Nikon has released a new flagship mirrorless Nikon Z 9. This camera can shoot 8K video at 30 frames per second and 4K120p in H.265.
If you're looking for absolute quality and ease of use, you can even record internally in the ProRes 422HQ 10bit 4K UHD at up to 60p. Let's take a look at all the new features.
Nikon Z 9 camera sensor and image processor
Let's start with the possibilities of photography. The Nikon Z 9 features a 45.7MP back-illuminated full-frame CMOS (BSI) sensor, which is more than double the resolution of its main competitor, the Canon EOS R3.
According to Nikon, this newly developed sensor provides ultra-fast readout speeds that should help reduce shutter rotation. Also, the design of the BSI sensor can create clean images even at high ISO settings.
Inside, the Z 9 features the EXPEED 7 image-processing engine. This new engine is 10 times faster than the Nikon Z 7II which has the EXPEED 6 image-processing engine.
In short, the new sensor and EXPEED 7 engine combo allows you to shoot in continuous mode at up to 20fps in RAW, 30fps in JPEG and 120fps if you lower the image size to 11MP. In addition, the camera can temporarily store up to 1,000 RAW images.
AF performance on the Nikon Z 9
Nikon cameras are rarely mentioned when it comes to AF or AF performance, especially in video mode. But Nikon engineers are starting to catch up on the Nikon Z 9 because it now features a 493-point phase-detection AF system that covers the entire sensor area.
Autofocus readings occur at up to 120 frames per second, and autofocus works in every photo and video mode.
The Nikon Z 9 camera features a new automatic subject detection feature that can recognize nine different types of subjects. Including humans, pets, birds, planes, trains, cars, motorcycles, and bicycles. Plus, in auto-area AF, the Nikon Z 9 will do everything for you, which means it will automatically identify and track your subject.
Filmmakers will be happy to know that Eye Detection AF has been optimized for faster, more accurate results even when the subject within the frame is small. Also, the custom function will allow you to change the focus point color to green to confirm focus.
Last but not least, the Z 9 features the same 3D-tracking mode that was already available on previous Nikon DSLRs. This mode, along with target detection, can track “fast, intermittent targets such as a racing car approaching and then moving away quickly, or an athlete moving quickly,” according to Nikon.
ProRes RAW 8K60p internal video
Next year, Nikon claims it will release a free firmware update that will "enable 8K 60p internal capture in the new high-efficiency 12-bit N-RAW video format, 12-bit ProRes RAW, and other professional video features." “
With the DJI Ronin 4D, the Nikon Z 9 will be the second camera capable of internally recording ProRes RAW.
Nikon Z 9 camera body
The Nikon Z 9 is a professional mirrorless camera, and so is its body. The chassis is made of magnesium alloy with leak-proof joints throughout. The camera is drip and dust resistant, and is the equivalent of a Nikon D6.
Furthermore, the Z 9 has a dual layer optical filter to repel dust in front of the sensor. When you change lenses, the sensor shield will protect the sensor.
While the camera sensor is stable, VR Security Lock automatically locks the sensor to protect it when the camera is turned off.
On the back of the camera, you'll find a 3.2-inch 4-axis LCD touchscreen. The built-in screen can tilt both horizontally and vertically for shooting at any angle and in any direction. The interface will also automatically adjust to the appropriate orientation while taking still photos.
According to Nikon, this viewfinder or Viewfinder is "the world's brightest Quad-VGA panel that can be set up to 3000 cd/m² (lumens)."
The Z 9 is powered by a new EN-EL18d battery. However, it is compatible with previous EN-EL18 batteries used in Nikon D4 / D5 / D6 DSLR cameras.
Finally, the backlit buttons are an excellent addition that will help you change your settings in the dark.
Inputs and Outputs on the Nikon Z 9
On the left side of the camera, you will find:
One full size HDMI port.
Ethernet port for wired LAN connection.
3.5 mm microphone input and headphone jack.
USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port for connectivity, data transfer, and in-camera battery charging.
10-pin outlet for accessories and remote connection.
PC sync port for flash sync.
Moreover, the Nikon Z 9 camera does not forget about the wireless connectivity through Bluetooth and WiFI (2.4 / 5 GHz) connectivity inside the camera, as well as the GNSS GPS system for geolocation of the camera.
Nikon Z 9 camera price
The Nikon Z 9 will be available at a suggested price of $5,499.95. It is a direct competitor to the $5,999 Canon EOS R3.
Post a Comment