Nikon has announced a new lens for it’s line of DX (cropped sensor) cameras, the AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR.
For reference sake, the 55-300mm will replace the existing Nikkor 55-200mm.
This new lens is compatible with the D3100 and D5000 entry-level Nikon DX-format digital-SLR cameras as well as high-end digital-SLR cameras such as the D300S.
NIKKOR 55-300mm Features
- A 5.5x super-telephoto zoom lens with a focal length of 55-300 mm
- The first interchangeable lens to utilize a high refractive index (HRI) lens element, which allows for a more compact and lightweight size, as well as offering pleasing rendering performance
With a refractive index of 2.0 or higher, the use of a single HRI lens element provides the same benefits as multiple elements made of standard optical glass. In addition, as this single lens element also compensates for focal plane curvature and spherical aberration, the lens itself could be made smaller and lighter yet still offer 5.5x magnification and support for super-telephoto shooting at up to 300 mm. It exhibits excellent contrast and sharp rendering throughout the entire frame even at maximum aperture. - Built-in vibration reduction (VR II) offering camera shake compensation equivalent to a shutter speed increase of approximately four steps
The benefits of vibration reduction are best demonstrated with super-telephoto shooting. This feature stabilises the view through the viewfinder for simpler focusing.
- Two ED lens elements used for superior chromatic aberration compensation
- Equipped with a Silent Wave Motor (SWM) for extremely quiet autofocusing
Press Release:
Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the release of the AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR. This DX-format super-telephoto zoom lens covers the 55 mm to 300 mm range of focal lengths and is equipped with Nikon’s latest vibration reduction mechanism, VR II, for simple and enjoyable super-telephoto photography.
As a super-telephoto lens covering the 55 mm to 300 mm range of focal lengths, the AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR is capable of capturing the main subject at sporting events, indoor events or in vacation photos largely, even from a distance. Equipped with Nikon’s own VR II vibration reduction mechanism, blur caused by camera shake is significantly reduced, even with super-telephoto shooting, allowing users to shoot comfortably and focus their attention on photo opportunities. As Nikon’s first interchangeable lens with a high refractive index (HRI) lens element, this lens is compact and lightweight, making it very portable despite being a super-telephoto zoom lens. This allows users to easily carry the lens with them and enjoy super-telephoto shooting anytime and anywhere.
Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR Lens: Specifications
| Focal length | 55-300mm (35mm format equivalent 82.5-450mm) |
| Maximum aperture | f/4.5-5.6 |
| Minimum aperture | f/22-29 |
| Lens construction | 17 elements in 11 groups (with two ED glass elements, three aspherical lenses and Nano Crystal Coat |
| Angle of view | 28°50’-5°20’ |
| Closest focus distance | 1.4m / 4.6ft. |
| Max reproduction ratio | 0.28x |
| Diaphragm blades | 9 (rounded) |
| Focusing | AF with built in SWM and Manual focus |
| Filter/attachment size | 58mm |
| Diameter x length | Approx. 76.5 x 123 mm |
| Weight | Approx. 530g / 18.7oz. |
| Available | 2nd September 2010 |
