Appropriate body for the situation

[Nimi]

@Nimi, how's the S9 working for you?

So I decided not to keep it. The images were fine, but not good enough for me. I think it's a lens issue more than a sensor issue, there just isn't a great 28 or 35mm lens for it. The Leica APO-Summicron-SL comes close, but it's big and pricy and defeats the purpose of a light travel kit.

 

[Juliette]

So I decided not to keep it. The images were fine, but not good enough for me. I think it's a lens issue more than a sensor issue, there just isn't a great 28 or 35mm lens for it. The Leica APO-Summicron-SL comes close, but it's big and pricy and defeats the purpose of a light travel kit.

That doesn't surprise me. I had a friend who bought it and returned it exactly for that reason; the lens selection. I think it has potential in theory but needs refinement. Thanks for the feedback.

 

[Mark_Laidlaw]

I think you're in the right just keeping what you've got. I've used a Z50II, it's quick - but when you're in the field, the Z6III just such a better camera, and it doesn't weigh that much more is that much smaller.

 

[O]

The order top to bottom
Z9 (Z9II Looming)
Z8 (Z8II will come in sooner than expected)
Z6III (Z7III pending)
Zf

That's as low as i would go.

Once you use a Z9 Z8 its hard to use anything else, that said
If size and weight is a real issue then there is a compromise. Is it worth it ? its a personal choice.

I find its better to just choose one camera and focus in photography, that way i get the very best out of it.

The Z6 III will do so much, especially the more one grows into it.

Only an opinion

 

[Juliette]

I think you're in the right just keeping what you've got. I've used a Z50II, it's quick - but when you're in the field, the Z6III just such a better camera, and it doesn't weigh that much more is that much smaller.

that's really good to hear, thank you!

 

[Juliette]

The order top to bottom
Z9 (Z9II Looming)
Z8 (Z8II will come in sooner than expected)
Z6III (Z7III pending)
Zf

That's as low as i would go.

Once you use a Z9 Z8 its hard to use anything else, that said
If size and weight is a real issue then there is a compromise. Is it worth it ? its a personal choice.

I find its better to just choose one camera and focus in photography, that way i get the very best out of it.

The Z6 III will do so much, especially the more one grows into it.

Only an opinion

I love my Z6III so no arguments here!

 

[O]

Loving your Camera,

The operative word is LOVE, its the foundation of why and what we do, i think.


My point about sticking mostly with one camera as much as possible and mastering it completely is that it actually especially in my case made me a far better photographer.
I avoided being distracted by multi pal choices for optional bodies, i focused more on glass and how to drive the camera i had 11/tenths.

 

[Juliette]

Loving your Camera,

The operative word is LOVE, its the foundation of why and what we do, i think.


My point about sticking mostly with one camera as much as possible and mastering it completely is that it actually especially in my case made me a far better photographer.
I avoided being distracted by multi pal choices for optional bodies, i focused more on glass and how to drive the camera i had 11/tenths.

You're right. GAS is real too. My goal was to make it easier on my hands and shoulders and on airplanes. I think the new lens being of the very lightest telephoto lens made will help accomplish that!

 

[EricBowles]

Hello again, just reviving this thread for a minute. I want to address the lens need I mentioned in my December question about travel set up. I currently have the Z6III. Here are my requirements and some options. Would anyone care to suggest a path? Thank you in advance!

Requirements:

1. The lightest possible option to take on a plane and fit underneath the seat in front me. Bag should share space with an iPad Pro and various peripherals, so we're talking one of those small rolling bags. Weight is primary concern due to previous hand injury. Current at home set up and for short car trips, 2-3 hours max, I usually bring my Nikon Z6iii (weight 1.68 lbs) plus the Tamron 150-500mm (weight 4.14 lbs.) so I'm already pushing it with almost 6.5 lbs.
2. Must be a Nikon set up. I tried going the MFT route, but I have decided that by the time you add on pro lenses, the weight differences are negligible, therefore, why bother with two different systems?
3. Must not exceed $1,500.00. That's a random number, but I cannot justify paying that much for a lens that I only plan to use once a quarter. My Tamron is just fine for local purposes.

Options:

1. Z6III + converter + Nikon 300mm PF 1.66 lbs (total weight = 3.34lb). The only cost is a used lens less than 800.00 USD
2. Z50II with kit lenses, forget full frame - I know I said I would not do this previously but that kit is $1,200.00 and I could use the Z50 as a back up at home.
3. Original z50 + converter + (original, less than a pound) + Nikon 300mm PF 1.66 lbs (total weight = 2.56 lb). Cost is the lens and a used Z50 is about 500.00. This gives me a tilt screen I could use for street as well.

Am I missing another option?

The Tamron 150-500 is significantly heavier than the Z 400mm f/4.5 (2.7 pounds). The 400mm f/4.5 is also a bit sharper. But it's $3300, so probably something for the future. It pairs well with the Z 1.4 TC.

I'd take a look at the Nikon Z 50-250 DX. It would operate in DX mode on your Z6iii, and for occasional use where weight is at a premium, it's probably a good option. The cost is around $300. Optical performance is good - similar to your Tamron. You could also consider a Z macro like the 50mm f/2.8. It would double for street photography. Pair it with the Z 26mm f.2.8 pancake lens and you have a three lens kit weighing just 1 pound. The total cost of the three lenses would be within your budget.

For light weight and performance, the Z50ii and the Z6iii are your best options. I'd drop the Z50 from the mix unless you are willing to give up wildlife in action. The Z50 is weak for BIF while the Z6iii and Z50ii are very good.

 

[Juliette]

The Tamron 150-500 is significantly heavier than the Z 400mm f/4.5 (2.7 pounds). The 400mm f/4.5 is also a bit sharper. But it's $3300, so probably something for the future. It pairs well with the Z 1.4 TC.

I'd take a look at the Nikon Z 50-250 DX. It would operate in DX mode on your Z6iii, and for occasional use where weight is at a premium, it's probably a good option. The cost is around $300. Optical performance is good - similar to your Tamron. You could also consider a Z macro like the 50mm f/2.8. It would double for street photography. Pair it with the Z 26mm f.2.8 pancake lens and you have a three lens kit weighing just 1 pound. The total cost of the three lenses would be within your budget.

For light weight and performance, the Z50ii and the Z6iii are your best options. I'd drop the Z50 from the mix unless you are willing to give up wildlife in action. The Z50 is weak for BIF while the Z6iii and Z50ii are very good.

@EricBowles - these are interesting options that I wouldn't have thought of... I will take a look at that. I already ordered the 300mm PF ED (which is stuck on a truck due to weather) but for those price tags, I can manage to pick up additional lenses....also, I have the 28mm Z lens as well as the 40mm, which are fine for street. Not sure how it compares to the 26mm 2.8 but I've heard good things. Thanks so much!

 

[Unscript]

The 24-120mm f/4 is indeed great, but if you need more reach - which you indeed will for large birds - and if you're not too fussy about VR quality, there's the Tamron 50-400mm f/4.5-6.3. It's about 1300 €, at the moment. Note that the lens alone weighs 1180 g.

Make sure to fully test it on the Z6III as soon as it's delivered; the one I purchased was a little loose at the mount and its AF was average, so it was returned for refund straight away. Other people seem happy about the brand these days, though, and that lens has good scores and is quite versatile. It gets a bit heavy after a while.

 

[Juliette]

Tamron is great and I have no issues with it. I actually considered that lens but felt like the 300mm f/4 PF was not only a more attractive option, even with the converter, but I had that lens and sold it, so I remember how good it is! Nevertheless, I would be interested in renting the Tamron as well. I have options and this is great! Thank you.

 

[Juliette]

I finally got a notification from UPS that the lens I ordered, which has been on a truck stuck in bad weather for four days, is due to arrive today. Should I be concerned that it's been sitting in that kind of environment?

 

[Unscript]

I finally got a notification from UPS that the lens I ordered, which has been on a truck stuck in bad weather for four days, is due to arrive today. Should I be concerned that it's been sitting in that kind of environment?

Hopefully it's well wrapped in a plastic bag. Maybe check for any sign of condensation when you receive it?
It should be fine.

 

[Juliette]

Hopefully it's well wrapped in a plastic bag. Maybe check for any sign of condensation when you receive it?
It should be fine.

I found a nice video that covers how to inspect a used lens.

 

[O]

My back up right now is the Zf. Honestly, this post is an exercise in self-discipline. I don't need another purchase until there's a miraculous 'do it all' full frame travel camera and lens kit that weighs like M43.

For my self wanting two cameras, i would consider going forward the Z7III and the back up Z6III as the utopian duo.
If i wanted one only camera it would be the Z7III, if it has the new features of the ZF Z6III WOW now 45mp and 20mp in DX mode, only need one camera and an i Phone 15.

 

[Mark_Laidlaw]

For my self wanting two cameras, i would consider going forward the Z7III and the back up Z6III as the utopian duo.
If i wanted one only camera it would be the Z7III, if it has the new features of the ZF Z6III WOW now 45mp and 20mp in DX mode, only need one camera and an i Phone 15.

You basically just described a Z8

 

[Juliette]

My 300mm PF ED arrived from Adorama damaged!! The lens mount was warped and the lens hood cracked. And this was supposed to be in mint condition! I had to take a number of images of it, but ultimately, I sent it back this afternoon.

I don't think I'll find the deal I got on it originally, so it's back to the drawing board. Now looking at the 400mm f/4.5 but ouch! $$$$ more than budgeted. I might try the DX lens that @EricBowles recommended first - or the Tamron @Unscript recommended.

 

[Replytoken]

My 300mm PF ED arrived from Adorama damaged!! The lens mount was warped and the lens hood cracked. And this was supposed to be in mint condition! I had to take a number of images of it, but ultimately, I sent it back this afternoon.

I don't think I'll find the deal I got on it originally, so it's back to the drawing board. Now looking at the 400mm f/4.5 but ouch! $$$$ more than budgeted. I might try the DX lens that @EricBowles recommended first - or the Tamron @Unscript recommended.

So sorry to hear about the damaged lens. While it is not everyone's first choice, this may be an affordable option - https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1818948-REG/nikon_nikkor_z_28_400mm_f_4_8.html . The sample shots in this thread at Nikon Café made me reconsider the IQ at 400mm - https://www.nikoncafe.com/threads/nikkor-z-28-400mm-f-4-8-vr.353205/ . Something to consider that does not break the bank.

--Ken

 

[Juliette]

So sorry to hear about the damaged lens. While it is not everyone's first choice, this may be an affordable option - https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1818948-REG/nikon_nikkor_z_28_400mm_f_4_8.html . The sample shots in this thread at Nikon Café made me reconsider the IQ at 400mm - https://www.nikoncafe.com/threads/nikkor-z-28-400mm-f-4-8-vr.353205/ . Something to consider that does not break the bank.

--Ken

Hi Ken! Thank you for the reminder. I had forgotten that we chatted about that. i'l put it on the list.

 

[O]

You basically just described a Z8

I can see where your coming from, however delving deeper the Z6III is and the Z7III will be different in their own right.

My understanding is the Z6III has exceptional low light performance, less and larger pixel pitch, unlimited buffer, 3 stops better IBIS, 2 stops great low light focusing sensitivity reducing the issues of low light low contrast subjects being tracked reliably, lots of speed, in these several areas the Z8 is already showing grey hairs in in need of a catch up.

I am speculating the ZF Z6III new features plus more may will be in the Z7III, who knows.

Its often been felt the Z8 was a interim model after the rushed unfinished Z9. Remember Nikon desperately rushed into the market.

The Z7III, its not known as to what it exactly will be, however the upgraded features of the ZF Z6III will no doubt surface in the Z7III with the possible exception of unlimited buffer, it could even have the 61mp Sony sensor, yes please, Canon is looking at releasing their 80mp sensor this year if we believe roomers ?

If you want one camera only yes currently the Z8 fits the bill other than excessive weight, unlimited buffer by comparison to the Z6III.

Wanting two light smaller cameras its the Z6III Z7III each a different enough to cover all needs including being a back up camera.

2025 will be an interesting year in more ways than just photography gear.

Only an opinion

 

[O]

My 300mm PF ED arrived from Adorama damaged!! The lens mount was warped and the lens hood cracked. And this was supposed to be in mint condition! I had to take a number of images of it, but ultimately, I sent it back this afternoon.

I don't think I'll find the deal I got on it originally, so it's back to the drawing board. Now looking at the 400mm f/4.5 but ouch! $$$$ more than budgeted. I might try the DX lens that @EricBowles recommended first - or the Tamron @Unscript recommended.

Was the box or packing damaged ? or just the lens.


400 F4.5 is ? 1245 gms the 300 pf with adapter is close to 900gms, is weight an issue ?

Optically there each different, even more so especially if you add a 1.4 TC to the 300 pf, the DSLR TC is no where as good as the Z Tcs.
the 300 PF has some focus breathing issues.

The 400 F4.5 with a Z Tc is better by far, the Z Tcs don’t degrade on Z glass so to speak.

I used the 300 F4 PF, a great lens, side by side to my 300 2.8 VR II, the 2.8 was clearly better especially when the TC 1.4 came into play.

The current 400 F4.5 is optically close to my 300 F2.8 VR II if you follow me.

Maybe put the foot on the break, (Q) are you looking to save weight or obtain optical benefits, in which case the 400 F4.5 is the better choice by far.

Can you live with a prime ??


So unless i have missed something for which i apologise.

Only an opinion

 

[Juliette]

Was the box or packing damaged ? or just the lens.


400 F4.5 is ? 1245 gms the 300 pf with adapter is close to 900gms, is weight an issue ?

Optically there each different, even more so especially if you add a 1.4 TC to the 300 pf, the DSLR TC is no where as good as the Z Tcs.
the 300 PF has some focus breathing issues.

The 400 F4.5 with a Z Tc is better by far, the Z Tcs don’t degrade on Z glass so to speak.

I used the 300 F4 PF, a great lens, side by side to my 300 2.8 VR II, the 2.8 was clearly better especially when the TC 1.4 came into play.

The current 400 F4.5 is optically close to my 300 F2.8 VR II if you follow me.

Maybe put the foot on the break, (Q) are you looking to save weight or obtain optical benefits, in which case the 400 F4.5 is the better choice by far.

Can you live with a prime ??


So unless i have missed something for which i apologise.

Only an opinion

Thank you so much for the comments. The lens only was damaged and it's back on its way to Adorama.

I followed you perfectly and you have only missed one thing, perhaps, which is that I want to use the lens with my Z6III and only for travel. I currently use the Tamron 150-500 f 4.5-5.6 and am happy with it, but do not want to carry it on a plane with everything else.

Right now the 400mm f/4.5 is over budget.

I can wait until February, but will need something by then.

Other options are the tamron 50-400mm, though optically not as refined....

and about the same price as the 28-400mm z lens

.

The telephoto DX lens was also mentioned.

https://photographylife.com/reviews/nikon-z-dx-50-250mm-f4-5-6-3-vr

Or I try to find another copy of the 300mm PF f mount lens again but I doubt I can find the same deal (I used my Adorama points).

So there you are. Options exist, but bottom line is weight is primary....

Right now the 28-400mm for the money or the Tamron 50-400mm are my best options, I think.

The Z lens is only 1/2 pound less in weight and 1.5 stops slower. I'm leery of superzooms but it's gotten great reviews.

Things like distortion and vignetting do not bother me.

My only concern is f8 for the Nikon lens in low light, but in most cases when I travel, I'm not alone. I'm with my family and not there to do 100% wildlife shooting. They placate me by agreeing to hit a few spots but mostly, not.

 

[Unscript]

Other options are the tamron 50-400mm, though optically not as refined....

Christopher Frost reviewed it, too, with the other mount. He's also mentioning the optical limitations and qualities. No real concern, but it's indeed not an S lens, which is to be expected at that price.

My main issue when I tested it was the f/4.5 to 6.3, which can get quite slow when the sun isn't there, and the VR that didn't quite compensate, even though it's working in tandem with the impressive Z6III VR. But my hands have never been the steadiest. One of the features I liked was the 1:4 to 1:2 magnification ratio.

 

[Juliette]

Christopher Frost reviewed it, too, with the other mount. He's also mentioning the optical limitations and qualities. No real concern, but it's indeed not an S lens, which is to be expected at that price.

My main issue when I tested it was the f/4.5 to 6.3, which can get quite slow when the sun isn't there, and the VR that didn't quite compensate, even though it's working in tandem with the impressive Z6III VR. But my hands have never been the steadiest. One of the features I liked was the 1:4 to 1:2 magnification ratio.

Thanks @Unscript ... there's also this:

Sounds like a small sacrifice of an extra 1 pound over the 28-400mm with the advantage of more light gathering capabilities, plus what you mentioned regarding the magnification ratio.

However, my hands are not the steadiest either. Sunsets would be challenging and I don't want to take a tripod.

Lots to consider.

Bottom line: I need a lens that I can pack in the seat underneath the person in front of me on the plane and it needs to be one that I can capture the bird wildlife of Florida at various times of day, which is mainly where I'll use it.