I finally took the plunge into mirrorless. I’ve been shooting DSLR’s forever (well SLR’s forever). I’ve shot all of the Nikon DSLR line up over the years and have been shooting a D4 since it was launched in 2012. This workhorse has never let me down!
I’ve had a few mirrorless cameras in the past such as the Fuji X-Pro line cameras, and an Olympus OMD-EM-1. Both excellent cameras, however, neither of them were ready for professional use in my opinion. I have always been committed to full frame 135 format digital sensors since they became available. I realize that is somewhat of a snobby position however, it’s one of my personal preferences or hang ups.
I recently added the newly release Nikon Zii camera to my stable. Since retiring from professional photography several years ago I still have an appreciation for pro gear and its inherent quality. I honestly wasn’t sure if I could get my head wrapped around using a “pro-sumer” camera. Or in the Z5 ii’s case a lower tier professional model in Nikon’s Z line up. Or at least that’s what I was telling myself. For me, it’s often too easy to compare models within a line up an gravitate to the more expensive model over a more purpose built approach.
Shot on the Nikon Z5ii, Auto-ISO, 105mm f 2.8 Micro Nikkor VR Lens
I think in the case of the Z5ii there is a perfect balance for me. It has pro features, weather sealing, full frame, build quality and usability and the cost is quite reasonable. It’s considerably less expensive than Nikon’s Z7, Z8, and Z9 models.
The ability to use my large collection of DSLR “G” version F-mount glass was also a necessity. I purchased the FTZ adapter to use my existing F-moung glass.
I will say it works, but at the cost of balance/feel and of course weight. The “G” glass is considerably heavier than the “Z” glass. But, it works. I don’t think I could stomach the prospect of retooling my lens collection to convert it a full Z line up.
Shot on the Nikon Z5ii, Auto-ISO, 105mm f 2.8 Micro Nikkor VR Lens
In the meantime I shot a few macro images with the Z5ii, FTZ converter and the 105mm f 2.8 Micro Nikkor VR lens. The images are all handheld using the Z5ii’s auto ISO setting.
I will post a full review later as I use the camera more and will do my best to include a head to head image comparison to the D4. I suspect in terms of image quality the Z5ii will prevail though.
