Description
The Nikon Z7 Mirrorless Camera a high-resolution FX-format camera featuring Nikon’s new Z Mount, a large diameter design with a short 16mm flange distance for Nikon’s mirrorless cameras and lenses. Featuring a 45.7MP BSI CMOS sensor and EXPEED 6 Image Processing Engine, delivering outstanding image quality and speed with a native sensitivity range of ISO 64-25600.
The Z7 features UHD 4K recording at up to 30p and can use the N-Log gamma profile along with the camera’s 10-bit HDMI output to create cinema-quality video. The camera’s high-resolution sensor also is capable of an 8K Time-Lapse mode.
The mirrorless Z7 features a slimmed down design and lighter build compared to Nikon’s DSLR options, though it maintains the weather sealing and ergonomics found in the larger cameras. For storage, the Z7 has a single XQD card slot that is compatible with CFexpress for faster speeds in the future. Additionally, the body is equipped with both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
Nikon Z System
Introducing the Z mount, Nikon’s full-frame mirrorless system promises to deliver class-leading image quality and optics in a compact form factor. The Z mount itself makes much of this possible with a 17% larger inner diameter than the F mount, enabling the use of more advanced optics and lens designs, including ultra-fast f/0.95 options. For minimising camera and lens size, the Z mount 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.
45.7MP FX-Format BSI CMOS Sensor and EXPEED 6 Processor
A 45.7MP BSI CMOS sensor is used for high-resolution shooting, impressive low-light quality, and fast readout speeds to benefit continuous shooting, movies, and time-lapse recording. The back-illuminated design of the sensor allows for cleaner high-sensitivity output with reduced noise when working at high ISO values, up to a native ISO 25600, as well as supporting sensitivities as low as ISO 64. The sensor’s design also omits the conventional optical low-pass filter in order to achieve the greatest sharpness and resolution from the sensor. The EXPEED 6 image processor allows the camera to shoot continuously at 9 fps in raw.
4K UHD Video Recording and 8K Time-Lapse
Video recording is possible at UHD 4K (3840 x 2160) using either the full-frame area or a DX crop area in 30p, 25p, 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 functions present in the Z7 include recording with N-Log gamma for capturing flat-looking footage that maximises dynamic range, 10-bit output over HDMI, and an Electronic VR function for smooth handheld shooting. Focus Peaking aid for manual focus control and Zebra Stripes for exposure viewing are also supported. 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, with live monitoring possible via the headphone jack.
The Z7 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 maximise battery life.
493-Point Phase-Detect AF System
Located on the sensor is an array of 493 phase-detect autofocus points covering 90% of the image area both vertically and horizontally. This provides fast and accurate focusing for both stills and video and with a wide coverage area, subject tracking will work out to near the edges of the frame. Hybrid AF is available for video, which will automatically switch between phase- and contrast-detect systems to provide smooth focus during shooting. Additionally, the latest NIKKOR Z lenses are optimised for silent operation.
Body Design
Built-in to the body is a 5-axis sensor-shift Vibration Reduction mechanism for up to 5 stops of stabilisation regardless of the lens used. This system also works with adapted lenses when using the FTZ Adapter where 3-axis stabilisation is used.
A large tilting 3.2″ 2.1m-dot LCD touchscreen is available for bright, clear, and vivid image playback and live view shooting. A 3.6m-dot electronic finder is present for comfortable eye-level viewing. It has a high 0.80x magnification and uses NIKKOR optics to guarantee a sharp, clear image. The finder also has a Fluorine coating for easier cleaning. The top panel of the Z 7 is configured with a dot-matrix OLED. This low-energy display provides quick access to important camera settings.
Configured with one XQD memory card slot, the slot is also forward compatible with CFexpress. The Z7 features built-in SnapBridge connectivity to enable seamless transfer of low-resolution imagery as well as remote shooting capabilities. BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) and Wi-Fi enables communication between the camera and a smart device and, additionally, the mobile device can remotely trigger the shutter and display a live view image from the camera to enable working from a distance.
Included EN-EL15b rechargeable lithium-ion battery provides approximately 330 shots per charge, and in-camera charging is supported. This camera is also compatible with EN-EL15 and EN-EL15a batteries, however do not support in-camera charging.
Nikon FTZ Mount Adapter
Enabling the use of nearly any Nikon F-mount lens on Z-mount mirrorless camera bodies, the FTZ Mount Adapter is a sophisticated means for expanding the range of usable lenses. While compatible with approximately 360 distinct F-mount lenses, this adapter is especially ideal for use with over 90 E, G, and D-type lenses, where it fully maintains autofocus and auto-exposure capabilities for seamless use of the SLR lenses on the mirrorless body. The adapter, which is built from magnesium alloy and is weather-sealed, also incorporates a 1/4″-20 mount on the base to provide a more balanced means for working on a tripod with longer, heavier lenses.
Lens Compatibility
Full AF/AE supported when using:
AF-S type G/D/E lenses
AF-P type G/E lenses
AF-I type D lenses
AF-S / AF-I teleconverters