Nikon has taken a major step into the filmmaking world with the introduction of the Nikon ZR, the first camera born from its acquisition of Red Cinema.
The Nikon ZR cinema camera is built upon the foundation of the Nikon Z6 III, sharing its 24.5-megapixel full-frame sensor, advanced autofocus, and strong image stabilization. For video, it captures up to 6K resolution at 60 frames per second and 4K at 120fps for slow-motion, alongside a dedicated vertical video mode for social media.
The most significant feature is the inclusion of genuine RED Color Science, a first for a non-RED camera. This allows filmmakers to use RED’s cinematic looks and a new video format called R3D NE (Nikon Edition) directly in-camera. This format lets users seamlessly mix footage from the ZR with higher end RED cameras in the same project.
Designed purely for video, the ZR features a slim, rectangular body dominated by a massive 4-inch articulating rear screen. Nikon claims this is the brightest and highest-resolution display in its class, designed to eliminate the need for an external monitor on many shoots.
The camera also breaks new ground in audio, being the world’s first to offer in-camera 32-bit float recording. This technology helps prevent distorted sound by automatically adjusting for loud peaks, working with both its built-in microphones and external ones.
Despite its high-end features, the ZR is built without a cooling fan, allowing for a completely sealed body that is both weather-resistant and silent. It weighs just 540 grams and uses a standard Nikon EN-EL15c battery.
The Nikon ZR is scheduled to go on sale in October 2025 with a competitive price of $2,199(~Php125,000), making professional RED color science more accessible to a wider range of creators.