Test & and review | The Nikon Z8 at a live concert | Shooting Video and Stills | 4K | Low light.

Thanks to Jay and Josh of The Contenders for inviting me to shoot their final gig of their European tour. Great band, check them out -
wearethecontenders.com/
I recently had the opportunity to put the Nikon Z8 camera to the test during a concert shoot, capturing both video and stills in challenging low-light conditions. The results were nothing short of staggering, with image quality and focusing capabilities on par with the esteemed Nikon Z9. Shooting in 4K at 60 frames per second provided exceptional detail and smooth motion, although I now realise that adjusting the frame rate to 30 frames per second would have helped reduce the flickering of the stage lights.
Image Quality and Focus: The Nikon Z8 showcased its prowess in low-light environments, delivering remarkable image quality that rivaled its flagship counterpart. The dynamic range and clarity of the images captured during the concert were truly impressive, even in challenging lighting situations. The camera's autofocus system proved to be fast, accurate, and reliable, ensuring that every shot was sharp and well-focused, allowing me to capture the energy and essence of the performance.
Video Capabilities: As someone primarily focused on still photography, delving into video shooting with the Nikon Z8 was an exciting learning experience. Shooting at 4k - 60 frames per second delivered excellent visual quality, providing stunning detail and smooth motion capture. However, I am learning loads and realise my mistake of shooting at 60 FPS instead of 30
Transitioning to Video: Despite being primarily a stills photographer, I found the transition to shooting video with the Nikon Z8 to be seamless. The camera's intuitive interface, familiar menu system, and ergonomic design made it easier to explore the world of videography without feeling overwhelmed. The learning curve was minimal, allowing me to focus on capturing engaging footage without feeling daunted by the technical aspects. I like using both the EVF and LCD as a monitor, as it feels natural for me to shoot hand held.
Versatility and Adaptability: The Nikon Z8's versatility shines through, offering a wide range of creative possibilities for photographers who wish to explore video as an additional medium. The camera's compact size and lightweight design make it suitable for various shooting scenarios, whether in the concert venue, on the streets, or in the studio. This adaptability allows photographers to seamlessly transition between stills and video, expanding their creative horizons without compromising on quality.
Conclusion: The Nikon Z8 is a camera that truly unleashes creative potential, providing staggering image quality, reliable focusing capabilities, and seamless video shooting in low-light conditions. Its performance matches that of its flagship sibling, the Nikon Z9, offering a comparable experience at a more accessible price point. As a primarily stills photographer, the transition to video with the Z8 was smooth, thanks to its user-friendly interface and familiar Nikon controls. Whether you're capturing stills or delving into video, the Nikon Z8 empowers photographers to explore new creative avenues without feeling overwhelmed. It's a versatile tool that opens doors to limitless possibilities, allowing photographers to express their vision with uncompromising quality.

[@MichaelAres]

Great test! Would love to see more!

[@Brettflorens]

Thanks, it was my first try

[@larsmartinteigen6884]

Have you used it more for concert photografy? When shooting stills do you get banding on the shows with led lights? Or is it working ok?

[@Brettflorens]

Yes and it's fantastic. I don't shoot over 1/200 and don't get any banding

[@LDam-pf6lx]

Check the flicker reduction menu. You can fine tune your shutter speed to help alleviate the flickering.

[@Brettflorens]

Thanks so much

[@vlcheish]

@@Brettflorens Is the 4k HQ mode(oversampled)?

[@Brettflorens]

@@vlcheish not sure what that means?

[@toddysurcharge771]

Don’t you need to be at a specific minimum ISO to get the best dynamic range and dual gains?

[@Brettflorens]

probably, it was my first try, so lots to learn