Nikon ZR Cinema Camera Body

The Nikon ZR Cinema Camera combines leading-edge Nikon and RED technologies in a compact, cinema-first design. Featuring a 24.5MP partially stacked full-frame sensor with 6K 60p RAW and 4K 120p capture, the ZR integrates RED colour science, in-camera R3D NE recording, and world-first 32-bit float audio. With a bright 4-inch DCI-P3 monitor, dual CFexpress Type B and microSD slots, and advanced autofocus, the ZR is built for uncompromised video production.

Nikon ZR Camera Key Features:

• Full-frame cinema camera with RED and Nikon technologies combined
• 24.5MP partially stacked sensor with 6K 60p and 4K 120p recording
• EXPEED 7 processor for faster processing, reduced rolling shutter, and noise
• 12-bit RAW in-camera with R3D NE, N-RAW, and ProRes RAW options
• Supports ProRes 422 HQ, H.265, and H.264 for balanced or compressed output
• Dual base ISO 800/6400 delivering 14+ stops of dynamic range performance
• World’s first in-camera 32-bit float audio with digital shoe mic support
• 4-inch DCI-P3 monitor, 3070k resolution and 1000 cd/m² outdoor brightness
• 9 autofocus recognition modes with breathing compensation and subject tracking
• Shutter angle control from 5.6° to 360° for cinematic motion blur
• 5-axis in-body vibration reduction with up to 7.5 stops of stabilisation
• Preloaded RED LUTs, 4 cinematic presets, and 9 downloadable colour profiles
• Frame.io integration with direct camera-to-cloud editing for remote collaboration
• Silent fanless design with 95 min battery or 125 min USB-C recording
• Dual slots support CFexpress Type B for RAW and microSD for backup
• Z mount with wide compatibility for Nikon and third-party cine lenses
• Supports full rig expansion with cages, adapters, XLR units, and field monitors

RED Colour Science and In-Camera RAW

The Nikon ZR introduces RED colour science to Nikon’s lineup, bringing the same tonal depth and colour response that has defined RED productions. In-camera 12-bit RAW recording is available as R3D NE, N-RAW, or ProRes RAW, giving editors extensive flexibility in post-production. RED Log3G10 and RedWideGamutRGB secure consistency across Nikon and RED systems, while LUT monitoring allows up to 10 looks to be previewed without baking them into footage. With four cinematic presets and nine downloadable options available at capture, cinematographers can either deliver a ready-to-use look or preserve a clean file that takes full advantage of RED colour science in grading.

Sensor, Processor, and Dynamic Range

A key component of the Nikon ZR is its 24.5MP partially stacked full-frame sensor, optimised for cinema-first recording. Powered by the EXPEED 7 processor, it achieves faster readout speeds that reduce rolling shutter and unlock high-frame-rate recording in both 6K 60p and 4K 120p RAW. Dual base ISO settings of 800 and 6400 balance noise and highlight retention, maintaining over 14 stops of dynamic range in challenging conditions. This unity between sensor and processor ensures smooth motion rendering, dependable low-light results, and the tonal latitude needed for everything from documentary to high-speed action.

32-bit Float Audio

The Nikon ZR is the first camera to integrate 32-bit float audio recording directly into the body, preserving full headroom even when levels spike. This standout feature ensures dialogue, music, and environmental sound can be recovered cleanly in post-production without the risk of clipped tracks. Nikon’s digital shoe microphone expands these options further with three pickup patterns and dedicated PURE and FOCUS modes, all operating without cables. By combining robust in-camera processing with flexible mic control, the ZR provides reliable on-location audio that reduces reliance on external recorders while maintaining professional-grade quality.

Monitoring and On-Camera Control

A 4-inch display makes the Nikon ZR one of the easiest cinema cameras to operate straight from the body. With 3070k-dot resolution, 1000 cd/m² brightness, and DCI-P3 coverage, the screen provides dependable colour and exposure accuracy even in daylight, lessening the need for an external monitor. Support for vertical recording adds flexibility for social platforms, while new quick menus keep core video settings accessible on the move. Shutter angle adjustments from 5.6° to 360° further refine on-camera control, allowing filmmakers to set exposure and motion blur in a format that aligns with professional cinema standards.

Autofocus and Stabilisation

Autofocus on the Nikon ZR has been tuned with videographers in mind, offering nine subject-recognition modes that keep track of people, animals, and vehicles with accuracy. Focus breathing compensation prevents framing shifts during racking, helping to maintain a consistent visual flow in edited sequences. A 5-axis VR system provides up to 7.5 stops of stabilisation, bringing steadiness to handheld shots and reinforcing gimbal work with additional smoothness. By combining advanced subject tracking with optical stability, the ZR helps deliver sharp, cinematic results across a wide range of shooting conditions.

Production Integration and Media

The ZR suits a wide range of productions, from compact shoots to full-scale productions. Direct camera-to-cloud support via Frame.io accelerates collaboration by allowing footage to be shared instantly from set. The USB-C cable handles both power and data transfers, reducing the need for complex rigging and keeping setups efficient. Dual card slots allow RAW footage to be recorded to high-speed CFexpress Type B while simultaneously creating backups or proxies on microSD. Together with the wide Z mount, which accommodates both native and adapted cine lenses, these features ensure the ZR adapts to different production styles while maintaining consistent performance.

What’s in the box?

• 1 x Nikon ZR Cinema Camera
• 1 x Nikon EN-EL15c Lithium-Ion Battery (2280mAh)
• 1 x Nikon UC-E25 USB-C Cable
• 1 x Nikon BS-D1 Digital Accessory Shoe Cover
• 1 x Nikon BF-N1 Body Cap
• 1 x Nikon AN-DC26 Camera Strap

Nikon ZR Cinema Camera Product Video:

FAQs:

Is the Nikon ZR comparable to any other Nikon models?

Primarily, the Nikon ZR is based on the sensor architecture of the Nikon Z6 III. However, the ZR is designed as a cinema-first camera. It introduces in-camera R3D NE recording, 32-bit float audio, a 4-inch DCI-P3 monitor, and shutter angle control. These upgrades make it much better suited for video and production environments where hybrid features are secondary.

Does the Nikon ZR require an external monitor?

The Nikon ZR features a 4-inch 3070k-dot display with 1000 cd/m² brightness and full DCI-P3 colour. This screen is one of the brightest and largest in its class, eliminating the need for external monitors in most situations. However, it remains fully compatible with field monitors if required for larger productions.

What additional audio options does the Nikon ZR support?

The ZR is the first camera with in-body 32-bit float audio, ensuring unclipped, recoverable sound even with significant gain adjustments. Where needed, additional ZR rig accessories are also able to support traditional external microphones and XLR adapters.

How long can the Nikon ZR record continuously?

The ZR achieves up to 95 minutes of continuous recording on battery power, or 125 minutes when powered via USB-C. Efficient heat dissipation allows long takes without overheating, making it suitable for events, interviews, or extended cinematic sequences.

Is the Nikon ZR compatible with existing Nikon lenses?

The Nikon ZR uses the Nikon Z mount, giving access to the full Z lens lineup. Its wide mount diameter also supports third-party lenses via adapters, ensuring extensive flexibility for both cine and still lenses.