Back in February, I purchased a Nikon Z6III from Adorama to replace my Z6. My primary motivation was to take better action photos, especially in terms of sharpness and composition. I was particularly interested in the camera’s faster auto-focus, improved subject detection and better image stabilization. The camera is definitely faster.
The cost was $1,700 after the $300 Nikon discount and the trade-in of the Z6. Adorama included a 256GB SD card, extra battery, and 1 year subscription to Capture One (not used). I did purchase a CFexpress Type B memory card along with a new card reader.
The images above and below are a couple of my first test shots I took. For these types of shots, I typically shoot in manual mode, f/5.6 or f/8, 1/500 second and auto-ISO as well as 5 frames per second.
In the past, I would have used auto focus single (AF-S) with single point auto focus area. With the Z6iii, I created 2 custom user settings. For stationary subjects, U1 is set up for auto focus single (AF-S) with a wide area small auto focus area. For moving subjects, U2 is set up for auto focus continuous (AF-C) with a larger custom wide auto focus area. Subject detection “All” is enabled and the lens function button is set for 3D-tracking. The advantage of the custom user settings is that it ensures that my camera settings are what I want whenever I switch between custom settings or turn the camera on.
For the types of events I shoot, including car and sport events (see below), the 24.5MP Z6iii paired with a Nikkor Z 24-120mm f/4 S lens produces high quality images for posting to the web.
Since the 24-120mm is my only Z lens, I tested both the Nikon FTZ II mount adapter for F-Mount lenses and the Techart PRO Leica M – Nikon Z Autofocus Adapter version II. Technically both worked well but I don’t see a compelling reason to use them.
I still own a D850 for use with F-Mount lenses which include a range of prime and zoom lenses. However, for action events, I use the 24-120mm lens exclusively.
