The Nikon Zf is one of the most exciting cameras we're hoping to see this year, but the first leaked images of the retro full-frame wonder suggest it could divide opinion among fans.
Nikon Rumors has shared three photos of the incoming camera, which is expected to be a full-frame version of the Nikon Z fc, plus the video below. And they show a camera that looks very similar to the hobbyist-friendly Z fc, rather than the more pro-focused powerhouse some have been hoping for.
The camera's close resemblance to the Z fc should bring one benefit for travel photographers – the Zf will, based on the leaked images, likely be Nikon's smallest full-frame camera and also potentially cheaper than the Nikon Z6 II (which launched for $2,000 / £1,999 / AU$3,399 in 2020).
The only minor differences from the Z fc appear to be a slightly bigger grip (if one that's nowhere near as deep as the one on its Z6 and Z7 range) and a new 'B&W' option in the mode dial. The larger viewfinder also suggests that the Zf could also have an improved electronic viewfinder, which would be nigh-on essential for a full-frame camera.
Here is a short video of the Nikon Zf:https://t.co/KKgB12mxuu pic.twitter.com/tMTaNX13riAugust 18, 2023
It doesn't look like the Nikon Zf will have a top-plate LCD for checking settings, and some other disappointments for pro shooters could be the apparent lack of an autofocus joystick or an AF-On button for back-button focusing (a technique often used by action and wildlife photographers).
Still, earlier rumors suggest that the Nikon Zf's biggest upgrades over the Z fc will be internal ones. It's expected to have in-body image stabilization (which appears to be present on the rear screen of Nikon Rumors' leaked images), two memory card slots (an improvement on the Z fc's single slot), and autofocus performance that ranks alongside the Nikon Z5 and Nikon Z6 II.
With a 24.4MP BSI full-frame sensor, improved build quality and Nikon's first high-res Pixel Shift mode also rumored, the Nikon Zf still definitely sounds like a promising option for keen amateurs. If not a primary camera for pro shooters looking for a retro-flavored Nikon Z8.
Analysis: More of a retro Nikon Z6, than a Z8
While our Nikon Z fc review called that camera "a triumph of design at an honest price", others were disappointed by its build quality, small grip and APS-C sensor. These leaked images suggest the Nikon Zf will address some of those concerns, without being quite as 'pro' as some are hoping for.
Like the Z fc, the Zf will again be inspired by the old Nikon FM2 (above) and the later FM3A, without going into full replica territory. The FM2 was, after all, a fully mechanical, battery-free workhorse that was known for being virtually indestructible, while the FM3A was Nikon's last fully-manual SLR.
The Nikon Zf, meanwhile, looks like it'll combine some of that spirit with the practical trade-offs that come with cramming in the latest mirrorless tech, like IBIS and a big electronic viewfinder. We're looking forward to seeing how much that build quality has improved from the Z fc and if there's now full weather-sealing, but it still looks more like hobbyist tool than a professional one.
Some may have preferred Nikon to go the whole hog and include AF joysticks, bigger grips and more, but the Zf's small size and modern full-frame specs could be a fine combination – if the price is right. According to the rumors, it looks like we'll find out the latter more when the Zf fully launches sometime between August and the end of September.
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