Nikon recently unveiled firmware update v3.00 for its Nikon Zf, a major evolution for the vintage-style full-frame mirrorless camera. With more than 20 new features and improvements, this update enhances both creativity and ergonomics, while giving the Zf features found on the Z6 III, Z8, and Z9. Here’s a complete overview of the most important new features.
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A new “Film Grain” effect for a film-like look
The main new feature is the addition of Film Grain mode, a built-in film grain effect that can be applied to photos and videos. Nikon offers an organic look reminiscent of traditional film. The grain is fully customizable with three sizes and six intensity levels, for a total of 18 possible combinations.
Please note, however, that the grain effect applies to both JPEG and RAW files.
An interesting feature: the grain pattern varies with each shot, creating a unique effect, similar to film photography.
This effect can be combined with existing Picture Controls or with Nikon Imaging Cloud Image Recipes, offering advanced creative possibilities without the need for post-production.
Better aids for manual focus
Firmware v3.00 also brings several improvements for users who prefer manual lenses, whether older or newer models. Whereas focus peaking was previously active at all times, it is now possible to activate focus peaking only when using precision zoom. This provides a clearer viewfinder image and more accurate assistance when needed.
Another important addition is the full-aperture Live View mode, which allows the camera to display the image at the lens’s maximum aperture, even if you plan to shoot at f/8 or f/11. This provides a brighter image on the screen and improves AF detection of the subject.
Nikon is also introducing a focus limiter directly into the camera body. Already present on the Z8/Z9, it allows you to restrict the range of distances at which AF can operate. This prevents the camera from “pumping” unnecessarily outside the defined range, speeding up focus acquisition. This is particularly useful for street photographers who don’t want to capture elements that are too close, for example.
New video options: framing grid, ISO adjustment via a dial, webcam mode
On the video side, several additions make the experience smoother with the Nikon Zf.
First, Nikon has added two new framing ratios: 4:3 for photos and 9:16 for videos. The latter is particularly useful for creating vertical content for social media without having to crop in post-production or hold the camera vertically. Nikon is also taking advantage of this update to enable automatic rotation of interface elements on the screen or in the viewfinder, for both photos and videos.
However, the Zf now records the orientation of the camera in the video metadata, allowing editing software and platforms to automatically recognize videos in vertical format, eliminating the need for manual rotation.
In M mode for video, this update now allows you to adjust the ISO or exposure compensation simply by turning a dial, without having to use an Fn button.
When high-resolution digital zoom is used, AF now displays the focus point on the detected subject, making it easier to understand the autofocus action.
USB Streaming mode (UVC/UAC) is now available: it allows you to use the Zf as a webcam directly via USB, without third-party software.
Other new features in this v3.00 update for the Nikon Zf
The Zf also features a high-speed shooting mode + C15, capable of up to 15 fps with full-resolution JPEGs and AF-C tracking.
It is also worth noting that you can hear an electronic shutter sound in C15+ or Pixel Shift mode, and that you can disable the eye sensor when the screen is open.
Finally, numerous minor improvements have been added to the camera body, such as the ability to use the pre-trigger function with certain compatible Bluetooth remote controls, headphone volume adjustment during video recording via the “i” menu, and a fix that prevents video output to external monitors from being interrupted at the end of recording.
How can I take advantage of this update?
This update, which includes many features, is available now for free on the Nikon website, or via the SnapBridge mobile app or Nikon Imaging Cloud service.
With this v3.00 update, Nikon has not only added a new grain effect inspired by film cameras, but also offered a host of substantial improvements for the Nikon Zf, which users of this camera will appreciate, especially for a camera that was released two years ago.
If you are a Nikon Zf user, tell us in the comments which new feature interests you the most.
