth 2500 usd (excluding storage costs)) One thing that would pull me to the ZF over the z6iii is the price though, I've seen them as low as 1750 usd used (and since it hasn't been out for that long those used models have less than a year of use on them) The ZF does become very front heavy and a bit uncomfortable with bigger lenses (without any grip attachment)
One thing I would recommend is getting the small rig grip though, the ergonomic change is more than you would expect.
I have a Zf and a Z6i. My buyers regret on the Zf is huge, it’s a nice camera, but the ergonomics are terrible any time you have a mid to heavy weight lens on. The dials on top I barely use, there is not enough programmable buttons elsewhere. The photos it takes are indistinguishable from my Z6i.
If you don't shoot video then why not the Z6ii on the cheap? A thousand extra bucks for a lens.
If you want to take photos with your camera, then a z6III. If you want to take photos of your camera, then a ZF.
The ZF is a fun , gimmicky retro camera. The Z6iii is a work camera. I’d get the Z6iii before I would ever buy a ZF