Nikon announces the new AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/2.8G ED VRII super telephoto lens. Featuring the newest generation of Vibration Reduction technology – VR II – the 300mm f/2.8 provides up to a claimed four stops of stabilisation, keeping shots extra sharp when shooting fast action or in low-light. A new A/M mode, which compliments the existing M/A and M modes, enables autofocus priority even when the focus ring is being held during shooting. The perfect accompaniment to the serious sports or wildlife photographers’ kit bag, the AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/2.8G VR II makes hand held telephoto shooting possible, thanks to its relatively low 2.9kg weight (not bad for an f/2.8 tele). Like its predecessor the optical system is high-end, constructed of eleven lens elements in eight groups, including three ED glass elements with Nano Crystal Coating.  Plus a built-in silent wave motor (SWM) provides near-silent focusing and the lens weather-sealed to protect against the elements, whatever the conditions. For all this glorious possibility you’ll need to part with £5100 however, available from January 29th 2010.

To accompany the lens is another new product – the AF-S TELECONVERTER TC-20E III. The world’s first teleconverter with an aspherical lens element, the TC-20E III is designed to provide top-end image quality, something many existing teleconverters on the market have been known to compromise. Compatible with Nikon’s most up to date VR, autofocus and metering systems, the teleconverter is designed for rugged use and includes rubber seals for body mount, a tough release mechanism for intensive use and an oversized release button for quick removal, even when wearing gloves.  As per existing teleconverters, you’ll lose 2 stops when connected, making an f/2 lens the equivalent of f/4, but yielding 2x power that extends a 300mm to a considerable 600mm equivalent. Also available from January 29th 2010, the TC-20E III will retail for £450.
 
 
AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/2.8G ED VRII Specifications

• 300mm

• Min f/22 Max f/2.8

• 11 elements in 8 groups

• 9 rounded diaphragm blades

• 2.3m/7.5ft. (AF); 2.2m/7.2ft. (MF) closest focusing distance

• 52mm filter size

• 124 x 267.5 mm

• 2,900g