Nikon has released a new firmware update for the Nikon Z 9 full frame FX format flagship mirrorless camera. Despite the camera being over four years old, firmware update 5.30 adds some great new autofocus features.
Significant improvement
Nikon says that updating dating your Z 9 to firmware 5.30 adds multiple focus enhancements. These include a “significant improvement” in subject acquisition, tracking and stability for fast-moving subjects such as athletes. The advanced subject detection has been created with Nikon’s deep learning technology. It also now works in other focus modes, making it easier to track the intended subject reliably.
Subject detection
For still photographs, subject detection is now available when you select Single-point AF, Dynamic-area AF (S), Dynamic-area AF (M), or Dynamic-area AF (L) for the AF-area mode. Video recording gets a boost too, as subject detection is now available when Single-point AF is selected for the AF-area mode. Additionally, the update extends the dimensions of the focus areas available with Wide-area AF (C1) and Wide-area AF (C2) AF-area modes for both still and video work.
Flexible Color picture support
Firmware update 5.30 adds support for Flexible Color picture control to the Nikon Z 9. This means that you can create your own unique looks using Nikon’s NX Studio software. You can adjust color hue, brightness, and contrast with tools including Color Blender and Color Grading. In addition, you can save your looks to a memory card and upload to the Z 9 as Custom Picture Controls for shooting. Firmware 5.30 also adds Flat Monochrome and Deep Tone Monochrome Picture Controls for both still and video shooting.
Other new features
Firmware update 5.30 delivers a range of other new features and improvements. You can now adjust the headphone volume level in the “i” menu during video recording. The update also adds USB streaming (UVC/UAC) to USB in the Network menu.
The new firmware has changed the specifications for uninterrupted video output to HDMI devices such as external monitors when recording ended. For a full list of changes with firmware 5.30 go to the update page on the Nikon website.
What we think
Firmware 5.30 adds some great new features to the Nikon Z 9. It’s impressive to see Nikon improving a camera that’s over four years old with such comprehensive updates to the autofocus system for stills and video. The Flexible Color picture support is also a good way to improve the look of your images.
Plus, the UVC/UAC support means that you can use your Z 9 as a webcam without needing drivers or extra software. If you use a Nikon Z 9 you should update your camera’s firmware as soon as you can to take advantage of the improvements.
Pricing and availability
Firmware update 5.30 for the Nikon Z 9 mirrorless camera is available to download free of charge now.
