Nikon has released Firmware Version 3.00 for its Z8 mirrorless camera, offering substantial enhancements that elevate its already impressive hybrid platform.
This update introduces major production tools, including flexible color profiles, improved autofocus, and auto-triggered video capture, sure to grab the attention of professionals in the field.
Image Credit – NikonUSA
Expanded Autofocus
Nikon has increased the dimensions of the Wide-area AF (C1) and (C2) focus areas, giving camera operators greater flexibility to track subjects across the frame.
Notably, subject detection now functions even in manual focus mode.
This allows shooters to maintain control over their settings while receiving real-time feedback on faces, eyes, and objects that the camera identifies and tracks.
This significant advancement greatly benefits solo shooters.
Flexible Color Picture Controls
The update also improves the color grading workflow with Flexible Color Picture Controls.
This new feature enables users to create custom color looks in NX Studio and upload them directly to the camera.
By streamlining the workflow, cinematographers can apply a consistent color palette across multiple shots, which is especially valuable for fast-paced productions.
Image Credit – NikonUSA
Auto Capture Now Supports Video
Nikon has adapted the Auto Capture feature to video mode. Originally designed for still photography, this feature now allows the Z8 to begin recording based on subject detection, distance, motion, or even scheduled times and dates.
This enhancement provides filmmakers with the tools needed to capture wildlife, conduct interviews, execute time-lapses, or manage any situation where hands-free operation is essential.
Image Credit – NikonUSA
Improved Hi-Res Zoom
Nikon’s Hi-Res Zoom feature, which maintains quality during cropping, now includes a visual aid: a focus point box that appears on the subject while zooming.
This small addition boosts confidence during mid-shot reframing, particularly when using prime lenses or avoiding distraction from zoom lenses.
Additional Metadata Transmission Over HDMI
With the new firmware, the Z8 can transmit file names over HDMI to compatible Atomos recorders.
If you use devices like the Ninja V, Shogun Ultra, or Ninja Ultra, this feature ensures that clips match between the camera and the recorder, eliminating the need to sort through mismatched metadata during post-production.
This upgrade simplifies the workflow.
Additional Features: Metadata, Voice Memos, and More
This update introduces several new features including voice memos using external microphones for quick scene notes or verbal slates, improved N-Log View Assist which provides better tonal mapping when enabled, ProRes video metadata that now includes embedded company and model information, and enhanced live streaming metadata including IP and DNS addresses in the camera’s network settings.
The camera also provides several new still image features that cater to hybrid users interested in capturing photos.
These features include a pixel-shift shooting function, flexible adjustments for contrast, saturation, and hue, as well as an in-camera focus limiter to restrict the camera’s focus to a selected range.
How to Get the Update
You can download Firmware 3.00 for free from the Nikon Download Center. Be sure to consult the Supplementary Firmware Update Manual for detailed instructions on how to update and take advantage of the new features.
With Firmware 3.00, the Z8 evolves into an even more powerful cinematic tool.
Whether you are a hybrid shooter transitioning between still and video or a dedicated filmmaker, this update showcases Nikon’s commitment to enhancing features, even for older platforms.
And now is a good time to pick one up, with a $300 discount at B&H.
[Source: NikonUSA]
Order link:
- Nikon Z8 Mirrorless Camera (B&H)
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