Nikon Zf + 35mm f/1.8 S + 2 Nikon EN-EL15C

Just two years after the success of the Z fc, Nikon reaffirms its commitment to retro style with the launch of the Nikon Zf. This mirrorless camera draws its inspiration from the legendary FM2, preserving its vintage aesthetic while incorporating cutting-edge technologies.

At the heart of this blend of tradition and modernity is the Expeed 7 processor, ensuring exceptional image quality thanks to a stabilized 24-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor.

The Nikon Z f stands out by borrowing the latest innovations from Nikon, benefiting from the technological advancements of the Z8 and Z9 models. This upgrade translates to enhanced performance in subject detection and tracking, making this camera a top choice for demanding professionals and enthusiasts.

WHAT WE LOVE ABOUT THE NIKON Zf:

• The perfect combination of full-frame power and refined design, reminiscent of film cameras.
• Superior build quality with brass dials, a body largely covered in embossed artificial leather, and a lever shutter release.
• Advanced hybrid features thanks to the latest EXPEED 7 processor and improved autofocus that uses deep learning.
• Stunning performance for both photos and videos, rivaling Nikon's professional mirrorless cameras.
• Improved ergonomics with a large top control panel and a shallow grip that harmoniously integrates with the classic design.

INTUITIVE CONTROL AND CUSTOMIZATION

TOUCH CONTROL COMES TO THE Z SERIES

POWERFUL AF SYSTEM

Nikon has become a market leader in AF technology thanks to the powerful EXPEED 7 processor equipped in the Zf. It offers sophisticated AF tracking with deep learning, wide AF coverage on the sensor, and AF capabilities that rival Nikon's professional cameras.

PRECISE SUBJECT TRACKING

Deep learning ensures precision, speed, and sharp images, even when subjects are moving. The subjects recognized and tracked by the Z f include:

• People (eyes, face, torso)
• Animals (head, eye, whole body)
• Cats
• Dogs
• Birds
• Vehicles
• Cars
• Motorcycles
• Bicycles
• Trains
• Airplanes (whole body, front, cockpit)

EXTENDED AF COVERAGE

In addition to more tenacious AF and a wider variety of subjects, the Nikon Zf offers AF coverage of 89% x 95% of the sensor surface, using 299 points. This makes it easier to acquire and track small or distant objects in the frame, even at the extreme edges.

LOW LIGHT MASTER

Whether you enjoy capturing low-light scenes, astrophotography, or stunning images of the northern lights, the Z f is ready for nighttime action. With a maximum native ISO sensitivity of 64,000, it outperforms most semi-professional mirrorless cameras, delivering excellent results even in extremely dark scenarios.

The star view mode can also be activated for nighttime work, adjusting the display brightness for easier confirmation, while the camera's sensitive AF manages to focus down to -10 EV, offering truly impressive low-light capabilities.

AF BACKLIT

Nikon's backlighting technology uses distinct sensor pixels to achieve autofocus on backlit subjects, which are typically challenging for cameras to capture. The system allows certain AF pixels to overexpose the subject without affecting the final exposure. Silhouettes at sunset and everyday backlit shots will never be the same.

NEW SUBJECT DETECTION IN MF

For users wanting to use manual lenses or older Nikon NIKKOR lenses, subject detection is now available in MF mode. This provides the advantage of effectively using second-hand Nikon lenses at a lower cost and experimenting with classic equipment that matches the camera's aesthetic.

Subject detection automatically moves the focus area to the eye and then zooms in for focus. Portrait sessions with older lenses become much more efficient. Lenses with electronic contacts can use focus assist.

CAPTURE THE DECISIVE MOMENT MORE EASILY

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

PRE-RELEASE CAPTURE

In addition to fast burst shooting, photographers benefit from Nikon's revolutionary Pre-Release Capture function, which records up to one second before the shutter is fully pressed and up to four seconds after.

This technology can capture moments you thought you missed, whether it's spectacular wildlife shots, noteworthy subjects, intimate portraits, or irreplaceable street photography scenes.

WORLD FIRST: FOCUS POINT VR

Vibration Reduction (VR) is generally applied to the entire frame, but Nikon has refined the built-in stabilization in photo mode for the Z f with a new technology called Focus Point VR. While frame-wide stabilization can sometimes be ineffective, this new system focuses on the area around the focus point, resulting in sharper subjects, which is crucial for image stabilization.

PIXEL SHIFT SHOOTING

Another exciting feature of the Nikon Z f is the introduction of Pixel Shift shooting. This technology captures multiple RAW files by shifting the image sensor with the VR function, while mounted on a tripod or stable platform. The RAW (NEF) files can then be merged in Nikon NX Studio, with the option to choose between 4, 8, 16, and 32 shots, reaching up to 96 MP.

Pixel Shift technology allows for creating much larger images with more accurate color reproduction, while reducing moiré, false colors, and noise artifacts. This type of shooting is ideal for architecture, art, still life, interiors, and other stationary subjects.

CAPTURE MORE BEAUTIFUL PORTRAITS

A range of features is available to help you capture more beautiful and natural portraits with the Z f. Among these is Portrait Impression Balance, which allows you to fine-tune settings such as hue and brightness for more precise control over the final image.

Skin smoothing can also be applied to up to three subjects in the frame. A new Rich Tone Portrait picture control has been included, preserving details in rich tones while eliminating blown-out whites.

ADVANCED AUTOMATIC SHOOTING WITH DEEP LEARNING

To capture better results in Auto mode, deep learning technology is employed to accurately measure brightness, lens focal width, and movement in a scene. This is particularly useful for portraits, night portraits, group photos, and moving subjects where the camera will control background blur, depth of field, and shutter speed based on each situation.

IMPRESSIVE VIDEO CAPABILITIES

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

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

You can select different compressions and qualities for those who like to edit films, with flexible color correction and adjustable white balance during post-production.

Record in highly compressed 8-bit MOV H.265 or MP4 H.264 (SDR), or switch to 10-bit recording in MOV H.265, SDR, HLG, or N-LOG, offering wider color gamuts to reduce clipping.

LONG RECORDING TIMES

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

VIDEO IN SHUTTER PRIORITY MODE

The Z f is the first mirrorless camera in the Z series to support full control of settings during video recording in S mode. This allows automatic ISO and aperture control based on the pre-selected shutter speed, which can be beneficial when recording under difficult light sources like fluorescent lighting. It’s also useful for outdoor environments or anywhere with constantly changing brightness.

ABUNDANT VIDEO FEATURES

To help capture beautiful videos, the camera includes a multitude of video features such as:

• Red REC border
• Focus peaking
• Zebra stripes
• Waveform
• Fine ISO control (1/6 EV)
• Video information display

24-BIT LINEAR PCM AUDIO

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

ROBUST AND RELIABLE CONSTRUCTION

With such a classic style, the Z f’s body might be mistaken for prioritizing style over functionality, but Nikon has ensured it is a robust and durable camera for creators of all levels.

• The body is made of magnesium alloy on the front and top covers.
• A dust- and moisture-resistant design equivalent to high-end Z models, with seals applied to every exterior joint, the shutter button, and the tilting mechanism.
• A highly precise and durable shutter unit has passed 200,000-cycle tests, equivalent to the shutter of the Z6 II.
• A dust guard, image sensor cleaning, and dual coating are inherited from the Z9.
• For the first time on a full-frame Z series camera, Nikon has included a vari-angle LCD screen, allowing for selfies, tricky angles, and any shooting position.
• SD and MicroSD card slots offer redundancy while keeping the body extremely compact.

OUR REVIEW OF THE NIKON ZF

Photographers of all levels can appreciate the contemporary Nikon Zf, which inherits the design philosophy of the renowned FM2 film camera from 1982. This body further develops a popular concept, taking the compact Z fc and adding a more sophisticated design, extremely high build quality, improved ergonomics, and incredibly powerful full-frame capabilities. In fact, the Z f is so advanced that it is comparable to Nikon's professional cameras in many ways, appealing to creators who love the classic style but want cutting-edge features.

Under the hood, the Z f houses the latest EXPEED 7 processor, which facilitates Nikon's state-of-the-art Auto and AF technologies. This processor allows creators to capture even more captivating content thanks to deep learning-based subject recognition and tracking, improved automatic exposure in challenging lighting conditions, and high performance for both photos and videos.

Nikon has introduced entirely new features with the Z f, such as a dedicated B&W mode setting with new monochrome profiles, the ability to select camera controls while looking through the electronic viewfinder (EVF), and subject detection in manual focus (MF). This makes it more efficient to use older manual Nikon lenses while taking advantage of the latest features like Focus Point VR, which leverages Nikon's brand new mirrorless lenses with built-in VR.

Whether you are a passionate mirrorless creator, a professional photographer, or still developing your skills, the world is truly at your fingertips with the Nikon Z f. It offers the ability to capture oversampled full-frame 4K videos and high-speed photos, all while boasting a chic and elegant design.

KEY SPECIFICATIONS OF THE NIKON ZF

NIKON Zf FAQ

Does the Nikon Zf have image stabilization?

Yes, the Nikon Zf does have image stabilization!

The Nikon Zf features in-body vibration reduction (VR) technology, which stabilizes your shots and reduces blur caused by camera shake. This stabilization is especially useful for handheld shooting, low-light conditions, or slower shutter speeds, where even minor shakes can affect image sharpness.

Additionally, the Nikon Zf introduces a unique innovation called Focus Point VR. Unlike traditional stabilization that applies to the entire frame, this technology focuses specifically on the area around the active focus point. This maximizes the sharpness of the most important part of your image, especially when capturing moving subjects or in dynamic environments.

This combination of in-body image stabilization and Focus Point VR makes the Nikon Zf an ideal choice for photographers looking to achieve clear and detailed images in a variety of shooting conditions. Whether you're photographing urban scenes, landscapes, or portraits, the Nikon Zf helps you capture every moment with remarkable sharpness and precision.

Does the Nikon Zf support RAW format?

Yes, the Nikon Zf supports RAW format!

The Nikon Zf allows photographers to capture images in RAW format, offering maximum flexibility in post-production. RAW format records all the data captured by the camera's sensor, allowing adjustments to parameters like exposure, white balance, and saturation with unmatched precision. Using RAW format, photographers can get the most out of every image, recover details in highlights and shadows, and achieve richer, more accurate colors.

Furthermore, with Nikon NX Studio software, RAW files can be processed and edited professionally, taking advantage of the camera's advanced capabilities, such as Pixel Shift shooting for high-resolution images. For demanding photographers looking to optimize every aspect of their photos, the Nikon Zf's support for RAW format is a crucial asset.

Is the Nikon Zf weather-sealed?

Yes, the Nikon Zf is weather-sealed!

This camera is designed to withstand challenging conditions that photographers might encounter. Here are some additional details:

The Nikon Zf is built with robust materials, including magnesium alloy for the front and top covers, providing enhanced durability. Every external joint, including the shutter button and the screen tilt mechanism, is carefully sealed to prevent dust and moisture from entering. This design ensures that the camera can perform efficiently even in harsh environments.

Moreover, the Zf features a dust shield to protect the image sensor, as well as a sensor cleaning system and dual coatings inherited from the high-end Nikon Z9 model. These features add an extra layer of protection, ensuring reliable performance during outdoor shoots, whether in the rain, dusty environments, or the wilderness.

In summary, the Nikon Zf's weather sealing allows photographers to capture exceptional images without worrying about the elements, providing peace of mind and maximum flexibility during outdoor photo sessions.

Does the Nikon Zf have GPS?

No, the Nikon Zf does not have built-in GPS. This means the camera cannot automatically geotag photos. However, there are alternative solutions for photographers who want to add location information to their images. For example, you can use an external GPS receiver compatible with the Nikon Zf or use smartphone apps that record GPS coordinates and sync them with photos via timestamps.

What is the maximum ISO sensitivity of the Nikon Zf?

The native ISO sensitivity range of the Nikon Zf is from 100 to 64,000. However, in boost mode, this range can be extended from 50 to 204,800. This wide ISO range allows photographers to capture high-quality images in various lighting conditions, from very bright scenes to low-light situations. The extension up to 204,800 in boost mode is particularly useful for night photography and extremely dark environments, where it is crucial to maintain good exposure without sacrificing image quality.

What is the sensor size of the Nikon Zf?

The Nikon Zf is equipped with a full-frame sensor measuring 35.9 x 23.9 mm, with a sensor area of 858.01 mm². This sensor is 85% larger than the average sensor in mirrorless cameras of its class.

When comparing two cameras with identical settings, the one with the larger sensor collects more light per pixel, improving low-light performance and high ISO sensitivity by reducing noise. Additionally, a larger sensor provides photographers with better control over depth of field, allowing for more pronounced and aesthetic background blur effects (bokeh).