The AF-S Nikkor 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR is a new super telephoto zoom lens for Nikon's FX-format digital SLR cameras. The optical construction featurs 19 elements in 12 groups (including three ED glass elements) and a 9-bladed iris diaphragm with electromagnetic aperture control for maintaining consistent exposures during high-speed continuous shooting. The lens has a close-focus point of 2.2m (measured from the sensor plane), and a maximum reproduction ratio of 1:4.5. The Vibration Reduction (VR) feature offers up to 4.5 stops of image stabilisation, and features the latest Sport VR mode for shooting subjects that move quickly and unpredictably. Weighing in at approximately 2300g including the supplied tripod collar, the Nikon AF-S Nikkor 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR will become available next month, at a manufacturer's suggested retail price of £1,179.99 / €1,599 / $1,399.95.

Nikon Press Release

Easily enjoy super-telephoto photography

A super-telephoto zoom lens compatible with the Nikon FX format

TOKYO - Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the release of the AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR, a super-telephoto zoom lens compatible with Nikon FX-format digital SLR cameras.

The AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR is a 2.5x super-telephoto zoom lens that supports the 200-500 mm*1 range of focal lengths with a maximum aperture of f/5.6. Adoption of ED glass elements achieves superior optical performance with which chromatic aberration is suppressed.

In addition, the AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR is equipped with a vibration reduction (VR) function that exhibits the highest level of camera shake compensation available with a NIKKOR lens—equivalent to a 4.5-stop*2 increase in shutter speed. It is also equipped with a SPORT VR mode, which enables effective photography of athletes and other subjects that move quickly and unpredictably. What's more, the AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR is equipped with an electromagnetic diaphragm mechanism that enables stable exposure control with high-speed continuous shooting for comfortable hand-held shooting that captures the decisive moment as a wild bird flaps its wings, or of an airplane in flight.

This super-telephoto zoom lens brings distant subjects closer and makes them stand out from backgrounds with the shallow depth of field and large bokeh (pleasing blur characteristics) common to this type of lens. The AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR is a super-telephoto zoom lens that allows anyone, from those new to super-telephoto photography to experienced photo enthusiasts, to easily enjoy sharp, blur-free rendering throughout the entire zoom range.

*1When used with a DX-format digital SLR camera, the effective angles of view are equivalent to those of a lens with focal lengths of 300-750 mm in 35mm [135] format.
*2When a digital SLR camera equipped with a full-size image sensor is used. Measured with the zoom lens at the maximum telephoto position in NORMAL VR mode in accordance with CIPA standards.

Other Features

Supports the new 95 mm screw-on Neutral Color NC Filter and 95 mm Circular Polarizing Filter II optional accessories

Nikon UK Press Release

Nikon changes the super-telephoto landscape with the new AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR

London, UK, 4th August 2015: Nikon unveils a brand new ‘big zoom’ and introduces a whole new level of super-telephoto versatility. Packed with the latest lens technologies, the AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR offers incredible reach.

Whether you shoot wildlife, birds, planes, or amateur sports, this powerful new FX-format zoom delivers unwavering performance. The 200-500mm range offers exceptional reach, while the constant f/5.6 aperture enables consistent speed and smooth control over depth of field across the entire zoom range. Performance is superb thanks to an optical construction that’s made up of 19 elements in 12 groups, and features three ED glass elements to help ensure minimal chromatic aberration. As the longest fixed-aperture zoom in the current NIKKOR line up, the new NIKKOR 200-500mm also boasts the latest generation of Nikon’s Vibration Reduction (VR) technology. This impressive system lets you shoot at shutter speeds up to 4.5 stops slower and includes SPORT VR mode for tracking fast action. In addition, Nikon’s exclusive Silent Wave Motor (SWM) offers a fast AF response. The electromagnetic diaphragm delivers stable AE control even during high-speed continuous shooting.

Edward Allinson, Junior Product Manager for Lenses & Accessories at Nikon UK says: “The new 200-500mm lens is an exciting addition to Nikon’s super-telephoto range, as it offers superb performance, exceptional reach and it won’t break the bank. Many photographers find they require a serious budget to invest in a super-telephoto lens, the 200-500mm is an exciting option for photographers who want that extra reach when capturing distant subjects at an affordable price.”

Unwavering performance

The 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR continues Nikon’s tradition of advancing imaging technology. With the recently developed SPORT VR mode integrated into the VR system, this lens is ideal for photographing moving subjects such as birds in flight, or fast-paced sports. SPORT VR excels in situations in which a photographer needs to pan the camera to track subjects. The mode delivers a stable viewfinder image, and allows a continuous shooting frame rate similar to those that are achievable when VR is turned off.

Reach far

The fixed maximum aperture of f/5.6 throughout the entire zoom range also enables AF operation when using a 1.4x teleconverter attached to an f/8-compatible camera.

The AF-S NIKKOR 200-­500mm f/5.6E ED VR boasts a zoom-lock switch to keep it secure when it’s not in use, and a detachable tripod foot that helps stabilise the lens when using a tripod. A detachable hood and soft case is included with the lens.

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