Discovering the Nikon Z f: A Retro Camera Experience
- Malcolm Lu
- Aug 2, 2025
- 5 min read
Updated: Apr 7
The Rise of Retro Cameras
Over the past decade, the niche market for retro-style digital cameras has grown significantly. Fujifilm has led the charge with its iconic line of mirrorless models. While Nikon introduced the Nikon DF in 2013, it didn’t resonate as strongly as Fujifilm’s offerings. Recently, however, things changed with the release of Nikon’s Z fc crop-sensor mirrorless camera, followed by its full-frame counterpart, the Nikon Z f.
As many of you know, I’ve been a full-time Sony user since 2013. I started with the Sony A7 at its launch and now work with the Sony A7RIV and A7CII for my primary shoots. The Sony system has been a joy to use, proving essential in my workflow. I use it for both professional assignments and personal photography—everything from street to travel shots. The Sony ecosystem has become a mainstay in my photography journey, and I’m heavily invested in it. However, I’ve always felt the need for a retro-styled camera as a second or even third body to add to my kit.
My Journey with Retro Cameras
A few years ago, I experimented with the Fuji system, picking up the Fujifilm X100F and later the X-T20. While both are excellent retro cameras, I didn’t keep them long. They didn’t complement my Sony setup, and I struggled with their smaller crop-sensor systems.
Then came the Nikon Z f. From the moment I saw it, I knew I had to give it a shot. I rented the Z f for a day, and that was enough to convince me to save up for it. What drew me in wasn’t just the attractive design (though it’s certainly a beautiful camera), but how it handles and the experience it offers. The real appeal lies in its retro-style dials and the tactile shooting experience.
The Experience of Using the Nikon Z f
Modern mirrorless systems are incredibly efficient, with layouts designed for fast, intuitive use. They’ve made us accustomed to shooting quickly, almost reflexively—snapshots without much thought. While this efficiency is convenient, it sometimes feels like it detracts from the true essence of photography. For me, photography should be more thoughtful and intentional. That’s where the Z f stands out.
The analog-style brass dials and layout encourage a slower, more deliberate approach to shooting. It makes you think about each shot, recompose when necessary, and truly engage with your subject. It’s a welcome shift away from the rapid-fire shooting that’s become the norm for many photographers.
A Year with the Nikon Z f
I’ve been using the Z f for close to a year now, and it’s time I did a short camera review on this retro beauty. While it hasn’t replaced my main camera, it’s certainly become my go-to for casual shoots. I’ve taken it on outings with friends, used it at car meets, brought it along on an aviation night shoot, and even paired it with my Sony A7RIV as a backup during professional shoots.
The main takeaway from using the Z f is how it slows down the entire process of photography. The tactile brass dials make it a more hands-on, thoughtful experience. It encourages me to reconsider angles, focus on details, and be more present in the moment. Plus, the retro design makes it less intimidating when shooting street photography, which helps with more candid moments. For example, during a trip to Kuala Lumpur, several people approached me, and one store manager even asked if it was a real film camera.
Adapting Sony Lenses to the Nikon Z f
Another selling point for me was the available third-party adaptors in the market. This allows a Sony user like myself to mount my E-mount lenses onto a Nikon Z-mount system. I managed to pick up the highly reviewed Megadap ETZ21 Pro adaptor and have used a range of Sony lenses on the Nikon Z f.
I have used the Sony 35mm F1.8 for my day-to-day shoots, the Sony 50mm F1.4GM for portraits, the Sony 100-400GM for aviation work, and even the Sony 24-105 F4 G lens for my travels. I can confidently say the experience was smooth and responsive, as if I was using a native Sony system. Autofocus was spot on and fast, with impressive image quality. My most recent test involved using the new Sony 400-800mm lens on some jet fighters and military transport action. Out of 450 photos taken, I only experienced five mis-focused images.
Low-Light Performance and Image Quality
The Z f’s low-light performance is another reason I’m impressed with it. The camera captures night shots with excellent image quality, even at higher ISOs, with minimal noise. Its 24.5-megapixel sensor produces sharp, detailed images, offering a great balance of quality and file size. While there are larger full-frame sensors on the market, the Z f’s 24.5-megapixel resolution feels just right for both image quality and storage efficiency.
Additionally, the camera is powered by Nikon’s new Expeed 7 processor, the same found in their Z6III, Z8, and Z9 models. The Expeed 7 enhances autofocus 3D tracking and introduces more advanced subject detection modes, giving the Z f a competitive edge in its class. It’s not just a stylish retro camera—it’s a powerful and versatile tool for various types of shoots.
Unique Features of the Nikon Z f
Adding to its already capable specifications, the camera comes with an amazing in-body image stabilization system. This allows up to eight stops of steady hand shooting. One of my personal favorite features is a dedicated "black and white" shooting mode dial. This allows for a quick swap from taking photos in color to black and white. I find capturing images in black and white allows for better composition and helps in seeing the contrasts between light and shadow points in a scene.
Don't worry, even though the camera is in black and white mode, the images captured retain all color data in their raw files.
Autofocus Tracking Challenges
One issue I noticed, which appears to be specific to the combination of the Sony lens and Megadap ETZ21 Pro adapter, is a drop in autofocus tracking accuracy when the subject moves too close to the camera. My Nikon Z f struggled to maintain a consistent focus lock on my dog as he ran toward me. Hopefully, this is something that can be addressed in a future firmware update for the Megadap adapter.
Conclusion: Is the Nikon Z f Worth It?
While the Z f isn’t the cheapest option in the 24-megapixel range, I believe its design and the unique shooting experience it offers make it worth the price. It allows me to reconnect with the thoughtful side of photography, and that’s something I find invaluable.
So if you are seeking a new, attractive-looking camera, be it as a starting platform or even a semi-professional setup, do consider the Nikon Z f as an option in your journey in photography.
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