Nikon has introduced a new lens that it says is perfectly suited to content creators and vloggers. The Nikkor Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 PZ VR power-zoom ultra-wide angle lens affords variable power zoom and other features content creators will appreciate.
The lightweight lens, the widest in the Nikkor Z DX-format lens series, adds power zoom (PZ) for more creative versatility. The 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 PZ VR is designed to capture sharp and immersive content and the ability to capture more in the frame. This might include larger groups of people, or more expansive landscapes.
Featuring a versatile zoom range of 12mm to 28mm, the ultra-wide angle is great for grand interiors, tabletop photos, and group selfies, says Nikon. It’s not only lightweight but also small given how wide a zoom it affords. Since it weighs only about 7.3 oz, it’s easy to hold with an extended arm. It’s ideal when used with lightweight cameras like the Nikon Z 30, Z 50 or the retro inspired Z fc.
The Nikkor Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 PZ VR is the first Nikkor Z lens to use a power zoom with linear drive, providing smooth optical zoom and other thoughtful features for creators to enhance and simplify their video recording experience. The power zoom function easily zooms in close to a subject or zooms out to establish the scene. To suit any shooting style, the zoom can be activated by twisting the customizable zoom ring on the barrel, with designated buttons on the camera body, or when using the ML-L7 Remote Control3 (included in the Z 30 Creator’s Accessory Kit). The zoom can also be controlled remotely through a PC or phone with the SnapBridge app.
Additionally, the zoom rate can be selected from 11 speed settings, within the range of 0.55 to 36 seconds, for maximum consistency when reframing your shot or adding dramatic creative flair.
Autofocus is sharp, reliable and fast, says Nikon, working with the eye-detection AF in Nikon cameras to keep focus on you or your subject. The lens features an STM motor drive, making it extremely silent when focusing so you won’t be disturbed by the sound of camera operation. When transitioning to a close-up of a subject, the 12-28mm has a very close minimum focus distance of only 0.19 m (0.62 ft). This lets you seamlessly move the focus from a face to a product in-hand, while the image stays sharp.
For capturing real-time content, the lens is stabilized with Vibration Reduction (VR) that provides an effect equivalent to a shutter speed 4.5 stops faster. This function makes it easy to capture run-and-gun footage without distracting camera shake or shoot in low-light with minimal blur. Because of its small size and versatile angle of view, this lens is also well-suited for creating steady footage with gimbals.
The new Nikon Nikkor Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 PZ VR will be available in May 2023 for an MSRP of $499.95.