Nikon NIKKOR Z f 4 S Premium Zoom Lens

Key Features That Stand Out

• Camera compatibility: Seamlessly integrates with both FX and DX format Nikon Z series mirrorless cameras, offering a versatile focal range of 24mm-120mm on FX and 36mm-180mm on DX formats, making it a true all-in-one solution.
• Close focusing: Get incredibly close to your subjects, with a minimum focus distance of just 1.15 ft. (0.35m) at any zoom position, including the telephoto 120mm end, perfect for revealing intricate details.
• Autofocus: Features a sophisticated dual STM stepping motor system that ensures fast and quiet autofocus, minimizes focus breathing for smooth video recording, and contributes to edge-to-edge sharpness with virtually no color bleeding.
• Custom control ring: Enjoy enhanced control and customization with a dedicated ring that can be assigned to adjust aperture, ISO, or exposure compensation, putting essential settings at your fingertips.
• Dedicated manual focusing ring: Offers a smooth and precise manual focusing experience, allowing for fine-tuned adjustments when you need absolute control over your focus.

Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S | Premium constant aperture all-in-one zoom lens for Z series mirrorless cameras (wide angle to telephoto) | Nikon USA Model

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What We Like

• Exceptional Versatility: The 24-120mm focal range covers everything from expansive landscapes and group shots to intimate portraits and detailed close-ups, making it a true “one-lens” solution for many photographers.
• Constant f/4 Aperture: Maintaining a consistent f/4 aperture throughout the zoom range ensures consistent exposure and excellent low-light performance without needing to adjust shutter speed or ISO as you zoom.
• Impressive Close Focusing Capability: The ability to focus as close as 1.15 ft. at all focal lengths, especially at 120mm, opens up new creative avenues for macro-style shots and revealing textures.
• Quiet and Fast Autofocus: The dual STM stepping motors deliver incredibly swift and silent autofocus performance, which is a significant advantage for both still photography and video.
• Tactile Control Options: The custom control ring and dedicated manual focusing ring provide intuitive and precise control over key shooting parameters, enhancing the overall shooting experience.

Performance Analysis

The Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S lens excels in delivering consistent image quality across its entire zoom range. The constant f/4 aperture is a significant advantage, providing ample light-gathering capabilities for shooting in varied lighting conditions and enabling pleasing background blur. The autofocus system, powered by two ultra-quiet STM stepping motors, is a highlight, offering quick and accurate focusing with minimal hunting, which is crucial for capturing fleeting moments and for smooth video recording. The absence of significant focus breathing further enhances its video capabilities. Sharpness is a strong suit, with the lens designed to achieve edge-to-edge clarity, minimizing aberrations and color fringing. This makes it a reliable choice for professional and enthusiast photographers alike who require high-fidelity images.

Best For

This lens is ideally suited for photographers and videographers who value a single, high-quality zoom lens that can adapt to a wide array of shooting situations. It is an excellent choice for travel photographers who want to pack light but remain prepared for any photographic opportunity, from grand scenic vistas captured at its 24mm wide-angle to detailed shots of distant subjects at its 120mm telephoto reach. Event photographers will appreciate its versatility and ability to perform in various lighting conditions thanks to the constant f/4 aperture. Furthermore, its close-focusing capabilities make it a strong contender for product photographers or those who enjoy exploring the intricacies of small details. Its compatibility with both FX and DX format Z series cameras, offering an effective focal range of 36mm – 180mm on DX bodies, also makes it a flexible option for a broader user base seeking to maximize their camera’s potential. You can find more details and purchase this versatile lens at Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S | Premium constant aperture all-in-one zoom lens for Z series mirrorless cameras (wide angle to telephoto) | Nikon USA Model.

Buying Guide

When considering a lens like the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S | Premium constant aperture all-in-one zoom lens for Z series mirrorless cameras (wide angle to telephoto) | Nikon USA Model, it’s essential to understand what makes it a valuable investment.

Key Features to Look For

• Focal Range Versatility: A broad zoom range, like the 24-120mm offered here, minimizes the need to swap lenses, saving time and protecting your camera’s sensor from dust.
• Constant Aperture: A constant f/4 aperture provides consistent exposure and depth-of-field control across the entire zoom range, which is crucial for professional results, especially in challenging light.
• Autofocus Performance: Look for quiet and fast autofocus systems, particularly for video work or capturing fast-moving subjects. STM stepping motors, as found in this lens, are a good indicator.
• Close Focusing Distance: The ability to get close to your subject allows for greater creative flexibility, including macro-like shots and detailed portraits.
• Build Quality and Control Features: Consider a lens with robust construction and user-friendly controls like custom rings for tactile adjustments.

Important Materials

While specific material details beyond the lens construction itself aren’t detailed in the provided features, premium lenses like this typically utilize high-quality optical glass elements, potentially including aspherical and ED (Extra-low Dispersion) elements to minimize aberrations and maximize sharpness. The exterior is usually built with durable weather-sealed materials to withstand various environmental conditions.

Essential Factors to Consider

• Camera System Compatibility: Ensure the lens is designed for your specific mirrorless camera mount (Nikon Z in this case) and format (FX or DX).
• Intended Usage: Will you primarily use it for travel, portraits, landscapes, or video? This lens’s versatility makes it suitable for many applications, but consider if its specific range aligns with your dominant shooting style.
• Size and Weight: While versatile, all-in-one zooms can sometimes be larger. Check specifications if portability is a primary concern.
• Optical Quality Requirements: For professional work, prioritize lenses known for sharpness, minimal distortion, and excellent color rendition.

Budget Planning

Premium constant aperture zoom lenses typically represent a significant investment. The Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S is positioned as a high-end, all-in-one solution. When budgeting, consider it an investment in your photography that can last for many years. Compare its price against the cost of purchasing multiple prime lenses or specialized zooms that might cover a similar range but with less convenience.

When to Buy

The best time to buy is when you have a specific need that this lens directly addresses, such as an upcoming trip or a project requiring its unique focal range and capabilities. Keep an eye out for seasonal sales or holiday promotions from reputable retailers, which can sometimes offer discounts. However, given its utility, purchasing when you need it is often more beneficial than waiting indefinitely for a sale that may not materialize.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary advantage of the constant f/4 aperture?

The primary advantage of a constant f/4 aperture is that it remains consistent throughout the entire zoom range. This means you can zoom from 24mm to 120mm without the aperture changing, ensuring consistent exposure and depth-of-field control. It also allows for better performance in low-light conditions compared to variable aperture lenses.

How does the close focusing capability benefit photographers?

The ability to focus as close as 1.15 ft. (0.35m) at any zoom position, including the 120mm end, is incredibly beneficial for photographers who want to capture intricate details. This allows for creative shots with a shallow depth of field, revealing textures and small subjects that might otherwise be missed. It bridges the gap between a standard zoom and a dedicated macro lens for many situations.

Is this lens suitable for videography?

Yes, this lens is very well-suited for videography. The dual STM stepping motors provide virtually silent autofocus, which is crucial for capturing clean audio without distracting motor noise. Additionally, the lens is designed to minimize color bleeding and focus breathing, ensuring smooth and professional-looking video footage when the focus shifts.

Can this lens be used on both FX and DX format Nikon Z cameras?

Absolutely. The lens is compatible with both FX (full-frame) and DX (APS-C) format Nikon Z series mirrorless cameras. On an FX format camera, you get the native 24-120mm focal range. On a DX format camera, the effective focal length is increased due to the crop factor, providing a range equivalent to 36mm – 180mm.

What can the custom control ring be used for?

The custom control ring on the lens offers flexible customization options for photographers. You can assign it to control various settings such as aperture, ISO, or exposure compensation. This allows for quicker adjustments without having to take your eye away from the viewfinder or change your grip on the camera.

How does the autofocus system contribute to image quality?

The autofocus system’s design, with its dual STM stepping motors and focus on minimizing breathing and aberrations, directly contributes to edge-to-edge sharpness and the absence of color bleeding. This ensures that your images are sharp and free from distracting artifacts, even when shooting at wider apertures or in demanding focusing scenarios.

Final Thoughts

The Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S | Premium constant aperture all-in-one zoom lens for Z series mirrorless cameras (wide angle to telephoto) | Nikon USA Model stands out as an exceptional all-in-one zoom lens that truly lives up to its premium designation. Its versatile focal range, coupled with a constant f/4 aperture, makes it an indispensable tool for a wide array of photographic styles, from grand landscapes to intimate close-ups. The advanced autofocus system ensures reliable performance for both stills and video, and the tactile control options enhance the user experience. While it represents a significant investment, its quality, flexibility, and performance justify the cost for serious photographers looking to maximize their Nikon Z camera’s capabilities with a single, highly capable lens.

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