Nikon Z f
The Nikon Z f is a love letter to photography. It combines the stunning retro looks of the FM2 with the powerful autofocus of the Z8. It's not just a pretty face; it's a serious tool.
Nikon Z f Review: A Modern Classic
Pros
- Stunning retro design with brass dials
- Flagship-level autofocus (same as Z8)
- Excellent IBIS performance
- Dedicated B&W mode switch
Cons
- Grip is shallow without an accessory
- MicroSD card for the second slot
- No joystick for AF point selection
Introduction
The Nikon Z f is the camera that many photographers have been dreaming of. It takes the iconic styling of the Nikon FM2 film camera and stuffs it with the bleeding-edge tech from the Z8 and Z9. It's not just a pretty face; it's a wolf in sheep's clothing.
Design and Handling
Nikon nailed the aesthetics. The brass dials feel mechanical and satisfying. The feeling of changing shutter speed and ISO physically brings back the joy of photography. However, the flat front means the grip is non-existent. We highly recommend buying the optional SmallRig grip if you plan to use heavy lenses.
The dedicated Black & White switch is a stroke of genius. Flipping it instantly transforms the EVF and rear screen to monochrome, helping you "see" in black and white.
Performance
Under the hood, the Z f is a beast. It uses the same EXPEED 7 processor as the Z9, meaning the autofocus is sticky and responsive. It tracks eyes, faces, and vehicles with ease.
Image Quality
The 24.5MP BSI CMOS sensor is a known quantity—it's excellent. Low light performance is stellar, usable up to ISO 12800 without issue. The new "Flat Monochrome" and "Deep Tone Monochrome" profiles are beautiful straight out of camera.
Verdict
The Nikon Z f is more than a nostalgia trip. It is a capable, powerful tool that inspires you to pick it up and shoot. If you can live with the MicroSD slot and the lack of a joystick, it is one of the most enjoyable cameras on the market today.