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Nikon Zfc: Retro APS-C Mirrorless Camera Revives Film Photography Nostalgia

The Nikon Zfc brings back the charm of film cameras. While the classic F6 remains beloved, its high cost and pro nature limit everyday use.

This image contains a poster having a camera and few lenses, glass frames init. There are few...
This image contains a poster having a camera and few lenses, glass frames init. There are few machines at the right top of image. Bottom of image there are few cameras and its parts are there. Middle of image there is some text in the poster.

Nikon Zfc: Retro APS-C Mirrorless Camera Revives Film Photography Nostalgia

Nikon has unveiled the Nikon Zfc, a retro-styled APS-C mirrorless camera, in July 2021. This model is a modern take on classic Nikon designs, catering to those seeking a more casual, vintage feel. Meanwhile, photographer and writer Mike Harris has been reminiscing about his film camera days after using the Nikon Zfc for street photography.

The Nikon Zfc's introduction comes nearly two decades after the release of the Nikon F6 film camera in 2004. The F6, a professional-grade SLR, was launched alongside the Nikon D2X DSLR, marking a significant shift towards digital photography. Despite its pro credentials, the F6's bulbous, DSLR-style body was deemed too utilitarian for many film enthusiasts. Yet, its enduring appeal led Nikon to keep it in production until 2020, making it one of the top 10 Nikon cameras of all time.

Mike Harris, known for his expertise in camera and consumer tech, found himself drawn to his old Nikon FM film camera after using the Zfc. This retro-inspired mirrorless model has sparked a renewed interest in film photography among enthusiasts like Harris. However, the high cost of a good used Nikon F6, often over $1,000 / £1,000, and its pro-grade nature have made it less viable for everyday use. Nikon has not produced a casual film camera styled on its vintage models to fill this gap in the market.

The Nikon Zfc, a modern retro-chic camera, has sparked nostalgia for film photography among enthusiasts. While the Nikon F6 remains a revered classic, its high cost and pro-grade nature limit its everyday use. As the popularity of film cameras grows, there's still a gap in the market for a casual, vintage-styled film camera from Nikon.

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