Nikon announced an “unprecedented imaging experience”, revealing that it is developing the flagship Z9 camera without a mirror. The camera will feature a newly developed FX format stacked CMOS sensor, a new processor and support for 8K video.
Nikon shared few details about the camera other than a front view and some vague discussion points. That said, it is part of the course for Nikon development announcements (the development of the D6 was announced in a similar way).
The company is saying it promises that the Z9 will bring together Nikon’s suite of “innovative technologies” to deliver “the best static and video performance in Nikon’s history”. The camera is said to meet the most advanced needs of professions in a wide variety of photographic genres. As mentioned, it will use a newly developed stacked CMOS sensor, a new image processing engine and the ability to record 8K.
Nikon mentioned that 8K will be just as much as it can record and mentioned that it will offer several other video specifications to “meet a variety of needs and workflows”. This echoes a recent interview with a Nikon executive who promised that the Z main camera would offer video recorders a wide range of options.
“The Z9 incorporates the ultimate in usability as a tool,” writes Nikon. “Offering users an unprecedented imaging experience, from capture to workflow, exceeding the previous digital SLR and mirrorless cameras.”
As seen above, the Z9 will use the integrated wrist style body, a favorite among some professionals because the format allows for a uniform photography experience, regardless of orientation.
Nikon did not provide further details, including an expected timeline for its launch.
Earlier today, Nikon Rumors posted a very long list of features expected for the Z9, including the name of the new camera. The rumor also claimed that the camera was tested with a range of different megapixel sensors from 45 megapixels to a 60 megapixel version. Other rumored features include 20 frames per second via an EVF without blackout (such as the Sony Alpha 1 and Alpha 9 series), a 16-bit RAW option, improved noise levels, a new user interface and improved and better noise levels dynamic range. Nikon Rumors says the camera will be tested at the Tokyo Olympics and should be released in the fall of 2021.