Nikon adds high-end DX, FX telephoto lenses
updated 11:05 am EDT, Thu July 30, 2009
Nikon 2009 Telephotos
To complement the D3000 and D300s, Nikon today added two telephoto-ranged lenses, one of which fits these DX mount cameras. This lens, the DX 18-200mm f3.5-5.6 ED VR II, adds Nikon's second generation image stabilization that improves the anti-blur effect to the equivalent of shooting four shutter speeds slower than intended, an improvement particularly important at the telephoto distances of the new optics. The extra-low dispersion (ED) glass has also been improved to minimize both glare and ghosting.
It contains both a silent autofocus motor and a zoom lock to prevent lens creep when the camera is tilted downwards. Nikon ships the 18-200mm lens first and will have it ready in September for $850.
Owners of the D700, D3 and other full-frame FX mount cameras now have access to the 70-200mm f2.8G ED VR II. It too adds the better image stabilization for its exclusively telephoto shooting and improves the glass not just to reduce artifacts but to improve color reproduction as well. Three different focusing modes (including manual) also vary the degree of control over autofocus. As with the previous 70-200mm lens, its aperture is a continuous f2.8 across the entire length and is particularly useful for low-light and action shots. Shipments don't start until November, though, and the lens will cost $2,400.
