Steve -- good job.
You must be asked: "but what is the best way....." and many don't like the answer there is not one way. I like the fact that you state very clearly that there are many different ways pro-level cameras can be set up and used and there is no right way or best way.
The way that works for each person in their environment and for what they are shooting is what determines how they may wish to use their professional level tool. I agree 100%.
Anyone new to a mirrorless; new to a pro-level mirrorless; and/or new to a Z8 or Z9 is in for a ride -- please be open to it.
These cameras work similarly to your previous one BUT very differently as well AND you will discover your shooting preferences and styles change when you adapt to how to use them best.
Some choices (Yes including BBAF) may stick with you for a while because you are more familiar with it or because you choose to - but BBAF is not a must do because you have to use it. I don't and am still able to take adequate shots.
These cameras are powerful and almost endlessly configurable. Keep it simple to start -- learn to walk before running a sprint or a marathon.
I am not as patient as most -- my answer to what is the best way to use a Z8 boils down to:
- LEARN how to shoot (and this is not quick);
- LEARN your subject and how to get the best out of them (with models it is one way, with lions and leopards it is another etc.);
- LEARN your environment, the language you need to communicate effectively and how to behave in it (be this the field, up a mountain, in a studio on a set);
- LEARN your gear and how to set it up, use it and maintain it;
- and not last LEARN to learn, accept feedback and progress -- this requires both time but most importantly the right attitude.
As a rule of thumb it takes 10,000 hours of productive work to become barely competent at any skilled pursuit -- photography is no different.
Your books and vids help make the learning curve shorter but only if folk want to learn; adapt and adjust. My own journey with the Z9 began almost 15 months ago and I am still learning, adjusting to new types of shoot and environment and modifying how i set up and use it. Even though setting up the Z8 took 20-30 mins I expect the learning curve on the Z8 to be no quicker -- yes the same in so many ways, but lighter smaller and in a few ways a wee bit less capable -- so more and different choices to be made. How it behaves in the hand on my various lenses and supports are different; how I pan and track with a lighter body - different; and so on.
You 10 rules were spot on -- but some folk will drop $4k on a body and much more on lenses and "just because of that" expect the camera to do all the work. Well that is not a good value investment by them. Neither the camera store nor the manufacturer really care. It is on the user for over buying if they cannot take good shots with this tool.