Nikon has released the firmware Ver.4.00 of its flagship “Nikon Z9” full-frame/FX-format mirrorless camera.

New Firmware Ver.4.00, the third major update since the release of the “Z9“, adds new functions related to still image and video shooting, including “Auto Capture”. In addition, in response to user feedback, operability and various display functions will be improved to further improve the “Z9.”

“Auto Capture” expands the range of shooting styles with “Auto Shooting”

Users can set the camera to automatically record still images or video by pre-configuring Auto Capture criteria. The three criteria that can be configured include a Motion option that detects subjects that make certain movements, a Distance option which begins shooting when a subject is within a certain range of distances, and a Subject detection option which detects a person, animal, or vehicle within the frame. These options can be used either separately or together to automatically trigger shooting when the selected criteria are met.
This allows the user to shoot remotely and without having to manually determine the timing of shooting/recording, providing users with more freedom to perform other tasks, or to leave their camera outside in places they cannot remain for extended periods of time, such as when shooting or recording wild animals.
When using more than one Z9, one camera can be used for hand-held shooting as the user moves from place to place, with the other cameras set up for automatic shooting from tripods at fixed locations. Auto Capture also enables shooting from multiple angles without using the extension cords previously required to control multiple cameras, eliminating worries about connections during remote shooting. It can also be used with the Pre-Release Capture function for more reliable capture of decisive moments.

Video recording function further evolved

The ISO sensitivity setting range for “N-Log” is expanded to Lo 2.0. By setting it to the lower sensitivity side, the dynamic range of dark areas is improved, and it is possible to express dark areas with rich gradation while suppressing noise.

In addition, the “high resolution zoom” subdivides the speed setting of the button operation from 3 to 11 steps. It is said that it is possible to adjust the speed more widely and finely, and zoom expressions that match the shooting intention more than ever, such as stable zooming at very low speeds.

In addition, a “slow motion video” function that can easily generate 4x slow and 5x slow videos in the camera is also installed.

Improved still image shooting function

In “3D-tracking”, the capture performance of fast-moving small subjects has been improved in situations where subjects cannot be detected. In addition, according to the needs of the shooting site, the time limit until the operation is interrupted in “pre-capture” has been extended from 30 seconds to 300 seconds, and even if the standby time with half-pressing the shutter button is prolonged, it is possible to press it fully. It is possible to record retroactively from the timing. In addition, it has a new “exposure delay” function that can avoid fine blurring caused by the vibration of the shutter release operation.

More sophisticated operability, functionality, and other features