Even with high-end systems like Nikon Z9 or Z8 shooting 4K N-Raw, physics remains a hurdle. We’ve all been there: nailing a perfect 120fps slow-motion shot only to find it looks slightly softer than standard 24p footage, or pushing ISO in a dim environment and finding visible chroma noise in N-Log shadows. Sometimes the challenge extends beyond newer cameras – integrating older 1080p footage from DSLRs or legacy lenses into a modern 4K timeline often reveals a clear gap in texture and resolution.

Aiarty Video Enhancer acts as the digital darkroom for these scenarios. Unlike traditional sharpening that leaves behind ugly artifacts, this video enhancer uses deep-learning reconstruction to solve defocus blur and motion artifacts while preserving natural image characteristics. This approach is particularly effective when processing high-bitrate or heavily compressed footage, where maintaining detail density is critical.

Anniversary Special Offer: Up to 36% off + Extra $5 Coupon

Aiarty not only offers a cost-effective 1-year license, but also provides flexible options for different creators’ needs. For creators who prefer owning their tools rather than “renting” them through subscriptions, Aiarty currently offers 36% off its Lifetime License for 3 computers. It’s a practical way to avoid subscription fatigue while permanently upgrading your 2026 post-production toolkit. In addition, as part of Aiarty’s Anniversary Deals, you can use the code “ANNIVERSARY” at checkout to save an extra $5 for a limited time.

Tailored Solutions for Modern Video Workflows

For video creators and professionals, it is important to understand that Aiarty Video Enhancer is not just a sharpening filter. Traditional sharpening increases edge contrast, which often leads to unwanted halos and unnatural textures in professional footage. Instead, Aiarty uses generative reconstruction to “rebuild” missing detail caused by motion blur, compression, or challenging lighting conditions.

This technical approach is optimized for a wide range of real-world production scenarios:

• Restoring Clarity to Soft Slow-Motion Footage

High-frame-rate footage can sometimes appear softer than expected due to motion processing, lens performance, or lighting conditions. Aiarty Video Enhancer’s moDetail-HQ model enhances fine textures such as fabric, hair, or natural surfaces by reconstructing high-frequency detail through AI-based analysis. This helps restore perceived sharpness while maintaining natural motion characteristics.

• Denoising Low-Light and Log Footage Without the “Waxy” Look

In low-light environments or log-based workflows, shadow areas often contain visible chroma noise. Aiarty’s Smooth-HQ model reduces noise while preserving essential texture detail. This avoids the overly smooth “plastic” effect that can happen with aggressive denoising, keeping subjects natural and clean.

• Granular Control for Professional Grading

The latest update introduces surgical controls for colorists and editors. The VHDR Strength Adjustment is essential for log workflows, allowing fine-tuned HDR expansion without unnatural highlight clipping. Additional tools such as Restore Color and YUV Chroma settings help recover faded footage, improve color consistency, and maintain grading flexibility in professional tools like DaVinci Resolve or Adobe Premiere Pro.

• Efficient Local 4K Workflow Processing

Because modern high-bitrate footage can be extremely large, cloud-based processing is often impractical. Aiarty is a fully local solution, utilizing NVIDIA TensorRT and Apple Silicon optimization to maximize GPU efficiency. This ensures fast turnaround times while keeping all footage securely on your workstation.

• Reviving Legacy and Compressed Footage

For older 1080p footage or heavily compressed clips, Aiarty goes beyond simple interpolation. It reconstructs perceived detail in textures and edges, allowing legacy material to integrate more smoothly into modern 4K timelines and multi-camera workflows.

Best Use Cases: Where Aiarty Shines

Whether you’re shooting on Nikon systems or working across mixed production environments, Aiarty Video Enhancer can elevate the quality of your footage across various scenarios.

Nighttime & Low-Light

High ISO shooting in dim environments often introduces chroma noise and reduced clarity in shadow regions. Aiarty Video Enhancer helps clean up these issues while preserving important visual structure and detail.

Vlogs & Online Content

For creators producing daily content, even slight softness or noise can reduce perceived quality. Aiarty enhances overall clarity and reduces imperfections, helping deliver a more polished and professional visual output.

Reviving Archives

Many creators have large libraries of older or compressed footage. Aiarty helps upscale and enhance these materials so they remain usable in modern editing timelines and multi-platform delivery.

Aiarty Streamlined Workflow

Step 1. Import your video files directly into the interface. Aiarty supports high-bitrate professional formats.

Step 2. Select moDetail-HQ for motion-heavy or soft footage, or Smooth-HQ for noisy low-light material. Turbo Mode can be used for faster processing when needed.

Step 3. Adjust the Strength parameter to balance AI enhancement with natural image texture.

Step 4. Use Batch Processing to handle large projects efficiently while maintaining consistent quality across footage.

Unlock Your Footage’s Full Potential with Aiarty

No matter what type of content you’re creating, Aiarty Video Enhancer provides a technical bridge to elevate video quality toward professional standards. From reducing noise in low-light scenes to improving clarity in soft motion footage and restoring older materials, it helps ensure your output remains visually consistent and high quality across workflows.

If you’re ready to move beyond traditional limitations and elevate your post-production workflow, now is a great time to take advantage of Aiarty’s Anniversary Special Deals. You can enjoy up to 36% off the 1-year license or the lifetime license for up to 3 computers. In addition, using the code “ANNIVERSARY” at checkout will give you an extra $5 discount for a limited time.

The post Fix soft video and low-light noise in video workflow with Aiarty Video Enhancer (36% off lifetime license + extra coupon) appeared first on Nikon Rumors.

The Nikon ZR camera is now 16% off at Amazon UK:

New Nikon rebates started in Europe: up to € 1,000 off

The post Deal of the day: the Nikon ZR camera is now 16% off at Amazon UK appeared first on Nikon Rumors.

The latest crowdfunding project by SPINN.DESIGN for a new ProWrapp Impact+ gear wrapper with max shock resistance will end in less than 36 hours.

SPINN.DESIGN is a Germany-based company in Offenbach specializing in innovative, high-quality camera accessories for protecting photography gear. Rooted in German engineering and design heritage, the company positions itself as a long-time product designer and manufacturer focused on premium, precision-crafted solutions for DSLR and mirrorless cameras, emphasizing durability, comfort, and thoughtful functionality over mass-market alternatives. Their flagship products include the SWIFT-LOCK and CP/CP.02 camera-carrying systems, along with the CW.01 and ProWrapp series of self-adhesive, weatherproof, and shock-resistant protective gear wrappers for cameras and lenses.

You can use the coupon code SPINN-RUMORS on their website to get a discount.

Here are the other active photography-related Kickstarter crowdfunding projects (some are still available as late pledges).:

• “I’m Back Roll” digital back sensor for film cameras
• Viperpod full-size tripod that doesn’t rely on the ground
• Reeflex 300–600mm telephoto lens for smartphones
• Rewindpix non-disposable digital “Film” camera
• CamCast turns your camera into a smart, connected system
• Yashica pocket camcorder

Via LeicaRumors

The post SPINN.DESIGN ProWrapp Impact+ gear wrapper with max shock resistance crowdfunding campaign is ending soon appeared first on Nikon Rumors.

Nikon released firmware update version 1.20 for the Nikkor Z 24-120mm f/4 S lens (currently $150 off) with two fixes:

• Improved aperture operation reliability
• Reduced aperture operation noise

The post Nikon Nikkor Z 24-120mm f/4 S lens firmware update version 1.20 released appeared first on Nikon Rumors.

Nikon published a Q&A on the latest financial results for FY2026. Here is a recap:

Rising memory prices impact:

• Quantities for this fiscal year are secured.
• DRAM prices have risen severalfold compared to Q1 of the previous year.
• Prices are expected to plateau in Q2 and beyond.
• Overall operating profit (OP) impact for the fiscal year: high single-digit billions of yen.
• Suppliers update pricing quarterly – risk of further increases.
• Mitigation: continue cost reductions; may pass costs to selling prices if needed.
• Main impact in Imaging Products business, with some effect in Healthcare.

US tariff assumptions:

• Forecasts assume current rates remain: 10% general tariff (35% for imports from China).
• Tariff impact on company-wide profit expected to be about the same as last year.
• Last year benefited from pre-tariff inventory buildup for the US market.

Imaging Products Business Profit expansion amid current market weakness:

• External environment uncertain.
• Not pessimistic overall: smartphone-driven demand for image capture/edit/view is expanding in the US and Japan.
• Company has a proven track record of stably generating ≈¥40B in profits.
• Plan: strengthen video functionality to develop and create new markets.
• Goal: achieve Medium-Term Management Plan profit targets and make Imaging Products a stable revenue source.

Nikon FY2026 financial results: profits down, targets recovery in FY2027

The post Nikon Q&A on financial results for FY2026 appeared first on Nikon Rumors.

The new 2026 5DayDeal “Photography Path To Mastery” is now available. As in previous years, you will get a package of photography tools at a drastically reduced price ($1,500+ in value for $78) and lifetime access to all class recordings. Several different bundles are available, and a portion of the proceeds will be donated to charities.

• Lifetime access to all class recordings
• Exclusive extras and bonuses
• $1,500+ in retail value for just $78
• Part of every purchase goes to charity

The post The new 2026 5DayDeal “Photography Path To Mastery” is now available appeared first on Nikon Rumors.

Nikon just released a new firmware update version 1.11 for the Z5II camera with a single fix:

• Changed the way the aperture was adjusted on a lens when the standby timer expired.

The Nikon Z5II camera is now $250 off in the US.

Nikon Z5II photographic dynamic range and other sensor measurements released by PhotonsToPhotos

Now available online: Nikon Z5II Digitutor Tips and Tricks

The post Nikon Z5II firmware update version 1.11 released appeared first on Nikon Rumors.

Brightin Star announced a new 7.5mm f/2.8 IV APS-C ultra-wide fisheye lens for Nikon Z-mount in black and silver (previously reported here). The new model is very light at 274g, with a 190° field of view, and is rear-filter-ready. The intro price is $139.99 (regular price: $159.99). The introductory period is May 11 – May 21. The B&H pre-orders will be open soon.

Brightin Star also released new AERO UV filters with ultra-thin, multi-coated glass (available at B&H Photo):

Additional information on the new 7.5mm f/2.8 lens:

List of all new lenses that will debut at the 2026 China P&E Imaging Show in Beijing next week

The post Brightin Star announced a new 7.5mm f/2.8 IV APS-C ultra-wide fisheye lens for Nikon Z-mount appeared first on Nikon Rumors.

→ Memory card and storage prices, including SD/microSD, CFexpress, and SSDs, are rising sharply in 2026 primarily due to an AI-driven surge in NAND flash demand that has outstripped supply – see the latest price increases from Lexar, LaCie, OWC, and ProGrade.

→ B&H Photo now sells Kolari Vision Nikon Z5 full-spectrum UV/IR camera forensics kit

  
→ New: WANDRD camera bags sale (20%-40% off).

→ The “I’m Back Roll” digital back sensor for film cameras has now raised over $1,041,00. Additional information on this project can be found here.

→ Topaz May update is now available with a new 50% off flash sale (additional information).

→ The new 2026 5DayDeal “Photography Path To Mastery” giveaway is now live.

→ Here is the list of new lenses that will debut at the upcoming 2026 China P&E Imaging Show in Beijing (May 15-18, 2026).

The post Weekly Nikon news flash #885 appeared first on Nikon Rumors.

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

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

Narrative: March 2026

March numbers are generally up compared to January and February and up compared to March 2025 (a list of participating CIPA companies can be found here).

Compared to YTD 2025:

• DSLRs are down 40% in units and 49% in shipped value.
• Mirrorless units are up 10% in units and 7% in shipped value.
• Compacts are up 23% in units and 16% in shipped value.
• Lenses for smaller than 35mm sensors are up 6% in units and 16% in shipped value and lenses for 35mm and larger sensors are flat in units and down 2% in shipped value.
• The lens-to-body sales ratio increased to 1.6 compared to 1.59 a year ago.

The post March CIPA numbers appeared first on Nikon Rumors.

Today, Nikon announced their financial results for the fiscal year ending on March 31, 2026. Here is a recap of the Nikon Imaging Division results by ZoetMB:

Full fiscal year results ending 3/31/26:

• Revenue: ¥290.00 billion (approx.$2 billion). Projection as of 2/8/26: ¥290.00.  -1.79% compared to fiscal ’25 actual.
• Earnings:  ¥16.7 billion (approx. $115.17 million). Projection as of 2/8/26: ¥21.00 billion. -49.15% compared to fiscal ’25 actual.  -20.48% compared to 2/8/26 estimate.
• Margin: 5.8%, down from 14% in fiscal ’25. 16.6% in fiscal ’24 and 18.6% in fiscal ’23.   Lowest margin since Nikon Imaging experienced losses is fiscal ’21.
• Unit sales bodies: 910,000.    Projection as of 2/8/26: 900,000.   +5.88% compared to fiscal ’25 actual.    +1.11% compared to 2/8/26 estimate.
• Unit sales lenses: 1.3 million.   Projection as of 2/8/26: 1.3 million.   -0.76% compared to fiscal ’25 actual.
• Unit share bodies: 12.9%
• Unit share lenses: 12.3%
• Shipped value share compared to CIPA revenue for same period: 20.6%

Projection for fiscal 2027 ending 3/31/2027:

• Revenue: ¥303 billion (approx.  $1.95 billion), +4.48% compared to fiscal ’26 actual.
• Earnings: ¥16 billion (approx. $103.23 million). -4.19% compared to fiscal ’26 actual.
• Margin: 5.3%, down 8.3% from fiscal ’26.
• Unit sales bodies: 900,000.    -1.1% compared to fiscal ’26 actual.
• Unit sales lenses: 1,300,000.  Same as fiscal ’26.
• Unit share bodies: 12.9% (Nikon claims market will be 7 million).
• Unit share lenses: 13.0% (Nikon claims market will be 10 million).

R&D:

• Fiscal 2026: ¥22.5 billion, 29% of total R&D, 7.8% of Imaging revenue.
• Fiscal 2027: ¥24.5 billion, 33% of total R&D, 8.1% of projected imaging revenue.

Nikon is planning to enhance system value by developing new digital cinema cameras that combine the strengths of Nikon and RED, and by adding cinema lenses. By FY2030, Nikon will expand the Z-mount lens lineup to 80+ models:

Nikon Imaging Products Business Performance

In the Imaging Products Business, sales were led by NIKON’s first digital cinema camera, the ZR. However, the business segment recorded year-on-year decreases in both revenue and profit, reflecting a decline in average selling prices due to changes in the product mix and higher promotion expenses amid an intensifying competitive environment, as well as tariff impacts and one-time costs related to the share transfer agreement for Mark Roberts Motion Control Limited, among other factors. As a result, this business segment recorded revenue of 290,053 million yen (down 1.8% year on year) and operating profit of 16,715 million yen (down 59.5% year on year).

In the Imaging Products Business, the Group has recognized impairment losses of 850 million yen, primarily at Mark Roberts Motion Control Limited, a UK subsidiary engaged in manufacturing and sales. This is because Mark Roberts Motion Control Limited was found not to earn some of its initially anticipated revenue due to deteriorated market conditions, and therefore, the Group reduced the carrying amount of its non-current assets to their recoverable amount and recognized the reduction as impairment losses. The recoverable amount was measured based on value in use. The impairment losses include goodwill and identifiable intangible assets related to Mark Roberts Motion Control Limited of 329 million yen and 477 million yen, respectively.

Future Outlook for Nikon Imaging Business

Regarding the business environment for the full fiscal year ending March 31, 2027, in the Imaging Products Business, while the digital camera market is expected to remain solid over the medium to long term, uncertainty is increasing due to changes in consumer sentiment, fluctuations in logistics expenses and component costs, and other factors.

Nikon Imaging Products Sales Units

Nikon FY2026 additional slides

Recap

Nikon reported consolidated revenue of ¥677.1 billion, down 5.3% year-over-year. The company swung to a large operating loss of ¥112.4 billion (versus a ¥2.4 billion profit in FY2025), with profit attributable to owners of the parent at a ¥86.0 billion loss; these shortfalls were driven mainly by ¥90.6 billion in impairment charges on goodwill and intangibles from the Nikon SLM Solutions acquisition in the Digital Manufacturing segment. Imaging Products revenue held steady at ¥290.0 billion (down just 1.8% YoY) on strong entry-level mirrorless camera sales, though operating profit fell 59.5% to ¥16.7 billion due to product-mix shifts, lower average selling prices, tariffs, and higher promotions; other segments like Precision Equipment and Healthcare also saw revenue and profit declines. Nikon revised its FY2027 outlook upward, targeting ¥740.0 billion in revenue and a ¥10.0 billion operating profit as it expects a recovery from the one-time hits.

Nikon stock was up today:

Additional information:

• Nikon Medium Term Management Plan
• New Appointment of Directors
• Nikon Consolidated Financial Results for the Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2026

The post Nikon FY2026 financial results: profits down, targets recovery in FY2027 appeared first on Nikon Rumors.

As part of May’s rebates, Nikon USA also reduced the price of the wireless close-up Speedlight system – now up to $300 off:

     

The Nikon R1C1 wireless close-up Speedlight system is compatible with Nikon DSLRs and Z-series mirrorless cameras that support the Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS) and i-TTL, including the Z5, Z6, Z6II, Z6III, Z7, Z7II, Z8, Z9, Z50, Zf, and Zfc.

Update: (today only) the SmallRig EN-EL15c USB-C battery (for Nikon Zf, Z8, Z7 II, Z7, Z6 III, Z6 II, Z6, Z5, D850, D810, D810A, D780, D750, D610, D500, D7500, and D7200 cameras) is now more than 50% off:

The post The Nikon R1C1 wireless close-up Speedlight system is now on sale (up to $300 off) appeared first on Nikon Rumors.

The new Nikon Nikkor Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC VR S lens with a built-in 1.4x teleconverter is rumored to be priced in the $8,000 range. This is not confirmed, and it is just the initial informtion I received. Nikon may adjust the price prior to announcement based on the latest geopolitical developments.

B&H Photo currently does not list a price on their product listing page.

The new 120-300mm lens is expected to be officially released by the end of 2026. Keep in mind that the release timeframe has not been finalized, and there may be delays.

The old Nikon Nikkor AF-S 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR lens for F-mount (now discontinued) was priced at $9,499.95 when announced back in 2020. Nikon USA was recently selling that lens for $6,649.95, so $8-9k for the new Z-mount version is possible given the latest technologies and the advantages of the Z-mount:

 
Similar lenses for comparison:

• Canon RF 100-300mm f/2.8 L IS USM lens: $10,599
• Leica APO-Vario-Elmarit-SL 90-280mm f/2.8-4: $7,805
• Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM: $3,599

The post The upcoming Nikon Nikkor Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC VR S 1.4x lens is rumored to be priced around $8,000+ appeared first on Nikon Rumors.

Nikon officially announced the development of a new Nikkor Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC VR S telephoto zoom lens with a built-in 1.4x teleconverter (check B&H Photo for pricing). I just mentioned this lens in my “What to expect next from Nikon” post earlier today. The lens has actually been rumored for months – see also the leaked pictures I reported in January:

Here is the official word from Nikon:

NIKON IS DEVELOPING THE NIKKOR Z 120-300MM F/2.8 TC VR S, A TELEPHOTO ZOOM LENS WITH A BUILT-IN 1.4× TELECONVERTER

MELVILLE, NY – Nikon is pleased to announce the development of the NIKKOR Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC VR S, a telephoto zoom lens compatible with full-frame/FX-format mirrorless cameras.

As part of the S-Line* series of NIKKOR Z lenses, the NIKKOR Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC VR S is a telephoto zoom lens offering a focal length range of 120mm to 420mm, enabled by a built-in teleconverter that extends its focal length by 1.4×. The superior optical performance and mobility of this lens will support professional photographers’ imaging expression in genres such as sports photography and beyond.

Nikon will continue to pursue a new dimension in optical performance while meeting users’ needs, contributing to the development of imaging culture, with the hope of expanding possibilities for imaging expression.

First leaked pictures of the upcoming Nikon Nikkor Z 120-300 f/2.8 TC VR S lens

Nikon is rumored to announce a new Nikkor Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC lens by the end of the year

Guest post: Nikon Nikkor Z 120-300 f/2.8 TC VR S – my dream lens?

The post Nikon officially announced the development of a new Nikkor Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC VR S telephoto zoom lens with a built-in 1.4x teleconverter appeared first on Nikon Rumors.

Here is an updated list of what to expect next from Nikon (see previous reports):

Cameras

• Nikon Z9II: now coming in 2027 with heavy RED integration, which I think is the reason for the delay (see rumored specifications).
• Nikon mirrorless camera without a viewfinder: designed for photography (similar to, or based on the ZR). This could also be a new Nikon compact full-frame fixed lens camera.
• Nikon APS-C camera: most likely a new top-of-the-line/high-end DX model. The Z30 is already up for replacement – it was first announced in June 2022. 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).

Lenses

• New/cheaper 14-24mm, 14mm, or similar wide-angle lens as a companion to the new 24-105mm – to be paired with the Z5II (not a replacement for the Nikkor Z 14-24mm f/2.8 S lens).
• New Nikon 16-35mm lens or a similar lens designed for vloggers.
• Nikon Nikkor Z 120-300 f/2.8 TC VR S lens expected in the second half of 2026 (not confirmed).
• Nikkor Z 85mm f/1.4 (to match/complete the 35mm/50mm f/1.4 lenses) expected later (may not arrive in 2026).
• More Nikkor Z cinema lenses – this has been reported for months.

The post What to expect next from Nikon (updated May 2026) appeared first on Nikon Rumors.

NASA released new photos (Artemis II multimedia | Artemis II gallery) taken before, during, and after the Artemis II mission around the moon. On this timeline, you can toggle between the pictures taken with the Nikon Z9 and Nikon D5 cameras.

NASA only uses flight-qualified or previously validated cameras for its missions, based on thermal behavior, vacuum, radiation, and vibration tolerance, as well as glove-controlled operation, etc. Back in 2022, NASA also tested the Nikon D6, Canon R6, and Nikon Z7II models, but they were not selected for flight, largely because NASA prioritized proven reliability and high-ISO performance over newer specs. For more details, you can check the NASA Handheld Camera Initial Test Results (download the PowerPoint presentation) – here are some of the slides:

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

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

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

The post New photos from the Artemis II mission released, and how NASA is testing cameras for flight appeared first on Nikon Rumors.

Nikon renewed its yellow Land Cruiser cross-country tour for a second year – here are the new locations for 2026:

NIKON ANNOUNCES 2026 NIKON TOUR STOPS WITH EXPANDED PROGRAMMING FOR CREATORS OF ALL LEVELS

Evolution of Nikon Tour to Feature Immersive Experiences, Dedicated Learning Tracks and Hands-on Access to the Latest Nikon Gear

MELVILLE, NY – Today, Nikon announced the evolution of the Nikon Tour, unveiling a new slate of stops and enhanced programming for creators of all skill levels as part of the brand’s continued commitment to bringing creatives together through in-person experiences and community-driven learning opportunities. As part of the expansion, the Nikon Tour will double its number of stops in 2026, reaching 10 cities across the U.S. to connect with a wider audience through the end of the year.

The post Nikon renewed its yellow Land Cruiser cross-country tour for a second year – here are the new locations appeared first on Nikon Rumors.

Nikon USA rebates for May remain unchanged – see the details at:

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

The European Nikon rebates can be found here:

• Foto Erhardt
• WEX Photo

May the 4th be with you!

Full list of discounted Nikon gear in the USA:

The post Nikon USA rebates for May remain unchanged appeared first on Nikon Rumors.

 
→ The new Leitz Cine HEKTOR lenses for Nikon Z-mount are now in stock (additional information).

→ Think Tank Photo released new PhotoCross Sling V2 camera bags (check the official website for additional information).

→ Additional information on the upcoming Thypoch Voyager 24-50mm f/2.8 lens for Z-mount (the first Chinese full-frame autofocus constant-aperture zoom lens).

→ MonsterAdapter released an experimental firmware update version 1.2 for the Monster Adapter LA-FZ1 Nikon F lens to Nikon Z-mount camera adapter, which enables autofocus support for Nikonos RS lenses.

→ Topaz Labs released 6 new models for their photo and video apps (Topaz Studio, Topaz Photo, and Topaz Video). Additional information is available here.

→ This “rumor” is making the rounds online: new Nikon NIKKOR 18-200 f/5.6-8 lens. I think the picture is AI-generated.

→ Magnum photographer Raghu Rai was cremated with his Nikon Z8 camera.

→ Nikon will report quarterly results on Friday, May 8, with analysts forecasting EPS of $0.0711 and revenue of $1.1745 billion. Nikkei reports that Nikon’s fiscal-year results will include impairment losses of 11.3 billion yen due to a slump in semiconductor equipment sales.

→ Nikon is deploying technology for Rolls-Royce aircraft parts.

→ Nikon received the highest MSCI ESG rating of AAA for the fourth consecutive year.

→ Artemis II astronauts made the most of professional photography training with Nikon cameras.

→ Ask me anything with Michelle Valberg & Travis Layton (wildlife & birding).

The post Weekly Nikon news flash #884 appeared first on Nikon Rumors.

 
 
Jo Geier published a review with sample photos taken with the Nikon Reflex Nikkor 2000mm f/11 lens (see eBay listing of this lens). Here is a recap:

• Background & Design: Longest focal-length Nikon lens ever made (prototype shown 1968, production 1970-1978). Catadioptric (mirror/reflex) design with just 5 elements in 5 groups compresses 2000mm into a 60 cm physical length. Weighs 17.5 kg (25 kg with dedicated gimbal head). Fixed f/11 aperture; three built-in color filters (yellow, orange, red) plus neutral for B&W film work. The tested sample is the improved “Reflex-Nikkor-C” version (1973–1975) with better coatings.
• Build Quality: Machined from a solid block of metal, extremely robust, but no weather sealing. Huge 262 mm diameter × 594 mm length, white finish (early units were gray). Short fixed hood, rotatable camera mount, and massive tripod collar (almost 20 cm diameter) that needs a special AY-1 gimbal head.
• Handling & Ergonomics: Fully manual focus via side knob; minimum focus distance 18 m. Tiny 1.2° angle of view makes the built-in top grip/finder essential for locating subjects. No AF or stabilization – tripod (or very sturdy head) is mandatory. Total rig weight makes it cumbersome; best for static or very slow subjects.
• Optical Performance: Sharpness is impressive for a 55-year-old film-era mirror lens, though not up to modern standards on digital sensors. Characteristic catadioptric “donut” bokeh (ring-shaped highlights) is usually harsh but softens to almost creamy at extreme distances. Fixed f/11 is relatively slow, so high ISO is often needed. Atmospheric conditions (heat, humidity) can degrade results quickly.
• Real-World Use & Image Quality: Tested on a Nikon Df (one of the few modern bodies that works well). Sample portraits shot from ~70 m away show massive magnification and usable sharpness even at high ISO (3200–6400). Bokeh can look “watercolored” on uniform backgrounds. Built-in finder proved very helpful. Teleconverters (for 2800 mm or 4000 mm) were not tested due to the expected quality drop.
• Pros:
  • Achieves extreme 2000 mm reach in a relatively compact package thanks to mirror design.
  • Solid, over-engineered metal construction.
  • Built-in finder and filters are genuinely useful.
  • Historical rarity and “wow” factor – still commands €20,000–€40,000 today.
• Cons:
  • Extremely heavy and bulky; impractical for most photographers.
  • Fixed f/11, no stabilization, manual focus only.
  • Distinctive (often unattractive) ring bokeh.
  • Requires a massive tripod/head and is sensitive to vibration and atmospheric interference.
• Overall Verdict: A fascinating piece of 1970s optical engineering and Nikon history rather than a practical everyday lens. The author calls it a “passion project” that’s more about the experience and heritage than clinical performance. Great fun for the few who can actually use one, but definitely not for everyone.
• Conclusion:

“The Nikon Reflex 2000mm f/11 is the oldest lens and the longest focal length I have ever photographed with. It was a journey through time — starting from the idea of a Nikon engineer in the late 1960s, who could never have imagined that his creation would inspire my journey through Austria decades later.

From a technical and photographic perspective, the 2000mm is an extraordinary product for the era in which it was introduced, despite its inherent limitations. I often wondered who once owned this lens: What images were created with it? Have we seen them in books or magazines without ever knowing they were made with this lens? What remarkable experiences did its owners have? One thing is certain: you do not carry 25 kg of lens “just because” — anyone who did so must have been determined and under either significant professional pressure or driven by immense passion.”

• Sample photos:

Previous coverage of the Nikon Reflex Nikkor 2000mm f/11 lens can be found here.

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