The Nikon Z8 was made for creatives searching for a camera loaded with pro-grade photo and video features in an easily adaptable, compact body. Boasting a 45MP full-frame stacked sensor paired with an EXPEED 7 processor, intelligent autofocusing capabilities, and 8K video recording, the Z8 is a camera that effortlessly switches from still to video without compromising quality. Sharing many of the key specs of Nikon’s mirrorless flagship Z9, the Z8 renders its vertical battery grip optional, making it a better match for gimbals, video rigs, self-shooting, or everyday carry. It all starts with a 45.7MP FX-format sensor paired with an EXPEED 7 Image Processor. Together they are capable of capturing high-resolution imagery under a wide range of shooting conditions. By eliminating a mechanical shutter, the Z8 is silent, produces minimal rolling shutter, can shoot raw/JPEG bursts at 20 fps, and captures stills at shutter speeds up to 1/32000 of a second. Also, Pre-Release Capture ensures that decisive moments are never missed by recording up to a second’s worth of frames prior to pressing the shutter.
Despite sharing much of the Z9’s technology and performance, the Z8 is 30% smaller than the flagship and 15% smaller than the D850 DSLR, making it easier to carry, easier to rig, and easier to stabilize. While no longer built into the camera body, a dedicated vertical battery grip is available separately. The Z8 uses the same AF algorithms as the Z9 for fast, accurate subject recognition and focusing. Leaning on deep learning, precision tracking is possible across a wide range of subjects, from humans to animals to vehicles. Eye-AF can be used in conjunction with wide area AF to nail focus on fast-moving subjects, while Backlit AF manages focusing under difficult lighting environments.
Like the Z9, the Z8 is loaded with high-end video features for capturing high-resolution content with impressive dynamic range. 12-bit internal recording is possible using Nikon’s N-RAW format as well as 10-bit ProRes 422 HQ, eliminating the need for external accessories. Resolution aficionados will appreciate 8K60p recording, as well as 4K120p for slow-motion applications. Complementing the Z8’s video capabilities is 24-bit linear PCM sound recording, which promises impressive dynamic range with minimal noise. When paired with the Tascam Digital Adapter, the Z8 can be used with a wide range of professional XLR microphones.
Dual-stream technology sends images to the Z8’s Quad-VGA viewfinder and memory card simultaneously for real-time, blackout-free viewing at up to 120 fps. A 4-axis tilting touchscreen LCD, with vertical playback mode, also offers versatility when working from odd angles. The Z8 is the first Nikon camera to support USB-C to Ethernet connectivity via a USB Communication Terminal, and a secondary USB-C terminal is provided solely for charging and power delivery. Wireless connectivity is possible using Bluetooth and 5 GHz Wi-Fi. Dual CFexpress Type B and SD card slots provide options for photographers and videographers alike.
