Nikon ZF Silver Edition Review And Thoughts

Nikon has finally released the ZF that a lot of people wanted to see. It’s vintage looks taking another step with the silver scheme. There is no denying that it looks absolutely stunning, and as a Nikon ZF user myself, using the ZF for work and play, I thought it was time for an exhaustive review, along with my thoughts on this new colour variant.

The Nikon ZF Silver Edition is a new, aesthetically-driven variant of the popular full-frame Nikon ZF mirrorless camera, announced on September 4, 2025. This release comes in response to user demand for a camera that more closely resembles Nikon’s classic film-era SLRs, such as the iconic Nikon F. While the core specifications and performance remain identical to the standard black ZF, the silver edition offers a significant change in appearance and introduces new customization options.

Design and Aesthetics

The most striking feature of the ZF Silver Edition is its classic, retro-inspired design. The camera features a metallic silver top and bottom plate, which is designed to mimic the chrome plating found on classic film cameras. This is complemented by a textured black grip area, creating a stylish “panda” look.

In addition to the new silver body, Nikon has introduced three new “Premium Exterior” colour options for the textured grip area: Cognac Brown, Teal Blue, and Mauve Pink. These new colours, with their embossed texture, are available for both the silver and black versions of the camera, giving users more options for personalization. This level of customization allows photographers to create a camera that is not only a powerful tool but also a personal statement.

From a practical standpoint, the retro design is a matter of personal preference. While many will appreciate the stylish, classic look, some photographers, particularly those specializing in street photography, might prefer the more discreet and less noticeable all-black body.

Core Specifications and Performance

It’s crucial to understand that the Silver Edition is a cosmetic update only. The internal hardware and performance are identical to the original ZF. This means it carries the same impressive feature set that made the ZF a hit with photographers and videographers alike.

• Sensor and Processor: The camera is built around a 24.5-megapixel full-frame BSI CMOS sensor and is powered by Nikon’s EXPEED 7 image processor. This combination delivers excellent image quality and speed.
• Image Stabilization: It features 5-axis in-body image stabilization (IBIS) rated up to 8.0 stops, a standout feature that provides significant stability for both photos and videos.

• Autofocus: The ZF utilizes an advanced autofocus system with subject detection and tracking capabilities, similar to those found in the high-end Z8 and Z9 models. It is capable of reliable focusing even in low-light conditions (down to -10 EV).

• Video Capabilities: The camera can record UHD 4K video at up to 60p (with a DX crop) and full-frame 4K video at up to 30p, which is oversampled from 6K. It offers 10-bit H.265 internal recording and N-Log and HLG (HDR) support via HDMI.

• Other Features: The ZF boasts a fully articulating touchscreen, a high-resolution electronic viewfinder, and a unique 96MP high-res mode for capturing detailed still images. It also has dual card slots, one for SDXC (UHS-II) and one for microSDXC (UHS-I).

New Features and Firmware

Coinciding with the release of the Silver Edition, Nikon has announced a firmware update for the ZF (available for all ZF bodies, regardless of colour) that adds a new “Film Grain” feature. It is a feature that many have been adding for, and one which will compliment the look and feel of the camera with the audience it is targeted at. This feature, which is scheduled for release within 2025, will allow users to add customizable film grain to both photos and videos. This can be combined with Nikon’s “Imaging Recipes” and “Picture Controls” to create a truly personalized, film-like aesthetic.

Price and Availability

The Nikon ZF Silver Edition is available for a suggested retail price of approximately £2,299 for the body only, with the new premium exterior options costing the same price according to the Nikon website. It is set to be available in late September 2025.

Conclusion

The Nikon ZF Silver Edition is a compelling choice for photographers who are drawn to the nostalgic design of classic cameras but want the performance and technology of a modern mirrorless system. It offers all the acclaimed features of the original ZF, including its excellent sensor, advanced autofocus, and powerful video capabilities, wrapped in a beautiful, customizable, heritage-inspired body.

For current owners of the black Nikon ZF like myself, the silver edition offers no functional upgrades, although the upcoming film grain firmware update will be available to all ZF users. However, for new buyers or those who have been on the fence about the ZF, the silver edition provides a stylish and elegant alternative that further solidifies its position as a unique and desirable camera in the full-frame mirrorless market.

I made an initial review when I first had the camera, with thing I like and don’t like about the Nikon ZF.

I am not affiliated in any way with Nikon, and you can get more information and purchase the lens from Nikon here.

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