Mark Ellington
Nikon AF-S 800mm f/5.6 Lens for DSLR
Introduction
The Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 800mm f/5.6E FL ED Vibration Reduction Lens is a premier offering from Nikon, designed specifically for DSLR photographers who demand exceptional performance in challenging conditions. Released in April 2013, this lens is part of Nikon’s esteemed NIKKOR line and is particularly favored for wildlife, sports, and astronomical photography. With a price tag of $9649.95, it is positioned as a high-end solution for professional photographers.
Product Overview
This lens is engineered with cutting-edge technology to cater to photographers who need superior optics and versatile functionality. It is part of the FX format lens category, ensuring compatibility with Nikon’s full-frame DSLR cameras. Its primary use is in capturing distant subjects with remarkable clarity and detail, making it a must-have for serious wildlife and sports photographers.
Appearance and Design
The Nikon AF-S 800mm f/5.6E lens showcases a robust and sophisticated design. Its exterior is constructed with a combination of high-quality materials, including a magnesium alloy body that ensures durability while remaining relatively lightweight for its category. The lens features a matte black finish, giving it a professional look while minimizing reflections during shoots.
Unique design elements include a retractable lens hood that protects the glass and a weather-sealed body that provides some resistance against moisture and dust—essential for outdoor photography. The lens barrel is adorned with the familiar Nikon branding and a large focus ring that offers smooth manual adjustments.
Key Features and Specifications
- Focal Length: 800mm (expandable to 1000mm with the AF-S TELECONVERTER TC800-1.25E ED)
- Aperture: f/5.6
- Vibration Reduction (VR) technology for steady handheld shooting
- ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass elements to minimize chromatic aberration
- Silent Wave Motor (SWM) for fast and quiet autofocus
- Weight: Approximately 4.4 kg (9.7 lbs)
- Warranty: Manufacturer warranty included
- Part Number: 2205
Experience Using the Product
In various shooting scenarios, the Nikon AF-S 800mm f/5.6 lens truly shines. During a recent wildlife photography expedition, I was able to capture stunning images of birds in flight, with the lens providing razor-sharp detail and vibrant colors. The Vibration Reduction feature proved invaluable, allowing me to shoot handheld at slower shutter speeds without compromising image quality.
When testing the lens for sports photography, I found its autofocus capabilities to be impressively fast and accurate, ensuring that fast-moving subjects remained in focus. The bokeh produced by the lens was equally impressive, allowing for beautiful separation between foreground and background elements, making it ideal for portrait-style shots even at long distances.
However, it’s worth noting that the lens’s weight can be challenging for prolonged use without support. A sturdy tripod or monopod is highly recommended for extended shooting sessions, particularly in dynamic environments.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Exceptional optical quality with minimal distortion and aberration
- Effective Vibration Reduction allows for handheld shooting
- Fast and quiet autofocus performance
- Weather-sealed construction for outdoor shooting
- Versatile focal length options with the teleconverter
Cons
- High price point, making it less accessible for amateur photographers
- Heavy weight may require support for extended use
- Limited versatility for indoor or close-up shooting due to long focal length
Conclusion
Overall, the Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 800mm f/5.6E lens stands out as a top-tier option for professional photographers seeking unparalleled performance. Its optical quality, combined with advanced features like Vibration Reduction, makes it a powerful tool for capturing distant subjects with stunning clarity. While its weight and price may deter some, those who invest in this lens will undoubtedly experience a significant enhancement in their photography capabilities. Whether you are photographing wildlife, sports, or landscapes, this lens is sure to exceed your expectations.
