Hi Patrick…nice to see a fellow BCG Forums member here. Hudson and Steve have a completely different opinion on using Auto Area AF for action…I'm going to give it a try myself and compare it to Wide Small which I normally have been using on my Z7II per Steve's recommendation. I've been using both my 500PF and the Z 70-200 for action and haven't had many issues with either for action although I did get some distant blurry BIF shots with the 500 but mostly turned out to be too low a shutter speed.
Thanks, I've dramatically reduced my youtube surfing as just tired of the BS and camera bashing for no other reason than to get comments for $$. I love my Z 6ii and when something is out of focus, I look in the mirror. Plain and simple. Appreciate the tips!
I'm 100% amateur photo hobbyist. Just bought a Z6ii. I was a little worried about the focus "issues" I've been seeing and reading about, but I can't give up the image quality and hardware build quality of Nikon. Took it out for a dance photo shoot my daughter wanted. I warned her I had just taken this new camera out of the box and knew next to nothing about it, never mind setting it up in any way. The Z6ii easily kept up with everything she did. If anything, I blew my A and S settings a couple of times. But focus was not an issue at all. And the shots we got are gorgeous.
How did photographers shoot birds/wildlife before. It was called good technique and skill. Check out Brad Hill. People have just gotten lazy. My opinion only.
I agree that Nikon released the first-gen full-frame Z6 and Z7 not being ready. No doubt it's because of the pressure from Sony's mirrorless systems that are becoming on par or even better than DSLRs (user experience-wise). Canon did the same thing with the EOS R and EOS RP systems. The only difference is Canon eventually released the impressive EOS R5 and R6 on time to save their market share. Nikon on the other hand gave us firmware updates and the Z6 II and Z7 II that did not fully address its focusing shortcomings for wildlife and sports photography relative to Sony and Canon. I am a Nikon shooter. My very first DSLR was the Nikon D80. I then moved up to the D810. My favorite camera ever! The image rendition is amazing. A great landscape camera. I still have it as a dedicated Astro camera. I will never give it up. I never had the D850, and I'm sure that's even better. Since I hike for my photography hobby, I was looking at reducing the footprint of my system. Mirrorless is one of the solutions. With the promise of the Z lenses, and I loved Nikon's ergonomics and color science, I gave the Z a try. I got the Z6 as my second full frame with the D810. I enjoyed it. Tracking wildlife is difficult, but for other purposes, it was great. Way better video features. The Z lenses were amazing. I then upgraded to the Z6 II and bought the Z7 II for Image resolution similar to the D810. I am now transitioned from F-mount to Z-mount with a growing Z lens collection. I hope the Z9 will be the D3 moment for Nikon, and the Z8 as the D800/810/850 equivalent. Let's have that amazing focusing system, Nikon and you'll be back with a vengeance in the market!
You have become my source of information and inspiration as I learn more and more about my Z6ii. Thank you for your content and teaching style. Outstanding information and you seem to cover any question that I may come up with.
I have the R5 and Z7ii and Z6ii currently. Been through a lot of cameras to get to this point. I find myself buying more Z lenses due to their use and lower prices. Having the 24-70 f4, 85, 20, 50 1.2, 70-200 and hopefully soon, the MC 105 2.8…it is such a great system and more affordable than any system out there. The A1 looks great but not a fan of some of Sony’s outdated lenses. I might even sell the R5 for the Z9. Nikon really made a great system here. Thanks and look forward to more Nikon Z content
Did u end up getting the Z9? What did mean by outdated lenses? I'm a noob with a Z6 thinking of switching to Sony a7iv. Not cause I'm unhappy with my Z6 just that Im caught into the Sony hype.
@@BennyBlawnk yes I sold the Z6 and 7ii for the Z9. As well as the Canon system for the Sony A7RV. Looking back on this, I was looking for a good 24-70 ish but had not wanted the Sony GM v1. A year later, Sony actually improved their lens game with the lighter V2s. So much so, I sold my Nikon Z lenses and use the Sony GMs on the Z9 via the megadap etz 21. I personally like the Nikon and Canon ergonomics over Sony but the Sony is great for travel as I’m not carrying the Z9 often. The A7iv is good and I feel Sony is the best overall system right now due to their Lighter V2 GM lenses. Their 24-70 v2 is the best and lightest I’ve used. The 50GM is smaller than the Nikon Z equivalent and their 70-200 GMII is the lightest. The only lens Nikon really blown me away with was the Z 400 4.5. It is lighter than their Z 70-200 and that is phenomenal.
@@davetv8171 Wow that's a 2700 lense. It's cool that ur not a fan boy of any. I'ma try Sony, I'm interested in it's prime lenses and auto focus capabilities. Thanks for the info
One of the best videos on the subject I have seen. Very straightforward and clear. Waiting for my z6 ll to be delivered and getting as much info as possible beforehand. Thanks
I've mainly been shooting my grandson's baseball games with my Z6ii and 70-200 S lens. I've been bouncing between Wide Area AF Small and Dynamic. Getting good keep rates but occasionally struggling with fast-tracking of a play. I never thought of using Auto Area AF People. I also think Subject Tracking, as you explained, would be useful for reaching across the infield (from near the dugout) to track and nail focus on a play or infielder. Probably the same for trying to capture a far-away center fielder on a play. Can't wait to try some of this strategy! Thanks for the tips!
The dynamic area is really a legacy mode in these cameras. I almost wish they hadn't included it because dslr shooters are so used to using it and expect it to work better. The auto area and wide area modes are these cameras' advanced AF modes. Hope you enjoy. The games sound like a blast!
Great video and a real answer to all UA-camrs who feel the need to dump on Nikon autofocus (including former shooters with strange hair!). And thanks for the kind words on your recent Office Hours!
We're finally allowed back on the sidelines and the lion's share of photos I picked to edit from the match on Father's Day were from the Z6. I'm even getting used to the screen "blackout" in H+ release mode... Subject tracking is great when I am trying to keep focus on a specific player!
This video - very helpful. I’m still working on learning how to use the AF modes and which mode in which situation for the Z7ii and Z9 . When to use auto area , when to track , when to use wide L , and so on . Still setting up my mirrorless Nikons regarding AF .
Great tips, thanks again! That was too funny, I hit submit on my "Office Hours" question 2 seconds before you recommended the Lume Cube... you'll understand when you see it, lol.
This video would have been a good reminder a couple weeks ago. We went up the gorge and stopped at the Hood River beach for 30 minutes or so. I shot with a Z6 and a Sigma 100-400 but I so rarely shoot action I forgot about area mode focus. I'm sure I'd have gotten more keepers. Guess I need more practice. ;)
Thanks Hudson. I'm slowly getting to grips with your Z7 button config - I forsee great things ;-) I'm very happy after upgrading from a D750; I had to unload my Tamron 150-600 mk.1 as it wouldn't work on the Z7II plus adapter but I picked up a demo model of the 150-600G2 at a good price, and it works very well. The Tamron 70-200 f2.8 also does the bizz. Very nice video, Hudson, thanks again.
Hey Roderick, Have you used Tamron 24-70 f2.8 G2 with the Z camera? I am planning get Tamron, what are your thoughts how does this work compared to Nikon S 24-70 f2.8?
Hello Safar. On the Z7ii, the Tamron works at least as well as it does on my D750, no complaints. Its good to focus and sharp, even at f2.8. Its heavy but thats the laws of physics for you ;-) Unfortunately I can't advise you on the Nikon S lens as I don't own one.
As far as for wildlife, I put you subjects equal to say a Egret or Heron. Easier to track not being all that erratic & not that small. I understand not everyone needs this either. & Nikon has a lower price point also. But it would be nice to see them equal up to their competition.
I'm not having any problems with birds in flight or wildlife either. I've got several videos showcasing that. I used to carry the D500 for wildlife, but not anymore. I think your statement was accurate prior to firmware 3.0 on the first gen bodies, but not anymore. I spent a weekend with sony's A1 two weeks ago and felt no desire to switch from my z7ii. I do dream of an APS-C A9 like camera for action and wildlife though. Tons of reach, low megapixel, low noise, insane frame rate... Someday.
Excellent video Hudson! Just picked up the Z7 ii, and have been loving it! Been watching many of your tutorials, and get allot out of them. So thanks for those, keep up the great work! I did have a somewhat simple question that I haven't been able to find the answer for. So, on the live view screen, the display option which shows you basically all your settings is at the top of the screen. I noticed yours is on the right hand side. Lol, I know it is one of those "If it had been a snake, it'd bit ya" moments, but how do you switch that from the top of screen to the right? Thanks again
Do you use the 2.0 teleconverter with the 70-200 s lens and if you do your thoughts as this is my 100-400 not out yet and i love it and it seems to still be fast on focus
No I don't. It looks good from a friend's sample shots, but that's really pushing a 70-200 at 46MP. I think you're safer at 1.4 I don't push my PF lenses past 1.4. I really think the 2.0 TCs are generally built for the five figure priced big fast prime teles. I have a vintage 400 3.5 that becomes a razor sharp 800 7.1 with a 2.0 TC. I'm waiting for the 100-400S that I know is coming. It might work well with a 1.4TC too...
I have a question: But first of all , I LOVE your videos, they are awesome. My issue : Got my Z9 in January. I am confused as to which focus mode to use to maximize my hit ratio …. Here’s my experience from today . I spent an hour with a barred owl , he moved from perch to perch to perch right in front of me , I had opportunities for great in flight shots , but I’m frustrated to say , I maybe have one nice shot in flight . I was using AF-C small area animal eye detect . The owl was in the trees and moving between branches . Maybe I’m not alone but My biggest confusion with this camera is which mode to use in which situation . My shutter was 1/2000. What are your suggestions for which mode ? Appreciate any help!!!
I prefer having a single focus point staying in the center. With my D850, I can lock this into place. With my new Z7ii, the single focus point seems to "magically" move to the upper left of the screen. I don't ever want this to happen and wish there was a way to lock it in the center. But this does not seem possible. 😞
I think if you're not interested in the focusing power of on the chip subject detection for shooting action that you might be better with a DSLR that has such fine performing Dynamic area. That worked well in the DSLR days and I often ran a similar setup, but it's quite lousy on the Z cameras. A legacy mode. On the current Z6/7 variants it's all about automatically detecting and tracking subjects all over the frame in Auto Area or wide area with Subject tracking override when needed. On the Z8/9 it's all about 3D area with face and eye detect that locks a subject under your small movable point and tracks it's torso, head, eyes all over the frame. In the menus on the 8 and 9 they give you the ability to lock the focus point position. I never do it, but it is there. Not so much for the Z6/7. If however you customize subject tracking override to be on a function button (as described in this very video), you can activate it with a function button press and have a dynamic, smart tracking AF point dead center with a button press from auto area whenever auto area isn't working. That combo is the best action focus mode setup for that camera. With practice you'll find it far more accurate than any DSLR mode. I've been shooting that system since late 2018.
Thanks for this video Hudson! As usual, so helpful, as I struggle with moving subjects. Now I have to get out and practice!! Assuming your camera is updated with newest firmware, I heard focusing was updated. (Have you done a video on updating firmware, hint, hint, or would you suggest not doing it ourselves). My camera store charges $75 to do it. Thanks again for all the work you put into your videos. They are greatly appreciated!
It might work well for people or pets but wildlife, especially birds in flight are virtually impossible to lock on focus with any consistency. A number of you tube photographers claim they can but I notice that none of them show videos with focus tracking on birds in flight. It’s always close ups with slow moving objects. Love that Nikon has developed the Z9 with supposedly great focus tracking but it’s little consolation to those of us with any other Z cameras. I seriously doubt software updates will give us anything close to the Z9 or any of the competition. Sadly I will probably have to invest another 2-3k to get the Z3s.
I really don't have an issue with birds in flight. I showcase that in other older videos even with the original z6 and 7. I have plenty of great frames to prove it. If you're bird is near frame filling, and you're moving to track it, use auto area AF without selecting a point and it will nail focus and track them by simply hitting the back button. If you're too far away with too small a lens and the bird is small, then you may need to activate and de ctivate subject tracking override and hold the AF on button starting with the box on them. If they get closer and fill the frame deactivate it. To ease activating and deactivating it, use one of the front function buttons for subject tracking. Practice a while and you'll have no problem either. I've shot birds on workshops with a dozen Z shooters and they all did fine with practice. It's different than the DSLRs.
That really is amazing… I use D500 and Z7 for my wildlife… for owls in flight I can make a cup of tea while the Z7 decides to focus….. I miss every shot. D500 to my opinion way better! What am I doing wrong? Help needed please 😎
If they're large in the frame, use auto area. If they're small in frame or not moving much you may have to activate subject tracking, move that to fn2 to make it easy to activate and deactivate. Practice, practice, practice. It's different, but my D500 very dusty these days.
They do, but The menu structure is a little different. Dive into the custom settings AF menu to turn on eye and face detect for humans or animals. I'd put that setting near the top of your iMenu so you can rapidly access and switch it. Then in auto area AF you're in the eye and face detect with that setting activated.
@@HudsonHenryPhoto thanks for a speedy reply! I have face/eye detect selected in the main menu a4 but I only get the boring rectangle within the i menu not one with a little face as I spotted in your video. Curious
Why does my z6ii keep focusing back and forth?? In those shots I would have 50% of my shots focusing on the water behind? What mode are you using in those action photos??? Auto face or area face?
It takes practice with the older AF system. For landscape and portrait is awesome and easy though. For action the system in the z8, 9 and F makes it much easier without practice. Just giggle inducing easy for action shooting.
First of all a Big Thanks Hudson. Ur videos r awesome and full of information. I have just purchased Z 6ii and i want to know that is their any option that while looking through viewfinder we can touch the LCD with the thumb (not with joystick) and shift the focus point as in Canon EOS R and sony cameras.??
Nope. I'd like that too, but nikon hasn't done it. The Z9 either. I really love how Canon does it where you can map the whole viewfinder to the bottom right quarter of the lcd touchscreen.
Like some of the other dinosaurs, I still prefer my D500 with F 70-200 2.8 E over my Z6 with Z 70-200 S for sports. I will follow your advice and practice what you just shared as I know that Z is the future and I will ultimately change with the times. I will get a Z9 when they come out, however, until then, do you think I would get better results with 6 ii over my 6?
Incrementally based on the increase in processing power. It certainly acquires targets a bit faster and it fires much longer sustained bursts with the bigger buffer. Rumor has it that a future update to it's firmware will give it a lite version of some new AF tracking coming on the Z9... We'll have to wait and see. Think of it as version 1.5 of the Nikon mirrorless game. I do like it better, but if the Z9 is in your budget I'd say wait a bit.
Henry great tips on Auto Area AF. I just shot my grandkids for Xmas & had great success with dynamic AF. Kept the main square on there face/eye followed them with the box & had 90% keepers. Isn’t this a better alternative then Auto area & its “dancing” squares?
Try eye detect in auto area and prepare to be blown away. Dynamic is a Legacy mode. I program it not even to appear in my rotation. :) first name's Hudson, but no big deal.
@@HudsonHenryPhoto TY for your comment. Tired that on Xmas Eve as well. I was not shooting in natural light but rather had 4 bounce flashed set up. With low contrast on weak ambient light Face/Eye Detection was hit and miss. Dynamic was far more successful. I have used Face/Eye Detection, same kids, in natural sun light and it worked great. I think the ambient light levels, subject contrast has a lot to do with which works better. Have you tried Auto AF Face/Eye in low light conditions where you are counting on flash to light and freeze the movement??
Hi Hudson, I have z6 with me, I am planning to get a good 27-70 f2.8 lens and I am looking into Tamron 24-70 f2.8 G2, what are your thoughts about this lens with Z system? Should I get one of those or should I look into Nikon S lens only? By the way I love your video, you are making really good content. Thanks
The kit lens Z 24-70 F4 is an amazingly sharp and light weight lens if you can handle F4 and the corresponding depth of field . I know that's what Hudson uses. With the Z6 you can easily push the ISO for lower light conditions and it's nice not to have to use the adapter IMO. No problem using it for the most part with lenses you already own but unless you want to use it on other non Z Nikon cameras I would stick with Z native lenses as the quality is amazing.
No not at all. I shoot that combo a lot. Even with the Z50. There's a link to that video about shooting with it, the 70-200 S & the new 24-200 in this video's full description. Lots of examples there. It works great. The VRII is a bit long in the tooth. The FL-ED was a huge upgrade and the S is even better. :)
Hey Hudson! how are ya! any reason why the release mode does not get save in any user? I seem to have to change the release mode to continuous H to single frame all the time when switching SAVE users settings. thanks!
That's a big complaint of mine too. The 5.6 DOF limit for stills, the playback button on the wrong side and drive mode not sticking with the user settings. The big 3. You're dead on.
Thanks Hudson. Really helpful demo though you probably could have used a moving assistant ;)! Great shots! Do you find that the Z7 II gives you enough resolution with the 70-200 if you want to crop closer or would you use a longer lens for really close ups? I'm likely shooting a golf event in a couple weeks and will have my Z6 II and D500 with me. Might still use the D500 more for action shots but we'll see. My only native Z lens is the 24-70 F4 from the kit. Haven't even tried my 150-600 Sigma yet with the FTZ adapter.
I shoot the 500pf on the FTZ a lot for more distant work. Allesandro was doing his practice tricks close to the beach where his dad could call instructions and encouragement. The upcoming 100-400 S will be perfect in the future. I can't wait for that lens for this kind of work. :)
Indeed. It's a conversation about photography here. I pay attention in my workshops, office hours, email and channel comments and the interactions with my community drives the content, but it's never going to be "scripted" or read off a prompter. ;) it's designed to be different.
Yup, not exactly identical on the Z5. I bought the 5 over the original 6 knowing that it will be missing some fine controls, but Hudson’s demo is pretty relevant.
I didn't test the 5 because the low iso performance from the 6's backlit sensor and speed of cfexpress is just too good to not pay the extra if you can afford full frame glass. I'm surprised it's AF system lacks these modes though. The Z50 has them.
My z5 thoughts are that nothing in the full frame world is affordable. Every lens you buy has to cover full frame. If price is the biggest motivator the aps-c world gives much more for less. The Z6 has very usable 20,000 ISO images, incredible video output a much larger buffer, faster framerate and better media. I'm not saying the 5 is a bad camera, it just gives up a lot to the 6.
Yes, know that feeling, of going for hobbies witch entail a lot of gear, there is a medical definition of this, called G.A.S. (gear acquisition syndrome); sorry, NO cure, just some afflictions us guy's have in our d.n.a. ; just something our wives and or families have to deal with, just like a kid in a candy store :-))
I’m sorry mate but I’m still not satisfied with that. When comparing with other brands auto mode and the way the af works Nikon is behind. Now if switching to manual it’s fine. having almost the same stuff as you do, it suits my needs but we still need firmware update and smaller subject tracking square that is more intelligent… I’m still disappointed with my gear for action but plenty satisfied for static and slow moving in easy scenes
Hmmmm, I spent some time with the A1 recently and walked away with zero jealousy. Nice, but I prefer my z7ii. I'm sure the tracking square will get better in the next Gen bodies (we're really at 1.5 now), but I am more than happy. I prefer the auto area implementation and human eye detect in my latest Z cameras to the other systems I've sampled and I'm excited to see where they take it. A difference of opinions makes the world more interesting.
@@HudsonHenryPhoto I cannot tell with Sony A1 but I trust you on this point. I was referring to canon that has an AF that feels more intuitive when having it in my hands. Anyway I stay with Nikon because of the Raw files and ergonomics and It suits fine my kind of photography. I agree with you. the best is to come but I hope this generation has still room for improvements. Thanks for taking time in creating your content ! Keep rocking and stay sage mate!
good to see a "real live" review instead of some click baiter saying what he thinks and not shooting. Well done Hudson and thanks
Hi Patrick…nice to see a fellow BCG Forums member here. Hudson and Steve have a completely different opinion on using Auto Area AF for action…I'm going to give it a try myself and compare it to Wide Small which I normally have been using on my Z7II per Steve's recommendation. I've been using both my 500PF and the Z 70-200 for action and haven't had many issues with either for action although I did get some distant blurry BIF shots with the 500 but mostly turned out to be too low a shutter speed.
Thanks, I've dramatically reduced my youtube surfing as just tired of the BS and camera bashing for no other reason than to get comments for $$. I love my Z 6ii and when something is out of focus, I look in the mirror. Plain and simple. Appreciate the tips!
I'm 100% amateur photo hobbyist. Just bought a Z6ii. I was a little worried about the focus "issues" I've been seeing and reading about, but I can't give up the image quality and hardware build quality of Nikon.
Took it out for a dance photo shoot my daughter wanted. I warned her I had just taken this new camera out of the box and knew next to nothing about it, never mind setting it up in any way.
The Z6ii easily kept up with everything she did. If anything, I blew my A and S settings a couple of times. But focus was not an issue at all. And the shots we got are gorgeous.
Thank you very much for these Chuck full of info vids. Got my z7ii recently and the 70-200 s. You have been very helpful and inspirational.
Hudson, many thanks for this video and focusing tips. Made a lot of sense with good explanations. Thanks again
Extremely interesting. More videos like this, please.
This video was absolutely fabulous. Thank you so much for the tutorial.
I am so thankful you do these, I love my Z6ll, but in many of my wildlife forums, I take so much heat for the Z6ll not having bird /eye af tracking.
How did photographers shoot birds/wildlife before. It was called good technique and skill. Check out Brad Hill. People have just gotten lazy. My opinion only.
@@WAPhoto 100% !!!
I agree that Nikon released the first-gen full-frame Z6 and Z7 not being ready. No doubt it's because of the pressure from Sony's mirrorless systems that are becoming on par or even better than DSLRs (user experience-wise). Canon did the same thing with the EOS R and EOS RP systems. The only difference is Canon eventually released the impressive EOS R5 and R6 on time to save their market share. Nikon on the other hand gave us firmware updates and the Z6 II and Z7 II that did not fully address its focusing shortcomings for wildlife and sports photography relative to Sony and Canon. I am a Nikon shooter. My very first DSLR was the Nikon D80. I then moved up to the D810. My favorite camera ever! The image rendition is amazing. A great landscape camera. I still have it as a dedicated Astro camera. I will never give it up. I never had the D850, and I'm sure that's even better. Since I hike for my photography hobby, I was looking at reducing the footprint of my system. Mirrorless is one of the solutions. With the promise of the Z lenses, and I loved Nikon's ergonomics and color science, I gave the Z a try. I got the Z6 as my second full frame with the D810. I enjoyed it. Tracking wildlife is difficult, but for other purposes, it was great. Way better video features. The Z lenses were amazing. I then upgraded to the Z6 II and bought the Z7 II for Image resolution similar to the D810. I am now transitioned from F-mount to Z-mount with a growing Z lens collection. I hope the Z9 will be the D3 moment for Nikon, and the Z8 as the D800/810/850 equivalent. Let's have that amazing focusing system, Nikon and you'll be back with a vengeance in the market!
You have become my source of information and inspiration as I learn more and more about my Z6ii. Thank you for your content and teaching style. Outstanding information and you seem to cover any question that I may come up with.
I have the R5 and Z7ii and Z6ii currently. Been through a lot of cameras to get to this point. I find myself buying more Z lenses due to their use and lower prices. Having the 24-70 f4, 85, 20, 50 1.2, 70-200 and hopefully soon, the MC 105 2.8…it is such a great system and more affordable than any system out there. The A1 looks great but not a fan of some of Sony’s outdated lenses. I might even sell the R5 for the Z9. Nikon really made a great system here. Thanks and look forward to more Nikon Z content
Did u end up getting the Z9? What did mean by outdated lenses? I'm a noob with a Z6 thinking of switching to Sony a7iv. Not cause I'm unhappy with my Z6 just that Im caught into the Sony hype.
@@BennyBlawnk yes I sold the Z6 and 7ii for the Z9. As well as the Canon system for the Sony A7RV. Looking back on this, I was looking for a good 24-70 ish but had not wanted the Sony GM v1. A year later, Sony actually improved their lens game with the lighter V2s. So much so, I sold my Nikon Z lenses and use the Sony GMs on the Z9 via the megadap etz 21. I personally like the Nikon and Canon ergonomics over Sony but the Sony is great for travel as I’m not carrying the Z9 often. The A7iv is good and I feel Sony is the best overall system right now due to their Lighter V2 GM lenses. Their 24-70 v2 is the best and lightest I’ve used. The 50GM is smaller than the Nikon Z equivalent and their 70-200 GMII is the lightest. The only lens Nikon really blown me away with was the Z 400 4.5. It is lighter than their Z 70-200 and that is phenomenal.
@@davetv8171 Wow that's a 2700 lense. It's cool that ur not a fan boy of any. I'ma try Sony, I'm interested in it's prime lenses and auto focus capabilities. Thanks for the info
Thanks for this! I just got the Z6 and trying to learn the focusing system.
One of the best videos on the subject I have seen. Very straightforward and clear. Waiting for my z6 ll to be delivered and getting as much info as possible beforehand. Thanks
I've mainly been shooting my grandson's baseball games with my Z6ii and 70-200 S lens. I've been bouncing between Wide Area AF Small and Dynamic. Getting good keep rates but occasionally struggling with fast-tracking of a play. I never thought of using Auto Area AF People. I also think Subject Tracking, as you explained, would be useful for reaching across the infield (from near the dugout) to track and nail focus on a play or infielder. Probably the same for trying to capture a far-away center fielder on a play. Can't wait to try some of this strategy! Thanks for the tips!
The dynamic area is really a legacy mode in these cameras. I almost wish they hadn't included it because dslr shooters are so used to using it and expect it to work better. The auto area and wide area modes are these cameras' advanced AF modes. Hope you enjoy. The games sound like a blast!
Another amazing video, thank you! The grown out/cave-man beard is a bit distracting for me but other than that, I am a Hudson Henry follower for life!
Thank you, Hudson! Love these tutorials! They are such a help! Happy Belated Father's Day!
Great video and a real answer to all UA-camrs who feel the need to dump on Nikon autofocus (including former shooters with strange hair!). And thanks for the kind words on your recent Office Hours!
HH, you are THE MAN. Another full year of ATS. Dude, you rock. Happy holidays to you, Stacey and the kids. Love you, Bro.
We love you too brother! Can't wait for more adventures in 2023!
We're finally allowed back on the sidelines and the lion's share of photos I picked to edit from the match on Father's Day were from the Z6. I'm even getting used to the screen "blackout" in H+ release mode...
Subject tracking is great when I am trying to keep focus on a specific player!
Thank you so much Hudson for the photos and for the compliments.
You rock my friend!
This was extremely helpful. Thank you.
This video - very helpful. I’m still working on learning how to use the AF modes and which mode in which situation for the Z7ii and Z9 . When to use auto area , when to track , when to use wide L , and so on . Still setting up my mirrorless Nikons regarding AF .
Great tips, thanks again! That was too funny, I hit submit on my "Office Hours" question 2 seconds before you recommended the Lume Cube... you'll understand when you see it, lol.
This video would have been a good reminder a couple weeks ago. We went up the gorge and stopped at the Hood River beach for 30 minutes or so. I shot with a Z6 and a Sigma 100-400 but I so rarely shoot action I forgot about area mode focus. I'm sure I'd have gotten more keepers. Guess I need more practice. ;)
Thanks Hudson. I'm slowly getting to grips with your Z7 button config - I forsee great things ;-) I'm very happy after upgrading from a D750; I had to unload my Tamron 150-600 mk.1 as it wouldn't work on the Z7II plus adapter but I picked up a demo model of the 150-600G2 at a good price, and it works very well. The Tamron 70-200 f2.8 also does the bizz. Very nice video, Hudson, thanks again.
Hey Roderick,
Have you used Tamron 24-70 f2.8 G2 with the Z camera?
I am planning get Tamron, what are your thoughts how does this work compared to Nikon S 24-70 f2.8?
Hello Safar. On the Z7ii, the Tamron works at least as well as it does on my D750, no complaints. Its good to focus and sharp, even at f2.8. Its heavy but thats the laws of physics for you ;-) Unfortunately I can't advise you on the Nikon S lens as I don't own one.
Awesome as always, thanks!
Great informative presentation, as usual. Happy Birthday!
Great demo!
As far as for wildlife, I put you subjects equal to say a Egret or Heron. Easier to track not being all that erratic & not that small. I understand not everyone needs this either. & Nikon has a lower price point also. But it would be nice to see them equal up to their competition.
I'm not having any problems with birds in flight or wildlife either. I've got several videos showcasing that. I used to carry the D500 for wildlife, but not anymore. I think your statement was accurate prior to firmware 3.0 on the first gen bodies, but not anymore. I spent a weekend with sony's A1 two weeks ago and felt no desire to switch from my z7ii. I do dream of an APS-C A9 like camera for action and wildlife though. Tons of reach, low megapixel, low noise, insane frame rate... Someday.
@@HudsonHenryPhotoSo glad your satisfied with the Z7-2. It is plenty of camera.
Great video 👍🏻
Excellent video Hudson! Just picked up the Z7 ii, and have been loving it! Been watching many of your tutorials, and get allot out of them. So thanks for those, keep up the great work! I did have a somewhat simple question that I haven't been able to find the answer for. So, on the live view screen, the display option which shows you basically all your settings is at the top of the screen. I noticed yours is on the right hand side. Lol, I know it is one of those "If it had been a snake, it'd bit ya" moments, but how do you switch that from the top of screen to the right? Thanks again
Do you use the 2.0 teleconverter with the 70-200 s lens and if you do your thoughts as this is my 100-400 not out yet and i love it and it seems to still be fast on focus
No I don't. It looks good from a friend's sample shots, but that's really pushing a 70-200 at 46MP. I think you're safer at 1.4 I don't push my PF lenses past 1.4. I really think the 2.0 TCs are generally built for the five figure priced big fast prime teles. I have a vintage 400 3.5 that becomes a razor sharp 800 7.1 with a 2.0 TC. I'm waiting for the 100-400S that I know is coming. It might work well with a 1.4TC too...
I’d love to see a video on the teleconverters if you could do a review🙏
I have a question:
But first of all , I LOVE your videos, they are awesome.
My issue :
Got my Z9 in January.
I am confused as to which focus mode to use to maximize my hit ratio …. Here’s my experience from today .
I spent an hour with a barred owl , he moved from perch to perch to perch right in front of me , I had opportunities for great in flight shots , but I’m frustrated to say , I maybe have one nice shot in flight . I was using AF-C small area animal eye detect . The owl was in the trees and moving between branches . Maybe I’m not alone but My biggest confusion with this camera is which mode to use in which situation . My shutter was 1/2000.
What are your suggestions for which mode ? Appreciate any help!!!
Very interesting and wonder if the Z9 reaches the same level as the D5/D6
If my fingers aren't long enough to use the Fn button is there another way for me to do subject tracking
you can't reach the front function buttons on the Zs? You could map it to the center of the joystick press I suppose.
I prefer having a single focus point staying in the center. With my D850, I can lock this into place. With my new Z7ii, the single focus point seems to "magically" move to the upper left of the screen. I don't ever want this to happen and wish there was a way to lock it in the center. But this does not seem possible. 😞
I think if you're not interested in the focusing power of on the chip subject detection for shooting action that you might be better with a DSLR that has such fine performing Dynamic area. That worked well in the DSLR days and I often ran a similar setup, but it's quite lousy on the Z cameras. A legacy mode. On the current Z6/7 variants it's all about automatically detecting and tracking subjects all over the frame in Auto Area or wide area with Subject tracking override when needed. On the Z8/9 it's all about 3D area with face and eye detect that locks a subject under your small movable point and tracks it's torso, head, eyes all over the frame. In the menus on the 8 and 9 they give you the ability to lock the focus point position. I never do it, but it is there. Not so much for the Z6/7. If however you customize subject tracking override to be on a function button (as described in this very video), you can activate it with a function button press and have a dynamic, smart tracking AF point dead center with a button press from auto area whenever auto area isn't working. That combo is the best action focus mode setup for that camera. With practice you'll find it far more accurate than any DSLR mode. I've been shooting that system since late 2018.
Thanks for this video Hudson! As usual, so helpful, as I struggle with moving subjects. Now I have to get out and practice!! Assuming your camera is updated with newest firmware, I heard focusing was updated. (Have you done a video on updating firmware, hint, hint, or would you suggest not doing it ourselves). My camera store charges $75 to do it. Thanks again for all the work you put into your videos. They are greatly appreciated!
I just saw this one today ua-cam.com/video/EvKDVasWORo/v-deo.html
$75 for a firmware update? It's a 3 minute job at most. You can do it, I promise it's not difficult.
It might work well for people or pets but wildlife, especially birds in flight are virtually impossible to lock on focus with any consistency. A number of you tube photographers claim they can but I notice that none of them show videos with focus tracking on birds in flight. It’s always close ups with slow moving objects. Love that Nikon has developed the Z9 with supposedly great focus tracking but it’s little consolation to those of us with any other Z cameras. I seriously doubt software updates will give us anything close to the Z9 or any of the competition. Sadly I will probably have to invest another 2-3k to get the Z3s.
I really don't have an issue with birds in flight. I showcase that in other older videos even with the original z6 and 7. I have plenty of great frames to prove it. If you're bird is near frame filling, and you're moving to track it, use auto area AF without selecting a point and it will nail focus and track them by simply hitting the back button. If you're too far away with too small a lens and the bird is small, then you may need to activate and de ctivate subject tracking override and hold the AF on button starting with the box on them. If they get closer and fill the frame deactivate it. To ease activating and deactivating it, use one of the front function buttons for subject tracking. Practice a while and you'll have no problem either. I've shot birds on workshops with a dozen Z shooters and they all did fine with practice. It's different than the DSLRs.
That really is amazing… I use D500 and Z7 for my wildlife… for owls in flight I can make a cup of tea while the Z7 decides to focus….. I miss every shot. D500 to my opinion way better! What am I doing wrong? Help needed please 😎
If they're large in the frame, use auto area. If they're small in frame or not moving much you may have to activate subject tracking, move that to fn2 to make it easy to activate and deactivate. Practice, practice, practice. It's different, but my D500 very dusty these days.
Hi. Do the z6 and z7 have the Auto-area AF (people) setting? I don’t have the symbol on my (My) Menu. Thanks.
They do, but The menu structure is a little different. Dive into the custom settings AF menu to turn on eye and face detect for humans or animals. I'd put that setting near the top of your iMenu so you can rapidly access and switch it. Then in auto area AF you're in the eye and face detect with that setting activated.
@@HudsonHenryPhoto thanks for a speedy reply! I have face/eye detect selected in the main menu a4 but I only get the boring rectangle within the i menu not one with a little face as I spotted in your video. Curious
"Half baked" is an under statement. But ,yes, they did get a bit better.
Why does my z6ii keep focusing back and forth?? In those shots I would have 50% of my shots focusing on the water behind? What mode are you using in those action photos??? Auto face or area face?
It's very well explained in this video if your watch...
@@HudsonHenryPhoto I did, I guess I just need more time behind the camera…
It takes practice with the older AF system. For landscape and portrait is awesome and easy though. For action the system in the z8, 9 and F makes it much easier without practice. Just giggle inducing easy for action shooting.
First of all a Big Thanks Hudson. Ur videos r awesome and full of information. I have just purchased Z 6ii and i want to know that is their any option that while looking through viewfinder we can touch the LCD with the thumb (not with joystick) and shift the focus point as in Canon EOS R and sony cameras.??
Nope. I'd like that too, but nikon hasn't done it. The Z9 either. I really love how Canon does it where you can map the whole viewfinder to the bottom right quarter of the lcd touchscreen.
How is it with a 600mm f4
I haven't tried it, but it slays with my 500PF on the FTZ, the 300PF too. There's a video showing that linked in the full description.
Like some of the other dinosaurs, I still prefer my D500 with F 70-200 2.8 E over my Z6 with Z 70-200 S for sports. I will follow your advice and practice what you just shared as I know that Z is the future and I will ultimately change with the times. I will get a Z9 when they come out, however, until then, do you think I would get better results with 6 ii over my 6?
Incrementally based on the increase in processing power. It certainly acquires targets a bit faster and it fires much longer sustained bursts with the bigger buffer. Rumor has it that a future update to it's firmware will give it a lite version of some new AF tracking coming on the Z9... We'll have to wait and see. Think of it as version 1.5 of the Nikon mirrorless game. I do like it better, but if the Z9 is in your budget I'd say wait a bit.
Thank you counselor.
Henry great tips on Auto Area AF. I just shot my grandkids for Xmas & had great success with dynamic AF. Kept the main square on there face/eye followed them with the box & had 90% keepers. Isn’t this a better alternative then Auto area & its “dancing” squares?
Try eye detect in auto area and prepare to be blown away. Dynamic is a Legacy mode. I program it not even to appear in my rotation. :) first name's Hudson, but no big deal.
@@HudsonHenryPhoto TY for your comment. Tired that on Xmas Eve as well. I was not shooting in natural light but rather had 4 bounce flashed set up. With low contrast on weak ambient light Face/Eye Detection was hit and miss. Dynamic was far more successful. I have used Face/Eye Detection, same kids, in natural sun light and it worked great. I think the ambient light levels, subject contrast has a lot to do with which works better. Have you tried Auto AF Face/Eye in low light conditions where you are counting on flash to light and freeze the movement??
Hi Hudson,
I have z6 with me, I am planning to get a good 27-70 f2.8 lens and I am looking into Tamron 24-70 f2.8 G2, what are your thoughts about this lens with Z system?
Should I get one of those or should I look into Nikon S lens only?
By the way I love your video, you are making really good content. Thanks
The kit lens Z 24-70 F4 is an amazingly sharp and light weight lens if you can handle F4 and the corresponding depth of field . I know that's what Hudson uses. With the Z6 you can easily push the ISO for lower light conditions and it's nice not to have to use the adapter IMO. No problem using it for the most part with lenses you already own but unless you want to use it on other non Z Nikon cameras I would stick with Z native lenses as the quality is amazing.
Love the video 👌 Did you have any focus problems with the 500PF with FTZ adapter? I did wth my 70-200mm VRII 😒
No not at all. I shoot that combo a lot. Even with the Z50. There's a link to that video about shooting with it, the 70-200 S & the new 24-200 in this video's full description. Lots of examples there. It works great.
The VRII is a bit long in the tooth. The FL-ED was a huge upgrade and the S is even better. :)
Hey Hudson! how are ya! any reason why the release mode does not get save in any user? I seem to have to change the release mode to continuous H to single frame all the time when switching SAVE users settings. thanks!
That's a big complaint of mine too. The 5.6 DOF limit for stills, the playback button on the wrong side and drive mode not sticking with the user settings. The big 3. You're dead on.
@@HudsonHenryPhoto I thought I was missing something but thanks for clarifying brotha! thank you for all of your guidance here :) oh happy fathers day
Thanks Hudson. Really helpful demo though you probably could have used a moving assistant ;)! Great shots! Do you find that the Z7 II gives you enough resolution with the 70-200 if you want to crop closer or would you use a longer lens for really close ups?
I'm likely shooting a golf event in a couple weeks and will have my Z6 II and D500 with me. Might still use the D500 more for action shots but we'll see. My only native Z lens is the 24-70 F4 from the kit. Haven't even tried my 150-600 Sigma yet with the FTZ adapter.
I shoot the 500pf on the FTZ a lot for more distant work. Allesandro was doing his practice tricks close to the beach where his dad could call instructions and encouragement. The upcoming 100-400 S will be perfect in the future. I can't wait for that lens for this kind of work. :)
Reality Rules!
Enjoyed video. Thanks. Before the 70-200 S lens was available... did you get the same results using your DSLR lens?
I use my 500PF and 105 1.4 on the FTZ all the time with great results. There's a video linked in the description showcasing results with the 500. :)
I found this interesting. You are friendly and chatty. I might prefer a more scripted approach, but it is your channel!
Indeed. It's a conversation about photography here. I pay attention in my workshops, office hours, email and channel comments and the interactions with my community drives the content, but it's never going to be "scripted" or read off a prompter. ;) it's designed to be different.
Nice video but I Don’t have that mode on my Z5 😟
Yup, not exactly identical on the Z5. I bought the 5 over the original 6 knowing that it will be missing some fine controls, but Hudson’s demo is pretty relevant.
I didn't test the 5 because the low iso performance from the 6's backlit sensor and speed of cfexpress is just too good to not pay the extra if you can afford full frame glass. I'm surprised it's AF system lacks these modes though. The Z50 has them.
@@HudsonHenryPhoto i still think its a good deal coming from Nikon thats not known to give anything for cheap🤪
My z5 thoughts are that nothing in the full frame world is affordable. Every lens you buy has to cover full frame. If price is the biggest motivator the aps-c world gives much more for less. The Z6 has very usable 20,000 ISO images, incredible video output a much larger buffer, faster framerate and better media. I'm not saying the 5 is a bad camera, it just gives up a lot to the 6.
Hudson Henry Photography my Z5 is not even 1 stop close to the 6’s high ISO performance, but I can live with what I can afford😊
Lone thumbs down is from a guy named Jared.
Yes, know that feeling, of going for hobbies witch entail a lot of gear, there is a medical definition of this, called G.A.S. (gear acquisition syndrome); sorry, NO cure, just some afflictions us guy's have in our d.n.a. ; just something our wives and or families have to deal with, just like a kid in a candy store :-))
I’m sorry mate but I’m still not satisfied with that. When comparing with other brands auto mode and the way the af works Nikon is behind. Now if switching to manual it’s fine.
having almost the same stuff as you do, it suits my needs but we still need firmware update and smaller subject tracking square that is more intelligent… I’m still disappointed with my gear for action but plenty satisfied for static and slow moving in easy scenes
Hmmmm, I spent some time with the A1 recently and walked away with zero jealousy. Nice, but I prefer my z7ii.
I'm sure the tracking square will get better in the next Gen bodies (we're really at 1.5 now), but I am more than happy. I prefer the auto area implementation and human eye detect in my latest Z cameras to the other systems I've sampled and I'm excited to see where they take it. A difference of opinions makes the world more interesting.
@@HudsonHenryPhoto I cannot tell with Sony A1 but I trust you on this point. I was referring to canon that has an AF that feels more intuitive when having it in my hands. Anyway I stay with Nikon because of the Raw files and ergonomics and It suits fine my kind of photography.
I agree with you. the best is to come but I hope this generation has still room for improvements.
Thanks for taking time in creating your content !
Keep rocking and stay sage mate!
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