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Hey Matt, thanks for the informative video. I am a little disappointed that you did not try out ai focus in combination with manual focus. Therefor I wondering if your conclusion would change after using eye detect + manual focus for instance...
@@gunnarlahmann754 thanks, the camera was already too easy to use for me (like iPhone) so it wouldn’t help for my choice vs Leica. Others will love it though**
Hey matt, a couple of advantages you may not be aware of with the zf. The ibis algorithm works around the focal point and not the centre of the sensor. Also, you can use the ai auto-focus when using vintage m-mount manual lenses, for example, if you are set to eye detect, when you punch the zoom button for critical focus, the camera will zoom-in on the eye regardless of where the eye is in the frame. You mentioned the techart tzm-2, but i prefer to use the Ttartisans 6-bit adaptor. This has an adjustable wheel that allows you to set the focal length of the vintage lens being used so you can take advantage of the ibis. Also, the killer feature of the 6-bit adaptor is that it enables trap focus, this means you can set the camera up so the shutter will only release when an eye comes into sharp focus so for street photography, i can shoot a 70/1.4 projection lens from the hip and get sharp super shallow dof photos without having to wait for autofocus, it's a game changer!
Thanks for the tip! Does the manual method for zone focusing work though? I found with a dumb z-m adapter that when I focus to infinity on the lens markings (or extend all the way to the end), that it would go too far (past infinity) and then be forced to use the viewfinder to connect. This is contrary to my Leica l-m adapter which was accurate. I personally find this more important than ibis as a point and shoot landscape guy
@@18yearsoldnot i never shoot at infinity. I usually have my finger on the focus tab going from 1.5m to 5m for most if my street shooting, works fine, besides, if u activate trap focus, the shutter will only release when your subjects eye is in focus
@@ortonphotoart5770 thanks very much. Sounds like the zf is not so perfect for m-lenses in terms of “focus and forget focusing ever again” for landscapes - which I absolutely love about the sigma fp going ski touring or hiking in the Swiss mountains where you may be in a tricky spot and just want to take a stress free snap of the scenery while being aware of where you are stepping…
I recently received my Zf and it is the full frame retro camera I have been waiting many years for. I don't use any of the automatic features, and use only my M mount Voigtlander lenses on it. The biggest benefit of the Zf for me is the ability to use the camera's subject detection along with manual focus. The focus point immediately goes to the eye, so I can quickly press the zoom button, manually focus my lens and press the shutter button. This camera provides the best manual focus experience of any camera I have ever used.
When half-pressing the shutter button, does the zoom get cancelled to return you to the normal magnification (i.e., zoomed out) or does that only happen with a full press of the shutter button (i.e., taking a photo)? This one thing has been a bit frustrating for me on the Z7.
Half pressing does not cancel the zoom. This is why I set a programmable button on the front of my Nikon Z cameras to zoom. That way, I have only one button to press to zoom in and out. It also frees up my thumb for things other than zooming in or out. @@illyaswan
@@Anon-zl4ne I've done that as well, but once you get used to this shutter half-press way of canceling zoom and focus peaking of Fuji cameras, it's unpleasant to adapt to an extra button click with Nikon. haha Thank you nevertheless.
I got one and really like it. The build quality is really good, except for the battery door that is not very relevant to me. I like using the Z40mm and Z28mm lenses with it, and I can also use my Voigtlander manual focus lenses (3 of them) from my analog Nikons through the Nikon FTZ II adapter with full control since my Voigtlander lenses are chipped (electrical contacts) so I can control de aperture from the lens or from the camera as I please, plus other benefits of using a chipped lens, as well as all my F mount lenses (manual and AF lenses), AND with a small adapter I can use my small M mount lenses with some very nice manual focus aids from the Nikon ZF, specially great when shooting portraits. And I almost forgot to mention some nice manual focus lenses Voigtlander makes in Z mount. For me, this camera is a winner.
Hi Matt!! I can’t believe it, it’s such an amazing video! Thank you so much, it was a big pleasure to be by your side, shooting in the streets of my home town and learning from you! I hope everyone enjoys the video as much as I did! I just can say Thanks a lot!! Great times!! 🙌🙌🙌
Just bought one of these. Absolutely love it. Wonderful homage to the iconic FM and FE series cameras from the late '70s, yet also sports some amazing new technological innovations. Real brass dials, too! Plus, that sensor is just gorgeous, and phenomenal in low light. Smart play on Nikon's part, and I look forward to a higher resolution model in the future styled after the even more iconic F3, originally designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro.
Thanks for an interesting comparison. I shoot with the Zf and also an M10-R and enjoy both, but they give different experiences. You are right about the autofocus appeal in the Zf I feel.
Thanks Mark, I was handed the camera and had to start shooting so I just used the basic features as I would any mirrorless camera. That does sound a handy feature so thanks for mentioning!
Thanks Matt!I really enjoy my Zf with 28 and 40 Nikkor Z lenses.This camera is so much fun honestly!I have a Leica M 10R with a bunch of M lenses but I use my Zf more now.
I recommend the Rayqual F to Z adapter. It matches the style of the Zf and is made in Japan. It is a dumb adapter though (no autofocus or computer contacts).
Months ago I watched your video where you discussed the Kalloflex TLR you bought, and praised. Right after watching I searched and found a pristine example and had a complete, stripped to the frame, CLA done with new leather and now own a fantastic and incredibly fun camera as a result. It’s been on a few overseas trips with me and just dropping a note of thanks for your vid that led me in that direction.. 🙏🏼
Great to hear it! Yes that camera is a real hidden gem. The lens is fantastic. I should really try to use mine more. I appreciate you writing. Enjoy it!
Hi, sorry I only tested the camera for a day as i'm not a digital Nikon guy. I didn't notice terrible corners with a 50mm but you normally see this worse with wider lenses (if it's an issue like with the older Sony cameras).
I only tested the Zf. I prefer my SL but other love it. Photos are easier with mirrorless but you lose the M form factor and RF approach. If you prefer SLR to RF get the SL or Zf.
Hi Matt you have to try out the Nikon Df. It's a sublime pure photography experience. Despite all the negativity and controversy blown way out of proportion since it's release in 2013, I find out it is more intuitive for me than the Zf.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Hello Matt. I was able to test manual focusing in store with my Voigtlander M lenses on a Nikon Zf... The focus peaking is not bad, on the other hand I clearly prefer the quality of the aim of my SL2s which is much more defined (3690000 pixels vs 5700000 pixels for the SL2s). As for the quality and file size, I don't know, but on the Nikon, it must be 25MPX compared to 45MPX on the SL2S because of the DNG file).
Great video, and I'm so glad you had a chance to review the Zf! 💥💥💥 I sold my SL and got a Zf, and am very pleased. I rarely need to use a menu for anything, and can shoot in my preferred style (old school dials for ISO/SS, and aperture ring). I have configured the front function button to my shutter settings, and the i menu to my other key operations. I love this camera. The high ISO noise levels are ridiculously good - noticeably better than the SL. I daresay this is comparable to an SL2-S, as I feel the Zf is better than my SL in this area, in particular. To me, the image quality is similar. I only shoot in manual mode, and mostly adapted manual glass. HOWEVER, This camera got me back into the Autofocus world (after having left the hobby just after AF was on the scene), and I now have the spectacular 24-70 f/2.8 S Nikkor as my main lens. WOW. I am mightily impressed with this lens, and the Nikon AF capabilities. I've sold some of my manual glass, and have only kept those I use on my film cameras, and my "never gonna sell" manual Nikkor ED 300/2.8 and 500/4 super teles. Oh, and my Helios 44-2 😃😃😃 It is ironic that this magnificent retro-styled camera is the one that got me onto the autofocus train. It has changed everything for my "people and event" shooting. I still prefer manual focus for landscape, astro, macro, etc, but I totally get the beauty of a good AF setup in certain situations. Anywhoo, I love the Zf, and will only replace it with (what I hope will be) Nikon's rollout of the flagship version of it. Digital re-issue of the F3?........ 😍😍😍
The ZF sensor is great , excellent low light performance , excellent color science (as always with Nikon) , Great sensor stabilization to prevent unwanted movement, low shutter shock , recomened! It will not flatten your M lenses , if anything it may be that the lenses are too old and cannot resolve the resolution depends.
@@LOLA6ifyableI use old vintage M and LTM lenses on my Z8 wide angle and long lenses. No issues with resolution. Also used 1950’s Canon and Rodenstock lenses and they render beautifully.
I have the TTArtisans 6-Bit Leica M to Z adapter, and it makes the cameras think that the Leica M lenses (or LTM with the adapter) are AF and give you the AF confirmation and other cool features like Focus Trap mode, and the FP wireless flash syncing. A really nice addition for a Z user that also uses rangefinder lenses.
Yes I bought one for cycling but you can use for walking etc too. See my 50mm Skopar video I think. If not try my sigma 90mm dg dn video. It’s ok blog kit list page too
Have sold off ALL my Leicas... picked up a Zf first day they were offered... Love it....did not sell most of my "m" mount lenses... they work perfect as well as the auto-focus Z lenses.
It is analog enough.... It works well with my Godox triggers for special flash.. and works perfectly with my Metz 76 flash. It lets me use the same shooting style I have used for the last 65 years.... The auto focus is a bit too automatic... so I prefer to use back button focus and not leave it on auto. This camera and my Metz 76 would have been able to make every photo I have ever taken.
Great review thanks Matt. Mega props to Nikon for producing this - I came into photography decades ago via Nikon (still have my F3 from the eighties) and this is definitely a Nikon digital camera I can get at last get behind. Wont elbow out my Leica gear tho.....
The Nikom Zf has some interesting manual focus aids that are available only, if you use manual lenses with electrical contacts like the Voigtlander 50mm f1.0 Nokton. Subject detection will also work fine with manual focus lenses. The camera will detect faces and automatically put the focus point there. If you focus manually and nailed the sharpness the color of the focus point turns green. It's very reliably and in my opinion the currently best way to focus manually on any digital camera. Unfortunately it doesn't work for lenses without electrical contacts, even though I don't see a reason why it should not be possible to also implement it for lenses without contacts.
Why did Nikon make only the knobs out of brass? I've been waiting for a camera fully made of brass for years. That what I think the Leica Q should have been made with; at least the black version.
Probably because of weight concerns. The Zf is already a weighty camera for its size. Making it fully out of brass would have made it heavier than a Z9.
Nice Video again Matt. 👏 Yes for me the new Zf looks like my Nikon FM2n and the same clicksounds… but do you think… the feeling… feels too big and heavy in your hand?
Yes I still prefer Leica M cameras as the best analog digital and yes I love the small lightweight of the FM2 (and the FG-20) (even smaller and lighter). Yes the Zf is heavier.
It’s very much like a Q, very auto and photos are kind of too easy! (With 40mm. Was too automatic for me but I guess the SL would be similar if I used L glass).
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I think the difference here is that you have a choice, like you did, mount M glass on it and you got the whole manual experience, like an SL and as far as Ive read, the sensor is thin enough to also handle wide M lenses and not have a distortion in the corners like Sony cameras :)
Interesting review this time Matt! I really want to know as a Leica user for such a long time, how do you thinkg of Nikon Z mainly on image quality? How about color science for example?
he is using Lightroom for the Nikon files , the colours in Lightroom are not good for Nikon raw files . NX studio is the way to go it’s on a complete different level then Lightroom, the Nikon colours are popping out , and there is not really a difference between Leica and nikon . with Nikon you have a lot more options you can download picture profiles like Kodak gold , Kodak portra , Fuji Astia etc. for free and import them into your camera , it works with the Z6 , Z7 , Z9 and they will update the profiles to Nikon zf too . some profiles like Kodak gold with WB A6.0 will look like slide film , they will turn your Nikon camera into magic . Some people didn’t know about the profiles because they didn’t heard about and they will use Lightroom
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom do it! No regrets! I owe every M model ever produced, but somehow nostalgia has set in, and beside the Nikkormat and early F2’s I also enjoy my 503CW, very much, occasionally the Rolleiflex! It’s all similar to listening to Music via Vinyl, more work, but active …..
If the released this a bit earlier to compete with the original SL then I’d have considered it :) still one thing that pisses me off that Nikons adapters don’t support AF-D lens autofocus!
Hear me out, what if the M10D has a working film advance leaver that actually charge the shutter? Wouldn't that be a dream come true! As a Canon shooter, I wish they too will jump on the retro high-end digital game. Also, don't quote me on it, isn't the SL and Nikon both uses Sony sensor that's differently tuned?
I have an M10-D and as the faux advance lever is a brilliant thumb rest, I don’t think using it as a mechanism to charge the shutter like the Epson RD1 is only useful if it shot one frame at a time. The M10-D is capable of 5 frames/second. Having said that I do think Nikon would have improved the ergonomics with the addition of an advance lever thumb rest, styled like that of the FM3A and like the FM3A the cocked thumb rest could act like an on and off switch.
I don’t understand why the Nikon has the PASM switch. That does irk me a little. Fuji got the setup of the PASM right and did it really simply. Guessing Nikon didn’t want to be seen copying Fuji? Looks like a nice camera though.
Nikon had PASM for decades, this is the same as a Nikon FA. Another reason is Fujifilm has the aperture control on their lenses (yes, you can also use the control dial). As of AFS G lenses Nikon has done away with an aperture control on their lenses, including their Z mount lenses. So having PASM is pretty genuinely retro for Nikon. The issue is Aperture control. And yes, Nikon followed much of what they did with the Df, they did not copy Fuji.
Thank you for this interesting video regarding a very interesting camera. On a completely different note, I'm hoping you might do a review of the TTartisan 21mm f1.5 lens sometime!
This camera is very close to what it should have been, I think. The internals are excellent and the design is cool, but the control system is a little weird. If you haven't used a Fujifilm XT camera before, I would highly recommend it. Those cameras have a control scheme that, if adapted to the Zf, could make it one of the best mirrorless cameras ever. They're almost the same but without the PASM switches that make the Zf very awkward and reliant on the in-camera menus. A Zf 2.0 should be perfect.
Wouldn’t it be great if a camera like this forced Leica into the modern age to create an interchangeable lens Q (sort of a M with Autofocus, EVF, Water sealing and multiple exposure modes)?
Your comparison is o.k. and realistic as far as possible. Concerning photo gear, some esthetic design items alone and the overall feeling with that thing in use > I'm solely drawn to the Nikon Zf, and in my eyes all Leica SL and Q (NOT the marvellous M !) are from an abysmally deep ugly, clunky design. That will not matter to anyone else, but in the sense of my 'brother in spirit' Alex K.: the feelings make the best of you, and I cannot handle a brick which I would never enjoy and would never be successful or content with. @philosimot
Thanks, yes cameras that you enjoy using are really important (I need to enjoy the using and the resulting photos). The Zf would not really tick either box as a bit too easy but it looks nice for a modern camera.
After I cooled down, I do not see Zf special anymore, so Leica all the way. Or original Nikon Df is what I personaly prefer. But, if Zf came with OVF, then it will be something competely different. It is ordinary mirrorless camera packed in retro box..that is all.
Sorry to say , but the way you use the different lenses and it is jumping back and forth ( sometimes one can only try to guess, which lens it was ) is quite confusing actually . And why "Alex" -- his name is Alejandro I guess ?
Thanks and sorry if it was confusing. It's easy to see the difference, the very sharp modern photos are the 40mm, the arty soft photos are the 7A 1.1. Yes Alejandro calls himself Alex as I call myself Matt (Matthew)
Hello Matt, currently I'm in really need of a hard drive to back things up and get back on track but pocket is tight at the moment, is there some freelance works you can offer me to let me do something for you in return to help me raise some funds for a hard drive as soon as possible?
Hi, thanks for offering. UA-cam life is probably not as glamorous as it seems. I just bought a cheaper HD myself on Amazon as I can’t go crazy with my spending. Maybe when I hit 100K subs I’ll have the luxury of paying people to assist me! Until then I’ll continue the long hours and cheap lifestyle.
Oh I see, yeah I just try to look around for work as I need extra opportunity to help myself to get back on track and upgrade as well, but oh I thought Leica user plus travelling often is someone who do well in life already! But I hope you reach your 100k subscribers soon! Nice videos as always!
That's great, yeah even if I have the money, I will still try to get things while on deal too! But that say, if you or anyone and business you know need a logo or something, let me know! :-D
The Zf looks like a good camera, yes. But perhaps it is my bias but I preferred the Leica images to the Nikon images for color and resolution. It is a really good camera but not one I am tempted by, not quite. Close but not quite. Thanks for the review.
he is using Lightroom for the Nikon files , the colours in Lightroom are not good for Nikon raw files . NX studio is the way to go it’s on a complete different level then Lightroom, the Nikon colours are popping out , and there is not really a difference between Leica and nikon . with Nikon you have a lot more options you can download picture profiles like Kodak gold , Kodak portra , Fuji Astia etc. for free and import them into your camera , it works with the Z6 , Z7 , Z9 and they will update the profiles to Nikon zf too . some profiles like Kodak gold with WB A6.0 will look like slide film , they will turn your Nikon camera into magic . Some people didn’t know about the profiles because they didn’t heard about and they will use Lightroom
Nikon ZF design are great and vintage looks but the mode dial is annoying when I tried it, unlike the leica or even fujifilm, when you dial shutter speed and auto aperture, and iso. It is shutter priority and when you only change the aperture on your lens it is aperture mode or priority, don't need the mode dial. Because in nikon if you stay the mode dial on auto even you dial or change shutter speed, aperture, it is still no change. You always need to change it before you change something on your settings on it. Same on other priority modes. But nice comparison and nice review matt, i love leica M series cameras than any other camera but I'm shooting sony mirrorless camera for paid job. 😁👍📸
Have you ever used olympus PEN F? You will dump Nikon into a bin mate . Please borrow Original Olympus P1 or PEN F and see the magic especially BNW shots
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom thank you for reply Matt , please source New Pen F or Original Olympus P1 . Olympus has best white balance , organic looking shots and best colours amd black and white engine .please try
@@eugene8524 yes for novice immature and stupid people it’s a tiny sensor but for someone who knows the photography and understands the art and especially Matt , it shall be a fun camera to use 👍👍
Nah. I’ll stick to my M10R 😀 … nice but, it’s the lenses. If you want AF you’ll get those new style Nikon lenses. Fuji really has this nailed with their small manual aperture lenses. I would rather an XT5 with a 23f2 or 35f2 or one of those small Fuji lenses. I also really don’t like those video swivel screens on cameras.
Thanks Carlos, yes I think diehard M users will stay as they are but a good price for people wanting autofocus options. I've never really used Fuji but I do prefer smaller like my APS-C CL.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Oh wow. You should use one. I would maybe try an XPro with a 23 or 35 Fuji lens. I think it’ll be an interesting review for you to experience that dual OVF/EVF system. And the IQ is great. Not as rich as an M but good.
@@magiccarpetrider4594 had it. Sold it fairly quickly. Way too wide, too big and too heavy. The best every day Fuji lens is the 23f2. When that Omar guy trashed it on his channel and returned it, I told him as politely as I could that he was being an idiot (I didn’t use that word, but nicely I did) and that this was the best lens Fuji had. Who cares about a bug being a bit soft at f2 3 inches away. Who takes photos like that? He blocked me. A few months later guess what? He bought it again and I think he still uses it. 🤣🤣 What a bunch of morons. Same thing with that Even Ranft dude. He made the same video. Too soft 3 inches away. Returned it. I told him the same thing. He banned me too. A few months later he repurchased it. 😀 The 23f2 is such a standard classic Fuji lens that it was the only lens I had for 2 years. It is the best thing they make, the rest in terms of the impact of your photograph is down to you as a photographer, not inside the lens. In terms of IQ, the best Fuji lens I ever owned was the original 56f1.2. But I usually take photos at f8, so I don’t need those lenses. Blurring backgrounds isn’t anything I’m interested in. Leica also has a 24f1.4. Not sure why anyone would buy that thing. Same issue. Very heavy. Alan Schaller has one, but I don’t know why. He’s always closing his aperture very small and crushing his whites and blacks to make that ultra contrasty look. He can get the same image with a very small 24mm Elmar. Small lenses are the way to go 100% of the time. Pick the smaller lenses.
Can't imagine I'd ever buy one of these as it's just another mainstream mirrorless camera with clicky knobs grafted on… but thanks for giving it a once-over! A lot of nostalgia-minded photographers seem to be absolutely obsessed with it, so it was nice to hear from someone who's sympathetic about its appeal but pragmatic about its limitations.
At the risk of sounding like a Luddite, my only gripe with this type of camera is that they have a realistic working life of only a few years. I have three Fuji digitals, and all have developed expensive faults after between 2 and 5 years. I love them while they work, but it starts to get pricey when they fail. Meanwhile, I've a Nikon FE that's only ever needed new seals and batteries.
Thanks and fair point. Most digital cameras die at some point. Leica seem to last longer than many. Film cameras just keep on going! Love my 1931 Barnack but Nikons too.
@@bernardlanguillier7970 Only in the sense that they are all packed with incredible technology, but not it would seem longevity. Where it the case that Fuji were a cheap brand, I'd be inclined to regard it as a case of 'you get what you pay for', but they aren't cheap, hence my resentment at having paid good money to buy into a reputable brand only to be disappointed. I hope for the sake of those spending so much on new equipment, that the Nikon is of a better quality than Fuji. A new ZF body costs around £2,200, and that's not cheap. If it only has a life expectancy of 5 years, then in my mind, that's not good enough. As I said, the technology is superb, but is it too complicated? Again, I return to the example of my Nikon FE, at least 40 years old, and going strong.
Fab new Nikon, but Matt most of us wanting a ‘real experience’ moved to Fuji years ago… having said that as a Nikon user I am tempted ( FM / FE / FT2 and long ago F3T) of course a mass produced camera can’t fully match the feel of a REAL Leica ( mine M6 ttl). 😎👍
the nikon zfc looks better than the zf imo. The pain with using retro mirrorless Nikon Zf Zfc is that an adapter is required when using Nikon F lenses, making the camera look so bulkyyy
Thats the only thing keeping me from getting one. It’s all nice and retro but god forbid you use anything but zf lenses which don’t even have an aperture ring. Real shame if you ask me but I guess they wanna sell their new lenses. Makes sense but fu** me.
I would have gone for this offering from Nion if they had been brave enough to ditch the video and had developed some useful B&W presets. I have been with Nikon for over 40 yeats so from my point of view, opportunity lost.
The video capability itself does not impact your photography and you can easily create your own B&W presets if you want to, so those are hardly showstoppers… Now if with video you mean having a flippy screen setup, that’s hardware. If you mean you’d prefer a higher resolution sensor, again that’s hardware. I knew this wasn’t a perfect camera, I also have a Df which also has its pros and cons as a “retro” camera, but both cameras in the end appeal to what I look for, with the Zf having the benefit of mirrorless and a pretty capable AF system (which even has its benefit using manual focus lenses).
The video feature is present in every single one of my dozen or so digital cameras. Personally I have no use for it, but they are there. My gripe with Nikon is that they have created a camera that is supposed to be a ' retro ' digital. In which retro camera was there ever a 8mm or 16mm cine option available? They should have had the courage to leave this frivolous feature out. Nikon herself has cameras with much better video capabilities if anyone ever wanted it.@@TK421-53
A camera dressed up to look like a mechanical film camera, but inside it’s anything but. I might sound like a purist, but I don’t like anything that pretends to be something it is not. It’s still a digital camera just like the Z6 or Z8. The look is gimmicky. I have true mechanical film cameras and like anything mechanical, they will certainly out last this camera.
I hate the ZF as a Leica M user. You cannot use half a step on the shutter speed dial, and it just locks in place on 1/3 step once your turn it too much. Obvisously, people are not buying the ZF for it's specs, and it doesn't even look that good(it looks the same as any camera as it is black). While for Leica, you are also not buying it for the specs, it has way better built quality and feels even more tactile. One great advange of rangefinders over SLR/Mirrorless are that the focus throw is shorter but offers more depth of field (for example, a slr 50mm would just have infinity after 5m, while for a rangefinder lens, it goes all the way to 20m). Personally, focusing on a leica is faster than focusing(manually) on SLR/mirrorless, and for me, manual focus on Leica is not much slower than AF, and in some conditions, even faster(for example low light). ZF has no advantage over Leica, not even the price(if you are talking about M240 and M9. I would't reccomend M10 as the colours are no longer vibrant and doesn't give that much of a Leica look). If you get a Leica, you can even boast about how you have a Leica. Also, there's not many vintage looking lenses on the Z system while even if you are not buying a new Leica lens, you can still buy a DR summicron and it will not cost you that much. If you really ran out of budget, some Soviet lenses are actually very good. In terms of the about of the lenses avaliable, the Z mount is very poor, compared to the M mount(L39 or what some people call LTM mount also has a lot of good and relatively cheap lenses) .
Thanks for your points. Yes re. colours from M10 vs M9/M240. I have been using both today with a plan to try to make M10 presets to give the M240 colours. (Vid to come). Yes I love M cameras and small lenses. (I plan to dust off my DR soon too!)
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom A " Film Camera ". I think people who make videos on UA-cam to teach something have the responsibility to make their research and give viewers correct information. Film Cameras use films that have a chemical material sensitive to light. There is not such a thing as analog and digital in chemistry. Electronic capture of light is what is used in our current digital cameras. However, the photographic sensor is always analog, even in our digital cameras ! The signal from the sensor is then converted to the digital signal in the camera body in order to be saved. Analog cameras did exist between 1985 and 1995 approximately. They used CCD sensors and not a chemical film.
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Hey Matt, thanks for the informative video. I am a little disappointed that you did not try out ai focus in combination with manual focus. Therefor I wondering if your conclusion would change after using eye detect + manual focus for instance...
@@gunnarlahmann754 thanks, the camera was already too easy to use for me (like iPhone) so it wouldn’t help for my choice vs Leica. Others will love it though**
Hey matt, a couple of advantages you may not be aware of with the zf. The ibis algorithm works around the focal point and not the centre of the sensor. Also, you can use the ai auto-focus when using vintage m-mount manual lenses, for example, if you are set to eye detect, when you punch the zoom button for critical focus, the camera will zoom-in on the eye regardless of where the eye is in the frame. You mentioned the techart tzm-2, but i prefer to use the Ttartisans 6-bit adaptor. This has an adjustable wheel that allows you to set the focal length of the vintage lens being used so you can take advantage of the ibis. Also, the killer feature of the 6-bit adaptor is that it enables trap focus, this means you can set the camera up so the shutter will only release when an eye comes into sharp focus so for street photography, i can shoot a 70/1.4 projection lens from the hip and get sharp super shallow dof photos without having to wait for autofocus, it's a game changer!
Thanks for the great info. That feature will make a lot of people very happy I think!
Oke that actually sounds insanely usefull
Thanks for the tip! Does the manual method for zone focusing work though? I found with a dumb z-m adapter that when I focus to infinity on the lens markings (or extend all the way to the end), that it would go too far (past infinity) and then be forced to use the viewfinder to connect. This is contrary to my Leica l-m adapter which was accurate. I personally find this more important than ibis as a point and shoot landscape guy
@@18yearsoldnot i never shoot at infinity. I usually have my finger on the focus tab going from 1.5m to 5m for most if my street shooting, works fine, besides, if u activate trap focus, the shutter will only release when your subjects eye is in focus
@@ortonphotoart5770 thanks very much. Sounds like the zf is not so perfect for m-lenses in terms of “focus and forget focusing ever again” for landscapes - which I absolutely love about the sigma fp going ski touring or hiking in the Swiss mountains where you may be in a tricky spot and just want to take a stress free snap of the scenery while being aware of where you are stepping…
I recently received my Zf and it is the full frame retro camera I have been waiting many years for. I don't use any of the automatic features, and use only my M mount Voigtlander lenses on it. The biggest benefit of the Zf for me is the ability to use the camera's subject detection along with manual focus. The focus point immediately goes to the eye, so I can quickly press the zoom button, manually focus my lens and press the shutter button. This camera provides the best manual focus experience of any camera I have ever used.
Thank you for confirming the automated manual features.
fully agree, the manual focus but still recognizing the eye is a huge Benefit for all the manual lenses when doing portraits.
When half-pressing the shutter button, does the zoom get cancelled to return you to the normal magnification (i.e., zoomed out) or does that only happen with a full press of the shutter button (i.e., taking a photo)? This one thing has been a bit frustrating for me on the Z7.
Half pressing does not cancel the zoom. This is why I set a programmable button on the front of my Nikon Z cameras to zoom. That way, I have only one button to press to zoom in and out. It also frees up my thumb for things other than zooming in or out. @@illyaswan
@@Anon-zl4ne I've done that as well, but once you get used to this shutter half-press way of canceling zoom and focus peaking of Fuji cameras, it's unpleasant to adapt to an extra button click with Nikon. haha
Thank you nevertheless.
I got one and really like it. The build quality is really good, except for the battery door that is not very relevant to me. I like using the Z40mm and Z28mm lenses with it, and I can also use my Voigtlander manual focus lenses (3 of them) from my analog Nikons through the Nikon FTZ II adapter with full control since my Voigtlander lenses are chipped (electrical contacts) so I can control de aperture from the lens or from the camera as I please, plus other benefits of using a chipped lens, as well as all my F mount lenses (manual and AF lenses), AND with a small adapter I can use my small M mount lenses with some very nice manual focus aids from the Nikon ZF, specially great when shooting portraits. And I almost forgot to mention some nice manual focus lenses Voigtlander makes in Z mount. For me, this camera is a winner.
Congrats! It sounds like you have a great setup there, thanks for sharing the details to help other readers!
Hi Matt!! I can’t believe it, it’s such an amazing video! Thank you so much, it was a big pleasure to be by your side, shooting in the streets of my home town and learning from you! I hope everyone enjoys the video as much as I did! I just can say Thanks a lot!! Great times!! 🙌🙌🙌
Thanks Victor and thanks for hosting me in Valencia that day and for making it possible with Alex's camera!
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom as I said before, it was a pleasure!! Whenever you want, we are here!! ❤️
Just bought one of these. Absolutely love it. Wonderful homage to the iconic FM and FE series cameras from the late '70s, yet also sports some amazing new technological innovations. Real brass dials, too! Plus, that sensor is just gorgeous, and phenomenal in low light. Smart play on Nikon's part, and I look forward to a higher resolution model in the future styled after the even more iconic F3, originally designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro.
Thanks and congrats! Yes I can see a Zf2 following with 45MP.
Thanks for an interesting comparison. I shoot with the Zf and also an M10-R and enjoy both, but they give different experiences. You are right about the autofocus appeal in the Zf I feel.
Thanks for sharing Michael! Yes I think the M cameras pair well with a 2nd mirrorless camera for many.
I can’t believe you completely missed the killer feature of the ZF - the manual focus with eye detect confirmation!
Thanks Mark, I was handed the camera and had to start shooting so I just used the basic features as I would any mirrorless camera. That does sound a handy feature so thanks for mentioning!
Thanks Matt!I really enjoy my Zf with 28 and 40 Nikkor Z lenses.This camera is so much fun honestly!I have a Leica M 10R with a bunch of M lenses but I use my Zf more now.
Thanks! Yes I can see the Zf taking over, photos are just very easy with that camera!
can I use vintage Nikon film lenses or do I need an adapter?
You'll need the FTZ adapter from Nikon. However, there are many third party adapters also - some with autofocus motors.
You need adapter from F to Z mount
I recommend the Rayqual F to Z adapter. It matches the style of the Zf and is made in Japan. It is a dumb adapter though (no autofocus or computer contacts).
Months ago I watched your video where you discussed the Kalloflex TLR you bought, and praised. Right after watching I searched and found a pristine example and had a complete, stripped to the frame, CLA done with new leather and now own a fantastic and incredibly fun camera as a result. It’s been on a few overseas trips with me and just dropping a note of thanks for your vid that led me in that direction.. 🙏🏼
Great to hear it! Yes that camera is a real hidden gem. The lens is fantastic. I should really try to use mine more. I appreciate you writing. Enjoy it!
What adapter do I need to use my m-lenses with Zf eye-detect Af system
Check with Nikon guys. The TechArt adapter works I think
how do you find the corner performance of the zf + leica lenses ? does it smears like leica lenses on sony body ?
Hi, sorry I only tested the camera for a day as i'm not a digital Nikon guy. I didn't notice terrible corners with a 50mm but you normally see this worse with wider lenses (if it's an issue like with the older Sony cameras).
Superb review, I’ve been wondering about the Zf as a replacement for my original SL. Very thought provoking and certainly a great camera.
Thanks Marcus! Yes the Zf certainly offers lots of advantages but I'll stick with my simple Leica.
Since you have the zf and m262? i have a m262 and Im thinking of selling the m262 for a zf? Is it Worth it? What are your thoughts? Thanks
I only tested the Zf. I prefer my SL but other love it. Photos are easier with mirrorless but you lose the M form factor and RF approach. If you prefer SLR to RF get the SL or Zf.
Hi Matt you have to try out the Nikon Df. It's a sublime pure photography experience. Despite all the negativity and controversy blown way out of proportion since it's release in 2013, I find out it is more intuitive for me than the Zf.
I know of it but I’ve not. I left Nikon maybe 2012 using a D800
I have both. they can not be compared. Like compare cars from 2023 and 1970 year, both can get you to the finish point but with different emotions
Yes fair point! It's like M camera vs mirrorless. Both have pros.
This camera looks amazing, but I still love M for rangefinder and compact size 😅
Me too! :)
Hey Matt, can you please do a video with the ZF and Leica M glass? I’m trying to find one online and I can’t lol
I used M glass in this video and it works no issues for portraits. I don't own the Zf but if I get a chance in the future I will.
Hello Matt. Is the focus peaking on the Nikon Zf as good as that of the Leica SL2s?
I still prefer the SL for MF but the Zf offers all the new features to help MF instead - confirmation etc
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Hello Matt. I was able to test manual focusing in store with my Voigtlander M lenses on a Nikon Zf... The focus peaking is not bad, on the other hand I clearly prefer the quality of the aim of my SL2s which is much more defined (3690000 pixels vs 5700000 pixels for the SL2s). As for the quality and file size, I don't know, but on the Nikon, it must be 25MPX compared to 45MPX on the SL2S because of the DNG file).
How was the automatic punch in with Face/Eye Detect when using manual focus lenses?
It all felt a bit too easy (like a bit iPhone) everything was auto and nailed the shots every time (with the 40mm)
Sorry yes I'm not the best person to ask on this as I normally manual focus all cameras!
Great video, and I'm so glad you had a chance to review the Zf! 💥💥💥
I sold my SL and got a Zf, and am very pleased. I rarely need to use a menu for anything, and can shoot in my preferred style (old school dials for ISO/SS, and aperture ring). I have configured the front function button to my shutter settings, and the i menu to my other key operations.
I love this camera.
The high ISO noise levels are ridiculously good - noticeably better than the SL. I daresay this is comparable to an SL2-S, as I feel the Zf is better than my SL in this area, in particular. To me, the image quality is similar. I only shoot in manual mode, and mostly adapted manual glass.
HOWEVER, This camera got me back into the Autofocus world (after having left the hobby just after AF was on the scene), and I now have the spectacular 24-70 f/2.8 S Nikkor as my main lens. WOW. I am mightily impressed with this lens, and the Nikon AF capabilities. I've sold some of my manual glass, and have only kept those I use on my film cameras, and my "never gonna sell" manual Nikkor ED 300/2.8 and 500/4 super teles. Oh, and my Helios 44-2 😃😃😃
It is ironic that this magnificent retro-styled camera is the one that got me onto the autofocus train. It has changed everything for my "people and event" shooting.
I still prefer manual focus for landscape, astro, macro, etc, but I totally get the beauty of a good AF setup in certain situations.
Anywhoo, I love the Zf, and will only replace it with (what I hope will be) Nikon's rollout of the flagship version of it. Digital re-issue of the F3?........ 😍😍😍
Thanks for sharing and glad you are enjoying it. Stay tuned as you hit the mark with something you said (kind of) :)
Hi
How good is the Zf sensor ?
Does it flatten our lovely M lenses ?
Are M wides killed like on sony's ?
People in the comments seem to say it’s ok but I can’t confirm sorry.
The ZF sensor is great , excellent low light performance , excellent color science (as always with Nikon) , Great sensor stabilization to prevent unwanted movement, low shutter shock , recomened!
It will not flatten your M lenses , if anything it may be that the lenses are too old and cannot resolve the resolution depends.
@@LOLA6ifyable 3D is all about tonal tramsmission. Resolution is another subjec. I have old lenses that have poor sharpness but marvelous 3D
@@LOLA6ifyableI use old vintage M and LTM lenses on my Z8 wide angle and long lenses. No issues with resolution. Also used 1950’s Canon and Rodenstock lenses and they render beautifully.
I have the TTArtisans 6-Bit Leica M to Z adapter, and it makes the cameras think that the Leica M lenses (or LTM with the adapter) are AF and give you the AF confirmation and other cool features like Focus Trap mode, and the FP wireless flash syncing. A really nice addition for a Z user that also uses rangefinder lenses.
Great tip thanks! I know very little about Nikon digital so good to know that exists.
Hi, does anyone have experience with Leica M 28mm Elmarit on the ZF, how does it work adapted on the Nikon? Thank you!
Good lens but I've not tried on the Zf as I don't own that, sorry.
Can you recommend a Fanny pack for Leica M camera while travelling abroad?
Yes I bought one for cycling but you can use for walking etc too. See my 50mm Skopar video I think. If not try my sigma 90mm dg dn video. It’s ok blog kit list page too
Hey there ! I have a Leica from 1932 , what is the right price for this rarety? Thanks !
Great! Check eBay for approximate prices. It will depend on condition etc
Have sold off ALL my Leicas... picked up a Zf first day they were offered... Love it....did not sell most of my "m" mount lenses... they work perfect as well as the auto-focus Z lenses.
Yes I think it will be popular with mirrorless shooters. Nice looking camera but M is still more analogue.
It is analog enough.... It works well with my Godox triggers for special flash.. and works perfectly with my Metz 76 flash. It lets me use the same shooting style I have used for the last 65 years.... The auto focus is a bit too automatic... so I prefer to use back button focus and not leave it on auto. This camera and my Metz 76 would have been able to make every photo I have ever taken.
I am thinking of buying this Zf with the Voigtlander 40mm/1.2. A killer combination I think.
Great choice! That 40mm is popular with mirrorless shooters
Great review thanks Matt. Mega props to Nikon for producing this - I came into photography decades ago via Nikon (still have my F3 from the eighties) and this is definitely a Nikon digital camera I can get at last get behind. Wont elbow out my Leica gear tho.....
Thanks, yes I'm ex-Nikon too and still have my various film bodies. Yes I think it's the nicest digital Nikon for sure!
The Nikom Zf has some interesting manual focus aids that are available only, if you use manual lenses with electrical contacts like the Voigtlander 50mm f1.0 Nokton. Subject detection will also work fine with manual focus lenses. The camera will detect faces and automatically put the focus point there. If you focus manually and nailed the sharpness the color of the focus point turns green. It's very reliably and in my opinion the currently best way to focus manually on any digital camera. Unfortunately it doesn't work for lenses without electrical contacts, even though I don't see a reason why it should not be possible to also implement it for lenses without contacts.
Thanks Stefan, yes I think the various focus aids will help many photographers using MF lenses.
I bought mine for dedicated manual lenses only camera.
Nice, I use all my FF cameras like this.
Why did Nikon make only the knobs out of brass? I've been waiting for a camera fully made of brass for years. That what I think the Leica Q should have been made with; at least the black version.
Probably because of weight concerns. The Zf is already a weighty camera for its size. Making it fully out of brass would have made it heavier than a Z9.
There are the wireless antennas that is a concern also.
Yes I know some people love brass cameras. I'm sure Leica could charge double if they made a brass Q3 version!
Yes fair point, I know from small brass lenses that brass is heavy!
Nice Video again Matt. 👏 Yes for me the new Zf looks like my Nikon FM2n and the same clicksounds… but do you think… the feeling… feels too big and heavy in your hand?
Yes I still prefer Leica M cameras as the best analog digital and yes I love the small lightweight of the FM2 (and the FG-20) (even smaller and lighter). Yes the Zf is heavier.
the ZF is more like an M camera with the digital viewfinder, that lots of people have on their wish list, lighter and smaller then an SL
It’s very much like a Q, very auto and photos are kind of too easy! (With 40mm. Was too automatic for me but I guess the SL would be similar if I used L glass).
Not to mention a lot cheaper. Leica's cameras have intrigued me for a long time, but I simply cannot afford them.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I think the difference here is that you have a choice, like you did, mount M glass on it and you got the whole manual experience, like an SL and as far as Ive read, the sensor is thin enough to also handle wide M lenses and not have a distortion in the corners like Sony cameras :)
@@Anon-zl4ne used the SL is cheaper *
Interesting review this time Matt! I really want to know as a Leica user for such a long time, how do you thinkg of Nikon Z mainly on image quality? How about color science for example?
Thanks, you can edit the Nikon files with presets to get nice photos. Out of camera Leica will win ofc.
he is using Lightroom for the Nikon files , the colours in Lightroom are not good for Nikon raw files . NX studio is the way to go it’s on a complete different level then Lightroom, the Nikon colours are popping out , and there is not really a difference between Leica and nikon . with Nikon you have a lot more options you can download picture profiles like Kodak gold , Kodak portra , Fuji Astia etc. for free and import them into your camera , it works with the Z6 , Z7 , Z9 and they will update the profiles to Nikon zf too . some profiles like Kodak gold with WB A6.0 will look like slide film , they will turn your Nikon camera into magic . Some people didn’t know about the profiles because they didn’t heard about and they will use Lightroom
Thanks. Just as I expected. From some point of view, camera doesn't matter too much lol
I am completely switching to the Nikon Zf, only keeping 3 Leica lenses.
Yes I think it's going be very popular, especially for anyone using mirrorless bodies
nice now is time to compare both with lumix s5 ii which is prety much the same camera with cl
Thanks! The CL still wins for size but the S5 cameras give similar to Leica photos (and the Zf lets you AF M glass..and looks cool)
I still have my very first Nikkormat which I occasionally use! True blue film and all the clicks I ever wanted!
Great! I bought a Nikkormat a few years ago with a lens. I still need to put a roll of film through it.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom do it! No regrets! I owe every M model ever produced, but somehow nostalgia has set in, and beside the Nikkormat and early F2’s I also enjoy my 503CW, very much, occasionally the Rolleiflex! It’s all similar to listening to Music via Vinyl, more work, but active …..
Matt it would be great if you could test the eye autofocus capability with Nikon F manual lenses. You need the latest proper Nikon adapter mind
Thanks! I'm sure the Nikon channels will do more thorough testing. I didn't have access to that adapter on the day.
If the released this a bit earlier to compete with the original SL then I’d have considered it :) still one thing that pisses me off that Nikons adapters don’t support AF-D lens autofocus!
Thanks Thomas! If Nikon mirrorless was F mount I'd be more tempted to own one in addition to Leica but adapters make everything bigger too..
Hear me out, what if the M10D has a working film advance leaver that actually charge the shutter? Wouldn't that be a dream come true!
As a Canon shooter, I wish they too will jump on the retro high-end digital game. Also, don't quote me on it, isn't the SL and Nikon both uses Sony sensor that's differently tuned?
Wish Canon had the balls to revive the Canon P
@@dylandigby1776 facts
I have an M10-D and as the faux advance lever is a brilliant thumb rest, I don’t think using it as a mechanism to charge the shutter like the Epson RD1 is only useful if it shot one frame at a time. The M10-D is capable of 5 frames/second. Having said that I do think Nikon would have improved the ergonomics with the addition of an advance lever thumb rest, styled like that of the FM3A and like the FM3A the cocked thumb rest could act like an on and off switch.
@@ofeykalakar1 I once thought about picking up a RD1 for that reason, but the crop sensor, Besser body, and price tag had turned me to a M240.
Yes the same with Voigtlander and lower priced Bessa cameras. I did ask them!
Wow! The Zf is really good!
Yes great value vs Leica and nice clicks!
Please can you do a in depth review on Leica Q3
See existing videos
I don’t understand why the Nikon has the PASM switch. That does irk me a little. Fuji got the setup of the PASM right and did it really simply. Guessing Nikon didn’t want to be seen copying Fuji? Looks like a nice camera though.
Nikon had PASM for decades, this is the same as a Nikon FA.
Another reason is Fujifilm has the aperture control on their lenses (yes, you can also use the control dial).
As of AFS G lenses Nikon has done away with an aperture control on their lenses, including their Z mount lenses.
So having PASM is pretty genuinely retro for Nikon.
The issue is Aperture control.
And yes, Nikon followed much of what they did with the Df, they did not copy Fuji.
Thanks. I guess they are doing the retro route.
Taylor Jackson used the Nikon Zf for a wedding and he injured his wrist really bad. I think he was using a large lens maybe the Nikon 24-70mm f2.8?
Sorry to hear. 24-70 + 70-200 are standard for many wedding shooters.
He isn't supporting it with his other hand apparently
Thank you for this interesting video regarding a very interesting camera. On a completely different note, I'm hoping you might do a review of the TTartisan 21mm f1.5 lens sometime!
Thanks, I have some news lens videos coming soon. If I test that in the future I'll be sure to make a video.
This camera is very close to what it should have been, I think. The internals are excellent and the design is cool, but the control system is a little weird. If you haven't used a Fujifilm XT camera before, I would highly recommend it. Those cameras have a control scheme that, if adapted to the Zf, could make it one of the best mirrorless cameras ever. They're almost the same but without the PASM switches that make the Zf very awkward and reliant on the in-camera menus. A Zf 2.0 should be perfect.
Thanks for sharing . Yes I’ve not used Fuji. Yes I think a Zf2 will follow to fix the common complaints.
Wouldn’t it be great if a camera like this forced Leica into the modern age to create an interchangeable lens Q (sort of a M with Autofocus, EVF, Water sealing and multiple exposure modes)?
They have, it's called the SL.
In a smaller lighter body. The SL with native (non-M) lenses is like a bag of bricks.@@alanwilliams9842
They made it, it's called the CL 😂
@@webersteve1547 That’s not full frame.
Ha nice idea! We just need a full frame Leica CL
Your comparison is o.k. and realistic as far as possible. Concerning photo gear, some esthetic design items alone and the overall feeling with that thing in use > I'm solely drawn to the Nikon Zf, and in my eyes all Leica SL and Q (NOT the marvellous M !) are from an abysmally deep ugly, clunky design. That will not matter to anyone else, but in the sense of my 'brother in spirit' Alex K.: the feelings make the best of you, and I cannot handle a brick which I would never enjoy and would never be successful or content with. @philosimot
Thanks, yes cameras that you enjoy using are really important (I need to enjoy the using and the resulting photos). The Zf would not really tick either box as a bit too easy but it looks nice for a modern camera.
What are your views on the high prices of purchasing film and paying for development. Maybe this can be your next video ))
It’s still cheaper if shoot less. Some Patreons and students sold all their digital and just got a M3 & Elcan and shoot Portra 400.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaComI have M11, MP, M6 TTL and ordered the Q3.
Great photos 👍
Thank you! Not my best but OK
After I cooled down, I do not see Zf special anymore, so Leica all the way. Or original Nikon Df is what I personaly prefer. But, if Zf came with OVF, then it will be something competely different. It is ordinary mirrorless camera packed in retro box..that is all.
A Patreon friend also prefers the DF for the same OVF need.
Only got to handle the Zf for a little bit and the battery door is the real weak spot. Feels very cheap and flimsy.
Yes you probably noticed I said the same thing! Not Leica build quality
Very nice camera very close to my FM3A with a sensor and a flip screen .🤣😅but not as good as m SL2 s
So I'll keep my money for the SL3 s... 🙂
Thanks Grom! Yes I will stay with my SL too :)
I love your content videos and photos.
Thanks Felix!
Sorry to say , but the way you use the different lenses and it is jumping back and forth ( sometimes one can only try to guess, which lens it was ) is quite confusing actually . And why "Alex" -- his name is Alejandro I guess ?
Thanks and sorry if it was confusing. It's easy to see the difference, the very sharp modern photos are the 40mm, the arty soft photos are the 7A 1.1. Yes Alejandro calls himself Alex as I call myself Matt (Matthew)
This nikon remind me of my old digital dslr nikon DF .
Ah yes, I think that was their first attempt at a retro camera
Hello Matt, currently I'm in really need of a hard drive to back things up and get back on track but pocket is tight at the moment, is there some freelance works you can offer me to let me do something for you in return to help me raise some funds for a hard drive as soon as possible?
Hi, thanks for offering. UA-cam life is probably not as glamorous as it seems. I just bought a cheaper HD myself on Amazon as I can’t go crazy with my spending. Maybe when I hit 100K subs I’ll have the luxury of paying people to assist me! Until then I’ll continue the long hours and cheap lifestyle.
Oh I see, yeah I just try to look around for work as I need extra opportunity to help myself to get back on track and upgrade as well, but oh I thought Leica user plus travelling often is someone who do well in life already! But I hope you reach your 100k subscribers soon! Nice videos as always!
@@NetvoTV thanks. I pick the flights that cost under £40 return and buy used Leica. I’ll get there! I hope you do too.
That's great, yeah even if I have the money, I will still try to get things while on deal too! But that say, if you or anyone and business you know need a logo or something, let me know! :-D
Long live Nikon really. Nothing outside of that comment beyond of what this man had to say. The end really..
I love the Nikon film cameras..
A nice camera indeed but way to big and not made of brass. Also I find 24 limiting
Yes I prefer a smaller M camera but not bad for mirrorless
The Zf looks like a good camera, yes. But perhaps it is my bias but I preferred the Leica images to the Nikon images for color and resolution. It is a really good camera but not one I am tempted by, not quite. Close but not quite. Thanks for the review.
Thanks Sandy, yes Leica cameras nearly always have the edge when it comes to photos. That's what people pay for.
he is using Lightroom for the Nikon files , the colours in Lightroom are not good for Nikon raw files . NX studio is the way to go it’s on a complete different level then Lightroom, the Nikon colours are popping out , and there is not really a difference between Leica and nikon . with Nikon you have a lot more options you can download picture profiles like Kodak gold , Kodak portra , Fuji Astia etc. for free and import them into your camera , it works with the Z6 , Z7 , Z9 and they will update the profiles to Nikon zf too . some profiles like Kodak gold with WB A6.0 will look like slide film , they will turn your Nikon camera into magic . Some people didn’t know about the profiles because they didn’t heard about and they will use Lightroom
@@lukykentucky or Capture one with ProStandard profiles, best colors I have ever seen from any camera, except perhaps my former H6D-100c
Too bad they don’t place iso under shutter dial… so ugly seeing a big standalone dial
It is a big dial for sure.
Nikon ZF, over $ 2,000 just for the body !!!!...not for me...can you suggest a cheaper Nikon body similar to the Zf ? Thanks.
I'm not a Nikon expert but see my Z6 video. It did well vs. my M240.
I think Leica SL 601 looks better!
More minimal!
Nikon ZF design are great and vintage looks but the mode dial is annoying when I tried it, unlike the leica or even fujifilm, when you dial shutter speed and auto aperture, and iso. It is shutter priority and when you only change the aperture on your lens it is aperture mode or priority, don't need the mode dial. Because in nikon if you stay the mode dial on auto even you dial or change shutter speed, aperture, it is still no change. You always need to change it before you change something on your settings on it. Same on other priority modes. But nice comparison and nice review matt, i love leica M series cameras than any other camera but I'm shooting sony mirrorless camera for paid job. 😁👍📸
Thank you! Yes I will cover Leica M + 2nd camera in a future video :)
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom thank you matt 🙏👍📸
Have you ever used olympus PEN F? You will dump Nikon into a bin mate . Please borrow Original Olympus P1 or PEN F and see the magic especially BNW shots
Yes but the proper film Pen F (see that video). For M43 I do use some of these cameras but I went for Lumix over Oly.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom thank you for reply Matt , please source New Pen F or Original Olympus P1 . Olympus has best white balance , organic looking shots and best colours amd black and white engine .please try
with tiny outdated sensor lol
@@eugene8524 yes for novice immature and stupid people it’s a tiny sensor but for someone who knows the photography and understands the art and especially Matt , it shall be a fun camera to use 👍👍
Nah. I’ll stick to my M10R 😀 … nice but, it’s the lenses. If you want AF you’ll get those new style Nikon lenses. Fuji really has this nailed with their small manual aperture lenses. I would rather an XT5 with a 23f2 or 35f2 or one of those small Fuji lenses.
I also really don’t like those video swivel screens on cameras.
Thanks Carlos, yes I think diehard M users will stay as they are but a good price for people wanting autofocus options. I've never really used Fuji but I do prefer smaller like my APS-C CL.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Oh wow. You should use one. I would maybe try an XPro with a 23 or 35 Fuji lens. I think it’ll be an interesting review for you to experience that dual OVF/EVF system. And the IQ is great. Not as rich as an M but good.
Fuji 16mm is the best Fuji lens I had- before dumping a fairly large kit of XT2s for Leica (again).
@@magiccarpetrider4594 had it. Sold it fairly quickly. Way too wide, too big and too heavy. The best every day Fuji lens is the 23f2. When that Omar guy trashed it on his channel and returned it, I told him as politely as I could that he was being an idiot (I didn’t use that word, but nicely I did) and that this was the best lens Fuji had. Who cares about a bug being a bit soft at f2 3 inches away. Who takes photos like that? He blocked me. A few months later guess what? He bought it again and I think he still uses it. 🤣🤣 What a bunch of morons.
Same thing with that Even Ranft dude. He made the same video. Too soft 3 inches away. Returned it. I told him the same thing. He banned me too. A few months later he repurchased it. 😀
The 23f2 is such a standard classic Fuji lens that it was the only lens I had for 2 years. It is the best thing they make, the rest in terms of the impact of your photograph is down to you as a photographer, not inside the lens.
In terms of IQ, the best Fuji lens I ever owned was the original 56f1.2. But I usually take photos at f8, so I don’t need those lenses. Blurring backgrounds isn’t anything I’m interested in.
Leica also has a 24f1.4. Not sure why anyone would buy that thing. Same issue. Very heavy. Alan Schaller has one, but I don’t know why. He’s always closing his aperture very small and crushing his whites and blacks to make that ultra contrasty look. He can get the same image with a very small 24mm Elmar.
Small lenses are the way to go 100% of the time. Pick the smaller lenses.
@@carlosmcse if someone brings one to a workshop I’ll try to!
Can't imagine I'd ever buy one of these as it's just another mainstream mirrorless camera with clicky knobs grafted on… but thanks for giving it a once-over! A lot of nostalgia-minded photographers seem to be absolutely obsessed with it, so it was nice to hear from someone who's sympathetic about its appeal but pragmatic about its limitations.
Thanks James! Yes pretty but too modern and "easy" for me. I will stick with my M10 and others.
Out of curiosity how is an M11 not a modern digital camera with a ranger finder grafted on it?
At the risk of sounding like a Luddite, my only gripe with this type of camera is that they have a realistic working life of only a few years. I have three Fuji digitals, and all have developed expensive faults after between 2 and 5 years. I love them while they work, but it starts to get pricey when they fail. Meanwhile, I've a Nikon FE that's only ever needed new seals and batteries.
Thanks and fair point. Most digital cameras die at some point. Leica seem to last longer than many. Film cameras just keep on going! Love my 1931 Barnack but Nikons too.
Out of curiosity, how are the issues with your Fuji cameras an indication that a Zf would suffer from the same problems?
@@bernardlanguillier7970 Only in the sense that they are all packed with incredible technology, but not it would seem longevity. Where it the case that Fuji were a cheap brand, I'd be inclined to regard it as a case of 'you get what you pay for', but they aren't cheap, hence my resentment at having paid good money to buy into a reputable brand only to be disappointed. I hope for the sake of those spending so much on new equipment, that the Nikon is of a better quality than Fuji. A new ZF body costs around £2,200, and that's not cheap. If it only has a life expectancy of 5 years, then in my mind, that's not good enough. As I said, the technology is superb, but is it too complicated? Again, I return to the example of my Nikon FE, at least 40 years old, and going strong.
Buy a Fuji X-Pro and you will all of this stuff.
Ha thanks. I know Fuji are nice and small but I like full frame
Fab new Nikon, but Matt most of us wanting a ‘real experience’ moved to Fuji years ago… having said that as a Nikon user I am tempted ( FM / FE / FT2 and long ago F3T) of course a mass produced camera can’t fully match the feel of a REAL Leica ( mine M6 ttl). 😎👍
Thanks! Yes if I get a chance to do a part 2 vs M camera, M is still the most analogue.
Yes I have FM/2, FE/2 and others. Great with small Voigtlander SL lenses
Hello nikon👋 I want more mega pickles pls
Thanks, Yes think this will be a popular request!
the nikon zfc looks better than the zf imo. The pain with using retro mirrorless Nikon Zf Zfc is that an adapter is required when using Nikon F lenses, making the camera look so bulkyyy
Thats the only thing keeping me from getting one. It’s all nice and retro but god forbid you use anything but zf lenses which don’t even have an aperture ring. Real shame if you ask me but I guess they wanna sell their new lenses. Makes sense but fu** me.
Yes it would be cool if they made an F mount version!
😊
Thanks!
I would have gone for this offering from Nion if they had been brave enough to ditch the video and had developed some useful B&W presets. I have been with Nikon for over 40 yeats so from my point of view, opportunity lost.
I’m sure they’ll bring out a 45MP Zf2 with features people request the most.
The video capability itself does not impact your photography and you can easily create your own B&W presets if you want to, so those are hardly showstoppers…
Now if with video you mean having a flippy screen setup, that’s hardware.
If you mean you’d prefer a higher resolution sensor, again that’s hardware.
I knew this wasn’t a perfect camera, I also have a Df which also has its pros and cons as a “retro” camera, but both cameras in the end appeal to what I look for, with the Zf having the benefit of mirrorless and a pretty capable AF system (which even has its benefit using manual focus lenses).
The video feature is present in every single one of my dozen or so digital cameras. Personally I have no use for it, but they are there. My gripe with Nikon is that they have created a camera that is supposed to be a ' retro ' digital. In which retro camera was there ever a 8mm or 16mm cine option available? They should have had the courage to leave this frivolous feature out. Nikon herself has cameras with much better video capabilities if anyone ever wanted it.@@TK421-53
A camera dressed up to look like a mechanical film camera, but inside it’s anything but. I might sound like a purist, but I don’t like anything that pretends to be something it is not. It’s still a digital camera just like the Z6 or Z8. The look is gimmicky. I have true mechanical film cameras and like anything mechanical, they will certainly out last this camera.
Yes fair point. You can't match real film results. (Note to self, must put my darkroom together!)
Worry not, you don’t sound like a purist at all… more like a snob and a bore
Not a fan of the Nikon files seems clinical with lack of character
To be fair the photos should look better with more arty lenses (ie. not the 40mm kit lens)
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Hppy with my Z6
I hate the ZF as a Leica M user. You cannot use half a step on the shutter speed dial, and it just locks in place on 1/3 step once your turn it too much. Obvisously, people are not buying the ZF for it's specs, and it doesn't even look that good(it looks the same as any camera as it is black). While for Leica, you are also not buying it for the specs, it has way better built quality and feels even more tactile. One great advange of rangefinders over SLR/Mirrorless are that the focus throw is shorter but offers more depth of field (for example, a slr 50mm would just have infinity after 5m, while for a rangefinder lens, it goes all the way to 20m). Personally, focusing on a leica is faster than focusing(manually) on SLR/mirrorless, and for me, manual focus on Leica is not much slower than AF, and in some conditions, even faster(for example low light). ZF has no advantage over Leica, not even the price(if you are talking about M240 and M9. I would't reccomend M10 as the colours are no longer vibrant and doesn't give that much of a Leica look). If you get a Leica, you can even boast about how you have a Leica. Also, there's not many vintage looking lenses on the Z system while even if you are not buying a new Leica lens, you can still buy a DR summicron and it will not cost you that much. If you really ran out of budget, some Soviet lenses are actually very good. In terms of the about of the lenses avaliable, the Z mount is very poor, compared to the M mount(L39 or what some people call LTM mount also has a lot of good and relatively cheap lenses) .
Thanks for your points. Yes re. colours from M10 vs M9/M240. I have been using both today with a plan to try to make M10 presets to give the M240 colours. (Vid to come). Yes I love M cameras and small lenses. (I plan to dust off my DR soon too!)
Great comment, finally someone who use his head..
Nikon Zf 😮
Sorry Matt I am not even going to watch this video 😅
Ha thanks Rob :)
" Analog " ? Really ? You lose all credit when you call a film camera analog !
Haha, what do you call it?
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom A " Film Camera ".
I think people who make videos on UA-cam to teach something have the responsibility to make their research and give viewers correct information.
Film Cameras use films that have a chemical material sensitive to light. There is not such a thing as analog and digital in chemistry.
Electronic capture of light is what is used in our current digital cameras. However, the photographic sensor is always analog, even in our digital cameras ! The signal from the sensor is then converted to the digital signal in the camera body in order to be saved. Analog cameras did exist between 1985 and 1995 approximately. They used CCD sensors and not a chemical film.
Nikon defeats leica..
Please see tonight's video!
This guy's voice puts you to sleep
Thanks for the feedback. I do written review too if that is easier for you - MrLeica.com
Never mind, I like the content of your reviews anyway 😊@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom