New Gear: Nikon’s Updated AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR Zoom Lens
A workhorse lens gets a facelift with more vibration reduction and new glass
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The 70-200 f/2.8 lens is a staple for many photographers across a wide range of disciplines, from weddings and portraits, to sports and even studio work. Now, Nikon has announced an updated version of the AF-S Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR Zoom lens with some welcome upgrades.
The biggest change comes in the form of the optical formula, which uses “six ED elements, one Fluorite element, a high refractive element and Nano Crystal Coat.” It’s all packed into a pro-grade magnesium alloy body. The front and back elements are coated with a layer of fluorine in order to help it repel water, dust, and other crud that likes to gather on glass.
The VR system no promises up to four stops of vibration reduction, which can really come in handy, especially when you’re zoomed all the way out to 200mm. And, like pretty much all recent high-end Nikon lenses, it takes advantage of a Silent Wave Motor for focusing and an electromagnetic diaphragm.
The lens barrel itself has some customizable buttons built-in, so you can do things like lock your focus in place on the fly or pre-set focus distances if you know you’re going to be returning to the same setting over and over.
Ultimately, it’s not a revolutionary change, but the people using this kind of lens typically aren’t looking for something drastically different from what they already have. These all seem like rather thoughtful upgrades that should appeal to pro shooters. The price will be $2,799 and hopefully we’ll get a chance to get some hands-on time with it at the Photo Plus Expo in NYC later this week.
The lens barrel itself has some customizable buttons built-in, so you can do things like lock your focus in place on the fly or pre-set focus distances if you know you’re going to be returning to the same setting over and over.
Ultimately, it’s not a revolutionary change, but the people using this kind of lens typically aren’t looking for something drastically different from what they already have. These all seem like rather thoughtful upgrades that should appeal to pro shooters. The price will be $2,799 and hopefully we’ll get a chance to get some hands-on time with it at the Photo Plus Expo in NYC later this week.
