Nikon has recently introduced a new addition to its Z series, the Nikon Z f FX-format Mirrorless Camera, which combines the same sensor found in the Z 6II with the new processor of the Z8 and Z9. The Nikon Z f Camera promises to be an outstanding player for hybrid shooters and content creators who want a stylish camera without sacrificing performance.
Key Features of the Nikon Z f Camera
- 24MP full-frame sensor
- EXPEED 7 processor
- 4k/30p oversampled from 6K, up to 4K UHD/60p
- Internal 10-bit H.265 in SDR/N-Log/HLG
- 1080/120p slow motion
- Up to 14fps (30fps for JPEG)
- 3.20-inch flip-out, vari-angle screen
- 3D tracking and touch-to-drag autofocus
- Focus point stabilization
- Dual card slot (SD and MicroSD)
- EN-EL15c battery, can charge in body
- Native ISO 100- 64,000
- One USB-C, HDMI port, headphone jack, and mic jack
How I Used the Nikon Z f Camera
To test of the Nikon Z f, I shot portraits both inside the studio and outside in the harsh summer sun. The images in the article were shot using the Nikon 24-70mm lens with just one single light, beauty dish, and at times, a CTO gel. I also tried out the camera’s Monochrome mode to quickly switch to black-and-white imagery with a single button.
What’s New About the Nikon Z f?
Sensor and Processor
This camera features the same 24MP CMOS sensor we’ve come to know and love in the Nikon Z 6II, but with the new EXPEED 7 Processor recently included in the Nikon Z8 and Z9. And, for the first time ever, the Nikon Z f allows for pixel shift in post-processing, for either 4, 8, 16, or 32 shots to be combined in post for up to 96 megapixels. For macro or portrait photography, where every tiny detail matters, this will prove to be a worthwhile upgrade.
Retro Body Design
If you love the look and feel of a retro-style camera, the Nikon Z f has a few stand-out features. It’s slightly larger than the Nikon Z fc and has four-finger, tactile dials to quick adjust settings. You have your ISO, shutter speed, and EV compensation quickly available via dials. The camera also has a flip-out vari-angle screen for vloggers who need an efficient selfie mode, and a tiny LCD at the top of the camera to show the f-stop. All your settings are clearly visible right at the top of your camera.
Autofocus and Settings
Speaking of vlogging, the Nikon Z f has settings such as Skin Softening, Monochrome, Contrast Mode, and Deep Tone, so content creators can enhance their images and find a technique that matches their photography style. Additionally, the camera has 3D tracking autofocus and a touch-to-drag feature so you can easily select what quadrant of the LCD screen you’d like to focus.
Connectivity and Memory
The body of the Nikon Z f has a few tricks up its sleeve that we haven’t yet seen in a Nikon model. For one, it has a USB-c port, HDMI port, headphone jack, mic jack, and dual card slots servicing both SD and MicroSD. You can basically keep your MicroSD card in the camera to act as internal memory. The camera also uses Nikon’s EN-EL15c battery which can be charged while in body.
Photo and Video Capabilities
The camera is capable of shooting 4k 60p 10-bit Nlog internal (crop DX) and 4k 30p (full frame). For photos, you can capture up to 14 fps in RAW and 30fps JPEG. It can capture black and white in JPG and color in RAW. The Nikon Z f also has focus point IBIS so you can prioritize the part of the sensor that you are focusing on. The focus IBIS system offers up to eight stops — more than any other camera in the Z series.
Comparable Nikon Cameras
This new camera shares the same sensor as the Nikon Z 6II, making it a fair comparison. Although, the Nikon Z 6II has dual EXPEED 6 Processor for added versatility and extended shooting powers. As we know, the new Nikon Zf uses the newer EXPEED 7 processor found in later models. The body of these cameras are also vastly different. To go with the Nikon Z 6II, you’ll need to sacrifice the vari-angle screen of the Z f. Meanwhile, the Nikon Z fc offers a similar retro design and tactical dials, but has a 20.9 MP DX CMOS sensor.
Who Should Use the Nikon Z f Camera?
- Travel and street photographers will appreciate its compact size and lightweight body, allowing you to carry it around easily and capture candid moments.
- The camera’s flip-out LCD screen and 4K video recording capabilities make the Nikon Z f a good choice for vloggers and content creators who need both high-quality photos and videos.
- If you’re already a Nikon DX user, transitioning to the Nikon Z f is incredibly convenient considering its compatible with Nikon’s Z-mount lenses and F-mount lenses with an adapter.
