Improvements in [birds] subject detection options and additions for video functions have been incorporated for the full-frame/FX-format mirrorless camera.

TOKYO – Nikon Corporation (Nikon) releases its first major firmware upgrade for the Nikon Z 8, its full-frame/FX-format mirrorless camera. The newly released firmware version 2.00 includes updates to photo and video features in the latest Nikon cameras, including the mirrorless flagship Nikon Z 9 and Nikon Z f.

Bird photography is all about being mindful of the process of capturing your subjects in their natural environment. That’s why bird photography enthusiasts will appreciate the addition of a new dedicated [birds] mode to the Z 8’s autofocus (AF) subject-detection options, which improves overall AF detection and tracking of birds compared to modes like [auto] and [animal]. 

This mode allows users of the Nikon Z 8 to increase subject detection and improved AF performance when shooting against complicated and high-contrast backgrounds such as forests and rocky mountains. It also enables users to better detect birds, whether they are perched, in flight, or possess a unique appearance.

The firmware upgrade adds the Auto Capture function, which automatically shoots stills and video when the subject meets the user’s configured criteria. Users can choose from three settings to be used separately or in combination; [Motion] detects subjects moving in a set direction; [Distance]¹ starts shooting when the subject is within a certain range or distance; and [Subject detection], which detects people, animals, vehicles, or aeroplanes within the frame. In addition, Auto Capture is available when users shoot with a DX lens, or the image area is set to DX. 

The upgrade also includes the pixel-shift shooting function, which enables users to capture subjects with the finest of details such as buildings, art pieces, and insects, with precise rendering of the subject’s colours, textures, and structures. This function allows the creation of high-resolution photos by using dedicated software to merge multiple NEF (RAW) files recorded with the camera mounted on a tripod or otherwise stabilised. 

Users can explore portrait photography to the fullest with the addition of the Rich Tone Portrait Picture Control. Imagine portraits with rich tonality that express skin details while minimising white clipping. Since the subject’s skin details are preserved, this feature is ideal for creating a base image for retouching and enhancements in situations such as weddings and studio photography. Users can capture their desired shots when combined with Nikon’s functions, such as portrait impression balance and skin softening. 

Together with portrait photography functions such as portrait impression balance and skin softening, this firmware upgrade works well with NIKKOR Z lenses popular for portraiture, including the NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.2 S, NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.2 S, and the NIKKOR Z 135mm f/1.8 S Plena.

Other enhancements and functions in the Nikon Z 8 firmware upgrade version 2.00 include:

• Increased number of functions and operations can be assigned to custom control
• A function that allows users to exit zoom with a half-press of the shutter-release button when focus mode is set to manual focus
• An option that allows users to choose the width of the focus-point borders
• An option that allows users to choose not to record shooting orientation information in the image’s EXIF data
• A new [Prefer focus point (Face priority)] option that centres the display on a face when detected while scrolling through photos during playback zoom 
• UltraSync BLUE, an ATOMOS AirGlu accessory, can be connected via Bluetooth when the MC-N10 Remote Grip is attached to the camera

Firmware Ver 2.00 will be made available at the Nikon Download Center on February 7, 2024.