NAB 2019: Nikon Talks New Mirrorless Cameras Z7 and Z6

4K – 10bit out of a Full Frame mirrorless camera that can output raw to an Atomos Recorder

April 16, 2019

At NAB 2019 PVC and Nikon talk about their two new mirrorless cameras the Z7 and Z6. There are a ton of features in both cameras filmmakers can love. 8K time-lapse in the Z7 and 4K UHD 10-bit raw output in both full-frame cameras. With the introduction of the Z7 and Z6 Nikon introduced the new Z mount which features a 65% shorter flange distance, measuring just 16mm, which allows for dramatically slimmed down body designs. The larger mount also supports faster and larger-volume communications between the body and lens to improve overall performance throughout the system. It also means you can pretty much adapt any lens in the world to work on the Nikon Z system.

https://youtu.be/V4d8Hpk_c7g

4K UHD Video Recording

According to Nikon, Utilizing the sensor and processor attributes for more than just still imagery, the Z 6 and Z 7 is also a more-than-capable multimedia camera. Video recording is possible at UHD 4K (3840 x 2160) using either the full-frame area or a DX crop area in 30p, 25, or 24p frame rates. Full HD 1080p video recording is also supported at up to 120p for slow-motion playback, and video files can be saved to the in-camera memory cards or as an uncompressed file to an optional external recorder via HDMI out.

Advanced video functionalities have been added with the Z 6 and Z 7. This includes the N-Log gamma for capturing flat-looking footage that maximizes dynamic range. Other additions are the ability to output high-quality 10-bit data over HDMI and an Electronic VR function for smooth handheld shooting. Focus Peaking can be used to benefit manual focus control and a Zebra Stripes option is also available to help detect over-exposed areas within the frame. Audio recording can be handled using the built-in stereo microphone or an optional external mic can be added via the 3.5mm stereo jack for greater control over quality, and live monitoring is possible via the headphone jack.

The Z 7 also blends both still and video capabilities with the ability to produce 8K time-lapses using the Interval Timer Mode or in-camera 4K time-lapse movies, with the ability to record up to 9999 exposures for either method. This system also makes use of a silent interval timer, which produces no shutter noise, does not contribute to wear on the shutter mechanism, and is energy efficient to maximize battery life.