Review on Nikon 17-35mm f/2.8D IF-ED Zoom Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras - AF-S FX NIKKOR series by Ryan Turner

This is the perfect lens for wide-angle photography. Not surprisingly, Nikon hasn't changed the formula or released a replacement for this lens since 1999. It is a proven lens used by professional photojournalists. I also have a 14-24 f/2.8, but for me the 17-35 is a much more practical wide-angle lens. The 14-24 is also a great lens and optically better than the 17-35. However, for me the 14-24 is an ultra wide angle lens and I prefer it for more creative effects and purposes. It's a fun lens, but not your average wide-angle lens for everyday use. I'm not saying you can't get creative at 17-35, it's just not the extreme level that 14-24 is capable of. Back to the 17-35: optically, the lens is very good. Images are very sharp on the D700. Images have good contrast and colors. The lens is very comfortable to hold and fits well into the body of a professional camera. The focus and zoom rings work smoothly and reliably, with no play. There are many reviews of this lens online dealing with sharpness, vignetting and distortion and they are pretty accurate so I won't go into detail but the lens is built to professional quality standards and you get what you pay for. Although compatible with DX bodies, I would not use this lens on a DX camera as it will no longer be a wide angle lens. which I also own. There are several testimonials from people who have experienced autofocus creaking or grinding when the lens autofocuses. I am pleased to report that there is no sign of this on the specimen I received from Revain. Maybe Nikon solved this problem with later lenses? The time will show. I have had this lens for about 5 months and it is a very good and reliable lens. I use it for landscape/cityscapes as well as general purpose/reportage photography where I need a storytelling effect. I really can't say anything bad about this lens. It's just a great performer. Whether you're torn between choosing this lens or a 14-24 is entirely up to you. You have to ask yourself what kind of effect you want - a normal, classic wide-angle shot or a crazy ultra-wide-angle effect. Whatever you choose, you won't be disappointed with either the optics or the build quality of a lens. Hope that helps! Updated 11/06/2016. It's been almost 4 years since I've owned this lens and I still love it! Has worked the same since the day I got it and it's still my favorite lens for wide angle photography. No autofocus squeaks or grinding! Nikon must have fixed this problem on later production copies. One thing I forgot in my review is that this lens supports 77mm filters which the 14-24 doesn't. Whether it's landscape, travel, wedding, documentary or street photography, this lens is so versatile.