Nikon has announced its latest mirrorless camera with an APS-C sensor. The Nikon Z50II is the first Nikon camera to feature a dedicated Picture Control button, opening new possibilities for expressive color.
Video recording
The Z50II mirrorless camera has a 20.9-megapixel DX format APS-C sensor. Nikon says that it can capture high quality videos, with gorgeous colors and amazing low-light ability. The Z50II is also the first DX format camera to feature the powerful EXPEED 7 processing engine. This is the same processor as used in the pro-grade Nikon Z8 and Z9 cameras. In addition, the EXPEED 7 processor delivers powerful features and performance, including an advanced AF system. This delivers 3D Tracking and nine types of subject detection.
This camera can record video in frame rates up to 60 fps in 4K. This 4K video is oversampled from 5.6K which Nikon says delivers rich and beautiful details. You can also shoot in Nikon’s N-Log which captures footage with more exposure latitude for color grading in post-production. In addition, the camera has video specific features such as a tally lamp, waveform monitor, as well as microphone and headphone jacks. Nikon says that the Z50II can record continuously for more than two hours.
Creative color
The Nikon Z50II’s Picture Control button allows you to select from up to 31 built-in color presets. These instantly change the color, tone and feeling of the scene you are recording. Nikon says it wants to encourage you to experiment with color settings to develop a distinct look and feel to your video. You can also download Imaging Recipes to your camera as Cloud Picture Controls via the Nikon Imaging Cloud. These are custom presets with changes to color, brightness, hue, etc., which have been developed by notable creators. In addition, you can make your own Imaging Recipes and Flexible Picture Controls for limitless creative possibilities.
Other features
Nikon’s Z50II has a 3.2-inch vari-angle LCD screen for composing your shots. There’s also an electronic viewfinder with a brightness of 1000 cd/m2 (nits). This is around twice as bright as the viewfinder on the previous model Nikon Z50. In addition, the Z50II features a Product Review Mode that focuses on objects in the foreground. Nikon says that this is helpful for products, cosmetics, fashion and beauty reviewers. When recording in 1080HD, you can use Hi-Res Zoom to zoom in on your subject with no loss in image quality, even when using a prime lens.
What we think
The Z50II delivers some of the best technology from Nikon’s pro-level cameras in a compact form factor you can take with you everywhere. It’s an ideal choice if you are new to video with mirrorless cameras. In addition, the Picture Control button and Imaging Recipes are a great way to customize your video clips. However, the camera also has some great video features including waveform monitor and an external microphone jack for better audio. As such, the Nikon Z50II could also be a great B camera if you already shoot with Nikon cameras.
Pricing and availability
The Nikon Z50II will be available from late November and will retail at $909 for the body only. You will also be able to pick it up with the NIKKOR Z 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 VR lens for $1,049. Alternatively, there’s a two-lens kit which adds the 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR lens for $1,299.
