Nikon cameras have changed how you view the company. The Zf was the first retro offering that pushed the company to new heights, while the Z8 was an ideal solution to your multi-genre needs. However, despite the vast portfolio, a quick survey on Flickr has revealed that only one Nikon camera stands out. And no, it’s not the Z9, but something else. Have a look.
According to the Flickr blog, the most used camera was the Nikon Z6 II, which was introduced in 2020. Here’s why the device is so popular.
Sharper Images
The Z6 II features the same sensor as the Z6, and the photos are as nice as the original. The colors are accurate, and the RAW file offers versatility. Users also get multiple color profiles, so photographers can achieve the desired images in-camera. The JPEGs are pretty nice, and with a sharper lens, the photographs appear clear and breathtaking. As we explained in our review, “I could easily recover the shadows in a shot underexposed due to backlighting and flare. With some editing, I could easily bring out more details.” The high ISO is great, making it an ideal option over the Z7 II.
Improved Autofocus
The camera sees major improvement over the Z6, and is pretty impressive for low-light photography. The Z6 II offers new auto focus modes, such as Wide-Area AF (People) and Wide-Area AF (Pets), for different needs. With live view settings off, you get better low-light performance and can shoot a moving subject at walking pace. This makes the camera better for still life, portraits, or kids if they are ready to pose. As we explained, “The Z6 II could focus on the same dim corners that my D850 could. And, true to the spec sheet, with the low light AF setting on, it could focus on some objects that the D850 never locked onto.”
A Sturdy Camera
Nikon cameras have a great build, and this device is no different. It feels nice in your hands, and the design is ergonomically well-designed. The body is made of a magnesium alloy, so it doesn’t feel cheap either. In addition, you get five-axis image stabilisation, and with the correct lens, you can get great results handheld. The device is snappy with 14fps of burst rate. It has two processors, with the second one helping with the image buffer as well. As we also added, “If you love your Nikon DSLR and don’t shoot sports or moving subjects in low light, you’ll very quickly fall in love with the Nikon Z6 II.”
Given that the Z6 II works best for certain genres, such as travel. No wonder so many Flickr photographers chose it over the pricer sibling, the Z7.