Nikon launches “Test Drives” of Z6 filmmaker’s kit

Nikon is one of the top three camera brands in the world. But when it comes to videography and mirrorless cameras it is no secret that they are lagging behind in market share. Now, Nikon’s new “Test Drive Z” program aims to fix that.

Despite being one of two mirrorless cameras that Nikon has released, the Z6 has received very good reviews — especially for shooting video. Its 4K/30fps internal recording, 5-axis in-body stabilization, and 1080p/120 are on par with the competition from Sony and Canon. However, the Z6’s ProRes RAW 4K 10bit external recording capabilities* and full pixel readout 4K video are what really blows away every other comparably priced camera.

*Nikon has yet to release the paid firmware upgrade that unlocks this feature.

Only a few months after the Z6’s initial release, Nikon announced the Z6 Filmmaker’s Kit in an effort to entice video creators. For $3,999 kit includes:

• Nikon Z6
• Nikkor 24-70mm lens
• Moza Air 2 gimbal
• Atomos Ninja V 4K recording monitor
• Rode shotgun video mic Pro

Rent the Nikon Z6

Now, in partnership with Shutterbug stores, Nikon is offering rentals of said filmmaker kit. The move aims to get the Z6 in the hands of videographers (possibly Sony a7sii users stuck waiting for the a7siii) so that they can see just how good of a mirrorless video camera it really is. It’s $99 to keep the gear for 3 days or $149 for a week.

Whether or not the campaign will ultimately be successful will be interesting to see. I personally am considering renting one during a week-long trip I’ll be taking in the Pacific Northwest however, I currently don’t see myself switching to the Nikon system.

If you want to rent a Z6 kit for yourself, check out their website now.