Question about lenses used with various resolution cameras (45MP vs 24MP)

[sirhawkeye64]

So, if I used a 24-200 @ 200mm let's say on a Z8 at 45MP and then downscaled the image to 24MP dimensions (say 6000x4000) while maintaining aspect ratio and no other adjustments (like sharpening) would the rescaled image look similar to that if it was taken on an actual 24MP sensor?

Reason I'm asking is because I'm contemplating using a 24-200 on a Z8 for my upcoming trip but I know a lot of people say the lens is better suited for the 24MP sensors (likely because it's soft at the long end, in the corners/edges of the frame). However, using it on the Z8 does also give me some other advantages I might not otherwise have if I used my Zf (24MP). Particularly, I'm not so sure about upscaling a 24MP image taken with this lens to say Z8 dimensions (so 45MP) but would possibly downscale the image to 24MP if needed.

(I'm sort of trying to figure out which body I should really take, as both has their advantages, and I have done some larger prints over the past few months but those required scaling using Gigapixel, but I also shot them with a Z 24-120 which is sharper than the 24-200. And yes I am aware of the technical differences bewteen the two cameras -- low-light AF, DR, ISO, etc. This is more related to output using the two cameras and different methods for scaling images.)

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[TheSoaringSprite]

So, if I used a 24-200 @ 200mm let's say on a Z8 at 45MP and then downscaled the image to 24MP dimensions (say 6000x4000) while maintaining aspect ratio and no other adjustments (like sharpening) would the rescaled image look similar to that if it was taken on an actual 24MP sensor?

The Z8 image would probably look just a little bit more detailed, but similar. You can check this in DPR's camera comparison tool and select the "comp" option to downsize the Z8 image to a Zf.

Reason I'm asking is because I'm contemplating using a 24-200 on a Z8 for my upcoming trip but I know a lot of people say the lens is better suited for the 24MP sensors (likely because it's soft at the long end, in the corners/edges of the frame). However, using it on the Z8 does also give me some other advantages I might not otherwise have if I used my Zf (24MP). Particularly, I'm not so sure about upscaling a 24MP image taken with this lens to say Z8 dimensions (so 45MP) but would possibly downscale the image to 24MP if needed.

(I'm sort of trying to figure out which body I should really take, as both has their advantages, and I have done some larger prints over the past few months but those required scaling using Gigapixel, but I also shot them with a Z 24-120 which is sharper than the 24-200. And yes I am aware of the technical differences bewteen the two cameras -- low-light AF, DR, ISO, etc. This is more related to output using the two cameras and different methods for scaling images.)

Personally I would want to capture everything with as many megapixels as I own, but not everyone is willing to lug around the extra weight or size to do so. I'd rather shoot at higher resolution than have to digitally upscale later, but it depends on your personal preferences and expectations.

 

[Alberto Tanikawa]

Down sampling always results in better image quality. Similar to the difference between the Z8's 4K video shot in standard 4K60 and turning on extended oversampling, which takes the native 8K and down samples to 4K. The difference is very significant for video, though for still images there might not be as stark a contrast.

 

[Bob A L]

Take which ever body you prefer to use and carry. Absolutely no one else but you will have the slightest idea which camera made the photos you bring back.

 

[sirhawkeye64]

So, if I used a 24-200 @ 200mm let's say on a Z8 at 45MP and then downscaled the image to 24MP dimensions (say 6000x4000) while maintaining aspect ratio and no other adjustments (like sharpening) would the rescaled image look similar to that if it was taken on an actual 24MP sensor?

The Z8 image would probably look just a little bit more detailed, but similar. You can check this in DPR's camera comparison tool and select the "comp" option to downsize the Z8 image to a Zf.

Reason I'm asking is because I'm contemplating using a 24-200 on a Z8 for my upcoming trip but I know a lot of people say the lens is better suited for the 24MP sensors (likely because it's soft at the long end, in the corners/edges of the frame). However, using it on the Z8 does also give me some other advantages I might not otherwise have if I used my Zf (24MP). Particularly, I'm not so sure about upscaling a 24MP image taken with this lens to say Z8 dimensions (so 45MP) but would possibly downscale the image to 24MP if needed.

(I'm sort of trying to figure out which body I should really take, as both has their advantages, and I have done some larger prints over the past few months but those required scaling using Gigapixel, but I also shot them with a Z 24-120 which is sharper than the 24-200. And yes I am aware of the technical differences bewteen the two cameras -- low-light AF, DR, ISO, etc. This is more related to output using the two cameras and different methods for scaling images.)

Personally I would want to capture everything with as many megapixels as I own, but not everyone is willing to lug around the extra weight or size to do so. I'd rather shoot at higher resolution than have to digitally upscale later, but it depends on your personal preferences and expectations.

Thanks. That's kind of the mindset I'm in... get it in the highest resolution possible (feasible) as I won't always be at say 200mm on the 24-200 if I bring that, and at shorter FLs the thing is not too bad from a sharpness standpoint (say up to 135mm or so).

I might have to do some experimenting before my trip but the other thing that came to mind as well was the fact the Zf has an AA filter (a weak one, but it's there) versus no AA filter on the Z8, and that can impact sharpness a tad to -- in certain circumstances like contrasty edges of buildings for example).

 

[Leonard Shepherd]

So, if I used a 24-200 @ 200mm let's say on a Z8 at 45MP and then downscaled the image to 24MP

Turning your question round, if you shoot first with 24MP and then again with 45MP - with any lens there will be more image resolution at 45MP.

Perhaps a better question is are you satisfied with the quality of the 24–200 using either 24 or 45 MB bodies.

I regard the 24–200 as a lightweight reasonably performing lens with quite good close up ability.

I own and mainly use bigger, heavier, more expensive higher performing lenses most of the time and yet use the 24-200 on the Z6 III when compact and lightweight is critical.

My suggestion is, if you cannot with care when shooting make a good 16x12 inch print using this lens on a 24 MP body, maybe consider your technique rather than equipment.

--
Leonard Shepherd
In lots of ways good photography is similar to learning to play a piano - it takes practice to develop skill in either activity.

 

[BasilG]

You will get more total detail out of your Z8 shots even if they might look a little worse on the pixel level (= when magnified more than a 24 MP shot (!)).

 

[Pierre Lagarde]

So, if I used a 24-200 @ 200mm let's say on a Z8 at 45MP and then downscaled the image to 24MP dimensions (say 6000x4000) while maintaining aspect ratio and no other adjustments (like sharpening) would the rescaled image look similar to that if it was taken on an actual 24MP sensor?

Reason I'm asking is because I'm contemplating using a 24-200 on a Z8 for my upcoming trip but I know a lot of people say the lens is better suited for the 24MP sensors (likely because it's soft at the long end, in the corners/edges of the frame). However, using it on the Z8 does also give me some other advantages I might not otherwise have if I used my Zf (24MP). Particularly, I'm not so sure about upscaling a 24MP image taken with this lens to say Z8 dimensions (so 45MP) but would possibly downscale the image to 24MP if needed.

(I'm sort of trying to figure out which body I should really take, as both has their advantages, and I have done some larger prints over the past few months but those required scaling using Gigapixel, but I also shot them with a Z 24-120 which is sharper than the 24-200. And yes I am aware of the technical differences bewteen the two cameras -- low-light AF, DR, ISO, etc. This is more related to output using the two cameras and different methods for scaling images.)

As BasilG said, and to sum it up, Z8 will just only give you more while slightly "worse" pixels, i.e. you'll see lens's defaults more. 24Mp will show less those defaults.

However, considering Z24-200 also works correctly when cropped to Dx, Z8 will still likely give you more reach than Zf in that regard with that usage.

On the other hand, if you own both Zf and Z8, getting 24-200 for a trip is kind of a no brainer even if it also depends on your softwares set and capabilities.

So, if I were you, I'd take just some time before your trip to try both combos and see which one suites you better (and even maybe you'll find that resolution is not your main concern).

Chances are either will be good anyway.

 

[Hal Wilson]

So, if I used a 24-200 @ 200mm let's say on a Z8 at 45MP and then downscaled the image to 24MP dimensions (say 6000x4000) while maintaining aspect ratio and no other adjustments (like sharpening) would the rescaled image look similar to that if it was taken on an actual 24MP sensor?

The Z8 image would probably look just a little bit more detailed, but similar. You can check this in DPR's camera comparison tool and select the "comp" option to downsize the Z8 image to a Zf.

Reason I'm asking is because I'm contemplating using a 24-200 on a Z8 for my upcoming trip but I know a lot of people say the lens is better suited for the 24MP sensors (likely because it's soft at the long end, in the corners/edges of the frame). However, using it on the Z8 does also give me some other advantages I might not otherwise have if I used my Zf (24MP). Particularly, I'm not so sure about upscaling a 24MP image taken with this lens to say Z8 dimensions (so 45MP) but would possibly downscale the image to 24MP if needed.

(I'm sort of trying to figure out which body I should really take, as both has their advantages, and I have done some larger prints over the past few months but those required scaling using Gigapixel, but I also shot them with a Z 24-120 which is sharper than the 24-200. And yes I am aware of the technical differences bewteen the two cameras -- low-light AF, DR, ISO, etc. This is more related to output using the two cameras and different methods for scaling images.)

Personally I would want to capture everything with as many megapixels as I own, but not everyone is willing to lug around the extra weight or size to do so. I'd rather shoot at higher resolution than have to digitally upscale later, but it depends on your personal preferences and expectations.

Last year I shot a portrait project with multiple people. I used my Z6. The results were fantastic, everyone was very happy, and 16-20" prints were made. A success. But as I was viewing stuff on a high res screen, and able to view the image at 100% resolution, I was left thinking about what could be possible if I'd shot the project on a higher res camera. So in January I bought a Z8. It took me a little while to fully appreciate the extra quality it brought, but when I did, I was completely convinced I'd been right from the start. Macro and portrait shots are just that much better. The Z6 still has its place; it's better in very low light conditions. But the Z8 is the king for a lot of photography for me now.

All that said, and my fave camera right now is still the little Z50ii. In fact I'm just off to shoot an assignment on it right now.

 

[monte12345]

Any time you re-scale an image the software you are using basically has to re-interpret the image and that can effect how will detail will be retained. This is a case where it's very likely that the 24.5mp image sensor can produce more accurate detail rendering than rescaling the image. As for whether it matters, that is all dependent on how well the software you use rescales the image.

 

[sirhawkeye64]

So, if I used a 24-200 @ 200mm let's say on a Z8 at 45MP and then downscaled the image to 24MP dimensions (say 6000x4000) while maintaining aspect ratio and no other adjustments (like sharpening) would the rescaled image look similar to that if it was taken on an actual 24MP sensor?

Reason I'm asking is because I'm contemplating using a 24-200 on a Z8 for my upcoming trip but I know a lot of people say the lens is better suited for the 24MP sensors (likely because it's soft at the long end, in the corners/edges of the frame). However, using it on the Z8 does also give me some other advantages I might not otherwise have if I used my Zf (24MP). Particularly, I'm not so sure about upscaling a 24MP image taken with this lens to say Z8 dimensions (so 45MP) but would possibly downscale the image to 24MP if needed.

(I'm sort of trying to figure out which body I should really take, as both has their advantages, and I have done some larger prints over the past few months but those required scaling using Gigapixel, but I also shot them with a Z 24-120 which is sharper than the 24-200. And yes I am aware of the technical differences bewteen the two cameras -- low-light AF, DR, ISO, etc. This is more related to output using the two cameras and different methods for scaling images.)

As BasilG said, and to sum it up, Z8 will just only give you more while slightly "worse" pixels, i.e. you'll see lens's defaults more. 24Mp will show less those defaults.

However, considering Z24-200 also works correctly when cropped to Dx, Z8 will still likely give you more reach than Zf in that regard with that usage.

On the other hand, if you own both Zf and Z8, getting 24-200 for a trip is kind of a no brainer even if it also depends on your softwares set and capabilities.

So, if I were you, I'd take just some time before your trip to try both combos and see which one suites you better (and even maybe you'll find that resolution is not your main concern).

Chances are either will be good anyway.

Thanks, that's kind of what I've been doing. I'm leaning more towards the Z8 though although not necessarily for IQ reasons, but the EVF and the AF might come in handy and I might need to do some cropping either at the time of capture or in post thinking about some shots I plan to get where I may not be able to get close.