I just snagged a used Nikon Z6 from a guy locally here in Chicago and I am honestly so stoked to get shooting with it. I have a wedding gig coming up as a second shooter in three weeks so I need to get this rig finalized fast. Ive got about $500 left in my budget for accessories and I am spiraling a bit. I did some digging and everyone says the XQD cards are a must but then I see some firmware updates let you use CFexpress Type B? I found a SanDisk one online but then read a thread saying they run hot in the Z6 compared to the Sony Tough cards so now I dont know which way to go.
Then there is the battery situation. My logic was just buy two extra EL-15c batteries and call it a day but then I saw people swearing by those dummy batteries for long shoots or just using a power bank via USB-C. Does the Z6 even charge while you are using it? I read conflicting things about the original Z6 vs the II on that. Also considering a screen protector and maybe a better strap because the stock Nikon ones always dig into my neck after an hour. Is a cage overkill if I am mostly doing stills and maybe a bit of handheld b-roll? Just trying to make sure I dont waste money on stuff that will just sit in my bag...
To add to the point above: be careful with the USB power situation. The original Z6 wont actually run while charging via USB, it only charges when the power is off. I would suggest these instead:
> I found a SanDisk one online but then read a thread saying they run hot Building on the earlier suggestion, I'd actually skip the Sony cards if you're watching your budget. In my experience, ProGrade Digital 128GB CFexpress Type B Gold is better value. Also, technical heads-up: the Z6 only charges while off, not during use. Since you're doing a wedding, grab a SmallRig L-Bracket for Nikon Z6. It makes vertical shots way easier than a cage and tbh saves you money...
Just catching up on this thread and regarding what #3 said about "To add to the point above: be careful...", they are 100% right about the power delivery limitations. The Z6 simply wont run off a power bank while you are actually using it! For a high-stakes wedding, you need absolute reliability so check out the Delkin Devices 128GB BLACK CFexpress Type B Memory Card. These cards are ruggedized and the thermal performance is fantastic compared to the cheaper consumer ones. Its a total tank!! Quick tip: please stick to the Nikon EN-EL15c Rechargeable Li-ion Battery. Third-party batteries often have voltage issues that can cause the Z6 to lock up during high-speed bursts or video. Also, the Peak Design Slide Camera Strap is amazing for long wedding days because the seatbelt-style webbing makes it slide over your shoulder so much smoother when you need to bring the camera up fast. You wont regret the extra comfort!
Whoa, congrats on the Z6! It is a beast but yeah, the accessory rabbit hole is deep. Since you are doing a wedding, you gotta be careful with the card choice. I would suggest sticking with the Sony TOUGH 128GB CFexpress Type B Memory Card because weddings are high pressure and you dont want it overheating or acting up mid-ceremony. The SanDisk ones get a bad rap for heat sometimes, so the Sony is a safer bet imo even if it costs a bit more. About the battery... be careful with the USB-C thing. The original Z6 wont actually run off a power bank while you are shooting. It only charges when the camera is off. So for a wedding, just get two Nikon EN-EL15c Rechargeable Li-ion Battery. Dont mess with dummy batteries or cables hanging off your rig while you are moving around a dance floor, youll just trip someone or snag it on a chair. A cage is probably overkill if you are mostly doing stills and b-roll. It just adds weight you dont need for an 8-hour day. Instead, definitely grab a Peak Design Slide Lite Camera Strap. The stock ones are basically torture devices lol. Also, make sure to get a cheap ULBTER Nikon Z6 Screen Protector 3-Pack because scratches happen so fast when the camera is bumping against your hip. That should keep you under your $500 limit too if you shop around a bit...