Nikon NIKKOR Z 400mm f/4.5 VR S Lens

The NIKKOR Z 400mm f/4.5 VR S is recognized as "the smallest and lightest 400mm lens ever produced by Nikon." This super-telephoto prime lens combines exceptional portability with an extended reach, advanced optical performance, and effective autofocus and vibration reduction capabilities. It serves as a versatile option for sports and wildlife photographers who require a handheld design and sufficient reach for capturing distant subjects. Notably distinct among super-telephoto lenses, the 400mm f/4.5 stands out for its sleek and lightweight construction, making it an excellent choice for travel or any shooting situation that favors handheld operation. Its sophisticated optical design incorporates a range of specialized elements that contribute to a lighter and more compact overall profile. The moderate f/4.5 maximum aperture strikes a practical balance between size, speed, and weight. With dimensions comparable to a 70-200mm f/2.8 lens, this model measures only 9.2 inches in length and weighs 2.7 pounds. In comparison to the Z 400mm f/2.8 lens, this f/4.5 variant is 3.8 pounds lighter and 6 inches shorter.

This lens is designed to significantly reduce chromatic aberrations, color fringing, and comatic aberrations. It incorporates one extra-low dispersion (ED) glass element and two Super ED elements, in addition to one short-wavelength refractive (SR) element. The SR element utilizes a specialized high-dispersion design that effectively refracts wavelengths shorter than blue, facilitating precise color rendering and contributing to a more compact lens design. Furthermore, a Nano Crystal Coat has been applied to provide comprehensive anti-glare protection from all angles, effectively minimizing ghosting, reflections, and flare, thereby enhancing contrast and ensuring accurate color reproduction in challenging lighting and backlit scenarios.

• The advanced autofocus system employs stepping motors to provide rapid and precise focusing capabilities, ensuring a smooth and silent autofocus experience that is ideal for both photography and videography.
  
  
• Full-time manual focus override is available, and the design incorporates internal focusing, which allows only the internal lens groups to move during the focusing process. This design choice helps maintain the lens's overall length during operation and enhances focusing speed.
  
  
• The Vibration Reduction image stabilization technology minimizes the effects of camera shake by approximately 5.5 stops, facilitating handheld shooting in low-light conditions.
  
  
• Synchro VR is supported when used with compatible cameras that feature sensor-shift VR, merging in-body VR with optical VR to achieve enhanced stabilization of up to 6 stops.
  
  
• The design emphasizes a lightweight and agile structure, allowing for the easy removal of the tripod foot, which contributes to a more streamlined profile suitable for handheld operation.
  
  
• The physical configuration strategically positions the center of gravity towards the rear of the lens, near the tripod mount, facilitating smoother and more responsive panning whether shooting handheld or utilizing a tripod or monopod. Additionally, the tripod mount features a rotating mechanism that simplifies the transition between vertical and horizontal shooting formats.
  
  
• An intuitive control layout enables "no-look" operation, placing frequently used buttons and dials within easy reach, thereby minimizing the need to divert attention from the viewfinder.
  
  
• The front of the lens is equipped with an anti-slip rubber grip, ensuring stability during handheld shooting.
  
  
• A separate manual focus ring, along with a programmable control ring, provides distinct tactile feedback for precise adjustments to shooting settings.
  
  
• This lens is also compatible with optional Z-Teleconverter TC-1.4x and TC-2x, allowing for an extended focal range.
  
  
• The weather-sealed construction features rubber gaskets designed to inhibit the entry of dust and moisture, while the exposed components are treated with a fluorine coating that effectively repels dirt and oils, facilitating easier cleaning.
  
  
• You can save a focusing position using the Memory Set button, allowing for immediate return to that position by pressing either the Fn or Fn2 buttons—ideal for capturing quick movements.
  
  
• There are two customizable L-Fn buttons that can be programmed for functions such as subject tracking, AF lock, image playback, or other operational modes. The L-Fn2 button is conveniently located in four different positions on the barrel for easy accessibility.
  
  
• The focus limiter switch allows you to restrict the focus range to between 19.7 feet and infinity, or utilize the full focusing range from 8.2 feet to infinity.
  
  
• The programmable Control Ring can be assigned to adjust aperture, ISO, or exposure compensation settings.
  
  
• There is support for a Kensington lock to secure the lens during remote shooting activities.
  
  
• The lens is compatible with front screw-in filters measuring 95mm.