Nikon Canada Inc. has launched two full-frame (Nikon FX–format) mirrorless camera models, the 24.5 megapixel Nikon Z 7 with a sensitivity range of ISO 100–51200, and the 45.7 megapixel Nikon Z 6, with a sensitivity range of ISO 64-25600. The cameras incorporate new backside illumination Nikon FX-format CMOS sensors, with built-in focal-plane phase-detection AF pixels, and the EXPEED 6 image-processing engine.
The Z-series cameras have a new, larger-diameter mount to enable the next generation of lenses, which Nikon is designing with the goal of delivering ultimate optical performance. The Z mount lens roadmap describes a variety of high-performance lenses, including the fastest lens in Nikon history, a 58mm Noct f/0.95 lens, expected to arrive in 2019.
The cameras can be equipped with a Nikon Mount Adapter FTZ to allow the use of current and recent Nikkor lenses, with full compatibility with more than 90 lenses, and varying degrees of functionality with 360 Nikkor F lenses from AI type onwards. For a chart of lens compatibility please visit www.nikon.ca
Hybrid AF System
The Z 7 has 493 focus points (with FX (36×24) image area and single-point AF enabled) and the Z 6 has 273 focus points, enabling coverage of approximately 90% of the imaging area both horizontally and vertically. The hybrid AF system automatically switches between focal-plane phase-detection AF and contrast-detect AF to quickly acquire focus in a wide range of shooting situation50s.
In-camera Vibration Reduction
The Z 7 and Z 6 are equipped with in-camera sensor-based vibration reduction that provides approximately 5.0 stops of VR along five axes. This function can also be used effectively with NIKKOR F lenses, including those not equipped with a VR function, with the Mount Adapter FTZ (sold separately).
Z 7 Versus Z 6 – A Comparison
The best overview of the new Z-series models can be found in three YouTube videos by Mark Cruz of Nikon Canada, describing the two Z-series bodies and lenses; the video functions of the mirrorless system; and the compatibility of Nikon DSLR accessories and system components. View the Nikon Canada YouTube channel at: www.youtube.com/user/NikonCanada
Electronic Viewfinder
The Z 7 and Z 6 are equipped with a 3,690k-dot OLED electronic viewfinder that provides approximately 100% frame coverage at a magnification of 0.8x.
Video Features
The Z 7 and Z 6 are designed to produce full-frame 4K UHD (3840 × 2160)/30p movies using the FX-based video format, as well as full-HD/120p movies. Sharper 4K UHD movies are possible with the Z 7 in DX-based movie format, using the full-pixel readout. Active D-Lighting, electronic vibration reduction, and focus peaking can be used with 4K UHD and Full-HD movie recording.
Nikon has introduced three new full-frame lenses for the Z-series mirrorless system, including the Nikkor Z 24-70mm f/4 S zoom (MSRP $1,399.95 CDN), the NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.8 S wide-angle ($1,179.95 CDN), and the NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.8 S ($849.95 CDN).
The FTZ Mount Adapter, which will be available in September 2018, will have an MSRP of $349.95 CDN – there will be an additional $150 savings when the Mount Adapter is purchased together with a Z 7 or Z 6, through December 31, 2018.
MB-N10 Multi-Power Battery Pack
A new MB-N10 Multi-Power Battery Pack is in development, that will use two EN-EL15b batteries to effectively increase the number of shots possible and/or movie recording time by approximately 1.8x.
Price and Availability
The Nikon Z 7 will be available in September at an MSRP of $4,699.95 CDN (body only) or $5,549.95 CDN with a NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/4 S lens. The Z 6 will be available in November at an MSRP of $2,799.95 CDN (body only) or $3,649.95 CDN with a NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/4 S lens. For more information please visit www.nikon.ca