Kingfisher stood on a wooden post

3 Years with the Nikon Z50: Long-Term Review for Wildlife Photography

Three years ago, I picked up the Nikon Z50 hoping it would be the ideal companion for my wildlife photography adventures. Fast forward to today, after thousands of shots in the wild, and it’s safe to say this camera has been through it all – from early morning shoots in the cold, to capturing birds in flight. Here is my Nikon Z50 long-term review.

Build and Durability: Surviving the Outdoors

After three years of heavy use, the Nikon Z50 has held up impressively well, though I’m meticulous with my gear and have added a few custom modifications along the way to keep it in top shape. The body is still in excellent condition, thanks in part to the rubber form-fitted case I’ve used since day one. This extra protection helps guard against minor knocks and scratches during long wildlife shoots, and while it does look a bit odd without the standard carry strap loops (I removed them because they kept clicking and getting in the way), it’s been well worth it for a cleaner experience.

One issue for left-eyed photographers like me is that the Z50’s zoom button is placed in a spot where your nose might unintentionally press it when looking through the viewfinder. It’s a bit annoying, but I’ve added an eyecup that extends the eyepiece out slightly to reduce the chance of accidental presses. Plus, you can assign a custom FN button to reset the zoom if you end up pressing it with your nose. Not ideal, but manageable!

The screen and electronic viewfinder (EVF) have also held up nicely, even after plenty of outdoor shoots. However, it’s worth noting that the Z50’s sensor seems to attract dust easily, which means frequent cleanings—something to be mindful of if you’re often in dusty or sandy environments. Despite Nikon’s claims of some weather sealing, I haven’t tested it in extreme conditions without protection. Light rain hasn’t been an issue, but in heavy rain or when shooting low in mud and sand, I always use a plastic camera cover to be on the safe side.

In terms of handling, the Z50’s compact and lightweight design has been a double-edged sword. On its own, it’s a great size for quick hikes, but when paired with my Sigma 150-600mm lens (which is quite heavy), the balance is noticeably off. For short hikes, handholding the Z50 is manageable, but for longer trips, I attach it to my rucksack and use a monopod for added stability. The lack of a vertical grip accessory is a minor inconvenience, especially during extended sessions, but I’ve added a metal L-plate with an Arca-Swiss mount to give it more protection from knocks and to improve overall handling.

One of my few gripes is the lack of a cable release port, which I find frustrating when trying to use the camera with a remote. The Nikon app or other remote options are tricky to connect and don’t perform well with continuous shutter firing, which is less than ideal for wildlife photography.

Overall, after three years of use, the Z50 has proven to be a durable, reliable camera for the outdoors, but as with any kit, a few tweaks and added accessories have made it better suited to my needs.

Performance: Autofocus and Speed in Action

When it comes to autofocus (AF) performance, the Nikon Z50 has been a bit of a mixed bag over the past three years—especially when dealing with fast-moving subjects like birds in flight. Paired with my Sigma 150-600mm lens, I’ve often found the AF to be underwhelming and slower than I’d like for capturing fast action. While no autofocus system is perfect, the lack of bird/animal eye tracking has left me struggling at times to keep up with birds in motion, and it’s been a source of frustration.

For stationary or slow-moving wildlife, the Z50 performs reasonably well, focusing accurately and consistently. However, when it comes to tracking fast subjects, the camera’s autofocus can feel sluggish, and I’ve missed a fair share of shots as the focus system hunts from one extreme to the other. The lack of advanced subject tracking, which you now find in newer models like the Z8 and Z6iii, really limits its potential for bird photography. There have been firmware updates along the way, but none have truly improved the autofocus system for wildlife photography.

The absence of eye-detection AF for animals and birds means that I’ve had to rely on manually positioning the single-point focus on the bird’s eye, then recomposing the shot—a technique that often results in the bird moving before I can capture the image. The camera’s keeper rate for fast-moving birds isn’t fantastic, though I’ve always managed to get some decent shots. For its price point, the Z50 still offers good performance, but for serious wildlife photographers, it may feel limiting compared to more advanced models.

In terms of speed, the Z50 does well in certain areas. It powers on quickly and wakes from sleep without any noticeable delays. The frames per second (FPS) rate in RAW mode is decent, and the electronic shutter is silent—ideal for wildlife photography where staying quiet is crucial. However, it doesn’t have a stacked sensor, and I’ve noticed rolling shutter effects when shooting fast-moving small birds, which can distort the image slightly.

For low-light performance, the Z50 is acceptable, but not exceptional. Using higher apertures (f/5.6 to f/8), I start to see noticeable grain and loss of detail when pushing beyond ISO 6800. For most of my shots, I rely on DXO Pure Raw to clean up noise and maintain detail in the final images. On the positive side, metering and exposure have consistently been spot-on, and I’ve had no complaints in that regard.

Overall, while the Z50’s AF and speed are fine for casual or beginner wildlife photographers, its limitations—particularly when it comes to tracking fast-moving subjects—may leave more experienced users, like myself, wanting more. It’s a capable little camera, but for those needing superior AF performance, looking into newer models might be the next step.

Spotted Flycatcher
Image Quality: Does It Still Shine?

When it comes to image quality, the Nikon Z50 still delivers impressive results, particularly when shooting in well-lit conditions. The 20.9 MP sensor has consistently produced sharp and detailed images, which is crucial for wildlife photography, where every feather and texture matters. The level of detail is fantastic when you can fill the frame with your subject, but like many cameras in this range, cropping into images does lead to some loss of detail. That being said, I’ve printed cropped images up to A4+ size, and the results have been more than acceptable. For web use, like Instagram or blog posts, the images hold up really well, even with significant cropping.

Dynamic range has been reliable, with the Z50 handling challenging lighting conditions reasonably well. The metering system does a good job, and I rarely have issues with exposure—though, as is the case with any camera, shooting high-contrast scenes like white birds in bright sunlight can lead to blown highlights if you’re not careful. But that’s more of a technique issue than a limitation of the camera itself. With careful adjustments, the Z50 allows for solid dynamic range recovery in post-processing, and I’ve found editing RAW files to be smooth and flexible.

In terms of ISO performance, at lower ISOs, the Z50 produces clean and detailed images that I’m very happy with. Even when shooting at higher apertures like f/5.6 to f/8, the camera performs admirably in well-lit conditions. However, once I push beyond ISO 6800, noise becomes a noticeable factor, and I’ve experienced a loss of fine detail, particularly in shadow areas. To mitigate this, I’ve been relying on DXO Pure Raw to clean up the noise, and the results have been excellent—preserving detail while reducing grain.

As for colour accuracy, the Z50 does a great job of capturing natural tones and colours in a way that reflects what I see in the field. While I’m colour blind, the camera’s colour reproduction has been accurate from my perspective, and I don’t feel the need for heavy post-processing to adjust colours. The camera captures the scene as my eyes see it, and I’ve found the output to be consistent and reliable across various lighting conditions.

In summary, while the Z50’s sensor may not match the higher resolution of more expensive models, it still delivers excellent image quality for its price point. Whether you’re printing images or sharing them online, the camera provides sharp, vibrant photos that hold up even after three years of use.

Battery Life: Reliable for Long Shoots?

After three years of use, the Nikon Z50’s battery life has held up quite well. For most of my wildlife photography sessions, I find that a full day of shooting typically requires about two batteries. On average, I can get 400–500 shots per charge, which is solid for a mirrorless camera in this price range. While video recording does drain the battery much faster, I don’t shoot much video, so it hasn’t been a major issue for me. For those planning to shoot video extensively, you’ll want to pack extra batteries or a charging solution.

I exclusively use Nikon-branded batteries, and they’ve been consistently reliable. I usually carry two spares with me during longer outings, and I’d recommend having at least two extra batteries on hand if you’re heading out for a full day of shooting, especially if you’ll be using features like continuous shooting or video.

One of the standout features of the Z50 is its ability to charge via USB, which has been a lifesaver during long trips. Whether I’m on the go, driving between locations, or even out in the field, I can easily top up my batteries using a power bank or my car’s USB port. This flexibility is a big plus for wildlife photographers who often spend long periods away from conventional charging points.

In terms of reliability, I haven’t encountered any quirks or issues with battery performance, even after three years of heavy use. The combination of good battery life and the ability to recharge on the go makes the Z50 well-suited for extended wildlife photography sessions without the constant worry of running out of juice.

Puffins playing in the wind
Usability and Handling: How Does It Feel Now?

When it comes to usability and handling, the Nikon Z50 continues to impress after three years of regular use. The camera’s small and lightweight design makes it easy to carry around for long wildlife photography sessions, which is a big plus when you’re hiking or moving between locations. Despite having fairly large hands, I haven’t had any issues with the grip or button placement. Everything is positioned well, and the controls feel intuitive.

Over time, I’ve become familiar with the camera’s extensive settings and options, which makes switching between modes quick and easy. The U1 and U2 custom settings have been particularly useful for wildlife photography. I’ve set them up for specific shooting scenarios—U1 for perched birds and U2 for birds in flight (BIF). This allows me to quickly switch between these two modes without fumbling through menus when the action picks up. If you’re using the Z50 for wildlife, I’d highly recommend customising these user settings to suit your specific needs. It saves a lot of time and frustration, especially when you’re out in the field and need to adapt quickly.

In terms of accessories, adding an eyecup and a metal L-plate has made a noticeable difference in handling the camera. The eyecup helps reduce accidental presses on the zoom button, which can be a bit of an issue for left-eyed shooters like me. The L-plate not only adds some protection but also improves the overall feel and balance of the camera, especially when using larger lenses. Unfortunately, there’s no official vertical grip accessory for the Z50, which would have been a welcome addition, particularly for those longer shoots when a bit of extra grip would come in handy.

Overall, the Z50 is a pleasure to handle. Its compact size and well-thought-out ergonomics make it comfortable for extended use, and with a bit of customisation, it’s well-suited for fast-paced wildlife photography.

Lenses and Compatibility: Expanding the Arsenal

For wildlife photography, pairing the Nikon Z50 with the right lenses can make all the difference. Over the past three years, my go-to lens has been the Sigma 150-600mm Contemporary. While it’s not the sharpest lens beyond 450mm, especially at the longest end of the zoom range, it’s still a fantastic option given its price point. The lens provides a lot of reach, making it ideal for capturing distant wildlife, and the image quality is more than acceptable for both online sharing and medium-sized prints.

However, one area where the Sigma 150-600mm does fall short is in its autofocus speed. On the Z50, the AF performance with this lens isn’t particularly fast, especially for fast-moving wildlife like birds in flight. Interestingly, I found that when I used the same lens on my older Nikon D3300, the autofocus was noticeably quicker. Despite this, the Z50 offers a much more advanced and feature-rich shooting experience overall, so I still prefer the Z50 for its versatility and handling, even if the AF isn’t as snappy with the Sigma lens.

For those using older Nikon F-mount lenses, the FTZ adapter has been a great solution. I’ve used it with several older lenses, and I’ve found that it works seamlessly with no significant impact on autofocus or image quality. While it adds a bit of bulk to the setup, it opens up the possibility of using older lenses until you’re ready to invest in Nikon’s new Z-mount glass.

Speaking of Z-mount lenses, I’ve got my eye on the Nikkor Z 180-600mm lens, which looks like an incredible option for wildlife photographers. It offers an internal zoom mechanism, which is a big advantage over the external zoom of the Sigma, making it much easier to handle when you’re on the move. However, the price is significantly higher—about twice that of the Sigma 150-600mm—which makes it a major investment. That said, with the Z-mount lenses being newer and designed specifically for Nikon’s mirrorless cameras, they’re likely to deliver better performance, especially in autofocus and image quality.

While the Sigma 150-600mm has served me well, it’s starting to show its age, and I’m looking forward to upgrading to a Z-mount Nikkor lens in the near future. For anyone just starting out with wildlife photography or looking for a budget-friendly telephoto option, the Sigma is still a great lens, but for more serious photographers, the Nikkor Z lenses will likely offer the speed and sharpness that the Sigma sometimes lacks.

Comparing to Newer Models: Still Worth It in 2024?

As we move into 2024, it’s clear that the Nikon Z50, while still a capable camera, doesn’t quite measure up to some of Nikon’s newer models like the Nikon Z8 or Z6iii. The gap in performance is particularly noticeable in areas like autofocus and subject tracking, which have seen significant improvements in these newer models. Nikon has really stepped up their game with advanced AF features and better subject tracking that make capturing fast-moving wildlife much easier, and the weather sealing on newer models is excellent, making them better suited for harsh outdoor conditions.

That said, the price difference between the Z50 and these higher-end models is substantial. While the Z8 and Z6iii offer top-of-the-line performance, their price tags put them out of reach for many hobbyists or those just starting out in wildlife photography. For photographers on a budget, the Nikon Z50 is still a great option to get into the world of mirrorless wildlife photography without breaking the bank. It’s certainly capable of producing fantastic images, but you may find yourself working a bit harder to get those perfect wildlife shots—especially when it comes to fast-moving subjects, where the Z50’s autofocus can sometimes struggle compared to newer models.

One feature that I’ve found lacking on the Z50, especially in hindsight, is the flip-down screen. While it’s functional, it pales in comparison to the fully-articulating screen found on the Z6iii, which offers much more flexibility. A fully-articulating screen is particularly useful when shooting from awkward angles or low positions—something wildlife photographers often encounter in the field.

In summary, the Z50 remains a solid choice for those entering wildlife photography or for enthusiasts who want a lightweight, capable camera at a lower price point. However, if you’re looking for the latest autofocus technology, improved ergonomics, and better weather sealing, it might be worth considering an upgrade to a model like the Z6iii or Z8. Ultimately, it comes down to your budget and how serious you are about wildlife photography. The Z50 will give you great results, but the newer models will make the process smoother and more efficient.

Guillemot landing on the cliffs
Final Thoughts: Is the Nikon Z50 Still Worth It?

After three years of using the Nikon Z50 for wildlife photography, it’s clear that this compact mirrorless camera has held its own, especially considering its affordable price point. For beginner or intermediate wildlife photographers, the Z50 offers solid performance and image quality, while being light enough to carry on long hikes or all-day shoots. The camera’s strengths lie in its sharp image quality in good light, reliable battery life, and customisable settings that make it versatile enough for different types of wildlife scenarios.

However, for those looking to capture fast-moving wildlife like birds in flight, the Z50’s autofocus system can be a bit limiting. Without bird or animal eye tracking, it’s not as quick or accurate as some of the newer mirrorless models like the Z8 or Z6iii. While firmware updates have been helpful, the autofocus still lags behind when compared to more advanced cameras. That said, the Z50’s performance is still commendable for its price, especially for photographers willing to put in the extra effort to nail those challenging shots.

One thing to consider is that as you grow more serious about wildlife photography, you may eventually find yourself craving some of the features that newer models offer, like advanced AF tracking, better weather sealing, and fully articulating screens. These features make capturing wildlife easier and more efficient but come at a significantly higher price point.

For those starting out or working within a budget, the Nikon Z50 remains a fantastic introduction to mirrorless cameras and wildlife photography. It’ll help you hone your skills and develop a solid understanding of the craft while producing great images. If you’re after the latest technology and have room in your budget for an upgrade, then a jump to the Z8 or Z6iii might be worth considering. But for the price, the Nikon Z50 is still very much worth it in 2024.


Click here to see my original review that walks more about features

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