Nikon has whipped up a new version of their powerful, versatile AF-S 200-400mm VR superzoom lens. The new AF-S Nikkor 200-400mm f/4G ED VR II lens adds the latest Vibration Reduction image stabilization for up to four stops of camera shake compensation; Nikon’s Nano Crystal Coat to minimize flare and ghosting; and a new A/M switch that protects the photographer from changing focus by accidentally moving the manual focus ring. The new AF-S 200-400mm f/4 VR II zoom lens uses the same, proven 27-element optical formula as its predecessor and is built to take the abuse dished out by working photojournalists and sports photographers.
A couple of weeks ago I had the opportunity to speak to Nikon’s PR team about the new lens. They wanted to point out that Nikkor lenses are the heart and soul of the Nikon system. Cameras are important, of course. I’ve had the pleasure of using the Nikon D3S for a few weeks now and it is really a mind-blowing camera. But without great glass, even the best camera can never reach its potential. Plus, with fast changing digital technology, most of us rarely use a camera for more than 3 or 4 years (and that’s being generous). But a great lens is something you can use for life. Hopefully that will be the case with the new AF-S 200-400mm f/4 VR II zoom lens.
For photojournalists, sports photographers, law enforcement and event photographers, the 200-400mm focal length and fast f/4 aperture will cover a lot of ground. The AF-S 200-400mm VR II may seem heavy at 7.4 pounds, but consider using it to replace both the 300mm f/2.8 and 400mm f/2.8 Nikkors (5.5 and 10 pounds, respectively) and it starts to seem pretty reasonable. According to the original AF-S 200-400mm VR lens user reviews (Nikon AF-S VR Zoom-Nikkor 200-400mm f/4G User Reviews) by PhotographyREVIEW.com members, there’s little optical compromise when compared to 300mm and 400mm f/2.8 primes. The previous 200-400mm Nikkor has 25 user ratings and 6 user reviews, with an overall rating of over 4.5 out of 5. The new 200-400 Nikkor, with VR II and the new Nano Crystal coatings, will be able to deliver in an even wider range of conditions – especially when paired with the incredible low-light ability of the Nikon D3S digital SLR.
The new AF-S Nikkor 200-400mm f/4G ED VR II zoom lens is scheduled to be available in late May for $6999.95. The Nikon guys are boldly predicting backorder status on the new zoom, in spite of the big price tag. So if you’re interested, get your pre-order in as soon as possible.
Nikon AF-S 200-400mm f/4G ED VR II Lens Press Release >>
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