Nikon Asia has published a video showing off the filmmaking capabilities of its flagship Z9. The video focuses on the efficiency of shooting and editing in 8K N-RAW. This video demonstrates that Nikon is determined to allow Z9 owners to record on N-RAW in spite of RED’s lawsuit.
Nikon demonstrates Z9’s 8K N-RAW capabilities
The latest video released by Nikon Asia is a demonstration of the efficiency of the N-RAW codec implemented in the flagship Z9. As stated by Nikon: “Take a peek behind the scenes with videographer BLUESNIFF as he talks about his shooting process, his creative ow and the way he brings life to what he shoots. Learn more about the flexibility of the Nikon Z9 adds to his techniques and translates his visions into high-definition videos. 8K N-RAW footage is now available for the Z9 with the latest firmware version 2.00 update”. The footage was edited in Grass Valley EDIUS X. The video shows some stunning imagery of the Nikon Z9 by emphasizing its flexibility in post. (The video was spotted by follower Yien Guo). Check it out below:
A sign of Nikon’s determination
The video can be interpreted as an indication that Nikon is determined to keep its internal compressed RAW video recording capabilities and mitigate RED’s lawsuit. The video was published in parallel with Nikon’s decision not to comment on the pending litigation against RED Digital Cinema. It seems that Nikon is not going to remove the option of compressed RAW soon. The page of Firmware 2.0 is still online, and there’s an option to download the upgrade for free. We have been criticizing Nikon’s strategy regarding its banal comment on the pending litigation. In our opinion, and many legal advisors think the same, Nikon should elaborate on the situation in front of its consumers. However, we’ll soon get an update about the final verdict/decision.
So what’s now?
As explained before, there are a few options: RED wins, and Nikon removes N-RAW and compensates its customers. It should be reminded that N-RAW constitutes a major feature of the Z9. Hence, a significant compensation will be needed. Another option is that RED wins and Nikon compensates RED (pay royalties). It appears that this will be the most logical pathway. The less reasoned option is that RED loses, That possibility can lead the way for other camera manufacturers to implement compressed raw. Meanwhile, Nikon continues to present the N-RAW as an important feature of the Z9. And indeed, it is.
Product List
Here’re the products mentioned in the article, and the links to purchase them from authorized dealers.
- Nikon Z9 Mirrorless Camera
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I don’t think Nikon will need to compensate their customers. Surely everyone realizes that if they lose, they will have to release a new firmware to remove it. Just don’t install the later firmware and you still have a camera that can shoot 8k RAW.
I don’t think Nikon owes anyone an explanation as to what is happening either. They are in litigation and most companies or individuals in litigation don’t comment in fear of it being used against them. Nikon has made a HUGE gesture by releasing this firmware knowing it would lead to a lawsuit.
Name a single, competent, legal advisor that would recommend Nikon comments. I would love to be a fly on the wall in the meetings with their legal staff, but it would not be smart for them to comment. I want them to win the fight with Red, and them keeping their traps shut can help with that.
Perhaps Nikon could look into mimicking BM by partially debayering the RAW data or some other tricks to work around the patent.