Nikon released the Nikon Z f, a full-frame/FX format mirrorless camera that uses the Nikon Z mount, in October 2023. Retail price is as follows.
- Body only : $1996.95
- Z f 40mm f/2 (SE) lens kit : $2,236.95
What is the Nikon Z f?
The Nikon Z f is a manual control mirrorless camera that combines a heritage design inspired by Nikon’s historic cameras with the latest performance. It uses a full-size sensor and the same “EXPEED 7” image processing engine as the flagship “Nikon Z9” model (released in December 2021), making it possible to shoot full-fledged still images and videos.
Heritage design inspired by Nikon’s historic camera “FM2”
The magnesium alloy body has a glossy finish that gives it a luxurious feel. The dial, shutter button, and power lever is made of brass, giving a high-quality feel when operating it. It also features the retro Nikon logo used from the 1970s to the 1980s, and engraved letters are used for the display on the top of the body. The design clearly pays attention to the retro details.
The grip is designed to balance the retro appearance with stability, when a full-frame lens is attached. The company also paid special attention to the feel of the shutter button. Furthermore, the “Premium Exterior” uses artificial leather that has an excellent feel and looks. The artificial leather part of the body can be replaced for a fee, making it available in five colors, allowing the user to customize the color to suit their taste.
A variety of functions that expand the possibilities of expression
In addition to the conventional “Monochrome” picture control, “Flat Monochrome” and “Deep Tone Monochrome” settings are also installed. This allowes for shooting with different gradation characteristics. It is also equipped with a dedicated lever called “Still Image B&W Mode,” which instantly switches to monochrome mode with a single action.
In addition, “Creative Picture Control” enables creative expression, and “Pixel Shift Shooting,” which is a first for Nikon, combines multiple RAW (NEF) files to obtain high-resolution photos.
Nikon Z f Video Production Capabilities
With H.265 10bit recording, it is possible to shoot full-fledged videos with minimal equipment without using an external recorder. It also supports the production of high-quality 4K UHD images using 6K oversampling.
The Nikon Z f can also record 4K UHD/60p video for up to approximately 125 minutes. Furthermore, it is equipped with convenient video shooting functions such as the 1/6 step ISO sensitivity setting that is included in the Z9, and the display of a red frame during video recording.
Excellent shooting performance with cutting-edge technology
As stated, the camera uses the same EXPEED 7 processor from the Z9. With great subject tracking performance, the camera can keep the moving subject in focus and sharp. It supports nine types of subject detection for both still images and videos, similar to the “Nikon Z8” (released in May 2023). Furthermore, the autofocus detection range on the low-brightness side has been expanded to -10 EV. This improves focusing, even in darker scenes and expanding the range of shooting scenes.
The Nikon Z f has 5-axis in-body image stabilization, which provides the highest image stabilization effect of 8.0 stops. This is the best in the Nikon Z series. The effectiveness of electronic image stabilization, which is effective when shooting video, has also been improved. This improves the quality of handheld shots, as well as indoor shots or shots with low shutter speeds. Furthermore, it is equipped with the world’s first “Focus Point VR.” This firmly suppresses blur around the screen, even in compositions where the subject is at the edge of the image.
