Nikon just announced a major firmware update for the Nikon Z8, bringing it some highly-anticipated features from the Z9 and Zf cameras. The headlining features are a dedicated bird-detection autofocus option, the addition of Auto Capture (borrowed from the Z9) and a Pixel Shift shooting mode that allows capture up to 180 megapixels (borrowed from the Zf). There are also a variety of smaller things added in Version 2.0, including more custom options when assigning buttons, a new “Rich Tone Portrait” Picture Control, and additional shutter sounds.
Taken together, these changes will make one of the best mirrorless cameras on the market even better. I’m encouraged to see Nikon following through on their promise to release such major firmware updates to their mirrorless cameras – it’s an exciting trend!
You can download the new firmware here, as well as reading a full list of all the improvements under the header Changes from “C” Firmware Version 1.01 to 2.00. (The changes are quite extensive, and not everything is listed in the press release):
- Z 8 Firmware Ver. 2.0 – more info and download
Nikon also updated NX Tether to Version 2.0. The software now allows a wider range of settings to be controlled while tethering your camera. You can download NX Tether 2.0 here:
- NX Tether Ver. 2.0 download
Nikon’s full press release is below:
Press Release
NIKON RELEASES FIRST MAJOR FIRMWARE UPGRADE VER. 2.0 FOR THE NIKON Z 8
Nikon Also Releases Updated Free NX Tether Ver. 2.0 Utility Software to Seamlessly Support Professional Photographer and Videographer Workflow
MELVILLE, NY (February 6, 2024) The critically acclaimed, editorially celebrated and award-winning Nikon Z 8 is getting even better. Today, Nikon announced the availability of the first major firmware update for the Z 8, Firmware Ver. 2.0. This free update adds multiple features and enhancements for still-image, video capture and improved workflow. Additionally, Nikon has also announced availability of the latest version of NX Tether, Nikon’s free tethering software for still and video professionals.
“The Nikon Z 8 already offered best-in-class features; with this latest update, we are once again proving that we are always listening to our customers and will work to surpass their expectations,” said Naoki Onozato, President and CEO of Nikon Inc. “We also realize that our users’ workflow is an important part of the job, and NX Tether Ver 2.0 is an example of the software ecosystem we can provide that integrates seamlessly to enhance the capture experience.”
Z 8 Firmware Ver. 2.0
Similar to the feature previously added to the Nikon Z 9, a dedicated option for birds has been added to the AF subject-detection options, increasing bird-detection performance in a variety of situations and providing greater support for bird photographers. Additionally, support for the Auto Capture function enables automatic shooting when the subject meets one or more pre-configured criteria, providing users with new options for both stills and video shooting.
The update also adds Pixel Shift shooting, which enables the creation of super high-resolution photos by using dedicated software to merge multiple NEF (RAW) files captured with the function. With the Z 8’s high-resolution sensor, images can be captured with an astonishing 180 megapixels. Pixel Shift shooting is ideal for capturing the finest details in subjects with intricate designs, such as buildings and art pieces, while providing precise rendering of the subject’s colors, textures, and structures.
There’s more to love with the update, as Rich Tone Portrait Picture Control is added to enable the rendering of rich tones while retaining skin details for portrait photography. In combination with other functions such as Skin softening and Portrait impression balance, portrait photographers have more control than ever. More functions and operations can now be assigned to custom controls, and users now have access to new shutter volume and sound options.
Primary Updates: Z 8 Firmware ver. 2.0
- A dedicated [Birds] option has been added to the Z 8’s AF subject-detection options. In addition to increased detection, tracking and AF performance with complicated and high-contrast backgrounds such as forests and mountains, this option better enables the detection of birds in various circumstances, including flying, perched and even those with unique-looking appearances.
- The Auto Capture function has been added, enabling the automatic shooting of stills and video when the subject meets one or more pre-configured criteria. The three criteria that can be configured are a [Motion] option that detects subjects that move in a designated direction, a [Distance]1 option which begins shooting when a subject is within a certain range of distances, and a [Subject detection] option that detects people, animals, vehicles, or airplanes within the frame.
- Firmware version 2.0 adds Pixel Shift shooting, allowing users to create high-resolution photos by using dedicated software to merge multiple NEF (RAW) files recorded with the camera mounted on a tripod or otherwise stabilized.
- For portrait photographers, the addition of the Rich Tone Portrait Picture Control increases options for portraiture by realizing the rendering of portraits with rich tones while retaining skin details. This Picture Control is ideal for the creation of a base image in scenes where retouching is presumed, such as at weddings and for studio photography. In combination with the variety of other functions offered by Nikon for portrait photography, such as Portrait impression balance and Skin softening.
- Other functions, and additional enhancements to operability and functionality:
- The number of functions and operations that can be assigned to custom control has increased.
- A function has been added that enables users to exit zoom with a half press of the shutter-release button when focus mode is set to manual focus.
- New shutter sound and volume options.
- An option that allows users to choose the width of focus-point borders has been added.
- An option that allows users to choose not to record shooting orientation information in image EXIF data has been added.
- A new [Prefer focus point (face priority)] option that centers the display on a face when one is detected while scrolling through photos during playback zoom has been added.
NX Tether Ver 2.0
Nikon is pleased to announce the release of Nikon Tether Ver. 2.0, a computer software application that enhances functionality for tethered shooting2 with a Nikon digital camera, available free of charge.
Ver. 2.0 adds support for popular functions that were part of the Camera Control Pro 23program, such as the configuration of a wide variety of camera settings, live view display during remote tethered shooting and support for video recording. This software helps increase efficiency for solo photographers working unassisted in a studio setting with hand-held shooting or commercial products. This software enables the output to be confirmed with the client on a large monitor as the shoot progresses. The variety of camera settings that can be configured remotely from the computer have also been increased to provide professional photographers the powerful support they need for effective still image and video recording in a wide variety of situations.
The user interface has been designed for ease of use and offers an organized layout of various functions employed with tethered shooting, enabling users to freely adjust the layout of the live view and control displays to better suit their workflow. The simple, yet multi-functional design enables intuitive operation without hesitation for increased work efficiency.
Primary Features: NX Tether Ver 2.0
- Support provided for still image and video recording.
- Full-coverage live view display that allows photographers and clients to check that the desired results are being achieved on a large monitor, even when they are away from the computer.
- Camera operation functions that offer control over shooting settings unique to Nikon, such as Picture Control and Active D-Lighting.
- Users can select the format (JPEG, RAW, HEIF) in which images are recorded. What’s more, when recording to both card slots (RAW + JPEG or HEIF), the user can choose to have only the JPEG or HEIF images transferred to the computer.
- Wireless control is also possible by utilizing the camera’s built-in Wi-Fi to connect to the computer with Nikon’s free Wireless Transmitter Utility software. (supported cameras: Z 9, Z 8)
- Supports an efficient workflow when switching between still image and video recording, and a multi-functional yet simple and easy-to-use user interface.
- The application window layout can be arranged to suit each user’s preferences and workflow, providing flexible operation in any situation.
Supported OS
- Windows Version:
- Microsoft Windows 11
- Microsoft Windows 10
- Mac Version:
- macOS Sonoma 14
- macOS Ventura 13
- macOS Monterey 12
- Cameras supported with Ver. 2.0.04
- D-SLR Cameras: D6, D780
- Mirrorless Cameras: Z 9, Z 8, Z 7II, Z 6II, Z 7, Z 6
Price and Availability
Both the Nikon Z 8 Firmware Ver. 2.0 and NX Tether Ver. 2.0 are available for free on the Nikon website. For more information and to download, please visit the below links.
- Z 8 Firmware Ver. 2.0 download
- NX Tether Ver. 2.0 download
For more information about the latest Nikon products, including the vast collection of NIKKOR Z lenses and the entire line of Z series cameras, please visit Nikonusa.com.
About Nikon
Nikon Inc. is a world leader in digital imaging, precision optics and technologies for photo and video capture; globally recognized for setting new standards in product design and performance for an award-winning array of equipment that enables visual storytelling and content creation. Nikon Inc. distributes consumer and professional Z Series mirrorless cameras, digital SLR cameras, a vast array of NIKKOR and NIKKOR Z lenses, Speedlights and system accessories, Nikon COOLPIX® compact digital cameras and Nikon software products. For more information, dial (800) NIKON-US or visit www.nikonusa.com, which links all levels of photographers and visual storytellers to the Web’s most comprehensive learning and sharing communities. Connect with Nikon on Facebook, X, YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, Vimeo and Flickr.
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Specifications, equipment, and release dates are subject to change without any notice or obligation on the part of the manufacturer.
Trade names (companies, products, services, etc.) are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.
- [Distance] is available only when a NIKKOR Z lens is used with the camera. Auto Capture may fail to function when lenses other than NIKKOR Z lenses are used.
- The process of connecting a camera to a computer or tablet and confirming images and video real-time on-screen as they are shot.
- New functions and support for new cameras via Camera Control Pro 2 are not planned in the future. Current users of Camera Control Pro 2 are recommended to use NX Tether.
- Only some basic tethered shooting functions are available for use when using the following cameras: Z f, Z 5, Z fc, Z 50, Z 30
I have wondered whether pixel shift is practical for landscape shooting. Outside the studio, we can expect so many changing conditions – grass, leaves, sun, clouds, water, and more can move while the camera is firing 32 shots. Can LR really average them without creating artifacts that undermine the picture? (If you’re shooting pixel shift on a z7 or 8, then it seems to me you are really aiming for incredible levels of details and low noise…) Even bracketing 3 shots, LR seems to struggle to blend sometimes, especially with water in the frame, or trees. How/when does pixel shift really shine, and what are the times to stay away? I can’t tell you how much I appreciate the site, and I guess I hope you might be as curious about this question as I am!
Hi Spencer, just wonder how pixel shift will improve imatest score in a controlled test environment. Ex. 135mm Plena @ f2.8 & f4; Will it be anywhere near 2x its original values?
That’s a good question – I don’t know. Our lab camera is a Z7 and I don’t have a Z8 on-hand to test right now. But I’ll add it to my list of things to check.
Hello Spencer
why is the Z7 used for tests? and not Z9? is the Z7 reference? at what image quality? dynamic range?
best regards
It’s our standard camera for all our MTF tests. We’ve tested dozens of lenses on this particular copy of the Z7. The whole purpose is standardization. Switching to any other camera, even another 45MP camera, could mean that our lens tests can no longer be compared to one another.
Pixel shift + Plena == ?????
Thanks, looking forward to it..
Anyone have any technique suggestions for how to get good results with Pixel Shift?
Spencer: Thanks for the info. Just what I was waiting for. I look forward to your deep dive and recommended settings.
Pixel shift differentiates the Z8 from the Z9. And since I don’t think we’ll get it on the Z9 (which would kill its sales given that the Z8 would essentially be the same camera 1000$ cheaper), should we expect something big for our Z9s as well? Maybe prerelease in raw? (fingers crossed on that one)
How would adding pixel shift to the Z9 kill Z9 sales? I cannot follow the rationale here.
You don’t have either body. They both have the same (amazing) capabilities. Pixel shift, prerelease, auto capture etc. wouldn’t you go for the one that’s 1000$ cheaper?
(I didn’t phrase it right on my original post)
It is not just about the cost. Camera functions that count and are essential parts of how you work are not things you want to go without. This is why Nikon built the Z9 the way it did and why it is a popular option. For example, add on GPS is not a great option. With a huge lens on a gimbal a smaller body is harder to use. Etc. etc.
The Z9 has some key features that are excellent value if you look at the cost of trying to add them in to the Z8 (assuming that is possible). 1. Big battery capacity. 2. Built in Grip 3. Built in GPS 4. Two CFExpress Card slots 5. Longer Video shooting without getting too hot.
Given the relatively small price difference, the Z9 is a very logical choice if those features are things you actually want. The Z8 has a slight weight and size advantage. I think it is an excellent option. They are both great cameras. Your assumption that the Z8 is the logical choice is just your assumption.
The other choices on the Z8 will probably turn up on the Z9 in firmware anyway. Why wouldn’t they?
Lower price and the lack of a grip differentiates the Z8 from the Z9. I expect them to share a lot of the same features, but I expect the pro action features to be applied to the Z9 first.
Same sensor, same processor, form factor is slightly different, which in turn means storage is different and battery is different.
And us, Z6II users, still waiting for the second processor to make a difference, compared with the Z6. Eheh
That is one of the reasons why I sold Z6mk1 after 2 years usage. Lack of firmware updates that will fix stupid mistakes. Like now in Z8 Nikon finally added number to the manual focus scale. Wow! Incredible feature that needs 4 processors ;-)
Quite strange as an example as Z6 1 is known as one of the most well provided camera when it comes to FW updates.
There has been 14 FW updates for it in about 5 years. 7 to 9 has been quite important starting with V2.00 in May 2019, – about half a year after launch date – to 3.50 in late 2022. Last one was in mid 2023.
I don’t think any other manufacturer has such a volume and quality of updates in the last years.
I wonder what you consider as a good pace for FW updates then… ?
Even Z6II users were provided with 10 FW updates in about 3 years, about 5 being quite important too, and one last being a minor fix in January.
After years of waiting for an APS-C mirrorless version of the D500, I’ve decided to get a Z8 instead. It’s a bit more expensive but all this extra features convinced me. Plus there are cases where getting a bit closer and filling the frame will result in that slightly better noise performance….
No offense, but I’ve never really seen the draw of APS-C cameras. Of course, they are a bit smaller and lighter – but if you want a high-end APS-C camera, the difference is often small (in fact, the D500 is almost the same size and weight as the Z8). And since pixel density is often similar to high-resolution FF-bodies, you don’t even really gain reach.
Personally, I prefer having the extra pixels, which gives me more freedom to crop in post. It has helped me quite a few times in the past, for “panoramic” crops (e. g. for banners) as well as portrait-crops of originally landscape-oriented pictures. And sometimes, it just nice to show a bit more of the surroundings of your subject.
Anyway, I’m sure you will enjoy your Z8 – it’s a great camera, and even with adapted F-mount lenses, be prepared for a significant boost in AF performance!
Though, D500’s sensor is still better than Z8’s cropped and even marginally than D850… and AF is still one of the best. The price tag was another good reason to buy this camera. But, I agree that for all-round purposes, out of using the excellent 16-80 DX (which you can have for nearly half the price in kits), D500 was globally less interesting than D850.
For wildlife only, it’s still an excellent bargain and combo with AF-S telephoto lenses.
Anyway, the impressive flexibility you have in the field with the Z8 makes the difference, you’re right… and especially now we know Nikon is dedicated to keep it up to date as a marvel ;).
It’s clearly more of a powerhouse that keeps improving.
You’re right of course, cost is an other factor in favour of APS-C. However, with a little patience, you can usually get good used or refurbished deals on the more expensive cameras to minimise this.
And while there are cerainly cases where APS-C outperformes FF for reach/details (especially with newer, higher resolution APS-C bodies), I think that the extra pixels of FF sensors are more valuable in most cases for most photographers.
They are, but not always have been and especially if we compare overall prices and combos… For instance, the AF-S 24-120 FX was not as good as the 16-80 DX, so it could have been considered a reverse reason to choose APS-C at the time when Reflexes were the only choices and APS-C kits were quite a lot cheaper… + D500 was the best value for wildlife anyway was it for AF or reach.
So, for someone that wanted a workhorse more aimed at wildlife for the best price, D500 was quite a logical choice.
Also, in a budget frame, I can imagine that those who prefers cheaper tele-zooms turned more to FF because of versatility, while those who wanted something more uncompromising turned to 500PF, and D500 was a very good choice with this lens, especially considering global budget.
+ what is true for FF second hand prices was and still is also true for D500.
Anyway, I think this is not the question anymore when it comes to nowadays Nikons, as cost to value are quite in a different overall shape in both Z cameras and lenses line-ups by now.
Seeing what Nikon did with Z9 and Z8, I think it’s more and more unlikely that they invest production costs for an APS-C high-end camera… and even maybe for any new type of APS-C camera.
On the other hand, they already have surprised us in the past (and by now with this firmware update).
Simple. Pop a 300/f4 and a 1.4 TC onto an aps-c camera and you have a very budget-friendly wildlife combo, the whole thing costing no more than a 35mm fan has just spent on a 100-400 f4.5-5.6 (and who will then have to crop as much as your average arable farmer).
In a hide, I’d sat with my above combo next to a chap with a 35mm, 300/f3.8 and 500/f4, and ran through my head the following conversation with one’s spouse:
“Hi. I spent £2,200 on my camera with a 450mm and 630mm (efl) lens and look: here’s a framed A3+ print on the wall”.
Ditto, but replace £2,200 with £15,000.
I take no offence. And I promise not to speak photo gear to your spouse, if ever introduced.
Agreed, APS-C equipment is generally more affordable, but that doesn’t make it technically more attractive.
And in your specific example, you could pop the same lens on a FF body with similar pixel density – you would just be cropping in post vs. cropping when taking the shot. FF doesn’t by default require $10000+ telephoto lenses.
I know it’s a personal preference, but I like that extra pixels of FF cameras. Also, in the DSLR age, I really liked the bigger and brighter viewfinders of FF cameras. Once I had a FF camera in my hands, I just didn’t want to go back.
And I’m one of the (apparently very few) lucky guys who’s spouse is fully aware of and perfectly fine with my gear purchases (after all, I’m spending my money, not hers). ;-)
You will not regret your decision. Been photographing birds with the Z8 for 5 months now and it has changed almost everything about the process, makes the D850 seem limiting by comparison. The focus speed and accuracy is stunning. High frame-rate is great. Perhaps a more subtle yet great feature is the truly silent shutter.
Can’t wait to try out the auto capture and the bird focus system.
Not sure I will make much use of the pixel shift option, but kudos to them for adding it for those who do (and good to have it available anyway).
Does anyone know: When I use the auto recognition options (birds/animals/vehicles etc.) does it work as well as picking each option manually via the menu? Thanks
My understanding is that the individual subject recognition modes are more efficient at recognizing those subjects and maintaining focus because it streamlines the cameras processing and “decision making.” If you are shooting a specific subject by all means set it to the appropriate subject recognition mode. This will help eliminate cases where the camera sees multiple potential types of subjects or finds false subjects and automatically moves the point of focus.
Thanks
I appreciate how well they’re supporting their pro cameras. I’m thinking that Z8 was a good purchase choice.
It’s very heartening! I know this was one of the big things that photographers asked for when Nikon began the Z system, with good reason.
It makes sense when you consider the fact that both the Z9 and Z8 use an electronic shutter. There is much more room for improvement via firmware, which to my knowledge is something Sony doesn’t do often. I think this is where Nikon can really capitalize against the competition.
The presence or absence of an electronic shutter isn’t the limiting factor here if I had to guess–it’s that they share the same sensor, same processor, and presumably the rest of the supporting electronics are the same. From a reference design perspective it doesn’t make sense to make them different given the choices they made. That lets them share the same component supply chain, though likely there are differences in the logic boards (form factor related but likely little else) and related to accommodate the different form factors, batteries, and resulting heat dissipation requirements.