Nikon has announced Firmware Version 5.30 for its flagship Z9 mirrorless hybrid. This free firmware is now available for download, and it mainly adds improvements for professional sports photographers, including improved AF performance and functionality, auto capture enhancements, and flexible color options.
The multiple focus enhancements include significant improvement in subject acquisition, tracking, and stability for fast-moving subjects such as athletes. The advanced subject detection now works in other focus modes, making it easier to track the intended subject reliably in either single-point or dynamic AF modes. Subject detection can now quickly be toggled on/off using a custom function button. The firmware also adds a new in-camera focus limiter, which allows the user to restrict the focus range to specific distances.
Improvements have also been made to the Auto Capture function, with a new AF standby position, and other operability and performance updates like face detection. The Z9 now provides a pretty comprehensive remote camera setup, without the need for any third-party triggering devices. This offers an advantage for those shooting wildlife or professional sports with limited access.
Firmware version 5.30 also adds support for Flexible Color Picture Control, which allows users to easily tailor their own unique looks using NX Studio, Nikon’s image browsing, processing, and editing desktop software. This new feature enables adjustments to parameters such as color hue, brightness, and contrast using tools like Color Blender and Color Grading. Settings configured in NX Studio can then be saved to a memory card and loaded onto the camera as Custom Picture Controls for shooting. These settings are reflected in the live view display, allowing users to preview results in real time, reducing the need for post-processing.
Additional Improvements to Operability and Functionality
- Focusing is now possible with the maximum aperture in live view.
- A magnification option of [400%] has been added to [Zoom on/off] available for Custom Settings.
- Use of an external microphone (wired/wireless) is now possible when recording voice memos.
- Extended the dimensions of focus areas available with [Wide-area AF (C1)] and [Wide-area AF (C2)] AF-area modes.
- Added [Flat Monochrome] and [Deep Tone Monochrome] Picture Controls.
- Added [USB streaming (UVC/UAC)] to [USB] in the [NETWORK MENU].
- Changed the specifications for uninterrupted video output to HDMI devices such as external monitors when recording ended.
- The headphone volume level can now be adjusted in the “i” menu during video recording.
Z9 owners can visit the Nikon download center to get the new firmware for free.
