Melville, NY—Nikon Inc. announced three Nikkor lenses for professional and enthusiast photographers: the AF-S Nikkor 24–70mm f/2.8E ED VR is the evolution of one of Nikon’s most popular pro lenses; the AF-S Nikkor 200–500mm f/5.6E ED VR is a super-telephoto zoom; and the AF-S Nikkor 24mm f/1.8G ED is the latest addition to Nikon’s f/1.8 fixed focal length lenses.
“These three very different lenses are representative of the diverse range of Nikon photographers. But they all provide the most vibrant, sharp images and HD video possible; with color and clarity that only genuine Nikkor optics can deliver,” said Masahiro Horie, director, Marketing and Planning, Nikon Inc.
AF-S Nikkor 24–70mm f/2.8E ED VR
This lens improves upon its predecessor in nearly every aspect, adding the latest Nikon lens technologies. These include Nikon’s Vibration Reduction (VR) image stabilization technology. With up to four stops of image stabilization and a fast f/2.8 constant maximum aperture, the new 24–70mm f/2.8 VR is engineered to tackle the challenging light of a wedding ceremony or on-the-spot news. VR is also a benefit to filmmakers shooting handheld or on a rig. In addition, a tripod mode helps banish blur for landscape shooters.
It also utilizes Nikon’s Electromagnetic Aperture control, which allows for consistent exposures during high-speed burst shooting. And it improves on image quality with a new optical construction.
A first for Nikkor lenses is a new aspherical extra-low dispersion (ASP/ED) element. It is paired with traditional aspherical, ED and high-refractive index (HRI) elements. Photos and videos are said to take on a “balance of sharpness and subtle blur effects, virtually free of flare, ghosting, coma and chromatic aberration throughout the frame.”
Furthermore, Nikon’s Nano Crystal Coat is also employed to further reduce ghosting and flare.
The lens is sealed and gasketed against the elements. It also has a fluorine coating on the front and rear elements to make it easier to remove dirt, moisture and smudges from the lens surface.
The optical formula consists of 20 elements in 16 groups. In addition, a 9-blade diaphragm helps to create a pleasing, natural out-of-focus area with bokeh. Additionally, the AF-S Nikkor 24–70mm f/2.8E ED VR features a filter diameter of 82mm. As a result, it accepts the new Nikon CPL2 circular polarizer and 82mm NC (neutral color) filters. It has a suggest retail price of $2,399.95.
AF-S Nikkor 200–500mm f/5.6E ED VR
Giving enthusiast FX- and DX-format photographers the ability to go further with zoom power, this compact super-telephoto zoom is designed to bring distant subjects closer, including birds, sports, wildlife and motorsports. It has a maximum reach of 500mm on FX-format Nikon cameras and a 750mm equivalent reach on DX-format cameras.\
With its maximum aperture of f/5.6, photographers can fill much of the frame with their subject and create a pleasing background blur, even in challenging light. It also uses Nikon’s Electromagnetic Aperture for consistent exposures, as well as VR with 4.5 stops of image stabilization. Additionally, VR features sport mode, which is suited for capturing images of distant subjects at high frame rates or when panning with fast-moving action. It also provides a close focusing distance of 7.2 feet throughout the focal range.
The lightweight lens (5 lbs., 1.2 oz. including the tripod collar) achieves greater reach when using an optional Nikon 1.4x, 1.7x or 2x E-series teleconverter. Its optical formula uses three ED elements to enhance sharpness and minimize chromatic aberration, while a 9-blade aperture provides smooth bokeh. Nikon’s Silent Wave Motor technology helps to quickly, quietly achieve focus. The filter diameter of the new 200–500mm lens is 95mm. Nikon will offer optional 95mm NC (neutral color) and the 95mm circular polarizer CPL2 filters. The lens will be available in mid-September for $1,399.95.
AF-S Nikkor 24mm f/1.8G ED
The latest addition to Nikkor f/1.8 primes, it provides enthusiast photographers with a lightweight, fast, wide-angle prime lens for taking immersive views of landscapes, interiors and architecture. Its fast maximum aperture delivers natural bokeh and low-light ability. It also includes Nikon’s Nano Crystal Coat, and ED plus aspherical lens elements for sharpness while minimizing ghosting and flare. It will reach retail mid-September for $749.95. nikonusa.com
