Nikon Z 30 APS-C Mirrorless Camera Announced (for vloggers)

Nikon Z 30

Nikon announced a new mirrorless camera in the Z lineup: The Nikon Z 30 with an APS-C imaging sensor.

At a glance:

  • 20.8MP DX-Format CMOS Sensor
  • UHD 4K30p and Full HD 120p Video
  • Live Stream at 60p, In-Camera Time-Lapse
  • Vlogging-Optimized Design
  • Hybrid AF with Eye and Face Detection
  • 3″ 1.04m-Dot Free-Angle Touchscreen LCD
  • ISO 100-51200, Up to 11 fps Shooting
  • Built-In Stereo Mic, Ext. Mic Compatible
  • Tally Lamp and Dedicated Selfie Controls

The new Nikon Z 30 seems to be aimed at the vlogging folks. It sells for $706.95 and preorders are open:

B&H Photo | Adorama | Amazon

Nikon press release:

Nikon releases the Z 30 APS-C size mirrorless camera which is ideal for vlog contents creators

The smallest and lightest mirrorless camera among the Nikon Z series, with thoroughly pursued ease of use for video recording.

TOKYO – Nikon Corporation (Nikon) is pleased to announce the release of the APS-C size/DX-format Nikon Z 30 mirrorless camera.

Featuring the smallest and lightest body among the Nikon Z series models, as well as a vari-angle LCD monitor, REC lamp that immediately notifies of recording, and up to 125 minutes of recording time*, the Z 30 is a mirrorless camera that gives comprehensive consideration for video recording of a wide range of scenes, from daily shooting to creative expression including vlogs.

The Z 30 delivers outstanding depiction with high resolution by incorporating the same EXPEED 6 image-processing engine adopted in the Nikon Z 7 and the image sensor adopted in the Nikon Z fc, in combination with NIKKOR Z lenses.

In addition, the Z 30 is a camera that pursues ease of use and a design optimized for video recording, so that even first-time mirrorless camera users can casually enjoy imaging expression. It also features functions such as “Creative Picture Control” that enables diverse expressions, 4K UHD/30p video, and slow-motion video, all of which can meet the challenge for more particular video expression.

Nikon will continue to pursue a new dimension in optical performance while meeting users’ needs, contributing to the development of imaging culture, with the hope of expanding possibilities for imaging expression.

Primary features

  • 1.Outstanding rendering performance, equivalent to that of higher-class models, for vlog contents creators High-resolution, superior rendering performance is realized by adopting the same image-processing engine as the Z 7 as well as the image sensor adopted in the Z fc, in combination with NIKKOR Z lenses. Covering a standard sensitivity range of ISO 100-51200*, high-quality images can be captured regardless of the scene, whether indoors, outdoors or at night.
    In addition to stills, Eye-Detection AF and Animal-Detection AF that detect the eyes of people, dogs and cats are also adopted for video recording, letting users reliably capture the eye of subjects in motion in both video and stills. By adopting AF-F (Full-time AF) that continues focusing on a subject as it moves or as the composition changes, the Z 30 allows even first-time mirrorless camera users to capture lively facial expressions of a subject without failure. The touch-sensitive, vari-angle LCD monitor enables users not only to check how they look while shooting selfies, but also to freely shoot high-angle, overhead shots and low-angle shots such as walking feet. It offers smartphone-like operation while shooting, setting changes and pinching-in/out when playing back images. All the outstanding DX-format and FX-format NIKKOR Z lenses are available with the Z 30, from wide-angle lenses ideal for vlogs to prime lenses that offer beautiful bokeh and zoom lenses that cover a wide range of scenes with one lens, allowing anyone to enjoy a breathtaking diversity of imaging expression.
  • 2.The smallest and lightest camera among the Nikon Z series with a design optimized for video recording Realizing the smallest and lightest body among the Nikon Z series, the Z 30 features a deep grip that is comfortable and stable to hold during extended shooting. Although it is intended for first-time mirrorless camera users, it inherits the same design and operability as higher-class models. With a large video-record button more visible than conventional models, a large microphone where a wind muff can be attached easily, as well as a REC lamp that immediately notifies of recording, the Z 30 is optimally designed for video recording including vlogs.
  • 3.More creative expressions are achievable with ease and as intended The exposure compensation is adjustable even in AUTO mode, and more creative imaging expression can be attained easily and exactly as intended thanks to 20 Creative Picture Control options. Users can also make fine adjustments such as contrast and brightness to achieve their desired results. 4K UHD/30p without crop and Full HD/120p for creating slow-motion videos are also available. Three user setting modes are adopted on the mode dial, allowing users to assign the camera settings they want. What’s more, the i menu is accessible with just one touch without going deep into the menu, and the two Fn buttons can be assigned frequently used settings. These functions let users effectively customize the Z 30 according to their needs.
    For those pursuing expressions that they can make uniquely their own, approx. 360 types of NIKKOR F lenses from AI type onwards, are available via the Mount Adapter FTZ II, allowing users to enjoy even more diverse expressions with a great variety of lenses including older models.
  • 4.Additional features
    • Up to 125 minutes of video recording time provides extended shooting.
    • Approx. 11-fps high-speed continuous shooting*1 enables capture of the intended moment beautifully and more reliably.
    • Still images and videos can be transferred to a smart device*2 via SnapBridge application for casual posting on social media.
    • Computer software: NX Studio’s Movie Editor function offers video editing via simple operation.
    • Compatible with Webcam Utility that turns the camera into a webcam.
    • Compatible with a variety of accessories, supporting comfortable video recording.

Confirmed: Nikon Z 9 Imaging Sensor Is Made By Sony

Nikon Z 9

Not that we had much doubts about it, but now it seems ascertained: the imaging sensor featured in the Nikon Z 9 is made by Sony.

Nikon Z 9 at a glance:

  • 45.7MP FX-Format Stacked CMOS Sensor
  • EXPEED 7 Image Processor
  • 8.3K 60p N-RAW, 4.1K 60p ProRes RAW
  • 8K30p and 4K120p Video, 10-Bit Internal
  • Up to 20 fps Raw, 30 fps JPEG Shooting
  • 493-Point AF, AI-Based Subject Detection
  • Blackout-Free Real Live Viewfinder
  • 3.2″ 4-Axis Tilting Touchscreen LCD
  • Vertical Grip, 2x CFexpress Type B Slots
  • 5 GHz Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GNSS

The highly specialized site Tech Insights published a report about the Nikon Z 9 imaging sensor, and it turn out it is made by Sony.

This report presents a device essentials folder (DEF) of the Sony IMX609AQJ full frame 45.7 MP stacked back-illuminated CMOS image sensor from the Nikon Z9 mirrorless camera.

The report was spotted by How2Fly on Twitter. Given the authority of Tech Insights, here are no doubts left about who builds the Nikon Z 9 imaging sensor.

Sony imaging sensors are very good, no discussion here, but Canon’s are also very good and I like the fact that Canon is still researching and developing their own imaging sensors.

Nikon Z 9 Review by DPReview TV (one of the best cameras they’ve ever tested)

Nikon Z 9 Review

Sorry folks for yet another Nikon Z 9 review but this camera is too cool not to get featured ;-)

Nikon Z 9 at a glance:

  • 45.7MP FX-Format Stacked CMOS Sensor
  • EXPEED 7 Image Processor
  • 8.3K 60p N-RAW, 4.1K 60p ProRes RAW
  • 8K30p and 4K120p Video, 10-Bit Internal
  • Up to 20 fps Raw, 30 fps JPEG Shooting
  • 493-Point AF, AI-Based Subject Detection
  • Blackout-Free Real Live Viewfinder
  • 3.2″ 4-Axis Tilting Touchscreen LCD
  • Vertical Grip, 2x CFexpress Type B Slots
  • 5 GHz Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GNSS

After their written review, the folks at DPReview TV now posted also a compact video Nikon Z 9 review. They say:

The Nikon Z9 is one of the best cameras we’ve ever tested, but is there any reason not to jump on a wait list if you’re looking for the best hybrid mirrorless camera? We’ve been testing the Z9 with the new 2.0 firmware for a while, and we have the answers.

Definitely a very interesting camera, the Nikon Z 9. Moreover, Nikon surprised everyone releasing a Nikon Z 9 firmware update that’s so huge it could have been an entirely new camera.

Nikon Z 9 (starts $5,496.95): B&H Photo | Adorama

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Nikon Z 9 Review – Perhaps Most Complete Camera Ever Tested, Says DPReview

Nikon Z 9 Review

Here is a Nikon Z 9 review, and it is a very positive one.

At a glance:

  • 45.7MP FX-Format Stacked CMOS Sensor
  • EXPEED 7 Image Processor
  • 8.3K 60p N-RAW, 4.1K 60p ProRes RAW
  • 8K30p and 4K120p Video, 10-Bit Internal
  • Up to 20 fps Raw, 30 fps JPEG Shooting
  • 493-Point AF, AI-Based Subject Detection
  • Blackout-Free Real Live Viewfinder
  • 3.2″ 4-Axis Tilting Touchscreen LCD
  • Vertical Grip, 2x CFexpress Type B Slots
  • 5 GHz Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GNSS

Photographic authority DPReview posted their Nikon Z 9 review, and boy are they fond of this camera. They gave it a 94% score (and Gold Award), the highest score they ever gave (if I am not wrong). From their conclusion:

Image quality is excellent, with the tiny dent in dynamic range, compared with the D850 or Sony a1, not making any appreciable real-world difference. There appear to be few downsides to the new Raw compression options, either, which is hugely valuable when you’re capturing twenty 45MP images every second. Autofocus is also frankly phenomenal: combining Nikon’s easy-to-configure usability with speed and performance to match the best we’ve ever seen.

The Nikon Z9 is perhaps the most complete camera we’ve ever tested. It shoots excellent 45MP images at up to 30fps (20 with Raw), it captures 8K video in everything from 8-bit MP4s to 12-bit N-Raw. Its autofocus system is both powerful and easy to use and works well for both stills and video. It’s larger and heavier than some of its rivals, which make it less well suited to some applications, but overall it combines the best of a DSLR and a video camera in a single body.

Read the review at DPReview…

Nikon surprised everyone releasing a Nikon Z 9 firmware update that’s so huge it could have been an entirely new camera.

Nikon Z 9 (starts $5,496.95): B&H Photo | Adorama

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Industry News: Nikon Z 9 Firmware Update Released, So Big It Could Have Been A New Camera

Nikon Z 9

Nikon released a Nikon Z 9 firmware update. There are so many new features that it could have made for an entirely new camera.

Nikon Z 9 at a glance:

  • 45.7MP FX-Format Stacked CMOS Sensor
  • EXPEED 7 Image Processor
  • 8K30p and 4K120p Video, 10-Bit Internal
  • Up to 20 fps Raw, 30 fps JPEG Shooting
  • 493-Point Phase-Detection AF System
  • AI-Based Subject Detection and Tracking
  • Blackout-Free Real Live Viewfinder
  • 3.2″ 4-Axis Tilting Touchscreen LCD
  • Vertical Grip, 2x CFexpress Type B Slots
  • 5 GHz Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GNSS

The Nikon Z 9 firmware update is free and will be available later this month. These are the most prominent new features:

  • RAW video internal recording in 12-bit 8.3K/60p
  • Various new video features
  • Pre-Release Capture
  • Improved AF performance, including Custom Wide-Area AF with 20 options

All new features are described in the press release below, or watch the short video. Nikon made not only a rather interesting camera with the Z 9, but also a serious competitor to the Canon EOS R3.

Nikon Z 9:

America: B&H Photo, Adorama, Amazon USA, Amazon Canada, Canon Canada, Canon USA
Europe & UK: Amazon DE, Amazon UK, Amazon IT, Canon IT, WEX Photographic, Canon FR, Canon UK, Canon DE

Nikon press release:

Nikon releases the upgraded firmware for its full-frame mirrorless cameras — Version 2.00 for the Nikon Z 9, and Version 1.40 for the Nikon Z 7II and Nikon Z 6II

TOKYO – Nikon Corporation (Nikon) is pleased to announce the release of firmware version 2.00 for its flagship full-frame/FX-format mirrorless camera, the Nikon Z 9, and firmware version 1.40 for its full-frame/FX-format mirrorless cameras, the Nikon Z 7II and Nikon Z 6II, on April 20, 2022.

Firmware version 2.00 for the Z 9 will support in-camera recording of RAW video including over 8K which was announced in the press release dated October 28, 2021. As well as 12-bit RAW 8.3K/60p in-camera recording which achieves rich tonal gradation, various video features will also be greatly evolved to meet video production needs. For still shooting, it also introduces Pre-Release Capture*1, a first*2 for full-frame mirrorless cameras. This records images for up to one second before the shutter-release button is pressed all the way down after the half press of the button. Furthermore, Custom Wide-Area AF that supports various AF-area arrangement patterns is newly adopted, enabling more reliable acquisition of main subjects according to each scene. In addition, some functions and features of D-SLRs including the Prioritize Viewfinder function have also become available so that Z 9 users switching from D-SLRs can benefit from consistent operational feel.

With firmware version 1.40 for the Nikon Z 7II and Z 6II, it is possible to prevent the focus point from unintentionally moving to the background in Auto-area AF mode, so that photographers can more easily focus on the closer subject when AF starts. This firmware update also supports the ML-L7 Remote Control, which allows you to take photos when away from the camera, facilitating the taking of selfies from a distance where you cannot reach the shutter-release button, and nightscapes which are likely to cause camera shake when the button is pressed.

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Nikon Plans To Release More Than 50 Z-Mount Lenses By 2025

Eos R3 Vs Nikon Z9

Nikon seems to have big plans with their Z full frame mirrorless system (as Canon does with their EOS R system).

News has it that Nikon will release more than 50 Z-mount lenses by 2025. As stated in Nikon’s Medium Term Management Plan, the company is set to release more than 50 Z-mount lenses before the end of 2025. Says Nikon:

[Nikon wants to] expand the possibilities for visual expression and acquire overwhelming support from all generations of fans around the world.

You can check on Nikon’s plan on their investor relations website.

[via DPReview]