Nikon debuts Z 5, an FX format camera, a lens and two teleconverters

Nikon Inc. announced the Z 5, a full-frame (FX-format) entry-level Z-series mirrorless camera. The company says the  Nikon Z 5 combines features inherited from the Z 7 and Z 6 with the benefits of Nikon’s Z mount. The camera, whose body will have a $1,399.95 MSRP, is intended t be an entry-level entry For those new to mirrorless or creators looking to push the limits of their craft with the power of full-frame, the compact Z 5 will exceed expectations. With an incredibly robust feature set, including in-camera vibration reduction (VR) image stabilization (IBIS) and the perfect balance of seamless automation and full manual control, creators can effortlessly share their artistic passions, travel adventures and so much more.

Nikon also unveiled the new NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3, the shortest, lightest and most affordable full-frame zoom lens in the NIKKOR Z lineup. Designed for on-the-go creators, the 24-50mm lens is the ideal companion for Z series users who want to capture it all – from vast landscapes and cityscapes, to street photography and striking portraits.

The Nikon Z 5 will be available in August in several configurations, including body-only for a suggested retail price (SRP) of $1,399.95, a one-lens kit with the new NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 for an SRP of $1,699.95 and a one-lens kit with the NIKKOR Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR lens for an SRP of $2,199.95 for those seeking extra reach when photographing wildlife or travel adventures. Also available in August, the NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 lens can be purchased separately for an SRP of $399.95. The new Z TELECONVERTER TC-1.4X and TC-2.0X will have an SRP of $549.95 and $599.95 respectively and will be available in late August.

“The Nikon Z 5 offers the next generation of creators a gateway into the full-frame Z series lineup, opening the door to the limitless possibilities of mirrorless photo and video capture, while providing the means to share their creativity with others,” said Jay Vannatter, Executive Vice President, Nikon Inc. “With the addition of the NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3, Nikon is introducing the smallest full-frame NIKKOR Z lens to date, providing an extremely lightweight, versatile option to help users pursue all creative endeavors, regardless of which Z series camera they use.”

The Nikon Z 5 has an FX-format 24.3-megapixel CMOS sensor, EXPEED 6 processor, low-light performance up to 51,200 ISO, shutter speeds up to 1/8000, dual UHS-II SD card slots and In-Body 5-Axis VR stabilization. The Z 5 records up to 4K UHD/30p2 or in 1080/60p (full-frame). The Z 5 has2731 on-sensor AF points, to quickly and accurately track subjects throughout the frame, while Eye-Detection AF capabilities help precisely capture the eyes of humans and animals. The camera also has 20 Creative Picture Controls, and advanced features like Focus Shift Shooting and multiple exposure mode.

The camera body has a high-resolution 3.2-inch LCD monitor with the capabilities to tilt, touch, tap, swipe, and pinch. Meanwhile, the 3.6M-dot Quad-VGA EVF ensures users can see exposure, ISO, white balance and creative picture controls in real-time. When connected via the USB-C cord, the Z 5 can be used as a webcam.

NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 lens and teleconverters

The NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 is the newest addition to the NIKKOR Z lineup and is the smallest FX-format NIKKOR Z lens yet. The 24-50mm is less than three inches long when retracted. Nikon also debuted Z TELECONVERTER TC-1.4X and Z TELECONVERTER TC-2.0X bring added versatility with 1.4x and 2.0x magnification to select NIKKOR Z lenses. The company claims TC-1.4X and TC-2.0X teleconverters maintain superior rendering performance and minimize various lens aberrations while retaining the focusing speed, VR functionality, and minimum focusing distance.

New Webcam Utility Software for Nikon Cameras

In August, Nikon will release a beta version of the Webcam Utility software for many Nikon DSLR and Z series mirrorless cameras. Initially available for Windows 10, the free software will allow compatible Nikon cameras to be used as webcams. When connected via USB, this free software will provide users with incredible sharpness, clarity and flattering depth of field for all of their livestreaming needs including teleconferencing and gaming.