Beyond the lens's incredible optical versatility is the benefit of Enhanced VR II Vibration Reduction, an innovation that makes it possible to take substantially sharper handheld pictures at slower shutter speeds than would otherwise be possible. This provides the distinct advantage of being able to shoot more effectively in a much broader variety of challenging conditions. With the new Nikon VR II advantage, users can take pictures at shutter speeds as many as 4 stops slower than they ordinarily could shoot without the image-degrading blur associated with camera shake at slow shutter speeds. Nikon's VR technology further enhances picture-taking potential with a choice of two modes to match most shooting conditions. VR Normal Mode primarily compensates for camera shake, and includes automatic panning detection, as well as automatic tripod detection. VR Active Mode effectively compensates for vibration in situations where it is more pronounced and more frequent, such as when shooting from a moving vehicle.
To further ensure outstanding optical performance, the 18-200mm f3.5-5.6G IF-ED AF-S DX VR Zoom-Nikkor features two Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) glass elements and three complex aspherical lens elements that provide for higher resolution, high-contrast images while minimizing chromatic aberration, astigmatism, and other forms of distortion. The lens also features Nikon's compact Silent Wave Motor technology (SWM), which combines fast and precise autofocusing with super-quiet operation, as well as Internal Focusing (IF) construction that allows the lens to focus without changing its external size, improving balance and handling chrematistics.
All of Nikon's DX Nikkor lenses are engineered exclusively for use with Nikon DX format digital SLR cameras, making the lens smaller and lighter while providing exceptional center-to-edge-to-corner image quality and overall optical performance.
Major features of the Nikon 18-200mm f3.5-5.6G IF-ED AF-S DX VR Zoom-Nikkor lens:
a. Offers a broad 18-200mm focal range (11.1x zoom) for use in a variety of situations (equivalent to a 27-300 mm lens in 35mm format); VR II Vibration Reduction system offers the practical equivalent of using a shutter speed 4 stops faster
b. Two ED glass and three complex aspherical lens elements minimize chromatic aberration, astigmatism, and other forms of distortion while ensuring high resolution and contrast
c. Incorporates a compact SWM (Silent Wave Motor) for quiet focusing. Delivers high-level optical performance that is specially designed for use with the Nikon digital SLRs
d. Employs a seven-blade, rounded diaphragm opening that achieves a natural blur for out-of-focus elements
e. Enables focusing from as close as 50 centimeters (20 inches) from the subject through its entire focal range
f. M/A mode for rapid switching between autofocus and manual focus operation
g. Internal Focusing (IF) design simplifies the use of circular polarizing filters
h. Nikon Super Integrated Coating (SIC) offers superb color reproduction while minimizing ghosting and flare
i. Flower-shaped lens hood HB-35 (included) greatly reduces stray light, enhancing image quality
Features
- Offers broad 18 - 200mm focal range for use in a variety of situations (equivalent to a 27-300 lens in 35mm format)
- 11x zoom coverage offers a perfect compact and lightweight, one lens solution
- VR II system offers the equivalent of using a shutter speed 4 stops faster
- Two ED glass and three aspherical lens elements minimize chromatic aberration,astigmatism and other forms of distortion, while ensuring high resolution and contrast
- Nikon Super Integrated Coating (SIC) offers superb color reproduction while minimizing ghosting and flare
- Incorporates a SWM (Silent Wave Motor) for fast quiet focusing
- Delivers high-level optical performance designed for use exclusively with Nikon DX format digital
- Employs a seven-blade rounded diaphragm opening that achieves a natural blur for out-of-focus elements
- Enables focusing from as close as 50cm (20 in.) from the subject through its entire focal range
- M/A mode for rapid switching between autofocus and manual focus operation
- Flower-shaped Lens Hood HB-35 (provided) greatly reduces stray light
Specifications
Focal Length: 18 -200mm (equivalent to a 27-300mm lens in 35mm format)
Maximum aperture: f/3.5 - 5.6
Minimum aperture: f/22 - 36
Lens construction: 16 elements in 12 groups (two ED glass elements, three aspherical lens elements)
Picture angle: 76 degrees - 8 degrees
Minimum focus range: 0.5m (1.6 ft.)
Attachment size: 72mm
Dimensions (approx.): 77 x 96.5mm (3.0 x 3.8 in.)
Included accessories: LC-72 72mm snap-on front lens cap; LF-1 rear lens cap; HB-35 bayonet hood; CL-1018 flexible lens pouch
Weight (approx.): 560g (19.8 oz.)
Optional accessories: 72mm screw-in filters
