Nikon ZR Firmware Update Brings RED Log3G10 and New Video Controls

Nikon has shared more details about the next firmware update for its ZR cinema camera. The upcoming release will be the camera’s first major firmware update, adding new recording options, expanded customization, and improvements to monitoring and image processing.

The company first previewed some of the planned firmware features in September. At the time, Nikon confirmed that the ZR would eventually gain Open Gate recording and in-camera anamorphic desqueeze. However, those features will not arrive this year. Nikon still has several additions planned for the camera before the end of 2026.

RED Log3G10 Gamma Comes to H.265 Recording

One of the biggest additions is support for RED Log3G10 gamma when recording in H.265. This allows users to work with RED’s color science while using a more lightweight video codec.

According to Nikon, Log3G10 provides considerable flexibility for color grading, with smoother tonal gradations and a wide color gamut. This should give filmmakers more control over the final look of their footage without requiring them to record in a larger RAW format.

Nikon is also adding the ability to adjust the level of High ISO noise reduction. This gives users more control over how the camera handles noise in their footage, allowing them to balance noise reduction and image detail according to their preferences.

It’s official: Firmware Version 2.0 will be available for your #NikonZR by the end of the year. Developed for professional filmmakers and emerging storytellers, this firmware update gives you greater creative flexibility and a more streamlined production workflow. Learn more: https://t.co/RsSKbvLxTa

— NikonUSA (@NikonUSA) November 4, 2026

More Custom Controls and 3D LUT Improvements

The firmware update will expand the functions that users can assign to the ZR’s command dials and function buttons. New assignable options include ISO, exposure settings, white balance, and white balance color temperature.

Nikon is also improving how users work with 3D LUTs. When 3D LUT/View Assist is assigned to an Fn button, users will be able to switch between their configured LUT settings with a single operation.

Other additions include focus peaking when a 3D LUT is applied during R3D NE recording and support for applying a 3D LUT to the camera’s HDMI video output. The latter should make it easier for filmmakers to preview footage with their intended look on an external monitor.

The update will also introduce new image processing that Nikon says “suppresses frame-by-frame fluctuations in black level, reducing flicker that tends to occur in low-light conditions.”

Nikon ZR Firmware Update Arrives Before Year-End

Nikon has not provided an exact release date for the new firmware. The company says it is scheduled to become available before the end of 2026.

Although Open Gate recording and in-camera anamorphic desqueeze are still on the way, the upcoming update adds several useful capabilities for current ZR owners. Combined with the additional features planned for a future release, these improvements should make the camera an increasingly versatile option for filmmakers.

Pricing and Availability

The Nikon ZR is currently priced at $2,196.95 and is available for purchase from B&H Photo.