New Key Features for Z 9 Firmware Version 2.0:
- N-RAW Video Recording up to 8.3K/60p and 4.1K/120p.
- 4K/60p ProRes RAW
- Pre-Release Capture
- New Custom Wide Area AF with 20 selectable options in stills, 12 selectable options in video.EVF 120fps Refresh Rate Mode
RAW Video:
Evolution of video features such as RAW video internal recording in 12-bit 8.3K/60p
The Z 9 is now capable of recording RAW video in two different 12-bit RAW video formats — N-RAW and ProRes RAW HQ3.
The new format, Nikon's proprietary N-RAW, offers recording with a file size approximately half that of ProRes RAW HQ, providing longer recording time. It supports up to 8.3K/60p and 4.1K/120p when shooting in the FX-based video format. Up to 4.1K/60p can be supported in the FX-based video format with ProRes RAW HQ. A Full-HD mp4 proxy file suitable for transfer and editing is generated at the same time as RAW video file generation in either format. Record a video on a compact system without an external recording device attached and achieve full-scale editing by taking advantage of rich 12-bit tonal gradation utilising video editing software4. Other new features include a variety of useful video functions, such as recording in high-resolution 4K UHD/60p oversampled from 8K.
Pre-Release Capture:
The version update introduces the Pre-Release Capture for the first time in a full-frame mirrorless camera.
This new feature prevents photographers from missing decisive moments by recording for up to a second before the shutter-release button is pressed all the way down during High-Speed Frame Capture+. For instance, users can capture the moment when a baseball bat hits a ball even when pressing the button all the way down after seeing the batter hit the ball while half pressing the button.
New AF modes:
Improved AF performance, including Custom Wide-Area AF with 20 options
The updated firmware adds Custom Wide-Area AF, which is similar to the Custom Group-Area AF that is highly evaluated with the D6. The pattern of AF area arrangement is selectable from 20 options for stills and 12 for videos, realizing the capture of main subjects in a wide range of scenes. Since it also supports subject detection, you can nail the decisive moment with perfect focus on an athlete behind obstacles in hurdling, for example, by setting the AF area to the upper half of the frame. Also, through reassessment of the algorithm, AF stability, tracking performance, and subject detection in low-light situations have been enhanced.