Nikon has released firmware update version 1.20 for their popular retro-styled Zf mirrorless camera, bringing significant improvements to pixel shift photography and addressing several critical bugs that users have reported since the camera’s launch.
This Nikon Zf firmware update version 1.20 is the second major update since the camera’s release, focusing on enhancing the camera’s technical capabilities while fixing issues that could impact your photography workflow. As someone who has been following Nikon’s firmware development closely, I can tell you this update addresses some of the most requested improvements from the community.
The update, released on April 29, 2025, is particularly important for photographers who rely on pixel shift photography for maximum image quality, as it finally brings color temperature consistency to this powerful feature. Plus, it fixes several annoying bugs that could interrupt your shooting session.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through everything new in firmware 1.20, explain the bug fixes in detail, and provide a step-by-step installation guide that even beginners can follow confidently.
New Features in Firmware 1.20 (2025)
Enhanced Pixel Shift Photography
The standout improvement in this update is the enhancement to pixel shift photography. Previously, when shooting in pixel shift mode, the camera struggled with maintaining consistent color temperature across the series of images. This issue has been resolved, ensuring more accurate and consistent colors in your final composite images.
For those unfamiliar with pixel shift photography, it’s a technique where the camera’s sensor moves slightly between exposures to capture more detail than a single shot could provide. This feature is particularly valuable for landscape and architectural photographers who need maximum resolution and color accuracy.
The color temperature fix means you’ll no longer see subtle color shifts between frames in your pixel shift sequences, making the post-processing workflow much smoother and more predictable.
Improved Wireless Security
Nikon has also strengthened the wireless security settings in firmware 1.20. While details remain sparse in the official release notes, this appears to address the way encryption keys and passwords are handled when connecting to wireless networks or transferring images remotely.
This improvement is particularly relevant for professional photographers who frequently use wireless transfer features in their workflow, ensuring your images remain secure during transmission to computers or cloud services.
Pixel Shift Photography: A technique where the camera sensor moves slightly between multiple exposures to capture higher resolution images with improved color accuracy and detail.
Bug Fixes and Improvements
Firmware 1.20 addresses several irritating bugs that Zf owners have been experiencing. Let me break down each fix and explain what it means for your daily photography:
Silent Mode Display Issue Fixed
One of the most reported bugs was the viewfinder not darkening properly when shooting in silent mode with the monitor stored against the camera body. This issue could be distracting when trying to compose shots discreetly. The fix ensures the viewfinder now properly darkens in this scenario, maintaining the stealth advantage of silent mode.
Silent mode is essential for wedding, event, and wildlife photographers who need to capture images without drawing attention. This fix makes the feature work as originally intended.
Noise Reduction in Deep Tone Monochrome
Users reported unwanted noise appearing in images when using Deep Tone Monochrome picture control with noise reduction set to any value other than “Off.” This bug has been resolved, allowing you to use noise reduction settings normally with this popular monochrome profile.
Deep Tone Monochrome is one of the Zf’s standout creative features, producing rich blacks and smooth tonal transitions. Now you can combine it with appropriate noise reduction for cleaner low-light monochrome shots.
Video Playback Stability
The update resolves an issue where the camera would sometimes stop responding during video playback, particularly when fast-forwarding or rewinding through clips. This improvement ensures smoother video review functionality directly on the camera.
For videographers who need to review footage immediately after capture, this fix eliminates a frustrating workflow interruption that could force camera restarts.
Auto White Balance Refinements
Nikon has also made adjustments to the Auto White Balance behavior in both Natural Light Auto and standard modes. While the exact changes aren’t detailed, users should notice more consistent color rendering in various lighting conditions.
✅ Pro Tip: After updating, reset your custom picture controls to ensure they work properly with the new firmware’s improved noise reduction handling.
How to Install Firmware 1.20 In 2025?
Installing firmware updates might seem daunting if you’ve never done it before, but the process is straightforward if you follow these steps carefully. I’ve updated countless Nikon cameras over the years, and while the process is generally safe, taking precautions is essential.
Before You Begin: Pre-Update Checklist
- Charge Your Battery: Ensure your camera battery is at least 90% charged. A power failure during the update could brick your camera.
- Format Your Memory Card: Use a freshly formatted memory card for the update. This prevents any file corruption issues.
- Backup Your Settings: Save your custom settings to the camera’s internal memory if you’ve customized button assignments or menu configurations.
- Have a Card Reader Ready: Using a card reader is more reliable than connecting the camera directly to your computer.
⏰ Time Saver: The entire update process takes about 10-15 minutes from download to completion.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide In 2025
- Download the Firmware: Visit the official Nikon Download Center and search for “Nikon Zf firmware.” Download version 1.20 for your region.
- Extract the File: The downloaded file will be a compressed archive. Extract it to reveal the .bin firmware file (typically named something like FZf-V120M.bin).
- Prepare the Memory Card: Insert your formatted memory card into the card reader connected to your computer. Copy the .bin file directly to the root directory of the card – not inside any folders.
- Insert Card in Camera: Turn off the Zf and insert the memory card containing the firmware file.
- Access the Menu: Turn on the camera and press the Menu button. Navigate to the Setup Menu (wrench icon) and select “Firmware Version.”
- Start the Update: You should see the firmware file listed. Select it and confirm you want to update. The camera will begin the installation process.
- Wait Patiently: DO NOT turn off the camera or remove the battery during this process. The camera will display progress indicators and may restart automatically.
- Verify the Update: Once complete, check the firmware version in the menu to confirm it now reads 1.20.
- Reset Settings: Nikon recommends resetting all camera settings after a firmware update to ensure optimal performance.
What If Something Goes Wrong?
While firmware updates rarely fail, it’s good to know what to do if you encounter issues:
- Camera Won’t Start: Remove the battery for 30 seconds, reinsert it, and try again. If still not working, try reinserting the memory card with the firmware file.
- Update Fails Mid-Process: Keep the camera on and try again. Multiple attempts sometimes work. If it continues to fail, contact Nikon support immediately.
- Error Messages: Note any error codes and check Nikon’s support website or forums for specific solutions.
⚠️ Important: Never attempt to install firmware from third-party sources. Always use official Nikon downloads to avoid potential security risks or camera damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Nikon Zf firmware update free?
Yes, all Nikon firmware updates are completely free. Simply download them from Nikon’s official website and follow the installation instructions.
How long does the Nikon Zf firmware update take?
The actual installation process takes about 5-7 minutes, but including download and preparation, budget 15-20 minutes total for the entire process.
Will firmware 1.20 delete my photos?
No, firmware updates do not affect your photos or videos. However, it’s always wise to back up your memory card before starting the update process.
Can I downgrade to an older firmware version?
Nikon does not officially support downgrading firmware. Once updated to 1.20, you cannot revert to a previous version through normal means.
Do I need to update my firmware?
Yes, firmware updates include important bug fixes and security improvements. Installing them ensures your camera operates as intended and remains secure.
Should You Update to Firmware 1.20?
Based on my experience with firmware updates and the improvements included in version 1.20, I strongly recommend all Nikon Zf owners install this update. The pixel shift photography improvements alone make it worthwhile for landscape and studio photographers, while the bug fixes address issues that could affect anyone’s shooting experience.
The update enhances the camera’s stability and reliability, which is always a good thing. Plus, the improved wireless security is important in today’s connected photography workflow.
While firmware updates can seem intimidating, Nikon’s process is reliable and straightforward as long as you follow the steps carefully. The benefits – from more accurate colors in pixel shift mode to a camera that doesn’t freeze during video playback – far outweigh the minimal risk involved in updating.
Your Nikon Zf is a significant investment, and keeping its firmware up to date ensures you’re getting the most out of this capable camera. With firmware 1.20 installed, your Zf will be more stable, secure, and capable than ever before.