Nikon Z50 II Overview

A Compact Powerhouse for Discovery and Play

Designed with emerging creators in mind, the Mirrorless Camera Nikon Z50 II with 16-50mm Lens offers a high-performance yet compact system ideal for taking content creation to the next level. Boasting a 20.9MP APS-C CMOS sensor and an interchangeable lens mount, this camera incorporates flagship-level features and compatibility with the entire NIKKOR Z lens lineup. This camera is perfect for photographers looking to go beyond smartphone capabilities and elevate their work with professional-grade equipment.

20.9MP DX-Format CMOS Sensor & EXPEED 7 Image Processor

The Z50 II uses a 20.9MP CMOS sensor in DX format, paired with the same EXPEED 7 image processor found in Nikon’s full-frame models, providing an impressive balance of high sensitivity, excellent image quality, fast AI-powered autofocus, and continuous shooting at up to 30 fps. The native ISO range of 100-51200 allows for shooting across diverse lighting environments, with an extended ISO up to 204800 for extreme low-light scenarios. The sensor and resolution combine to yield clean, noise-reduced images with smooth color transitions, even in challenging lighting.

Nikon’s Most Advanced Autofocus

Building on the algorithms and deep learning technology from Nikon’s Z9, the Z50 II offers advanced autofocus capabilities. It includes sophisticated Subject Detection for nine types of subjects, including humans, animals, vehicles, and more. The dedicated Bird Detection mode automatically locks onto birds and maintains focus, even when they’re moving. In Auto-Area AF, the camera can recognize and track a variety of subjects, ensuring sharp focus as they move through the frame. Additionally, Eye-Detection AF is fine-tuned to detect and track eyes with enhanced precision, ensuring clear, in-focus images of both humans and animals.

Pre-Release Capture

The EXPEED 7 processor unlocks the Pre-Release Capture feature, which captures frames in a burst for up to a second before the shutter is fully pressed. This makes it easier to capture decisive moments by beginning the burst when the shutter is half-pressed, ensuring you never miss key moments.

UHD 4K Video Recording

Not just for stills, the Z50 II also shines in video recording, supporting UHD 4K video at up to 60 fps, Full HD up to 120 fps, and includes features like Product Review mode, a video self-timer, and electronic Vibration Reduction. The Z50 II allows up to two hours of continuous recording and the option to save video to internal memory or an external recorder via HDMI. In-camera time-lapse capabilities enable you to create UHD 4K videos directly. The camera also complies with UAC and UAV standards for live streaming and offers 10-bit internal recording, along with Nikon’s N-Log LUT and four new RED LUTs for enhanced color grading.

Color Control for Creators

Nikon introduces a Picture Control button on the Z50 II, granting easy access to its 31 built-in color presets, available even in Auto mode. These presets can be previewed on the rear LCD screen, helping you visualize the look before shooting. With Creator Recipes, users can access color settings from other Nikon creators via the Nikon Imaging Cloud. Additionally, a one-year subscription to Nikon’s Cloud Picture Controls software is included, allowing customization of presets for professional editing.

Body Design and Connectivity

The Z50 II has a large 3.2″ LCD touchscreen, providing bright and clear image playback and a 180° flip-under design for selfies or vlogging. This upgraded touchscreen includes the Touch FN function, enabling fingertip focus point selection. The improved electronic viewfinder is twice as bright as the previous model, with optics designed for sharp, clear visuals. The built-in flash and hot shoe add flexibility for low-light shooting, while Night Portrait mode balances exposure with both ambient and added light.

The Z50 II features a headphone jack, a USB-C port for charging and power delivery, and a MC-DC3 Remote Release Cord. Using SnapBridge technology, you can transfer low-resolution images and remotely shoot from a smart device via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. For quick image and video storage, the EN-EL25a rechargeable battery supports UHS-II speeds.

Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR Lens

Complementing the Z50 II, the NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR lens offers a versatile 24-75mm-equivalent zoom range, making it ideal for a wide variety of scenes, from landscapes to portraits. This lens features an advanced optical design, including aspherical and extra-low dispersion elements, to reduce aberrations and deliver sharp, clear images with vibrant color. Its Super Integrated Coating minimizes ghosting and flare for better contrast, especially in bright or backlit environments.

Vibration Reduction stabilizes images up to 4.5 stops, helping you achieve sharper handheld shots. The lens’s stepping motor provides fast, quiet autofocus, perfect for both stills and video, with full-time manual override. The programmable control ring lets you customize settings like aperture or exposure, providing extra control over the camera’s functions. A seven-blade rounded diaphragm contributes to pleasing bokeh, enhancing shots taken with a shallow depth of field.

Overall, the Nikon Z50 II and its 16-50mm VR lens pack professional-grade features and advanced technology into a compact design, making it a versatile tool for creators looking to expand their content quality with ease.

FAQs For Nikon Z50 II with 16-50mm Lens

1. What makes the Nikon Z50 II with 16-50mm Lens unique compared to other Nikon cameras?

The Nikon Z50 II is a compact mirrorless camera designed for creators looking for high-quality content without the bulk of a full-frame DSLR. It features a 20.9MP APS-C sensor, advanced autofocus, high-speed continuous shooting, and 4K video capabilities. It’s compatible with the full NIKKOR Z lens lineup, making it versatile for both photography and videography.

2. Is the Z50 II good for low-light photography?

Yes, the Z50 II performs well in low-light conditions, thanks to its DX-format CMOS sensor and EXPEED 7 processor, offering a native ISO range of 100-51200. This can be expanded up to ISO 204800, allowing for noise reduction and smooth color transitions in various lighting situations.

3. Does the Nikon Z50 II with 16-50mm Lens support 4K video recording?

Absolutely. The Z50 II records UHD 4K video up to 60 fps and Full HD video up to 120 fps. It also includes features like electronic Vibration Reduction, a Product Review mode, video self-timer, and the ability to record continuously for up to two hours.

4. What is the Pre-Release Capture feature?

Pre-Release Capture is a feature that starts capturing frames in a burst up to a second before the shutter is fully pressed. This feature helps ensure you capture decisive moments by recording images even before you fully press the shutter button.

5. How does the Z50 II’s autofocus perform?

The Nikon Z50 II’s autofocus is advanced and powered by algorithms from the flagship Z9 model. It can detect nine subject types (humans, animals, vehicles, and more) and features dedicated Eye-Detection and Bird Detection modes. This makes it easy to track and maintain focus on moving subjects.

6. Does the Z50 II have any special modes for creators?

Yes, the Z50 II includes a Picture Control button that provides 31 built-in color presets, accessible in Auto mode, allowing for instant color adjustments. Additionally, Nikon’s Cloud Picture Controls lets users download and customize presets for more creative control.

7. What are the connectivity options on the Nikon Z50 II with 16-50mm Lens?

The Z50 II has built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, allowing seamless transfer of images and remote shooting through the SnapBridge app. You can control the camera from a smartphone or tablet, view images, and even trigger the shutter remotely.

8. How long does the Z50 II’s battery last?

The included EN-EL25a rechargeable lithium-ion battery provides long battery life, supporting extended shooting sessions. The camera also supports in-camera charging through the USB-C port, making it convenient for creators on the go.

9. What lens is included with the Z50 II, and what is its focal range?

The Nikon Z50 II often comes bundled with the NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR lens, which offers a 24-75mm equivalent focal range. This versatile lens is great for wide-angle shots and portraits and features Vibration Reduction for stable handheld shooting.

10. Can the Z50 II be used for live streaming?

Yes! The Z50 II is UAC and UAV compliant, making it suitable for live streaming. You can connect it to your computer via USB for high-quality streaming with a professional look.

11. What kind of memory card does the Z50 II use?

The Z50 II has a single SD card slot that supports UHS-II memory cards for fast read/write speeds, which is ideal for both high-resolution photos and 4K video recording.

12. Does the camera have a built-in flash?

Yes, the Nikon Z50 II includes a built-in flash for additional lighting in low-light scenarios. It also has a hot shoe mount for attaching external flashes or other accessories.

13. How does the electronic viewfinder on the Z50 II compare to previous models?

The Z50 II’s electronic viewfinder has been redesigned for increased brightness, clarity, and comfort. It uses NIKKOR optics and is now twice as bright as previous models, offering an improved viewing experience, especially in bright environments.

14. Does the camera come with any software for editing?

Yes, Nikon includes a one-year subscription to its Cloud Picture Controls software, which allows users to download presets, create their own, and edit images with professional tools.

15. Is the Nikon Z50 II weather-sealed?

While the Nikon Z50 II offers a robust and durable build, it’s not fully weather sealed. It’s best to avoid extreme weather conditions or use additional protection when shooting in challenging environments.