Phototrend interviewed Nikon at the recent 2025 Salon de la Photo show in Paris. Here is the recap:
- Balanced Sales Success: Nikon has seen balanced success across its lineup, with the Z50 II, Z5 II, Z6 III, and Z8 all performing well.
- Attracting New Users: Nikon is targeting smartphone users, especially the younger generation, with affordable APS-C models like the Z50 II, which includes high-end features like the Expeed 7 processor and intelligent autofocus.
- Ecosystem & Services: Support services like the Nikon School, Nikon Plaza (for testing and borrowing gear), and the Nikon Imaging Cloud are key to their strategy.
- Nikon Imaging Cloud: This service provides automatic firmware updates, 30 days of unlimited cloud storage for images, and creative “image recipes” (Picture Controls) from creators.
- Nikon ZR: The first camera from the RED acquisition, the Nikon ZR, has been well-received. Videographers appreciate its REDCODE RAW and RED LOG capabilities, high-quality screen, and advanced 32-bit float internal audio.
- Z Mount Superiority: The Z mount is highlighted as a major advantage. Its short flange distance and wide diameter make it extremely adaptable, allowing users to mount almost any lens (including PL mount, competitor, and vintage lenses) with an adapter.
- New Nikkor Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II lens: This updated lens is praised for being lighter and more compact. It’s now an internal zoom (better for gimbals and weather sealing), features faster/quieter AF, new coatings, and an 11-blade diaphragm for improved bokeh.
- Open Mount Strategy: Nikon views the increasing number of third-party lenses for the Z mount (from brands like Tamron, Sigma, and Viltrox) as a positive development, giving consumers more choice and making the Z system highly versatile.
- Future Products: No comment was given on a potential replacement for the Zfc.
