Just a quick note. I'm currently recovering from COVID - you can read bout it here: bcgforums.com/index.php?threads/im-back.6679/ (This video was put together before I went into the hospital). Please forgive any delays in responding to comments, this thing has really set me back.
Good luck big guy, we hope you will return to normal fast, I just lost a Friend with that crap. I've been out on my airboat getting up close and personal with the nesting birds, if you're in Florida and fully recovered I can put you close to the nest without disturbing mom and dad. Oh and by the way I'll stick to my 2 D500's lol!
I pretty much ONLY watch Steve's videos. He walks the walk and talks the talk. Plus, he's a great presenter chock full of insight and no bull commentary. Thank you Steve and thankfully you get back healthy quickly!!!!
So glad you are well and getting better Steve. Was so sad to hear of your experience. You do so much for us all. I hope you know how much we appreciate you and your advice 💛
Hi Steve. I was very moved by your experience with COVID-19, and I'm very happy that you're on the road to recovery. It will take time. My thoughts are with you, Rose, your children and the rest of your family.
Thanks Steve for another great review, I just ordered a Z6ii this morning to go along with my D780 dslr. Looking like I have your video to rely upon for the learning curve.
Mr. Perry, your camera reviews Rock! Always practical, clear, logical and useful for me! Much better for me than some other sites that get stuck in details that may not matter in big picture (no pun intended).
I’m glad you said the D500 probably gets better keeper rates. I contemplated going mirrorless and ended up with a D500 over that. Big upgrade from a d3500
Right now I'm thinking about upgrading from my Z50 and your video did make my decision easier! My greatest concern was losing the crop factor. That is why I thought as well that the higher resolution of the Z7II would come in handy. Because if I get the Z6II and start cropping I'd probably end up with a smaller resolution than I have with my Z50. At first I was hoping to get a successor of my Z50. Or maybe a pro APS-C body like the rumored Z90, which was supposed to be something like a "mirrorless D500". But since Nikon seems to have a heavy focus on 35mm sensors and a fetish for unergonomic retro cameras with no successor to the Z6II or Z7II on the horizon, I figured I might as well buy something now since it really feels like I have outgrown the Z50 at this point, it started to hold me back a little :)
Thanks for your review. I purchased a Z6ii and have shot with it for 2 weeks. I am coming from a D500 and have been impressed with the autofocus. I have shot a high school track meet and had many more keepers with the Z6ii than I normally did with the D500.
Now, a year later since my last comment , I wish they would give you the option to not have the "slide-show effect" but rather just give you a live feed, even if it means a slower refresh rate (still probably would be faster than the slide-show effect. At the slower speeds, like 5.5 fps you can get a live feed view (similar to what you'd probably see on a mid-range DSLR) which is nice, so if you can manage with 5.5 fps it is possible to get closer to DSLR live view feed through the OVF, with minimal blackout, but you are trading this option for slower burst rates. My hope is that when the gen 3 bodies are released, they all (including the potentially upcoming Z8) use the same Expeed 7 processor found in the Z9, as this has proven to be quite reliable and the best option to date for Nikon Z shooters. I don't expect that processor to necessarily come to all cameras (ie. APSC or the Z5 due to its age) but hopefully for the Z6, Z7, Z8 and any other future mid- to-high end Z cameras moving forward (Nikon has usually done this in the past, although the entry level bodies generally didn't get the latest technology but that's expected since they are more for budget shooters an they are going for a price point over performance). But the mid-range shooters are spending more money (those with the Z6 - Z9).
This was a super helpful review! I'm not looking at replacing a D850, but rather deciding between purchasing a D850 and a z7ii. I primarily shoot wildlife (and almost exclusively stills rather than video). Any reason you'd give the edge to the z7ii? I'm kinda leaning toward a D850 for now, and in 5-10 years, I assume mirrorless tech will have evolved more to make the switch then and have it be a significant upgrade, while the DSLR technology is pretty peak in the D850. Also I have exclusively F mount lenses and am not super interested in investing in Z at this point, so would be entirely relying on the FTZ adapter with the z7ii.
I'd usually recommend the D850 - it can handle both action and static subjects, where the Z struggles a little more with action. However, if you need lighter weight, more compact, live exposure info, AF all over the viewfinder, the Z is a good choice. FWIW, I use mine all the time with my 500PF for hiking and kayaking (well, if it ever warms up enough around here for kayaking!)
Amazing recovery! Great to see you are right back at it helping us all to learn and grow in our photography! I know I have benefited from these videos and books. Greatly appreciate your honest and straightforward approach.
Currently I use 2 D750 for rodeo or some other equine events and I have been really interested in the auto focusing system on the Z6ii and your info Steve is helpful,but lacks the certainty I'm looking for.
Great comparison of the two models and I hope the newer Z models will meet the wildlife needs. As you mentioned, I will keep my D850 with power grip for a while longer. Great info as usual and glad to read your feeling better!!!🙏
What's your thinking? I got a full refund on my d850 as they were unable to get the repair parts. I want the z9 at the d850 price really 😂 Hoping z8 next year will be what I need, but I'm terrified of the price
@@sinetwo I don’t think the Z8 will be a Z9 and at the same price of a D850. The Z8 will have half of the features of a Z9, genes the the lower price. My comment was saying the The D850 was great with a power grip to give 9 fps for wildlife photography. Having 30-120FPS and now the 1 second pre/post capture ability with Z9 is amazing! Great you received a full refund on the D850 from Nikon or your store. I didn’t think I would buy mirrorless, but I am still using my F glass to save on the conversion cost. Looking forward to the new 200-600 and 600 release to buy my first z lens!
@@mikedavis1110 yeah I would happily sacrifice the grip of the z9 but at the moment my D500 is a killer. My only issue is the live view for low wildlife shots and that the AF in that mode is quite frankly, terrible. Let's see what the z8 offers. Really the z9 is the dream camera, but honestly if nikon can't compete with Sony, and their bodies can't use F glass as well as the Z9, I'm gonna get a d850 again next year.
@@sinetwo Surprised to read about the AF issue for I thought the D500 was a baby D5 for it uses the same setup is my understanding with the 10 fps. As far as Sony goes I think the Z9 surpasses it with one slight issue in the AF tracking in low contrast areas or in cluttered areas. They have made firmware updates to address this issue with major improvements. The build quality of Z9 his “hands down” BETTER than a Sony, menu process and the features at a $1000+ less than Sony!! I am sure both will improve over time in firmware or newer versions. I would still get a z8/z9 for wildlife with the highest fps from Nikon. I still have my D850, D800 as backups and believe the D850 is the best DSLR on the market at a reasonable price($3000). It’s still tied for #1 on DXO’s review with 5 year newer cameras! On the low angle shots the D500 has the tilting LCD and I didn’t think I would appreciate that feature but it is big help!
@@mikedavis1110 agree, hoping the z8 will be the wildlife killer (figuratively!)! The d500 and the d850 have horrendous AF when in live view mode. Fine for static subjects but it'll hunt and refocus quite a lot. With a mirrorless, the screen is the "same" as the viewfinder so it's a much better experience. Waiting it out for the Z8 to see what they offer, and then I'll decide on d850 vs z8. But for now my D500 will do, despite having a range of nice FX lenses
Steve, very sorry to hear about your COVID-19 experience and glad you're on the mend. Your videos are the ones I look forward to watching as they are full of relevant information. Bought the e-Book and looking forward to putting this to use with my new Z6II. Get better soon, and take it easy!
Hi and thx Steve for now I'm really looking forward to the 6iii as video is really my priority so I hope the next model will be awesome as the Z8 are a bit out of my budget at the moment. Doug
One other comment on your health crisis Steve. My wife advised me that our dentist has every patient sign a waiver against Covid. Apparently, dental procedures cause the release of particles that can stay airborne for some time. Logical and pretty much unavoidable when you think about it. Obviously, we can’t avoid it for serious tooth problems but perhaps a reason to postpone routine checkups. I’m far from an expert on this virus but your experience suggests I will hold off on my regular checkup and focus on good hygiene.
Thanks Steve, since I shoot BIF 99% of the time I think I'm going to stick with my D500 for a while and wait and see what the next generation of Z cameras are like..I want to get into the Z system so I can take advantage of I'm sure what is to be some awesome big glass but it sounds like they are not quite what I'm looking for yet..
Part of me says that we won't get the "live feed at 8fps" type of stuff. They'll save that for the Z8 and Z9 (although the Z9 will likely be 20 fps with no blackout and all "live feed" basically). Thankfully, for me at least, I don't shoot wildlife so these limitations are not a problem, but for sports and wildlife shooters, I can imagine it would be. I think for the case of tracking, Nikon is probably not utilizing the second processor to its full extent. I'm sure this was done on purpose, and there are rumors that in September, a decent-sized AF update will be coming for the Z II bodies... but that's just rumor The Z7 II at least is really meant to compete with the Sony A7R III and IV (between the two) and likely the R6 in Canon's line-up (despite the lower resolution on the R6). The R5 I would say is a step above the Z7 II, as is the a1 from Sony. (I would also say the R3 ~ Z8, and the R1 will ~ Z9). But I still feel that the R5 likely sits between a Z7 II and a Z8 in reality. Of course I'm making an assumption that the Z8 wil lbe "better" than the Z7 series, but not to the same calibre as the the upcoming Z9. The Z8 in reality will likely be close to an A7R IV, but with perhaps slightly newer features because of age (as the A7R IV is now about 2 years old).
Hope your feeling much better today Steve, great video as always. Your videos and tutorials have helped me to benefit so much more from my Z6 ii. Truly hoping the new native super telephotos will be better for wildlife photography. I use a sigma 150-600 lens with FTZ adapter for my birding but it’s a real challenge to get a consistent lock on fast moving objects.
Hi Steve interesting review and great shots from both but I wonder if and how these bodies have improved in 2023 with the latest updates regarding to the negative things you've mentioned. Be nice to see an updated review, but for now I just feel like I need more from the z6ii for wildlife. I'd like to do video and great enlargements but the z8 is just out of my budget at the moment. I either have to wait for the iii models or save more towards the z8 or look at Sony, but thx again
Great video as always Steve. Let me just echo the other comments and say how nice it is to see you back here, after the forum. Wish you a speedy recovery, take care!
Steve, I have Nikon D5600 and just bought Z6ii mirrorless with specific goal of better tracking of birds in flight. From what you say here, I'm not sure I made right decision--thoughts? I can still return mirrorless as I JUST bought it.
I have many doubts about Mirrorless cameras. I currently use a 7dmark II along with a sigma 150 600mm lens to photograph birds. I like the Result. I've seen some people commenting that the Mirrorless AF system is a bit of a lens for photographing birds, is that true? Nikon is going to launch a z 180 600mm lens. So I'm looking forward to going into these Mirrorless worlds with Nikon. But I still don't know which is the best Nikon Mirrorless camera to photograph birds with a good cost benefit. Thanks for the video
Nice comparison. As an amateur first purchaser and interest in wildlife, should I really go for Z6II? And of course, also have to add lens price. Thanks
Thanks Steve for another good video. I am still using my Nikon d4s and d810. I have so much F mount glass. I am interested in mirrorless but so far not ready to pull the trigger. However, at 68 years young maybe in the near future a lighter camera body maybe useful. So far the keeper ratio is good and in the warm, muggy and wet Mississippi environment I have no complaints with my current set up. I do not need the speed of the D4s anymore, the D810 is rather slow. Kind of on the fence to be honest to make the move.
Hello Steve, Just before I go back to watch again were these test done with version 1.10 of the software. I have the Z7ii but have been stuck it shielding for the last 12 months, so not been able to play yet, it's interesting what you say about the Z7ii I to think it just lacks some thing so it is nor quit as nice as my D850. But it still ok. Keep well, keep safe and have fun.
Much of it was with the original firmware since I was shooting as soon as I got the cameras. Keep in mind the new firmware wasn't a huge update. It was mostly just more video support and improvement for eye AF with people, not wildlife. Tracking (my biggest complaint) was not improved.
I like what you said about adding a Z camera to my D850 as opposed to replacing it. That’s exactly what I was thinking too. Now I need to do more research or just save up for the z9🤷🏻♀️ Oh, do either the z7ii or z9 have a fully articulating screen? I need one that i can use for live-view in the studio.
Steve there is another firmware update coming on the Z cameras from Nikon around April 26th 2021 . I hope you will do a review on the firmware update . I have been waiting for Nikon to get the focus tracking up to par or at least close to Sony . Interested in A Z7II but it’s been the focus tracking for BIF that holds me back . Thank You
Steve- I want to upgrade my Nikon D5500 to mirrorless- I’m an amateur, trying to get better in retirement- my question is, should I just bite the bullet and get the Z8- or go with the Z62 or Z72- mostly landscape/nature and grand kids- I also understand that the glass is more important and want to spend on lenses too- what is the best overall lens for what I do above? Thanks and love your videos
Thanks Steve, top quality information as always. These are obviously excellent cameras but reading between the lines I don't see enough here to shell out £1500 plus the D500 that I have, it still does the job for me and many others I suspect 👍
Excellent video! I just bought the Z7II (on backorder), but am keeping my D500. I do crop quite a lot so the higher MP will definitely help. Hope all goes well with your recovery.
Well, I'm think the Z8 will be more like the Sony A7R IV in terms of resolution and shooting specs at least. A step up from the Z7's but probably a step down from the Z9 (which is supposedly going to be "better" Than the current D6). I think placing your assessment that the Z/Z II bodies around a D750 to D780 is about right (I'd say even a D810, as some features were carried over from the D810 and D850 but they don't perform as well as the D850 at least, in my opinion.
I personally wouldn't recommend getting a II camera until 2.x firmware comes out. The Z7II seems more future proof resolution wise. You can also shoot crop (or with some compact AF-P DX lenses) at a useful 21mp. DPR's studio comparison shows how much more useful that resolution is regarding fine details like text. ACR stinks with NEF's though, so make sure you don't use something else (Nikon NX2 or Studio is free) to render your NEF's.
Thanks for another great summary, Steve. Much appreciated. Best wishes for a speedy recovery. Our whole family are in healthcare and have a good idea of what you’re going through - cheering for you and looking forward to you being behind your camera again. 👍 \
Hi Steve, I have a Nikon d750 with a Sigma 150-600mm Contemporary and I'm thinking to upgrade to the Z6 ii with the FTZ ii for wildlife, do you think is a good idea? Is it really a clever upgrade?
Well, I suspect that the autofocus speed with this camera with your 600f4 vs 200-500 is probably to do with the current camera send out to the focus motor ... with my D850 , the full cycle took less than 80 milliseconds in 400 f2.8 , but when couple with z72 , it was almost 1 second and 30 millisecond ... almost same timing for 600 f4
Adding too what you said Steve: “Nikon Ricci” in another video was very clear that the z6II is also a better video camera than the z7II even thought the latter uses the full width of the sensor. He said the z7II is heavily like skipped etc., and that the z6II for various other reasons made it actually “quite a bit better videocamera” and that he “would choose it over the z7II” for video every single time. I need to rewatch it again too get more details but it sounded very legitimate too me.
@@backcountrygallery I hear yeah brotha. I’m so happy with my z6II (first Nikon camera). I’m an all around shooter who is dying to see the new Z9 (I think it’s exactly what I want and need) but my budget probably won’t allow for it. I don’t know we’ll see...
Hi Steve, so glad to hear you are recovering from Covid, and I am very sorry you got it. I hope you will recover promptly and go back to "normal" soon. Whenever you can answer, if you can answer. I need an opinion (advice) from a professional like you. I want to buy a Nikon camera to start doing event photography mainly (that means working sometimes in poor light conditions), but I would like to do wildlife as well time to time. I was considering the Z6II or the D780 for that purpose. I don't care much about the Megapixels, I just need a camera that will focus well and be reliable and consistent regarding autofocus when I find my self working in lowlight situations. I know Nikon DSRL cameras are pretty good with autofocus in regular/good light conditions, but I have my doubts about the new Z line for lowlight autofocus. My other consideration is to buy a used D850 which I think is still a fantastic camera in 2021 for both event and wildlife photography. A good condition used D850 with approximately 35k shots can be found for around USD 2,100 nowadays. I will love to hear your opinion about this. Thank you Steve and have a good recovery.
Actually, the Z cameras are great in low light and have a special low light AF feature that allows them to focus in incredibly dim conditions (it's slow but works). AF is also more effective across the frame, it doesn't drop off like DSLRs do when you get to the edges of the AF field. I don't do a lot of event work, so keep that in mind, but I think the Z6ii might be the way to go.
Just a quick note. I'm currently recovering from COVID - you can read bout it here:
bcgforums.com/index.php?threads/im-back.6679/
(This video was put together before I went into the hospital). Please forgive any delays in responding to comments, this thing has really set me back.
Hey steve, sad to hear you went through this hard time, hope you will recover quick well! Take care!
Good luck big guy, we hope you will return to normal fast, I just lost a Friend with that crap. I've been out on my airboat getting up close and personal with the nesting birds, if you're in Florida and fully recovered I can put you close to the nest without disturbing mom and dad. Oh and by the way I'll stick to my 2 D500's lol!
I hope you feel better very soon, all the best!
Get well Steve!
Hey Steve
When is your Sony A1 review comming?
Otherwise keep the videos comming!
Regards
I pretty much ONLY watch Steve's videos. He walks the walk and talks the talk. Plus, he's a great presenter chock full of insight and no bull commentary. Thank you Steve and thankfully you get back healthy quickly!!!!
So glad you are well and getting better Steve. Was so sad to hear of your experience. You do so much for us all. I hope you know how much we appreciate you and your advice 💛
YES!! Waited for this so badly Steve, great to have you back and hope you get well soon! 🙌📷
Hi Steve. I was very moved by your experience with COVID-19, and I'm very happy that you're on the road to recovery. It will take time. My thoughts are with you, Rose, your children and the rest of your family.
Hope you are recovering well, Good to hear from you again!
Steve - welcome back. Wishing you a speedy recovery!
Good you are back! And wish you all the best for a full recovery.
This is exactly the info i needed!! Thanks
Thanks Steve for another great review, I just ordered a Z6ii this morning to go along with my D780 dslr. Looking like I have your video to rely upon for the learning curve.
Interesting. I wonder if the firmware has been updated for any of the issues he mentioned. Like tracking?
Hi Steve, thanks for the very useful video. Sending prayers your way for a speedy recovery !
Mr. Perry, your camera reviews Rock! Always practical, clear, logical and useful for me! Much better for me than some other sites that get stuck in details that may not matter in big picture (no pun intended).
Mate, I have been waiting for this review. In terms on wanting to understand AF performance you are the baseline.
Steve you are a legend, what ever god you ascribe to must give you back to us. Stay safe my friend and get back where you belong soon. ❤️👍
Yes good to have you back!!! It must have been a bummer to be down and out for such a long time.
Welcome back Steve!! Get better soon!
Wish you full 100% recovery Steve. You provide us with great information and I really look forwars to all your video postings.
Wishing you a quick recover Steve and appreciate the quality unbiased content you put out! Take care of yourself.
Thanks Steve for this review. Am looking to upgrade from the Z6 to the Z7ii. Hope your recovery is full and speedy.
I’m glad you said the D500 probably gets better keeper rates. I contemplated going mirrorless and ended up with a D500 over that. Big upgrade from a d3500
Thank for the sharing. I have been waiting for your words for these two camera. Wish you 100% recover soon. Stay safe.
Again Another fantastic, detailed video. Thank you, Steve.
Right now I'm thinking about upgrading from my Z50 and your video did make my decision easier!
My greatest concern was losing the crop factor. That is why I thought as well that the higher resolution of the Z7II would come in handy. Because if I get the Z6II and start cropping I'd probably end up with a smaller resolution than I have with my Z50.
At first I was hoping to get a successor of my Z50. Or maybe a pro APS-C body like the rumored Z90, which was supposed to be something like a "mirrorless D500". But since Nikon seems to have a heavy focus on 35mm sensors and a fetish for unergonomic retro cameras with no successor to the Z6II or Z7II on the horizon, I figured I might as well buy something now since it really feels like I have outgrown the Z50 at this point, it started to hold me back a little :)
Thanks for your review. I purchased a Z6ii and have shot with it for 2 weeks. I am coming from a D500 and have been impressed with the autofocus. I have shot a high school track meet and had many more keepers with the Z6ii than I normally did with the D500.
GFX 50R for big prints, D500 or Z6 II for action and birding... that’s how I roll!
As always Steve answers all the questions I had about a new Nikon release. Thanks and hope you have speedy recovery to full health.
That's very interesting thanks Steve. So very glad you're on the mend, best wishes to you and your family.
Now, a year later since my last comment , I wish they would give you the option to not have the "slide-show effect" but rather just give you a live feed, even if it means a slower refresh rate (still probably would be faster than the slide-show effect. At the slower speeds, like 5.5 fps you can get a live feed view (similar to what you'd probably see on a mid-range DSLR) which is nice, so if you can manage with 5.5 fps it is possible to get closer to DSLR live view feed through the OVF, with minimal blackout, but you are trading this option for slower burst rates. My hope is that when the gen 3 bodies are released, they all (including the potentially upcoming Z8) use the same Expeed 7 processor found in the Z9, as this has proven to be quite reliable and the best option to date for Nikon Z shooters. I don't expect that processor to necessarily come to all cameras (ie. APSC or the Z5 due to its age) but hopefully for the Z6, Z7, Z8 and any other future mid- to-high end Z cameras moving forward (Nikon has usually done this in the past, although the entry level bodies generally didn't get the latest technology but that's expected since they are more for budget shooters an they are going for a price point over performance). But the mid-range shooters are spending more money (those with the Z6 - Z9).
Wishing you a speedy recovery mate, and as always appreciate your videos.
Another comprehensive report and comparison of the Z6 and Z7 derivatives and FTZ adapter
Thanks so much
Thank you Steve. I'll stick with my D850. Can't wait to see what the Z9 has to offer.
This was a super helpful review! I'm not looking at replacing a D850, but rather deciding between purchasing a D850 and a z7ii. I primarily shoot wildlife (and almost exclusively stills rather than video). Any reason you'd give the edge to the z7ii? I'm kinda leaning toward a D850 for now, and in 5-10 years, I assume mirrorless tech will have evolved more to make the switch then and have it be a significant upgrade, while the DSLR technology is pretty peak in the D850. Also I have exclusively F mount lenses and am not super interested in investing in Z at this point, so would be entirely relying on the FTZ adapter with the z7ii.
I'd usually recommend the D850 - it can handle both action and static subjects, where the Z struggles a little more with action. However, if you need lighter weight, more compact, live exposure info, AF all over the viewfinder, the Z is a good choice. FWIW, I use mine all the time with my 500PF for hiking and kayaking (well, if it ever warms up enough around here for kayaking!)
Get well soon Steve. You are in a class of your own. I have made a contribution to help. Best wishes.
Glad you're back Steve! Stay well and I hope you have a swift recovery!
Amazing recovery! Great to see you are right back at it helping us all to learn and grow in our photography!
I know I have benefited from these videos and books. Greatly appreciate your honest and straightforward approach.
Actually, the video was done before I went into the hospital. If I shot it now, you'd see a breathless guy that's 20 lbs lighter.
Hi Steve,
My prayers for you. Wish you a speedy recovery.
Regards 🙏
great video as always, steve! get well soon!
Sooo glad you are back and have overcome this serious disease! All the best, Steve!!!
Currently I use 2 D750 for rodeo or some other equine events and I have been really interested in the auto focusing system on the Z6ii and your info Steve is helpful,but lacks the certainty I'm looking for.
Great to have you back Steve! Picked up the Z6ii the other week and I know what book I'm going to buy.
So happy to see a new vid from you Steve (especially about the latest Z's!). Even happier to see you back home on the road to recovery! ❤️🙏🏻
Get well soon! I'm very happy that you're on the road to recovery.
Excellent, Steve. I currently have a Z7 (Version one) and and a Z6 II, so I was happy to hear your opinions about the Z7 II. Thank you!
Oh wow I did not know that you had covid, I wish you a good and speedy recovery.
Great comparison of the two models and I hope the newer Z models will meet the wildlife needs. As you mentioned, I will keep my D850 with power grip for a while longer. Great info as usual and glad to read your feeling better!!!🙏
What's your thinking? I got a full refund on my d850 as they were unable to get the repair parts.
I want the z9 at the d850 price really 😂
Hoping z8 next year will be what I need, but I'm terrified of the price
@@sinetwo I don’t think the Z8 will be a Z9 and at the same price of a D850. The Z8 will have half of the features of a Z9, genes the the lower price. My comment was saying the The D850 was great with a power grip to give 9 fps for wildlife photography. Having 30-120FPS and now the 1 second pre/post capture ability with Z9 is amazing! Great you received a full refund on the D850 from Nikon or your store. I didn’t think I would buy mirrorless, but I am still using my F glass to save on the conversion cost. Looking forward to the new 200-600 and 600 release to buy my first z lens!
@@mikedavis1110 yeah I would happily sacrifice the grip of the z9 but at the moment my D500 is a killer. My only issue is the live view for low wildlife shots and that the AF in that mode is quite frankly, terrible.
Let's see what the z8 offers. Really the z9 is the dream camera, but honestly if nikon can't compete with Sony, and their bodies can't use F glass as well as the Z9, I'm gonna get a d850 again next year.
@@sinetwo Surprised to read about the AF issue for I thought the D500 was a baby D5 for it uses the same setup is my understanding with the 10 fps. As far as Sony goes I think the Z9 surpasses it with one slight issue in the AF tracking in low contrast areas or in cluttered areas. They have made firmware updates to address this issue with major improvements. The build quality of Z9 his “hands down” BETTER than a Sony, menu process and the features at a $1000+ less than Sony!! I am sure both will improve over time in firmware or newer versions. I would still get a z8/z9 for wildlife with the highest fps from Nikon. I still have my D850, D800 as backups and believe the D850 is the best DSLR on the market at a reasonable price($3000). It’s still tied for #1 on DXO’s review with 5 year newer cameras!
On the low angle shots the D500 has the tilting LCD and I didn’t think I would appreciate that feature but it is big help!
@@mikedavis1110 agree, hoping the z8 will be the wildlife killer (figuratively!)!
The d500 and the d850 have horrendous AF when in live view mode. Fine for static subjects but it'll hunt and refocus quite a lot. With a mirrorless, the screen is the "same" as the viewfinder so it's a much better experience.
Waiting it out for the Z8 to see what they offer, and then I'll decide on d850 vs z8. But for now my D500 will do, despite having a range of nice FX lenses
Love your videos Steve! Praying for a speedy recovery!!
Steve, very sorry to hear about your COVID-19 experience and glad you're on the mend. Your videos are the ones I look forward to watching as they are full of relevant information. Bought the e-Book and looking forward to putting this to use with my new Z6II. Get better soon, and take it easy!
Steve hello from Greece! I wish you get well soon and come back to us in full recovery! Sending you my thoughts and prayers!
Hi and thx Steve for now I'm really looking forward to the 6iii as video is really my priority so I hope the next model will be awesome as the Z8 are a bit out of my budget at the moment. Doug
One other comment on your health crisis Steve. My wife advised me that our dentist has every patient sign a waiver against Covid. Apparently, dental procedures cause the release of particles that can stay airborne for some time. Logical and pretty much unavoidable when you think about it. Obviously, we can’t avoid it for serious tooth problems but perhaps a reason to postpone routine checkups.
I’m far from an expert on this virus but your experience suggests I will hold off on my regular checkup and focus on good hygiene.
I have a feeling that may have been what happened. Still, there's no way to know. It's frustrating for sure.
Thanks Steve, since I shoot BIF 99% of the time I think I'm going to stick with my D500 for a while and wait and see what the next generation of Z cameras are like..I want to get into the Z system so I can take advantage of I'm sure what is to be some awesome big glass but it sounds like they are not quite what I'm looking for yet..
I think that's a good choice for sure. They can do BIF, but not like a D500.
@@backcountrygallery get well soon!!!!
Never seen such clear reviews. Usual youtube reviews are complaint boxes.
You are to the point 👉
Part of me says that we won't get the "live feed at 8fps" type of stuff. They'll save that for the Z8 and Z9 (although the Z9 will likely be 20 fps with no blackout and all "live feed" basically). Thankfully, for me at least, I don't shoot wildlife so these limitations are not a problem, but for sports and wildlife shooters, I can imagine it would be.
I think for the case of tracking, Nikon is probably not utilizing the second processor to its full extent. I'm sure this was done on purpose, and there are rumors that in September, a decent-sized AF update will be coming for the Z II bodies... but that's just rumor
The Z7 II at least is really meant to compete with the Sony A7R III and IV (between the two) and likely the R6 in Canon's line-up (despite the lower resolution on the R6). The R5 I would say is a step above the Z7 II, as is the a1 from Sony. (I would also say the R3 ~ Z8, and the R1 will ~ Z9). But I still feel that the R5 likely sits between a Z7 II and a Z8 in reality. Of course I'm making an assumption that the Z8 wil lbe "better" than the Z7 series, but not to the same calibre as the the upcoming Z9. The Z8 in reality will likely be close to an A7R IV, but with perhaps slightly newer features because of age (as the A7R IV is now about 2 years old).
Hope your feeling much better today Steve, great video as always. Your videos and tutorials have helped me to benefit so much more from my Z6 ii. Truly hoping the new native super telephotos will be better for wildlife photography. I use a sigma 150-600 lens with FTZ adapter for my birding but it’s a real challenge to get a consistent lock on fast moving objects.
I think the 100-400 and 200-600 are going to be really good.
Hi Steve interesting review and great shots from both but I wonder if and how these bodies have improved in 2023 with the latest updates regarding to the negative things you've mentioned. Be nice to see an updated review, but for now I just feel like I need more from the z6ii for wildlife. I'd like to do video and great enlargements but the z8 is just out of my budget at the moment. I either have to wait for the iii models or save more towards the z8 or look at Sony, but thx again
Great video as always Steve. Let me just echo the other comments and say how nice it is to see you back here, after the forum. Wish you a speedy recovery, take care!
Glad to hear you’re on the mend! Best wishes to you & your family. Stay safe.
Thank you. I'm excited to get my Z7 II but I've never had any assumption it'll replace my much loved D850. Glad you're better!
Nice review as always. When can we see Sony A1 video lol. Speedy recovery get well soon
LOL, I honestly can't even walk very well at this point and I'm still on oxygen much of the time. A1 review probably won't happen.
Great insight Steve! Thanks for your honest and transparent insight!
So glad to hear you're feeling better.
Welcome back and hoping you get better.
Agree with you...subject tracking on Z7ii is still disappointing. Hope firmware update will improve that
This video had perfect timing as I was definitely looking to buy into full frame with my stimulus. Thank you Steve!
Steve, I have Nikon D5600 and just bought Z6ii mirrorless with specific goal of better tracking of birds in flight. From what you say here, I'm not sure I made right decision--thoughts? I can still return mirrorless as I JUST bought it.
Glad you are on the mend! Another info packed video! Thanks Steve!
Great video as usual. Ill be purchasing your tutorials today and glad you’re recovering from COVID-19
I have many doubts about Mirrorless cameras. I currently use a 7dmark II along with a sigma 150 600mm lens to photograph birds. I like the Result. I've seen some people commenting that the Mirrorless AF system is a bit of a lens for photographing birds, is that true? Nikon is going to launch a z 180 600mm lens. So I'm looking forward to going into these Mirrorless worlds with Nikon. But I still don't know which is the best Nikon Mirrorless camera to photograph birds with a good cost benefit. Thanks for the video
Nice comparison. As an amateur first purchaser and interest in wildlife, should I really go for Z6II? And of course, also have to add lens price. Thanks
Thanks Steve for another good video. I am still using my Nikon d4s and d810. I have so much F mount glass. I am interested in mirrorless but so far not ready to pull the trigger. However, at 68 years young maybe in the near future a lighter camera body maybe useful. So far the keeper ratio is good and in the warm, muggy and wet Mississippi environment I have no complaints with my current set up. I do not need the speed of the D4s anymore, the D810 is rather slow. Kind of on the fence to be honest to make the move.
Hello Steve, Just before I go back to watch again were these test done with version 1.10 of the software. I have the Z7ii but have been stuck it shielding for the last 12 months, so not been able to play yet, it's interesting what you say about the Z7ii I to think it just lacks some thing so it is nor quit as nice as my D850. But it still ok. Keep well, keep safe and have fun.
Much of it was with the original firmware since I was shooting as soon as I got the cameras. Keep in mind the new firmware wasn't a huge update. It was mostly just more video support and improvement for eye AF with people, not wildlife. Tracking (my biggest complaint) was not improved.
Thanks Steve, and a very big thanks for all your amazing videos.
Excellent & Honest Review..Thanks
THE review I’ve been waiting for... Thank you!
Rest my friend and get well soon!
Thx! What a great review. You made me take a breath and wait for a proper replacement for my D850 in regards to autofocus.
I like what you said about adding a Z camera to my D850 as opposed to replacing it. That’s exactly what I was thinking too. Now I need to do more research or just save up for the z9🤷🏻♀️
Oh, do either the z7ii or z9 have a fully articulating screen? I need one that i can use for live-view in the studio.
Welcome back, Steve! Glad you are on the road to recovery. I will be heading over to purchase your Z AF book. Hope it helps! Both of us! 😉
Steve there is another firmware update coming on the Z cameras from Nikon around April 26th 2021 . I hope you will do a review on the firmware update . I have been waiting for Nikon to get the focus tracking up to par or at least close to Sony . Interested in A Z7II but it’s been the focus tracking for BIF that holds me back . Thank You
Love this review and have been waiting for this review for a long time.
Steve- I want to upgrade my Nikon D5500 to mirrorless- I’m an amateur, trying to get better in retirement- my question is, should I just bite the bullet and get the Z8- or go with the Z62 or Z72- mostly landscape/nature and grand kids- I also understand that the glass is more important and want to spend on lenses too- what is the best overall lens for what I do above? Thanks and love your videos
Is there a significant improvement vs the Z50?
They are pretty close still in my experience.
Good to see you back..
Thanks Steve, top quality information as always. These are obviously excellent cameras but reading between the lines I don't see enough here to shell out £1500 plus the D500 that I have, it still does the job for me and many others I suspect 👍
Excellent video! I just bought the Z7II (on backorder), but am keeping my D500. I do crop quite a lot so the higher MP will definitely help. Hope all goes well with your recovery.
Well, I'm think the Z8 will be more like the Sony A7R IV in terms of resolution and shooting specs at least. A step up from the Z7's but probably a step down from the Z9 (which is supposedly going to be "better" Than the current D6). I think placing your assessment that the Z/Z II bodies around a D750 to D780 is about right (I'd say even a D810, as some features were carried over from the D810 and D850 but they don't perform as well as the D850 at least, in my opinion.
Glad to hear you are on the rebound!
Sorry to hear you have been so unwell. Wishing you the best of health for the future
As close to a perfect review as possible. Thanks, Steve.
Glad you're on the mend.
I personally wouldn't recommend getting a II camera until 2.x firmware comes out. The Z7II seems more future proof resolution wise. You can also shoot crop (or with some compact AF-P DX lenses) at a useful 21mp. DPR's studio comparison shows how much more useful that resolution is regarding fine details like text. ACR stinks with NEF's though, so make sure you don't use something else (Nikon NX2 or Studio is free) to render your NEF's.
Thanks for another great summary, Steve. Much appreciated.
Best wishes for a speedy recovery. Our whole family are in healthcare and have a good idea of what you’re going through - cheering for you and looking forward to you being behind your camera again. 👍
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Thank you so much , I was waiting for your input regarding z6ii.
Great review, thanks for sharing your knowledge!
Hi Steve, I have a Nikon d750 with a Sigma 150-600mm Contemporary and I'm thinking to upgrade to the Z6 ii with the FTZ ii for wildlife, do you think is a good idea? Is it really a clever upgrade?
Well, I suspect that the autofocus speed with this camera with your 600f4 vs 200-500 is probably to do with the current camera send out to the focus motor ... with my D850 , the full cycle took less than 80 milliseconds in 400 f2.8 , but when couple with z72 , it was almost 1 second and 30 millisecond ... almost same timing for 600 f4
Adding too what you said Steve: “Nikon Ricci” in another video was very clear that the z6II is also a better video camera than the z7II even thought the latter uses the full width of the sensor. He said the z7II is heavily like skipped etc., and that the z6II for various other reasons made it actually “quite a bit better videocamera” and that he “would choose it over the z7II” for video every single time. I need to rewatch it again too get more details but it sounded very legitimate too me.
We use the Z6/Z6ii for video, seldom the Z7 series. I've actually never compared them, I'm happy with the Z6 (and we're sometimes in low light).
@@backcountrygallery I hear yeah brotha. I’m so happy with my z6II (first Nikon camera). I’m an all around shooter who is dying to see the new Z9 (I think it’s exactly what I want and need) but my budget probably won’t allow for it. I don’t know we’ll see...
Hope you continue to heal and feel better, Steve!
Hi Steve, so glad to hear you are recovering from Covid, and I am very sorry you got it. I hope you will recover promptly and go back to "normal" soon. Whenever you can answer, if you can answer. I need an opinion (advice) from a professional like you. I want to buy a Nikon camera to start doing event photography mainly (that means working sometimes in poor light conditions), but I would like to do wildlife as well time to time. I was considering the Z6II or the D780 for that purpose. I don't care much about the Megapixels, I just need a camera that will focus well and be reliable and consistent regarding autofocus when I find my self working in lowlight situations. I know Nikon DSRL cameras are pretty good with autofocus in regular/good light conditions, but I have my doubts about the new Z line for lowlight autofocus. My other consideration is to buy a used D850 which I think is still a fantastic camera in 2021 for both event and wildlife photography. A good condition used D850 with approximately 35k shots can be found for around USD 2,100 nowadays. I will love to hear your opinion about this. Thank you Steve and have a good recovery.
Actually, the Z cameras are great in low light and have a special low light AF feature that allows them to focus in incredibly dim conditions (it's slow but works). AF is also more effective across the frame, it doesn't drop off like DSLRs do when you get to the edges of the AF field. I don't do a lot of event work, so keep that in mind, but I think the Z6ii might be the way to go.
@@backcountrygallery thank you Steve, I hope you are doing well
Hey Steve.. great review as always.
In your opinion, which mirrorless camera can replace Nikon D850 (mainly for wildlife)?
Thanks!