Nikon introduces new 70-200mm f/2.8 VR and 19mm f/4 tilt-shift lens

Nikon introduces a new version of its 70-200mm f/2.8 VR lens. The zoom lens gets a new optical design and improved image stabilization. The manufacturer also comes with the PC Nikkor 19mm f/4, a tilt-shift lens for architectural photography.

The new zoom lens is fully called AF-S Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR. Nikon promises improved VR image stabilization, which should compensate up to four stops. The new optical design consists of 22 elements in 18 groups. Nikon uses six low dispersion ED elements and one fluorite element in the design. The zoom is equipped with an electromagnetic diaphragm and the lens elements are finished with Nikon’s Nano Crystal coating. The outer elements have a moisture-resistant fluorine coating.

The housing of the new 70-200 mm f/2.8 VR is sealed against dust and moisture. The lens is 203mm long, has a diameter of 89mm and weighs 1430 grams. Filters of 77mm can be used and the minimum focus distance is 1.1 meters. From November 10, the lens is for sale for a suggested retail price of 3179 euros.

Nikon also presents an ultra-wide angle with tilt-shift functionality: the PC Nikkor 19mm f/4E ED. The shift range is 12mm and the maximum tilt is 7.5 degrees. The tilt and shift mechanisms can be rotated independently, something that was not possible with previous Nikon tilt-shift lenses. The lens has to compete with the Canon 17 mm f/4 TS-E, for a long time that was the only ultra-wide angle for DSLRs with perspective correction.

The 19mm lens consists of 17 elements in 13 groups and the weight is 885 grams. Due to the mechanical construction, the lens can only be used on the Nikon D4, D3, D810 and D500 without restrictions. The lens does fit on other Nikon DSLRs, but the housing can get in the way, making it impossible to fully adjust the lens in all directions. The PC Nikkor 19mm f/4 is for sale from October 27 for a suggested retail price of 3949 euros.