Nikon ZR Firmware 1.10 Brings Six-Hour Recording and Workflow Improvements

Nikon has released a new firmware update for its ZR cinema camera, and the headline feature is a major boost to maximum recording time. The update is aimed squarely at filmmakers and content creators who need longer uninterrupted takes.

Alongside the ZR update, Nikon has also issued a new firmware version for its flagship Z9, addressing a subject-tracking issue that some users have encountered.

Longer Recording Times and Video Improvements

Firmware version 1.10 brings several meaningful upgrades to the ZR. The most notable change is the extension of the maximum continuous recording time. With the new firmware, the ZR can now record up to six hours in a single session, a substantial jump from the previous 125-minute limit.

Exposure monitoring has also been refined. When using waveform or histogram displays, a new warning line now indicates the maximum brightness level to help avoid clipping. Nikon says this indicator adjusts depending on ISO sensitivity when recording R3D NE video in Log3G10, making exposure control more intuitive in real-world shooting situations.

Another change allows users to set the video file type to R3D NE 12-bit (R3D) in Auto mode. When this option is selected, the camera automatically switches the shooting mode to M.

File Naming, Timecode Sync, and Workflow Tweaks

The ZR now adopts RED’s file-naming convention, which should make file organization easier, especially on multi-camera shoots. The new naming system also helps prevent duplicate filenames and simplifies media management in post-production.

Timecode synchronization has also been improved. While Bluetooth timecode sync is still supported, the ZR can now sync timecode using a wired connection through the external microphone/line input. This approach avoids potential Bluetooth pairing issues and enables jam sync, meaning the timecode continues running even after the generator is disconnected. That should eliminate the need for frequent re-synchronization on set.

Nikon has also increased the maximum number of LUT files that can be displayed for View Assist from 10 to 50. According to the company, this gives users a wider range of LUT options to better match their intended final look while shooting on location.

Additional Refinements and Bug Fixes

A new Power-on Lamp Energy Saver option has been added to the Setup menu. When set to Off, the power-on lamp remains lit while the camera is turned on, making it easier to tell when the ZR is actively powered, particularly when the rear LCD is closed.

Nikon has also updated some of the guidance text displayed when connecting the camera to the Nikon Imaging Cloud service, though the actual connection procedure remains unchanged.

The firmware fixes an issue that could cause noise in audio during USB live streaming, which should be welcome news for users relying on the ZR for streaming setups.

Nikon Z9 Firmware Update

Nikon has also rolled out firmware version 5.31 for the Z9. This update fixes an issue where the focus point could sometimes leave the subject immediately after tracking started. The bug affected 3D-tracking in photo mode and Subject-tracking AF in video mode.

Where to Download the Updates

Nikon ZR firmware version 1.10 and Nikon Z9 firmware version 5.31 are now available for download from the Nikon Download Center.

Nikon ZR Cinema Camera

What We Think

Nikon’s first dedicated cinema camera combines the company’s Z-mount lens system with RED’s R3D color science and processing. The ZR records in the new R3D NE RAW format up to 6K/60p, providing 15+ stops of dynamic range with RED’s established color profiles that match other cameras in RED’s lineup. The camera features a full-frame sensor with dual base ISOs of 800 and 3200, allowing flexibility across different lighting conditions.

The ZR includes several unique features for a camera at this price point, including 32-bit float audio recording that eliminates the need for manual gain adjustment during recording. Three built-in microphones use Nokia’s OZO technology to provide directional audio pickup patterns, while the new digital accessory shoe enables direct communication and power delivery to compatible accessories. The fanless design keeps the camera silent during operation while maintaining thermal management for up to 125 minutes of continuous recording.

Reasons to Buy

• RED color science with R3D NE RAW recording up to 6K/60p
• 32-bit float audio with five selectable pickup patterns from built-in mics
• Fanless operation with 125-minute continuous recording capability
• 4-inch DCI-P3 LCD eliminates the need for an external monitor in most situations
• Lightweight at 1.19 lbs with weather sealing and magnesium construction

Reasons to Avoid

• New R3D NE codec requires updated post-production workflows
• Digital accessory shoe has limited compatible accessories at launch
• Higher price than traditional hybrid cameras

Specifications

• Sensor: Full-frame 35.9 × 23.9 mm CMOS sensor
• Effective Resolution: 24.5 megapixels
• Lens Mount: Nikon Z mount (supports autofocus lenses)
• Video Recording: 6K (6048 × 3402) up to 60 fps (REDCODE RAW), DCI 4K (4030 × 2268) up to 120 fps, UHD 4K (3984 × 2240) up to 120 fps, Full HD (1920 × 1080) up to 240 fps

• Codecs / Formats: REDCODE RAW (R3D), N-RAW, ProRes RAW / 422 HQ, H.265 / H.264
• Dynamic Range: Over 14 stops
• Dual Base ISO: 800 and 6400
• Stabilization: 5-axis in-body sensor-shift stabilization (up to 7.5 stops)
• Shutter: Electronic shutter up to 1/16,000 sec; shutter angle 5.6°–360°
• Autofocus: Deep-learning AI AF with human, animal, and vehicle detection
• Display: 4.0” articulating touchscreen LCD, 3.07M dots, DCI-P3 gamut, auto-flip

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