Q: What were your first impressions of the Nikon Z mirrorless system?

A: I’m very traditional; so when I first picked up the Z mirrorless cameras I wasn’t sure they were for me. It definitely felt comfortable in my hands and intuitive to use, but I assumed it would just be a great backup to my other Nikon cameras.Now I find myself turning to my Z system cameras for my primary shots because they’re powerful yet portable. I can shoot slow motion video at amazing resolution. And the camera’s silent shutter and slim design permit me to get closer to the action, allowing me to shoot nature in a way that completely immerses me in my subject.

Q: When did you start your slow motion video journey?

A: I’ve always loved photography, because it lets me grab a fraction of a second and keep it forever. I played with video a tiny bit before the Z system was released, but the Nikon Z mirrorless cameras take video to a higher level. For example, slow motion video not only captures moments in time but also alters them so that we may appreciate every tiny movement of life. I literally shake sometimes when I play back my videos and realize what I’ve captured.

Q: How do you shoot your videos?

A: The video capabilities of the Nikon Z Series are perfect for what I do. I shoot at 120 frames per second and then slow it down in post production to 24 fps or 30 fps.

I love the sharpness of my Z NIKKOR lenses, but I am also able to use all of my F mount NIKKOR lenses by using the Mount Adapter FTZ. I was very impressed with it because it absolutely did not affect image quality, even with my NIKKOR macro lenses.

Q: So what’s in your camera bag these days?

A: Both Z system cameras are in my arsenal now. The Nikon Z 6 is light and so easy to handle, especially because of its smaller sensor. It is zippier to focus in low light and shoots full-frame 4K video. I use the Nikon Z 7 mainly for the advantage that I get from its 45.7MP sensor. It enables me to crop in on details like the iris of a lion or the intricate pattern of a dragonfly’s wings.

I like to travel light, so I usually carry a Z Series camera along with a video monopod and a variety of Z NIKKOR lenses. Depending on what I’m shooting, I can also choose amongst any of my NIKKOR lenses because the Mount Adapter FTZ gives me the flexibility to do so. My most common video lenses are the AF Micro-NIKKOR 200mm f/4, the AF-S NIKKOR 200–500mm f/5.6 and my NIKKOR Z 24–70mm f/4 S, which is great for travel shots.

Q: How have the Z Series mirrorless cameras pushed the limits of your creativity?

A: The Z Series cameras and Z NIKKOR lenses have propelled me to become a nature videographer. They are encouraging me to explore nature in a different way. My biggest passion is to connect people with the natural world. That goal is becoming more attainable with smaller and more powerful Nikon cameras that have strong features for both photography and videography.

The Nikon Z Series mirrorless cameras are quickly becoming the go-to camera system for videographers. Offering fast, accurate on-sensor phase-detection autofocus; full-frame 4K Ultra HD video; near-silent AF; 10-bit HDMI output with N-Log; and 120-fps slow motion output, the Nikon Z 6 and Z 7 cameras are built to meet the demands of today’s video creators. Adding the Nikon Mount Adapter FTZ also opens up their world to hundreds of NIKKOR F mount lenses for the ultimate in creativity and versatility. It’s a must for the seasoned videographer or any photographer looking to expand their video horizons.

All images © Kristin Odom and taken with Nikon Z 7.