A new announcement from Nikon adds two new lenses and an incredibly powerful camera to their 2020 lineup: The Z 20mm f/1.8, Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR, and the D6 FX-format digital SLR. Overnight, Nikon released the highly-awaited D6 digital camera, trailing only shortly behind the release of its competitor, the Canon 1 DX Mark III. So, what’s the hype surrounding this new professional-level camera? Let’s find out.
A High-Quality Camera for the Working Professional—The Nikon D6
The Nikon D6 boasts a 20.8MP FX-format CMOS sensor and an EXPEED 6 image-processing engine. Compared to the Nikon D5, it gains a state-of-the-art processor, Nikon’s most comprehensive image processing system to date. This new processor allows for an ISO up to 102,400—expandable to 3,280,000—for unbelievable image quality in even in a wide range of lighting scenarios.
Nikon claims that the D6 encompasses Nikon’s most powerful autofocusing system yet. Its 105-point fully selectable, all cross-type sensor AF system is enhanced by a new focus point layout that boosts non-AF-sensitive areas with a triple-sensor arrangement. The result is 1.6 times more autofocus coverage, even when tracking fast-moving subjects.
Sports and action photographers will be pleased with 14 fps continuous shooting. You can also shoot fast and ensure safety with dual CFexpress card slots that are compatible with both CFexpress and XQD cards. One aspect we were a little disappointed by was that it can only shoot 10.5 fps in Live View compared to 20 fps in the Canon 1D X Mark III.
Another perk about this camera is that it's durable. It’s made out of tough magnesium-alloy material and has extensive weather sealing, a must-have for most professional photographers. Transferring photos is quick and easy with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and Built-in GPS. Not to mention a 2.36-dot LCD touchscreen, advanced customization options, illuminated buttons and long-lasting battery life. The Nikon D6 will be available in April 2020 and is available for pre-order now for $6,496.95.
The Nikon Z 20mm f/1.8 S
These two lenses are the first lenses to be announced after Nikon released their Z lens roadmap a few weeks ago. Although these lenses come as no surprise, we are excited to have them as new additions to the Z lineup. We are especially excited about the Nikon Z 20mm f/1.8 S. This lens is the fifth f/1.8 lens in the lineup and a huge advantage to landscape photographers. Capturing nightscapes with this lens will be a dream come true. Compared to the old AF-S lens counterpart, this new lens takes advantage of increased image stabilization with Dual Detect 5 Axis VR when used in tandem with Z cameras that feature in-camera stabilization. They have improved the AF motor so that the noise is virtually eliminated. It also has three lens elements compared to the previous two as well as a multi-focusing system, a custom control ring and minimized focus breathing. For an added benefit it’s also dust and drip-resistant. The Nikon 20mm f/1.8 S lens will be available in late March as is available for pre-order now for $1,046.95.
The Nikon Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR
For an all-in-one lens, the Nikon Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 will be the perfect option. This versatile zoom lens allows you to shoot for landscapes and architecture to portraits and street photography. You can even gain more reach up to 300mm when shooting in DX crop mode. It remains surprisingly compact and lightweight, at only 1.2 pounds (570 g) and it has an ultra-quiet and fast focusing motor for clear and accurate images and video. With 5 stops of optical VR, enhanced even further when paired with Z cameras 5 Axis In-Body VR, this lens can capture sharp images hand-held in even the most difficult low-light scenarios. It also comes with a custom control ring and is dust and drip-resistant. The Nikon Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR will be available in April 2020 and is available for pre-order now for $896.95.