Nikon has released the first full-frame Z lens specifically designed for video. Built to support solo video shooters and small crews, the Nikkor Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ lens resolves high-definition 8k video footage straight from the camera, and it’s light enough to shoot handheld.Engineered to be exceptional, it’s a game changer for video makers using full-frame Nikon Z cameras like the Z9 and the Z8.
With servo zoom control and a gimbal/handheld friendly weight of just 1210 g (including tripod collar) this is a compact, well-balanced, and dependable go-to video lens for videographers and film makers who want to work with minimal kit. The video-specific optical design resolves high-definition 8K video footage that allows plenty of flexibility to crop in post and output in 4K. Nikon’s high-performance glass and optical coatings ensure users can achieve remarkably clear footage at any distance—even if shooting under strong sunlight or studio lighting.
A yellow ring signifies this power zoom is a Z mount video lens and it is compatible with a wide range of professional video accessories, including matte boxes and follow focus systems. Key functions for video shooters include ease-in/ease-out (which negates the need for an external motorised zoom unit), and there are 11 different levels of zoom speed that can be assigned to the zoom lever on the lens. Position record and recall lets users re-frame shots between takes, linear manual focusing allows for accurate, repeatable results, and the direction of the focus and zoom rings can be reversed. The lens is also sealed against dust and moisture, and it can be controlled remotely too.
Dirk Jasper, product manager, Nikon Europe said: “We’re committed to making the Z system a go-to solution for content creators of all levels, and Nikon’s first pro video lens for Z mount cameras is an exciting step forward. You can rely on this video lens to deliver stunning results, which makes it a valuable tool in situations where time, budget, or circumstance mean reshoots aren’t an option.”
Summary of key features: Nikkor Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ
Dedicated Z mount video lens: supports high-definition 8K footage that allows plenty of flexibility to crop in post and output in 4K. Yellow ring around the lens mount indicates that this is a video lens.
Smooth, balanced power zoom: internal motor smoothly manages the 28-135mm focal-length range and ensures a stable centre of gravity.
Video-specific optical design: minimises distortion at any shooting distance. Meso Amorphous Coat counters ghosting and flare, and focus breathing is supressed.
Dynamic close ups: minimum focus distance of 0.34 m from 28mm to 50mm, and 0.57 m at 135mm.
Ease-in/ease-out: for natural tapering of zoom speed, no external zoom unit necessary.
Linear manual focusing: for accurate, repeatable focus adjustments.
Focus ring with 0.8 m gear pitch: compatible with standard follow focus units. The lens is also shaped so it’s easy to attach a matte box.
Position record and recall: available when shooting remotely or in ‘normal’ mode.
11 zoom speeds: can be assigned to the zoom lever or the camera’s Fn buttons.1
Customisable zoom ring: angle and direction of rotation can be adjusted via the camera menu.2
Smooth handling: zoom lever for precise fingertip control and L-fn buttons on side and top of lens.
Hi-Res Zoom: extends the zoom range by 2x when shooting in 4K, resolution and depth of field aremaintained. Synchro mode combines the operation of power zoom and Hi-Res Zoom.
Fast, quiet autofocus: driven by Nikon’s (STM) stepping motor.
Remote zooming: via a PC with NX Tether installed, or a smart device running SnapBridge or NX Field.
Lightweight: handheld, gimbal, and tripod-friendly weight of just 1210 g (including tripod collar).
Location ready: high-performance dust- and drip-resistance sealing. Nikon’s fluorine coat protects the front element and keeps it easy to clean.3
Rectangular lens hood (included): with a filter window for adjusting 95 mm filters while the hood is attached.
