The Nikon Z 9 is a full-frame mirrorless interchangeable lens camera. It was announced on the 28th of October 2021 and released on the 24th of December 2021. It is the best and most advanced Nikon camera yet.
Thus, the Z 9 sports world-class features and functions that are also world firsts, and it is the first flagship full-frame camera without a mechanical shutter. It is also the first Nikon Z series mirrorless digital camera to support internal 8K video recording at 60 frames per second in 12-bit N-RAW, 3D-tracking and an integrated vertical grip.
The Nikon Z 9 has won several awards, including the EISA Camera of the Year (2022-2023) Award and the Camera Grand Prix 2022 Camera of the Year and Readers Award. This model is unarguably one of the best high-end digital cameras for professional photographers and filmmakers.
Primary Features
An Effective 45.7-megapixels Stacked Back-illuminated CMOS Sensor And EXPEED 7 Image Processor
The Z9 features a newly developed FX-format 45.7-megapixel BSI stacked imaging sensor. Its stacked design offers ultra-high-resolution image quality and fast scanning and data readout speeds.
The BSI design also helps to reduce rolling shutter and ensures the camera renders sharp photos and videos with minimal noise when working at higher sensitivities.
The Z9’s sensor offers exquisite color and detail rendering. Hence, the camera is most suitable for portraits, weddings, landscapes, and fashion photography alongside cinematic filmmaking.
In conjunction with the newly designed high-level imaging sensor, the camera also sports Nikon’s most powerful image processing engine, the EXPEED 7, which is 10x faster than the previous generations.
This engine works with the BSI stacked sensor to handle complex AF and AE calculations and help the camera to realize a high buffer capacity, fluid still and video performance, fast burst shooting rates, a blackout-free viewing experience, and quick all-around performance.
Hybrid Phase-Detection/Contrast AF System With AF Assist
The Nikon Z 9 utilizes a 493-point phase-detection AF system to achieve fast and accurate subject-focusing performance. The phase-detection pixels AF pixels are effectively distributed throughout the imaging sensor to enable the camera to deliver precise autofocus performance even in dark scenes.
In low light, the focusing system features a starlight mode that enables focusing down to as low as -8.5 EV. Thus, photographers can use the Z 9 for astrophotography, nighttime photography, and even concerts with varying light conditions.
Furthermore, Nikon equipped the model with a new algorithm developed using deep-learning technology that enables the mirrorless camera to detect nine different types of subjects ranging from humans to animals, motorcycles, bicycles, trains, and airplanes. Eye-Detection AF capabilities have been significantly improved to track and focus on the subject’s eyes, even if their faces are upside-down or when they are wearing sunglasses or goggles.
Dual Stream Technology And In-body Vibration Reduction
The device also features a dual-stream technology that involves several large-capacity memory chips and high-speed processing circuits installed in the stacked area of the CMOS imaging sensor. This allows the Z 9 to realize an image readout that is about 12 times faster than the previous Z 7II. It also makes it possible to process the live-view image to show the optimum exposure, regardless of the actual shoot settings used.
Just like the Z6II and Z7II, the Z 9 new Synchro VR links the 5-axis in-camera VR and lens VR mechanisms to achieve up to 6 stops of camera shake compensation when used with compatible Z lenses. This increases the chances of obtaining sharp clicks during handheld shooting at long focal lengths or with a slow shutter speed. When shooting video, Synchro VR pairs with the electronic VR system to improve the stabilization effect, ensuring steady and seamless handheld movie recording.
Body Build, Design, And Handling
Compared to the Nikon D6, the Z 9 weighs about 110g lighter and 20% smaller. Originally the latter weighs approximately 1340g (with battery and memory card). The camera is highly built and optimized for professional use.
Built to the same dust and moisture resistance standards as the D6, the Z 9 features a robust magnesium alloy chassis. Thus, it is tough and durable. For ease of use in extremely cold conditions, Nikon improved the camera’s resistance to cold, allowing smooth operation even at -10°C.
To prevent dust from attaching to the sensor, the Z 9 incorporates a dual electro-conductive and fluorine coating on the optical filter in front of the CMOS sensor. A sensor shield mechanism is also available to protect the sensor surface from dust when changing lenses.
Viewfinder And Display
The camera has an advanced 3.69m-dot (Quad VGA) OLED electronic viewfinder with approximately 100% frame coverage. This world’s first EVF also works with dual-stream technology for blackout-free viewing when shooting continuously.
In addition, the Z 9 also features Nikon’s first 3.2″ 2.1m-dot 4-axis vertical and horizontal tilting and touchscreen monitor for better viewing and composition from varying angles.
Display
Viewfinder
Speed Performance
When using electronic Shutter, users can click up to 20 fps at 45.7 MP for up to 1000 RAW Frames, up to 30 fps at 45.7 MP, and up to 120 fps at 11 MP.
Exposure & White Balance
Camera Flash
Communications
Image And Video Qualities
The Z 9 offers professional sports, fashion, and wildlife photographers and filmmakers the opportunity to capture or record high-resolution and cinematic still images and videos. The camera supports both 8K and 4K video recording at good frame rates.