Nikon's Latest Super-Telephoto Zoom Lens: the Nikkor AF-S 200-400mm f/4G ED VR II

AF-S_NIKKOR_200-400mm_f4G_ED_VR_II_1024.jpgToday, Nikon announced their all new AF-S Nikkor 200-400mm f/4 ED VR II, which builds off of their popular AF-S VR Zoom-Nikkor 200-400mm f/4G IF-ED lens. Improvements include their Nano Crystal coating, AF with Manual override, and an upgraded VR II vibration reduction system, which they claim offers up to 4 stops of  shake compensation.

This new super telephoto zoom lens will retail for approx. $6,999.95US, and is compatible with FX-format Nikon dSLRs (like the Nikon D3 series, and D700). Nikon noted that they are planning to "expand and strengthen" their high-performance Nikkor offerings for use with FX-format models. For more information, please see Nikon's official press release below.

Key Features:
  • Coverage for a wide range of focal lengths enables capture of a wide variety of angles of view with a single lens.
  • Nano Crystal Coat significantly reduces ghost and flare
  • Built-in vibration reduction (VR II) offering camera shake compensation equivalent to a shutter speed increase of approximately four stops
  • ED lens elements (4) adopted for superior chromatic aberration compensation
  • A/M (autofocus with manual override, AF priority) mode added; The addition of A/M (autofocus with manual override, AF priority) mode prevents accidental switching from autofocus to manual focus. Along with M/A (autofocus with manual override, MF priority) mode, which enables manual focusing by rotating the focus ring while autofocus is operating, and M (manual focus) mode, this makes for a total of three focus modes.

AF-S NIKKOR 200-400mm f/4G ED VR II specifications

Focal length: 200-400mm
Maximum aperture: f/4
Minimum aperture: f/32
Lens construction: 24 elements in 17 groups (4 ED and some Nano Crystal Coat-deposited lens elements), as well as 1 detachable protective glass
Angle of view: 12°20' - 6°10' (8°- 4° for Nikon DX format)
Minimum focus distance: 2 m with autofocus, at all zoom settings
1.95 m with manual focus, at all zoom settings
No. of diaphragm blades: 9 pcs. (rounded)
Filter/attachment size: 52mm
Diameter x length: Approximately 124(dia) x 365.5 mm (extension from the camera's lens-mount flange with lens protective glass attached)
Weight: Approximately 3,360g (with lens protective glass attached)
Supplied accessories: Slip-on front lens cap, Rear Lens Cap LF-1, Lens Hood HK-30, Semi-soft Case CL-L2 (with dedicated interior cushioning material), Dedicated slip-in filter holder, 52mm Screw-on NC Filter, Dedicated lens protective glass (attached to the lens), Dedicated lens protective glass case, Strap LN-1



steves_line.gifNIKON FOCUSES ON EXCEPTIONAL IMAGE QUALITY AT SUPER-TELEPHOTO FOCAL LENGTHS WITH NEW AF-S NIKKOR 200-400mm f/4G ED VR II HIGH POWER PROFESSIONAL ZOOM LENS

 

MELVILLE, N.Y. (April 27, 2010) - Today, the evolution of the super telephoto lens continues as Nikon Inc. announced the new AF-S NIKKOR 200-400mm f/4G ED VR II lens which delivers optical excellence and stunning image quality for professional photographers. Ideal for bringing to life exquisite detail for sports, nature and travel photography, this new lens affords a constant maximum aperture of f/4 and rugged construction for maximum versatility. Continued refinements and new technologies such as Vibration Reduction (VR) II, Nano Crystal Coat, and optimized autofocus (AF) modes enhance functionality and improve performance for discerning FX and DX-format photographers.

"The AF-S NIKKOR 200-400mm lens builds upon a proven design for professional level optics by incorporating the latest Nikon lens technologies to give photographers the edge in the field, and the ability to capture the most intricate of details with extraordinary fidelity," said Lisa Osorio, general manager of Marketing at Nikon Inc. "As both camera capabilities and the roles of photographers expand, NIKKOR enhancements will continue to meet demands and exceed expectations to remain the pinnacle of optical excellence for all types of photographers."

Whether photographing the decisive play at home plate or predators of the Serengeti, the 200-400mm f/4 lens is an essential tool for photographers who require long focal lengths and maximum versatility without sacrificing image quality. The 200-400mm lens benefits from the addition of Nikon's proprietary Nano Crystal Coat to reduce instances of ghosting and flaring. The result is unparalleled clarity and sharpness in challenging lighting environments typical to sports venues or harsh sunlight.

Additionally, this new NIKKOR lens features Nikon VR II image stabilization, which is specifically engineered for each lens for maximum performance. VR II is a valuable asset to those shooting photos or HD video, as image blur introduced by camera shake and telephoto magnification is significantly reduced. Users are able to shoot up to four stops* slower than otherwise possible, overcoming many of the challenges of handheld shooting with such extreme focal lengths. VR functionality is further augmented with Automatic Panning Detection and an Active VR Mode to help compensate for movement from an unstable position such as a moving vehicle. Additionally, VR is always engaged when shooting in the D-Movie mode on select Nikon D-SLRs, helping to stabilize HD video capture.

The new 200-400mm f/4 lens features a host of professional focusing features to further enhance functionality. Photographers can now select from three focus modes to match shooting conditions, including manual mode (M) and autofocus with manual override (M/A) mode, and new A/M mode which is used to avoid cancelling the AF setting by unintentionally moving the focus ring while shooting. The M/A and A/M focus modes enhance AF control with fast, secure switching from automatic and manual focus to adapt to personal shooting preference and techniques. Additionally, photographers can activate the AF Recall Mode at the press of a button that allows for instant return to a predetermined point of focus to confidently capture anticipated shots.

This professional lens is constructed of die-cast magnesium for maximum durability and is sealed to resist dust and moisture, with protective Meniscus glass to safeguard the lens' front element. The optical formula features four Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass elements for superior sharpness, color and image quality, while minimizing chromatic aberration. The lens also features Nikon's exclusive Silent Wave Motor (SWM) technology, which enables high-speed autofocus performance with exceptional accuracy and powerful, super-quiet operation. Nikon's Super Integrated Coating further suppresses flare and offers superior color consistency throughout the frame.

Price and Availability

The AF-S NIKKOR 200-400mm f/4G ED VR II lens is scheduled to be available at Nikon authorized dealers in late May 2010 with an estimated selling price of $6,999.95**. For more information, please visit www.nikonusa.com.