Nikon Z30 an ideal backup and travel camera

I have just got a Nikon Z30 to use as a backup camera to the Z6. I took the z30 for a quick spin around the coast of South Devon, not a lot I can say other than it does what I intended it to do, pictures straight out of camera seem good as does video quality (see below)

Sample Video Footage from Nikon Z30

In the video below, I will show you some sample footage from the Nikon Z30 camera. This camera is an excellent option if you’re looking for a high-quality digital camera that’s easy to use. I recently upgraded my vlogging camera from a Sony ZV1 to the new Nikon Z30, a body targeted specifically at content creators. The three main reasons for my upgrade were the bigger sensor, the number of Nikon mirrorless Z mount lenses I already own, and the ergonomics of the ZV1, which I found uncomfortable.

I took the Nikon Z30 to Bigbury-on-Sea to film some 4K test footage. I used the Neutral color profile and paired the camera with the Nikon Z 14-30mm lens. Also, I just needed an excuse to go to the beach! This isn’t a full Z30 review, as plenty of those are available, but I wanted to share my initial impressions.

Right off the bat, the video quality is impressive. The footage is crisp and vibrant, beautifully capturing the beach’s essence. However, I did notice that some of the footage was soft and out of focus. Initially, I thought I could manage with just the flippy screen and wouldn’t need an electronic viewfinder (EVF). But now, I suspect that if I had an EVF, I would have noticed and corrected the focus issues on the spot.

Despite this minor setback, I am very impressed with the high quality of the Nikon Z30 footage and look forward to using it as a travel and vlogging camera. The larger sensor compared to the Sony ZV1 makes a significant difference in image quality, particularly in low-light conditions. This is crucial for vlogging, as it allows for greater flexibility in various shooting environments.

The Nikon Z30’s compatibility with a wide range of Z mount lenses is another major advantage. This flexibility allows me to choose the perfect lens for each shooting scenario, whether it’s capturing wide-angle landscapes or detailed close-ups. The Z 14-30mm lens I used for this footage is an excellent all-around lens, providing sharp images and a versatile focal range.

Ergonomics is a critical factor for any camera, especially for vlogging. The ZV1, while compact and lightweight, didn’t feel as comfortable in my hands during extended shooting sessions. The Z30, on the other hand, has a more substantial grip and better button placement, making it easier to handle and operate. This improved ergonomics means I can shoot for longer periods without discomfort, which is essential for capturing those spontaneous moments while traveling.

The editing process also plays a significant role in the final output of any video project. I edited the footage using DaVinci Resolve, which offers powerful tools for color grading and video editing. The combination of the Nikon Z30’s high-quality footage and DaVinci Resolve’s advanced editing capabilities resulted in a final product that exceeded my expectations.

Music is another important element of my videos, and for this project, I used tracks from Epidemic Sound. The right soundtrack can elevate a video, adding emotion and enhancing the viewer’s experience. Epidemic Sound’s extensive library provides a wide range of options, allowing me to find the perfect music to complement my footage.

In conclusion, the Nikon Z30 has proven to be an excellent upgrade for my vlogging needs. The larger sensor, compatibility with a variety of lenses, and improved ergonomics make it a superior choice compared to the Sony ZV1. While I encountered some focus issues, these are relatively minor and can be addressed with further practice and possibly the addition of an EVF. Overall, I am excited to continue using the Nikon Z30 as my go-to camera for travel and vlogging, and I look forward to exploring its full potential.

Kit Used:

• Nikon Z30 Mirrorless Camera
• Nikon Z 14-30mm Lens
• Edited in DaVinci Resolve
• Music from Epidemic Sound