Nikon Interview at IBC 2025: “ZR achieves a wide dynamic range of over 15 stops – a hallmark feature of RED cinema cameras”
Phototrend published an interview with Nikon from the IBC 2025 show, covering several topics, including the Nikon ZR’s new design for heat dissipation. Here is a recap:
- Interview Overview: Conducted at IBC 2025 in Amsterdam with Nikon executives and engineers (Noriaki Mochimizo, Aihara Takashi, Ikegami Hiroyuki, Yamaoka Hiroki, Satoru Takeuchi). Focused on the Nikon ZR, a compact cinema camera under $2,200 integrating RED technology to democratize professional workflows.
- Strategic Positioning: Targets professional filmmakers and younger video creators; aims to set a new standard in compact cinema with affordable RAW video for flexible, creative post-production. Builds on Nikon’s Z5 II and Z6 III.
- Development and Collaboration: Uses Nikon’s Expeed 7 processor; partners with RED for color science (RED Wide Gamut, Log3G10). Leverages Nikon’s sensor, processing, and RAW expertise.
- Key Technical Specs: Semi-stacked sensor from Z6 III; >15 stops dynamic range in Log3G10; R3D NE codec for RED-compatible workflows. 4-inch 16:10 display for monitoring; 540g magnesium alloy body.
- Audio Features: Internal 32-bit float recording without XLR module; integrates Nokia OZO spatial audio for high-quality capture with built-in mics, ideal for solo operators.
- Heat Management: No active cooling; relies on magnesium covers and heat sheets with new thermal pathways refined via simulations and testing. Enables long-duration shooting in compact design.
- Product Comparisons: R3D NE surpasses N-RAW/ProRes RAW in compatibility; more affordable than RED cameras but matches their color science. Heat design differs from Z9/Z8 due to ZR’s smaller components.
- Future Plans: Expands cinema workflows for small crews in film, drama, and events; empowers younger creators with pro-level tools.
- Notable Quotes:
- Yamaoka Hiroki: “We hope that many people… will enjoy our new product in Z Cinema series.”
- Satoru Takeuchi: ZR achieves “over 15 stops — a hallmark feature of RED cinema cameras.”
- Noriaki Mochimizo: “Through simulations and repeated real-world testing, we carefully refined the design.”
The Nikon ZR camera can record continuously for up to 125 minutes without overheating
Nikon Zr pre-order links:
Join the new Nikon ZR Facebook group
