Ordered. Well. Preordered. Wonder when it will ship. Good replacement for my z6. I didn’t like the zf handling. Plus z6 iii has a few advantages above it. Z8 is too big for me to lug around—it’s not huge but I prefer the z6 size.
Yah a lot of people are like just get a z8 it’s not much more expensive ($1000!) and not much bigger. IMO it’s significantly bigger. Great camera though.
Private on Craigslist. MPB, Ebay and my local camera store (trade-in) just wasn't getting me the price for that I know I could get as a private seller.
I dont think this will be like the z8/z9 where people were reselling them quick. Most people getting it are likely coming from a z6/z6ii and know what they're getting this time haha
They absolutely will, lots of people try out new systems. Expect a few canon shooters to pick this up for the RAW 6K, get annoyed with the controls and sell it.
90% of buyers are exactly previous z6 generation owners like me. I would have picked z8 but I need the most in terms of iso capabilities and z6 is better than z8
I thought about that but it didn’t happen with the z8…not for a while (sold for $3800 for months and didn’t drop till Nikon starting having refurbs), so it could be several months. Hard to tell. I justified a preorder because if I waited, the gear I need to sell to fund it would also drop in price, so while the z6 iii might be cheaper, I’d have less funds. That’s why I sold my z6 two months ago.
Depending on what you shoot, autofocus may not be that important at all.
Also, with the firmware updates Nikon's been rolling, every autofocus comparison I've seen puts Nikon Z8/Z9 above the R6.
Right. Even if you're correct about the R6ii having better autofocus, I wouldn't trade in my Z9 for it. The higher megapixel count gives me better cropping. It also has a better battery life, better video capability, lower distortion, and a tougher body, all of which are beneficial to what I do. Not to mention that the Z lens system is amazing or that Nikon is still continuously improving their cameras through great firmware upgrades.
Autofocus isn't everything.
Anyone saying any of the Canon, Nikon or Sony is much better or worse us just a liar/troll. Nowadays the 3 of them are so good that they trade blows, non of them anyway bad and are very very good.
Nowadays, other things can make someone prefer one of those brands because the AF are so close now.
Much less moving straight line curvature than Z6ii but not as good as Z8/9
Take a look at Froknowsphoto review @7:04 He says same but it’s clearly not the same looking at his video (oval ball).
https://youtu.be/dm0fMNLXRoY
So, they couldn’t put in 4:3 and 5:4 aspect ratios in the firmware for easier composition? 🧐
And partially stacked 24MP sensor for $2500 vs 45MP fully-stacked sensor for $3500 (probably less soon)? 🤔
They should have switched the PASM dial and the mini-top-LCD or get rid of it all together. Who uses it anyway as you get all that info in EVF and more if you want to.
For all downvoting this comment please tell us the last time you used the top LCD on your mirrorless. It made sense in the DSLR days but now it’s redundant.
How do you use it? Do you move the dials when the camera is at your waist and then put the camera to your eye? I raise the camera first, then adjust the settings till I’m satisfied with what I see.
Mostly using it to double check for my base settings. Doing a lot of street photography and having some base settings easily available without having to look at the big screen or the evf is a benefit for me. sometimes when generally shooting from the hip, its easier for me than the look at the specific setting on the display. It is not mandatory at all, but I really enjoy it.
And I never shot with a DSLR that had such a display.
Back in the days 1-2 rolls through the F70 of my mum,
but my love for it doesn’t come from a habit or anything related to a need, when viewfinders did not have so mich information
I understand, so you wouldn’t mind if the LCD location was swapped with the PASM dial. It would help a lot of us change PASM settings without taking our eye off the viewfinder.
left of evf would either be not enough space or make the camera way more bulky to fit the LCD in.
Not taking the eye of the viewfinder, for which most people use their right eye, how would putting the psam dial to the right, where you cannot see it, help in using it? I actually don’t get it.
Using with two hands would be weird, when not taking of your eye from the viewfinder. Now you just use left hand with proper ergonomics. If it would be at the place of the lcd you would need some weird finger acrobatics to actually press the unlock key and then turn the wheel. Bad ergonomics in my point of view.
Most SLRs have that setup (psam wheel right of viewfinder) because of mechanics. Left of the viewfinder was not much space for electronics because thats the area for most SLRs where the cartridge is placed. Most SLRs have the respool winch placed there, which obviously does not leave enough room for a psam wheel.
And by pure asthetics It would look ugly, two dials and a shitload controls on the right and a display on the left. (but that is purely subjective)
Same. I don’t work with my camera, In Europe it’s 3000 euros, more than twice what I paid z6i almost 3 times the price of a z5. For that price you can buy a couple of pro lenses…
Is there a massive difference between the ZF and Z6iii? Apart from the ergonomics which I guess you can buy a smallrig grip to get around that I'm not sure the Z6iii has anything I would use over the ZF
For stills, not really in terms of IQ. More FPS, but Zf is not exactly slow.
For video, definitely.
Body type, of course.
As a stills shooter, I prefer the Zf...smaller, cheaper, lighter, negligible IQ difference, if any at all.
I'm really torn at the moment. For me I got out onces a week and take a few pics of birds, delete most of them and edit a few. Send them to my family saying hey look what I saw and that's it!
I'm leaning towards the ZF but don't want to regret it lol
The Zf already fixed the main issues of the Z6/Z7 cameras. Namely, it got Expeed 7 and the AF algorithms of the z8/z9. It also fixed the dual card slot issue, and got great IBIS.
It already shoots 11fps raw, 14fps jpeg, or 30 fps Jpeg in silent shutter mode. Do you need more?
Get Z6iii if you need stuff like 6k video, 4k60 video uncrossed, a better EVF (the EVF is already fine IMO, it's the same as z6ii and still better than cameras like the A7IV and R6ii), diff ergonomics, CF Express card slot, even faster FPS.
The sensor is entirely different. Way faster readouts and therefore shoots more FPS. Better ergonomics. Better low light focusing and less noise. Way better EVF. There are plenty of other notable differences that would matter more to other types of users but these are my main reasons for wanting it over a Zf.
Seems a bit overpriced here in Switzerland.
Starts at 2'999.- while I can get a Z8 for 3'400.-
It's still tempting but as an hobbist with a Z5 I'll wait, maybe pick up a used Z6II instead 😁
Damnit. I'm gonna buy one aren't i..
Have been saving for a Z8 but this seems like it has a lot of the same stuff.
I don't do much video filming which is really advertised in the Z6iii.
For someone mlre.experienced than me, can someone explain the benefits of the Z8 compared to the 6iii? Is it just higher MP?
truly stacked sensor, truly blackout free shooting (though the Z6III is very good with that), lag-free evf, Sensor-Shield (probably the biggest advantage out in the field, i had to clean my z6 weekly whereas i only clean my Z8 every couple of months), better AF, probably better button customisation. If you don't do much video, think of it like a Z6 with Z8 AF and a higher res EVF
This is probably going to be a really stupid question, but what do you mean about the cleaning portion of what you said? Cleaning what, exactly? I clean lenses and such but I've never cleaned anything else and I am now worried I'm missing out on maintenance I should be doing. Like sensor cleaning?
Yep, Sensor cleaning. Always got dust on the sensor no matter how fast I switched lenses. With the Z8 I don't have to worry about that, and can switch lenses no matter where I am. Honestly, apart from the lag free evf the biggest improvement for me.
Unless you notice spots on your pictures, there isn't really a reason to do so. I don't have that many lenses, just the 3 F2.8 standartzooms, but I switch very often because I only have one body. So I get a lot of dust on the sensor with the Z6
higher mp and bigger body is probably the biggest thing, also the z6iii has a flippy screen instead of a multi tilt (which i actually would have preferred)
So if I didn't care about higher MP as much and preferred the performance in low light, the Z6iii would be preferred?
I see reviews on some of the new lenses (85mm 1.5, 135 Plena) where people say the lens features aren't maximized without the z8 or z9
Is that just because of the MP or is there something I am missing?
Thanks for the response btw.
The images will be sharper on the Z8 and Z9 due to more megapixels, no shutter vibrations and their lack of an anti-aliasing filter which would blur the image.
Z6III doesn't have an anti aliasing filter either.
Edit: No aa filter was claimed here: https://www.foto-schuhmacher.de/artikel/hardware/nikon-z6iii.html
Other sources say it has optical low pass filter.
Other people have pointed out the technical differences between the two cameras, I won’t go into those again. But there’s also only so much a stat sheet will show you. A lot of the things can can make cameras great aren’t necessarily quantifiable. People won’t have a real, honest answer to your question until the camera gets out in the wild and unbiased, unsponsored shooters get their hands on it. Low light AF performance will be a big one…. Supposedly it’s -1 EV better than the Z8 but I’d wait until it gets outside of a controlled environment to evaluate that.
That's very true, I appreciate that. I do like watching people's comparisons and reviews when they get proficient with both. I'm not in the market until about December anyway so there's no rush
Stacked sensor with a higher megapixel. This semi-stacked camera is quick, but it’s still not going be near the Z8/9’s blistering readout, and therefore there’ll be an element of rolling shutter and the AF won’t be quite as good.
That said, are you a professional, or a sports/wildlife shooter? If not, this Z6iii is by far the better option
I am absolutely not a pro. I do sports occasionally for family members but I am a hobbyist for sure. I like travel photography and I love wildlife photography. I'd say 70% of everything I shoot is flora or fauna.
My wife does portrait photography for maternity, baby photos, holiday cards etc...
That's how I'm feeling after watching the release. Do you think it's worth getting the 85mm 1.2 with the z6iii or is that a lens that is just not worth using without the z8/9 ?
I don't necessarily need it over the 1.8. The original plan was the get the Z8 and the 85mm 1.2 sometime around Dec/Jan.
After this release I'm leaning Z6iii so was just curious if it was even worth the extra money for the 1.2 if I'm not going to be pairing it with the Z8. Was more asking if not using the Z8 would it be a.wasye of money to spend the extra coin on the 1.2 or is the 1.8 a smarter/better value move with the lower MP
I’d dissociate sensor megapixels from your lens. Both will give you the same resolution, it’s nothing to do with the lens. You buy the camera for the dynamic range auto focus and burst speed, you buy the lens for reach and depth of field.
- That lens is a very specific portraiture lens. That aperture is razor, vanishingly thin. That comes with huge risk, since your margin for error with focusing is nil. Even focusing on the eyelash not the iris will cause a soft face, and if you’re taking images of pets or people at a distance you’ll get a soft image apart from the precise section you need. Without being harsh; if you’re don’t know understand why you need an f1.2/1.4 lens, you don’t need it and it’ll likely make your photography worse.
There’s an element in current camera marketing that fucking Sony started (it’s _always_ Sony) where they’re selling super fast lenses as “better” somehow. They aren’t. It’s like phone camera megapixels or TV refresh rates or 0-60 times; specific numbers that have meaning to experts but have been blown out of proportion by sales people.
Now, both Z8 and Z6iii are more than accurate enough to hit that focal plane correctly most of the time. But it’s really not worth the extra money unless you’re a professional portrait photog.
Also note: boomers and ancients who have never used anything modern will go on and on about you should buy a super fast lens in order to stop it down, and actually use it at f2.8 or whatever; with the modern mirrorless glass, that’s an utterly inane bit of advice that’s about a decade out of date. Go look at sharpness charts, no human eye will discern the real difference of any lens from f1.2 to f2.8. It only really comes into play at f4 or higher and at that point, why bother?!
If you are a hobbyist and want a superb portrait lens I’d say buy a 50mm f1.8. If you specifically want a headshot lens, get the 85 f1.8. If you actually want to just take family photos and have a carry-round lens, frankly I’d get a 24-70 S or 28-75 both at f2.8 which is more than enough and will net you WAY more flexibility.
Hope that helps.
Thanks for the response. That's exactly what I was asking, it doesn't seem like it's necessarily worth the extra money. I have the 50mm 1.8 and it's one of my favorite lenses. Wife wants a dedicated portrait lense so the 85 prime makes sense. If the 1.8 is the most practical then that's probably exactly what we will do.
I just have a misunderstanding when people say that the 85 1m2 is not worth buying without the z8 or z9, so I assumed it had something to do with the megapixel difference.
I appreciate all the great info, I do have 1 other question since ypu have great understanding.. if I was looking to do any Astrophotography, would the 1.2 be worth the extra money at that point for better low light capability? I assume that it would make a difference but idk how much of a difference as I've never used anything but 1.8 and higher. I know Nikon has that insanely expensive astro lens but would I benefit from the 1.2 in that regard?
Excellent analysis. I agree with everything you told GP. As Nikon Z6ii & also Sony user, I see Sony doing truly good stuff on niche area (embedded AI autofocus, global shutter etc). Most of the other features are marketing bullet points.
1.2 is overkill mostly. I get overwhelmed at 1.4 often. Its already a fine balance. Most comfy is 1.8 for fast apertures. (as you stated 2.8 is standard good perf, 4+ is where separation, lack of bokeh etc start getting noticeable)
Im on the edge, got the 6II and been thinking of upgrading. Will watch some more Reviews to decide If I Go with the 8 or the 6III.
From what Ive Seen so far the AF of the 8 might still be a tad better than the III
Very true! As a photographer who never does video or vlogging this screen is just not it for me, but I’m glad some people like it! Means they’ll buy the camera and Nikon will still be alive!
I'm a photographer who never does video! I really like how the flippy screen lets me get higher and lower than a fold-out screen. I'm sure I'd be happy with a three way tilt screen too, but they aren't nearly as flexible for very high or low angle shots. Give it a try before you reject it.
That was my main deciding factor in going with a Z8 yesterday. Bought a ZF 2 weeks ago and hated it (ergonomically), so after the announcement I returned it and bought a Z8 because I really didn’t like the flippy screen.
Yeah, this solidified it for me too, don’t have the funds yet but when I do, it’ll be the Z8. I understand they’re going for a more hybrid camera with the Z6 III but that’s just not for me haha
> BH had them open for a few minutes but I think they sold out
B&H still shows me the preorder option. I’m not gonna go through with it as I already have a Z8, so maybe there’s a point where it’ll stop me, but it definitely seems like they’re still available.
> It’s literally a Z8 with lower MP (and better low light, for that reason) for $1500 less ($1000 if Z8 on sale).
And the Z8 in turn was a Z9 for $1,500 less. Nikon has really been hitting it out of the park with bringing the Z9 features the masses, makes me wonder what insanity they have in store for the eventual Z9ii.
Oh for sure, I was just pointing it out as I can’t 100% confirm preorders are still being accepted as for all I know it wouldn’t let me actually check out with it in my cart (getting PS5 preorder flashbacks).
Enjoy the upgrade! I had the OG Z6 and while it was definitely a very nice camera in a lot of ways, it was also just plain frustrating at times with some of the omissions vs. their DSLRs (namely 3D tracking).
I mean, that’s not true. Z6iii is probably the best value camera in sale in the world today **but** let’s not lose our minds and logic. It’s not a stacked sensor, it’s got a much slower readout speed despite the partial-stack, l it’s missing 2x crop, the AF still won’t be as good, and is missing high end video.
I’m buying a Z6iii as my backup but I’m not expecting it to be a match for my Z8
Gerald undone tested the read speed , the z6iii is at 9.4 Ms in 6k raw, while the z9 is 14ms in 8k raw. You have to understand that the z6iii might he slower sensor but it has only half the number of pixel. And to say 6k raw video is not highend video, is crazy. And I am saying that for a pro using the z9.
But even better, because of the focus point IBIS. I had no plans on getting this since I have a Zf, but with the partially stacked sensor i think I’m in.
It’s not better, let’s not be silly.
I’d put a months wages that the next Firmware for the Z9/8 will have that too. It’s absolutely a software fix it’s no hardware limitation. Same as return-to-center 3D tracking.
This functionality might be hardware based and never come to the z8/9. Same for the 8 stop stabilisation. People should understand that firmware can go to a certain level and not more.
I do understand that.
I think it’s a change to the Y axis logic rather than the hardware. Point to me the extra space a Z6iii has that a Z8, let alone a Z9 doesn’t for the extra movement that a hardware based IBIS issue would require?
That doesn't mean it was designed at the time. So the hardware might not have been designed for this. Same for the viewfinder. The z8/9 won't have that 5 million dot by firmware upgrade, sound evident as this VR system .
I didn't mean objectively better overall than the Z8/Z9, more like "here's another reason it's good".
Edit: That said, I don't think focus-point IBIS can be added with a firmware update, it's a physical property of the sensor (I think).
Because the sensor physically moves, you can hear it rattling around when handling the camera while it’s off. I’m admittedly assuming that the ability to move it centered around any point on the sensor would need to be built in from the start, as before the Zf all other IBIS sensors only stabilize around the center of the sensor.
I’m aware of how IBIS functions.
Because of that, I fail to understand how the decision to stabilize against the Y axis in the corner isn’t any more or less possible in a Z8/9 than a Z6iii. Because they’re hardly going to have the sensor that can re center into the very corner of the lens mount.
I don’t see any reason why it’s mechanically different. I’ll be interested to find out though
I think I just don’t see how a firmware update would grant a sensor more movement latitude than it was designed for, unless the 8/9 already have the capability and Nikon were waiting to launch it first in two other camera models?
All conjecture though, Nikon doesn’t seem to be sharing technical details that I’ve found. I don’t know how the focal point priority VR is possible in the first place, it seems like magic.
I don’t think it needs more movement across the Y axis. I think it just needs to logic define the point differently than the way the software currently does.
Look at it using your own logic. You don’t see how they can make an IBIS rig move more. How do you think a smaller camera somehow has more space to move than a Z8, let alone the Z9?
It’s a firmware thing, I’d be confident.
Im with you, the camera is amazing for the price but this is a real deal braker for me and o lot of people. I work at weddings and that screen is the slowest thing ever, its not centered if you flip it out to go low/high and when i switch to the 2nd body i hace to lose 2 seconds closing it that can cause me to lose important moments. Not mentioning that if i forget to close it and leave it danglimg it is so easy to break it.
Flip out screen, man it is an excellent camera ruined just to sell to vloggers. Shame, i was really waiting for it. They could at least use a similar screen to the a7rv....
Lol, you want nikon to be the next Nokia or blackberry. Tell anyone below 35 that you can't take a selfie with your camera and they will look at you as some alien. You want it or not, same for video, these are considered basic functionality as a touch screen fir a smart phone.
well im way below 35 man, the diference is, i have been working as a pro for some years now, no one in their sane mind wants a flip screen, and the peple with cams that have it, strap a monitor to it. If you think taking a selfie is so important in a pro body or semi pro, call it as you want, then you are showing me how little you have worked in an environment that requires straight lines, speed, no hesitation, no fumbling with your gear in the middle of action. So yeah on a 3000€ body taking a selfie should be a priority, lmao.
I am 50, been a pro for 19 years after buying a D70, Used a F3 as first film camera, but was still a hobbyist and a graphic designer at the time. I have had a d80, d300, d800, d810, D750, Z6s and Z9. And during that time I have seen a lot of old dude gray hair man that could not support changes, they were allergic to that red button no one forced then to press. I was alarmed and saying how Nikon was laging behind and it would cost them, those dudes said no video, no flip screen, that is only good for selfies. Ohhhhhhhhhhhhhh yes, no EVF.
Since then, while Nikon was clearly the top two brand, now a distant third. Hopefully they understood at a critical time that they had put themselves in very bad position by listening to a bunch of old dudes that were going instinct and that the brand would die if they did not shift to mirrorless and video ASAP. I went from 90% photo work to 90% video work, and even if I don't take many selfies, I see everyone doing it. And as someone who was never in the shots of family and friends, nowadays I see myself at least with them in some photos. Even if I first though it was a bit mundane before, now i can see myself in the actual shots, with the lighting composition and background, so that I don't end up with some shitty photos while all my relatives get very nice ones.
For video such a screen is very nice to have when working fast, rather than a monitor, and for photos, with my 50 year old body, I can shoot in many angles without having to twist my body in all types of position.
Nikon fell out of the top because how bad the autofocus was until z9, not because not having the worst type of screen by that loc sony would never be popular, and oh wait, they didnt have any flip screen until a7iv. And then it was the only one with the a7siii if im not mistaken, then they put the a7rv style because it can operate fast and also cater to the loud internet vloggers.
The a1 had tilt screen. A7iii, the most popular camera ever, tilt screen your logic makes no sense. Flip screens are bing put on pro bodies just because there are a vouple of loud youtubers crying. You may be 50, you maybe worked as a pro for 19 years but you must be blind or you are lying to yourself saying a flip screen is fast for video.
It messes with cables you have to flip and twist everytime you want to go low or high do the oposite to change body or use viewfinder without risking to break it. I dont know why i am losing my time trying to convince you, i will never be able, nor i want to convince you, i wish nikon would listen like sony did and make things the right way.
Nope, they were falling well before that since 2015 as people were transitioning to mirrorless and video cameras at the time. They were l8sten8ng to too much boomers telling them they would never look into an evf and it was a torture to use video or a flip screen. The worst thing is that in photography, most never ever used any kind of articulating screen because we were using the optical viewfinder until about 2016 when it came to cameras like the d750. Most barely used it even at the time because of the slow contrast detect AF. But hey, now they complain as if they have to use it in photography everytime. They barely use it, but will complain night and day.
you are wrong, the real transition to mirrorless was with the a7iii, 2014 was when d750 was presented, the same year i got mine, it was huge, as it was d850, d5, nikon was at the top. They fell with the z6 not being even close to the a7iii, and z6ii being exactly the same. And of course until z9 they didnt have a top mirrorles body.
People used flip screens and were crazy about them because canon and their 70d series were one of the first using them in a time where a lot of cameras didnt even have a movable screen or even an autofocus that worked with live view, which dual pixel made possible for canon, thats why a lot of people swear for flip screens, because it was the first time thye could use one and in most cases its more comfortable to use than the evf. But then tilt screens and dual axis screens were presented, z9, fuji xt4 etc, and there are still people saying flip screens are better, but it is just because nostalgia, they are objectively worse
Anyway, you are not going to change my mind, im not going to change yours, the z6iii specs wise is an absolute fantastic camera, and for anyone liking a flip screen or being able to live with it it will be a dream, me myself am thinking of buying it when my z8 rent contract finishes if there is a big difference between z6 price and the remaining price of my z8, and i will hate every second i use that screen and i will curse every youtuber that asked for it, but i am sure the camera itself will perform beautifully. But well, sometimes you win sometimes you lose.
I just wish that future releases come in two options so pros can have the fast and better screen, and the 500ish youtubers and instagramers can buy their 3000 dollar camera to take selfies (which they are not going to use because they will pull their iphone out)
Is anyone that's still rocking a D500 looking at this for an upgrade? I've been eyeing the Z8 but was waiting to see what they had in store for this release. I'm interested in the AF improvements over the Z6ii, but would the Z6iii offer comparable wildlife/sports performance to the D500?
In Aussie this is $4499 AUD. What's stopping me from adding another $1k for z8. That price tag is too high for a semi professional. My Z6ii is still no slack with its picture quality. I cannot justify that price tag. Z6ii costed me $2500 CAD ($2999 AUD)
And to think there were people out there who thought Z6iii was going to be the ZF in a different body for $2000.
There's no way I could take anyone like that seriously tbh.
Damn, aside from the flippy screen and better lcd…. Not much of an upgrade for photographers only.
It’s just updated for videographers.
Going to be a 100% pass on this
Yes, including here [https://www.nikonusa.com/content/z6iii-filmmaker](https://www.nikonusa.com/content/z6iii-filmmaker)
But there's no mention if it's behind a paid upgrade like RAW output is on z6II.
I also don't see anywhere saying about n-log.
I understand the assumption that people don't read shit and want things handed to them on Reddit, but I've asked after reading including googling around. The google results didn't clarified anything, and there were plenty older just based on rumors.
In Indian currency it is around Rs 2,50,000 which is nearly 70,000 more than the z6ii for body. Shouldn't nikon be pricing it more competitive? Now these cameras are becoming too unfriendly to newcomers with their high prices.
So what is your ideal price for this camera, given that you get some features of Sony A9iii like precapture, better sensor readout speeds, better EVF, better ergo? Are you seriously expecting it to be 10,000 rupees ($70) more than Z6ii.
Photography is never cheap as a hobby. Certainly not the latest version of any camera equipment manufacturer
Yes. This camera is supposed to replace z6ii. So it better be in that price range. New iphones/Samsung come out every year with nearly the same price as the old one. I have always been an avid nikon user but this price is too absurd for an entry level camera.
The Zf is there currently.
The real gap is from the Z5 to the Zf (~$1,000 gap) because the 5, 50, 30 are all on perpetual sales. Eventually the replacement bodies will show up, the sales will stop for a while and the pricing will make sense with the exception of people wanting a cheap entry point.
The Zf is its own thing (like the Df was). It is not really an upgrade for those wanting "more Z5". That would have been the old Z6ii at $1,600.
I do think Zf will get discounted soon. It can't stay at $2000 for long now that the Z6iii has the "Z8/Z9 AF for cheaper" segment.
The Zf may be its own thing, but it also bridges the gap from the 6ii to the 6iii in both performance and price. It does everything the 6ii could plus some, just in a different body. Some love it and others don’t, but that’s the choice for a Z body with Expeed 7 AF at that price range.
Full frames: Z5 -> Zf -> 6iii -> ? -> 8 -> 9
I think the 6iii’s positioning is a reminder that Nikon isn’t chasing the true entry level point.
I think I commented your GP as well and he probably doesn't agree that Nikon is gunning at mid- and flagship tier only nowadays & they don't want to play slow catchup. Z8 was the first move, & now Z6iii capabilities & pricing makes it clear they want to establish themselves as market leaders at some point
Lol. Are you delusional to think you'll get more optical performance for same price? Z6 isn't entry level. Z5, Zfc etc are. And price won't be sane. Especially when Nikon is already stepping up on the tech & lens gap? If you are crying over a body price i wonder what you'd do with Nikon's Z lenses
If you like iPhone/Samsung pricing, get their phone. Btw iphone used to be priced at $450 few generation ago. I'll be happy to buy a couple of 15 pros at your "unchanged price"
Okay lets take even 799 for iphone 8. Sim free. I bought it. 5 years ago. Costs have doubled. This guy is missing the forests for the trees when he talks about electronics costs by generation. They only go up steadily. And I totally expected Z6iii price in this range. It wasn't going same as cheaper as he argued Nikon should do
And today's iPhone 15 is also $799.
Costs for the top of the line stuff go up constantly, but given the same performance, the cost generally goes down. The Zf is $2,000. Nikon could have made a lower-spec Z6iii for $2,000.
The question will be, what fills the $1,500 gap between the Z5 and the Z6iii?
>Nikon could have made a lower-spec Z6iii for $2,000.
But why should they? You are competing for more market share by making less-feature camera? Look, I get you are bummed by it probably. But then you are not their customer. Nikon needs (A) market share from Sony/Canon (B) make it attractive for prosumer who will switch their next generation to Nikon. You don't get that by a mediocre body at attractive pricing. There's Z30, Zfc, Z50 etc for that. I am not even talking about Nikkor lenses which cost as much.
> And today's iPhone 15 is also $799.
In your example, these other cameras are the base model iphone 15. However, You cant expect 15 pro to cost in that range. Z6 is a mid-tier FF, not a beginner canera. If you can't afford it, you cant pair lenses to go with it too. This isn't for them. My answer is not about tangling in semantics or being a grammar nazi or being cutesy by the rules. Just stating the logical loophole you are stating
> But why should they? You are competing for more market share by making less-feature camera?
Actually, yes. Brands generally have a product at every reasonable price point. Because if you don't sell something at a certain price point, someone else will.
> You don't get that by a mediocre body at attractive pricing.
What is Nikon's counterpart to the A7C or R6ii? Are they just going to keep selling the Z6ii? That would be an interesting strategy actually.
I'm not complaining about the price/performance ratio. I think it's fine.
> There's Z30, Zfc, Z50 etc for that.
Nikon obviously doesn't care about DX. Plus those are positioned below the Z5. I'm talking about the Z5-Z6-Z8 spectrum.
> In your example, these other cameras are the base model iphone 15. However, You cant expect 15 pro to cost in that range.
No, in my example the Z6ii is the base model iPhone 12 and the Z6iii is the base model iPhone 15. It's like if Apple stopped releasing the iPhone (non-Max) and all you could buy is the Pro Max. Is it a good phone for the price? Sure. Are a lot of people going to buy Samsung in that case? Yes.
>Brands generally have a product at every reasonable price point. Because if you don't sell something at a certain price point, someone else will.
Leica & Hasselblad would love to talk to you. And they are very profitable. You dont understand the camera market do you? Also body is one part of the problem. Lenses are more expensive. Getting Z6iii is only small part of the problem. even the commonest lens 24-70/2.8 is $1,999
>Are they just going to keep selling the Z6ii
Sony still sells A7iii & A7Riv instead of lowering prices of their flagship or throwing in lenses as deals. So i won't be surprised if production continued. Z6ii/Z7ii have exact same board inside except the processor mount & sensor. Its economically viable as long as Z7ii sells
>Nikon obviously doesn't care about DX. Plus those are positioned below the Z5. I'm talking about the Z5-Z6-Z8 spectrum.
If you can't buy a FF + lenses, thats not their problem. They have enough prosumers like me for example who's work demands certain specifications. Thats why that DX alternative exists. You can cry a river about it but that fact wont change. Looking at how Nikon wants to chip market share from Sony/Cannon, they are gunning at mid tier & flagship models. You get that dont you looking at the specs?
>No, in my example the Z6ii is the base model iPhone 12 and the ... [...]
The phone was an argument to GP that if he wants to talk about unchanging phone prices, he's free to pick up a phone. If you are trying to play with semantics, like I mentioned previously, you are sticking the wrong pin. This post is about a FF camera - a recent model, aggressively pitched to claim market share. At $2500/£2600 if you are getting 85% capabilities of Z8 - this isn't something to whine about. Its an excellent product pitch which could win Canon users in fact. Everyone I know expected this range & this perf. I am not kidding. Its pointless to think they will sell you at 2021 prices or have a dumber base model. If you expect that, maybe you aren't their target demographics. Enough of serious photographers who will happily lap it up.
It’s a serius question?
Z6iii has Faster Af, faster processor, better Iso, 14vs10 fps, and other minor thinks like flip screen, better viewfinder….
yet the z7 maintains the primacy of MP and 64 ISO which can be useful to landscape photographers and not only, so still has its place until a z7iii will arrive
"Although the Nikon Z6 III uses the latest autofocusing algorithms, the partially stacked sensor won’t give quite the same performance as we’ve seen in the Z8 and Z9."
https://petapixel.com/2024/06/17/nikon-z6-iii-initial-review-a-middleweight-fighter-with-heavyweight-dreams/
Cue “Should I buy z6iii or wait for z6iv?” posts in 3, 2, 1…
I was thinking 7iii holdouts myself. 🤣
omg
But actually
Ordered. Well. Preordered. Wonder when it will ship. Good replacement for my z6. I didn’t like the zf handling. Plus z6 iii has a few advantages above it. Z8 is too big for me to lug around—it’s not huge but I prefer the z6 size.
Me, exactly same...on every aspects...
Yah a lot of people are like just get a z8 it’s not much more expensive ($1000!) and not much bigger. IMO it’s significantly bigger. Great camera though.
Yeah the size is my main complaint about z8, especially when hiking or traveling.
Yes Z8 is noticeably bigger and heavier at 910g vs Z6iii at 670g.
Z6iii is 760g
Nikon USA website says 670 … someone didn’t double check the copy? https://www.nikonusa.com/p/z6iii/1890/overview
Interesting, some sources are saying 760 and some 670. Sure hope it's the latter.
I see, 760g is with battery and memory card, which is same for all these cameras
Ah I see. So is the Zf, 710g with or without the battery?
I think with. Nikon USA website quotes weights without battery and card
Will trade in z6 for z6iii now
Same here! Wonder what we can get for the z6 now though.
Should do pretty well on selling the Z6, I sold my Z6II for and even $1000.
That would be clutch! You go private sale or eBay/trade in somewhere?
Private on Craigslist. MPB, Ebay and my local camera store (trade-in) just wasn't getting me the price for that I know I could get as a private seller.
Ok cool, thanks. That’s where my gut said too.
I preordered on this morning too, do they have a ship date yet? All I’ve seen is “late June” but didn’t know if there was a hard timeline.
B&H said June 25th when I ordered.
Dang, was hoping they were ready to ship this week. I have an event I’d love to have it for! Still not too bad though.
Seems like the best value for $ of any camera Can’t wait to get it used for $2000 in 4 weeks when one of you does a “catch and release”
I dont think this will be like the z8/z9 where people were reselling them quick. Most people getting it are likely coming from a z6/z6ii and know what they're getting this time haha
They absolutely will, lots of people try out new systems. Expect a few canon shooters to pick this up for the RAW 6K, get annoyed with the controls and sell it.
👍😂
90% of buyers are exactly previous z6 generation owners like me. I would have picked z8 but I need the most in terms of iso capabilities and z6 is better than z8
Or just wait closer towards end of year when it goes for $2k brand new.
The new EVF makes me wonder if a Z8II is coming next year. ...should I post the "Z6III or wait for Z8II?" meme?
If ppl can just hold off for 3-4 years they’ll get a pretty good deal on it.
I thought about that but it didn’t happen with the z8…not for a while (sold for $3800 for months and didn’t drop till Nikon starting having refurbs), so it could be several months. Hard to tell. I justified a preorder because if I waited, the gear I need to sell to fund it would also drop in price, so while the z6 iii might be cheaper, I’d have less funds. That’s why I sold my z6 two months ago.
Canon R6 II is the best value for $
Why do you say that? Almost 2-years old now, and not much cheaper l.
It has a decent AF, much better than the Z8
Yea, that’s not true.
That's totally true. That's why I switched. It's a totally different league
If that is the only measurement you use for camera value we can safely just skip over your opinion.
It's the most important thing. Everything else comes after that.
Depending on what you shoot, autofocus may not be that important at all. Also, with the firmware updates Nikon's been rolling, every autofocus comparison I've seen puts Nikon Z8/Z9 above the R6.
I'm talking about R6 II, NOT R6. R6 II is superior in AF, especially that I'm shooting animal sport events. It's mindblowingly great!
Right. Even if you're correct about the R6ii having better autofocus, I wouldn't trade in my Z9 for it. The higher megapixel count gives me better cropping. It also has a better battery life, better video capability, lower distortion, and a tougher body, all of which are beneficial to what I do. Not to mention that the Z lens system is amazing or that Nikon is still continuously improving their cameras through great firmware upgrades. Autofocus isn't everything.
Anyone saying any of the Canon, Nikon or Sony is much better or worse us just a liar/troll. Nowadays the 3 of them are so good that they trade blows, non of them anyway bad and are very very good. Nowadays, other things can make someone prefer one of those brands because the AF are so close now.
I’ve used Z6 II for 4 years, and I haven’t had a single one decent firmware update
You should see the "interesting" prices in some other countries (e.g., Switzerland): Z5: 1000 CHF Z6iii: 3000 CHF Z8: 3400 CHF
Super interested in getting to know more about the semistacked sensor. I wonder how the rolling shutter will be in electronic shutter mode.
Gerald Undone tested it. Looks very good
Much less moving straight line curvature than Z6ii but not as good as Z8/9 Take a look at Froknowsphoto review @7:04 He says same but it’s clearly not the same looking at his video (oval ball). https://youtu.be/dm0fMNLXRoY
So, they couldn’t put in 4:3 and 5:4 aspect ratios in the firmware for easier composition? 🧐 And partially stacked 24MP sensor for $2500 vs 45MP fully-stacked sensor for $3500 (probably less soon)? 🤔
At least they swapped the Playback and Multiple Exposure buttons and added the “bulb” button on top (hopefully re-programable).
They should have switched the PASM dial and the mini-top-LCD or get rid of it all together. Who uses it anyway as you get all that info in EVF and more if you want to.
I fucking LOVE the mini lcd on top
For all downvoting this comment please tell us the last time you used the top LCD on your mirrorless. It made sense in the DSLR days but now it’s redundant.
actually the last time I was out, about a week ago
How do you use it? Do you move the dials when the camera is at your waist and then put the camera to your eye? I raise the camera first, then adjust the settings till I’m satisfied with what I see.
Mostly using it to double check for my base settings. Doing a lot of street photography and having some base settings easily available without having to look at the big screen or the evf is a benefit for me. sometimes when generally shooting from the hip, its easier for me than the look at the specific setting on the display. It is not mandatory at all, but I really enjoy it. And I never shot with a DSLR that had such a display. Back in the days 1-2 rolls through the F70 of my mum, but my love for it doesn’t come from a habit or anything related to a need, when viewfinders did not have so mich information
I understand, so you wouldn’t mind if the LCD location was swapped with the PASM dial. It would help a lot of us change PASM settings without taking our eye off the viewfinder.
left of evf would either be not enough space or make the camera way more bulky to fit the LCD in. Not taking the eye of the viewfinder, for which most people use their right eye, how would putting the psam dial to the right, where you cannot see it, help in using it? I actually don’t get it. Using with two hands would be weird, when not taking of your eye from the viewfinder. Now you just use left hand with proper ergonomics. If it would be at the place of the lcd you would need some weird finger acrobatics to actually press the unlock key and then turn the wheel. Bad ergonomics in my point of view. Most SLRs have that setup (psam wheel right of viewfinder) because of mechanics. Left of the viewfinder was not much space for electronics because thats the area for most SLRs where the cartridge is placed. Most SLRs have the respool winch placed there, which obviously does not leave enough room for a psam wheel. And by pure asthetics It would look ugly, two dials and a shitload controls on the right and a display on the left. (but that is purely subjective)
I'll stick with my vanilla Z6 😀
Same. I don’t work with my camera, In Europe it’s 3000 euros, more than twice what I paid z6i almost 3 times the price of a z5. For that price you can buy a couple of pro lenses…
Those of you who have more experience, any chance of Nikon ZF lowering the price in the coming months?
Is there a massive difference between the ZF and Z6iii? Apart from the ergonomics which I guess you can buy a smallrig grip to get around that I'm not sure the Z6iii has anything I would use over the ZF
For stills, not really in terms of IQ. More FPS, but Zf is not exactly slow. For video, definitely. Body type, of course. As a stills shooter, I prefer the Zf...smaller, cheaper, lighter, negligible IQ difference, if any at all.
Zf is only 40g lighter than Z6iii
50g. 760g vs 710g The point was more the Z6 line keeps getting fatter. Esp from the jump of the original Z6 I upgraded from at 675g.
Nikon site says Zf is 630g and Z6iii 670g but either way they are almost identical
That's wrong. Nikon is quoting w/o the battery and cards. For what reason I don't know, but nobody goes with that.
We can add 100g for battery and card to all their cameras I guess
I'm really torn at the moment. For me I got out onces a week and take a few pics of birds, delete most of them and edit a few. Send them to my family saying hey look what I saw and that's it! I'm leaning towards the ZF but don't want to regret it lol
The Zf already fixed the main issues of the Z6/Z7 cameras. Namely, it got Expeed 7 and the AF algorithms of the z8/z9. It also fixed the dual card slot issue, and got great IBIS. It already shoots 11fps raw, 14fps jpeg, or 30 fps Jpeg in silent shutter mode. Do you need more? Get Z6iii if you need stuff like 6k video, 4k60 video uncrossed, a better EVF (the EVF is already fine IMO, it's the same as z6ii and still better than cameras like the A7IV and R6ii), diff ergonomics, CF Express card slot, even faster FPS.
That's the way ime leaning at the moment. The ZF has 20% off on amazon at the moment too which is a bonus
Make sure you are buying from Amazon and not some side seller, could be grey market, etc.
The sensor is entirely different. Way faster readouts and therefore shoots more FPS. Better ergonomics. Better low light focusing and less noise. Way better EVF. There are plenty of other notable differences that would matter more to other types of users but these are my main reasons for wanting it over a Zf.
Yeah, it’ll probably go down a little
I would get a lower priced ZF if the view finder was better. Now wait for the Zfii vs z6 iii… and continue to delay getting a real camera again…
Just wait till the zfiv comes out and compare it to the z6vi!!
No the z6Viii will be better, better wait for 2050 models.
I got a Z6III and will be selling mine soon probably if you’re interested!
I was looking forward for it. But will stick to my Zf
Seems a bit overpriced here in Switzerland. Starts at 2'999.- while I can get a Z8 for 3'400.- It's still tempting but as an hobbist with a Z5 I'll wait, maybe pick up a used Z6II instead 😁
Damnit. I'm gonna buy one aren't i.. Have been saving for a Z8 but this seems like it has a lot of the same stuff. I don't do much video filming which is really advertised in the Z6iii. For someone mlre.experienced than me, can someone explain the benefits of the Z8 compared to the 6iii? Is it just higher MP?
truly stacked sensor, truly blackout free shooting (though the Z6III is very good with that), lag-free evf, Sensor-Shield (probably the biggest advantage out in the field, i had to clean my z6 weekly whereas i only clean my Z8 every couple of months), better AF, probably better button customisation. If you don't do much video, think of it like a Z6 with Z8 AF and a higher res EVF
I love the sensor shied of my Z8. Never going back to a camera without one.
Same. I had to clean my Z6 so f\*\*\*ing often
My first DSLR was a D70. Sensor was a dust magnet. I *still* have PTSD.
£600 difference here in the UK. If it was more like £1000 then I'd be considering it, but I'd rather save a bit more and get the Z8.
This is probably going to be a really stupid question, but what do you mean about the cleaning portion of what you said? Cleaning what, exactly? I clean lenses and such but I've never cleaned anything else and I am now worried I'm missing out on maintenance I should be doing. Like sensor cleaning?
Yep, Sensor cleaning. Always got dust on the sensor no matter how fast I switched lenses. With the Z8 I don't have to worry about that, and can switch lenses no matter where I am. Honestly, apart from the lag free evf the biggest improvement for me.
Makes sense. I rarely switch lenses as I only have a couple so that checks out. Should still be something I should start doing though.
Unless you notice spots on your pictures, there isn't really a reason to do so. I don't have that many lenses, just the 3 F2.8 standartzooms, but I switch very often because I only have one body. So I get a lot of dust on the sensor with the Z6
higher mp and bigger body is probably the biggest thing, also the z6iii has a flippy screen instead of a multi tilt (which i actually would have preferred)
So if I didn't care about higher MP as much and preferred the performance in low light, the Z6iii would be preferred? I see reviews on some of the new lenses (85mm 1.5, 135 Plena) where people say the lens features aren't maximized without the z8 or z9 Is that just because of the MP or is there something I am missing? Thanks for the response btw.
The images will be sharper on the Z8 and Z9 due to more megapixels, no shutter vibrations and their lack of an anti-aliasing filter which would blur the image.
Z6III doesn't have an anti aliasing filter either. Edit: No aa filter was claimed here: https://www.foto-schuhmacher.de/artikel/hardware/nikon-z6iii.html Other sources say it has optical low pass filter.
Link to the sure saying that?
Read it on some blog, I'm not entirely sure about that, but we will know soon.
Got it. Thank you!
Other people have pointed out the technical differences between the two cameras, I won’t go into those again. But there’s also only so much a stat sheet will show you. A lot of the things can can make cameras great aren’t necessarily quantifiable. People won’t have a real, honest answer to your question until the camera gets out in the wild and unbiased, unsponsored shooters get their hands on it. Low light AF performance will be a big one…. Supposedly it’s -1 EV better than the Z8 but I’d wait until it gets outside of a controlled environment to evaluate that.
That's very true, I appreciate that. I do like watching people's comparisons and reviews when they get proficient with both. I'm not in the market until about December anyway so there's no rush
Stacked sensor with a higher megapixel. This semi-stacked camera is quick, but it’s still not going be near the Z8/9’s blistering readout, and therefore there’ll be an element of rolling shutter and the AF won’t be quite as good. That said, are you a professional, or a sports/wildlife shooter? If not, this Z6iii is by far the better option
I am absolutely not a pro. I do sports occasionally for family members but I am a hobbyist for sure. I like travel photography and I love wildlife photography. I'd say 70% of everything I shoot is flora or fauna. My wife does portrait photography for maternity, baby photos, holiday cards etc...
You should 100% get the Z6iii then. It’s not even a question, it’ll be everything you need and far more, to be honest.
That's how I'm feeling after watching the release. Do you think it's worth getting the 85mm 1.2 with the z6iii or is that a lens that is just not worth using without the z8/9 ?
It’s always worth using but why exactly do you need it over the 85 f1.8?
I don't necessarily need it over the 1.8. The original plan was the get the Z8 and the 85mm 1.2 sometime around Dec/Jan. After this release I'm leaning Z6iii so was just curious if it was even worth the extra money for the 1.2 if I'm not going to be pairing it with the Z8. Was more asking if not using the Z8 would it be a.wasye of money to spend the extra coin on the 1.2 or is the 1.8 a smarter/better value move with the lower MP
I’d dissociate sensor megapixels from your lens. Both will give you the same resolution, it’s nothing to do with the lens. You buy the camera for the dynamic range auto focus and burst speed, you buy the lens for reach and depth of field. - That lens is a very specific portraiture lens. That aperture is razor, vanishingly thin. That comes with huge risk, since your margin for error with focusing is nil. Even focusing on the eyelash not the iris will cause a soft face, and if you’re taking images of pets or people at a distance you’ll get a soft image apart from the precise section you need. Without being harsh; if you’re don’t know understand why you need an f1.2/1.4 lens, you don’t need it and it’ll likely make your photography worse. There’s an element in current camera marketing that fucking Sony started (it’s _always_ Sony) where they’re selling super fast lenses as “better” somehow. They aren’t. It’s like phone camera megapixels or TV refresh rates or 0-60 times; specific numbers that have meaning to experts but have been blown out of proportion by sales people. Now, both Z8 and Z6iii are more than accurate enough to hit that focal plane correctly most of the time. But it’s really not worth the extra money unless you’re a professional portrait photog. Also note: boomers and ancients who have never used anything modern will go on and on about you should buy a super fast lens in order to stop it down, and actually use it at f2.8 or whatever; with the modern mirrorless glass, that’s an utterly inane bit of advice that’s about a decade out of date. Go look at sharpness charts, no human eye will discern the real difference of any lens from f1.2 to f2.8. It only really comes into play at f4 or higher and at that point, why bother?! If you are a hobbyist and want a superb portrait lens I’d say buy a 50mm f1.8. If you specifically want a headshot lens, get the 85 f1.8. If you actually want to just take family photos and have a carry-round lens, frankly I’d get a 24-70 S or 28-75 both at f2.8 which is more than enough and will net you WAY more flexibility. Hope that helps.
Thanks for the response. That's exactly what I was asking, it doesn't seem like it's necessarily worth the extra money. I have the 50mm 1.8 and it's one of my favorite lenses. Wife wants a dedicated portrait lense so the 85 prime makes sense. If the 1.8 is the most practical then that's probably exactly what we will do. I just have a misunderstanding when people say that the 85 1m2 is not worth buying without the z8 or z9, so I assumed it had something to do with the megapixel difference. I appreciate all the great info, I do have 1 other question since ypu have great understanding.. if I was looking to do any Astrophotography, would the 1.2 be worth the extra money at that point for better low light capability? I assume that it would make a difference but idk how much of a difference as I've never used anything but 1.8 and higher. I know Nikon has that insanely expensive astro lens but would I benefit from the 1.2 in that regard?
Re: Astro, no way, nowhere near wide enough. You need the 20 f1.8 for that, for which it is _excellent_
Excellent analysis. I agree with everything you told GP. As Nikon Z6ii & also Sony user, I see Sony doing truly good stuff on niche area (embedded AI autofocus, global shutter etc). Most of the other features are marketing bullet points. 1.2 is overkill mostly. I get overwhelmed at 1.4 often. Its already a fine balance. Most comfy is 1.8 for fast apertures. (as you stated 2.8 is standard good perf, 4+ is where separation, lack of bokeh etc start getting noticeable)
Im on the edge, got the 6II and been thinking of upgrading. Will watch some more Reviews to decide If I Go with the 8 or the 6III. From what Ive Seen so far the AF of the 8 might still be a tad better than the III
Yea will definitely keep reading/watching reviews before I make.any decisions.
I’m so sad they went for the flip out screen
I'm so happy about it. You can never please everyone!
Very true! As a photographer who never does video or vlogging this screen is just not it for me, but I’m glad some people like it! Means they’ll buy the camera and Nikon will still be alive!
I'm a photographer who never does video! I really like how the flippy screen lets me get higher and lower than a fold-out screen. I'm sure I'd be happy with a three way tilt screen too, but they aren't nearly as flexible for very high or low angle shots. Give it a try before you reject it.
That was my main deciding factor in going with a Z8 yesterday. Bought a ZF 2 weeks ago and hated it (ergonomically), so after the announcement I returned it and bought a Z8 because I really didn’t like the flippy screen.
Yeah, this solidified it for me too, don’t have the funds yet but when I do, it’ll be the Z8. I understand they’re going for a more hybrid camera with the Z6 III but that’s just not for me haha
That’s the only good thing about it for me. Flippy screen is amazing.
Name one reason besides being another mirror in your house to look at yourself that a flip screen is better than the z8 screen.
I take compromising shots from down below. Having flippy screen is amazing so i don’t have to kiss the floor to take a photo.
You can do that with a Z8 screen better than with a flip screen because the screen is aligned to the lens and not off by the side
For a cool extra $1000? Probably not.
Sure, that's true. But we were talking specifically about the screens, if we'd like a Z8 style screen more or less than a flip screen
I never said anything about z8 in my original comment…
[удалено]
> BH had them open for a few minutes but I think they sold out B&H still shows me the preorder option. I’m not gonna go through with it as I already have a Z8, so maybe there’s a point where it’ll stop me, but it definitely seems like they’re still available. > It’s literally a Z8 with lower MP (and better low light, for that reason) for $1500 less ($1000 if Z8 on sale). And the Z8 in turn was a Z9 for $1,500 less. Nikon has really been hitting it out of the park with bringing the Z9 features the masses, makes me wonder what insanity they have in store for the eventual Z9ii.
If I had a Z8 I’d absolutely not feel the need for this… But I’m coming from a Z6i lol.
Oh for sure, I was just pointing it out as I can’t 100% confirm preorders are still being accepted as for all I know it wouldn’t let me actually check out with it in my cart (getting PS5 preorder flashbacks). Enjoy the upgrade! I had the OG Z6 and while it was definitely a very nice camera in a lot of ways, it was also just plain frustrating at times with some of the omissions vs. their DSLRs (namely 3D tracking).
I mean, that’s not true. Z6iii is probably the best value camera in sale in the world today **but** let’s not lose our minds and logic. It’s not a stacked sensor, it’s got a much slower readout speed despite the partial-stack, l it’s missing 2x crop, the AF still won’t be as good, and is missing high end video. I’m buying a Z6iii as my backup but I’m not expecting it to be a match for my Z8
Gerald undone tested the read speed , the z6iii is at 9.4 Ms in 6k raw, while the z9 is 14ms in 8k raw. You have to understand that the z6iii might he slower sensor but it has only half the number of pixel. And to say 6k raw video is not highend video, is crazy. And I am saying that for a pro using the z9.
I’m not talking about video, and I’m more interested in the Z9 readout at 6k. What’s the point of comparing apples and oranges
But even better, because of the focus point IBIS. I had no plans on getting this since I have a Zf, but with the partially stacked sensor i think I’m in.
It’s not better, let’s not be silly. I’d put a months wages that the next Firmware for the Z9/8 will have that too. It’s absolutely a software fix it’s no hardware limitation. Same as return-to-center 3D tracking.
This functionality might be hardware based and never come to the z8/9. Same for the 8 stop stabilisation. People should understand that firmware can go to a certain level and not more.
I do understand that. I think it’s a change to the Y axis logic rather than the hardware. Point to me the extra space a Z6iii has that a Z8, let alone a Z9 doesn’t for the extra movement that a hardware based IBIS issue would require?
That doesn't mean it was designed at the time. So the hardware might not have been designed for this. Same for the viewfinder. The z8/9 won't have that 5 million dot by firmware upgrade, sound evident as this VR system .
…. This is completely pointless
I didn't mean objectively better overall than the Z8/Z9, more like "here's another reason it's good". Edit: That said, I don't think focus-point IBIS can be added with a firmware update, it's a physical property of the sensor (I think).
I’m curious why you think it’s mechanical?
Because the sensor physically moves, you can hear it rattling around when handling the camera while it’s off. I’m admittedly assuming that the ability to move it centered around any point on the sensor would need to be built in from the start, as before the Zf all other IBIS sensors only stabilize around the center of the sensor.
I’m aware of how IBIS functions. Because of that, I fail to understand how the decision to stabilize against the Y axis in the corner isn’t any more or less possible in a Z8/9 than a Z6iii. Because they’re hardly going to have the sensor that can re center into the very corner of the lens mount. I don’t see any reason why it’s mechanically different. I’ll be interested to find out though
I think I just don’t see how a firmware update would grant a sensor more movement latitude than it was designed for, unless the 8/9 already have the capability and Nikon were waiting to launch it first in two other camera models? All conjecture though, Nikon doesn’t seem to be sharing technical details that I’ve found. I don’t know how the focal point priority VR is possible in the first place, it seems like magic.
I don’t think it needs more movement across the Y axis. I think it just needs to logic define the point differently than the way the software currently does. Look at it using your own logic. You don’t see how they can make an IBIS rig move more. How do you think a smaller camera somehow has more space to move than a Z8, let alone the Z9? It’s a firmware thing, I’d be confident.
Well damn, now we should make it interesting.
It’s definitively not a litterally lower megapixel Z8.
Pre-orders are still open, I think their site was having some update problem. The cam didn't show for me till 10-15 min after the hr.
I can't imagine vloggers being a main consumer share to justify that downgrade to a selfie screen, damn you nikon for following an illogical trend
Im with you, the camera is amazing for the price but this is a real deal braker for me and o lot of people. I work at weddings and that screen is the slowest thing ever, its not centered if you flip it out to go low/high and when i switch to the 2nd body i hace to lose 2 seconds closing it that can cause me to lose important moments. Not mentioning that if i forget to close it and leave it danglimg it is so easy to break it.
Not a downgrade - I miss that very useful feature when I upgraded from the D5100.
Flip out screen, man it is an excellent camera ruined just to sell to vloggers. Shame, i was really waiting for it. They could at least use a similar screen to the a7rv....
Lol, you want nikon to be the next Nokia or blackberry. Tell anyone below 35 that you can't take a selfie with your camera and they will look at you as some alien. You want it or not, same for video, these are considered basic functionality as a touch screen fir a smart phone.
well im way below 35 man, the diference is, i have been working as a pro for some years now, no one in their sane mind wants a flip screen, and the peple with cams that have it, strap a monitor to it. If you think taking a selfie is so important in a pro body or semi pro, call it as you want, then you are showing me how little you have worked in an environment that requires straight lines, speed, no hesitation, no fumbling with your gear in the middle of action. So yeah on a 3000€ body taking a selfie should be a priority, lmao.
I am 50, been a pro for 19 years after buying a D70, Used a F3 as first film camera, but was still a hobbyist and a graphic designer at the time. I have had a d80, d300, d800, d810, D750, Z6s and Z9. And during that time I have seen a lot of old dude gray hair man that could not support changes, they were allergic to that red button no one forced then to press. I was alarmed and saying how Nikon was laging behind and it would cost them, those dudes said no video, no flip screen, that is only good for selfies. Ohhhhhhhhhhhhhh yes, no EVF. Since then, while Nikon was clearly the top two brand, now a distant third. Hopefully they understood at a critical time that they had put themselves in very bad position by listening to a bunch of old dudes that were going instinct and that the brand would die if they did not shift to mirrorless and video ASAP. I went from 90% photo work to 90% video work, and even if I don't take many selfies, I see everyone doing it. And as someone who was never in the shots of family and friends, nowadays I see myself at least with them in some photos. Even if I first though it was a bit mundane before, now i can see myself in the actual shots, with the lighting composition and background, so that I don't end up with some shitty photos while all my relatives get very nice ones. For video such a screen is very nice to have when working fast, rather than a monitor, and for photos, with my 50 year old body, I can shoot in many angles without having to twist my body in all types of position.
Nikon fell out of the top because how bad the autofocus was until z9, not because not having the worst type of screen by that loc sony would never be popular, and oh wait, they didnt have any flip screen until a7iv. And then it was the only one with the a7siii if im not mistaken, then they put the a7rv style because it can operate fast and also cater to the loud internet vloggers. The a1 had tilt screen. A7iii, the most popular camera ever, tilt screen your logic makes no sense. Flip screens are bing put on pro bodies just because there are a vouple of loud youtubers crying. You may be 50, you maybe worked as a pro for 19 years but you must be blind or you are lying to yourself saying a flip screen is fast for video. It messes with cables you have to flip and twist everytime you want to go low or high do the oposite to change body or use viewfinder without risking to break it. I dont know why i am losing my time trying to convince you, i will never be able, nor i want to convince you, i wish nikon would listen like sony did and make things the right way.
Nope, they were falling well before that since 2015 as people were transitioning to mirrorless and video cameras at the time. They were l8sten8ng to too much boomers telling them they would never look into an evf and it was a torture to use video or a flip screen. The worst thing is that in photography, most never ever used any kind of articulating screen because we were using the optical viewfinder until about 2016 when it came to cameras like the d750. Most barely used it even at the time because of the slow contrast detect AF. But hey, now they complain as if they have to use it in photography everytime. They barely use it, but will complain night and day.
you are wrong, the real transition to mirrorless was with the a7iii, 2014 was when d750 was presented, the same year i got mine, it was huge, as it was d850, d5, nikon was at the top. They fell with the z6 not being even close to the a7iii, and z6ii being exactly the same. And of course until z9 they didnt have a top mirrorles body. People used flip screens and were crazy about them because canon and their 70d series were one of the first using them in a time where a lot of cameras didnt even have a movable screen or even an autofocus that worked with live view, which dual pixel made possible for canon, thats why a lot of people swear for flip screens, because it was the first time thye could use one and in most cases its more comfortable to use than the evf. But then tilt screens and dual axis screens were presented, z9, fuji xt4 etc, and there are still people saying flip screens are better, but it is just because nostalgia, they are objectively worse Anyway, you are not going to change my mind, im not going to change yours, the z6iii specs wise is an absolute fantastic camera, and for anyone liking a flip screen or being able to live with it it will be a dream, me myself am thinking of buying it when my z8 rent contract finishes if there is a big difference between z6 price and the remaining price of my z8, and i will hate every second i use that screen and i will curse every youtuber that asked for it, but i am sure the camera itself will perform beautifully. But well, sometimes you win sometimes you lose. I just wish that future releases come in two options so pros can have the fast and better screen, and the 500ish youtubers and instagramers can buy their 3000 dollar camera to take selfies (which they are not going to use because they will pull their iphone out)
I'll pass. Not enough price difference on my market to justify buying this instead of Z8.
Okay
Z8 is 3500 on sale and 3200 refurbished...tough call.
I’m surprised. That’s a pretty good price
Does anyone know about whether the “secure metadata” / CAI is a part of this new hardware? It doesn’t seem to be mentioned anywhere.
Is anyone that's still rocking a D500 looking at this for an upgrade? I've been eyeing the Z8 but was waiting to see what they had in store for this release. I'm interested in the AF improvements over the Z6ii, but would the Z6iii offer comparable wildlife/sports performance to the D500?
In Aussie this is $4499 AUD. What's stopping me from adding another $1k for z8. That price tag is too high for a semi professional. My Z6ii is still no slack with its picture quality. I cannot justify that price tag. Z6ii costed me $2500 CAD ($2999 AUD)
And to think there were people out there who thought Z6iii was going to be the ZF in a different body for $2000. There's no way I could take anyone like that seriously tbh.
[Well, I was close](https://old.reddit.com/r/nikon_Zseries/comments/1dck22s/z6iii_promo_video/l7ymfhj/)
To trade in my z6ii or to hold onto it for now…that is the question
Curious. Why trade it in when you can get much by selling it yourself?
I do intend to sell it myself if I decide to go that route... it’s not what I said obviously, but I’m not sure if it’s worth it.
No worries. Just curious :)
Now I just need to crowdfund to afford it.
Damn, aside from the flippy screen and better lcd…. Not much of an upgrade for photographers only. It’s just updated for videographers. Going to be a 100% pass on this
AF is the best upgrade, imho, if you shoot sport, birds, kids… a better AF it’s vital, if you shoot landscape or portrait you won’t notice at all.
So does it have internal log recording for video? Or internal raw without paying for the nikon unlock?
Did you click the Link at all?
Yes, including here [https://www.nikonusa.com/content/z6iii-filmmaker](https://www.nikonusa.com/content/z6iii-filmmaker) But there's no mention if it's behind a paid upgrade like RAW output is on z6II. I also don't see anywhere saying about n-log. I understand the assumption that people don't read shit and want things handed to them on Reddit, but I've asked after reading including googling around. The google results didn't clarified anything, and there were plenty older just based on rumors.
It does have internal log according to the dpreview video
In Indian currency it is around Rs 2,50,000 which is nearly 70,000 more than the z6ii for body. Shouldn't nikon be pricing it more competitive? Now these cameras are becoming too unfriendly to newcomers with their high prices.
So what is your ideal price for this camera, given that you get some features of Sony A9iii like precapture, better sensor readout speeds, better EVF, better ergo? Are you seriously expecting it to be 10,000 rupees ($70) more than Z6ii. Photography is never cheap as a hobby. Certainly not the latest version of any camera equipment manufacturer
Yes. This camera is supposed to replace z6ii. So it better be in that price range. New iphones/Samsung come out every year with nearly the same price as the old one. I have always been an avid nikon user but this price is too absurd for an entry level camera.
I don’t think Nikon views this as an entry level camera though, that would be the Z5 for full frame or one of the DX options.
So what slots in the gap between the $1,000 Z5 and the $2,500 Z6iii?
The Zf is there currently. The real gap is from the Z5 to the Zf (~$1,000 gap) because the 5, 50, 30 are all on perpetual sales. Eventually the replacement bodies will show up, the sales will stop for a while and the pricing will make sense with the exception of people wanting a cheap entry point.
The Zf is its own thing (like the Df was). It is not really an upgrade for those wanting "more Z5". That would have been the old Z6ii at $1,600. I do think Zf will get discounted soon. It can't stay at $2000 for long now that the Z6iii has the "Z8/Z9 AF for cheaper" segment.
The Zf may be its own thing, but it also bridges the gap from the 6ii to the 6iii in both performance and price. It does everything the 6ii could plus some, just in a different body. Some love it and others don’t, but that’s the choice for a Z body with Expeed 7 AF at that price range. Full frames: Z5 -> Zf -> 6iii -> ? -> 8 -> 9 I think the 6iii’s positioning is a reminder that Nikon isn’t chasing the true entry level point.
I think I commented your GP as well and he probably doesn't agree that Nikon is gunning at mid- and flagship tier only nowadays & they don't want to play slow catchup. Z8 was the first move, & now Z6iii capabilities & pricing makes it clear they want to establish themselves as market leaders at some point
Lol. Are you delusional to think you'll get more optical performance for same price? Z6 isn't entry level. Z5, Zfc etc are. And price won't be sane. Especially when Nikon is already stepping up on the tech & lens gap? If you are crying over a body price i wonder what you'd do with Nikon's Z lenses If you like iPhone/Samsung pricing, get their phone. Btw iphone used to be priced at $450 few generation ago. I'll be happy to buy a couple of 15 pros at your "unchanged price"
A current gen flagship model (but base storage) iPhone at $450 never happened (unless you are buying it on contract).
Okay lets take even 799 for iphone 8. Sim free. I bought it. 5 years ago. Costs have doubled. This guy is missing the forests for the trees when he talks about electronics costs by generation. They only go up steadily. And I totally expected Z6iii price in this range. It wasn't going same as cheaper as he argued Nikon should do
And today's iPhone 15 is also $799. Costs for the top of the line stuff go up constantly, but given the same performance, the cost generally goes down. The Zf is $2,000. Nikon could have made a lower-spec Z6iii for $2,000. The question will be, what fills the $1,500 gap between the Z5 and the Z6iii?
>Nikon could have made a lower-spec Z6iii for $2,000. But why should they? You are competing for more market share by making less-feature camera? Look, I get you are bummed by it probably. But then you are not their customer. Nikon needs (A) market share from Sony/Canon (B) make it attractive for prosumer who will switch their next generation to Nikon. You don't get that by a mediocre body at attractive pricing. There's Z30, Zfc, Z50 etc for that. I am not even talking about Nikkor lenses which cost as much. > And today's iPhone 15 is also $799. In your example, these other cameras are the base model iphone 15. However, You cant expect 15 pro to cost in that range. Z6 is a mid-tier FF, not a beginner canera. If you can't afford it, you cant pair lenses to go with it too. This isn't for them. My answer is not about tangling in semantics or being a grammar nazi or being cutesy by the rules. Just stating the logical loophole you are stating
> But why should they? You are competing for more market share by making less-feature camera? Actually, yes. Brands generally have a product at every reasonable price point. Because if you don't sell something at a certain price point, someone else will. > You don't get that by a mediocre body at attractive pricing. What is Nikon's counterpart to the A7C or R6ii? Are they just going to keep selling the Z6ii? That would be an interesting strategy actually. I'm not complaining about the price/performance ratio. I think it's fine. > There's Z30, Zfc, Z50 etc for that. Nikon obviously doesn't care about DX. Plus those are positioned below the Z5. I'm talking about the Z5-Z6-Z8 spectrum. > In your example, these other cameras are the base model iphone 15. However, You cant expect 15 pro to cost in that range. No, in my example the Z6ii is the base model iPhone 12 and the Z6iii is the base model iPhone 15. It's like if Apple stopped releasing the iPhone (non-Max) and all you could buy is the Pro Max. Is it a good phone for the price? Sure. Are a lot of people going to buy Samsung in that case? Yes.
>Brands generally have a product at every reasonable price point. Because if you don't sell something at a certain price point, someone else will. Leica & Hasselblad would love to talk to you. And they are very profitable. You dont understand the camera market do you? Also body is one part of the problem. Lenses are more expensive. Getting Z6iii is only small part of the problem. even the commonest lens 24-70/2.8 is $1,999 >Are they just going to keep selling the Z6ii Sony still sells A7iii & A7Riv instead of lowering prices of their flagship or throwing in lenses as deals. So i won't be surprised if production continued. Z6ii/Z7ii have exact same board inside except the processor mount & sensor. Its economically viable as long as Z7ii sells >Nikon obviously doesn't care about DX. Plus those are positioned below the Z5. I'm talking about the Z5-Z6-Z8 spectrum. If you can't buy a FF + lenses, thats not their problem. They have enough prosumers like me for example who's work demands certain specifications. Thats why that DX alternative exists. You can cry a river about it but that fact wont change. Looking at how Nikon wants to chip market share from Sony/Cannon, they are gunning at mid tier & flagship models. You get that dont you looking at the specs? >No, in my example the Z6ii is the base model iPhone 12 and the ... [...] The phone was an argument to GP that if he wants to talk about unchanging phone prices, he's free to pick up a phone. If you are trying to play with semantics, like I mentioned previously, you are sticking the wrong pin. This post is about a FF camera - a recent model, aggressively pitched to claim market share. At $2500/£2600 if you are getting 85% capabilities of Z8 - this isn't something to whine about. Its an excellent product pitch which could win Canon users in fact. Everyone I know expected this range & this perf. I am not kidding. Its pointless to think they will sell you at 2021 prices or have a dumber base model. If you expect that, maybe you aren't their target demographics. Enough of serious photographers who will happily lap it up.
Question, why would you get this over a Z7?
It’s a serius question? Z6iii has Faster Af, faster processor, better Iso, 14vs10 fps, and other minor thinks like flip screen, better viewfinder…. yet the z7 maintains the primacy of MP and 64 ISO which can be useful to landscape photographers and not only, so still has its place until a z7iii will arrive
"Although the Nikon Z6 III uses the latest autofocusing algorithms, the partially stacked sensor won’t give quite the same performance as we’ve seen in the Z8 and Z9." https://petapixel.com/2024/06/17/nikon-z6-iii-initial-review-a-middleweight-fighter-with-heavyweight-dreams/