I was not expecting this lens: Nikon 200-500 F5.6E VR Preview
This is a preview of the Nikon 200-500 F5.6E VR Lens. To say I was expecting this lens would not be true. This honestly came out of nowhere but I must say it’s a great move by Nikon.
To have a mega zoom lens priced to sell at $1399 compared to the Sigma and Tamron MEGA zooms is a big deal.
I think this lens will be perfect for those outdoor shooters who want a ton of reach without the huge price tag. If you’re shooting outdoor sports, nature, birds, plains you name it, this will shoot it.
Keep in mind this is not the best choice for shooting indoors as you are locked in to a fixed 5.6 aperture.
AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR
The new Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR is an exhilarating new lens option, giving enthusiast FX and DX-format photographers the ability to go further with amazing zoom power and tack-sharp clarity. This compact super-telephoto zoom is ideal for bringing distant subjects closer, including birds, sports, wildlife and motorsports. This lens opens the doors for a fresh new perspective; with a maximum reach of 500mm on FX-format Nikon cameras and a staggering 750mm equivalent reach on DX-format cameras. With a maximum aperture of f/5.6, photographers have the ability to fill much of the frame with their subject and create a pleasing background blur, even in challenging light. This lens also features Nikon’s Electromagnetic Aperture for consistent exposures, as well as VR with 4.5 stops of image stabilization. Additionally, the VR features Sport Mode, which is well-suited for capturing vibrant, sharp images of distant subjects at high frame rates or when panning with fast-moving action. The lens also lets users focus as close as 7.2 ft. throughout the entire focal range, for when a decisive play comes closer than expected, or capturing intricate details of nature.
Whether spending all day at an air race or in the field, the new NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6 is surprisingly lightweight at only 5 lbs 1.2 oz. (2300 grams) including the tripod collar, making this lens easy to use handheld for extended periods. Photographers looking for even more reach can increase the zoom power using an optional compatible Nikon 1.4x, 1.7x or 2x E series Teleconverters** to capture even the most distant subjects.
The new AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR’s optical formula features three ED elements to enhance sharpness and minimize chromatic aberration. A 9-blade aperture provides a desirable, smooth bokeh, while Nikon’s Silent Wave Motor technology helps to quickly and quietly achieve critical focus. The filter diameter of the new 200-500mm lens is 95mm, and Nikon will also offer optional 95mm NC (Neutral Color) and the 95mm Circular Polarizer CPL2 filters.
Nikon 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR Auto Focus-S NIKKOR Zoom Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras