Nikon’s newest camera, the Z fc, has arrived. According to the company, it’s a DX-format lightweight, everyday camera that mixes mirrorless technology with a more classic aesthetic. First impressions tell us it’s a sweet-looking camera with a specs sheet to match.
Here’s what you need to know about the Z fc, as well as a pair of new lenses that Nikon announced alongside its shiny new shooter.
Design
Nikon says the Z fc employs a compact, vintage style paired with analog tactile controls and a magnesium alloy frame with “consideration for weather proofing.” The camera weighs 14 ounces, which supports the company’s claim that it’ll be ideal for enthusiasts hoping to shoot street, food or travel photography. Basically, if you’re trying to capture content on the go, Nikon believes this is the camera for you.
The Z fc also has a vari-angle LCD touchscreen that can flip out to face the camera’s operator — making self-portraits or vlog content that much easier to shoot. And, on the more stylish side of things, the Z fc will release in black and silver, with the promise of six extras color options that’ll be available directly through the official Nikon website.
Features
The Z fc will shoot video in 4K UHD at 30 fps or 1080p at 120 fps, with options for both slow motion and timelapse models. Nikon adds that it will have a 209-point hybrid autofocus system and Eye-Detection AF for both humans and animals. When you throw in the fact that the Z fc has a 20.9-megapixel CMOS sensor paired with the EXPEED 6 engine, the Z fc seems destined to be able to capture exceptionally clear, accurate images and video.
When using the SnapBridge app, you can pair the Z fc with your smartphone to set up automatic (or manual) imports of all the stills you take. From there, you can edit and post your work to your preferred social media platform. Interestingly, Nikon seems to be trying to appeal to two distinct groups of photographers and videographers: the group that is nostalgic about the classic designs of yesteryear and the group needing to quickly capture, edit and instantly upload their content to their loyal following online.
New lenses
In addition to the Z fc, Nikon has unveiled the NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR and the NIKKOR Z 28mm f/2.8 (SE). Nikon describes the first lens as a “stylized version” of the 16-50mm lens that offers a wide-to-standard range from 16mm to 50mm. The Z 28mm, meanwhile, should be a solid lens for shooting portraits and still photography.
Pricing and availability
Nikon says the Z fc will be available in late July for $959.95. It can be paired with the NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR lens for $1,099.95 or with the NIKKOR Z 28mm f/2.8 (SE) for $1,199.95. The company added that the six aforementioned color options will be released in limited supply as part of the Z fc-Z 28mm kit and will be available exclusively through Nikon’s website.
