Three new professional super-telephoto NIKKOR lenses featuring VR II

Tokyo – Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the introduction of three new AF-S super-telephoto NIKKOR lenses — the AF-S NIKKOR 400mm f/2.8G ED VR, AF-S NIKKOR 500mm f/4G ED VR, and AF-S NIKKOR 600mm f/4G ED VR — to further strengthen its super-telephoto lens lineup.

These new super-telephoto lenses are equipped with a vibration reduction (VR) function. Nikon’s VR II system minimizes image blur caused by camera shake, offering a shutter speed up to the equivalent of four stops faster.* The newly added Tripod mode reduces vibration that may occur at shutter release when shooting with a super-telephoto lens attached to a tripod. Another big advantage of Nikon’s VR function is that it gives photographers the option of a natural viewfinder image even during VR operation.
*As determined by Nikon performance tests.

The superior functioning of the newly developed optical system ensures flawless synchronization with Nikon’s digital SLRs. The new optical design features three ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass elements that minimize chromatic aberration, producing consistently high-quality images. Nano Crystal Coat, extra-low refractive index coating, virtually eliminates internal lens element reflections across a wide range of wavelengths, and is particularly effective in reducing ghosting and flare. A meniscus protective glass element also minimizes the ghosting that occur when light reflected from a digital camera’s image sensor is in turn reflected off an ordinary flat protective glass element.

Nikon’s exclusive Silent Wave Motor (SWM) provides fast autofocus with superior accuracy and ultra-quiet operation. All lenses feature nine-blade rounded diaphragms that ensure a more natural look for parts of a scene intended to be out of focus. The minimum focus distances are 2.9 m/9.5 ft. (400mm f/2.8G), 4.0 m/13.1 ft. (500mm f/4G) and 5.0 m/16.4 ft. (600mm f/4G) respectively (at AF) — much shorter than their predecessors.

Ergonomically arranged switches and buttons enable easy access and comfortable operation even during handheld shooting. The Focus Preset function instantly recalls a focal point preset with a simple pushbutton operation; the Focus Limiter switch restricts AF-servo movement to a controlled shooting distance range; the AF-L switch makes it possible to lock focus from the lens; and AF-ON engages autofocus from the lens.

The new A/M focus mode allows instant switching from autofocus to manual focus, even during AF servo operation, and offers a major improvement over conventional M/A modes by significantly reducing the possibility of unintentional switching from Auto to Manual.

By employing magnesium die-cast in the lens body construction, we achieved considerable weight savings without sacrificing rugged field-proven construction resistant to both dust and water.

With their unprecedented image quality, responsiveness and versatility, these new NIKKORs are certain to set a new benchmark for super-telephoto lenses.

Note: Specifications, design, standard accessories, and release schedule may differ by country or area.

Main Features
  • VR II operation realizes the equivalent of a shutter speed four stops faster
  • New Tripod mode reduces vibration that may occur at shutter release when shooting with a super-telephoto lens attached to a tripod
  • Enhanced optical formulas, engineered to produce exceptional sharpness, contrast and color, render outstanding image integrity
  • Three ED (Extra-low dispersion) elements control chromatic aberration while enhancing sharpness and contrast, even at the widest apertures
  • Exclusive Nikon Nano Crystal Coat and a Meniscus protective glass element combine to further reduce ghosting and flare for even greater image clarity
  • High-performance Nikon Super Integrated Coating realizes superior color reproduction while minimizing ghosting and flare
  • Nikon's exclusive Silent Wave Motor enables fast autofocusing with exceptional accuracy and powerful, super-quiet operation
  • Rounded diaphragm opening (9 blades) makes out-of-focus elements appear more natural
  • Newly added A/M mode reduces the possibility of unintentional switching from Auto to Manual
  • Focus Preset function instantly recalls preset focus points with the push of a button
  • Engineered to Nikon professional D-SLR standards to effectively resist dust and moisture
  • Magnesium die-cast for a lightweight body with rugged construction
  • Supplied lens hood effectively minimizes stray light
  • Detachable monopod collar provided


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