Re: Nikon Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S images thread
RoamingScott wrote: James Farrell wrote:
I wonder if all of you who now have the 100-400 S would try a little experiment? When shooting either the Z6 or Z7 - both first and second generations (does not apply to the Z9) - if you have custom setting d5 set to "auto", the default, your shutter type changes from Electronic Front Curtain Shutter (EFCS) to Mechanical automatically when faster than 1/250. However, you can set the shutter type to remain on EFCS and have the camera shoot EFCS up to 1/2000. Do not confuse this with "all electronic shutter" as we know it which Nikon calls "Silent Photography" - not the same as EFCS.
I find that when I shoot EFCS at speeds ranging from 1/320 to 1/500 that results in sharper shots when shooting handheld with my 500 PF at a subject of some distance, especially on the Z 7II. In doing so you eliminate the motion (and some possible image blur) of the front curtain shutter moving before the image is actually taken when the shutter is pressed which is what happens when shooting in Mechanical shutter mode. At slow speeds this "shutter shock" at times will affect your sharpness. However, I find that shooting EFCS up to speeds around 1/500 results are just a tad better. I am not suggesting an AF issue, but a shutter speed issue for subjects at some distance and shooting handheld. Now I know were all talking about the 100-400 and not an adapted F mount lens as I mentioned here. But I am just wondering if shooting the 100-400 at the long end, handheld and on a medium distance subject you would benefit by using EFCS above the auto changeover point? I have read some articles by knowledgeable folks above have suggested this technique. I put d5 in My Menu to get to it quickly without needed to take my eye away from the EVF.
Disclosure: I am no expert, and I don't own the 100-400 S yet as mine is on order. And I am jealous of you that own one. >> Jim
Edit: setting the camera to EFCS limits you to 1/2000 as max shutter speed. This is not a workable solution for me. My guess is that Auto will revert back to full mechanical at speeds faster than 1/2000, which is super nice compared to Sony (as high shutter speeds with EFCS will degrade your bokeh).
If the camera isn't optimally functional in auto mode, we have a camera issue.
No, the camera does not revert back to Auto faster than 1/2000. It will stay at 1/2000 which likely would mean overexposure. We agree to disagree; no camera issue in my view.
Folks: I was NOT suggesting that everyone use EFCS exclusively. I am only referring to shutter speeds that are just over the Auto changeover point by a few 'shutter stop' I am mostly shooting in less than good light at lower shutter speeds. That's what I was I referring to in my first post. If you're in good enough light, by all means set d5 to auto and you're good to go.
Dec 23, 2021 at 12:27 PM
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