What I enjoy about your videos is the fact you don’t go overboard into the specs or numbers too much, it’s more about the feelings, inspiration and the looks you can get out of the camera. Isn’t that the reason we got into film making? Do have to admit I get a bit jealous that your work looks so good and mine just seems to be missing something…
Exactly. We all have access to the details. There’s a million people talking about the details. And honestly all modern cameras look great. So I like to talk about the special things that will speak more to the true artist out there
@@cammackey I really appreciate that too. Looking up specs on B&H only takes a moment and usually tells me most if not all I need to know. But we’re at a point where cameras are so highly specced anyway it’s gotten kinda boring (as in: not that relevant anymore). You touch on the things I care about. Thanks for that!
Thank you for making this video! I just made a comparison between Zf and X-T5 and yours is WAY better. What I love about the Zf over the X-T5 is how much more balanced images are SOOC from the Zf.. lets shadows be shadows. Amazing dynamic range.
I will say this again and again...the ZF is a breakthrough camera....you can mount just about any lenses from every manufacturer with the suitable adapter and it will function like a native glass, no restrictions or penalties....big win for Nikon ..SONY and Canon snobs can easily pick a ZF without having to buy a Z mount lens I've seen quite a number of RU-vidrs that prefer to use their ZFs for daily shoot more than their Z8, that says a lot😊
Surely cause of size factor Z8 is bigger looks like D850. Whereas Zf look just like F3 but digital. Nikon really needs to integrate Film Simulation to compete with Fujifilm.
I sold my Leica SL and bought a Zf. I love this camera!!! Much better feel for my preferred shooting style. I wish they had thought to put a lock on the EV dial :) The flagship processor and AF system are fantastic - particularly the eye detection with manual lenses for super effective critical focus. I fully agree that Nikon should consider integrating some common settings (shutter mode, AF mode) on to dials to avoid excessive menu navigation. I've mapped shutter mode to the front button + dials - it is OK, but not perfect. I really liked my FujiFilm xPro2 (prior to SL), but the Zf is another level, IMO. Nikon has really stepped up the retro-body game with the Zf.
One of the silliest epic intros (and ad reads) you've done, love to see it! Really brilliant idea about a physical switch for film presets, and curious who is going to steal that idea. I was really hoping Sony would lean into this vibe more with the A7Cii and a7CR but doesn't seem like their style to ever make a camera like this.
Yeah, Sony is the brand that more than any other is associated with contemporary tech, not nostalgia. I've heard their cameras called soulless more than all other camera companies combined for probably that very same reason. People say they've gotten better (with ergonomics, color science, menus etc) but the first couple of Sony cameras are often described as computers with a handle.
Incredibly inspirational and wow what a location 😍 I’m in the Nikon space but bought myself the x100v when it was launched and I absolutely love it not only for its design but also size and the power it punches. I’m over the moon that Nikon have developed the Zf and yes I’ll definitely buy one for the exact reasons you said and there’s enough passion for these retro cameras to be able to spread a little love ❤️ I’m very much contemplating a X-t5 as well because of the lens line up.
Completely agree with you on all points. Been eyeing that zf and just sold all my Fuji for Sony since it made more sense for paid gigs, but I feel like i’ve gone through a break up haha I need another Fuji or zf for personal doc. And jacob’s place looks sick! He’s done well with these studios. Keep doing you, bro! Love your vids and your production quality is 🤌🏽
About the presets or simulations: they just need to do what Panasonic did, allow you to upload your LUTs so you can have any simulation you want for photo and video. In fact every camera manufacturer needs to do the same, don't you think?
When I bought my Nikon ZF the glass i bought was Voightlander 15mm f 4.5 and the 40mm f1.2, the build and manual focus because of the electrical connection between the camera and lens makes it a pleasure, i also added a 28mm Viltrox and a Nikon 50mm f.1.8. I have other camera bodies from Pentax , Panasonic, Olympus and Sony and Fujifilm. because they have glass that are unique to the system. On my Pentax i have a few limited series lens that gives you a photo that has character. But the ZF reminds me of my late uncle's Nikon film camera, i used a minolta film camera years ago and the Zf is such a classic styled camera that as a 67 years old can appreciate. The new cameras have better grips and dials that make it function better but the Nikon Zf has soul, it's like driving a 60's Corvette or Mustang.
as a Nikon pro I'm still onboard with normalizing multiple types of cameras in bags. use what you love. let the camera move you. shoot for what you need. the Zf and xt-5 are both fantastic =)
Of all the cameras I own and Fujifilm cams I've had, the Nikon ZF was only one I've ever preordered and I'm so glad I did. It's a serious breath of fresh air and it's really baffling as to why other manufacturers aren't doing the same with their legacy models.
Great video! as always - brilliant story telling! Glad that you mentioned the lens equivalence on APSC and FF. I know loads of people on forums say, "but f2 is f2" yes for light gathering, sure. But if I want to blur out my background. I can do it with a cheap f2 lens on FF. But need to get a large and expensive f1.4 or even f1.2 on APSC. Don't get me wrong. I love my X-Pro2 because of all the manual dials and aperture rings on all my prime Fuji lenses. I love using it and it goes with me everywhere. My Canon R5c stays at home unless I need it for work related projects, but it's not fun or inspiring . So even though I want a retro FF everyday carry, I've been hesitant to pick up the Zf, because the lack of lenses from Nikon with aperture rings. Waiting to see if maybe Sigma can introduce some FF Z mount contemporary lenses. Or see what results others have adopting Sony compact primes to the Zf.
Wonderful introduction to the Zf, Cam. One of the best overviews out there due to your thoughtful perspectives. Nikon should license the first two minutes of the video to use in their marketing campaigns.
Awesome video Cam always loved your work. Welcome to Nikon I have been using there digital and film cameras for years. I have previously owned their other three retro cameras the fm3a film camera the df I still have the zfc and just ordered the zf. Awesome cameras with awesome specs that hark back to their original Nikon f from 1959 awesome to see more people looking at Nikon since the release of the zf and give Fuji a run for their money
Cam, your content is next level!! Have been gollowing you for a few years, and always love seeing whats up next! Also, fellow Fuji-lover here!❤️ Digging the Nikon, but Im still invested in my Fuji ✌️
Your comments on the Zf were spot on and so were your suggestions to Nikon, which, of course, will fall on deaf ears. I have to say I get the same feelings from the camera that you described. I've shot Fuji and this Nikon Zf is hands down better. Some things need to be improved but I am super happy with my Zf. Great video!
Bar far, the best cinematic, style, and narrative i had the pleasure to watch regarding cameras. Better than reviews, simply down to earth with no non-sense genuine feeling about those two cameras. I stumbled upon that video looking between x-t5 and ZF. Currently enjoying Leica m-10r and zv-e1, and having a penchant for retro style cameras, started with x-t1 and x-pro2 years ago, always missed Fuji somehow. I am drawn towards the x-t5 but that Nikon (and i held one for 10mn at a store) looks very promising. If that pasm lever was repurposed for custom user settings, and lenses had a legit aperture ring, i’ll get one for sure. I did use the x-t5 with the latest firmware and while the film recipes are stellar, the low light eye focus was not as confident as it is with my Sony for instance. That, plus the lack of touch screen menu, is what blocks me from that camera. Both look fantastic cameras, just not sure which to get without regretting later. Thank you for that video, was epic.
Spectacular productions dude. Just switched from Fuji to the fullframe Zf and F3 and old Ai lenses.... What a difference it makes. Fuji seems so plasticky and weird in those sims.... Like a Toy and a Tool.... Nikon is my tool and sold off my toys :-)
I just published a Zf first impressions video on my channel. It’s amazeballs - and I’m sure you are going to give it a glowing review as well. Look and feel of Leica (which I also own) without the guilt.
I've always wanted to rent that place but haven't had the right project as of yet. My first Nikon was the F4 35mm so I like the retro look, but not sure I'd add one to my kit.
WHAT IF Fujifilm made a GFX version of the x100V... with interchangeable lenses. I'm sure they want to but they have no way of making less expensive G Lenses. Comon' Fujifilm, get on it!
Why are you saying, “I had to cover it” like you’re doing something wrong… please tell me you’re not getting tied up with Brand, Please Mac? You’re one of few remaining creators that tell it like it is… That Nikon is a beautiful camera and there should never be a need to apologize to anyone because you’re trying out one of the classic brands… Especially one that is about to explode… Don ‘t sleep on Canon either… Brands are buying creators left and right and it’s crazy because you have people who say, ‘I wasn’t paid anything’ but I get to keep the product… AND if they don’t give at least a 70/30% on the positive side review that Brand IS NOT SENDING YOU GEAR ANYMORE… That makes it hard to give an honest review even if that’s the full intention of the creator. ❤
That’s not how this works works brutha. Nikon let me keep the camera because I ASKED TO REVIEW IT. Most RU-vidrs don’t talk about anything that they don’t have interest in. I went full time here to pursue my bigger goals, so if any brands.. possibly even canon 🥴.. wants to fund a project, then imma do it. You gotta realize at some point if you want to support your favorite creators who entertain AND give knowledge away for free.. there’s going to be transitions involved to make that sustainable. Lots of exciting things to come that involve my indigenous documentary’s.. westerns.. and some films I’ve been sitting on. But yes I might sleep on canon cause idk if they deserve anymore love.
Was this shot on that Nikon as well? It looks like there are many shots done using other camera. Which is unfortunatelly done in most of these "artsy" videos. Sometimes evn done by Nikon. Their Nikon Zf introp film shot on Z8 ;-)
Nice work Mr. Mackey! Enjoyed this video. First found you when you were talking color science with Tyler Stalman - really enjoyed your thoughts on that and would be psyched to see some content around that topic (though it probably doesn't have as much of a broad appeal.) Keep up the great work!
The Zf really needs to be used with an added grip. It feels like a tank next to the XT5. For me, the Nikon wins all day long. Nikon did a great job with it! Way to go!
Nikon will never do film simulations, they never made film. Unless they buy Kodak like they bought RED. Either way, I always felt the Fuji film simulations were very gimmicky
Great video. To answer your question: No other FF camera manufacturer is doing something like this, because no other Japanese camera manufacturer has the storied past Nikon has, along with a rich design history that extends back 70 years. That said, Canon will probably do a retro FF camera at some point in the near future, too. (Of course, there is the Leica M11, but it's not retro, it's a digital continuation of the M3.)
Ordered it without even seeing it person. Nikon FM3 was always my favourite film camera so it made sense. This is what the Df should have been years ago. I've been Fuji since the X-E1 but the Zf exceeded every espectation and I've never been happier shooting.
First of all, welcome to Nikon, where every other lens is a super-telephoto! Joking aside, if you're interested the Nikon JPEG rabbit hole, there's a couple things you should def check out. 1) Active dynamic lightning. This is Nikon witchcraft for preserving shadow detail without giving the HDR look. 2) The TONE CURVES of the of standard profiles (e.g. Vivid, Portrait, Landscape etc.) can be customized in NX Studio and then uploaded as custom profiles to your camera. One caveat though, the Creative Picture Controls all have baked-in curves which cannot be edited (sad face). Peace!
Yes the curves is what initially sparked my interests! Was also bummed to find out it was only with their standard profiles. If they opened that up for the creative profiles…… I would be able to cook magic. Majority of my presets have heavily dependent on curves. It’s the number one secret to get a film look.
@@cammackey yeah I totally agree they should open up the creative controls and let us have at it! Oh, and saving custom WB would be nice 🙂 Looking forward to more of your thoughts on Nikon!
How sick would it be if Nikon made a FF range finder with the Z mount. They could call it the Z rf . Make a few top quality pancake primes like a 28, a 35 and a 50. Same quality build as the Zf and give us a 30MP sensor with no filter. That thing would out sell any camera.
As a veteran of the darkroom, an owner of DSLR'S since Kodak released them in the 1990's, I purchased the Zf 3 weeks ago, I adore it , its so tactile and feels like I'm thinking about my photography again
@9:44 I really agree that smaller lenses are desperately desired. Lens makers should stop chasing the perfect sharp clinical lens, and start embracing smaller lenses. I think Voightlander is doing a great job in this regard
Suposedly, the new Megadap performs almost like a native lens, but I'm sure the mileage varies. It would be epic to access either mount whenever you want!@@cammackey
well tested it all day yesterday. did the firmware upgrade as soon as I got it. its surprisingly good. feels like native. focus fast, accurate even on 3d tracking. can't believe it. I have an all sony system that now I can use those lenses on the zf. they are also smaller. I have the sony 24g 40g Zeiss 35 2.8 and 28 f2 that are smaller than the Nikon ones and some of them have aperture rings, which the zf gives you dog preview in real time., have you noticed that with the z mount lenses you can only see the real dog until 5.6? past that you need to press a button for dog preview. with sony aperture lenses, that doesn't happen !!@@cammackey
What about this reminds you of GXAce? Besides it being cinematic for RU-vid.. this year expect a lot more actual filmmakers to be coming on to this platform. Call them all GXace if ya want haha. His shits amazing tho so thank you
You know the Fujifilm XT 3 and the GFX system. I m looking forward to this compatison because the usability of this Retro Cameras are quite similar. I always appreciate your conten !
Bottom plate is plastic. Original Nikon it’s based of has both top and bottom plates made out if brass. I know because I own a few. Also “filling” is not “feeling” 😅
lol did I put filling somewhere?! Dang I usually always catch my own spelling and grammer errors. I dated a girl once who wouldn’t let me get by any error 😂. And bro imagine if one of these camera companies did a retro design that was ALL brass. I would immediately sand that puppy down 😂
There's one thing about Nikon color science. The key is in adjusting the AUTO WB Temp. A and B. Shooting +1 exp comp. (I'm mad I don't have my camera with me atm, but also adjusting the tint to it's extreme) If it's the same as my old D200, you'll need to adjust the WB to +3A (Amber) and set to Vivid or More Vivid as a baseline. This will give you the film look almost instantly with +1 or +2 exp comp. The benefit of the older camera is the ISO processor isn't anywhere near as good as modern digitals, but that's what you want. Shoot in jpeg set to Norm. or Fine. Iso 800 looks like Porta 400 and iso 1600 looks like Porta 800. Lastly, Nikon has secret sauce that's only accessible through its proprietary software. So unless you're using their software you'll never get their real colors if shooting raw via 3rd party software. This partly why all reviews of any Nikon camera that's not artistic are faulty. No one ever processes Nikon images properly on YT review channels, including Fro who uses LR
I agree they've need a profile selection switch for decades, however you can set a custom button and just use the Menu Banks to save your profiles. I think you still only get 4.
This is the NIKON GOAT that initiated me into its eco system. Never purchased a Nikon before, considered the F3 Film....I shoot, sony a7r5 and Fujifilm 50sii....all for Work, and began with Canon so still own the 5ds and lots of canon Glass... but this....THIS IS PURE FOREPLAY!!! can't wait . just ordered it and I foresee this camera being my BABY ,personal go to , everyday camera that gets taken every where ....so I totally get your excitement ....so I hope nikon gets it right and bring out more exciting compact yet fast lenses...Loving your content!!!
3:29 YES & AMEN BROTHER. I can fondle my Minolta XD7 for hours and not get bored. And don’t even get my started on actually shooting photos with it. That’s a dream come true - every time I line up a shot, every time I press the shutter button. It makes my heart beat faster. ...and I’ve actually found myself tear up just thinking about how much I love shooting with nice 70s/early 80s SLRs. I shoot mostly digital, but in my heart, shooting film on a vintage SLR is where it’s at. There’s absolutely no competition. At least not for the time being. Speaking of which: YES & AMEN to everything you said about what kinds of lenses Nikon should bring out. I’m in the Sony FF system, but with the right lens lineup, I’d seriously consider switching.
Hello. Very nice video. I'm looking for a similar leather strap with peak-design clips for my fuji X-T3, which is at the 11:03 minute in the video. Can you please tell me where to get it? Thanks and greetings from Europe from the Czech Republic. 👍🏻
no-one has done a full frame retro camera... cries in Leica hahaha jk. I know what you meant. This camera looks great! Nikon really needs some compact retro FF lenses in "normal" focal lengths, 35, 50. then id probably buy one, 40 and 28 for me just isn't it.
I would love to see a full frame digital camera from Fuji that looks like Xpan (maybe in cooperation w Hasselblad?). Now that would be sick ;) PS: Ofc not that bulky as GFX 50R but slimmer and smaller :)
Great work. I bought a Zf about a month ago. Certainly agree that Nikon needs to facilitate/provide film simulation presets in its next firmware update. Would particularly like to be able to press the function button and use a command dial to scroll through presets, allowing me to see the changes in my viewfinder. Cheers.
Nikon needs to release vintage styled primes with actual aperture wheels with f-stop numbers (clickable and preferably also declickable). That will make me get one of these. Otherwise, nope!
Nikon has done one fullframe vintage camera before, the Df. This epic hipster review of it is my favourite: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-en5z-Q4po4M.html
Thankfully I still use the Nikkormat, the F2 and the Nikkor Non-Ai/Ai/AiS lenses. Easy to upgrade to the Zf. Krolop & Gerst say there's a wonderful face detection function for manual focussing with the Zf, that no other manufacturer has.
every review nowadays, ' it might not be anything new or different but it makes me excited to pick up a camera'. I got over that bug years ago. a 35mm or full frame look with preset looks pretty much the same whether its an xt3, xt4, xt5, x100f, x100v, sony camera etc. No one needs to get excited about a new camera unless it helps you to work faster, efficiently, or capture things you couldnt capture previously.
I don’t care about the cameras. I come here for the production value to get ideas for future shoots with my acting friends. That place you filmed is a wonderland.
