Hi Bill...love the review and the images from you and Eric. Been a Nikon fan/shooter AND DVC member for a long time so I really enjoy your stuff! I hope you get a new body that alleviates your frustrations with the Z5....I literally had mine for 2 days before I returned it and picked up the Z7 while on sale. I know one of the factors for you is the dual card slot and that is really the only hesitation I had but after seeing so many positive reviews and how robust the XQD cards are I pulled the trigger. I know that aspect is a bit different for you and Eric versus just the enthusiast shooter that I am but there is definitely some issues with the Z5 that you are spot on with. Look forward to your final choice in the upcoming videos for sure:-)
Thanks Michael! I guess every camera has its pros and cons but it’s disappointing that the Z5 has known issues that haven’t been fixed yet. Maybe time to move on.
If possible, I would buy the Nikon Z6 II. It’s a great camera. Its autofocus is reliable. In terms of autofocus, the only weakness is the tracking. This is an area where Nikon needs definitely to improve as soon as possible.
@@BillEricPhotography I would not buy the Nikon Z6. Why? Because the Nikon Z6 II has a double processor. If we are optimistic, Nikon might release firmware updates which will take advantage of this double processor and will, hopefully, improve the tracking of the camera and overall its autofocus.
As a long term (25+ years) canon shooter, I came into a Nikon 3200 with the 18-55 just a few days ago, as a garage sale find. (Cheap...like almost free cheap). I'm impressed with how intuitive it is, and the grip is amazing. Compared to the Canon T6 I have, the older Nikon is better in every way. I'm not switching (my RP 70D and M50 with all ot their lenses will keep me in Canon) but I'm super interested in the Z series. Why did you pick the Z5, not the newer Z6/Z7 mk2's? This lens (50 mm 1.8) sounds interesting too. 🕳️
To be honest with you I was being cheap. The functions that the z62 have as far as video and frames per second go where things I really wasn't interested in. The Z5 looks like a perfect upgrade from my d750. After using the camera I realize I probably should have gone that way and just spent the extra money but how is I to know? I will be returning the Z5 and getting a z62 when I can get my hands on one.
I love the 50mm (actually, what I have is the 35 1.8G DX, so when on a crop frame, about 55-56mm I think). Sometimes I get sick of it and would rather shoot 35 all the time, but then I quickly start loving it again 😂 This lens basically got me through my paid photography beginnings alone. And provided incredible images on an old D90. From what I've seen in a Nikon Z group (I have yet to go mirrorless), the Z glass is incredibly sharp! Just amazing! All problems (not even many) turned out to be user error
Great video! Would you suggest the 50mm over an 85mm! I am enjoying my Nikon Z5 so far! Trying to save money for a lens! Having to wait also because of the lack of supply at the camera store where I bought my camera in Canada!
I second this. I was supposed to buy the Z5, but due to some (not camera related) technical issues, I'll have to go for a used D750. I'd love to see at least one (for my needs) good reason why I shouldn't be crying over not going Z5 now 😂
@@BillEricPhotography thanks, that's definitely one great point! Crying a bit less now 😂 though I'd loooove that eye AF, even if I could only use it in certain situations. Eh, one day
You should shoot the prime lens at f4 when you don't need the shallow dof for those outdoor shots no vignette and super sharp edge to edge there's no good reason to always shoot wide open unless it's low light. The af on all nikons mirrorless cameras are an acquired taste once you understand how it works and all the different modes and costumize the buttons and lay out that works best for you its more the capable.
I think my point is I wouldn't even own this lens if I was going to shoot it at 4:00. My 24 to 70 can shoot F4 all day long. I only use these lenses when I'm shooting wide open.
Seems like that's the limitation that Nikon put on this Z5. It could be fixed with a firmware update, but I'm not sure that they will. I returned mine last week. I'll just spend the difference for the Z6 II, and the Z7 II has even better low-light AF.
I can’t speak to the z5 but the z6ii has fantastic AF but you really need to use the correct af mode for different circumstances. Once I figured that out, I had zero issues. There is definitely a learning curve bc what worked on the dslr may not work perfectly on the mirrorless. Ideally it would but once I got used to it, it was more intuitive. Maybe the z5 just struggles where the z6ii doesn’t. Also the 50 1.8 s is the only z mount lens I own and I love it. I never loved a 50 but now it’s my go to for just general shooting.
That's good to know. What would be different. I have tried the auto modes with a camera picks its own autofocus spot as well as trying all of the other modes including eye autofocus and single point and pinpoint autofocus. I seem to be having issues with all of them
@@BillEricPhotography I just watched the other video about your trip to Adorama. It looks and sounds like the z5 is just not great in low light autofocus. There is a low light af setting in the menus but I can only assume u turned that on. Z6ii hasn’t given me any issues so you’ll love it whenever it comes back in stock
@@BillEricPhotography I was going to suggest switching af to wide area eye to hone in on finding the eye easier and quicker but you said the eye was found and it wasn’t sharp so my suggestion wouldn’t help. If it was having trouble locating the eye then u can try wide area. Either way you should have to jump through hoops for something that the camera should accomplish fairly easily. Maybe try a z6ii to see if the problem is still occurring.
I was so about picking Z5 + 24-50...but that AF problems are not reported just by you. I need it in low light, so Im still staying with D750, plus it reads IR AF assist from Godox speedlight/triger...
Did you change the name due to copyright issues ? It caught me off guard in my sub list I was like Bill& Eric photography ? Then saw it was you guys , I been a sub for years , keep up the great work guys .
Thank you! No copyright issues at all, the name change was just to better reflect what the UA-cam channel is about. We still use Disney Image Makers for our Facebook and Instagram and other projects.
If you're gonna trade in the Z5, I'd definitely go for the Z6 II. I've shot with the 24mm, and the 35mm Z lenses. I love the performance on both lenses. The 50mm Z is my next stop.
Due to autofocus, I changed the 750 ... for the Z6 .... it was a mirrorless 50 / 1.8 ... but it does not compare with the mirrorless 50 / 1.8Z .... so 50 / 1.8F immediately sold
I was having auto focus issues in any kind of low light situation. So unless you're going to only be shooting during the day I would hold off on this camera for a little while. I don't think the autofocus is there yet. You are better off with a d750.
@@BillEricPhotography Good advice! I own the Z6 II and it is a low light beast. I like the Z5 with its dual SD cards, which would be good for travel, but I think that I will pass on it.
Great review Bill! A D750 vs Z5 comparison would be really interesting! Especially the feel that you get using the Tamron 24-70 G1 with the D750 vs the 24-70 f/4 s on the Z5. And I mean photographically because certainly the 24-70 f/4 is sharper, smaller, quieter, focuses faster, but what about the aesthetics? Do you think that the images from the Z5 and the extreme distortion correction of the 24-70 f/4 that is baked into the raw file of the Z camera, create a totally digital rendering? I'd love to know your thoughts! Cheers!
Hello Bill. Tor are my favourite photographer. Well I'm a photographer lil bit of entry level.Portraits and stills are my favourites.I like nikon z5 as compact mirrorless full frame camera. should I buy this or not? And kindly suggest me which full frame camera best for me. I'm waiting for your reply.
Thankyou bill for your reply. .No I haven't I borrow the Nikon lenses for my purposes. What will you recommend canon r or rp. I'm buying within couple of days.
Hi Bill, was really hoping to hear some definitive comments on the Z5 that you're having a love-hate relationship with. I'm still holding back on my decision to get the Z5 even though its checked nearly all the boxes for me, but focusing issues is not something to gloss over. My ancient D300S is still chugging along, but times have moved on and my iPhone have already proven what the new sensors are capable off - and thats from a tiny sensor.
I think I would hold off for a little while until they maybe change the firmware or update the camera. I've heard from other people also that have commented saying they've had similar issues with it so I don't think it's just mine.
Bill, the Z6II is the way to go paired with the Z 50mm f/1.8 lens. I have done several reviews on my channel of this camera and lens if you wanna check out. I feel your concern about the the Z5, I would feel a little disappointed too spending so much money on a new camera that does not perform to your expectations. Keep making a great content.
Thanks! I'll check those out. I really like most things about this camera. I just can't get past the auto focus. I think you're right the z62 will be perfect now I just have to find one. They are sold out everywhere!
to Expensive canon 50mm 1.8 and RP is best Budget want to step up in Fullframe as begginer Photographer. .. cost 1200USD that Combo. .. wyl the Nikon Z5 + 50mm 1.8 Cost 1600USD... i know nikon Z5 + 1.8S great than Canon RP 50mm 1.8 RF not in budget lens i think manny people go to canon RP and RF50 1.8. ..
it's like the only good mirrorless cameras when it comes to focus compared to dslrs are the expensive ones, the entry level ones are just a user beta test still.
I'm going to disagree with you on that one. Our Canon m50s which are very inexpensive are very good focusing cameras. In fact my M50 is more reliable than my z62.
@@BillEricPhotography Yep, sorry you are correct on that one, for some reason I was only thinking full frame and nikon mostly Z5, Z6 gen1 and Z7 gen1, even the Canon RP from what I saw in some reviews...
The D750 has an amazing autofocus system. If you have been shooting with the D750 for so many years, there are really not too many mirrorless cameras with equivalent or better performance, and I am afraid none of them are Nikon.
Never use a lens "wide open", everybody (at least those who take time to study) knows that. If it's a 1.8, you shoot at 2.8 or 4. It's that simple. Byyye
The reason we have wide lenses is to use them wide open. I shoot my 50mm 1.2 almost always at 1.2. If I wanted an aperture of 2.8 or 4 I could save a lot of size and money by using a zoom lens.
02:17 This is how i explain my mom every time i buy new lens XD.
😄
Hi Bill...love the review and the images from you and Eric. Been a Nikon fan/shooter AND DVC member for a long time so I really enjoy your stuff! I hope you get a new body that alleviates your frustrations with the Z5....I literally had mine for 2 days before I returned it and picked up the Z7 while on sale. I know one of the factors for you is the dual card slot and that is really the only hesitation I had but after seeing so many positive reviews and how robust the XQD cards are I pulled the trigger. I know that aspect is a bit different for you and Eric versus just the enthusiast shooter that I am but there is definitely some issues with the Z5 that you are spot on with. Look forward to your final choice in the upcoming videos for sure:-)
Thanks Michael! I guess every camera has its pros and cons but it’s disappointing that the Z5 has known issues that haven’t been fixed yet. Maybe time to move on.
If possible, I would buy the Nikon Z6 II. It’s a great camera. Its autofocus is reliable. In terms of autofocus, the only weakness is the tracking. This is an area where Nikon needs definitely to improve as soon as possible.
That’s what I’m thinking too, thanks!
@@BillEricPhotography I would not buy the Nikon Z6. Why? Because the Nikon Z6 II has a double processor. If we are optimistic, Nikon might release firmware updates which will take advantage of this double processor and will, hopefully, improve the tracking of the camera and overall its autofocus.
As a long term (25+ years) canon shooter, I came into a Nikon 3200 with the 18-55 just a few days ago, as a garage sale find. (Cheap...like almost free cheap). I'm impressed with how intuitive it is, and the grip is amazing. Compared to the Canon T6 I have, the older Nikon is better in every way. I'm not switching (my RP 70D and M50 with all ot their lenses will keep me in Canon) but I'm super interested in the Z series. Why did you pick the Z5, not the newer Z6/Z7 mk2's? This lens (50 mm 1.8) sounds interesting too.
🕳️
To be honest with you I was being cheap. The functions that the z62 have as far as video and frames per second go where things I really wasn't interested in. The Z5 looks like a perfect upgrade from my d750. After using the camera I realize I probably should have gone that way and just spent the extra money but how is I to know? I will be returning the Z5 and getting a z62 when I can get my hands on one.
I love the 50mm (actually, what I have is the 35 1.8G DX, so when on a crop frame, about 55-56mm I think). Sometimes I get sick of it and would rather shoot 35 all the time, but then I quickly start loving it again 😂
This lens basically got me through my paid photography beginnings alone. And provided incredible images on an old D90.
From what I've seen in a Nikon Z group (I have yet to go mirrorless), the Z glass is incredibly sharp! Just amazing! All problems (not even many) turned out to be user error
Yeah these new lenses are really pretty great. Glad that the wife primes are so good!
Great video! Would you suggest the 50mm over an 85mm! I am enjoying my Nikon Z5 so far! Trying to save money for a lens! Having to wait also because of the lack of supply at the camera store where I bought my camera in Canada!
Yes the 50 is more versatile, the 85 can me a bit too narrow in many situations. Unless you’re exclusively shooting portraits.
great Lens review Bill would be interesting to hear your comparison review between Z5 and D750 once you sort out your issue with the Z5.
I might do that but I am definitely going to be returning it.
I second this. I was supposed to buy the Z5, but due to some (not camera related) technical issues, I'll have to go for a used D750. I'd love to see at least one (for my needs) good reason why I shouldn't be crying over not going Z5 now 😂
The autofocus on the D750 is much better!
@@BillEricPhotography thanks, that's definitely one great point! Crying a bit less now 😂 though I'd loooove that eye AF, even if I could only use it in certain situations. Eh, one day
I'm using z50. I want to buy 50mm 1.8s lens for sharp images. Would you recommend this lens for z50?
Yes definitely! It's a very good lens!
You should shoot the prime lens at f4 when you don't need the shallow dof for those outdoor shots no vignette and super sharp edge to edge there's no good reason to always shoot wide open unless it's low light. The af on all nikons mirrorless cameras are an acquired taste once you understand how it works and all the different modes and costumize the buttons and lay out that works best for you its more the capable.
I think my point is I wouldn't even own this lens if I was going to shoot it at 4:00. My 24 to 70 can shoot F4 all day long. I only use these lenses when I'm shooting wide open.
Seems like that's the limitation that Nikon put on this Z5. It could be fixed with a firmware update, but I'm not sure that they will. I returned mine last week. I'll just spend the difference for the Z6 II, and the Z7 II has even better low-light AF.
That definitely seems like the way to go
I can’t speak to the z5 but the z6ii has fantastic AF but you really need to use the correct af mode for different circumstances. Once I figured that out, I had zero issues. There is definitely a learning curve bc what worked on the dslr may not work perfectly on the mirrorless. Ideally it would but once I got used to it, it was more intuitive. Maybe the z5 just struggles where the z6ii doesn’t. Also the 50 1.8 s is the only z mount lens I own and I love it. I never loved a 50 but now it’s my go to for just general shooting.
That's good to know. What would be different. I have tried the auto modes with a camera picks its own autofocus spot as well as trying all of the other modes including eye autofocus and single point and pinpoint autofocus. I seem to be having issues with all of them
@@BillEricPhotography I just watched the other video about your trip to Adorama. It looks and sounds like the z5 is just not great in low light autofocus. There is a low light af setting in the menus but I can only assume u turned that on. Z6ii hasn’t given me any issues so you’ll love it whenever it comes back in stock
@@BillEricPhotography I was going to suggest switching af to wide area eye to hone in on finding the eye easier and quicker but you said the eye was found and it wasn’t sharp so my suggestion wouldn’t help. If it was having trouble locating the eye then u can try wide area. Either way you should have to jump through hoops for something that the camera should accomplish fairly easily. Maybe try a z6ii to see if the problem is still occurring.
I was so about picking Z5 + 24-50...but that AF problems are not reported just by you. I need it in low light, so Im still staying with D750, plus it reads IR AF assist from Godox speedlight/triger...
D750 is still so reliable
@@BillEricPhotography you just saved my $$$. Thanks a lot. 😊
Did you change the name due to copyright issues ? It caught me off guard in my sub list I was like Bill& Eric photography ? Then saw it was you guys , I been a sub for years , keep up the great work guys .
Thank you! No copyright issues at all, the name change was just to better reflect what the UA-cam channel is about. We still use Disney Image Makers for our Facebook and Instagram and other projects.
If you're gonna trade in the Z5, I'd definitely go for the Z6 II. I've shot with the 24mm, and the 35mm Z lenses. I love the performance on both lenses. The 50mm Z is my next stop.
I just returned it today and hopefully I'll be able to get my hands on a z62 within a week or so. Looking forward to trying it out!
Love your review Bill! I wish Nikon would just give you a working camera!
Ha! Me too! Thanks!
Due to autofocus, I changed the 750 ... for the Z6 .... it was a mirrorless 50 / 1.8 ... but it does not compare with the mirrorless 50 / 1.8Z .... so 50 / 1.8F immediately sold
Yeah the Z lens seems to be much better than the old F version
@@BillEricPhotography The open aperture sharpness of the 50 / 1.8Z is amazing ...
As always great content, hope you get your problem solved with the z5 :)
Thanks Jan! Me too!
I'm guessing all shots are handheld? Did hear you mention that, maybe I missed it?
Hi, yes they were all handheld.
La z5 es fantástica!!!!!
I am a stills shooter. Would you recommend the Z5 as a good travel camera?
I was having auto focus issues in any kind of low light situation. So unless you're going to only be shooting during the day I would hold off on this camera for a little while. I don't think the autofocus is there yet. You are better off with a d750.
@@BillEricPhotography Good advice! I own the Z6 II and it is a low light beast. I like the Z5 with its dual SD cards, which would be good for travel, but I think that I will pass on it.
Great review Bill! A D750 vs Z5 comparison would be really interesting! Especially the feel that you get using the Tamron 24-70 G1 with the D750 vs the 24-70 f/4 s on the Z5. And I mean photographically because certainly the 24-70 f/4 is sharper, smaller, quieter, focuses faster, but what about the aesthetics? Do you think that the images from the Z5 and the extreme distortion correction of the 24-70 f/4 that is baked into the raw file of the Z camera, create a totally digital rendering?
I'd love to know your thoughts! Cheers!
Yeah we’ve been using these cameras side by side so we should put together a comparison
What happened to your Z5 eye tracking AF issue in low light?
It's still there. I'll be returning the camera this week.
@@BillEricPhotography I'm waiting to see your review of Z6ii. I was suppose to buy z5. Luckily I found your video. Hope to buy z6ii
I will definitely be reviewing it when I get my hands on one
Hello Bill. Tor are my favourite photographer.
Well I'm a photographer lil bit of entry level.Portraits and stills are my favourites.I like nikon z5 as compact mirrorless full frame camera. should I buy this or not? And kindly suggest me which full frame camera best for me. I'm waiting for your reply.
Hi Rheela, I wouldn't recommend the Z5 right now. Do you own Nikon lenses? If not I would buy into the Canon system. Maybe pick up a Canon R or RP.
Thankyou bill for your reply. .No I haven't I borrow the Nikon lenses for my purposes. What will you recommend canon r or rp. I'm buying within couple of days.
I would read up on them and see what your budget is. The R is very nice as is the R6. The RP is more of an entry level full frame but still very good.
how do you think about z28-75 / 2.8
I've never used that lens so I really can't comment. But based on my experience with the other zmount lenses I'm sure it's a very nice lens.
@@BillEricPhotography but it seems made by tamron company ?
Hi Bill, was really hoping to hear some definitive comments on the Z5 that you're having a love-hate relationship with. I'm still holding back on my decision to get the Z5 even though its checked nearly all the boxes for me, but focusing issues is not something to gloss over. My ancient D300S is still chugging along, but times have moved on and my iPhone have already proven what the new sensors are capable off - and thats from a tiny sensor.
I think I would hold off for a little while until they maybe change the firmware or update the camera. I've heard from other people also that have commented saying they've had similar issues with it so I don't think it's just mine.
@@BillEricPhotography appreciate the advise. Am sticking with Nikon; just dont have the deeper pockets to try every new gear out there
I definitely understand that. I really wanted to love this camera!
Bill, the Z6II is the way to go paired with the Z 50mm f/1.8 lens. I have done several reviews on my channel of this camera and lens if you wanna check out. I feel your concern about the the Z5, I would feel a little disappointed too spending so much money on a new camera that does not perform to your expectations. Keep making a great content.
Thanks! I'll check those out. I really like most things about this camera. I just can't get past the auto focus. I think you're right the z62 will be perfect now I just have to find one. They are sold out everywhere!
to Expensive canon 50mm 1.8 and RP is best Budget want to step up in Fullframe as begginer Photographer. .. cost 1200USD that Combo. .. wyl the Nikon Z5 + 50mm 1.8 Cost 1600USD... i know nikon Z5 + 1.8S great than Canon RP 50mm 1.8 RF not in budget lens i think manny people go to canon RP and RF50 1.8. ..
it's like the only good mirrorless cameras when it comes to focus compared to dslrs are the expensive ones, the entry level ones are just a user beta test still.
I'm going to disagree with you on that one. Our Canon m50s which are very inexpensive are very good focusing cameras. In fact my M50 is more reliable than my z62.
@@BillEricPhotography Yep, sorry you are correct on that one, for some reason I was only thinking full frame and nikon mostly Z5, Z6 gen1 and Z7 gen1, even the Canon RP from what I saw in some reviews...
Good video!
Thanks Nancy. It's definitely the camera. This happens with all of my lenses.
@@BillEricPhotography Very disappointing, for the Z5, could this be a fix with firmware/software update. Z6ii is probably a better choice.
Totally agree, the z6ii looks like the better option
The D750 has an amazing autofocus system. If you have been shooting with the D750 for so many years, there are really not too many mirrorless cameras with equivalent or better performance, and I am afraid none of them are Nikon.
Good point and the 750 is what I’m used to shooting
Sigma art 50mm?
My budget is almost 2,000 dollars
The RP is going to be your most reasonable choice. You may even have some money left over to buy an extra lens.
Too much talking, JMHO, FWIW.
Completely overpriced lens.
It is expensive, I happen to get mine used but it is a very good lens.
Never use a lens "wide open", everybody (at least those who take time to study) knows that.
If it's a 1.8, you shoot at 2.8 or 4. It's that simple. Byyye
The reason we have wide lenses is to use them wide open. I shoot my 50mm 1.2 almost always at 1.2. If I wanted an aperture of 2.8 or 4 I could save a lot of size and money by using a zoom lens.
That's exactly the way we feel.
DSLR = Nikon
Mirrorles = Fujifilm
basically its a 50mm + FTZ adapter build in, thats why its big and heavy.
nikon is lazy.