Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II AF-S Nikkor Zoom Lens For Nikon Digital SLR Cameras (New, White box)
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Availability:
Only 6 left in stock, order soon!
Arrives
Wednesday, Jul 22
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Features
- Type of lens: G-type AF-S Zoom-NIKKOR lens with built-in CPU and Nikon bayonet mount
- Focal Length Range : 70 -200 mm, Minimum Focus Distance- 4.6 ft.(1.4 m)
- Dimensions: Approx. 87 mm dia. x 205.5 mm extension from the cameras lens-mount flange
- Weight: Approx. 1,540 g (3.4 lb)
- Compatible Format(s) - FX, DX, FX in DX Crop Mode 35mm Film
Description
B002JCSV8U From the Manufacturer This fast f/2.8 Zoom- Nikkor lens is perfect for sports, photojournalism and wildlife photography. Nikon VR II (Vibration Reduction) image stabilization Vibration Reduction, engineered specifically for each VR Nikkor lens, enables handheld shooting at up to 4 shutter speeds slower than would otherwise be possible, assuring dramatically sharper images. 7 Extra-low Dispersion (ED) elements Offers superior sharpness and color correction by effectively minimizing chromatic aberration, even at the widest aperture settings. Nano Crystal Coat Further reduces ghosting and flare for even greater image clarity. Nikon Super Integrated Coating (SIC) Enhances light transmission and offers superior color consistency and reduced flare. Exclusive Nikon Silent Wave Motor (SWM) Enables fast, accurate, and quiet autofocus. Rounded 9-blade diaphragm Renders more natural appearance of out-of-focus image elements. Internal Focus (IF) Provides fast and quiet autofocus without changing the length of the lens, retaining subjectworking distance through the focus range. Focuses to 4.6 feet Close focusing provided throughout the entire zoom range for extended versatility. M/A focus mode switch Enables quick response to changing situations between manual and autofocus operation. Flower-shaped lens hood Included HB-48 lens hood--shades the objective from unwanted, image-degrading light.
Brand: Nikon
Focal Length Description: 70-200 mm
Lens Type: Telephoto
Compatible Mountings: Nikon F
Camera Lens Description: Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II AF-S Nikkor Zoom Lens For Nikon Digital SLR Cameras (New, White box)
Focal Length Description: 70-200 mm
Lens: Telephoto
Compatible Camera Mount: Nikon F
Maximum Focal Length: 200 Millimeters
Minimum Focal Length: 70 Millimeters
Lens Design: Prime
Focus Type: Auto/Manual
Lens Fixed Focal Length: 200 Millimeters
Lens Coating Description: Super Integrated Coating
Zoom Ratio: 2.9x
Image stabilization: Digital
Real Angle Of View: 34.33 arcmin
Maximum Aperture: 2.8 Millimeters
Minimum Aperture: 22 Millimeters
Number of Diaphragm Blades: 9
Compatible Camera Models: All digital Nikon cameras, FX and DX
Lens Mount: Nikon F
Video Capture Resolution: 1920 x 1080
Compatible Devices: DSLR Camera
Exposure Control Type: Automatic
Water Resistance Level: Not Water Resistant
Media Type: ProductImage
Color: Black
Brand: Nikon
Camera Lens: Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II AF-S Nikkor Zoom Lens For Nikon Digital SLR Cameras (New, White box)
Model Name: 2185
UPC: 018208021857
Manufacturer Part Number: 2185
Global Trade Identification Number: 57
Unit Count: 1.0 Count
Model Number: 2185
Item Part Number: JAA807DA
Item Weight: 1540 Grams
Manufacturer: Nikon
Built-In Media: AF-S FX NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8G ED Vibration Reduction II Zoom Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras, CL-M2Soft Case, HB-48 Bayonet Lens Hood, LC-77 Snap-on Front Lens Cap, LF-4 Rear Lens Cap
Warranty Description: 1 year coverage for labor, 1 year coverage for parts, This warranty doesn't apply to the batteries and software driver that accompany this product
Frequently asked questions
If you place your order now, the estimated arrival date for this product is:
Wednesday, Jul 22
Yes, absolutely! You may return this product for a full refund within 30 days of receiving it.
To initiate a return, please visit our Returns Center.
View our full returns policy here.
To initiate a return, please visit our Returns Center.
View our full returns policy here.
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Top Amazon Reviews
Color: Black
Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8 VR ii - ah this is one fine lens indeed, talking about the build, speed, the clarity and definitely the quality of the imagery that this baby delivers. Truly a Nikon Legendary Lens. Since, I am not very knowledgable on the technical tic tack talk about this lens - I will stay away from those topics and (Good for you) give a more everyday words description for this Jewel. Getting excited? I am just by thinking about shooting this lens again. Pros: What has not been said about this lens? It looks pretty cute? Solid feel, Strong in my hands (you will not crush this with your hands), produces good enough (kidding there) insanely great photos, this Professional Grade lens - when handled correctly will produce photos that are sharper and clearer (insert more adjectives for that). Right off the box, after you open the box, you would already feel the Aura that this Jewel has- one touch and you know that it is not your give-away kit lens. Love the f/2.8 - as I recently understood how to use it and how to use it for the good of photography. The price is not a con, even though it really hurts my pocket to say it - the price is actually a plus - this way only the Professional, only the Serious and only those that can save money - are the only ones to purchase such a glass of this caliber, thus giving it the respect that it deserves. I would love it if more people get to use this glass, but sometimes, people are just not ready to use this yet. There is a learning curve, and I may say I have not gone through the whole of it yet. Even in that state of knowledge and lack thereof, this lens focuses faster than any lens I have and gives me that buttery-creamy Bokeh, that never ceases to give me and my clients the chills. The lens has some weight on it, must be all that metal thing that is found around the glass and stuff, this means your lens is very well protected from the elements, it is made from ... which country again... doesn't matter, what matters is by the feel of it, this is a serious gear, not a flimsy flamsy - I do not know why people consider this as a con? Truly - you are here because you are possibly looking for a way to produce the best possible imagery with no less than the best possible camera gear (the funds will allow). Of course the best photos need the best sacrifice sometimes, and that is what it is. Many "photographers" and "enthusiasts" out there and here in Amazon, want the best but are not willing to shell out the big bucks nor the physical sacrifice for high quality imagery that they seek, and that my friends is quite sad. Photography is not about convenience - it is about (insert what photography means for you)... Of course talent plays a part as well, do not forget however that we have the technology now, we have the good technology and we have the not so good, what you are looking at today is the best technology and it is at the tip of your fingers, come and get it! CLICK ADD TO CART NOW. Cons: huh? (other reviewers say price, weight, and some abnormal aberrations) - I do not believe that those are too bad. (read the Pro statements above) - the negatives that people talk about is actually about themselves. Lens too heavy? go work out! lens too pricey, save up for it! some kind of a technical mumby jumby i dont understand non- normal word usage jargon - i refer you to 1-800-Geek squad, and you can talk to them who has a what and a what. Thing is, there is a con for everything - it is up to YOU my online reader to figure a way around it. Do no be a stick in the mud (Stuck and will not budge). You are better than that my online reviewer... so go on and read some more. Reviewer: Josh - I am an amateur photographer - I work full time as something that does boring things, I do however - shoot business portfolios, engagements sessions and wedding days - Yes, am getting paid to do it as well. I would not call myself a Professional as I am not being paid as much as my boring job. Obviously, I shoot with Nikon DSLRs - (D80, D2Xs & D7000), thinking maybe time to move to Full (FX) cameras huh? I appreciate testing new products (rental or actually buying to own). Oh yeah, I do not work with NIKON or any of its affiliates ever in the past or present (I wish however that they send me the newest stuff to try out). If anyone can get me in touch with their group, pls leave a comment. Thank you in advance. I have actually gotten the chance (prior to my purchase of this lens from Amazon), to rent this lens from a popular camera gear rental online company - I used it for a few days and I liked it, it is a solid work horse that looks good and feels good to use. After a few days, I used this for a Wedding Gig and I was very impressed by how fast I was able to work with it, wondering what I was using and thinking on the prior weddings that I shot. The reception was at a penthouse of this hotel and as the sun went down, there goes our natural light - we had to depend on the speed of the lens and technical know-how. This baby delivers! ( the 70-200mm f/2.8 was attached to a D7000 and I had another D7000 with a 17-55mm f/2.8). Yes, after sometime at that very evening my body (my ankles and lower back) was feeling the weight of all these wonderful gear hugging my body comfortably as a run and chase the excited bride and groom of this day, I started working out more. A day after the shoot - I went and upload the photos from the 32 Gig memory cards to my Mac - I shot about 3,100 ++ photos. The first thing that popped in my mind... awesome photos Josh - are you sure you shot these? Yes! That is a wonderful shot, aah I got the shot, Yes, this is the one, we can put this on the cover and such. After an hour I knew that I must buy this lens (70-200mm), we wants it, we needs it, we must not be separated anymore, My Precious (sorry creepy moment there). Recommendation: Please, if you have the means, and I mean by means, is funds. If you have the funds - I urge you, actually I implore you to go ahead and take the plunge and purchase this lens. I use the word please to imply the importance in a little more subtle way. If you are like me, want to shoot with the best of what the creators of Nikon & Nikkor gear can come up with and want to create the best humanly possible imagery that your senses + your camera gear + your computer = can produce - come and get this precious, I mean lens. Something worth noting is that there are cheaper alternatives out there (Tokina, Tamron, or instagram) I will not be recommending any of those (3rd party) brand as I have 0 knowledge about them other than the fact that they exist. I will however recommend this lens again to you, my good online reader friend - I will recommend this to a friend, I would recommend this to an enemy, I would even recommend it to rival wedding photographers who shoot with Nikon bodies. Yeah, it's that good. What else can I say to make you buy this precious, I mean lens. I thank you for your time in reading this - and I do hope that this review helps you make your purchase/review. Pls click the thingy if you think this review helped you out (so that other seekers will be able to find) Please feel free to leave any cool comments or any rocking questions - ~ Josh
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Reviewed in the United States on September 1, 2012 by TOYOKANIN theyoutuber
Color: Black
I got this after I tried out the F/4. I must say this is a better lens but only because it has better low light performance that I am looking for and better blur at the wider aperture and I can use the 1.4x teleconvertor and still be at F/4. At a price point of over $1000 higher than the F/4, it is only worth it if you think you can get out of what you need. This is similar conversation when people compared the 85mm f1.8 vs 85mm f/1.4. Both lens are great and you can't go wrong with either. That said, if you can afford it, buy it!. If you have a smaller budget, definitely get the 70-200 f/4 as you would not regret it either. Good - one of the best lens Nikon has every made - great focal range between 70-200mm Ugly - expensive $2400 usually, sometimes it goes to $2100 when Amazon price matches another vendor (I love you Amazon) - heavy, you will get a good workout using this lens. Definitely recommend at least a monopod if you're going to use this. I haven't lugged this around on my neck yet and I don't plan to. Bottom Line - super high performance lens - must have for telephoto (or use it in the ranges in between such as 85 through 135mm for portrait work) - great to use it with a 1.4x teleconverter and only losing 1 f/stop to F/4 and get up to 280mm reach. Beats carrying another 70-300 f4.5-5.6 telephoto and image quality is better than the 70-300. Below is a summary of how I use all of my lens today and I hope it will help you find what you are looking for if you have similar needs as mine: * AF-S 50mm f/1.4: Great for infants and walk-around lens on the street. I use this lens most of the time for infant pictures because 1) I don't want to use flash when infants have their eyes open even if I have a softbox/umbrella. 2) lightweight 3) low light performance at f/1.4. I also uses this when I'm out of the house because it's not in-you-face when you pull it out of you bag so people won't notice you. This lens also makes me move around a bit to be more creative vs. just zoom in and out. 50mm lens makes me think more about the shots. * AF-S 60mm f/2.8 micro: Great macro lens: I use this for very close up shots. I can get as close to less than an inch away even though the minimum focal length isn't listed as being 1 inch away. You will want good lighting since flash will be useless when you are this close to the subject. I take photos of baby lips, eyes, face, hands and feet, & other objects such as jewelry * watches. Basically any fairly stationary subjects that I want to highlight the details and intentional imperfections/wrinkles, etc. I sometimes wonder if I should use this all the time instead of my 50mm but I find the 50mm better at non-macro shots because it focus faster and lets in 4 times more light. * AF-S 85mm f/1.8 : I use this most of the time for adult portraits and it has very good low light performance as well. I choose this over the f/1.4 version because the other reviews I've read on the web did not justify the extra $1000 spend for marginal performance improvement and unless I am getting paid to take pictures all the time, I don't see the need to pay the extra cost for the f/1.4. This lens also makes me move around a bit to be more creative vs. just zoom in and out. * AF-S 24-70mm f/2.8: I use this when I just don't know what kind of pictures I could be taking and need to have zoom & I don't have to move around as much. While I don't take landscape pictures (24mm) often, I will use this for a large group outing, birthday parties when I may need to get a wide shot of a lot of people in a room and be able to have a little bit of zoom capability and not have to walk up so close to the people's face. This allows me to get some candid shots when needed. It's fairly heavy at 2 lbs and huge when you put on the hood so I almost never use this lens when I'm on the street because it attracts a lot of unwanted attention. I wouldn't want this hanging on my neck or shoulders for a long period of time. * AF-S 70-200mm f/2.8 vr2 : This is one of my favorite lens only because I can use it for portraits as well (with some lighting support) and I can get really good candid shots since I can be much farther away 10-20ft from my subjects and able to get a nice picture. I do have to crop at times to get rid of the cluttered background but with the D600 camera, I have enough megapixel details to crop my pictures when needed. This is obviously a monster lens so I avoid taking it for street photos even though I've had some nice pictures and experiences on the street but it's so big... I've had people stopping me asking me if I'm a paparazzi and which celebrity I am stalking..... haha. It's almost over 3 lbs so I definitely wouldn't want this hanging on my neck or shoulders for a long period of time. * AF-S 70-200mm f/4: this is also a great lens and a fantastic alternative to the 2.8 version. At over $1000 less, this is a bargin and great lens if you're taking photos at good lighting conditions (outdoor, have flash or good indoor lighting). Otherwise it may be problematic for you at F/4.
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Reviewed in the United States on April 9, 2013 by Fruitielicious
Color: Black
Having just lost my Nikon D90 (stolen) and replaced it with a spanking new D700, I needed to go lens shopping. As an avowed fan of Sigma lenses, I had trouble parting with the coin to get this Nikon lens. However, neither Sigma nor anyone else has released a 70-200mm fast lens for the FX sensor on my new camera, at least not one with vibration reduction. I researched the resale value on this lens and its predecessor, looked at the specs for the upcoming Sigma lens, and decided to take the plunge. I don't want to repeat what the other top reviews on this lens are just for the sake of creating a helpful review, so here quickly is what I would say to anyone thinking of this lens: 1. If you have a DX sized sensor, like on the D90, D300, etceteras, I don't feel it's necessary to spend the money on this lens. You won't be sorry about the quality or the image, but there are other lenses out there that can more than adequately handle the job on an FX sensor. Look at the Sigma 18-200, which I also own and have reviewed separately. Sigma AF 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC OS (Optical Stabilizer) Zoom Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras 2. However, if you have an FX sensor, like on the D700 and the D3, I don't think you will find a zoom that produces results that match this lens. I am absolutely thrilled with the quality of the images I'm getting. The Sigma mentioned above crops on an FX sensor, obviating much of the benefit of the full size sensor. Of course, you still get the benefit of the three extra stops worth of sensitivity afforded by the larger sensor, but this on its own just isn't enough to justify not stepping up. 3. The weight and size of this lens is quite substantial. It's bigger than it looks, and heavier than you expect it to be. On a D700, the balance is reasonable, because the D700 is itself a hefty camera. When attached, if you set the assembly on a flat surface, it actually balances perfectly on the tripod mount, which is how I store it most of the time. When you walk around with the assembled camera/lens on your shoulder, it LOOKS and FEELS like you're a pro, whether you are or not. Portability was definitely not on the mind of Nikon designers when they created the lens. 4. Having said the above relative to size, it is important to bear in mind that all zoom movement is contained inside the lens, so there is no external length change as the lens is focused or zoomed. This is a very nice benefit; clearly an advantage compared to my Sigma lenses. I also have the Sigma 150-500 Sigma 150-500mm f/5-6.3 AF APO DG OS HSM Telephoto Zoom Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras, which stretches to double its length at full zoom. It looks quite ridiculous when fully extended, to be perfectly honest. I'm keeping that lens though, because unlike the 18-200, it projects an uncropped, full size, extremely crisp image on the FX sensor. 5. Also impressive is the focus. Once focused, this lens will zoom from 70mm all the way to 200mm without ANY change in focus. This is different from my experience with any other zoom lens I've used, and it's VERY impressive. 6. The speed and silence of the focus is equally impressive. This is a professional level lens and it shows here. Obviously, when you pay for a lens this expensive, you expect the performance to be great. But it's my opinion that this lens delivers every penny's worth. I honestly expected to be at least a little disappointed; some bit of buyer's remorse. I have none. Other reviewers have noted that the previous version of this same lens allowed closer focus than this new rev. I didn't have the previous version so I can't comment on that; I have no doubt that it's true. But I have not found the focus minimum distance to be an issue at all. As such, I have not one negative comment to offer. It's incredibly fast (and I've taken a number of shots at the f/2.8 aperture to confirm) with outstanding results and a gorgeous bokeh (the blurred background appearance that I personally adore in my portraits). The bottom line: I think you can use this lens, and this lens only, for focal lengths between 70mm and 200mm without needing to own or carry any prime lenses between these two distances. Given that level of excellence, the lens is worth it, and then some. I canceled my order for the 135mm prime Nikon I had intended to add, because I just can't see any real benefit to owning it on top of this. I use my 50mm f/1.4 for wider angles, a Sigma 10-20mm for wide angle, and the 150-500mm for the long telephoto. I don't think I'll be buying any more lenses for a long, long time. Questions and comments welcome.
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Reviewed in the United States on May 14, 2010 by Earl E. A. Dopter
Color: Black
Let me just start off by saying Amazon is doing a wonderful job of taking care of this issue. Just wanted to let everyone know that I received a lens that malfunctioned a few days out of the box. The AF crapped out on me, it wouldn't work with any camera body, happened when I was wrapping up an engagement session. I went home decided to give it a wipe down and cleaning, it worked again for some reason. I figured I may have fixed the problem then, how naive of me, but it sure did have the same issue once again. This time it happened during a wedding, but thank goodness once again it was towards the end of the event. I don't understand what I could of possibly done to of caused this issue and have come to the conclusion that it's just a faulty AF motor. Amazon Customer Service is sending me a replacement swap, so I won't go no days without one, but i'll have to Manual focus until then, which is not hell but it's not convenient for my work either. Once again thank you Amazon Customer Support, you have exceeded my expectations. Nikon on the other hand, that's 2/3 strikes, with the first being the D600 dust issues. UPDATE 07.31.13 Well, I haven't had any problems since the first lens I received and can conclude it must have just been a bad case of luck. The lens I currently have is outstanding and can't imagine not having this lens in my bag. I love the focal length and the sharpness of the image, even while shooting in hand.
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Reviewed in the United States on April 6, 2013 by edgar delagarza
Color: Black
First of all, I'm a guy that loves taking photographs. While not a professional, I'm becoming much more critical of my work and demanding higher quality. As a result, I'm finding myself looking at prosumer equipment to feed the need. Now that I've gotten the fact that I'm a wannabe photographer out of the way let's get on with the review, one that won't repeat the technical specifications that can be found under the, wait for it, technical specifications section of this page. A while back I wrote a review for the Nikon 70-300mm lens. While I love the lens for outdoor sports it left a lot to be desired for indoor sports photography. As such, I started the research process for a lens that would without breaking the bank. It didn't take long to see that the Nikon 70-200mm F2.8 lens came highly recommended. While much more than I wanted to originally spend, I figured I'd take the plunge and start saving for it. After collecting from football parents and saving for a few months I ordered the lens. Upon delivery the first thing I noticed was the size of the box. After the unboxing ceremony I noticed how the lens dwarfed my 70-300mm lens. Not only did it dwarf it, it outweighed it. But the weight was a good weight, if that makes any sense. The build of this lens screams quality and the golden band confirms it! The only plastic you'll find on this lens is on the lens caps, front and back and the lens hood. The zoom and focus rings are made of a rubber material that doesn't cheapen the look of the lens. The recurring theme for this lens is metal, metal and metal. After a quick inspection for defects I slapped on the B+W UV filter and attached the lens to the camera, a Nikon D7000. Hey, I'm saving for an FX variant as I type this review. With the lens attached and firmly in hand the first impression was how will I shoot a venue with this behemoth around my neck? After powering up the camera, I threw her in manual mode and pressed the shutter release button with the lens cap on. The lens flew through the focal lengths. For comparison I placed the 70-300mm lens on and repeated the process. While the 70-300mm lens performed adequately, there was no comparison between the two. The 70-200mm lens stole the show. I then removed the lens cap, found a few subjects and shot away. After downloading the photos to my computer for evaluation I was pleasantly surprised. But come to think of it I should not have been. After all, the reviews I read earlier should have primed me for the performance of the lens. I was satisfied with 85% of the shots I took. The 15% that didn't make the cut were not due to the lens. It was a result of poor composition, blah subjects, etc. The past few months since purchasing have been spent really learning the lens. To get the most out of it and minimize editing, I've modified my camera's presets to produce a more vivid photo straight from the camera. Once the sweet spot is found, the shooting experience is enhanced. Colors pop and the contrast brings a natural sense of complexity and depth to photos. Since purchasing the lens I've taken photographs of a youth basketball team and my son's wrestling team. Some gyms were well lit and other's not so much. With my camera's shutter firing at 1/400 an ISO of 2500 and an aperture of F2.8, I'm getting many more keepers. However, I have noticed that if I'm shooting basketball from the sidelines the lens can be a little long on a DX camera. While I may not capture as much of the scene as I would with my 50mm 1.8G or a wider angle lens, my next purchase, what you do capture will be razor sharp and crystal clear. Bottom line, if you're looking for a fast lens that allows you to shoot in low light environments pick this one up. I'm a happy camper and so are my customers. She's definitely a keeper. Oh, by the way, I've gotten over the weight.
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Reviewed in the United States on March 21, 2014 by Cary
Color: Black
OK, I'm not a professional. I use a D90 and 18-200 zoom and shoot kids, animals, vacations, etc.. I wanted to take better photos, so i purchased this lens, the 14-24 super lens, and a D700 (yes, spent about 6k). After reading the reviews you'd think the photos would be spectacular. I took at least 100 photos with my D90 and 18-200 lens and identical photos with identical settings on the D700 and each of the two super lenses. The D700 was able to use a faster stop in some situations, obviously, but the photos were taken at otherwise identical settings. And guess what, they looked identical on the computer too! Yes, if i blew them up to very unrealistic mags there was more detail with the 70-200 (the 18-24 never looked any better than the 18-200). And here's the real deal, be sure you look at this thing in a store before you buy it, it's HUGE and HEAVY. For a nonprofessional it's a real mistake to buy this lens. Maybe if you are the type that would spend thousands more for a D flawless diamond over another diamond that was identical to the naked eye, then maybe you'd enjoy these lenses because they are beautifully made and obviously of high quality. Otherwise there's no logical reason to waste all the money. And BTW, Amazon does not provide return shipping for these pricey items, so i spent almost $100 to ship back the camera and two lenses. Expensive lesson but well learned. My point is that you can take great photos with much less expensive equipment, great photos that cannot be distinguished from the ones you take with this lens. Check out Ken Rockwell's excellent web site for a down to earth and very expert assessment of the equipment you really need. He's a professional and certainly appreciates these types of lenses but he'll tell you that a D5000 and kit lens is all that most people really need.
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Reviewed in the United States on October 15, 2010 by bonedoc
Color: Black
Most would agree that it is indeed expensive so the only real question is if it is worth the investment. This is my take on it. First Impression: When the lens arrived and I opened the box I was surprised at its size and weight. I knew it was big but actually seeing and handling it seemed to drive home the point. This is not a comfortable lens to go puddle jumping and mountain climbing with. I do allot of travel photography and its portability (or lack thereof) immediately worried me. Build: The build feels amazing. Everything seems a perfect fit. Great attention to detail, excellent machining and raw materials are to thank (I am an engineer and tend to notice these things). The lens focuses very quickly and very silently. There is a focus limit switch that allows it to focus even faster. There is the normal Vibration Reduction On/Off switch and the Active/Normal switch. It also includes the Atuo Focus switch giving you the option of Automatic with a tougher manual override or Automatic with an easy manual override as well as the pure manual switch. Picture: As I took it out and began taking some test shots indoors (it was pouring down rain) I quickly forgot about the size and weight of the lens and was marveling at its speed (f2.8 is a godsend when lighting is poor). This beast handles light in a very refined manner. The bokeh is breath taking and image quality is beyond what I considered possible. I was unable to notice any distortion or vignetting (I was using a DX body so I cannot speak for an image shot on a FX body). When do I see the benefit of this lens? When shooting my family and I want the artistic nuance of an even bokeh. When I want that extra range to be able to zoom into my kids sports. When the sun begins to set and the f2.8 becomes needed. When I want to shoot wildlife that do not know how to model and I dare not venture close enough to teach them. When I want to shoot ANYTHING indoors short of a greenhouse. Overall: What this lens brings you is some additional tools for the photographer to use. I have a few lenses all of which cost less then this one does but almost all of them limit what I can do. That is to say that as light begins to wane I quickly have to resort to exceptional tools to get the shot including ISO, flash and tripod with longer shutter speeds. This lens allows me to forego those exceptional means for a little longer. This has given me more creative license and has allowed me to capture images that I would have otherwise miss with a quality of image that is beyond fantastic. What this lens is not is a easy travel partner. Photojournalism (I use this term to refer to people shots in and around a city) would be a challenge with this lens. You can see this thing from a mile away and everyone begins getting self conscience about it. On the other hand a simple 50mm 1.8 or 1.4 is my preferred lens for that kind of photography and it does not give me the flexible zoom range that this one does. Conclusion: This is the best lens I own. I will indeed take it traveling with me as the size and weight are a small price to pay for such a lens. There is a special feeling that I get when I focus in on a great shot opportunity with this lens and I KNOW that the picture will be excellent. With this lens on any camera and you run out of excuses for not shooting a great picture. As an unexpected bonus...it makes me want to take more pictures! Is that worth USD 2,300....simply put...yes.
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Reviewed in the United States on January 1, 2011 by Patrick G.
Color: Black
I did a fair amount of research on this lense before I made the investment, on both consumer and professional boards. My use application - photographing leaping dancers on a dim stage from the back of a high-school-sized auditorium - was beyond the capability of my prior lens, and I was tired of trading off blurry against dim/grainy. This lens is compatible with my Nikon camera body and I needed both the 200mm and f2.8, so it emerged as the best choice for me. Results - I took more than 8000 photos over two weekends, all live dance, real-time, single-opportunity, no retakes. I'd estimate that less than 2% were bad, probably all of those were operator error (wrong focus point, not enough settling before shooting, etc). The rest ranged from good to amazing (it helps having some great subject material) and close to 1% were poster quality: subjects frozen high in the air, no blurring of the extremities, fast/crisp focus, good color balance despite uneven stage lighting. Focus speed was super-quick (fraction of a second when using the 10meter lock-out setting). I used a tri-pod for about 80%, the only way I could differentiate them from the hand-held (with image stabilization enabled) was by the location from which the shots were taken. Shutter priority, 1/160 second, f-stop ranged from 2.8 (wide open) to 5 or so. Really appreciate the constant f-stop, never had the feature before; when continuously zooming in/out as the subject moves it eliminates the normal trade-off between speed and f-stop selection. Made a few images into posters - even at 20x30 inch these action shots were crip and clean. Yes, it is heavy. Invest in a sturdy tripod (one that allows smooth panning if your subject is moving) if you plan to use it for more than a minute or two straight... Yes, it is expensive. I waited a year after first seeing the predecessor in action before buying one for myself. Worth every penny. No, the battery drain is not a problem. Surprisingly minimal additional battery drain: with both VR and auto-focus running continously for each 3-minute shoot, a single EN-EL9 (1000mA-hr) was good for more than 3000 photos. One final comment, the bokeh is every bit as impressive as others have mentioned...
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Reviewed in the United States on April 25, 2010 by whythisglass