After 6 years with Df... I would like to change

gatto said:

Thank all of you for the answers, they are helping me a lot.

My thoughts:

- would you buy a used D4s instead of the D780?

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While the pro bodies are robust and fast - and not just in fps - they're also big, heavy and loud. In addition they also draw attention. But I understand that they are fascinating, and they're fairly affordable now.

I've been using the Df since 2014, and am quite happy with it. I bought a used D3s at some point while the shutter of the Df was being repaired, and sold it quickly after getting the Df back. Not because there was much wrong with the files, but because it simply was too big and loud. I also shot a D2x for years as my only camera.

At some point I found a cheap D750 with very high shutter count but pristine looks. I now use it for action shots as it tracks e.g. my shiba better than the Df, and my wife prefers its ergonomics to those of the Df. I kinda prefer the output of Df, though, but the differences are really small at low Isos.

If I were buying a new camera now, I would prolly buy the D780. Seems like a nice compromise. But the Df is a keeper.

-Topi

TOF guy said:

All the options you mention will likely be adequate for family pictures.

Switching systems is expensive. If you seriously consider it, you may want first to rent the camera for trying out during a w-e and confirm that you like it.

Why not a Zfc ?

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Some of OPs lenses are not that small, throw in the adapter, and they get larger. Zfc is small and has no grip. Ergonomically this is not a sound combination.

In addition, his nice 85/1.4 and 180/2.8 would become manual focus lenses with FTZ, which is a pity.

It sounds like the OP is open to selling and replacing everything.

However, if he were sticking with Nikon and wanted to keep using his lenses, a Nikon DSLR, whatever it might be, seems like a more sensible choice, -- to me.

gatto said:

Thank all of you for the answers, they are helping me a lot.

My thoughts:

- changing the system (FF -> M43 or APS-C) is a “big step” that I can postpone: it requires more investments and honestly I would not know what to choose

- let’s stay on Nikon: D780 or Z6, but in order to squeeze the F mount (hence my lenses) as much as possible, I would go for D780

Additional doubts:

- when 6 years ago I bought the Df, one of the main drivers was the sensor (the review where stating a sort of “film like” output) and I must confess I am very happy with it: am I going to lose this “magic” with the new D780 (same of Z6) 24,5Mpixel sensor?

- would you buy a used D4s instead of the D780?

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D4S is a lot to carry. Also, it is very much "in your face" unlike the Df.

Large bodies are very good when used with large lenses: balance, handling, everything feels right. Otherwise I would favor a smaller body most of the time.

gatto said:

Thanks,

Lorenzo

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I bought my Df shortly after it came out. I shot with it for 7 years and loved it. I agree with you that the images from that sensor are wonderful.

However, when I went to the Z6II, I have not picked up the Df.. I'm a little emotionally attached to it, so have not sold it yet, but I've never once thought about picking it up.

The Z series cameras add sensor-based image stabilization, 100% viewfinder zoom and focus peaking, I realized that my collection of manual focus lenses worked far better and have a wider shooting envelope than ever before.

I have a good set of F-mount lenses that take wonderful images. The FTZ adapter works extremely well with all of the lenses I own; manual and autofocus. I don't feel the need to replace the lenses I have with Z-mount versions at all. This means, I don't need to worry about the expense and trouble of selling them and buying all new lenses; I'm very with what I have.

Lastly, I think the colours from the Z6II are even better out of the camera than the Df. I think white balance is more accurate and skin tones look wonderful. Its a great sensor with more resolution and the files have plenty of latitude for editing.

So, you can buy a Z-series camera and just enjoy the heck out of it with what you already have.

I have the D4, Df and EM1 mk III.



The files from the Df are special, but I find that the EM1 mk III and 12-100 gets a lot of use for general family photography and trips. The flexibility of the sharp optics and IS is very practical. Nikon F mount general purpose lenses have not been much good, ie 24-120 or 28-300, for me. Sold them both.

Of course in low light and for extra beautiful photos the Nikons get the nod. But the Olympus is far better than an iPhone and a great option for an easy carry. The D4 is a non-starter to grab when leaving the house.

I enjoy my Df with primes, but is not a good option to ensure photos in many scenarios. If the 24-120 was better and longer, perhaps. Compared to the 12-100 I have found the 24-120/4 rather lacklustre.



Consider the EM1 mk II and keep your Df. Both have their strengths. There are great deals on the older mk II version without losing out too much to the mk III.