Nikon Z 6 or Z 7 camera owners now have the option to upgrade their cameras to output ProRes RAW footage directly from the image sensor to a compatible ATOMOS external monitor/recorder via HDMI.
The upgrade will run owners about $249.99* (plus shipping) CDN and will require owners to send their cameras to Nikon for the service. The upgrade price also includes a free clean and check service.
*If you purchased the Z 6 Filmmakers Kit, the upgrade is free, although you still have to follow the same process.
Also, if you’re worried about being without your camera for an extended period of time, Nikon does state that the upgrade takes about 48 hours from the time the camera is received and that owners should have their cameras back to them “within about 3 business days”.
Nikon Z 6: ProRes RAW Video
Why Should I upgrade?
The upgrade will allow you to output 12-bit ProRes RAW footage in either 4K or Full HD directly from the image sensor to a compatible Atomos recorder.
For filmmakers, it gives them enhanced flexibility when editing footage as it preserves brightness and shadow details, and a fuller colour spectrum.
ProRes Raw also allows for faster transfer speeds than with uncompressed 12-bit Raw footage and takes up less room on storage devices as it creates smaller file sizes.
Added Support for CFExpress Cards
In the latest firmware update for both cameras, Nikon also added support for CFExpress Type B memory cards.
However, Nikon says that it currently only guarantees support for Sony-branded cards, but that support will continue to expand as additional cards are tested and certified.
Nikon also says that after the firmware update, you will be able to use existing XQD cards and the newly supported CFExpress cards interchangeably.
Nikon Z 7 Firmware – v. 2.20
Changes from v. 2.10 – 2.20
- Added support for Type B Sony CFexpress memory cards.
Click here to download v. 2.20 Firmware Update
Nikon Z 6 Firmware – v. 2.20
Changes from v. 2.10 – 2.20
- Added support for Type B Sony CFexpress memory cards.
- Fixed an issue that resulted in colored lines appearing at the bottom of the display when pictures shot in demo mode with FX (36×24) selected for image area were viewed at zoom ratios over 100%.