Nikkor 300mm f/2.8 VR lens and 2X AF-S teleconverter released

[Allison Johnson]

Nikon has announced the launch of an AF-S Nikkor 300mm f/2.8 ED VR II lens and an updated 2X AF-S teleconverter TC-20E III. The telephoto lens body is designed to cater to the needs of outdoor and sports photographers.

The AF-S Nikkor 300mm f/2.8 telephoto lens utilizes Nikon's VR II stabilization system, which claims a gain of up to four stops in shutter speed. Its die-cast magnesium construction is sealed against dust and moisture. It's built with three ED Extra-low dispersion elements and an aspherical element, a formula that Nikon hopes will maximize color quality and sharpness while keeping distortion under control.

The 300mm f/2.8 provides a photographer with three focusing modes: M manual, M/A auto focus with manual priority, and a new A/M mode designed to smooth the transition between manual and auto modes. AF recall mode will also allow photographers to recall a focus point with a single button press. The lens is scheduled to become available in January, 2010 with a price tag of $5899.95.

The 2X AF-S teleconverter boasts an aspherical element to reduce aberrations. Also available in January 2010, the teleconverter is estimated to cost $499.95.

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[leaftye]

AF recall mode will also allow photographers to recall a focus point with a single button press.

That sounds like it'd be a very handy feature to have.