Ok we started this little adventure with a Coolpix P900 for Christine on her birthday, and my Nikon D3100 dslr from Ebay, I wouldn’t normally use ebay for this but the guy was pretty local and we went to see him and the kit was in excellent condition, with a couple of lens. It was great for our fist ventures in Bridge and DSLR cameras, as previoulsy we had an Olympus film Camera.

Then we upgraded to our D500 with the 200-500mm lens. The Nikon D500 is a high-performance digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera that is part of Nikon’s DX-format lineup. Introduced in early 2016, the D500 is designed for both professional photographers and serious enthusiasts. It features a 20.9-megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor that delivers high-resolution images with excellent detail and quality. Equipped with the EXPEED 5 image processor, the D500 offers improved image quality, faster processing speeds, and better performance in low light conditions.

Our Nikon D500 is particularly favored for wildlife, sports, and action photography due to its fast autofocus system and continuous shooting capabilities. Its robust design and weather-sealing also make it suitable for outdoor and adventure photography. Overall, the Nikon D500 is an excellent choice for photographers seeking a versatile, high-performance camera that delivers superb image quality and advanced functionality.

Then I managed to trade in for our lovely Nikon D850, which I still feel is my favourite camera to date, yes even thgough we are now using Nikon Z mirrorless she isn’t going anywhere. . Why do we like our d850, well the decision to choose the Nikon D850 over the Nikon Z9 depends on your specific needs, preferences, and shooting style. Here are some reasons why you might prefer the D850 over the Z9. The D850 features an optical viewfinder (OVF). I prefer the natural, lag-free experience of an OVF compared to an electronic viewfinder (EVF). She is known for better battery life compared to mirrorless cameras. My D850 can shoot approximately 1,500 shots per charge, making it ideal for extended shoots without needing frequent battery changes. We still have the D500 and we can share all our F-mount lenses without the need for any adapters. Although the Z9 can use these lenses with an adapter, native lens performance is often preferable.

She has an incredible build quality and we find the traditional DSLR form factor more comfortable for extended use, just the feel in my hand. We are already accustomed to the DSLR workflow and settings of Nikon cameras. I am not saying there is anything wrong with the Z mount, although the learning curve when you swop is pretty extensive. The Z9 and Z8 are remarkable cameras, taking pictures with total silence is a great advantage above the machine gun sounds of the dslr. But our D850’s 45.7 MP sensor provides exceptionally detailed images, making it a strong contender for landscape, studio, and widlife photography where resolution is critical.

While the Nikon Z9 represents the cutting edge in mirrorless technology with advanced features like real-time autofocus tracking, bird detection, 8K video, and high burst rates, my D850 offers a distinguished, tried-and-true alternative for those of us who prefer the DSLR experience. She is a well proven package and will allows make a major addition to our arsenal.

The Nikon Z8 is it worth it , you judge.

This is a high-performance mirrorless camera that combines features suitable for both professional photographers and enthusiasts. Here are some key native options and features:

The Z8 is equipped with a full-frame 45.7 MP stacked CMOS sensor, providing excellent image quality, dynamic range, and low-light performance. The native ISO range extends from 64 to 25,600, with the ability to expand to lower and higher ranges, allowing for versatile shooting in various lighting conditions. The Z8 features an advanced hybrid autofocus system with 493 focus points, including eye-detection autofocus for both humans and animals, enabling precise and fast focusing capabilities.

The camera supports 8K video recording at up to 60p, as well as 4K recording at various frame rates. It also includes N-Log and ProRes options for video output. The Z8 can achieve high-speed continuous shooting at up to 20 frames per second (fps) with the electronic shutter and 10 fps with the mechanical shutter. The camera features a 5-axis in-body image stabilization system, helping to reduce camera shake for both still images and video.

The Z8 includes dual card slots for CFexpress Type B and SD UHS-II cards, as well as built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for easy sharing and remote control. The camera body is designed to be robust and weather-sealed, making it suitable for outdoor photography in challenging conditions.

The Z8 also features a high-resolution electronic viewfinder and a tilting touchscreen LCD for improved usability and viewing angles. All these features make the Nikon Z8 an excellent choice for photographers and videographers looking for a powerful mirrorless system.

So in the opinion of two moderatly competent 70 year olds willing to learn, yes the Z8 is worth the investment, and with the possibility of regular software upgrades in the future utilizing all the features above, a no brainer for Nikon lovers. But and yes there always has to be one, its not just the camera, your “Glass” is just as important. The new “S” series lens work incredibly well at a resonable price point. Christine has the Nikon100-400mm S F4 , and its a brilliant all rounder for wildlife. Incredibly sharp images and excellent video.

Remember the Nikon 100 - 400 was designed for Nikon Z-mount cameras, but with the FTZ adapter, you can still use the majority of your current F mount compatiable lens , which I personally use on my Z9 with the F mount 500mm PF an already proven exceptional lens with no loss in image quality, although some issues can arise when using 1.4 or 2X convertors.

The Nikon D500 and

Nikon Z50 II Comparison

Both are APS-C (DX-format) cameras, but they cater to different user needs and preferences. Here’s our comparison to help understand their distinctions:

Image Processor and Performance:

• Nikon D500: Features the Expeed 5 image processor, enabling continuous shooting at up to 10 frames per second (fps).

• Nikon Z50 II: Upgraded with the Expeed 7 processor, it offers faster processing speeds and enhanced performance, including continuous shooting at up to 30 fps using the electronic shutter and 11 fps with the mechanical shutter. 

Autofocus System:

• Nikon D500: Equipped with a 153-point autofocus system, renowned for its accuracy and reliability, especially in fast-action photography.

• Nikon Z50 II: Utilizes a 209-point hybrid autofocus system with advanced subject detection and tracking capabilities, benefiting from technology trickled down from Nikon’s flagship Z9 model. 

Video Capabilities:

• Nikon D500: Offers 4K video recording at up to 30p.

• Nikon Z50 II: Provides enhanced video features, including 4K recording at 60p and Full HD at 120p, catering to modern videography needs. 

Build and Durability:

• Nikon D500: Constructed with a rugged, extensively weather-sealed body, making it suitable for challenging shooting environments.

• Nikon Z50 II: While weather-sealed, it may not match the D500’s level of ruggedness, as Nikon hasn’t emphasized its durability to the same extent. 

Memory Card Slots:

• Nikon D500: Features dual memory card slots—one XQD/CFexpress Type B and one SD—providing flexibility and redundancy for professional workflows.

• Nikon Z50 II: Includes a single SD card slot, which might be a limitation for users requiring immediate backup or extended storage and we realy wish it had the same express cards as the D500. 

Lens Compatibility:

• Nikon D500: Supports a vast array of Nikon F-mount lenses, offering extensive options for various photography styles.

• Nikon Z50 II: Compatible with Nikon’s Z-mount lenses, which are fewer in number compared to F-mount lenses. However, the Z-mount system is expanding, and an FTZ adapter allows the use of F-mount lenses on Z-series cameras.

User Controls:

• Nikon D500: Designed with professional photographers in mind, it offers extensive direct-access controls, including a dedicated joystick for selecting focus points.

• Nikon Z50 II: Features a more streamlined control layout with modern touches, such as a dedicated Picture Control button for quick access to color presets, but lacks a joystick. 

Size and Portability:

• Nikon D500: Being a DSLR, it has a larger and heavier form factor and totally waterproof to a very high degree.

• Nikon Z50 II: As a mirrorless camera, it boasts a more compact and lightweight design, enhancing portability, but is only water resistant similar to the D7500 not as good as the D500. We have been in moderate rain and snow with the D500 and with weather sealed lenses with no ill effects to the camera or lens.

The Back Screens:

The back screen of the Nikon Z 50 II has several advantages over that of the Nikon D500, making it more user-friendly and versatile, especially for certain types of photography and videography. Here are the key differences and reasons why the Z 50 II's back screen may be considered better:

The Z 50 II features a fully articulating touchscreen, allowing photographers to tilt and rotate the screen for a variety of shooting angles. This is especially useful for low-angle, high-angle, or self-portrait shots. The fully articulating design is beneficial for vloggers and content creators who need to compose shots while being in front of the camera. The Z 50 II’s touchscreen allows for touch-to-focus and menu navigation, making it more intuitive and user-friendly. Users can select focus points or adjust settings with just a tap. The ability to use touch controls can speed up the shooting process, especially for quick adjustments in dynamic situations.

The Z 50 II is equipped with a higher resolution LCD screen compared to the D500. This results in sharper images when reviewing photos and improved visibility when composing shots. A higher resolution screen provides more accurate color rendering and detail, which can be beneficial for critical composition. The Z 50 II's screen may offer better brightness and contrast, making it easier to see in various lighting conditions. This is crucial for outdoor photography where glare can be an issue. The touchscreen allows for easier zooming in and navigating through images during review, making it more user-friendly when sorting through shots.

Overall, the Z 50 II’s back screen offers greater flexibility, usability, and enhanced features, particularly for those who value a modern shooting experience. While the D500's screen is still functional and effective, the advantages of the Z 50 II’s fully articulating, touch-enabled, and higher resolution display make it a preferred choice for many photographers, especially those engaged in versatile shooting styles, video content creation, or any scenario where angle adjustment and touch functionality significantly enhance the user experience.

Our Conclusion:

The Nikon D500 remains a robust choice for professionals and amateurs requiring durability, extensive lens compatibility, and reliable performance in demanding conditions. In contrast, the Nikon Z50 II offers modern enhancements in autofocus, video capabilities, and processing power within a compact design, appealing to enthusiasts and those transitioning to mirrorless systems. Your choice between the two should align with your specific photography needs, preferences, and budget considerations, having said that if its your first venture into photgraphy and especially mirrorlees the Z50ii is fun on a budget excellent starting point, especially if you a wildlife photographer. Also the Z50ii software should be regularly updated as this progress with the more seniro cameras in the line, and thier upgrades will filter down to it.