Nikon has unveiled its first dedicated cinema camera, the ZR, part of its new Z Cinema line.

The full-frame, ultra-lightweight camera draws on technology from RED Digital Cinema, the US company behind many Hollywood productions. (Nikon bought the company last year.)

RED is best known for its colour science, which standardises colour and contrast, particularly skin tones, for consistent, cinematic results.

The ZR records up to 6K/60p R3D NE 12-bit RAW internally with over 15 stops of dynamic range.

It does this while supporting RED’s log curves and wide-gamut colour space for easy integration into RED workflows.

A dual-base ISO (800 and 6400) provides flexibility in bright or low-light conditions, and presets simplify film-style shooting at 24fps with a 180° shutter.

Quality cinema cameras are becoming increasingly affordable

Audio is the headline feature.

The ZR is the first in its class to offer 32-bit float recording, using Nokia’s OZO tech for directional pickup across multiple patterns.

A bright 4-inch DCI-P3 screen allows real-time preview of looks with stored LUTs, including RED’s Creative LUT Kit.

The body weighs just 1.19lb (0.54kg), is fanless and weather-sealed, and can record continuously for up to 125 minutes.

In-body stabilisation is rated around 7.5 stops, supported by AI subject tracking and tools for vertical video and tally lights.

Nikon is pitching the ZR at independent filmmakers, YouTubers and commercial content creators.

Those who want Hollywood-style colour and audio in a compact package, bridging the gap between mirrorless hybrids and higher-end rigs.

The Nikon ZR launches in late October for US$2,199 ($3,520) body-only, with more expensive lens bundles available.