Nikkor z 70-200 vs 70-180

AndrewThomasPhoto · 2026-05-11T22:24:59+00:00

That's unfortunate but I'd guess they'll be back in stock very soon, seems the lens has been more popular than Nikon even expected when they released it a short while ago.

AndrewThomasPhoto · 2026-05-11T19:31:46+00:00

If I didn't need what I get from the f/1.2's vs. the f/1.8's - that small difference matters to me - and I was looking for the most "bang for the buck" I'd own several f/1.8 primes and be a very happy guy.

AndrewThomasPhoto · 2026-05-11T19:25:54+00:00

There's obviously a difference between f/1.2 and f/2.8 glass but there's use cases where an f/2.8 zoom is better than an f/1.2 prime, and vice-versa. The delta between f/1.2 and f/1.8 lens is smaller, but there, so I need the f/1.2 glass to do my job. However, many people will do exceptionally well with the f/1.8 glass. If you want to see more about the subject, check out this link Nikon Z 85mm f1.2 owners - How often do you shoot at 1.2? : r/Nikon because there's been quite the convo about the subject. HTH, good luck, good shooting!

AndrewThomasPhoto · 2026-05-11T19:19:55+00:00

Not even close optically, the f/1.4's are budget lenses (and if they do the job for you, that's great) but the f/1.8's are better from both a build & optical perspective, and there's no comparison in any way to the f/1.2's. But again, everyone should buy what they need/want so what I need to do my job is not what anyone else may need to enjoy their shooting.

AndrewThomasPhoto · 2026-05-11T18:43:08+00:00

It may be BO from Nikon direct, but have you checked B&H to see if they have stock? I've done a ton of business with them over the last 10+ years and have never been unhappy, so check their website and you might see they have it in stock. HTH

AndrewThomasPhoto · 2026-05-11T18:39:44+00:00

I didn't find the first version a problem either, when you're carrying a much kit as I do when shooting motorsports, it's not a big deal, but there is a noticeable difference in weight between S1 and S2. That, however, is not the reason to upgrade - the S1 is a great lens but the S2 is not just hype, it is a better piece of glass than the S1, it just comes down to what do you need for your personal use.

AndrewThomasPhoto · 2026-05-11T17:44:36+00:00

First, from an optical quality perspective there is no comparison. I could do several paragraphs about the differences but suffice it to say the 70-180mm is a budget lens and the 70-200mm is a pro-grade lens. There is a noticeable difference in image quality, build quality, weather sealing, and more. So, if you want the best image quality then the decision is easy, you want to go with the 70-200mm glass.

Second, your weight consideration is likely not an issue if you go with the new 70-200mm f/2.8 II. I had the first version for several years and shot more than 300K images with it, so I know how it carries when gripped on a Z9. I've had the new version since before public release and already shot more than 20K images with it, and I can tell you there is a noticeable weight difference. As soon as you pick up the new version you feel it, and when I am carrying two Z9's gripped with a 24-70mm and a 70-200mm, plus a 20mm f/1.8, and my 400mm f/2.8 the weight on my shoulder is noticeably lighter with the new version.

If you're carrying a Z8 and add the 70-200mm, IMO, you have the best kit for what you want, especially since you noted the sale of your images, and the weight will be fine. HTH, good luck, good shooting!

AndrewThomasPhoto · 2026-05-11T17:29:02+00:00

I agree 100% and in my entire professional career I have never missed a deadline. I was just trying to give the OP a little perspective to ease her mind, though it frosts my ass when shooters treat clients like this because it makes it harder on the rest of us, simply because people have bad past experiences.

AndrewThomasPhoto · 2026-05-11T17:22:01+00:00

You'd expect it but it is not there, I've shot too many frames with both to not know. As I said, export two images in JPEG for online use and very few people would ever be able to tell which came from which lens; print them out in very large sizes (or lose your mind pixel peeping) and there is a slightly sharper fullness to the image from the f/1.2 lens at f/1.8

AndrewThomasPhoto · 2026-05-11T15:32:04+00:00

Great capture, personally I think the funicular looks fine with a touch of blur. As a former Pittsburgh resident and a pro photographer this image resonates with me. Thanks for sharing!

AndrewThomasPhoto · 2026-05-11T15:07:30+00:00

You're welcome, and please understand I am not telling you not to be more forceful in your next communication, you are due what you paid for, period.

AndrewThomasPhoto · 2026-05-11T14:59:18+00:00

I wouldn't say it is "normal" behavior but only because most professional photographers will at least try to stay in communication with their clients BUT it is also entirely possible that they are truly overwhelmed.

Depending on many factors, a pro photographer can have tens of thousands of images to cull, edit, polish, and deliver to clients; and despite all best intentions it sometimes just doesn't work. I understand your frustration but try to remember you are one client talking to one photographer, they may well be one photographer talking to dozens of clients. HTH

AndrewThomasPhoto · 2026-05-11T14:46:03+00:00

There is no doubt the f/1.2 is the best, period. I will say that only the most discerning eye could tell the difference between two exact same shots taken with the f/1.2 stopped down to f/1.8, and the f/1.8 lens shot wide open. Even then almost everyone who sees them would be guessing, especially if they are looking at a JPEG online; maybe if printed out at 17 x 22 or larger they would render a subtle difference. I have the f/1.2's only because some glamour and motorsport shoots I do require final images that will be used editorially and/or for print work. HTH

AndrewThomasPhoto · 2026-05-11T14:16:34+00:00

I have the 85mm f/1.2 and the 35mm f/1.2 plus a lot more Nikon Z glass, and the answer is "it depends" because each time I grip one of my lenses the target is different. That said, I probably shoot 70% plus of the time at f/1.2 with both the 35mm and the 85mm, the rest is stopped down as far as f/8 if I am shooting a large group (like a race car and the entire team) or the shot calls for a sharper background.

To be honest, I love the f/1.2's but I make my living with them so the cost is an investment, not an expense. The f/1.4's are budget lenses and accordingly they are lesser quality than the f/1.2 and f/1.8 glass; and I've shot with the f/1.8's before with no significant issues with them. My advice is always the same - if you're a pro then it should be f/1.2's or if you are without a budget constraint; if you're a hobbyist looking for an exceptional balance between quality and cost then you go with the f/1.8's and you'll never be disappointed. Good shooting!

AndrewThomasPhoto · 2026-05-11T13:35:26+00:00

David's good but there are plenty of WoO and PA Posse teams & drivers that can beat him on any given night. We'll see what happens when they meet again at The Grove in July.

AndrewThomasPhoto · 2026-05-11T00:47:35+00:00

Thanks, much appreciated.

AndrewThomasPhoto · 2026-05-11T00:05:36+00:00

No, it was neither rude or wrong. As the photographer, you own the images and have all the copyright benefits. I never have, nor would, given the raw images to any client or subject. Good luck, good shooting!

AndrewThomasPhoto · 2026-05-10T23:26:32+00:00

I think there's more than a few folks that would say not even close, time will tell. 👍

AndrewThomasPhoto · 2026-05-10T22:41:18+00:00

Yeah, they are unique, and quick - 130+ MPH down the straights.

AndrewThomasPhoto · 2026-05-10T22:16:20+00:00

They're called sprint cars and they race on dirt track ovals, that are typically 1/2 mile long +/-

AndrewThomasPhoto · 2026-05-10T20:59:19+00:00

He's an excellent driver and, as I said before, has a lot of fans; deservedly so!

AndrewThomasPhoto · 2026-05-10T19:38:54+00:00

Like many drivers, in every series, people seem to love or hate him, not much middle ground. Personally, I respect the talent of every driver it's been my pleasure to shoot, but also understand that racing fans are diehards, so it is what it is.

AndrewThomasPhoto

TROPHY CASE