Nikon launches revised 300mm F/2.8 VR lens

Source: www.dpreview.com

Nikon launches revised 300mm F/2.8 VR lens

Thursday, 10 December 2009  08:55 GMT < Previous  Next >

Nikon has launched a new 300mm F2.8 VR lens featuring the company's latest image stabilization system. The AF-S Nikkor 300mm f/2.8 ED VR II is designed to be small and light enough to hand-hold while the company says the VR II system can offer 'four or more' stops of compensation for lens shake. It also includes nano-crystal coating and is dust and moisture sealed. Recommended retail prices will be $ 5899 / €6050 / £5099.99. Jump to: Press Release Specifications Press release: Nikon Introduces the AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/2.8G ED VR II – Raising the bar for hand held telephoto photography Amsterdam, The Netherlands, December 10, 2009 – Nikon Europe today announces a new super telephoto lens to replace the AF-S VR NIKKOR 300mm f/2.8G IF-ED. The AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/2.8G ED VR II features the new generation of Vibration Reduction technology (VR II) and a new A/M focus mode, making it an ideal choice for sports, action and wildlife photographers. This lens is designed for those who are serious about photography. Zurab Kiknadze, Product Manager Lenses, Accessories & Software, Nikon Europe says: "The AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/2.8G ED VR II comparatively light weight and compact dimensions make it a perfect choice for hand held super telephoto photography, particularly when used with a teleconverter. The new VRII system offers four or more stops of compensation, and makes this a really practical solution for the news and wildlife photographer". The evolution of the NIKKOR lens reflects a commitment to developing a range of products tailored to photographers’ needs, and it strengthens the line-up of high-performance NIKKOR lenses. Sharper action images The AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/2.8G ED VR II features the second generation built in Vibration Reduction (VRII), providing the ability to shoot at shutter speeds up to four stops slower so sharper images can be achieved when using the camera for hand-held shooting. In addition, the new A/M mode added to existing M/A and M modes enables autofocus priority even if the focus ring is being handled during shooting. Weighing in at 2,900g this is a lens that ticks every box for those who are serious about action photography. Built for any environment This super telephoto lens is designed with the photographer in mind and has the same excellent optical system as its predecessor. Those who need extreme speed and quiet to capture wildlife, can rely on the autofocus with a built-in silent wave motor to ensure you won’t disrupt the action. To top off the extensive features,, this lens is also sealed to withstand the affects of dust and moisture, allowing photographers to keep shooting whatever the conditions. Finally, the lens construction features eleven elements in eight groups, including three ED glass elements and Nano Crystal Coat. Nikkor AF-S Nikkor 300mm f/2.8 EC VR II specifications Focal length 300mm Diagonal Angle of view 8.2º Maximum aperture F2.8 Lens Construction 11 elements/8 groups Number of diaphragm blades 9 Minimum focus 2.3 m (AF) 2.2 m (MF) Filter thread • 52mm Weight 2,900g (102.3 oz) Dimensions 124mm diameter x 268mm length (4.9 x 10.5 inches)