Nikon ZF First Impressions: About Those Ergos… 

There’s a lot of mental gymnastics going on here. 1. Likes FE that has no grip, hates Zf because no grip. FE is 100g lighter and you shoot it with 2 hands, same as ZF 2. Complains about lack of customizable buttons on a retro camera (Zf), loves FE that has zero customizable buttons. 3. Complains about muscle memory VS Fuji, but never mentioned muscle memory when switched to Sony, Canon or Leica.

I’ve had the ZF for about two weeks, sold my Fujifilm X100v to buy it. Couldn’t be happier. AF, IQ, build quality - all better than the Fuji. Ethos with the grip are fine. The weight is reassuring, the dials are such a joy to use.

been using the zf for about 2 weeks now and it's by far the best camera I have ever used. just love it.

I love my new ZF, sold all my Olympus(OM1) and lenses. I am now all NIkon, Z8, ZF and Nikon Film. I have 0 regrets. The files that come out of these Exspeed 7 cameras are simply fantastic.

I think you make some fair points - your main gripe however seems to be the ergos and for $30 you can get the Small Rig grip that is custom made for this specific camera, which solves the ergo problem completely for all lenses up to about the 24-70 2.8 S in size - this means the 24-120 f/4 is fine and just about all the 1.8 S line prmes which are among the best 1.8 lenses on the market period. As far as not having an aperture ring - this is true - not the design philosophy of Z mount lenses but if you get the Voightlander lenses they are chipped, have aperture rings and in some cases have the design aesthetic of the old AI Nikkor lenses. The ISO dial with the C is largely misunderstood - it is intended to allow the uses to control the ISO with the dials, and/or set and Auto ISO range (e.g. 100-3200) then the camera will range through these ISO values. When this is the case the ISO will not be effected by the dial when the dial is set between 100-3200 but you can immediately override and go higher by setting the dial to a value higher than 3200 - then go back down to 3200 or below to resume Auto ISO - the range you set for this to operate is up to you and is set in the menu - I think it is actually pretty elegant. There could perhaps be more custom buttons and a joystick, but both of these things would certainly take away from the retro aesthetic and in most cases can be worked around - for example the screen itself can be used as a joystick to move the AF points around by dragging your thumb on the screen - but you have to set this up in the menus - I don't think it comes like this fresh out of the box. Is this the perfect camera? Then answer is no, there is no perfect camera, but this camera is done very well and as far as being an image making tool is superior to the Fuji APS-C line for so many reasons - least of which is IQ, low light prowess, and compatibility with superior Z mount glass to name a few. Thanks for your take on the camera! -PD

I think you're just fighting muscle memory. Also, ensure you do try the voigtlander z mount lenses on the Zf (there's no 35mm 1.2, but there is a 40mm 1.2). It's a revelation. The green confirmation is spot-on.

I have had the Zf for almost a month. I own a Pen-F and Fuji X-T5 (and many previous X-T versions before - sound familiar?) I do get everything you say. Is it JUST the fact of owning Fujifilm first, or is Fuji's way actually better? I think the Fuji mode of having the "A" setting on the dials makes more sense to me. The Nikon Df had the same type of PASM switch, but the Fuji "A" setting is just so much more straight forward. After a month of using the Zf, I feel comfortable with using the camera, but I still PREFER the Fujifilm method more. I agree with you that I find myself reaching more for Fuji. In my ideal world, I keep both Fujifilm and the Nikon Zf (and maybe let the Pen-F go... though M4/3 still has its advantages.) Not everyone can keep both, but ESPECIALLY with the SmallRig grip, which made a huge difference for me, I could see using the Zf (but needing it, versus the Fujifilm... ? I definitely do not NEED it.) Lets face it, in YOUR HANDS, whether it is Fujifilm or Nikon Zf, you will take photos you love with either. We want our cameras to be everything in every moment, but your skill (which you definitely have at this point,) will get you fairly similar photos in the end, regardless of which you use. The Nikon being technically better will not get you past the issues (just the same as if you HAD to trade the Fujifilm for Nikon, you would adapt and take awesome photos with the Zf too.)

I'll preface this by saying my main cameras for the past 10 or so years have been largely Fuji X-pro's, Konica Hexar AF, leica M's. All these cameras are at their best when you use them they way they dictate, rather than trying to change them to suit your shooting style. The ZF is very much the same IMO. Fuji's work well for what they do, although they are not without their diabolical quirks. My feeling is that you're trying to hard to shoot the camera like a Fuji. On my ZF I shoot all area AF in continuous, and assigned the back af-l button to 3d tracking when I need a spot focus that can focus/recompose. Totally different to Fuji's but a pretty much flawless AF performance. No need to turn eye detect on/off, just use 3d tracking spot on back button to be selective. Agree on the aperture dials - wish the lenses had them. 40mm Z is stupendously good, better than any of the 23/27 fujis IMO by a long way. Would love an 85mm f2 or 105mm f2.5 in the same style.

LOL ! I love my Zf ! .. ergonomics are not an issue for me at all. I hold the camera 2 handed when I shoot. Old style with elbows braced on the chest for stability. I don't have the grip .. I am thinking of getting one but more for protection for the camera.. maybe I will go with a half-case instead .... still deciding ..

u should try smallrig grip for ZF

A couple of points I want to share as someone who also shoots Leica m/sl2. The thing I love about the ZF is its versatility. My Leica m10m I’ll never be able to shoot autofocus. The ZF with adapted m glass is amazing. Focus trap is incredible. I adapt my m glass for the manual experience in a priority. When af is needed it’s far superior to Fuji and Leica. The iq, low light performance and the ability to load film profiles is amazing. The small rig grip solved ergos immediately. But how are the ergos different than your film fe? When I use the cameras without the grip, I hold it as I do a manual film camera… I picked up the Voigtlander 40mm 1.2 for Leica and adapted it. You need to try focus trap. No need to punch in and accurate. I’d encourage you to adapt glass and give it another try. There are trade offs with all cameras but the ZF imo might be the best balance between versatility, iq, low light and price.

Love the features, but like you am hesitant due to the weight and ergo's. Still confused as to why Nikon lead with this camera before the Z6 III.

"No aperture rings on the lens. Half in half out [retro camera] experience." Totally agree with you...

Can you push the front and rear dials like on Fujis?

Will you be using your manual Nikkor lenses? Care to recommend a suitable adapter?

idk if this would help you or not, but for controlling iso on the scroll wheels, map the record button to iso in stills and when the iso dial (on top) is set to c, you can then just hold the record button and use the back scroll wheel. That is what I did and it worked in that regard for me. Reminded me Nikon's dslrs when using it in that sense.

i was waiting for you to pick up one of these 😂

Sounds like you need to stick with Fuji. As a Nikon shooter, the Zf is exquisite for a multitude of reasons. I tried Fuji a few times and could never understand their menus enough to enjoy their cameras. Familiarity with different systems makes getting to know new ones difficult and takes time. The Zf ergonomic nightmare you suggest is a little over the top. I shot a nine hour wedding with it and the Z8 (including the Z 85 1.2) and survived! It is a gorgeous camera body with a Z8 under the hood…amazing file output! Get the SmallRig grip and the Voigtlander APO Lanthar 50/2…it will blow your mind. :)

It's good to have choices , not every camera will work for everyone. I have had the every single X-T and X100 Fuji has made , the ZF isn't as light, or as small physically, but it's better built and, has better image quality, and AF. If I want it to feel smaller or more retro I just adapt Leica M glass , and can AF on those lenses with the techart adapter as well. It's personal preference on the handling , but there's no question it is a better camera than the Fujis. I'm a Fuji fanboy btw ...

Nice been waiting for this one.

I would definatlely get the SmallRig grip. It is sticky and makes the camera a whole different experience. I have used it with the AFs 500mm f5.6 Pf lens and it is usable with that bigger lens. Not perfect, but usable. I found that I use the AF differently than on my Nikon Z6II since the AF is just a lot more confident. I used continuos AF on the trigger botton and programmed the AF-l/Ae-L to 3D tracking. I think you need to program it differently than you do on your Fujis. Then you will start to see its capability with different eyes

One thing also- this is full frame. Fuji has an inherent size advantage because they’re apsc. You also have to remember that Fuji is on their 5th generation and have a very singular product line. Nikon has a ton of range in their product lineup that Fuji doesn’t have. Oh and not sure if I’ve mentioned this yet, but try MANUAL glass with this camera! 😂

I had a fm2 and a fe2… back in the day… both with winders …which as you know are easy to grip.. but I still always adjust my straps so they are tight above my elbow and I can wedge the camera body in the palm of my hand and really get some torque and step leverage so it’s super locked in… no image stabilization back then… try shortening your strip so you lock it in above your elbow and your palm… super steady old Skool

If you do back button focusing afs pretty much becomes a none issue as you don’t need afs since the focus and shutter are decoupled. Have not had to go to afs in years because of back button😊

Hopefully it increases the quantity and reduces the prices on used Leica Qs and the Fuji XT5s.

The ZF IS AWSOME with old school glass

Its funny but for all the reasons you stated you have a problems with it, i instead really like it for those reasons. The ergo i find perfectly fine, i have smaller hands and i love that Nikon did not go the rout that Fuji has done with the same design on all their cameras and just adding a grip to please people but rather stuck to the design idea of the Nikon FM etc. You can add the small rig grip and its really nice if you find the grip to small and its a no issue after that. I dont find it heavy at all, with the 40mm f2 its easier to carry around than my Leica M240 with lens and fits well in my small bag. The buttons and dials. Yes coming from Fuji many people seem to be in a uproar over the auto ISO and too few FN buttons etc. I love the fact that they have not added tons of them like on Fuji, it feels more true to a retro camera that way and cleaner design, and the ones on there are plenty for ones needs( at least mine hehe ) I also come from both Leica and Fuji over the years and still have both but always shot Nikon as sort of my main working cameras, so the layout etc felt very much at home for me. I feel the Zf fits somewhere in between for me when it comes to the experience i get out from it. While the fuji cameras i own or owned are nice, they are not FF and the built are not at all as good as the Zf. So they are more of a disappointment in that regard for me, the Leica ( M240 in my case) is of course better built but gives me a completely different experience and the Zf lets me shoot in many more situations as well as opens up a huge window of opportunity and fun when it comes to trying vintage glass out. Something i really enjoy too. So im very very happy with mine, and like the Df that you would or already most likely despise for many of the same reasons as the ZF its a camera that im happy Nikon was brave enough to design not listening to everyone but staying true to something close to a FM film camera and like the Df will be unique for what it is and most likely will be for years to come :)

Just buy the grip it is only 34 dlls. I'm glad it is an accessory that I will never buy . Fuji is a cropped sensor, no way to compare. I had the XE 4 with the 28 mm pancake. Equivalent to 40mm . There is no equivalency it is a cropped 28 with the distortion of a wide angle lens. With the Zf, you can use a lot of third-party lenses with an aperture ring and autofocus like the Sony 40mm G. (With asapter). I sold my XE 4 to buy the Zf. It was the best thing I could do.

Very nice , very tempting! But I would quickly grow to hate that camera. Too heavy and the lens are too big and heavy. But a beautiful camera.

2018 wants its coffee intro back 😂. Thanks for the vid 👍🏻 I think it's one of the few hype free and useful videos on the camera at this point in time. Don't mind bought opinions and brand loyalists in the comments and keep doing what you do.

Nikon Z F and Voigtlander 50mm Lanthar 2.0 is just perfect. Period. Don’t try to setup this camera for Fuji style - it doesn’t make sense at all. And yes grip is necessary - but that’s why you have option- 26mm pankake works without grip. If you attach 85mm then yeah it comes with the grip.

Same boat, no initial interest. I have the Z8 and I'm pretty sure I'll want the Z6III next year, so I decided I didn't need the Zf. The problem is - I really WANT the Zf - so I ordered one today 🙂 There were some promos running, no other vendor has any available, and it'll be a week before it delivers. So I have a few days to bail if I get cold feet, no biggie. Maybe I just needed to get the pre-purchase dopamine out of my system 😆 I'll sleep on it for a few days. Thanks for your thoughts & observations!

I bought the Zf as a second Sony Body. (Yes A second Sony body). I use the MEGADAP SONY E TO NIKON Z AUTOFOCUS ADAPTER (ETZ21 PRO) and It works flawlessly. I also use the Sony Mount Voightlander lenses alone with the Sony lenses. I get my apature rings that are missing on the Nikon lenses. I love this way I'm using this camera body. This setup is not for everyone and it might not be for you also.

My muscle memory is set to Nikon so the Zf works for me. The Smallrig grip makes most lenses easy to hold though I haven't used telephoto lenses yet as I have other bodies for that. My only major complaint is the omission of the Recall Shooting Functions option in the function buttons which would let me assign the front button to 3d tracking with Subject Detection turned off which gives you control over the focus point when you want to have an object in focus and there are people in the frame. All of my other Nikon mirrorless, Z6, Z6ii, and Z8, are able to do this.

Thanks for making this video. Definitely something I need to consider. Especially since Im a wedding shooter.

You could buy a Small Rig grip or hold it under the lens like people used to do.

Interesting viewpoit and good information. I think Nikon might be on to something if they can address the shortcomings. And I the 3rd party manufacturers will make grips to accommodate that issue. Might breed new life into that model as new models come after it.

Only rooting for it because I want Canon to be bold enough to revive the P.

I have this camera and a work around for the slippery cover are Dragon Grips. As to everything else, just learn the camera and enjoy the output. I’m 72 and I have no issues with the weight or ergonomics. Cheers.

Came back to the video and see that you’re still getting roasted on this. No need for that man! I undoubtedly love this camera, but some of these peeps are nuts! You should do a live session on this camera and feed these crazy animals! 😂

I’ve had the same experience with the Zf. I really wanted to love this camera but it’s badly let down by the ergonomics and user interface. When I’m out with a camera, all I want to do it take pictures and I feel like the Zf does everything possible to get in my way. I’ve forced myself to use it and get past all the issues but I still can’t get on with it. My plan is to sell it, no idea what to replace it with it yet.

Love the Zf. I shoot an F3 and FM3A also - Same ergos - its brilliant

I'll get a Df instead with AF-D lenses for the full ergo process

I was tempted too but decided against it because I prefer the PASM workflow. Same reason I got the X-H2 over the X-T5. What you might want to look at is the Nikon Df. I have one and it's great. Natively put your Nikon F glass on it. Manually focusing is not great like on a Leica, but doable.

Hey Eric, I own the Zf for about 1,5 months now and totally agree on your points. After all these weeks I have the same feeling about the Zf like you. I want to love it, but for now it just works for what I need. Great AF, b/w switch is for me a gamechanger (use it every day), rich portrait just looks amazing and this new IBIS works amazing in photo and video. But for now there is no special connection like I have with the Q3 or M6. The main reason why I currently can overlook my personal drawbacks about the Zf (ergo, size, weight and specially missing lens options with apature ring) is the simple fact YT viewers are currently watching Zf content and I'm currently trying my luck by putting videos out there to get the reps in and improve with every video I create. Because of that I use the Zf almost every day and right now the drawbacks are not so present for me, since I work around them, at least for now. Appreciate your honest opinion and as I said totally agree with you.

The grip is definitely a must & pretty nice ! I like the look of the camera. It’s a fun addition .

New channel alert,one month three cameras!

I love the ZF. Especially with some adapted lenses. I have the 28 and 40 se lenses. My only two complaints is I with the lenses had more weight to them and aperture rings. I also wish m mode allowed the iso dial to override. Other than that I have no complaints. IQ is fantastic and it’s a joy to shoot with. I love the shutter. I shot a wedding with it with no issues along with my M10. I don’t think this camera was meant for the larger lenses. If you really wanted to use them they offer a grip. Honestly the 28 and 40 are fantastic.

Very nice light situation going on in that RV. Also appreciate your insight on the nikon, because on paper that’s a killer camera, but I guess it’s often the little things that can sour an experience.

I just got my ZF and let me tell you OMG it’s nice. Nikon absolutely nailed it with this camera

The GAS king is back!

I can definitely see some of your concerns, but how many of those are because it’s a new body style? Your comfort with Fuji and Oly bodies may be ingrained in your mindset, which will take some time to overcome. Like anything, there’s always some buyers remorse as it’s different than what you had (and the GAS fun is over). How long is your return period? May be worth keeping it for another week or two to see if your thoughts change, especially consider your clear love of the IQ and AF. In terms of the grip, why not hold it like you do the FE and Leicas? With two hands. That handling doesn’t appear to be a drawback for those cameras with no grips. All this, and I haven’t held a Zf, but I am seriously considering it (currently shoot Leica and Sony).

The ZF is an awesome camera to use. However, the style and ergonomics are unique and does not fit for all photographers. I have been using this camera for a month now and I must say I have been enjoying shooting with it. I did add the Small Rig grip to my ZF and I will always keep it on. Without the grip, it's difficult to hold when taking pictures. I'm used to using heavier cameras to take pictures, so the weight is not an issue for me. I also use larger lenses on this camera and I have no issues shooting for long periods of time. That includes lenses like the 105mm f2.8 Z and the 70-180mm f2.8 Z lenses. I didn't buy the ZF for its style, I bought it because of the features it has packed in this camera. At one point I would have preferred the camera body of the Z6II, but now I'm used to the ZF body. The complaints in this video are valid points and I would hold this camera before buying it if you're unsure about the grip. As mentioned, I bought the Small Rig grip before the camera was released and it's better to handle. The grip is not as deep as the Z6II, but deep enough to shoot with the lenses I have mentioned earlier.

Dear Eric, with BIG smile i watched your video and thought not knowing you perhaps you are a Fuji and not Nikon man, ... When watching your video i also looked at my Nikkormat which have NO GRIP at all and i used that camera with lenses till 300mm and never had complains, .... i am also a NOT switcher, ...i use NIKON from 1970, ... i get my Zf also and saw all vids about that camera, for me its going to be a backup camera when my Z9 doesn't work when photographing Vietnam, ... i am honest i use the kit lens 40 mm, perhaps 50mm 1.8, but not sure yet, besides i also use D850 and D4S the most fast and 99,9% always good picture camera, ... So i liked to watch your vid, thanks for that, but remember its not your camera its your eye which make the picture and the camera can do it little more easy for you Greetings from The Netherlands !

Yes!! The ZF have so much potential. I have the X-T3, the X-T4 the X-H2s and just added the ZF . I feel the same way about the ZF. What I love most about about the ZF Using the extended grip, mega adapter Sony e lens to Z body. Now aperture rings works, I use sigma I series lens 24mm f/2 used 45mm f2, 50mm f/2 . They Look good and works well. Despite ZF being a bigger sensor and better auto focus The X-T4 XH2s are my winners.

Dude, I think you completely missed the design purpose of this camera. It’s retro. Designed after a FM2. Not a comfortable camera.

While I wouldn't try to argue with your option as that would be pointless, I do think some of your complaints don't line up with what you said your reason was for buying it, how many custom buttons does your film Nikon have?, how easy is it for your Nikon film camera to switch between B&W and Colour?, While the ZF might have professional features I don't think its target market is for working professional work. I don't own the ZF (yet) but I do have an X-T5 and X100F, the control issue you mentioned does seem strange and very limiting, maybe they can address it in a future firmware upgrade or maybe there is a way to work around it that people haven't yet figured out. Having shot FF Nikon's I know that the image quality with the right glass can be better than that of the Fuji's, but is it really that much better and would that translate to the finished print ?, I had the Nikon DF and loved using it but sometimes the images out of it were a bit flat looking, I like the retro look of the ZF and I don't mind that those SE lenses don't have an aperture ring, it would be nice if they did. If and when I do get the ZF I'll get the grip attachment, handling seems to be most reviewers complaint, one calling it a brick. Good review and thanks for your insight

I came from D90, D700, D800 and D850 in the past. I like the Zf, it fits my shooting style now as a walk around camera. Got a Nikon grip and some manual focus lenses.

I went to the store today and had a look trough the viewfinder and dit not like it.

This is the best review I've seen! Thank you so much for your work; I really appreciate it. I'm searching for a camera that would be more versatile but not far away from my x100 and m10 due to style and philosophy. Definitely Nikon made a 'MeToo' camera. So frustrating.

Agreed. It needed a better grip and it needed to be lighter. Check the focal plane mark on the top of the Zf, 75% of the mass is behind the sensor. I think the IBIS and the flip out mechanism for the display are the cameras biggest flaws. You cut those out, that makes the camera body lighter and thinner, you put a deeper grip in, rotate the battery 90°, maybe even fit a second full size SD. It would be an immidiate win for anyone who actually lays hands on it. I also sign the demand for aperture rings on lenses, not having those is pure cost cutting. What companies don't realize is by making them cheaper they are also making them "cheaper". And at the same time camera bodies only come with two dials ... for an exposure TRIangle. I'm not sure who started that trend but it needs to ... leave. Forever. I'll keep mine until I find something less compromised. It's a real shame, they were so close.

finally, someone calling out the lack of a grip on a fairly heavy camera. Have to put a $39 grip on a $2,000 camera. Sticking with my x-t4

Love the honest POV.

The issue here is comparing 2 systems. I get it and it's helpful for those coming from a Fuji. But for me, I never had that experience. I came from a Z6 ii. For street I have a very simple setup, I set the ISO to auto, F stop I'm perfectly fine with it being a wheel, again coming from a Z6 ii, that makes sense to me. To me retaining eye detect even on manual lense is a game changer. The one negative would be the amount of function buttons compared to the Z6 II. But again, I shoot very simple, I really don't switch between settings all the time.

Looks like you'll have to find your way around it and eventually be happy

The answer to your conundrum is the Olympus Em1 mk2 with best lenses …. like sigma 56mm and Olympus 17mm 1.8 and even the Oly 14-42 zoom

The grip is a complete reminiscence from the Nikon F3 ( just mentioning ) -- that is it ! Of course you need the extre grip when it is supposed to be feeling well. But remember -- one had to handle old Nikon F cameras exactly the same way ....

Also.. the Z 40 f2 is as good, or better, then the beloved Fuji 27 2.8. I own the OG & WR versions. I see no resolution advantage with X-T5/27 over the Zf/40. I do see significant dynamic range advantage with the Zf. Also, Zf with Z 50 1.8 is just as good as X-T5 with 33 1.4. Both great cameras but I like the feel of the Zf and prefer the colors (and shadows allowed) from Zf. I’ll always have a little X-E2/27 combo if I need a Fuji fix.

Dude, do you want a little cheese with that whine? The Zf is lighter than the legendary Nikon F3, which also only had a small grip. I paired my Zf with a Voigtlander 50mm F1.0 Noct, what a low light beast it is now. I believe it will be one of my favorite digital cameras ever, right after my Nikon D700.

I love my Zf ❤

Honestly i think you need to try it with the grip. Fuji went through the same thing with the earlier XT series. And yes the Fuji has more customization but the Nikon is think has just enough, 1 or 2 more would’ve been great but I think it takes away from the nostalgia of the camera. The Nikon has better touchscreen implementation and you use it as your joystick to focus. For the lenses, you can pretty much adapt any manual lens and af lenses including leica.

A camera is like an instrument. If the body does not work for you then you are making the right choice. You should not be distracted from shooting because you are fiddling with menus etc.

I agree with everything you say here. But then i realised it's not my xt-5 and i shouldn't try to make it my xt-5. Once i understood how it wantef to be used, i found it to be an amazing camera. I can't even l9ok at fuji now 😂 plus the image quality is 👌

Right now I have it to where if you hold the record button while the ISO wheel is on c that lets you control the ISO with the two control wheels. I think you aren't wrong with all of these things. The lack of first party lenses that are sympatico with the sort of philosophy of this camera is really disappointing. Sure, there are many great third party options like the artralab 35mm 1.4 (which I'm basically deep-throating right now at this point) or a number of more affordable options or less affordable options. It really would be nice if Nikon put out some smaller lenses with manual controls, real manual controls, that sort of fit with the beauty of the ZF. That 35 mm I mentioned looks very much like a Nikon lens from the '80s. There's no reason that Nikon can't give us something with the quality that we expect while also delivering some of the extra features that take advantage of this camera. I also agree on the ergonomics. Whenever I one hand the camera I definitely feel like I'm always going to drop it which is not great. However, i just got a peak design wrist strap and honestly it makes it feel a lot better. Adds a couple pounds to the wrist but takes off all the anxiety. And again, I'm going to echo that. The detachable grip is also nice. Sure, they could have given us a more substantial grip, but it would have made the camera bigger. What they've given us gives us the option of changing the shape of the camera. I like that and I'm really glad they went with that. I also agree that the camera is kind of heavy. People talk about this being a walk around camera but honestly I don't know if I see it that way. I had the Nikon zfc and I was sort of expecting a slightly heavier camera, but it ended up being pretty darn heavy, in the range of the Nikon z6ii. I think I would have sacrificed some of that ruggedness for just a few less ounces of weight overall. But I don't know. Maybe they'll come out with a nicer zfc within body image stabilization and also an APSC line thats worth a shit (24mm 1.7 dx excluded). I just feel like most of your criticisms just boil down to things that can be ameliorated through outside means that aren't totally unreasonable. And who knows what Nikon has in store for us next year in terms of lenses. They probably didn't anticipate the ZF being the huge hit that it was (surely they had to know it would be some sort of success) so it's probably going to change the trajectory of what they put out in terms of glass, but I imagine that will have to wait.

Just go ahead and use the straps... its that simple...

Your points have value, yet try and walk around all ay with a Q3, not a hint of grip and yet it works. Regarding lenses, I use my Sigma lenses I have for Sony on it, with aperture ring. So no big deal and of course manual lenses! with this focus system just perfect. If I want less weight and a good grip, I take out my A7Cr :)

I did pick up the camera in the store and almost dropped it I put it back because I couldn't hold it.

Sounds like you need the grip lol. Shoulda mentioned the black and white function on the dial in your critique of custom buttons. Basically you are comparing a camera that you used for four days to ones that became second appendages. It doesn’t matter what brand you move to, it is going to be different. “I really really want to like this camera.” I think you really really wanted a full frame Fuji. People are fundamentally adverse to change, I think.

Hold the ZF and spent time with it in the camera store last week. Not for me. Kind of nice looking at first sight (the front), but the bulky screen hinge and the way the screen is not flushed with the body is ugly. Tested with the 50 1.8, and even though it is a smal lens in Z land it was an enormous bulk and weight difference compared to my X-T5 with 35/1.4.

I was put off by how the Nikon Zf has excellent 'sellable' attributes (plenty of power for size, good focus, cool dials, full frame) but appears lacking on a lot of things that people might not think about first (worse battery life than the X-T5, heavier, weird almost non-existent grip and awkward ergonomics, second card slot is only Micro-SD, fewer and less programable buttons). It seems like a camera designed to blow away competition on paper, but with a few dirty secrets. BUT, although I'm a very happy Fuji X-T5 user despite my crop sensor size, there is no doubt I'd MUCH rather have the Nikon Zf's full frame low light performance. (I know I could run a f1.2 lens etc, but even that's only a f1.8 equivalent from full frame and usually weighs a lot, which undermines the point of a crop sensor mirrorless).

You saved me a rental fee. These were all exactly the things I’m afraid of. I’m sure for some people it will be exactly (or close enough) to what they want. But not for me. 👍 I hope they sell enough that they continue the line and lean into more vintage style lenses.

I love this camera. You have to buy the accessory grip. 40mm1:2 is fabulous. Couldn't disagree more. Amazing eye/face/3d detection focus. I'm not a manual focus guy. You're about the only guy that has panned this camera-everything I've wanted in a camera. Not overdone and that's why I love it. It's like a cheap Leica and better than the Q2's. Sorry.

The X-T5 feels like a toy compared to the Zf. Have shot them side by side for weeks. Zf has as much grip as the beloved X100V.

We all love what we are used to :) I would feel the same about a Fuji, Sony or Canon, lol... yes, it isn't perfect, maybe the next one will be. It is a retro camera, meant to maybe be used with two hands, slowly, not meant to use it as a modern camera in my opinion. The other crazy thing is, people want well made cameras made of metal but don't want them to be heavy, I don't get it, yes, they should have probably made the camera with a better grip and grippier body, but, it is what it is, they will probably do ti better next time :)

I feel like it’s a quirky camera and you need to spend time to learn it. I shot Fuji for 7+ years and Sony for the last year. Not a fan of Sony build and feel but also no longer a fan of Fuji image quality and autofocus. I was hoping the Zf would be the perfect combination of the best of both but when I held it in the store I wasn’t a fan of the ergonomics or control layout. I’m waiting to see what happens and now thinking an s5ii with the sigma primes might be a better solution.

Refreshingly earnest review. It’s a great camera, but it’s not for everyone.

ok review but a 39.00 grip solves your handling issues if it had a joy stick and wheel you talking about it wouldn't be a retro camera . Leica Q's are hard to hold cause there just flat . it's a good camera for what it is and sometimes these reviews get a bit picky. I still like your videos regardless.

I was hoping the size will be more akin to the size of the FM2 and oh boy was I so wrong. ZF is a wanna be retro camera. Retro camera's looks work because of their size, weight and lens selection. ZF's retro look doesn't work because of it's behemoth Z mount, increase in size of the camera and lenses. ZF is a bodybuilder trying to compete in athletics. I am still having fun with the ZF, i've had it since the release, however the fun that i'm having is a bit bitter-sweet.

Is it gone yet? 😂

You frequently say something-or-other "can't be understated." If that were true, you wouldn't talk about it at all. "Overstated" is the word you're looking for. I began photography, four decades ago, with a new NIkon FE, I can see how the ergonomics would be unpleasant with the heavier, digital camera. My X-T3 and my M10 are in my hand when I'm out and about with them. I've abandoned neck straps for wrist straps. My last film camera was a Nikon F100, and I owned a D7100 for a while. The Z series is kind of letting me down, mostly due to the lens selections. I'm a photographer, not a videographer, so I prefer the X-T3 flip screen.

I totally disagree. I have had this camera since it was launched last September and it is the best camera I have ever owned. I also own every Nikon professional film camera from the F to the F6 and I still prefer the Fz. I also own the Nikon FM, FE and FM3A (plus many Nikon DSLRs (too many to list), including the the Df) and I still think the Fz is the best camera Nikon have ever made. In terms of grip, Nikon partnered with SmallRig and had them launch a grip even before the Zf launched. This allows you to chose between the vintage aesthetic or having a modern grip for less than £40. I much prefer this camera to my Fujifilm XT3 and XT4 where I am stuck with a modern body aesthetic. Despite the fact Nikor lenses do not have aperture rings, you can map the focus ring to be an aperture ring - not ideal, but it works really well. I also have the F2Z converter and I can use a lot of my F mount lenses with aperture rings on this camera. I prefer this camera to any of my Olympus or Sony cameras. This is the best camera I own!!!

This camera is not for you buddy. You said a lot about its "flaws", but it all boils down to one thing: this camera is made for people that want to shoot manual focus lenses. Want to use modern Z lenses with AF? Get another camera. Want to look cool but not be cool? No can do with this cam. Don't get me wrong. Your views are all valid. It's just that this cam was not made to meet your expectations. One more thing... I am not blaming you, but this thing with everyone complaining about the grip of the Zf and no one complaining about the grip of their iPhone defies all logic... You get to hold a camera like the Zf after 20+ years of waiting and then the first thing you have to say is that it has no grip? This is clearly not for you. Send it back.

I love the Zf, but there is something about it that just is not quite there. IQ I feel lacking behind only slight heavier (once you have Smallrig on it) Leica SL2S, and frankly the AF has been a bit of a nightmare, it picks one subject up well, and tracks it. But my leica does that too, (does not track as well), but that is something I can live with. Especially when the overall ergos/menus are so much more of a joy to use on a Leica. What I do love is the TMZ-02 adapter, makes manual lenses quite fun to use. Actually manually focusing with the focus trap is fun on this camera, but I find that actually hitting the right button to zoom in on the focus very cumbersome on this Fuji. As Eric mentions the menus and trying to customize on this camera I find to be very very annoying and so complex. Anyway, price/quality etc for this price, it’s quite amazing. Bring on some more of the Z mount 2.0 primes and I will be much happier!

WhY CaNt I fInD a ViRgIn wHo'S gOoD iN tHe SaCk!?

I can see a lot of people loving this camera but I think I’m with you. Maybe because it’s hard to not compare it to the FE2 body since I also shoot film. And the lack of aperture rings on Nikon glass.

Eric, you already have the film and digital system. Love your review of the ZF. My first digital was the D300, then D800, then D810. Love Nikon. Really wanted to love the ZF. 30 minutes at the camera store was enough. No aperture ring on lenses, poor ergonomics, why modes?, etc. I’m staying with my existing, well thought out system.

I’m a Nikon user and had the ZF for a week and returned it due to the terrible ergonomics. If it had a better grip like the XT5 (which I also own ) that has a nice thumb rest, joystick, and better functionality, I would have kept it. Bottom line, I decided to return it and wait on the Z6III. In the meantime, I have my XT5 for family time and travel.

It's not nostalgia. Agree about the lack of grip. I love the weight (just me I know) I take all my photos with two hands. I think using one hand to take a photo is ridiculous; I mean what's the point? Is it a macho male thing? (again, just me) Agree 100% they need aperture on the lens and Fuji has nailed it perfectly - best of both worlds. Nikon is as you say half in, half out Lack of joystick was a really stupid decision by Nikon Anyway the reason I like older film cameras is for their dials. I can immediately see my shutter and aperture before I even turn the camera on. That's it. What no-one likes about old film cameras is the lack of grip. We buy old style cameras for their functionality of using dials to change shutter and aperture. Nikon doesn't have an aperture ring on their AF lenses. Also they've castrated all the things we like about modern cameras. A decent grip. A joystick. I don't think there's anything they can do about it. We might think it looks cool but `cool' is a pretty useless thing if it lacks functionality. I don't think we actually want a retro look per se. It's needs to be distilled down to what it is about retro cameras we like. It's basically the ability to change settings with dials; that's it. I don't think there's actually anything else about retro camera bodies we want. Agree about manual focus lenses. We want auto focus lenses with an aperture ring on them I got invested in digital technology when the Nikon D700 came out. That was the camera that made me give up using film and now I'm invested in Nikon. Because of this I LOVE the Zf. Since getting one my Z6ii with a grip and joystick sits ion the shelf. I find this interesting and offer no explanation other than I just love the Zf despite my complaining.

didn't you say the same negative things about Leica M's? I think you got GAS.

I get it but I think your review is really by a passionate Fuji user of another brand camera, so obviously the different settings will grate, just as if I go from Nikon to Sony I have similar issues.