I currently have a D5600 with three lenses and I'm chomping at the bit for the Z6 II, 50mm f/1.8S, 24-70mm f/2.8S, and 70-200mm f/2.8S. Once I have the funds, I'll be going through the whole upgrade process. The one annoying thing is that Z6 II RAW files can't be worked with in Lightroom due to Lightroom needing to update for the camera.
I shoot action,sports and wildlife and areas from decent light to low light and under floodlights. I shoot with Nikon D5 & D6 cameras. I tried both Z6 and z7 under the same conditions as my D5 & D6and the Z6 & Z7 mount cameras just couldn't compare with my D5,D6 in focusing and tracking were abysmal. I noticed the lag in the mirrorless screen and crappy battery life compared to my D5 and D6 battery life plus non buttons on the original battery grip was with one card slots was for me a deal breaker.
Because The D880 is right around the bend. If not, I will hire a Z7 ll with the adapter to see how it works with my 200,300 and 500 exotics. Le llega la vaina?
@@RemyOrtiz Lightroom/Photoshop..etc can't open new RAW file is the same for every new camera. there are ways to work around that but usually the next update would allow that to be opened, Adobe just released update today to support Z6 II RAW files
@@kyleruth6921 yeah the 24-70 is expensive for the price. i went to buy the primes instead since they are much better then the G lens optically. I'm still using the 24-70 nikon which i brought used As long as you buy used it saves alot of money and honestly the price difference for used Z glass is very close to the G lens unless your looking for 1.4 primes.
I have the Z6 and will be getting the Z6II. The Z6 has been a real joy to use. Especially with my older manual Nikon lenses like the 105 2.5 AI and the newer IRIX 15 2.4. Great time to be a photographer.
Hello Richard Thank you for the comparison. You will not believe it, yesterday I have ordered the Z6ii kit with 24-70/4 and the adapter. I can't wait to take it for my first spin. It was a big dilemma between the Z5 and the Z6ii, but on the end the price difference was only $400 , so I went for the Z6ii . My bonus is the 900s shutter, because I do a lot long exposures 2 to 4 minutes. The dual processor has more room to grow with the future SW updates. The ISO performance is very surprising to me, On my Canon or Olympus I never go over ISO 3200, now it will be a breeze at ISO even 25000 ??? So I am looking forward to my new toy .... I think that the difference between DSLR's and mirror-less is also IBIS.
Photography is a hobby, but a passionate one for me. I.e. I don't do it for a living, so cost is a major consideration. I did recently make the jump to mirrorless with the Z5 because the price was reduced to within my level of pain tolerance. I addition to the price, I was reluctant to buy the first gen. I am a long time Nikon shooter and my lenses at not fully functional on an FTZ, though I am ok with focusing manually. That also made me hesitate to go mirrorless. So far, I have been pleased with the Z5 and using my old lenses via the FTZ. I just ordered the 85mm/f1.8 Z lens.
I am a D500/D750 shooter and I recently added the Z6ii to my stable as my first MILC. I was looking at the Sony A7C too, but my previous excellent experience with Nikon and the great Z glass convinced me to stay with Nikon. And I am very pleased with the choice!
i am exchanging my F-mount system for Z 6ii and 24-70/f:2.8 this week..... I only hope Nikon will prove the section of loud propagandist UA-camrs who have almost written off the company , wrong...
Long time nikon dslr user and seriously on the fence about moving to the z series! I shoot mainly concerts and not a ton of clear info on how the second series 6 or 7 perform under extreme low light situations. I have enjoyed your review and its helping me make up my mind
I feel it's good enough. But to be very honest It's a bit different to the DSLR so hard to say if it is definitely better or not. Best is if you can rent one for a few days and shoot what you regularly shoot side by side with your DSLR and see whether it works good enough for you
A great advantage of the Z cameras is that you can get adapters for basically any lens mount, and using manual focus vintage lenses is extremely easy with the EVF and focus peaking + zooming. It is addictive though, be warned!
Completely agree with you Richard. Even at high speed sports I can use Z6 I. So many photographers needing fast focus when fast movement happen at the same focal distance, to me is just stupid. They also need high continous shooting... film photographers learned from canvas painters that there´s is a moment when something important happens and you have to be ready for it and capture it. That fraction of a second tells a story. They´ve learned to read time in such way and shoot at the precise time. Some where lucky but even at high rate shooting today, one can miss that shot. Today photographers are infected with algorithms, and this virus will "kill" most of us all. Take Care Rich! Excuse my grammar, salute from Uruguay!
I remember i was shooting a lot of motorsports and fast action photos using a D200 and felt the AF was good enough haha I did wish the high ISO (of the D200) is a bit better because anything over ISO 800 the picture quality was horrible. But those were such long time ago!
Thanks very much Richard! The Z6ii is the camera I am attracted to, I have not purchased it yet but hoping I can get one soon. Your video has helped confirm my thinking!
Very interested to make the jump to mirrorless, but 99% of my photography is birds/nature. Currently using a D7500 and 200-500 f/5.6 lens. Thoughts? (I love the extra reach of the crop-sensor for small subjects)
As a wildlife photographer, my main kit is D500 and 500mm PF + TC-14e iii. That combo is just great and there's no need for me to upgrade from it. I've been hesitant about mirrorless, but I think the Z6ii is a solid option. I'm actually thinking about adding a fullframe camera body this year to supplement my kit for non-wildlife work (architecture, landscape, people, portraiture). While the D500 does a fine job at these tasks, I do believe the Z6ii would be an improvement in a few different categories (eye-AF, fullframe, EVF for tripod work, AF system, in-body stabilization). Sure, the 85mm F1.8S is better than the 85mm F1.8G, but it's also more expensive by about $300-350 depending on the day (used market, even more of a difference). I guess I would just use the FTZ adapter for the time being - is that really justifiable for a $2,000 camera body? Would it make more sense to just wait it out for the D880 to go fullframe? Maybe trade in the D500 for a D580 when that becomes a thing?? I don't think any option is a 'bad' choice, to be perfectly clear! Things are GREAT in the photography world these days!!
Richard. . I just watched you for the first time and I love your analysis very much. I'm an older guy, not a pro, but I have been shooting with Nikon for years. I have been using a D7100 for quite some time and very much want to try mirrorless. Imagine that, an older guy who WANTS to go with new technology! I just watched a review of the Z6II by another "expert" named Ken. By the time I finished watching his review I was totally depressed. I have been on the verge of going ahead and buying a Z6II but his review made me feel like I would be wasting my money if I did so. He even went so far as to say that Nikon is a dying company and people who really know photography would NEVER choose Nikon over Canon. That was last night. Now this morning I just watched your review and I feel like my original plan to go ahead with the Z6II is still a good idea. You have a very realistic approach and I appreciate that. One question. . .Do you know of a list of lenses that will work and autofocus with the FTZ adapter? I have a Nikkor 18-300mm and a Tokina 11-20mm that I would need to be able to use if I bought a Z6II. Thanks again for your intelligent review!
hello BluesImprov, thanks for watching and glad you enjoy the review :) Re list of lenses that work well with FTZ adaptor? i believe all the Nikon autofocus lenses with built-in autofocus motor would work well, re third party, it's really hard to tell. The best is check if someone else has the same lens and tried it. Some 3rd party lenses were not compatable at first but firmware upgrade allowed that to work but i don't know of any list that is comprehensive. If you found one, please let me know too :)
I am in a undecisive suitation to get a old version of Z6 or new Z6 II . After seeing your video preview on this , I am convince to buy Z6 II. I also discovered that why in my past I seldom shoot video with my D500 as what you said the video is no good . I have refocusing problem and alot of editing to cut the blurr images. now I am convince by you with the new autofocusing system, the video should be pretty good in focus and less editing work to be done on final video . Also your explanation of low light suitation to use electronic viewfinder is better as I like to shoot nightscape of stars photography and alot of hard time to focus the dark landscape in the cold weather alway in china.
These are compelling arguments and a fantastic review. However, I would just add that D780 is a hybrid with all the functionality of the Z6 once in live view, except for IBIS. So, the argument holds for all Nikon DSLR's except D780. :)
I'm eyeing at D780 to replace my D800 using since 2012. Ten years is enough to retire, i think. (main reason is, i'm now adding video to my creative work) 🎥
Recently upgraded from D750 and really loving the many superior features. Only complaint is the use of 3rd party lenses. Definitely not as fast to focus and annoying chattering noise but small price to pay in my opinion. Purchased 24-200 z lens and love how well it performs. Will eventually upgrade to all z lenses due to superior performance. Next acquisition? 100-400 with a 1.4 teleconverter. Savin my pennies! Hoping it will be available by summer for my next trip to Glacier.
A bit hard to answer, they are both good. i use a Z 6 and S5 myself side by side all the time, each has pros and cons. Best to go to a shop and try it out and see who feels better to you
Dear Rich, thank you so much for this wonderful review and system change consideration. I actually have been using Nikon DSLRs from D80 to D780 over a couple of years as an event (congresses, weddings ...) and people portrait photographer. Now I'm thinking about switching from DSLR to DSLM. The only thing is .... it will cost me an awful lot of money. Thanks again for the really worthy information!
Hi Michael, glad you find the review useful. Re the cost to switch over.. it really depends on what lens you have, if they are AFS lenses or newer, you can use them on the z with the ftz adaptor and performance is pretty much the same so you don't have to buy any new lenses. At least not until you want to upgrade. One other cheaper option is a 2nd hand z6 as a lot of people are upgrading to z6ii so maybe some good 2nd hand deals which is a lot cheaper than a brand new z6ii
I am not complaining but am really want to blog as well as use a really good camera for everything..the flippy screen is really what I am waiting for...do you think the next upgrade from Nikon in the right (lower) price range will ever be a thing?
@@TheRealRichardWong thanks for your reply...`I appreciate this. I think your review was very comprehensive, I have seen many reviews from most of the top reviewers of this camera and yours is at the top ...along with my top guys!! Thankyou.
I have the Nikon Z 6II, Z24-70/f2.8, Z24-200/f4-6.3 I love this gear. The best I ever had. Thank you for your great review. Pls. Do a review of above mentioned Z24-200/f4-6.3 travel zoom because this super zoom really impressed me. I like to know your professional opinion about this lens. All the Best for 2021! Take care Stephan
If I shot photos/video for a living, yes I would move to mirrorless. I shoot as a hobby and my DSLRs do the job for now. If I suddenly had a large windfall however I would be in for a Z6 II for sure. I do love my old D4 though. Another great review/video too Richard.
Thank you Carl, and Yes there is absolutely nothing wrong with DSLRs! And just because Nikon released some new mirrorless cameras, your DSLR wouldn't suddenly become non functional. But if you have chance, tryshoot side by side with a Z 6 II (or Z 7 II) and your DSLR and you will probably also notice some of the advantages brought by these new mirrorless cameras :)
I've been shooting with Nikon Dslr for 17 years now professionally and am keen to try the new Z6ii but one of my issues would be the way the viewfinder and screen work to give you the 'final' shot as you take it. This I guess would be a problem for studio portraiture when using flash and a high sync speed, would the viewfinder just be blacked out i.e it would seem to be under exposed? Anyone have any thoughts?
hi Northern Morgan, there is a setting called" "Apply Settings to Live View" which if you set it to off, the EVF would behave like a normal OVF which would be more suitable when working with flash. Google "Apply Settings to Live View" and you should be able to find a bit more information about that setting
They need to make them first. My Z 6 II is on back order. Everybody is out. I know, I know, COVID. I don't want anyone to put themselves in danger making my camera. Stay safe!
What should I get as the best mirrorless hybrid: - Sony A7 III + 24-105 mm F4 G OSS for 2600 € (due to Sony winter cashback) - Nikon Z6 II + 24-70 mm f4 kit + FTZ adapter for 3050 € - Canon EOS R6 + 24-105 mm kit for 3300 € ? Thank you in advance! :)
The Sony would be my last choice as a7iii is really quite old and it shows clearly every time when I switch to the a7iii. If you are currently a Nikon shooter with Nikon DSLR lenses then Nikon is logical choice otherwise the canon is a really nice camera too so it would come down to what body feels better and which company has lenses that you would buy as the lens line up at the moment is still quite different
It's hard to say to be honest. I have a z6 (original) and s5.. and I use both for photos for different reasons.. the lens , some particular features.. they both have their pros and cons
Was/am a Nikon DSLR shooter, started out on a Nikon D50! But I crossed into mirrorless quite early, with the Panasonic GH1 because of the video capabilities. Going to wait and see if Nikon makes a DX mirrorless with 10bit internal, as that is what is important to me.
I'd love to own the Z6 II.... but since I'm amateur and shitty photographer anyway, my current Nikon D5500 has probably still better capability than my skills can handle :D
For video I say s5 is a bit better. No time limit for 4k30, 5.9k raw output to atomos, anamorphic video and the video mode control implementation is just a bit better overall.
Actually - for me the EVF option to see the resulting image is totally nothing - from the time when AutoISO has been introduced, even with M mode shooting I almost doesn't care about exposition as I'm sure it will be OK (in 95% of scenes) and I can do some tweaking in post-process in case I need something to adjust ;)
Hello Richard. Thank you for this video. Would you say that the autofocus on the Z6 II is significantly improved over the original Z6? That would be the only reason for me to upgrade. The other improvements will be nice to have but not necessary.
Hi Richard Thanks for the video Do you think the Z6ii can keep up with DSLRs in terms of AF for birds in flight?? I’m choosing between the Z6ii and the D780 Thanks Mina
Thanks Mina! BIF is probably one of the hardest and most demanding in terms of AF. I haven't done side by side test, but i would guess the D780 maybe slightly better? Just a guess.. will be interesting to do a test and find out, i maybe surprised by the results.
@@TheRealRichardWong thanks for your reply...but do you think the hit rate for Eye AF on Z6ii is extremely better than the original Z6 or is it slightly better??
Nice video Richard! I also would like to know how is it shooting in DX mode? How is shooting with a flash at night? And can I use a Sigma or Tamron lens together with the FTZ adaptor using the Z6 II? Thanks a lot!
I haven't try shooting in DX mode or with flash at night this time with the Z 6 II.. I do use flash with the Z 6 quite often and it works pretty ok. Only biggest thing is the infrared assist light beam doesn't work with mirrorless camera (all mirrorless camera) but otherwise it's ok! Yes you can use Sigma/Tamron with Z 6 II using the FTZ. but as always, 3rd party comp is never 100% every time a new camera is released so check if your Sigma/Tamron works. I know most (or all?) Sigma ART lens should work very well at least.
Nikon z6 ii can and will never be my first mirrorless camera, because i already own a z6. I am most certain than z6ii will be my second mirrorless camera. But not the first.
@@TheRealRichardWonghi yes i shoot fast sports and need a hefty chunk to hold onto. Z6 IS A GREAT camera just a little small for me. I have some large lensesto use.
I’m very interested in it, but even if I had the funds, the Lightroom issue is a deal-breaker for me. I currently have a Nikon D5600. Would love to have Mirrorless.
are you a Nikon DSLR shooter? are you interested in getting a Z 6 II as your first mirrorless camera? If not, can you tell me why?
I currently have a D5600 with three lenses and I'm chomping at the bit for the Z6 II, 50mm f/1.8S, 24-70mm f/2.8S, and 70-200mm f/2.8S. Once I have the funds, I'll be going through the whole upgrade process.
The one annoying thing is that Z6 II RAW files can't be worked with in Lightroom due to Lightroom needing to update for the camera.
I shoot action,sports and wildlife and areas from decent light to low light and under floodlights. I shoot with Nikon D5 & D6 cameras. I tried both Z6 and z7 under the same conditions as my D5 & D6and the Z6 & Z7 mount cameras just couldn't compare with my D5,D6 in focusing and tracking were abysmal. I noticed the lag in the mirrorless screen and crappy battery life compared to my D5 and D6 battery life plus non buttons on the original battery grip was with one card slots was for me a deal breaker.
Because The D880 is right around the bend. If not, I will hire a Z7 ll with the adapter to see how it works with my 200,300 and 500 exotics. Le llega la vaina?
@@RemyOrtiz Lightroom/Photoshop..etc can't open new RAW file is the same for every new camera. there are ways to work around that but usually the next update would allow that to be opened, Adobe just released update today to support Z6 II RAW files
@@TheRealRichardWong Yup, I just got the update installed today! Not that I can use it, since I'm sans Z6II. Can't wait to get one, though!
the z5 should have some love it's perfect for most people unless your into 4k video and sports photography
Yes for a lot of people, Z5 is great and more affordable choice!
Exactly what I went for. Not a lot of UA-cam commentary on it, but I just got mine and love it!
@@kyleruth6921 yes hoping more 3rd party support will be coming
Rokinon and Samayang has many lens I want
@@kirayamato94 same. I would also love a 24-70 2.8 from Tamron or Sigma that isn’t $2000+ US
@@kyleruth6921 yeah the 24-70 is expensive for the price. i went to buy the primes instead since they are much better then the G lens optically. I'm still using the 24-70 nikon which i brought used
As long as you buy used it saves alot of money and honestly the price difference for used Z glass is very close to the G lens unless your looking for 1.4 primes.
I have the Z6 and will be getting the Z6II. The Z6 has been a real joy to use. Especially with my older manual Nikon lenses like the 105 2.5 AI and the newer IRIX 15 2.4. Great time to be a photographer.
I’m still waiting for my Nikon Z7ii Very excited!!
oh Adam you ordred one!!! That's awesome!! Would love to hear what you think about it once you received it :D
Hello Richard
Thank you for the comparison.
You will not believe it, yesterday I have ordered the Z6ii kit with 24-70/4 and the adapter. I can't wait to take it for my first spin. It was a big dilemma between the Z5 and the Z6ii, but on the end the price difference was only $400 , so I went for the Z6ii . My bonus is the 900s shutter, because I do a lot long exposures 2 to 4 minutes.
The dual processor has more room to grow with the future SW updates. The ISO performance is very surprising to me, On my Canon or Olympus I never go over ISO 3200, now it will be a breeze at ISO even 25000 ??? So I am looking forward to my new toy ....
I think that the difference between DSLR's and mirror-less is also IBIS.
Good point re IBIS! Enjoy your Z6II!
Photography is a hobby, but a passionate one for me. I.e. I don't do it for a living, so cost is a major consideration. I did recently make the jump to mirrorless with the Z5 because the price was reduced to within my level of pain tolerance. I addition to the price, I was reluctant to buy the first gen. I am a long time Nikon shooter and my lenses at not fully functional on an FTZ, though I am ok with focusing manually. That also made me hesitate to go mirrorless. So far, I have been pleased with the Z5 and using my old lenses via the FTZ. I just ordered the 85mm/f1.8 Z lens.
Hi David glad to hear you are enjoying the z5. Yes understand the price of these new cameras can be a bit too much for a hobby. Enjoy your z5!!
I am a D500/D750 shooter and I recently added the Z6ii to my stable as my first MILC. I was looking at the Sony A7C too, but my previous excellent experience with Nikon and the great Z glass convinced me to stay with Nikon. And I am very pleased with the choice!
Thank You, Richard for your review, I now know that this is the camera for me!
i am exchanging my F-mount system for Z 6ii and 24-70/f:2.8 this week..... I only hope Nikon will prove the section of loud propagandist UA-camrs who have almost written off the company , wrong...
You will enjoy the z system and the beautiful z lenses!
Long time nikon dslr user and seriously on the fence about moving to the z series! I shoot mainly concerts and not a ton of clear info on how the second series 6 or 7 perform under extreme low light situations. I have enjoyed your review and its helping me make up my mind
I feel it's good enough. But to be very honest It's a bit different to the DSLR so hard to say if it is definitely better or not. Best is if you can rent one for a few days and shoot what you regularly shoot side by side with your DSLR and see whether it works good enough for you
Thank you for your response!
A great advantage of the Z cameras is that you can get adapters for basically any lens mount, and using manual focus vintage lenses is extremely easy with the EVF and focus peaking + zooming. It is addictive though, be warned!
yes i agree with you Tom! That's opposite to the F mount which has a long flange distance
The Nikon Z6 II is just the best! Better than most!
Thanks for watching :)
The Z6II is the best mirrorless camera ever. The Z9 is great but the Z6II my god is above par.
Completely agree with you Richard. Even at high speed sports I can use Z6 I. So many photographers needing fast focus when fast movement happen at the same focal distance, to me is just stupid. They also need high continous shooting... film photographers learned from canvas painters that there´s is a moment when something important happens and you have to be ready for it and capture it. That fraction of a second tells a story. They´ve learned to read time in such way and shoot at the precise time. Some where lucky but even at high rate shooting today, one can miss that shot. Today photographers are infected with algorithms, and this virus will "kill" most of us all. Take Care Rich! Excuse my grammar, salute from Uruguay!
I remember i was shooting a lot of motorsports and fast action photos using a D200 and felt the AF was good enough haha I did wish the high ISO (of the D200) is a bit better because anything over ISO 800 the picture quality was horrible. But those were such long time ago!
Thanks very much Richard! The Z6ii is the camera I am attracted to, I have not purchased it yet but hoping I can get one soon. Your video has helped confirm my thinking!
You will love the z6ii Peter
@@TheRealRichardWong Thanks for responding Richard! I hope that there will be a deal on "black Friday" perhaps.
Excellent explaination , i totally agree with all your points .
every system has its pros and cons .
Thanks for watching! Yes agree
Got mine 1599 brand new at that price its amazing value ff mirrorles with these specs 8 years ago would cost like 6 grand
REALLY GOOD WORK, RICHARD. USEFUL TIPS ON THE Z6 II LIKE A TOOL FOR WORKING WITH IT... BEST REGARDS FROM SPAIN. NANO.
Many thanks!
You have really well thought out reviews! Thank you!!
Thank you very much Bill!
Glad you like it :)
Very interested to make the jump to mirrorless, but 99% of my photography is birds/nature. Currently using a D7500 and 200-500 f/5.6 lens. Thoughts? (I love the extra reach of the crop-sensor for small subjects)
I would say if you are mostly shooting bird in flight, just stick with the D7500 for now
As a wildlife photographer, my main kit is D500 and 500mm PF + TC-14e iii. That combo is just great and there's no need for me to upgrade from it.
I've been hesitant about mirrorless, but I think the Z6ii is a solid option. I'm actually thinking about adding a fullframe camera body this year to supplement my kit for non-wildlife work (architecture, landscape, people, portraiture). While the D500 does a fine job at these tasks, I do believe the Z6ii would be an improvement in a few different categories (eye-AF, fullframe, EVF for tripod work, AF system, in-body stabilization).
Sure, the 85mm F1.8S is better than the 85mm F1.8G, but it's also more expensive by about $300-350 depending on the day (used market, even more of a difference).
I guess I would just use the FTZ adapter for the time being - is that really justifiable for a $2,000 camera body?
Would it make more sense to just wait it out for the D880 to go fullframe?
Maybe trade in the D500 for a D580 when that becomes a thing??
I don't think any option is a 'bad' choice, to be perfectly clear! Things are GREAT in the photography world these days!!
Yes agreed cant really go wrong with any choice these days.. just a matter of what works the best for you
You Rock Richard 💪
haha You Rock Peter!!
Richard. . I just watched you for the first time and I love your analysis very much. I'm an older guy, not a pro, but I have been shooting with Nikon for years. I have been using a D7100 for quite some time and very much want to try mirrorless. Imagine that, an older guy who WANTS to go with new technology! I just watched a review of the Z6II by another "expert" named Ken. By the time I finished watching his review I was totally depressed. I have been on the verge of going ahead and buying a Z6II but his review made me feel like I would be wasting my money if I did so. He even went so far as to say that Nikon is a dying company and people who really know photography would NEVER choose Nikon over Canon. That was last night. Now this morning I just watched your review and I feel like my original plan to go ahead with the Z6II is still a good idea. You have a very realistic approach and I appreciate that. One question. . .Do you know of a list of lenses that will work and autofocus with the FTZ adapter? I have a Nikkor 18-300mm and a Tokina 11-20mm that I would need to be able to use if I bought a Z6II. Thanks again for your intelligent review!
hello BluesImprov, thanks for watching and glad you enjoy the review :) Re list of lenses that work well with FTZ adaptor? i believe all the Nikon autofocus lenses with built-in autofocus motor would work well, re third party, it's really hard to tell. The best is check if someone else has the same lens and tried it. Some 3rd party lenses were not compatable at first but firmware upgrade allowed that to work but i don't know of any list that is comprehensive. If you found one, please let me know too :)
I am in a undecisive suitation to get a old version of Z6 or new Z6 II . After seeing your video preview on this , I am convince to buy Z6 II. I also discovered that why in my past I seldom shoot video with my D500 as what you said the video is no good . I have refocusing problem and alot of editing to cut the blurr images. now I am convince by you with the new autofocusing system, the video should be pretty good in focus and less editing work to be done on final video . Also your explanation of low light suitation to use electronic viewfinder is better as I like to shoot nightscape of stars photography and alot of hard time to focus the dark landscape in the cold weather alway in china.
Hi Graeme, i think you will love the Z6 II. To me, with EVF is a huge difference when shooting under low light!
These are compelling arguments and a fantastic review. However, I would just add that D780 is a hybrid with all the functionality of the Z6 once in live view, except for IBIS. So, the argument holds for all Nikon DSLR's except D780. :)
Good point Tomo! D780 is a good hybrid!
I'm eyeing at D780 to replace my D800 using since 2012. Ten years is enough to retire, i think. (main reason is, i'm now adding video to my creative work) 🎥
Recently upgraded from D750 and really loving the many superior features. Only complaint is the use of 3rd party lenses. Definitely not as fast to focus and annoying chattering noise but small price to pay in my opinion. Purchased 24-200 z lens and love how well it performs. Will eventually upgrade to all z lenses due to superior performance. Next acquisition? 100-400 with a 1.4 teleconverter. Savin my pennies! Hoping it will be available by summer for my next trip to Glacier.
Excellent Richard!
Thabk you Mario!
Would you recommend the Nikon Z6ii over the Lumix S5 for someone new to photography?
A bit hard to answer, they are both good. i use a Z 6 and S5 myself side by side all the time, each has pros and cons. Best to go to a shop and try it out and see who feels better to you
@@TheRealRichardWong great answer. Look at The ecosystem as a whole too.
Dear Rich, thank you so much for this wonderful review and system change consideration. I actually have been using Nikon DSLRs from D80 to D780 over a couple of years as an event (congresses, weddings ...) and people portrait photographer. Now I'm thinking about switching from DSLR to DSLM. The only thing is .... it will cost me an awful lot of money. Thanks again for the really worthy information!
Hi Michael, glad you find the review useful. Re the cost to switch over.. it really depends on what lens you have, if they are AFS lenses or newer, you can use them on the z with the ftz adaptor and performance is pretty much the same so you don't have to buy any new lenses. At least not until you want to upgrade. One other cheaper option is a 2nd hand z6 as a lot of people are upgrading to z6ii so maybe some good 2nd hand deals which is a lot cheaper than a brand new z6ii
I am not complaining but am really want to blog as well as use a really good camera for everything..the flippy screen is really what I am waiting for...do you think the next upgrade from Nikon in the right (lower) price range will ever be a thing?
Could be.
We all just have to wait and see
@@TheRealRichardWong thanks for your reply...`I appreciate this. I think your review was very comprehensive, I have seen many reviews from most of the top reviewers of this camera and yours is at the top ...along with my top guys!! Thankyou.
Still shoot DSLR mostly weddings and very interested in Z6 II but really looking hard at the Z5 to start with first instead of Z6 II
Z5 is a nice camera too and has dual slot which is great for wedding photographers like you
Excellent
Can you make comparative testing between Z6 and Z6 ii? (photo/video AF tests)
Sorry probably not this time Vladimir. That was actually my original plan but changed my mind at the end.
I have the Nikon Z 6II, Z24-70/f2.8, Z24-200/f4-6.3
I love this gear. The best I ever had.
Thank you for your great review.
Pls. Do a review of above mentioned Z24-200/f4-6.3 travel zoom because this super zoom really impressed me.
I like to know your professional opinion about this lens.
All the Best for 2021! Take care
Stephan
Thanks Stephan! I did a review of the 24-200 a while ago.. here is the link ua-cam.com/video/DDyBqJzRq-w/v-deo.html
Super informative... Thanks a lot
Thanks for watching
If I shot photos/video for a living, yes I would move to mirrorless. I shoot as a hobby and my DSLRs do the job for now. If I suddenly had a large windfall however I would be in for a Z6 II for sure. I do love my old D4 though. Another great review/video too Richard.
Thank you Carl, and Yes there is absolutely nothing wrong with DSLRs! And just because Nikon released some new mirrorless cameras, your DSLR wouldn't suddenly become non functional. But if you have chance, tryshoot side by side with a Z 6 II (or Z 7 II) and your DSLR and you will probably also notice some of the advantages brought by these new mirrorless cameras :)
I've been shooting with Nikon Dslr for 17 years now professionally and am keen to try the new Z6ii but one of my issues would be the way the viewfinder and screen work to give you the 'final' shot as you take it. This I guess would be a problem for studio portraiture when using flash and a high sync speed, would the viewfinder just be blacked out i.e it would seem to be under exposed? Anyone have any thoughts?
hi Northern Morgan, there is a setting called" "Apply Settings to Live View" which if you set it to off, the EVF would behave like a normal OVF which would be more suitable when working with flash. Google "Apply Settings to Live View" and you should be able to find a bit more information about that setting
18:59 the Z6II has 4k 10-bit internally?? I can't find anything about that online. Please clarify.
No, not internally.
Which one you like the most, Z6 ii and S5, considering all the new Sigma L mount lens..
👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
You sold me, great presentation 👏. Thanks
Thanks for watching david
This is absolutely the info I needed. But I am looking for bird photography and I am looking forward for this camera as my first full frame infact.
They need to make them first. My Z 6 II is on back order. Everybody is out.
I know, I know, COVID. I don't want anyone to put themselves in danger making my camera.
Stay safe!
Stay safe Steven and hope you get your z6ii soon
but what about the d780 ? isn't it good enough ?
What should I get as the best mirrorless hybrid:
- Sony A7 III + 24-105 mm F4 G OSS for 2600 € (due to Sony winter cashback)
- Nikon Z6 II + 24-70 mm f4 kit + FTZ adapter for 3050 €
- Canon EOS R6 + 24-105 mm kit for 3300 €
?
Thank you in advance! :)
The Sony would be my last choice as a7iii is really quite old and it shows clearly every time when I switch to the a7iii. If you are currently a Nikon shooter with Nikon DSLR lenses then Nikon is logical choice otherwise the canon is a really nice camera too so it would come down to what body feels better and which company has lenses that you would buy as the lens line up at the moment is still quite different
You said more about mirrorless than Z6 ii. What about a comparison among Z6 ii, Z7ii, and Z5?
Out of the Z6II and the S5, which do you prefer / which would you recommend for every day family photography?
It's hard to say to be honest. I have a z6 (original) and s5.. and I use both for photos for different reasons.. the lens , some particular features.. they both have their pros and cons
@@TheRealRichardWong for sure, makes sense. For stills, how does the autofocus compare for taking pictures of people?
I own the first generation z6 and really like it a lot, would defenitly upgrade to version 2 if i had the cashflow :) great video!
Thanks for the comment! i would upgrade to II as well if i have spare $$$
Was/am a Nikon DSLR shooter, started out on a Nikon D50! But I crossed into mirrorless quite early, with the Panasonic GH1 because of the video capabilities.
Going to wait and see if Nikon makes a DX mirrorless with 10bit internal, as that is what is important to me.
Let's wait and see what Nikon is going to do with their DX lineup of the Z cameras :)
Nice video as usual. I love the evf a lot too
Thanks a lot!
Evf is a bit behind the competition at this time. Too bad it didn't improve with the z6II.
Excellent video! Very informative
Ed Glad it was helpful!
Nikon z 6 ii removed all obstacles with this camera
Thanks for the info
I'd love to own the Z6 II.... but since I'm amateur and shitty photographer anyway, my current Nikon D5500 has probably still better capability than my skills can handle :D
D5500 is a very good camera!
The Z6 I can also shoot bmraw, and do it right now.
Would you recommend z6 2 over d850 for wedding and portraits?
I would.. unless you really need the extra resolution
If you want a Z replacement for your D850, look at the Z 7 II.
Richard would you use this camera with a 200-500mmm Nikon zoom lens ??
The 200-500 5.6? Yes absolutely.
8bit and 10bit internal recording options
yes please even if the 10-bit is only 420. It still better than run and gunning with an external monitor.
Enjoyed the video bro, very well presented points.
Thank you!! :)
Which camera are you using to film your videos?
Most of the recent one were shot with a panasonic s5.
Including this video
@@TheRealRichardWong would you recommend me S5 or z6ii for videos
For video I say s5 is a bit better. No time limit for 4k30, 5.9k raw output to atomos, anamorphic video and the video mode control implementation is just a bit better overall.
Excellent review.
Thanks for watching Greg!
Actually - for me the EVF option to see the resulting image is totally nothing - from the time when AutoISO has been introduced, even with M mode shooting I almost doesn't care about exposition as I'm sure it will be OK (in 95% of scenes) and I can do some tweaking in post-process in case I need something to adjust ;)
Hello Richard. Thank you for this video.
Would you say that the autofocus on the Z6 II is significantly improved over the original Z6? That would be the only reason for me to upgrade.
The other improvements will be nice to have but not necessary.
Improvement but I wouldn't call "significant".
@@TheRealRichardWong we will probably have to wait for firmware updates to see the full potential of the dual processors. Thank you!
Hi Richard
Thanks for the video
Do you think the Z6ii can keep up with DSLRs in terms of AF for birds in flight?? I’m choosing between the Z6ii and the D780
Thanks
Mina
Thanks Mina! BIF is probably one of the hardest and most demanding in terms of AF. I haven't done side by side test, but i would guess the D780 maybe slightly better? Just a guess.. will be interesting to do a test and find out, i maybe surprised by the results.
@@TheRealRichardWong thanks for your reply...but do you think the hit rate for Eye AF on Z6ii is extremely better than the original Z6 or is it slightly better??
@@jlm300185 I actually have both and the Z 6II is better, it no longer has issues with backlit subjects or with busy backgrounds.
Nice video Richard! I also would like to know how is it shooting in DX mode? How is shooting with a flash at night? And can I use a Sigma or Tamron lens together with the FTZ adaptor using the Z6 II? Thanks a lot!
I haven't try shooting in DX mode or with flash at night this time with the Z 6 II.. I do use flash with the Z 6 quite often and it works pretty ok. Only biggest thing is the infrared assist light beam doesn't work with mirrorless camera (all mirrorless camera) but otherwise it's ok! Yes you can use Sigma/Tamron with Z 6 II using the FTZ. but as always, 3rd party comp is never 100% every time a new camera is released so check if your Sigma/Tamron works. I know most (or all?) Sigma ART lens should work very well at least.
Will the Atomos Shogun 7 also work for RAW?
I have not heard it's supported
Could you compare the Z6 to the S5?
Better Nikon AF (seemingly) but S5 appears to be superior video camera.
Nikon z6 ii can and will never be my first mirrorless camera, because i already own a z6. I am most certain than z6ii will be my second mirrorless camera. But not the first.
Not for me Richard, I am waiting for the professional Z's to arrive
hey Jason, thanks for watching! :D Hey just wondering what are the pro features you are waiting for? is it more like the design or something else?
@@TheRealRichardWonghi yes i shoot fast sports and need a hefty chunk to hold onto. Z6 IS A GREAT camera just a little small for me. I have some large lensesto use.
@@jasonhowells7758 the battery grip should solve that problem?
Ah stupid youtube notification sorry just saw your reply. Hmm yeah the new grip should help a bit if you want a more chunky grip?
If *only* the (future firmware released) 4k60 wasn't APS-C crop. #sadtrombone So close, Nikon..so close.
You need to study the history of digital cameras. Hint: You need to go back much longer than 10 - 15 years.
Haha you are right.. the first time I shot with a DSLR was back in 1990s damn time flies.
I’m very interested in it, but even if I had the funds, the Lightroom issue is a deal-breaker for me. I currently have a Nikon D5600. Would love to have Mirrorless.
Thanks for watching! And What's the lightroom issue you talking about maria?
Nikon Z8 & Z9 please be released lol
To late to the party all the bests things have been done you can only imitate
Imitate. And learn from others’ mistakes maybe?