Nikon Nikkor Z 400mm F4.5 VR S: A Game-Changing Prime Lens for Precision and Portability

Nikon Nikkor Z 400mm F4.5 VR S: A Game-Changing Prime Lens for Precision and Portability

Written by Deepak Bhagat, In Camera, Published On
November 18, 2023
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In the ever-evolving world of photography, the pursuit of exceptional image quality often converges with the need for portability and ease of use. Nikon, a prominent name in the realm of imaging technology, introduces the NIKKOR Z 400mm f/4.5 VR S—a revolutionary prime lens that embodies a perfect amalgamation of power, precision, and portability.

The NIKKOR Z 400mm f/4.5 VR S stands out as Nikon’s smallest and lightest 400mm prime lens to date, redefining the boundaries of mobility for photographers. This compact lens, just over 9 inches long and weighing merely 2.5 lbs, revolutionizes the ability to shoot handheld without compromising on accuracy or image quality. Whether you’re capturing fleeting wildlife moments, dynamic action shots, or the elegance of aircraft in flight, this lens offers unparalleled versatility and performance.

Specifications for Nikon Nikkor Z 400mm F4.5 VR S

Specifications Details
Brand Nikon
Focal Length Description Telephoto 400mm
Lens Type Telephoto
Compatible Mountings Nikon Z
Camera Lens Description 400 mm
Product Dimensions 9.23 x 4.09 x 4.09 inches
Item Weight 2.56 pounds
ASIN B0B52C7Z7D
Item model number 20112

Key Features for Nikon Nikkor Z 400mm F4.5 VR S

Nikon Nikkor Z 400mm F4.5 VR S

Nikkor Z 400mm f/4.5 VR S – one impressive piece of engineering art, which sets and resets benchmarks in the field of camera gear.

  1. Unmatched Portability and Handling

The small design of a lens goes against standard expectations, letting photographers carry less gear while not losing out on a good shot. This design also makes it relatively light, providing easy movement to ensure photographers do not have to carry cumbersome gear while taking the best shots. Powerful vibration reduction (VR) technology worth up to 6.0 stops while attached to the z 9 camera, gives assured and steady results when taking photos under poor conditions. This is a game-changing feature that enables sharp pictures of any sort with no blur.

  1. Superb Autofocus and Silent Operation

The AF-S DX NIKKOR ED 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens is driven by the company’s proprietary STM (stepping) motor which allows for super fast focusing speeds, that also operate noise Its outstanding characteristic gives it an edge when used as a camera meant to take pictures of wild animals and when used as a camcorder because there is no distractive sound during the transition of focal points.

  1. Optical Brilliance and Image Quality

The optic lens design that comprises super ED, ED, and SR glass is almost rid of chromatic aberration, and color fringing, and provides incredible sharpness and clarity. Point-light sources are even more perfect, and the lenses’s coverage goes almost to the edge of the frame with hardly any vignetting at all.

  1. Seamless Integration and Extendable Reach

This is designed as a complement to the Z series teleconverters TC-1.4x and TC-2.0x, which allow photographers to expand their range and still preserve high resolution. These teleconverters are used in an optimized optical design that still presents exceptional clarity. It also offers an extremely pleasing bokeh that complements the inherent compression provided by the 400mm focal length, resulting in a strong visual depth of field on captured pictures.

  1. S-Line Excellence

Carrying the esteemed S-Line badge, this lens stands as a testament to Nikon’s unwavering commitment to delivering premium optics. It showcases superior resolution, exquisite bokeh, robust weather sealing, and precision design, embodying the pinnacle of optical engineering.

Pros and Cons of Nikon Nikkor Z 400mm F4.5 VR S

Nikon Nikkor Z 400mm F4.5 VR S

Pros Cons
Unparalleled portability for a 400mm prime lens. Higher price point compared to similar focal length lenses.
Exceptional image quality with minimal aberrations and superb sharpness. A limited maximum aperture of f/4.5 may not suit low-light shooting scenarios.
Powerful Vibration Reduction technology for stability.
Fast, precise, and near-silent autofocus system.
Compatibility with teleconverters for extended reach.
The S-Line designation ensures top-notch optical quality and weather sealing.

Verdict about Nikon Nikkor Z 400mm F4.5 VR S

Nikon Nikkor Z 400mm F4.5 VR S

The Nikon Nikkor Z 400mm F4.5 VR S brings forth an unprecedented dimension of superiority among prime lenses. It offers a unique combination of small size, and excellent image resolution coupled with professional hardware for professional photo shoots. Although this may be true, professionals as well as serious amateurs will certainly deem it worth the investment.{inate, professionals, as well as serious amateurs, shall certainly deem it worth the investment.

FAQs

  1. Is this lens reliable enough for this kind of photography?

Absolutely. Its excellent autofocus which combines with a slim and light construction makes it an ideal camera for shooting fast sports action.

  1. Is this lens weather-sealed?

The lens has weather-sealed construction which makes sure that it’s reliable in harsh weather conditions.

  1. Are there any cameras that are suitable when you use them together with the NIKKOR Z 400mm f/4.5 VR S?

This is made specifically for Nikon Z line system cameras, allowing smooth functionality.

  1. What is chromatic aberration and how is it handled by the lens?

Super ED, ED, and SR glass elements in the optical design of the lens eliminate chromatic aberration and color fringing for top-of-the-line image quality.

  1. Will this lens work properly when taken outdoors to take pictures of portraits?

Although it was made specifically used for wildlife action and sports; the lens’s 400 mm focal length and excellent optical quality give you a chance to capture strange angles of pictures such as the environment.

  1. Does this lens come with a fixed or adjustable aperture?

This lens features an open aperture of f/4.5 which is considered good for gathering light and allows some working with shallow depths of field even on lower light conditions than other faster (faster meaning larger) lenses would handle.

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