One of the great things about being one of the "big guns" in the photo equipment industry is that all the "big guns" behind the lenses are going to be using your gear and telling people about their experiences with it. If you keep your ear to the ground like we do, it doesn't take long to learn which pieces of equipment the pros turn to first for those incredible shots. This article is about 5 Nikon lenses that fit into that category – the go-to lenses for pros and serious amateurs alike. If you shoot Nikon, these lenses should be part of your arsenal.
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II
It's fast, it's stable and it delivers outstanding quality over a nice range of focal lengths. With a constant maximum aperture of f/2.8, you won't find better low-light performance in a medium-telephoto zoom. Seven extra low dispersion elements minimize CA throughout the aperture range. Nano Crystal coatings reduce ghosting and flare and VRII stabilization lets you hand hold more of your shots. It even focuses as close as 4.6 feet, with one of the most silent and accurate AF systems in existence.
This is the on-camera choice for pro wildlife, sports and nature photographers and it will become yours, too. Check out everything this lens offers and you'll understand why it's first on this list.
Nikon 2160 AF-S Micro 105mm F2.8VR
How about a sweet macro telephoto? Nikon's Silent Wave focusing motor, VR system and internal focus are the perfect combination for 1:1 work. The 105mm focal length provides a little extra working distance when you need it. VRII gives you up to 4 stops of stability for more hand-held close-up shots. Nano crystal coating means less flare and ghosting and ED elements help eliminate the chromatic aberration that can ruin those awesome macro shots. A non-rotating front also lets you work more easily with polarizers and other filters, as well as accessories like ring lights.
This is simply one awesome macro lens and best of all, you can own it for well under $1,000. Take a closer look and get yours here.
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 800mm f/5.6E FL ED VR
There's finally a lens that you can wave in the face of those Canon shooters bragging about their 800mm prime. Considering the price tag, though, you'll probably think twice about waving it anywhere. This one isn't for the faint of heart, or more accurately, bank balance. If you're willing and able, this is one lens purchase that will extend your reach like no other and will do it with all of Nikon's proven technologies built-in, including a unique, electronic diaphragm for consistent performance at continuous shutter as well as beautiful bokeh. Oh, and it's not white!
I'm not even going to try to list all the features in this article. I'm going to let you check them out here, where you can even grab it with a 1.25X teleconverter, so you can do things like browse for rocks on the surface of the moon.
Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED-IF AF-S VR Zoom-Nikkor
Okay, let's come back down to earth for a bit. If you're looking for a solid telephoto zoom lens that won't require a second mortgage, take a serious look at this lens. On a crop sensor DSLR, it's going to give you the field of view of a 105 – 450mm lens, so it's a great choice for those of you who can't afford that full frame yet.
In the best Nikkor tradition, it's built with all of the technological advances, including VR II stabilization, ED lens elements for reduced CA, SWM focusing motor and a 9-blade, rounded diaphragm. It's also internal focusing, with a non-rotating front.
If you're on a limited budget, this lens is one of the best investments you can make, at right around 500 bucks. Take a closer look here.
Nikon 50mm f/1.8G AF-S Standard Auto Focus Nikkor
This final lens is also for the budget-minded shooter. It's a true classic, with some awesome upgrades. This "nifty fifty" is comparable to its "big brother", the 50mm f/1.4, with a maximum aperture of f/1.8 and less than half the price.
It doesn't have vibration reduction. It doesn't have all the bells and whistles. It does have the professional look, feel and performance of a Nikkor lens, and everything you need in an everyday lens, including a focusing scale and switchable AF.
If you want a solid 50mm with good low-light capability and nice bokeh, without the huge price tag, you'll find it right here.