Nikon user returning to Photography After 7 Years off, Nikon Mirrorless or Time to Switch Brand?
Hi all,
I have been a serious photography enthusiast for around 20 years now, but in the past 6 to 7 years I have gone through issues that kept me away from photography and all the gear news that came out during that period.
My current setup (from back then) is:
- Nikon D800
- 24-70mm f2.8 G
- 35mm f1.8
- 50mm f1.8
- 85mm f1.4
- 135mm f2
I mainly shoot:
Portraits, studio work, street, and travel photography, mostly focused on people. No video.
I also freelanced as a side-career for a few years doing events and commercial work with studios.
More context:
With my life being back on track now, I've been having the urge to get behind the viewfinder again. I did a few outings with my trusty D800, which felt great, and had no issues. The D800 still holds up well even with a 400k+ shutter count. That said, getting back into photography now feels like the right time for a proper gear refresher/'upgrade'.
With mirrorless cameras having matured a lot since I was last active 7 years ago, and liking the idea of a lighter load on my shoulder while I am out and about, I have decided to move to a full-frame mirrorless system.
I initially looked at the Nikon Zf and Z6III. Both seem great for different reasons, but then I thought, why not consider other systems/brands while I am at it.
I know switching brands means having to get the corresponding glass, but I am financially comfortable for such a move. And, my Nikon gear isn't going anywehere, just in case.
What I am looking for: Recommend a full-frame mirrorless system (body) and explain why you think it fits my use case well. Criteria:
- Has a strong glass ecosystem, especially the focal lengths I use
- Proides a strong hybrid performance for both studio and outdoor work
- Offers Value for money*, reliability, and handling/comfort
Budget: Flexible within reason. I don't mind paying more if the value provided is worthwhile. So, convince me.
Location/currency: Netherlands/Euro
After a short investigation of the current Nikon offering, the Zf feels like the best value option to me despite some concerns about ergonomics and handling. The Z6III also looks solid, but the price jump from the Zf did not feel fully justified compared to the difference in specs.
TL;DR: Longtime Nikon shooter returning to photography after a 7-year break, moving to mirrorless, and open to switching brands if the system makes sense. Looking for a worthwhile full-frame mirrorless setup based on the criteria above.
*) Value for money doesn't mean cheap. I don't mind paying more if the added value is worthwhile.