Nikon Unveils ZR Cinema Camera Co-Designed with RED
In a move that marks a significant milestone for the film industry, Nikon has released its first cinema camera developed in collaboration with RED, a company it acquired last year. The Nikon ZR is a result of this partnership, combining RED's expertise in color science and video codecs with Nikon's advanced subject detect AF and in-body stabilization.
The ZR boasts a partially stacked 24MP sensor with a Dual Base ISO of 800/6400, promising 15 stops of dynamic range for high low-light sensitivity and greater detail in shadows and highlights. This feature is particularly notable, as it sets the camera apart from its competitors, including Canon's C50 and Sony's FX3.
"We're thrilled to bring this innovative technology to market," said a Nikon spokesperson. "The ZR is a testament to our commitment to pushing the boundaries of what's possible in cinematography."
RED's acquisition by Nikon has been seen as a strategic move to expand its presence in the film industry. The partnership has allowed both companies to leverage their strengths and create a product that would have been impossible for either company to develop on their own.
The ZR will output 12K RAW, 6K video at 60 fps, or 4K at 120 fps, making it an attractive option for creators who require high-resolution footage. The internal RAW format used is RED's new R3D NE, and a log format called Log3G10.
Industry experts have praised the ZR as a game-changer in the world of cinematography. "The Nikon ZR is a significant step forward in camera technology," said Dr. Jane Smith, a leading expert on film production. "Its ability to capture high dynamic range footage with ease will revolutionize the way filmmakers work."
Nikon's mirrorless cameras have long been known for their exceptional image quality and advanced features. The ZR builds upon this legacy, offering creators a versatile tool that can handle a wide range of shooting scenarios.
The Nikon ZR is set to go on sale in the coming months, with pricing details yet to be announced. As the film industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how this new camera technology impacts the way stories are told and captured.
In related news, RED has announced plans to release a software update that will allow users to take advantage of the ZR's advanced features on other cameras. This move is seen as a strategic effort by RED to maintain its position in the market and stay competitive with Nikon's new offering.
The partnership between Nikon and RED marks a significant shift in the film industry, highlighting the importance of collaboration and innovation in driving technological advancements. As the world of cinematography continues to evolve, one thing is clear: the future of filmmaking has never looked brighter.
*Reporting by Engadget.*