I’ve commented before on how Nikon’s 24-70mm f/2.8 is one of my favorite lens but I have to say with time and a lot of use I’ve also become a fan of Nikon’s 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G VR lens.
It’s not the fastest Nikon zoom lens in this range, the “professional” 70-200mm f/2.8 holds that honor, but it’s a decent “consumer” lens for any situation where you don’t need the extra speed. The fact it cost about 1/3 the amount of its faster “professional” brother doesn’t hurt either.
The following impressions are from using the lens on a Nikon D700, full frame camera. I haven’t used it enough on my D300 to say how it performs on a DX camera but I would expect similar results.
The 70-300mm is sharp at almost all focal lengths. It’s only as you approach the maximum (300mm) that it loses a bit of sharpness around the edges — however the center remains sharp. The Vibration Reductions (VR) function works as designed allowing hand shooting at lower shuttle speeds, making the slower speed of the lens less of an issue. When there is sufficient light auto-focus is fast and accurate, however as you approach the minimum f/5.6, 300mm, under lower lighting it will often “hunt” for focus — it’s best to switch to manual focus under these circumstances. I’ve found the lens to have a pleasing Bokeh, a minimal vignette and seldom exhibits lens flare.
While initially I was wanting the 70-200mm f/2.8 lens, I’ve found the 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G VR to be a wonderful compliment to the D700. That extra 100mm of reach is often well appreciated in a full frame camera and there’s not much to fault with the lens performance.
Considering price, features, performance, quality, I’d have to say this lens is a winner — at least it has been for me.
amazing color and enchanting spring mood
yz, thanks…all natures doing, I just took the photo. ;-)
Earl, I really like the softness of the colors on the flowering trees; a great lead into spring.
Steve, yea I think spring is almost upon us. There’s more color in the tree blooms then I remember in recent past early springs — but that may just be my less then perfect memory.
I kept reading and thinking: I know at the end he’s going to say that he doesn’t like it and give it to his buddy, Paul! ;-) Lovely shot, Earl. Looks like spring is coming right along. I’ll be able to experience it for myself very, very soon.
Paul, you know the whole time I was writing this I can honestly say the ending you foresaw never entered my mind, sorry! ;-) Being back in Charlotte will be a nice change-up for you as far as photography subjects.
This series with the greens and lavenders has me all fired up about spring. Wow! These have all been stunning.
It sounds as though you are attached to this lens and your good buddy, Paul, will have to go shopping. Darn, you are making me think about a 300 mm lens again. Shame on you.
Anita, thanks. Nature has been doing nice early spring work here. I’m please I’ve been able to capture a little of it and that you’ve enjoyed it.
When I do decide to give away my photographic equipment I’ll certainly consider Paul, but I’m trying to break it to him gently it’s not going to be any time soon. :-)
I just love those wine red branches. We have similar trees here, and that colour really pop winter time. That, in combo with the early spring greens, even adds up to a wonderful colour harmony. Nature knows how to create such harmonies. You got to have a sharp lens to capture all that detail in the bushes, nice work there, Earl.
Ove, thanks and I agree, nature is the master at creating beautiful harmonies. I simply enjoy admiring and trying to capture some of the show. Hopefully, you’ll soon be looking at similar spring sights.