Nikon AF Micro-Nikkor 200mm f/4D ED-IF

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Nikon AF Micro-Nikkor 200mm f/4D ED-IF is a remarkable lens designed primarily for macro photography but offers versatility that can cater to various photographic needs. With its long focal length and superb optical design, this lens excels in delivering detail and clarity, making it a favorite among both amateur and professional photographers alike.

Image Quality

One of the standout features of the Micro-Nikkor 200mm is its incredible image quality. The lens incorporates Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass elements that effectively minimize chromatic aberration and enhance overall sharpness. When shooting at maximum aperture, images produced are impressively sharp, with minimal distortion. Whether you’re photographing intricate details of a flower or capturing textures of an object, the clarity is outstanding.

Build and Handling

The construction of the lens is robust, built to withstand the rigors of outdoor conditions. It features a metal mount, which adds to its sturdiness. The lens has a comfortable grip and is relatively lightweight for its focal length, which makes it easier to handle during extended shooting sessions. The lens also incorporates Nikon’s AF system, which provides quiet and accurate autofocus, especially beneficial when photographing skittish subjects like insects.

Versatility

While the primary use of the lens is macro photography, the 200mm focal length allows for excellent portrait photography as well. The ability to create beautiful background blur (bokeh) enhances portraits, isolating the subject effectively against a soft, creamy background. Additionally, the lens can also be used for wildlife photography, where distance and detail are crucial.

Autofocus and Manual Focus

The autofocus capabilities are quick and precise, but it's worth noting that in macro photography, manual focus becomes crucial for achieving the exact framing and depth you desire. The focus ring is smooth and well-damped, allowing for accurate manual adjustments, which is a must in close-up work.

Compatibility

The lens is designed for the Nikon F mount, and while it works seamlessly with full-frame cameras, it can also be used effectively on DX-format cameras. On DX cameras, the effective focal length of the lens enhances its usability in achieving greater subject isolation and compression.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional image quality with sharp details and great color accuracy.
• Versatile for both macro and portrait photography.
• Solid and durable build quality.
• Quiet and accurate autofocus system.
• Smooth manual focus operation.

Cons

• Some users may find the focusing distance challenging for certain macro subjects due to its longer focal length.
• The lens may be heavier for some photographers, especially when combined with a tripod or other accessories.

Verdict

In conclusion, the Nikon AF Micro-Nikkor 200mm f/4D ED-IF is an outstanding lens that combines excellent image quality with versatile performance. Its robust build and effective autofocus make it a reliable tool for macro, portrait, and wildlife photography. While it may present some challenges for extreme close-up shots due to its focal length, the overall performance and image results are hard to beat, making it a worthy investment for anyone serious about photography.