Nikon’s main argument for incorporating their Vibration Reduction mechanism in the lens instead of in the camera is a clearer finder image for better composition. Doesn’t that make the lenses more expensive? No, says Nikon.
As a matter of fact, Nikon announced today an affordable 55-200mm F/4-5.6G lens with Vibration Reduction, priced at only $250.
This compact telephoto zoom lens is engineered exclusively for use with Nikon’s DX format digital SLR cameras, including the D80, D40 and recently announced D40x. It’s a high-powered 3.6x zoom lens that approximates the picture angle characteristics of an 82.5-300mm lens on a 35mm film SLR camera.
The VR feature of the new lens allows hand-held shooting at up to 3 shutter speeds slower than would otherwise be possible because it reduces the effects of camera shake.
It also sports a 9-blade rounded diaphragm for more natural out-of-focus highlights. The lens package includes the HB-34 lens hood, the CL-0815 soft lens case, the LC-52 snap-on front lens cap and the Lf-1 rear lens cap.
[Site: NikonUSA.com]