Nikon releases firmware update v3.00 for the Z 8

Nikon has announced the release of firmware version 3.00 for its full-frame mirrorless camera, the Nikon Z 8, which will soon be available for download.

Nikon says that the new firmware version 3.00 sees the evolution of the Z 8’s pixel-shift shooting function by simplifying workflows and reducing shooting time, while ensuring it’s easier for users to capture high-quality, high-resolution images that satisfy creative needs. Indeed, it says that the ability to capture high-quality, high-resolution images in-camera by combining pixel-shift shooting with focus shift shooting or AE bracketing settings is a world’s-first in-camera integration among full-frame/FX-format mirrorless cameras.

The new firmware also adds support for Flexible Colour Picture Control, allowing users greater freedom to precisely control expression of colours prior to shooting with intuitive operation. Achieved through flexible adjustment of contrast, saturation and hue, the ideal imaging characteristics can be imported into the camera as a Custom Picture Control and applied to shooting, offering photographers more room to express their imaging ambitions.

It also significantly enhances AF performance through features including a new in-camera focus limiter, which allows users to restrict the focus range to specific distances, among other functions as long as they are using NIKKOR Z lenses. There are also additional improvements in operability and functionality, that enable a faster and more efficient shooting experience for users. These include subject detection in manual focus, 400% frame magnification, enhanced N-LOG view assist, and more.

Elsewhere:

• Select from more presets for commonly used LED light and billboard frequencies to prevent flicker.
• Quickly revert back to the original, unedited version of an image with a new [Jump to Source Image] custom setting.
• Convert captured RAW or JPEG images to HEIF format with your chosen compression ratio and upload them to an FTP server.
• Easily filter images in-camera by date taken, making it easier to find the right image.
• Freeze fast action with a new high-speed frame capture + [C15] option, available in both Normal and Fine image quality.
• See “Nikon” and “Z 8” as default metadata fields on ProRes® 422 HQ footage in Apple’s Final Cut Pro.

Pricing and availability

The firmware will be a free download to users. No word on when it will hit the servers yet beyond the simple message ‘available soon’.