Nikon Zf Gets Major Firmware v3.0 Update with Film Grain Effect and Over 20 Enhancements
My coverage of this firmware update in the video link above.
Nikon has released firmware version 3.0 for its retro-styled Zf full-frame mirrorless camera, bringing a highly anticipated film grain feature alongside more than twenty other upgrades and improvements. The update is available now as a free download for both the original black and new silver edition Zf models.
Film Grain: The Headline Feature
The standout addition in this firmware release is an in-camera film grain effect that simulates the aesthetic of shooting with analog film. Unlike static grain overlays, Nikon's implementation uses randomized grain patterns that change with each frame, ensuring every photo and video has a unique, authentic film-like appearance.
Users can customize the effect with three grain size options and six intensity levels, allowing fine-tuned control over the final look. The feature works in conjunction with Nikon's Imaging Recipes from the Nikon Imaging Cloud service, as well as in-camera Picture Controls, opening up creative possibilities for photographers seeking that classic film aesthetic without post-processing.
New C15 High-Speed Burst Mode
Firmware v3.0 introduces a JPEG-only C15 burst mode that captures images at 15 frames per second using the high-speed frame capture+ system. This addition gives action and sports photographers another tool for capturing fast-moving subjects, though it's limited to JPEG output only.
Enhanced Manual Focus Controls
Nikon has made several improvements to the manual focusing experience. A new "Only during zoom" option for focus peaking displays the focus assist overlay only when magnifying the live view, making it easier to check both focus accuracy and overall composition without visual clutter.
Additionally, a Maximum aperture Lv setting allows users to focus manually with the lens wide open regardless of the selected capture aperture. This brightens the viewfinder and makes focusing easier in challenging conditions while still maintaining the desired depth of field for the final image.
Improved Composition Aids
The firmware adds new framing grid options tailored for social media content creation. A 4:3 grid is now available for still photography, while a 9:16 vertical grid has been added for video recording, making it easier to compose shots optimized for platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
Smarter Display Switching
A welcome quality-of-life improvement addresses a common frustration with vari-angle screens. The new Automatic monitor display switch setting includes an "On (when monitor docked)" option that prevents the eye sensor from inadvertently activating the viewfinder when fingers, camera straps, or the user's body come near the sensor while the rear screen is flipped out.
USB Streaming Capability
Professional users will appreciate the addition of UVC/UAC (USB Video Class/USB Audio Class) streaming support, enabling the Zf to function as a webcam when tethered via USB. This feature has become increasingly valuable for content creators, streamers, and remote workers who want to use their high-quality camera for video calls and live streaming.
Video Recording Enhancements
Beyond the film grain effect, video shooters gain several improvements. The camera now records orientation data for videos, allowing footage shot in portrait mode to be properly displayed during playback and editing on importing devices. Aperture restrictions have been removed when recording in Shutter-priority mode, providing greater creative flexibility. The Hi-Res Zoom feature now displays a focus point on detected subjects, and headphone volume can be adjusted directly from the i-menu during recording.
Workflow and Connectivity Improvements
Nikon has streamlined the firmware update process through the Nikon Imaging Cloud service. Users can set the camera to automatically check for, download, and install firmware updates at a specified time when connected to power and turned off. This eliminates the need for memory cards or computer connections during the update process.
The update also simplifies the registration flow for Imaging Recipes from Nikon Imaging Cloud and adds Wi-Fi connection via STA mode, allowing the camera to connect to smart devices through a wireless LAN access point.
Additional Notable Changes
Other improvements in firmware v3.0 include:
Electronic shutter sounds can now be enabled for high-speed frame capture+ and Pixel Shift shooting, with adjustable volume levels
Pixel Shift shooting options are now accessible when using the self-timer
Pre-Release Capture support for compatible Bluetooth remote controllers
Voice memo recording capability with external microphones
Enhanced tonal characteristics when View Assist is enabled
Bug fixes addressing rare shutter closure messages and non-CPU lens data issues
Availability
Firmware version 3.0 for the Nikon Zf is available immediately as a free download. Users can install it via Nikon's SnapBridge mobile app or set up automatic updates through the Nikon Imaging Cloud service.
The comprehensive nature of this update demonstrates Nikon's ongoing commitment to enhancing the Zf's capabilities post-launch, particularly features that complement the camera's heritage-inspired design philosophy. The film grain effect, in particular, seems perfectly aligned with the Zf's retro aesthetic, giving photographers an authentic way to recreate classic film looks entirely in-camera.
Nikon ZF: B&H https://bhpho.to/4ojT7Zw
https://amzn.to/49a85N1 Amazon Canada
https://amzn.to/3WtbNtn Amazon USA
Affiliate Links Above.
Thanks for your support!
