The previously reported Viltrox 26mm f/2.8 EVO pancake lens for Nikon Z-mount has been officially announced. Orders are now open at:

• US: B&H Photo
• DE: Foto Erhardt
• Worldwide: Viltrox store

Comparison between the Nikon Z 26mm f/2.8 and the new Viltrox 26mm f/2.8 lens can be found here.

The technical specifications of the lens can be found here (additional information):

• Ultra-compact pancake lens with dual control rings
• Impressive optical performance for sharp, natural images
• Versatile 26mm perspective for everyday scenes and visual storytelling
• Precise AF with a minimum focusing distance of just 0.2 m
• Quick-access magnetic cap and filter-ready hood

Viltrox today announced the launch of its AF 26mm F2.8 EVO, a compact full-frame autofocus pancake lens designed for everyday carry and photography. Well suited to street photography, architecture, environmental portraits, travel, and visual storytelling, the AF 26mm F2.8 EVO is an ideal companion for creators who value great portability, dependable image quality, and intuitive handling in a lightweight full-frame system.

Durable, Ultra-Compact, With Intuitive Control

The AF 26mm F2.8 EVO is an ultra-compact lens that pairs naturally with today’s lightweight full-frame mirrorless cameras. Available for Sony E and Nikon Z mounts, this pancake lens features both a dedicated aperture ring and a separate focus ring, providing tactile manual control that is rarely found in this category.

Its precision-machined metal construction provides durability and a premium feel, while dust and splash resistance around the lens mount enhances reliability during everyday use, matching its portability to make it an ideal companion for travel and spontaneous photography.

An Excellent Perspective at Any Distance

A gear-type STM autofocus motor delivers precise and reliable autofocus performance. With a minimum focusing distance of just 0.2m, the AF 26mm F2.8 EVO allows photographers to transition seamlessly from expansive landscapes to expressive close-up compositions. With an 81.2° angle of view, the 26mm focal length sits naturally between traditional wide-angle perspectives, delivering an immersive yet natural field of view that adapts effortlessly to a broad range of subjects and shooting scenarios.

Carefully Crafted for Impressive Image Quality

Compact in size yet impressive in performance, the AF 26mm F2.8 EVO features an optical design of 8 elements in 6 groups, including 2 aspherical elements and 1 high-refractive (HR) element. The lens delivers excellent sharpness even at its maximum aperture of F2.8, allowing confident wide-open shooting. In-camera correction further helps produce natural rendering with minimal visible distortion for balanced, high-quality results.

Convenient Functionality

A magnetic front lens cap enables conveniently quick attachment and removal. A standard 43mm filter thread, a built-in USB-C port for firmware updates, and compatibility with the Viltrox Lens App further enhance the user experience, combining everyday convenience with long-term usability.

Pricing and Availability

The Viltrox AF 26mm F2.8 EVO is available for 299USD / 319EUR / 279GBP

Viltrox 26mm f/2.8 EVO pancake lens for E/Z mount coming on July 15th (full details included)

The post Viltrox 26mm f/2.8 EVO pancake lens for Nikon Z-mount officially announced appeared first on Nikon Rumors.

The previously reported Tamron 12-20mm f/2.8 full-frame lens for Nikon Z-mount (model A084) was just announced. Pre-orders are now open at:

• US: B&H Photo
• DE: Foto Erhardt
• UK: WEX Photo
• CA: Camera Canada

Additional information about the new lens can be found here:

• Beyond the Scope of Vision — The Overwhelming Perspective Only 12mm Can Capture
• Stunning Corner-to-Corner Resolution for Astrophotography and Nightscapes
• Enhanced Mobility for Landscapes — A Compact and Lightweight Design
• Comprehensive Control Features to Meet Professional Demands
• High-Speed, High-Precision, and Quiet Performance — Equipped with VXD Linear Motor Focus Mechanism
• Stunning Close-Up Performance — Unleashing the Dynamism of Ultra Wide-Angles
• Compatible with TAMRON Lens Utility — Seamless Support for Video and Stills
• Mastery of Light — The Artistry of a 12-Blade Circular Diaphragm
• Evolution of Form — Introducing the “Toned Profile Next” Lens Design
• Integrated Flower-Shaped Lens Hood and Locking Front Lens Cap
• Integrated Rear Filter Holder
• Included Soft Wrapping Cloth for Scratch Resistance
• Protective Features (Moisture-Resistant Construction and Fluorine Coating)
• Specifications:

Sample photos:

Tamron to announce a new 12-20mm f/2.8 lens for Nikon Z-mount (model A084)

The post Just announced: Tamron 12-20mm f/2.8 full-frame lens for Nikon Z-mount appeared first on Nikon Rumors.

The official Nikon Direct Store in Japan released several new limited edition items (additional information) – Nikon should make them available for sale to the rest of the world!

Here are some of the new items:

Nikon lens configuration diagram tenugui (Japanese hand towel):

Nikon Zf bottle holder:

Nikon apparel:

You can find some of the Nikon merch on eBay (a few t-shirts are also available on Amazon):

The post Nikon, please bring your Japan-only merch to the rest of the world! appeared first on Nikon Rumors.

The above Nikon Z9 image from Artemis II enables major scientific discovery: large-scale morphology of the optical F-corona:

Researchers have published a peer-reviewed scientific paper demonstrating that a single publicly released JPEG image taken with a commercially available Nikon Z9 during NASA’s Artemis II lunar flyby has provided valuable new insights into the structure of the optical F-corona (the inner zodiacal light).

The paper, titled “Large-scale Morphology of the Optical F-corona from a Total Solar Eclipse Observation during the Artemis II Lunar Flyby,” was published on June 9, 2026, in The Astrophysical Journal Letters by Kohji Tsumura (Tokyo City University / Tohoku University) and Ko Arimatsu (National Astronomical Observatory of Japan).

The image in question is NASA’s well-known “Artemis II in Eclipse” (NASA ID art002e009301), captured on April 6/7, 2026, during the crew’s lunar flyby at an altitude of approximately 6,545 km above the lunar surface. Camera settings (from image metadata):

• Camera: Nikon Z9
• Lens: Nikkor AF-D 35mm f/2 (adapted)
• Aperture f/2
• Shutter: 2 seconds
• ISO: 1600
• Format: RGB JPEG, 8256 × 5504 pixels, 8-bit per channel

Image of a total solar eclipse taken by Artemis II

Because the spacecraft was so close to the Moon, the lunar disk appeared much larger than the solar disk (apparent lunar diameter ~16.9°, solar ~0.53°), producing nearly an hour of totality – far longer than any Earth-based total solar eclipse. The Moon completely occulted the Sun, revealing a glowing halo of the F-corona (sunlight scattered by interplanetary dust particles) over a wide ~51° × 33° field of view, along with numerous field stars and even Saturn and Mars.

Unexpected scientific value from a consumer JPEG

Although the image is a rendered JPEG without full photometric calibration, the authors carefully accounted for the gamma correction and validated that the camera response was linear in the unsaturated regime using field stars. They performed:

• Astrometric registration with Astrometry.net
• Zero-point subtraction using the dark side of the lunar disk
• Masking of the Moon and bright stars
• Relative intensity analysis across the RGB channels

Left: Spread of the F corona as captured by Artemis-II. Right: Spread of the F corona calculated by the model

Key scientific results

Here’s what the researchers actually discovered from that one Nikon Z9 photo:

1. The glow around the Moon isn’t round – it’s squashed

The faint halo of light you see around the dark Moon (the F-corona / zodiacal light) is flattened like a pancake rather than a perfect circle. It is stretched out along the plane of the solar system (the same flat disk where the planets orbit). Think of it like a slightly squished balloon pressed against the ecliptic plane.

2. It’s brighter on some sides than others

• The northern half of the glow is a bit brighter than the southern half.
• The western side is a bit brighter than the eastern side.

This small asymmetry matches what we’d expect from our viewing angle looking at the giant cloud of dust that surrounds the Sun.

3. The light falls off faster than expected as you move away from the Sun

The glow gets dimmer the farther you look from the Sun, following a steep “power-law” drop-off. The researchers found it drops off more quickly than older space measurements suggested. This tells us something important about how the dust is distributed: the number of dust particles decreases with distance from the Sun at a rate of roughly α ≈ 1.3.

4. Almost none of the glow is “true” solar corona

The bright streamers and plasma you usually see in total eclipses (the K-corona) are basically absent in this image at the distances they measured. What we’re seeing is almost pure sunlight bouncing off tiny interplanetary dust grains.

5. A regular consumer camera photo can do real science

Even though it was just a normal JPEG from a handheld Nikon Z9 (not a specially calibrated scientific instrument), after careful star-based calibration, the data was good enough to publish in a top astronomy journal. This is the first real “proof of concept” that astronauts flying past the Moon with everyday high-end cameras can gather useful data about the dust cloud that fills our solar system — and that future lunar-orbit missions could do this routinely.

A two-second photo taken with an off-the-shelf Nikon Z9 during Artemis II’s lunar flyby revealed that the dusty glow around the Sun is flattened, slightly lopsided, and falls off more steeply than previously thought – proving that even a regular camera in space can make genuine discoveries about our solar system’s dust cloud.

The authors conclude that the results provide “an empirical proof of concept that supports future solar coronal occultation observations from lunar orbit” and demonstrate that “opportunistic observations from crewed lunar missions can provide valuable insights into the structure of the inner zodiacal cloud.”

Kohji Tsumura (lead author):

“I was amazed to learn that this remarkable image was captured by an astronaut using a commercially available Nikon Z9 with an exposure time of just two seconds—a true testament to how far digital camera technology has come. Although I was initially sceptical about analysing a JPEG image, the quality proved comparable to data used in professional astronomical observations. Astronomy is unique in that amateurs and professionals alike can make meaningful contributions, and as high-performance cameras become more accessible, I believe images taken by amateur photographers will increasingly lead to unexpected scientific discoveries.”

Ko Arimatsu (co-author):

“The findings demonstrate that scientifically valuable data can be extracted from consumer camera images when properly calibrated and analyzed. This suggests that high-performance consumer cameras could serve not only for documentation during future space exploration, but also as tools for unexpected scientific discoveries.”

Hiroyuki Ikegami, Nikon Senior Executive Vice President, General Manager of Imaging Business Group:

“Seeing the images from the Artemis II mission return to Earth is a profound honor for all of us at Nikon. This latest research from Tokyo City University acts as a powerful reminder of what imaging can make possible when science, exploration, unrelenting effort and human curiosity come together.
For more than five decades, from Apollo 15 to the Artemis program, Nikon has been privileged to support NASA with cameras and lenses designed for exceptional clarity and reliability in the most demanding environments. The Nikon Z9’s high resolution, expansive dynamic range and outstanding low-light performance are helping crews capture incredible details.”

Previous NikonRumors coverage of Artemis II:

NASA Artemis II astronauts will take the 10-year-old Nikon D5 DSLR camera around the moon, here is why

New photos from the Artemis II mission released, and how NASA is testing cameras for flight

NASA’s Artemis II astronauts will take a Nikon Z9 to space

NASA’s Artemis II historic mission returns to Earth after a 10-day journey: Nikon gear goes around the moon

The Nikon Z9 is going to the moon with the upcoming Artemis III mission

It seems that the Nikon Z9 camera is going to the moon

The post Nikon Z9 image from Artemis II enables major scientific discovery: large-scale morphology of the optical F-corona appeared first on Nikon Rumors.

This article, “Parallax Monitor/ZR Ctl: the Nikon Z-series control app you will want on every shoot,” is written by Mike Aguado (YouTube channel).

The app was previously reported in this post:

The latest Nikon ZR accessories: skins, cages, underwater housings, third-party apps

Here is the guest post:

Exciting news for Nikon Shooters, Parallax Monitor for iOS and ZR Ctl for Android are now available. If you shoot with a Nikon Z-series camera, you have to buy this app! This feels like it should have been part of the camera from day one.

• iPhone/iPad App Store
• Android / Google Play
• App website

Parallax Monitor and ZR Ctl turn your mobile device into a serious Nikon Z-series command center. This is not just a basic start/stop remote. It is a live monitor, camera controller, multicam station, stills tool, review hub, exposure assistant, LUT viewer, and field workflow app in one.

Parallax Monitor turns an iPhone or iPad into a clean live-view monitor with camera status, recording controls, timecode, and monitoring tools.

The high-performance, super-accurate live-view screen is the first thing you notice. The image stays front and center, while the controls that matter on a real shoot stay close: aperture, shutter angle or shutter speed, ISO, white balance, Kelvin, codec, resolution, frame rate, record status, timecode, battery, LUT, focus, scopes, exposure tools, level, audio, and playback.

For Nikon ZR shooters, the control depth is a huge part of the appeal. The apps are designed around real camera settings, not generic remote-control checkboxes. You can work with aperture, ISO, shutter speed, shutter angle, exposure compensation, white balance, Kelvin, resolution, frame rate, codec, card slot, timecode, audio input sensitivity, autofocus mode, AF area mode, AF trigger, touch focus, and record start/stop.

Camera settings, live view, and operator controls are grouped into a fast field surface for Nikon Z-series shooters.

One of the biggest reasons this belongs in a Nikon Z kit is its multicam capability. More and more Nikon shooters are running multiple bodies for interviews, podcasts, events, weddings, product work, studio setups, livestreams, social verticals, and behind-the-scenes angles. A phone or tablet control center is exactly what those setups need, and you can do it all wirelessly with incredible Wifi handling and class-leading performance

The multicam workflow is built for the operator who wants multiple Nikon bodies organized from one place. Instead of walking from camera to camera, you can monitor connected bodies, check status, switch the active camera, align settings, and keep recording controls close. For a solo shooter or a small crew, that is the difference between running a setup and constantly chasing it.

The stills side matters just as much. Parallax Monitor and ZR Ctl are not video-only tools. Stills mode makes the app useful for hybrid Nikon shooters who need to capture, browse, review, and move photos quickly without turning every shoot into a laptop session.

Stills mode brings photo capture and camera control into the same mobile workflow.

For photo shooters, the review and bulk export workflow is one of the features that makes the app feel essential. You can use the camera-card gallery to review thumbnails, inspect captures, filter media, select keepers, and bulk-select photos for faster export or handoff where supported by the camera, file type, mobile device, and connection path.

Playback and review tools let you browse camera media, check takes, select files, and move faster between capture and delivery.

That field review surface is a big deal. A Nikon Z shooter might need to check focus on a portrait, send a still to a client, review a take before moving lights, pull a reference frame, or confirm that a second camera got the shot. Parallax Monitor and ZR Ctl keep that workflow close to the camera, which is exactly where you want it.

The exposure tools are another reason the apps feel purpose-built for serious Nikon work. You get the expected monitoring tools such as waveform, histogram, zebras, false color, LUT preview, focus peaking, framing guides, anamorphic desqueeze, level, and audio meters. Then the app adds fast-read exposure aids that are designed for people who are actually shooting, not just looking at a spec sheet.

X-Zone false color gives Nikon Z shooters a fast, practical way to judge exposure on a phone or tablet monitor.

X-Lights are built for quick exposure confidence. They give you an immediate read on highlight and shadow pressure while you keep looking at the image. They are especially useful when you are moving fast, riding exposure, lighting a scene, or trying to keep a compact setup clean without adding more dedicated monitoring hardware.

X-Zone false color is the other standout. It gives Nikon Z shooters a practical zone-style false-color view for judging exposure in a way that is fast, visual, and easy to read on set. Combined with waveform, histogram, zebras, and LUT preview, X-Zone makes the phone or tablet a much more serious exposure tool than a basic live-view remote.

LUT preview and look monitoring help you judge the image creatively while keeping exposure tools close.

LUT monitoring matters because many Nikon Z shooters are not just capturing clips, they are trying to protect a look. Being able to preview a creative LUT while still watching exposure, focus, framing, audio, and camera status makes the app feel more like an operator monitor than a remote app.

Focus tools, focus boxes, tap focus, and monitoring aids are part of the same operator surface.

Focus and framing tools round out the package. Where supported, you can tap the live view to move focus, trigger AF, work with AF mode and AF area settings, and keep focus boxes visible while you stay in the monitor. Composition tools include safe areas, cinema aspect ratios, vertical and social framing, custom guides, matte controls, guide opacity, and multi-guide workflows.

That is why Parallax Monitor and ZR Ctl are so easy to recommend to Nikon Z-series shooters. They help with the things that actually slow you down on set: controlling the camera, matching bodies, rolling multicam, shooting stills, reviewing media, exporting photos, checking exposure, previewing LUTs, pulling focus, and keeping the shoot moving.

Compatibility varies by camera model, firmware, mobile device, OS version, media format, and connection path. The apps are ZR-first, with compatibility work across other Nikon Z bodies where real testing supports it. Some bodies expose deeper controls than others, and some features depend on what the camera and platform make available.

But the bottom line is this: if you are shooting Nikon Z, this is one of those tools you want installed before the next shoot. For multicam control, stills mode, photo bulk export, review, LUT monitoring, X-Lights, X-Zone false color, focus tools, and deep Nikon Z camera control, Parallax Monitor and ZR Ctl make a phone or tablet earn a real place in your kit.

Note: Parallax Monitor and ZR Ctl are independently developed and are not affiliated with Nikon, RED, Apple, Google, or their subsidiaries.

If you have an interesting idea for a guest post, contact me here.

“THE Tether” is a new wireless Nikon tethering app built by a Photographer

The post Parallax Monitor/ZR Ctl: the Nikon Z-series control app you will want on every shoot appeared first on Nikon Rumors.

→ The new SG-Image 35mm f/2.2 AF full-frame lens for Nikon Z-mount is now in stock at Amazon (three different versions available: black, silver, and CE). Additional information on the lens is available here.

→ The Viltrox 26mm f/2.8 EVO pancake lens for Nikon Z-mount will be announced on July 15th (check the Viltrox website for updates). The full specifications on the new lens can be found here.

→ This 12-year-old Nikon D750 DSLR camera has taken 689,000 photos, and it still works perfectly (source: Paul’s Photo).

→ Registration for the Shutterspeak September 2026 Nikon Z Boot Camp just opened.

→ See this post for what is coming next in Aftershoot (free trial | galleries | previous coverage | “AI will not replace us“).

→ SanDisk’s first 8TB SDUC memory cards confirmed: massive storage, but new card readers required.

→ Tamron released Lens Utility version 5.0 for the Tamron Link.

→ New: Tilta Universal Cooling System (coming soon to B&H Photo).

→ The Nikon Z6 III camera with no wireless connectivity is now removed from B&H Photo (additional information).

→ New: 3 Legged Thing Zayne QD dedicated L-Bracket for the Nikon Z50 II.

→ Japan’s Intellectual Property High Court has upheld a Japan Patent Office (JPO) decision invalidating a RED video camera patent, in a case where Panasonic successfully challenged it, and Nikon, as RED’s new owner, appealed (source).

→ Nikon’s stock is up 28% year to date.

→ Z Cinema: Hands Among Petals.

The post Weekly Nikon news flash #894 appeared first on Nikon Rumors.

Tamron will soon announce a new 12-20mm f/2.8 lens for Nikon Z-mount (model A084). Here are the details:

• Focal Length: 12-20mm ultra-wide zoom
• Maximum Aperture: Constant F2.8 throughout the zoom range (ideal for astrophotography, nightscapes, and interior shooting)
• Format: Di III (full-frame mirrorless)
• Angle of View: 121°58′ – 94°30′ (full-frame)
• Length: 4.7” (119.3mm) Sony E / 4.8” (121.3mm) Nikon Z
• Weight: 20.2 oz (570g) Sony E / 20.7 oz (585g) Nikon Z
• Maximum Diameter: Ø90mm
• VXD (Voice-coil eXtreme-torque Drive) linear motor focus mechanism — high-speed, high-precision, and quiet
• Minimum Object Distance (MOD): 7.1” (0.18m) at 12mm wide end / 11.1” (0.28m) at tele end
• Maximum Magnification Ratio: 1:5.8 (wide) / 1:9.1 (tele)
• Overwhelming 12mm perspective for dynamic, expansive scenes
• Stunning corner-to-corner resolution optimized for astrophotography and nightscapes
• Enhanced mobility for landscapes thanks to compact, lightweight design
• Comprehensive control features (switches and rings) for professional demands
• Compatible with TAMRON Lens Utility for seamless video and stills customization
• 12-blade circular diaphragm for beautiful bokeh and mastery of light
• New “Tone Profile Next” lens design evolution
• Integrated flower-shaped lens hood
• Integrated rear filter holder
• Locking front lens cap
• Includes protective lens wrap
• Minimum Aperture: F16
• Diaphragm Blades: 12 (circular)
• Filter Diameter: Rear filter holder (no front thread)
• Standard Accessories: Front cap, rear cap, lens wrap, integrated hood
• Optical Construction: 17 elements in 12 groups, including 1 XGM (eXpanded Glass Molded Aspherical), 3 GM (Glass Molded Aspherical), and multiple special lens elements:
  • Effectively suppresses peripheral blurring, color fringing, and sagittal coma flare
  • Delivers high sharpness from center to extreme edges

The post Tamron to announce a new 12-20mm f/2.8 lens for Nikon Z-mount (model A084) appeared first on Nikon Rumors.

TTartisan released a new AF 17mm f/1.8 Air APS-C lens for Nikon Z-mount, priced at $148 (see silver version). Pre-orders should now be open at:

• US: B&H Photo
• Worldwide: TTartisan store (use code RUMORS for 5% off)

Lens key features:

• 17mm wide-angle view
• F1.8 large aperture
• Approx. 161-178g lightweight design
• 0.18m minimum focusing distance
• Stepping motor for smooth autofocus
• Eye & Face Detection

The lens already exists for other lens mounts – see additional information here:

New APS-C lenses just announced: TTartisan AF 17mm f/1.8 Air (E/X/Z) & 7.5mm f/2 fisheye silver edition (E/X/Z/RF/MFT)

TTartisan’s new AF 17mm f/1.8 Air and 7.5mm f/2 fisheye silver edition APS-C lenses for Nikon Z-mount

The post TTartisan released a new AF 17mm f/1.8 Air APS-C lens for Nikon Z-mount ($148) appeared first on Nikon Rumors.

A new fast/top-of-the-line/high-end/professional Nikon APS-C (DX) camera has been rumored for a while. There were some unconfirmed reports that this could be a mini-Nikon ZR model with some RED tech inside. The RED Komodo, for example, features a Super 35mm sensor, commonly regarded as an APS-C equivalent (it’s slightly larger than a typical APS-C sensor). Here is some new rumored information:

• 45MP stacked sensor
• Very fast camera (mini-Z9/mini-ZR), similar to the D500 DSLR
• Expected announcement/release in the next few months, most likely August-September (we may get teasers or a development first)
• No confirmation on the model name (Z90, Z80, Z30II, Z500, etc.)

Stay tuned for updates, and as usual, contact me anonymously if you have any additional information.

The post Coming soon: new fast, top-of-the-line, high-end, professional Nikon APS-C (DX) camera appeared first on Nikon Rumors.

Steve Simon will have a Nikon Z8/Z9 masterclass in London this weekend (July 12th). Here are the details:

If you own a Nikon Z8 or Z9, this immersive London masterclass is your opportunity to finally take full control of your camera and unlock its true potential – fast. In one powerful day, you’ll master the latest features and firmware upgrades, learn how to customize your setup for speed and simplicity, and then hit the streets for a mentored shoot through some of London’s most visually rich locations. Whether you’re chasing street moments, action, or storytelling scenes, this class will sharpen your technical edge and ignite your creative confidence with the most advanced Nikon tools ever made.

An Intensive & Transformational Shooting Experience with Steve Simon.

• Dates: July-12, 2026
• Genre: Nikon Z8-Z9 Mastery
• Group Size: Max. 1-4
• Skill Levels: All Skill Levels
• Includes: Instruction & Critique, handouts, settings, & dinner
• Location: Central London (Exact venue and itinerary shared after registration)

We will shoot at some of the most photogenic, eclectic, and exciting locations on and off the beaten path in London.

Master Your Nikon Z8 or Z9 in One Inspiring Day on the Streets of London

Join internationally acclaimed photographer and educator Steve Simon for a transformative in-person masterclass designed to help you unlock the full power of your Nikon Z8 or Z9—and then immediately apply what you’ve learned in the vibrant, photogenic streets of London.

Whether you’re a new Nikon Z8 owner or a seasoned Z9 shooter looking to take full advantage of the game-changing firmware 3.10/5.32 updates, this workshop blends technical mastery with real-world application in one unforgettable experience.

What You’ll Experience:

We begin with a focused, high-impact technical session in which Steve breaks down the most important features of the Z8/Z9. This includes:

• Steve’s Big Eight strategies for maximizing responsiveness and simplicity
• Smart AF setup & customization for street, action, portrait & low-light
• The power of Menu Banks & User Settings with downloadable setup cards
  • 180MP pixel shift stacking
  • Custom AF-area boxes & refined 3D tracking
  • High-Speed “C15” burst shooting with pre-release capture
  • Focus Limiter, Manual Focus overlays, Auto Capture 2.0 & more
  • Full breakdown of firmware 3.10 / 5.32 enhancements, including:
• Workflow tips for on-the-go shooting and JPEG optimization
• How to use Steve’s downloadable BIN file to instantly populate your Z settings

You’ll leave this session with your camera fully dialed in and your confidence sky-high.

The London Street Shoot (6 Hours) – Put It All Into Practice

Then we hit the streets. You’ll be mentored in the field by Steve as we explore some of London’s most diverse, dynamic, and visually rich locations—carefully selected to challenge and inspire.

Expect a curated mix of:

• Iconic locations like Covent Garden, Soho, Southbank, and the alleys around Brick Lane
• Street life & markets: Borough Market, Spitalfields, and the always electric Camden
• Modern architectural scenes around the Barbican and The City
• Quiet corners & moody light for candid, layered storytelling

You’ll shoot side by side with Steve, refining your eye, improving your response time, and mastering techniques such as shooting with the articulating screen and layering for depth and context. Expect personalized feedback, technical coaching, and mini-challenges as you shoot.

What You Get:

• 3-Hour In-Person Masterclass with Steve Simon
• 6-Hour Guided Photo Shoot Through Central London
• Downloadable Z8/Z9 Setup Cards (Street, Action, Travel, Point & Shoot)
• Custom Nikon “BIN File” to instantly populate your camera menus with all the 3.01 settings. (5.20 for Z9)
• PDF Slide Deck (800+ slides) and Reference Guides
• Follow-Up Zoom Q&A and post-workshop session.
• Supportive environment with small group instruction and hands-on mentorship

Spots are Limited – Reserve Yours Today

This is the most comprehensive in-person Nikon Z8/Z9 training available, combining deep learning with an unforgettable London street photography experience. You’ll leave with new skills, a stronger portfolio, and a renewed sense of creative control.

The post Nikon Z8/Z9 masterclass in London this weekend with Steve Simon appeared first on Nikon Rumors.

Here are the latest Z-mount lenses from Chinese lens manufacturers:

Songraw announced a new AF 85mm f/1.2 MS “Youth Edition” full-frame lens made entirely of aviation-grade aluminum (in the US, Songraw lenses are sold at Amazon):

TTArtisan will soon announce a new AF 85mm f/1.8 lens from the budget Neo line (previously reported here):

Viltrox is already teasing the upcoming 26mm f/2.8 EVO pancake lens for Nikon Z mount:

Sirui announced new 15mm T1.6, 75mm T1.4, and 150mm T4 Macro (1.5x) cinema lenses with interchangeable RF/Z/L modules (no shims required). Orders are now open at B&H Photo and the official Sirui online store (the lenses are from the Sirui Vision Prime series, currently available in 24mm, 35mm, and 50mm T1.4).

Additional information on the lenses can be found on PhotoRumors:

Songraw (not Meike) announced a new AF 85mm f/1.2 MS “Youth Edition” lens made entirely of aviation-grade aluminum

TTartisan to announce a new AF 85mm f/1.8 lens (E/Z/L) from the budget Neo line very soon

Viltrox 26mm f/2.8 EVO pancake lens coming soon (E/Z)

Sirui officially announced new 15mm T1.6, 75mm T1.4, & 150mm T4 Macro (1.5x) cinema lenses

The post The latest Z-mount lenses from China appeared first on Nikon Rumors.

Nikon released a new firmware update version 1.10 for the Z50II camera. Here is what’s new:

■ Still Photography/Video Recording

• Changed the following item names in Picture Controls:
  • [Cloud Picture Control] changed to [Imaging Recipe].
  • [Add Cloud Picture Control files] under [Set Picture Control] in the photo shooting and video recording menus changed to [Download Imaging Recipes].

■ Controls

• Added [On saving user settings] to [Save focus position] in the [SETUP MENU].

■ Displays

• Added [Automatic monitor display switch] to the [SETUP MENU].

■ Network

• Added [Wi-Fi Always ON] to [Connect to smart device] > [Wi-Fi connection (AP mode)] in the [NETWORK MENU].
• Added [Inactive connection timeout] to [Connect to FTP server] > [Options] in the [NETWORK MENU].

■ Other Changes

• Aperture is no longer restricted when recording videos in mode S (Shutter-priority auto).
• Changed the specifications for uninterrupted video output to HDMI devices such as external monitors when recording ended.

Note: The changes listed below under “Still Photography/Video Recording”, “Controls”, “Displays”, and “Network” are detailed in the Supplementary Firmware Update Manual.

The post Nikon Z50II firmware update version 1.10 released appeared first on Nikon Rumors.

CIPA (Camera & Imaging Products Association in Japan) published their latest camera production data (orange: 2026, black: 2025, blue: 2024):

May 2026 CIPA numbers by ZoetMB
(All comparisons to YTD 2025)

Narrative: May 2026

May numbers are generally down across most categories, compared to April and compared to the month of May 2025

Compared to YTD 2025:

• DSLR’s are down 32% in units and 39% in shipped value
• Mirrorless units are up 2% in units and 9% in shipped value.
• Compacts are up 22% in units and 29% in shipped value.
• Lenses for smaller than 35mm sensors are up 5% in units and 12% in shipped value and lenses for 35mm and larger sensors are down 1% in units and up 3% in shipped value.
• The lens to body sales ratio is 1.55 compared to 1.5 a year ago.

We’re predicting total annual sales of between 6.29 and 6.89 million ILC bodies. That’s down substantially on the high end from what we predicted last month. If current trends continue for the remaining seven months of the year, 2026 will be down from 2025. Of course, that could all change once we get to the end of the year holiday shipments.

A list of participating CIPA companies can be found here.

The post May 2026 CIPA numbers appeared first on Nikon Rumors.

Here are the most popular NikonRumors posts for June 2026:

The upcoming Nikon NIKKOR Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC VR S lens spotted at Roland Garros

Nikon is rumored to release a new Z9 firmware update addressing AF problems in heavy snowfall or rain

Nikon is selling a Z6 III camera with no wireless connectivity for government and law enforcement agencies

Viltrox filed a patent in China that involves the Nikon Z-mount

The Nikon NX MobileAir will be completely free starting July 9

The latest discontinued Nikon cameras and lenses

Tamron announced a new 17-70mm f/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD lens for Nikon Z-mount

Updated Viltrox 2026 lens roadmap (20% off all Viltrox lenses ends today)

The new Voigtlander Nokton Classic 35mm f/1.4 lens Nikon Z mount is now available for pre-order

Nikon June rebates & savings (US+UK+Germany)

The post Top 10 most viewed NikonRumors posts for June 2026 appeared first on Nikon Rumors.

 
→ New: Mutiny TC-A timecode + audio breakout adapter for Nikon cameras.

→ New: Aquatech Edge Pro underwater housing for Nikon ZR cameras (Aquatech products are also sold at B&H Photo).

→ Think Tank Photo announced a new Turnstyle Sling V3 camera bag (more info). Check also the ongoing Think Tank Photo sale.

→ New: Core SWX PowerVault charging system.

→ Top 10 full-size tripods.

→ The new Delkin Valor Pro 1TB CFexpress 4.0 memory card is assembled in the US – get it from B&H Photo | Paul’s Photo.

→ PPPcameras offers customizable Nikon F and Nikon 35ti leatherette options (check also their vintage store).

→ Harlowe Pocket Flash with Z-Axis stand and Bi-Color LED (more info).

 
→ Manfrotto Uncover Backpack (more info).
→ Pelican next-gen Protector 2.0 cases (more info).

 
→ Profoto XL-Sized Softboxes (more info).
→ Godox portable lighting system (more info).

→ Nikon will stop the free camera repair for the Nikon D810 thermal issue on January 13, 2027 (the already fixed cameras are marked with a blue dot pictured above).

→ The Nikon Message Center 2 service has been terminated.

→ Nikon｜RED officially announces its partnership as the official photography equipment partner for the 2026 First International Film Festival.

The post Weekly Nikon news flash #893 appeared first on Nikon Rumors.

I received a tip that Nikon could be resurrecting the canceled DL compact camera system. The camera body design and lens specs could be very similar to those of the originally announced DL1 8-50 and DL 24-85, or maybe combined into a single 24-70 variant that is slightly thicker. The rest of the rumor:

• Premium materials
• Nikon’s Flexible Color Picture Control
• Stacked 24mp 1” sensor
• Will be sold with a leather camera case
• External smart shoe EVF will be sold separately

Please note that I have not confirmed this informtion with any of my other sources – maybe it is too early or maybe the above information is false. Nikon will definitely release a new compact camera. Early reports suggested a high-end compact Nikon full-frame camera with a fixed lens:

First rumors about a new Nikon compact full-frame fixed lens camera

Additional pictures of the old Nikon DL cameras that were canceled in 2017:

The post Is Nikon resurrecting the canceled DL compact cameras? appeared first on Nikon Rumors.

TTartisan announced a new AF 50mm f/1.8 NEO lens for Nikon Z-mount (previously reported here). The new lens is a lightweight and affordable autofocus lens priced at $89 with free shipping, and it does not include a focus or aperture rings. Pre-orders should now be open at:

• US: B&H Photo
• Worldwide: TTartisan online store

Additional information:

TTartisan announced two full-frame AF lenses from the new Neo series: 50mm f/1.8 & 85mm f/1.8 (E/Z/L)

The post New TTartisan AF 50mm f/1.8 NEO lens for Nikon Z-mount announced ($89) appeared first on Nikon Rumors.

The current Nikon USA rebates will be ending this week:

• B&H Photo
• Paul’s photo
• Service Photo

Rebates by categories (see full list):

• Mirrorless Cameras
• Mirrorless Lenses
• DSLR Cameras
• DSLR Lenses
• Accessories
• Nikon Binoculars
• Trade-in program promo:

Nikon started a new “Trade Up to ZR and Save” program in the US that also includes Nikkor lenses

Here is the full list of all discounted Nikon cameras and lenses in the US:

Update: here is the full list of all discounted Nikon cameras and lenses in the US

Nikon Germany offers:

• Up to €200 off when you buy the Nikon Z8 with the Z 24-120mm f/4 S
• Nikon summer instant discount: up to €1,000 off
• 0% financing on selected Nikon products

Nikon UK offers:

• Bundle Z8 and save £200 extra
• Nikon rebates: Save from £30 to £1000

Other deals:

Ending soon: DxO, Luminar, Aftershoot, and ON1 discounts

Nextorage memory card special deals at B&H Photo: up to $681 off

The post Nikon USA rebates ending this week appeared first on Nikon Rumors.

Nikon released new firmware updates for the Nikkor Z 35mm f/1.4 and Nikkor 50mm f/1.4 lenses with a single fix:

• Changed the position of focusing lenses when the camera is turned off to improve startup reliability.

Download links:

• Nikkor Z 50mm f/1.4 Firmware Version 1.01
• Nikkor Z 35mm f/1.4 Firmware Version 1.01

The post Nikon released new firmware updates for the Nikkor Z 35mm & 50mm f/1.4 lenses appeared first on Nikon Rumors.

Megadap will soon release a cinema version of their ETZ21 lens adapter (for using Sony E-mount lenses on Nikon Z-mount cameras). The new ETZ 21 Cine (previously reported here) will have enhanced support for heavier lenses and a locking mechanism:

• Enhanced support for heavier lenses: improved structural design to handle bulkier cinema primes, zooms, or lenses with matte boxes or follow-focus rigs.
• Locking mechanism: it provides a more secure mount to prevent unintended rotation or loosening during dynamic shooting.
• Full autofocus, auto exposure, aperture control, IBIS communication, and EXIF data transfer (same electronic capabilities as the Pro+).

Here are some reels of the new adapter:

The post New Megadap ETZ 21 Cine adapter coming soon appeared first on Nikon Rumors.