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Officially Announced : Nikon Zf Price, Specs, Release Date

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Nikon has unveiled the Zf, a full-frame mirrorless camera that merges modern technology with a nostalgic design inspired by the Nikon FM2 of the 1980s. Nikon’s Zf is a full-frame mirrorless camera with classic styling, built around a 24MP BSI CMOS sensor.

It serves as the mirrorless successor to the Nikon Df DSLR announced in 2013 and shares similarities with the APS-C format Nikon Z fc, but with superior build quality.

The Nikon Z f comes with a 24.5MP BSI CMOS sensor, the same as in the Nikon Z6 II and Z6, but pairs it with the newer Expeed 7 processing engine, also found in the Nikon Z9 and Nikon Z8. This processor enhances its capabilities, including an increased maximum native sensitivity setting of ISO 64,000 and advanced autofocus algorithms with an extensive range of subject detection options and continuous shooting at up to 30fps in Jpeg and 14fps for raw files.

Nikon Zf Price & Release Date

The retro-styled, full-frame 24.5MP Nikon Z f, price $2000 / £2299 / €2599, is based on the FM2 from the 1980s and is set to go on sale in mid-October.

Nikon Zf Specs

  • 24MP full-frame BSI CMOS sensor
  • In-body image stabilization rated up to 8EV
  • Dedicated Monochrome mode
  • Up to 14fps continuous shooting (JPEG), 11 fps Raw
  • AF system with tracking and recognition of 9 subject types
  • 4K/60 video from 6K capture with 10-bit N-Log recording
  • 32-shot high-res mode to give 96MP images
  • SD and MicroSD card slots
  • Detailed technical specifications
  • Sample photos

Primary Features of the Nikon Zf

  • Full-frame 24.5-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor combined with the new EXPEED 7 Processing engine for amazing fidelity and image quality paired with stellar processing power.
  • Excellent AF tracking capability with 3D-tracking mode for photographers and dedicated Subject-tracking AF in video mode.
  • With up to 299 points in Auto-area AF, the range of coverage and number of focus points used in Auto-area AF mode have been increased for better focus acquisition performance with distant or moving subjects.
  • The first full-frame Z-series mirrorless camera to be equipped with a vari-angle touchscreen
  • Starlight view mode boosts display brightness for users to visually confirm composition in extremely dark scenes. It also achieves sharp focus with the low-light limit extendable down to -10 EV.8
  • Video frame rates and resolutions up to 4K UHD 30 oversampled from 6K,9 as well as 4KUHD 60P (DX-mode) and 1080/120P with recording times up to 125 minutes.10
  • The first Nikon camera to feature video recording in shutter-priority auto mode, letting the user select the shutter speed, while the camera adjusts the aperture and ISO.
  • In-camera, 10-bit H.265 recording, allowing users to record full-scale video directly to the camera without the need for an external recorder.
  • The first Z-series camera to support Touch Fn for adjustment of camera settings while framing pictures in the viewfinder. The user is now able to move the focus point via the LCD screen while looking through the viewfinder.
  • Supports the merging of NEF (RAW) images shot with pixel shift shooting to create a highly detailed image up to 96 megapixels.
  • Fast shooting, with up 14 fps bursts plus High-Speed Frame Capture+ (C30), which achieves high-speed continuous shooting at up to 30 fps. Pre-Release Capture is also available, buffering the images before the shutter is fully depressed.
  • Advanced features for dedicated portrait photographers include the skin softening function and a portrait impression balance function for users to better achieve the portraits they intended. Rich Tone Portrait Picture Control is a new setting that better captures details of the subject’s complexion.
  • Equipped with two memory card slots, one compatible with widely available UHS II SD cards and the other compatible with Micro SD cards.
  • Rugged and reliable construction, with magnesium alloy on the front and top covers, for maximum durability with minimal weight. The camera is engineered with high dust- and drip-resistance,11 effective sealing on the exterior cover joints, shutter-release button and vari-angle mechanism. Additionally, an electro-conductive coat that keeps the surface clean from dust and a fluorine coat that makes for easier cleaning.

Primary features

1. A heritage design inspired by Nikon’s iconic FM2 film camera

The magnesium-alloy body has an elegant glossy finish for a more authentic look and feel, and the dials, shutter-release button, and power switch are made of brass for a high-quality feel. It features a Nikon logo used in the 1970-80s as well as carved letters and numbers on the top of the camera. The passion of this heritage design is present in the details. As for the grip, consideration for a well-balanced look is maintained alongside stability when used with a full-frame lens. In addition, the feel of shutter-release button operation was given meticulous consideration. What’s more, artificial leather with a refined look and texture has been adopted, the color of which users can choose to customize from one of six Premium Exterior color options*, enabling users to personalize their camera to further match their individual style.

*Depends on region.

2. A variety of functions that expand possibilities for imaging expression

In addition to the conventional [Monochrome] Picture Control, the Z f has been equipped with [Flat Monochrome] and [Deep Tone Monochrome] Picture Controls, each with unique tone characteristics. A dedicated [B&W] position has also been added to the photo/video selector (B&W photo mode), which enables immediate switching to black-and-white photo mode by simply rotating the selector, expanding users’ possibilities for imaging expression. The camera is also equipped with a variety of other inspiring functions and features, including Creative Picture Controls, which enable more creative imaging expression, as well as Z f pixel-shift shooting, which supports the creation of high-resolution photos by merging multiple NEF (RAW) files, a feature that the Z f is the first to support.

3. Video performance that responds to diverse video production needs

The Z f supports in-camera, 10-bit H.265 recording, allowing users to record full-scale video with minimal peripheral devices, and without the need for an external recorder. It also supports recording of 4K UHD video using 6K oversampling*1, enabling creation of high-resolution video. The camera is also capable of recording up to approx. 125 min.*2 of 4K UHD/60p*3 video for scenes that require longer recording times, as well as being equipped with convenient video recording capabilities and functions inherited from the Z 9, including the ability to adjust ISO sensitivity in steps of 1/6 EV and display of a red frame during video recording. What’s more, increased compatibility with products released by accessory manufacturers expands the accessory options available to users and contributes to comfortable video shooting.

*14K UHD/30p, 25p, 24p recording is only available at an image area setting of [FX].
*2H.265 8-bit (MOV), [Auto temperature cutout]: [High], at 23°C/73°F, using EN-EL15c Rechargeable Li-ion Battery, and USB power supply. Use of the recommended memory card is advised.

*3In DX image area.

4. Cutting-edge technologies for superior shooting performance

The Z f is equipped with the same EXPEED 7 image-processing engine as the Z 9. It supports superior tracking performance with subject detection, making it possible to maintain sharp focus on moving subjects. The same nine different types of subject detection supported on the Z 8 is available with both still-image and video recording. Furthermore, the low end of the AF detection range has been extended to -10 EV*1, enabling improved focusing in dark situations and expanding shooting possibilities. Additionally, the Z f achieves 5-axis in-camera vibration reduction (VR) that demonstrates performance equivalent to an 8.0-stop*2 increase in shutter speed, the best among Nikon Z series cameras, while also supporting improved electronic VR*3 that is useful with video recording. These improve the quality of images taken during hand-held shooting in dimly lit or dark indoor situations and with slower shutter speeds. The Z f is also the world’s first camera*4 to support focus-point VR*5, which suppresses blur at the edges of the frame, even with compositions in which the subject is positioned at an extreme edge.

*1Measured in photo mode at ISO 100 and a temperature of 20°C/68°F using single-servo AF (AF-S) and a lens with a maximum aperture of f/1.2.

*2Measurement performed based on CIPA Standards in [Normal] VR mode using the NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S at the telephoto end.
*3When electronic VR is enabled, the angle of view is equivalent to that of a lens with a focal length approximately 1.25x that of the lens being used.
*4Among mirrorless cameras available as of September 20, 2023. Statement based on Nikon research.

*5Not effective when a NIKKOR Z lens with built-in VR is used, AF-area mode is set to [Auto-area AF] and multiple focus points are displayed, or video recording is in progress.

5. Additional features

  • The first Nikon camera to support video recording in shutter-priority auto mode. When this mode is selected, the user selects the shutter speed, and the camera adjusts the aperture.
  • [3D-tracking] (photo mode only) and [Subject-tracking AF] (video mode only) have been added to AF-area mode options.
  • Pixels used to create images and those used for AF achieve the optimal exposure for each process, making it easier to focus on the intended subject, even when that subject is silhouetted against backlighting or the scene is dimly lit or dark.
  • The range of coverage and number of focus points used in auto-area AF mode have been increased for better focus acquisition performance with distant or moving subjects.
  • Options available for custom wide-area AF mode have been increased, improving effectiveness for scenes with multiple subjects.
  • Adoption of the EXPEED 7 image-processing engine reduces noise in flat portions of subjects and increases image quality.
  • The first full-frame Z series mirrorless camera to be equipped with a vari-angle monitor.
  • Vertical-orientation image playback and <i> menu display during playback provide efficient support for vertical shooting.
  • The first Z series camera to support Touch Fn for adjustment of camera settings while framing pictures in the viewfinder.
  • The high processing ability of the EXPEED 7 image-processing engine enables High-Speed Frame Capture+ (C30), which achieves high-speed continuous shooting*1 at up to 30 fps*2.
  • Equipped with a Pre-Release Capture function*3 capable of recording images buffered up to one second before the shutter-release button is fully pressed.
  • Provides a skin softening function and a portrait impression balance function for users to better achieve the portraits they intended.
  • Features a Rich Tone Portrait Picture Control that better captures details of the subject’s complexion.
  • Utilizes deep learning technology to identify the scene when capturing still images in auto shooting mode, realizing optimal exposure control in accordance with the scene.
  • Supports the HEIF format, which records high-quality still images while reducing the amount of file data.
  • Superior dust- and drip-resistance*4 enables worry-free shooting, even in harsh environments.
  • Equipped with two memory card slots, one supporting SD cards and the other Micro SD cards.
  • Dual coating has been adopted to protect the image sensor from dust.
  • Supports the merging of NEF (RAW) images shot with pixel-shift shooting, with use of NX Studio Ver.1.5.0. The functions of Picture Control Utility 2 have been consolidated so that adjustment, application, and management of Picture Control can be completed within one app.

*1Fixed at JPEG [L] and NORMAL. Use of the recommended memory card is advised.
*2When the electronic shutter is used, rolling shutter distortion may occur according to subjects and shooting conditions.
*3Pre-Release Capture is available only with shooting in [C30] High-Speed Frame Capture+ release mode, which supports continuous shooting at up to 30 fps.
*4Thorough dust- and drip-resistance is not guaranteed in all situations or under all conditions.

Nikon Z6 II body: $1,996.95 at Amazon | B&H | Adorama

Nikon Z7 II body: $2,996.95 at Amazon | B&H | Adorama

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