Nikon Launches RED Co-developed ZR Cinema Camera, Featuring Internal 6K RAW and
- Lawrence Ng
- Sep 11
- 2 min read
Nikon launched the ZR camera, the small full-frame sensor model that delivers high-end cinematic videos. The camera was co-developed with RED Digital Cinema, a Nikon Corporation subsidiary.
The camera offers internal 6K RAW recording, RED-curated colour science, and professional-level audio in a lightweight, single-body kit. It is the world’s first interchangeable lens camera to offer 32-bit float recording via its built-in microphone and 3.5-millimetre stereo mini-pin jack.
Weighing approximately 540 grammes for the body only, or 630 grammes including battery and recording media, the ZR is among the lightest cinema cameras in its class. Its dust- and drip-resistant magnesium alloy body provides reliability for both studio and outdoor filmmaking.
The ZR aims to replace bulky multi-component rigs with internal 6K RAW video capture, including R3D NE, N-RAW, and ProRes RAW HQ formats. It supports recording in seven video formats, including 12-bit RAW for maximum tonal range and post-production flexibility. It also offers 6K/59.94p and 4K/119.88p 12-bit RAW recording in REDWideGamutRGB and Log3G10 profiles. This marks the first integration of the RED R3D NE codec into a Nikon camera. It also offers nine RED-curated Imaging Recipes that users can preview in real time.
It has a dedicated Cinematic Video Mode that allows users to apply standardised shutter angle, frame rate, and colour tone settings for consistent quality. A configurable shutter angle range from 5.6° to 360° allows for cinematic motion blur. The deep-learning autofocus system boasts 273 AF points with 90% x 90% coverage across nine categories, including people, animals, vehicles, and aircraft. Face detection can recognise subjects as small as 3% of the frame.
For audio, the camera includes the world’s first native 32-bit float with 3.5-millimetre jack recording, capturing a wide dynamic range without clipping. The integrated OZO Audio system provides five pickup patterns, including voice-isolated and 360° modes.
The camera also supports direct cloud uploads via Frame.io through NX MobileAir software and ensures efficient heat dissipation, allowing for over two hours of silent, continuous recording.
Filmmakers gain advanced monitoring tools on the 4.0-inch LCD, including real-time waveform, histogram, and multi-colour zebra overlays. The camera supports up to ten 65-point LUTs, alongside 17- and 33-point LUTs for accurate preview or baked-in colour.
Engineered for the on-the-go productions, the ZR also offers comprehensive HDMI and USB-C connectivity, HDMI-CEC tally light compatibility, and ON AIR/PREVIEW indicators. These features make it suitable for studio, multi-camera, and live-streaming workflows. The ZR’s efficient heat dissipation also claims to enable silent operation during takes and its Z mount system offers flexibility with native lenses and supports adapted third-party options.
Key Specifications:
Internal 6K RAW video (R3D NE, N-RAW, ProRes RAW HQ) with 32-bit float audio
Compact, dust- and drip-resistant magnesium alloy body weighing 540 grammes
Nine RED-curated Imaging Recipes and seven video formats, including 12-bit RAW
Deep-learning autofocus with 273 AF points and 5-axis in-body image stabilisation
Comprehensive connectivity, including HDMI and USB-C, for modern workflows