Nikon 80-400AF VR

First Impressions

The much anticipated Nikon 80-400 VR is finally being shipped in the United States. I've had one ordered since it was first announced several months ago. I received it October 31st. As a wildlife photographer, this focal range is ideal for handheld shots. While I have not really had a chance to put it to a real "in-the-field" test, I have played around with it at home and must say I'm very excited.

The 80-400 is a smaller and lighter than the 80-200 AF-S lens. While the focusing speed is not as fast as the 80-200 AF-S, it is more than adequate to capture a bird in flight or a deer running across the field. Two very nice features are the removable tripod collar & you can focus down to a distance of 7.5 feet. The filter size is 77mm. The new VR (Vibration Reduction) technology only works with the newer Nikon cameras they use the 5 AF focusing sensors... D1, F5, F100 and N80.

There 3 settings for the Vibration Reduction (VR), OFF; ON with the image stabilized when you shoot, not visible through viewfinder; and ON - same as previous except you can see image stabilization at work through viewfinder and when you shoot. Note, the shutter release must be slightly depressed to activate the VR and there is a delay of one second. You really don't notice the one second delay.

On a recent trip to Bosque del Apache NWR, New Mexico, I used the 80-400 a lot. There is no doubt in my mind (and on the screen) that the VR works quite well. The mule deer image was taken out of my car window, with the engine running and hand held (not resting on a bean bag). While I don't recommend this technique (the car should be turned off and your camera/lens should be resting on a bean bag), it proves that the VR works quite nicely. Even subtle difference like the images of a Tibetan Spaniel dog seen below, can make a difference in overall image quality. Please note the VR lens is meant to compliment proper hand holding camera techniques, not replace them. You still need to cradle the lens in your left hand and tuck your elbows in to your side in order to give your camera proper support. You should also remember to lightly press the shutter release button, not "punch" it.

The VR80-400 is the perfect companion to my big lenses. I am confident that when I go out into the field with the 600 AF-S or 400 AF-S and the VR80-400 over my shoulder (and maybe a 17mm lens in my vest pocket), I am ready for just about anything that runs or flies my way. The VR80-400 is one lens that will see a lot of use!

For a more extensive review of the Nikon VR80-400, visit Moose Peterson's web site. For detailed specs on the VR80-400, visit Nikon USA.