Can someone explain this to me as if I were an idiot?

[Shashinka73]

(To be fair, when it comes to newer technology, I am an idiot).

I've tried googling this, but I get what seem like so many contradictory statements and so much technobabble that I give up.

So, to lay it out in terms as simple as I can make them:

1) I am looking at picking up a mirrorless Nikon second hand, either a Z6 or Z7. There are some good deals around, like the camera and 24-70 with the FTZ adaptor as well (this is a big deal, as I like Zeiss MF lenses)

2) I know that the Z6 and Z7 use XQD or CF Express cards

3) I do all my postprocessing on an iPad Pro 2nd generation (2017). Typically I use a dongle thing (told you I was good with technology) to transfer the photos to the iPad. I shoot RAW only.

4) I understand that the normal dongle thing won't work with XQD or CF Express cards and that I need a dedicated XQD / CF Express reader dongle thing. This is the main issue: I've read various things online which suggest that I might have to use about 6654659065094609546904 different pieces of equipment to get the RAW files to the iPad.

5) Alternatively I understand that it's possible to use Snapbridge to transfer files to the iPad, or (if it can be done) physically connect the camera to the iPad.

6) So in simple terms: is it possible for a technological imbecile to do this without invoking a panic attack?

This idiot thanks everyone in advance.

 

[Gangster Chicken]

Here's an option, go for a Z6II instead then you get a slightly better autofocus and the Z6II has an SD card slot, then with your iPad you can use an SD card adapter. I use a Sony G Series SDXC UGI-II U3 64GB SD card in my Z6II.

 

[Leonard Shepherd]

Provided a second hand Z6 or Z7 comes with all the original accessories there is a USB cable to download images from the camera body to a USB connection on a computer.

You may need an adapter to connect a USB cable to your i-pad. This might cost less than $20.

 

[tundracamper]

My experience with SnapBridge downloading NEFs is that it is verrrrrryyyy slow. I’m not sure why, but it is. I suggest using a cable. I do this to an iPad using an SD card reader all the time (Z6ii) and it works fine. Not as fast as CFE, so I hear, but it works and I can use one adapter with no additional power required.

 

[Gangster Chicken]

Provided a second hand Z6 or Z7 comes with all the original accessories there is a USB cable to download images from the camera body to a USB connection on a computer.

You may need an adapter to connect a USB cable to your i-pad. This might cost less than $20.

I found with my Z6II that using a USB cable from camera to a computer or tablet the transfer speed is slow, a lot slower than using a card reader.

 

[Droster]

Unfortunately Lightning being USB2.0 means the easy way of “just plugging in the reader and card” is not feasible.

Among whatever ways left, the easiest way to do it is via SnapBridge.

Download the app.

Go to your camera, then connect to smart device via wifi.

Go to your phone, find your camera’s wifi. Connect, you will be asked for your camera’s password the first time you set up. You don’t need to fill in the password for subsequent connections.

Open SnapBridge

You’re good to go.

——

Or get a Z6ii and use only the SD card slot. Then get the Lightning to SD reader dongle.

 

[Hooligans Imagery]

I use Angelbird cards and their reader which is very fast and USB-C just like the iPad Pro (at least my 2021 model). Should work for you. I know another card company just released one without a cable but I can't find that reference at the moment. This reader would take both cards if you got the Z6ii.

 

[bobn2]

(To be fair, when it comes to newer technology, I am an idiot).

I've tried googling this, but I get what seem like so many contradictory statements and so much technobabble that I give up.

So, to lay it out in terms as simple as I can make them:

1) I am looking at picking up a mirrorless Nikon second hand, either a Z6 or Z7. There are some good deals around, like the camera and 24-70 with the FTZ adaptor as well (this is a big deal, as I like Zeiss MF lenses)

2) I know that the Z6 and Z7 use XQD or CF Express cards

3) I do all my postprocessing on an iPad Pro 2nd generation (2017). Typically I use a dongle thing (told you I was good with technology) to transfer the photos to the iPad. I shoot RAW only.

4) I understand that the normal dongle thing won't work with XQD or CF Express cards and that I need a dedicated XQD / CF Express reader dongle thing. This is the main issue: I've read various things online which suggest that I might have to use about 6654659065094609546904 different pieces of equipment to get the RAW files to the iPad.

5) Alternatively I understand that it's possible to use Snapbridge to transfer files to the iPad, or (if it can be done) physically connect the camera to the iPad.

6) So in simple terms: is it possible for a technological imbecile to do this without invoking a panic attack?

This idiot thanks everyone in advance.

I would concentrate on CFEx cards rather than XQD. They are easier to find, a lot less expensive and faster. Also, CFEx USB readers are easier to get and also much cheaper and CFEx is very much the new standard for higher end cameras. However, there is an issue. The Z6 and Z7 don't use CFEx cards without a firmware upgrade, and to install the upgrade you need an XQD card and reader. So, if you get a secondhand Z6 or Z7 you need to ensure that the firmware upgrade (2.20 or above) has been installed to avoid this inconvenience. Once this FW has been installed subsequent upgrades can be done using a CFEx card.

 

[dacrema]

I have a Z7 and Z9. The Z7 will be four in Feb 2024. I have used XQD but changed to CFExpress this year. When using the XQD reader I needed a got the correct dongle for my MacBook. But when I switched to the CFE Angelbird card reader it had the correct USB-C connector.

I do not know which connector your iPad has. But if it is the newer USB-C no problem with the connector, if it is the IOS connector you will need a IOS to USB-C connector. I would not bother with any XQD or CFE reader that uses USB connectors at the tech is old and you will be looking for a new dongle when you finally upgrade you computing hardware.

Also the camera came with a cable that allows downloading from the camera. That is slow with the Z7 and will eat battery. Depending on the iPad you may need the dongle for the cable.

I did look on Amazon and found IOS to USB-C gender benders. Below is an example picked at random. My MacBook (before the M1 chip) uses the USB-C cables so I no longer need a dongle or gender bender.

https://www.amazon.com/Lightning-Compatible-Transmission-Connector-Converter/dp/B08RHK2KXC/ref=sr_1_3?crid=JU7X43DEQGYH&keywords=apple+to+usb+c+adapter&qid=1665835416&qu=eyJxc2MiOiI0LjQ5IiwicXNhIjoiMy41NCIsInFzcCI6IjMuMzkifQ%3D%3D&sprefix=apple+to+usb%2Caps%2C136&sr=8-3

 

[skyrunr]

Here's an option, go for a Z6II instead then you get a slightly better autofocus and the Z6II has an SD card slot, then with your iPad you can use an SD card adapter. I use a Sony G Series SDXC UGI-II U3 64GB SD card in my Z6II.

THIS - The extra money you'll spend on a $99 reader and $150 CFE/XQD card could be put towards the Z6II. The Wide (L People) AF mode is worth it alone. Don't get cornered.

If you're on vacation somewhere and lose or run out of memory (which has happened to me) you can't get CFE/XQD from a corner store. My local BestBuy only keeps 1-2 in stock when I've checked, and they were twice the cost of the same card online. I think ALL cameras 2nd (or even 3rd) card slot should be a micro-SDHC-II! Then you can barrow and swap cards between smartphones, gopro's, and even from some kid's toys!

If you have to shoot RAW I'd also recommend the Z6 over the Z7 as those larger files on a 5yo machine without a proper card reader are going to be SLOW. If you like to print large prints then you should consider a Z7II and a new Mac. Follow the path of least resistance.

 

[Shashinka73]

(To be fair, when it comes to newer technology, I am an idiot).

I've tried googling this, but I get what seem like so many contradictory statements and so much technobabble that I give up.

So, to lay it out in terms as simple as I can make them:

1) I am looking at picking up a mirrorless Nikon second hand, either a Z6 or Z7. There are some good deals around, like the camera and 24-70 with the FTZ adaptor as well (this is a big deal, as I like Zeiss MF lenses)

2) I know that the Z6 and Z7 use XQD or CF Express cards

3) I do all my postprocessing on an iPad Pro 2nd generation (2017). Typically I use a dongle thing (told you I was good with technology) to transfer the photos to the iPad. I shoot RAW only.

4) I understand that the normal dongle thing won't work with XQD or CF Express cards and that I need a dedicated XQD / CF Express reader dongle thing. This is the main issue: I've read various things online which suggest that I might have to use about 6654659065094609546904 different pieces of equipment to get the RAW files to the iPad.

5) Alternatively I understand that it's possible to use Snapbridge to transfer files to the iPad, or (if it can be done) physically connect the camera to the iPad.

6) So in simple terms: is it possible for a technological imbecile to do this without invoking a panic attack?

This idiot thanks everyone in advance.

I would concentrate on CFEx cards rather than XQD. They are easier to find, a lot less expensive and faster. Also, CFEx USB readers are easier to get and also much cheaper and CFEx is very much the new standard for higher end cameras. However, there is an issue. The Z6 and Z7 don't use CFEx cards without a firmware upgrade, and to install the upgrade you need an XQD card and reader. So, if you get a secondhand Z6 or Z7 you need to ensure that the firmware upgrade (2.20 or above) has been installed to avoid this inconvenience. Once this FW has been installed subsequent upgrades can be done using a CFEx card.

This is a very useful answer. Assuming the firmware is at the level you describe, can I assume that means that I can plug a CFEx card reader directly into the iPad Pro (2nd gen, 2017) USB-C slot without the need for any workarounds? (I read things about certain readers not working "if not connected to power", which is where my technophobia started kicking in). Google threw up an article about a Sandisk reader as a representative example, but I'm not beholden to any particular brand as long as it works.

 

[Chriscorv58]

Good morning,

I was in a similar situation as you when I was out traveling. I brought my iPad and my z7 with XQD card reader. I ended up purchasing a $3 usb c (iPad side) to female usb A (card reader side) adapter and just plugged my Sony XQD card reader into the iPad. This worked perfectly as the iPad was able to recognize the card and I was able to use photoshop and Lightroom.

 

[BasilG]

Provided a second hand Z6 or Z7 comes with all the original accessories there is a USB cable to download images from the camera body to a USB connection on a computer.

You may need an adapter to connect a USB cable to your i-pad. This might cost less than $20.

I think a USB to USB-C adapter would do the trick (assuming that this is what the iPad is using for connectivity). They cost like £5 a pair on Amazon.

The reason why I bought an XQD reader eventually was to install firmware updates.

 

[NeedMorePractice]

I use one of these to transfer RAW files from my Z6 cards (XQD and CFExpress Type B) to my new iPad Pro (2022). It works well and is compact enough to keep it in whichever bag I'm using. I recommend it if the connection type is compatible with your year iPad Pro.

Sony MRW-G1 CFexpress Type B/XQD Memory Card Reader

Just one card reader is all you need to transfer data from CFexpress memory cards and supported XQD memory cards. Get the most from Sony CFexpress memory cards via the USB interface, allowing data to be read extremely quickly so you can do more in less time.

www.precision-camera.com

 

[bobn2]

(To be fair, when it comes to newer technology, I am an idiot).

I've tried googling this, but I get what seem like so many contradictory statements and so much technobabble that I give up.

So, to lay it out in terms as simple as I can make them:

1) I am looking at picking up a mirrorless Nikon second hand, either a Z6 or Z7. There are some good deals around, like the camera and 24-70 with the FTZ adaptor as well (this is a big deal, as I like Zeiss MF lenses)

2) I know that the Z6 and Z7 use XQD or CF Express cards

3) I do all my postprocessing on an iPad Pro 2nd generation (2017). Typically I use a dongle thing (told you I was good with technology) to transfer the photos to the iPad. I shoot RAW only.

4) I understand that the normal dongle thing won't work with XQD or CF Express cards and that I need a dedicated XQD / CF Express reader dongle thing. This is the main issue: I've read various things online which suggest that I might have to use about 6654659065094609546904 different pieces of equipment to get the RAW files to the iPad.

5) Alternatively I understand that it's possible to use Snapbridge to transfer files to the iPad, or (if it can be done) physically connect the camera to the iPad.

6) So in simple terms: is it possible for a technological imbecile to do this without invoking a panic attack?

This idiot thanks everyone in advance.

I would concentrate on CFEx cards rather than XQD. They are easier to find, a lot less expensive and faster. Also, CFEx USB readers are easier to get and also much cheaper and CFEx is very much the new standard for higher end cameras. However, there is an issue. The Z6 and Z7 don't use CFEx cards without a firmware upgrade, and to install the upgrade you need an XQD card and reader. So, if you get a secondhand Z6 or Z7 you need to ensure that the firmware upgrade (2.20 or above) has been installed to avoid this inconvenience. Once this FW has been installed subsequent upgrades can be done using a CFEx card.

This is a very useful answer. Assuming the firmware is at the level you describe, can I assume that means that I can plug a CFEx card reader directly into the iPad Pro (2nd gen, 2017) USB-C slot without the need for any workarounds? (I read things about certain readers not working "if not connected to power", which is where my technophobia started kicking in). Google threw up an article about a Sandisk reader as a representative example, but I'm not beholden to any particular brand as long as it works.

I have a no-name Chinese CFEx to USB adapter, which looks identical to some of the branded ones that people have mentioned. It works perfectly with an iMac and MacBook Pro (and also on a Linux PC) just taking its power from the USB. I think that indicates that it should work with an iPad Pro, but can't vouch for that myself.

I've found trying to do wireless upload without the adapter a real pain (mainly because my Macs are old enough that the Nikon software doesn't support them), so I'd go with the adapter.

 

[bobn2]

Here's an option, go for a Z6II instead then you get a slightly better autofocus and the Z6II has an SD card slot, then with your iPad you can use an SD card adapter. I use a Sony G Series SDXC UGI-II U3 64GB SD card in my Z6II.

THIS - The extra money you'll spend on a $99 reader and $150 CFE/XQD card could be put towards the Z6II. The Wide (L People) AF mode is worth it alone. Don't get cornered.

You can get readers for a lot less that $99 and he'll still need a card for the Z6 II. Per byte, CFEx cards don't cost much more than good quality fast SD cards, and they are a much better proposition.

 

[Paul Pasco]

Have you considered a Z5 instead and uses SD cards?

 

[Joseph S Wisniewski]

Provided a second hand Z6 or Z7 comes with all the original accessories there is a USB cable to download images from the camera body to a USB connection on a computer.

You may need an adapter to connect a USB cable to your i-pad. This might cost less than $20.

I think a USB to USB-C adapter would do the trick (assuming that this is what the iPad is using for connectivity). They cost like £5 a pair on Amazon.

Unfortunately, iPads of that generation still used the Apple proprietary "lightning" port.

The reason why I bought an XQD reader eventually was to install firmware updates.

I prefer using one to download pics, too. Don't like tying up a camera for that, and the camera port doesn't appear to have the best transfer speed.

 

[J_Allen]

My experience with SnapBridge downloading NEFs is that it is verrrrrryyyy slow. I’m not sure why, but it is. I suggest using a cable. I do this to an iPad using an SD card reader all the time (Z6ii) and it works fine. Not as fast as CFE, so I hear, but it works and I can use one adapter with no additional power required.

I don't know if all versions are the same, but when I use Snapbridge I have the option to download my images in 2MP and 20MP. The smaller file takes about 2 seconds, but the larger one takes about 15-20 seconds. I do use it for transferring a few select shots, but if there are a lot then I plug in a USB cable directly from my PC to camera.

 

[bobn2]

My experience with SnapBridge downloading NEFs is that it is verrrrrryyyy slow. I’m not sure why, but it is. I suggest using a cable. I do this to an iPad using an SD card reader all the time (Z6ii) and it works fine. Not as fast as CFE, so I hear, but it works and I can use one adapter with no additional power required.

I don't know if all versions are the same, but when I use Snapbridge I have the option to download my images in 2MP and 20MP. The smaller file takes about 2 seconds, but the larger one takes about 15-20 seconds. I do use it for transferring a few select shots, but if there are a lot then I plug in a USB cable directly from my PC to camera.

I just wish I could make SnapBridge work at all with my cameras and phone.