Nikon Z f Mirrorless Camera Body

Nikon Z f Mirrorless Camera Body Summary

Nikon is expanding their range of classic film-inspired mirrorless Z cameras with the newly developed full-frame Nikon Z f Mirrorless Camera Body. Despite featuring a design reminiscent of film cameras, the Z f boasts cutting-edge hybrid features, which rival even high-end professional bodies from the Nikon mirrorless camera range.

The exterior body has been updated with significant ergonomic improvements over the enthusiast-level Z Fc. The newer design includes a built-in body grip, high-quality brass dials, a new leaf switch shutter release button, and a dedicated black and white mode switch for monochrome enthusiasts.

At its core, the Nikon Z f camera packs the latest EXPEED 7 processor, which provides access to Nikon’s sophisticated Auto technology. This allows you to realise impressively fast AF speeds with deep learning subject recognition and tracking, improved metering, overall quick handling and vastly improved video performance.

The Z f recognises and tracks a broad range of subjects, while offering even wider sensor AF coverage than the flagship Z9 and Z8 cameras. Low light capabilities have also been extended to ISO 64,000, with autofocus as low as -10EV and Starlight view mode for night photography.

Photographers are able capture every decisive moment with the Z f, which can shoot at blistering speeds of up to 14fps RAW/JPEG, and the camera includes Nikon’s highly effective Pre-release capture, as well as the world’s first Focus Point VR. This innovative technology works in tandem with VR-equipped Nikkor own brand Nikon mirrorless lenses, in order to concentrate stabilisation towards the active focus point, resulting in higher sharpness where it really matters, rather than across the frame periphery.

The Z f is an incredibly capable video camera too, which captures 4K/30p oversampled from 6K, 4K/60p in UHD (DX coverage) and Full HD 120p slow motion. You can balance compression and video quality through 8-bit or 10-bit colour encoding, as well as harness profiles such as H.265, SDR, HLG or N-log, for recording durations of up to 125 minutes, even in 4K.

Key Nikon Z f Camera Features

• Film-era stying with sophisticated FX performance
• Powered by the latest EXPEED 7 processor
• Magnesium alloy parts, brass dials, artificial leather body and leaf switch shutter release
• 24.5 megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor
• Intuitive ergonomics includes a large top control panel and body grip
• Lockable ISO, shutter speed and exposure dials
• Dedicated Black and White Mode switch
• High ISO 64,000 capability
• Improved AF algorithm with deep learning
• AF rivals pro cameras with tracking of People, Animals, Car, Motorbike, Bicycle, Train, Airplane
• -10EV AF sensitivity for low light shooting
• Supports high resolution 4K/30p video oversampled from 6K
• Up to 8-stops in-body Vibration Reduction (VR)
• Vari-angle screen for shooting from any position
• New B&W modes include Flat Monochrome and Deep Tone Monochrome
• Customisable touch control
• Manual focus with subject detection, perfect for manual and legacy Nikon lenses
• Dust and moisture resistance plus a fluorine-coated sensor guard
• 1x SD memory card slot and 1x space-saving MicroSD memory card slot

Nikon Z f Mirrorless Camera Body in More Detail

Classic yet modern

Photographers who enjoy black and white photography will find that the Nikon Z f body includes an additional dedicated black and white mode selector, which sits next to the photo/video switch. Two new B&W modes have also been added to the profiles.

The B&W mode switch enables you to instantly transform your photographic experience by switching between video, colour and black and white photography instantly. Additionally, Nikon has added Flat monochrome and Deep tone monochrome picture profiles on top of the existing Monochrome setting, for more refined results straight out of camera.

Intuitive control and customisation

Thanks to a classic design reminiscent of film cameras, the Z f is easy, enjoyable and intuitive to use, with three separate dials allowing you to select values for ISO, Shutter Speed and Exposure compensation. You can also jump between P - S - A - M and Auto modes with the flick of a switch, and all of the dials can be locked into the ‘C’ position, in order to select values via the camera instead.

Touch control comes to the Z system

For even better handling, the Nikon Z f features touch control for the first time in any Z series camera, which adds the versatility to select functions while your eye remains on the EVF. The ability to control various settings without removing your eye from the viewfinder helps streamline your experience and capture decisive moments, which you might otherwise miss.

The touch control feature works by mapping the screen into nine customisable areas, which are each assigned a function, which can then be activated by tapping the corresponding mapped screen area. Move the focus point, switch eyes, change the framing group or zoom on/off all without needing to take your eye off the action.

Powerful AF system

Nikon has become a market leader in AF technology, which is made possible by the powerful EXPEED 7 processor that has been adopted for the Z f camera. This offers sophisticated AF tracking with deep learning, large sensor AF coverage and AF capabilities, which rival Nikon’s professional cameras.

Precision subject tracking

Deep learning delivers accuracy, speed and sharp images, even when subjects move around the frame. Subjects which are recognised and tracked by the Z f include:

People (eyes, face, torso)

Animals (head, eye, whole body)

• Cats
• Dogs
• Birds

Vehicles

• Cars
• Motorbikes
• Bicycles
• Trains
• Airplanes (whole body, front, cockpit)

Large Auto-area AF coverage

Alongside more tenacious AF and a wider variety of subjects, the Nikon Z f provides 89% x 95% of the sensor area with AF coverage, using 299 points. This makes it easier for you to acquire and track small or distant objects in the frame, right to the very edges. There are 77 custom wide-area patterns in photo mode and 66 when recording video, for tenacious AF across all of your content.

Master of low light

Whether you enjoy capturing general low light shots, astro photography or amazing images of the aurora, the Z f is ready for any night action. With a maximum native ISO 64,000 it surpasses most semi-pro mirrorless cameras, delivering great results even in extremely dark scenarios.

Starlight view can also be activated for night time work, which adjusts the display brightness for easier confirmation, while the camera’s sensitive AF achieves focus as low as -10 EV, with  truly astonishing low light capabilities.

Backlit AF

Nikon’s backlit technology utilises separate sensor pixels to achieve autofocus on backlit subjects, which are typically difficult for cameras to acquire. The system works by allowing specific AF pixels to overexpose the subject, without impacting the final exposure. Sunset silhouettes and backlit lifestyle shots will never be the same again.

New subject detection in MF

For users who want to shoot with manual or legacy Nikon NIKKOR lenses subject detection is now available in MF. This provides the benefit of being able to effectively harness cost-effective used Nikon lenses and experiment with classic equipment, which matches the camera’s aesthetics.

1. Subject detection automatically moves the focus area to the eye, after which it zooms into focus
2. Portrait shoots with older lenses becomes far more efficient
3. Lenses with electronic contacts can utilise focus aid

Capture the decisive moment more easily

High-speed shooting is possible with the Nikon Z f mirrorless camera, which captures RAW/JPEG at 7.8fps in continuous high mode, 14fps in extended mode and 30fps in JPEG only.

Pre-Release Capture

Alongside fast burst shooting, photographers gain Nikon’s game-changing Pre-Release Capture function, which records up to 1 second before the shutter is released and fully pressed, and up to 4 seconds after.

This technology can catch moments you thought were missed, whether spectacular wildlife shots, critical newsworthy subjects, intimate portraits, or unrepeatable street photography scenes.

World’s first Focus Point VR

Vibration Reduction (VR) is typically applied to the entire frame, however Nikon has refined in-body stabilisation in photo mode for the Z f, with a new technology called Focus Point VR. Where full-frame stabilisation can occasionally be ineffective, this new system concentrates on the area around the focus point, resulting in sharper subjects, which is where image stabilisation really matters.

You do have to shoot with own-brand Nikon mirrorless lenses, which are equipped with lens-based VR for this system to work. Nikon’s Z range is exceptional and you can choose from a telephoto prime, such as the Nikon Z 400mm F/4.5 VR S Lens, to more accessible models like the all-in-one Nikon Z 24-200mm F/4-6.3 VR lens, as well as plenty of other options.

Pixel-shift shooting

Another exciting new feature for the Nikon Z f camera is the introduction of Pixel-shift shooting. This captures multiple RAW files by shifting the image sensor with the VR function, while the camera is mounted on a tripod or similar stable platform. The RAW files (NEF) can subsequently be merged in Nikon NX Studio, choosing between 4/8/16 and 32 shots of up to 96MP.

Pixel shift technology creates far larger image sizes, with more accurate colour reproduction, as well as reducing moiré, false colour and noise artefacts. The types of scenes, which are suitable include architecture, fine art, still life, interiors, and other stationary subjects.

Capture more beautiful portraits

A series of features are available to help you capture more beautiful and natural looking portraits with the Z f. These include Portrait Impression Balance, where you can fine-tine settings such as hue and brightness, for more precise control over the final look and style.

Skin softening can also be applied to a maximum of three subjects in the frame. A new Rich Tone Portrait picture control has been included, which retains details in rich tones, whilst suppressing white clipping.

Advanced Auto shooting with deep learning

In order to capture better results when shooting in Auto mode, Deep learning technology is employed to accurately meter brightness, the lens focal width and motion within a scene. This is especially useful for portraits, night portraits, group shots and moving subjects where the camera will control background blur, depth of field and shutter speed to suit each situation.

Impressive video capabilities

As a true hybrid camera, the full-frame Z f includes an impressive choice of video resolutions and frame rates to suit any type of video content.

• 4K 30p is oversampled from 6K readout, and you can record truly cinematic 4K 24p to match traditional film motion
• 4K 60p with natural slow motion can be recorded in Super 35 (DX crop), maintaining high video quality, whilst being flexible with frame rates
• Full HD 120p is also available for more extreme slow motion effects

A choice of compressions and quality can be selected for those who enjoy editing movies, with colour grading flexibility and adjustable white balance during post.

Record in highly compressed 8-bit in MOV H.265 or MP4 H.264 (SDR), or step up to 10-bit recording in MOV H.265, SDR, HLG or N-LOG profiles, which wider colour gamuts for reduced clipping.

Long recording times

You can record over two hours of 4K with the Z f, which is ample for the majority of situations.

Video in Shutter Priority mode

This is the first mirrorless Z camera to support full setting control while recording video in S mode. This allows the ISO and aperture to be automatically controlled, dependent on the pre-selected shutter speed, which can be beneficial when recording in tricky light sources such as fluorescent lighting. It’s also useful for outdoor environments or anywhere where brightness changes constantly.

Video features galore

To assist with capturing beautiful video, the camera includes a host of video features such as:

• Red REC border
• Focus Peaking
• Zebra Stripes
• Waveform
• Fine ISO Control (1/6 EV)
• Video Info display

24-bit linear PCM audio

The Z f records 24-bit 48 KHz linear PCM audio, with even better dynamic range than cameras like the Z6 II and Z7 II. This helps content creators achieve professional audio quality to complement their movies for Youtube or any other platform.

Durable and reliable build quality

With such classic styling the Z f body could be mistaken for offering style over function, however Nikon has ensured this is a robust and durable camera for creators of all levels.

1. The body is made with magnesium alloy on the front and top covers.
2. A dust and moisture resistance design is equivalent to high-end Z models, with seals applied to every exterior joint cover, the shutter release button and tilting mechanism.
3. A highly precise and durable shutter unit has passed 200,000 cycle testing, which is equivalent to the Z6 II shutter.
4. A dust guard, image sensor cleaning and a dual coating are inherited from the Z9.
5. For the first time on a full-frame Z series camera Nikon has included a vari-angle LCD screen, which enables you to shoot selfies, difficult angles and achieve any position
6. SD and MicroSD card slots have been employed for redundancy while keeping the body extremely compact

Mirrorless lens options

Discover a wide range of Nikon mirrorless lenses to capture diverse stills and video content with the Z f full-frame camera. Options are available as either premium S-Series or standard models, all of which employ the extra-wide Z mount for excellent light gathering.

Choose from fixed focal width primes like the Nikon 50mm F/1.8 S Z Mount Lens, which captures beautiful results and weighs only 415g to complement the lightweight body. Several zooms are of course available, which cover everything from wide to telephoto, such as the Z 24-70mm F/2.8 S Zoom Lens and Z 24-120mm F/4 S Zoom Lens.

You can also choose from third party manufacturers such as Voigtlander and Laowa, while both Sigma and Samyang have begun to develop models for the Z system. If you already have Nikon DSLR lenses or legacy manual Nikkor lenses you’ll find the second-generation FTZ Mark II Mount Adapter is the ideal converter for any situation.

What’s in the box

• Nikon Z f Full-Frame Mirrorless Camera Body
• Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL15c
• Viewfinder Eyepiece DK-33
• USB Cable UC-E25
• Hot Shoe Cover BS-1
• Body Cap BF-N1 for Nikon Z mount cameras
• Strap AN-DC27