These pattern images show why the Nikkor Z DX 16-50mm f/2.8 VR is the ‘pro-grade’ Nikon zoom I have been ready for

I used to be completely over the moon once I heard that Nikon was launching the Nikkor Z DX 16-50mm f/2.8 VR and Nikkor Z DX MC 35mm f/1.7. Not solely as a result of they appear to be nice optics in their very own proper, however as a result of it’s taken the Huge N years to fill out its collection of APS-C Nikon Z lenses – and in my humble opinion, the vary was crying out for its first f/2.8 zoom and macro lens.

I perceive that DX-format cameras grant the person entry to an enormous assortment of full-frame glass, too, however the majority of photographers select DX cameras both as a result of they’re cheaper than full-frame techniques and/or they’re smaller than full-frame techniques. So it stands to cause that they need DX glass. And the Nikkor Z DX 16-50mm f/2.8 VR is a working example.

Nikon Z DX 16-50mm f/2.8 VR lens in front of a white background — There isn’t a Z DX ‘holy trinity’ however I nonetheless think about this to be a ‘trinity-style’ lens (Picture credit score: Nikon)

This premium DX lens weighs simply 330g and is priced at £799 / $899.95 / AU$1,299. The closest FX lens to its equal 24-70mm ballpark is the Nikon Z 17-28mm f/2.8. Not solely is the equal zoom vary of 26-42mm much less versatile, however the lens weighs extra (450g) and retails for $1,299.95 / £1,149.00 / AU$2,199.

Don’t get me improper, it’s a fantastic lens and a key element of Nikon’s extra inexpensive ‘holy trinity’. However my level nonetheless stands: the DX vary was crying out for the Nikkor Z DX 16-50mm f/2.8 VR to accommodate extra critical hobbyists.

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Person lying in grass at golden hour — Suppose an APS-C setup can’t produce tremendous shallow depths of discipline? Suppose once more (Picture credit score: Nikon)

Not do it’s a must to select between the extraordinarily inexpensive, however gradual, Nikkor Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR or a extra cumbersome FX different – and that may solely be a great factor. And the timing couldn’t be higher.

The Nikon Z50 II is the primary DX-format Z digicam that I personally assume will be mentioned throughout the identical breath because the legendary Nikon D500. Pair a Z50 II with the Nikkor Z DX 16-50mm f/2.8 VR and it’s the closest you’re going to get to a pro-grade DX setup.

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Person walking dog along beach under blue sky — VR is a good addition, too, since no APS-C Nikon at the moment sports activities IBIS (Picture credit score: Nikon)

Clearly I’ll reserve any actual judgment till the lens has been examined, however the pattern photos are already sufficient to get me excited. They give the impression of being sharp, vibrant and, in some instances, topics pop in opposition to pretty bokeh-filled backgrounds.

I’ve typically mentioned that Nikon’s roster of Z lenses is likely one of the finest mirrorless line-ups within the enterprise, however in actuality I assume I’ve been speaking about full-frame lenses. I’m extraordinarily happy to see that the DX line-up is getting the eye it deserves, too. Right here’s hoping extra speedy zoom lenses are within the pipeline.