I had the pleasure of using the new Nikon Z6 Filmmakers Kit over Memorial day weekend. Nikon made headlines last fall when they released the Z6 and Z7. The Z6 filmmakers kit is no exception; it comes with everything a budding videographer needs to get into the business.
…everything a budding videographer needs to get into the business.
The kit is a full featured setup for everyone from beginners to working pros. Its contents include the Z6 body with the incredibly sharp 24-70 F4. This combo is small and light weight and offers some of the best performance for a zoom lens I have ever seen. Loaded in the box is a Nikon F to Z adapter, allowing you to use all of that fantastic Nikon glass. A Moza Air 2 gimbal, accessory arm, Atomos Ninja, and Rode Videomic Pro+ round out the kit.
The Z6 felt at home in my hands, having been a mirrorless user for almost 10 years now. I was excited to see how this modern Nikon stacked up against the other systems. If you are a Nikon user, the menu, control layout, and buttons will make you feel at home. It offers plenty of customizability, and allows the user to make the most of its design.
Most recently I purchased the Canon EOS R, possibly the closest in performance to the Nikon Z6. Coming from the EOS R, it took a minute to get used to the Nikon interface, but once I had it down, it was extremely fast and consistent. As far as the performance of the Nikon, the files have tones of exposure latitude, shadow detail is fantastic, and the high ISO performance is great.
In my time with the camera, I tested the auto focus which never hunted and consistently locked on fast. Even in a low light environment, I found the auto focus performance spot on. Possibly the best feature is the in-body stabilization. I was able to do a hand held shot of the James River rapids, which I could not have done with my EOS R.
… I tested the auto focus, which never hunted and consistently locked on fast.
So, is the Z6 right for you? I would say yes. I was surprised how much I enjoyed using the Nikon Z6, I found myself grabbing it and walking out the door. Paired with the compact 24-70, it was the perfect everyday kit. It has the ease of use of a fully automatic camera, but can be a workhorse when needed. Pairing it with the Nikon F to Z adapter allows the full use of Nikon's lens catalog. This camera would be a fantastic addition to your kit, or if you are coming in fresh to full-frame mirrorless, it should be at the top of your list!
This camera would be a fantastic addition to your kit, or if you are coming in fresh to full-frame mirrorless, it should be at the top of your list!
The samples below, highlight a normal day with the Z6. I treated like a travel camera; it was easy to hike with and venture around Belle Island. It was a joy to shoot with. Stop in to your local Richmond Camera and check it out!
-Chuck Rudisill, Store Manager, Richmond Camera Carytown