Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR Camera Lens

Capture and share stunning views of birds, wildlife, motorsports, athletes, performers, landmarks ...

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Pro-CameraNikon Af-S 200-500Mm F/5.6E Ed Vr Lens
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Wex Photo VideoNikon AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR Telephoto Zoom Lens FX Black
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Product Information

Full details

For photographers passionate about capturing distant subjects like wildlife, sports, or performers, the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR lens offers exceptional reach and consistent performance. Its versatile 200-500mm focal range, constant f/5.6 aperture, and advanced Vibration Reduction deliver sharp, detailed images, even at extended distances. While it provides incredible telephoto capabilities, its size and weight require consideration for portability and handheld shooting comfort.

All features

BrandNikon

Extended Product Information

FAQs

What kind of photography is this lens best suited for?

This lens is ideal for super-telephoto photography, including wildlife, birding, sports, motorsports, aviation, and any situation where you need to capture distant subjects with high detail.

Can I use this lens on my DX-format Nikon camera?

Yes, absolutely! When used on a DX-format camera, the lens provides an equivalent focal length range of approximately 300-750mm due to the crop factor, giving you even greater reach.

How effective is the Vibration Reduction (VR) system?

The VR system in this lens offers approximately 4.5 stops of image stabilization. This means you can achieve sharp handheld photos at shutter speeds up to 4.5 stops slower than would otherwise be possible, which is incredibly helpful for telephoto shooting.

What is the benefit of a constant f/5.6 aperture?

A constant f/5.6 aperture means that the maximum aperture remains f/5.6 across the entire 200-500mm zoom range. This simplifies exposure settings, ensures consistent depth of field effects, and allows for brighter viewfinder images at longer focal lengths compared to lenses with variable apertures.

Can I use a teleconverter with this lens?

Yes, this lens is compatible with optional Nikon teleconverters (e.g., TC-1.4x, TC-1.7x, TC-2.0x) to further extend its focal length. Keep in mind that using a teleconverter will reduce the effective maximum aperture.

What is the closest distance I can focus on a subject?

The minimum focusing distance for this lens is 7.2 feet (2.2 meters), allowing you to capture relatively close-up details of subjects even at its telephoto extremes.

How does the electromagnetic diaphragm improve my photography?

The electromagnetic diaphragm provides precise and stable aperture control, especially critical during high-speed continuous shooting. It ensures consistent exposure across all frames, which can be challenging with traditional mechanical diaphragms in fast bursts.

Troubleshooting

Images appear blurry or soft.

Ensure Vibration Reduction (VR) is enabled and set to the appropriate mode (Normal or Sport). Check your shutter speed; it should be fast enough to freeze motion and compensate for camera shake, especially at longer focal lengths. Verify that your focus point is accurately placed on the subject.

Autofocus is slow or hunts excessively.

Check the AF/M switch on the lens is set to A/M. Ensure your camera's autofocus mode is suitable for your subject (e.g., AF-C for moving subjects). In low light, autofocus performance may naturally decrease; try focusing on areas with more contrast. If your subject is far away, try using the focus limiter switch set to 'INFINITY to 6m' to prevent the lens from focusing on closer objects.

Lens is not recognized by the camera or throws an error.

Carefully remove the lens and reattach it, ensuring it clicks securely into place. Check the electrical contacts on both the lens and camera body for cleanliness; gently wipe them with a clean, dry microfiber cloth. Ensure your camera's firmware is up to date.

Unusual noise or vibration from the lens.

Some lenses produce subtle sounds during VR operation or autofocus; this is generally normal. If the noise is loud, grinding, or accompanied by malfunctions, discontinue use and contact Nikon service.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Excellent super-telephoto reach for wildlife, sports, and distant subjects.
  • Constant f/5.6 aperture for consistent exposure and creative background blur.
  • Highly effective 4.5 stop Vibration Reduction for sharp handheld shots.
  • Superb image quality with minimal chromatic aberration thanks to ED glass.
  • Fast and quiet autofocus provided by the Silent Wave Motor.
  • Compatible with both FX and DX-format Nikon cameras.

Cons

  • Relatively large and heavy, potentially challenging for extended handheld use.
  • f/5.6 aperture may be limiting in very dark conditions compared to prime lenses or wider zooms.
  • Requires a sturdy tripod or monopod for optimal stability, especially at 500mm.
  • Info needed: Explicit weather sealing details are not provided.

Setup, Compatibility & Care

Setup

  1. Attaching the Lens: Align the white mounting dot on the lens barrel with the corresponding dot on your Nikon DSLR camera body. Twist the lens clockwise until it clicks securely into place.
  2. Lens Hood: For optimal image quality and to reduce flare, attach the included HB-71 lens hood by aligning its dot with the dot on the lens and twisting it securely.
  3. VR Switch: Activate the `VR (Vibration Reduction)` switch on the lens barrel. For general shooting, use 'Normal' mode. For panning shots, switch to 'Sport' mode.
  4. AF/M Switch: Set the `A/M` (Autofocus with manual override) or `M` (Manual focus) switch as desired. `A/M` is recommended for most situations.
  5. Focus Limiter Switch: For faster autofocus when subjects are very distant, you can use the `FULL` or `INFINITY to 6m` focus limiter switch.

Compatibility

  • Camera Bodies: This lens is fully compatible with Nikon FX-format (full-frame) and DX-format (APS-C) DSLR cameras.
  • Focal Length Equivalence: On a DX-format camera, the lens provides an equivalent focal length range of approximately 300-750mm, offering even greater reach.
  • Teleconverters: The lens is compatible with optional Nikon teleconverters for extending its focal length further, though this will affect the effective aperture.

Care and Maintenance

  • Cleaning: Use a soft, lint-free microfiber cloth specifically designed for optics to clean lens elements. For stubborn smudges, use a few drops of lens cleaning solution on the cloth, not directly on the glass.
  • Storage: Store the lens in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Use lens caps when not in use to protect the front and rear elements. Consider a moisture-absorbing desiccant in humid environments.
  • Protection: Use the lens hood to protect the front element from accidental bumps and dust. A protective filter (UV or clear) can add an extra layer of defense.

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