Nikon Z 28-135mm f4 PZ Lens at a Glance
- Nikon Z 28-135mm f4 PZ Lens: The Nikon Z 28-135mm f4 PZ is the first Z Mount lens specifically designed for video. It's built from the ground up for video work, not a stills lens with video features added on.
Nikon Z 28-135mm f4 PZ Lens - Nikon Z 28-135mm f4 PZ Lens: The lens has 11 different power zoom speeds that can be assigned to the zoom lever, with ease-in/ease-out. You can match zoom speed to the scene without an external motorised zoom unit.
- Nikon Z 28-135mm f4 PZ Lens: Compatible with standard Follow Focus Units and is gimbal-friendly at 1210g. Works with common rig accessories and remains balanced on a gimbal for run-and-gun shooting.
Setting Up Power Zoom Speeds
The 28-135mm f4 PZ offers 11 power zoom speeds, assignable to the zoom lever. This lets you control zoom rate precisely during a take.
- Choose your zoom speed: Select from 11 speeds via the camera menu (on compatible bodies). Slower speeds work for dramatic reveals; faster speeds suit dynamic action.
- Assign to the zoom lever: The chosen speed is controlled by the zoom lever on the lens barrel. The lever's direction and pressure can be customised.
- Enable ease-in/ease-out: This feature smooths the start and end of a zoom move, giving a more professional look without abrupt changes.
Focusing Tips for Video
The lens uses linear manual focusing, meaning the focus ring responds directly to your input without lag. This is ideal for pulling focus smoothly during a shot.
The direction of the focus and zoom rings can be reversed to match your preference or the orientation of a follow focus system. Check the camera's custom menu to reverse the ring direction.
For repeatable shots, use the Position Record and Recall feature. This lets you save a focus or zoom position and return to it between takes, which is useful for interviews or product shots where you need consistent framing.
Camera Compatibility and Firmware Notes
The lens is designed to work with all Nikon Z cameras, but full functionality—especially all 11 zoom speeds—is available on the Z9, Z8, and Z6III out of the box.
If you own a Z5, Z6II, or Z7II, a firmware update is required to access the full set of zoom speeds. Check Nikon's support site for the latest firmware for your camera.
Note: The lens is not available on Z6 or Z7 (the original models). Confirm your camera body supports the lens before purchasing.
Remote Control and Solo Creator Workflow
The lens supports remote control operation, which is useful when the camera is mounted on a gimbal or in a hard-to-reach position. You can adjust zoom and focus from a distance.
At 1210g, the lens is light enough for handheld run-and-gun shooting. Combined with the power zoom and remote control, it's a practical choice for a solo creator or small crew who needs to move quickly.
