Review on 📸 Nikon AF FX NIKKOR 80-200mm f/2.8D ED Zoom Lens: Review, Features, and Compatibility with Nikon DSLR Cameras by Ryan Foxz

Much has been written about the 80-200mm f/2.8D ED AF Zoom Nikkor lens and the history of Nikon's professional zoom by those who really know it. I won't add to that, but I can talk about what this lens brings to the former (and still current) VR telephoto DX shooter, as well as my growing Pro FX kit. 24mm F1.4; 50mm f1.8; 135mm f2.0DC; and the underrated Tamron 180mm f3.5 Macro. This professional zoom takes up the space (ie size and weight) formerly occupied by the mid-range 24-70mm f2.8 professional zoom, which I didn't use that often in my work due to my corrections. Pictures (from ML1 to ML6) to show some of the advantages I appreciate most about this lens. So let me just answer the 5 questions I had before buying the lens: 1. Is it too heavy, chunky or bulky? no It is purpose-built to be strong and durable, and its weight provides stability for handheld photography. Yes, he's big, but so is Demarco's ware, and he's walking! It feels good in the hand and is very comfortable to use, with the weight being a perfect match for the D800. (Get a good, comfortable strap!) I figured a permanent tripod mount would be a problem. It doesn't, just rotate it at hand, or even hold it with the flat plate installed for quick use on a tripod when needed. The zoom ring is perfect, the manual focus is accurate. I'm used to the slide ring of a 135mm F2.0 lens from the same era. I've found that when I need to focus manually, it's not because I want to override auto mode, it's because I need it in a special mode (like focusing on a video stand). Also, there's always live view focus from the camera, so I'm happy with the ring.2. Is the autofocus fast enough? It's not quiet or lightning fast like the AF-S, but judging from the puppy photos I've posted the lens follows the action and captures it very quickly. Set your camera to give focus priority to the shutter button and in 3D mode with the D800 this can work well. Remember that when you screw the lens all the way in, you can feel the torque when it clicks into place. It's fast enough for my needs. Hunting is minimal, low light shots are very good with the D800.3. Is VR necessary? In fact, I didn't feel its lack. Images are sharp. Pans and handheld shots are clear even in low light and slow shutter speeds. I have two DX teles with VR - they're not built to the same standard of course, but let's be honest because you don't wait for VR to set up, this is often faster and more accurate. 4. Is it sharp enough for the D800? Yes. I use it regularly at work, for products, events and portraits, day and night. There is enough quality glass for the D800 to push its capabilities to the limit. The range is versatile, I've taken some shots at 100mm +/- and up to 200 and in any case F2.8 delivers sharp images and subject clarity whilst the rest renders very nice soft dimming. The bokeh at night with the lights in the background is very pleasing - creamy, round and bright. I also found the proximity to presenting very helpful images for detailed product descriptions and lifestyle events. no breathing problems.5. Is it worth? I can't comment on the quality comparison with the new larger 70-200mm VRII, which costs $2400, which is almost triple the price ($899) I paid for an upgraded version of this 80-200- mm lens through Revain. I don't mind paying for quality - I have a great 24mm F1.4 lens that I use all the time. But it's key that with this kind of investment, you better have a real need for a full-time job! However, I have no need to trade this lens in and would rather invest the difference in something else to expand the possibilities e.g. B. Tilt-Shift, which would be useful for the job. This lens should save at least $600-$750 of its value when it comes to that. Does not come with a lens hood. You need it mainly because you might like this lens so much that you'll take it with you everywhere.