Nikon Z Auto Capture and Pre-Capture Release
Michael Herbert (Instagram) is seeking to demystify some of the complications of Nikon Z Auto Capture and Pre Capture Release Capture.
These are great features that can help you capture wall-hanger images that were difficult just a few years ago. Yet they are complicated in some respects, and my new Facebook Group Nikon Z Auto Capture and Pre-Capture Release is intended to take out some of the mystery.
Flicker shot with Auto Capture
The goal is simple.
Auto Capture:
- Reduce the complexity of the settings with explanations in a Field Guide. Most find them hard to remember; the Field Guide is a quick reference check.
- Share user experience about what works in what use case scenarios. For example, what’s the best setting for song birds in branches?
Pre-Capture Release:
- While the settings aren’t as complicated, for now, the output is jpg.
- What users need to do is manage their picture controls for optimum output so what are people finding success with.
Three Nikon Z cameras support these features: the Z9, Z8, and Z6 III. The Z9 has some advantages with firmware 5.3 as more Subject Detection options are available with more Auto Focus Area Modes such as Dynamic. In addition, there is Face detection for people, and you can reset the focus point after a burst. Also, the Z9 has a focus mode button on the front left that can be used to adjust settings in the View Settings dialog.
The biggest limitation for wildlife photographers is that there is no Bird ID in Auto Capture, so how do you handle that? The size of the bird may matter.
Be sure to check the files section of the group for the manuals from Nikon, a short reminder regarding the Size settings suitable for a phone notes app, and the Field Guide to print or use on your phone. Note that the Field Guide is meant for someone that understands the basics of setting up Auto Capture. There is no substitute for Steve Perry’s Books on three Z cameras.
If these topics are of interest, please join Nikon Z Auto Capture and Pre Capture Release (https://www.facebook.com/groups/3836549606479214/), and if you use either of these modes, share your images and experiences.
Cardinal shot with Auto Capture
The Facebook group already has several downloadable guides:
Author: Michael Herbert
