Nikon’s new 800mm Lens Weighs Half of the Previous Model

Nikon Canada has announced the NIKKOR Z 800mm f/6.3 VR S super telephoto lens for Nikon’s Z series of high-performance mirrorless cameras. This new S-Line full-frame lens gives aviation, sports, bird and wildlife photographers a super-telephoto focal length to fill the frame with fantastic clarity at extreme distances. The new NIKKOR Z 800mm f/6.3 VR S is approximately 48 per cent lighter and 16 per cent shorter than its F-mount counterpart, due to the use of a PF (Phase Fresnel) lens element. While the NIKKOR Z 800mm f/6.3 VR S benefits from the latest optical technologies for maximum sharpness and fidelity, its significantly lighter weight makes it easier to trek out to the best vantage point, and then shoot comfortably, even handheld or with a monopod.

A redesigned centre of gravity and lower weight allow the lens to be used without a tripod

The new NIKKOR Z 800mm f/6.3 VR S lens is built with an emphasis on comfortable usability and extreme optical performance. The Phase Fresnel element is optimally positioned to minimize ghosting and is combined with three Extra-low Dispersion (ED) elements and one Short-wavelength Refractive (SR) element to effectively suppress axial chromatic aberration. From the sharp contrast of small branches to the finest feathers of distant birds, every detail is rendered with precision. The NIKKOR Z 800mm f/6.3 VR S was engineered with a close attention to balance, as the lens’s centre of gravity is positioned closer to the user’s body to enhance smooth panning motion while tracking swiftly moving objects such as a falcon in flight or banking plane.

Sample image captured with the new Z 800mm lens

Primary features of the NIKKOR Z 800mm f/6.3 VR S:

Extreme super telephoto capability for Z-series photographers with an 800mm focal length that brings distant subjects in close, with incredible clarity and sharpness.

Easy to pack and carry, weighing in at approximately 5.25lb (2385g), and with a reduced footprint of 5.6 in. x 15.2 in.

The lens is 16% shorter than previous models

Features Nano Crystal Coat, as well as an optimized shape and location of the PF lens element that contributes to a reduction in ghosting for maximum clarity. This is especially useful when shooting into the sky or in the vicinity of bright light sources. 

The optical VR function provides a superior compensation effect equivalent to shooting at a shutter speed of 5.0 stops. When paired with the Nikon Z 9, an effect of 5.5 stops is achieved with Synchro VR activation. 

Built to pro standards: Rubber gaskets keep dust, dirt and moisture out of the moving parts and the lens mount.3 The barrel is constructed of robust magnesium alloy, offering an ideal balance of strength and light weight. The front element has Nikon’s nonstick Fluorine Coat, which repels oil, moisture and smudges and easily wipes clean.

A Memory Recall function instantly recalls focus positions that have been stored in advance, via pressing an assigned button. This function makes it simple to quickly acquire an anticipated subject on a branch or perch. 

Customizable controls include four L-Fn2 buttons and one L-Fn button, to which a wide variety of functions can be assigned are adopted to suit users’ preferences, including subject tracking, AF lock, playback and more. A customizable control ring can also be assigned to adjust ISO, aperture and exposure comp.

The focal length can be extended to 1,120mm with the Z TELECONVERTER TC-1.4x, and 1,600mm with the Z TELECONVERTER TC-2.0x while maintaining resolution. Users of high-resolution cameras such as the Z 9 and Z 7II will appreciate the ability to also shoot in DX mode for even further extended reach (1,200mm).

The NIKKOR Z 800mm f/6.3 VR S lens will be available April 2022 for a manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP) $8,499.95.