Last month, Nikon unveiled the Z30, an entry-level mirrorless camera designed for vloggers and content creators, and the Z 400mm f/4.5 VR S, a lightweight super-telephoto lens aimed at action shooters. Yet for photographers seeking a high-level Z camera and additional pro-level lens options, the company has plenty of surprises in store.
According to Nikon Rumors, we should see a second Z-series mirrorless model before the year is out, which is “most likely full frame.” In other words, expect a powerful camera designed for intermediate or professional photographers, potentially packing advanced mirrorless tech like in-body image stabilization and a high-resolution viewfinder.
We don’t know much more about this upcoming Z-series model, but NR does share a few ideas: The camera could be a successor to the Nikon Z5, the current entry-level full-frame option in Nikon’s mirrorless stable. Alternatively, we might get a Z4, which would (presumably) sit just below the Z5 as a cheaper full-frame product. Yet NR thinks these scenarios are unlikely, claiming that “entry-level full-frame cameras are not popular anymore” while noting the camera market’s turn toward APS-C models.
More probable is a Z6 II successor, the Z6 III, which would feature several upgrades over the Z6 II, including a higher megapixel count (as Nikon Rumors reported previously, Nikon no longer plans to release 24 MP cameras), perhaps in the area of 30 or 32 MP. I’d also wager that a Z6 III will boast a high-resolution electronic viewfinder – 5.76M dots seems plausible (versus 3.68M dots on the Z6 and Z6 II). And the Z6 II’s action-shooting capabilities are due for an upgrade; to compete with cameras like the Canon EOS R5 and R6, a Z6 III should offer at least 20 FPS continuous shooting in addition to an improved autofocus system.
When would a Z6 III be released? September or October seems most likely (and Nikon did unveil the Z6 II back in October 2020, so an autumn announcement would fall around the two-year mark).
As for upcoming lenses: NR notes that Nikon aims to reach 50+ Z-series lenses within the next three years, so we should expect a handful of additional glass before 2022 is out, including the Z 85mm f/1.2 – a pro-level lens that’ll make portrait photographers salivate – and the Z 600mm f/4, a specialist super-telephoto option for bird, wildlife, and sports shooters.
Finally, Nikon Rumors offers a bleak note on Nikon’s DSLR production: “It seems that the Nikon DSLR is dead.” It’s hardly a surprise – Nikon hasn’t announced a new DSLR in years – but for DSLR fans, it’s a frustrating reminder of a mirrorless future.
Now over to you:
What cameras and lenses do you want Nikon to release? Are you interested in a Z6 III? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
