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Nikon is expanding its range of mirrorless cameras in the Z family to include a second model with a small image sensor in APS-C format, which Nikon calls DX format. The new camera with the cryptic name Nikon Z fc has a lot in common with the “Z 50”, which was introduced at the end of 2019, such as sensor size (23.5 mm x 15.7 mm), resolution (20.9 Mpx), memory card (1 SD Slot), battery (MH25), ISO values (ISO 100-51’200, max 204’800), serial image speed (11 fps) and video (max. UHD @ 30p) come in an eye-catching retro look. With its look, it is reminiscent of the retro-styled full-frame DSLR Nikon Df from 2013 and also of the compact 35mm SLRs of the FM / FE family – especially the legendary FM2.
In addition to the retro dress, a clear difference to the Z 50 can be seen in the mobility of the rear monitor, which can be folded out to the side and rotated for high and low positions and the essential selfies.
Nikon Z fc comes in a compact and lightweight housing, but still offers a high level of user-friendliness and the usual high image quality. Therefore, the camera should be recommended for people who are working with a mirrorless camera for the first time, but it should also appeal to experienced users and real Nikon fans in terms of design.
It is the first Z-series camera to combine traditional design with cutting-edge features. The design of the Nikon Z fc is inspired by the legendary Nikon FM2 analog single-lens reflex camera, which was launched in 1982 and represents a milestone in Nikon’s product history.
The Nikon Z fc looks like an analog SLR, especially in the upper part, but it lacks the mirror. Your small APS-C sensor looks a bit lost behind the huge Z bayonet. Many Nikon fans are likely to have wished for a 35mm full-format sensor.
Nikon Z fc Features
Design inspired by a legendary camera: this is where passion is shown in the details. The pentaprism design of the viewfinder and the balance of black and silver elements on the body of the Nikon Z fc were inspired by the FM2. The same applies to the round eyepiece on the electronic viewfinder, the setting wheels, and the engraved Nikon logo from the 1970s and 1980s. Reliable robustness is achieved today through the use of a magnesium alloy for housing.
Simplified operation for creative expression: on the top of the Nikon Z fc housing there are three dials and a small display that shows the aperture value. Exposure time, exposure compensation, and ISO sensitivity can be easily adjusted using the setting wheels. There is also the i-button and i-menu, with which the user can quickly and easily access various settings at the touch of a button and adapt them to their recording preferences. If desired, the focus ring of the lens can also be used to control the aperture.
As the first camera in the Nikon Z series, the Nikon Z fc supports exposure compensation in AUTO mode so that users can create images with the desired expression by increasing or decreasing the brightness. The camera also has 20 creative picture control options for a wide range of expressions. By selecting an option with different parameters such as hue, tint, and color saturation, users can express different moods and customize effects to their tastes.
Improved focusing as well as a tiltable and rotatable monitor: The Nikon Z fc supports the eye AF and animal recognition AF functions introduced with the Nikon Z 7II and Nikon Z 6II for photo and film recordings. The AF area control “Large measuring area (L)” is supported and ensures that eyes and faces are captured by restricting the focused area. Continuous focusing of the subject’s eyes is also possible if there are several people in the frame or if the eyes of a moving animal are to be followed.
Sensitivity adjustment and image quality: Taking clear photos and films in poor light is possible thanks to the large standard sensitivity range of ISO 100 to 51,200. The light sensitivity kit can be increased to ISO 204’800. The maximum standard speed for filming is ISO 25,600.
Movable screen for any recording position: The first fold-out, tilting, and rotating monitor on a Z-series camera enables recording from a frog’s perspective or from above, as well as over the heads of a crowd. If the touch monitor is turned forwards, the camera automatically switches to self-portrait mode and allows uncomplicated selfies.
Improved connectivity with SnapBridge version 2.8: With the SnapBridge app, the photos and films you have taken can be easily transferred to a smart device and shared on social networks. The app also allows you to download the latest camera firmware.
In addition to the new “Z fc” camera, Nikon is also releasing two new lenses which, according to Nikon, should perfectly complement the classic charm of the new retro camera. On the one hand, there is the Nikkor Z DX 16-50mm f3.5-6.3 VR lens, which is now available as a “Silver Edition”, and on the other hand the compact full format Nikkor Z 28mm f2.8 lens, which turns into a 42mm normal lens on the small sensor.
The Nikkor Z DX 16-50mm f3.5-6.3 VR Silver Edition is a standard zoom lens based on the 16-50mm f3.5-6.3 VR, but with a silver-colored finish that is perfectly matched to the Nikon Z fc. With a total length of 32 mm and a total weight of only 135 g, the lens is compact and light. Therefore, it can be carried comfortably and still offers high resolution over the entire zoom range. The 16–50 mm VR Silver Edition can be used for a wide variety of everyday scenes, from landscapes to snapshots to portraits.
The Nikkor Z 28mm f2.8 is a compact and lightweight lens. With its bokeh, unique among prime lenses, it is ideal for portraits and still lifes. The lens has a traditional design inspired by classic Nikkor lenses from the FM2 era. The 28 mm lens has the classic surface finish of the Nikon Z fc for perfectly coordinated aesthetics.
Price and availability
The Nikon Z fc camera as well as two new Nikkor Z DX 16-50mm f3.5-6.3 VR Silver Edition and Nikkor Z 28mm f2.8 lenses are already available to pre-order on Bhphotovideo.com and Adorama.com and are expected to be available in stores from the end of July 2021.
The camera body as well as in various kits at the following recommended retail prices on the market.
- Nikon Z fc (body only): $956.95
- Z fc with 16-50mm lens kit: $1,096.95
- Z fc with 28mm lens kit: $1,196.95
- Nikkor Z DX 16-50mm f3.5-6.3 VR: $296.95
- Nikkor Z 28mm f2.8: $296.95
