Nikon announces two new Nikkor lenses by Dan Carr

September 15, 2010

As well as the new Nikon D7000, Nikon has also announced two new lenses for the Nikkor lineup. The AF-S 35mm f1.4 and the AF-S 200mm f2.0 VRII

Full press release and more photos after the break

Nikon UK, 15 September 2010 – Nikon today announces a completely new professional telephoto lens AF-S NIKKOR 200mm f/2G ED VR II to replace AF-S VR NIKKOR 200mm f/2G IF-ED. The new lens features Nano Crystal Coat, the new generation of Vibration Reduction technology (VR II) and a new A/M focus mode, making it the ideal lens for serious photographers seeking uncompromised performance.

The lens retains the optical construction of its predecessor and delivers outstanding image quality with excellent sharpness, contrast and definition as well as smooth bokeh making it the perfect choice for photographers shooting stage events and indoor sports.

Zurab Kiknadze, Product Manager Lenses, Accessories and Software, Nikon Europe says: “The updates and improvements implemented in the new version of this highly regarded 200mm lens bring it in line with the latest NIKKOR technologies, providing even more shooting comfort and stability while delivering outstanding results.”

The update of this popular lens follows feedback from professional photographers. The improved handling and usability combined with outstanding image quality is testament to Nikon's commitment to meet the needs of professional photographers and to continually improve its line-up of professional, high-performance NIKKOR lenses.

Pin-sharp action shots
The AF-S NIKKOR 200mm f/2G ED VR II now features second generation Vibration Reduction technology (VR II), which provides compensation equivalent to a shutter speed four stops faster, making it easier to capture sharp images during hand-held shooting. The system incorporates two modes: Normal for general handheld shooting and Active to compensate for the vibration caused by, for example, moving vehicles.

The Silent Wave Motor (SMW) ensures quiet and accurate autofocus performance, so it won't disturb the subject or event.

The A/M mode has been added to the existing M/A and M modes. This additional focusing mode gives the autofocus system priority, even if the focus ring is being handled during shooting.

Crystal clear
The lens construction of 13 elements in nine groups with three ED glass and one Super ED glass elements, together with Nikon's unique Nano Crystal Coat, ensures highest-quality images. The ED glass construction delivers sharp and contrast-rich images whilst the Nano Crystal Coat effectively reduces ghost and flare, meaning the lens can be used with confidence, even when shooting into bright light. The lens also stands out because of its pleasing bokeh and subject-background separation, due to its large f/2 aperture combined with a rounded nine-blade diaphragm.

Built for the toughest of requirements
The AF-S NIKKOR 200mm f/2G ED VR II is built to meet the stringent demands of the professional photographer. The durable magnesium body and weather sealing means it's ideal for even the toughest of shooting conditions, protecting from moisture and dust. For extra peace of mind, Nikon's exclusive, detachable meniscus glass protects the large front glass element from accidental scratches.

The lens is fully compatible with all current Nikon teleconverters, increasing its versatility by allowing for extended tele reach. The AF-S NIKKOR 200mm f/2G ED VR II is supplied with lens hood HK-31, tripod-mount, drop-in filter holder and a high quality ballistic nylon case CL-L1 in the style of a shoulder bag

Nikon UK, 15 September 2010 – Nikon today announces a completely new, fast-aperture NIKKOR lens – the AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.4G. This is the third f/1.4 prime NIKKOR lens to be developed in the past six months further extending creative opportunities for professional photographers.

Zurab Kiknadze, Product Manager Lenses, Accessories & Software, Nikon Europe says: “The AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.4G sets a new benchmark for reportage and news photographers. It combines amazing contrast and resolution with brilliant low-light performance. Seen alongside the 24mm f/1.4 and 85mm f/1.4 lenses announced recently, this new lens underlines Nikon's ongoing drive to deliver the ultimate range of optics for photographers.”

Award winning photojournalist Kadir van Lohuizen of photo agency NOOR was amongst the first to view the new AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.4G. He said: “The 35mm is the standard ‘street' lens for many of us at NOOR and we are really excited about this new version, it's amazing. This fast prime lens will make it possible to shoot at almost every light condition at the highest-quality possible.” He added: “It's going to take our documentary projects to a new level for sure.”

Light Command
The AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.4G has been developed to deliver stunning images in all situations. An entirely new optical design with ten elements in seven groups (including one aspherical glass element) and a rounded, nine-blade diaphragm enables the photographer to make full use of the shallow depth of field that f/1.4 aperture lenses offer. Crystal sharp detail with super smooth bokeh separation sets your subject in the spotlight and offers a different look from images taken with the professional f/2.8 zoom lenses.

Night Photography
The optical construction incorporates Nano Crystal Coat and minimises reflections and sagittal blur, which means this lens renders point light sources and shadows with natural clarity, ideal for night scenes and astrophotography. The fast aperture also provides a bright viewfinder and is great for exploring the creative potential that the shallow depth of field can bring to the work of fine-art photographers and photojournalists.

Streetwise
The AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.4G is built to work as hard as you do and is a robust and reliable performer wherever your photography might take you. The dedicated Silent Wave Motor (SWM) ensures discreet but accurate autofocus. It operates with smooth gearing and has a broad focus ring for fine manual focus accuracy down to the minimum focusing distance of 30cm. The tough magnesium construction features subtle grooves to assist a left-hand grip as well as rubber mount and switch sealing to deter dust and moisture. Weighing in at a solid 600g, it is designed to balance well with FX format DSLRs such as the D700 and D3 series.

The lens is supplied with a HB-59 hood, and a soft pouch.