Price: $5,099.95 - $4,596.95
(as of Jul 24, 2025 18:15:45 UTC – Details)
Nikon Z 8 with Zoom Lens: A Comprehensive Review of a Professional Full-Frame Mirrorless Camera
The Nikon Z 8 is a flagship full-frame mirrorless camera that boasts an impressive array of features, making it an ideal choice for professional photographers and videographers. Paired with the NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S lens, this camera system offers exceptional versatility and performance. In this review, we will delve into the key features and capabilities of the Nikon Z 8, exploring its stills and video capabilities, autofocus system, and overall design and build quality.
Sensor and Processing Engine
At the heart of the Nikon Z 8 lies a 45.7MP stacked CMOS sensor, which provides exceptional image quality and low-light performance. The sensor is paired with the EXPEED 7 processing engine, which enables fast and efficient processing of images and video. This combination allows for a wide range of shooting options, including high-speed continuous shooting and advanced video recording capabilities.
Autofocus System
The Nikon Z 8 features the company’s most advanced autofocus system, which has been developed using deep learning technology. This system allows for fast and accurate subject detection, with the ability to detect focus as low as -9 EV. The AF algorithm combines subject detection and 3D tracking, enabling the camera to detect and track a wide range of subjects, including people, animals, and vehicles. The system can detect and track specific subjects, such as dogs, cats, birds, cars, bikes, motorcycles, trains, and planes, making it an ideal choice for wildlife, sports, and action photography.
Video Capabilities
The Nikon Z 8 is a hybrid camera that excels in both stills and video recording. It offers internal 8K/60p and 4K/120p video recording, allowing for stunning high-resolution footage. The camera also features internal 12-bit N-RAW and ProRes RAW recording, providing a high level of flexibility and creativity in post-production. The video capabilities of the Z 8 are further enhanced by the inclusion of 10-bit ProRes 422 HQ, which provides a high level of color accuracy and grading options.
Stills Capabilities
In addition to its impressive video capabilities, the Nikon Z 8 is also an exceptional stills camera. It features a range of flexible still image file formats, including RAW 14-bit, High Efficiency RAW, 10-bit HEIF, and JPEG 8-bit. The camera also offers a range of continuous shooting options, including 20, 30, 60, and 120 fps, making it ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects. The Z 8 also features a silent, vibration-free electronic shutter, which allows for discreet and distortion-free shooting.
Portrait Photography
The Nikon Z 8 is also well-suited to portrait photography, with a range of features designed to make capturing beautiful portraits easy. The camera features Skin Softening, Portrait Impression Balance, and Improved White Balance features, which allow for natural and flattering skin tones. The Z 8 also features a range of autofocus options, including eye-detection AF, which enables precise and accurate focusing on the subject’s eyes.
Lens and Build Quality
The Nikon Z 8 is paired with the NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S lens, which provides sharpness across the entire 24-120mm zoom range with a constant f/4 maximum aperture. The lens is designed to provide exceptional optical quality, with a range of features including ED glass, aspherical elements, and Nikon’s Nano Crystal Coat. The camera itself features Nikon’s superior ergonomics and build quality, with a magnesium alloy body that provides durability and resistance to the elements.
Design and Ergonomics
The Nikon Z 8 has been designed with ergonomics and usability in mind. The camera features a comfortable and intuitive design, with a range of controls and buttons that are easily accessible. The camera also features a high-resolution viewfinder and a tilting touchscreen LCD, which provide a clear and flexible way to compose and review shots. The Z 8 is also remarkably compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry and use in a range of shooting situations.
Conclusion
The Nikon Z 8 with the NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S lens is a professional full-frame mirrorless camera that offers exceptional performance and versatility. Its advanced autofocus system, impressive video capabilities, and flexible stills options make it an ideal choice for a wide range of photographers and videographers. The camera’s compact and lightweight design, combined with its superior ergonomics and build quality, make it a joy to use in a range of shooting situations. Whether you’re shooting stills or video, the Nikon Z 8 is a camera that is sure to deliver exceptional results.
In summary, the Nikon Z 8 is a flagship camera that boasts an impressive array of features, including a 45.7MP stacked CMOS sensor, advanced autofocus system, and impressive video capabilities. Paired with the NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S lens, this camera system offers exceptional versatility and performance, making it an ideal choice for professional photographers and videographers. With its compact and lightweight design, superior ergonomics, and advanced features, the Nikon Z 8 is a camera that is sure to meet the demands of even the most discerning photographers and videographers.
