Nikon Unveils ZR Cinema Camera, Marking its Bold Entry into Filmmaking

Lead Nikon today launched the ZR, its first cinema camera co-developed with RED Digital Cinema, offering internal 6K RAW recording, RED’s color science and 32-bit float audio in a compact full-frame body.

Nut Graf The introduction of the ZR expands Nikon’s Z CINEMA lineup and brings professional-grade video performance to a wider market, combining RED’s industry-leading codecs with Nikon’s optical and autofocus expertise.

RED Synergy and Core Features

Nikon’s collaboration with RED delivers the new R3D NE RAW codec, enabling 12-bit internal recording of up to 6K/59.94p and 4K/119.88p, plus ProRes RAW and N-RAW options. Dual base ISOs of 800 and 6400 provide over 15 stops of dynamic range for enhanced shadow and highlight retention.

Compact Design, Professional Workflow

Weighing 540 g (630 g with battery), the ZR is the lightest in the Z CINEMA series. Its fanless magnesium-alloy body supports 125 minutes of continuous recording on external power and 95 minutes on battery. A 4-inch vari-angle LCD with 3 070 K-dot resolution and DCI-P3 gamut minimizes the need for external monitors.

Advanced Audio and Connectivity

The ZR is the world’s first camera to offer in-camera 32-bit float audio recording from built-in and external microphones, powered by Nokia’s OZO Audio with five pickup patterns. A new digital hot shoe supports wireless accessories, while HDMI Type-D, USB-C, 3.5 mm mic/headphone jacks and dual card slots (CFexpress Type B + microSD) streamline high-end production workflows.

Autofocus, Stabilization and Lens Compatibility

Equipped with Nikon’s EXPEED 7 processor, the ZR inherits the Z9’s AF system with subject-detection tracking across nine categories. Its 5-axis Vibration Reduction offers up to 7.5 stops of stabilization. The short 16 mm flange-back of the Z mount enables compatibility with a vast array of native and adapted lenses.

Pricing and Availability

The Nikon ZR body will retail for $2,100 (US MSRP) and is available for pre-order today, with shipments beginning in late October. Subheadings and bullets enhance the online readability of this article.