ZR

Thrilled by: big screen; slightly lighter than the Z6iii (which in many ways is better than the ZR, if one does not care about RED color 'science' - says this biased N-Log RAW vid person); Nikon's Trade-Up program, which was a very sweet way to replace my Z6ii.Not Thrilled by: directional onboard audio not available in my favorite codec; the quantity of 'quick' control buttons is too limiting; the card access via the battery hatch door is 'AWKWARD'.Meh items: good thing there are a few decent rig cages are out there for the ZR; the micro HDMI is not a deal breaker for me, but seems to be for others; good companion A/B cam for Nikon Z peeps who want a second cam.Open Issue Question: will the Nikon ME-D10 mic also limit the directional features for the higher end codecs?ALL in ALL: I am pleased to use the ZR and/or the Z6iii for short and reliable videos.

The ZR. is a great small camera. It allows all kinds of rigging (handheld /gimbal / cinema backs). The 32-bit float audio is great.. The 4" back screen is simple a joy to use and negates the requirement of using 5" monitors. I usually use R3D or NRAW-Normal depending on the event length that I'm shooting but there are alot of options. This camera punches waay above it's price point. My only minor complaints: The micro-sd card can be a challenge to remove but after loading my LUTS to the microSD I don't remove it anymore. The mic port blocks the screen from opening all the way but the ME-D10 makes for a cleaner rig and better sound and negates the issue. Lastly I prefer a bigger grip and full hdmi port but these are also easily fixed with a couple of items from smallrig and I understand that if you want the smallest handheld / gibal camera the design they created works best for those scenarios.

So far, GREAT addition to my extensive kit. Fills the gaps for run-and-gun and motorized gimbal needs my productions were missing with my GH7. I'm sure more firmware updates are on the way, so I won't be too harsh about the file sizes and exposure tools and more - I'm confident they're coming. Glad to see the range of codecs and RAW that are currently available. For now, my Portkeys LH5P II is taking up the slack - given it remotely controls the ZR (all setttings) and has exposure tools that are missing from the ZR currently (in particular Log False Color, it's brand of EL Zone).

This camera is a great bit of kit. I use it along side my Z6III and have made it my A camera. The larger screen is great and removes the need for an external monitor. Images look amazing and it feels good in your hands. Great job Nikon.

As this is my first DSLR, at first I found this camera to be quite intimidating with all the setting the 900+ page instruction manual. However, Nikon has a starter YouTube video which walks you through some of the basics. That combined with other independent videos and the manual are helping me understand and appreciate how versatile this camera is.

Great camera! I use it as a true hybrid and the screen has many advantages for both video and still (image and menu access). Form factor is great with a Tilta L grip. I also have the Z6iii, and this camera has the same image quality + slightly better video if using the premium R3D Codec.

Absolutely love it so far! Great instructional videos on YT that have been helpful for a steep learning curve switching from mainly photography on either film (or my ancient T2i) now to more cinematography shooting. Bought mine through the refurbished sale and have no issues whatsoever.

Funny that you (Nikon) just emailed me for a review. Just found out via a FB group that my brand new ZR has been recalled. Checked the serial and have sent it to you. I hope you fix it promptly. Wish I had been notified by you and not by chance on FB. Alan

The r3d files are amazing but the data rate is too bloated for today’s skyrocketing costs for storage. We need r3d codecs with smaller data rates like in the Komodo etc. N-raw and h265 won’t cut it. We bought this camera for the r3d files. Furthermore, if you’re going to label the camera as “cinema” then we need focus peaking, false color, RED stoplight exposure control, anamorphic de-squeeze, and open gate. This should be easily fixable with a firmware update.