The list of “top 3 camera brands” is always changing. Sorry in advance for leaving out your favourite brands. Will cover in a future video if there’s enough interest!
The Nikon 1.8s are one of the big reasons I went with Z mount over Sony and Canon. I had this exact mindset. I knew I wouldn't need a 1.2 but I didn't want a mediocre 1.8 that I'd grow out of quickly. I think Nikon has users like me in mind with a lot of their lenses and I'n very appreciate of their approach. I wish more people understood how brilliant these lenses are. And I haven't even gotten to the 24-120!
Hey Jack, Thanks for making this video and the previous one on the Nikon Z 35mm f1.8 lens. I’m so glad you’re talking about the Nikon Z prime lenses, especially the trio of f1.8 lenses ( 35mm, 50mm and 85mm) and the impeccable image quality they are offering. When I transitioned to the Nikon Z system from the Fujifilm XT3, I was surprised at the remarkable consistency among the three lenses. Before moving on to the Nikon Z mount, I tried the Sony f1.8, Sigma f1.4 and Fujifilm f1.4 lenses. For me, Nikon Z f1.8 primes had the least compromise in image quality, value for money and longevity. This has allowed me (and many others) to have a consistency to the memories created through the three lenses. I believe, as you and your family goes through the next phases of their life, you will have a unique opportunity to keep the character of images quite consistent through the Nikon Z prime lenses. As you mentioned, due to very even focus planes, the Nikon Z primes have a very thin and shallow depth of field. Unlike the Nikon Z 40mm f2 which has a bit of a field curvature. In practical terms and through personal experiences, I noticed that the Nikon Z 85mm f1.8 can project the illusion that it has the same depth of field as that of the f-mount 85mm f1.4G. Alternatively, if someone is looking for classic rendering, the 28mm and 40mm f2.8 primes are amazing while keeping high levels of sharpness across the frame. The Z 50mm f1.8 is a lens that has the best balance of performance, build quality, weight and price when compared to its contemporaries. I’m glad Nikon has kept the level of image quality as their top priority and then pivoted the build quality, weight and price around it. That allows consumers to test the image quality for themselves and if they enjoy it, create memories with them. I sincerely hope that you get to try out the Nikon Z 50mm f1.2, 85mm f1.2 and especially the 135mm f1.8 prime lenses as they are very special. Particularly, the Z 50mm f1.2 and the 135mm f1.8 have a very natural and organic colour palette. This is incredibly tough to achieve due to the large number of lens elements. Since the Z mount can adapt pretty much any lens out there, I tried 50mm f1.2 from other manufacturers and found the Nikon to have the most organic rendering of colours to my eyes. I’m truly grateful to you for making this video for viewers to see that Nikon Z mount prime lenses deserve a lot more recognition than they currently have! For enthusiasts like me, it is mind boggling to have access to such stellar image quality especially considering the prices! Thank you!
Great to hear about your experiences - the f1.2 lenses are a bit too big for my use case but would love to try them out. The 85mm f1.8 is the last lens I own for Z mount - working on a long term review at the moment. Thank you for watching and engaging with my channel!
I dont know how is this possible, but your short are recommended to me even tough it is only been uploaded 40 minutes ago and I decided to watch the full video. It is not disappointing at all!
Hi thanks so much for watching! Curious to hear how the algorithm presents content to people, but glad you find the videos useful. More to come next week!
Nikon Z actually doesn't have a "nifty fifty", their 50mm f/1.8 I consider a premium lens. Instead they made a nifty 40mm f/2 lens instead, being lower priced and plasticky. Another angle, Nikon focued on making a HQ f/1.8 lineup to stave off 3rd parties like Tamron/Sigma undercutting them. Like the channel a lot, your editing and flow is top notch.
Thank you Craig - yup an interesting strategy from Nikon that’s for sure. Lots of work editing (just a one person team) so glad the results aren’t falling apart at the seams from the outside looking in. More to come!
Love your analytical and thoughtful approach. You show the actual path to your conclusion, rather than the subjective opinions of so many other photo gear channels. You’re up there with Hugh Brownstone and Gaian as my fave three.
High praise! I am a big fan of Hugh as well, most of my viewers watch the same channels as I do I think lol. More content to come - hopefully will find time to do more shooting on the street this week. Happy shooting Stuart!
Just wanted to comment that the high quality of your videos is not going unnoticed. Keep up the good work! I remember the first time I saw Bobby Tonelli and it was so obvious he was a natural and would do well on his own YT channel. It’s pretty clear you’re in that category.
Hello thanks so much! I watch Bobby’s channel too, in fact I think we all watch the same channels haha. It’s a lot of work but I am having fun creating. More to come soon!
I've been torn back and forth between Nikon and Fuji since my beginning in photography in 2017. Started wirh a D600 & 28-105 D, 50 1.8G, then went to an X-T1 with 18-55 & 27 2.8. Then to a Panasonic G80 with Olympus 12-40 2.8 & 45 1.8 (also a hugely underrated system imo), eventually a Z6 with 24-120 f4 S (the sharpest and most impressive -modern- lens I've ever used imo) & 85 1.4 G and later an X-T20 18-55 & 35 f2 in parallel, and now all in on the X-T5.. for now. You know this never truly ends, but the last half a year or so since I got the X-T5, I've had no cravings or regrets - though I do find the AF a bit spotty compared to Nikon honestly. My most used lenses now are, funnily enough, completely manual - a Zeiss 50 1.4 for F mount, and a Voigtländer 40 1.2 for Leica M. The crop factor makes them perfect for my preferred framing on portraits, where a 50 is always a little empty and an 85 a bit tight. Cosina just knows how to make truly joyful glass to use, the experience is actually so great and together with a warm-leaning Classic Neg profile I'm finding myself enjoying shooting more than ever now. Could I do this on a Sony? Yes. But would I? I've learned to know myself well enough over the years that no, I wouldn't. I'm absolutely a sucker for haptics, ergonomics, and the in-camera experience - I do edit, but I'm just not the kind of person that regularly shoots _for_ the edit. There's just something about some of these camera systems that gives them their own recreational joy to use, and that to me is invaluable. Sorry, went a bit off topic there but I'm just happy to see somebody give Nikon their dues for what they do. They're truly a great camera company and so often overlooked, even if I dont shoot them anymore because of size constraints.. but then again the Zf exists now, and I already have my preferred manual glass. Oh no. It's happening again isn't it .. 🫠
Thank you so much for taking the time to comment! Manual focus on the Zf is amazing, especially if you get the right adapter (TTArtisan make a 6bit coded one with electrical contacts). I am looking for a newer Fuji body (still use the XT3) but the XT5 is sold out everywhere! Very happy with the Nikon system as a relatively new shooter to the brand, more videos coming
As an ex Fuji Shooter for many years I can understand. The T5 is great! I used to own the 58mm 1.4 Voigtländer which was brlliant adapted to Fuji. Otherwise I can recommend the 75mm 1.5 Voigtländer (just got it on Z mount but it is obviously available for M). It is unbelievable, superb rendering, very smooth and very sharp at the same time, a bit like the 40mm 1.2 as well.
Another enjoyable vid story to meander along with. And your near melodramatic end notes plays like the hook of a popular Netflix series, in a tongue-in-cheek way. And what’s up with all these Nike product placements…Wait, am i watching our ad-riddled Hulu channel? ;-) Please don’t make us wait too long for the Fuji-comparo.(I crossed that decision point between the brands, so no regrets or second thoughts…just curious to hear your take on them).
Craig, this is my favourite comment I have ever received. I am prone to melodrama over insignificant things like number of lens elements! No Nike sponsorship lol, although this 40yo sneakerhead would love that. I have simply run out of cool things to put in frame so here come the Jordan 1 shoeboxes! The Fuji vs Nikon video is just as much for myself as it is the next shooter, coming up next!
@@BokehTherapy Glad to help make your day. ;-) As for Nike shoe boxes, you may be on to something. They are more intriguing than the potted plants and colored gel lights lots of others use. Am very curious to hear your take on Fuji. Have spent a good bit of time with several different models of theirs. I’ll hold off commenting til’ you’ve shared your take. Best regards, Craig
Like many of us I am a Fuji fan. Just want them to keep up the classic lineup that their shooters fell in love with and hopefully address some quality control issues. I am waiting for an XPro 4!
@@BokehTherapyYes, i love the X-Pro series! And a weird thing i’ll throw out as you work on your comparison…even though the X-Pro body ergonomics look not unlike the Nikon ZF, i find i love the hold or grip of the X-Pro, but i can just not come to terms with the ZF’s lack of hold-ability, even with the optional grip. I think it’s the extra weight of the ZF that makes the big difference. If Fuji had put IBIS into the X-Pro 3 i probably would have bought it and ‘called it a day’ and stayed in he Fuji world.
@@craigcarlson4022 Totally with you there. XPro 3 was just a titanium clad XT3, and from the XT4 on it was clear that lineup's no longer their flagship. Fujifilm do get ergonomics right for such small cameras!
It is a great lens but expensive even after all these years! Not many beginners are willing to shell out close to $1000 for their first prime. I want Sony to release a new 50mm f1.8 G lens with weather sealing and aperture ring, but they will probably never top the 55mm. Thanks for watching!
Damn Jack, you go so deep into these topics I would never be able to do - amazing video! I personally will stick with my 40 f2 and 28 f2.8 SE simply because of the size. The images of the 50mm 1.8 is amazing, but for me the Zf is already big. Nowaday I somehow looking out for small camera setups :D
I don’t know how much more supportive my wife can be about my addict behavior 😂 I think I’ve reached a point to where it’s not about fomo on the next best thing, but wanting to try something new and learn. I picked up a Leica M10-R (partly based on your recommendation) recently and a Voigtlander 50 f1.5, and I can’t put that camera down. No more spraying and praying, and slowing down for the moment. As always, great video Jack
Whoaa a M10-R! Congrats man, it is a beautiful camera. The optical rangefinder is my favourite way of shooting. I am impressed with your negotiation techniques with the wife more than anything else!
The A7Cii/A7CR are great cameras - my favourite Sony cameras ever, but we all know the next model is just around the corner. They’re just too good at product release cycles though, and other brands could learn a bit more from them. Thanks for watching!
Love your reviews! Came to the same conclusion that even though the s-line lenses are relatively expensive to other entry level Z’s, you will not have to replace them any time soon. Bought both the 35mm and 50mm s-line for ZF as entry into Z eco system. You did influence me to buy the 35 1.8s and I don’t regret it.
Thanks Marius! I have grown to love the 35 f1.8S, the images have a very specific look and pop, more so than other f1.8 lenses I have tried in the focal length. Next video is on what’s the next Z lens I should invest in!
This is an excellent video. My favourite nifty fifty of all time is the full frame Pentax m42 50mm f1.4 with 8 elements that can be found for around $300. It’s a tough lens to master but it can bring results like no other.
The nikon 50mm 1.8 S lens has been one of my favorites since I picked it up early 2019. The first time I used it, I was blown away by the 3d pop that it created. The only other lens I owned that was as sharp as this while offering great bokeh was the Sigma 105mm 1.4 art EF mount that was adapted to my Sony a7r3.
It is still amazing how under the radar it is. I would be including the lens as a bundle every chance I get with every Z camera, but Nikon is very conservative with their marketing for some reason. Thanks for watching!
I was watching this and kept thinking....Fuji 35mm (50mm FF equivalent). So glad I watched to the end. My only surprise was that you didn't go with the 1.4 version. I know it's older (2012, I think), but it's fab. I picked up a used one a while ago for £300. Great lens, great price.
The classic 35mm f1.4! It is a great lens, I think the f2 has more modern rendering that might appeal more to people new to the system. Ran out of time in this video, might cover it in the next one. Thanks for watching!
quite an interesting video, as a canon shooter, i upgraded from the 1.8 to the 1.2 and boy it's an amazing lens. Unfortunately, it's a bit too heavy for my daily family photos and I've stopped using it. Using a crop m6mk2 currently and loving it and a 32mm 1.4 which is about a 50mm 2.24, works quite well for my daily family life photos. cant wait to watch your fuji video as I'm always tempted by fuji except for their AF compared to canon's r6mk2
APS-C really has a great place in the market. Everything's smaller, just wish companies would pack their APS-C line with as much innovation as their full frame cameras.
Thanks so much Craig. The leather half case is from iborrys, found via Amazon and another subscriber’s recommendations. It has very nice quality leather but ergos on the Smallrig grip still fit me better
Hi Jack, I shoot mainly FujiFilm for events and almost everything. (XH2S for events and birding, X-T and X-E series cameras for street and everything else). My lens selection is vast for X-mount, so I am fully in with Fuji. However, the Zf scratches an itch for me that Fuji has not been able to with regards to low light and that delicious lens selection that I've experienced so far with the Z lineup. I grew up with Nikon DSLRs, so it's the brand I'll probably have forever, even if it's just one body. In the comments of your previous video about the 35mm Z lens, I said I was about to buy it. However, I was struggling between this and the 50. I'm glad I waited! The 40, which I have is so close to both but your video helped clarify it for me. The 50 1.8 will be the best completion as a "one and done" for my Zf - at least for the duration. I don't intend on any other Z bodies at the moment and I know that when I pick up the Fuji X-T30II and the 35mm f/2 or 23 f/2, which I own, for example, that has been my preferred street set up. I think the Zf with the 50 will take that street experience to the next level for me. Keep on making awesome videos! Love them!
Hi Juliette, your Fuji lens lineup sounds great, as does your camera lineup. Glad I can help clarify some buying decisions, I think this Nikon 50 is very special. Will dive into Fujifilm and Nikon in the next video, would love to get your thoughts when it goes live as you shoot on the latest in both systems. As always, thanks for watching!
Jack you are becoming my favourite youtuber. Love your work! I use 28/35/40/85 zeds on zf. I am thinking about adapting my F mount 50/1.4G 🤔 or should I buy Z50/1.8 instead?
Thanks so much Matthew. I haven’t used the 50 f1.4 G but heard lots of great things about it. Do you already have an FTZ adapter and other F mount glass? If not it might be cheaper to find a used/on sale copy of the 50 Z f1.8. It renders very similar to the 85, I think I like the 50 better but only just!
My only issue with Fujifilm glass is that they aren't colour matched at all. This means some lenses look really good with the heavy stylised looks of film simulations, while others struggle. I usually think the best way to shoot fuji is to just not change the lens so long as you can help it. I've had a few frustrations with colour and contrast irregularities during a shoot especially swapping from the f2 range to the f1.4 and vice versa. My favourite rendition has to be the 50f2, or the original 27f2.8 on the X-trans 2 generation.
Very interesting - for me color differences appear most on video shoots. Color matching across identical cameras is not always easy on Fuji cameras despite how good their film sims look. Didn’t know it came down to lens options! Thanks for the intel
Pricing of everything has gone up - more expensive to be a hobbyist than ever before sadly. Third party lenses are filling in that void though so at least there’s more choice. Thanks for watching!
I like your videos, I recently discovered your UA-cam videos. I’m an old photographer who started my SLR journey in the mid 1970’s with a Nikkormat and a 50mm F/2. A few years later I moved up to an F2 later F3 and Nikon FM, FM2 etc. I’ve had hundreds of cameras plenty of lenses along the way. I’ve switched, or side by side shot Nikon, Canon, Sony, Leica, Fuji and more. One thing I think Nikon doesn’t seem to get is lens size. Like you went over in one of your videos featuring the Sony 40mm and the Nikon 40mm is the size, but that is all Nikon has in that area. The 35mm and 50mm are huge. Why can’t they be more like their old counterparts? I have many older Nikon manual focus lenses 35mm, 50mm, 85mm etc. they are small and light. I realize that now lenses have auto focus motors though most primes do not need stabilization as current camera bodies do that but as Sony, Fuji and even Canon lately have shown they can build small lighter lenses. Why is Nikon still making bigger and heavier lenses?
Hi Lisa, thanks so much for watching and commenting. You’re spot on with Nikon’s heavier and bulkier lens design compared to the competitors. It is a strange strategy in this day and age. Having used the S Primes though I am thoroughly impressed with the IQ. I don’t see a need for f1.4 glass when f1.8 across the focal range looks so good. I suspect the move is to release a new f2 line, smaller, lighter weight with aperture rings and retro styling. Hopefully a sigma come to market with Z mount DG DN primes too.
I borrowed a friends Fuji xt2 with the 35mm and have been shooting it for about a year now. (He has forsaken photography altogether), and it has been a dream to use. I have not tried printing larger images or cropping much but so easy to carry around. This is not what I was expecting from you this week but fun. How’s the therapy part of bokeh therapy moving along?😂 Enjoying your work.
I keep hearing great things about the Nikon 50mm f1.8 S. Every review I hear talks about the amazing sharpness and bokeh. Seem like Nikon hit it out the park with that one. Think I might just go for a Zf and a trio of the 28mm f2.8, the 40mm f2 and the 50mm f1.8 S. For some reason I'm leaning more in that direction than going the zoom route. Mistake? Great video btw.
That trio of primes sounds like a great set. I am not a zoom shooter though (don’t shoot events or weddings) so my opinion is biased towards fast primes. Thanks so much for watching!
Great video and content! Would love to hear your take on the upcoming Z 50mm 1.4 and how it compares to the Z 50mm 1.8 s. Looks like the 1.4 is less sharp especially in the corners but adds a nice character, improved mfd, nice bokeh and an extra control ring while maintaining almost sames size as 1.8 s and being cheaper. Hope you will make a comparison video about them. How do you find the Iborrys leather case with the embedded grip? I have the smallrig grip but i like the idea of getting a nice leather case to make the zf more stylish. The Iborrys seems nice but it is quite expensive though.
Hello! The 50mm f1.8 S is so good I am not sure what the f1.4 would bring to make me switch! The Iborrys leather case has really nice quality leather but is not as soft as the silicon grip of the Smallrig. I bought it and sold it but a lot of other shooters like it?
@BokehTherapy thanks! And how do you find the Kinokoo leather case? Interesting and unconventional choice made by Nikon releasing a new line-up of affordable 1.4 lenses which are cheaper than the 1.8 s counterparts. I'm considering switching to the 1.4 mostly for portraiture where I don't need corner to corner sharpness but I could make use of the extra step of light, better mfd and that extra control ring to program for aperture. Will wait for an in depth test when it's released to see if it's worth it or not over the 1.8 s. I'm also looking forward to the upcoming release of the new third party TTArtisan 75mm f2 AF lens, which has an aperture ring.
I think unless you’re using small manual lenses or the Nikon 26, 28, or 40mm primes the Zf will need a bigger grip than a leather halfcase. All of them are about the same in terms of ergonomics (which is to say not great). I have a preproduction copy of the TTartisan 75mm f2. It looks like it was made to perfectly match the Zf! Review coming as soon as embargo lifts (on 20 September)
I have 10 native Z mount lenses but never thought to get the 50mm 1.8s because something within me felt like a 50mm 1.8 should never cost more than $100. Your video is making me reconsider!
@@BokehTherapy Been getting back into street photography lately and the lens that stays on my Z8 the most is the 40mm f2. I don’t know I can say it’s my favorite lens. I find the image quality actually kinda poor...a big reason why I use it so much is just because it’s small (and the z8 is so heavy as it is). A lot of my professional work is product photography so I use the 105 MC quite a bit. I also use it a lot for video work - I think it offers a perspective that is often left out in film and video. Btw, I forgot to say this but your channel is one of the best photography channels I’ve ever come across - a perfect blend of gear and the actual philosophy and ethos of photography. As someone who loves both there’s a real shortage of channels that incorporate the two.
I’m very interested in product photography, especially the unexpected connections to street photography and lighting. Planning a future video on this topic, would love your insights when it goes live! Thanks so much Steve, I watch the same channels as all of us, so keen to add a different perspective to the community where I can.
I have the zf too but got the megadap etz adapter and have my 50 1.2 gm on it. It’s pretty unbalanced. Do you think it’s worth it to get the 50 1.8? I’m hesitant bc I felt the 40mm f2 was too close.
I think you'd be surprised how different 40 and 50mm are-40mm is much more similar to 35mm, so it's not too close to 50 (unless 35mm is too close to 50 for you, which is fair). The 40 is great, and I don't have this one, but it seems like there's a sizeable boost in IQ for this 50mm
Adapting autofocus glass from other brands was never an option I’d heard of before until Nikon. The 50 f1.8 is a really special lens - optically amazing. You can look for a good used copy if you’re not sure? I like it more than the GMs in terms of handling, and the IQ is great
I always use Z 50m F1.8 for my street photography. May be I don’t have another s line primary lens. Honestly I am very happy the image quality of z 50mm F1.8.
It’s hard to find the right online platform for photographers these days. UA-cam is great but a lot of work to share photos. Hope you are out there shooting too!
Speaking of nifty 50, my personal favorite is old school, Minolta Maxxum 50 F1.7. When I first started photography in digital way back at the beginning of the 2000, I was a Konica Minolta 5D shooter, and the 50 F1.7 was one of the first lens I bought. Its obviously outdated by today's standard but its still quite a piece. Metal construction, retractable lens hood, back in the day you can find it for $50 all day long. I still have mine, now usable still on my sony mirrorless with an adapter. Its still sharp in the center but fall off in sharpness much more noticeably in the corners and does have more CA and flare issue due to more outdated coating and optics. The lens does spoil me down the line as I never could quite justify getting 50 that will easily cost 4-5 times the cost because at $50 it was so good(and the fact that I am not a great 50mm user). I think only other 50-ish lens I've bought since(4 bodies and many other lenses later) is the Sony Zeiss 55 f1.8. Which is superior in all the ways but also costs way more(used), but I am still happy with that.
@@BokehTherapy There were some gems back then. I also still have my Maxxum AF 28 f/2. Aside from slower AF and needs to use with an adapter I tested it side by side with Sony's own FE 28 f2 and I sold the Sony one because I can't believe my old 28 is still sharper across the board...its not an easy lens to find though and I don't think they are as cheap as some old lenses unfortunately. Got mine ages ago.
@@BokehTherapy Yeah honestly I haven't looked at A-mount glasses for a while so don't blame you there, most of mine I got(probably on eBay) 20 years ago...
Another fantastic video and great insight with comparisons across brands. I'm torn between good glass vs functionally compact, it looks like Nikon's "basic" 1.8 lenses are fantastic but they're quite chunky, would be nice if Sony released an updated to their 50mm 1.8 in G variant with aperture ring, and with a small-ish footprint, something Nikon is missing.
If Sony updated their f1.8 primes to have aperture ring I would be all in! I think Sony still doesn’t quite get the street photography community and our quirks, but they’re close. I was using GM lenses so the f1.8 primes are smaller on Nikon - I would also love a smaller footprint though maybe Sigma’s DGDN lenses get the closest. Thanks so much for watching, I love connecting with return viewers!
thanks for helping me aprechiate my Z50mm1.8 . . i hope you can do a video on the PLENA135MM1.8 lense . i really want that lense i have the 20/50/85mm1.8 lenses
Haha oh no… I have been thinking about the Plena myself. If I have the budget I will find a copy and test it out. Those images from the Plena look so beautiful
Since I have the Leica m4/3, 25mm 1.4 (equivalent 50mm) haven’t really looked into any other. And I have Panasonic m4/3, 20mm 1.7 (equivalent 40mm) lens. Both are just so sharp and have nice character just don’t need anymore. But your photos look really good!
The Leica 25mm f1.4! I love that lens along with the 20mm pancake back when I shot olympus. Great system, hope it’s still serving you well. Thanks for watching!
This is another superb video! It resonates with me in a lot of ways. I shot with Fujifilm for a decade before switching to Nikon (first the Z6II and then Z8) when I saw the comparison in IQ (XT5 vs Z6II with 24-120-thiough I do miss the Fuji for a number of reasons). I was very close to getting a second system for street with the Sony CR and 35/50 GMs especially after watching your videos. But I decided that getting the ZF with MF Glass (40mm 1.2 and 75mm 1.5 Voigtländer-thy are brilliant!) would probably be better for my artistic development let us say (as a street photographer). But since I need at least one "small" Nikon Autofocus lens (the 24-70 2.8, 14-24 2.8, 50mm 1.2 and 105mm 2.8 Z lenses I have for the Z8 are superb, but certainly not small) and am unwilling to compromise with IQ I will get the 50mm 1.8 or 35mm 1.8 Z. So now I would like to know: Do you "miss" the Sony's cropability and the GMs IQ when using the ZF?
I still have my Sony kit but the GAS is real - I've never spent more time obsessing over forum sites than when I shot Sony full time just because they make older models obsolete every month. I really like the coordinated release of products from Nikon, all consistent design language and clear roadmaps. I don't miss croppability of the A7CR, but I do miss shooting with Fuji! XT5 is sold out everywhere in Australia, otherwise I'd grab a copy to test out the newer F1.4 lenses.
@@BokehTherapy Yes, the 18.4, 33 1.4 and 56 1.2 I used to own are all very good but not small for APS-C! Thanks for the Info. I have zero Sony experience but somehow Nikon draws me in as a former Fuji shooter, the idea with the retro ZF and making it the best manual focus camera probably in the world as well as having good enough AF at a good price point means they care about their customers maybe a bit more than Sony and Canon.
Yep at least it seems that way for now. Nikon have really impressed me with their moves of late - if they release a full frame retro XPro style body I am all in!!
I had a feeling you were going to throw a curve ball and throw Fuji into the mix. I have their old 35mm f1.4 and love the way that lens renders. Its optical imperfections make it near perfect. I kind of wish Nikon made new lenses like that. I would love a optically imperfect fast fifty with an aperture ring. I have both the Nikon 50mm f1.8 Z and the older DSLR 50mm f1.4G. I prefer the way the oler lens renders. It gives a more organic non digital feel to the images.
I don’t own any f-mount glass! Still look for the right mix of vintage versus modern rendering - thanks for the suggestions on the 50mm f1.4 G. The Fuji 35mm f1.4 is one of my favourite lenses, just a hard recommendation for those who want more modern rendering. For Nikon Z mount let’s hope Sigma DG DN lenses are coming soon
@@BokehTherapy Would love to see some Nikon Z mount autofocus glass with an aperture ring. The 50mm f1.4G has all the vintage character, be that good or bad, but with good coatings and autofocus. Although the autofocus is slow. Ive been using a lot of adapted vintage lenses on the Zf. Its a fun experience and the organic image quality is great.
Hi Nick! I am very happy with the rendering of the 50 f1.8 so won’t be selling it for the newer f1.4. Great for new Nikon shooters though! Thinking if I have a new perspective before making a video on this lens. hope you’re well!
I bought the 50mm 1.8 for my ZF. I was unhappy with the 40mm F2 and 28mm Nikon lenses. Very mediocre lenses. The 50mm is a top notch lens. Doesn't disappoint. We need more compact F2 or 2.8 lenses for the ZF.
As an enthusiast shooter and Nikon user, I agree. But Sony is really saying Hi and Hello to me with their Enthusiast zooms like the 20-70 f4 and the 24-50 2.8.
Sony is doing their best to make gear for absolutely everyone but charge a premium! I thought Sony cameras have peaked but then they released another 10 models and 20 lenses lol. Can’t wait to see what they do next.
I have the forgiving wife lol she allowed me to get the 1.2 Nikon's. I'll expand to the 1.8s when the time comes. But I agree Nikon is being Fuji like, unapologetic for one and done lens options, firmware updates and getting community love because of the post purchase support is gaining good will in the community.
+1 for the spouses! Congrats on your 1.2s, amazing lenses. Our community is very particular isn’t it, companies have to do a lot right to win our good will. Thanks for watching, more content to come next week
@@BokehTherapy keep it up good to have another great Aussie content creater to watch. Really enjoying it. That and the shared love of Japan goes along way lol
I had the opportunity to have this lens for 3 days, probably is.a Zeiss optics, but instead it's $600 and by Nikkor instead. Shocked and astonished with the results. My reason for not getting one is I can't play with 50mm anymore, it's unfortunately 'not my focal length'.
Just wanted to add that the Fujifilm XC35F2, plastic version of the XF35F2, has the exact same optical formula and AF, but lacks the aperture ring and WR. It costs only $200 new. What is Fuji telling us?
Hmmm very interesting… I heard that the whole XC line is discontinued (they didn’t make another XC lens right) because of how unpopular the plastic build is with Fuji shooters. Conspiracies abound!
Almost everything is out of stock at the moment from Fuji. What I’ve heard is that the XC lineup didn’t sell very well? Great selection for the price though. Thanks for watching!
That is the Barton braided leather strap! I love how it looks but it's not terribly functional (braids tend to get caught as I move the strap around). Thanks for the tip about the dead link, the leather halfcase for the Zf I use is from Muziri Kinokoo: amzn.to/3UORmG4. They make a PU leather and a genuine leather one, I prefer the genuine leather. None of them give much grip unfortunately!
Third party lenses - now we’re talking! I have a couple of third party autofocus lenses to review for next week’s video. Viltrox is doing some really interesting things
"very forgiving wife" today my vocabs have grown up more 😁 im agree that canon rf 50mm 1.2 has very special characters. best canon lens that I have used. when i switch to sony, it was the time they launched their 50mm f1.2 GM and i bought it. it is just one perfect lens but nothing special like canon. big disappointed back then.
Everybody knew Canon was serious about mirrorless when they launched their 50 f1.2! Out of the Sony GMs I prefer the 50 mm f1.4 over the f1.2 just because of weight, but yup quite clinical across the board. Hope we all have forgiving wives moving forward - happy shooting!
Look at what the brand’s 50mm option is like to get a preview of how good their lenses are and how much they want you to pay to upgrade down the track. Then pick whatever lens you like from that brand to start with! My favourite is a 35mm. Thanks for watching
@@BokehTherapy No ! I have done Photography with system Cameras since 1979, a 50mm Lens is not the way to go ! To find a good system AND good Lenses you need to read (watch) a lot of reviews. The 50mm focal length is one of the must stupid focal length ever made, ANY focal length shorter or longer are better, fx 45mm and shorter and 55mm and longer ! Have a nice day, noob
Yes I love my M10R and M10 Monochrome! No need to update to M11 with all of its buginess and bricked cameras. I don't think any Leica 50 counts as nifty (or thrifty) though! Thanks for watching!
@@BokehTherapy The M is the simplest and easiest to use camera and furthermore the most compact plus it never gets boring and is challenging. My 50 rigid summicron and 50 summilux version I are also among the best nifties of all time and will outlive me. Not a too expensive investment...
Mmm I do love my 50 summilux V1. Silver brass version, the rangefinder is a very creative way to compose too. Tried any voigtlander lenses? I have the 50mm f1.2, it’s a great modern rendering
Not only are the Soyney lenses ridiculously priced, they (Sony), don't support their cameras with firmware upgrades, instead they push out a new model, fuelling that AWFUL, consumerism new product mindset. I tend to look past Sony, when buying a camera. Yes, almost all of these companies do this, because the "accounts" run them, but I find Sony to be the most egregious.
Yep that’s the risk and reward with Sony. Get the latest tech, but not for long. It’s the industry in its most stripped down, cynical form but they do make great products. What do you currently shoot with?
@@BokehTherapy I shoot with the Nikon Zf (digital), and a few film cameras: Hasselblad 503Cx, Nikon Nikomat, and Nikon S3 2000 Limited Edition . For now, I am satisfied. I am certainly not in the race for a Sony camera, as I find them ugly (well, not the aesthetics I like).
Amazing collection of film cameras you have - sounds like a great time shooting. I am hoping for a rangefinder style Nikon Zf sometime in the next couple of years - even smaller form factor and all the way back to Nikon’s roots.
@@BokehTherapy thank you kind Sir. I keep spending on little elements to complement the Hasselblad 503cx (lenses, tripod quick coupling base, filter system, and bag to carry the thing). Even now, as I reply to you, I am awaiting delivery of the 120mm f/4 Makro lens from Japan. I am not complaining, quite the contrary, I am happy to be able to afford this camera, as I've dreamt about owning one for more than a decade now.
The promise of the video does not make much sense. Sony has the 55mm 1.8 which came out around a decade ago and set the trend for a premium 50mm 1.8 lens. Nikon was simply replications sonys products segmentation with their version of a premium 50mm 1.8 , just like it did with its camera like up with z6/z7 model designs which are the same concept as the a7/a7r idea sony developed i.e. same body but different resolution and price. Maybe the Nikon 50mm 1.8 is a bit better optically than the Sony but it also newer and larger. Not sure what the point of this video is
I have shot with the Zeiss 55mm f1.8 - great lens, but it’s more expensive than the Nikon and much less corrected (focus breathing, CA/fringing). I do like its form factor better though - a lot lighter. Sony has done a lot of things right but no company is perfect. Up to us consumers to demand a better entry level lens selection
Thank you - hard for anything on UA-cam to not be seen as an ad these days. Sponsored videos need to be declared within first 30 seconds by law? Easy enough to check. Thanks for watching
I just don't care for these covert ads wrapped up as an informative video. I am curious why this 50mm lens is different from others. I would just rather it be presented as information rather than a hyped up advert.
Sadly as a scientist I have interacted with my fair share of conspiracy theorists online. I know better than to argue with someone whose mind is made up already but for what it’s worth I have no affiliation with Nikon and all the Nikon gear is bought with my own money due to aforementioned day job as a scientist. Thanks for watching anyway I am sure there are other creators more to your taste on the platform.
What! That’s the niftiest fifty of them all! Again, hard for f1.8 primes to get press, not much online about these lenses from Nikon or Panasonic. More people should be talking about them!
The list of “top 3 camera brands” is always changing. Sorry in advance for leaving out your favourite brands. Will cover in a future video if there’s enough interest!
Turning a boring 50mm video into a mystery novel. Genius. You are about to hit it big.
Thanks so much! It might not be everyone’s cup of tea but I love writing video ideas like this one. More to come next week!
The Nikon 1.8s are one of the big reasons I went with Z mount over Sony and Canon. I had this exact mindset. I knew I wouldn't need a 1.2 but I didn't want a mediocre 1.8 that I'd grow out of quickly. I think Nikon has users like me in mind with a lot of their lenses and I'n very appreciate of their approach. I wish more people understood how brilliant these lenses are. And I haven't even gotten to the 24-120!
Thank you Nick - what a brilliant lineup Nikon have hiding in plain sight. I am very new to Z mount but quite impressed.
Hey Jack,
Thanks for making this video and the previous one on the Nikon Z 35mm f1.8 lens. I’m so glad you’re talking about the Nikon Z prime lenses, especially the trio of f1.8 lenses ( 35mm, 50mm and 85mm) and the impeccable image quality they are offering.
When I transitioned to the Nikon Z system from the Fujifilm XT3, I was surprised at the remarkable consistency among the three lenses. Before moving on to the Nikon Z mount, I tried the Sony f1.8, Sigma f1.4 and Fujifilm f1.4 lenses. For me, Nikon Z f1.8 primes had the least compromise in image quality, value for money and longevity. This has allowed me (and many others) to have a consistency to the memories created through the three lenses. I believe, as you and your family goes through the next phases of their life, you will have a unique opportunity to keep the character of images quite consistent through the Nikon Z prime lenses.
As you mentioned, due to very even focus planes, the Nikon Z primes have a very thin and shallow depth of field. Unlike the Nikon Z 40mm f2 which has a bit of a field curvature. In practical terms and through personal experiences, I noticed that the Nikon Z 85mm f1.8 can project the illusion that it has the same depth of field as that of the f-mount 85mm f1.4G. Alternatively, if someone is looking for classic rendering, the 28mm and 40mm f2.8 primes are amazing while keeping high levels of sharpness across the frame.
The Z 50mm f1.8 is a lens that has the best balance of performance, build quality, weight and price when compared to its contemporaries. I’m glad Nikon has kept the level of image quality as their top priority and then pivoted the build quality, weight and price around it. That allows consumers to test the image quality for themselves and if they enjoy it, create memories with them.
I sincerely hope that you get to try out the Nikon Z 50mm f1.2, 85mm f1.2 and especially the 135mm f1.8 prime lenses as they are very special. Particularly, the Z 50mm f1.2 and the 135mm f1.8 have a very natural and organic colour palette. This is incredibly tough to achieve due to the large number of lens elements. Since the Z mount can adapt pretty much any lens out there, I tried 50mm f1.2 from other manufacturers and found the Nikon to have the most organic rendering of colours to my eyes.
I’m truly grateful to you for making this video for viewers to see that Nikon Z mount prime lenses deserve a lot more recognition than they currently have! For enthusiasts like me, it is mind boggling to have access to such stellar image quality especially considering the prices!
Thank you!
Great to hear about your experiences - the f1.2 lenses are a bit too big for my use case but would love to try them out. The 85mm f1.8 is the last lens I own for Z mount - working on a long term review at the moment. Thank you for watching and engaging with my channel!
I dont know how is this possible, but your short are recommended to me even tough it is only been uploaded 40 minutes ago and I decided to watch the full video. It is not disappointing at all!
Hi thanks so much for watching! Curious to hear how the algorithm presents content to people, but glad you find the videos useful. More to come next week!
Nikon Z actually doesn't have a "nifty fifty", their 50mm f/1.8 I consider a premium lens. Instead they made a nifty 40mm f/2 lens instead, being lower priced and plasticky. Another angle, Nikon focued on making a HQ f/1.8 lineup to stave off 3rd parties like Tamron/Sigma undercutting them. Like the channel a lot, your editing and flow is top notch.
Thank you Craig - yup an interesting strategy from Nikon that’s for sure. Lots of work editing (just a one person team) so glad the results aren’t falling apart at the seams from the outside looking in. More to come!
Love your analytical and thoughtful approach. You show the actual path to your conclusion, rather than the subjective opinions of so many other photo gear channels. You’re up there with Hugh Brownstone and Gaian as my fave three.
High praise! I am a big fan of Hugh as well, most of my viewers watch the same channels as I do I think lol. More content to come - hopefully will find time to do more shooting on the street this week. Happy shooting Stuart!
Just wanted to comment that the high quality of your videos is not going unnoticed. Keep up the good work! I remember the first time I saw Bobby Tonelli and it was so obvious he was a natural and would do well on his own YT channel. It’s pretty clear you’re in that category.
Hello thanks so much! I watch Bobby’s channel too, in fact I think we all watch the same channels haha. It’s a lot of work but I am having fun creating. More to come soon!
Refreshing channel!
My wife was very supportive in me getting the 1.2's... now i bought her a Zf with the 50 1.8. great stuff!
You’re living the dream - what a team! Congrats on all the gear, hope you both have a wonderful time shooting!
@@BokehTherapy Cheers! Same to you!
Thank you!
I've been torn back and forth between Nikon and Fuji since my beginning in photography in 2017.
Started wirh a D600 & 28-105 D, 50 1.8G, then went to an X-T1 with 18-55 & 27 2.8. Then to a Panasonic G80 with Olympus 12-40 2.8 & 45 1.8 (also a hugely underrated system imo), eventually a Z6 with 24-120 f4 S (the sharpest and most impressive -modern- lens I've ever used imo) & 85 1.4 G and later an X-T20 18-55 & 35 f2 in parallel, and now all in on the X-T5.. for now. You know this never truly ends, but the last half a year or so since I got the X-T5, I've had no cravings or regrets - though I do find the AF a bit spotty compared to Nikon honestly.
My most used lenses now are, funnily enough, completely manual - a Zeiss 50 1.4 for F mount, and a Voigtländer 40 1.2 for Leica M. The crop factor makes them perfect for my preferred framing on portraits, where a 50 is always a little empty and an 85 a bit tight. Cosina just knows how to make truly joyful glass to use, the experience is actually so great and together with a warm-leaning Classic Neg profile I'm finding myself enjoying shooting more than ever now.
Could I do this on a Sony? Yes. But would I? I've learned to know myself well enough over the years that no, I wouldn't. I'm absolutely a sucker for haptics, ergonomics, and the in-camera experience - I do edit, but I'm just not the kind of person that regularly shoots _for_ the edit.
There's just something about some of these camera systems that gives them their own recreational joy to use, and that to me is invaluable.
Sorry, went a bit off topic there but I'm just happy to see somebody give Nikon their dues for what they do. They're truly a great camera company and so often overlooked, even if I dont shoot them anymore because of size constraints.. but then again the Zf exists now, and I already have my preferred manual glass. Oh no. It's happening again isn't it .. 🫠
Thank you so much for taking the time to comment! Manual focus on the Zf is amazing, especially if you get the right adapter (TTArtisan make a 6bit coded one with electrical contacts). I am looking for a newer Fuji body (still use the XT3) but the XT5 is sold out everywhere! Very happy with the Nikon system as a relatively new shooter to the brand, more videos coming
As an ex Fuji Shooter for many years I can understand. The T5 is great! I used to own the 58mm 1.4 Voigtländer which was brlliant adapted to Fuji. Otherwise I can recommend the 75mm 1.5 Voigtländer (just got it on Z mount but it is obviously available for M). It is unbelievable, superb rendering, very smooth and very sharp at the same time, a bit like the 40mm 1.2 as well.
I have heard lots of great things about the 58mm. Will need to find a copy to adapt it for the Zf
There is nothing better than Nikon Z 1.8 S primes in terms of optical quality and price.
I’ve come to this conclusion as well. What a well kept secret, probably because Nikon marketing doesn’t draw as much hype. Thanks for watching!
Brilliant commentary and clear explanations - new sub. Utterly earned. Thanks!
Wow thanks so much Ben - just a one person production so lots of work but glad it’s resonating!
Another enjoyable vid story to meander along with. And your near melodramatic end notes plays like the hook of a popular Netflix series, in a tongue-in-cheek way. And what’s up with all these Nike product placements…Wait, am i watching our ad-riddled Hulu channel? ;-) Please don’t make us wait too long for the Fuji-comparo.(I crossed that decision point between the brands, so no regrets or second thoughts…just curious to hear your take on them).
Craig, this is my favourite comment I have ever received. I am prone to melodrama over insignificant things like number of lens elements! No Nike sponsorship lol, although this 40yo sneakerhead would love that. I have simply run out of cool things to put in frame so here come the Jordan 1 shoeboxes! The Fuji vs Nikon video is just as much for myself as it is the next shooter, coming up next!
@@BokehTherapy Glad to help make your day. ;-) As for Nike shoe boxes, you may be on to something. They are more intriguing than the potted plants and colored gel lights lots of others use. Am very curious to hear your take on Fuji. Have spent a good bit of time with several different models of theirs. I’ll hold off commenting til’ you’ve shared your take. Best regards, Craig
Like many of us I am a Fuji fan. Just want them to keep up the classic lineup that their shooters fell in love with and hopefully address some quality control issues. I am waiting for an XPro 4!
@@BokehTherapyYes, i love the X-Pro series! And a weird thing i’ll throw out as you work on your comparison…even though the X-Pro body ergonomics look not unlike the Nikon ZF, i find i love the hold or grip of the X-Pro, but i can just not come to terms with the ZF’s lack of hold-ability, even with the optional grip. I think it’s the extra weight of the ZF that makes the big difference. If Fuji had put IBIS into the X-Pro 3 i probably would have bought it and ‘called it a day’ and stayed in he Fuji world.
@@craigcarlson4022 Totally with you there. XPro 3 was just a titanium clad XT3, and from the XT4 on it was clear that lineup's no longer their flagship. Fujifilm do get ergonomics right for such small cameras!
Love your style and analysis.
Thanks Patrick! My style isn’t for everyone, tend to pack too much into one video lol. Thanks for watching
The Sony Zeiss 55 1.8 is godly. So sharp at 1.8, 3d pop contrast, decently light and beautiful bokeh. ✨
It is a great lens but expensive even after all these years! Not many beginners are willing to shell out close to $1000 for their first prime. I want Sony to release a new 50mm f1.8 G lens with weather sealing and aperture ring, but they will probably never top the 55mm. Thanks for watching!
@@BokehTherapy good point! Great video thanks for making it.
Thanks so much!
Very under rated lens I love mine on the Sony A7IV. You can find it used for under $400. Best bargain lens one can buy.
Yup used market is only way to go with a lot of Sony gear - they just update everything too often!
Damn Jack, you go so deep into these topics I would never be able to do - amazing video!
I personally will stick with my 40 f2 and 28 f2.8 SE simply because of the size. The images of the 50mm 1.8 is amazing, but for me the Zf is already big.
Nowaday I somehow looking out for small camera setups :D
I’ve made peace with bigger setups to get the shots I want. Not great for the back or neck though!
I don’t know how much more supportive my wife can be about my addict behavior 😂 I think I’ve reached a point to where it’s not about fomo on the next best thing, but wanting to try something new and learn. I picked up a Leica M10-R (partly based on your recommendation) recently and a Voigtlander 50 f1.5, and I can’t put that camera down. No more spraying and praying, and slowing down for the moment.
As always, great video Jack
Whoaa a M10-R! Congrats man, it is a beautiful camera. The optical rangefinder is my favourite way of shooting. I am impressed with your negotiation techniques with the wife more than anything else!
@@BokehTherapy unloading redundant camera gear and letting go with a few pairs of sneakers helps 😭 😂
Commiserations - it’s worth it!
You pointed out my displeasure with Sony A7CII right here. Continually second guessing if I should just went for LUMIX S5II or ZF.
The A7Cii/A7CR are great cameras - my favourite Sony cameras ever, but we all know the next model is just around the corner. They’re just too good at product release cycles though, and other brands could learn a bit more from them. Thanks for watching!
Love your reviews! Came to the same conclusion that even though the s-line lenses are relatively expensive to other entry level Z’s, you will not have to replace them any time soon. Bought both the 35mm and 50mm s-line for ZF as entry into Z eco system. You did influence me to buy the 35 1.8s and I don’t regret it.
Thanks Marius! I have grown to love the 35 f1.8S, the images have a very specific look and pop, more so than other f1.8 lenses I have tried in the focal length. Next video is on what’s the next Z lens I should invest in!
This is an excellent video. My favourite nifty fifty of all time is the full frame Pentax m42 50mm f1.4 with 8 elements that can be found for around $300. It’s a tough lens to master but it can bring results like no other.
Yes, the 8 Elements 50mm 1.4 Takumar is magic without being perfect. I love this lens❤
Amazing - I love 50mm as a field of view. Thanks for watching!
Thx for this vid. Love the channel
Thanks so much for watching John!
The nikon 50mm 1.8 S lens has been one of my favorites since I picked it up early 2019. The first time I used it, I was blown away by the 3d pop that it created. The only other lens I owned that was as sharp as this while offering great bokeh was the Sigma 105mm 1.4 art EF mount that was adapted to my Sony a7r3.
It is still amazing how under the radar it is. I would be including the lens as a bundle every chance I get with every Z camera, but Nikon is very conservative with their marketing for some reason. Thanks for watching!
I was watching this and kept thinking....Fuji 35mm (50mm FF equivalent). So glad I watched to the end. My only surprise was that you didn't go with the 1.4 version. I know it's older (2012, I think), but it's fab. I picked up a used one a while ago for £300. Great lens, great price.
The classic 35mm f1.4! It is a great lens, I think the f2 has more modern rendering that might appeal more to people new to the system. Ran out of time in this video, might cover it in the next one. Thanks for watching!
quite an interesting video, as a canon shooter, i upgraded from the 1.8 to the 1.2 and boy it's an amazing lens. Unfortunately, it's a bit too heavy for my daily family photos and I've stopped using it. Using a crop m6mk2 currently and loving it and a 32mm 1.4 which is about a 50mm 2.24, works quite well for my daily family life photos. cant wait to watch your fuji video as I'm always tempted by fuji except for their AF compared to canon's r6mk2
APS-C really has a great place in the market. Everything's smaller, just wish companies would pack their APS-C line with as much innovation as their full frame cameras.
Great and beautifully narrated video Jack, thank you. Can I ask what case that is for the zf?
Thanks so much Craig. The leather half case is from iborrys, found via Amazon and another subscriber’s recommendations. It has very nice quality leather but ergos on the Smallrig grip still fit me better
Hi Jack, I shoot mainly FujiFilm for events and almost everything. (XH2S for events and birding, X-T and X-E series cameras for street and everything else). My lens selection is vast for X-mount, so I am fully in with Fuji. However, the Zf scratches an itch for me that Fuji has not been able to with regards to low light and that delicious lens selection that I've experienced so far with the Z lineup. I grew up with Nikon DSLRs, so it's the brand I'll probably have forever, even if it's just one body.
In the comments of your previous video about the 35mm Z lens, I said I was about to buy it. However, I was struggling between this and the 50. I'm glad I waited! The 40, which I have is so close to both but your video helped clarify it for me. The 50 1.8 will be the best completion as a "one and done" for my Zf - at least for the duration.
I don't intend on any other Z bodies at the moment and I know that when I pick up the Fuji X-T30II and the 35mm f/2 or 23 f/2, which I own, for example, that has been my preferred street set up. I think the Zf with the 50 will take that street experience to the next level for me.
Keep on making awesome videos! Love them!
Hi Juliette, your Fuji lens lineup sounds great, as does your camera lineup. Glad I can help clarify some buying decisions, I think this Nikon 50 is very special. Will dive into Fujifilm and Nikon in the next video, would love to get your thoughts when it goes live as you shoot on the latest in both systems. As always, thanks for watching!
@@BokehTherapy of course! I love both systems, will definitely share my thoughts and look forward to your video!
Jack you are becoming my favourite youtuber. Love your work! I use 28/35/40/85 zeds on zf. I am thinking about adapting my F mount 50/1.4G 🤔 or should I buy Z50/1.8 instead?
Thanks so much Matthew. I haven’t used the 50 f1.4 G but heard lots of great things about it. Do you already have an FTZ adapter and other F mount glass? If not it might be cheaper to find a used/on sale copy of the 50 Z f1.8. It renders very similar to the 85, I think I like the 50 better but only just!
My only issue with Fujifilm glass is that they aren't colour matched at all. This means some lenses look really good with the heavy stylised looks of film simulations, while others struggle. I usually think the best way to shoot fuji is to just not change the lens so long as you can help it. I've had a few frustrations with colour and contrast irregularities during a shoot especially swapping from the f2 range to the f1.4 and vice versa. My favourite rendition has to be the 50f2, or the original 27f2.8 on the X-trans 2 generation.
Very interesting - for me color differences appear most on video shoots. Color matching across identical cameras is not always easy on Fuji cameras despite how good their film sims look. Didn’t know it came down to lens options! Thanks for the intel
It was called the nifty fifty because it used to sell under $200.
I gotta grab the 50 1.8 one day for my ZF though. Need to save a bit 😅
Pricing of everything has gone up - more expensive to be a hobbyist than ever before sadly. Third party lenses are filling in that void though so at least there’s more choice. Thanks for watching!
I like your videos, I recently discovered your UA-cam videos. I’m an old photographer who started my SLR journey in the mid 1970’s with a Nikkormat and a 50mm F/2. A few years later I moved up to an F2 later F3 and Nikon FM, FM2 etc. I’ve had hundreds of cameras plenty of lenses along the way. I’ve switched, or side by side shot Nikon, Canon, Sony, Leica, Fuji and more. One thing I think Nikon doesn’t seem to get is lens size. Like you went over in one of your videos featuring the Sony 40mm and the Nikon 40mm is the size, but that is all Nikon has in that area. The 35mm and 50mm are huge. Why can’t they be more like their old counterparts? I have many older Nikon manual focus lenses 35mm, 50mm, 85mm etc. they are small and light. I realize that now lenses have auto focus motors though most primes do not need stabilization as current camera bodies do that but as Sony, Fuji and even Canon lately have shown they can build small lighter lenses. Why is Nikon still making bigger and heavier lenses?
Hi Lisa, thanks so much for watching and commenting. You’re spot on with Nikon’s heavier and bulkier lens design compared to the competitors. It is a strange strategy in this day and age. Having used the S Primes though I am thoroughly impressed with the IQ. I don’t see a need for f1.4 glass when f1.8 across the focal range looks so good. I suspect the move is to release a new f2 line, smaller, lighter weight with aperture rings and retro styling. Hopefully a sigma come to market with Z mount DG DN primes too.
I borrowed a friends Fuji xt2 with the 35mm and have been shooting it for about a year now. (He has forsaken photography altogether), and it has been a dream to use. I have not tried printing larger images or cropping much but so easy to carry around. This is not what I was expecting from you this week but fun. How’s the therapy part of bokeh therapy moving along?😂
Enjoying your work.
Haha churning through lens options is therapeutic in a way. More to come! Thanks for watching
The vibe is like you're telling a ghost story. Haha. Love it!
A ghost story - high praise! Haha thanks so much for watching
Love your videos! Thanks!
Thanks so much Luiz!
I keep hearing great things about the Nikon 50mm f1.8 S. Every review I hear talks about the amazing sharpness and bokeh. Seem like Nikon hit it out the park with that one. Think I might just go for a Zf and a trio of the 28mm f2.8, the 40mm f2 and the 50mm f1.8 S. For some reason I'm leaning more in that direction than going the zoom route. Mistake?
Great video btw.
That trio of primes sounds like a great set. I am not a zoom shooter though (don’t shoot events or weddings) so my opinion is biased towards fast primes. Thanks so much for watching!
Thanks for another great video, and yay Fujifilm!
Wow thank you so much! Yup the Fujifilm video is coming up this week, and how it compares to Nikon
Great video and content! Would love to hear your take on the upcoming Z 50mm 1.4 and how it compares to the Z 50mm 1.8 s. Looks like the 1.4 is less sharp especially in the corners but adds a nice character, improved mfd, nice bokeh and an extra control ring while maintaining almost sames size as 1.8 s and being cheaper. Hope you will make a comparison video about them. How do you find the Iborrys leather case with the embedded grip? I have the smallrig grip but i like the idea of getting a nice leather case to make the zf more stylish. The Iborrys seems nice but it is quite expensive though.
Hello! The 50mm f1.8 S is so good I am not sure what the f1.4 would bring to make me switch! The Iborrys leather case has really nice quality leather but is not as soft as the silicon grip of the Smallrig. I bought it and sold it but a lot of other shooters like it?
@BokehTherapy thanks! And how do you find the Kinokoo leather case?
Interesting and unconventional choice made by Nikon releasing a new line-up of affordable 1.4 lenses which are cheaper than the 1.8 s counterparts. I'm considering switching to the 1.4 mostly for portraiture where I don't need corner to corner sharpness but I could make use of the extra step of light, better mfd and that extra control ring to program for aperture. Will wait for an in depth test when it's released to see if it's worth it or not over the 1.8 s.
I'm also looking forward to the upcoming release of the new third party TTArtisan 75mm f2 AF lens, which has an aperture ring.
I think unless you’re using small manual lenses or the Nikon 26, 28, or 40mm primes the Zf will need a bigger grip than a leather halfcase. All of them are about the same in terms of ergonomics (which is to say not great). I have a preproduction copy of the TTartisan 75mm f2. It looks like it was made to perfectly match the Zf! Review coming as soon as embargo lifts (on 20 September)
@BokehTherapy wow great news! Yeah that TTARTISAN looks very promising. Looking forward to your video about it. Thanks!
Like your videos. Keep up the great work.
Glad you like them!
I have 10 native Z mount lenses but never thought to get the 50mm 1.8s because something within me felt like a 50mm 1.8 should never cost more than $100. Your video is making me reconsider!
Thanks so much - 50 is my bread and butter as a street shooter and I love this one! What’s your favourite Z mount lens?
@@BokehTherapy Been getting back into street photography lately and the lens that stays on my Z8 the most is the 40mm f2. I don’t know I can say it’s my favorite lens. I find the image quality actually kinda poor...a big reason why I use it so much is just because it’s small (and the z8 is so heavy as it is). A lot of my professional work is product photography so I use the 105 MC quite a bit. I also use it a lot for video work - I think it offers a perspective that is often left out in film and video. Btw, I forgot to say this but your channel is one of the best photography channels I’ve ever come across - a perfect blend of gear and the actual philosophy and ethos of photography. As someone who loves both there’s a real shortage of channels that incorporate the two.
I’m very interested in product photography, especially the unexpected connections to street photography and lighting. Planning a future video on this topic, would love your insights when it goes live! Thanks so much Steve, I watch the same channels as all of us, so keen to add a different perspective to the community where I can.
I have the zf too but got the megadap etz adapter and have my 50 1.2 gm on it. It’s pretty unbalanced. Do you think it’s worth it to get the 50 1.8? I’m hesitant bc I felt the 40mm f2 was too close.
I think you'd be surprised how different 40 and 50mm are-40mm is much more similar to 35mm, so it's not too close to 50 (unless 35mm is too close to 50 for you, which is fair). The 40 is great, and I don't have this one, but it seems like there's a sizeable boost in IQ for this 50mm
Adapting autofocus glass from other brands was never an option I’d heard of before until Nikon. The 50 f1.8 is a really special lens - optically amazing. You can look for a good used copy if you’re not sure? I like it more than the GMs in terms of handling, and the IQ is great
40 is quite magical isn’t it - still waiting for a brand to go all in on a flagship 40 with all the bells and whistles
I always use Z 50m F1.8 for my street photography. May be I don’t have another s line primary lens.
Honestly I am very happy the image quality of z 50mm F1.8.
It is a fantastic lens - something that's very difficult for Nikon to market as a f1.8. IQ is amazing - thanks so much for watching!
I just want to tell you, your shots are beautiful.
Wow thanks so much! I love shooting so glad the results look good to someone else besides me haha
Im sure there are some/others who like your shots. Keep shooting and share to us/world. Thank you.
It’s hard to find the right online platform for photographers these days. UA-cam is great but a lot of work to share photos. Hope you are out there shooting too!
Speaking of nifty 50, my personal favorite is old school, Minolta Maxxum 50 F1.7. When I first started photography in digital way back at the beginning of the 2000, I was a Konica Minolta 5D shooter, and the 50 F1.7 was one of the first lens I bought. Its obviously outdated by today's standard but its still quite a piece. Metal construction, retractable lens hood, back in the day you can find it for $50 all day long. I still have mine, now usable still on my sony mirrorless with an adapter. Its still sharp in the center but fall off in sharpness much more noticeably in the corners and does have more CA and flare issue due to more outdated coating and optics.
The lens does spoil me down the line as I never could quite justify getting 50 that will easily cost 4-5 times the cost because at $50 it was so good(and the fact that I am not a great 50mm user). I think only other 50-ish lens I've bought since(4 bodies and many other lenses later) is the Sony Zeiss 55 f1.8. Which is superior in all the ways but also costs way more(used), but I am still happy with that.
Ohh minolta glass! I will need to track down some in good condition to try out on the Zf. Thanks for the tip!
@@BokehTherapy There were some gems back then. I also still have my Maxxum AF 28 f/2. Aside from slower AF and needs to use with an adapter I tested it side by side with Sony's own FE 28 f2 and I sold the Sony one because I can't believe my old 28 is still sharper across the board...its not an easy lens to find though and I don't think they are as cheap as some old lenses unfortunately. Got mine ages ago.
I am a bit wary of fungus and poor condition optics on eBay, might go to Map camera in Tokyo on the next trip to look around for glass to adapt
@@BokehTherapy Yeah honestly I haven't looked at A-mount glasses for a while so don't blame you there, most of mine I got(probably on eBay) 20 years ago...
For Sony FE mount, I recommend picking up a used copy of the venerable Zeiss 55 mm f/1.8. #sonnargang #teeasterisk
It’s an amazing lens - thanks for watching!
Another fantastic video and great insight with comparisons across brands. I'm torn between good glass vs functionally compact, it looks like Nikon's "basic" 1.8 lenses are fantastic but they're quite chunky, would be nice if Sony released an updated to their 50mm 1.8 in G variant with aperture ring, and with a small-ish footprint, something Nikon is missing.
If Sony updated their f1.8 primes to have aperture ring I would be all in! I think Sony still doesn’t quite get the street photography community and our quirks, but they’re close. I was using GM lenses so the f1.8 primes are smaller on Nikon - I would also love a smaller footprint though maybe Sigma’s DGDN lenses get the closest. Thanks so much for watching, I love connecting with return viewers!
thanks for helping me aprechiate my Z50mm1.8 . . i hope you can do a video on the PLENA135MM1.8 lense . i really want that lense i have the 20/50/85mm1.8 lenses
Haha oh no… I have been thinking about the Plena myself. If I have the budget I will find a copy and test it out. Those images from the Plena look so beautiful
great content!
Thanks so much!
Since I have the Leica m4/3, 25mm 1.4 (equivalent 50mm) haven’t really looked into any other. And I have Panasonic m4/3, 20mm 1.7 (equivalent 40mm) lens. Both are just so sharp and have nice character just don’t need anymore. But your photos look really good!
The Leica 25mm f1.4! I love that lens along with the 20mm pancake back when I shot olympus. Great system, hope it’s still serving you well. Thanks for watching!
Can you share link for comparing lens sizes 5:49
Sure - it’s here: camerasize.com/compact/
This is another superb video! It resonates with me in a lot of ways. I shot with Fujifilm for a decade before switching to Nikon (first the Z6II and then Z8) when I saw the comparison in IQ (XT5 vs Z6II with 24-120-thiough I do miss the Fuji for a number of reasons). I was very close to getting a second system for street with the Sony CR and 35/50 GMs especially after watching your videos. But I decided that getting the ZF with MF Glass (40mm 1.2 and 75mm 1.5 Voigtländer-thy are brilliant!) would probably be better for my artistic development let us say (as a street photographer). But since I need at least one "small" Nikon Autofocus lens (the 24-70 2.8, 14-24 2.8, 50mm 1.2 and 105mm 2.8 Z lenses I have for the Z8 are superb, but certainly not small) and am unwilling to compromise with IQ I will get the 50mm 1.8 or 35mm 1.8 Z. So now I would like to know: Do you "miss" the Sony's cropability and the GMs IQ when using the ZF?
I still have my Sony kit but the GAS is real - I've never spent more time obsessing over forum sites than when I shot Sony full time just because they make older models obsolete every month. I really like the coordinated release of products from Nikon, all consistent design language and clear roadmaps. I don't miss croppability of the A7CR, but I do miss shooting with Fuji! XT5 is sold out everywhere in Australia, otherwise I'd grab a copy to test out the newer F1.4 lenses.
@@BokehTherapy Yes, the 18.4, 33 1.4 and 56 1.2 I used to own are all very good but not small for APS-C! Thanks for the Info. I have zero Sony experience but somehow Nikon draws me in as a former Fuji shooter, the idea with the retro ZF and making it the best manual focus camera probably in the world as well as having good enough AF at a good price point means they care about their customers maybe a bit more than Sony and Canon.
Yep at least it seems that way for now. Nikon have really impressed me with their moves of late - if they release a full frame retro XPro style body I am all in!!
I had a feeling you were going to throw a curve ball and throw Fuji into the mix. I have their old 35mm f1.4 and love the way that lens renders. Its optical imperfections make it near perfect. I kind of wish Nikon made new lenses like that. I would love a optically imperfect fast fifty with an aperture ring. I have both the Nikon 50mm f1.8 Z and the older DSLR 50mm f1.4G. I prefer the way the oler lens renders. It gives a more organic non digital feel to the images.
I don’t own any f-mount glass! Still look for the right mix of vintage versus modern rendering - thanks for the suggestions on the 50mm f1.4 G. The Fuji 35mm f1.4 is one of my favourite lenses, just a hard recommendation for those who want more modern rendering. For Nikon Z mount let’s hope Sigma DG DN lenses are coming soon
@@BokehTherapy Would love to see some Nikon Z mount autofocus glass with an aperture ring. The 50mm f1.4G has all the vintage character, be that good or bad, but with good coatings and autofocus. Although the autofocus is slow. Ive been using a lot of adapted vintage lenses on the Zf. Its a fun experience and the organic image quality is great.
@@paulthomas8986 Adapting lenses is a blackhole I'm afraid to step into haha. I'm sure I'll jump in soon enough.
Coming back to this after Nikon released the 50mm f1.4, Would be curious to hear your thoughts!
Hi Nick! I am very happy with the rendering of the 50 f1.8 so won’t be selling it for the newer f1.4. Great for new Nikon shooters though! Thinking if I have a new perspective before making a video on this lens. hope you’re well!
Shoot 50mm more than any other focal length. That Nikon-S 50mm f1,8 is what got me into the Z System. I also have the 85mm f1,8 lens.
Yes both the 50 and 85 are great - working on a long term review of the 85. Did a lot of night shooting in Japan with it. Thanks for watching!
@BokehTherapy the z85/1.8 street night shooting is amazing
Hope my video on the topic can do this justice - I got a lot of shots I am happy with in Tokyo
I bought the 50mm 1.8 for my ZF. I was unhappy with the 40mm F2 and 28mm Nikon lenses. Very mediocre lenses. The 50mm is a top notch lens. Doesn't disappoint. We need more compact F2 or 2.8 lenses for the ZF.
Yup the 50 doesn’t disappoint alright. Let’s see what Nikon has up their sleeves, but for the moment I am very happy with their f1.8 lineup
As an enthusiast shooter and Nikon user, I agree.
But Sony is really saying Hi and Hello to me with their Enthusiast zooms like the 20-70 f4 and the 24-50 2.8.
Sony is doing their best to make gear for absolutely everyone but charge a premium! I thought Sony cameras have peaked but then they released another 10 models and 20 lenses lol. Can’t wait to see what they do next.
Can you make a video on the Leica 50mm summicron and 35mm summicron lenses please?
Hello thanks for the idea! I don’t own any Leica summicron lenses - if there is enough of a demand I will try to borrow one for testing
I have the forgiving wife lol she allowed me to get the 1.2 Nikon's. I'll expand to the 1.8s when the time comes. But I agree Nikon is being Fuji like, unapologetic for one and done lens options, firmware updates and getting community love because of the post purchase support is gaining good will in the community.
+1 for the spouses! Congrats on your 1.2s, amazing lenses. Our community is very particular isn’t it, companies have to do a lot right to win our good will. Thanks for watching, more content to come next week
@@BokehTherapy keep it up good to have another great Aussie content creater to watch. Really enjoying it. That and the shared love of Japan goes along way lol
Cheers Tim!
I had the opportunity to have this lens for 3 days, probably is.a Zeiss optics, but instead it's $600 and by Nikkor instead. Shocked and astonished with the results. My reason for not getting one is I can't play with 50mm anymore, it's unfortunately 'not my focal length'.
Yes shocked and astonished is my response too! Luckily 50 is my favourite focal length. Thanks for watching!
Just wanted to add that the Fujifilm XC35F2, plastic version of the XF35F2, has the exact same optical formula and AF, but lacks the aperture ring and WR. It costs only $200 new. What is Fuji telling us?
Hmmm very interesting… I heard that the whole XC line is discontinued (they didn’t make another XC lens right) because of how unpopular the plastic build is with Fuji shooters. Conspiracies abound!
It has not been discontinued. It is back ordered currently at B&H.
Almost everything is out of stock at the moment from Fuji. What I’ve heard is that the XC lineup didn’t sell very well? Great selection for the price though. Thanks for watching!
What braided strap was that on the ZF? Barton? Can you recommend a ZF leather Half-case? The link on your website ist dead by the way.
That is the Barton braided leather strap! I love how it looks but it's not terribly functional (braids tend to get caught as I move the strap around). Thanks for the tip about the dead link, the leather halfcase for the Zf I use is from Muziri Kinokoo: amzn.to/3UORmG4. They make a PU leather and a genuine leather one, I prefer the genuine leather. None of them give much grip unfortunately!
@@BokehTherapy Thanks!
No problems! Glad to help
The Fuji 35mm f2 has crazy amounts of distortion though that’s digitally corrected (source: I used to own it 🤣)
That’s the trick these days isn’t it - everyone is correcting with in camera profiles
Fantastic video! This is one lf the reason for me to switch to Nikon.
Thanks so much - Nikon has made some amazing moves of late, but their Z lenses have been great from the start
My only OCD thing about this vid is… please buy a new black marker. Other than that great video.
haha yes, I struggle to find the right one. Thanks for watching!
Thank you.
Thank so much for watching and commenting!
What about Viltrox?
Third party lenses - now we’re talking! I have a couple of third party autofocus lenses to review for next week’s video. Viltrox is doing some really interesting things
@@BokehTherapy I think the price/value/quality is perfect for beginners
Me too - testing the 56mm f1.7 now. More next week!
Panasonic makes a great 50mm 1.8 and 1.4.
They sure do! Just haven’t had extensive time with their cameras. Perhaps a future video once I get to test more 50s!
"very forgiving wife" today my vocabs have grown up more 😁
im agree that canon rf 50mm 1.2 has very special characters. best canon lens that I have used. when i switch to sony, it was the time they launched their 50mm f1.2 GM and i bought it. it is just one perfect lens but nothing special like canon. big disappointed back then.
Everybody knew Canon was serious about mirrorless when they launched their 50 f1.2! Out of the Sony GMs I prefer the 50 mm f1.4 over the f1.2 just because of weight, but yup quite clinical across the board. Hope we all have forgiving wives moving forward - happy shooting!
@@BokehTherapy i ended sold my 1.2 and stay with 1.4 just for size and weight. never regret the decision.
Great choice!
NO ! Start with either a moderate prime wide angle Lens or a short prime tele Lens !
Look at what the brand’s 50mm option is like to get a preview of how good their lenses are and how much they want you to pay to upgrade down the track. Then pick whatever lens you like from that brand to start with! My favourite is a 35mm. Thanks for watching
@@BokehTherapy No ! I have done Photography with system Cameras since 1979, a 50mm Lens is not the way to go ! To find a good system AND good Lenses you need to read (watch) a lot of reviews. The 50mm focal length is one of the must stupid focal length ever made, ANY focal length shorter or longer are better, fx 45mm and shorter and 55mm and longer ! Have a nice day, noob
lol
IDK, 50mm is MEH. I don't own any LOL... If I was to buy one, it'll see the Sigma 50 1.2.
Haha yup a lot of people feel that way. What’s your go to focal length if it’s not the 50?
@@BokehTherapy Sigma 85 1.4
The DG DN version is amazing - interested to see if Sony’s next 85 GM can be any better
Canon basically said we are Leica. Screw low end consumers
That’s it right there. They are still doing really well so who can blame them? Will need to vote with our dollar. Thanks for watching!
Leica will serve you in the longest run. A one time investment for a lifetime.
Yes I love my M10R and M10 Monochrome! No need to update to M11 with all of its buginess and bricked cameras. I don't think any Leica 50 counts as nifty (or thrifty) though! Thanks for watching!
@@BokehTherapy The M is the simplest and easiest to use camera and furthermore the most compact plus it never gets boring and is challenging.
My 50 rigid summicron and 50 summilux version I are also among the best nifties of all time and will outlive me. Not a too expensive investment...
Mmm I do love my 50 summilux V1. Silver brass version, the rangefinder is a very creative way to compose too. Tried any voigtlander lenses? I have the 50mm f1.2, it’s a great modern rendering
Not only are the Soyney lenses ridiculously priced, they (Sony), don't support their cameras with firmware upgrades, instead they push out a new model, fuelling that AWFUL, consumerism new product mindset.
I tend to look past Sony, when buying a camera.
Yes, almost all of these companies do this, because the "accounts" run them, but I find Sony to be the most egregious.
Yep that’s the risk and reward with Sony. Get the latest tech, but not for long. It’s the industry in its most stripped down, cynical form but they do make great products. What do you currently shoot with?
@@BokehTherapy I shoot with the Nikon Zf (digital), and a few film cameras: Hasselblad 503Cx, Nikon Nikomat, and Nikon S3 2000 Limited Edition . For now, I am satisfied.
I am certainly not in the race for a Sony camera, as I find them ugly (well, not the aesthetics I like).
Amazing collection of film cameras you have - sounds like a great time shooting. I am hoping for a rangefinder style Nikon Zf sometime in the next couple of years - even smaller form factor and all the way back to Nikon’s roots.
@@BokehTherapy thank you kind Sir.
I keep spending on little elements to complement the Hasselblad 503cx (lenses, tripod quick coupling base, filter system, and bag to carry the thing).
Even now, as I reply to you, I am awaiting delivery of the 120mm f/4 Makro lens from Japan.
I am not complaining, quite the contrary, I am happy to be able to afford this camera, as I've dreamt about owning one for more than a decade now.
Yep nothing more satisfying than having a kit you love using!
The promise of the video does not make much sense. Sony has the 55mm 1.8 which came out around a decade ago and set the trend for a premium 50mm 1.8 lens. Nikon was simply replications sonys products segmentation with their version of a premium 50mm 1.8 , just like it did with its camera like up with z6/z7 model designs which are the same concept as the a7/a7r idea sony developed i.e. same body but different resolution and price. Maybe the Nikon 50mm 1.8 is a bit better optically than the Sony but it also newer and larger. Not sure what the point of this video is
I have shot with the Zeiss 55mm f1.8 - great lens, but it’s more expensive than the Nikon and much less corrected (focus breathing, CA/fringing). I do like its form factor better though - a lot lighter. Sony has done a lot of things right but no company is perfect. Up to us consumers to demand a better entry level lens selection
So this is a Nikon advert.... Not cool
A thoughtful and detailed analysis with a considered conclusion is not an advert, it’s an opinion showing the reasoning behind it.
Thank you - hard for anything on UA-cam to not be seen as an ad these days. Sponsored videos need to be declared within first 30 seconds by law? Easy enough to check. Thanks for watching
I just don't care for these covert ads wrapped up as an informative video. I am curious why this 50mm lens is different from others. I would just rather it be presented as information rather than a hyped up advert.
Sadly as a scientist I have interacted with my fair share of conspiracy theorists online. I know better than to argue with someone whose mind is made up already but for what it’s worth I have no affiliation with Nikon and all the Nikon gear is bought with my own money due to aforementioned day job as a scientist. Thanks for watching anyway I am sure there are other creators more to your taste on the platform.
@@BokehTherapy your UA-cam handle is bokehtherapy so hats to you my friend
("As a scientist" 😂🤣)
Great video, Jack!
My panasonic S 50mm f/1.8 was 12.99 when bundled with s5iix and using NAB code @ B&H. Price to performance is bonkers
What! That’s the niftiest fifty of them all! Again, hard for f1.8 primes to get press, not much online about these lenses from Nikon or Panasonic. More people should be talking about them!