The Nikon Zf: The Rare Camera That Works for Both Work and Play

The Nikon Zf manages to fit into an unusual category, as it’s both a dependable professional tool and a camera you actually want to carry with you. You might reach for it at a wedding shoot just as easily as when heading to the park with your kids. That balance between capability and personal appeal is rare, especially for a model that can be found for under $2,000.

Coming to you from Benj Haisch, this thorough video shows why the Nikon Zf mirrorless camera earns that spot in a “one camera” kit. It uses a 24.5-megapixel full frame sensor with strong continuous tracking autofocus, dual card slots (one SD and one microSD), and a battery that lasts through long shooting days. Haisch points out that the Zf holds its own in professional environments like weddings and portraits, while still feeling at home in more casual use. Its retro design, balanced weight, and approachable controls make it a camera you want to pick up, not one that lives in your bag. While it’s not as small as a Leica or Fujifilm, its feel and styling make it more inviting than most cameras its size.

The adaptability of the Zf is another point Haisch emphasizes. The wide Nikon Z mount makes it possible to use a huge range of lenses, from modern autofocus options to vintage glass. Paired with the Techart TZM-02 adapter, Leica M-mount lenses gain autofocus capabilities with tracking, something Haisch says works better here than on other systems. Even older Nikon F-mount lenses can be adapted via a chain of adapters, giving you the chance to revive family heirloom lenses while gaining modern autofocus. This opens creative doors that fixed-lens or less adaptable systems can’t match.

Key Specs

• Lens Mount: Nikon Z

• Sensor: 24.5 MP full frame CMOS

• ISO Range (Photo): 100–64,000 (50–204,800 extended)

• Image Stabilization: 5-axis sensor shift

• Video: UHD 4K up to 59.94 fps, 1080p up to 120 fps

• Card Slots: 1x SD (UHS-II), 1x microSD (UHS-I)

• Display: 3.2" articulating touchscreen LCD

• Viewfinder: 0.5" OLED, 3.69M dots

• Wireless: Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0

• Weight: 1.4 lb (body only)

Native Nikon Z lenses also suit the Zf well. Haisch mentions the 40mm f/2 as a great everyday choice and praises the 35mm and 50mm f/1.4 options for their sharpness and character at a reasonable price. Even without a grip, the camera handles these lenses comfortably. Because they’re designed for the Z mount, you get fast tracking autofocus and reliable performance without breaking the bank. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Haisch.