Nikon debuts Z fc camera with classic design

GaryPageau ,
Nikon Z fc

Nikon announced the Z fc, a DX-format camera combining mirrorless technology with classic design. Nikon has also announced two stylized lenses to complement the compact nature and aesthetic of the camera, plus additional NIKKOR Z lenses coming this year.

The Z fc is a distinctly designed camera, inspired by the classic Nikon FM2 film SLR. The compact and lightweight camera gives enthusiasts and casual photographers alike the option to explore their creativity and go fully automatic or manual with mechanical dials for shutter speed, ISO and exposure compensation. The exterior of the camera is wrapped in a leather-tone material,, with intricate details like carved aluminum dials, engraved lettering and a circular eyepiece surrounding the bright electronic viewfinder.

The Vari-Angle touchscreen LCD flips out to face the user and automatically adjusts for self-portraits, working on a tripod or holding at waist level for creative angles.

The 20.9-MP CMOS sensor is paired with the EXPEED 6 engine.

Other highlights:

  • The 209-point hybrid AF system recognizes approximately 87% of the frame horizontally and 85% vertically for precise focusing and tracking throughout more of the frame. Rapid Eye-Detection AF for people and animals enables users to sharply capture the eyes of people and pets, even when they’re moving. Eye-Detection AF is also now available in the wide-area AF (L) mode, making it easy to select the area to prioritize focus.
  • The Z fc features 4K UHD video and a variety of frame rates. Focus is rapid yet smooth, with full-time AF that locks onto eyes and faces in the frame.
  • When connected via USB-C, the camera receives power, giving the ability to operate the camera continuously, which is beneficial for streaming, video production, timelapse creation and more. The Nikon Webcam Utility is available as a free download for all users of the Z fc and many other Nikon cameras.
  • The classic design is built with a lightweight magnesium alloy frame with consideration to dust and drip resistance.
  • In addition to the retro black and silver, the Z fc will be available in six additional color options to vibe with any personal style; white, coral pink, mint green, sand beige, amber brown, and natural gray.

More NIKKOR Z Lenses

Nikon is releasing a variety of small, high-performance FX and DX-format lenses:

  • NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR: This is a stylized version of Nikon’s smallest lens, created with a satin silver finish to complement the Z fc. It’s an ultra-thin DX-format lens with a convenient wide-to-standard zoom range from 16mm to 50mm (24-75mm equivalent). It serves as a great walk-around lens for a wide variety of scenes ranging from landscapes, snaps, and portraits to tabletop photos.
  • NIKKOR Z 28mm f/2.8 (SE): The NIKKOR Z 28mm f/2.8 (SE) will be first released as a special edition lens for the Z fc. This is the lightest FX lens yet, with a design inspired by classic NIKKOR glass to match the Z fc’s unique finish. The lens offers a standard angle of view (42mm-equivalent when attached to a DX body). A standard edition of this lens is planned to be available within the year, along with the 40mm f/2.0 compact prime that is currently in development
  • Development of NIKKOR Z DX 18-140mm f/3.5-6.3 VR: Nikon is developing the NIKKOR Z DX 18-140mm f/3.5-6.3 VR, a high-power 7.8x zoom lens for APS-C format (Nikon DX-format) mirrorless cameras. The lens is scheduled for release in 2021.