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Posts Tagged ‘Nikon’

Nikon releases beta Webcam Utility for Windows with support for select DSLR, mirrorless cameras

08 Aug

Today, Nikon has announced the release of a beta version of its Webcam Utility software for numerous Nikon DSLR and Z series mirrorless cameras.

Similar to the webcam utility software released by Canon, Nikon and others, Nikon’s Webcam Utility makes it possible to use the live view from your camera as a webcam feed for use with video conferencing programs such as Skype and Zoom, as well as livestreaming production programs such as OBS Studio.

For now, Nikon’s Webcam Utility is available only for computers running 64-bit versions of Windows 10. Below are the Nikon DSLR and mirrorless cameras currently supported:

  • Z7
  • Z6
  • Z5
  • Z50
  • D6
  • D850
  • D780
  • D500
  • D7500
  • D5600

Being this is a beta (version 0.9.0 — not even a version 1.0 product), don’t be surprised if you come across a bug every once in a while. You can find out more information and download the beta Webcam Utility for free from Nikon’s website.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Nikon D6: initial sample images

05 Aug

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With sporting events scarce, finding subjects that will challenge an action-oriented camera in the time of COVID-19 has been, shall we say, a bit of a challenge. Nevertheless, we’ve been getting to know Nikon’s newest professional flagship DSLR in settings conducive to distancing. Take a look at a selection of images taken early in our testing – including a number from the AF-S Nikkor 120-300mm F2.8, which also debuted this year.

Take a look at samples from the Nikon D6

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Nikon offer lets you trade up any camera to a Nikon Z5 with a special $100 bonus offer

04 Aug

Nikon has announced an introductory trade-in offer for photographers interested in Nikon’s new entry-level full-frame mirrorless Z5 camera. From now through one month following the Z5’s August 27, 2020 release date, customers will be able to trade-in any working camera from any brand and save $ 100 USD on the Z5, in addition to the trade-in value of their camera. This deal is available retroactively as well, ensuring that those who already preordered through Nikon directly or through an authorized reseller can still get in on this new deal.

The basics of the deal are as follows. You visit Nikon’s dedicated trade-in website to get a quote for your camera. You then purchase a new Z5 (or Z50, Z6 or Z7, albeit without the $ 100 USD bonus). Next, you send Nikon your old camera, with Nikon covering the cost of ground shipping. Once the camera has been received and checked over, Nikon will send you a refund.

As an example, let’s consider the (plausible) case of a Nikon D750 owner wishing to trade-up to a new mirrorless camera, while still being able to use their existing full-frame F-mount lenses via Nikon’s FTZ adapter. Further, let’s assume that the camera is in excellent condition, meaning it shows minimal wear and functions properly. In this case, Nikon will offer $ 495 trade-in value, plus an additional $ 100 with the ongoing promotion. ‘Good’ and ‘poor’ conditions are also available to select, although all three conditions require the camera to function properly. You cannot trade-in a camera that is not functional.

If Nikon determines that the quality of the camera is less than you stated during the trade-in quote process, you will be eligible to return the Z5. However, you will otherwise forfeit the $ 100 bonus if you, for any other reason, return the camera. As expected, there additional terms and conditions to consider, the full list of which can be viewed here.

To participate in the trade-in program, you must have the Z camera shipped to a valid US address. You can trade-in multiple cameras when purchasing multiple Z cameras, but only a single trade-in can be applied per camera, so there is no way to combine $ 100 bonuses on a single Z5 purchase.

Nikon has published a Frequently Asked Questions list for their Z camera trade-in program as well. Before participating in the program, it is highly recommended reading. There is included information worth highlighting.

You can trade in any camera in working condition, not just a digital camera nor only an interchangeable lens camera. Cameras not listed as trade-in options are eligible and Nikon will send a quote within 1-2 business days of receiving your submitted information, in most cases. You cannot trade standalone lenses in as part of the promotion, however, some kit lenses are included in the promotion, such as a Nikon D3000 and accompanying 18-55mm VR kit lens, for example. If you are worried about being without a camera, fret not as Nikon will ship your new Z camera with free two-day shipping and you aren’t required to send in your trade-in camera until your new Z camera has arrived.

If you would like to learn more about the Nikon Z5, which was recently announced on July 21, you can read our detailed overview here. If you’d like a quick hit piece on what you need to know about the Nikon Z5, we have that too. New cameras aren’t released in a vacuum; click here to learn how the Z5 compares to the Sony A7 II and Canon EOS RP.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Nikon Announces the Full-Frame Z5 With a Sub-$1500 Price

27 Jul

The post Nikon Announces the Full-Frame Z5 With a Sub-$ 1500 Price appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Jaymes Dempsey.

Nikon Z5 announcement

Last week, Nikon officially unveiled the Z5, an addition to the full-frame Z-mount mirrorless lineup that had previously only included the Z6 and the Z7.

While the Z5 doesn’t offer any groundbreaking features on par with Canon’s EOS R5/R6 announcement, the camera offers plenty to love, and will likely fall into place as an affordable full-frame option for those looking to move up from Nikon APS-C bodies.

So what does the Z5 include?

First, a full-frame, 24.3 MP sensor. This resolution is standard for entry-level APS-C and full-frame cameras, but it’s more than enough for all but the most megapixel-hungry of photographers, and generally offers a nice balance between detailed images and low-light capabilities.

Nikon Z5

Nikon promises a spectacular high-ISO performance, claiming that the Z5 will “excel in low-light situations, making it ideal for shooting everything from low-light events to an all-nighter under the Milky Way.”

As with the Z6 and Z7, you’ll also get in-body image stabilization, which ensures the Z5 is handholdable even in more difficult low-light scenarios or when shooting video, and allows the camera to deliver high-quality landscapes and travel photos even when there’s no tripod at hand.

You also get a 3.6M-dot electronic viewfinder, which should be enough to impress even more demanding shooters, as well as a 3.2-inch rear-LCD with tilting and touchscreen capabilities. Interestingly (and perhaps in response to complaints from Z6/Z7 users), the Z5 will offer dual SD card slots, which provide a level of redundancy required by many professional shooters.

As for autofocus, Nikon promises 273 AF points, which “cover nearly the entire frame,” as well as human and animal eye-detection technology for easy tracking of pet, portrait, and wildlife subjects. This appears identical to the highly-regarded AF system on the Z6, and should provide Z5 shooters with fast focusing and tracking, even in trickier conditions.

Unfortunately, while the Z5 boasts a maximum shutter speed of 1/800s, a significant drawback is the continuous shooting speed, which tops out at 4.5 fps, and makes the Z5 immediately unsuitable for more serious sports and wildlife photographers.

And while the Z5 is compatible with a slew of excellent lenses via the FTZ adapter, the number of native Z lenses is still limited compared to mirrorless competitors such as Sony and Fujifilm.

Nikon Z5 announcement

On the other hand, the Z5 features a weather-sealed body, which is (surprisingly) on the same level as the Z6 and Z7. And regarding video: The Z5 does offer 4K/30p recording, but this comes with a pretty substantial (1.7x) crop, which will undoubtedly make the Z5 less compelling for more serious video shooters.

Bottom line:

The Z5 will be an appealing option for photographers looking to transition to mirrorless, especially given a relatively reasonable ($ 1400 USD) body-only price. But the slow continuous shooting speeds will force fast-paced photographers (e.g., wildlife, sports, and street) to look elsewhere, while the presence of the Z6 (at around $ 1800 USD) will be a compelling alternative for photographers desiring faster (12 fps) shooting speeds.

The Z5 will begin shipping in late August, and is currently available for pre-order here.

Now over to you:

What do you think of the Nikon Z5? What is your favorite and least favorite feature? And is it a model you’d be interested in purchasing? Share your thoughts in the comments!

The post Nikon Announces the Full-Frame Z5 With a Sub-$ 1500 Price appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Jaymes Dempsey.


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Nikon might just have made the best entry-level full-framer

25 Jul

It’s famously such a fine line between stupid and clever. And, for that matter, between a brilliant piece of product planning and a complete head-scratcher. History and sales figures may well prove me wrong, but I personally think that the Nikon Z5 makes perfect sense in a way the Z50 didn’t. And that might make it the most interesting entry-level full frame camera.

I criticized Nikon when it launched the Z50, because I didn’t recognize the Instagram-friendly camera the company claimed to have made. Instead I found a rather good enthusiast-friendly camera in a system with few obvious lens options. The Z5 looks a lot like a full-frame Z50, but the different audience that its higher price implies and the shift in sensor size makes all the difference.

A Z6/Z50 hybrid

Visually the Z5 looks like a Z6/Z50 hybrid, with the conventional mode dial from the Z50 grafted on in place of the Z6’s top-panel LCD. You could describe it as a full-frame Z50 or a slightly simplified Z6 and you’d still be right.

It uses an older, front-side illuminated CMOS sensor, which is likely to mean it doesn’t quite match its big brother in terms of image quality but the differences are likely to be small, except in very low light.

With its collapsible zoom and mode dial, the Z5 feels like a hybrid of the Z50 and Z6.

The Z5’s viewfinder is the same resolution as the Z6’s and its control layout is essentially the same. Its back panel is reinforced plastic, rather than magnesium alloy, but Nikon says the weather sealing is just as extensive and both the dimensions and weight are all-but identical.

Lenses

Whereas an APS-C sensor leaves Z50 owners with the choice of a couple of variable aperture zooms (and the promise of an 18-140mm in the works), the move to full frame and slightly more lofty ambitions of the Z5 are much better fit for the Z-mount lenses currently available.

To make a broad generalization, I suspect the kinds of photographers (and, according to Nikon, non-photographers) willing to spend $ 1400 on a Z5 will be more likely to want and buy the well-priced, though still pricey, F1.8 primes the company has introduced. And, by dint of being full-frame, the focal lengths of those primes are more likely to be useful on this camera than the Z50.

The most complete entry-level

Even with its more modest video spec the Z5 isn’t out-gunned by its entry-level peers. But you don’t need to look through its higher-res viewfinder for the Z5 to look like the most interesting entry-level full-frame mirrorless camera. You get a similar perspective if you look at the other cameras’ backstories.

The Sony a7 II was designed as a mid-range camera, but an aging mid-range camera isn’t necessarily better than a modern entry-level one. The distinction is even more dramatic if you compare the higher-end a7R II (which has dropped to the Z5’s launch price) the a7R II has a very good sensor but a very different shooting experience.

Sony has very much done its product development in the public realm: each model in the a7 series has been significantly better than its predecessor (first by adding stabilization, then by offering a larger battery, better AF and revised ergonomics). This leaves the now six-year-old a7 Mark II looking awkward: it’s a very difficult camera to use as soon as you’ve seen or experienced the improvements introduced with the Mark III, no matter how keenly-priced it is.

So it’s not the automatic bargain that getting a formerly $ 1700 for $ 1000 might appear to be. The areas in which it once excelled are at least matched by its entry-level peers and it hasn’t gained any of the ergonomic or interface improvements that have subsequently been developed. So it’s the only camera here without a touchscreen and it hasn’t got the usability improvements of the Mark III. By contrast, the Z5 includes all the AF improvements that the Z6 has gained in firmware over the past two years.

The Canon EOS RP is a really likable camera and the least-expensive full-frame digital camera yet launched, but Nikon has provided a lot of camera for a launch price just $ 100 higher.

Canon approached things from the other direction with the EOS RP: building what software developers might describe as a minimum viable product: the bare basic specs to deliver a credible camera. The result is actually rather likable: it’s not very fast at shooting, the video’s not great and it uses a sensor that’s never been considered particularly good, but the dials are in the right place, it’s easy to use and it produces attractive images. Only the battery life really detracts from the day-to-day experience.

With the Z5 Nikon has clearly started with the Z6 (originally a $ 2000 camera) and found a way to to offer it with a launch price 1/3rd lower. You even get the twin card slots that internet commenters suddenly decided were essential when Canon and Nikon didn’t include them on their mid-priced models (an argument that feels more convincing when it comes to the higher-end Z7).

So it’s not the full-frame Digital Rebel that Canon made, nor is it the tired-looking ex-middleweight champ that Sony offers. It’s not even comparable to the Z50, with its odd mixture of enthusiast-friendly experience and mass-market zooms. Instead the Z5 is a more affordable way to get most of a Z6, and it includes a great many of the improvements that Nikon has made on its Z-mount journey so far.

Now I just really hope it tests and shoots as well as it handles.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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What you need to know about the new Nikon Z5

23 Jul

What you need to know about the new Nikon Z5

The Nikon Z5 is an entry-level full-frame mirrorless camera that looks a lot like the Z6, handles a lot like the Z6, and offers a lot of the same features. So what makes it different, and why is it cheaper? Read on to find out more.

All images provided by Nikon USA and used with permission.

24MP CMOS sensor (not BSI)

The Nikon Z5 uses a 24MP CMOS sensor, paired with an Expeed 6 processor, but it is not the same BSI-CMOS chip that we’ve seen in the Z6 (and likely also the Sony a7 III). The Z5’s sensor is probably closely related to the last-generation sensors in the likes of the Nikon D750. For practical purposes, this means that image quality in a normal ISO sensitivity span is likely to be excellent, but the Z6 will probably have the edge at very high ISOs.

1/8000sec min shutter and ‘silent’ shooting

Despite its entry-level positioning, the Z5 offers a minimum exposure time of 1/8000sec, which enables wide-aperture shooting in bright conditions. As well as mechanical and electronic first-curtain modes, a ‘silent’ shooting mode is also available. In ‘silent’ mode the shutter is fully electronic and – literally – silent.

Because there is no mechanical action associated with fully-electronic exposures, this is potentially also a good option for highly critical macro and extreme telephoto work, where you need to minimize vibrations. The downside is an increased likelihood of distortion when shooting moving subjects.

273-point PDAF and 4.5fps continuous shooting

The Z5’s autofocus system appears at least very similar if not exactly the same as that found in the Z6 and Z7, and benefits from the feature additions that Nikon has made to those models via firmware. As such, you get human and animal eye-detection, and a tracking mode which operates a little more like 3D AF Tracking in Nikon’s DSLRs. Coverage from the Z5’s 273 autofocus points is 90% vertically and horizontally.

The Z5’s maximum continuous shooting rate of 4.5fps is OK for this class, but probably not fast enough for serious sports or action photography.

5-axis in-body stabilization

Unlike Nikon’s entry-level (and currently sole) DX-format Z-series model the Z50, the Z5 offers 5-axis in-body stabilization. This system is rated for up to five stops of correction, which (again) is comparable to the Z6 and Z7.

5-axis in-body stabilization

With a VR-enabled F-mount lens mounted via the FTZ adapter, or a Z-series lens like the forthcoming Z 70-200mm F2.8 S, the system becomes 3-axis, handing off pitch and yaw correction to the lens, with the body dealing with roll. The stabilization rating with a VR lens increases slightly, to 5.5EV (per CIPA) but as always with such things, you might get greater or less benefit depending on the situation (and focal length).

Same size and weight, similar ergonomics to Z6

The Z5 is an unusual entry-level model in being exactly the same size and weight as the model above it in the lineup. We’re told that this was a deliberate decision to make manufacturing more economical. The only major ergonomic change to the Z5, compared to the Z6, is the migration of an exposure mode dial to the right of the viewfinder, in place of the small status LCD which sits on top of the higher-end model.

Same size and weight, similar ergonomics to Z6

The 3.2″, 1.04M-dot LCD on the rear of the Z5 is the same size as that found in the Z6 and Z7 (but lower-resolution), and like those models it is also touch-sensitive and can be tilted for waist-level shooting and video work.

Whereas the Z6 and Z7 use an almost all magnesium-alloy body chassis, the Z5 economizes slightly with plastic on the back and the base of the camera. We’re told that despite the different construction, the Z5 is sealed to the same extent as the Z6/7 against dust and moisture. From what we know about the build quality of those models, this is really good news.

3.6M-dot Quad VGA EVF

Also good news is that the Z5 shares the same electronic viewfinder as the Z6/7. While we’ve seen the 3.6M-dot Quad VGA EVF out-resolved recently, it remains one of our favorite finders, offering fine, crisp detail and excellent contrast, without offering the 100fps+ feed of some competitive models. The EVF assembly features an automatic switch, to de/activate the viewfinder when your eye modes between finder and rear screen.

The image above shows an EVF module from the Z6/7 being inspected at Nikon’s factory in Sendai. Read the full factory tour here.

Dual UHS-II SD cards

Before the Z6 and Z7 were announced, whoever would have thought that card slots could cause such controversy? The Z5 splits from its higher-end stablemates by offering two card slots, both of which support the cheaper and more readily available SD format, up to UHS-II.

Video

When the Z5 is compared against the Z6 on specs, the main area of differentiation is in video. Nikon has moulded the Z6 into its current top-end video camera, but the Z5’s video feature set is much more pared-down. Although you can shoot 4K footage at up to 30p, there’s a 1.7X crop.

Overall the Z5 offers a solid feature set for its price, without being class-leading. Full HD video can be recorded without a crop (at up to 60p) but you won’t find a lot of the Z6’s more pro-oriented features, such as N-Log recording and output that can be encoded as Pro-Res Raw. The Z5 does offer focus peaking though, and zebra stripes. It also has sockets for a microphone and headphones.

New EN-EL15C battery

The Z5 ships with a new ‘c’ variant of the venerable EN-EL15 battery, but it remains compatible with previous versions, provided you don’t need in-camera charging (only offered by ‘b’ and ‘c’ variants). The new ‘c’ type battery offers a modest increase in capacity, giving an overall rating (per CIPA) of 470 shots using the rear monitor, and 390 shots using the EVF. It also supports USB power, via the optional optional UC-E25 cable.

New 24-50mm F4-6.3 kit lens

The Z5 might have basically the same body as the Z6 and Z7, but you can keep its overall size and weight down with the new 24-50mm kit zoom. The 24-50mm measures just 51mm (2″) long when retracted and weighs only 195g (0.43lb). The tradeoffs for such a small, lightweight lens are its relatively limited focal length range, and slow maximum aperture, but if it’s as sharp as previous Z-series zooms, this might be a worthwhile compromise for casual everyday photography.

New 24-50mm F4-6.3 kit lens

Nikon describes the lens as ‘dust and drip resistant,’ though not fully weather-sealed. The 24-50mm F4-6.3 will be available in a kit with the Z5 for $ 1699, or on its own for $ 399.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Nikon Z50 gets Animal Detection AF, Z6 and Z7 get minor improvements via firmware updates

22 Jul

In addition to a new camera, a pair of teleconverters and a compact zoom lens, Nikon has also released firmware updates for its Z50, Z6, Z7 cameras and FTZ adapter.

Nikon Z50 firmware version 2.00

The most substantial firmware update is firmware version 2.00 for the Nikon Z50. In addition to support for the new Z-mount teleconverters and the ability to update older F-mount lenses via the FTZ adapter, firmware version 2.00 brings Nikon’s Animal detection autofocus (AF) as a custom AF mode. Nikon says this mode can detect the eyes and faces of dogs and cats when shooting stills (only faces will be detected when shooting video).

Additional improvements, taken from the changelog, are listed below:

  • Changed some of the f/-number values displayed when exposure is adjusted in steps of 1/3 EV (f/1.2 is now displayed as f/1.3). As of July 21, 2020, this applies to NIKKOR Z 58mm f/0.95 S Noct lenses.
  • The bracketing increment is now properly applied to photos taken with exposure locked during AE bracketing in Continuous H (extended) release mode.
  • Release-priority is now enabled if AF-S Single AF is selected for Focus mode when AF-ON is assigned to the AE-L/AF-L button.
  • The following improvements have been made to subject tracking:
    • Users can now switch between the auto-area AF and target selection displays using a custom control such as the Fn1 button.
    • The behavior of subject tracking when AF-C is selected during still photography now more closely resembles that for 3D-tracking on digital SLR cameras.
  • The conditions for displaying the prompt suggesting the use of the flash have been reviewed and the prompt is now displayed under more appropriate conditions.
  • Fixed the following issues:
    • The crop selected for “tall” (portrait-orientation) pictures using PictBridge would not be accurately reflected in the printed image.
    • In rare circumstances, autofocus would not engage if a NIKKOR Z DX 16–50mm f/3.5–6.3 VR lens was extended at the same time the camera was turned on.

You can download firmware version 2.00 and find installation information on Nikon’s support page.

Nikon Z6, Z7 firmware version 3.10

Firmware version 3.10 for the both the Nikon Z6 and Z7 adds support for Nikon’s new teleconverters, as well as the ability to update Nikon F-mount lenses when attached to the cameras via Nikon’s FTZ mount adapter. Other updates for the cameras, taken from the changelog, are listed below:

  • Changed some of the f/-number values displayed when exposure is adjusted in steps of 1/3 EV (f/1.2 is now displayed as f/1.3). As of July 21, 2020, this applies to NIKKOR Z 58mm f/0.95 S Noct lenses.
  • The bracketing increment is now properly applied to photos taken with exposure locked during AE bracketing in Continuous H (extended) release mode.
  • When an external recorder compliant with Atomos Open protocol is connected, movie recording can now be started and stopped using camera controls if all the following conditions are met:
    • The camera is in movie mode and the recorder is connected via HDMI.
    • A memory card is inserted.
    • The following are selected for HDMI > Advanced in the SETUP MENU:
      • External recording control > On
      • Output data depth > 10 bit
      • N-log setting > Off
    • 3840×2160; 30p/25p/24p is selected for Frame size/frame rate in the MOVIE SHOOTING MENU.
  • Fixed the following issues:
    • The camera monitor would exhibit a green cast when the camera was connected to an external display via HDMI if:
      • Adobe RGB was selected for Color space in the PHOTO SHOOTING MENU,
      • Shutter-release button > Record movies was selected for Custom Setting g2 (Custom control assignment) in Group “g” (Movie) of the CUSTOM SETTING MENU,
      • 10 bit was selected for HDMI > Advanced > Output data depth in the SETUP MENU,
      • On (cannot record to card) was selected for HDMI > Advanced > N-Log setting in the SETUP MENU,
      • On was selected for HDMI > Advanced > View assist in the SETUP MENU, and
      • movie mode was selected with the photo/movie selector.
    • The crop selected for “tall” (portrait-orientation) pictures using PictBridge would not be accurately reflected in the printed image.
    • In rare circumstances, autofocus would not engage if a NIKKOR Z DX 16–50mm f/3.5–6.3 VR lens was extended at the same time the camera was turned on.

You can download firmware version 3.10 for both the Z6 and Z7 on Nikon’s support pages.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Nikon to offer beta webcam utility software in August

22 Jul

Camera manufacturers were quick to recognize that a pandemic-induced rise in video conferencing would spark interest in higher-quality webcam footage. Soon, Nikon shooters will also be able to get in on the fun. The company will release its own free webcam utility software – in beta form – to Windows 10 users for starters. Nikon says the software will be compatible with ‘many’ of its Z-series cameras and DSLRs. Head to Nikon’s site for more details.

Press release

EMBARK ON THE FULL-FRAME MIRRORLESS JOURNEY: NIKON UNVEILS THE Z 5, AN INNOVATIVE AND FEATURE-RICH MIRRORLESS FX-FORMAT CAMERA FOR EMERGING CREATORS

Nikon Expands the NIKKOR Z Lens Lineup with the Addition of the Extremely Compact and Versatile NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 as well as the new Z TELECONVERTER TC-2.0X and TC-1.4X; Nikon Also Announces Free Webcam Utility

MELVILLE, NY (July 21, 2020) – Today, Nikon Inc. announced the Z 5, the new full-frame (FX-format) entry-point into its award-winning lineup of Z series mirrorless cameras. The Nikon Z 5 combines sophisticated features inherited from the Z 7 and Z 6 with the benefits of Nikon’s next generation Z mount at an unprecedented value. For those new to mirrorless or creators looking to push the limits of their craft with the power of full-frame, the compact Z 5 will exceed expectations. With an incredibly robust feature set, including in-camera vibration reduction (VR) image stabilization (IBIS) and the perfect balance of seamless automation and full manual control, creators can effortlessly share their artistic passions, travel adventures and so much more.

Nikon also unveiled the new NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3, the shortest, lightest and most affordable full-frame zoom lens in the NIKKOR Z lineup. Designed for on-the-go creators, the 24-50mm lens is the ideal companion for Z series users who want to capture it all – from vast landscapes and cityscapes, to street photography and striking portraits.

“The Nikon Z 5 offers the next generation of creators a gateway into the full-frame Z series lineup, opening the door to the limitless possibilities of mirrorless photo and video capture, while providing the means to share their creativity with others,” said Jay Vannatter, Executive Vice President, Nikon Inc. “With the addition of the NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3, Nikon is introducing the smallest full-frame NIKKOR Z lens to date, providing an extremely lightweight, versatile option to help users pursue all creative endeavors, regardless of which Z series camera they use.”

Nikon Z 5: The Full-Frame Journey Starts Here
As the new entry point to Nikon’s full-frame mirrorless lineup, the Nikon Z 5 offers a lot of power and capabilities at an attractive price, empowering the next generation to begin their journey with the confidence to learn and grow as creators.

  • Incredible Image Quality: Featuring a powerful FX-format 24.3-megapixel CMOS sensor, the Z 5 is the gateway to the benefits of full-frame, helping creators to capture intensely detailed images, ultra-shallow depth of field and clean low-light shots with unrivaled consistency. From portraits that flatter, nighttime landscapes that astound and street shots that impress, the gorgeous tones, faithful colors, minimal noise, and revered Nikon color science all play a part to help users capture images that are true to their vision.
  • High Speed Performance and Processing: Engineered with the EXPEED 6, Nikon’s fastest image processor to date, the Z 5 is a dependable, high-performance tool designed for content creation. EXPEED 6 allows for a boost in processing power and energy efficiency while rendering subtle textures and small details with amazing results.
  • Stellar Low-Light Performance: With an ISO range up to 51,200 (expandable to 102,400), the camera effectively reduces noise, maintaining both high sensitivity and resolution to excel in low-light situations, making it ideal for shooting everything from low-light events to an all-nighter under the Milky Way.
  • Capture with Speed: With shutter speeds up to 1/8000, the Z 5 can capture fast-moving subjects with clarity including fast-action sports and wildlife. This higher maximum shutter speed enables photographers to better tame even the brightest mid-day light to unleash the potential of fast-aperture NIKKOR glass. When the moment strikes, the camera can also capture full resolution bursts at 4.5 fps with full AF/AE.
  • Silent and Smooth: The combination of the camera’s silent photography mode and In-Body 5-Axis VR stabilization provides quiet, stable shooting to document sensitive moments without distractions.
  • Vast Lens Selection: Whether shooting glamorous portraits from a studio on the sidewalk, long-distance wildlife, epic wide landscapes in the field or street photography, the growing lineup of NIKKOR Z lenses provides Z 5 users the versatility to capture incredible shots with sharpness across the frame and superior light gathering in any situation. For even more flexibility, the vast array of traditional F-mount NIKKOR lenses can be used via the Mount Adapter FTZ to enhance images with a unique focal length or beautiful bokeh, while gaining the benefits of in-body stabilization.
  • Dual UHS-II SD Card Slots: Equipped with two UHS-II card slots for overflow, backup or separating RAW and JPEG photos, the Z 5 enables photographers to shoot with extreme confidence when using widely available consumer SD cards.

Simple Yet Sophisticated for Expanding Creativity
A great option for emerging creators getting started, the Nikon Z 5 is packed with powerful tools and user-friendly controls to help users explore and capture their artistry with ease.

  • Focus Anywhere: The Z 5 boasts 273[1] on-sensor AF points, to quickly and accurately track subjects throughout the frame, while Eye-Detection AF capabilities help precisely capture the eyes of humans and animals. The wide array of AF points covers nearly the entire frame, and multiple AF modes allows the user to have pinpoint control or fully automatic assurance to easily lock onto a subject.
  • Easily Shift Gears: The Nikon Z 5 offers the ability to effortlessly switch between manual mode for the ultimate in control, as well as a large variety of automatic creative modes to help mirrorless users capture truly distinct images and video.
  • Creativity Built-in: Equipped with 20 Creative Picture Controls, and advanced features like Focus Shift Shooting and multiple exposure mode, users can compose unique images, produce extraordinary depth of field, or combine several shots and layer images on top of each other with the in-camera image overlay function.
  • Advanced Video Capture: The Z 5 makes it easy to document any creative vision in 4K UHD/30p[2] or in 1080/60p (full-frame). When recording video, the PDAF system is rapid to react, allowing users to quickly lock critical focus on subjects, and is fully customizable to fit any production style. In-camera VR image stabilization and electronic VR reliably eliminate the shake when shooting video, plus users get the added benefit of focus peaking and the ability to capture stills while recording.
  • Flexible Recording Modes: In addition to the traditional interval timer and in-camera time-lapse modes, the Nikon Z 5 is equipped with a new Time-Lapse Movie mode that gives users the best of both worlds for more streamlined movie making – the ability to use images from interval timer mode and create a time-lapse in-camera.
  • Unique Lighting Options: For enhanced creative control, the camera features a hot shoe, and is fully compatible with the Nikon Speedlight wireless lighting system.
  • Get Connected: The Nikon SnapBridge[3] app makes it easy to remotely control the Z 5 or seamlessly transfer and share content to a smartphone, tablet, Mac, or PC thanks to built-in Wi-Fi[4] and Bluetooth[5] connectivity.

Rugged Reliability and Engineered for Versatility
In addition to providing high-quality imaging capabilities, the Nikon Z 5 is compact and comfortable in-hand while promising the rugged reliability as well as innovative features and controls that Nikon is known for.

  • Legendary Nikon Build: Designed with a durable, weather-sealed exterior for worry-free use, the Z 5 employs the same magnesium alloy shell and robustness as the Z 6 and Z 7. Both the camera and NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 lens are built with consideration for dust and drip resistance and are ready to tackle the next adventure.
  • Functional Operability: The camera sports a powerful, high-resolution 3.2-inch LCD monitor with the capabilities to tilt, touch, tap, swipe, and pinch for an intuitive and flexible user-experience. Meanwhile, the 3.6M-dot Quad-VGA EVF ensures users can see exposure, ISO, white balance and creative picture controls in real time, making the transition from optical viewfinders seamless for new mirrorless shooters.
  • Packed with Power: Powered by the new EN-EL15c battery, the Z 5 offers significant advancements in the number of shots per charge and is the first Nikon camera to enable constant power through the USB port, even with select portable USB power banks[6]. For added power and grip, the camera is also compatible with the MB-N10 hot-swappable battery pack.
  • Webcam Ready: When connected via the USB-C cord, the Z 5 can be used as a webcam, making the camera a great option for modern vloggers, influencers and gamers looking to improve their livestreaming capabilities.

NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3: Portable, Yet Powerful
The NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 is the latest addition to the rapidly expanding lineup of NIKKOR Z lenses and is the smallest FX-format NIKKOR Z lens yet. Optically designed to take advantage of the advancements of the wide Z mount, this lens delivers sharpness across the entire frame and a versatile zoom range for everyday use. The 24-50mm is less than three inches long when retracted, making it the perfect lens for shooters seeking a versatile yet compact option for lightweight travel and street photography. When used together, the Z 5 and 24-50mm lens are the ideal discrete travel kit that can easily be packed and carried for all-day adventures. This compact NIKKOR Z lens is also an enticing option for Z 6 and Z 7 users who want a small all-around lens for portraits, landscapes, and street photography.

New Z Teleconverters Take NIKKOR Z Lenses to New Lengths
Designed for photographers and videographers who need more telephoto reach in their kit, the new Z TELECONVERTER TC-1.4X and Z TELECONVERTER TC-2.0X bring added versatility with 1.4x and 2.0x magnification to select NIKKOR Z lenses. These lightweight teleconverters are great tools for those photographing sports, wildlife and aviation, reducing the need to crop images and allowing for tighter compositions with maximum resolution.

The new TC-1.4X and TC-2.0X teleconverters maintain superior rendering performance and minimize various lens aberrations, while retaining focusing speed, VR functionality and minimum focusing distance. As an added benefit, the new teleconverters allow Nikon Z series cameras to retain functionality on all focus points up to f/11, making it easy to focus on and track subjects throughout the entire frame. Featuring the same robust construction as NIKKOR Z lenses, the teleconverters are designed with a fluorine coating on the front and rear elements to resist dirt and smudges, and offer a durable, weather-sealed body to protect against the elements.

When the teleconverters are used with the NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S (availability scheduled for late August), the focal length on the telephoto end is extended to 280mm (1.4x) or 400mm (2.0x) producing a significant expansion of this telephoto lens’ shooting range. These new teleconverters will also be compatible with applicable interchangeable lenses for Nikon Z mount mirrorless cameras that Nikon will release in the future.

New Webcam Utility Software for Nikon Cameras
In August, Nikon will release a beta version of the Webcam Utility software for many Nikon DSLR and Z series mirrorless cameras, including the new Z 5. Initially available for Windows 10, the free software will allow compatible Nikon cameras to be used as webcams. When connected via USB, this free software will provide users with incredible sharpness, clarity and flattering depth of field for all of their livestreaming needs including teleconferencing and gaming.

For more information on how to use your Nikon camera as a webcam, please visit https://www.nikonusa.com/en/learn-and-explore/live-streaming-with-nikon-cameras.page

Pricing and Availability
The Nikon Z 5 will be available in August in several configurations, including body-only for a suggested retail price (SRP) of $ 1,399.95*, a one-lens kit with the new NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 for an SRP of $ 1,699.95* and a one-lens kit with the NIKKOR Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR lens for an SRP of $ 2,199.95* for those seeking extra reach when photographing wildlife or travel adventures. Also available in August, the NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 lens can be purchased separately for an SRP of $ 399.95*. The new Z TELECONVERTER TC-1.4X and TC-2.0X will have an SRP of $ 549.95 and $ 599.95 respectively and will be available in late August.

For more information on the latest Nikon products, including the new Z 5 and NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 lens, as well as the full Nikon Z mount system, please visit?www.nikonusa.com.

Specifications, equipment, and release dates are subject to change without any notice or obligation on the part of the manufacturer.

*SRP (Suggested Retail Price) listed only as a suggestion. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time.

1. With recording of still images using the FX-format image area and single-point AF. 231 focus points with movie recording.

2. When using this mode, the frame is cropped approx. ×1.7.

3. Using the SnapBridge App System Requirements:

a. Android 5.0 or later or 6.0.1 or later
b. A device with Bluetooth 4.0 or later (i.e., a device that supports Bluetooth Smart Ready/Low Energy) is required.
c. The SnapBridge app is available for compatible iPhone®, iPad® and/or iPod touch®, and for smart devices running the AndroidTM operating system. The app can be downloaded free of charge from Apple’s App Store® and GooglePlayTM. SnapBridge can be used only with compatible cameras.

4. This camera’s built-in Wi-Fi® capability can only be used with a compatible iPhone®, iPad®, and/or iPod touch® or smart devices running on the Android™ operating system. The Nikon SnapBridge application must be installed on the device before it can be used with this camera.

5. The camera’s built-in Bluetooth® capability can only be used to connect the camera to a compatible smart device running the SnapBridge app, and to take advantage of SnapBridge features.

6. Anker PowerCore+ 26800 PD 45W is the recommended portable charger. Use a USB cable with two Type-C connectors supplied with the portable charger. For more information about the portable charger, please visit the manufacturer’s website: Anker.com/support

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Nikon Z5 vs Canon EOS RP vs Sony a7 II: how do they compare?

21 Jul

Introduction

The Nikon Z5 is the second camera to be launched explicitly as an entry-level step into the world of full-frame mirrorless. Its launch price isn’t quite as low as that of the Canon EOS RP, but it’s clearly got a similar audience in its sights.

And, because Sony seems determined to leave all its previous models on the market, it’s also likely to sell at a price that’s roughly comparable with the a7 II. The Sony was originally aimed at a higher price point (and audience) but is available at entry-level prices now that nearly six years have elapsed.

Resolution/Sensor tech

The Nikon Z5 uses an 24MP FSI CMOS sensor: very possibly the one used in the Sony a7 Mark II

The Nikon Z5 is based around a 24MP full-frame sensor. Nikon is clear that this isn’t the same chip used in the more expensive Z6 and is based on the older front-side illumination technology rather than the BSI tech that helps boost the Z6’s image quality.

Noticeably, this is the same distinction between the a7 II and the newer Mark III model, which is likely to give a reasonable guide to how much difference in quality we can expect to see. The Canon also uses conventional construction but utilizing an innovative dual pixel structure that underpins its autofocus system. The 26MP chip in the Canon isn’t a great performer in terms of dynamic range, so you’ll quickly encounter noise if you try to expand beyond what’s in the JPEGs.

Autofocus

We haven’t yet had a chance to test whether the Z5’s autofocus is an exact match for the Z6, but it possesses all the improvements Nikon has added to its Z cameras since their launch. That means eye detection AF and the easier-to-initiate subject tracking that came to the Z6 and 7 in mid-life firmware updates.

In previous testing we’ve found the Canon tracking and eye detection to be a little more precise than the Nikon (getting the focus exactly on the eye more often), but there’s not a lot in it. The Sony, although good when it was launched, looks much less impressive now: subject tracking tries to identify the subject as a whole, rather than letting you specify a part that you want to focus on, and eye detection requires that you hold down a custom button (the results are the most dependable of the three cameras, though).

Burst Speed

The Sony a7 II is the fastest shooting of the three cameras

None of these cameras are exactly speed demons. They all use older (slower readout) sensors and the RAM required to act as buffer is an obvious thing to skimp on, if you don’t want the entry-level model to completely cannibalize sales of the mid-range models.

As you might expect, then, the erstwhile mid-level Sony a7 II posts the highest figures, with 5.0 frames per second. This is going to be sufficient for a lot of day-to-day shooting but sports and wildlife enthusiasts will have to dig a little deeper to buy the next model up.

The Nikon isn’t far behind, with the promise of up to 4.5 fps bursts and the Canon claims four shots per second. It’s unlikely that difference is going to be meaningful for most photography.

Video

The EOS R has an AF system and articulating rear screen, which should be a bonus for video. Unfortunately, like the Nikon, it has a significant crop in 4K mode.

None of the cameras in this price is especially strong on the video front. The Nikon and Canon can only read out a small region of their sensors fast enough to capture high-res video. So, while the Nikon does enough to say 4K on the box, it has the same 1.7x crop that we criticized on the Canon.

This is still more than the Sony manages: it tops out at 1080/60p: a spec the Nikon will happily match. Likewise the Nikon matches the Sony in offering both mic and headphone sockets. We’ve not had a chance the Nikon’s autofocus yet, but we’d expect the Z5 to do a reasonable job in this regard.

Viewfinder/screen

The Z5 has a larger and higher resolution viewfinder than the EOS R (shown here) or the a7 II.

Despite being Nikon’s entry-level full-framer, it uses the same viewfinder panel as the company’s range-topping Z7. The 3.69M-dot OLED viewfinder is a distinct improvement over the 2.36M dot panels used in both the EOS RP and the Sony a7 II. Given how much of the Z5’s handling comes straight from Nikon’s DSLRs, the EVF is likely to be the primary way of interacting with the camera, so it’s nice to see Nikon resist the temptation to cut corners.

In terms of rear LCDs, the Z5 has a tilting 1.04M-dot touchscreen, which isn’t quite as flexible as the EOS RP’s fully articulating arrangement of a similar screen. However, there are plenty of photographers that prefer a screen that tilts on the optical axis, rather than flipping outward as the Canon’s does. The only objective disadvantage is that the Nikon’s screen can’t be turned in towards the camera for protection.

The Sony uses an older panel with a white dot at each location, so is fractionally lower in resolution (640 x 480 pixels, rather than 720 x 480) than the other two cameras. The more significant difference is that the Sony’s screen isn’t touch-sensitive, which has

Battery life

The Z5 uses a new EN-EL15c battery that’s back-compatible with the EN-EL15b used in the Z6 and Z7 (pictured)

The Nikon comes out on top when it comes to battery life. It uses a new, higher capacity version of the EN-EL15 used in the mid-range Z6 and is able to squeeze a creditable 470 shots per charge out of it. The Canon uses a smaller battery and its endurance suffers accordingly: it’s probably our biggest gripe about the camera, as it quickly impacts on your shooting.

The Sony falls between the two: it uses the company’s older, smaller NP-FW50 battery to achieve a respectable 350 shot-per-charge rating using the LCD. All three cameras can be charged over USB but the Canon demands you use a high-current USB-C charger.

Kit lens

The 24-105mm F4 L IS is a lovely option for the Canon EOS RP, but it’s big and adds significantly to the cost. The Nikon has the smallest kit zoom of the three.

Another potential advantage for the Z5 is the availability of a kit zoom designed specifically for an entry-level audience. We’ve not had a chance to put it through its paces yet but a very compact, retractable, 24-50mm F4.0-6.3 zoom is a really handy companion to this camera. It’s unstabilized but the body has 5-axis stabilization to make up for it. There’s also a rather less-compact 24-200mm F4.0-6.3 zoom if you’re after a do-everything lens.

The Canon also offers a do-everything zoom in the shape of the RF 24-240mm F4.0-6.3, but there aren’t any small ‘kit’ zooms to pair with the RP’s smaller body: the RF 24-105 F4.0-7.1 is more versatile than the Nikon zoom but its size, while not unreasonable, it not nearly so slight. The Sony, belying its more enthusiast roots, makes fewer concessions to portability and is often kitted with the 28-70mm F3.5-5.6. It has a slightly brighter aperture range than the others but it bigger and doesn’t go as wide. It’s not exactly blessed with the best build quality.

Price

The Sony a7 II was once a $ 1700 camera, but it lacks a lot of the refinements made in the six years since its launch.

New cameras always look expensive, especially if they’re squaring up against competition that’s been on the market for a while. Both the Canon EOS RP and the Sony a7 II are now selling for around $ 1000, body only, it’s worth remembering that they were launched for a lot more than that, if you’re trying assess the Z5’s launch price.

Given it’s being launched at a price $ 100 higher than the EOS RP (the lowest launch price of any full-frame digital camera) and $ 300 lower than the a7 II, it looks likely to be competitive once it’s been on the shelves for a while. The Sony, now entering its dotage, is regularly sold for $ 1000 or less, but being the least expensive doesn’t necessarily make it the best value.

Summary

What should be clear is that you now have a choice of very capable full-frame cameras for under $ 1500. The Nikon will look more expensive at first but its MSRP suggests it’ll settle to a price around that of the EOS RP if you can be a little patient.

Our initial impression is that the Nikon looks like the strongest choice: unlike the Sony it benefits from all of Nikon’s latest UI and performance improvements, but its specs haven’t been quite as aggressively pared-back as those of the Canon.

That said, this is a decision that should hinge on lens systems rather than individual bodies. So it’s worth looking both at the lenses bundled with the cameras and the options available if you look beyond that before you make pick a team. Sony has the most extensive selection of lenses but what matters most is whether the lenses you want are available. Things will look even more competitive once Nikon introduces its promised ‘S-Line 24-105mm’ zoom, as these lenses can make excellent additions to entry and mid-level bodies.

There’s enough that’s familiar in the Nikon that we’re not expecting any nasty surprises, but we’ll look at this comparison again once we’ve had a chance to fully review the Z5.

Nikon Z5 Canon EOS RP Sony a7 II
MSRP $ 1400 $ 1300 $ 1000
(originally $ 1700)
Pixel count 24MP 26MP 24MP
Sensor tech FSI CMOS FSI Dual Pixel CMOS FSI CMOS
Image stabilization In-body
(5.0 stops)
In-lens only In-body
(4.5 stops)
Storage Dual UHS-II SD Single UHS-II SD Single UHS-I SD / Memory stick
Burst speed 4.5 fps 4.0 fps 5.0 fps
Flash sync 1/200 1/180 1/200
Max shutter speed 1/8000 1/4000 1/8000
Viewfinder
(Magnification)
3.69M-dot OLED
(x0.8)
2.36M-dot OLED
(0.7x)
2.36M-dot OLED
(0.71x)
Rear screen

3.0″ 1.04M-dot
tilting touchscreen

3.0″ 1.04M-dot
fully articulating touchscreen
3.0″ 1.23M-dot tilting
Video resolution UHD 4K/30p UHD 4K/24p 1080/60p
Video crop 1.7x 1.7x 1.0x
Mic/Headphone? Yes / Yes Yes / No Yes / No
Connectivity Wi-Fi + Bluetooth Wi-Fi + Bluetooth Wi-Fi (+NFC)
Battery life
(CIPA)
470 / 390 250 / 250 350
Weight 675g 485g 600g
Dimensions 134 x 101 x 70mm 133 x 85 x 70mm 127 x 96 x 60mm

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Nikon Z-mount 1.4x and 2x teleconverters arrive in August

21 Jul

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Nikon has announced that it will add two teleconverters to its mirrorless Z-series lineup this summer: the Z Teleconverter TC-1.4x and TC-2.0x. Both are weather-sealed, with fluorine coatings on front and rear elements to resist smudges, and retain autofocus capabilities with all AF points up to F11. The teleconverters will be compatible with ‘select’ Nikkor Z lenses, including the 70-200mm F2.8 VR S. It’s likely (but unconfirmed) that they’ll also work with the 100-400 and 200-600mm tele-zoom lenses currently on the Z-mount roadmap that should be released next year.

Both teleconverters are compact designs with a protruding front element meaning that, like recent F-mount equivalents, they cannot be ‘stacked’ or combined.

The 1.4x and 2.0x teleconverters will sell for $ 550 and $ 600, respectively, and will go on sale in late August. They will be sold alongside the previously-announced but delayed Z 70-200mm F2.8 S, which is expected to become available in the same timeframe.

Press release

EMBARK ON THE FULL-FRAME MIRRORLESS JOURNEY: NIKON UNVEILS THE Z 5, AN INNOVATIVE AND FEATURE-RICH MIRRORLESS FX-FORMAT CAMERA FOR EMERGING CREATORS

Nikon Expands the NIKKOR Z Lens Lineup with the Addition of the Extremely Compact and Versatile NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 as well as the new Z TELECONVERTER TC-2.0X and TC-1.4X; Nikon Also Announces Free Webcam Utility

MELVILLE, NY (July 21, 2020) – Today, Nikon Inc. announced the Z 5, the new full-frame (FX-format) entry-point into its award-winning lineup of Z series mirrorless cameras. The Nikon Z 5 combines sophisticated features inherited from the Z 7 and Z 6 with the benefits of Nikon’s next generation Z mount at an unprecedented value. For those new to mirrorless or creators looking to push the limits of their craft with the power of full-frame, the compact Z 5 will exceed expectations. With an incredibly robust feature set, including in-camera vibration reduction (VR) image stabilization (IBIS) and the perfect balance of seamless automation and full manual control, creators can effortlessly share their artistic passions, travel adventures and so much more.

Nikon also unveiled the new NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3, the shortest, lightest and most affordable full-frame zoom lens in the NIKKOR Z lineup. Designed for on-the-go creators, the 24-50mm lens is the ideal companion for Z series users who want to capture it all – from vast landscapes and cityscapes, to street photography and striking portraits.

“The Nikon Z 5 offers the next generation of creators a gateway into the full-frame Z series lineup, opening the door to the limitless possibilities of mirrorless photo and video capture, while providing the means to share their creativity with others,” said Jay Vannatter, Executive Vice President, Nikon Inc. “With the addition of the NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3, Nikon is introducing the smallest full-frame NIKKOR Z lens to date, providing an extremely lightweight, versatile option to help users pursue all creative endeavors, regardless of which Z series camera they use.”

Nikon Z 5: The Full-Frame Journey Starts Here
As the new entry point to Nikon’s full-frame mirrorless lineup, the Nikon Z 5 offers a lot of power and capabilities at an attractive price, empowering the next generation to begin their journey with the confidence to learn and grow as creators.

  • Incredible Image Quality: Featuring a powerful FX-format 24.3-megapixel CMOS sensor, the Z 5 is the gateway to the benefits of full-frame, helping creators to capture intensely detailed images, ultra-shallow depth of field and clean low-light shots with unrivaled consistency. From portraits that flatter, nighttime landscapes that astound and street shots that impress, the gorgeous tones, faithful colors, minimal noise, and revered Nikon color science all play a part to help users capture images that are true to their vision.
  • High Speed Performance and Processing: Engineered with the EXPEED 6, Nikon’s fastest image processor to date, the Z 5 is a dependable, high-performance tool designed for content creation. EXPEED 6 allows for a boost in processing power and energy efficiency while rendering subtle textures and small details with amazing results.
  • Stellar Low-Light Performance: With an ISO range up to 51,200 (expandable to 102,400), the camera effectively reduces noise, maintaining both high sensitivity and resolution to excel in low-light situations, making it ideal for shooting everything from low-light events to an all-nighter under the Milky Way.
  • Capture with Speed: With shutter speeds up to 1/8000, the Z 5 can capture fast-moving subjects with clarity including fast-action sports and wildlife. This higher maximum shutter speed enables photographers to better tame even the brightest mid-day light to unleash the potential of fast-aperture NIKKOR glass. When the moment strikes, the camera can also capture full resolution bursts at 4.5 fps with full AF/AE.
  • Silent and Smooth: The combination of the camera’s silent photography mode and In-Body 5-Axis VR stabilization provides quiet, stable shooting to document sensitive moments without distractions.
  • Vast Lens Selection: Whether shooting glamorous portraits from a studio on the sidewalk, long-distance wildlife, epic wide landscapes in the field or street photography, the growing lineup of NIKKOR Z lenses provides Z 5 users the versatility to capture incredible shots with sharpness across the frame and superior light gathering in any situation. For even more flexibility, the vast array of traditional F-mount NIKKOR lenses can be used via the Mount Adapter FTZ to enhance images with a unique focal length or beautiful bokeh, while gaining the benefits of in-body stabilization.
  • Dual UHS-II SD Card Slots: Equipped with two UHS-II card slots for overflow, backup or separating RAW and JPEG photos, the Z 5 enables photographers to shoot with extreme confidence when using widely available consumer SD cards.

Simple Yet Sophisticated for Expanding Creativity
A great option for emerging creators getting started, the Nikon Z 5 is packed with powerful tools and user-friendly controls to help users explore and capture their artistry with ease.

  • Focus Anywhere: The Z 5 boasts 273[1] on-sensor AF points, to quickly and accurately track subjects throughout the frame, while Eye-Detection AF capabilities help precisely capture the eyes of humans and animals. The wide array of AF points covers nearly the entire frame, and multiple AF modes allows the user to have pinpoint control or fully automatic assurance to easily lock onto a subject.
  • Easily Shift Gears: The Nikon Z 5 offers the ability to effortlessly switch between manual mode for the ultimate in control, as well as a large variety of automatic creative modes to help mirrorless users capture truly distinct images and video.
  • Creativity Built-in: Equipped with 20 Creative Picture Controls, and advanced features like Focus Shift Shooting and multiple exposure mode, users can compose unique images, produce extraordinary depth of field, or combine several shots and layer images on top of each other with the in-camera image overlay function.
  • Advanced Video Capture: The Z 5 makes it easy to document any creative vision in 4K UHD/30p[2] or in 1080/60p (full-frame). When recording video, the PDAF system is rapid to react, allowing users to quickly lock critical focus on subjects, and is fully customizable to fit any production style. In-camera VR image stabilization and electronic VR reliably eliminate the shake when shooting video, plus users get the added benefit of focus peaking and the ability to capture stills while recording.
  • Flexible Recording Modes: In addition to the traditional interval timer and in-camera time-lapse modes, the Nikon Z 5 is equipped with a new Time-Lapse Movie mode that gives users the best of both worlds for more streamlined movie making – the ability to use images from interval timer mode and create a time-lapse in-camera.
  • Unique Lighting Options: For enhanced creative control, the camera features a hot shoe, and is fully compatible with the Nikon Speedlight wireless lighting system.
  • Get Connected: The Nikon SnapBridge[3] app makes it easy to remotely control the Z 5 or seamlessly transfer and share content to a smartphone, tablet, Mac, or PC thanks to built-in Wi-Fi[4] and Bluetooth[5] connectivity.

Rugged Reliability and Engineered for Versatility
In addition to providing high-quality imaging capabilities, the Nikon Z 5 is compact and comfortable in-hand while promising the rugged reliability as well as innovative features and controls that Nikon is known for.

  • Legendary Nikon Build: Designed with a durable, weather-sealed exterior for worry-free use, the Z 5 employs the same magnesium alloy shell and robustness as the Z 6 and Z 7. Both the camera and NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 lens are built with consideration for dust and drip resistance and are ready to tackle the next adventure.
  • Functional Operability: The camera sports a powerful, high-resolution 3.2-inch LCD monitor with the capabilities to tilt, touch, tap, swipe, and pinch for an intuitive and flexible user-experience. Meanwhile, the 3.6M-dot Quad-VGA EVF ensures users can see exposure, ISO, white balance and creative picture controls in real time, making the transition from optical viewfinders seamless for new mirrorless shooters.
  • Packed with Power: Powered by the new EN-EL15c battery, the Z 5 offers significant advancements in the number of shots per charge and is the first Nikon camera to enable constant power through the USB port, even with select portable USB power banks[6]. For added power and grip, the camera is also compatible with the MB-N10 hot-swappable battery pack.
  • Webcam Ready: When connected via the USB-C cord, the Z 5 can be used as a webcam, making the camera a great option for modern vloggers, influencers and gamers looking to improve their livestreaming capabilities.

NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3: Portable, Yet Powerful
The NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 is the latest addition to the rapidly expanding lineup of NIKKOR Z lenses and is the smallest FX-format NIKKOR Z lens yet. Optically designed to take advantage of the advancements of the wide Z mount, this lens delivers sharpness across the entire frame and a versatile zoom range for everyday use. The 24-50mm is less than three inches long when retracted, making it the perfect lens for shooters seeking a versatile yet compact option for lightweight travel and street photography. When used together, the Z 5 and 24-50mm lens are the ideal discrete travel kit that can easily be packed and carried for all-day adventures. This compact NIKKOR Z lens is also an enticing option for Z 6 and Z 7 users who want a small all-around lens for portraits, landscapes, and street photography.

New Z Teleconverters Take NIKKOR Z Lenses to New Lengths
Designed for photographers and videographers who need more telephoto reach in their kit, the new Z TELECONVERTER TC-1.4X and Z TELECONVERTER TC-2.0X bring added versatility with 1.4x and 2.0x magnification to select NIKKOR Z lenses. These lightweight teleconverters are great tools for those photographing sports, wildlife and aviation, reducing the need to crop images and allowing for tighter compositions with maximum resolution.

The new TC-1.4X and TC-2.0X teleconverters maintain superior rendering performance and minimize various lens aberrations, while retaining focusing speed, VR functionality and minimum focusing distance. As an added benefit, the new teleconverters allow Nikon Z series cameras to retain functionality on all focus points up to f/11, making it easy to focus on and track subjects throughout the entire frame. Featuring the same robust construction as NIKKOR Z lenses, the teleconverters are designed with a fluorine coating on the front and rear elements to resist dirt and smudges, and offer a durable, weather-sealed body to protect against the elements.

When the teleconverters are used with the NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S (availability scheduled for late August), the focal length on the telephoto end is extended to 280mm (1.4x) or 400mm (2.0x) producing a significant expansion of this telephoto lens’ shooting range. These new teleconverters will also be compatible with applicable interchangeable lenses for Nikon Z mount mirrorless cameras that Nikon will release in the future.

New Webcam Utility Software for Nikon Cameras
In August, Nikon will release a beta version of the Webcam Utility software for many Nikon DSLR and Z series mirrorless cameras, including the new Z 5. Initially available for Windows 10, the free software will allow compatible Nikon cameras to be used as webcams. When connected via USB, this free software will provide users with incredible sharpness, clarity and flattering depth of field for all of their livestreaming needs including teleconferencing and gaming.

For more information on how to use your Nikon camera as a webcam, please visit https://www.nikonusa.com/en/learn-and-explore/live-streaming-with-nikon-cameras.page

Pricing and Availability
The Nikon Z 5 will be available in August in several configurations, including body-only for a suggested retail price (SRP) of $ 1,399.95*, a one-lens kit with the new NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 for an SRP of $ 1,699.95* and a one-lens kit with the NIKKOR Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR lens for an SRP of $ 2,199.95* for those seeking extra reach when photographing wildlife or travel adventures. Also available in August, the NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 lens can be purchased separately for an SRP of $ 399.95*. The new Z TELECONVERTER TC-1.4X and TC-2.0X will have an SRP of $ 549.95 and $ 599.95 respectively and will be available in late August.

For more information on the latest Nikon products, including the new Z 5 and NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 lens, as well as the full Nikon Z mount system, please visit?www.nikonusa.com.

Specifications, equipment, and release dates are subject to change without any notice or obligation on the part of the manufacturer.

*SRP (Suggested Retail Price) listed only as a suggestion. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time.

1. With recording of still images using the FX-format image area and single-point AF. 231 focus points with movie recording.

2. When using this mode, the frame is cropped approx. ×1.7.

3. Using the SnapBridge App System Requirements:

a. Android 5.0 or later or 6.0.1 or later
b. A device with Bluetooth 4.0 or later (i.e., a device that supports Bluetooth Smart Ready/Low Energy) is required.
c. The SnapBridge app is available for compatible iPhone®, iPad® and/or iPod touch®, and for smart devices running the AndroidTM operating system. The app can be downloaded free of charge from Apple’s App Store® and GooglePlayTM. SnapBridge can be used only with compatible cameras.

4. This camera’s built-in Wi-Fi® capability can only be used with a compatible iPhone®, iPad®, and/or iPod touch® or smart devices running on the Android™ operating system. The Nikon SnapBridge application must be installed on the device before it can be used with this camera.

5. The camera’s built-in Bluetooth® capability can only be used to connect the camera to a compatible smart device running the SnapBridge app, and to take advantage of SnapBridge features.

6. Anker PowerCore+ 26800 PD 45W is the recommended portable charger. Use a USB cable with two Type-C connectors supplied with the portable charger. For more information about the portable charger, please visit the manufacturer’s website: Anker.com/support

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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