In an expansion of its mirrorless lineup, Nikon has just announced a new option: the Nikon Z 30 Camera. As a photographer and content creator, I decided to test it out a few of its different features. In my work, I often document the process of creating props for photoshoots, while also filming behind the scenes and creating time lapses.
My first impression of the new Nikon Z 30 Camera was, “Wow, it’s so small!” It’s extremely lightweight and compact, even compared to other mirrorless cameras. At only 350 grams, it may be the smallest camera I ever used. It’s very comfortable to hold in my hands. For a petite person such as myself, this is a big advantage. But don’t let the small size fool you. The new Nikon Z 30 is very tiny, but it’s also very powerful.
Key Features of the Nikon Z 30 Camera:
- 20.8 megapixels on APS-C sensor
- Continuous shooting at 11 fps
- 4k video with up to 30 fps or Full HD at 120 fps for slow motion video
- Maximum recording time limit of 125 minutes
- Access to PSAM modes for more control over exposure
- User modes and function buttons for customizations
- HDMI output for external monitor or recorder
- USB port for direct power and charging
- Easily connects to your smartphone
Autofocus and Self-Portrait Mode
The new Nikon Z 30 has a built-in, flip-out full touch screen with eye-tracking autofocus. It’s extremely helpful for vlogging, or to film yourself without a tripod. While testing the camera out, I relaxed and forgot about changing focusing points to hit the right spot. Instead, I concentrated on more important things — like telling a story. Although, you can always tap on the screen to focus on something else.
The flip screen turns into a self-portrait mode when facing you. You can easily take a selfie by just setting a timer and tapping your screen. Because it’s so lightweight, when paired with the tiny 16-50mm lens, I was able to take a selfie photo using just one hand — just as I would do with my phone. It also has a focusing mode where the camera shifts the focus from you onto whatever you put in front of the camera. This works well if you want to show a product or — in my case — a finished piece of a prop.
Intuitive Touchscreen
Nikon Z 30 has many new technologies, but is so simple to use and navigate with its intuitive ergonomics. I especially loved using the touchscreen because it was so quick and easy to change between settings. I didn’t have to go into the menu, but could actually do everything on the screen. It also has two custom buttons that you can program however you like.
Photo to Video, with Ease
When you hit a “record” button, the Nikon Z 30 turns on a red lamp in the front of the camera body indicating that it’s recording. But the coolest thing is that you can create stills without interrupting the video. There’s no need to stop the recording process to take a photograph!
Nikon Z 30 also has an amazing time lapse feature. When creating a time lapse, it gives you stills and a finished video right in camera. There’s no need for additional software and spending time stitching images into a time lapse on your computer. This is a huge timesaver.
Aside from recording, you can live stream as well. The Nikon Z 30 would be a great upgrade for a web camera. It only has one cable for video output and power. You just need to connect a microphone to your computer and you’re good to go!
More Features for Content Creators
I think this camera would be perfect for content creators, vloggers, YouTubers and creatives who like to document their work process. It has a large sensor, which gives you an overall better image quality. You get a wider focal length range coverage by using different lenses, and can give you a natural blurred background and shallow depth of field.
The new Nikon Z 30 Camera also allows you to transfer content via WiFi and Bluetooth by Nikon’s Snap Bridge app. I use it as a remote control all the time, but you can also transfer photos and short clips onto your smart device to post on social media. This is a perfect feature for those who are producing content for immediate sharing. You can post Instagram stories, TikToks, or any other social content right away.
You’ll receive two DX crop sensor lenses with the kit: the Nikkor Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 Lens and the Nikkor Z DX 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 Lens. With these, you’ll have almost the the entire shooting range covered.
