Nikon unveils ZR cinema camera

Nikon ZR cinema camera. Photo: NIKON

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Nikon has officially launched its highly anticipated ZR cinema camera in Lagos, describing the device as a revolutionary leap in accessibility, creativity, and technological capability for filmmakers, content creators, and visual storytellers across Africa.

The unveiling, held before a full house of industry professionals last Thursday, featured live screenings and technical demonstrations that underscored the company’s renewed commitment to Africa’s growing creative economy.

Nikon representatives said Nigeria was chosen as a launch destination because it is “not just a market but a boundless source of inspiration,” citing the vibrancy of Lagos, the global rise of Afrobeats, and the enduring strength of Nollywood.

The company described the ZR as an embodiment of its philosophy of “effortless excellence”, positioning the camera as a tool designed to democratise cinematic storytelling.

A key moment at the event was the presentation by Oluseyi Magic, Chief Executive Officer of Ray Magic Studios, who received the camera ahead of the launch for real-world testing.

A long-time Nikon user, Magic produced a short film entirely on the ZR without heavy cinema rigs or specialised accessories.

He told attendees he was “surprised and deeply impressed” by the camera’s low-light performance, colour reproduction, stability, and compact build. “It was my first time shooting a movie. I expected lower performance, but what I got was something exceptional. We shot in bright daylight and in conditions with almost no light. I pushed the camera to its limits, and it delivered beautifully,” he said.

Veteran filmmaker Tunde Kelani also lauded the device, describing it as “fantastic” and highly accessible. He said he tested the ZR while preparing a new version of his 1995 film, Koseegbe.

“The technology may change, but the theory of storytelling remains the same. This camera delivers all the time. At this stage in my career, the ZR is another opportunity for expression over the next ten years,” he said.

Executives from Nikon Middle East and Africa, including Akshay Talwar, explained that the ZR was developed following Nikon’s acquisition of RED Digital Cinema, the American manufacturer known for its Hollywood-grade digital cameras. Talwar described the merger as a fusion of Nikon’s century-long expertise in optics and RED’s leadership in digital cinema technology.

Nikon showcased the camera’s technical features, including 6K RAW recording, wide dynamic range, advanced sensor design, a robust cooling system, AI-driven autofocus, in-body image stabilisation, and a versatile Z-mount compatible with cinema, vintage, and third-party lenses.

Talwar, who also serves as Head of Sales and Strategy for Nikon Middle East and Africa, announced a free camera loan programme in Nigeria through New Creation Nigeria, which will allow emerging filmmakers to borrow demo units. He added that flexible payment plans and partnerships with rental houses were being developed to widen access to the device.

Wildlife and travel filmmaker Yobel Mucheng, also known as Yobelprize, praised the camera’s performance in challenging environments, highlighting its 15-stop dynamic range, seven-and-a-half-stop stabilisation, and enhanced audio capabilities. He noted that he was able to capture stable footage even while walking backwards in forest terrain.

With Nigeria ranked among Nikon’s top three markets in Africa, stakeholders at the event said the ZR represents a significant step towards democratising cinema-grade filmmaking in the country, opening new possibilities for established professionals and emerging storytellers alike.

Justice has over three years experience spanning digital and print media. At The PUNCH, he currently covers the automobile sector with special interest in features and industry analysis.

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