I've been hunting about for feedback regarding the WCL X70 on the X100V, and honestly, this video sold it for me. Between 7:00 and 9:10, I really see the lens shine for what it's designed for, and that's those sweeping shots of the land juxtaposing the seemingly tiny people you see in frame, making the scene feel so much larger than life. What I am surprised about is that you relied so heavily on AF. MF is paramount, especially if you want to tap into the greatest potential for your X100V. Focus peaking is wonderful for that (I have mine on low yellow - also available on the Nikon ZF since I'm aware I'm a year late for this party). You'll find you have it eventually set to similar distances over time and make minor tweaks as you go - depending on the scene - making the process a lot more seamless. All in all, great video; a few wonderful results from your journey. Thank you so much Dan.
Exactly. I took advantage of a recent refurbished sale through Nikon and got the zf for less than the x-t5. When you look at lenses, it's pretty comparable if you don't mind buying used
I can’t bring myself to sell my X100v because I love its form factor and features so much. I’m in the Nikon system anyway so Zf will definitely be added for its full frame goodness but still can’t see myself letting go of the x100v. Nice video and images 👍
I’m in the same boat, except that for now at least, I’m keeping the X100V and I also bought the Zf. So far I’m really enjoying the Nikon, but I don’t think it’s going to replace the X100V.
Dan, great job. Really enjoyed your detailed review of the Zf & the images produced. Just got turned onto your channel from John & Mark over at Street Life podcast after John took part in your cheap camera challenge & mentioned it on the show. As an existing Nikon Z6ii user (love the 40mm f2), I may have to look at adding the Zf to my collection. Keep up the great work.
14:06 wow what an incredible shot. Oh, as it happens I looked at an X100VI but availability and seeing the Zf's files pushed me into camp Nikon. I don't find the ergos to be as big of a complaint as most folks, but to be fair the last camera I purchased was an F3HP about a decade ago.
Zf has turned out to be a fine body for the way I shoot it - manual exposure with Auto ISO (set up so dial controls MAXIMUM allowable ISO), manual focus with small primes, subject detection with vid button for zoom. Main lenses are Voigt 15 Heliar Z, Voigt 50 APO Z, Voigt 28 Ultron M, Nikon 105/2.8 Micro. These handle fine without a grip. I attach a grip when I need to use big AF zooms, but will probably get a Z6III for that.
Really nice video and photos. I just got the Zf a few days ago. Definitely a learning curve. But, I think I will learn to love this camera as I get to know it better and use it more. I have an X-T5 which I bought when I couldn't get an X100VI. No regrets. It's a wonderful camera in so many ways. Btw, I have the 100VI on order since March and B&H just wrote me to let me know that they expect to ship it to me in mid December. Woah? What? Kinda ridiculous. I bought the Zf as it will be almost another 1/2 year to receive it and I had a bit (maybe more than a bit) of GAS. I really wanted to try out a full frame camera and the reviews were awesome for the Zf. Really pleased so far. I totally agree that the weight becomes objectionable when pairing the Zf with a larger lens (and lens are quite heavy in the Nikon world. I bought the Nikon 26mm f2.8 and the Nikon S 50 mm f1.8. I love the quality of the 50mm but it is too heavy to want to walk around with it all day. The 26 is teeny and easy to live with. I have two smaller Voigtlander's on the way, the smallish 90mm f2.8 Apo-Skopar and the tiny 40mm Nokton f1.4. They are both Leica M lens so I also have on order the Techart AF Adapter. The 40 and the adapter are coming tomorrow. The 90 next week. If I am at peace with the size/weight of my lens for the Zf, I believe it is likely to replace the T5. The image quality, AF, Stabilization and Low Light function are all superior to the Fuji. Btw, I weighed the Zf with the Neewer Grip and the 26mm (which is 4.4oz) against the Fuji with the Small Rig Grip and the rather light Sigma F18-50 and the Zf was only 1/2 oz heavier. I hope you are still enjoying the Zf. Be well.
I have gobbled up Zf reviews both before and after I bought my own, I always learn a little. With your critique I learned a lot and really liked your images. Curiously I already had three Voigts I used on other cameras and they swapped right over and again I really liked your stuff and now know I have a ways to go. Thanks.
You've got some superb shots in this video, most of them actually, well done! I loved the use of wide angle lense in the motor race, a sport where others usually tend to try and get as close as possible with long lenses, your wide angle shots, especially in B&W, really stands out! About to sell my X-H2S and make a switch back to Nikon (where I started in 2006). The X-H2S is a superb camera but I just can't help it, I believe the Fuji lens system is the most boring of all the brands. And endless stream of slightly different lenses between 23mm and 56mm... I know I am probabaly alone in thinking that though.
Great story and super great images! I am a Fuji photographer since a few years but originally used Nikon cameras for my whole life. I am also about to buy a ZF but will definitely keep my Fuji cameras as a compact and lightweight kit.
You can get focus confirmation with M mount lenses if you use an adapter like the TTartisan M-Z 6 bit adapter which transmits the lens data to the body.
Thanks for this thoughtful, articulate review. I too am looking for higher quality compact 28mm lenses for the Z system if I were to get the Zf. It would be great if you could do a review of how the Nikon Z 28 mm f/2.8 plastic "muffin lens" compares in IQ with the M-mount manual Voigtlander 28mm f/2 Ultron, the adapter you used on the Zf, and how the Ultron's corners hold up when shooting close to wide open on the Zf. The new Voigt 28 mm f/1.5 Nokton M looks very interesting but has pretty bad fringing in early reviews--- I hope Cosina release a Z mount version soon. I'd also be interested to see the bag you use for your "light" walks and street shooting with the Zf and how you pack two to three lenses without getting overloaded with heavy cumbersome gear. I've subscribed and look forward to following your Zf & manual lens journey.
@@danthe_cameraman Are you seeing good sharpness and contrast even in the corners when shooting the Ultron 28mm f/2 M on your Zf wide open? I have read reviews that on Sony E mount there are bad smearing and fringing in the corners, with vignetting, when using wide angle M glass.
The Zf is a banger of a camera, i'll have one someday. I have the Z6 and Zfc, I really enjoy the Zfc for birding with the big lens and have been really impressed by the sensor coming from a older D7100 and having a Z6 (same sensor as Zf). I just wish it was weather sealed.
Nice images and this is a well-planned and well-delivered presentation. A quick question: Why did you tape over and hide the Nikon name and the Zf logo? Looking forward to your future presentations!
The closest thing to a deal breaker with this camera is that cursed flippy screen. I hate it with a red hot passion and it definitely detracts from the user experience significantly. And my hate is worsening over time so I might opt for the Z6iii if they don't mess it up with a flippy screen, too. A flippy screen on a stills retro camera? What were they thinking?
Please show us know how the adapted Minolta glass work out, as I have several prize lenses I got in Japan in the '80's that I am considering getting this Zf for reusing them.
how tf are you getting those colors?? so good, seriously. like in 13:20 are you using a color profile? or preset in Lightroom? I just bought this camera and my colors don't look like this. please help lol. great content btw
Great photos, especially your B&Ws. I’m torn on this ZF. I immediately jumped to preorder it when it was announced. But when i was able to hold it and use it at a store’s demo event, i was really put off by the poor grip or ergonomics. I do have the 28 mm and 40mm primes so could rely heavily on those. I’m waiting to see what the Z6iii will be and cost, then probably decide between them. Was using Fujis for a few years but moved on to Nikon Zs and have been much happier with experience and results. Question - are you using highlight priority exposure in many of these pics? Seems like you work the highlights well.
I own ZF and am on the waiting list for the X1 100vi would you take your name off? Is there any opportunity to use Fujifilm once you’ve already gotten used to and invested in the Nikon?
Not to sound like an old curmudgeon, but most 35mm cameras of the 70s, 80,s and 90s, didn't have a grip. We had no problem hand holding the K1000s, F3hps, and various other brands of cameras even mounted with a heavy zoom lens, I think it is something you get used to if you use that camera long enough. Edit: Go Cincy Bearcats!!
I own a Nikon FM2 which is basically the same design but there is a significant weight difference especially once you attach glass - its everything has gotten heavier
You have the entire nikon Z lens lineup available. Plus Nikon F lenses with an adapter, or any other lens (modern or vintage) with adpaters. You can even get an adapter that autofocuses for you. But even when using simple MF adapters, the focus confirmation with zoom and eye detect works. It's pretty amazing.
X100 is smaller but sooo limiting in comparison and smaller sensor. And brutally overpriced. I'm sure Dan sold his V to somebody with more money than sense for about the same cost as the Zf. Sold mine a over a year ago for more than I paid for it. When I need a camera that is actually pocketable, I take my Griii.
Wow.. That is a bold statement, Been using the first edition and the fourth of X100, gotta say. Its not my main camera, good but not good enough. Versatile? Such a joke. I’ve been using 1DX and and 1Ds before you even touch a camera maybe, X100 is not that versatile.
awesome pictures youre a real photografer
Thank you!
I just got a ZF because I couldn’t get an X100V6 ..and now I’m glad I couldn’t get it .. The ZF is amazing 🤩 💯
Hell yeah, glad you're enjoying it!
Best pictures i’ve seen on all the reviews on the ZF. You’re a great photographer
Great video. The ZF looks like a fantastic camera. I look forward to more ZF content from you. Thanks.
An amazing camera I'm very happy, thanks for watching!
Bro! Great shots! I have the ZF too. I'm totally in love with it. My xt5 can finally go. If Nikon would bring out a rangefinder vision 🤯
Nice man, would love to see a Nikon rangefinder!
So, you like Nikon better than Fuji?
I've been hunting about for feedback regarding the WCL X70 on the X100V, and honestly, this video sold it for me.
Between 7:00 and 9:10, I really see the lens shine for what it's designed for, and that's those sweeping shots of the land juxtaposing the seemingly tiny people you see in frame, making the scene feel so much larger than life.
What I am surprised about is that you relied so heavily on AF. MF is paramount, especially if you want to tap into the greatest potential for your X100V. Focus peaking is wonderful for that (I have mine on low yellow - also available on the Nikon ZF since I'm aware I'm a year late for this party). You'll find you have it eventually set to similar distances over time and make minor tweaks as you go - depending on the scene - making the process a lot more seamless.
All in all, great video; a few wonderful results from your journey. Thank you so much Dan.
Really liked this video, you have a great eye! I've been looking into getting the ZF for a while now and this was the best video I've seen about it:)
At X100VI / X100V pricing, I really can't justify NOT going Full Frame...For EDC I'd rather use my GR IIIX or iPhone
It's hard not to jump across!
And - interchangeable lenses!
Good point. Here in the Japan the price of the Fuji is way too high, close to the price of the Zf, so it was an easy decision.
Exactly. I took advantage of a recent refurbished sale through Nikon and got the zf for less than the x-t5. When you look at lenses, it's pretty comparable if you don't mind buying used
You could use the TT artisan 6-bit m-to-z adapter for a connection of M lenses and get the focus confirmation. That's what I use, works very well.
4:57 really had me worried I was tripping out... great video though, good to see some love on here for something other than the X100V(I)
So was I 😅 thanks for running in!
That pelican shot is so good! More -wildlife- wild streetlife photos please 😁
😆😆 Street wildlife for the street wildlife camera
I can’t bring myself to sell my X100v because I love its form factor and features so much. I’m in the Nikon system anyway so Zf will definitely be added for its full frame goodness but still can’t see myself letting go of the x100v. Nice video and images 👍
Nothing wrong with the 100 series but I found it wasn't benefiting my direction. Full frame on the street is something else though!
I’m in the same boat, except that for now at least, I’m keeping the X100V and I also bought the Zf. So far I’m really enjoying the Nikon, but I don’t think it’s going to replace the X100V.
I have a zf. Grip is not an issue with small lenses, and for larger lenses I use a bigger add-on grip. Flip out screen is better.
All personal preference but like I said too, its not an issue with small lenses
Saw you rockin that UC sweatshirt. Wasn’t expecting anyone from Australia wearing something from my alma mater 👌
Dan, great job. Really enjoyed your detailed review of the Zf & the images produced. Just got turned onto your channel from John & Mark over at Street Life podcast after John took part in your cheap camera challenge & mentioned it on the show. As an existing Nikon Z6ii user (love the 40mm f2), I may have to look at adding the Zf to my collection. Keep up the great work.
Thanks for checking my review out!
14:06 wow what an incredible shot. Oh, as it happens I looked at an X100VI but availability and seeing the Zf's files pushed me into camp Nikon. I don't find the ergos to be as big of a complaint as most folks, but to be fair the last camera I purchased was an F3HP about a decade ago.
X100 series are great cameras but the Z f is a league above especially when you consider the price
Zf has turned out to be a fine body for the way I shoot it - manual exposure with Auto ISO (set up so dial controls MAXIMUM allowable ISO), manual focus with small primes, subject detection with vid button for zoom. Main lenses are Voigt 15 Heliar Z, Voigt 50 APO Z, Voigt 28 Ultron M, Nikon 105/2.8 Micro. These handle fine without a grip. I attach a grip when I need to use big AF zooms, but will probably get a Z6III for that.
Nice honest review - welcome to Nikon!
-PD
Thanks man!
Really nice video and photos. I just got the Zf a few days ago. Definitely a learning curve. But, I think I will learn to love this camera as I get to know it better and use it more. I have an X-T5 which I bought when I couldn't get an X100VI. No regrets. It's a wonderful camera in so many ways. Btw, I have the 100VI on order since March and B&H just wrote me to let me know that they expect to ship it to me in mid December. Woah? What? Kinda ridiculous.
I bought the Zf as it will be almost another 1/2 year to receive it and I had a bit (maybe more than a bit) of GAS. I really wanted to try out a full frame camera and the reviews were awesome for the Zf. Really pleased so far.
I totally agree that the weight becomes objectionable when pairing the Zf with a larger lens (and lens are quite heavy in the Nikon world. I bought the Nikon 26mm f2.8 and the Nikon S 50 mm f1.8. I love the quality of the 50mm but it is too heavy to want to walk around with it all day. The 26 is teeny and easy to live with. I have two smaller Voigtlander's on the way, the smallish 90mm f2.8 Apo-Skopar and the tiny 40mm Nokton f1.4. They are both Leica M lens so I also have on order the Techart AF Adapter. The 40 and the adapter are coming tomorrow. The 90 next week.
If I am at peace with the size/weight of my lens for the Zf, I believe it is likely to replace the T5. The image quality, AF, Stabilization and Low Light function are all superior to the Fuji. Btw, I weighed the Zf with the Neewer Grip and the 26mm (which is 4.4oz) against the Fuji with the Small Rig Grip and the rather light Sigma F18-50 and the Zf was only 1/2 oz heavier.
I hope you are still enjoying the Zf. Be well.
Thanks for sharing your personal journey! After a while the weight is less of an issue, maybe because I've built up the muscles in the arm
I have gobbled up Zf reviews both before and after I bought my own, I always learn a little. With your critique I learned a lot and really liked your images. Curiously I already had three Voigts I used on other cameras and they swapped right over and again I really liked your stuff and now know I have a ways to go. Thanks.
Thank you for checking my video out! Stoked to hear you brought the voigts over
You've got some superb shots in this video, most of them actually, well done!
I loved the use of wide angle lense in the motor race, a sport where others usually tend to try and get as close as possible with long lenses, your wide angle shots, especially in B&W, really stands out!
About to sell my X-H2S and make a switch back to Nikon (where I started in 2006). The X-H2S is a superb camera but I just can't help it, I believe the Fuji lens system is the most boring of all the brands. And endless stream of slightly different lenses between 23mm and 56mm... I know I am probabaly alone in thinking that though.
Thank you! I only had a 28mm at the time of this video so I didn't really have a choice but the wide angle did make for a different perspective
Great video
Excactly what i was looking for
Thanks for tuning in!
Great story and super great images! I am a Fuji photographer since a few years but originally used Nikon cameras for my whole life. I am also about to buy a ZF but will definitely keep my Fuji cameras as a compact and lightweight kit.
Thank you so much! You've got two great camera systems to enjoy
got myself the Zf 2 days ago. awesome camera! love all the features and the design of it.
thank you so much for this amazing video ❤️
Thanks you! Appreciate you tuning in
You can get focus confirmation with M mount lenses if you use an adapter like the TTartisan M-Z 6 bit adapter which transmits the lens data to the body.
You should be getting a green focus box on the eye when using the z mount voigtlander. My 40mm 1.2 voigt on my Zf is awesome and I highly recommend
I'm looking at either the 40mm or the 50mm but they're pretty expensive!
Thanks for this thoughtful, articulate review. I too am looking for higher quality compact 28mm lenses for the Z system if I were to get the Zf. It would be great if you could do a review of how the Nikon Z 28 mm f/2.8 plastic "muffin lens" compares in IQ with the M-mount manual Voigtlander 28mm f/2 Ultron, the adapter you used on the Zf, and how the Ultron's corners hold up when shooting close to wide open on the Zf. The new Voigt 28 mm f/1.5 Nokton M looks very interesting but has pretty bad fringing in early reviews--- I hope Cosina release a Z mount version soon. I'd also be interested to see the bag you use for your "light" walks and street shooting with the Zf and how you pack two to three lenses without getting overloaded with heavy cumbersome gear. I've subscribed and look forward to following your Zf & manual lens journey.
I’d love to see more Z mount options at the higher end but what we have right now works well!
@@danthe_cameraman Are you seeing good sharpness and contrast even in the corners when shooting the Ultron 28mm f/2 M on your Zf wide open? I have read reviews that on Sony E mount there are bad smearing and fringing in the corners, with vignetting, when using wide angle M glass.
I've never checked not something that has been obvious to me
Great shots man!
Great eye! What’s lens were you using on it for these photos ?
watched a few videos on this camera and the pictures always look so good
The Zf has been a monster for me. I’ve really loved it.
Great video! Thanks for sharing
Thanks for watching 😅
love my Zf, great video, cheers
The Zf is a banger of a camera, i'll have one someday. I have the Z6 and Zfc, I really enjoy the Zfc for birding with the big lens and have been really impressed by the sensor coming from a older D7100 and having a Z6 (same sensor as Zf). I just wish it was weather sealed.
Thanks for watching! Interesting setup you've got!
Nikon Zf is an amazing camera. Highly recommended
100% agree!!
Nice images and this is a well-planned and well-delivered presentation.
A quick question: Why did you tape over and hide the Nikon name and the Zf logo?
Looking forward to your future presentations!
Thanks! I found the lettering quite bold, its to help make the camera more stealthy on the streets
@@danthe_cameramanI think I’ll tape my Nikon Zf as well. 👍🏾
Beautiful Photos.
Thank you!!
Congratulations 🎉🎉🎉
Thanks!!!
The closest thing to a deal breaker with this camera is that cursed flippy screen. I hate it with a red hot passion and it definitely detracts from the user experience significantly. And my hate is worsening over time so I might opt for the Z6iii if they don't mess it up with a flippy screen, too. A flippy screen on a stills retro camera? What were they thinking?
I’d love to check out the Nikon 26mm lens
I'll have to check it out, thanks for tuning in!
I have had 2 Nikon FA. It never bothered me shooting warbirds or sport cars with a 70-210 or 300 mm. Size is not a problem.
I am going to get one this too!!!
Please show us know how the adapted Minolta glass work out, as I have several prize lenses I got in Japan in the '80's that I am considering getting this Zf for reusing them.
how tf are you getting those colors?? so good, seriously. like in 13:20 are you using a color profile? or preset in Lightroom? I just bought this camera and my colors don't look like this. please help lol. great content btw
Thanks man, no presets - good light brings out your colours
Lov your b&w pix!!
Agree with you 100% on the resolution issue
Great photos, especially your B&Ws. I’m torn on this ZF. I immediately jumped to preorder it when it was announced. But when i was able to hold it and use it at a store’s demo event, i was really put off by the poor grip or ergonomics. I do have the 28 mm and 40mm primes so could rely heavily on those. I’m waiting to see what the Z6iii will be and cost, then probably decide between them. Was using Fujis for a few years but moved on to Nikon Zs and have been much happier with experience and results. Question - are you using highlight priority exposure in many of these pics? Seems like you work the highlights well.
And: image quality is far superior with the ZF, even with the cheapo 40mm f2. X100 series is still great though. Cool shots!!!
Agreed, thanks for watching!! 🤝
The Zf is my therapeutic camera and video cam. Pretty versatile.
I kept my 100v and got the zf. I'm almost exclusively a 35mm user but I keep the 100v with me using the 28mm adapter when I need a wider shot.
I own ZF and am on the waiting list for the X1 100vi would you take your name off? Is there any opportunity to use Fujifilm once you’ve already gotten used to and invested in the Nikon?
The Zf is the better choice
Cam you make.a video showing how the zf works with the manual lens on the interface with eye focus?
I showed a clip in the video!
nice work!
Thank you for taking the time to watch!!
Where did you get that shutter button from?
Yo it's from Amazon, it came with the grip
Congrats on the Fujikon cam.
The ZF is badass
Quite good. Did you do much in the way of edits for the stills shown here or were they mostly SOOC?
All images were processed in Lightroom 🙌
What lens did you use at 3:42?
Mine came with the Smallrig dedicated grip bundled in the box
❤ the video check out the simera 28 1.4 with adaptor
Would love to give it a go!
How do you like that 28mm 2.8
Its good especially for the price
You should get the SE version! :)
Maybe for future lenses 👀
Is this a good sooc camera?
I tweak all my images but they’re a solid base which don’t need a lot of work
10 seconds of sound and commenting were missing -- that is a shame really (from approx.: 15:20 - 15:30 ')
Would have been tempted but for that screen didn’t buy the XT4 for the same reason
great!!! 3dpop/microcontrast, light, boked, nikon lens, ... all things better than a toy
Fun piece of kit!
Flippy screen doesn't bother me none. Why should it?
It's really inferior for photography. Always has been.
@@POVwithRC Does it affect the actual quality of the photos?
🥔
The best one I've ever shot 🥔
Never sell any of my cams. Keep em all!
Not to sound like an old curmudgeon, but most 35mm cameras of the 70s, 80,s and 90s, didn't have a grip. We had no problem hand holding the K1000s, F3hps, and various other brands of cameras even mounted with a heavy zoom lens, I think it is something you get used to if you use that camera long enough. Edit: Go Cincy Bearcats!!
I own a Nikon FM2 which is basically the same design but there is a significant weight difference especially once you attach glass - its everything has gotten heavier
And the extremely limited number of lenses?
It’s a replacement for his X100 which was a fixed lens camera anyway lol
That and I also plan to adapt Leica + vintage glass so I have plenty of options 😀
I would not call 40+ lenses limited but ok 🤷♂️
You have the entire nikon Z lens lineup available. Plus Nikon F lenses with an adapter, or any other lens (modern or vintage) with adpaters. You can even get an adapter that autofocuses for you. But even when using simple MF adapters, the focus confirmation with zoom and eye detect works. It's pretty amazing.
lol, FTX adapter and lots of option beside 40mm f2.0, and of couse better than poor quality fujinon 23mm
Enjoy your new big, bulky camera.
I will, thanks 😀
X100 is smaller but sooo limiting in comparison and smaller sensor. And brutally overpriced. I'm sure Dan sold his V to somebody with more money than sense for about the same cost as the Zf. Sold mine a over a year ago for more than I paid for it. When I need a camera that is actually pocketable, I take my Griii.
X100vi is better, it’s more convenient and versatile. You’re gonna regret this one buddy
gr3x is more convenient and versatile :))))
I have no regrets
Wow.. That is a bold statement, Been using the first edition and the fourth of X100, gotta say. Its not my main camera, good but not good enough. Versatile? Such a joke. I’ve been using 1DX and and 1Ds before you even touch a camera maybe, X100 is not that versatile.
🐑