Nikon has released details of two new lenses, the AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR and FX-format AF-S NIKKOR 24-85mm f/3.5-4.5G ED VR, which are scheduled for international release from the end of this month.
The AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR is expected to sell for around US$1000 and covers a focal length range equivalent to 27-450mm in 35mm format. Ideal for travellers who want a general-purpose lens for all types of subjects, it has a zoom lock to prevent the lens from extending when it is carried facing downwards. The optical design consists of 19 elements in 14 groups and includes three ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass elements and three aspherical elements to minimise common aberrations. A nine-bladed iris diaphragm closes to a near circular aperture for attractive bokeh.
The AF-S NIKKOR 24-85mm f/3.5-4.5G ED VR is designed as a ‘walkabout’ lens for Nikon’s FX-format DSLR cameras. It is expected to sell for around US$600 and has an optical design containing 16 elements in 11 groups, with one ED element and three aspherical elements. A seven-bladed iris diaphragm closes to a near circular aperture.
Both lenses feature Nikon’s VR image stabilisation. The AF-S NIKKOR 24-85mm f/3.5-4.5G ED VR also includes Auto Tripod detection, which recognises when the camera is tripod-mounted and adjusts stabilisation accordingly. Both lenses are suitable for use when recording video movies.
More information on the lenses is available at http://mynikonlife.com.au/news.
