nova_wm

I am glad the issue is resolved.  Your initial post indicated the hardware were working fine individually and only certain combinations caused the error. The camera only initiates an update if FW ...

Do not have the lens, camera nor grip you mentioned on your post. I draw on experience from using other Nikon cameras. I am assuming the new 15c you recently purchased is an OEM replacement battery ...

It becomes much more intuitive when you have the camera in front of you. The manual would be more meaningful. Following link is to a page on photography life website. You may find it helpful. https ...

I do the following for exposure set: push i button touch silent photography, touch ON touch auto bracketing touch AE select number of shots such as 3 scroll down to select increment such as 1 touch ok

What time of the day was the event? Some camera creates a new folder for each calendar day.

Very Nice, Thanks for sharing.

The lens is listed for $1000, it is $600 when purchased with a Z body. It is a good lens if you use the zoom range. There are many on the used market for around $400. Focus Camera is an authorized ...

I use Nikon speedlights: sb800, sb700, sb600. SU-800 for off camera controls  and r1c1 for close up.

I updated the Z5 firmware when it came out, no issue at all. I use several Nikon speedlights and SU-800.

I set picture control to Standard or Neutral on my camera. Flat Picture control only apply some sharpening (1). Use Nikon Picture Control utility to create one for None.

Check your settings on a1.  Link to the online manual https://onlinemanual.nikonimglib.com/z9/en/15_menu_guide_04_a01.html Do not have z9 or the lens.

I used to believe Nikon had a blank screen between shots during focus shift until I used speedlights and put 5 seconds between shots. The Z displays every shot. It is too fast to do anything.

I have no problem with up-to-date  MacOS.

Nikon EN-EL15c battery in the camera and the camera OFF you can charge the battery with appropriate PD.

Have you try to use photoshop to invert negatives?

I suggest a Nikon speedlight for compatibility and support. I use a SB700.

52 mm filter size was very common among Nikon AI and AIS lens. You should be able to find a used one easily. The ones I have are metal.