Returning the Z50ii

[KayakMark34]

I’m sure I will get bashed for this post, but this is MY opinion of the Z50ii.

I have loved photography since I was a kid, and I’ve had many point and shoot cameras. About just over 30 years ago I decided to go “semipro” (as a side gig) and got a Hasselblad (film) system camera, and started getting “jobs”.

After realizing the Hasselblad system was not cost efficient for me (but awesome photo quality), I moved to Canon. First film, and then Digital (cropped sensors). I’ve done weddings, family portraits, events, sports teams, etc… These “jobs” paid for my “gas” and I could play around. After over 30 years, and as the jobs became fewer, and cell phones began taking over some of the jobs I would have had, I decided to downsize the equipment and went mirrorless. I went to the darkside, NIKON! I chose the Nikon Z50 DX system just over a year ago.

I immediately fell in love with the Nikon Z50 system. The color science blew me away, nothing like I had with the Canon system I’ve used for decades. The lighter weight of the system, with IMO, better photo quality, made it fun again to do my gigs. The jobs I have with the Z50 hardly need ANY color or exposure adjustments, which was a huge change for me coming from Canon.

Then came the announcement of the new Z50ii, and my “gas” kicked in again. I ordered it and began comparing it immediately to the original Z50.

My initial observations were that even though on paper the size was just a tiny bit larger than the original Z50, once I put my hands on the Z50ii it felt much different. I have unusually large hands and the original Z50 felt prefect in my grasp, which goes against most norms. For me the Z50 is so comfortable in my large hands for some reason, it makes it effortless to shoot with. The new Z reminded me a little of my Canon DSLR system, which I was trying to stay away from.

When I first got the original Z50, I was disappointed it didn’t have the “flippy” screen, which I was used to with my Canon stuff. I quickly became a convert, and now prefer the fold out screen. Since I use this camera for photos, not video (I use my phone for videos), I prefer the angle view of this screen. Looking down on it for low shots reminds me of my Hasselblad system. The new Z50ii has the “flippy” screen and I no longer care for it at all. The one thing I love in the new Z50ii is the ability to use the old school mechanical shutter release (for astrophotography, and other uses), where the original Z50 does not have that ability. Using Snapbridge allows similar shutter release ability, so not that big of a deal.

Now the true test, the Exspeed 6 vs Exspeed7 comparision. I compared both cameras with two prime lenses and swapping them out using the same settings on both cameras. Of course, I am way more familiar with the original Z, and the new Z has many more settings/options but I tried to match both equally. The new Z was snappy to focus and has many more focus points. Both did equally well in photo quality, I noticed no difference.

In a couple instances though, the new Z50ii hunted to focus in dark areas where my original Z50 locked onto the same spot/lighting with the same lens and aperture/speed/iso settings. Again, the new Z50ii has way more focus options and choices, so it could be user error/unfamiliarity. Overall, I wasn’t overly impressed with the new Z50ii’s focus performance as advertised. The menus dive deep with options, and almost seems like overkill for a DX system, more for the full frame PRO systems, but I guess many will like these options.

I did not test the cameras in sports, wildlife, or other fast moving subjects, for which many will want the exspeed7. But for the times I shoot these faster subjects (maybe 20% of my shooting and almost all outdoors), I’ve rarely had focus issues with the Z50. No, not all shots are pinpoint focus, but that’s the beauty of digital, you can shoot many shots and most will be keepers. Again, this is not a PRO full frame camera system, but the best DX system in my opinion, just under the pro level.

I am a part-time “pro”, fulltime enthusiast, and love the Nikon DX system to keep photography fun (make a little “gas” money occasionally), and it’s not a cumbersome full frame system to lug around.

The new Z50ii may check some boxes for others, but for me the “upgrade” has more downsides than upsides for me, so I will keep enjoying my original Z50 and get more “gas” otherwise!

 

[mosswings]

I’m sure I will get bashed for this post, but this is MY opinion of the Z50ii.

I have loved photography since I was a kid, and I’ve had many point and shoot cameras. About just over 30 years ago I decided to go “semipro” (as a side gig) and got a Hasselblad (film) system camera, and started getting “jobs”.

After realizing the Hasselblad system was not cost efficient for me (but awesome photo quality), I moved to Canon. First film, and then Digital (cropped sensors). I’ve done weddings, family portraits, events, sports teams, etc… These “jobs” paid for my “gas” and I could play around. After over 30 years, and as the jobs became fewer, and cell phones began taking over some of the jobs I would have had, I decided to downsize the equipment and went mirrorless. I went to the darkside, NIKON! I chose the Nikon Z50 DX system just over a year ago.

I immediately fell in love with the Nikon Z50 system. The color science blew me away, nothing like I had with the Canon system I’ve used for decades. The lighter weight of the system, with IMO, better photo quality, made it fun again to do my gigs. The jobs I have with the Z50 hardly need ANY color or exposure adjustments, which was a huge change for me coming from Canon.

Then came the announcement of the new Z50ii, and my “gas” kicked in again. I ordered it and began comparing it immediately to the original Z50.

My initial observations were that even though on paper the size was just a tiny bit larger than the original Z50, once I put my hands on the Z50ii it felt much different. I have unusually large hands and the original Z50 felt prefect in my grasp, which goes against most norms. For me the Z50 is so comfortable in my large hands for some reason, it makes it effortless to shoot with. The new Z reminded me a little of my Canon DSLR system, which I was trying to stay away from.

When I first got the original Z50, I was disappointed it didn’t have the “flippy” screen, which I was used to with my Canon stuff. I quickly became a convert, and now prefer the fold out screen. Since I use this camera for photos, not video (I use my phone for videos), I prefer the angle view of this screen. Looking down on it for low shots reminds me of my Hasselblad system. The new Z50ii has the “flippy” screen and I no longer care for it at all. The one thing I love in the new Z50ii is the ability to use the old school mechanical shutter release (for astrophotography, and other uses), where the original Z50 does not have that ability. Using Snapbridge allows similar shutter release ability, so not that big of a deal.

Now the true test, the Exspeed 6 vs Exspeed7 comparision. I compared both cameras with two prime lenses and swapping them out using the same settings on both cameras. Of course, I am way more familiar with the original Z, and the new Z has many more settings/options but I tried to match both equally. The new Z was snappy to focus and has many more focus points. Both did equally well in photo quality, I noticed no difference.

In a couple instances though, the new Z50ii hunted to focus in dark areas where my original Z50 locked onto the same spot/lighting with the same lens and aperture/speed/iso settings. Again, the new Z50ii has way more focus options and choices, so it could be user error/unfamiliarity. Overall, I wasn’t overly impressed with the new Z50ii’s focus performance as advertised. The menus dive deep with options, and almost seems like overkill for a DX system, more for the full frame PRO systems, but I guess many will like these options.

I did not test the cameras in sports, wildlife, or other fast moving subjects, for which many will want the exspeed7. But for the times I shoot these faster subjects (maybe 20% of my shooting and almost all outdoors), I’ve rarely had focus issues with the Z50. No, not all shots are pinpoint focus, but that’s the beauty of digital, you can shoot many shots and most will be keepers. Again, this is not a PRO full frame camera system, but the best DX system in my opinion, just under the pro level.

I am a part-time “pro”, fulltime enthusiast, and love the Nikon DX system to keep photography fun (make a little “gas” money occasionally), and it’s not a cumbersome full frame system to lug around.

The new Z50ii may check some boxes for others, but for me the “upgrade” has more downsides than upsides for me, so I will keep enjoying my original Z50 and get more “gas” otherwise!

Well, that's exactly what the Z50ii is: a full frame Expeed7 generation Z50, and very much intended to use as much of the Z8/9 Expeed7 UI as possible, save swapping out the full-PRO control set for the prosumer control set and losing the joystick. If all you're into is slowish moving subjects and "premeditated" photography, there's less need for the z50ii. If you're not also using a FF Nikon you won't appreciate the control commonality.

On the other hand, I'm finding that I'm really liking the Expeed7's harmoniously integrated qualitative AF improvements over the z50, which I found rather confused. If you like to use the z50 in a more DSLRish way (with dynamic AF and fixed focus points) much of the z50ii's advances won't mean much.

I'm not sure why you're getting the low light hunting. Supposedly the z50ii's AF has higher sensitivity and confidence. But yeah, there are tons of adjustments at your disposal.

Enjoy watcha got.

 

[rangel28]

I’m sure I will get bashed for this post, but this is MY opinion of the Z50ii.

I have loved photography since I was a kid, and I’ve had many point and shoot cameras. About just over 30 years ago I decided to go “semipro” (as a side gig) and got a Hasselblad (film) system camera, and started getting “jobs”.

After realizing the Hasselblad system was not cost efficient for me (but awesome photo quality), I moved to Canon. First film, and then Digital (cropped sensors). I’ve done weddings, family portraits, events, sports teams, etc… These “jobs” paid for my “gas” and I could play around. After over 30 years, and as the jobs became fewer, and cell phones began taking over some of the jobs I would have had, I decided to downsize the equipment and went mirrorless. I went to the darkside, NIKON! I chose the Nikon Z50 DX system just over a year ago.

I immediately fell in love with the Nikon Z50 system. The color science blew me away, nothing like I had with the Canon system I’ve used for decades. The lighter weight of the system, with IMO, better photo quality, made it fun again to do my gigs. The jobs I have with the Z50 hardly need ANY color or exposure adjustments, which was a huge change for me coming from Canon.

Then came the announcement of the new Z50ii, and my “gas” kicked in again. I ordered it and began comparing it immediately to the original Z50.

My initial observations were that even though on paper the size was just a tiny bit larger than the original Z50, once I put my hands on the Z50ii it felt much different. I have unusually large hands and the original Z50 felt prefect in my grasp, which goes against most norms. For me the Z50 is so comfortable in my large hands for some reason, it makes it effortless to shoot with. The new Z reminded me a little of my Canon DSLR system, which I was trying to stay away from.

When I first got the original Z50, I was disappointed it didn’t have the “flippy” screen, which I was used to with my Canon stuff. I quickly became a convert, and now prefer the fold out screen. Since I use this camera for photos, not video (I use my phone for videos), I prefer the angle view of this screen. Looking down on it for low shots reminds me of my Hasselblad system. The new Z50ii has the “flippy” screen and I no longer care for it at all. The one thing I love in the new Z50ii is the ability to use the old school mechanical shutter release (for astrophotography, and other uses), where the original Z50 does not have that ability. Using Snapbridge allows similar shutter release ability, so not that big of a deal.

Now the true test, the Exspeed 6 vs Exspeed7 comparision. I compared both cameras with two prime lenses and swapping them out using the same settings on both cameras. Of course, I am way more familiar with the original Z, and the new Z has many more settings/options but I tried to match both equally. The new Z was snappy to focus and has many more focus points. Both did equally well in photo quality, I noticed no difference.

In a couple instances though, the new Z50ii hunted to focus in dark areas where my original Z50 locked onto the same spot/lighting with the same lens and aperture/speed/iso settings. Again, the new Z50ii has way more focus options and choices, so it could be user error/unfamiliarity. Overall, I wasn’t overly impressed with the new Z50ii’s focus performance as advertised. The menus dive deep with options, and almost seems like overkill for a DX system, more for the full frame PRO systems, but I guess many will like these options.

I did not test the cameras in sports, wildlife, or other fast moving subjects, for which many will want the exspeed7. But for the times I shoot these faster subjects (maybe 20% of my shooting and almost all outdoors), I’ve rarely had focus issues with the Z50. No, not all shots are pinpoint focus, but that’s the beauty of digital, you can shoot many shots and most will be keepers. Again, this is not a PRO full frame camera system, but the best DX system in my opinion, just under the pro level.

I am a part-time “pro”, fulltime enthusiast, and love the Nikon DX system to keep photography fun (make a little “gas” money occasionally), and it’s not a cumbersome full frame system to lug around.

The new Z50ii may check some boxes for others, but for me the “upgrade” has more downsides than upsides for me, so I will keep enjoying my original Z50 and get more “gas” otherwise!

The original Z50 was (and is) a very good camera, and I've gotten some great results with it, including fast moving birds (large and small) and a baseball right before it hits the catcher's mitt (at a major league game, so the ball was coming in at 95 or so mph), or a ball just before it the batter hits it (at the same game), all with the Z 50mm-250mm "kit" lens. The Z50 focusing capabilities improved significantly with firmware updates, specifically how quickly it acquired (and held) focus with subjects like fast moving dogs.

That being said, the new Z50II autofocus system is a huge improvement over the original Z50, and features like Pre Capture makes it much easier to catch birds or other fast moving subjects. Bird Detection seems to work really well. The new camera is a bit larger than the original, and feels more solid, which I like, and I also like the flippy screen, as it allows me to get down low for photos of my dogs. I haven't had any issues with focusing, and the camera did fine in my limited testing at night when taking photos of outdoor Christmas decorations.

Bottom line, both cameras are excellent APS-C options, even when paired with the small and light kits lenses. I sold myoriginal Z50, and I am sure the buyer will get many good years out of it.

--
https://richardangeloni.smugmug.com/

 

[Brian Homer]

No problem if the upgrade doesn’t provide you with benefits for what you shoot then of course no point.

I was surprised at the size change and checked Camerasize.com. The Width is similar to Z50 and the front to back slightly less but the height is much more and closer to the height of the Z6/7 bodies. Not sure why that is given there is no IBIS on the 50ii. The greater height does change the feel I guess.

I have been wondering about the 50ii as an option for shooting gigs because of the smaller size and weight over the Z6 or Zf. Main reason weight - I’m starting to find it difficult to carry and use my kit when I’m using the 70-200 Z. Disappointing the sixe of the 50ii has changed. I was attracted because of the improved AF.

 

[zephxiiii]

Maybe you haven't spent enough time with the II to really settle in. Having the Zfc I would love to move onto Expeed7 as Expeed6 very basic. Also the II body seems way better than the I body.

 

[Pshots23]

I’m sure I will get bashed for this post, but this is MY opinion of the Z50ii.

I hope not.

I have loved photography since I was a kid, and I’ve had many point and shoot cameras. About just over 30 years ago I decided to go “semipro” (as a side gig) and got a Hasselblad (film) system camera, and started getting “jobs”.

After realizing the Hasselblad system was not cost efficient for me (but awesome photo quality), I moved to Canon. First film, and then Digital (cropped sensors). I’ve done weddings, family portraits, events, sports teams, etc… These “jobs” paid for my “gas” and I could play around. After over 30 years, and as the jobs became fewer, and cell phones began taking over some of the jobs I would have had, I decided to downsize the equipment and went mirrorless. I went to the darkside, NIKON! I chose the Nikon Z50 DX system just over a year ago.

A great choice was made!

I immediately fell in love with the Nikon Z50 system. The color science blew me away, nothing like I had with the Canon system I’ve used for decades. The lighter weight of the system, with IMO, better photo quality, made it fun again to do my gigs. The jobs I have with the Z50 hardly need ANY color or exposure adjustments, which was a huge change for me coming from Canon.

I went from amazing colors from my D700 to an R5, thus began a 3 year journey were photography was not fun anymore due to my poor selection in gear. I swore it was a mirrorless thing, and DSLR was superior, (D700 images blew away anything the R5 could do). So I went Pentax, and it was life changing, Pentax cameras are insanely good. Then GAS hit and for a Z9, ended up with a Z8 and that was the moment I realized how wrong I was about thinking Canon mirrorless was better, (my fault for just accepting it from internet myth), but it was bad compared to Nikon. Stand alone I guess a pro might be able to get by with it, but for someone like me, that will be pixel peeping my photos and trying to capture rich colors and as much detail as possible, Canon was not for me, (they fixed the AF when the R5mkII came out so I won't beat that up).

Then came the announcement of the new Z50ii, and my “gas” kicked in again. I ordered it and began comparing it immediately to the original Z50.

Same

My initial observations were that even though on paper the size was just a tiny bit larger than the original Z50, once I put my hands on the Z50ii it felt much different. I have unusually large hands and the original Z50 felt prefect in my grasp, which goes against most norms. For me the Z50 is so comfortable in my large hands for some reason, it makes it effortless to shoot with. The new Z reminded me a little of my Canon DSLR system, which I was trying to stay away from.

Interesting, that is not a good feel, I would want it to feel like a Nikon.

When I first got the original Z50, I was disappointed it didn’t have the “flippy” screen, which I was used to with my Canon stuff. I quickly became a convert, and now prefer the fold out screen. Since I use this camera for photos, not video (I use my phone for videos), I prefer the angle view of this screen. Looking down on it for low shots reminds me of my Hasselblad system. The new Z50ii has the “flippy” screen and I no longer care for it at all. The one thing I love in the new Z50ii is the ability to use the old school mechanical shutter release (for astrophotography, and other uses), where the original Z50 does not have that ability. Using Snapbridge allows similar shutter release ability, so not that big of a deal.

Sort of same, my D700 has just a back screen. When I bought the R6 and it had a flippy screen I thought it was ok, I did not like not being able to look down or up and line up with my shot, but I did like the fact I could see myself for self recording video.

When I got my K3 and later a K1, Pentax rear screen beats Canon and Sony, it is not flippy, but has the ability to extend out back and then you can set it to any angle you want.

Flippy screens are a no go for me too now, they feel like a cheap option. Pentax spoiled me...I would rather have to get an external screen if I want to monitor myself in a video.

Now the true test, the Exspeed 6 vs Exspeed7 comparision. I compared both cameras with two prime lenses and swapping them out using the same settings on both cameras. Of course, I am way more familiar with the original Z, and the new Z has many more settings/options but I tried to match both equally. The new Z was snappy to focus and has many more focus points. Both did equally well in photo quality, I noticed no difference.

Interesting

In a couple instances though, the new Z50ii hunted to focus in dark areas where my original Z50 locked onto the same spot/lighting with the same lens and aperture/speed/iso settings. Again, the new Z50ii has way more focus options and choices, so it could be user error/unfamiliarity. Overall, I wasn’t overly impressed with the new Z50ii’s focus performance as advertised. The menus dive deep with options, and almost seems like overkill for a DX system, more for the full frame PRO systems, but I guess many will like these options.

This makes a lot of sense for someone like you. Someone like me will love that the Z50II controls and menu are similar to Z9/8, but for you, it might be worse and the original idea is better. Tough that this is the case.

I did not test the cameras in sports, wildlife, or other fast moving subjects, for which many will want the exspeed7. But for the times I shoot these faster subjects (maybe 20% of my shooting and almost all outdoors), I’ve rarely had focus issues with the Z50. No, not all shots are pinpoint focus, but that’s the beauty of digital, you can shoot many shots and most will be keepers. Again, this is not a PRO full frame camera system, but the best DX system in my opinion, just under the pro level.

I am a part-time “pro”, fulltime enthusiast, and love the Nikon DX system to keep photography fun (make a little “gas” money occasionally), and it’s not a cumbersome full frame system to lug around.

The new Z50ii may check some boxes for others, but for me the “upgrade” has more downsides than upsides for me, so I will keep enjoying my original Z50 and get more “gas” otherwise!

More power to you, I learned a lot from your review. I may look for a used Z50, I own a Z8, I do not need a mini Z8, I need a simple travel friendly camera that can take Z lenses, and can AF on simple subjects with no issues.

 

[nameless0ne]

Nothing wrong with your decision — if you don‘t feel happy with a new camera returning it is a right choice. Also that is true that there is no improvements in image quality compared to previous generation, so if autofocus improvements or video specs are irrelevant for you, than arguably Z50 has it‘s own pluses, like a bit better battery life.

 

[sirhawkeye64]

I’m sure I will get bashed for this post, but this is MY opinion of the Z50ii.

I have loved photography since I was a kid, and I’ve had many point and shoot cameras. About just over 30 years ago I decided to go “semipro” (as a side gig) and got a Hasselblad (film) system camera, and started getting “jobs”.

After realizing the Hasselblad system was not cost efficient for me (but awesome photo quality), I moved to Canon. First film, and then Digital (cropped sensors). I’ve done weddings, family portraits, events, sports teams, etc… These “jobs” paid for my “gas” and I could play around. After over 30 years, and as the jobs became fewer, and cell phones began taking over some of the jobs I would have had, I decided to downsize the equipment and went mirrorless. I went to the darkside, NIKON! I chose the Nikon Z50 DX system just over a year ago.

I immediately fell in love with the Nikon Z50 system. The color science blew me away, nothing like I had with the Canon system I’ve used for decades. The lighter weight of the system, with IMO, better photo quality, made it fun again to do my gigs. The jobs I have with the Z50 hardly need ANY color or exposure adjustments, which was a huge change for me coming from Canon.

Then came the announcement of the new Z50ii, and my “gas” kicked in again. I ordered it and began comparing it immediately to the original Z50.

My initial observations were that even though on paper the size was just a tiny bit larger than the original Z50, once I put my hands on the Z50ii it felt much different. I have unusually large hands and the original Z50 felt prefect in my grasp, which goes against most norms. For me the Z50 is so comfortable in my large hands for some reason, it makes it effortless to shoot with. The new Z reminded me a little of my Canon DSLR system, which I was trying to stay away from.

When I first got the original Z50, I was disappointed it didn’t have the “flippy” screen, which I was used to with my Canon stuff. I quickly became a convert, and now prefer the fold out screen. Since I use this camera for photos, not video (I use my phone for videos), I prefer the angle view of this screen. Looking down on it for low shots reminds me of my Hasselblad system. The new Z50ii has the “flippy” screen and I no longer care for it at all. The one thing I love in the new Z50ii is the ability to use the old school mechanical shutter release (for astrophotography, and other uses), where the original Z50 does not have that ability. Using Snapbridge allows similar shutter release ability, so not that big of a deal.

Now the true test, the Exspeed 6 vs Exspeed7 comparision. I compared both cameras with two prime lenses and swapping them out using the same settings on both cameras. Of course, I am way more familiar with the original Z, and the new Z has many more settings/options but I tried to match both equally. The new Z was snappy to focus and has many more focus points. Both did equally well in photo quality, I noticed no difference.

In a couple instances though, the new Z50ii hunted to focus in dark areas where my original Z50 locked onto the same spot/lighting with the same lens and aperture/speed/iso settings. Again, the new Z50ii has way more focus options and choices, so it could be user error/unfamiliarity. Overall, I wasn’t overly impressed with the new Z50ii’s focus performance as advertised. The menus dive deep with options, and almost seems like overkill for a DX system, more for the full frame PRO systems, but I guess many will like these options.

I did not test the cameras in sports, wildlife, or other fast moving subjects, for which many will want the exspeed7. But for the times I shoot these faster subjects (maybe 20% of my shooting and almost all outdoors), I’ve rarely had focus issues with the Z50. No, not all shots are pinpoint focus, but that’s the beauty of digital, you can shoot many shots and most will be keepers. Again, this is not a PRO full frame camera system, but the best DX system in my opinion, just under the pro level.

I am a part-time “pro”, fulltime enthusiast, and love the Nikon DX system to keep photography fun (make a little “gas” money occasionally), and it’s not a cumbersome full frame system to lug around.

The new Z50ii may check some boxes for others, but for me the “upgrade” has more downsides than upsides for me, so I will keep enjoying my original Z50 and get more “gas” otherwise!

There's nothing wrong with changing your mind about things, and the Z50 II. It's not for everyone, and really is geared towards wildlife/action shooters and video (to an extent). The AF improvements are good but I think in some cases, also overhyped (it's not a mini Z8, but more like a mini Z6 III or perhaps somewhere between a Zf and Z6 III from a performance standpoint).

I too had considered the Z50 II for a travel camera but then realized I don't really need those features (the video or AF) and I might just wait for a deal on a Z50 kit to come up myself (as I would like a smaller camera for short weekend trips to accompany my FF gear).

I mean on the bright side (as you eluded to) you will have funds now to put elsewhere (either into gear, or even a photo opportunity -- like a trip).

--
PLEASE NOTE: I usually unsubscribe from forums and comments after a period of time, so if I do not respond, that is likely the reason. Feel free to PM me if you have a questions or need clarification about a comment I made.

 

[PLShutterbug]

Flippy screens are a no go for me too now,

The flippy screen on the “ii” is fine. It’s a matter of getting used to it.

More power to you, I learned a lot from your review. I may look for a used Z50, I own a Z8, I do not need a mini Z8, I need a simple travel friendly camera that can take Z lenses, and can AF on simple subjects with no issues.

I have the Z7/ Z50, Z8, and now the Z50ii. You will regret going back to Expeed6 if you buy the Z50. The Z50ii is much, much better.

I scanned Pshots23’s whole post. For me and my wife, the primary user, the “ii” is a much better camera. Her for greatly improved AF and me precisely because it feels like a mini Z8

 

[unhappymeal]

No problem if the upgrade doesn’t provide you with benefits for what you shoot then of course no point.

I was surprised at the size change and checked Camerasize.com. The Width is similar to Z50 and the front to back slightly less but the height is much more and closer to the height of the Z6/7 bodies. Not sure why that is given there is no IBIS on the 50ii. The greater height does change the feel I guess.

I have been wondering about the 50ii as an option for shooting gigs because of the smaller size and weight over the Z6 or Zf. Main reason weight - I’m starting to find it difficult to carry and use my kit when I’m using the 70-200 Z. Disappointing the sixe of the 50ii has changed. I was attracted because of the improved AF.

 

[PLShutterbug]

No problem if the upgrade doesn’t provide you with benefits for what you shoot then of course no point.

I was surprised at the size change and checked Camerasize.com. The Width is similar to Z50 and the front to back slightly less but the height is much more and closer to the height of the Z6/7 bodies. Not sure why that is given there is no IBIS on the 50ii. The greater height does change the feel I guess.

I have been wondering about the 50ii as an option for shooting gigs because of the smaller size and weight over the Z6 or Zf. Main reason weight - I’m starting to find it difficult to carry and use my kit when I’m using the 70-200 Z. Disappointing the sixe of the 50ii has changed. I was attracted because of the improved AF.

All of Nikon’s cameras are getting larger and heavier with each generation. It’s irritating. Having said that, Nikon isn’t alone in this. The A1, A9, A7 and A7R have been getting progressively bigger with each release.

I wonder if we are getting into a Catch-22 situation: people want small cameras with better video that allows very long takes, but due to current technology, you can’t make a camera that is both small and has those video capabilities.

 

[unhappymeal]

No problem if the upgrade doesn’t provide you with benefits for what you shoot then of course no point.

I was surprised at the size change and checked Camerasize.com. The Width is similar to Z50 and the front to back slightly less but the height is much more and closer to the height of the Z6/7 bodies. Not sure why that is given there is no IBIS on the 50ii. The greater height does change the feel I guess.

I have been wondering about the 50ii as an option for shooting gigs because of the smaller size and weight over the Z6 or Zf. Main reason weight - I’m starting to find it difficult to carry and use my kit when I’m using the 70-200 Z. Disappointing the sixe of the 50ii has changed. I was attracted because of the improved AF.

All of Nikon’s cameras are getting larger and heavier with each generation. It’s irritating. Having said that, Nikon isn’t alone in this. The A1, A9, A7 and A7R have been getting progressively bigger with each release.

I wonder if we are getting into a Catch-22 situation: people want small cameras with better video that allows very long takes, but due to current technology, you can’t make a camera that is both small and has those video capabilities.

Fujifilm X-M5?

 

[PLShutterbug]

No problem if the upgrade doesn’t provide you with benefits for what you shoot then of course no point.

I was surprised at the size change and checked Camerasize.com. The Width is similar to Z50 and the front to back slightly less but the height is much more and closer to the height of the Z6/7 bodies. Not sure why that is given there is no IBIS on the 50ii. The greater height does change the feel I guess.

I have been wondering about the 50ii as an option for shooting gigs because of the smaller size and weight over the Z6 or Zf. Main reason weight - I’m starting to find it difficult to carry and use my kit when I’m using the 70-200 Z. Disappointing the sixe of the 50ii has changed. I was attracted because of the improved AF.

All of Nikon’s cameras are getting larger and heavier with each generation. It’s irritating. Having said that, Nikon isn’t alone in this. The A1, A9, A7 and A7R have been getting progressively bigger with each release.

I wonder if we are getting into a Catch-22 situation: people want small cameras with better video that allows very long takes, but due to current technology, you can’t make a camera that is both small and has those video capabilities.

Fujifilm X-M5?

I don’t know anything about that camera. Is its spec the same for video as the Z50ii - same maximum resolution, frame rate, encoding, recording duration - and is it smaller and lighter?

One thing I do know is that different manufacturers have different standards for what they test, and what they are willing to say. ZampirCam may show 8K/240p 16-bit for 6 hours constant as their camera’s spec, but may have only tested it at 5°C and one pass, while Nikon may have required multiple tests with five minute cooldowns at 30°C - and designed their camera to ensure it passed that test. That is a dramatically different engineering job.

Nikon tends to be very conservative in its claims, and that is probably also reflected in their engineering - hence larger cameras so if they say something, they will back it up. I’m sure Canon is the same, as well as a few others.

 

[Bob A L]

Fujifilm X-M5?

If that is a consideration why not a Z30? and all your lenses and stuff work. I really like mine and my wife better not catch someone touching hers. It fits right in a slot between several of my other cameras. Different tools for different projects.

 

[MyReality]

I was somewhat in the same situation as you, so I bought a Z38 w/kit and 40mm f2 and Canon RP(FF) w/ RF 50mm f1.8 for gigs and travel. Each combo is much smaller and lighter than anything else I have. I recently shot a New Years party with the RP combo handheld with very good results. I use the Z30 mainly for video.

 

[Ruedon]

...

Then came the announcement of the new Z50ii, and my “gas” kicked in again. I ordered it and began comparing it immediately to the original Z50.

My initial observations were that even though on paper the size was just a tiny bit larger than the original Z50, once I put my hands on the Z50ii it felt much different. I have unusually large hands and the original Z50 felt prefect in my grasp, which goes against most norms. For me the Z50 is so comfortable in my large hands for some reason, it makes it effortless to shoot with. The new Z reminded me a little of my Canon DSLR system, which I was trying to stay away from.

...

Just for curiosity: How many fingers do you have on the grip?

For me it's 3 fingers and a little space left with the Z8, i.e. it could be smaller; the thumb behind the camera, the index finger on the release button. The Z5/6/7 appear to have the perfect size along with not too large lenses, maybe a little tight for my outermost little finger. When I had tried a Z50, my little finger had to go below the grip, which made it less comfortable to hold for me.

Your reservations regarding Expeed 7 might also be as the Z50 was your first Nikon. I'm very happy that Nikon re-added 3D AF tracking with Expeed 7. The only thing I changed in the menus was focus priority before the first release in AF-C. I don't bother about all the other AF settings in the menus. Alternatively, also auto area AF is working surprisingly good for me along with subject and eye recognition. In rare cases I want to switch eye recognition off, e.g. if there are many persons in the scene and I want to focus on a particular one and blur the others.

I agree regarding the flip out screen. Preferring a tilt screen for photo -- and the Z50 solution for selfies. Even selfie takers are sometimes reporting that they need to be careful to not look besides the lens on the flip out screen.

 

[msu79gt82]

...

Then came the announcement of the new Z50ii, and my “gas” kicked in again. I ordered it and began comparing it immediately to the original Z50.

My initial observations were that even though on paper the size was just a tiny bit larger than the original Z50, once I put my hands on the Z50ii it felt much different. I have unusually large hands and the original Z50 felt prefect in my grasp, which goes against most norms. For me the Z50 is so comfortable in my large hands for some reason, it makes it effortless to shoot with. The new Z reminded me a little of my Canon DSLR system, which I was trying to stay away from.

...

Just for curiosity: How many fingers do you have on the grip?

Well I can very comfortably fit three on the grip of my Z6iii and Z50ii but my index shutter finger isn’t needed there anyway. When I’m actually shooting any SLR I hold it with three fingers on the grip and use the index finger on the shutter.

If I’m just carrying the camera while using it, but not actively shooting, then I have to place my index finger around the front dial on the Z50ii. I also usually do that with the Z6iii also I can technically get four fingers on its grip barely.

For me it's 4 fingers and a little space left with the Z8, i.e. it could be smaller; the thumb behind the camera. The Z5/6/7 appear to have the perfect size along with not too large lenses, maybe a little tight for my outermost little finger. When I had tried a Z50, my little finger had to go below the grip, which made it less comfortable to hold for me.

Your reservations regarding Expeed 7 might also be as the Z50 was your first Nikon. I'm very happy that Nikon re-added 3D AF tracking with Expeed 7. The only thing I changed in the menus was focus priority before the first release in AF-C. I don't bother about all the other AF settings in the menus. Alternatively, also auto area AF is working surprisingly good for me along with subject and eye recognition. In rare cases I want to switch eye recognition off, e.g. if there are many persons in the scene and I want to focus on a particular one and blur the others.

 

[Ruedon]

...

Then came the announcement of the new Z50ii, and my “gas” kicked in again. I ordered it and began comparing it immediately to the original Z50.

My initial observations were that even though on paper the size was just a tiny bit larger than the original Z50, once I put my hands on the Z50ii it felt much different. I have unusually large hands and the original Z50 felt prefect in my grasp, which goes against most norms. For me the Z50 is so comfortable in my large hands for some reason, it makes it effortless to shoot with. The new Z reminded me a little of my Canon DSLR system, which I was trying to stay away from.

...

Just for curiosity: How many fingers do you have on the grip?

Well I can very comfortably fit three on the grip of my Z6iii and Z50ii but my index shutter finger isn’t needed there anyway. When I’m actually shooting any SLR I hold it with three fingers on the grip and use the index finger on the shutter.

If I’m just carrying the camera while using it, but not actively shooting, then I have to place my index finger around the front dial on the Z50ii. I also usually do that with the Z6iii also I can technically get four fingers on its grip barely.

For me it's 4 fingers ...

Yes, I meant 3 (and corrected it in the post before your replay). This might be the difference between Z50 and Z50II, that now 3 fingers fit onto the grip.

 

[mosswings]

...

Then came the announcement of the new Z50ii, and my “gas” kicked in again. I ordered it and began comparing it immediately to the original Z50.

My initial observations were that even though on paper the size was just a tiny bit larger than the original Z50, once I put my hands on the Z50ii it felt much different. I have unusually large hands and the original Z50 felt prefect in my grasp, which goes against most norms. For me the Z50 is so comfortable in my large hands for some reason, it makes it effortless to shoot with. The new Z reminded me a little of my Canon DSLR system, which I was trying to stay away from.

...

Just for curiosity: How many fingers do you have on the grip?

Well I can very comfortably fit three on the grip of my Z6iii and Z50ii but my index shutter finger isn’t needed there anyway. When I’m actually shooting any SLR I hold it with three fingers on the grip and use the index finger on the shutter.

If I’m just carrying the camera while using it, but not actively shooting, then I have to place my index finger around the front dial on the Z50ii. I also usually do that with the Z6iii also I can technically get four fingers on its grip barely.

For me it's 4 fingers ...

Yes, I meant 3 (and corrected it in the post before your replay). This might be the difference between Z50 and Z50II, that now 3 fingers fit onto the grip.

Call it 2.7. Z8/9: 3+ space: Z6iii: a bit less space: Z5: 3: Z50: 2 with the pinky curled underneath: Z50ii: the pinky's not all the way on the grip but it feels more like it is. Visually, over half of the pinky's on the grip. Neither the z50 or Z50ii have a grip in which the camera is fully nestled in the relaxed palm, as it is on the FF cameras and the D7K series, to allow easy movement of the thumb and fingers on the controls.

 

[chambeshi]

Video evaluation of the IBIS VR issue

The Z50 II has jumped up the top selling list of Nikon MILC cameras sold by Gray's of Westminster in 2024 (see the data slide close to the end of this video)