Melville, NY—The Nikon Nikkor Z DX 12-28mm f3.5-5.6 PZ VR is a new ultrawide-angle lens for content creators and vloggers. The lightweight lens is currently the widest Nikkor Z DX-format lens available.
Moreover, the lens has the added benefit of a power zoom (PZ) for more creative versatility. And its ultrawide angle of view will let creators capture immersive content that gets more of what matters in the frame.
“Nikon is committed to equipping content creators with the tools they need to make videos and photos that look great. We are very excited about this latest addition to our growing system of creator-centric cameras and lenses,” said Jay Vannatter, executive vice president, Nikon Inc.
“Whether you’re vlogging or just want a super-lightweight and affordable wide angle for landscapes or street photography, the Nikkor Z 12–28mm is the lens you have been waiting for.”
Nikon Nikkor Z DX 12-28mm f3.5-5.6 PZ VR Key Features
The new lens offers a versatile zoom range from an ultrawide 12mm to 28mm (18–42mm-equivalent in full-frame/FX-format). Consequently, vloggers and other creators can get the whole story in the shot. The ultrawide angle is also an option for everything from expansive landscapes and grand interiors to tabletop photos and group selfies.
Small and light for such a wide zoom, the lens weighs approximately 7.3 ounces. As a result, it is easy to hold with an extended arm for selfies. Its light weight also means it’s a perfect companion for ultracompact cameras like the Nikon Z 30, Z 50 and the retro-inspired Z fc. Plus, its small size and angle of view make it well-suited for creating steady footage with gimbals.
In addition, the Nikkor Z DX 12–28mm f/3.5–5.6 PZ VR is the first Nikkor Z lens to use a power zoom with linear drive for smoother optical zoom. The power zoom function easily zooms in close to a subject—or zooms out to establish the scene.
Further, to suit any shooting style, users can activate the zoom by twisting the customizable zoom ring on the barrel; with designated buttons on the camera body or using the ML-L7 remote control (included in the Z 30 Creator’s Accessory Kit).
Vloggers can also control the zoom remotely through a PC or phone with the SnapBridge app. Additionally, they can change the zoom rate with 11 speed settings, within the range of 0.55–36 seconds.
Additional Features
What’s more, the lens is engineered for sharp, fast autofocus that works with the eye-detection AF in Nikon cameras to keep focus on the subject. It also features an STM motor drive, for extremely silent focusing.
Additionally, when transitioning to a close-up of a subject, the 12–28mm lens has a close minimum focus distance of 7.5 inches. Consequently, users can move the focus from their face to a product in-hand, while the image stays sharp.
The lens is also stabilized with Nikon’s Vibration Reduction (VR) technology, providing an effect equivalent to a shutter speed 4.5 stops faster. This function makes it easy to capture run-and-gun footage without the effects of camera shake or shoot in low light with minimal blur.
It also employs one aspherical element and one extra-low dispersion glass element in its 12-element, 11-group construction, to counter aberrations. And it has a 7-blade rounded diaphragm
Finally, Nikon sealed the body of the lens to deliver dust- and drip-resistant performance. The new Nikon Nikkor Z DX 12–28mm f/3.5–5.6 PZ VR will reach retail in May 2023. It will have a suggested retail price of $359.95.
