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Nikon’s new Z9 firmware update introduces an important pro video feature

Nikon z9
Nikon’s continuing to add features to the Z9.

Nikon’s latest firmware update for the Z9 is all about video, introducing the ability to set a shutter angle instead of a shutter speed among other improvements.

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Shutter angle is important for pro videographers who frequently change recording framerates, as shutter angles will remain consistent. For example, if you were recording at 24FPS and switched to 60fps, and your camera only supported setting shutter speed, you’d have to remember to change your shutter speed from 1/48 to 1/120 to make sure your level of motion blur was consistent. If your camera supports shutter angle, though, you could leave it at 180° shutter, and it’d automatically double the shutter speed with the frame rate.

Nikon says the Z9 will support 15 shutter angles between 5.6° (which would result in almost no motion blur) and 360° (which would create the maximum amount of motion blur). You’ll only be able to set it in manual shooting mode.

Nikon also says the 5.10 update will let you change the color of the Z9’s zebra pattern, and customize the transparency and position of the histogram and waveform displays.

Press Release:

Nikon releases the upgraded firmware version 5.10 for the Nikon Z9 full-frame mirrorless camera

Latest Free Firmware Update Adds Shutter Angle and Other Enhancements to Increase Appeal for Filmmakers

MELVILLE, NY (December 16, 2024) – Nikon is pleased to announce the release of firmware version 5.10 for its flagship full-frame/FX-format mirrorless camera, the Nikon Z9 (released in December 2021).

Z9 firmware version 5.10 adds features that respond to the needs of professional-level video recording. A new [Shutter mode] has been added, allowing the user to set the shutter angle to one of 15 steps between 5.6° and 360°.* This eliminates the need to select a shutter speed whenever the frame rate is adjusted, allowing users to always achieve optimal motion blur at the desired frame rate.

In addition, users can now change the color of the zebra pattern display, as well as customize the transparency and display position of brightness information displays along with their size, such as the histogram and waveform monitor. These capabilities were incorporated to make video recording easier by allowing the user to confirm appropriate exposure, even when recording high-contrast scenes.

Nikon will continuously meet users’ needs through firmware updates that expand the functionality of its cameras.

*Shutter angle can only be specified in [M] shooting mode.

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