- Firmware 2.0 for Nikon Full-Rame Mirrorless in Nikon is now available for download
- Add a free improvement tour, including detection of bird subjects for autofocus
- We called ZF a “retro delight” in our September 2023 review
Nikon triggered its first major update of the firmware for the camera without mirror Nikon ZF, adding new functions inherited from other models such as the Nikon Z9 and Nikon Z6 III headlight.
The firmware update 2.0 overflows with four main features. The first is a new mode of recognition of the subjects of birds dedicated to the autofocus. Previously, users who are trying to shoot birds should rely on ZF animal or automobile modes, and the new mode should considerably improve the precision and speed of automatic focus and monitoring performance compared to them.
Although we do not think that many devoted wild photographers would have bought the retro style ZF with prominent bird fire in their plans (it is more suitable for street trips or photography, perhaps), it is certainly a practical functionality to have in its locker.
The second major upgrade is added to the management of Nikon Hi-Res video mode. Introduced with the Nikon Z9, this mode is available during the shooting of the 1080p video and allows users to zoom up to 2x on a subject digitally without loss of resolution – because a complete 1080p resolution section of the image sensor is always used. It is definitely an upgrade on the standard digital zoom and with loss.
A boost for manual concentration users
Third, there is a treat for those who like to use manual focusing objectives with their ZF: an improvement in the magnification function of the focus. Its maximum magnification has been increased to 400% compared to its previous 200% limit and users can now remove it from the display or viewfinder by half pressing the shutter button, which will allow them to see the entire composition of their shooting.
Those who use manual shooting will now also be able to adjust ISO and exposure compensation using control dials and manually record the opening parameter when using a lens which does not normally communicate with the ZF.
Finally, there is now a care of Nikon Imaging Cloud, which means that ZF users will now be able to automatically download images directly from the camera to company’s cloud storage via Wi-Fi. This will even work with third-party cloud services such as Lightroom or Google Drive, pushing downloads directly and automatically on your favorite platform. In addition, Nikon Imaging Cloud can be used to hold the updated firmware to the latest version and to access and download additional colored profiles, including creative recipes.
The firmware 2.0 update all sounds like a potential set of game change features for ZF users, and it is available for free download at the Nikon website. Have you ever tried it? If this is the case, we are impatient to know your reflections in the comments below.
