Nikon ZR 6K Cinema Camera overview

By combining RED color science and Nikon engineering, the Nikon ZR 6K Cinema Camera is a first-of-its-kind powerhouse designed to capture stunning cinematic images in one compact body. This tiny Z-mount cinema camera allows you to use a variety of lenses, and internal stabilization provides a smooth, steady image with 15+ stops of dynamic range. Features include 32-bit float audio, advanced autofocus, dual-base ISO, and up to 6K60 video capture in REDCODE, N-RAW, or ProRes RAW.

NOTE: The ZR features a “free-floating” IBIS sensor, and you may hear it “rattle” when the camera is not turned on. This is a normal occurrence. The sensor locks into place when the camera turns on and the stabilization function is enabled.

Nikon + RED Color Science

The partnership of Nikon and RED provides a wide range of compatibility with production workflows, offering REDCODE RAW R3D NE recording format along with Nikon’s N-RAW, ProRes RAW HQ/422 HQ, and the high-quality compressed H.264 and H.265 codecs. REDCODE RAW (R3D NE) unlocks the same color space (REDWideGamutRGB) and Log curve (Log3G10) as RED cameras.

The camera captures resolutions up to 6K60, 4K120, and even 1080p240 for high frame rate, slow-motion recording.

Audio Capture

The ZR captures high-quality audio using dynamic 32-bit float and 24-bit recording, and it supports standard 48 kHz linear PCM for full video compatibility.

It features built-in configurable mics with five directional patterns (front/narrow, front, rear, omnidirectional, and binaural). There’s also a line input that provides the ability to record with an external microphone, and the camera’s digital accessory shoe that can utilize mics such as the ME-D10 shotgun mic. A headphone jack allows you to monitor the audio.

Recording and Output

The camera records to a CFexpress Type B card slot that is accessed through the battery door to keep the camera compact and mobile, while a microSD card slot is available for proxy recording. There is also a micro-HDMI output that allows you to output to a display or recording device.

Advanced Autofocus

Nikon’s advanced autofocus feature is powered by deep learning, providing up to 9-subject detection autofocus with automatic tracking of people, animals, and vehicles.

Nikon Z Mount and Accessory Ecosystem

The Nikon Z mount is a wide, shallow full-frame mirrorless lens mount, which means it’s also extremely adaptable, capable of supporting countless NIKKOR and third-party lenses.

There’s an extended ecosystem of accessories for the ZR, such as camera cages, microphones, handheld accessories, and rigs, from Nikon and third-party brands such as SmallRig.

Large, Bright Display

The built-in 4″ variable-angle touchscreen display features a DCI-P3 color gamut, 1000 cd/m² brightness, and a 3.07 million dot resolution for viewing your controls and footage with ease.

The display can automatically flip when you change from horizontal to vertical mode.

Custom LUTs

The camera provides the ability for the operator to load up to 10 LUTs into the camera for real-time preview on its display.

Lenses and Image Stabilization

The standard Z lens mount allows you to utilize the entire line of NIKKOR Z lenses and a wide range of third-party lenses and lens mount adapters.

The ZR provides integrated image stabilization with any prime or zoom lens at up to 7.5 stops to provide smooth, steady image capture.

Dual-Base ISO and Shutter Angle

The ZR provides extended ISO sensitivity to the base ISO with its dual-base ISO, providing 800/6400 for both Log3G10 and N-Log profiles.

You can also set the shutter angle to one of 15 steps between 5.6 and 360° for powerful exposure and blur control.

Frame.io Integration

The camera’s companion app allows you to streamline your workflow by connecting the camera to your phone and utilizing the optional Frame.io cloud service, making asset control, post production, and live streaming easy.

Filmmaker-Oriented User Interface

The ZR allows you to get started quickly with an accessible stills/video switch and multiple customizable Fn buttons.

The interface features a shortcut menu for easy access to key filmmaking settings such as grids, zebra, waveform, touch autofocus, focus peaking, and numerous other imaging tools.

Power Options

The camera is powered via one EN-EL15c battery in its battery slot, or it can be powered via USB-C using an external power source such as an optional power supply or power bank.

Ultracompact Design

This tiny camera is the size of a small mirrorless camera but packs in cinema camera technology.

Take the camera into the field, mount it onto a vehicle, stabilize it on a gimbal, or perform steadycam, drone, or POV shots – it’s lightweight enough to perform just about anywhere.