When Nikon unveiled the Zf, I was ready to dismiss it as another retro-styled gimmick. But after spending time with this camera, it’s clear that Nikon has crafted something special. The Zf isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a serious performer that blends nostalgia with innovation.
Design: A Modern Ode to the FM2
The Nikon Zf is a visual throwback to the iconic FM2 film camera, complete with brass dials and a textured finish. It feels luxurious and well-built, delivering a tactile shooting experience that enthusiasts will adore. The fully articulating LCD touchscreen, doubling as an autofocus point selector, is a thoughtful addition. However, the mixed card slots—one SD and one microSD—seem out of place on a camera in this price range.
Despite this quirk, the overall ergonomics and build quality make the Zf a joy to handle. It’s a camera that feels as good to hold as it looks.
Image Quality: Classic Yet Contemporary
At the core of the Zf lies a 24MP BSI CMOS sensor paired with the powerful Expeed 7 processor. This combination delivers exceptional color reproduction, dynamic range, and impressive low-light performance. Shooting at ISO 12,800, I found images to be clean and detailed, with noise well-controlled.
The dedicated monochrome mode, accessible via a physical dial, is a standout feature. It lets you explore black-and-white photography effortlessly, adding a creative dimension to the shooting process.
Performance: Autofocus and Stabilization
Borrowing autofocus technology from Nikon’s flagship Z8 and Z9, the Zf offers 3D tracking and subject detection across nine categories. The system is fast, accurate, and reliable, even in challenging low-light scenarios. However, it occasionally struggles with complex, fast-moving subjects, which might be a drawback for sports or wildlife photographers.
The in-body image stabilization (IBIS) is top-notch, offering up to 8 stops of compensation. This ensures sharp images, even when shooting handheld in low light.
Video Capabilities: Solid but Not Spectacular
The Zf supports 4K/30p video with 6K oversampling and 10-bit N-Log output, making it suitable for hybrid shooters. However, the reliance on a micro HDMI port and the lack of advanced video features signal that this camera is primarily focused on still photography.
Pricing and Availability in Singapore
In Singapore, the Nikon Zf is priced at SGD 3,299 for the body only, with kits such as the 40mm f/2 SE bundle available for SGD 3,699. Retailers like Cathay Photo and Alan Photo carry these configurations, and prices may vary slightly depending on promotions.
Who Should Buy the Zf?
The Nikon Zf is ideal for photographers who value the process of photography as much as the results. It’s perfect for street, portrait, and landscape photography enthusiasts who appreciate retro aesthetics without sacrificing modern capabilities. While not the best option for video-heavy workflows or action-packed scenarios, the Zf excels in delivering a unique shooting experience.
For SGD 3,299, the Nikon Zf offers a compelling blend of style and substance. It’s not just a camera—it’s an experience, a statement, and a reminder that photography is as much about the journey as it is about the final image.