Zacuto Z-Finder Pro 2.5x
Zacuto's Z-Finder Pro 2.5x optical viewfinder is a necessary tool for shooting sharp, stable video on DSLR cameras like the Canon 5D MkII, 7D, Nikon D90, D300s and others. Whether shooting handheld or on a tripod, the Z-Finder Pro turns your camera's 3" LCD screen into a clear, easy-to-focus viewfinder that lets you see your image in magnified detail even under the brightest sunlight. Just as crucially, the Z-Finder Pro provides an extra degree of handling comfort and a crucial point of contact--between camera and eye--that adds stability to any handheld video.
The Pro 2.5x version offers an adjustable diopter that enlarges the LCD image by a factor of 2.5, so you can see every detail for pinpoint focus. The diopter's extended range of -4.75 and up makes it especially useful for those who are nearsighted. The Z-Finder attaches to your camera via the included Gorilla Baseplate and mounting frame, which mount to the bottom of your camera using a standard 1/4"-20 screw. A non-stick rubber backing ensures a tight fit and prevents scratching of the LCD screen, so that the entire Z-Finder snaps off easily when not in use. Once detached, the unit can hang conveniently around your neck from the included lanyard.
Note! For use with taller-bodied cameras such as the Canon 1D Mark IV and Nikon D3S, an optional Z-MFT mounting frame is required.
- 2.5x magnification
- 40mm diameter lens for excellent light throughput
- Allows DSLR cameras to have correct form factor for video
- Field of view perfectly matches 3" LCD screen size
- Diopter range is -4.75 and up (unlimited with extender frames)--ideal for nearsighted shooters 1
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 102 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
97%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Easy to use (77)
- Improves performance (74)
- Professional quality (74)
- Highly compatible (33)
- Compact (31)
Cons
- Limited compatibility (4)
- Lacks functionality (3)
- Poor design (3)
- Price (3)
- Pricey (3)
Best Uses
- Independent films (64)
- Complex projects (35)
- In the studio (35)
- Home movies (31)
- Video (10)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Professional artist (50), Business owner (27), Enthusiast (18), Film student (9), Pro photographer (8)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (83)
Most Liked Positive Review
Essential accessory for shooting video
It's hard to understand the advantage in using a Z-Finder until you've actually tried it. In short, it makes shooting video, obtaining focus, and using your DSLR a whole lot easier.
...Read complete review
It's hard to understand the advantage in using a Z-Finder until you've actually tried it. In short, it makes shooting video, obtaining focus, and using your DSLR a whole lot easier.
The Z-Finder magnifies the LCD screen and lets you look at it through a traditional viewfinder mechanism, which is a more natural way to use the camera than holding it away from you and trying to frame and focus on the small screen. The 2.5x magnification is perfect for your eye to take in everything in the frame and to achieve sharp focus.
The only tiny drawback is that it's a little pricey. The Z-Finder is everything it's supposed to be and you will wonder how you shot without it.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Not Incredible but Useful
Obviously an eye piece is extremely helpful when using your Canon 5D mark II for video, but many blogs state the Z-Finder as being absolutely essential for DSLR shooting. After purchasing the 2.5x I ...Read complete review
Obviously an eye piece is extremely helpful when using your Canon 5D mark II for video, but many blogs state the Z-Finder as being absolutely essential for DSLR shooting. After purchasing the 2.5x I feel it is useful but steeped in over-the-top hype. I shoot documentaries in a run-and-gun style and bought the Z-finder after a year of shooting without it. What I like about the 2.5x is that I do get better focus pulls (most of the time) and having the 3rd point of contact with your eye makes hand held shots more sturdy. What I don't like is the connection of the eye piece to the base plate. It was made with the 5D in mind and barely fits. The tightening bolts are on the edge of the eye piece slots, the need for another 1/8 inch of material should be blantly obvious. The whole set up is bulky as can be and combersome to take on and off. I've read the instructions and still feel like I'm going to break something everytime I remove the eye piece. If you buy this thing and you've got a compact bag setup you might need a new bag to accommodate the Z-finder, unless you want to deal with removing everything all the time. Also, critcal focus with 2.5x is sometimes hard to get. The 3x makes critical focus real easy but your frame gets cropped. Very frustrating that there isn't a middle ground.Bottom line: I like this product, but it's not a "game changer" and I think is best applied to shoots with some time to setup. I find running and gunning with the Z-finder to be a pain in the rear unless I have time to sit and get everything just right (when does the world wait for you to do that?) At [$] this is extremely over priced. I have friends who went cheap $35-$60 and have a very similar product. I would only recomment to a friend with cash to burn and looking to use for paid projects. I did just fine without one.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 102 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
- Durable
- Easy to Use
- Good Video Quality
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
Comments about Zacuto Z-Finder Pro 2.5x:
Amazing, so useful when shooting outdoors and unable to see all the colors and trying to focus on certain subjects!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Durable
- Easy to Use
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Zacuto Z-Finder Pro 2.5x:
Price is a bit high, but worth it. Feels extremely solid and comfortable mounted on the Canon 5D. 2.5x is plenty (almost too much) of magnification.
Pros
- Durable
- Easy to Use
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Video
Comments about Zacuto Z-Finder Pro 2.5x:
Before buying this product I bought a cheaper view finder, the "V-Finder" by another brand--it was 40 bucks, and I got what I paid for. At the end of my very first shoot with it, the plastic piece on the bottom snapped in two and it would no longer sit on my tripod. Then a a few minutes later the viewfinder couldn't be used either. I bought a cheap product and got burned.
So I decided to buy what I should have in the first place. The z-finder is in another class--another universe, really as far as construction goes. I dropped the z-finder on concrete during my second shoot with it--not a scratch--solid construction and a great gorilla plate to secure to your tripod.
I don't notice much difference when turning the diopter, but maybe that's because my vision can compensate throughout...
I was using this z-finder on my friend's Canon 60D, but plan on using it on other cameras in the future--I feel certain Zacuto will make different mounts for any future cameras that may come out, as well.
Quality product that's really necessary if you're doing any outside shooting or if you LIKE your shots to be in focus.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
Cons
Best Uses
- Video
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Zacuto Z-Finder Pro 2.5x:
Coupled with a Canon 60D for HD video production. Easy to assemble. I leave the base bracket attached for easy setup. Two thumb screws tighten the lens to the camera.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Durable
- Easy to Use
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
- Expensive
Best Uses
- Video
Comments about Zacuto Z-Finder Pro 2.5x:
If all your shots are preformed from a tripod and you can always prefocus on still subjects, then maybe you can do without a viewfinder. But for on the run focusing, excellent ergonomics, and a very large, crisp viewing experience, you really can't go past this product. For me, functionality, design, and build earn this product 6 stars. But I feel the high price is a bit excessive.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Adjustable
- Compact
- Durable
- Easy to Use
Cons
- Expensive
Best Uses
- DSLR Video
Comments about Zacuto Z-Finder Pro 2.5x:
I added this to my T2i and it opened up a ton of possibilities I had not thought of before.
Since I picked up my T2i, I didn't think that a viewfinder was terribly necessary, until I used one. At first I tried a friends Z-Finder and then an acquaintance's cheaper competitor. The competitor did not stand up to the quality of the Z-Finder.
The quality greatly justifies the cost in the comparison of the Z-Finder and any cheaper alternative.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Durable
Cons
- None
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
Comments about Zacuto Z-Finder Pro 2.5x:
Excellent product. it really transforms a DSLR that can take video in a real Video Camera a lot easier to be operated accurately and a lot more ergonomic.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Clear view
Cons
- Fragile
Best Uses
Comments about Zacuto Z-Finder Pro 2.5x:
I've just purchased the product recently and I did not have enough time for a proper review. So far it seems to do the job pretty well. What I don't like is the fact that it can quickly fall if you don't handle the camera properly. The viewfinder area is also very fragile and it jumps out if you just touch it with your hand inappropriately. The 3 stars rating is just because I find the product too expensive compared to how fragile it is. Conclusion - handle it with care.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Durable
Cons
Best Uses
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Zacuto Z-Finder Pro 2.5x:
Works great with video shooting on my Nikon D7000. Sun glare and focus are no longer an issue. Great build quality and worth every cent.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Durable
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Video
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Zacuto Z-Finder Pro 2.5x:
I use this product with my Canon 5D Mark II for shooting wedding. It is a great thing to have. It helps a lot to obtain a sharp focus and in strong sun light. This is a gear you must have when shooting with DSLR cameras.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Compact
- Easy to Use
- Great Picture Quality
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Travel
Comments about Zacuto Z-Finder Pro 2.5x:
excellent for videomakers ! great for outdoors shootings!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Durable
- Easy to Use
- Great Picture Quality
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Video
Comments about Zacuto Z-Finder Pro 2.5x:
The optics of this viewer are great. Very clear. Eyepice really keep light out.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Video Quality
- Great Picture Quality
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Video
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Zacuto Z-Finder Pro 2.5x:
This finder allows me to manipulate focus with precision. I love the way it's put into the back of the camera, it is very easy to get it in and out. It shows images zoomed with very good quality.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
- Pricey
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Zacuto Z-Finder Pro 2.5x:
I use this with a Canon 5D Mark II, and it works well. It makes doing video on the 5D much easier in the field under bright conditions. The only drawback I see is that the eyepiece pops on and off too easily and is very is very pricey.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Compact
- Durable
- Easy to Use
- Good Video Quality
- Great Picture Quality
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Zacuto Z-Finder Pro 2.5x:
Works great, doesn't fog up, optics are awesome! Would like a version that doesn't have the gorilla plate mandatory. My plate didn't come with the thumbscrews initially, but called zacuto and they sorted everything.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Improves Performance
- Professional Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Outdoors essential
Comments about Zacuto Z-Finder Pro 2.5x:
Got sick of trying to see my Canon 1DSIII LCD in the sunshine. Most outdoors photography was hopeless in the Australian bright outdoors. Since buying the Z Finder 2.5 not only can I see everything clelary but I can focus more exactly and compose better. This was the only product that adequately accommodated my aging eyes with extension tubes & diopter adjustment. I normally only use reading glasses. Yes Pricey but worth the performance & quality. Simply the best system available.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Compact Design
- Easy To Use
- Highly Compatible
- Improves Performance
- Lightweight
- Professional Quality
Cons
- Not easy to remove
Best Uses
- Independent Films
- In The Studio
Comments about Zacuto Z-Finder Pro 2.5x:
I made video in Mexico high profile customers and I used with a canon 7d. first i bought another finder without dioptric and extender, now with this I can focus exactly wath I want, this is great. the bad things is canon cameras stop when temperature goes up.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Compact Design
- Critical focus
- Easy To Use
Cons
- Headaches
Best Uses
- Handheld guerilla shootin
- Home Movies
- Independent Films
Comments about Zacuto Z-Finder Pro 2.5x:
The viewfinder does what it describes
IT gives me an additional point of contact so there's more stability when shooting handheld videos.
It's much easier to get critical focus so eyes of subject are sharp
I am not sure how to setup the glass though. It gives me headaches after 30 seconds of use. I don't have glasses, I am not near-sighted, have tried rotating the wheel but still lots of headaches and funny feeling in eyes. I hope I won't be forced to use glasses because of Zacuto!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Compact Design
- Easy To Use
- Improves Performance
- Professional Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Home Movies
- Small Video Projects
Comments about Zacuto Z-Finder Pro 2.5x:
Works great when taking videos with my 5DmkII. Make focusing more accurate and the video is more steady with the extra point of contact.
Only 'con' is really the price, but even then it's only a small 'con' and you quickly forget how much you paid.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Improves Performance
- Lightweight
- Professional Quality
Cons
- Pricey
Best Uses
- Independent Films
Comments about Zacuto Z-Finder Pro 2.5x:
This thing is smashing for doing video with the 5D Mark II. It's strong sturdy and well built. I think that the 2.5x is perfect. I generally just leave the base plate on the camera the whole time and then throw on the eyecup when I need it for video. It is a bit pricey but really does the trick well and is well built.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
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Viewfinders Accessories
- Price: $2.85
System Extensions
- Price: $736.25
What's in the Box
- 3 x Extender Frames
- Gorilla Plate w/Short Body Frame
- Lens Cap & Protective Boot
- Lanyard and Lanyard Hook
- 2.5x Lens with Anti-Fog Coating Protective Cover
- Additional Anti-Fog Coating Protective Cover
- Eyecup
- Lifetime Warranty
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