Nikon Launches the Initial Significant Firmware Upgrade for the Z8
Nikon is enhancing the Z8 mirrorless camera, which was named PetaPixel’s 2023 Camera of the Year, with firmware version 2.0. This upgrade, available for free, includes many features and improvements for still-image and video capture, as well as enhanced workflow.
The list of improvements is substantial and demonstrates Nikon’s ongoing efforts to keep its cameras feeling fresh over time. This specific upgrade is not as significant as the initial one that the Nikon Z9 received in 2022, but it is still fairly considerable.
Main Changes in Z8 Firmware Version 2.0
The initial significant upgrade is a specialised autofocus feature for birds that was initially introduced on the Z9. Nikon claims that this enhances the camera’s ability to recognise birds in various scenarios.
“Furthermore, Nikon assures that this feature enhances the ability to detect birds in different situations, such as when they are flying, perched, or have distinctive appearances. It also improves detection, tracking, and autofocus performance, particularly in challenging backgrounds like forests and mountains.”
The Z8 will also have Auto Capture, a feature that was introduced to the Z9 last year. It allows for the automatic capture of photos and videos when the subject fulfils one or more pre-set conditions.
“Nikon explains that there are three criteria that can be adjusted: an option for detecting subjects that move in a specific direction, an option for starting shooting when a subject is within a certain distance range, and an option for detecting people, animals, vehicles, or aeroplanes within the frame.”
The update now includes Pixel Shift shooting, which enables photographers to generate a high-resolution image by combining numerous RAW files. This feature necessitates the use of a tripod or some means of stabilisation, together with Nikon’s NX Studio computer software.
Nikon also includes its Rich Tone Portrait Picture Control, which it says produces “rich tones” while preserving skin detail.
“This Picture Control is perfect for creating a basic image in situations where retouching is expected, like weddings and studio photography,” Nikon states, along with the range of additional features provided for portrait shooting, such as portrait impression balance and skin softening.
Furthermore, firmware version 2.0 includes the following extra improvements to usability and performance:
The number of functions and operations that can be applied to a custom control has grown.
A new feature has been included that allows users to exit Zoom by partially pressing the shutter-release button when the focus setting is set to manual focus.
There are additional choices for the sound and volume of the shutter.
A feature has been included that enables users to select the thickness of focus-point borders.
A new feature has been added that gives users the choice to exclude shooting orientation information from being recorded in image EXIF data.
A new option called “Prefer focus point (face priority)” has been included. This option automatically centres the display on a detected face when scrolling through photographs during playback zoom.
The update is complimentary and accessible for download today.
NX Tether is Also Being Upgraded to Version 2.0
Furthermore, Nikon also made modifications to its NX Tether software to improve the functionality of shooting tethered with a Nikon camera. Furthermore, NX Tether 2.0 has enhancements to the user interface and adds the ability to take both photos and videos, along with a comprehensive live-view display. It also offers control over shooting settings that are specific to Nikon, like Picture Control and Active D-Lighting.
NX Tether 2.0 additionally enables users to choose the image format (JPEG, RAW, or HEIF). Additionally, while recording to both card slots (RAW + JPEG or HEIF), photographers have the option to transfer either the JPEG or HEIF images to the computer. The Z8 and Z9 allow for wireless control by utilising the camera’s built-in WiFi to establish a connection through Nikon’s Wireless Transmitter Utility software.
The NX Tether Version 2.0, which is free, is available on Nikon’s website. The website also provides a detailed explanation of the new features, as well as a list of the operating systems and cameras that are supported.
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