It's all everyone is buzzing about - Nikon just released the Nikon ZR, the company's first cinema camera for filmmakers, born from a collaboration with Red. Red's legendary color science and cinematic DNA is paired with Nikon's extensive optical expertise and autofocus performance, delivering cinematic capabilities and image quality within reach to all kinds of filmmakers and pro-level content creators.
The new ZR is disrupting the industry by offering full-frame image quality and the flexibility of Redcode raw (R3D NE) as well as N-Raw capture up to 6K/60p, all in-camera. It also has a massive four-inch screen, incredible auto focusing, in-camera LUT support and 7.5 stops of IBIS. When combined with a price tag of only $2,200, the new ZR is like nothing else on the market.
The ZR delivers cinematic-level control and access to workflows that streamline filmmakers' processes and help bring their creative visions to life. Filmmakers can capture dynamic range, color depth and professional-grade video content while benefiting from Nikon's autofocus and extensive Nikkor lens lineup. The ZR offers limitless possibilities in post production, thanks to a wide range of file formats, including in-camera raw video formats like R3D NE, N-Raw and ProRes Raw, all of which offer maximum latitude when color grading. What's more, it's also the first camera of its kind to feature 32-bit float audio straight out of camera. These unique features provide users with the ability to piece together a story using all available footage, knowing that they can recover substantially more audio data from complex recordings.
For professionals already using Red products, the ZR unlocks new creative possibilities. Handheld or mounted to drones, gimbals or vehicles, the ZR offers the ability to easily match color and augment an established workflow in a compact, solid form factor that expands what's possible, and delivers striking results.
The early response to the ZR points to an exciting shift and positive outlook in the market. It's all creatives can talk about, and it's already generating a lot of interest from customers. USC film students recently filled a theater to see a demo of the camera, with an enthusiastic response. From classrooms to professional sets, the Z Cinema Line and new ZR signal a new era in filmmaking, one where quality cinema-level storytelling is more accessible, flexible and technically uncompromising than ever before.
Mark Cruz is senior manager, product DCIL, marketing & planning, for Nikon Inc. (www.nikonusa.com).