Nikon has announced a new firmware update for the Z6 III Mirrorless Camera, bringing it in line with features from its higher-end full-frame mirrorless counterparts, the Z8 and Z9.
This firmware update also enables compliance with the C2PA standard, which safeguards against unauthorized scraping of generative AI.
Image Credit – Nikon USA
Firmware version 2.0 introduces support for Nikon’s Authenticity Service, an initiative designed to ensure adherence to the Content Provenance and Authenticity (C2PA) standard.
This system records provenance metadata and maintains it through editing, establishing a chain of custody for any history of image alterations.
Image Credit – Nikon USA
The C2PA system aims to protect content creators and photographers from unauthorized generative AI image scraping, safeguarding their work from falsification and manipulation.
With the new mode, users can request a digital certificate through Nikon Imaging Cloud using the metadata generated by the Z6 III.
It’s essential to note that when editing an image in-camera, the provenance metadata is not embedded, and some shooting functions may be unavailable while C2PA is active.3
Image Credit – Nikon USA
Version 2.0 enhances subject detection and tracking, especially for birds.
When users select Birds mode, the camera automatically tracks birds in flight with precision, ensuring they remain in focus, even against intricate, high-contrast backgrounds like foliage.
Additionally, the Z6 III introduces a new auto-capture function with pre-configured settings for specific conditions.
Users can tailor the capture function based on subject type, movement direction, and shooting distance range, allowing the camera to automatically trigger the shutter in situations where the photographer’s presence may disturb the scene, such as in nature or settings with sensitive audio cues.
Image Credit – Nikon USA
Furthermore, the Z6 III now supports live streaming via USB using the UVC/UAC protocol.
This feature not only facilitates live streaming directly from the camera but also allows it to serve as a webcam when connected to a computer or smartphone.
Other enhancements and improvements included in version 2.0 are:
- An automatic monitor display switch function that disables the eye sensor when the vari-angle monitor is deployed, marking a first for the Nikon Z series.
- An updated N-Log View Assist that provides improved contrast and detail for video recording with an external monitor.
- Pro-Res 422 HQ metadata, which is now saved with the footage.
- A new function that lets users exit zoom view with a half-press of the shutter-release button while in manual focus mode.
- The ability to combine pixel shift shooting with focus shift shooting or AE bracketing settings for more precise photographic expression.
- A recall shooting functions option that allows users to quickly access previously stored settings—like shooting mode, shutter speed, aperture value, and ISO sensitivity—at the press of a button.
- Enhanced support for USB streaming (UVC/UAC), enabling the camera to work as a webcam when connected to a computer or smartphone.
- Continuation of the HDMI connection even when recording stops or when key settings are adjusted while streaming.
- Simplified operations by automatically displaying an update confirmation dialog on the camera monitor after registering an imaging recipe in Nikon Imaging Cloud.
Download and Installation
Firmware updates automatically install when the camera connects to the Nikon Imaging Cloud Service.
Users should ensure that the batteries are fully charged or that the camera is connected to AC power before making this connection.
However, users can also manually download and install firmware version 2.0 by visiting the Nikon Z6 III Website.
[source: NikonUSA]
Order links:
- Nikon 6 III Mirrorless Camera (B&H)
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