Nikon’s flagship mirrorless camera, the Nikon Z9, has been continuously improved via free firmware updates since its launch in December 2021. About 18 months after its release, firmware version 4.0 makes the Z9 an even better camera than it already is, thanks to a clever new Auto Capture function.

When the Nikon Z9 launched, PetaPixel explained that it made other cameras look like antiques, a description that has only become more reflective of the Z9’s prowess and capabilities following numerous firmware updates.

Firmware version 4.0 is the third major firmware upgrade for the Z9, arriving less than eight months after firmware version 3.0, and it adds significant new features and functions, including an Auto Capture mode, video enhancements, shutter sound customization, and more.

Auto Capture Can Detect Subjects and Fire the Camera

The new Auto Capture feature enables automatic shooting when a subject meets one of several pre-configurated criteria. Nikon has designed this feature with professional photographers in mind, especially those who must position a camera in a location where they can’t remain for extended periods.

Users can set the Z9 to record still images or video when one of three criteria is met, including motion, distance, and subject detection. Photographers can combine any of these three settings.

With the motion setting enabled, the Z9 will begin shooting whenever motion is detected. For the distance setting, users can select from a range of distances, and the camera will record only when a subject is within that range. Nikon notes that the distance setting is only available when using a Nikkor Z lens. Finally, the camera can record when a specific subject is detected within the frame, including people, animals, or vehicles.

“This feature allows the user to shoot remotely and without having to manually determine the timing of shooting/recording, enabling more freedom to perform other tasks, or to leave their camera outside in places they cannot remain for extended periods of time, such as when recording wild animals,” Nikon explains.

Nikon also points out a scenario where a photographer works with multiple cameras and can now leave one in a spot with Auto Capture enabled while working with another camera elsewhere.

Consider a sports photographer: they may want to set up a camera near a goal or to capture photos when subjects are within a specific set distance range. However, while an automated camera handles that situation, a photographer can continue manually shooting other images.