Top snapper shares secrets
Nikon’s new Z7 put to the test
MARCUS Bell has been named Australia’s Wedding Photographer of the Year three times in a row, so he knows a thing or two about capturing that special moment.
Whether it be the poignant smile of a close relative in the audience as the bride and groom say “I do”, or the look of the best man as the rings are exchanged, capturing that instant is an art form.
One of the secrets, according to Bell, is not getting in the way. He talks quietly during shoots, hides his camera often while walking around, and pops in and out of special occasions quickly to remain discreet.
But when you’re wielding a big camera, it can be hard to remain unseen.
That’s why he has fallen in love with Nikon’s new Z7 fullframe mirrorless camera.
According to the Nikon Ambassador, the Z7 does much of what the multiaward-winning D850 does, but in a smaller, more compact body.
The AIPP grand master and international photography judge and speaker has photographed seven weddings using the new camera, as well as doing a series of portraits and a cake smash shoot.
Given his emphasis on intimate photography, most often with no flash, he loves the fact that the mechanical shutter on the camera is so quiet.
As for the photos, he says the 45-megapixel shooting power is exceptional, bringing out both beautiful colour and shadow details.
Bell says the fact that you can use all of the legacy glass lenses Nikon has produced is a big bonus.
The Z7, he says, has a very comfortable grip with easy access to three to four buttons while shooting.
He says the electronic viewfinder (EVF) experience in the camera is very impressive, allowing you to better see what you are shooting and make adjustments in real time.
For example, you can be looking at the histogram at the same time as adding or subtracting exposure.
Bell particularly likes using the 24–70mm lens, while his favourite lens is the 58 f1.4 followed by the f1.2
He believes part of the big appeal of the Z7 is that it’s a camera you would use on a family holiday or even on a day off, while the bigger 850 “feels like work” when he takes it out.
While Bell says there has been some criticism of the battery life, he often managed to get about 1300 shots from one charge and as many as 1945.
The Nikon Z7 is a high-end camera with a price of about $6000 with a 24–70 lens.
The Z6, which is more suited to video enthusiasts, can be bought for under $4000 with a 24–70mm lens.