This study investigates the effect of nanofibrillated cellulose (NFC) on the total and autogenous shrinkage deformation of cement pastes. Three different water-to-cement ratios (w/c) were used, namely 0.30, 0.35, and 0.40, along with NFC inclusion percentages of 0.000%, 0.025%, and 0.050%. The effects of NFC were evaluated through total and autogenous shrinkage measurements. Total shrinkage evolution was measured using 24-h-old prisms while autogenous shrinkage deformation was monitored using sealed prisms and corrugated tubes; their results were then compared. The corrugated tube method provided early-age deformation measurements, while the sealed prism method allowed for direct comparison with free-drying shrinkage specimens. Flow table and bleed water tests were conducted to support the understanding of the impact of NFC on the cementitious system. The NFC reduced the expansion by up to 85%. Regarding total shrinkage deformation, there was a 36% decrease at the end of 28 days for specimens with a w/c of 0.30 and NFC inclusion of 0.050%. However, this outcome varied for different combinations of w/c and nanocellulose content. The presence of NFC modified the fresh state properties of cement pastes, significantly reducing bleed water and decreasing the expansion. These findings highlight the potential of NFC as a material for controlling shrinkage deformation depend on the dosage and emphasize the importance of considering different measurement methods for accurate assessment.