Add/Replace/Pass on Z8 for Z9

woodstork
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p.2 #1 · p.2 #1 · Add/Replace/Pass on Z8 for Z9

I’ve never understood descriptions of the Z9 like it’s some kind of lead-acid battery of a camera body. It feels great in my hands, balances well with my favorite lenses, and I love the fully functional vertical grip and battery system. If it works for you as a general shooter… then why change?

Before the announcement I was thinking about getting a Z8 as my secondary action cam. But was really dissatisfied with the optional vertical grip design, and the button layout seems like it might be confusing to go back and forth on. So, I’m no longer thinking about it. If I go on safari will rent a second Z9 (or buy one used) rather than adding a Z8 because I really like having a vertical grip, and I’m old and like relying on just one set of haptics/muscle memory. I don’t want to pick up the second camera quickly and have to think, where the hell is Fn3 or where did I assign that function on this camera?

If I get a Z8 it will be primarily to put it into a water housing.

May 25, 2023 at 09:36 PM

Ai_Print
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p.2 #2 · p.2 #2 · Add/Replace/Pass on Z8 for Z9

As I was about to buy a second Z9 when the Z8 was announced so I’m definitely adding a Z8 to my Z9 due to the much improved performance with LED lights and the protective shutter curtain. I’ll sell my Z6II and keep my Z7II for super light stuff.

I get mine tomorrow.

May 26, 2023 at 12:40 AM

Alistair1
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p.2 #3 · p.2 #3 · Add/Replace/Pass on Z8 for Z9

The Z8 looks great and I totally get it that folk prefer the size and weight to the Z9 brick. But there is something unique and special about integrated grip cameras. I love the comfort, feel and user experience (long strong hands) and mine isn't going anywhere. Will eventually replace my Z6 with a Z8 (maybe Z8ii) but I have my dream lens quiver now too and for the foreseeable future I am done buying.

May 26, 2023 at 12:56 AM

gdsf2
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p.2 #4 · p.2 #4 · Add/Replace/Pass on Z8 for Z9

My Z9 is for wildlife pholography and other more demanding situations. When I am walking around, or taking casual family shots, my iPhone 12 does great.

May 26, 2023 at 06:26 AM

Nikon1960
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p.2 #5 · p.2 #5 · Add/Replace/Pass on Z8 for Z9

I briefly considered straight up replacing my Z9 with a Z8. However, I find the Z8 uncomfortable to handhold with my 600 TC. The build quality of the Z8 is certainly a lower standard than my Z9, including the dials, which I do not prefer.

That being said, the Z8 balances perfectly with my 24-120 and 100-400, I love the form factor when used with my smaller lenses.

So for me, it’s a perfect second camera and complement to the Z9, but I don’t foresee it being my main.

May 27, 2023 at 04:47 PM

runamuck
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p.2 #6 · p.2 #6 · Add/Replace/Pass on Z8 for Z9

DPR asked the same question. https://www.dpreview.com/articles/4367959579/opinion-the-z8-might-be-the-best-camera-nikon-has-ever-made-but-i-don-t-think-i-ll-be-buying-one

May 27, 2023 at 05:01 PM

ahinesdesign
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p.2 #7 · p.2 #7 · Add/Replace/Pass on Z8 for Z9

I use my Z9 for far more than just work. Before I picked up a Z50, I carried the Z9 everywhere, hiking, family outings, etc., and still do at times. It's not that bad. Using a smaller lens makes a tremendous difference, say 24-70 f/4 instead of f/2.8, or one of the compact primes... but yeah, it's really overkill for many things, hence the Z50. If Nikon puts some of the Z8/Z9 DNA into a Z6/7 size FF body, I'll happily upgrade.

As awesome as the Z8 is, I can't see myself picking one up specifically for casual use just to save a little weight over the Z9. I mean, if I win the lottery, then sure, I'll buy a camera for every possible scenario (and hire someone to lug them all over).

May 27, 2023 at 05:28 PM

Steve Beck
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p.2 #8 · p.2 #8 · Add/Replace/Pass on Z8 for Z9

I love my z9. I use it for EVERYTHING. Walk around, lay down, kneel down doesn't matter.

May 27, 2023 at 07:39 PM

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