The IT Nerd

From now until October 24, Nikon Canada is hosting a Nikon Pop-Up Experience at Yorkdale Mall in Toronto!

Inspired by its heritage models, the Nikon Zfc and Zf cameras, the concept of Nikon’s Pop-Up is a retro diner with antique furniture and neon lights. It also has the opportunity to check out Nikon’s latest cameras.

At the ‘Nikon Diner’ there will be an ‘IG Worthy’ vintage-style photobooth where visitors will be able to take home physical photos.

Guests will be encouraged to share their photobooth image on social using the #NikonCreators and #NikonDiner hashtags for a chance to win a Zfc kit! Visitors will also be able to engage in “diner chats” with Nikon ambassadors and creators, who will share photo and video tips and tricks.

Visit the ‘Nikon Diner’ at Yorkdale during mall hours between Oct 17th-24th! It is located right next to Canada Goose near Entrance E.

Today, Nikon Canada Inc. announced the release of the new STABILIZED binocular series with two new models that feature a compact, portable design while incorporating an original STABILIZED function to provide a clear and stable image. This original stabilization system¹ in the new 10x and 12x models reduces vibrations caused by hand movement by approx. 80%, letting users view distant objects such as birds and other wildlife, sporting events, concerts and landmarks clearly and comfortably.

These new STABILIZED binoculars weigh only 13.9 oz (STABILIZED 12×25 S model), making it comfortable and easy to track and view subjects for long periods with minimal fatigue of the eyes or arms. For extended viewing, they are powered by 2xAA batteries, providing up to an impressive 12 hours of battery life. 

Primary features of the Nikon STABILIZED Binocular Series:

• Stylish, compact and comfortable design is extremely small and lightweight, while also having the ability to fold for maximum portability and easy packing.
• Uses 2x convenient and readily available AA-size batteries, for approx. 12 hours of battery life
• STABILIZED Technology reduces vibrations caused by hand movement by approx. 80%, making it easy to track and view subjects.
• Bright and clear field of view, with a Multilayer Coating applied to all lenses and prisms while high-reflectivity silver-alloy mirror coating is applied on the reflective surface of the auxiliary prism for maximum brightness. 
• Auto-power shut-off function prevents unnecessary battery consumption if left powered on. This function is engaged after approximately 60 minutes, letting the user focus on the view, while minimizing the need to press a button repeatedly to activate the stabilization. 
• Ergonomic design fits comfortably in the hand, with a large focusing ring that enables quick focusing. 
• Turn-and-slide rubber eyecups with multi-click facilitate easy positioning of the eyes at the correct eyepoint.

Price and Availability
The new Nikon STABILIZED 10×25 S and STABILIZED 12×25 S models will be available starting in early November, with an MSRP of $849.95 and $859.95 respectively.  For more information about Nikon Sport optics and other models, please visit www.nikon.ca. 

Nikon Canada Inc. announced the release of the NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.4, a wide-angle prime lens that is compatible with Z mount full-frame/FX format mirrorless cameras. This fast, versatile lens offers a natural angle of view, popular among street and portrait photographers, with the creative freedom provided by a bright maximum aperture of f/1.4 – all at an affordable price.

Not only does the NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.4 allow users to enjoy beautiful soft bokeh and three-dimensional rendering at wide apertures, its versatile 35mm focal length and short minimum focus distance of 10.6 in. (0.27 m) also makes it ideal for capturing a wide variety of scenes and subjects. From landscapes and street photography to portraits and photos of flowers and pets, photographers and filmmakers will enjoy outstanding sharpness, beautifully blurred backgrounds, and exceptional versatility in low light.

Despite its large f/1.4 maximum aperture the NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.4 is a great “carry everywhere” lens for day-to-day shooting, weighing just 14.6 oz (415 g) and measuring only 3.4 in. (86.5mm) in length.

The superior optical performance unique to NIKKOR Z lenses allows for clear images with outstanding clarity including close-up portraits that emphasize the subject with a pleasant background blur. Stopping down the aperture when photographing landscapes realizes incredible sharpness. As a wide-angle prime lens with superior cost performance, the NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.4 supports the capture of a great range of scenes and subjects, and will appeal to a wide variety of enthusiast creators. 

Primary features of the Nikon NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.4:

• Beautiful bokeh: Max aperture of f/1.4 allows photographers and filmmakers to achieve smooth, creamy out-of-focus backgrounds while precisely controlling depth-of-field for ideal subject and background separation.
• Versatile focal length: The 35mm focal length is close to that of human vision, making it ideal for capturing a wide range of scenes and subjects. On DX format Z cameras, the NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.4 becomes a 52mm equivalent prime lens, close to the classic “standard” 50mm.
• Close minimum focus: Close focus of just 10.6 in (0.27 m) is ideal for capturing details in food and flowers with a beautifully blurred background.
• Compact and well-balanced: The NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.4 weighs just 14.6 oz (415 g), making it is easy to carry and comfortable to use for hand-held shooting.
• Fast and quiet autofocus: The use of a stepping motor (STM) for autofocus ensures fast and quiet autofocus for both stills and video.
• Clickless control ring: Easily control key exposure settings including aperture, ISO sensitivity and exposure compensation. 
• Suppressed focus breathing: Advanced optical design means the NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.4’s focal length stays consistent during focusing, which is ideal when recording video.
• Dust and drip-resistant: Seals throughout the design help prevent dust and water droplets from entering the lens.

Price and Availability
The new Nikon NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.4 lens will be available in late July 2024 for a manufacturers suggested retail price (MSRP) of $819.95. For more information about the latest Nikon products, including the extensive lineup of NIKKOR Z lenses and the entire range of Z series cameras, please visit www.nikon.ca.

Today Nikon Canada Inc. announced the Z6III, a 24.5MP full-frame mirrorless camera that stands in a class of its own with an unmatched suite of powerful features that bring exceptional performance to both photographers and filmmakers. The Z6III is the world’s first camera with a partially-stacked CMOS sensor, delivering ultra-fast readout that unlocks blistering speeds and high frame rates in both photo and video modes. Other benefits include a truly immersive viewfinder experience with the brightest EVF of any mirrorless camera, and a wide range of pro-level features inherited from Nikon’s acclaimed Z8 and Z9 flagship cameras. 

The combination of the Z6III’s unique new sensor design and EXPEED 7 image processing engine results in an approximately 3.5x increase to readout speed compared to the previous-generation Z6II. This unlocks enhanced performance across the board, enabling benefits such as 6K internal N-RAW and ProRes RAW video, Full HD video up to 240p, and rapid continuous shooting of stills up to 120 fps with Pre-Release Capture. However, the camera’s incredible performance goes far beyond just frame rates. The Z6III features an impressively fast AF system inherited from the Z8 and Z9, which includes highly advanced multi-subject detection with the speed and accuracy needed for maximum confidence.

OUTPERFORM WITH UNMATCHED FEATURES

World’s first partially-stacked sensor: The Z6III is the first mirrorless camera to adopt this new sensor architecture, which features multiple high-speed processing circuits stacked in layers above and below the imaging area of the sensor. The high-speed readout made possible by this new sensor in combination with the same EXPEED 7 processing engine as the Z8 and Z9 enables a range of powerful features. 

Upgraded autofocus: AF is fast and accurate, clocking in at a full 20 per cent faster than the Z6II.  In challenging light, the AF detection range has been extended to an incredible −10 EV, superior even to the flagship level cameras. This enhanced sensitivity makes it easier to focus in dark situations like nighttime sports or an event reception. 

Advanced subject detection: The Z6III draws on the advanced subject-detection technology of the Z8 and Z9 to automatically detect nine subject types, including people, animals and various vehicles. Users can lock onto these subjects with advanced AF modes including 3D-tracking, Auto-area AF, Wide-area AF and Dynamic-area AF. Custom wide-area AF patterns allow for the detection and tracking of subjects within a custom designated area. 

Pre-Release Capture up to 120 fps: This powerful feature enables photographers to capture shots that might have otherwise been missed, such as the moment a bird takes flight, a lightning strike or the game-winning goal. A half-press of the shutter-release button starts buffering images, and when the shutter is pressed all the way, the Z6III saves images taken up to one second prior. 

Internal 6K RAW video: The Z6III is capable of capturing 12-bit 6K/60p N-RAW and 6K/30p ProRes RAW, as well as 10-bit 5.4K ProRes 422 and H.265 video formats. The ability to capture super high-resolution video footage affords filmmakers the freedom to crop, trim, track and stabilize a 4K timeline in post with ultimate clarity. Furthermore, filmmakers can take advantage of the Z6III’s maximum video resolution of 6K to create oversampled 4K UHD/60p video footage. The Z6III’s efficient heat-dissipating design allows continuous 4K UHD/60p recording for up to 125 min.

Brightest EVF of any mirrorless camera: At up to 4,000 cd/m2 (nits), the Z6III’s 5,760k-dot electronic viewfinder is the brightest ever in a mirrorless camera, delivering a clear, detailed view even in extremely bright outdoor situations while minimizing viewfinder blackout. In addition to its class-leading brightness and high resolution, the Z6III’s EVF is the first in a mirrorless camera to support a DCI-P3 equivalent colour gamut, which enables photographers and filmmakers to see a more lifelike display of colours.

Dynamic Full HD/240p slow motion: The Z6III can capture dramatic slow-motion footage up to 10× with 10-bit Full HD/240p H.265 video recording.

Amazing low-light ability: The Z6III’s wide native ISO range is from 100-64,000 (51,200 in video) and is expandable to 204,800 for ultra-low-light shooting. The Z6III’s EXPEED 7 image processing engine enables tailored noise reduction, effectively minimizing grainy noise in flat areas of the image while preserving fine details in subjects such as buildings. This results in sharper, clearer images in low-light environments.

8.0 stop Vibration Reduction: Built-in 5-axis image stabilization delivers up to 8.0 stops of Vibration Reduction, empowering photographers and filmmakers to shoot handheld with confidence. Enjoy the creative freedom of slower shutter speeds, while keeping subjects sharp and using lower ISOs. Additionally, the Z6III features Focus Point VR, which prioritizes stabilization on the active focus point. 

Vari-angle LCD screen: The 3.2-inch rear LCD touchscreen can be used as a front-facing screen for video production and self-recording, as well as framing at a low angle.

High-resolution Pixel Shift mode: In Pixel-shift mode, the Z6III’s sensor is subtly shifted across 4, 8, 16, or 32 exposures, for increased colour and detail with an incredibly high resolution of up to approximately 96MP.

Z8-level build quality: The Z6III is constructed from magnesium alloy and Sereebo^® material for maximum durability and light weight. Weighing only 1.67 lbs. with a battery and memory card, the Z6III is sealed against dust and moisture to the same level as the Z8, and is rated for operation down to 14°F/−10°C, making it suitable for use in a wide variety of environments and conditions.

Flexible Colour Picture Controls: The Z6III supports the new Flexible Colour Picture Control feature in NX Studio. Z6III owners can use the software’s powerful Colour Blender and Colour Grading features to create custom presets that can be uploaded to the camera as Custom Picture Controls.

NEW NIKON IMAGING CLOUD 

Nikon Imaging Cloud will be a new complimentary cloud service that expands connectivity and creative options for Z6III owners. Users will be able to browse a suite of curated Imaging Recipes courtesy of Nikon and selected creators, which provide all the ingredients necessary to create amazing images: Suggested camera settings, inspiring insights plus Cloud Picture Control presets that Z6III owners can download straight to their camera. Furthermore, when the Z6III is connected to Nikon Imaging Cloud via Wi-Fi, still images captured with the camera can be automatically uploaded to a range of popular cloud storage services including NIKON IMAGE SPACE, making the storage and sharing of images even more convenient. In addition, Z6III owners will be able to use Nikon Imaging Cloud to keep their camera’s firmware up to date automatically over Wi-Fi, avoiding the need to manually download and install via a memory card.

NEW MB-N14 POWER BATTERY PACK

The MB-N14 (release scheduled for Summer 2024) is an optional power battery pack with an integrated shutter button for the Z6III, Z7II and Z6II. The MB-N14 can hold two EN-EL15c rechargeable Li-ion batteries, allowing users to record approximately 1.9× more stills and extend video shoots. In addition to offering the same dust and drip resistance as the Z6III, the MB-N14 can also be used in conditions as cold as −10°C/14°F, making it extremely useful when shooting for extended periods of time in harsh conditions. What’s more, the MB-N14 is a “hot swap” power battery pack that continues to supply power even when one of the two batteries is removed. A built-in USB connector enables batteries inserted in the MB-N14 to be charged even when the MB-N14 is not attached to the camera.

PRICE AND AVAILABILITY

The new Nikon Z6III will be available in late June for a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $3,399.95* in the body-only configuration, or with the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/4 lens for $4,199.95.*The MB-N14 power battery pack will be available this summer for an MSRP of $479.95.* For more information about the latest Nikon products, including the vast collection of NIKKOR Z lenses and the entire line of Z series cameras, please visit www.nikon.ca

With parts of Canada in the path of Monday’s solar eclipse, many are excited to photograph and/or record it. However, there are important steps you need to take in order to properly protect your equipment, as well as your eyes.

Nikon Canada has a two-part video series available that includes all you need to know to properly (and safely) capture this exciting event:

How to Prepare for The Solar Eclipse – Part 1: 

In this video, Nathan from Nikon will show you what kind of lenses, filter, and other accessories you will need to capture the eclipse.
*Please note there is an option for French captioning for this video under Settings.

A few important considerations from Nikon Canada:

• The solar filter must be placed in FRONT of any telescope, camera lens or mirror.
• It should NEVER be used behind an eyepiece, viewfinder or lens, including any drop-in filters found on lenses.
• Do NOT point the camera at the sun when the lens is NOT protected by a filter that is specifically designed for SOLAR VIEWING.
• Even if you are wearing solar observing glasses, do NOT look through a viewfinder of a camera if the lens is not protected by a solar viewing filter.

You can find additional resources on how to record the eclipse on Nikon.ca here: https://en.nikon.ca/learn-and-explore/s/solar+eclipse.html  

Nikon Canada Inc. announced the release of the NIKKOR Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR, a supremely versatile high-power super-zoom lens for Nikon Z series full-frame/FX-format mirrorless cameras. This latest addition to the expanding line of NIKKOR Z lenses offers the highest zoom ratio in its class, making it a must-have for travel, sports, backyard wildlife and more.

The NIKKOR Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR is a high-magnification zoom lens that covers a broad range of focal lengths — from 28mm to 400mm. Whether up close or far away, from landscapes to distant vistas, users will appreciate the extreme versatility and powerful capabilities of the 14.2× zoom. Although it is a super-telephoto zoom lens with a range up to 400mm, it’s also the lightest in its class, weighing only approximately 1.6 lbs (725 g), making it easy to carry when travelling.

This new lens also has a remarkably close minimum focus distance of only 7.8 in. (0.2 m) at the maximum wide-angle position and 3.9 ft. (1.2 m) at the maximum telephoto position. The maximum reproduction ratio of 0.35x lets users capture close-ups at short distances for food, flowers and animals. When shooting far away, users can fill the frame with their subject and still have a pleasing blurred background.

The NIKKOR Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR uses a stepping motor (STM), which enables fast and quiet autofocusing, allowing rapid focus on moving subjects. The lens also features a vibration-reduction (VR) function with performance equivalent to 5.0 stops, which helps achieve sharp photos and stable video with ease, even when handheld.

Primary features of the NIKKOR Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR

• Covers a broad range of focal lengths — from 28mm to 400mm, with a 14.2× zoom which is a first among NIKKOR Z lenses.
• A minimum focus distance of 0.2 m at the maximum wide-angle position and a maximum reproduction ratio of 0.35× allow users to get closer to their subjects for dynamic expression.
• A total length of approx. 5.57 in. (141.5 mm) and a weight of approx. 1.6lbs (725g) – the lightest lens in its class – make this an easy lens to carry and shoot hand-held. 
• Stable VR performance equivalent to a 5.0-stop increase in shutter speed effectively reduces blurring in dimly lit surroundings and with hand-held shooting. When paired with a compatible camera, Synchro VR can be activated to achieve up to 5.5-stop stabilization⁴ by combining in-camera VR and lens VR.
• Stepping motor (STM) enables high-speed AF drive.
• Support for linear MF drive enables smooth focusing, which is especially useful for video shooting.
• Comes with a compact, square lens hood that combines superior performance and usability.
• Designed to be dust- and drip-resistant with thorough sealing on various portions including movable parts of the lens barrel to keep dust and water droplets from entering the lens.⁵

Price and Availability
The new NIKKOR Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR lens will be available in mid-April for a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $1,699.95. For more information about the latest Nikon products, including the vast collection of NIKKOR Z lenses and the entire line of Z series cameras, please visit www.nikon.ca. 

Nikon has released of firmware version 5.00 for its flagship full-frame/FX-format mirrorless camera, the Nikon Z 9.

Firmware version 5.00 is the fourth major update since the release of the Z 9 and increases usability for sports photography by expanding the Auto Capture and High-Speed Frame Capture+ functions. Portrait photography is also enhanced for more effective capture of the images photographers want, with the Skin Softening and Portrait Impression Balance functions, and Rich Tone Portrait Picture Control that enables rendering of details of the subject’s complexion with rich tones. Furthermore, the evolution of the Z 9 continues with improved operability achieved in response to feedback from professionals requesting increased speed and efficiency.

Nikon will continuously meet users’ needs through firmware updates that expand the functionality of its cameras.

Primary features of firmware version 5.00 for the Z 9

•   Expanded functions for sports photography

• A reserve function that lets users specify the shooting start date/time and duration in advance has been added to Auto Capture. This helps to reduce battery consumption for more efficient shooting, even when the camera must be positioned and configured well before it will actually be used. Auto Capture flexibility has also been increased to allow users to shoot using the DX crop (24×16) image area, and also adds the addition of an [Airplanes] AF subject-detection mode, plus the display of a yellow frame when the camera is in standby for shooting.
• In addition, a low-speed [C15] item has been added to High-Speed Frame Capture+ options for increased usability with continuous shooting. What’s more, frequency presets for common LED lighting and signboards have been added to the High-Frequency Flicker Reduction function, making it easier to choose the optimal shutter speed and efficiently reduce the effects of high-frequency flicker.

•   Enhanced portrait functions

• A Rich Tone Portrait Picture Control suitable for creating base images in situations that require retouching, such as wedding and studio photography, has been added. Also, a variety of functions designed to improve portrait photography, including Portrait Impression Balance and Skin Softening have been incorporated. Further, Nikon offers NIKKOR Z lenses including the NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.2 S, NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.2 S, and NIKKOR Z 135mm f/1.8 S Plena, all of which support the capture of portraits that accurately express the user’s intent.
• Overall convenience has been increased with the ability to use the continuous LED light of the Profoto A10 as an AF-assist illuminator and the addition of a [Prefer focus point (face priority)] option for frame advance when reviewing images displayed with playback zoom enabled.

•   Other features added for enhanced operability

• When [Extended menu banks] is enabled, users can now manage the shooting modes for photo mode and video mode, which were previously linked, separately.
• Visibility is improved with an option that allows the user to adjust the width of the focus point border.
• Manual focusing is now possible with maximum aperture live view in manual focus mode.
• A function that allows the user to cancel zoom when focus mode is set to manual focus and the view through the lens is zoomed in by pressing the shutter-release button halfway has been added.
• High-Res Zoom operability has been improved, and the AF-area brackets display colour when the subject is in focus has been changed from red to green.
• The number of functions that can be assigned to custom controls has been increased, as has the number of controls that can be customized.
• The addition of a [Customize retouch options] item allows the user to choose the functions displayed in the retouch menu.
• [Loop playback], [Wait before playback], and [Auto series playback speed] options have been added for playback of a series of images captured with a burst of continuous shooting.
• Playback speed for all videos can now be specified in advance from the i menu ([Original speed], [1/2× speed], [1/4× speed]).
• Wi-Fi station mode has been added to enable connection to SnapBridge without occupying the entire Wi-Fi connection on a smartphone.

Nikon SnapBridge Update
Nikon SnapBridge is Nikon’s companion Android and iOS app that connects to your camera to automatically download photos and videos and remotely activate the shutter. Now with Ver.2.11.0, SnapBridge adds new functions such as Easy Shooting Setup, which allows users to configure camera shooting settings suited to a particular scene or subject directly from a user’s smart device.

The new Easy Shooting Setup function can be used by tapping [Easy Shooting Setup] in the SnapBridge camera tab, selecting a main subject or situation, and deciding output parameters, such as having a soft out-of-focus background or motion blur. It allows even those who are unsure about camera functions and terms to easily create camera shooting settings that achieve desired results. Settings are applied the moment they’re sent to the camera, allowing users to immediately begin capturing their vision. Easy Shooting Setup also provides tips for available scenes and subjects such as people, landscapes and pets to help users better achieve the intended results. Furthermore, favourite shooting settings can be assigned to one of the user setting positions.

Supported operating systems
Android™ (version 10 or later), iOS (version 15.7 or later)

Cameras that support Ver.2.11.0’s Easy Shooting Setup:
Nikon Z f, Nikon Z 5, Nikon Z fc, Nikon Z 50, and Nikon Z 30

The NX Ready app available in some regions will be discontinued with the release of SnapBridge Ver.2.11.0.

Today Nikon Canada Inc. announced yet another premium super-telephoto lens, the NIKKOR Z 600mm F/6.3 VR S. This latest S-Line prime lens is the newest addition to Nikon’s extremely popular lineup of Phase Fresnel (PF) lenses that deliver big reach in a surprisingly small and lightweight package. 

Wildlife, aviation and motorsport shooters need spontaneous versatility, fast precise focus, and a lens that won’t compromise image quality. The NIKKOR Z 600mm F/6.3 VR S is an S-Line super-telephoto prime lens that is made to be easily handheld. Users can leave the monopod at home, since it is the lightest in its class, and offers superior optical performance and portability with a total length of only 11in (278mm) and weight of approximately 1,390g (3lbs). Furthermore, the lens is designed so that its centre of gravity is positioned closer to the body side, offering optimal balance. This also makes the NIKKOR Z 600mm an ideal lens for panning in situations that require lens control and stability, such as automotive racing, or fast-moving subjects like wild birds in flight.

The use of the PF lens element contributes to a significantly smaller overall size and weight, reducing the need for a tripod. With advanced AF and VR performance as well as S-Line superior rendering quality, the NIKKOR Z 600mm f/6.3 VR S gives users the confidence to get tack-sharp images of fast-moving subjects from a distance. 

Primary features of the NIKKOR Z 600mm F/6.3 VR S

• Handheld shooting is made possible with a total length of approximately 11in (278mm) and weight of approximately 1,390g (3lbs), the lightest in its class.
• Chromatic aberration is significantly reduced with the adoption of PF and ED glass elements. In addition, the adoption of an SR lens element controls short-wavelength light, the effects of which are difficult to correct, achieving highly precise chromatic aberration compensation.
• Nikon’s original Nano Crystal Coat has been adopted to effectively reduce ghost and flare.
• By using the Z TELECONVERTER TC-1.4× or Z TELECONVERTER TC-2.0× the telephoto range can be expanded to 840mm or 1200mm respectively, while taking advantage of the lens’s AF and VR performance to realize superior sharpness and clarity.
• Equipped with Normal VR mode, which demonstrates superior 5.5-stop stabilization; as well as Sport VR mode, which stabilizes the viewfinder display with continuous shooting, making it easier to track rapidly moving subjects.
• When paired with a compatible body, Synchro VR can be activated to achieve up to 6.0-stop stabilization by combining in-camera VR and lens VR.
• Adoption of a stepping motor (STM) ensures fast and quiet autofocusing.
• Superior dust- and drip-resistant performance is supported, and excellent anti-fouling performance is achieved through the adoption of fluorine coat.
• Equipped with four lens Fn2 buttons and one lens Fn button that can be customized and assigned to a wide variety of functions.
• Equipped with a memory recall functio⁵ that instantly recalls a focus position stored in advance by pressing the button to which the function has been assigned.  A design that takes video recording into consideration with quiet operation and stable exposure, as well as functions including focus-breathing suppression that effectively reduces shifting of the angle of view with focusing.

Price and Availability

The new NIKKOR Z 600mm F/6.3 VR S will be available in late October for a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $6,499.95.  For more information about the latest Nikon products, including the vast collection of NIKKOR Z lenses and the entire line of Z series cameras, please visit  www.nikon.ca.

Today Nikon Canada Inc. announced the release of the NIKKOR Z 135mm f/1.8 S Plena, an impressively unique lens for Nikon Z series mirrorless cameras. This new mid-telephoto prime lens bestows astonishingly high resolution, edge-to-edge brightness, incredible sharpness and spectacularly dramatic bokeh, all while elevating the threshold of what’s possible with optical technology. 

The name “Plena” is derived from the Latin term plenum, which denotes the state of a space being completely full. This name was chosen to reflect the lens’s ability to fulfill the user’s creative vision with superior light gathering capability, beautiful, well-rounded bokeh and outstanding sharpness and clarity throughout the frame. Following in the footsteps of the NIKKOR Z 58mm f/0.95 S Noct, this distinctively brilliant portrait prime is only the second Nikon lens to be granted a dedicated name, with the hope that it will be highly regarded by users for many years to come.

This truly special optic is engineered with a focus on superior peripheral illumination, which is the ability to deliver the maximum amount of light to the far edges of the frame. The result is abundant brightness from edge-to-edge, with clear, bright subject distinction throughout. The combination of brightness, bokeh quality and extreme sharpness makes for vibrant images with a mystical pop of three dimensionality. The NIKKOR Z 135mm f/1.8 S Plena is part of the S-Line¹and takes advantage of the Z mount system’s large-diameter mount, which unlocks further possibilities of lens design, as well as the potential for light gathering. 

In addition to enhanced brightness, the optical formula and larger rear element helps to realize beautiful, well-rounded bokeh throughout the entire frame, even from maximum aperture. The NIKKOR Z 135mm f/1.8 S Plena also affords users outstanding sharpness and clarity, regardless of the shooting distance with a close minimum focusing distance of only 0.82 m/2.69 ft. This enables a fantastic dreamlike expression that combines delicate textures and beautiful bokeh in portraits, landscapes and more. 

The lens’s luxurious exterior design is intended to match its superior optical performance. Along with the adoption of metal components, the lens features an engraved “Plena” logo similar to the cursive font and yellow colour of the Noct logo. Additional features include a fully weather-sealed body for durability and the addition of two L-Fn buttons for customization. 

Primary Features of the NIKKOR Z 135mm f/1.8 S Plena

• Beautiful, well-rounded bokeh is achieved throughout the entire frame, while supporting a fast f/1.8 maximum aperture. 
• Eleven-blade diaphragm and larger rear element contribute to exceptionally circular bokeh for dreamlike expression that accentuates the three-dimensionality of the subject with smooth gradation. 
• The large amount of peripheral light at the f/1.8 maximum aperture ensures a consistently bright image all the way to the extreme corners of the frame for a sense of transparency and brilliance in images.
• The outstanding sharpness and clarity, characteristic of S-Line lenses, enables rendering of the finest textures in hair and skin tones, while excellent point-light reproduction capabilities achieve brilliant night and urban landscape imagery. 
• A multi-focusing system uses stepping motors (STMs) for fast, accurate and quiet autofocus drive for still images and video.
• In addition to Meso Amorphous Coat, the most effective anti-reflection coating in Nikon history that prevents reflections regardless of the direction from which light enters the lens, Nikon’s original ARNEO Coat is also used to effectively reduce instances of ghosting and flaring.
• Optical construction consists of 16 elements in 14 groups, with four ED elements, one aspherical element and one SR lens element. 
• A design that takes video recording into consideration with quiet operation and stable exposure.
• The lens body features two lens Fn buttons, to which a wide variety of functions can be assigned. One is positioned on the top of the lens enabling smooth adjustment of settings even when shooting in vertical orientation.
• The versatile 82mm filter attachment size enables the use of various lens filters designed to satisfy users’ creative intent.
• Designed to achieve superior dust and drip-resistant performance². 
• Well balanced with a dimension of 3.9″x 5.5″, and a weight of 2.2 lbs /995 g. 

Price and Availability

The new NIKKOR Z 135mm f/1.8 S Plena will be available in late October for a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $3,399.95. For more information about the latest Nikon products, including the vast collection of NIKKOR Z lenses and the entire line of Z series cameras, please visit www.nikon.ca

Today Nikon Canada Inc. announced the release of the Z f, a full-frame mirrorless camera that harmonizes a timeless aesthetic with the best of Nikon’s next-gen camera technology, derived directly from the acclaimed Z 8 and flagship Z 9. At first glance, the Z f is a definitive statement in functional design that ignites the desire to craft an image. Looking closer, it’s a veritable powerhouse of modern performance fueled by the EXPEED 7 processing engine that enables an enhanced AF system, impressive speed and astounding low-light capability. The new processing power also adds incredible new features such as pixel-shift shooting, the most advanced in-body stabilization of any Z series camera, plus the addition of a dedicated monochrome mode.

Technology Forward

The Z f is equipped with the EXPEED 7 image-processing engine, enhancing response time, burst speed and AF performance, while adding new features to create an entirely new category of Z series full-frame mirrorless. The 24.5-megapixel full-frame BSI CMOS sensor effortlessly captures stunning colors and incredible definition with minimal noise and stellar dynamic range, even in challenging light. This well-balanced sensor is paired with an AF system that offers 3D Tracking plus subject detection developed with Deep Learning technology, detecting and locking on to nine different types of subjects. Similar to the Nikon Z 8, the camera finds people, dogs, cats, birds, cars, motorcycles, bicycles, trains and planes. It can even detect the world’s smallest size of a face in the frame — approximately three per cent of the frame’s longest side. The AF system uses 299 AF points in Auto Area AF, covering 96 per cent of the horizontal axis of the frame, making it easy to lock on and track a subject, even near the edge of the viewfinder. When the inspiration hits to go fully manual, the Z f uses Eye/Face-Detection in MF mode, recognizing the eye and allowing users to magnify the area on the screen to nail critical focus. 

With the additional processing power, the Z f achieves five-axis in-camera vibration reduction (VR) image stabilization equivalent to an 8.0-stop increase in shutter speed, the best among Nikon Z series cameras. The Z f is also the world’s first camera to support focus-point VR, which minimizes blurring at the focus point rather than the centre of the frame, even when the subject is positioned near the edge of the viewfinder. The camera is also capable of high-speed continuous shooting at approximately 14 frames per second, or up to 30 frames per second, when High-Speed Frame Capture+ (C30) is set. To ensure no shot is missed, the camera is also capable of using the Pre-Release function to start recording before the shutter is fully pressed. What’s more, the additional processing power in combination with the BSI sensor improves low-light performance, raising the standard ISO range from 100 to 64,000. In challenging light, even fine details and textures come out sharp and clear with rich saturation, while mid-tones, where noise tends to increase, come out much cleaner than before.

For those who want the ultimate in fidelity while reducing moiré, false colours and noise for immersive depth, the Z f is the first Nikon camera capable of pixel-shift shooting to create images up to 96 megapixels. Ideal for landscape, architecture and commercial artists, the system works by subtly shifting the image sensor position when capturing between 4, 8, 16 or 32 RAW (NEF) files, acquiring more accurate colour information and massive resolution.

Forever Iconic 

The heart of the Z f is “fusion” — an idea embedded in the name while paying homage to important models through Nikon’s history. It represents the fusion of past, present and future. With an iconic exterior design reminiscent of the FM2, the Z f links Nikon’s heritage of innovation and precision craftsmanship. The magnesium-alloy body is durable and features a glossy finish, which is adorned with a classic Nikon logo. The characters on the mechanical dials for shutter speed, ISO and exposure compensation are all etched, and provide the user with satisfying tactile response, while the feel of the shutter-release button was given meticulous consideration.

Black and white capture is an ageless medium, one that lets the user see a different perspective and explore the principles of light in new ways. The Z f includes a physical switch to engage a dedicated B&W photo mode, which enables multiple monochromatic Picture Controls. In addition to the sharp, dynamic and higher-contrast “Monochrome” mode in Picture Control, the new “Flat Monochrome” mode reproduces tones with a smooth gradation from shadow to light, rich in mid-tones for a warm, soft impression. The new “Deep Tone Monochrome” mode expresses high-contrast and highlights by bringing more emphasis to dark tones, keeping mid-tones dark and with fewer blocked shadows. 

Primary features of the Z f

• Full-frame 24.5-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor combined with the new EXPEED 7 Processing engine for amazing fidelity and image quality paired with stellar processing power.
• Excellent AF tracking capability with 3D-tracking mode for photographers and dedicated Subject-tracking AF in video mode.
• With up to 299 points in Auto-area AF, the range of coverage and number of focus points used in Auto-area AF mode have been increased for better focus acquisition performance with distant or moving subjects. 
• The first full-frame Z-series mirrorless camera to be equipped with a vari-angle touchscreen monitor.
• Starlight view modeboosts display brightness for users to visually confirm composition in extremely dark scenes. It also achieves sharp focus with the low-light limit extendable down to -10 EV.
• Video frame rates and resolutions up to 4K UHD 30 oversampled from 6K, as well as 4KUHD 60P (DX-mode) and 1080/120P with recording times up to 125 minutes.
• The first Nikon camera to feature video recording in shutter-priority auto mode, letting the user select the shutter speed, while the camera adjusts the aperture and ISO.
• In-camera, 10-bit H.265 recording, allowing users to record full-scale video directly to the camera without the need for an external recorder. 
• The first Z-series camera to support Touch Fn for adjustment of camera settings while framing pictures in the viewfinder. The user is now able to move the focus point via the LCD screen while looking through the viewfinder. 
• Supports the merging of NEF (RAW) images shot with pixel shift shooting to create a highly detailed image up to 96 megapixels.
• Fast shooting, with up 14 fps bursts plus High-Speed Frame Capture+ (C30), which achieves high-speed continuous shooting at up to 30 fps. Pre-Release Capture is also available, buffering the images before the shutter is fully depressed.
• Advanced features for dedicated portrait photographers include the skin softening function and a portrait impression balance functionfor users to better achieve the portraits they intended. Rich Tone Portrait Picture Control is a new setting that better captures details of the subject’s complexion.
• Equipped with two memory card slots, one compatible with widely available UHS II SD cards and the other compatible with Micro SD cards.
• Rugged and reliable construction, with magnesium alloy on the front and top covers for maximum durability with minimal weight. The camera is engineered with high dust- and drip-resistance, effective sealing on the exterior cover joints, shutter-release button and vari-angle mechanism. Additionally, the Z f has an electro-conductive coat that keeps the surface clean from dust and a fluorine coat that makes for easier cleaning. 

In addition to the basic black body, the Z f lets users express their own style through six different colour options. These premium exteriors render the embossed artificial leather sections of the camera — covering the grip and all around to the rear of the folding camera monitor — in three rich, expressive standard colours (Indigo Blue, Sepia Brown, Bordeaux Red) and three deep, warm natural colours (Sunset Orange, Moss Green, Stone Gray), rendered with individually matching surface textures. These colours will be sold in limited quantity exclusively through the Nikon Store.

Price and Availability

The new Nikon Z f will be available in October 2023 for a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $2,699.95 for the body only. Additional kit configurations will also be available with the retro-styled NIKKOR Z 40mm f/2.0 SE for an MSRP of $3,029.95, or with a NIKKOR Z 24-70mm F/4 S lens for an MSRP of $3,499.95. The additional colour options will be available as body-only for an MSRP of $2,829.95 exclusively from the Nikon Store. Nikon is working with SmallRig to develop a custom grip bracket, which will be available at a later date. For more information about the latest Nikon products, including the vast collection of NIKKOR Z lenses and the entire collection of Z series cameras, please visit  www.nikon.ca.