• Article ID 000044755
  • Date Published 21/8/2019
  • Date Last Updated 06/12/2023

The EVF, Monitor and Display mode on the Z-series camera

The EVF, Monitor and Display mode on the Z-series camera

The Nikon Z series cameras*1 include a high-resolution EVF (Electronic Viewfinder) and a large monitor designed for various shooting conditions.
You can cycle between the preferred monitor mode by pressing the "Monitor mode button".
zf_mon.jpgZfc_mon.jpgz8_mon.jpg
Depending on the model, the "Monitor mode button" can be located near the left side of the EVF. The above photos show the location of the button for Z f, Z fc and Z 8.

The following monitor modes are available,
Monitor ModeDescriptions
Automatic display switchThe camera automatically switches between the EVF and monitor display based on information from the eye sensor.
Viewfinder onlyThe monitor remains blank. The viewfinder is used for shooting, menus, and playback.
Monitor onlyThe monitor is used for shooting menus, and playback. The EVF will remain blank even if you put your eye to the EVF.
Prioritize viewfinder (1)*2In photo mode, the camera functions in a manner similar to the existing DSLR. Placing your eye to the EVF turns the EVF on; the monitor remains off after you take your eye away.
Prioritize viewfinder (2)*2 *3In photo mode, the EVF turns on both when you look through it and also for a few seconds after the camera is turned on or the shutter-release button is pressed halfway.
Notes:
*1 - Z 30 is not equipped with an EVF, and does not support monitor mode switching.
*2 - Both "Prioritize viewfinder" modes will function as per "Automatic display switch" when the camera is set to video mode.
*3 - Available for selected models only.


Troubleshooting
The camera's viewfinder (EVF) turns on but the camera's monitor will not turn on - even when the "MENU" or "PLAYBACK" is pressed. 
  1. Please check if the monitor mode is set to "Viewfinder only" by pressing the "monitor mode button".
  2. Choose "Automatic display switch" to allow the camera to switch between the EVF and the monitor dynamically.

The display does not switch to the camera monitor even when the monitor mode is set to "Automatic display switch".

  1. Please check if the "Eye-sensor" has minute foreign matter such as dust, or dirt that has adhered to it. The "Eye-sensor" is usually located on top or below the EVF.
  2. If there is a foreign matter adhered to it, please remove the rubber eyecup then use a lint-free dry cloth or blower and carefully remove it from the "Eye-sensor".
  3. Alternatively, you can also seek assistance from the nearest service centre where necessary.
Z9.jpgZ8.jpgZ567.jpg
Zf.jpgZfc.jpgZ50.jpg
Depending on the model, the "Eye-sensor" can be located on top or below the EVF. The above photos show the location of the button for each of the models.


The camera monitor stays on but the EVF remains OFF even when I place my eye near the EVF/Eye-sensor.

  1. Please check if the monitor mode is set to "Viewfinder only" by pressing the "monitor mode button".
  2. Choose "Automatic display switch" to allow the camera to switch between the EVF and the monitor dynamically.
  3. Note that, some models such as the Z 9 and Z 8 are equipped with additional sensors. The EVF will be disabled when the monitor is tilted, or not stowed in the storage position.
Z8_usage.jpg
The left photo above shows Z 8 with a stowed monitor in the storage position, while the right photo shows the monitor being used for a creative angle.

 

 

 

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