The tradition continues: I tuned into Chris and Jordan’s Z8 video ahead of all the others, including Nikon themselves. Thanks PetaPixel for keeping this excellent duo at the head of the pack in photo equipment reviews (and general life advice, explanations of the universe, and wildlife-licking-downtown-buildings imagery).
Canon guy here. The similarities to my camera, the R5, are numerous. So happy for the Nikon family! I think the people that buy this camera are going to absolutely LOVE it. Great to see the dynamic duo still doing reviews! Always well done!
this Z8 really gives me strong Nikon D700 vibes. Back then, the D700 was basically the same exact thing as the flagship D3, with the same sensor, same autofocus system and very similar burst speeds once you used the vertical grip with it. Only compromise was that it lost a CF card slot and had a smaller battery, two comprimises that the Z8 seems to share when you compare it with its bigger brother The D700/D3 strategy proved out to be super sucecssful for Nikon back in 2008/2009, giving pros in search for a second body a cheaper option with te same capabilities as their D3, and for everyone else it was 90% of the capacity of a D3 without the super premium price point. My guess is that Nikon is heading to that strategy again, hopefully with great results. As much as people think the Z8 is a successor to the D850, I really think it's made to walk the steps of the D700 as no other Nikon camera shared the specs of the flagship of the time like this (the closest relative could be the Df that shared the D4's sensor, but it didn't have the same autofocus and was much more limited overall, being a niche product)
I still have a D700 with vertical grip for wildlife I use D800E for landscape and I will upgrade to D850. Z8 is not a landscape camera. No 55-60 Mpix Nikon so its Fuji GFX 100S as my next new camera
@@thomaseriksson6256 Wait What? Who in their right mind would try to make such a ridiculous claim! People shot landscapes with far fewer MP and if this has the ability to pixel-shift there's no real need to have a 60 MP camera. These cameras are now becoming a Jack of All Trades and a Master of Many types of photography. It literally is to the point, where you not being able to get the image with the camera is 100% on you and not on the camera anymore (think motion tracking and the like).
Great to see Chris and Jordan back with another in their series of fantastic camera reviews. Nice that they got out of their typical haunts and made a trip to such a fantastic destination.
Just bought into Nikon with a used z6, amazing to see a nice new camera from Nikon. Thanks for your content, happy to continue following you on PetaPixel
haven't been photographing for over 10 years now but still love seeing your vids, Chris, you are amazing at holding yourself up in front of a camera, that's something that most of us can only dream of... Dpreview has gone sour without you. I've been getting used to being in front of the hood and constantly improving in hopes that some day, I can be as eloquent as you. Although I never had the passion for art itself, I was always the gear guy, I just love cameras and fast primes. Equipment has a special place in my heart but recently I simplified my life with Osmo Pocket 3 and never looked back at using any of my high end gear.
I really appreciate the way that Chris and Jordan will accept pre-release hardware to review and call out things that might change, but ALSO actually come back and do post-release reviews that dive in to those details. I know it's a rough balance when the manufacturers offer the ability to get out a review at the same time as other outlets, but y'all are a class act.
As a Canon shooter the Z8 looks *amazing* with a awesome lens lineup. If they put shutter angle support and some other video niceties it will be a killer hybrid camera too. Canon has their work cut out for them. They have been delaying R1 and R5 mark 2 and their RF lens lineup is so slow to come out! The weather sealed Z 24-200 is a killer affordable landscape lens.
I just switched from Nikon Z9 to Canon R5 and as far as eye detection/ Focusing in general the R5 works so much better. I shoot 35 weddings a year and Nikon Z wasn’t cutting it.
@@winterlynstebner3002 Even with the firmware updates? I shoot the R5 and R7 for wildlife and love the eye AF, but Nikon lenses look really good. I've heard some people say the Z9 FW updates fixed some AF issues but others say it still lags behind.
I'm still completely in love with my D850... but this is the first mirrorless camera that makes me actually consider making a move. As a wildlife shooter, the speed of the sensor is a must and it sounds like the Z8 delivers. I want so see more, but this one has me thinking.
The D850 is a godly camera. I waited until the Z7.II was released and then bought a Z7 (the original, mark 1) for a lower price. I was scared to leave the D850 behind, but ultimately was very pleased. And that was only the Z7. Two days ago (on launch day) I pre-ordered the Z8. I'm not looking back. However, I will concede to the fact I am a landscape photographer, not a wildlife photographer. Your particular area of activity is more demanding than mine, that's for sure. But Chad, I think the future is very promising. If you don't want to get the Z8, who knows, perhaps the Z8.II or a future upgrade to this model. But I think when you finally make the switch, you'll like what you get. I certainly did. 👍🏻
I still have a D850 and loved it for wildlife/birds in flight etc. I got the Z9 last year which is a game changer for action photography over the D850 and the ability to change exposure during a shot sequence with the thumbwheel and see this through the eyepiece. But... I have ordered the Z8 because its a pound (450g) lighter and with a big lens attached that will make it more usable over a long day in the wild...
I can’t believe I just found this channel. I see Chris and Jordan and I instantly hit subscribe. I can’t believe how long I’ve been watching these two. To me, Jordan and Chris are the modern day Kai and Lok.
Glad you two found another home! And you remember how not TOO long ago, people thought Nikon was "getting out of the camera business"? Ha!!! Now, they are leading the pack, with THEEE most desirable cameras. I have been using them for years ... since no one does color like Nikon. All those years of competing with Canon paid off! Now when (and IF) they bring out a Z6iii, I'll be buying another. (I have the original Z6, and it is still has a FANTASTIC image, especially for video, which is all I do, and record with a Ninja V.)
First off, good to see you both back (I know, this isn't your first Peta Pixel video). I was encouraged to hear the many features and performance of the Z8. Nikon is trying to keep loyal customers and lure a few back, and I agree this offering is solid for that purpose. I am glad to see that this will put pressure on Nikon's competition; consumers typically benefit from vigorous competition. Thank you for the review.
as a nikon pro/ D850 shooter I finally have a mirrorless body that would be the perfect upgrade. form factor plus same battery plus same card slot lineup and all the z9 stuff I want but without having to upgrade camera bag size, buy new batteries or worry about shutter noise and with that price update coming in from japan on the z9 - for 4k?. TAKE MY MONEY.
@@joshuaconti989 there is not much to say, it is there and it looks very busy and therefore I do not like it but on the other hand I am not focussing manually very often. I think they should reverse the representation of what is colored in focus peaking, basically I want what Sony is doing with the focus map but also for stills.
Saw the camera announcement in email, had to come to you guys first, and you delivered. I trust what you do because you've really got the chops in both still photography and video. Thanks guys!
I didn't even realise I'd clicked on a PetaPixel video until the end, I was just happy that DPReview was still getting the boys to make review videos - I was a bit sleepy at the start! Quality shines through boys, keep doing what you do!
I tried $1200 Canon 70D in 2012, brand new from the store. And it took kind of soft photos. I returned it, and bought a Nikon D3300 for half the price, and the photos were absolutely razor sharp, and just had beautiful color. The Nikon cameras have such high quality parts on them, their fit and finish is incredible. I still have the D3300 and it's still in perfect condition after 11 years. I can't wait to get a Z8, it's just a bit unfortunate that cameras are still so expensive.
I'm only here and have only subscribed because of Chris and Jordan. I've been following them since the early days and they consistency give great, honest reviews no matter the brand, lens, or camera.
Just something about Jordan and Chris that I enjoy watching. It’s great that they are now able to get out to different locations, there are thousands of puddles in the world just waiting for their picture to be taken!
Man, this was seamlessly and enjoyable to watch. It's feels good to see that Nikon is hitting the ball out of the park with their new offerings. I love it.
So happy to see the two of you here on PetaPixel. I'm currently a Fuji X-T3 user and since I find myself photographing HS sporting events in terribly-lit gymnasiums, I'm considering moving to full-frame. I've been waiting to learn what the Z8 would offer before evaluating my choices. As always, I can count on Chris and Jordan to cut through the fluff and give a straight product review. I think I actually exhaled when I saw the price point--The Z8's near Z9 feature set at -$1,500 is going to be hard for competitors to beat. And this camera moves up my list of strong considerations. Are you guys planning a real world comparison video against Canon and Sony when the Z8 goes on sale?
You don't need to move up to full frame to capture sports, just get a better suited body. I love fujifilm and had almost every body they've released and I have to say the XT3 was the worst performing for me out of all. If you already have lenses I would recommend testing an xt4 or 5 before you switch systems entirely,
Thanks @alexcaballero1402 . I plan to test the XH2s to confirm how well it handles low light, and that will determine whether I stay with Fuji (yes, I have lots of glass [8]). Still, good to see Nikon make an industry influencing move with the Z8.
@@HappyHubris That was never my point and modern sensors even in micro 4/3 still produce excellent results. My point was that the XT3 even though it's the same sensor in other Fuji bodies I've owned produced the worst results in low light.
@@jpirnat80 I use the XH2s professionally and it's been pretty good, even when shooting sports (bouldering) in mediocre lighting situations. If you have any questions, feel free to ask!
GAS starting to overpower my system. I’d say that this puts Nikon at my new dream FF-system! I think it’s really cool that they are continuing with only electronic shutter. The future awaits.
this articulating screen looks amazing and seems like Nikon continue tradition of breaking some boundaries, when F3 was introduced many people were hesitant since it was fully electronic camera with only 1/60 mechanical speed now they're abandoning the mechanical shutter, and afaik this may add to the longevity of camera pretty substantial amount of time
Ordered one! Looks like what I wanted from my Z7ii Much better autofocus and no slideshow view when taking bursts of BIF. Sensor cover great video and not a brick, like the Z9. No benefit in landscape photography but just as good in practice
Thanks for this review Chris and Jordan... I have been a Nikon user and currently using D500. I am planning to go mirrorless but I think the Z6II and Z7II are slow, then I am thinking of buying a Canon either R6II or the R5. I think this will be my first mirrorless camera.
Always wonderful to see you guys! And what a amazing Camera! But looking at the Z8 + 600mm f4 I found myself very happy with the OM-1 + 300mm f4! I’m not comparing, because I know the Nikon option has the better iQ. But the OM is the best option for me!
That will not happen as it's not good enough compared to the competition. The same poor autofocus as the Z9 and the same poor colour performance in low light. It's not good when a £1700 Canon R8 has better autofocus and Nikons own Z6 has better colour performance in low light.
I'm a Z9 owner and I might upgrade my 2nd camera (a Z6 II) to one of these as I find silent shooting incredibly useful for events and concerts (the Z6 is too limting in terms of needing longer shutter speeds to avoid banding when shooting silent during concerts). I really wish they added a digital hotshoe though, all the competition has it at this point. 2 more issues I don't like for video is the significant IBIS-wobble at wide angles and that you can't record to both card slots simultaneously.
Do you find any banding issues with the Z9? I’m confused by the electronic only shutter as banding is a serious issue with lighting both indoor or concert hall Ect. Is the fast readout speed of the sensor what keeps the Z9 from banding issues/ or do you still have those issues at times ?
@@Nylonscheme Yes, the fast readout speed from the stacked sensor means that banding is minimal = basically equivalent to a mechanical shutter. The Z9 readout speed is 4.0 ms, a mechanical shutter is 3.0 ms. Compare that to 62.5 ms with the electronic shutter on the Z7 which causes significantly more problems with banding in artificial light. In practice I've haven't had any issues with banding on the Z9, but I've had plenty with the Z6 II.
@@Geert890 Because sometimes they play silently. For example only a harp. Sometimes the venue/organizer asks for it, usually when it's few instruments. And even when it's not required it's so nice to not have to worry about clicking next to someones ear in the audience.
The results look great in outdoor settings (btw: Nikon-sponsored influencer junket y/n?) but I've still got reservations about the no-mechanical-shutter concept… still waiting for some tester to rent an LED stage light such as an ETC Colorsource and run through a variety of settings and shutter speeds to see if/where things get “stripey”. All the modern theater LEDs advertise “video-safe” but I don't know if that applies at the higher shutter speeds needed for still photography…
If people tell you it doesn't happen, it's straight out wrong. I've joined a Z9 facebook group and there were some really honest answers in there, with people saying "if you shoot events, stay away from it". I do editorial / studio work and weddings and it simply isn't an option. I've had a shitty LED / silent (electronic shutter) situation once with no time for micro adjustments (which is the option on a Z9) and if you don't have a backup body, you're essentially screwed.
It's an awesome camera, I just wished they would have managed to make ist 200g lighter. Maybe it's nitpicking, but for hiking this makes a huge difference!
@@carlosandreviana9448 Good for you, but it's not about what someone can use, but what I want. Since companies are trying to sell stuff to me that's everthing that matters
I've been a Fujifilm guy, but these new Nikons are starting to really pique my interest. Especially with the quality of the 1.8 primes. I personally prefer to fart around with the SLR style dials, if this sensor ever made it to a ZFC body I wouldn't even hesitate.
I've been using Nikon and recently got into Fujifilm. What I can say is that the Nikon colors are amazing, and the ergonomics are so great. AF isn't really bad; Z5/6/7/fc/30 are all enough for landscape or slow moving subjects. I actually felt that the low light AF performance of Z5 with 50mm 1.8 lens is better than the X-T4 with 33mm f1.4.
@@djstuc Yeah those cute little lenses Fuji keeps pooping out are way better than those 1.2 L RF primes Canon makes or the 2.8 zooms Nikon makes... And literally no one buys Fuji for video, bpmcc is a way better deal in that respect and if you want bigger sensors Fuji doesn't offer them. But they have cute dials and a cool vintage aesthetic right mate 😘
No one is talking about the fact that if you add the Nikon WR-R11a Remote Controller you can start two or three+ cameras at the same time and only put audio into one of the cameras. Really speeds up things in post and makes small crews more efficient. I use two Z9 cameras and will add the Z8 as a third camera angle as soon as I can!
All the good features mean nothing if they still have not got the autofocus up to par. Canon, and Sony are still way ahead with focus, why spend 4K on something that still has focus issues another Nikon Fail..
didnt knew cameras main strenght was the freaking autofocus lol. What a pathetic statement. I literally dont use autofocus whatsoever since im a landscape photographer, so you are saying a z7ii or a z8 are bad cameras for me because Sony and canon have better AF? Whats with people measuring cameras only by their AF performance?
@@ThatNorma Who gives a shit what you use, and ya ok you don't use autofocus what another bunch of shit loser statement. I took my R6 and Z9 to the beach Saturday again the R6 won out 149 out of 153 images of seagulls across the frame dead on in focus the z9 33 out of 100 in focus. i started with Nikon back when the D50 came out and shot Only Nikon until last year, I traded a lot of my nikon gear in for the canon set up I have and I have zero regrets at all I can actually go shoot a sporting or bird event and not have to weed out hundreds of wasted out of focus images anymore as long as I still take my Canon r6 and leave the nikon at home..
Great episode Jordan and Chris. This makes me glad I've got a year's experience with the Z9 which has been daunting and fun to begin to master. Now I could go lighter as I get older. My Z7 is 680 grams and my Z9 is 1350 grams, both with batteries and card slots filled and no body caps. I'd love to go a pound lighter with the Z8, but not yet at the cost of transition.
Thanks for terrific review. Yes, I'm "one of those", i.e. just switched from D850 to the Z8 few weeks ago and never looked back. Getting into video and love the auto focus with the Z8, just incredible.
This camera has me really excited for what else Nikon’s planning. Please demonstrate some flash photography when the final version comes out! It’d be great seeing that it can handle that as well.
The tradition continues: I tuned into Chris and Jordan’s Z8 video ahead of all the others, including Nikon themselves. Thanks PetaPixel for keeping this excellent duo at the head of the pack in photo equipment reviews (and general life advice, explanations of the universe, and wildlife-licking-downtown-buildings imagery).
Thanks for your support Ben!
Thanks to you and Chris for continuing to produce your characteristic entertaining informative content!
Is this not DPR?!? 😅
Same here
tradition of shit auto focus here start at 9:28 in the video enough said on Nikon garbage focus again
ua-cam.com/video/Ux3Z8piSl3k/v-deo.html
I am absolutely buying this camera!!!! Yes !!! NIKON NIKON NIKON NIKON
Great to see what Nikon is bringing to the game.
Love that Chris and Jordan say ZED. Canada represent!
Sticking with our roots!
So unbelievably thankful that Chris and Jordan are continuing to make the best camera review content around
Canon guy here. The similarities to my camera, the R5, are numerous. So happy for the Nikon family! I think the people that buy this camera are going to absolutely LOVE it. Great to see the dynamic duo still doing reviews! Always well done!
this Z8 really gives me strong Nikon D700 vibes.
Back then, the D700 was basically the same exact thing as the flagship D3, with the same sensor, same autofocus system and very similar burst speeds once you used the vertical grip with it.
Only compromise was that it lost a CF card slot and had a smaller battery, two comprimises that the Z8 seems to share when you compare it with its bigger brother
The D700/D3 strategy proved out to be super sucecssful for Nikon back in 2008/2009, giving pros in search for a second body a cheaper option with te same capabilities as their D3, and for everyone else it was 90% of the capacity of a D3 without the super premium price point. My guess is that Nikon is heading to that strategy again, hopefully with great results.
As much as people think the Z8 is a successor to the D850, I really think it's made to walk the steps of the D700 as no other Nikon camera shared the specs of the flagship of the time like this (the closest relative could be the Df that shared the D4's sensor, but it didn't have the same autofocus and was much more limited overall, being a niche product)
I still have a D700 with vertical grip for wildlife I use D800E for landscape and I will upgrade to D850. Z8 is not a landscape camera. No 55-60 Mpix Nikon so its Fuji GFX 100S as my next new camera
Yes, the z8 is a landscape camera. Why wouldn't it be
@@thomaseriksson6256 Wait What? Who in their right mind would try to make such a ridiculous claim! People shot landscapes with far fewer MP and if this has the ability to pixel-shift there's no real need to have a 60 MP camera.
These cameras are now becoming a Jack of All Trades and a Master of Many types of photography. It literally is to the point, where you not being able to get the image with the camera is 100% on you and not on the camera anymore (think motion tracking and the like).
I’ve had both the D3 and D700. I think these are even more similar then those two.
I got a D700 used and used it until it died 2018 in a FLIPPER pit. Great camera.
Great to see Chris and Jordan back with another in their series of fantastic camera reviews. Nice that they got out of their typical haunts and made a trip to such a fantastic destination.
Haha, we agree!
Just bought into Nikon with a used z6, amazing to see a nice new camera from Nikon.
Thanks for your content, happy to continue following you on PetaPixel
Thank you, we appreciate it!
haven't been photographing for over 10 years now but still love seeing your vids, Chris, you are amazing at holding yourself up in front of a camera, that's something that most of us can only dream of... Dpreview has gone sour without you.
I've been getting used to being in front of the hood and constantly improving in hopes that some day, I can be as eloquent as you.
Although I never had the passion for art itself, I was always the gear guy, I just love cameras and fast primes. Equipment has a special place in my heart but recently I simplified my life with Osmo Pocket 3 and never looked back at using any of my high end gear.
Seeing Chris and Jordan is the consistency I needed today. Thank you PetaPixel!
I really appreciate the way that Chris and Jordan will accept pre-release hardware to review and call out things that might change, but ALSO actually come back and do post-release reviews that dive in to those details. I know it's a rough balance when the manufacturers offer the ability to get out a review at the same time as other outlets, but y'all are a class act.
As a Canon shooter the Z8 looks *amazing* with a awesome lens lineup. If they put shutter angle support and some other video niceties it will be a killer hybrid camera too. Canon has their work cut out for them. They have been delaying R1 and R5 mark 2 and their RF lens lineup is so slow to come out! The weather sealed Z 24-200 is a killer affordable landscape lens.
I just switched from Nikon Z9 to Canon R5 and as far as eye detection/ Focusing in general the R5 works so much better. I shoot 35 weddings a year and Nikon Z wasn’t cutting it.
Landscape photography lol
@@winterlynstebner3002 Even with the firmware updates? I shoot the R5 and R7 for wildlife and love the eye AF, but Nikon lenses look really good. I've heard some people say the Z9 FW updates fixed some AF issues but others say it still lags behind.
@@sswildlifevideos I've shot 400,000+ images with my Z9. Can confirm it's just as good if not better than similar offerings from canon.
@@liamgoodvisuals how many images have you shot with Canon?
Some beautiful 600/4 work Chris. One was utterly outstanding of the buffalo at 7:40
I'm still completely in love with my D850... but this is the first mirrorless camera that makes me actually consider making a move. As a wildlife shooter, the speed of the sensor is a must and it sounds like the Z8 delivers. I want so see more, but this one has me thinking.
The D850 is a godly camera. I waited until the Z7.II was released and then bought a Z7 (the original, mark 1) for a lower price. I was scared to leave the D850 behind, but ultimately was very pleased. And that was only the Z7. Two days ago (on launch day) I pre-ordered the Z8. I'm not looking back. However, I will concede to the fact I am a landscape photographer, not a wildlife photographer. Your particular area of activity is more demanding than mine, that's for sure. But Chad, I think the future is very promising. If you don't want to get the Z8, who knows, perhaps the Z8.II or a future upgrade to this model. But I think when you finally make the switch, you'll like what you get. I certainly did. 👍🏻
I still have a D850 and loved it for wildlife/birds in flight etc. I got the Z9 last year which is a game changer for action photography over the D850 and the ability to change exposure during a shot sequence with the thumbwheel and see this through the eyepiece. But... I have ordered the Z8 because its a pound (450g) lighter and with a big lens attached that will make it more usable over a long day in the wild...
I can’t believe I just found this channel. I see Chris and Jordan and I instantly hit subscribe. I can’t believe how long I’ve been watching these two. To me, Jordan and Chris are the modern day Kai and Lok.
Well done Nikon!
King is back again!!
Nice Work on the Z8 review, hit the points I needed to hear. On my buy it list, makes a great second body for my 'ol Z6...
Great video as always. Glad you guys are still together. Not used to the ads, but at least there's no more "welcome back DP Review TV Viewers..." 😂
Thanks for sticking with us Jay!
Great news, nice pictures
I want Nikon and PetaPixel to be around for a long time ^^
Looks like a great camera and system. Paired with their amazing glass, this is a strong core to their Z line.
What you Said at 3:13 sold me. I just assumed that ND filters were a must have.
Great to see Chris and Jordan again! Always glad to see you handle the newest gear.
Z8/Z9 = D700/D3
Love to see this winning combo resurrected for the Mirrorless Age, written from my bomb-proof D700!
Glad you two found another home! And you remember how not TOO long ago, people thought Nikon was "getting out of the camera business"? Ha!!! Now, they are leading the pack, with THEEE most desirable cameras. I have been using them for years ... since no one does color like Nikon. All those years of competing with Canon paid off! Now when (and IF) they bring out a Z6iii, I'll be buying another. (I have the original Z6, and it is still has a FANTASTIC image, especially for video, which is all I do, and record with a Ninja V.)
The Z8 is more than I ever need, but Chris and Jordan’s reviews are always worth watching. Spot on as always.
First off, good to see you both back (I know, this isn't your first Peta Pixel video). I was encouraged to hear the many features and performance of the Z8. Nikon is trying to keep loyal customers and lure a few back, and I agree this offering is solid for that purpose. I am glad to see that this will put pressure on Nikon's competition; consumers typically benefit from vigorous competition. Thank you for the review.
I am really digging the new Petapixel intro guys... so glad your show is alive.
Video is spectacular, great job Jordan!
This is going to be huge for peta. Good stuff!
as a nikon pro/ D850 shooter I finally have a mirrorless body that would be the perfect upgrade. form factor plus same battery plus same card slot lineup and all the z9 stuff I want but without having to upgrade camera bag size, buy new batteries or worry about shutter noise and with that price update coming in from japan on the z9 - for 4k?. TAKE MY MONEY.
side note- there is not enough said about Nikon's focus peaking modes in the Z series.
@@joshuaconti989 there is not much to say, it is there and it looks very busy and therefore I do not like it but on the other hand I am not focussing manually very often.
I think they should reverse the representation of what is colored in focus peaking, basically I want what Sony is doing with the focus map but also for stills.
Yessssssssss glad the dynamic duo continue to flourish! The Z8 is what I have been waiting for! Thank you Nikon!
Wonderful review! Glad to see you guys settling in to the new channel!
My first 35mm SLR was a Nikon. That's what I learned B&W Photography on, development, etc. Most enjoyable college course I had.
Saw the camera announcement in email, had to come to you guys first, and you delivered. I trust what you do because you've really got the chops in both still photography and video. Thanks guys!
Thank you!!
I didn't even realise I'd clicked on a PetaPixel video until the end, I was just happy that DPReview was still getting the boys to make review videos - I was a bit sleepy at the start! Quality shines through boys, keep doing what you do!
Great to see Chris and Jordan back on in their series of fantastic camera reviews!
Glad you got to go to Yellowstone to use this new camera. Thanks for sharing your experiences.
Great review!! Thank you guys!! And awesome job Nikon!! I'll be pre-ordering my Z8 right away =)
0:58 1:17
@Patrick Huynh what's the problem, exactly?
@@doderiolarkisso4038 Nothing. The Z9 is excellent.
I tried $1200 Canon 70D in 2012, brand new from the store. And it took kind of soft photos. I returned it, and bought a Nikon D3300 for half the price, and the photos were absolutely razor sharp, and just had beautiful color. The Nikon cameras have such high quality parts on them, their fit and finish is incredible. I still have the D3300 and it's still in perfect condition after 11 years. I can't wait to get a Z8, it's just a bit unfortunate that cameras are still so expensive.
Woh, the quality of light and picture quality in the WHO IS IT FOR section is just gorgeous. Great video, thanks.
Excellent! The Z8 is definitely a "mini-Z9." It'll be my backup going forward.
I'm only here and have only subscribed because of Chris and Jordan. I've been following them since the early days and they consistency give great, honest reviews no matter the brand, lens, or camera.
Just something about Jordan and Chris that I enjoy watching. It’s great that they are now able to get out to different locations, there are thousands of puddles in the world just waiting for their picture to be taken!
Man, this was seamlessly and enjoyable to watch. It's feels good to see that Nikon is hitting the ball out of the park with their new offerings. I love it.
So happy to see the two of you here on PetaPixel. I'm currently a Fuji X-T3 user and since I find myself photographing HS sporting events in terribly-lit gymnasiums, I'm considering moving to full-frame. I've been waiting to learn what the Z8 would offer before evaluating my choices. As always, I can count on Chris and Jordan to cut through the fluff and give a straight product review. I think I actually exhaled when I saw the price point--The Z8's near Z9 feature set at -$1,500 is going to be hard for competitors to beat. And this camera moves up my list of strong considerations. Are you guys planning a real world comparison video against Canon and Sony when the Z8 goes on sale?
You don't need to move up to full frame to capture sports, just get a better suited body. I love fujifilm and had almost every body they've released and I have to say the XT3 was the worst performing for me out of all. If you already have lenses I would recommend testing an xt4 or 5 before you switch systems entirely,
Thanks @alexcaballero1402 . I plan to test the XH2s to confirm how well it handles low light, and that will determine whether I stay with Fuji (yes, I have lots of glass [8]). Still, good to see Nikon make an industry influencing move with the Z8.
@@Caballeroshot Newer bodies aren't going to collect more light. It's just a limit of physics and the APSC sensor.
@@HappyHubris That was never my point and modern sensors even in micro 4/3 still produce excellent results. My point was that the XT3 even though it's the same sensor in other Fuji bodies I've owned produced the worst results in low light.
@@jpirnat80 I use the XH2s professionally and it's been pretty good, even when shooting sports (bouldering) in mediocre lighting situations. If you have any questions, feel free to ask!
Welcome back!!!!! Glad you guys are around! Pre-ordered my Z8 in April 1st week
itself (NPS)
Wow! Great to see you both back again with the same energy and with a new camera Z8.All the new camera reviews without this team created a vacuum.
So excited for your take!!
Z8 certainly seems like a powerful fun camera. Thanks for the review guys and loving the new channel!
welcome back Chris and Jordan and Nikon of course!
It looks like a winner. Great features including great AF.
mine is coming in the mail!
GAS starting to overpower my system. I’d say that this puts Nikon at my new dream FF-system! I think it’s really cool that they are continuing with only electronic shutter. The future awaits.
Glad to see you guys back on screen, thank you for your always clear presentation !!!
I just have a hard time focusing on the review because I'm thinking about this great software called picflow
❤🔥
Love the megaman intro guys!!!!
Still love my D850 and D500 but that 8 is really tempting. Great video as always guys! 👍🏼
Nice to see Chris and Jordan back together in the business. Great video guys!
this articulating screen looks amazing
and seems like Nikon continue tradition of breaking some boundaries, when F3 was introduced many people were hesitant since it was fully electronic camera with only 1/60 mechanical speed
now they're abandoning the mechanical shutter, and afaik this may add to the longevity of camera pretty substantial amount of time
So glad to see Chris and Jordan again.
never been attracted to nikons in general, but i love this ones style and overall features!
good to see you back chris and jordan
Oh boy. A **very** early look.
Nikon was very kind to us with an early look!
You guys will always have my love and support! ♥
Ordered one! Looks like what I wanted from my Z7ii Much better autofocus and no slideshow view when taking bursts of BIF. Sensor cover great video and not a brick, like the Z9. No benefit in landscape photography but just as good in practice
So glad to see you guys on the PetaPixel channel. Great review, as always!
Thanks for this review Chris and Jordan... I have been a Nikon user and currently using D500. I am planning to go mirrorless but I think the Z6II and Z7II are slow, then I am thinking of buying a Canon either R6II or the R5. I think this will be my first mirrorless camera.
Get the Z8, buddy.
Love it Chris and Jordan! Really excited about the Z8.
Always wonderful to see you guys! And what a amazing Camera! But looking at the Z8 + 600mm f4 I found myself very happy with the OM-1 + 300mm f4! I’m not comparing, because I know the Nikon option has the better iQ. But the OM is the best option for me!
Hi Chirs,
Nice to see you guys back!
I’ve been watching your videos since 2013. Your reviews helped me immensely.
I can see the Z8 being as successful and popular as the D700 and D850.
That will not happen as it's not good enough compared to the competition. The same poor autofocus as the Z9 and the same poor colour performance in low light. It's not good when a £1700 Canon R8 has better autofocus and Nikons own Z6 has better colour performance in low light.
I'm a Z9 owner and I might upgrade my 2nd camera (a Z6 II) to one of these as I find silent shooting incredibly useful for events and concerts (the Z6 is too limting in terms of needing longer shutter speeds to avoid banding when shooting silent during concerts). I really wish they added a digital hotshoe though, all the competition has it at this point. 2 more issues I don't like for video is the significant IBIS-wobble at wide angles and that you can't record to both card slots simultaneously.
I am in the same boat. I am fairly sure I will get the the Z8 as well, keep my Z6ii and sell my Z6, and of course keep my Z9.
Do you find any banding issues with the Z9? I’m confused by the electronic only shutter as banding is a serious issue with lighting both indoor or concert hall Ect. Is the fast readout speed of the sensor what keeps the Z9 from banding issues/ or do you still have those issues at times ?
@@Nylonscheme Yes, the fast readout speed from the stacked sensor means that banding is minimal = basically equivalent to a mechanical shutter. The Z9 readout speed is 4.0 ms, a mechanical shutter is 3.0 ms. Compare that to 62.5 ms with the electronic shutter on the Z7 which causes significantly more problems with banding in artificial light.
In practice I've haven't had any issues with banding on the Z9, but I've had plenty with the Z6 II.
Why do you need silent shooting at concerts
@@Geert890 Because sometimes they play silently. For example only a harp. Sometimes the venue/organizer asks for it, usually when it's few instruments.
And even when it's not required it's so nice to not have to worry about clicking next to someones ear in the audience.
@petapixel fantastic review as always by Chris and Jordan. What a beast is the Z8!!
The results look great in outdoor settings (btw: Nikon-sponsored influencer junket y/n?) but I've still got reservations about the no-mechanical-shutter concept… still waiting for some tester to rent an LED stage light such as an ETC Colorsource and run through a variety of settings and shutter speeds to see if/where things get “stripey”. All the modern theater LEDs advertise “video-safe” but I don't know if that applies at the higher shutter speeds needed for still photography…
If people tell you it doesn't happen, it's straight out wrong. I've joined a Z9 facebook group and there were some really honest answers in there, with people saying "if you shoot events, stay away from it". I do editorial / studio work and weddings and it simply isn't an option. I've had a shitty LED / silent (electronic shutter) situation once with no time for micro adjustments (which is the option on a Z9) and if you don't have a backup body, you're essentially screwed.
this is the best, most comprehensive review to date of the Nikon Z8 -- Chris/Jordan team is so good in communication, i want to thank you both..Cheers
It's an awesome camera, I just wished they would have managed to make ist 200g lighter. Maybe it's nitpicking, but for hiking this makes a huge difference!
I expect the Z7iii will be better for hikers if 200grams is important.
A z5 is enough for that
@@carlosandreviana9448 I have a Z5 and I can tell you: It's not enough for me
@@senseofeverthing for hiking? LOL. I could use a z50
@@carlosandreviana9448 Good for you, but it's not about what someone can use, but what I want. Since companies are trying to sell stuff to me that's everthing that matters
Glad to see you back!!
I've been a Fujifilm guy, but these new Nikons are starting to really pique my interest. Especially with the quality of the 1.8 primes. I personally prefer to fart around with the SLR style dials, if this sensor ever made it to a ZFC body I wouldn't even hesitate.
Fuji can’t compete with Nikon right now.
I've been using Nikon and recently got into Fujifilm. What I can say is that the Nikon colors are amazing, and the ergonomics are so great. AF isn't really bad; Z5/6/7/fc/30 are all enough for landscape or slow moving subjects. I actually felt that the low light AF performance of Z5 with 50mm 1.8 lens is better than the X-T4 with 33mm f1.4.
It's competitors are GFX series, not X
@@djstuc Fuji makes cameras that are fun, but in every other aspect Nikon or Canon are better
@@djstuc Yeah those cute little lenses Fuji keeps pooping out are way better than those 1.2 L RF primes Canon makes or the 2.8 zooms Nikon makes... And literally no one buys Fuji for video, bpmcc is a way better deal in that respect and if you want bigger sensors Fuji doesn't offer them.
But they have cute dials and a cool vintage aesthetic right mate 😘
The perfect camera for me! Pre-order is in
We should start a petition to ANSI for certification of the "Noct" measurement. This needs to be a standard!
Haha! I'm on board!
Happy to see you guys back again!
Nikon is really killing it lately. 45mpix stacked sensor for 4000? Compared to A1 which is where I live 7500, it is such a value!
If the a1 is 7500 where you live, how is it possible that the Z8 costs only 4000?
@@shang-hsienyang1284 this is the economy we live in. Z9 is 5000
I usually don't view PP channel but I'm here now, because of the both of you .............. and of course the subject matter.
why did u skip the s5iiX ???
Stay tuned...
@@thatjordandrake The S5IIx is what we are waiting to see.
I've been a fan of your channel for 10 years now! and still the best one for reviews
Looks like it's a perfect time to pick up another used D850 as the market is going to be flooded as folks upgrade
Yeah, thankfully, there's always an old school/nostalgia/vintage market, where you can offload the still capable/old tech/dinosaurs.
Good to see you guys back in business!
LETS GOOOO
The Z8 is to the Z9 what the GFX100S is to the GFX100.
I see Z9 sales dropping off drastically.
Z9 was overpriced since the begining.
No one is talking about the fact that if you add the Nikon WR-R11a Remote Controller you can start two or three+ cameras at the same time and only put audio into one of the cameras. Really speeds up things in post and makes small crews more efficient. I use two Z9 cameras and will add the Z8 as a third camera angle as soon as I can!
The SD card slot as opposed to dual CFExpress/XQD is disappointing
Really happy to see you again. Keep the good work coming
😆😂 I thought for one brief moment that Chris and Jordan are in the Ukraine, armed with anti-tank rockets! Those lenses are humungous.
Should have filmed another Battle at F-Stop Ridge!
Nikon bodies are heavy like Nikon fanboys like it.
Great to see you guys on Peta Pixel!! I am a long time Canon user but the Z8 sure looks intriguing.
No flip screen in 2023?
What a shame!
is it the year of the flip screen?! didn’t know!
Keeps the vloggers away 😊
@@hardywoodaway9912 You still using film or something? Wake up grandma.
The whole world doesn't revolve around 'content creators'.
anyone wanna project how many repairs on this one have to do ith the articulating screen? Very flimsy and breakable. Just keepy it flippy like Canon.
I'm glad your knee made it through this video intact, Chris.
Great video, as always, and I think, after 8 years, I'm gonna get myself a new camera.
All the good features mean nothing if they still have not got the autofocus up to par. Canon, and Sony are still way ahead with focus, why spend 4K on something that still has focus issues another Nikon Fail..
Give them time they will improve with firmware
didnt knew cameras main strenght was the freaking autofocus lol. What a pathetic statement. I literally dont use autofocus whatsoever since im a landscape photographer, so you are saying a z7ii or a z8 are bad cameras for me because Sony and canon have better AF? Whats with people measuring cameras only by their AF performance?
@@ThatNorma Who gives a shit what you use, and ya ok you don't use autofocus what another bunch of shit loser statement. I took my R6 and Z9 to the beach Saturday again the R6 won out 149 out of 153 images of seagulls across the frame dead on in focus the z9 33 out of 100 in focus. i started with Nikon back when the D50 came out and shot Only Nikon until last year, I traded a lot of my nikon gear in for the canon set up I have and I have zero regrets at all I can actually go shoot a sporting or bird event and not have to weed out hundreds of wasted out of focus images anymore as long as I still take my Canon r6 and leave the nikon at home..
@@ThatNorma here start at 9:28 in the video enough said on Nikon garbage focus again
ua-cam.com/video/Ux3Z8piSl3k/v-deo.html
@@djstuc here start at 9:28 in the video enough said on Nikon garbage focus again
ua-cam.com/video/Ux3Z8piSl3k/v-deo.html
Great episode Jordan and Chris. This makes me glad I've got a year's experience with the Z9 which has been daunting and fun to begin to master. Now I could go lighter as I get older. My Z7 is 680 grams and my Z9 is 1350 grams, both with batteries and card slots filled and no body caps. I'd love to go a pound lighter with the Z8, but not yet at the cost of transition.
Thanks for terrific review. Yes, I'm "one of those", i.e. just switched from D850 to the Z8 few weeks ago and never looked back. Getting into video and love the auto focus with the Z8, just incredible.
This camera has me really excited for what else Nikon’s planning. Please demonstrate some flash photography when the final version comes out! It’d be great seeing that it can handle that as well.