Nikon ZR accessories: these are three best picks
The Nikon ZR is an impressive full-frame cinema camera that immediately attracts the attention of professional filmmakers and ambitious content creators. With features such as 6K 60fps in 12-bit R3D RAW, Zline autofocus and 32-bit internal audio, this camera seems to have it all. However, the Nikon ZR only really works optimally with the right accessories. These are the three accessories you absolutely need: the best memory card, the right lens and a minimalist camera rig.
Best memory card for Nikon ZR (CFexpress Type B 4.0)
The Nikon ZR has two card slots: one for CFexpress 4.0 Type B and one for MicroSD. It is important to note that video recordings are always written to the CFexpress Type B card. Because the camera does not have an internal fan, a fast card is crucial to prevent overheating and dropouts. Especially when filming in 6K 60fps and 12-bit RAW, the continuous write speed determines reliability.
How do you choose the best memory card for the Nikon Cinema ZR?
When choosing a CFexpress card for the Nikon Cinema ZR, it is important to look for a CFexpress Type B card with a high minimum guaranteed write speed, such as Lexar cards.
Three recommendations
Based on how fast your card needs to be, how much money you want to spend, and what you want to do with your Nikon ZR, there are three good options to choose from. With the Lexar Diamond line, you're choosing maximum security and performance, the Lexar Gold is a good balance between price and speed, and the Lexar Silver is a solid choice for filmmakers who run less extreme data-intensive workflows.
| Kaart | Lexar Diamond CFexpress 4.0 Type B | Lexar Gold CFexpress 4.0 Type B | Lexar Silver CFexpress 4.0 Type B |
|---|---|---|---|
| Read speed | 3700 MB/s | 3600 MB/s | 3600 MB/s |
| Write speed | 3400 MB/s | 3300 MB/s | 3000 MB/s |
| Minimum guaranteed write speed | 3200 MB/s | 3000 MB/s | 2600 MB/s |
| Capacity | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | 512GB, 1TB, 2TB, 4TB | 1TB |
| Model | Read speed | Write speed | Min. guaranteed write speed | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lexar Diamond CFexpress 4.0 Type B | 3700 MB/s | 3400 MB/s | 3200 MB/s | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB |
| Lexar Gold CFexpress 4.0 Type B | 3600 MB/s | 3300 MB/s | 3000 MB/s | 512GB, 1TB, 2TB, 4TB |
| Lexar Silver CFexpress 4.0 Type B | 3600 MB/s | 3000 MB/s | 2600 MB/s | 1TB |
What Rig accessories do you need for the Nikon ZR?
The Nikon ZR only has a ¼" tripod screw on the bottom, which is too limited for a large and extensive rig. That's why a cage is indispensable to make your camera safe and expandable. You can make your rig as extensive as you want, but there are a few accessories you need to get started.
Recommended minimum SmallRig setup
The SmallRig 5468 Cage Kit for Nikon ZR (Advanced Edition) is a complete set with cage, top handle, side handle and cable clamp.
- Cage: sturdy base that protects your camera and offers many mounting points.
- Side handle: makes handheld filming more comfortable and stable.
- Top handle: ideal for low shots or carrying the camera from above. Provides more grip and flexibility.
- Cable Clamp:prevents your HDMI or USB-C cables from becoming loose or damaged.
Do you already have a top and/or side handle? Then you can also opt for the SmallRig 5467 Cage for Nikon ZR (separate cage).
In addition, the SmallRig 3021 Ultra Slim 4K HDMI Adapter Cable is indispensable. The Nikon ZR only has micro HDMI, and with this adapter you get a sturdy full-size connection that you can secure in the cage.
Want to expand further?
Consider a microphone, matte box or external monitor. If you are going to use an external monitor, take a look at the Smallrig HawkLock H21 Quick Release Monitor Support with NATO Clamp. This is a very nice and fast system that saves you time when setting up your rig. Nikon and SmallRig work together, so all parts fit together perfectly.
Choosing the best lens for the Nikon ZR
For filmmakers, a 24-70mm f/2.8 lens is often the standard. This focal length gives you the flexibility to take both close-ups and wide shots. The downside? The original Nikkor Z 24-70mm f/2.8 costs almost as much as the Nikon ZR body itself. Fortunately, there is an alternative that is just as good as the Nikkor Z lens: the Tamron 28-75mm F/2.8 Di III VXD G2 Nikon Z.
Why the Tamron 28-75mm F/2.8 G2 is the perfect match
The Tamron 28-75mm F/2.8 Di III VXD G2 (model A063z) has been specially developed for full-frame Nikon Z cameras such as the Nikon ZR. This lens received the EISA Award for best standard zoom and combines top optical quality with a compact and lightweight design, making it very pleasant to work with. It offers a really good balance between versatility, image quality and ease of use.
Key benefits:
- Fast f/2.8 aperture: creates beautiful blurred backgrounds and excellent performance in low light.
- Tamron VXD autofocus: a linear focusing mechanism that is lightning fast, accurate and whisper quiet. Which is perfect for video recording, of course.
- Close focus from 18 cm: in wide-angle mode, you can take surprising close-ups without a separate macro lens.
Brief summary: how to complete your Nikon ZR
The Nikon ZR is an impressive full-frame cinema camera, but without the right accessories, you won't be able to utilise its full potential. For reliable 6K 60fps recordings in 12-bit RAW, you'll need a fast CFexpress Type B 4.0 card, such as the Lexar Diamond, Gold or Silver series, depending on your speed requirements and budget.
For filmmakers looking for a versatile and fast lens, the Tamron 28-75mm F/2.8 VXD G2 is a smart choice: compact, affordable and specially designed for Nikon Z cameras. Finally, a solid rig is essential. With the SmallRig 5468 Cage Kit or the separate 5467 cage and the Ultra Slim 4K HDMI Adapter Cable, you can build a stable base that offers protection, is expandable and is guaranteed to fit thanks to the collaboration between Nikon and SmallRig.
