Whether you are a content creator or a photography enthusiast, the camera is the gateway to capturing your vision. Those who prefer a vintage and stylish aesthetic to pair with their top-of-the-line photography experience need look no further than Nikon Z fc.
The Nikon Z fc is an APS-C mirrorless camera. This is the second crop-sensor camera from Nikon to use the company’s Z mount. While Nikon is presenting contemporary specs with its newest offering, this camera’s design evokes an older era of photography.
The Z fc’s look feels heavily inspired by the company’s FE 35mm series of cameras. Complete with the same late 70s aesthetic, Nikon’s Z fc lets users tweak various settings to get real ownership of the resulting video or photo. While offering a durable design made of magnesium alloy, aluminum dial and leather, the Nikon Z fc is perfect for vlogging on-the-go. It also makes a great stationary camera for streaming content creation in the studio.
We took a look at the Nikon Z fc to get a feel for what the camera has to offer. As mentioned, the camera has an APS-C image sensor which is powered by Nikon’s EXPEED 6 processor. This allows the camera to produce professional-looking video and stills in a variety of environments, even in low-light settings. The camera offers 20 megapixel resolution with 11 fps @ 12-bit RAW and 9 fps @ 14-bit.
Admittedly, I’ve had years of experience with point-and-click or plug-and-play cameras. Whether it’s the iPhone’s onboard camera or an Elgato USB camera, the physical act of adjusting a knob and perfecting a shot has long been lost to me. However, Nikon emphasizes the importance of frame or video settings in many mechanical controls. The Z fc supports both shutter speed and ISO rotation, with each having a satisfying click. While the Nikon Z fc supports a 3-inch 1.04m-dot display, the viewfinder provides a much more authentic experience. However, this is Nikon’s first Z-mount camera with a fully articulating screen. The Vari-angle screen can help users take photos or videos at low angles without compromising the results of the shots.
The wide range of options available is great for someone getting back into photography, and also a dream for those who love to obsess over the perfect shot. ISO sensitivity Z fc ranges up to 51,200, although it can be expanded up to 204,800. Users can reliably take convincingly composed shots even in low-light environments. Nikon also provides 20 Creative Picture Control. These “filters” are visible in real-time, so creators don’t have to guess what the shot will look like.
This option is paired with an elegant camera design. Nikon currently offers the Z fc in six colors over the classic Silver and Black. Starting from ‘White’, ‘Natural Grey’, ‘Sand Beige’, ‘Coral Pink’, ‘Mint Green’, and all Black options.
Nikon Z fc offers uncropped 4K video @ 30fps. Users can get access to up to 120 fps high-speed video recording with 1080p resolution. This makes for a great video solution for content creators who record in a home studio for live streaming, podcasting, etc. The maximum recording time is set at 29 minutes, 59 seconds. There are also dedicated video settings on the camera, allowing users to switch between photo and video modes. Additionally, creators can take advantage of several built-in photography and video settings, along with benefits such as audio level control, shutter speed lock, and exposure adjustment.
Like other cameras in Nikon’s Z series, the Z fc can be used to broadcast and live stream content. Using the HDMI input, the Z fc can be connected to video recording devices such as the Elgato Camlink 4K. Creators can then set Z fc as the live stream camera source. Alternatively, this camera is capable of functioning as a webcam during video conferences, podcasts, etc. The Z fc’s USB-C port also doubles as a charger when plugged into a compatible USB source. The USB-C Power Delivery feature allows the camera to be widely used while streaming without worrying about losing battery life.
While maintaining a familiar retro design, the Nikon Z fc is fairly light at less than 1 pound. It measures 5.3 x 3.7 x 1.7 inches. This makes a great on-the-go camera kit if you’re vlogging outside of the studio. Creators can rotate the camera screen for selfie and video shots. Plus, the Z fc integrates a really neat Eye AutoFocus function. This feature locks the eyes of the subject in the shot so that it follows them while recording videos and taking selfies. Adding further thought, Nikon says the Z fc offers dust and moisture resistance.
The Z fc includes a micro HDMI port, USB-C, and a microphone. USB-C is a USB 3.2 Gen 1 Superspeed sport, which allows for faster data transfers. This will please content creators who intend to record longer videos in 4K. The inclusion of a 3.5mm microphone port is also a solid addition as users can connect their preferred audio equipment to the camera. However, note that it doesn’t have a headphone jack so audio playback has to be monitored through the built-in speakers.
As far as the battery is concerned, CIPA estimates the One EN-EL25’s Li-ion rechargeable battery can last up to 300 shots. This equates to approximately 75 minutes of video recording. The battery can be easily plugged into its wall charger. Alternatively, the USB-C port can also be used to charge the device. However, depending on the shoot and the project, it’s best to bring a backup battery.
The Nikon Z fc provides many flexible options and manual control over shots and videos. For the vlogger on the run or someone hunkered down in the studio or office, Z fc blends retro style with premium professionalism.
Nikon Z fc is now available with prices starting at $1,299.
Image credit: Nikon
This story is sponsored by Nikon.
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