Nikon is a world leader in imaging products, and its technologies continue to shape the photographic industry. Even though it’s known for its cameras, Nikon also produces a range of other products, many of which can expand your creative possibilities. The company’s recent Firmware 2.0 update for Nikon Z 9 cameras is no different.
The Z 9 is already a fantastic video camera, and the long-promised update will add support for the Apple ProRes Raw format. Nikon told YM Cinema, “The future firmware update will allow for the capture of 12-bit raw video formats. These formats include N-RAW as well as ProRes RAW HQ.” Let’s take a look at what we know about the new firmware update.
Nikon Z 9 Firmware 2.0
Nikon recently announced the upcoming release of its Firmware 2.0 for the Nikon Z 9. The highly anticipated update is set to give a variety of high-performance updates for shooting both stills and video. This is bound to open your creativity even further and streamline your pre and post-production workflows.
With these upgrades, stills photographers can choose from up to 20 wide-area AF patterns, as well as the ability to activate a higher refresh rate (up to 120 fps) for the camera’s bright (3000-nit) electronic viewfinder display. The Z 9 also features pre-release image capture and the ability to recall focus positions with multiple camera buttons.
The Nikon Z9 already boasts some impressive video specs at launch. With the Firmware 2.0 release, users will be able to see what the camera is truly capable of in cinematic productions. Aside from the addition of raw recording in 8.3K 60p, there are also more video-assist functions and better controls. Here are some of the impressively long video updates.
Key Features of Firmware 2.0:
- RAW video internal recording in 12-bit 8.3K/60p
- Internal 12-bit ProRes RAW HQ Video
- Internal 12-bit Nikon N-RAW Video
- New Waveform Display Monitor to confirm and monitor your exposure
- New Pre-Release Capture For Stills
- In-Camera Motion Blend for stills
- Fine Tune with ISO Sensitivity
- New and Improved AF Modes (20 new wide-area modes, 12 new modes in video)
- 120 fps EVF Refresh Rate
- Red Record Frame displayed on the viewfinder
- Save Consecutive Frames function
- AWB Improvements
- Focus Recall
Z 9 Refresher
The Z9 was a headline-grabbing announcement when it released, and here is a recap in case you missed anything. The Nikon Z9 is simply the best pro camera Nikon has ever made. Among the company’s latest professional mirrorless cameras, it represents a major leap forward in professional photography that’s packed with impressive features.
The Z 9 shoots bursts at an astounding 120 frames per second. Additionally, it can capture JPEG/RAWs at up to 20 frames per second with a whopping 1,000-image buffer. It also uses deep-learning AF, which enhances focusing powers. Meanwhile, the backlight-illuminated sensor delivers excellent low-light performance.
Key Features of the Z9:
- Stacked 45.7 Megapixel Full-frame CMOS Sensor
- 3.2” tilting, 2,360k dot Monitor
- 4K UHD Video Resolution
- EXPEED 7 Image Processor
- 8K 30p and 4K 120p 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
- 2x CFexpress Type B Slots
- 5 GHz Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GNSS
Final Thoughts
Among the best Nikon cameras, you’ll find mirrorless cameras that are up to date with the latest tech, as well as powerful DSLRs, and a lens selection that stretches back over decades. You can find a Nikon camera that fits your needs, whether you’re a beginner, hobbyist, or pro.
Nikon promised that this future update would make its flagship mirrorless camera compatible with Apple ProRes Raw HQ, a codec that offers the editing ease of Apple ProRes along with the flexibility of RAW video. Once the free firmware update releases on April 20th, you can download it here.
