My Nikon Z30 II Wish List: What Should We Expect?

The Nikon Z30 was Nikon's initial entry into the mirrorless vlogging market. Its lightweight design, front-facing LCD screen, and simple shooting modes made it ideal for beginners, but it lacked certain features that would appeal to video enthusiasts.

When the Nikon Z30 was first released, it barely registered on my camera radar. As a full-frame enthusiast, I had little interest in entry-level APS-C models. But when I began searching for a "B camera" to complement my Nikon Z6II, I realized just how significant the Z30 was.

The Nikon Z30 represented a first for Nikon: an APS-C camera specifically designed for vlogging, content creation, and—most importantly—video. Yes, it was bare-bones and lacked certain features that have become standard in video-centric cameras—features like N-Log, 4K60, and 10-bit recording. But it was a step in the right direction for Nikon, which has traditionally focused more on photography than video.

Released in August 2022: Is an Update Due?

Released on August 5, 2022, the Z30 is due for an upgrade. Unlike its sibling, the Z50, there have been no credible rumors about a successor. However, it’s likely that before we see a Z30 II, Nikon will focus on updating the Z50 or Zfc first, perhaps with a Z50II or ZfcII. Both of these cameras have larger user bases and are better positioned as all-rounders.

Still, I believe a Z30 II is on the horizon, although—knowing Nikon's tendency to delay releases (looking at you, Z6III)—we might be in for a bit of a wait. So, what might an update look like? Let’s take a closer look.

What Might an Update Look Like?

With Nikon’s acquisition of RED and the growing market emphasis on video, it’s likely that Nikon will focus heavily on enhancing the video specs of all future cameras. Here’s my wish list for the Z30 II, particularly in its role as a content creator’s tool.

1. 4K60p Video Recording (almost): The Z30 was capped at 4K30, a bit behind its competitors. The Z30 II should bring 4K60p to the table, allowing for smoother and more flexible editing options. However, like with it's main competitor, the Sony ZV-E10 II, there might be a crop in 4K60p.

2. N-Log and 10-Bit Recording: These features are becoming standard in most hybrid cameras. The original Z30’s lack of N-Log and 10-bit recording options was a missed opportunity, but understandable given its price point and market to entry level creators. Including these in the Z30 II would bring it closer to professional-grade video quality.

3. Advanced Auto-Framing: Sony’s ZV-E1 introduced a strong auto-framing feature that tracks the subject and adjusts framing dynamically, making it perfect for solo content creators. This would be a standout addition for the Z30 II, giving it a significant edge.

4. Creator Tools for Video: Other brands have embraced features designed to simplify content creation, such as Sony's background defocus button on the ZV-E10 II and Panasonic's inclusion of LUT options for in-camera color grading. These features make a big difference for creators, and Nikon would be smart to include them in the Z30 II.

5. No IBIS (to Keep Costs Down): To maintain the Z30 II's affordability, it may continue to lack in-body image stabilization (IBIS), like its predecessor. Given that most creators use tripods or gimbals, this would be an acceptable compromise if it helps control costs.

6. One Card Slot and Same Battery: Like the Z30, the Z30 II is likely to retain a single card slot and use the same battery to keep the form factor compact and reduce costs.

7. Cooling Considerations: The Z30 II may have some recording time limitations due to potential overheating issues, given the compact body design. This would be another area where it could differ from higher-end models.

8. Price Point: With these enhancements, we can expect an increased price point, likely between $1,000 and $1,200 USD—still competitive, but with a notable boost in value compared to the original Z30.

Facing Off Against the Competition: Sony ZV-E10 II

Nikon isn’t the only player in the vlogging and content creation market. Its main competitor, the Sony ZV-E10 II, has set a high bar for entry-level video-centric cameras. Sony's focus on content creators has led to several key features that Nikon will have to match—or ideally, surpass—if the Z30 II is going to stand out. The ZV-E10 II boasts features like 4K60p recording (with crop) and a specialized background defocus button for instant bokeh. It’s an incredibly popular option for vloggers and creators who want professional-looking video with minimal hassle.

For Nikon to compete, the Z30 II will need to bring a similar or better feature set. Matching the ZV-E10 II’s 4K60p and adding N-Log or 10-bit recording would level the playing field in terms of image quality. On top of that, Nikon could benefit from introducing creator tools like Sony’s background blur or auto-framing—features that make the camera more approachable for users who aren’t seasoned videographers but still want pro-level results.

Nikon has a real opportunity here. With RED’s video technology now in their corner, they could surprise the market by packing even more video capabilities into the Z30 II. However, to truly challenge Sony’s dominance in this niche, Nikon will have to be aggressive about matching the specs and possibly adding innovative features that go beyond what the ZV-E10 II offers.