Nikon Zf: the only review you need

Summary

The Nikon ZF is praised for its blend of vintage aesthetics and modern features, appealing to photography enthusiasts seeking a retro design with advanced technology. The camera is well-built with a magnesium alloy body, brass dials, and weather sealing, but has a slim grip and lacks auto settings on ISO and shutter dials. It offers impressive image quality, a versatile vari-angle screen, and AI-based autofocus, though the single SD slot and mode dial quirks raise concerns. Overall, it stands out as a hybrid shooter’s companion, blending style and functionality effectively.

Takeaways

• 📸 The Nikon ZF is a retro-inspired, full-frame mirrorless camera that blends vintage design with modern technology.
• 💰 Some reviewers find the camera's price point relatively high compared to competitors, like Fujifilm, though its unique design gives it niche appeal.
• 🏋️ The ZF has a sturdy build with a magnesium alloy body and brass dials, offering durability and a nostalgic patina over time.
• 🕹️ A key drawback noted by reviewers is the absence of auto settings for ISO and shutter speed dials, requiring mode changes through a DSLR-style system.
• 🎴 The camera features a single SD card slot and a micro SD slot, with some reviewers criticizing the fragility of micro SD cards.
• 🎛️ The Nikon ZF boasts AI-based subject detection for autofocus and strong noise control, especially up to ISO 3200 in low-light conditions.
• 🎥 Hybrid shooters, especially those focused on both photography and video, appreciate the ZF's vari-angle screen for versatility in different shooting situations.
• 🔧 The camera lacks the ability to store digital settings for easy switching between modes, which is a missed opportunity for hybrid shooters like event or documentary photographers.
• 🔄 Reviewers love the aesthetic and tactile experience, but the ZF's slim grip and lack of an aperture ring are common points of critique.
• 👍 Despite minor flaws, the Nikon ZF is praised for its balance of vintage charm and modern functionality, making it a strong contender for both professionals and enthusiasts.

Q & A

What is the main appeal of the Nikon ZF camera according to the video?

The Nikon ZF camera combines vintage design with modern technology, offering a nostalgic feel reminiscent of Nikon's older film cameras like the Fe and FE2, while incorporating advanced features for modern photography.

Why do some reviewers feel that the Nikon ZF is overpriced?

Some reviewers feel the Nikon ZF might be slightly overpriced because, when compared to competitors like Fuji, the camera's features and functionalities may not fully justify its higher price, especially for general users.

What is the significance of the camera's build and material?

The Nikon ZF features a robust build with a magnesium alloy body and brass dials, giving it a solid and premium feel. The brass dials are expected to develop a patina over time, adding to its vintage appeal.

What drawback did some reviewers mention regarding the camera’s ISO and shutter speed dials?

Reviewers noted the lack of automatic settings on the camera's ISO and shutter speed dials as a drawback. Instead of being able to set them to Auto directly, users need to switch modes, which some find cumbersome and not in line with the retro-modern blend the camera aims for.

Why is the presence of a single SD card slot considered a downside by some reviewers?

The Nikon ZF has one regular SD card slot and one microSD slot, which some reviewers consider a downside because microSD cards are smaller, more fragile, and easier to lose compared to regular SD cards.

How does the Nikon ZF compare to the Nikon Zfc?

While the Nikon ZF shares some aesthetic elements with the Zfc, it feels like a more mature, higher-end model with better build quality and more advanced features, making it a better option for serious photographers.

What feature makes the Nikon ZF appealing to hybrid shooters?

The Nikon ZF's fully articulating vari-angle touchscreen is a major appeal for hybrid shooters (those who shoot both video and photos), as it enhances versatility, especially when shooting videos from different angles.

What are some criticisms of the Nikon ZF's autofocus system and settings?

Although the autofocus system in the Nikon ZF is AI-based and performs well, some users criticized the lack of dedicated autofocus settings on the dials. The need to switch between modes via a mode dial was seen as inconvenient, especially for users accustomed to full manual control.

How does the Nikon ZF compare to Fuji cameras in terms of aperture control?

Unlike Fuji cameras, which often feature physical aperture rings on their lenses, the Nikon ZF lacks this feature. Instead, Nikon’s lenses, including the 40mm f/2 SE, offer a customizable control ring that can be assigned to various functions, but it doesn’t provide the same tactile experience as Fuji’s aperture rings.

What is the potential benefit of the Nikon ZF’s retro design in terms of street photography?

The Nikon ZF’s retro design makes it look more like a classic film camera rather than an expensive digital device, which could help users go unnoticed and avoid being targeted in street photography settings.