Last Updated on 07/04/2012 by Gevon Servo
At a recent event, I had the opportunity to have a quick hands on session with the new Nikon lenses. I was not able to use a memory card but I was able to look through and get a general feel for the lenses. We will review each of these lenses at some point in the future. Overall, they felt good. Let’s see why.
Nikon 24-85mm F3.5-4.5 G
For FX-Format D-SLRs
Wide-Angle to Medium Telephoto 3.5x Zoom
Three Aspherical Lens Elements
One Extra-Low Dispersion Lens Element
Nikon VR Image Stabilization
Nikon Super Integrated Coating
Silent Wave Motor & Superior Close Focus
Auto Tripod Detection
M/A (Manual/Auto) Focus Mode Switch
Round 7-Blade Diaphragm & Internal Focus
Costing around $600 , this lens is intended for full frame cameras like my D700. The lens was mounted on the Nikon D800 and it was rather nice. It’s an image stabilized, multipurpose lens that will not break the bank like the Nikon 24-70mm f2.8. Range-wise, it reminds me of my old 28-80mm f3.3-5.6 G lens. Ergonomically, it slightly reminds me of a hybrid between my 85mm f1.8 D and my 40mm f2.8 due to its size and button placement. This lens seems nice for events and photo walking. It will do well with portraits but I would use a 50mm or 85mm prime before this. This lens is weird because it seems like if you can afford a D800 or a D4 you would invest in a 24-70mm F2.8. This lens may be for something unreleased or the D700.
Nikon 18-300mm f3.5-5.6 G ED
FX-Format Zoom
VR II Image Stabilization
Focus to 18″ at Any Focal Length
Zoom Lock Switch
Super Integrated Coating (SIC)
M/A Focus Mode Switch
Internal Focus (IF)
Silent Wave Motor (SWM)
Rounded 9-Blade Diaphragm
This lens is beefy, especially on the D3200 which is what I used with it. It is also expensive in my view, much more than the bodies it is meant for. It is, however, a decent travel lens. I can see you carrying this with a 40mm f2.8 macro and a Nikon D7000 or a D3200. The lens is not too heavy, and it has a decent build quality. The buttons seemed nicely placed and easily accessible. This lens is for the traveling DX user. It is not one lens to rule them all, but it can serve you well. If you can only carry one lens, this may be it.
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