Nikon Z50 II Launched

[MRK]

Considering the z 50ll As a
Low cost backup camera to my z 9 and also retiring my d 500 replacement. Anyone seeing any big downsides For this scenario? For $ 900.00. Any thoughts thank you.

 

[JAJohnson]

Are the C15 and C30 ES modes jpeg only? Reads that way in the DPR article.

Yes, C15 and C30 are jpeg only.

 

[Topper1946]

It has bird AF, but does it have bird eye AF?

Videos have preproduction and do show bird eye af.

 

[Tom Reynolds]

Nikon Z50-2 versus Canon R-7

From a bird photographer perspective, I think the big edge for Nikon is the 3# 600pf lens which is incredibly sharp. On a DX camera that works out to 900mm FF equivalent reach and an estimated overall weight of 4.2-4.5# depending on what you count.

For a bit less $$ you can get a Canon R7 and a 100-500 zoom which works out to 800mm FF equ. and about the same weight.

My personal experience with the R-7/100-500 was that the lens overwhelmed the camera particularly when fully extended. I felt that the D-500/500pf which I had at the time was better balanced and easier to maneuver. I would venture a guess that I would find the Z50-2/600pf better in my hand also. (Your mileage may vary in this area.)

 

[Woodyg3]

To me, this isn't an "upgrade" from the D500. It's a small step forward here or there, and more steps backward.

Concerns and observtions vs the trusty old D500:

Old 20.9 mp sensor, it is probably time for an increase in MP.

11 vs 10 FPS with mechanical shutter = basically the same. Electronic shutter15-30 but will there be rolling shutter problems? Also, if I am reading correctly, top resolution files can only come from 11fps or slower.

No XQD or CFExpress card slot, only one SD slot.

Tiny battery instead of the EN EN15 format

Doesn't look like it's built very robustly, but obviously I haven't held it in my hands.

Real world focusing feedback will be interesting. Can those of us who shoot fast action get the performance we need? It certainly looks promising.

No IBIS is disappointing, that would have been an important upgrade.

Looks like the control buttons are very customizable, which is great.

No top LCD, I know they aren't "necessary" but I like them

Controls can't light up in dark as on the D500.

SO while this looks like a great camera for the price, it sure isn't a replacement for the venerable D500. The again, how could we expect that at this price point?

Just some rambling opinions.

 

[pnbarne]

I don’t see how it fits in my kit. It seems like a good vlog camera, or maybe, a decent starter camera but I would be giving up too many features that I always use.

 

[John Navitsky]

Ricci flat out stated this isn’t the d500 replacement in his video.

 

[arbitrage]

Nikon Z50-2 versus Canon R-7

From a bird photographer perspective, I think the big edge for Nikon is the 3# 600pf lens which is incredibly sharp. On a DX camera that works out to 900mm FF equivalent reach and an estimated overall weight of 4.2-4.5# depending on what you count.

For a bit less $$ you can get a Canon R7 and a 100-500 zoom which works out to 800mm FF equ. and about the same weight.

My personal experience with the R-7/100-500 was that the lens overwhelmed the camera particularly when fully extended. I felt that the D-500/500pf which I had at the time was better balanced and easier to maneuver. I would venture a guess that I would find the Z50-2/600pf better in my hand also. (Your mileage may vary in this area.)

When you talk about reach you need to take into account the MPs of the sensor. Just converting the FOV from 600 to 900 or 500 to 800 isn't a real comparison.

For your examples a more accurate reach comparison in the way of looking at "Pixels Per Duck" would be like this:
1) Nikon Z8 with 600PF is 45MP at 600mm which is 20MP in APS-C.
2) Nikon Z50II with 600PF is also 20MP on an APS-C sensor.

So Z50II and Z8 have identical reach.

3) Canon R7 is 33MP and Canon's crop sensors are 1.6x. A Canon R5II at 45MPs is only 17MP in 1.6 crop mode.
So R7 has significantly more reach than an R5II. R7 with a 500mm lens also has more reach than a Z50II with a 600mm lens.

 

[DBalaur]

The Z50 II has more control buttons, where it matters on rear panel right. Looking at these product photos, it might be possible to reprogram these, including the AFE/AFL, Display and Picture Control button to AF modes.
Like the Z50, there's also a pair of front Fn buttons

Nikon Z50 II Announced: Autofocus and Video Improvements

Nikon just announced their follow-up to the original Nikon Z50 of 2019, the Nikon Z50 II. What's changed in the last five years? While the camera's 20 megapixel DX sensor is the same, we've seen big improvements in other areas, especially autofocus. Here's what you need to know about the Z50 II!

photographylife.com

Adding to your reply to @DougC, AFL/AEL has always been programmable for backbutton autofocus since the DSLR era. The only DX Nikon that has a dedicated AF-ON button is the D500.

 

[DBalaur]

To me, this isn't an "upgrade" from the D500. It's a small step forward here or there, and more steps backward.

Concerns and observtions vs the trusty old D500:

Old 20.9 mp sensor, it is probably time for an increase in MP.

11 vs 10 FPS with mechanical shutter = basically the same. Electronic shutter15-30 but will there be rolling shutter problems? Also, if I am reading correctly, top resolution files can only come from 11fps or slower.

No XQD or CFExpress card slot, only one SD slot.

Tiny battery instead of the EN EN15 format

Doesn't look like it's built very robustly, but obviously I haven't held it in my hands.

Real world focusing feedback will be interesting. Can those of us who shoot fast action get the performance we need? It certainly looks promising.

No IBIS is disappointing, that would have been an important upgrade.

Looks like the control buttons are very customizable, which is great.

No top LCD, I know they aren't "necessary" but I like them

Controls can't light up in dark as on the D500.

SO while this looks like a great camera for the price, it sure isn't a replacement for the venerable D500. The again, how could we expect that at this price point?

Just some rambling opinions.

Yea, it is a far cry from the D500 in many regards, although a lot of your opinions can be directed to Z50 so we know how well it performs in the field. The build material is still the magnesium alloy but the weather sealing isn't the best, and, per the laws of physics, having less material (aka smaller body) around all your electronics means it is more prone to impacts. It is slightly beefier than mk1 with an unremovable eye cup - both welcome changes from mk1. Rolling shutter is expected because the shutter speed is still capped 1/4000s and the sensor tech is 8 years old, although I hope the expeed 7 will remedy it somewhat in the mk2.

 

[Tom Reynolds]

Ricci flat out stated this isn’t the d500 replacement in his video.

My analysis is that it is a D-500 mirrorless camera. The "upgrade" is the implementation of the mirrorless Z-9 processing engine, but on the original D-500 sensor.

Simple comparison for Bird photography: "Would you rather have a D-500/500pf or a Z50-2/500pf+FTZ? (Assume that you always shoot in mechanical shutter.) As I wrote previously, for $900 the switch would be a no-brainer, based on WHAT I KNOW NOW.

My experience with OM Systems is that we tend to focus on what we didn't get as opposed to what we did get but, over time, we begin to appreciate what we did get to a greater extent.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------
What you DO get in the Z50-2 is better autofocus through subject ID.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------

I experienced that change going from a D-500 to an OM Systems OM-1-profound, absolutely profound! It was worth every penny which was considerably more than selling the D-500 and purchasing a Z50-2 and a ftz.

Anyhow, that's my advice to a current D-500 shooter.

Tom

 

[EricBowles]

I'll be replacing my wife's Z50 with the Z50ii. This has improvements in frame rate, AF, EVF, video, pre-release capture and a lot more. Controls on the Z50 were reasonably close to the Z8, and this is even better. I assume setting up BBF will be easy - as it was on the Z50.

I really like the use of the EXPEED 7 processor on this camera. I'm a little surprised they can do that at this price point.

20 MP is about the same as the Z8 in DX crop mode. It's existing technology and fits well. It also works with SD cards since the image files are relatively small.

Nikon just released financials through Q2 of their fiscal year. They fell short on revenue even though the forecast was updated in August. Operating profit was up. The explanation was something about a product launch being delayed, so I assume it was the Z50ii. In addition, Nikon's inventory levels at September 30 are a little higher than I would have expected. So my take is this camera release was delayed for some reason, but I don't have any details or ideas about the reason. Delaying launch loses some sales, but it also defers all the related launch costs.

 

[Kenny88]

Pre-ordered one. I think it’s a nice backup for my Z8, especially since birds are my main subject nowadays. It should be a nice walk round camera for those odd holiday excursions when I want to go light.
Vinny

Many I know are doing the same thing - I don't own the Z8, and I had the D500 - it just was too large for me to want to hold and use too long, and especially when it comes to travelling and walking in the city and a large camera body and a larger and longer lens just makes me feel to self conscious - maybe it's just me, but I rather not attract too much attention to myself if I can - the Z50 fitted the bill, and now I preordered the Z50II

I'd be interested to hear your experience when you get the Z50II and how it compares or not compares to the Z8 when it comes to birding.

 

[Kenny88]

I'll be replacing my wife's Z50 with the Z50ii. This has improvements in frame rate, AF, EVF, video, pre-release capture and a lot more. Controls on the Z50 were reasonably close to the Z8, and this is even better. I assume setting up BBF will be easy - as it was on the Z50.

I really like the use of the EXPEED 7 processor on this camera. I'm a little surprised they can do that at this price point.

20 MP is about the same as the Z8 in DX crop mode. It's existing technology and fits well. It also works with SD cards since the image files are relatively small.

Nikon just released financials through Q2 of their fiscal year. They fell short on revenue even though the forecast was updated in August. Operating profit was up. The explanation was something about a product launch being delayed, so I assume it was the Z50ii. In addition, Nikon's inventory levels at September 30 are a little higher than I would have expected. So my take is this camera release was delayed for some reason, but I don't have any details or ideas about the reason. Delaying launch loses some sales, but it also defers all the related launch costs.

Hi Eric,

Did the same here. I think the Z50II will be a great camera - the same sensor as the D500 and at the time when that camera came out it was the talk of the town, and I don't see why the same sensor wouldn't be able to deliver the same results, and better - unless I'm wrong here.

Good catch on the Z8 cropping bring it back to 20MP - forgot about that, so really having a Z8 and cropping is the same as the Z50II, but not because of pixel size?

As in my other post, I'm curious to see how comparable or not the AF is between the Z50ii and the Z8 - I know it's not in the same league, but I hope the Z50 II can do an acceptable job. The limiting factor would be in the write out speed to the card - buffer that'll be the most determining factor as well.

 

[VinnyH]

We all tend to have our own ways of shooting for pleasure and business. I’m more of a hobbyist now so the Z50II will be a nice addition while hiking and looking for birds. I tend to shoot my Z8 in DX mode to get that reach, for birds, with my 180-600.
My plan now is to have the 50II with my 186 on my cross body shoulder strap and my Z105micro on the Z8 in my shoulder bag ready for those macro shots along the way while hiking. With the Expeed 7 processor I expect the 50II will do fine for the birds up high in the branches. I know I can switch around but I’m lazy and tend to shoot the way I leave the house.
When I go to Conowingo Dam for the Eagles or Shawangunk for owls I will use the Z8 and 186 on my monopod to maximize settings.
Best to All,
Vinny
PS: I shy away from most social media but use Instagram, VinnysBrain, for my images so friends and family can see.

 

[Hlib K]

I'm curious to see how comparable or not the AF is between the Z50ii and the Z8

Take a look at this interesting comparison from earlier in this thread. It does not feature Z50ii, but does feature a Zf, which is quite similar in a very important way: an older slower reading sensor combined with a newer processor. I expect the AF performance to be identical to Zf in most modes, with probably a bit quicker subject detection in Auto Area since the sensor is a bit smaller.

 

[JAJohnson]

Videos have preproduction and do show bird eye af.

Bird AF has always captured eyes. From the clips in Ricci Chera’s video it doesn’t appear to me that there’s anything new. Once it’s more broadly available I’m sure other reviewers will post their experience with it.

 

[MRK]

Well I put in my preorder. Been shooting nikon for over 30 years. My digital started with d200, d300s, many d7200's, and a d500. Only shooting crop bodies until my Z9.. Love the z9 but I think maybe z5011 maybe like shoot with a old friend. Shoot mainly wildlife and 80% birds. I have never shot over 7fs.

 

[KAC]

Ricci flat out stated this isn’t the d500 replacement in his video.

I've got to say how much respect I have for Ricci Chera. I can't recall any other employee so freely give honest criticism of the employer's products. I recall almost spitting my drink out when he said in his review of the 85mm 1.2 that if you shoot at f 4.5 or 5.6 or smaller, you may as well get the 1.8, which he believed is as good as the 1.2 at those apertures.

I guess kudos to Nikon as well for letting him speak his mind. It certainly gives him a ton of credibility in my estimation.

 

[Tom Reynolds]

I'll be replacing my wife's Z50 with the Z50ii. This has improvements in frame rate, AF, EVF, video, pre-release capture and a lot more.

AF, EVF and video are a slam dunk improvement. What about pre-capture?

I was unable to find out the readout speed for the D-500/Z50-2 chip. I am guessing about 20-30ms which is borderline for rolling shutter. The old Canon R5 had a 15ms readout speed which was acceptable. Pre-capture might work ok.

 

[fcotterill]

I'll be replacing my wife's Z50 with the Z50ii. This has improvements in frame rate, AF, EVF, video, pre-release capture and a lot more. Controls on the Z50 were reasonably close to the Z8, and this is even better. I assume setting up BBF will be easy - as it was on the Z50.

I really like the use of the EXPEED 7 processor on this camera. I'm a little surprised they can do that at this price point.

20 MP is about the same as the Z8 in DX crop mode. It's existing technology and fits well. It also works with SD cards since the image files are relatively small.

Nikon just released financials through Q2 of their fiscal year. They fell short on revenue even though the forecast was updated in August. Operating profit was up. The explanation was something about a product launch being delayed, so I assume it was the Z50ii. In addition, Nikon's inventory levels at September 30 are a little higher than I would have expected. So my take is this camera release was delayed for some reason, but I don't have any details or ideas about the reason. Delaying launch loses some sales, but it also defers all the related launch costs.

Interesting insights into the financials. This Z50 II should increase turnover and also the Lens : camera sales ratio. Nikon is probably speed shipping pallet loads of this camera to its distribution nodes.

The other strategic positive for Nikon is attracting a larger cohort of emerging/new ILC owners into "real" photography and the Z System. Only Nikon marketing will know the sales spin-off - in how the wildlife-friendly features of this dinky camera will persuade Z50 II owners to buy telephotos (including the 28-400).

 

[fcotterill]

AF, EVF and video are a slam dunk improvement. What about pre-capture?

I was unable to find out the readout speed for the D-500/Z50-2 chip. I am guessing about 20-30ms which is borderline for rolling shutter. The old Canon R5 had a 15ms readout speed which was acceptable. Pre-capture might work ok.

The other current unknown is how the new sensor has changed DR, and particularly readout performance and lowlight IQ. Bill Claff should be testing it soon at photonstophotos

The GoW Nikon Report says the Z50 II has a new sensor (1:00) although it's the same resolution [Edited]

The Z50 II is indeed almost, and more than the D500 Update.... On the balance it's significantly more than a D500 IMHO

A Z50 II will outperform the D500 as much as it's possible to compare 2016 DSLR technology against modern Mirrorless technology, given that particular MILC features are not feasible in a DSLR.

The major differences appear to be:

• Rolling shutter at fps at 15 fps and higher,
• Shorter battery life - no vertical grip nor access to ENEL18 battery,
• Lack of cross-type AF sensors, assuming the same on sensor MILC AF architecture, so expect to rely on the standard fixes on the fly against grabbing backgrounds etc
• No CFExpress B media

 

[fcotterill]

The EXPEED7 SoC GPU gives this device serious clout.... Besides the above list, the Z50 II is a remarkable bargain, given :

• Z9 level Menu Customization Options,
• 30 fps top end,
• Silent-Shooting,
• PreCapture,
• Eye detection of the Z9 Autofocus system with separate Animal and Bird categories,
• AFFT is not needed plus Autofocus with Teleconverters at apertures > f8 up to f22,
• And not least access to the dozens of optics of the Greater Nikon Ecosystem including 4 PF telephotos

 

[JAJohnson]

The GoW Nikon Report says the Z50 II has a new sensor (1:00)

From Thom Hogan: “The Z50 II uses the same 20.9mp sensor that Nikon has been using in Z DX since the beginning. To my knowledge, there are no tweaks or changes to its fundamentals—and yes, I asked Nikon and got responses to this question…”

I could have missed it but I don’t recall any other reviews mentioning it’s a new sensor.

 

[fcotterill]

From Thom Hogan: “The Z50 II uses the same 20.9mp sensor that Nikon has been using in Z DX since the beginning. To my knowledge, there are no tweaks or changes to its fundamentals—and yes, I asked Nikon and got responses to this question…”

I could have missed it but I don’t recall any other reviews mentioning it’s a new sensor.

Yes I read that, thanks JA.

Gray's in London are usually reliably informed by Nikon UK, which is why I take the sound bite seriously in their above video. Nikon's subsidiaries, including Nikon USA are not necessarily in the know about arcane technical details.

There's the possibility the Z50 II is built using a new production batch off the silicon foundr(ies). Nikon's sensor lab is more than capable of updating particular features, including aspects of the circuitry, microlenses etc. This would change key performance variables.

The practical differences will be revealed in real-world tests, especially photonstophotos