Nikon 400mm 2.8 G ED VR lens. USA model. Used one soccer season for high school sports. In Excellent ++ condition. Comes with Lens, Caps, Hood, 3 feet including RRS foot, carrying straps (not used), storage case, original outer boxes (including one not pictured). Works perfectly. Fantastically sharp! If you have been shooting with a 70-200 or 300 you must give this a try. I got so many amazing photos from it.
Certainly! Let's delve into the fascinating world of telephoto lenses with the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 400mm f/2.8G ED VR. Strap in, because this lens is a beast in every sense of the word.
Overview and Build Quality:
- The Nikon 400mm f/2.8G ED VR is a super-telephoto prime lens designed for professional sports, wildlife, and action photographers.
- It's part of Nikon's flagship lineup, boasting top-tier optics and build quality.
- The lens features a robust magnesium alloy construction, weather sealing, and a weight that'll remind you why you skipped arm day at the gym.
Optical Design and Image Quality:
- The optical formula includes three Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) glass elements to minimize chromatic aberrations and ensure sharpness.
- Nano Crystal Coat reduces ghosting and flare, even when shooting directly into the sun.
- The 400mm f/2.8G produces creamy bokeh, making your subject pop against a dreamy background.
Aperture and Depth of Field:
- With a wide f/2.8 aperture, this lens lets in a ton of light. Perfect for low-light conditions or freezing fast-moving subjects.
- The shallow depth of field at f/2.8 creates beautiful separation between your subject and the background. Portraits of wildlife have never looked so majestic.
Vibration Reduction (VR):
- VR technology compensates for camera shake, allowing you to shoot handheld at slower shutter speeds.
- The VR system in this lens is like having a tiny Zen master inside—it steadies your shots even when you're caffeinated or standing on a wobbly boat.
Autofocus and Speed:
- The Silent Wave Motor (SWM) ensures fast, precise autofocus. Birds in flight? Check. Sprinting cheetahs? Check.
- The focus ring is buttery smooth, and manual override is instantaneous. You'll feel like a lens whisperer.
Teleconverters and Compatibility:
- The 400mm f/2.8G plays well with others. Attach Nikon's teleconverters (TC-14E II, TC-17E II, or TC-20E III), and you'll reach astronomical focal lengths.
- Want to photograph the moon's craters? Pop on the TC-20E III and say hello to 800mm (and a sore bicep).
Weight and Handling:
- At around 11 pounds (5 kg), this lens isn't for the faint-hearted. But hey, strong arms are overrated, right?
- The integrated tripod collar lets you mount it like a pro. Just remember to hydrate before lugging it around all day.
Price Tag:
- Now, the part that makes wallets cry: This lens costs more than a small car. But hey, it's an investment in your photography journey. And who needs a car when you can capture eagles mid-dive?
Fun Facts:
- The lens hood could double as a medieval shield. Seriously, it's massive.
- Owning this lens automatically grants you honorary membership in the "400mm f/2.8 Owners' Secret Handshake Club." Meetings are held at golden hour.
In summary, the Nikon 400mm f/2.8G ED VR is a precision instrument for serious photographers. Whether you're stalking elusive wildlife or capturing the intensity of a sports event, this lens delivers. Just be prepared to answer questions like, "Is that a bazooka?" and "Can you see Mars with that thing?"