AF-S Nikkor 500mm f/4E FL ED VR lens announced by Nikon

Nikon has taken the wraps off of the AF-S Nikkor 500mm f/4E FL ED VR super-telephoto prime lens that will deliver image quality and autofocus improvements compared to the previous generation.

One of the products slated by the rumor mill for a summer 2015 announcement was a new 500mm f/4 lens from Nikon. The gossip talks have turned into a reality as the Japanese manufacturer has introduced the AF-S Nikkor 500mm f/4E FL ED VR lens for FX-format DSLR cameras.

The brand new Nikon 500mm f/4E FL ED VR lens is lighter than its predecessor, while offering superior image quality along with improved autofocus technology for professional photographers in the search of that “decisive shot”.

Nikon promises to deliver superior image quality and autofocus performance for wildlife and action photographers through the AF-S Nikkor 500mm f/4E FL ED VR lens.

AF-S Nikkor 500mm f/4E FL ED VR lens unveiled with reduced weight and increased performance

The press release of the AF-S Nikkor 500mm f/4E FL ED VR lens is stating that the lens has been engineered for DSLRs with high-resolution image sensors. The optic will provide high quality shots of wildlife and sports subjects.

A fluorite element has been added into the internal configuration in order to reduce the weight of the optic to 3,080 grams / 6.8 lbs from the 3,880 grams / 8.5 lbs of its forerunner and to increase the image quality at the same time.

Moreover, the lens employs an electromagnetic diaphragm, meaning that the exposure will remain the same when using the camera in burst high-speed burst mode. The autofocus system has been improved to provide faster and more accurate focusing.

All these enhancements mean that wildlife and action photographers will be able to capture high-quality photos with ease and with a lighter solution than its competitors. This is valid for low-light conditions, as the Vibration Reduction system provides up to four f-stops of stabilization.

The MTF chart of the new AF-S Nikkor 500mm f/4E FL ED VR telephoto lens.

Nikon to release its super-telephoto prime lens for a hefty price tag this July

The AF-S Nikkor 500mm f/4E FL ED VR lens comprises 16 elements in 12 groups with three ED (Extra-Low Dispersion) elements and two fluorite elements. This super-telephoto prime lens offers a maximum aperture of f/4, while the minimum setting stands at f/22. The aperture consists of a 9-blade rounded diaphragm.

The optic has a Nano Crystal Coat and a fluorine coating. The former raises the image quality by reducing ghosting and flare, while the latter makes the lens easier to clean as it keeps dirt and smudges at bay.

Its minimum focusing distance stands at 3.60 meters and the focusing mechanism is internal, so the front element does not move. A distance scale and a manual focus ring are available on the lens.

The reduced weight and increased performance come at a cost, as the lens will cost $10,299.95 when it becomes available this July. Pre-order it right now through Amazon, which promises to ship the item on July 18.