Lowepro

Canon EF 70-200mm f/4.0 L USM Lens

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Product Summary

Overview

The EF 70-200mm f/4.0 L USM lens is the cheapest 70-200mm lens that Canon currently makes. At $710 this is certainly a good deal cheaper than the next lens that comes close EF70-200mm f/4L IS USM which retails at nearly double its price. However the later has one important factor that makes it a better choice for photographers who prefer to leave their tripods behind; Image Stabilization (IS). At f/4 the bokeh provided by the lens is beautiful. The wide fixed focal length means one can shoot objects fully zoomed in without having to ever miss the absence of IS in the lens. This lens satisfies the need for portrait, wild life and nature photographers using a full frame. for those using a APS-C DSLR this lens offers a maximum focal length of 320mm which should be enough for wild life photography.

Canon has provided its ring-type USM (Ultra-sonic motor) technology in this lens to make it very quiet when focusing. Inner focusing means the front end of the lens does not rotate which allows one to use circular polarizers for precision high quality photography. One can simply dial in the right position for the circ. Polarizer and then adjust the focal length or the focusing point without having to readjust the polarizer.

The lens has a total of 16 elements arranged in 13 groups including UD and fluorite elements. The diagonal angle of view of the lens is 34° – 12°. The minimum focusing distance of the lens is 3.9 feet or 1.2 meter. The external dimensions of the lens are 3.0″ x 6.8″ and it weighs 705 grams. The filter thread specification is 67mm.

Sample Images by EF 70-200mm f/4.0 L on Flickr

Product Images

Canon EF 70-200mm f/4.0 L Specifications

Angle of view H:29° – 10°,V: 19°30′ – 7°,D: 34° – 12°
Construction (elements/groups) 16/13
No. of diaphragm blades 8
Min aperture 32
Closest focusing distance (m) 1.2
Max magnification (x) 0.21 (at 200mm)
AF actuator USM¹
Filter Size (mm) 67
Max. diameter x length (mm) 76 x 172
Weight (g) 705
Magnification – Extension Tube EF12 II 0.29 – 0.06
Magnification – Extension Tube EF25 II 0.39 – 0.13
Lens hood ET-74
Hard case –
Soft case LZ1224
Extenders EF1.4x II and EF2x II Compatible

 

Purchase options

EF 70-200mm f/4.0 L available at Amazon | Adorama | B&H

Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Lens

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Product Summary

Features

The EF 85mm f/1.8 USM is a cheaper alternative to the pricier and bulkier EF 85mm f/1.2 L II USM lens. If you’re looking for a low budget and usable 85mm prime for your full frame Canon, the EF 85mm f/1.8 USM is one of the best lenses that you can lay your hands on. If you’re using a 1.6x crop Canon DSLR such as a 7D or a Rebel T4i, this lens will give you the 35mm equivalent field of view as a 138mm lens.

The lens construction is composed of 9 elements arranged in 7 groups. The lens features Canon’s USM (ultra-sonic motor) technology which evidently makes the lens very quiet. 8 blades make up the lens diaphragm which gives it a wide aperture of f/1.8. It can additionally stop down to f/22. The closest focusing distance of the lens is 2.8’ (or 0.85 meter). The lens has internal focusing elements which means during focusing the lens length does not extend. Auto focusing performance is very good as expected. The lens bokeh (soft background/foreground) is also great. Also it has reduced issues with color fringing, allowing even 100% crops at f/2.8 or f/4 to be usable.

The overall lens construction feels plasticky. This is not a L series and does not have many of the refinements that one come to expect from that series, but still this lens gets the job done and at a cheaper price too. As such this lens should appeal to a APS-C user looking for a fast medium tele-lens. The overall dimensions of the lens are 3.0″ x 2.8″ and it weighs 425 grams. The filter size specification is 58mm.

Sample Image by Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM on Flickr

Product Images

Canon EF 85mm f:1.8 USM-b Canon EF 85mm f:1.8 USM-a

Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 Specifications

Angle of view H:24°, V:16°, D:28°30′
Construction (elements/groups) 9/7
No. of diaphragm blades 8
Min aperture 22
Closest focusing distance (m) 0.85
Max magnification (x) 0.13
AF Motor USM
Filter Size (mm) 58
Max. diameter x length (mm) 75 x 71.5
Weight (g) 425
Magnification – Extension Tube EF12 II 0.27 – 0.15
Magnification – Extension Tube EF25 II 0.44 – 0.32
Lens hood ET-65III
Hard case LH-B12
Soft case ES-C13/LP1014

 

Additional Info

Purchase Options

Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM

Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM available at Amazon | Adorama | B&H

Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 L IS USM Macro Lens Review

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Product Summary

Review

Macro lenses can open a completely new dimension to your photography. It is a segment of photography that deals with shooting pictures of small subjects at a size of 1:1 ratio or larger magnification and in the process capturing incredible details which are normally impossible to notice. For some unknown reasons two of the major lens manufacturers refer to their range of extreme close-up photography lenses with two different names. While Canon refers their lenses as Macro, Nikon prefers to call them Micro. For the ease of understanding, however, we shall be referring these close-up lenses as Macro in our discussion.

Two things are extremely important when it comes to choosing macro lenses. First is the ability to magnify the image to a minimum ratio of 1:1 and the second is the ability to focus without protruding the lens elements outside the barrel. Macro photography is all about shooting images of subjects which are very small and then filling the entire frame with them. A 1:1 magnification ratio is normally used to shoot very small subjects. 1:1 magnification denotes that the size of the subject on the sensor (and thus on the final image) is the exact same as that of its size in real life. Normally a 1:1 magnification is necessary to make a great quality macro photograph but higher ratios are also possible and can capture incredible amount of details of objects that are normally impossible to be seen by the naked eye.

Canon’s line of L series Macro lenses are incredibly sharp and offer a photographer with options to shoot very small subjects from a close focusing distance. The Canon EF 100 mm f/2.8L IS USM is a great lens for serious Macro photography enthusiasts.

Vanguard Alta Pro 284 CT Tripod

Build quality and weather sealing

Normally Canon’s L series lenses are very tough. They are all weather types and can withstand water (some lenses may need an additional UV filter to complete the weather sealing, so if you’re unsure whether your lens is weather sealed, don’t expose it to water). The EF 100 mm f/2.8L IS USM is not built entirely with aluminum. The focusing ring, the lens mount and the plates carrying the numbers and details are made with aluminum. The rest of the body is made with “engineered plastic”. Engineered plastics gives a similar quality build but they are comparatively lighter. Pick the lens up in hand and the feeling is reassuring.

The lens is weather sealed making it an ideal companion to have when shooting outdoors. Macro photography is often practiced outdoors, in the woods or in the middle of nature. It is a reassuring feeling in these conditions if your lens is weather sealed to go with a weather sealed body.

Canon’s L series lenses feature RingType USM (UltraSonic Motor). Unlike the MicroMotor type USM they are quicker when focusing and also silent making them less intimidating.

Another good thing about the EF 100 mm f/2.8L IS USM is that when focusing the front elements of the lens does not push forward. The lens focuses internally and the barrel does not even rotate. This is a great thing when you’re using filters or polarizers as turning the focusing ring would not rotate the filters mounted at the front end of the lens. There is also another major advantage of a non-protruding lens element. When using a lens that extends beyond the lens barrel during focusing it is not always easy to be aware how much the lens has gone forward. Chances are that the lens may bump against the subject or a surface damaging the front elements. With a non extending type lens such as the EF 100 mm f/2.8L IS USM it is possible to get as close as possible without a nasty bump or scaring the subject. Additionally the lens comes with FTM (full time manual focusing). It means one can let the AF to lock focus on the subject and then manually adjust the focusing without having to flip the switch from AF to MF.

Weight and convenience when using for handheld shots or carrying around

At 625gms, the EF 100 mm f/2.8L IS USM is neither light nor is it is too heavy. This should be just right for some one who is looking to capture some good macro shots over a couple of hours.

EOS 5D Mk III, EF 100mm f/2.8L IS Macro

EOS 5D Mk III, EF 100mm f/2.8L IS Macro
Exposure: f/2.8; 1/80 Sec; ISO 100, IS On, Handheld

Image Stabilization system

Canon’s image stabilization system has the effect of having four stops of faster shutter speeds when compared to lenses that don’t have it. The earlier macro lenses from Canon such as the EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro USM did not have IS built-in. As a result hand holding was a bit of a hassle. Sometimes its really handy. AF is very good, much like the performance of the older EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro USM. However in absolute macro shots a tripod is a must. For serious macro photography IS is no a game changer.

Image quality

Image quality of the lens is excellent. Even at its widest aperture of f/2.8 it is quite sharp. Some amount of vignetting is unavoidable specially when mounted on a full frame DSLR. However if one stops down to f/4 or f/5.6 this is greatly reduced. Mounted on a crop body the problem of vignetting is almost on-existent.

Bokeh

At f/2.8 a nice bokeh is obtained which should come handy if one prefers to blur out the background and focus on the subject only. Users preferring to create a smooth out of focus effect at wide angle will find the results to be near perfect. The availability of IS means handholding shots in windy conditions is much easier, something that the older 100mm f/2.8 Macro USM did not have.

Is it a good buy?

The EF 100 mm f/2.8L IS USM about twice the price of the nearest comparable macro lens from Canon making it one of the most expensive macro lenses from Canon. If you feel like not opting for an IS lens, then something cheaper like the older EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro USM is better. But if you need hand holding capabilities and the option to get as close as possible without having to constantly keep an eye on the extending lens elements then this is the right choice for you.

Images by EF 100mm f/2.8 L IS USM Macro Lens on flickr

Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 L IS Specifications

Image size  Full Frame & APS-C
35mm film equivalent focal length 100mm
Angle of view H:19.8°,V: 13.5°, D: 24°
Construction (elements/groups) 15/12
No. of diaphragm blades 9
Aperture 2.8-32
Closest focusing distance (m) 0.3
Max magnification (x) 1
Distance information Provided
Image stabilizer 4-stops
3-stops at 0.5x magnification
2-stops at 1.0x magnification
AF actuator Ring USM¹
Dust/moisture resistance Yes¹
Filter Size (mm) 67
Max. diameter x length (mm) 77.7 x 123
Weight (g) 625g
Magnification – Extension Tube EF12 II 1.17-0.12
Magnification – Extension Tube EF25 II 1.37-0.27
Lens hood ET-73
Soft case LP1219
Extenders Yes

 

Purchase options

EF 100mm f/2.8 L IS USM Macro available at Amazon | Adorama | B&H

Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8 L II USM Lens

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Product Summary

  • Model: Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8 L II USM
  • Release Date: February 7, 2012
  • Focus Type: Autofocus / Manual
  • Format : Full Frame
  • Mounts: Canon EF
  • Color: Black
  • Availability:  April 2012
  • Price: $2,299.00
  • Purchase options: Amazon | Adorama | B&H

Key Features

  • Large aperture L-Series standard zoom lens that combines high imagequality and enhanced durability.
  • New optical design utilizes 1 Super UD lens element and 2 UD lenselements to minimize chromatic aberration in the outer area at wide-angle; as well as eliminates color blurring around the edges of thesubject, for images with high resolution and contrast.
  • Combines 2 types of aspherical lenses to reduce spherical aberration,and achievehigh image quality across the entire screen area andthroughout the full zoom range.
  • Highly resistant to dust and water, enabling shooting even in harsh andrigorous conditions.
  • Circular diaphragm (9 blades) delivers beautiful, soft backgrounds.
  • Ring USM, high-speed CPU, and optimized AF algorithms for fast autofocusing.
  • Optimized lens coatings ensure exceptional color balance whileminimizing ghosting.
  • Fluorine coating on front and rear lens surfaces reduces smears andfingerprints.
  • Zoom lock lever locks the zoom position at the wide end for safetransporting.

Overview

The EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM is a completely redesigned optics to provide exceptional clarity, image quality and durability. It’s compactness makes it ideal for carrying on everyday shooting. A range of optical refinement provide improved performance for capturing greater detail across the frame while minimizing distortion throughout the  zoom range, particularly at the long 70mm focal length.

Its optical system includes two Ultra-low Dispersion (UD) and one Super UD aspheric elements to reduce chromatic aberration and colour blurring, the lens delivers consistently high-contrast, sharp images. To ensure excellent colour balance reduce ghosting and flare – each lens element also features Canon’s optimised Super Spectra coatings. A fluorine coating minimises the amount of dust, dirt and fingerprints that adhere to the front and rear of the lens, helping to achieve high image quality.

The EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM also designed to enable photographers to capture their subjects up close with a minimum focusing distance of 0.38m throughout the entire zoom range. Use of a ring-type Ultrasonic Motor (USM) with the help of high-performance CPU and advanced AF algorithms to ensure accurate, silent and responsive autofocus. A full-time manual focusing allows photographers to precisely tweak or alter the focus of their shot even when AF is engaged.

The EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM is the latest addition in the elite L-series. It offers Canon’s high-grade and user-focused design enhancements. The structure of the lens has been improved to offer enhanced durability and greater shake and shock resistance. In addition, the size of the lens has also been reduced by 10mm compared to the previous model, providing enhanced portability and compactness. A new Zoom Lock lever also helps photographers to lock the zoom position to prevent damage to the lens in transit. Its water and dustproof construction enables users to continue shooting in harsh conditions. Available at Amazon | Adorama | B&H

Sample Images by EF 24-70mm f/2.8 L II on Flickr

Product Images

canon EF 24-70mm f:2.8 L II USM

EF 24-70mm f/2.8 L II Specifications

Angle of view H:74° – 29° | V: 53° – 19°30′ | D: 84° – 34°
Construction (elements/groups) 18/13
No. of diaphragm blades 9
Aperture 2.8-22
Closest focussing distance (m) 0.38(Macro)
Max magnification (x) 0.21(at 70mm)
Distance Information Provided
AF motor Ring USM
Dust/moisture resistance Yes
Filter Size (mm) 82
Max. diameter x length (mm) 88.5 x 113
Weight (g) 805
Lens Cap E-82 II
Lens hood EW-88C
Lens case/pouch LP1219
Magnification Extension Tube EF12 II 0.63-0.18
Magnification Extension Tube EF25 II 0.74-0.41 5
Extender Compatibility No

 

More Info

Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8 L II USM Lens at CPN
Canon Camera Museum

Purchase options

EF 24-70mm f/2.8 L II available at Amazon | Adorama | B&H

Nikon D800/D800E

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Product Summary

  • Model name: Nikon D800
  • Focus Type: Autofocus / Manual
  • Format : Full Frame
  • Mounts: Nikon F
  • Purchase options: Adorama | Amazon | B&H

What’s new in the Nikon D800/800E / Key features

  • Newly developed Nikon 36.3 megapixels FX format CMOS sensor
  • 91K RGB sensor with Advanced Scene Recognition system
  • Lightest full frame DSLR made by Nikon
  • Built-in AF motor, compatible with all lenses made by Nikon since 1977
  • External stereo mic option via a 3.5mm jack
  • Built-in flash (not available on the Canon 5d Mark III)
  • Multi-CAM 3500FX autofocus sensor module driving a 51-point AF system

Overview

The D800/D800E currently enjoys the tag of being the DSLR with the highest resolution sensor. At a whopping 36.3 megapixels there is an awful amount of information that these two cameras can capture and some photographers really feel that they are what they epitome the best there can be. Are they really that good? Let’s find out. According to Nikon, the Nikon users who have DX-format lenses will be able to use them on the D800 by using the 15.4MP resolution setting as well. In DX Format Setting, the pixels that cover a DX-sized portion of the sensor will be used, allowing  the camera a 1.5x crop. The D800 will be in market in both “with” and “without” a low-pass filter. The model “without” a low-pass filter is the D800E. As a result D800E will be able to cancels anti-aliasing properties and delivered the light directly to the photodiodes. According to nikon, this will enable D800E to offer the highest possible color fidelity and dynamic range that, will deliver a medium format image quality. Color moire can be corrected though the feature available in Capture NX2.

Features explained

The 51-point auto-focusing system

The D800/D800E uses the same 51-point auto-focusing system used in the D4. At the heart is the Multi-CAM 3500FX autofocus sensor module. The center 15 AF points all serve as cross-type for any lens f/5.6 or faster. The auto-focusing speed of the D800/D800E is however slightly slower compared to the faster and speedier Canon 5d Mark III.

ISO performance

The D800/D800E has an ISO range of 100-6400. It can be expanded from 50-25600. When compared with the Canon 5d Mark III the Nikon has  a little bit more noise but, not a deal breaker really. This is however expected with all that megapixels. However one thing that the D800/D800E does have is the proper exposure in movie mode (also known as latitude).

Continuous shooting speed

At FX format and using the EN-EL15 batteries the camera has a continuous high shooting speed of 4 fps. In DX format that slightly improves at 5 fps. Using the MB-D12 vertical battery grip one can have a slightly better burst rate of 6 fps in DX format. The camera can however shoot about 15 continuous frames before it starts to stall and when it does the camera certainly over stretches its processing power. The D800 is nowhere near the D4 when it comes to continuous shooting and is not the camera as we will see time and again for sports / action photography. If this is what you want and cannot go beyond the set budget try some of Sony’s models instead.

Videos & stills

Shooting at full resolution the D800/D800E can shoot images of the size 7,360 x 4,912 pixels. In DX format it can shoot in 4,800 x 3,200 pixels. It can also shoot 12 or 14 bit RAW (NEF), TIFF and simultaneously shoot JPEG+RAW (NEF). It also shoots full HD in 30p, 25p and 24p. At 720p HD it can also shoot at 60p, 50p, 30p, 25p. The format of the movies is .MOV and the user can select either H.264 or MPEG-4 Advanced Video Coding for encoding the videos. One can also use an external stereo mic via the 3.5mm pin and record audio. It is also possible to set it up for shooting time lapse photography.

The viewfinder & the LCD monitor

The pentaprism viewfinder is bright and offers 100% coverage in FX mode. In DX mode it offers 97% coverage. The 3.2” LCD monitor has the same specifications as that of the flagship D4. It boasts a 921,000 dots resolution and has a wide 170˚ viewing angle. An automatic brightness adjustment system senses the ambient light and adjusts to display the images properly.

Storage

The D800/D800E use a dual memory card slot that supports SD, SDHC, SDXC and UDMA compliant CF cards. The cards can be used in several combinations such as to record pictures concurrently, using as a buffer overrun when one is full or also used to copy files from one card to another if necessary.

Other important features include Advanced Scene Recognition, which analyses the scene with Nikon’s 30,000 image database. A refined Face recognition, with the Color Matrix Meter placing emphasis on exposures of detected faces. An improved white balance to better recognize both natural and artificial light.

What are missing

For some unknown reason Nikon thought removed the quintessential AF Area mode selector button and the Focus Mode switch from the back where they were and instead made the options available from somewhere inside the camera software interface. This is a damper of sorts as earlier what could have been done with a sub-conscious flick now requires our fullest attention (psst!).

Some of the older (and cheaper) models such as the D7000 make use of the U1 and the U2 modes. These were basically programmable options on the mode dials where one could save a bunch of settings that could be recalled in an instant when needed. The D800/D800E does not use any of those and that is also something that does not work in favor of the camera. The D800/D800E is not as fast as the Canon 5d Mark III. For faster auto-focusing and being ready to shoot even before you can think, the D800/D800E may appear to be frustratingly slow. This is partly the reason why the camera may not appeal to wild-life photographers or journalists who live on the fact that they have to be ready when the opportunity comes their way.

An impractical top LCD design makes matter further worse. It is slow and dimly lit making them unusable in real life scenarios.

Similar products

The Canon 5d Mark III is definitely one camera that should be looked into if one is looking for a light full frame professional DSLR.

Should I buy it?

At 36.3 megapixels there is nothing else out there that can match the superior performance of the D800/D800E. For one it offers the same resolution (even more) that what a medium format camera would do and at a price that is less than one-fifteenth of what a medium format camera would cost. The superior performance and the amount of detail captured by them makes them perfect for the purpose of professional industry photography, fashion, automobiles and anything else where precision quality and detail is a must. Thanks to the amount of detail that is captured it is also possible to take a very small crop and make large prints of the same with no loss of information. Photographers looking for a sturdy camera that can serve their needs for shooting landscape, architectural and nature photography also find the D800/D800E to be perfect for them. On the other hand the D800/D800E is not the right camera if you’re into sports, fast action or night time photography. The D4 with its superior viewfinder with individual LED light system that lights each of the AF points is still the best. With the D800/800E you may find the going a bit tough and wouldn’t necessarily enjoy any significant advantage. The rival Canon 5d Mark III is also a fantastic camera. Although the 5d Mark III does lose out on megapixels it has better specs and performance when it comes to auto-focusing, low-light performance and actually is a better camera for sports and journalistic photography because of its better frame-rate and continuous shooting performance. Available at Adorama | Amazon | B&H

Images taken by Nikon D800on Flickr

Nikon D800 Specifications

Lens Mount Nikon F bayonet mount
Effective Pixels 36.3 million
Image Sensor CMOS sensor, 35.9 x 24 mm; Nikon FX format
Total Pixels 36.8 Million
Dust-Reduction System Image sensor cleaning
Dust-Off Reference Photo Yes
Image Are (pixels) FX-format (L) 7,360 x 4,912 (M) 5,520 x 3,680 (S) 3,680 x 2,456
1:2 format (30 x 20) (L) 6,144 x 4,080 (M) 4,608 x 3,056
5:4 format (30 x 24) (L) 6,144 x 4,912 (M) 4,608 x 3,680 (S) 3,072 x 2,456
DX-format (L) 4,800 x 3,200 (M) 3,600 x 2,400 (S) 2,400 x 1,600
File Format – Still Images JPEG: JPEG-Baseline Compliant with fine (approx 1:4), Normal (approx 1:8) or Basic (approx 1:16) Compression
NEF (RAW): lossless compressed 12 or 14 bit, lossless compressed, compressed or uncompressed
TIFF (RGB)
JPEG: JPEG-Baseline-Compliant; can be selected from Size Priority and Optimal Quality
Picture Control System Landscape – Monochrome – Neutral – Portrait – Standard – User-customizable Settings Vivid –
Storage Media CompactFlash© (CF) (Type I, compliant with UDMA) – SD – SDHC – SDXC
Card Slot 1 CompactFlash (CF) card and 1 Secure Digital (SD) card
File System Compliant with DCF (Design Rule for Camera File System) 2.0
DPOF (Digital Print Order Format)
EXIF 2.3 (Exchangeable Image File Format for Digital Still Cameras)
PictBridge
Viewfinder Eye-level Pentamirror Single-Lens Reflex viewfinder
Viewfinder Frame Coverage FX (36×24): 100% Horizontal and 100% Vertical Approx.
1.2x (30×20): 97% Horizontal and 97% Vertical Approx.
DX (24×16): 97% Horizontal and 97% Vertical Approx.
5:4 (30×24): 97% Horizontal and 97% Vertical Approx.
Viewfinder Magnification Approx. 0.70x
Viewfinder Diopter Adjustment Built – in (-3 to +1)
Viewfinder Eyepoint 19.5 (-1.0)
Focusing Screen Type B BriteView Clear Matte Mark VIII with AF Area Brackets (grid lines can be displayed
Reflex Mirror Quick-return type
Depth-of-field Preview Yes
Lens Aperture Instant-return type
Depth-of-field Control Yes
Lens Compatibility at a Glance AF-S or AF lenses fully compatible Metering with AI lenses
Compatible Lenses AF NIKKOR other than type G or D*2: All functions supported except 3D Color Matrix Metering III
AI-P NIKKOR: All functions supported except autofocus and 3D Color Matrix Metering III
DX AF NIKKOR: All Functions Supported Except FX-format (36×24)/5:4 (30×24) Image Size
Type G or D AF NIKKOR: All Functions Supported
Non-CPU: Usable in [A] or [M] mode Center-Weighted or Spot Metering; Electronic Rangefinder can be used if Mazimum Aperture is f/5.6 or faster
Shutter Type Electronically controlled vertical-travel focal-plane shutter
Shutter Speed 1/8,000 to 30 seconds, bulb
Flash Sync Speed Up to 1/250 sec.
Synchronizes with shutter at 1/320s or slower (flash range drops at speeds between 1/250 and 1/320s)
Shutter Release Modes Continuous low-speed [CL] mode; 1-4 frames per second
Continuous high-speed [CH] mode; 4 frames per second
Mirror-up [Mup] mode
Quiet Shutter Release
Self-timer mode
Single-frame [S] mode
Continuous Shooting Speed FX-format: CH: Up to 4 frames per second CL: Up to 4 frames per second
FX-format CH: Up to 4 frames per second CL: Up to 4 frames per second
DX-format CH: Up to 5 frames per second CL: Up to 5 frames per second
1:2 format CH: Up to 5 frames per second CL: Up to 5 frames per second
Top Continuous Shooting Speed 4 frames per second at full resolution
Self-timer 2, 5, 10, 20 sec. Timer duration electronically controlled
Exposure Metering System TTL full-aperture exposure metering using 1,005-pixel RGB sensor
Metering Method Center-weighted: Weight of 75% given to 8mm circle in center of frame
Matrix: 3D color matrix metering III (type G and D lenses); color matrix metering III (other CPU lenses)
Spot: Meters 4mm circle (about 1.5% of frame) centered on selected focus point
Metering Range 0 to 20 EV (3D color matrix or center-weighted metering)
0 to 20 EV (spot metering)
Exposure Meter Coupling Combined CPU and AI
Exposure Modes Aperture-Priority (A)
Manual (M)
Programmed auto with flexible program (P)
Shutter-Priority (S)
Exposure Compensation ±5 EV in increments of 1/3, 1/2 or 1 EV
Exposure Bracketing 2 to 9 frames in steps of 1/3, 1/2, 2/3 o
Exposure Lock Yes
Mirror Lock Up Yes
ISO Sensitivity ISO 100 – 6400
Lo-1 (ISO 50)
Hi-1 (ISO 12,800)
Hi-2 (ISO 25,600)
Lowest Standard ISO Sensitivity 100
Highest Standard ISO Sensitivity 6400
Lowest Expanded ISO Sensitivity Lo-1 (ISO 50 equivalent)
Highest Expanded ISO Sensitivity HI-2 (ISO 25,600 equivalent)
Expanded ISO Sensitivity Options Lo-1 (ISO-50 equivalent), Hi-1 (ISO-12,800 equivalent), Hi-2 (ISO-25,600 equivalent)
Long Exposure Noise Reduction Yes
High ISO Noise Reduction Low – Normal – High – Off
Active D-Lighting Auto – Extra High – High – Normal – Low – Off
D-Lighting Bracketing 2 frames using selected value for one frame
3-5 frames using preset values for all frames
Single-point AF Mode Yes
Dynamic AF Mode Number of AF points: 9, 21, 51 and 51 (3D-tracking)
Auto-area AF Mode Yes
Autofocus System Nikon Advanced Multi-CAM 3500FX autofocus sensor module with TTL phase detection
AF Detection Range -1 to 19 EV (ISO 100, 68°F/20°C)
Lens Servo Autofocus (AF): Single-servo AF (AF-S); Continuous-servo AF (AF-C); auto AF-S/AF-C selection (AF-A);
predictive focus tracking activated automatically according to subject status
Manual focus (MF): Electronic rangefinder can be used
AF-Area Mode 9, 21 or 51 point Dynamic-area AF
Auto-area AF
Single-point AF
3D-tracking (51 points)
Focus Lock Focus can be locked by pressing AE-L/AF-L button
Focus can be locked by pressing shutter-release button halfway (single-servo AF)
Focus Modes Auto AF-S/AF-C selection (AF-A)
Continuous-servo (AF-C)
Face-Priority AF available in Live View only and D-Movie only
Full-time Servo (AF-A) available in Live View only
Manual (M) with electronic rangefinder
Normal area
Single-servo AF (AF-S)
Wide area
Maximum Autofocus Areas/Points 51
Autofocus Sensitivity -2 to +19 EV (ISO 100, 20°C/68°F)
Autofocus Fine Tune Yes
Built-in Flash Yes
Flash Bracketing 2 to 9 frames in steps of 1/3, 1/2, 2/3, or 1 EV
Built-in Flash Distance 39 ft. (ISO 100)
Flash Control TTL: i-TTL flash control using 91,000-pixel RGB sensor are available with built-in flash and SB-910, SB-900, SB-700, or SB-400; i-TTL balanced fill-flash for digital SLR is used with matrix and center-weighting metering, standard i-TTL flash for digital SLR with spot metering
Flash Sync Modes 1) Front-curtain sync (normal), 2) Slow sync, 3) Rear-curtain sync, 4) Red-eye reduction, 5) Red-eye reduction with slow sync
Flash Compensation -3 to +1 EV in increments of 1/3, 1/2 or 1 EV
Flash-ready Indicator Lights when built-in flash or optional flash unit such as SB-910, SB-900, SB-400, SB-80DX, SB-28DX or SB-50DX is fully charged
Accessory Shoe Yes
Flash Sync Terminal Yes
Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS) CLS Supported
White Balance Auto (2 types) – Choose color temperature (2500K 10000K) – Cloudy – Direct Sunlight – Flash – Fluorescent (7 types) – Incandescent – Preset manual (up to 4 values can be stored) – Shade
White Balance Bracketing 2 to 9 exposures in increments of 1, 2 or 3 EV
Live View Shooting Live View Shooting Photography Live View Mode
Movie Live View Mode
Live View Lens servo Live View Lens servo Autofocus (AF): Single-servo AF (AF-S); full-time-servo AF (AF-F)
Manual focus (MF)
Live View AF-area mode Face-priority AF – Wide-area AF – Normal-area AF – Subject-tracking AF
Live View Autofocus Contrast-detect AF anywhere in frame (camera selects focus point automatically when face-priority AF or subject-tracking AF is selected)
Movie Metering TTL exposure metering using main image sensor
Movie Frame size (pixels) and frame rate 1280 x 720 (30p): 30 fps (29.97 fps) – 1280 x 720 (60p): 60 fps (59.94 fps) – 1920 x 1080 (24p): 24 fps (23.976 fps) – 1920 x 1080 (30p): 30 fps (29.97 fps)
Movie Maximum recording time 20 minutes at highest quality
29 minutes 59 seconds at normal quality
Movie File Format MOV
Movie Video Compression H.264/MPEG-4 Advanced Video Coding
Movie Audio recording format Linear PCM
Movie Audio recording Device Built-in monaural microphone – External stereo microphone (optional)
Movie HD 1,920×1,080 / 30 fps – HD 1,920×1,080 / 24 fps – HD 1,280×720 / 30 fps – HD 1,280×720 / 24 fps – HD 1,280×720 / 60 fps
Movie Audio Built-in microphone, monaural – External stereo microphone (optional)
Monitor Size 3.2 in. diagonal
Monitor Resolution 921,000 Dots
Monitor Type Wide Viewing Angle TFT-LCD
Monitor Angle of View 170-degree wide-viewing angle
Monitor Adjustments Brightness, 5 levels
Virtual Horizon Camera Indicator Virtual Horizon Camera Indicator Yes
Also visible in LiveView Modes
Also visible in Viewfinder
Playback Functions Auto Image Rotation
Full-Frame and Thumbnail (4, 9, or 72 images or calendar)
Histogram Display
Image Comment
Movie Playback
Movie Slideshow
Playback with Zoom
Slideshow
Highlights
In-Camera Image Editing Color Outline – Color Sketch – D-Lighting – Distortion Control -Edit Movie – Filter Effects Fisheye – Image Overlay – Miniature Effect – Monochrome – NEF (RAW) Processing -Perspective Control – Quick Retouch – Red-eye Correction – Resize – Selective Color – Side-by-Side Comparison – Straighten – Trim – Color Balance
Image Comment Yes
Interface HDMI output: Type C mini-pin HDMI connector – Headphone Connector – NTSC – Stereo Microphone Input – Super Speed USB 3.0
Wi-Fi Functionality Eye-Fi Compatible – WT-4A
GPS GP-1 GPS unit
Save/Load Camera settings Yes
Total custom Settings 54
My Menu Yes with customization
Recent Settings Yes
Supported Languages Arabic – Chinese (Simplified and Traditional) – Czech – Danish – Dutch – English – Finnish – French – German – Indonesian – Italian – Japanese – Korean – Norweigan – Polish – Portuguese – Romanian – Russian – Spanish – Swedish – Thai – Turkish – Ukrainian
Date, Time and Daylight Savings Yes
World Time Setting Yes
Battery EN-EL15 Lithium-ion Battery
Battery Life (shots per charge) 900 Battery Life (shots per charge) (CIPA)
AC Adapter EH-5b AC Adapter
Requires EP-5B Power Supply Connector
Battery Charger MH-25 Quick Charger
Tripod Socket 1/4 in. (ISO 1222)
Approx. Dimensions Width 5.7 in. (144.78mm) – Height 4.8 in. (121.92mm) – Depth 3.2 in. (81.28mm)
Approx. Weight 31.7 oz (900G)
Camera Body only

 

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Nikon D800 available at Adorama | Amazon | B&H

Tiffen 82 mm Variable Neutral Density Filter Review

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One of the most popular accessories that are carried by serious photographers is the neutral density filter or better still a variable neutral density filter. A neutral density filter is one that stops the amount of light that reaches the camera sensor. They are called neutral because they stop light of all wave-length without any preference. So basically one can call them as sunglasses for your camera. It allows a user to use a longer shutter speed and achieve special effects in broad day light without the risk of overexposure. For example waterfall photography.The newest baby in the line of neutral density filters is the Tiffen Variable ND filters.

Variable neutral density filters can be screwed on to the front part of the lens using the slender thread mechanism. The front of the filter can be rotated which stops an increasing amount of light. In operation they are very similar to how an user would use a circular polarizer. This dialing adjustment feature eliminates the need for carrying several filters of different thickness. Usually these filters come in thickness or f-stops of 1, 2, 3 and so on. With a variable neutral density filter one can just turn it in a dialing motion and achieve the desired f-stop.

“X” effect of variable neutral densityTypical “X” effect of variable neutral density

Like polarizers, specially with wide angle lenses, if you go beyond the maximum stop you will get that typical “X” mark effect on your photos. This is a normal phenomenon, as well as limitation of Variable Neutral Density filters.

Tiffen Variable ND filters comes in different sizes, including 77mm and 82mm. These are two of the largest lens diameters and should appeal to users of premium glasses. They provide 2 to 8 stops in a dialing motion. Wide angle lenses often create a problem of vignetting. To counter vignetting these filters are made extremely thin at only 9mm. They should allow for lesser vignetting problems and that should ensure better image quality at wider f-stops. However, in spite of the great quality of the glass and the minimum thickness some vignetting can happen depending upon the type of lens being used and the particular aperture settings.

Tiffen 82 mm VND & Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8 L II – vignette

On our test, it showed no sign of vignette at the 16mm end while using with Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8 L II without any UV filter attached.

@16mm with 82mm Tiffen VND Only@16mm with only 82mm Tiffen VND Attached

However, when attached on top of a UV or similar it shows some vignette at 16mm end. At around 19-20mm and beyond the problem disappears.

@16mm with Both UV & 82mm Tiffen VND Attached@16mm with Both UV & 82mm Tiffen VND Attached

On tele zoom like EF 70-200mm lens there is no such issue. Again full frame cameras tend to suffer more from the problem at lower f/stops compared to crop bodies.

The ability to use slower shutter speeds at wider apertures is one of the major advantages of using a variable neutral density filter and the Tiffen 82/77 mm VND makes it elegantly simple. ND filters with higher grades are very dark, may results autofocus difficulty. However, with VND you can focus easily at  lower stop settings, then turn back to higher stops later.

Exposure f/7.1, 1 Sec, ISO 50, EOS 5D Mk III, 16-35 f/2.8 L II, Tiffen 82mm VNDExposure f/7.1, 1 Sec, ISO 50, EOS 5D Mk III, 16-35 f/2.8 L II, Tiffen 82mm VND

With this filter on one can capture beautiful dramatic effects of a stream or waterfall, experiment with faster ISO, capture fine bokeh with a wider aperture in broad daylight and do very much every other thing that a photographer would hesitate to do in broad daylight.

Below is a nice Comparison video on Polariod vs Genus vs Lightcraft vs Tiffen vs Singh-Ray vs Heliopan Variable ND Filters

Tiffen uses premium quality glass in their filters and the 77 and 82mm VND filters are no exception. They come with Tiffen’s ColorCore™ technology and are backed by ten years warranty which should make them a companion for many interesting assignments. Warranty apart this expensive piece of glass is vulnerable to bad use as such it needs to be always taken care of if one intends to use it for a long time. It is prone to scratches, exposure to sunlight for long duration and drops which can damage it permanently.

Tiffen VND available at Amazon

Nikon AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR 85mm f/3.5G ED VR Lens

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Nikon AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR 85mm f/3.5G ED VR Lens

Product Summary

Overview

The AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR 85mm f/3.5G ED VR is a great lens for general purpose photography. The close focusing distance of 0.9’ is ideally suitable for it to be used for micro photography but the 85mm focal length is also suitable for the purpose of portraits or landscape photography. Nikon’s Vibration Reduction II technology ensures that the lens is very stable and offers up to four stops slower shutter speeds than normally possible. Hand holding the lens is as a result all the more suitable. The presence of Internal Focusing (IF) technology means the lens barrel is fixed even during focusing. Only the internal focusing elements move. SWM (Silent Wave Motor) technology is responsible for making the lens absolutely silent when auto-focusing. Additionally the M/A option allow the user to switch from auto-focusing to manual focusing with simply a turn of the focusing ring.

The lens has a maximum angle of view of 18°50′. A beautiful 9 rounded blade diaphragm makes the lens ideal for those soft out of focus effects (bokeh) around the subjects. The lens has a total of 14 lens elements including 1 ED glass elements arranged in 10 lens groups. The AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR 85mm f/3.5G ED VR takes a screw-on filter of size 52mm. the approx dimensions of the lens are 2.9×3.9” and the overall weight is 355 grams.

Depending upon the country of residence of the user the lens ships with a 52mm snap on front end lens cover, a rear end lens cover, a bayonet hood and a pouch for carrying the lens when not in use.

Sample Images by AF-S DX Micro NIKON 85mm f/3.5G VR on Flickr

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AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR 85mm f/3.5G VR Specifications

Focal length 85 mm
Max aperture f/3.5
Construction 14 elements in 10 groups (with one ED glass element)
Picture angle 18°50’
Closest focusing distance 0.286 m/0.9 ft.
Max reproduction ratio 1x
No. of diaphragm blades 9 (rounded)
Filter size 52mm
Diameter x length(extension from lens mount) Approximately 73 x 98.5 mm/2.9 x 3.9 in.
Wt Approximately 355 g/12.5 oz.
Accessories 52mm Snap-on Front Lens Cap LC-52, Rear Lens Cap LF-1, Bayonet Hood HB-37, Flexible Lens Pouch CL-1018

 

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Purchase options

AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR 85mm f/3.5G VR available at Amazon | Adorama | B&H

Nikon AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8G Lens

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Nikon AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8G Lens

Product Summary

Overview

At only $280, the AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8G offers a 1x magnification of any subject and can be treated as a great start for any micro photography enthusiast. The lens has minimum focusing distance of 0.53’ (0.163 meters). Nikon has ensured that the lens has a much improved focusing correctness by providing CRC (Close Range Correction) technology in it. What is basically does is that the focusing elements in the lens moves independent to each other which ensures more precision.

SWM (Silent Wave Motor) technology in the lens ensures quiet auto-focusing. This is imperative when shooting subjects that can get easily scared by the sound of the focusing motor. Additionally Nikon’s M/A technology ensure effortless transition from auto to manual focusing just by turning the focusing ring.

The maximum angle of view of the lens is 38°50′. The f/2.8 aperture and the 40mm focal length are also suitable for the purpose of shooting portraiture and even landscape photos. At the narrow end the lens can stop down to f/22. The rounded 7 blade diaphragm creates a beautiful soft out of focus effect for the foreground or the background.

The lens has a total of 9 elements arranged in 7 groups. It takes a screw-on type filter of size 52mm. the dimensions of the lens is 2.7×2.5” (diameter x length) and has a weight of 280 grams. The lens ships with the 52mm LC-52 snap-on front lens cap, the LF-4 rear lens cap, the HB-61 bayonet hood and a pouch for the lens (CL-0915) for easy transportation.

Sample Images by AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8G on Flickr

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AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8G Specifications

Focal length 40mm
Max aperture f/2.8
Min aperture f/22
Construction 9 elements in 7 groups
Angle of view 38°50’
Min focus distance 0.163 m/0.53 ft (from focal plane)
Max reproduction ratio 1x
No. of diaphragm blades 7 (rounded)
Filter-attachment size 52 mm
Diameter x length(extension from lens mount) Approximately 68.5 x 64.5 mm/2.7 x 2.5 in.
Weight Approximately 235 g/8.3 oz
Accessories 52 mm Snap-on Front Lens Cap LC-52, Rear Lens Cap LF-4, Bayonet Hood HB-61, Flexible Lens Pouch CL-0915

 

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Purchase options

AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8G available at Amazon | Adorama | B&H

Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR Lens

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Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR Lens

Product Summary

Overview

The AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR lens encompasses many of Nikon’s state of the art optical lens technologies. A 5.5x telephoto lens must have some sort of optical stabilization to ensure that pictures shot while hand holding the camera are at all usable. Nikon has provided Vibration Reduction II technology that provides a possibility to use a shutter speed of up to four stops slower than usual even hand holding the camera. The lens has a maximum aperture of f/4.5 when fully zoomed out and f/5.6 when fully zoomed in. The minimum aperture is f/22 – f/29.

The AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR is designed specifically for the DX format DSLRs. It has a maximum angle of view of 28°50’ and a minimum of 5°20’. The minimum focusing distance of the lens is 4.59’. Nikon’s SWM (Silent Wave Motor) technology ensures that the lens is discreet when focusing with no sound of the focusing motor engaging. In order to compensate from the presence of spherical aberrations Nikon has used HRI elements in the lens. This does the same job as several normal glass elements can do together.

The construction of the lens consists of 17 elements including 2 ED glass elements and 1 HRI element arranged in 11 groups. 9 rounded diaphragm blades ensures that the lens provides beautiful bokeh. The lens takes a filter of size 58mm.Overall the dimensions of the lens are 3.0 x 4.8” (diameter a length). The weight of the lens is 530 grams.

Sample Images by AF-S DX NIKON 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G VR on Flickr

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Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR Lens

 

AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G VR Specifications

Focal length 55-300mm
Max aperture f/4.5-5.6
Min aperture f/22-29
Construction 17 elements in 11 groups (with two ED glass elements and one HRI lens element)
Angle of view 28°50’ – 5°20’
Min focus distance 1.4 m/4.59 ft.(throughout the entire zoom range)
Max reproduction ratio 0.28x
No. of diaphragm blades 9 (rounded)
Filter-attachment size 58mm
Diameter x length(extension from lens mount) Approximately 76.5 x 123 mm/3.0 x 4.8 in.
Wt Approximately 530 g/18.7 oz.
Accessories 58mm Snap-on Front Lens Cap LC-58, Rear Lens Cap LF-4, Bayonet Hood HB-57, Flexible Lens Pouch CL-1020

 

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Purchase options

AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G VR available at Amazon | Adorama | B&H

Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 55-200mm f/4-5.6G IF-ED VR

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AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-200mm f/4-5.6G IF-ED VR

Product Summary

Overview

This lens incorporates both Nikon’s Vibration Reduction and Internal Focusing technologies in addition to being a perfect companion for the 18-55mm kit lens that most DX format DSLR users prefer. This lens has a 3.6x optical zoom ratio and is perfect for wild-life, action and even portraiture.

Nikon’s Vibration Reduction technology allows the user a luxury of up to three stops slower shutter speeds than would normally be possible while hand holding the lens. The lens also has a single ED (Extra-Low Dispersion) glass element which reduces the color fringing, increasing color saturation.  Additionally this lens incorporates a rod-type SWM (Silent Wave Motor) technology that basically means quieter auto-focusing. One important feature of the lens is the Internal Focusing (IF) technology which means that during focusing the lens elements move internally, leaving the barrel length virtually fixed.

For easy focusing Nikon has provided a Manual – Auto switch for a quick transition. The lens has a maximum angle of view of 28°50′ and a minimum of 8°. The lens diaphragm is made of 7 rounded blades. The lens consists of 15 elements arranged in 11 groups.  The minimum focusing distance of the lens is 3.6’ (or 1.1 meters). The lens takes a screw-on type filter of 52mm. the dimensions of the lens is 2.9×3.9” (diameter x length). The weight of the lens is 335 grams. The lens ships with the LC-52, snap on front lens cap and the LF-1 rear lens cap. There are no lens pouch provided but can be obtained optionally.

Sample Images by AF-S DX Nikkor 55-200mm f/4-5.6G VR on Flickr

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AF-S DX Nikkor 55-200mm f/4-5.6G VR Specifications

Focal length 55-200mm
Max aperture f/4-5.6
Min aperture f/22-32
Construction 15 elements in 11 groups (1 ED glass element)
Picture angle 28°50′ – 8°
Closest focusing distance 1.1m (through the entire focal range)
Max reproduction ratio 1/3.5
No. of diaphragm blades 7 (rounded)
Filter/attachment size 52mm
Diameter x length(extension from lens mount) Appproximately 73.0 x 99.5 mm/2.9 x 3.9 in.
Wt Approximately 335 g/11.8 oz.
Accessories 52mm snap-on front lens cap LC-52, Rear lens cap LF-1, Flexible lens pouch CL-0815, Bayonet Hood HB-34 (only available in black)

 

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AF-S DX Nikkor 55-200mm f/4-5.6G VR available at Amazon | Adorama | B&H

Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-200mm f/4-5.6G ED Lens

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Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-200mm f/4-5.6G ED Lens

Product Summary

Features

A medium range telephoto lens the AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 55-200mm f/4-5.6G ED has a wide f-stop of f/4 available at 55mm and f/5.6 available at 200mm. this is lens satisfies the needs of a landscape, sports and action photographer. It can even be used for portraiture as it is basically a medium range telephoto lens.

Nikon’s Silent Wave Motor makes this lens quiet during auto-focusing. The presence of two Extra-Low dispersion glass elements ensures that the lens has a reduced affect from color fringing and better color saturation in the final photos. Additionally Nikon has also provided Super Integrated Coating (SIC) on the lens.

The lens diaphragm is mad up of 9 beautiful rounded blades. This I what enables the user to capture a beautiful bokeh (soft out of focus effect of the foreground or the background).

The maximum angle of view of the lens is 28°50′ and the minimum angle of view is 8°. A total of 13 lens elements including 2 ED glass elements make up the lens construction arranged in 9 groups. The minimum focusing distance of the lens is only 3.1’ (0.95 meter). The filter type that this lens takes is screw-on and of the size 52mm.

The dimensions of the lens is 2.7×3.1” (diameter x length) and the weight of the lens is 255 grams. Depending upon the country where you live, the lens ships with a front snap-on cap, a rear cap, a lens hood and a soft pouch for the lens for transportation.

Sample Images by AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-200mm f/4-5.6G ED on Flickr

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AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-200mm f/4-5.6G Specifications

Focal length 55-200mm
Max aperture f/4-5.6
Min aperture f/22-32
Construction 13 elements in 9 groups (2 ED glass elements)
Picture angle 28°50′ – 8°
Closest focusing distance 0.95m (through the entire focal range)
Max reproduction ratio 1/4.4
No. of diaphragm blades 9 (rounded)
Filter/attachment size 52mm
Diameter x length(extension from lens mount) Appproximately 68 x 79 mm/2.7 x 3.1 in.
Wt Approximately 255 g/9.0 oz.
Accessories 52mm Snap-on front lens cap LC-52, Rear lens cap LF-1, Bayonet hood HB-37, Flexible lens pouch CL-0918

 

More Info

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Purchase options

AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-200mm f/4-5.6G available at Amazon | Adorama | B&H

Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Lens

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Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Lens

Product Summary

Features

This $1000 wide angle – telephoto lens satisfies the needs of an amateur photographer looking for a single lens that gives a great range from wide angle to telephoto. With a 16.7x optical zoom range, the AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR does exactly that. Nikon’s Vibration Reduction II technology provides the much needed optical stabilization. In fact VR II offers up to four stops slower shutter speed than normally would be possible with the camera hand held.

Nikon’s proprietary Silent Wave Motor technology ensures that the lens is super quiet when auto-focusing. Nikon has provided both Super Integrated Coating (SIC), AS (Aspherical Elements) and Extra-low Dispersion elements, to ensure that ghosts, flares and spherical aberrations are suppressed to its maximum. Additionally Internal Focusing (IF) technology means the lens barrel is never extends during focusing. The presence of M/A technology allows the user to switch from auto focusing to manual with simply a turn of the focusing ring without having to flick a switch.

The maximum angle of view (on a DX format DSLR) is 76° while the minimum is 5°20′. A whopping 19 lens elements including 3 ED glass elements and 3 aspherical glass elements make up the lens construction which is arranged in a total of 14 lens groups. 9 diaphragm blades are behind the beautiful bokeh (soft defocusing of the background or foreground). The lens uses 77mm screw-on filter. The dimensions of the lens is 3.3×4.7” (diameter x length). Overall weight of the lens is 830 grams.

Sample Images by AF-S DX NIKON 18-300mm f/3.5-5.6G VR on Flickr

Product Images

 

AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Specifications

Focal length 18-300mm
Max aperture f/3.5-5.6
Min aperture f/22-32
Construction 19 elements in 14 groups (with three ED glass and three aspherical lens elements)
Angle of view 76° – 5°20′
Min focus distance 300 mm focal length: 0.45 m/1.48 ft (from focal plane)
Max reproduction ratio 1/3.2x
No. of diaphragm blades 9 (rounded)
Filter-attachment size 77mm
Diameter x length(distance from camera lens mount flange) Approximately 83 x 120 mm/3.3 x 4.7 in.
Wt Approximately 830 g/29.3 oz.
Accessories 77 mm snap-on Front Lens Cap LC-77, Rear Lens Cap LF-4, Bayonet Hood HB-58, Flexible Lens Pouch CL-1120

More Info

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Purchase options

AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-5.6G VR available at Amazon | Adorama | B&H

Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR II Lens

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Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR II Lens

Product Summary

Features

The AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR II is a medium range wide angle telephoto lens incorporating Nikon’s Vibration Reduction II technology. This ensures that the lens can be mounted on a DX format Nikon DSLR and up to four stops slower shutter speed can be used simply by hand holding the camera. This 11x DX format lens is very sharp, not only at the corners but also at the middle of the frame.

It incorporates Nikon’s Silent Wave Motor technology for quiet auto-focusing. Additionally the presence of M/A technology means the user can shift from auto to manual focusing by simply turning the focusing ring. This gives precise focusing control without having to flick a switch. Additionally Nikon has provided Internal Focusing technology in the lens which ensures that the barrel length of the lens never extends when it is focusing.

This DX format lens has a wide f/3.5 aperture available at 18mm. It has an available f-stop of f/5.6 at 200mm. Additionally it can stop down to f/22 at any time. It has a maximum angle of view of 76° on a DX format and a minimum of 8°. 16 elements make up the lens construction including 2 ED glass elements and 3 aspherical glass elements. The lens diaphragm is made of 7 blades.

The minimum focusing distance of the lens is only 1.6’ (0.5 meters). The lens takes a screw-on filter of 72mm. the dimensions of the lens is 3.0×3.8” (diameter x length) and has an overall weight of 560 grams.

Sample Images by AF-S DX NIKON 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G VR II on Flickr

Product Images

AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G VR II Specifications

Focal length 18-200mm
Max aperture f/3.5-5.6
Min aperture f/22-36
Construction 16 elements in 12 groups (with two ED glass and three aspherical lens elements)
Picture angle 76°-8°
Closest focusing distance 0.5 m/1.6 ft.
Max reproduction ratio 0.22x
No. of diaphragm blades 7 (rounded)
Filter/attachment size 72mm
Diameter x length(extension from lens mount) Appproximately 77 x 96.5 mm/3.0 x 3.8 in.
Wt Approximately 565 g/19.9 oz.
Accessories 72mm Snap-on Front Lens Cap LC-72, Rear Lens Cap LF-1, Bayonet Hood HB-35, Flexible Lens Pouch CL-1018

 

More Info

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Purchase options

AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G VR II available at Amazon | Adorama | B&H

Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Lens

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Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Lens

Product Summary

Features

The AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR is more of a portrait and landscape lens with a 5.8x zoom that should cover most objects in a short range. The aperture ranges from f/3.5 to f/5.6 which makes the lens’ performance reasonable in low light conditions when set to f/3.5.

Nikon has provided several of its advanced optical and lens technologies to ensure that users find this lens most suitable for their everyday shooting needs. Nikon’s optical stabilization systems, Vibration reduction allows the user the luxury to use up to three stops slower shutter speeds than normally would be possible while hand-holding their camera.

Nikon’s Super Integrated Coating (SIC), Extra-low Dispersion glass elements and Aspherical Elements in the lens ensures that ghosts, flares and spherical aberrations are controlled. Another great advantage of the lens is the presence of Internal Focusing (IF) which means the lens barrel never extend when the lens is focusing. This is suitable for photographers who prefer to shoot a lot of candid shots and prefer to remain inconspicuous. The minimum focusing distance of the lens is 1.48’ (or 0.45 meters).

The maximum angle of view of this DX format special lens is 76° and the minimum is 15°20′. There are 15 lens elements in the lens including 1 ED glass element and 1 aspherical element arranged in 11 groups. The lens’ filter thread specification is 67mm and it takes a screw-on filter. The dimensions of the lens is 3.0×3.5” (diameter x length) and it weighs 420 grams

Sample Images by AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G VR on Flickr

Product Images

AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Specifications

Focal length 18-105mm
Max aperture f/3.5-5.6
Min aperture f/22-38
Construction 15 elements in 11 groups (with one ED glass element and one aspherical lens element)
Picture angle 76° – 15°20’
Closest focusing distance 0.45 m/1.48 ft. (throughout entire zoom range)
Max reproduction ratio 1/5
No. of diaphragm blades 7 (rounded)
Filter/attachment size 67mm
Diameter x length(extension from lens mount) Appproximately 76 x 89 mm/2.9 x 3.5 in.
Weight Approximately 420 g/14.8 oz.
Accessories 67mm snap-on front lens cap LC-67, Rear lens cap LF-1, Bayonet hood HB-32, Flexible lens pouch CL-1018

 

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AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G VR available at Amazon | Adorama | B&H

Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 17-55mm f/2.8G IF-ED Lens

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Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 17-55mm f/2.8G IF-ED Lens

Product Summary

Features

The AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 17-55mm f/2.8G IF-ED offers a DX user a slightly wider focal length compared to the 18-55mm. Again a constant f/2.8 aperture is suitable for the purpose of most low light photography needs that a user is presented with. At the narrow end the lens can stop down to f/22.

Nikon’s Silent Wave Motor technology ensures quiet auto-focusing. Nikon has also provided its M/A technology in this lens which makes it easier to switch from auto focusing to manual focusing just by turning the focusing ring. This makes it also a lot faster to adjust for precise focusing. Additionally Internal Focusing ensures that the lens barrel never extends during focusing.

The presence of Aspherical Elements and Extra Low Dispersion elements means the lens has a suppressed effect from ghosts and flares. Nikon has additionally provided it’s Super Integrated Coating (SIC).

The maximum angle of view on a DX format Nikon DSLR is 79°. The minimum angle of view is 28°50′ on the same. There are a total of 14 lens elements including three ED glass elements and three Aspherical elements which are arranged in 10 lens groups. The diaphragm of the lens is made up of 9 blades.

This lens has a very short focusing distance of 1.2’ or 0.36 meters which means the lens can be easily used for the purpose of objects which are small. The dimensions of the lens is 3.4×4.4” (diameter x length) and it takes a screw-on filter type of 77mm. The weight of the lens is 755 grams.

Sample Images by AF-S DX NIKKOR 17-55mm f/2.8G on Flickr

Product Images

Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 17-55mm f/2.8G IF-ED Lens

AF-S DX NIKKOR 17-55mm f/2.8G Specifications

Focal length 17-55mm
Max aperture f/2.8
Min aperture f/22
Construction 14 elements in 10 groups (3 ED glass elements and 3 aspherical lenses)
Picture angle 79° – 28°50′
Closest focusing distance 0.36m (at 35mm focal length)
Max reproduction ratio 1/5
No. of diaphragm blades 9 (rounded)
Filter/attachment size 77mm
Diameter x length(extension from lens mount) Appproximately 85.5 x 110.5 mm/3.4 x 4.4 in.
Weight Approximately 755 g/26.6 oz.
Accessories 77mm snap-on front lens cap LC-77, Rear lens cap LF-1, Flexible lens pouch CL-1120, Bayonet Hood HB-31

 

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AF-S DX NIKKOR 17-55mm f/2.8G available at Amazon | Adorama | B&H

Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Lens

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Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Lens

Product Summary

Features

The AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR offers a very suitable focal length range for DX format users. Slightly wider than the standard 18-5mm kit lens the AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR encompasses Nikon’s Vibration Reduction II technology which offers the photographer the luxury to use four full stops slower shutter speed when hand holding the camera.

Silent Wave Motor technology is a function unique to Nikkor’s lenses which ensures that the auto-focusing mechanism is very quiet. The lens has both SWM (Silent Wave Motor) and M/A technology which is a way for the lens to switch from auto to manual focusing just by turning the focusing ring. Nikor’s internal focusing mechanism ensures that the lens barrel never extend during focusing. A major advantage is that the lens remains discreet when being used. The minimum focusing distance of the lens is 1.3’ (0.38 meters). This means the lens is very effective for close range photography as well.

The widest f-stop of the lens is f/3.5 but it can stop down to f/22. The maximum angle of view is 83° while the minimum is 18°50’. There are 17 lens elements including two ED glass elements and three aspherical glass elements, arranged in 11 groups. There is no manual aperture ring (this is a G type lens). So for all AF-S DSLRs the lens aperture can be set from inside the camera functions.The dimensions of the lens is 2.8×3.4” (diameter x length) and the weight is 485 grams. Available at Amazon | Adorama | B&H

Sample Images by AF-S DX Nikon 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR on Flickr

Product Images

DX NIKKOR 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Specifications

Focal length 16-85mm
Max aperture f/3.5-5.6
Min aperture f/22-36
Construction 17 elements in 11 groups (with two ED glass elements, three aspherical lenses)
Picture angle 83° – 18°50’
Closest focusing distance 0.38 m (1.3 ft.) (throughout the entire zoom range)
Max reproduction ratio 1/4.6
No. of diaphragm blades 7 (rounded)
Filter/attachment size 67mm
Diameter x length(extension from lens mount) Appproximately 72 x 85 mm/2.8 x 3.4 in.
Weight Approximately 485 g/17.1 oz.
Accessories 67 mm snap-on front lens cap LC-67, Rear lens cap LF-1,Bayonet hood HB-39, Flexible lens pouch CL-1015

 

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DX NIKKOR 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G VR available at Amazon | Adorama | B&H

Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens

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Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens

Product Summary

Features

This $200 lens is often packed as a kit lens for many of the DX format DSLRs that Nikon has. It is a suitable lens for everyday photography portraiture, landscape, group and is often used by amateurs as their go to lens. Nikon has provided their Vibration Reduction technology to ensure that the lens can offer up to two stops of slower shutter speeds when hand holding the camera. The lens has a close focusing distance of 0.9’ which means it is also suitable for close-up photography.

Silent Wave Motor technology also adds an important quiet feature to the auto-focusing mechanism of the lens, making it less ‘stand-out’ when used among strangers, specially the camera shy ones. Aspherical elements in the lens ensure that the lens can counter a number of spherical aberrations. Nikon has also provided multi-coating in the form of Super Integrated Coating (SIC). This is a G lens and thus does not have a dedicated aperture ring on the lens. It shall auto focus with all AF-S bodies that Nikon has produced recently.

The wide f/3.5 aperture is perfect for most lighting conditions. At the narrow end the lens can stop down to f/22. The maximum angle of view of the lens is 76° while the minimum is 28°50′. There are 11 lens elements arranged in a total of 8 groups. The diaphragm of the lens is made up of 7 blades. The filter size specification of the lens is 52mm and the weight is 265 grams. Available at Amazon | Adorama | B&H

Sample Images by AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR on Flickr

Product Images

AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Specifications

Focal length 18-55mm
Max aperture f/3.5-5.6
Min aperture f/22-36
Construction 11 elements in 8 groups (1 aspherical lens element)
Picture angle 76° – 28°50′
Closest focusing distance 0.28m/0.9ft (throughout the entire focal range)
Max reproduction ratio 1/3.2
No. of diaphragm blades 7 (rounded)
Filter/attachment size 52mm
Diameter x length(extension from lens mount) Appproximately 73 x 79.5 mm/2.9 x 3.1 in.
Weight Approximately 265 g/9.4 oz.
Accessories 52mm snap-on front lens cap LC-52

 

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AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR available at Amazon | Adorama | B&H

Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED II Lens

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Nikon AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED II Lens

Product Summary

Features

The AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED II is a go to lens for most of the everyday shooting needs. It has the most ideal focal length range for portraiture, landscape and even group photos. This is often purchased as a kit lens with most entry level or semi professional DX format DSLRs, the AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED II has a respectable f/3.5 wide aperture at 18mm. at the far end of 55mm the widest f-stop is f/5.6. It can stop all the way down to f/22. The maximum angle of view of the lens is 76° while the minimum angle of view is 28°50′.

This lens incorporates Nikon’s SWM (Silent Wave Motor) technology that evidently means the lens is quiet when focusing. The presence of AS (aspherical elements), Super Integrated Coating (SIC) and ED (extra-low dispersion) elements means the lens has a reduced effect from flares, ghosts and color fringing.

This lens has a total of 7 elements arranged in 5 groups. The diaphragm of the lens is made up of 7 blades. The AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED II takes a screw on filter of 52mm. the dimensions of the lens is 2.8×2.9” (diameter x length). Over all the lens is very light and is only 205 grams. It is shipped (depending on the location of the user) with front cap. Optionally one can buy a CL-0715 soft pouch for the lens and should use it with a rear cap to prevent dust and dirt from getting into the rear end. Available at Amazon | Adorama | B&H

Sample Images AF-S DX Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G II on Flickr

Product Images

AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G II Specifications

Focal length 18-55mm
Max aperture f/3.5-5.6
Min aperture f/22-38
Construction 7 elements in 5 groups (1 ED and 1 aspherical lens elements)
Picture angle 76° – 28°50′
Closest focusing distance 0.28m (through the entire focal range)
Max reproduction ratio 1/3.2
No. of diaphragm blades 7 (rounded)
Filter/attachment size 52mm
Diameter x length(extension from lens mount) Appproximately 70.5 x 74 mm/2.8 x 2.9 in.
Weight Approximately 205 g/7.2 oz.
Accessories 52mm snap-on front lens cap LC-52

 

More Info

@ Nikon

Purchase options

AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G available at Amazon | Adorama | B&H

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