The launch of the new Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II lens marks a significant advancement in versatile photography equipment. Designed to cater to both still photographers and videographers, this lens aims to offer a comprehensive solution for various shooting scenarios, from weddings to travel.
Nikon has made notable improvements to the lens, reducing its weight and refining its build quality. The S II now features internal zooming, enhancing gimbal balance and preventing dust ingress. Weighing in at just 675 grams, a reduction from the previous model’s 805 grams, this new lens is lighter and more compact, making it ideal for photographers who need to carry multiple bodies during extended events.
Enhanced Features for Creative Professionals
The focal length of 24mm to 70mm allows for a seamless transition between wide-angle and short telephoto shots, positioning the S II as a potential replacement for several prime lenses. This versatility makes it an attractive option for travelers and professionals alike, as it can serve as a main lens or a reliable behind-the-scenes tool.
Photographer and reviewer Alex Cooke emphasizes the lens’s image quality. He notes that sharpness is consistent across the entire frame, including the edges, with minimal chromatic aberration and excellent flare control. Furthermore, the lens exhibits virtually no focus breathing, an important characteristic for videographers. The autofocus system is fast and precise, taking full advantage of Nikon’s latest camera bodies, including reliable eye and face tracking in challenging environments.
Another key feature for hybrid shooters is the lens’s near parfocal performance, which maintains focus on the subject while zooming. This capability is particularly beneficial for those transitioning between still and video work.
Specifications and User-Friendly Enhancements
The NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II offers a range of specifications designed for professional use. It features an optical design comprising 14 elements in 10 groups and 11 rounded aperture blades. The lens covers full-frame formats, with a minimum focus distance ranging from 9.4 inches at wide to 1.1 feet at telephoto.
Additional updates include a clickable or de-clickable aperture ring and dual function buttons. The zoom ring has been designed with increased resistance, allowing for more precise framing. The smaller 77mm filter thread is another improvement over the original version’s 82mm size.
Despite its premium price of $2,800, Cooke frames the lens as a valuable investment for professionals seeking reliability and high performance in their work. Its lighter design significantly reduces fatigue during long shoots, making it particularly advantageous for wedding and event photographers.
The NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II lens promises to be a game-changer for photographers and videographers alike, offering a blend of versatility, quality, and user-friendly features that cater to the demands of modern creative professionals.