Nikon exec drops a reference to developing a full-frame version of its retro-inspired Nikon Z fc camera
(Image credit: Nikon)
Hipster photographers, brace yourselves: it sounds like Nikon is preparing a full frame version of its uber-popular Z fc retro camera.
The Nikon Z fc has been a runaway success for the company, tapping into the growing market of style-conscious photographers and content creators who want their cameras to have the class and sophistication of the best retro cameras, but with all the modern conveniences of the latest and best mirrorless cameras.
• Hipster or not, we're big fans of the camera – check out our full Nikon Z fc review
Indeed, the Z fc has clearly been so successful that Nikon has suggested it is already developing a full-frame version. In an interview with Phototrend, Keiji Oishi, the head of Nikon's UX planning department, said:
"As soon as we launched the Z fc, a lot of people were clamoring for an equivalent with a full-frame sensor. Of course, we can’t go into details about upcoming products, but we hear these requests and we think about the type of product that could fully meet them."
This isn't Nikon's first foray into full-frame digital cameras with classic vintage styling, so there is definitely precedent for Nikon bringing this new camera into reality. In 2013, the company released the Nikon Df, a full-frame F-Mount DSLR, styled after the classic aesthetics of the Nikon FE and Nikon FM film cameras.
The film camera-inspired Nikon Df is actually where the Nikon Z fc has taken its design inspiration from, already looking like a miniaturized Df clone. A new full-frame mirrorless version of the Z fc would be expected to continue this styling, although in a larger build (since the Z fc has a smaller APS-C sensor).
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The existing Nikon Z fc is made of a magnesium alloy material, to give it that vintage feel of classic metal-bodied cameras, and is available in natural silver or painted black, with a faux leather body. Vintage in style only, and not in substance, the Z fc sports a 20.9MP DX (APS-C) sensor that can shoot up to 11 frames per second, and offers 4K video recording.
Where a full-frame version of the Nikon Z fc would sit in Nikon's lineup is still anybody's guess. We would expect it to potentially be on the same level as the Nikon Z6 II, and offer the same fantastic full-frame experience, but still at a price range to appeal to photographers willing to spend on a camera for its style alone.
Gareth is a photographer based in London, working as a freelance photographer and videographer for the past several years, having the privilege to shoot for some household names. With work focusing on fashion, portrait and lifestyle content creation, he has developed a range of skills covering everything from editorial shoots to social media videos. Outside of work, he has a personal passion for travel and nature photography, with a devotion to sustainability and environmental causes.
