Nikon AF-S Nikkor 800mm f/5.6E FL ED VR

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Nikon AF-S Nikkor 800mm f/5.6E FL ED VR is a powerhouse lens designed specifically for photographers who demand the best in long-distance optics. This lens is built for professional wildlife and sports photographers, offering outstanding performance combined with advanced technology.

Design and Build Quality

From the moment you unpack the lens, you can see that Nikon has constructed the 800mm f/5.6E with quality and durability in mind. It features a solid, weather-sealed magnesium alloy body, making it suitable for challenging outdoor conditions. The lens is equipped with a tripod collar, providing stability and ease of use when mounted on a tripod or monopod. At nearly 4.5 kg (10 lbs), it is not lightweight, but the ergonomics are designed to balance well with larger camera bodies.

Optical Performance

This lens is an optical marvel. With a fast f/5.6 aperture, it excels in a variety of lighting conditions, allowing for effective low-light shooting. The inclusion of Fluorite (FL) and Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass elements help mitigate chromatic aberration and ensure outstanding sharpness and contrast across the frame. The lens maintains impressive detail even at extreme focal lengths, making it a top choice for those shooting distant subjects.

Autofocus System

The Nikon AF-S Nikkor 800mm is equipped with a silent wave motor (SWM) that delivers quick and accurate autofocus. The focus acquisition is generally fast, although in low-contrast scenarios, you might experience minor delays. Nevertheless, the lens features manual override, giving photographers more control when needed.

Image Stabilization

The VR (Vibration Reduction) technology in this lens is effective, allowing for stable handheld shooting. Nikon claims up to 4 stops of compensation which can make a significant difference when shooting at such long focal lengths. Users have reported smooth panning abilities, making it easier to track fast-moving subjects without the need for a tripod.

Compatibility

While this lens is designed for the Nikon F mount (FX format), it is important to note that using it on a DX camera body results in a 1.5x crop factor, leading to an effective focal length of 1200mm. This can actually be a benefit in some cases, as it allows for an even longer reach, but it also brings along the challenge of narrower field of view and reduced depth of field.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional image quality with impressive sharpness and clarity.
• Robust build quality with weather sealing.
• Fast and accurate autofocus.
• Effective image stabilization with VR technology.

Cons

• Hefty weight may pose challenges for handheld shooting.
• High price point that may not be suitable for all budgets.
• Limited versatility for non-wildlife/sports applications due to its extreme focal length.

Verdict

Overall, the Nikon AF-S Nikkor 800mm f/5.6E FL ED VR is an outstanding lens for professional photographers who specialize in wildlife, sports, or any situation where extreme telephoto capabilities are needed. While its high price and weight may deter some users, the optical performance and build quality make it an investment worth considering for serious enthusiasts and professionals alike. If you can manage its physical demands and financial cost, this lens will deliver exceptional results time and time again.