Z Cinema Line @IBC: slashCam in conversation with Nikon about the new ZR
[10:41 Sat,25.October 2025 by blip]
We also had the opportunity at IBC to conduct a brief interview with Nikon Japan. Among other things, we wanted to know who the main target audience for the Nikon ZR is, how its affordable price was achieved, and – last but not least – whether the ZR will displace the RED Komodo.
We spoke about this with Jeff Goodman (Vice President Product Management, RED Digital Cinema), Keiji Oishi (CEO, RED Digital Cinema), Ikegami Hiroyuki (Senior Executive Vice President, General Manager - Nikon Imaging Business Unit), Aihara Takashi (General Manager, UX Planning Department - Nikon Imaging Business Unit), Yamaoka Hiroki (General Manager, Marketing Department - Nikon Imaging Business Unit).
slashCam: To start, perhaps a brief characterization of the new Nikon ZR for readers who are not yet familiar with the camera – what are its key features?
Nikon: The ZR is an all-in-one cinema camera with a full-frame sensor and is part of the new Z Cinema Line. This series combines technologies from Nikon and RED. The ZR is designed for a wide range of applications – from personal projects to professional film productions – and can also be seamlessly combined with RED cameras in the cinema sector.
slashCam: Where do you see the main advantages compared to the competition?
Nikon: We prefer not to comment on other products, but regarding the ZR, we can say: It offers internal RAW recording at up to 6K at 60p – an exceptional feature in this price range. Furthermore, it uses the new R3D NE video format, which was developed jointly with RED. This makes it fully compatible with RED cameras in terms of color science and exposure standards. Additionally, it features 32-bit float audio recording and a powerful autofocus based on Nikon&s deep-learning technology. The integrated 4-inch display is also very high-quality and clearly legible.
slashCam: Internal RAW is certainly one of the biggest selling points. Which target group is the camera primarily intended for?
Nikon: We are targeting a broad user base, but primarily content creators who work independently or in small teams. Thanks to its compact design and attractive price, the ZR is particularly interesting for young filmmakers who want to work with cinema-grade standards – including RED color technology.
slashCam: Many are wondering if the ZR replaces the RED Komodo. After all, the Komodo has been the entry point into the RED world until now.
RED: No, the Komodo will continue to be sold. The ZR rather expands access to the R3D ecosystem but does not replace the Komodo. The latter remains a pure cinema camera, while the ZR is more broadly positioned and offers greater flexibility.
slashCam: What are the most significant differences between the two models?
RED: Primarily in ergonomics and connectivity. The Komodo, for example, offers SDI I/O and other features specifically designed for professional on-set use. The ZR, on the other hand, appeals to a more versatile target group that benefits from a compact design and greater flexibility.
slashCam: Many of our readers work with DaVinci Resolve. Is there already support for the new R3D format?
Nikon: Yes. Since September 10th, the current version of DaVinci Resolve supports the R3D NE format. This can already be tried out at our booth. The new codec is fully integrated into existing workflows via the RED SDK, so we also expect support from other NLEs, such as Final Cut Pro. An updated R3D plugin for Final Cut is expected to be released in mid-October – just in time for the sales launch.
slashCam: A question that many are pondering: The ZR&s price is surprisingly low. How were you able to achieve this?
Nikon: Our goal was to enable as many filmmakers as possible to access cinema-grade workflows – especially with the R3D NE RAW format. This was made possible by Nikon&s EXPEED 7 image processing technology, which allows for high performance while enabling efficient development. With this, we aim to support creators working with limited budgets.
slashCam: The processor is indeed impressive – the speed was already remarkable in the Z6 III... Will there be stronger influences from RED technologies in the Nikon Mirrorless series in the future?
Nikon: The Z Cinema Line is positioned as a standalone series alongside the Z Mirrorless series. While future mirrorless models will certainly receive enhanced video functions thanks to RED technologies, the focus of the joint work is clearly on the Z Cinema Line to specifically create cinema-oriented products.
slashCam: Thank you for the interview – and for taking the time. We are excited to see how the cooperation between Nikon and RED continues to develop.
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